Energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer

Abstract

The application discloses an energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer and belongs to the technical field of medical steam sterilization. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer comprises a rigid support body, a device cavity at the upper part and a semi-open cavity at the lower part, a sterilization container which is detachably installed in the semi-open cavity, and a rapid cooling and pressure reducing assembly which comprises an upper cover with a pressure relief cavity installed in the device cavity and an electric control suction element, the upper cover is in sealing connection with the upper port of the sterilization container under the driving of a lifting mechanism, and the electric control suction element communicates the bottom of the sterilization container with the pressure relief cavity. The rapid cooling and pressure reducing assembly can rapidly transfer hot water in the sterilization container to the pressure relief cavity according to the internal pressure, thereby accelerating the cooling speed of the sterilization container and shortening the period of single high-pressure steam sterilization. The hot water in the sterilization container is stored in the pressure relief cavity of the upper cover in a heat preservation mode, and is reused in the next batch of sterilization and disinfection, so that the energy consumption is reduced and the energy-saving effect is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer, belonging to the field of steam sterilization technology. Background Technology

[0002] In medical testing, clinical nursing, operating rooms, and scientific research, steam sterilization is widely used due to its broad sterilization spectrum, strong penetration, and reliable effectiveness. However, disposable consumables used in fungal research (including petri dishes, test tubes, and slides) pose potential biohazards upon contact with fungal spores, hyphae, or contaminated cultures, potentially causing environmental pollution or posing infection risks to personnel. The current common practice is to collect these items as biohazardous waste after the experiment, sterilize them with high-pressure steam, and then dispose of them according to medical or laboratory hazardous waste regulations. Due to the difficulty in killing fungi, traditional high-pressure steam sterilizers need to be set at temperatures above 121°C to generate saturated steam that thoroughly treats fungal-related petri dishes, test tubes, and slides, ensuring the safety of the experimental environment and personnel. However, the energy efficiency of traditional high-temperature steam sterilizers needs improvement, including issues such as heat waste, lengthy sterilization cycles, and resource consumption due to repeated heating processes.

[0003] Existing high-pressure steam sterilization equipment (high-pressure steam sterilization as described in this article refers to the sterilization process at 121 °C and approximately 0.10 MPa gauge pressure) generally adopts a steam sterilization structure that directly heats the water source, fills the sterilization chamber with steam, and allows natural cooling after sterilization. For example, a medical sterilization device and method disclosed in Chinese patent application number CN202411933714.8 requires waiting for the internal temperature and pressure to recover after each batch of sterilization before it can be opened to replace the next batch of items to be sterilized. The sterilizer body still retains a large amount of high-temperature hot water, lacking an effective heat recovery mechanism, forcing it to rely solely on natural heat dissipation and depressurization before opening. This not only results in a large amount of usable heat energy being wasted in the environment but also prevents the equipment from immediately entering the next batch of steam sterilization cycle, increasing the waiting time between sterilization batches. For departments with high workloads, such as laboratories, sterilization supply rooms, and research laboratories, the energy consumption accumulation caused by this repeated heating is particularly significant, contradicting the current green and energy-saving concepts advocated by the medical industry.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to develop an energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer that can quickly transfer the high-temperature hot water after sterilization. After the hot water is transferred, the temperature inside the sterilization chamber will drop rapidly, which helps to shorten the interval between batch sterilization and can also quickly transfer the hot water back, thus achieving the effect of saving energy. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer, which solves the technical problems of long waiting time and low waste heat utilization rate in the process of multiple batches of continuous sterilization of existing high-pressure steam sterilizers.

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by this invention is achieved by the following technical solution:

[0007] An energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer includes:

[0008] A rigid support structure, consisting of an upper equipment cavity and a lower semi-open cavity;

[0009] The sterilization container is detachably installed within the semi-open cavity;

[0010] The rapid cooling and depressurization component includes a top cover with a pressure relief chamber and an electrically controlled suction device installed inside the equipment cavity. The top cover is sealed to the upper port of the sterilization container under the drive of a lifting mechanism, and the electrically controlled suction device connects the bottom of the sterilization container to the pressure relief chamber.

[0011] As a preferred example, the lifting mechanism includes a lead screw with an operating wheel, a nut that cooperates with the lead screw and is fixed to the top of the equipment cavity, and the bottom of the lead screw is rotatably connected to the middle of the top of the upper cover.

[0012] As a preferred example, the electrically controlled suction device includes a flexible tube, a first connecting tube, a first electric valve, and a vacuum pump;

[0013] The lower end of the flexible tube is connected to the bottom of the sterilization container, and the upper end of the flexible tube is sealed through the top cover and connected to the bottom of the first connecting tube.

[0014] The upper end of the first connecting pipe is connected to the pressure relief chamber, the first electric valve is installed on the first connecting pipe, and the air inlet of the vacuum pump is connected to the top of the pressure relief chamber.

[0015] As a preferred example, the lower port of the flexible tube is provided with a liquid filter with a magnetic strip, and the sterilization container has a magnetic bottom that attracts the magnetic strip.

[0016] As a preferred example, the pressure relief chamber has multiple layers, which are, from top to bottom, a displacement layer, a heating layer and a drying layer;

[0017] The bottom of the replacement interlayer is connected to the bottom of the heating interlayer by a second connecting pipe, and a second electric valve is installed on the second connecting pipe;

[0018] The bottom of the heating jacket is connected to the top of the flexible tube via a third connecting pipe. A third electric valve is installed on the third connecting pipe. A heat exchanger is installed inside the heating jacket. The air inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the outside. The air outlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the drying jacket via a fourth electric valve. A second heater is provided at the bottom of the heating jacket.

[0019] The drying interlayer is evenly distributed with drying pores that communicate with the sterilization container.

[0020] As a preferred example, the bottom of the displacement interlayer is provided with a balance pipe communicating with the top of the heating interlayer, the upper end of the balance pipe is close to the top of the displacement interlayer, and the lower end of the balance pipe is equipped with a normally open pressure valve.

[0021] As a preferred example, both the air inlet of the heat exchanger and the air outlet of the vacuum pump are connected to air filters.

[0022] As a preferred example, the replacement jacket, heating jacket, and drying jacket are all equipped with pressure relief safety valves.

[0023] As a preferred example, the drying interlayer is equipped with a first pressure gauge and a thermometer.

[0024] As a preferred embodiment, the equipment cavity is provided with vertical slides on both sides, the upper cover is provided with limiting blocks on both sides that cooperate with the vertical slides, the bottom of the limiting blocks is provided with wedge-shaped locking tongues, and the sterilization container is provided with locking grooves on both sides that cooperate with the wedge-shaped locking tongues.

[0025] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0026] 1. The rapid cooling and depressurization component can quickly transfer the hot water in the sterilization container to the depressurization chamber by relying on the internal pressure when sterilization stops. After the sterilization container is emptied, no heat source is retained, thereby accelerating the cooling speed of the sterilization container and shortening the cycle of a single high-pressure steam sterilization.

[0027] 2. The hot water in the sterilization container is kept warm and stored in the pressure relief chamber of the top cover, and can be reused in the next batch of sterilization and disinfection, which not only reduces energy consumption but also achieves energy saving effect;

[0028] 3. The incoming air is heated by the hot water in the heating jacket and blown through the drying jacket to dry the items inside; the hot water is pumped into the displacement jacket by the pressure inside the heating jacket, thereby switching to the cold air blowing and cooling mode to quickly cool the items inside.

[0029] 4. By utilizing the displacement jacket, the heating jacket, and the second connecting pipe, the second electric valve, the balance pipe, and the normally open pressure valve connected between them, hot water can be transferred between the displacement jacket and the heating jacket, and the hot and cold blowing modes can be switched in a cycle. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention in its open state;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a top view of the sterilization container.

[0032] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the rapid cooling and voltage reduction component;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit control principle of the present invention.

[0034] In the picture:

[0035] 1. Rigid support structure; 11. Equipment cavity; 12. Semi-open cavity; 13. Thermal insulation layer; 14. Vertical slide rail;

[0036] 2. Sterilization container; 21. Insulated shell; 22. Pull-out handle; 23. First heater; 24. Locking groove;

[0037] 3. Lifting mechanism; 31. Operating wheel; 32. Lead screw; 33. Nut;

[0038] 4. Top cover; 41. Limiting block; 42. Wedge-shaped locking tongue; 43. Pressure relief chamber; 431. Displacement jacket; 432. Heating jacket; 433. Drying jacket; 434. Second connecting pipe; 435. Second electric valve; 436. Third connecting pipe; 437. Third electric valve; 438. Heat exchanger; 439. Fourth electric valve; 4310. Second heater; 4311. Drying vent; 4312. Balance pipe; 4313. Normally open pressure valve; 4314. Air filter; 44. Sealing gasket;

[0039] 5. Rapid cooling and pressure reduction assembly; 51. Electrically controlled suction component; 511. Flexible tube; 512. First connecting tube; 513. First electric valve; 514. Vacuum pump; 515. Liquid filter; 516. Magnetic suction plate;

[0040] 6. Controller; 61. Operation button; 62. Display screen; 63. First pressure gauge; 64. Second pressure gauge; 65. Thermometer; 66. Liquid level gauge. Detailed Implementation

[0041] To facilitate a clear understanding of the technical means, creative features, objectives, and effects of this invention, the invention will be further described below in conjunction with specific illustrations.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, this energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer adopts a compact structure of upper cover 4 and sterilization container 2, integrating a rapid cooling and depressurization component 5 into the upper cover 4. This allows for the rapid pumping of hot water using the internal pressure after sterilization, thus depressurizing and cooling the interior of the sterilization container 2. Specifically, it includes a rigid support body 1, a sterilization container 2, and a rapid cooling and depressurization component 5.

[0043] The rigid support 1, made of steel, is mainly used to install the lifting mechanism 3 and drive the upper cover 4 to seal with the sterilization container 2, so that a high-pressure steam sterilization environment can be formed inside the sterilization container 2. It has an upper equipment cavity 11 and a lower semi-open cavity 12. The inner walls of the equipment cavity 11 and the semi-open cavity 12 are provided with heat insulation layers 13 (e.g., glass fiber insulation layer, rock wool insulation layer).

[0044] The sterilization container 2 is detachably installed within the semi-open cavity 12. The sterilization container 2 is provided with a semi-enclosed heat-insulating shell 21, which, together with the semi-open cavity 12, forms a complete cylinder. A pull-out handle 22 is provided on the heat-insulating shell 21.

[0045] In some embodiments, the sterilization container 2 is made of steel, and a first heater 23 is provided inside the sterilization container 2. The first heater 23 preferably uses a commercially available immersion heating wire. The first heater 23 is electrically connected to the power supply circuit through quick-connect connectors respectively provided on the sterilization container 2 and the semi-open cavity 12, so that the electrical connection is automatically completed after the sterilization container 2 is installed into the semi-open cavity 12, improving the convenience of disassembly and assembly. The power supply circuit is provided inside the semi-open cavity 12, and the first heater 23 preferably has an anti-dry-burning temperature control module to prevent damage caused by continuous heating in the absence of water, thereby improving the safety and reliability of use.

[0046] In other embodiments, the first heater 23 is disposed at the bottom of the semi-open cavity 12, and preferably uses a commercially available electromagnetic heating device. Accordingly, the bottom of the sterilization container 2 is preferably made of 430 ferritic stainless steel, which has good magnetic permeability and can be used in conjunction with the electromagnetic heating device to achieve electromagnetic heating. At the same time, 430 ferritic stainless steel has strong magnetic attraction properties.

[0047] In some embodiments, when a magnetic element is provided at the bottom of the flexible tube 511, the magnetic element is preferably a samarium cobalt permanent magnet with a maximum operating temperature preferably not lower than 250°C. This allows it to maintain stable magnetic properties at the high-pressure steam sterilization operating temperature, thereby achieving reliable magnetic fixation between the flexible tube 511 and the bottom of the sterilization container 2. This ensures reliable adsorption and fixation to the bottom of the sterilization container 2, improving the positioning stability of the flexible tube 511 during the sterilization process, preventing it from floating or shifting, and enabling more thorough pumping of the internal hot water.

[0048] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, vertical slides 14 are provided on both sides of the equipment cavity 11, and limiting blocks 41 that cooperate with the vertical slides 14 are provided on both sides of the upper cover 4. A wedge-shaped locking tongue 42 is provided at the bottom of the limiting block 41, and locking grooves 24 that cooperate with the wedge-shaped locking tongue 42 are provided on both sides of the sterilization container 2. The upper cover 4 slides with the vertical slides 14 through the limiting blocks 41 to guide the lifting of the upper cover 4. The wedge-shaped locking tongue 42 cooperates with the locking grooves 24 to achieve guidance and accurate positioning so that the upper cover 4 fits completely with the sterilization container 2 when pressed.

[0049] In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism 3 includes a lead screw 32 with an operating wheel 31 and a nut 33 that cooperates with the lead screw 32 and is fixed to the top of the equipment cavity 11. The bottom of the lead screw 32 is rotatably connected to the middle of the top of the upper cover 4. By rotating the operating wheel 31, the upper cover 4 is driven to move up and down along the vertical slide 14 of the equipment cavity 11. The bottom of the upper cover 4 is provided with a sealing gasket 44. When the upper cover 4 descends to contact the upper opening of the sterilization container 2, the wedge-shaped locking tongue 42 and the locking groove 24 precisely cooperate to align the upper cover 4 with the sterilization container 2. Continuing to rotate the operating wheel 31, the upper cover 4 further presses the sealing gasket 44 until a reliable seal is formed between the upper cover 4 and the sterilization container 2, thereby establishing and maintaining the sealing pressure environment required for sterilization within the sterilization container 2.

[0050] like Figure 3 As shown, the rapid cooling and depressurization component 5 includes an upper cover 4 with a pressure relief chamber 43 installed in the equipment cavity 11 and an electrically controlled suction component 51. The upper cover 4 is sealed to the upper port of the sterilization container 2 under the drive of the lifting mechanism 3, and the electrically controlled suction component 51 connects the bottom of the sterilization container 2 with the pressure relief chamber 43.

[0051] In some embodiments, the electrically controlled suction component 51 includes a flexible tube 511, a first connecting tube 512, a first electric valve 513, and a vacuum pump 514. The lower end of the flexible tube 511 communicates with the bottom of the sterilization container 2, and the upper end of the flexible tube 511 is sealed through the top cover 4 and communicates with the bottom of the first connecting tube 512. The upper end of the first connecting tube 512 is connected to the pressure relief chamber 43. The first electric valve 513 is installed on the first connecting tube 512, and the air inlet of the vacuum pump 514 is connected to the top of the pressure relief chamber 43. The first electric valve 513 controls the communication between the bottom of the sterilization container 2 and the pressure relief chamber 43. The first connecting tube 512, connected to the top of the pressure relief chamber 43, prevents hot water backflow and forms a one-way drainage. The flexible tube 511 is made of thick-walled silicone tubing that is not easily flattened and can withstand temperatures above 180°C.

[0052] In some embodiments, a liquid filter 515 with a magnetic suction plate 516 is provided at the lower end of the flexible tube 511, and the sterilization container 2 has a magnetically attracted bottom that attracts the magnetic suction plate 516. The liquid filter 515 can filter solid impurities and prevent pipe blockage due to long-term operation. The liquid filter 515 is a 316L stainless steel mesh suction filter with a 60-300 mesh stainless steel wire mesh; it features a large flow rate, low pressure drop, and low cost, and can filter petri dish fragments, cotton wool, biological residue, etc.

[0053] The sterilization steps in the above embodiments are as follows:

[0054] Step 1: Before sterilization, place the items to be sterilized in a stainless steel basket (not shown in the figure) inside the sterilization container 2, and add a predetermined amount of water to the sterilization container 2. Drive the lifting mechanism 3 by rotating the operating wheel 31, causing the upper cover 4 to move downwards along the vertical slide 14 of the equipment cavity 11. After the upper cover 4 contacts the upper opening of the sterilization container 2, it continues to press down, compressing the sealing gasket 44 and forming a reliable seal between the upper cover 4 and the sterilization container 2. The first electric valve 513 and all other electric valves are closed, thus enabling the sterilization container 2 to establish a high-pressure steam sterilization environment. Before the first electric valve 513 closes, the vacuum pump 514 evacuates the inside of the sterilization container 2 to remove air and other non-condensable gases, providing conditions for high-temperature saturated steam to fill the sterilization container 2, improving steam penetration and heat exchange efficiency, ensuring a more uniform sterilization temperature distribution, and improving sterilization quality.

[0055] Step Two: The first heater 23 is then activated to heat the water in the sterilization container 2, causing the water to gradually vaporize and form high-temperature, high-pressure steam. Once the set sterilization temperature and pressure are reached in the sterilization container 2, the items to be sterilized are subjected to high-pressure steam sterilization. During the sterilization process, the heat insulation layer 13 installed on the inner walls of the equipment cavity 11 and the semi-open cavity 12 reduces heat loss and improves thermal energy utilization efficiency.

[0056] Step 3: After sterilization, turn off the first heater 23 and activate the electrically controlled suction device 51 to connect the bottom of the sterilization container 2 with the pressure relief chamber 43 located in the upper cover 4. At this time, a certain residual pressure is still maintained inside the sterilization container 2. Under the action of pressure difference, the high-temperature liquid at the bottom of the sterilization container 2 is transported to the pressure relief chamber 43 through the flexible tube 511. Since the high-temperature liquid has a large heat capacity, it can simultaneously remove a large amount of heat from the sterilization container 2 during the liquid discharge process, causing the temperature inside the sterilization container 2 to drop rapidly. As the temperature decreases, the steam inside the container gradually condenses, and the internal pressure drops rapidly, thereby achieving rapid cooling and rapid pressure relief of the sterilization container 2.

[0057] Therefore, the above embodiments utilize the residual pressure inside the sterilization container 2 after sterilization as the driving force for transporting the high-temperature liquid, achieving rapid discharge of the high-temperature liquid without the need for an additional high-pressure transport device. Simultaneously, by discharging the high-temperature liquid, a large amount of heat is carried away from the sterilization container 2, prompting rapid cooling of the steam and achieving rapid temperature reduction and depressurization of the sterilization container 2. Compared to traditional methods that rely on natural cooling or continuous steam discharge for depressurization, the above embodiments effectively shorten the waiting time after sterilization, improve equipment turnover efficiency, and fully utilize the residual heat carried by the sterilized liquid, achieving energy saving and consumption reduction.

[0058] Furthermore, in some application scenarios, when the equipment does not immediately perform the next batch of sterilization after completing a single sterilization, the high-temperature liquid transferred to the pressure relief chamber 43 still has high thermal energy. If it is only stored or directly discharged, there is still room for further improvement in the utilization rate of the remaining heat. Therefore, a multi-layered cover structure 4 with hot and cold air circulation switching was designed.

[0059] In some embodiments, the pressure relief chamber 43 has multiple layers, from top to bottom: a displacement layer 431, a heating layer 432, and a drying layer 433. A second connecting pipe 434 connects the bottom of the displacement layer 431 to the bottom of the heating layer 432, and a second electric valve 435 is installed on the second connecting pipe 434. The bottom of the heating layer 432 is connected to the upper end of the flexible tube 511 via a third connecting pipe 436, and a third electric valve 437 is installed on the third connecting pipe 436. A heat exchanger 438 is installed inside the heating layer 432, with its air inlet connected to the outside and its exhaust connected to the drying layer 433 via a fourth electric valve 439. A second heater 4310 is provided at the bottom of the heating layer 432. The drying layer 433 has evenly distributed drying vents 4311 communicating with the sterilization container 2. The multiple layers enable the transfer of hot water, air heat exchange, gradient utilization of waste heat, and reversible switching between drying and cooling modes.

[0060] In some embodiments, a balance pipe 4312 communicating with the top of the heating jacket 432 is provided at the bottom of the displacement jacket 431. The upper end of the balance pipe 4312 is close to the top of the displacement jacket 431, and a normally open pressure valve 4313 is installed at the lower end of the balance pipe 4312. When liquid is introduced into the heating layer, the balance pipe 4312 plays a role in balancing the internal and external pressures. The normally open pressure valve 4313 can remain open when the pressure is lower than a preset pressure, that is, keep the balance pipe 4312 open; when the pressure exceeds the preset pressure, the normally open pressure valve 4313 is blocked, thereby blocking the balance pipe 4312 and preventing internal airflow from overflowing and causing pressure relief.

[0061] In some embodiments, an air filter 4314 is connected to both the air inlet of the heat exchanger 438 and the air outlet of the vacuum pump 514. The filter element of the air filter 4314 is made of a high-temperature resistant PTFE membrane with a pore size of 0.22μm, which is one of the most common sterilization-grade filter membrane pore sizes in medical, biopharmaceutical and laboratory applications. The outer shell of the air filter 4314 is made of 316L stainless steel.

[0062] In some embodiments, the replacement jacket 431, heating jacket 432, and drying jacket 433 are all equipped with pressure relief safety valves. As a final safety measure, these valves can release pressure when the internal pressure is too high, ensuring the overall safety of the equipment. Typically, the internal pressure is controlled to maintain a constant pressure for sterilization and disinfection based on monitoring data from pressure sensors. The pressure relief safety valves are only triggered if the pressure sensors or other control methods fail.

[0063] In some embodiments, the drying jacket 433 is equipped with a first pressure gauge 63 and a thermometer 65. The drying jacket 433 is connected to the sterilization container 2. The first pressure gauge 63 is used to detect the pressure inside the sterilization container 2, and the thermometer 65 is used to detect the temperature inside the sterilization container 2, so as to obtain the pressure and temperature parameters in real time during the sterilization process, providing a basis for the control of the high-pressure steam sterilization process. The sterilization container 2, the replacement jacket 431, and the heating jacket 432 are all equipped with level gauges 66 to detect the liquid level in each container in order to determine whether to drain the liquid. The heating jacket 432 is equipped with a second pressure gauge 64.

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, further, relying on the hardware of the present invention, and in combination with various sensors and controllers 6, the following automated functions can be achieved.

[0065] In some embodiments, the energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer further includes a control system, which includes a controller 6, and operation buttons 61, a display screen 62, a first electric valve 513, a second electric valve 435, a third electric valve 437, a fourth electric valve 439, a first heater 23, a second heater 4310, a first pressure gauge 63, a second pressure gauge 64, a thermometer 65, and three sets of level gauges 66 (which monitor the levels of the sterilization container 2, the replacement jacket 431, and the heating jacket 432, respectively).

[0066] Operation button 61 is used to receive control commands input by the user and send the control commands to controller 6.

[0067] The display screen 62 is used to display the working status, operating mode, pressure parameters, temperature parameters, liquid level parameters and fault information during the sterilization process.

[0068] The first heater 23 is used to heat the sterilization container 2 to generate high-temperature and high-pressure steam to complete the sterilization process.

[0069] The second heater 4310 is used to heat the heating jacket 432 to continuously generate hot water that exchanges heat with the air, and can also be used to pump internal liquids.

[0070] The first barometer 63 is used to detect the pressure value inside the sterilization container 2, the thermometer 65 is used to detect the temperature value inside the sterilization container 2, the second barometer 64 is used to detect the pressure value inside the heating jacket 432 of the pressure relief chamber 43, and the three sets of liquid level gauges 66 are used to detect the liquid level height in the sterilization container 2, the pressure relief chamber 43 and the liquid storage chamber, respectively, and send the detection signals to the controller 6.

[0071] The controller 6 controls the first heater 23, the second heater 4310, and each electric valve based on the detection data fed back by the first pressure gauge 63, the second pressure gauge 64, the thermometer 65, and the level gauge 66, so as to realize the automatic control of the sterilization, rapid cooling, rapid depressurization, hot water transfer, waste heat utilization, drying, and cooling processes.

[0072] During the sterilization stage:

[0073] All valves are closed and the first heater 23 is started to form a high-temperature sealed environment inside the sterilization container 2. The controller 6 controls the operation of the first heater 23 according to the temperature and pressure values ​​detected by the thermometer 65 and the first pressure gauge 63, so that the sterilization container 2 maintains the set sterilization temperature and sterilization pressure.

[0074] Furthermore, the controller 6 also has a safety protection function. When it is detected that the pressure inside the sterilization container 2 exceeds the preset safety pressure, the temperature exceeds the preset safety temperature, the liquid level is lower than the preset liquid level, or any sensor detects an abnormality, the controller 6 automatically shuts down the first heater 23 and the second heater 4310, and controls each electric valve to enter the safe state. At the same time, it displays alarm information on the display screen 62 to improve the safety and reliability of the equipment operation.

[0075] Specifically, this device has the following functions (the following functions are selected via buttons):

[0076] Function 1: Pumping into the heating layer. After sterilization is completed, the controller 6 closes the first electric valve 513, the second electric valve 435 and the fourth electric valve 439, and only opens the third electric valve 437 to connect the sterilization container 2 with the heating jacket 432.

[0077] The residual pressure inside the sterilization container 2 after sterilization is completed is used as the power source for transporting the high-temperature liquid. The high-temperature liquid enters the heating jacket 432 through the flexible tube 511 and the third electric valve 437, realizing the active transfer of the high-temperature liquid inside the sterilization container 2 without the need for an additional transfer pump, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the equipment.

[0078] When the level gauge 66 in the sterilization container 2 detects that the liquid level is lower than the preset level or the liquid is drained, the controller 6 controls the third electric valve 437 to close, ending the transfer process of the high-temperature liquid. At this time, the high-temperature liquid stored in the heating jacket 432 can be used as a subsequent heat source for waste heat recovery and drying, realizing the cascade utilization of thermal energy.

[0079] Function 2: Primary waste heat drying. After the high-temperature liquid is transferred to the heating jacket 432, the controller 6 opens the first electric valve 513 and the fourth electric valve 439, closes the second electric valve 435 and the third electric valve 437, and starts the vacuum pump 514. External air is first filtered through the air filter 4314 to remove particulate matter and microorganisms, then enters the heat exchanger 438 and exchanges heat with the high-temperature liquid in the heating jacket 432, causing the air to absorb heat from the high-temperature liquid and form hot air.

[0080] Under the negative pressure generated by the vacuum pump 514, hot air enters the drying jacket 433 in sequence and is blown onto the sterilized items in the sterilization container 2 through the evenly distributed drying air holes 4311, drying them with hot air, thereby making full use of the residual heat after sterilization, improving the heat energy utilization rate and reducing the drying energy consumption.

[0081] Function 3: Continuous Drying. As the high-temperature liquid in the heating jacket 432 continues to release heat, its temperature gradually decreases. When the thermometer 65 located in the drying jacket 433 detects that the outlet air temperature is lower than the preset temperature, the controller 6 activates the second heater 4310 located at the bottom of the heating jacket 432 to supplement the heating of the high-temperature liquid in the heating jacket 432, so that the heat exchanger 438 continuously obtains a stable heat source.

[0082] The air flowing through the heat exchanger 438 is reheated to form hot air, which continues to enter the drying jacket 433 to blow and dry the sterilized items, thereby maintaining a stable drying temperature, improving drying efficiency, and shortening drying time.

[0083] Function 4: Switching from hot air to cold air. When the drying time reaches the preset time, the controller 6 starts the second heater 4310, causing the liquid in the heating jacket 432 to continue to heat up and generate high-pressure steam. When the internal pressure is less than the preset value of the normally open pressure valve 4313, the heating jacket 432 has not yet formed a sealed space, and the internal gas can communicate with the outside.

[0084] When the pressure inside the heating jacket 432 reaches the closing pressure of the normally open pressure valve 4313, the normally open pressure valve 4313 closes, making the heating jacket 432 a sealed high-pressure environment.

[0085] As the internal pressure rises further to the preset value, the controller 6 opens the second electric valve 435. Under the action of the pressure difference, the high-temperature liquid in the heating jacket 432 is transported to the displacement jacket 431. Relying on the level gauge 66 to sense that the emptying state has been reached, the controller 6 closes the second electric valve 435, allowing the hot water to remain in the displacement jacket 431.

[0086] At this point, the liquid level in the heating jacket 432 drops below the immersion height of the heat exchanger 438, and the heat exchanger 438 no longer exchanges heat fully with the high-temperature liquid. When the outside air passes through the heat exchanger 438, the temperature rise is significantly reduced, and the air entering the drying jacket 433 gradually changes from hot air to cold air.

[0087] After the cold air enters the sterilization container 2, it blows and cools the dried sterilized items (generally blowing for 1-3 minutes is enough to complete the internal ventilation and cooling), so that the sterilized items and the sterilization container 2 are cooled down quickly, reducing the risk of burns when opening the lid.

[0088] Function 5: Switching from cold air to hot air. In some embodiments, after one drying cycle is completed, the user opens the sterilization container 2 to check the drying status of the sterilized items. If it is determined that continued drying is necessary based on the type, quantity, or packaging of the sterilized items, the controller 6 initiates the hot air recovery program.

[0089] In cold air mode, the heating jacket 432 is emptied and the pressure drops rapidly. The normally open pressure valve 4313 of the balance pipe 4312 eventually becomes normally open due to the drop in internal pressure, which can be used to balance the pressure between the upper and lower layers. However, because the top port of the balance pipe 4312 is high, it does not leak downwards.

[0090] The controller 6 opens the second electric valve 435 so that the high-temperature liquid stored in the jacket 431 can re-enter the heating jacket 432 by gravity, while the gas inside the heating jacket 432 overflows from the balance pipe 4312.

[0091] Once the replacement jacket 431 is completely filled with the heated jacket 432, the second electric valve 435 is closed and the second heater 4310 is started, causing the internal temperature to gradually rise and the pressure to increase, thereby raising the air temperature inside the heat exchanger 438.

[0092] Subsequently, the controller 6 restarts the vacuum pump 514, opens the first electric valve 513 and the fourth electric valve 439, and the outside air enters the heat exchanger 438 after being filtered by the air filter 4314. It exchanges heat with the high-temperature liquid in the heating jacket 432 to form hot air, which then enters the drying jacket 433 to supplement the drying of the sterilized items.

[0093] When necessary, if the temperature of the high-temperature liquid in the heating jacket 432 is lower than the preset value, the controller 6 will start the second heater 4310 to supplement the heating of the high-temperature liquid in order to maintain the hot air temperature required for drying; and if the internal pressure exceeds the preset safety value, the controller 6 will stop the second heater 4310.

[0094] Function Six: Secondary Waste Heat Utilization. After drying and cooling are completed, the sterilized items of this batch are removed, and new items to be sterilized are placed in. At this time, the replacement jacket 431 and / or heating jacket 432 still contain high-temperature liquid at a certain temperature. With a ventilation gap between the top cover 4 and the sterilization container 2, the controller 6 opens the first electric valve 513, the second electric valve 435, and the third electric valve 437, and closes the fourth electric valve 439, allowing the hot water in the replacement jacket 431 and / or heating jacket 432 to flow back to the sterilization container 2 by gravity. This liquid with residual heat is then used for the next batch of sterilization, realizing the cascade utilization of sterilization waste heat, improving the comprehensive utilization efficiency of thermal energy, and further reducing the overall energy consumption of the equipment.

[0095] In the above embodiments, a multi-layered structure consisting of a displacement jacket 431, a heating jacket 432, and a drying jacket 433 is adopted. Through the cooperation of a second connecting pipe 434, a second electric valve 435, a balance pipe 4312, and a normally open pressure valve 4313, high-temperature liquid can circulate bidirectionally between the displacement jacket 431 and the heating jacket 432. When there is hot water in the heating jacket 432, the heat exchanger 438 outputs hot air to dry the items; when the hot water is transferred to the displacement jacket 431, the heating jacket 432 loses its heat source, and the heat exchanger 438 automatically outputs cold air, realizing automatic switching from hot air mode to cold air mode without the need for an additional hot and cold air system.

[0096] Furthermore, it achieves reversible recovery of hot and cold air modes. Specifically, for situations where additional drying is required after the initial drying cycle, this invention utilizes a balance pipe 4312 and a normally open pressure valve 4313 to balance the pressure between the upper and lower jackets. This allows the hot water in the replacement jacket 431 to flow back to the heating jacket 432, where it can be reheated to restore hot air output. This enables bidirectional switching between hot and cold air, improving the equipment's adaptability to different sterilization items.

[0097] Compared with existing high-pressure steam sterilization equipment, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0098] (1) Significantly shorten the sterilization cycle. The residual pressure is used to actively discharge hot water, so that the sterilization container 2 quickly loses its main heat source. Combined with the rapid condensation of steam, it can achieve rapid cooling and rapid depressurization after sterilization, greatly reducing the waiting time for natural cooling and improving the continuous working efficiency of the equipment.

[0099] (2) Significantly improves thermal energy utilization. The high-temperature liquid after sterilization is no longer directly wasted by heat dissipation, but is used in sequence as a heat source for drying and a heat source for preheating in the second sterilization, so as to realize the step-by-step recovery of waste heat and significantly reduce the energy consumption of the whole machine.

[0100] (3) Reduce drying energy consumption. Most items are dried using the residual heat from sterilization, and auxiliary heating is only activated when the residual heat is insufficient. Compared with the traditional method of drying with electric heating throughout the process, this can effectively reduce energy consumption.

[0101] (4) Improve operational safety. After sterilization, the equipment can automatically and quickly cool down and use cold air to cool the sterilized items and sterilization container 2, so that the temperature of the lid is significantly reduced, reducing the risk of the operator being burned by high temperature steam and the pot body.

[0102] (5) Improve the continuous use capability of the equipment. The hot water after sterilization can be stored inside the top cover 4 and returned to the sterilization container 2 before the next batch of sterilization begins, so that the next sterilization does not require reheating all the cold water, and the sterilization temperature can be reached more quickly, thus improving the efficiency of continuous sterilization.

[0103] (6) Improve equipment adaptability. Hot and cold air can be switched repeatedly according to actual needs. If the drying is insufficient in one go, hot air can be restored to continue drying without the need to establish a new heat source. It can adapt to the drying needs of different packaging methods, different loading volumes and different sterilized items.

[0104] (7) High structural integration. This invention integrates functions such as rapid cooling and depressurization, waste heat recovery, air heat exchange, hot and cold air switching and hot water storage into the upper cover 4, achieving a high degree of functional module integration. It completes multiple functions in synergy without significantly increasing the size of the equipment, thereby improving the overall practicality of the equipment.

[0105] The above description outlines the main technical features, basic principles, and beneficial effects of this invention. The scope of protection claimed by this invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Those skilled in the art should understand that this invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various equivalent changes can be made without departing from the spirit and description of this invention; these equivalent changes will also fall within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. An energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer, characterized in that, include: A rigid support (1) has an upper equipment cavity (11) and a lower semi-open cavity (12); The sterilization container (2) is detachably installed in the semi-open cavity (12); The rapid cooling and depressurization assembly (5) includes an upper cover (4) with a pressure relief chamber (43) installed in the equipment cavity (11) and an electrically controlled suction component (51). The upper cover (4) is sealed to the upper port of the sterilization container (2) under the drive of the lifting mechanism (3). The electrically controlled suction component (51) connects the bottom of the sterilization container (2) to the pressure relief chamber (43).

2. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism (3) includes a lead screw (32) with an operating wheel (31) and a nut (33) that cooperates with the lead screw (32) and is fixed to the top of the equipment cavity (11). The bottom of the lead screw (32) is rotatably connected to the middle of the top of the upper cover (4).

3. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrically controlled suction device (51) includes a flexible tube (511), a first connecting tube (512), a first electric valve (513), and a vacuum pump (514); The lower end of the flexible tube (511) is connected to the bottom of the sterilization container (2), and the upper end of the flexible tube (511) is sealed through the upper cover (4) and connected to the bottom of the first connecting tube (512). The upper end of the first connecting pipe (512) is connected to the pressure relief chamber (43), the first electric valve (513) is installed on the first connecting pipe (512), and the air inlet of the vacuum pump (514) is connected to the top of the pressure relief chamber (43).

4. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer according to claim 3, characterized in that, The lower end of the flexible tube (511) is provided with a liquid filter (515) with a magnetic plate (516), and the sterilization container (2) has a magnetic bottom that is attracted to the magnetic plate (516).

5. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer according to claim 3, characterized in that, The pressure relief chamber (43) has multiple layers, which are, from top to bottom, a displacement layer (431), a heating layer (432) and a drying layer (433); The bottom of the replacement interlayer (431) is connected to the bottom of the heating interlayer (432) by a second connecting pipe (434), and a second electric valve (435) is installed on the second connecting pipe (434); The bottom of the heating jacket (432) is connected to the upper end of the flexible tube (511) through a third connecting pipe (436). A third electric valve (437) is installed on the third connecting pipe (436). A heat exchanger (438) is installed inside the heating jacket (432). The air inlet of the heat exchanger (438) is connected to the outside. The air outlet of the heat exchanger (438) is connected to the drying jacket (433) through a fourth electric valve (439). A second heater (4310) is provided at the bottom of the heating jacket (432). The drying jacket (433) is evenly distributed with drying vents (4311) that communicate with the sterilization container (2).

6. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer according to claim 5, characterized in that, The bottom of the displacement interlayer (431) is provided with a balance pipe (4312) that communicates with the top of the heating interlayer (432). The upper end of the balance pipe (4312) is close to the top of the displacement interlayer (431), and the lower end of the balance pipe (4312) is equipped with a normally open pressure valve (4313).

7. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer according to claim 5, characterized in that, Air filters (4314) are connected to the air inlet of the heat exchanger (438) and the air outlet of the vacuum pump (514).

8. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer according to claim 5, characterized in that, The replacement jacket (431), heating jacket (432), and drying jacket (433) are all equipped with pressure relief safety valves.

9. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer according to claim 5, characterized in that, The drying interlayer (433) is equipped with a first pressure gauge (63) and a thermometer (65).

10. The energy-saving medical high-pressure steam sterilizer according to claim 1, characterized in that, Vertical slides (14) are provided on both sides of the equipment cavity (11), and limiting blocks (41) that cooperate with the vertical slides (14) are provided on both sides of the upper cover (4). A wedge-shaped locking tongue (42) is provided at the bottom of the limiting block (41), and locking grooves (24) that cooperate with the wedge-shaped locking tongue (42) are provided on both sides of the sterilization container (2).

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