Medical waste collection system that collects medical waste during medical procedures

Abstract

A medical waste collection system for collecting waste. A level sensor is coupled to at least one waste container and generates a signal indicative of the fluid level of the waste therein. A controller is configured to operate a light source assembly based on the signal such that a portion of the interior space of the waste container located below the fluid level of the waste is illuminated. The cover assembly can include a rack and pinion and / or polarizing segments to selectively limit visibility of portions of the waste container. The controller can initiate a clog removal protocol that creates a pressure differential between the upper and lower waste containers based on a determination that a transfer valve between the upper and lower waste containers may be clogged. This determination can be based on a rate of change of the fluid level measured by the level sensor(s).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a medical waste collection system for collecting medical waste during medical procedures.

[0002] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims priority to and the full benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 454,860, filed March 27, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 425,098, filed November 14, 2022, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

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

[0004] The waste container can be visible through a window, and the waste container can be at least partially formed from a transparent material. In some cases, a user may desire to view the waste 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 where visibility is not desired, such as dirty sidewalls of a transparent material. In other cases, a user may desire to obscure or hide the waste container from view, and a cover can be used to selectively shield the waste container from view. In such situations, it may be difficult to accommodate the actuation assembly and cover in a compactly designed system.

[0005] One exemplary medical waste collection system, sold by Stryker Corporation (Kalamazoo, Michigan) under the trade name Neptune®, features an upper waste container positioned above a lower waste container. The upper waste container has a 4-liter capacity, while the lower waste container has a 20-liter capacity. While independent suction can be applied simultaneously to the upper and lower waste containers, the upper waste container is often primarily used during operation. The Neptune® system provides for the transfer of the contents of the upper waste container into the lower waste container or for the upper waste container to be emptied and its contents transferred to the lower waste container via a transfer valve, a process also known as "dumping." In some cases, waste can partially or completely clog pathways or spaces near or within the transfer valve. For example, clogs can result from blood clots and other buildup of waste within or near the transfer valve. This can delay the resumption of medical procedures and / or cause downtime of the medical waste collection system for inspection. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a medical waste collection system that can overcome one or more of the above-mentioned shortcomings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A first aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system also includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container. The system also includes a chassis supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The system also includes a level sensor coupled to the waste container and configured to generate a signal indicative of a fluid level of waste disposed within the waste container. The system also includes a light source assembly that can include multiple light sources, each of which can be configured to be selectively operable to illuminate an interior space of the waste container. The system also includes a controller coupled to the level sensor and the light source assembly. The controller can be configured to operate the multiple light sources based on the signal such that a portion of the interior space of the waste container disposed below the fluid level of the waste is illuminated.

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

[0009] A third aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste. The medical waste collection system includes a first waste container defining a first interior space for collecting waste. The system also includes a second waste container defining a second interior space for collecting waste. The system also includes a transfer valve coupled to the first waste container and the second waste container and configured to allow waste to be transferred from the first waste container to the second waste container. The system also includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container. The system also includes a chassis supporting the first waste container and the second waste container, the vacuum source, and the transfer valve. The system also includes a 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 a fluid level of waste disposed in each of the first waste container and the second waste container. The system also includes a light source configured to be selectively operable to illuminate the interior space of each of the first waste container and the second waste container. The system also includes a controller coupled to the transfer valve, the level sensor, and the light source, the controller configured to operate the transfer valve to initiate fluid transfer, receive a subsequent signal from the level sensor indicating a corresponding change in fluid level in at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container, and operate the light source to indicate a clog condition when a rate of rise of the fluid level in the second waste container falls below a preset rate of fluid transfer.

[0010] A fourth aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system also includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container at a selected vacuum level. The system also includes a chassis supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The system also includes a level sensor coupled to the waste container and configured to generate a fluid level signal indicative of a fluid level of waste disposed within the waste container. The system also includes a light source positioned to emit light of a variable intensity into the waste container. The system also includes a controller coupled to the sensor and the light source. The controller is configured to receive the 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 rise of the fluid level is expected to exhaust the available volume of the waste container in less than a predetermined time period.

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

[0012] A sixth aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container that can include a permeable material. The system also includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container. The system also includes a chassis supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The chassis can include a housing defining a viewing window through which the waste container is visible. The system also includes a cover assembly coupled to the housing, the cover assembly can include a first cover that can include a first polarizer and a second cover that is movable relative to the first cover. The cover assembly also includes a second polarizer having a different polarization orientation than the first polarizer, and an actuator coupled to the first cover or the second cover, the actuator configured to receive an input to move the first cover and the second cover relative to each other to selectively reduce light transmitted through the cover assembly based on a misalignment between the first polarizer and the second polarizer.

[0013] A seventh aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system also includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container. The system also includes a chassis supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The chassis can include a housing defining a viewing window through which the waste container is visible. The system can also include a cover assembly coupled to the housing, the cover assembly including a first cover having a first rack, a second cover having a second rack, and a pinion disposed between the first cover and the second cover and engaged with the first rack and the second rack such that movement of the first cover in one direction causes movement of the second cover in the opposite direction. The system also includes an actuator coupled to one of the first cover and the pinion and configured to receive an input to move the first cover and the second cover toward each other to selectively block at least a portion of the window.

[0014] An eighth aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system also includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container. The system also includes a chassis supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The chassis can include a housing defining a viewing window through which the waste container is visible. The system also includes a cover assembly coupled to the housing, the cover assembly can include a flexible cover movably coupled to one of the housing and the chassis, first and second support rods rotatably coupled to one of the housing and the chassis, and a belt coupled to the cover and configured to surround the support rods. The system also includes an actuator coupled to one of the belt and the cover and configured to receive an input to move the cover to selectively block (obscure) at least a portion of the window.

[0015] A ninth aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste. The medical waste collection system includes a waste container. The system also includes a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container. The system also includes a chassis supporting the waste container and the vacuum source. The chassis can include a housing defining a viewing window through which the waste container is visible. The system also includes a cover assembly coupled to the housing, the cover assembly can include a cover movably coupled to one of the housing and the chassis and a pivot arm pivotally coupled to the cover. The cover assembly also includes an actuator pivotally coupled to the pivot arm and slidable relative to the housing, the actuator configured to receive an input to move the cover to selectively block at least a portion of the window.

[0016] A tenth aspect includes a method of operating a medical waste collection system including an upper waste container. The method includes, using a controller, actuating a transfer valve to an open position to allow waste 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 at least one level sensor. The method also includes, using the controller, identifying a change in fluid level in the upper waste container based on the fluid level signal. The method also includes, based on the change in fluid level during a drop protocol (discharge protocol) indicating a clog condition, operating a vacuum source to apply suction to the lower waste container when the transfer valve is in the open position to draw waste from the upper waste container to the lower waste container through the transfer valve. The method also includes detecting that the fluid level in the upper waste container has dropped below a preset low fluid level.

[0017] An eleventh aspect includes a medical waste collection system for collecting waste. 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 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 waste container and the lower waste container and operable to enable transfer of waste 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 separate 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 level sensor, the transfer valve, and the pump. The controller is configured to identify a change in fluid level when the transfer valve is in an open position based on a level signal received from the at least one level sensor, and operate the pump to introduce air into the upper waste container based on the change in fluid level during the drop protocol indicating a clog condition.

[0018] A twelfth aspect includes a method of operating a medical waste collection system including an upper waste container. The method includes, using a controller, actuating a transfer valve to an open position to allow waste 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 at least one level sensor. The method also includes, using the controller, identifying a change in fluid level in the upper waste container based on the fluid level signal. The method also includes, based on the change in fluid level during the drop protocol indicating a clog condition, operating a vacuum source when the transfer valve is in the open position to force air into the upper waste container, forcing the waste through the transfer valve and into the lower waste container.

[0019] It should be understood that aspects and their corresponding implementations may be combined with one another. In particular, an aspect relating to the light assembly may be included in any implementation of the cover assembly. Similarly, an aspect relating to the drop protocol may be included in a medical waste collection system in which any implementation of the light assembly and / or cover assembly is provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a medical waste collection system. [Figure 2] 1 is a side view of a medical waste collection system, with certain subcomponents represented diagrammatically. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of a medical waste collection system with a light source assembly coupled to a waste container. [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a light source assembly with a waste container and a fluid level sensor in a first state. [Figure 5] 10 is a cross-sectional view of the light source assembly with the waste container and fluid level sensor in a second state. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the first embodiment in a first state. [Figure 7]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the first embodiment in a second state. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cover assembly of the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of the cover assembly of the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of the cover assembly of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of the cover assembly of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the fifth embodiment in a first state. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the cover assembly of the fifth embodiment in a second state. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15 is a representation of a polarizer of the cover assembly of FIGS. 13 and 14 in a first state. [Figure 15B] 15 is an elevational view of a polarizer of the cover assembly of FIGS. 13 and 14 in a first state. FIG. [Figure 16A] FIG. 15 is a representation of a polarizer of the cover assembly of FIGS. 13 and 14 in a second state. [Figure 16B] 15 is an elevational view of the polarizer of the cover assembly of FIGS. 13 and 14 in a second state. FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is an elevational view of the cover assembly of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 18] 1 is a side view of a medical waste collection system, with certain subcomponents represented diagrammatically. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a waste container of a medical waste collection system. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of certain electronic subcomponents of the medical waste collection system. [Figure 21] 1 is a flowchart of a method for executing a protocol according to an aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Referring to the drawings, in which like numerals are used to indicate like structures throughout the several views, in FIG. 1 , a medical waste collection system for collecting waste is generally designated 30. The medical waste collection system 30 collects waste generated during medical procedures (e.g., surgical procedures) performed in a medical facility such as a hospital. The waste may include bodily fluids, smoke, body tissue, irrigation fluid, etc. The medical waste collection system 30 collects and later discharges the waste. In particular, the medical waste collection system 30 collects and stores the waste within the system for removal when removably coupled to a docking station. Thus, the medical waste collection system 30 can store waste generated during a series of various medical procedures over the course of a day or several days without requiring removal of the waste.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 2 , 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 healthcare facility. The medical waste collection system 30 may further include a frame or chassis 36 extending upwardly from the base 32. The chassis 36 supports the components / subsystems of the medical waste collection system 30. A housing 38 or enclosure is coupled to the chassis 36 and defines an interior space, as described in further detail below. The housing 38 may be at least partially formed from a polymeric material, such as a plastic enclosure shell. In other configurations, the chassis 36 and the housing 38 are fully integrated such that the chassis 36 and the housing 38 are indistinguishable.

[0023] The medical waste collection system 30 further includes one or more waste containers 40a, 40b for collecting and storing waste. The waste containers 40a, 40b may be at least partially disposed within the interior space of the housing 38 and supported by the chassis 36. It is contemplated that the waste containers 40a, 40b may have any shape suitable for containing waste. The waste containers 40a, 40b may include an upper waste container 40a and a lower waste container 40b, as shown in FIG. 2. In other embodiments, such as those disclosed in commonly assigned International Patent Publication No. 2020 / 210763, published October 15, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, a single waste container may be used. The waste container(s) 40a, 40b may be formed from glass, a suitable plastic material, or other materials.

[0024] A vacuum source 42 may be supported on the base 32 and coupled to the chassis 36. The vacuum source 42 is configured to apply suction to the waste containers 40a, 40b via one or more vacuum lines (see FIG. 18 ). The vacuum source 42 may include a vacuum pump 46 and / or at least one vacuum regulator 48a, 48b configured in fluid communication to adjust the level of suction applied to the waste containers 40a, 40b by the vacuum pump 46. 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, and 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. Suitable configurations and operation of several subsystems of medical waste collection system 30 are disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 0171495, published August 4, 2005, International Patent Publication No. 2007 / 070570, published June 21, 2007, International Patent Publication No. 2014 / 066337, published May 1, 2014, International Patent Publication No. 2017 / 112684, published June 29, 2017, and the aforementioned International Patent Publication No. 2020 / 210763, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. In other configurations, vacuum source 42 can be a separate unit that can be removably coupled to medical waste collection system 30 to apply suction to waste container 40. Suitable construction and operation of such a medical waste collection system 30 is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 10,105,470, issued October 23, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0025] 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 can 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 can be adapted to generally face the surgical field during a medical procedure. The front portion 66 of the housing 38 can define one or more windows 44a, 44b to allow a user to view the waste containers 40a, 40b. If the waste containers 40a, 40b comprise a transmissive material, such as clear plastic, the user can view the waste within the waste containers 40a, 40b through the windows 44a, 44b. The user can also view the level of waste within the waste containers 40a, 40b. In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the windows 44a, 44b are generally located in the center (lateral direction) of the front portion 66 of the housing 38. However, it is envisioned that the windows 44a, 44b may be located off-center, such that they may be located to the left or right of the location of the windows 44a, 44b as seen in FIG.

[0026] 4 and 5, the medical waste collection system 30 can include a level sensor 56 coupled to the waste container 40b and configured to generate a signal indicative of the fluid level of waste disposed within the waste container 40b. The level sensor 56 can be implemented as a liquid measurement system including a sensor rod 58 and a flotation element 60, as described in the aforementioned International Patent Publication No. 2007 / 070570. Also referring to FIG. 17, the sensor rod 58 can extend through between the upper waste container 40a and the lower waste container 40b. In other configurations, each waste container 40a, 40b includes a separate level sensor 56. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the level sensor 56 can have a different design capable of generating a signal indicative of the level of fluid disposed within the waste container 40b.

[0027] 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 of the light sources 64 may be configured to be selectively operable to illuminate the interior space of the waste container 40b. The light sources 64 may be spaced apart vertically relative to gravity. The light sources 64 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 are spaced apart equidistantly. However, it is contemplated that the light sources 64 may be positioned at different distances from one another, such that a first distance between a first light source and a second light source is different from a second distance between a second light source and a third light source, and so on. Each of the light sources 64 may be a light-emitting diode (LED), a light bulb, a lamp, or other similar device configured to emit visible light.

[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates a light source assembly 62 that is a light strip having a substrate 63. A plurality of light sources 64 are coupled to the substrate 63. The substrate 63 can be coupled to the chassis 36 via a support arm, allowing the substrate 63 to be positioned adjacent to the waste container 40b away from the chassis 36. In another configuration, the substrate 63 can be directly coupled to the waste container 40b without additional attachment to the chassis 36 or the housing 38. Such a configuration can reduce light leakage from the waste container 40b. For example, the light source 64 in FIGS. 4 and 5 is shown coupled to a sidewall of the waste container 40b. In another configuration, the light source assembly 62 can include multiple vertically spaced substrates each including one or more light sources 64. In yet another variation, a light strip can be positioned adjacent to one side of the window 44b of the housing 38, and the light source assembly 62 can further include a second light strip positioned adjacent to the other side of the observation window 44b. It is also envisioned that one or more of the light sources 64 may be coupled to the bottom of the waste container 40b.

[0029] The medical waste collection system 30 includes a controller 86 (schematically shown in FIGS. 2 and 20). The controller 86 may be multiple sub-controllers, each including one or more microprocessors, processors, systems-on-chips, etc., that 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 turn on or operate the light sources 64, and more specifically, to selectively and individually operate each of the light sources 64. In the described manner, the controller is configured to control, turn on, or operate fewer than all of the light sources 64 based on a signal from the level sensor 56, such that a portion of the interior space of the waste container 40b located below the waste fluid level is illuminated. In other words, the controller 86 may be configured to not operate one or more of the light sources 64 located above the waste fluid level in the waste container 40b based on the signal. By illuminating the waste in the waste container 40b, an empty portion of the waste container 40b located above the waste remains relatively dark. In such cases, the potentially dirty side walls of the waste containers 40a, 40b are less visible.

[0030] An on-board control panel 88 can be configured to generate and receive signals to and 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 the configuration shown in FIG. 2, the control panel 88 is coupled to the top of the housing 38. The control panel 88 can include one or more user interfaces, such as knobs, dials, or touchscreen inputs, that communicate with the controller 86 to allow a user to establish a desired vacuum level within the waste containers 40a, 40b. The control panel 88 can also display data to the user regarding the suction or vacuum level for the waste containers 40a, 40b. Suitable operation of the medical waste collection system 30 to control the vacuum level within the waste containers 40a, 40b is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 7,621,898, issued November 24, 2009, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0031] As described above, waste within the system is removed by coupling the medical waste collection system 30 to a docking station, which also performs a cleaning cycle on the waste container(s) 40a, 40b. Despite the cleaning cycle, at least some soiling may remain on the interior walls of the waste container 40b. Additionally or alternatively, in instances where strong suction is applied to the waste container(s) 40a, 40b, the interior walls may become soiled (e.g., due to splashing or agitation). In many cases, the soiled wall portions above the fluid level in the waste container(s) 40a, 40b are particularly visible due to the light transmitted through them. Therefore, to prevent the soiled walls of the waste container 40b from becoming overly visible, the controller 86 can operate the light source assembly 62 to generate light only through the light sources 64 positioned below the surface of the waste. As a result, a user can clearly see the fluid level, color, and consistency of the waste within the waste container 40b without being drawn to the empty portion of the waste container 40b.

[0032] The controller 86 may include, or be in electronic communication with, a memory 87 that stores data relating the vertical position of each of the plurality of light sources 64 to a corresponding predetermined fluid level in the waste container 40b. The controller 86 may be configured to receive a signal from the level sensor 56 and, based on the signal, determine the fluid level of waste disposed in the waste container 40b. The controller 86 then compares data accessed from the memory 87 with the determined fluid level and, based on the comparison, operates fewer than all of the light sources 64. In some cases where the fluid level is located above all of the light sources 64, the controller 86 may be configured to operate all of the light sources 64. The light sources 64 may be configured to emit light at variable light intensities, light colors, and / or light patterns. The memory 87 may store data further relating the predetermined fluid level to the predetermined light intensities, light colors, and light patterns. The controller 86 may be configured to operate fewer than all of the light sources 64 at the predetermined light intensity based on the signal.

[0033] Instead of operating the light source assembly 62 to generate light only through the light source 64 located below the surface of the waste, a movable cover (not shown) positioned between the waste container 40b and the housing 38 can be used to shield a portion of the waste container 40b located above the waste. The movable cover can be configured as a door, slide, ribbon, drape, polarized lens, or another shielding member intended to reduce the visibility of the portion of the waste container 40b located above the waste. In some configurations, the movable cover can be raised and lowered by an actuator on the cover assembly 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700 that receives input from a user or by a motor operably coupled to the movable cover. The memory 87 can store data further associating predetermined fluid levels of the waste with predetermined positions of the movable cover. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the actuator to adjust the position of the movable cover at a predetermined position based on a signal from a level sensor so that the movable cover can be raised and lowered in response to changes in the fluid waste level in the waste container 40b. The cover assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700 are described in further detail below.

[0034] It is also contemplated that any number or combination of light sources 64 located above or below the fluid waste level may be illuminated. In one configuration, light sources 64 located above the fluid waste level may be automatically dimmed relative to light sources 64 located below the fluid waste level. For example, the controller 86 may be configured to operate light sources 64 located above the fluid waste level at a first intensity and light sources 64 located below the fluid waste level at a second intensity greater than the first intensity. In some configurations, the first intensity may be so low that it approximates no light being generated at all.

[0035] Additional configurations for controlling the light source assembly 62 are also contemplated. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light sources 64 located farthest from the fluid waste level at a higher intensity than the light sources 64 located closer to the fluid waste level. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light sources 64 located above the fluid level as a dark color and the light sources 64 located below the fluid level as a light color. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light sources 64 in a variety of different patterns, such as to sequentially emit light, e.g., the light sources illuminating from bottom to top. Finally, the controller 86 can be configured to operate the light sources 64 such that every other light source 64 is illuminated in a flashing manner. Other patterns are also contemplated.

[0036] Fluid level and light illumination changes are illustrated in the configurations shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. The light source assembly 62 includes eight light sources 64 spaced vertically relative to the waste container. In FIG. 4, the waste level is located between the sixth and seventh light sources 64 from the bottom. The controller 86 receives a signal from the level sensor 56 and compares the signal with data from 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 below the waste level to illuminate only the waste and not the portion of the waste container 40b above the waste. In FIG. 5, the waste level is located between the fourth and fifth light sources 64 from the bottom. The controller 86 receives a signal from the level sensor 56 and compares the signal with data from 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 below the waste level to illuminate only the waste and not the portion of the waste container 40b above the waste. 4 and 5 includes eight light sources 64, it is understood that the light source assembly 62 can include seven or fewer light sources 64. It is also contemplated that the light source assembly 62 can include nine or more light sources 64.

[0037] As described above, the light sources 64 located below the waste level may be operated by the controller 86 to illuminate the waste container 40b. In other configurations, one or more of the light sources 64 located directly below the fluid level may be inactivated, and the fluid may be illuminated by fewer than all of the light sources 64. In particular, the controller 86 may be configured to operate one or more of the n-1 light sources 64 located below the waste level, counting from the bottom, where n is the number of light sources 64 located below the fluid level. In such a configuration, if the waste is agitated and the fluid level fluctuates momentarily, the light sources 64 located below and closest to the fluid level may not be operated to illuminate the waste container 40b, so as to prevent light from spilling onto portions of the waste container 40b above the fluid level.

[0038] In some configurations, the user interface of the control panel 88 can be configured to accept input from a user to control the light source assemblies 72 in any number of the above-described and other configurations. For example, a 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 fluid level. As another example, a user can select light characteristics, 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, selected light intensity, or other light characteristic.

[0039] The medical waste collection system 30 may include an ambient light sensor 70 configured to generate a signal indicative of the intensity of ambient light. The controller 86 may be in electronic communication with the ambient light sensor 70. The controller 86 may be configured to operate the light source 64 to illuminate the interior space of the waste receptacle 40b at an intensity determined based on the signal received from the ambient light sensor 70. In some configurations, the brightness of the light source 64 may be increased when the ambient light sensor 70 detects bright light around the medical waste collection system 30. In other configurations, the brightness of the ambient light sensor 70 may be decreased when the ambient light sensor 70 detects dim light around the medical waste collection system 30. Medical procedures using the medical waste collection system 30 are often performed in treatment rooms where the environment surrounding the patient is dimly lit. For example, in a gastrointestinal endoscopy procedure, it is important that the procedure room remain dark or dimly lit so that the endoscope (not shown) used during the procedure can effectively capture images of the treatment site for later analysis and display the images on a monitor within the procedure room without light (e.g., from the medical waste collection system 30) within the procedure room causing glare on the monitor.

[0040] The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light source 64 brighter in response to the signal indicating that the ambient light intensity is above the ambient light threshold. The controller 86 can also be configured to operate the light source 64 so that the determined intensity approximates the ambient light intensity. The medical waste collection system 30 can include a receptacle light sensor 72 coupled to the waste receptacle 40b. The memory 87 can store data including a predetermined color intensity for image capture of the interior space of the waste receptacle using a camera for quantitative blood loss (QBL) analysis. The controller 86 can further be configured to operate the light source 64 so that the determined intensity approximates the predetermined color intensity based on feedback from the receptacle light sensor 72. The predetermined color intensity can include a white color value. Operating the light source 64 to approximate the white color value can provide more accurate readings during QBL analysis. Suitable configurations and operation of a QBL system in which a camera is positioned adjacent to a waste container 40 to capture images of the waste are disclosed in commonly assigned International Patent Application No. PCT / US2023 / 025603, filed June 16, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0041] The controller 86 can receive QBL data from the QBL system 78, shown schematically in FIG. 2. The QBL data can indicate the blood concentration in the waste. The controller 86 can operate the vacuum source to draw the 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 in the waste container 40b. The controller 86 can then determine the amount of blood loss based on the blood concentration and fluid volume. The controller 86 can operate the light source 64 to indicate any number of conditions or statuses based on the QBL analysis. For example, the light source 64 can be selectively operated in a pattern, color, or intensity to indicate a warning condition in which the amount of blood loss deviates beyond a predetermined threshold. As another example, the light source 64 can be selectively operated in a pattern, color, or intensity to indicate an error condition in which the amount of blood loss is greater than the amount of fluid.

[0042] Continuing with reference to FIG. 2 , the light source 64 can be used to indicate a clog or low-volume condition in the medical waste collection system 30. The transfer valve 74 can be coupled to the first waste container 40 a and the second waste container 40 b and the controller 86. The transfer valve 74 can be disposed on the drop line 76 and configured to open to allow the dumping (discharge) of waste from the upper waste container 40 a to the lower waste container 40 b. In other cases, the transfer valve can be incorporated into one of the waste containers 40 a, 40 b. In such an embodiment, the transfer valve can be larger in size than if disposed on the drop line 76. The controller 86 can operate the transfer valve 74 to initiate the described dumping (discharge) protocol. Additionally, as will be described in further detail, the controller 86 receives a signal from the level sensor(s) 56 indicative of a corresponding change in fluid level in at least one of the upper waste container 40 a and the lower waste container 40 b. The controller 86 then operates the light source 64 to indicate a clog condition in which the rate of rise of the fluid level in the second waste container 40b is below a preset fluid transfer rate. The controller 86 can be configured to operate the light source 64 in one of a predetermined color and flashing sequence to indicate a clog condition or an out-of-volume condition. The out-of-volume condition is based on the expected rate of rise of the fluid level being predicted to be greater than the remaining available volume of the waste container 40b in less than a predetermined period of time. The expected rate of rise can be based on the rate of rise of the fluid level to that point in the medical procedure.

[0043] In addition to, or as an alternative to, using the light assembly 62 to limit visibility of portions of the waste containers 40a, 40b, it may be desirable to obscure portions of the waste containers 40a, 40b with the cover assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700. As discussed above, the medical waste collection system 30 is generally portable for movement throughout a healthcare facility. To support portability, the medical waste collection system 30 is designed to be compact and reduce dead space within the housing 38. As a result, the cover assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700 of the present disclosure are correspondingly compact and operable in an intuitive and ergonomic manner. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a first embodiment cover assembly 100 for the medical waste collection system 30 is shown. The front portion 66 of the housing 38 is shown in phantom to better illustrate the cover assembly 100. The cover assembly 100 can be used to selectively allow a user to view the waste containers 40a, 40b through the windows 44a, 44b. In the configurations shown in Figures 6 and 7, the cover assembly 100 is used to selectively allow a user to view the lower waste container 40b.

[0044] The cover assembly 100 can be coupled to the chassis 36 or the housing 38. The cover assembly 100 includes a first cover 102 having a first rack 104 and a second cover 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 cover 102 and the second cover 106, with the pinion teeth disposed in meshing engagement with the first rack 104 and the second rack 108 such that movement of the first cover 102 in one direction causes movement of the second cover 106 in the opposite direction.

[0045] In other configurations where the pinion 110 and / or the racks 104, 108 do not include teeth, there may be sufficient friction between the pinion 110 and the racks 104, 108 such that movement of the first cover 102 in one direction causes movement of the second cover 106 in the opposite direction. In such configurations, the racks 104, 108 may be engaged with the pinion 110 configured as rollers. The racks 104, 108 may have generally planar surfaces that abut the rollers, and the racks 104, 108 may be positioned on either side of the rollers such that movement of the first cover 102 in one direction causes movement of the second cover 106 in the opposite direction.

[0046] In another configuration, the cover assembly 100 can include a belt (not shown) that can be looped around two pulleys. The racks 104, 108 can be coupled to the belt between the pulleys, with each rack 104, 108 located on a different side of the loop (i.e., above or below a pulley) so that as the first cover 102 moves in one direction, the second cover 106 moves in the opposite direction. The pinion 110 can be positioned between the pulleys and against the belt so that rotation of the pinion 110 can drive the belt. In other configurations, one of the pulleys can include the pinion 110.

[0047] An actuator 112 (e.g., a switch or lever) 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 toward each other to selectively block at least a portion of the window 44b. The actuator 112 can include a single actuation slider that operates the cover assembly 100 with a single input. In other words, a user can grasp the actuator 112 with one hand and close the cover assembly 100 with one hand. By employing a rack-and-pinion design that simultaneously moves the two covers 102, 106 with a single input, the overall movement of the covers 102, 106 and the actuator 112 can be reduced, thereby reducing the overall footprint of the cover assembly 100 required within the housing 38 and around the waste receptacles 40a, 40b compared to when a single cover is employed. Furthermore, using a single actuator 112 to independently move the covers 102, 106 is less cumbersome than using multiple actuators.

[0048] The cover assembly 100 may be movable between a first state ( FIG. 6 ) in which the first cover 102 and the second cover 106 collectively block the window 44 b, and a second state ( FIG. 7 ) in which the first cover 102 and the second cover 106 are spaced apart from one another so that the window 44 b is unblocked. The actuator 112 may be selectively movable between the first position ( FIG. 6 ) and the second position ( FIG. 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.

[0049] The cover assembly 100 may include a first rail 114 and a second rail 116 coupled to at least one of the chassis 36 and the housing 38 and configured to support movement of the first cover 102 and the second cover 106, respectively. The rails 114, 116 may be fixed to the chassis 36 and / or the housing 38 and configured to guide the first cover 102 and the second cover 106 when the actuator 112 is moved by a user. The pinion 110 may be coupled to the chassis 36 and / or the housing 38 and configured to rotate about a pivot axis fixed relative to the chassis 36 and the housing 38. In some configurations, the pinion 110 may be coupled to at least one of the first rail 114 and the second rail 116. In the illustrated configuration, a portion of each rail 114, 116 is received within a recess in the corresponding rack 104, 108 and configured for relative sliding movement. The recesses may be configured as a dovetail design to slidably limit relative movement. In other configurations, the recesses can have a different shape to allow sliding movement between the racks 104, 108 and the rails 114, 116. Rollers can be attached to the racks 104, 108, and the rails 114, 116 can have tracks to receive the rollers. The rollers can rotate relative to the tracks and racks 104, 108 such that as the rollers rotate, they roll along the tracks, causing the racks 104, 108 and covers 102, 106 to move along the rails 114, 116.

[0050] In another configuration, the actuator 112 can be coupled to the pinion 110 rather than to one of the covers 102, 106. In such a configuration, the actuator 112 can include a knob rotatable with the pinion 110 relative to the chassis 36 and housing 38. A user can grasp the knob to provide a single input to rotate the pinion 110, which, in meshing engagement with the first rack 104 and the second rack 108, simultaneously moves the first cover 102 and the second cover 106 between a first state and a second state to selectively open and close the covers 102, 106.

[0051] In the second embodiment cover assembly 200 shown in FIG. 8 , the first rack 204 and the second rack 208 can be curved and contoured to fit the outer surface of the waste container 40b. In this manner, the first cover 202 and the second cover 206 can be configured to move in an arc around the outer surface of the waste container 40b. In some configurations of the curved first rack 204 and the second rack 208, the pinion 210 can have a conical or beveled shape to support the arcuate motion of the first rack 204 and the second rack 208. The first cover 202 and the second cover 206 can be supported by similarly curved first rails 214 and second rails 216, respectively, to guide the covers 202, 206 in the arc.

[0052] 9 and 10, a third embodiment of a cover assembly 600 for the medical waste collection system 30 is shown. The cover assembly 600 can be coupled to the chassis 36 or the housing 38. The cover assembly 600 includes a cover 602, an upper guide 604, and a lower guide 606. The cover 602 can be flexible, and the guides 604, 606 can be configured to maintain the curved shape of the cover 602 when it obstructs the window 44b. This curved shape can conform to the shape of the waste container 40a, 40b or the housing 38. In some configurations, a single guide is used. The cover assembly 600 can include support rods 608, 610 rotatably coupled to both the upper guide 604 and the lower guide 606. The support rods 608, 610 can be spaced apart on either side of the window 44b. A belt 614 is coupled to the cover 602 and wrapped around the support rods 608, 610. The belt 614 is movable with the cover 602 around the support rods 608, 610 to selectively block the window 44b. In some configurations, two belts 614a, 614b are used. The belts 614a, 614b are spaced apart to prevent binding of the cover 602 in the guides 604, 606. In some configurations, the belts 614a, 614b have teeth. In some instances, it may be preferable to use belts to reduce noise from the cover assembly 600 as the cover 602 moves to block or expose the window 44b.

[0053] An actuator 612 (e.g., a switch or lever) may be coupled to the cover 602 and / or the belts 614a, 614b and configured to move the cover 602 relative to the upper guide 604 and the lower guide 606 to selectively block at least a portion of the window 44b. The actuator 612 may include a single actuation slider for operating the cover assembly 600 with a single input. In other words, a user may grasp the actuator 612 with one hand and close the cover assembly 600 with the other hand.

[0054] The cover assembly 600 can include a take-up rod 616 positioned adjacent one of the support rods 608, 610 to maintain (retain) a portion of the cover 602 that does not obstruct the window 44b. The take-up rod 616 can be spring-loaded (e.g., by a torsion spring) to wind up the cover 602 when it is not held in place. In other configurations, the take-up rod 616 can be adjusted to be strong enough to take up slack in the cover 602 but weak enough not to rotate the belts 614a, 614b. In some cases, a hook can be coupled to the cover 602, the actuator 612, and / or the belts 614a, 614b to grab a portion of the housing 38 or the chassis 36. The hook can be used to maintain the position of the cover 602 relative to the housing 38; for example, the hook can maintain the cover 602 in a position such that the cover 602 obstructs the window 44b. The take-up rod 616 allows the cover 602 to take up less space within the housing 38 when the cover 602 is not blocking the window 44b, thereby reducing the overall footprint of the cover assembly 600.

[0055] 11 and 12, a fourth embodiment of a cover assembly 700 for the medical waste collection system 30 is shown. The cover assembly 700 can be coupled to the chassis 36 or the housing 38. The cover assembly 700 includes a cover 702 and a guide 704. The cover 702 and the guide 704 can be curved to fit the shape of the waste container 40a, 40b or the housing 38. The cover 702 can comprise a hard plastic, and the guide 704 can define a channel 706 for receiving the cover 702 and limiting the position of the cover 702 as it moves relative to the housing 38.

[0056] The cover assembly 700 also includes a pivot arm 708 or linkage pivotally coupled to the cover 702. The pivot arm 708 can include a first pivot portion 710 pivotally coupled to the cover. The pivot arm 708 can include a second pivot portion (not shown) pivotally coupled to an actuator 712 (e.g., a switch or lever). The pivot arm 708 can also include an elongated portion 714 extending between the first and second pivot portions. In some configurations, the elongated portion 714 has an arcuate shape. In some configurations, the cover 702 can define a recess 716 for receiving at least the first pivot portion 710. The arcuate shapes of the elongated portion 714 and the recess 716 can be used collectively or independently to reduce the risk of sticking between the cover 702 and the actuator 712.

[0057] 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 track 718 defining a slot 720 for receiving the actuator 712. The actuator 712 is configured to move within the slot 720 and receive an input to move the cover 702 to selectively block at least a portion of the window 44b. The actuator 712 may include a tab that is grippable (grabable) by a user to move the actuator 712 along the track 718 within the slot 720. The tab may include a first flange 722 disposed on a first side of the track 718 facing the waste container 40a and pivotally coupled to the pivot arm 708. The tab may also include a second flange 724 disposed on a second side of the track 718 facing away from the waste container 40a. First flange 722 and second flange 724 cooperate to maintain a portion of the tab within slot 720 .

[0058] In a configuration in which the cover 702 has a curved shape, the guide 704 can define a first arc having a first center point. The track 718 can extend linearly, or the track can define a second arc having a second center point different from the first center point. The pivoting arm 708 allows the actuator 712 to slide linearly or along a second arc different from the arc defined by the cover 702. In other words, the pivoting arm 708 allows the orientation of the cover 702 relative to the actuator 712 to be changed when a user moves the actuator 712. This configuration allows the track 718 of the housing 38 to conform to a shape different from the shape of the cover 702.

[0059] 13-16B, a fifth embodiment of a cover assembly 300 for the medical waste collection system 30 is shown. The cover assembly 300 is coupled to the housing 38 and / or chassis 36. The cover assembly 300 may include a first cover 302 having a first polarizer and a second cover 306 movable relative to the first cover and having a second polarizer. The second polarizer has a different polarization direction from the first polarizer. An actuator 312 may be coupled to the first cover 302 or the second cover 306 and configured to receive an input for moving the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 relative to each other to selectively reduce light transmitted through the cover assembly 300 based on a misalignment between the first polarizer and the second polarizer. The actuator 312 may include a single actuation slider for operating the cover assembly 300 with a single input. In other words, a user can grasp the actuator 312 with one hand and close the cover assembly 300 with the other hand. In one configuration, one of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 is fixed to the housing 38 and / or chassis 36, and the other of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 is movable in response to operation of the actuator 312.

[0060] The first polarizer and the second polarizer each include at least a first segment 318 and a second segment 320. The polarization direction of the first segment 318 is different from that of the second segment 320. The cover assembly 300 is operable between a first state (FIG. 13) in which the first segment 318 of the first polarizer and the first segment 318 of the second polarizer are aligned to allow a first light transmittance, and a second state (FIG. 14) in which the first segment 318 of the first polarizer is aligned with the second segment 320 of the second polarizer to allow a second light transmittance lower than the first light transmittance. The first light transmittance may be approximately 45% to 50% percent of ambient light. The second light transmittance may approximate zero. Other reductions in light transmittance in each of the first and / or second states are also contemplated.

[0061] In a first state, the waste container 40b is still visible through the window 44b, albeit with reduced light transmission, and in a second state, the waste container 40b may not be visible through the window. Although the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 shown in Figures 13 to 16B have three first segments 318 and three second segments 320, it is envisioned that the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 can have any number of segments 318, 320, so long as, in the first state, at least one first segment 318 of one of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 is aligned with a first segment 318 of the other of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306, and, in the second state, at least one first segment 318 of one of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 is aligned with a second segment 320 of the other of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306.

[0062] 15A-16B, the first segment 318 can have a front and a back surface, with the front and back surfaces defining a horizontally oriented polarization slit therebetween. The second segment 320 can have a front and a back surface, with the front and back surfaces defining a polarization slit therebetween. In contrast to the first segment 318, the polarization slit in the second segment 320 can be vertically oriented. Each of the covers 302, 306 includes first segments 318 and second segments 320 that are alternately arranged in series, such that each of the covers 302, 306 includes a plurality of first segments 318 and second segments 320. When the segments 318, 320 are arranged in series, the segments 318, 320 of the covers 302, 306 can be considered to be plate- or sheet-shaped. In other words, the segments 318, 320 of the covers 302, 306 can form a thin, substantially planar installation portion. FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate the relationship between the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in a first state and correspond to FIG. 13 . Specifically, FIG. 15B illustrates the actual relative positions of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in the first state as shown in FIG. 13 . FIG. 15A does not illustrate the actual position of the first cover 302 relative to the second cover 306, but is intended to illustrate the horizontal position of the first cover 302 relative to the second cover 306 when the cover assembly 300 is in the first state. Similarly, FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate the relationship between the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in a second state and correspond to FIG. 14 . Specifically, FIG. 16B illustrates the actual relative positions of the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 in the second state as shown in FIG. 14 . FIG. 16A does not show the actual position of the first cover 302 relative to the second cover 308, but is intended to show the horizontal position of the first cover 302 relative to the second cover 308 when the cover assembly 300 is in the second state.

[0063] As shown in FIGS. 15A-16B, the first and second polarizers can include linear polarizers that transmit light of a desired polarization while reflecting the rest. The polarizer slits in the first and second covers 302, 306 can each include many narrow openings arranged parallel to one another. In a first state, light polarized along these slits is reflected, and light polarized perpendicular to these slits is transmitted. In a second state, when the first and second segments 318, 320 are arranged 90 degrees out of phase with one another, light is polarized perpendicular to the polarizers, resulting in approximately zero transmitted light. The first and second polarizers of the first and second covers 302, 306 can include acrylic substrates. In some configurations, the polarizers can include UV-grade fused silica glass substrates.

[0064] The widths of the first segment 318 and the second segment 320 may determine the extent to which the actuator 312 and the first cover 302 must move relative to the second cover 306 to move the cover assembly 300 between the first and second states. This extent can be further reduced by increasing the number of segments 318, 320 and alternating them in series. By limiting the movement between the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 to move the cover assembly 300 between the first and second states, the space required within the housing 38 to accommodate the cover assembly 300 in the first and second states is reduced. Furthermore, by limiting the movement between the first cover 302 and the second cover 306 to move the cover assembly 300 between the first and second states, the effort required on behalf of the user to move the cover assembly 300 between the first and second states is reduced.

[0065] Although the polarization slits in the first segment 318 and the second segment 320 are described above as being horizontally and vertically aligned, it is contemplated that the polarization slits may be aligned in other directions. To reduce light transmission in the second state, the polarization slits in the first segment 318 may be aligned 90 degrees out of phase with the polarization slits in the second segment 320 to best promote a cross-polarization effect that approximates zero light transmission.

[0066] 17 illustrates a fifth embodiment of a cover assembly 400. The first and second cover segments 418, 420 of the cover assembly 400 may be formed as chevron shapes. It is contemplated that the first and second cover segments 418, 420 of the cover assembly 400 may have other shapes. In some configurations, the polarizers of the covers 302, 306 of the fourth and fifth embodiments may be incorporated into the covers 102, 106, 202, 206 of the first and second embodiments, allowing the first and second polarizers of the covers 302, 306 to move simultaneously, further reducing the degree of actuation required to obscure the view through the window.

[0067] As described above, the transfer valve 74 can be opened to allow waste to be transferred from the upper waste container 40a to the lower waste container 40b. The dumping protocol can include gravity-feeding waste from the upper waste container 40a through the transfer valve 74 and into the lower waste container 40b. In some cases, waste may partially or completely clog a passage or space near or within the transfer valve 74, resulting in a clog condition in the system 30. For example, a clog may result from blood clots and other buildup of waste in or near an orifice of the transfer valve 74 that is relatively smaller in diameter than the adjacent portion of the upper waste container 40a from which the waste is dumped. In a clog condition, the rate at which waste is transferred from the upper waste container 40a to the lower waste container 40b may be undesirable and, in some cases, may approach zero (i.e., waste does not leave the upper waste container 40a). This can delay the resumption of medical procedures and / or cause downtime of the medical waste collection system 30 for inspection.

[0068] The medical waste collection system 30 advantageously alleviates or eliminates a clogged condition by creating a pressure differential between the upper and lower waste containers 40a, 40b. This is facilitated by controlling the suction applied to the waste containers 40a, 40b from the vacuum source 42 and / or by the pump 50. FIG. 18 illustrates 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 so that independent suction can be applied to the upper and lower waste containers 40a, 40b. In other words, the vacuum regulators 48a, 48b can be configured to independently adjust the level of suction applied by the vacuum pump 46 to the waste containers 40a, 40b. The pressure differential can be created by system control using the controller 86, as described, to unclogging a clogged transfer valve 74, removing waste contents, or otherwise assisting in moving waste through the transfer valve 74. Additionally or alternatively, the pressure differential may be generated or assisted by a pump 50 separate from the vacuum pump 46 .

[0069] An exemplary method 500 is shown in FIG. 21 . The method includes initiating a drop protocol (step 502). The controller 86 is configured to initiate the drop protocol based on a user input to the control panel 88. For example, the control panel 88 can display information or provide a warning that the amount of fluid in the upper waste container 40a exceeds a threshold amount. The threshold amount can be a fixed value or can be a set (determined) value based on available volume, taking into account expected fluid collection volumes for one or more upcoming procedures. In another embodiment, the controller 86 can automatically initiate the drop protocol based on a certain system state, for example, the system 30 being inactive or idle for a predetermined period of time after the threshold amount is exceeded.

[0070] The drop protocol may include terminating the vacuum source 48 and moving the transfer valve 74 to an open position. Under the influence of gravity, waste may begin to pass through the transfer valve 74 and enter the lower waste container 40b. A user may visually observe the drop through the windows in the waste containers 40a and 40b. It is contemplated that the fluid level-related lighting features disclosed earlier herein may be used in conjunction with the drop protocol to provide further feedback on the progress of the drop protocol. In particular, the light sources 64 of the light source assemblies 62 associated with each of the upper and lower waste containers 40a and 40b may be selectively turned off or on as the fluid volume in the upper and lower waste containers 40a and 40b decreases and the fluid volume in the lower waste container 40b increases, respectively. For example, the light sources 64 associated with the upper waste container 40a may be turned off in a top-to-bottom order, while the light sources 64 associated with the lower waste container 40b may be turned on in a bottom-to-top order.

[0071] The method includes determining whether a clog condition exists (step 504). The medical waste collection system 30 includes level sensors 56a, 56b coupled to each of the upper and lower waste containers 40a, 40b. In embodiments where a single waste container 40 is present, a single level sensor 56 can be used. In another variation, the determination made by the controller 86 can be based solely on the level sensor 56a of the upper waste container 40a, even if a second level sensor 56b is present. The level sensors 56a, 56b can 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 level of waste disposed in the corresponding waste containers 40a, 40b. The level sensors 56a, 56b can be similar to those described above or in the aforementioned International Patent Publication No. 2007 / 070570. It is also contemplated that the level sensors 56a, 56b can have different designs capable of generating signals indicative of the fluid level. The controller 86 can be configured to determine the fluid volume in each waste container 40a, 40b based on the corresponding level signal and the known geometric profile of the waste containers 40a, 40b.

[0072] During a drop protocol in which the transfer valve 74 is in the open position, the controller 86 is configured to determine a rate of change (speed of change) of the fluid level (and / or fluid volume) based on the level signal received from at least one of the level sensors 56a, 56b. For example, the controller 86 can determine the fluid level in the upper waste container 40a based on the level signal over a known period of time and determine the rate of change as an actual or average change per unit time. The controller 86 can compare the rate of change to a preset fluid transfer rate. The preset fluid transfer rate can be calibration data entered during manufacturing (or via a software update) or entered into the control panel 88 by a user or service technician. Alternatively, the controller 86 can determine that the change in fluid level from a first time to a second time does not exceed a preset transfer threshold. The preset transfer threshold can be calibration data entered during manufacturing (or via a software update) or entered into the control panel 88 by a user or service technician. In some cases, the rate of change of the fluid level can be broadly understood to mean the change in the fluid level over a period of time.

[0073] The controller 86 performs the comparison repeatedly (e.g., constantly) during the drop protocol. If the rate of change exceeds a preset fluid transfer rate, the controller 86 determines that a clog condition does not exist, and the controller 86 does not initiate a clog removal protocol. If the rate of change is below a preset fluid transfer rate, the controller 86 determines that a clog condition may exist. Similarly, if the change in fluid level exceeds a preset transfer threshold, the controller 86 determines that a clog condition does not exist. If the change in fluid level is below a preset transfer threshold, the controller 86 determines that a clog condition may exist.

[0074] In addition to the preset fluid transfer level and / or the preset transfer threshold, the controller 86 determines whether the fluid level is below a preset low fluid level. In other words, in a clog-free drop protocol, the rate of change of the fluid level drops to zero when the canister is actually empty. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that a low rate of change is simply due to the waste containers 40a, 40b being empty. If the rate of change of the fluid level is below the preset fluid transfer rate and the fluid level is above the preset low fluid level, the controller 86 determines that a clog condition exists.

[0075] The controller 86 can run a timer or otherwise require that the rate of change be below a preset fluid transfer rate for a sufficient period of time before initiating a clog removal protocol. In other words, the controller 86 can be configured to ignore transient, momentary events where the rate of change is below a preset fluid transfer rate for smooth system control. For example, a blood clot may temporarily block the passage of waste through the transfer valve 74, but may then be dislodged by hydrostatic pressure from the waste above.

[0076] Prior to activating the vacuum source 42 to facilitate the clog removal protocol, the controller 86 may determine whether a manifold 55 is present in one or both of the manifold receptacles 52a, 52b, and, in particular, whether a manifold 55 is present in the lower manifold receptacle 52b (step 506). As generally understood from the fluid circuitry depicted schematically in FIG. 18, the presence of a manifold in the lower manifold receptacle 52b creates a suction path from the vacuum source 42 through the lower manifold receptacle 52b and the lower waste container 40b to the external environment (e.g., a suction line). Due to principles of fluid dynamics, i.e., the path of least resistance, suction on a clogged transfer valve 74 may be insufficient if there is little resistance from the suction path. Removing the manifold(s) 55 from the manifold receptacles 52a, 52b blocks or seals the suction path from the waste containers 40a, 40b and the respective manifold receptacles 52a, 52b. Further details regarding blocking the aspiration path(s) are disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 7,615,037, issued November 10, 2009, International Patent Publication No. 2020 / 209898, published October 15, 2020, and International Patent Publication No. 2022 / 103832, published May 19, 2022, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. If the aspiration path between lower manifold receptacle 52b and lower waste container 40b is blocked, suction by vacuum source 42 on lower waste container 40b during a clog removal operation creates a more efficient pressure differential, thereby focusing the force of the pressure differential on the clogged material within transfer valve 74. Furthermore, by ensuring that manifold 55 is not coupled to one of manifold receptacles 52a, 52b, vacuum source 42 is prevented from applying suction at the patient site through aspiration line 80.

[0077] Each of the manifold receptacles 52a, 52b may include a manifold sensor 54a, 54b coupled thereto. The manifold sensors 54a, 54b are represented schematically in FIG. 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 a manifold 55 received within the respective manifold receptacle 52a, 52b. The controller 86 may receive the manifold signal and, based on the manifold signal, determine whether the manifold 55 is removably inserted into one of the manifold receptacles 52a, 52b.

[0078] The method 500 includes executing a clog removal protocol (step 508). The controller 86 is configured to allow execution of the described clog removal protocol based on a determination that the manifold 55 is not removably inserted into one of the manifold receptacles 52a, 52b. If the manifold 55 is determined to be coupled to one of the manifold receptacles 52a, 52b and an attempt is made to initiate the clog removal protocol, either automatically or via user input, an alert can be generated on the control panel 88. The alert can instruct the user to remove the manifold 55 from the associated manifold receptacle 52a, 52b. The alert may include a textual or graphical display. When the user removes the manifold 55, the associated manifold sensor 54a, 54b can generate an updated manifold signal indicating that the manifold 55 has been removed. The controller 86 can receive the updated manifold signal, after which the user or the controller 86 can proceed with the clog removal protocol.

[0079] In one embodiment, the clog removal protocol includes having the controller 86 operate the vacuum source 42 to apply suction to the lower waste container 40b with the transfer valve 74 in the open position (step 510). In some embodiments, the controller 86 can operate the vacuum source 42 at a vacuum level less than 100 mmHg, more specifically less than 55 mmHg. In other embodiments, the controller 86 can operate the vacuum source 42 over a full range of vacuum levels. The buildup of negative pressure in the lower waste container 40b creates the aforementioned pressure differential relative to the upper waste container 40a. The pressure differential imparts a force to the waste clogging the transfer valve 74. This force draws waste from the upper waste container 40a through the transfer valve 74 and into the lower waste container 40b, thus increasing the likelihood of clearing the clog condition.

[0080] The controller 86 can be configured to operate the upper vacuum regulator 48a to terminate the suction being applied to the upper waste container 40a before applying suction to the lower waste container 40b. The controller 86 can be further configured to operate the upper vacuum regulator 48a to vent the upper waste container 40a to atmospheric conditions while the vacuum source 42 applies suction to the lower waste container 40b. In this manner, a pressure differential between the upper and lower waste containers 40a and 40b can be better facilitated.

[0081] The controller 86 can monitor the fluid level signal while the vacuum source 42 is applying suction to the lower waste container 40b (step 512). Based on the monitored rate of change, the system 30 can dynamically respond. For example, if the rate of change of the fluid level does not increase beyond a preset fluid transfer rate within a set period of time, the controller 86 can operate the vacuum source 42 to increase suction on the lower waste container 40b. In other words, the system 30 can generate a larger pressure differential if it is determined that the waste container is not clogged. In contrast, if the rate of change of the fluid level increases beyond a preset fluid transfer rate, the controller 86 can operate the vacuum source 42 to terminate suction on the lower waste container 40b. Such an increase in the rate of change may indicate that the waste container is being cleared. The controller 86 can also terminate suction based on the fluid level in the upper waste container 40a dropping below a preset low fluid level. In this case, it may be necessary to terminate operation of the vacuum source 42 if most or all of the waste has been dumped into the lower waste container 40b. In such cases, the rate of change of fluid level may be less than the rate of fluid transfer due to the absence of waste in upper waste container 40a rather than a clog condition in upper waste container 40a.

[0082] In another embodiment, system 30 can dynamically respond based on the monitored fluid level. For example, if the rate and / or change in fluid level still indicates a clog condition, controller 86 can operate vacuum source 42 at different levels based on the fluid level relative to one or more preset fluid levels. In one embodiment, the controller can operate vacuum source 42 at a higher vacuum level when the fluid level is determined to be nearly full and at a lower vacuum level when the fluid level is determined to be near empty, regardless of changes in the fluid level over time.

[0083] In another embodiment, the controller 86 can monitor the fluid level signal when suction is applied to the lower waste container 40b by the vacuum source 42, and the controller can sequentially evaluate changes in the fluid level. For example, the controller 86 can identify changes in the 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 can determine that the change in the fluid level between the first time and the second time is sufficient to not trigger a clog condition. The controller can evaluate the change in the fluid level from the second time to the third time and determine that the change in the fluid level is indicative of a clog condition. In some cases, the controller 86 can use different preset transfer thresholds over different time periods to determine that a clog condition exists. In some cases, the time periods are of equal duration. In other cases, the time periods are unequal. In some cases, the time periods vary based on whether the controller determined a clog condition existed in a preceding time period. If a clog condition is identified, the controller 86 may reduce the duration so that operation of the vacuum source 42 to clear the clog condition is limited to the shortest possible time.

[0084] The method 500 may include completing the clog removal protocol (step 514). The controller 86 may also terminate operation of the vacuum source 42 based on the rate of change of the fluid level not increasing above a preset fluid transfer rate within a set period of time. In this case, operation of the vacuum source 42 may not be sufficient to remove the clog from the upper waste container 40a. The controller 86 may be configured to provide an error condition alert on the control panel 88 to indicate to the user that the upper waste container 40a remains clogged. Additionally or alternatively, the error condition may be transmitted to a service technician or another entity via a network connection. The controller 86 may prevent further operation of the medical waste collection system 30 until the error condition is satisfactorily addressed.

[0085] The pressure differential generated by the clog removal protocol described above can impart a generally constant force to the waste, the magnitude of which can be based on the level of suction applied by the vacuum source 42. In one variation, a burping protocol can be implemented (step 516) that alternately starts and stops, increases and decreases, or a combination of these, suction on the lower waste container 40b. 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. A temporary spike in force applied to clogged material may be more likely to dislodge a clog from within the transfer valve 74. The burping protocol is an optional step.

[0086] In another embodiment, the medical waste collection system 30 can include the pump 50 described above. FIGS. 18 and 19 show that the pump 50 is located on the base 32 and is separate from the vacuum pump 46. The pump 50 is in fluid communication with at least the upper waste container 40a and in electronic communication with the controller 86. The pump 50 can be a positive pressure pump operable to force air into the upper waste container 40a to create or increase a pressure differential (step 518). In one variation, 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 force air into the upper waste container 40a. Alternatively, multiple pumps can be provided.

[0087] Pump 50 can be incorporated into a clog removal protocol similar to that described above. For example, controller 86 can prevent operation of pump 50 based on a determination that manifold 55 is removably inserted into one of manifold receptacles 52a, 52b. In this case, ensuring that manifold 55 is not coupled to one of manifold receptacles 52a, 52b prevents pump 50 from forcing air through aspiration line 80 and into the patient site. As another example, controller 86 can be configured to operate pump 50 to direct air into upper waste receptacle 40a based on a determination that the rate of change of fluid level is less than a preset fluid transfer rate and the fluid level is higher than a preset low fluid level.

[0088] In one exemplary method, the controller 86 actuates the transfer valve 74 to an open position to allow waste to be transferred 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 in the upper waste container 40a and the rate of change of the fluid level in 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 the fluid level is higher than a preset low fluid level, the controller 86 determines that a clog condition exists. The controller 86 can actuate the upper vacuum regulator 48a to terminate the suction applied to the upper waste container 40a prior to operating the pump 50. The controller 86 operates the pump 50 to force air into the upper waste container 40a. The pressure differential increases, dislodging the clog and forcing the waste through the transfer valve 74.

[0089] The controller 86 can be configured to monitor the fluid level signal while the pump 50 is operating. In some cases, the controller 86 reduces or increases the speed of the pump 50 (i.e., the amount of air forced into the upper waste container 40a) based on the rate of change of the fluid level not increasing or increasing, respectively, above a preset fluid transfer rate within a set period of time. The controller 86 can also terminate 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 has been dumped into the lower waste container 40b. In cases where operation of the pump 50 is insufficient to clear a clog in the upper waste container 40a, the controller 86 can terminate operation of the pump 50 and provide an error condition alert on the control panel 88.

[0090] In some embodiments, control of the pump 50 can be used in combination with system control of the vacuum source 42 in the manner described above. In particular, the controller 86 can be configured to simultaneously operate the vacuum pump 46, the lower vacuum regulator 48b, and / or the pump 50 in a coordinated manner to generate a desired or increased pressure differential. Coordinated operation is particularly advantageous in cases where the pump 50 is not coupled to and in fluid communication with the lower waste container 40b to prevent both the upper and lower waste containers 40a and 40b from being under pressure. Coordinated operation can also be implemented in conjunction with a burping protocol that alternately starts and stops, and / or increases and decreases, the application of positive pressure to the upper waste container 40a and the application of negative pressure to the lower waste container 40b. Once the transfer valve 74 has been successfully unclogged, the drop protocol can be completed (step 520).

[0091] Several configurations have been discussed in the foregoing description. 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 in the nature of terms of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings and can be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

Claims

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

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

3. 3. The medical waste collection system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the controller includes a memory for storing data relating a vertical position of each of the plurality of light sources to a corresponding predetermined fluid level.

4. The controller receiving the signal from the level sensor; determining a fluid level of waste disposed within the waste container based on the signal; comparing the data accessed from the memory with the determined fluid level; operating the plurality of light sources based on the comparison; and The medical waste collection system of claim 3 , configured to:

5. 5. The medical waste collection system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of light sources are spaced apart from one another in the vertical direction relative to gravity, and optionally the spacing is equidistant.

6. 6. The medical waste collection system of claim 1, wherein the light source assembly is a light strip having a substrate, the substrate having a plurality of light sources, the light sources being a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs).

7. 7. The medical waste collection system of claim 6, wherein the chassis includes a housing defining a viewing window through which the waste container is visible, and the light strip is positioned adjacent to one side of the viewing window between the chassis and the waste container.

8. 8. The medical waste collection system of claim 7, wherein the light assembly further comprises a second light strip positioned adjacent the other side of the viewing window between the housing and the waste container.

9. 9. The medical waste collection system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of light sources are configured to emit light at variable light intensities, the memory stores the data further associating the predetermined fluid level with a predetermined light intensity, and the controller is further configured to operate the plurality of light sources at the predetermined light intensities based on the signal, such that light sources located above the fluid level operate at a first intensity and light sources located below the fluid level operate at a second intensity greater than the first intensity.

10. 10. The medical waste collection system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of light sources are configured to emit light at variable light colors, the memory stores the data further associating the predetermined fluid levels with predetermined light colors, and the controller is further configured to operate the plurality of light sources at one or more of the predetermined light colors based on the signal.

11. 11. The medical waste collection system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface in communication with the controller, the user interface configured to accept a full illumination input such that the controller operates all of the plurality of light sources regardless of the fluid level.

12. 9. The medical waste collection system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of light sources are configured to emit light of at least one of variable light intensity and variable light color, and the system further comprises a user interface in communication with the controller, the user interface configured to accept light characteristic input such that the controller operates the plurality of light sources at a selected color or a selected intensity.

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

14. 14. The medical waste collection system of claim 13, wherein the controller is further configured to operate the light source to brighten in response to the signal indicating that the ambient light intensity is above an ambient light threshold.

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

16. 16. The medical waste collection system of claim 13, further comprising: a container light sensor coupled to the waste container; and a memory that stores data including a predetermined color intensity for image capture of an interior space of the waste container using a camera for quantitative blood loss analysis, wherein the controller is further configured to operate the light source based on feedback from the container light sensor such that the determined intensity approximates the predetermined color intensity.

17. 17. The medical waste collection system of claim 16, wherein the predetermined color intensity is a shade of white.

18. 18. The medical waste collection system of claim 13, further comprising a user interface in communication with the controller, the user interface configured to accept input of a light intensity selection, thereby causing the controller to operate the light source at the selected light intensity.

19. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste, comprising: a first waste container defining a first interior space for collecting waste; a second waste container defining a second interior space for collecting waste; a transfer valve coupled to the first waste container and the second waste container and configured to allow waste to be transferred from the first waste container to the second waste container; a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container; a chassis supporting the first and second waste containers, the vacuum source, and the transfer valve; a level sensor coupled to at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container, the level sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of a fluid level of waste disposed in each of the first waste container and the second waste container; a light source selectively operable to illuminate the first interior space or the second interior space of each of the first and second waste containers; a controller coupled to the transfer valve, the level sensor, and the light source, the controller configured to: operate the transfer valve to initiate fluid transfer; receive a subsequent signal from the level sensor indicating a corresponding change in fluid level in at least one of the first waste container and the second waste container; and operate the light source to indicate a clog condition in which the rate of increase of fluid level in the second waste container is below a preset rate of fluid transfer; A medical waste collection system comprising:

20. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste, comprising: a waste container; a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container at a selected vacuum level; a chassis supporting the waste container and the vacuum source; a level sensor coupled to the waste container, the level sensor configured to generate a fluid level signal indicative of a fluid level of waste disposed within the waste container; a light source positioned to emit light of variable intensity into the waste container; a controller coupled to the sensor and the light source, the controller configured to: receive a vacuum signal indicative of the vacuum level; receive the fluid level signal; and operate the light source to indicate a low volume condition in which an expected rate of increase of the fluid level is expected to exhaust the available volume of the waste container in less than a predetermined period of time; A medical waste collection system comprising:

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

22. 1. A method of operating a medical waste collection system in communication with a quantitative blood loss (QBL) system, the medical waste collection system comprising: a waste container; a vacuum source; a level sensor coupled to the waste container; a light source; and a controller; The method comprises: operating the vacuum source to draw medical waste into the waste container; receiving, at the controller, QBL data from the QBL system indicative of blood concentration in medical waste; receiving, at the controller, a fluid level signal from the level sensor; determining a fluid volume of medical waste in the waste container using the controller; determining, with the controller, an amount of blood loss based on the blood concentration and the fluid volume; operating the light source to indicate a warning condition in which the blood loss deviates beyond a predetermined threshold; A method comprising:

23. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the predetermined threshold is one of (i) a degree of blood loss, and (ii) a ratio of blood loss to the fluid volume.

24. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste, comprising: a waste container comprising a permeable material; a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container; a chassis supporting the waste container and the vacuum source, the chassis including a housing defining a viewing window through which the waste container is visible; a cover assembly coupled to the housing; Equipped with The cover assembly includes: a first cover comprising a first polarizer; a second cover movable relative to the first cover, the second cover comprising a second polarizer having a different polarization orientation than the first polarizer; an actuator coupled to the first cover or the second cover, the actuator configured to receive an input to move the first cover and the second cover relative to one another to selectively reduce light transmitted through the cover assembly based on a misalignment between the first polarizer and the second polarizer; A medical waste collection system comprising:

25. 25. The medical waste collection system of claim 24, wherein the first polarizer and the second polarizer each comprise at least a first segment and a second segment, and the polarization direction of the first segment is different from the polarization direction of the second segment.

26. 26. The medical waste collection system of claim 25, wherein the cover assembly is operable between a first state in which the first segment of the first polarizer and the first segment of the second polarizer are aligned to allow a first light transmittance, and a second state in which the first segment of the first polarizer is aligned with the second segment of the second polarizer to allow a second light transmittance lower than the first light transmittance.

27. 27. The medical waste collection system of claim 26, wherein the first light transmittance is 50% of ambient light.

28. 27. The medical waste collection system of claim 26, wherein the second light transmittance approximates zero.

29. 26. The medical waste collection system of claim 25, wherein the first segment includes a vertically oriented polarizing slit and the second segment includes a horizontally oriented polarizing slit.

30. 26. The medical waste collection system of claim 25, wherein the first segment and the second segment are chevron shaped.

31. 26. The medical waste collection system of claim 25, wherein the second cover comprises five segments including the first segment and the second segment.

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

33. 33. The medical waste collection system of claim 32, wherein the first rack and the second rack are curved and contoured to fit an outer surface of the waste container, and the pinion has a conical shape such that the first cover and the second cover are configured to move in an arc around the outer surface of the waste container.

34. 34. The medical waste collection system of claim 33, wherein the first cover and the second cover have a polarizing property as defined in any one of claims 24 to 31.

35. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste, comprising: a waste container; a vacuum source configured to provide a vacuum to the waste container; a chassis supporting the waste container and the vacuum source, the chassis including a housing defining a viewing window through which the waste container is visible; a cover assembly coupled to the housing, a flexible cover movably coupled to one of the housing and the chassis; a first support rod and a second support rod rotatably coupled to one of the housing and the chassis; a belt coupled to the cover and configured to surround the support rod; the cover assembly comprising: an actuator coupled to one of the belt and the cover, the actuator configured to receive an input to move the cover to selectively obstruct at least a portion of the window; A medical waste collection system comprising:

36. 36. The medical waste collection system of claim 35, wherein the cover defines a curved shape when blocking the window.

37. 37. The medical waste collection system of claim 36, further comprising a take-up rod that maintains a portion of the cover unobstructed over the window.

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

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

40. 40. The medical waste collection system of claim 38 or claim 39, wherein the pivot arm comprises a first pivot portion pivotally coupled to the cover, a second pivot portion pivotally coupled to the actuator, and an elongated portion extending between the first pivot portion and the second pivot portion.

41. 41. The medical waste collection system of claim 40, wherein the elongated portion has an arcuate shape.

42. 42. The medical waste collection system of claim 40 or claim 41, wherein the cover defines a recess for receiving at least the first pivot portion.

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

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

45. 45. The medical waste collection system of claim 43 or claim 44, wherein the actuator comprises a tab that a user can grasp to move the actuator along the track.

46. 46. ​​The medical waste collection system of claim 45, wherein the tab comprises a first flange disposed on a first side of the track facing the waste receptacle and a second flange disposed on a second side of the track not facing the waste receptacle, the first flange and the second flange cooperating to maintain a portion of the tab within the slot.

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

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

49. 49. The medical waste collection system of claim 48, wherein the guide has a curved shape that defines a first arc having a first center point.

50. 50. The medical waste collection system of claim 49, wherein the track extends linearly.

51. 50. The medical waste collection system of claim 49, wherein the track defines a second arc having a second center point different from the first center point.

52. 52. The medical waste collection system of any one of claims 38 to 51, wherein the cover comprises a hard plastic.

53. 1. A method of operating a medical waste collection system comprising: an upper waste container; a lower waste container; a controller; a user interface; a vacuum source configured to provide independent suction to the upper waste container and the lower waste container; 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, comprising: using the controller to actuate the transfer valve to an open position to allow waste to be transferred from the upper waste container to the lower waste container; receiving, at the controller, a fluid level signal from the at least one level sensor; using the controller to identify a change in fluid level in the upper waste container based on the fluid level signal; based on a change in the fluid level during a drop protocol indicating a clog condition, operating the vacuum source to apply suction to the lower waste container when the transfer valve is in an open position to draw waste from the upper waste container into the lower waste container through the transfer valve; A method comprising:

54. using 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 at a first time; using 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 at a second time, the second time being a predetermined duration after the first time; Further comprising:

54. The method of claim 53, wherein the step of operating the vacuum source further comprises operating the vacuum source to perform suction after the second time period based on a difference between the first fluid level and the second fluid level being less than a preset transfer threshold.

55. 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 the fluid level signal at a third time, the third time being a predetermined duration after the second time; Further comprising:

55. The method of claim 54, wherein the preset transfer threshold is further defined as a first preset transfer threshold, and wherein operating the vacuum source further comprises operating the vacuum source to perform suction after the third time period based on a difference between the second fluid level and the third fluid level being less than a second preset transfer threshold.

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

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

59. monitoring the fluid level signal while suction is applied to the lower waste container; terminating suction on the lower waste container based on the fluid level change increasing beyond the preset transfer threshold; 55. The method of claim 54, further comprising:

60. monitoring the fluid level signal while suction is applied to the lower waste container; terminating suction on the lower waste container based on the change in fluid level not increasing beyond the preset transfer threshold within a set period of time; thereafter providing an error condition alert on said user interface; 55. The method of claim 54, further comprising:

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

62. monitoring the fluid level signal while suction is applied to the lower waste container; increasing suction to 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 period of time; 62. The method of claim 61, further comprising:

63. monitoring the fluid level signal while suction is applied to the lower waste container; terminating suction on the lower waste container based on the rate of change of the fluid level increasing above the preset fluid transfer rate; 62. The method of claim 61, further comprising:

64. monitoring the fluid level signal while suction is applied to the lower waste container; terminating 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 period of time; thereafter providing an error condition alert on said user interface; 62. The method of claim 61, further comprising:

65. 65. The method of claim 53, wherein the step of operating the vacuum source further comprises: operating the vacuum source to suction at a first vacuum level based on the fluid level in the upper waste container being above a preset fluid level; and operating the vacuum source to 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 medical waste collection system further comprising a lower manifold receptacle in selective fluid communication with the lower waste container; and a manifold sensor coupled to the lower manifold receptacle; The method comprises: receiving, at the controller, a manifold signal from the manifold sensor; using the controller to determine whether a manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver based on the manifold signal; preventing operation of the vacuum source relative to the lower waste container when the transfer valve is in an open position based on determining that the manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver; 66. The method of any one of claims 53 to 65, further comprising:

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

68. 67. The method of claim 66, further comprising providing an alert on the user interface based on the manifold being removably coupled to the lower manifold receiver, the alert instructing a user to remove the manifold from the lower manifold receiver.

69. receiving an input on the user interface confirming that the manifold has been removed from the lower manifold receptacle; receiving, at the controller, an updated manifold signal from the manifold sensor; again determining, with the controller, whether the manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver based on the updated manifold signal; 69. The method of claim 68, further comprising:

70. the system further comprising 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; The method comprises: activating, with the controller, the upper vacuum regulator to terminate suction applied to the upper waste container prior to the step of operating the vacuum source on the lower waste container; activating the lower vacuum regulator with the controller to apply suction to the lower waste container; 70. The method of any one of claims 53 to 69, further comprising:

71. 71. The method of claim 70, further comprising, during the step of operating the vacuum source on the lower waste container, operating, with the controller, the upper vacuum regulator to evacuate the upper waste container to atmospheric conditions.

72. 72. The method of any one of claims 53 to 71, further comprising alternately providing and terminating suction to the lower waste container according to a burping protocol.

73. 73. The method of claim 72, wherein the burping protocol includes a fixed or variable interval and / or a fixed or variable vacuum level.

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

75. presenting an indication of a jam condition on the user interface prior to the step of operating the vacuum source; receiving an input on the user interface to initiate a clog removal sequence; The method of any one of claims 53 to 74, further comprising:

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

77. monitoring the fluid level signal while suction is applied to the lower waste container; terminating suction on the lower waste container based on the fluid level in the upper waste container dropping below a preset low fluid level; 76. The method of any one of claims 53 to 75, further comprising:

78. A medical waste collection system for collecting waste, comprising: an upper waste container; a lower waste container; at least one 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 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 and lower waste containers; a pump separate from the vacuum source and in fluid communication with the upper waste container; a controller in electronic communication with the at least one level sensor, the transfer valve, and the pump, the controller configured to: identify a change in fluid level when the transfer valve is in an open position based on a level signal received from the at least one level sensor; and operate the pump to direct air into the upper waste container based on the change in fluid level during a drop protocol indicating a clog condition; A medical waste collection system comprising:

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

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

81. 1. A method of operating a medical waste collection system comprising: an upper waste container; a lower waste container; a controller; a user interface; a vacuum source configured to provide independent suction to the upper waste container and the lower waste container; a pump; 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, comprising: using the controller to actuate the transfer valve to an open position to allow waste to be transferred from the upper waste container to the lower waste container; receiving, at the controller, a fluid level signal from the at least one level sensor; using the controller to identify a change in fluid level in the upper waste container based on the fluid level signal; based on a change in the fluid level during a drop protocol indicating a clog condition, operating the pump when the transfer valve is in an open position to force air into the upper waste container, forcing waste through the transfer valve and into the lower waste container; A method comprising:

82. using 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 at a first time; using 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 at a second time, the second time being a predetermined duration after the first time; Further comprising:

82. The method of claim 81, wherein the step of operating the pump further comprises operating the pump to force air into the upper waste container after the second time period based on a difference between the first fluid level and the second fluid level being less than a preset transfer threshold.

83. 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 the fluid level signal at a third time, the third time being a predetermined duration after the second time; Further comprising:

83. The method of claim 82, wherein the preset transfer threshold is further defined as a first preset transfer threshold, and wherein operating the pump further comprises operating the pump to force air into the upper waste container after the third time period based on a difference between the second fluid level and the third fluid level being less than a second preset transfer threshold.

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

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

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

87. monitoring the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; terminating operation of the pump based on the fluid level change increasing beyond the preset transfer threshold; 83. The method of claim 82, further comprising:

88. monitoring the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; terminating operation of the pump based on the change in fluid level not increasing beyond the preset transfer threshold within a set period of time; thereafter providing an error condition alert on said user interface; 83. The method of claim 82, further comprising:

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

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

91. monitoring the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; terminating operation of the pump based on the rate of change of the fluid level increasing above the preset fluid transfer rate; 90. The method of claim 89, further comprising:

92. monitoring the fluid level signal while the pump is operating; terminating operation of the pump based on the rate of change of the fluid level not increasing above the preset fluid transfer rate within a set period of time; thereafter providing an error condition alert on said user interface; 90. The method of claim 89, further comprising:

93. 93. The method of any one of claims 81 to 92, wherein the step of operating the vacuum source further comprises: operating the vacuum source to perform suction at a first vacuum level based on the fluid level in the upper waste container being above a preset fluid level; and operating the vacuum source to perform 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.

94. the medical waste collection system further comprising a lower manifold receptacle in selective fluid communication with the lower waste container; and a manifold sensor coupled to the lower manifold receptacle; The method comprises: receiving, at the controller, a manifold signal from the manifold sensor; using the controller to determine whether a manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver based on the manifold signal; preventing operation of the vacuum source relative to the lower waste container when the transfer valve is in an open position based on determining that the manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver; 94. The method of any one of claims 81 to 93, further comprising:

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

96. 95. The method of claim 94, further comprising providing an alert on the user interface based on the manifold being removably coupled to the lower manifold receptacle, the alert instructing a user to remove the manifold from the lower manifold receptacle.

97. receiving an input on the user interface confirming that the manifold has been removed from the lower manifold receptacle; receiving, at the controller, an updated manifold signal from the manifold sensor; again determining, with the controller, whether the manifold is removably inserted into the lower manifold receiver based on the updated manifold signal; 97. The method of claim 96, further comprising:

98. the system further comprising 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; The method comprises:

98. The method of any one of claims 81 to 97, further comprising, prior to the step of operating the pump, using the controller to operate the upper vacuum regulator to terminate suction being applied to the upper waste container.

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

100. 98. The method of claim 97, wherein operation of the pump and operation of the vacuum source occur simultaneously.

101. 101. The method of claim 100, wherein operation of the pump and operation of the vacuum source alternate.

102. 102. The method of claim 101, wherein the alternating occurs at fixed or variable intervals and / or at fixed or variable levels.

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

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