Filter assembly for filtering smoke exhausted from a medical waste collection system including suction

Abstract

A surgical smoke evacuation system and method are provided. A main component may include a suction source and a controller. A filter assembly is configured to be removably coupled to the main component and includes a housing defining a socket for connecting a smoke evacuation tube, and a flap for selectively covering the socket. A sensor is configured to detect the position of the flap relative to the socket. The controller may be configured to operate the system based on the position of the flap relative to the socket as detected by the sensor. The controller may be configured to enable, disable, or adjust operation of the suction source and / or open or close a valve associated with the suction source based on the signal. An assembly and method for removing filter media from a housing of the filter assembly are also disclosed.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to and the full benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 483,750, filed February 7, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Various medical devices incorporate filtration systems intended to maintain sterility and / or capture harmful particles. For example, medical devices that include suction may include a filtration system that removes debris and / or harmful particles from the liquid or air consumed by the suction. Depending on the type of medical device, the filtration system may require a large and / or complex filter assembly to achieve particulate filtration.

[0003] Similarly, a filtration system may include a filter assembly including one or more sockets or ports to which the tubing of a surgical instrument may be connected. The sockets and ports may be configured to allow debris and / or harmful particles to enter the filter assembly. A vacuum or suction may be applied to the filter assembly to draw debris and / or harmful particles from the sockets or ports into the filter assembly. The filter assembly may further include a lid or flap intended to cover the sockets or ports when the sockets or ports are not in use and / or when no surgical instrument is attached. The operation of the filtration system, and more specifically, the operation of the suction source that applies vacuum or suction to the filter assembly, may differ depending on whether the sockets or ports are exposed or uncovered and / or whether an instrument is attached to one or more sockets or ports. Currently, conventional filter assemblies do not or do not allow for identification of a flap position that indicates whether the sockets or ports are exposed or covered and / or whether a surgical instrument is attached to the filter assembly. This information could be used to optimize the operation of the filtration system.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a filter assembly that is configured to address various shortcomings of conventional filter assemblies. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to a filter assembly and a method of using the filter assembly with a medical device, such as a medical waste collection system or a surgical smoke evacuation device that includes suction. The filter assembly includes a filter cartridge that can be configured to filter smoke and other particles collected by suction in a medical waste collection system.

[0006] A filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system may include a first configuration of filter cartridge. The medical waste collection system may include a handpiece removably coupled to the filter assembly by a flue. The filter assembly may include a housing defining an interior configured to receive the filter cartridge. The housing may include a cover and a sensor. The first configuration of filter cartridge may include a faceplate having an inner surface and an opposing outer surface. The filter cartridge may further include a first alignment feature coupled to the outer periphery of the faceplate, the first alignment feature being configured to orient the filter cartridge within the housing. The filter cartridge may also include a filter portion having a first end and a second end, the first end of the filter portion spaced from the inner surface of the faceplate to at least partially define a void space between the faceplate and the filter portion. The faceplate may include first and second ports, each configured to receive an end of a flue on an opposite side of the handpiece. Each port may be positioned on the faceplate to communicate with the void space and configured to allow smoke to pass through the faceplate and enter the void space. The first port may have a first dimension and the second port may have a second dimension to allow smoke vents of different sizes to be removably coupled to the faceplate. The faceplate may further include a sensor opening configured to receive a sensor of the housing when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing such that the sensor is at least partially disposed within the void space of the filter cartridge.

[0007] A filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system may include a second configuration of a filter cartridge for filtering smoke. The filter assembly may include a filter assembly housing including a front cover at least partially defining an interior, and a sensor assembly including a sensor housing and a sensor. The second configuration of the filter cartridge may include a faceplate configured to be positioned inside the filter assembly housing near the front cover, the faceplate including an outer surface opposite an inner surface and defining a port configured to be removably coupled to a smoke exhaust pipe. The faceplate may also include a sensor opening separate from the port having a sensor opening sized to receive at least a portion of the sensor housing of the sensor assembly. The filter cartridge may further include a filter portion including a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface, and a side surface extending between the front and rear surfaces. The front surface of the filter portion may face toward the inner surface of the faceplate. The faceplate and the filter portion may be spaced apart from each other to at least partially define a gap space between the inner surface of the faceplate and the front surface of the filter portion. The sensor opening and the port in the faceplate are complementarily positioned and communicate with the void space such that when the filter cartridge is positioned within the filter assembly housing and the flue gas pipe is removably coupled to the port, the sensor is at least partially disposed within the void space and can detect smoke received from the flue gas pipe through the port within the void space before it reaches the filter portion.

[0008] A first general aspect of a filter assembly system for use in a surgical smoke evacuation system may include a housing defining an interior. The housing may include a cover, and a sensor may be coupled to the cover and disposed within the housing. The filter assembly may further include a filter cartridge removably disposed within the housing. The filter cartridge may include a faceplate and a filter portion spaced from the faceplate to at least partially define a void space between the faceplate and the filter portion. The faceplate may include a first port configured to be removably coupled to the smoke evacuation tube to communicate with the void space and allow matter to pass through the faceplate and enter the void space. The faceplate may further include a sensor opening, and the sensor opening may be configured to receive a sensor when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing, such that the sensor is at least partially disposed within the void space and configured to detect the presence of matter entering the void space through the first port.

[0009] A second general aspect of a filter assembly system for use in a surgical smoke evacuation system may include a housing defining an interior, the housing including a cover. The cover may include at least one opening defining a passageway from the interior of the housing to the exterior of the housing. The filter assembly may further include a filter cartridge removably disposed within the housing. The filter cartridge may include a faceplate positioned adjacent to the cover when the filter cartridge is removably disposed within the housing. The faceplate may include an inner surface and an opposing outer surface. The filter cartridge may further include a filter portion spaced from the faceplate to at least partially define a void space between the inner surface of the faceplate and the filter portion. The faceplate may include a first port configured to be removably coupled to a smoke evacuation tube to communicate with the void space and allow matter to pass through the faceplate and enter the void space. The faceplate may further include an annular boss surrounding the first port and extending distally from the outer surface of the faceplate. The annular boss may be configured to form a seal between the flue gas pipe and the faceplate to ensure that all particles passing through the flue gas pipe are collected in the filter cartridge. The annular boss surrounding the first port may be configured to be at least partially disposed within one of the at least one opening in the cover such that a distal end of the annular boss is positioned distal (to the complementary opening) relative to the cover.

[0010] A third general aspect of a filter assembly system for use in a surgical smoke evacuation system may include a housing defining an interior, the housing may include a cover including an inner surface and an outer surface. The filter assembly may further include a filter cartridge removably disposed within the housing. The filter cartridge may include a faceplate including an inner surface and an opposing outer surface positioned adjacent the cover of the housing when the filter cartridge is removably disposed within the housing. The outer surface of the filter cartridge may include a first portion and a second portion. The filter cartridge may also include a filter portion spaced from the faceplate to at least partially define a void space between the inner surface of the faceplate and the filter portion. The cover may also include a protrusion extending proximally from the inner surface. The first surface of the faceplate may be disposed distally of the second surface of the faceplate to define a recess in the outer surface of the faceplate configured to receive the protrusion on the inner surface of the cover when the filter cartridge is removably disposed within the housing.

[0011] The present disclosure further relates to a method for replacing a filter cartridge of a filter assembly for use with a surgical-medical waste collection system. The filter assembly may include a housing defining an interior, an opening in the housing, and a groove or slot. The slot may be defined by the opening, or the groove may be defined by the inner surface of the housing. The filter assembly may also include a front cover having an opening, and a sensor disposed within the housing. The method for replacing a filter cartridge of a filter assembly may include providing a filter cartridge, the filter cartridge including a faceplate having a port for removably connecting a flue to the faceplate, alignment features coupled to an exterior of the cartridge, and a sensor opening in the faceplate. The method may further include orienting the filter cartridge such that the alignment features of the filter cartridge are inserted into the groove in the inner surface of the housing before sliding the filter cartridge through the opening. The method may also include installing the filter cartridge within the housing by sliding the filter cartridge through the opening such that the alignment feature is disposed within the groove, the sensor is at least partially disposed within the sensor opening of the filter cartridge, and the port of the filter cartridge is aligned with the opening in the cover. The method may further include installing the filter assembly within a surgical medical waste collection system, such as a surgical smoke evacuation system.

[0012] A fourth general aspect of the filter assembly also includes a suction source, a flue, a filter assembly that may include a housing defining a socket for removably receiving the flue, a filter disposed within the housing, a suction source configured to apply suction to the socket to draw fluid through the filter, a flap coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which the flap covers the socket to a second position in which the socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue with the socket, and a sensor coupled to the housing and configured to detect the flap in the first position. The unit also includes a controller in electronic communication with the sensor and configured to disable operation of the suction source based on the sensor detecting the flap in the first position.

[0013] According to a fifth general aspect of a method of operating a filter assembly including a vacuum pump, the method also includes receiving, at a controller, a signal from a sensor indicating that a flap has moved from covering the socket. The method also includes, at the controller, enabling operation of the vacuum pump based on the signal.

[0014] According to a sixth general aspect of a method of operating a filter assembly including a vacuum pump, the method also includes receiving, at a controller, a signal from a sensor indicating that a flap is covering the socket. The method also includes, at the controller, preventing operation of the vacuum pump based on the signal.

[0015]

[0013] A seventh general aspect of a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. The non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions also includes receiving a first signal from a sensor of the surgical filter assembly, the sensor being positioned on a housing of the surgical filter assembly proximate a socket defined in the housing, the sensor being configured to generate a second signal indicating that the flap is in a first position covering the socket or a second position exposing the socket. The instructions also include sending the second signal to a controller in communication with a suction source configured, upon activation, to draw suction through the socket, the controller being configured to enable operation of the suction source when the second signal indicates that the flap is in the second position and to disable operation of the suction source when the second signal indicates that the flap is in the first position.

[0016] An eighth general aspect of the filter assembly also includes a housing defining a first socket for removably receiving a flue pipe. The unit also includes a filter disposed within the housing. The unit also includes a suction source configured to apply suction to the first socket to draw fluid through the filter. The unit also includes a first flap coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which the first flap covers the first socket to a second position in which the first socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue pipe with the first socket. The unit also includes a sensor coupled to the housing and configured to detect the first flap in the first position. The unit also includes a user interface. The unit also includes a controller in electronic communication with the sensor and the user interface, the controller configured to determine that the first flap is in the second position based on the absence of a signal received from the sensor and to cause the user interface to display information based on the absence of a signal.

[0017] A ninth general aspect of the filter assembly also includes a housing defining a first socket and a second socket, each socket removably receiving a flue pipe. The unit also includes a filter disposed within the housing. The unit also includes a suction source configured to apply suction to the socket to draw fluid through the filter. The unit also includes first flaps coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which each first flap covers the first socket to a second position in which the first socket is exposed, allowing coupling of the flue pipe with the first socket. The unit also includes second flaps coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which each second flap covers the second socket to a second position in which the second socket is exposed, allowing coupling of the flue pipe with the second socket. The unit also includes sensors coupled to the housing and configured to detect each of the first and second flaps in the first position. The unit also includes a controller in electronic communication with the sensor and configured to identify the exposed socket based on a signal from the sensor indicative of the position of the first flap or the second flap, respectively.

[0018] A tenth general aspect of the filter assembly also includes a compartment defining a cavity. The unit also includes a housing removably coupled to the compartment and defining a socket for removably receiving a flue pipe. The unit also includes a filter disposed within the housing. The unit also includes a suction source at least partially disposed within the compartment and configured to apply suction to the socket to draw fluid through the filter. The unit also includes a valve disposed in the compartment, the valve being movable between a closed position in which the cavity is sealed from the external environment and an open position in which the cavity is in fluid communication with the external environment. The unit also includes a flap coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which the flap covers the socket to a second position in which the socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue pipe with the socket. The unit also includes a sensor coupled to the housing and configured to detect the flap in the first position. The unit also includes a controller in electronic communication with the sensor and configured to at least partially open the valve based on the sensor detecting the flap in the first position to supply ambient air from the external environment to the gap to cool the suction source.

[0019] An eleventh general aspect includes a filter assembly for use with a surgical instrument. The filter assembly also includes a housing defining a first socket and a second socket for removably receiving a flue of the surgical instrument. The unit also includes a filter disposed within the housing. The unit also includes a suction source configured to apply suction to the socket to draw fluid through the filter. The unit also includes first flaps coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position where each first flap covers the first socket to a second position where the first socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue with the first socket. The unit also includes second flaps coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position where each second flap covers the second socket to a second position where the second socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue with the second socket. The unit also includes a sensor coupled to the housing and configured to detect when either the first flap or the second flap is in the first position. The unit also includes a controller configured to electronically communicate with the sensor and control operation of the suction source based on the first flap or the second flap being in one of the first position or the second position.

[0020] In a twelfth general aspect, a filter assembly for use with a surgical instrument is described. The filter assembly also includes a housing defining a socket for removably receiving a flue. The unit also includes a filter disposed within the housing. The unit also includes a flap coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which the flap covers the socket to a second position in which the socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue with the socket. The unit also includes a sensor coupled to the housing and configured to detect the flap in the first position.

[0021] In a thirteenth general aspect, a filter assembly for use with a suction source configured to apply suction is described. The filter assembly also includes a housing defining first and second sockets, each socket for removably receiving a flue pipe. The unit also includes a filter disposed within the housing. The unit also includes first flaps coupled to the housing and configured to be movable from a first position in which the first flaps cover the first socket to a second position in which the first socket is exposed, thereby allowing the flue pipe to couple with the first socket. The unit also includes second flaps coupled to the housing and configured to be movable from a first position in which the second flaps cover the second socket to a second position in which the second socket is exposed, thereby allowing the flue pipe to couple with the second socket. The unit also includes sensors coupled to the housing and configured to detect each of the first and second flaps in the first position.

[0022] In some embodiments, the filter assembly may optionally include a suction source configured to apply suction to the first socket to draw fluid through the filter. The unit may also optionally include a controller in electronic communication with the sensor. The controller may be configured to disable operation of the suction source based on the sensor detecting the flap in the first position.

[0023] In some embodiments, the filter of the filter assembly may optionally include a faceplate having an inner surface and an opposing outer surface. The filter may also include a first alignment feature coupled to the faceplate, the first alignment feature configured to orient the filter within the housing. If the faceplate includes a port in fluid communication with the socket of the housing, the port may optionally include an annular boss surrounding the port and extending distally from the outer surface of the faceplate, the annular boss configured to form a seal between each smoke exhaust tube and the faceplate to ensure that all particles passing through the smoke exhaust tube are collected in the filter.

[0024] In some embodiments, the filter assembly having a suction source may also include a compartment defining a gap. The suction source may be at least partially disposed within the gap. A valve may be disposed in the compartment to selectively open and close a passageway defined between the gap and an external environment. The valve is in electronic communication with a controller, the controller being further configured to at least partially open the valve based on the sensor detecting the flap in a first position.

[0025] These and other features, characteristics, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the present disclosure is not limited to or by these features, characteristics, and advantages.

[0026] Referring now to the drawings, example figures are shown in detail. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated to better illustrate and explain the inventive aspects of the present disclosure. Moreover, the example figures described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or otherwise limiting or restrictive to the exact forms and configurations shown in the drawings and disclosed in the following detailed description.

[0027] The advantages of the present disclosure will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a filter assembly including a housing and a front cover. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the front cover of the filter assembly of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view of an aperture cover for use with a front cover of a filter assembly, the aperture cover including one or more flaps for covering an aperture in the front cover. FIG. [Figure 4]FIG. 2 is a rear elevational view of the housing and front cover of FIG. 1. [Figure 5A] 2 is a perspective view of a filter cartridge including a faceplate and a cartridge cover, the filter cartridge configured to be removably disposed within the housing of the filter assembly of FIG. 1; [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 5A. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5B is a front view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 5A. [Figure 6] FIG. 5B is a rear perspective view of the faceplate of the filter cartridge of FIG. 5A. [Figure 7] FIG. 5B is a side elevational view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 5A with the cartridge cover removed to expose the internal features of the filter cartridge. [Figure 8] 5B is a perspective view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1 with the front cover removed to expose the position and orientation of the filter cartridge of FIG. 5A within the housing. [Figure 9] 9 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1 taken along section line 9-9, including the filter cartridge of FIG. 5A disposed within a housing. [Figure 10] 5B is a partially exploded view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1 including the filter cartridge of FIG. 5A. [Figure 11A] 5B is another partially exploded view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1 including the filter cartridge arrangement of FIG. 5A. [Figure 11B] 10 is another partially exploded view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1 including an alternative filter cartridge configuration. [Figure 12] 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for inserting and removing the filter assembly of FIG. 1 from a medical device or system. [Figure 13] 13 is a schematic diagram showing various internal components of the medical device or system of FIG. 12, including at least a controller and a suction source that draws through the filter assembly. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 is a partially exploded view of the suction source of the medical device or system of FIGS. 12 and 13. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the suction source of FIG. 14. [Figure 16A] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of a filter assembly for use with the medical device or system of FIGS. 12 and 13, the filter assembly including a housing with a front cover defining a socket, a flap for selectively covering the socket, and a sensor for sensing the position of the flap in a first configuration. [Figure 16B] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of a filter assembly for use with the medical device or system of FIGS. 12 and 13, the filter assembly including a housing with a front cover defining a socket, a flap for selectively covering the socket, and a sensor for sensing the position of the flap in a second configuration. [Figure 17A] 17 is a perspective view of the filter assembly of FIG. 16 showing the flap in a second position exposing the socket defined by the cover. FIG. [Figure 17B] 17 is a perspective view of the filter assembly of FIG. 16 showing the two flaps in a second position exposing two corresponding sockets defined by the cover. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] As medical professionals strive to reduce the amount of waste generated from performing various surgical or medical procedures, they seek opportunities to reduce the number of disposable components and increase the number of reusable components. When identifying and designing reusable medical device and / or medical implement components, multiple factors must be considered. Specifically, the design and / or functionality of the reusable components must allow for sterilization of the environment and the medical device or implement. One such component that can be used with medical devices and that was previously a disposable component is a filter assembly. For example, a filter assembly may be used with a medical waste collection system 100, such as a smoke evacuation system, that includes suction to filter various particles, smoke, and / or liquids collected from the air during a medical procedure. Traditionally, the entire filter assembly has been disposed of after each individual medical procedure. Therefore, there is a need in the art for a filter assembly that includes a combination of reusable and disposable components, such as the filter assembly 10 shown in FIG. 1 .

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary configuration of a filter assembly 10. Accordingly, the filter assembly 10 may include a housing 12. The housing may also be referred to as a housing, a filter housing, a compartment, or the like. The housing 12 may include multiple wall members 14A, 14B configured to define an interior 16 (not shown in FIG. 1 ) of the housing 12. The wall members 14 may be constructed of a generally rigid material, such as a plastic polymer or a metal alloy. While the housing 12 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes four wall members 14A, 14B, 14C, and 14D arranged in a square or rectangular configuration, it is envisioned that the size, shape, and / or number of the wall members 14 of the housing 12 may vary. For example, although not shown, the housing 12 may include three wall members 14 to define a triangular-shaped housing 12. Alternatively, the housing 12 may include a single wall member 14 configured to define a circular or oval-shaped housing 12.

[0031] The housing 12 may further include a cover 20. The cover 20 may be configured to be removably coupled to the distal end of the housing 12. It is also contemplated that the cover 20 may be integrally formed with the wall members 14A, 14B, 14C, and 14D. The cover 20 may include one or more sockets 22. A socket may also be referred to as an opening, aperture, outlet, plug, connector, port, or similar means for defining a connection point. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cover 20 may include three sockets 22A, 22B, and 22C. However, it is contemplated that the cover 20 may be configured to include a single socket 22A, two sockets 22A and 22B, or more. The cover 20 may define a recess 24A in the outer surface 21 of the cover 20. The design of cover 20 may be configured such that recess 24A in outer surface 21 of cover 20 defines protrusion 24B (protrusion 24B shown in FIG. 4 ) on inner surface 23 of cover 20. Recess 24A defined in outer surface 21 of cover 20 may be shaped and / or configured as a handle for grasping and / or manipulating filter assembly 10. For example, recess 24A may be configured as a handle to allow a user to grasp filter assembly 10 when removing filter assembly 10 from medical waste collection system 100 or a medical device.

[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary configuration of an aperture cover 26 for use with the cover 20. The aperture cover 26 may include a body 27 configured to be coupled to the exterior surface 21 of the cover 20. The body 27 may be removably coupled to the cover 20. Alternatively, the body 27 may be permanently coupled to the cover 20. The body 27 may be formed from a flexible material, such as rubber, or from a generally rigid material, such as plastic. The aperture cover 26 may include one or more flaps 28 extending from the body 27. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the aperture cover 26 includes three flaps 28A, 28B, and 28C extending from the body 27. The flaps 28A, 28B, and 28C may be formed from a flexible material, such as a rubber composition. Furthermore, the flaps 28A, 28B, and 28C may be flexibly or pivotally connected to the body 27. For example, the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C may be pivotally connected to the body 27 such that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C can move relative to the body 27 between an open position and a closed position. The body 27 of the opening cover 26 may be coupled to the cover 20 of the housing 12 such that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are positioned over the respective openings 22A, 22B, 22C in the cover 20. The flaps 28A, 28B, 28C may be configured to cover and / or seal the respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C when in the closed position. The flaps 28A, 28B, 28C may be configured to expose the respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C when in the open position. Functionally, when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the closed position and covering their respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C, flaps 28A, 28B, 28C can prevent debris or other particles from passing through openings 22A, 22B, 22C in cover 20. When filter assembly 10 including cover 20 with opening covers 26 is utilized with medical waste collection system 100 that includes suction, suction may seal flaps 28A, 28B, 28C against the exterior surface of cover 20 when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the closed position.Alternatively, when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the open position, filter assembly 10 may be configured such that suction draws liquid, gas, and / or other particles through sockets 22A, 22B, 22C in cover 20.

[0033] 4, a rear view of housing 12 of filter assembly 10 is shown. The proximal end of housing 12 may define opening 18 configured to provide access to interior 16 defined by wall members 14A, 14B, 14C, and 14D. While opening 18 at the proximal end of housing 12 shown in FIG. 4 has a generally circular shape, it is envisioned that other shapes may be utilized. For example, opening 18 may have a triangular, square, or other similar polygonal shape.

[0034] The opening 18 at the proximal end of the housing 12 may also define one or more alignment slots 19A, 19B. The alignment slots 19A, 19B may comprise generally square or rectangular cutouts in the periphery of the opening 18. However, it is further contemplated that the alignment slots 19A, 19B may comprise hemispherical, triangular, or other polygonal cutouts. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the opening 18 includes a first alignment slot 19A and a second alignment slot 19B. The first alignment slot 19A has a generally rectangular shape having a first dimension, and the second alignment slot 19B has a generally rectangular shape having a second dimension, the first and second dimensions being different from one another. As shown in FIG. 4, an exemplary configuration of the opening 18 includes the first alignment slot 19A having a first dimension and the second alignment slot 19B having a second dimension, the first dimension being smaller than the second dimension. Alternatively, although not shown, it is envisioned that alignment slots 19A, 19B may be configured as alignment tabs protruding from the outer periphery of opening 18. For example, the alignment tabs may have a hemispherical convex shape, a triangular shape, or a similar polygonal shape extending from the outer periphery of opening 18. Furthermore, although the figures only show alignment slots 19A, 19B cut from the outer periphery of opening 18 in proximal panel 17 of housing 12, it is envisioned that interior 16 defined by wall members 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D may have the same shape as opening 18. For example, interior 16 defined by wall members 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D may have a cylindrical shape extending from the proximal end to the proximal end of housing 12, and the interior surface of the cylinder may define one or more alignment slots 19A, 19B extending along the length of the cylinder. 4 generally bisects opening 18, although other arrangements and / or orientations are envisioned. For example, visualizing opening 18 as a clock face, it is envisioned that first alignment slot 19A may be positioned at approximately 11 o'clock and second alignment slot 19B may be positioned at approximately 1 o'clock (as shown in FIG. 4).In yet another configuration, first alignment slot 19A may be positioned at approximately 1 o'clock and second alignment slot 19B may be positioned at approximately 5 o'clock (as shown in FIG. 4).

[0035] The filter assembly 10 may further include a particle sensor 30 disposed within the interior 16 of the housing 12. The particle sensor 30 may include an optical sensor, a chemical sensor, or a laser sensor. For example, the optical particle sensor 30 may include an infrared emitting diode (IRED) with a phototransistor positioned at an angle so that the optical particle sensor 30 can detect reflected light from dust particles in the air. This type of optical particle sensor 30 may be generally effective for detecting very fine particles, such as tobacco smoke. The particle sensor 30 may include a sensor housing 31 and a sensor element 33. As shown in FIG. 4 , the sensor housing 31, and thus the sensor 30, may be coupled or mounted to the cover 20 of the housing 12. Although not shown, it is further contemplated that the particle sensor 30 may be mounted elsewhere within the interior 16 of the housing 12. For example, the particle sensor 30 may be mounted to the first wall member 14A. Alternatively, the particle sensor 30 may be mounted to the second wall member 14B. The sensor element 33 may include operational features of a sensor, such as a light bulb portion of an optical sensor configured to visually detect the presence of various particulates. Alternatively, the sensor element 33 may include a chemical analyzer configured to detect the presence of various particles. A sensor cord 34 extends from the sensor housing 31 of the particulate sensor 30. The sensor cord 34 may include a sensor mating portion 36 coupled to the sensor cord 34 on the opposite side of the sensor 30. The sensor mating portion 36 may be configured to be mated to a complementary mating portion on the medical waste collection system 100 or medical device to connect the particulate sensor 30 to a controller 102 of the system 100 or medical device.

[0036] The filter assembly 10 may further include a sealing member 32 disposed within the interior 16 of the housing 12. The sealing member 32 may be coupled to the cover 20 and positioned to at least partially surround the sensor 30. A portion of the sealing member 32 may at least partially surround a section of the sensor cord 34 to form a seal between the sensor cord 34 and the cover 20 of the housing 12.

[0037] 5A, 5B, and 5C illustrate exemplary configurations of the filter cartridge 38 of the filter assembly 10. The filter cartridge 38 may be configured to be removably disposed within the interior 16 of the housing 12. The filter cartridge 38 may include a cartridge cover 40 configured to define the outer periphery of the filter cartridge 38. As shown in FIG. 5A, the cartridge cover 40 may have a generally cylindrical shape. However, it is contemplated that the cartridge cover 40, and thus the filter cartridge 38, may be configured in other shapes. For example, the cartridge cover 40 may be configured as a square cuboid, a rectangular cuboid, or a similar three-dimensional shape. The shape of the filter cover 40, and thus the filter cartridge 38, may be generally configured to allow the filter cartridge 38 to be inserted through the opening 18 in the proximal end of the housing 12.

[0038] The filter cartridge 38 may be coated with a liquid-impermeable coating 41 configured to prevent liquid from entering the filter cartridge 38. The liquid-impermeable coating 67 may be disposed on one of the exterior or interior surfaces of the filter cartridge 38, such as the interior or exterior surface of the cartridge cover 40. It is also contemplated that the liquid-impermeable coating 67 may be disposed on both the exterior and interior surfaces of the filter cartridge 38, such as the interior and exterior surfaces of the cartridge cover 40. The liquid-impermeable coating 41 may be configured to prevent liquid from entering the filter cartridge 38 and potentially damaging internal components of the filter cartridge 38, such as the filter portion 66, as described in more detail below. It is also contemplated that the liquid-impermeable coating 41 may prevent liquid from leaking through or exiting the filter cartridge 38. For example, it may prevent liquid from leaking from the filter cartridge 38 and potentially contaminating the interior 16 of the housing 12.

[0039] It is further contemplated that the interior of the flue gas pipe 110 and / or at least one of the internal chambers of the filter cartridge 38 may include an absorbent material configured to prevent damage to the filter cartridge 38 and / or its internal components. For example, the absorbent material may be aqueous superabsorbent coating (ASC) technology, which is a liquid polymer solution that dries to form an absorbent film. ASC can be applied to a variety of materials and substrates using a variety of techniques to absorb condensed or evaporated fluids. The ASC is delivered as a suspension and, upon drying, self-crosslinks to form a superabsorbent film coating capable of absorbing many times its own weight in water. Water vapor, body fluids, and other aqueous solutions can also be absorbed by the coating.

[0040] The filter cartridge 38 may further include one or more alignment features 64A, 64B positioned on the exterior of the cartridge cover 40. As shown in FIG. 5A , the alignment features 64A, 64B may be configured as rails, tabs, or protrusions extending from the exterior of the cartridge cover 40. The alignment features 64A, 64B may be positioned on the exterior of the cartridge cover 40 to align and / or orient the filter cartridge 38 within the housing 12. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A , the alignment features 64A, 64B may include rails extending along the length of the filter cartridge 38. Alternatively, the alignment features 64A, 64B may include protrusions or tabs positioned at points along the filter cartridge 38. For example, the alignment features 64A, 64B may include protrusions positioned at the distal end of the filter cartridge 38. The alignment features 64A, 64B may be configured to be at least partially disposed within complementary alignment slots 19A, 19B defined in the opening 18 of the housing 12 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed in the housing 12. For example, the first alignment feature 64A may be aligned with and at least partially disposed in the first alignment slot 19A of the opening 18, and the second alignment feature 64B may be aligned with and at least partially disposed in the second alignment slot 19B of the opening 18. Alternatively, as described above, if the opening 18 includes alignment tabs, the cartridge cover 40 may be configured to include alignment grooves configured to at least partially receive the alignment tabs of the opening 18 to align and / or orient the filter cartridge 38 within the housing 12.

[0041] The filter cartridge 38 may further include a rear plate 42 and a face plate 44 coupled to opposite ends of the cartridge cover 40. The rear plate 42 may be located at a proximal end of the filter cartridge 38, and the face plate 44 may be located at a distal end of the filter cartridge 38. The rear plate 42 and the face plate 44 may be coupled to the cartridge cover 40 to define an interior chamber 45 of the filter cartridge 38.

[0042] The faceplate 44 of the filter cartridge 38 includes an outer surface 46 and an opposing inner surface 48, with a rim 54 surrounding the periphery of the faceplate 44. The outer surface 46 may include a first portion 50 and a second portion 52, with the second portion 52 disposed proximally relative to the first portion 50 and defining a recess in the outer surface 46. The recess defined by the second portion 52 of the outer surface 46 may be configured to receive the protrusion 24B on the inner surface 23 of the cover 20 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed in the interior 16 of the housing 12.

[0043] A rim 54 surrounding the periphery of the faceplate 44 may protrude distally from the outer surface 46. The rim 54 may protrude proximally from the inner surface 48 of the faceplate 44. The rim 54 may also include one or more coupling members 62A, 62B configured to removably couple the filter cartridge 38 to the housing 12 when disposed in the interior 16. As shown in FIG. 5A , the coupling members 62A, 62B may include tabs that form a portion of the rim 54 and are positioned on opposite sides of the faceplate 44. However, it is contemplated that the coupling members 62A, 62B may be located elsewhere on the faceplate 44 and / or the filter cartridge 38. For example, the coupling members 62A, 62B may be coupled to or formed as part of a portion of the cartridge cover 40. As described in further detail below, wall members 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D of housing 12 may include complementary mating features 15A, 15B, such as notches or openings, configured to engage mating members 62A, 62B of filter cartridge 38 (see FIG. 8).

[0044] The faceplate 44 of the filter cartridge 38 may further include one or more openings that define ports 56A, 56B, 56C in the faceplate 44. As shown in FIG. 5A , the faceplate 44 may include three ports 56A, 56B, 56C arranged in a generally linear configuration and positioned on the first portion 50 of the exterior surface 46 of the faceplate 44. However, other configurations and arrangements of the ports 56A, 56B, 56C are contemplated. For example, the faceplate 44 may include only a single port 56A or may include two ports 56A, 56B. It is also contemplated that the faceplate 44 may include more than three ports 56A, 56B, 56C...56n. Although not shown, it is also contemplated that the ports 56A, 56B, 56C may be positioned elsewhere on the exterior surface 46 of the faceplate 44, such as in an open space in the faceplate 44 above the first port 56A. Each port 56A, 56B, 56C may be configured to receive an end or portion of a pipe 110, such as a flue pipe, utilized as part of the medical waste collection system 100 or medical device. The end may include a flue pipe coupler or fitting configured to removably mate with the port 56A, 56B, 56C of the faceplate 44.

[0045] Each port 56A, 56B, 56C may also include a valve 57A, 57B, 57C disposed within the opening defining the port 56A, 56B, 56C. The valves 57A, 57B, 57C may be configured to control the flow of fluids and / or gases into and out of the filter cartridge 38. For example, the valves 57A, 57B, 57C may include one-way valves that allow fluids and / or gases to flow only into the filter cartridge 38. Alternatively, the valves 57A, 57B, 57C may include two-way valves that allow fluids and / or gases to flow both into and out of the filter cartridge 38. An example of a one-way fluid valve for use with the filter cartridge 38 is a rubber seal valve, such as a flapper valve, an umbrella valve, and / or a duckbill valve. One-way rubber sealing valves may be disposed within ports 56A, 56B, 56C such that when an end or portion of a tube 110, such as a flue gas tube, is coupled to port 56A, 56B, 56C, valves 57A, 57B, 57C open, allowing fluid and / or gas to flow into filter cartridge 38. Valves 57A, 57B, 57C may close when tube 110 is removed from port 56A, 56B, 56C, preventing fluid and / or gas from flowing out of filter cartridge 38.

[0046] Each port 56A, 56B, 56C may further include an annular boss 58A, 58B, 58C surrounding one of the ports 56A, 56B, 56C and projecting distally from the outer surface 46 of the faceplate 44. The annular boss 58A, 58B, 58C may be configured to couple an end of a tube 110 to the faceplate 44. Each port 56A, 56B, 56C, and thus each corresponding annular boss 58A, 58B, 58C, may include openings of different sizes to allow different sized tubes 110 to be coupled to the faceplate 44. For example, each annular boss 58A, 58B, 58C may be sized and configured to receive the tube 110, such that the annular boss 58A, 58B, 58C provides a friction fit with the tube 110 to couple the tube 110 to the faceplate 44. Alternatively, the annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C may include mating or coupling features, such as notches or notches, and the tube 110 may include complementary mating portions including tabs or protrusions configured to engage with the coupling features of the annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C to removably couple the mating portions of the tube 110 to the faceplate 44.

[0047] Additionally, each annular boss 58A, 58B, 58C may include a distal end 59A, 59B, 59C. Distal end 59A, 59B, 59C of annular boss 58A, 58B, 58C may be sized to fit into one of complementary sockets 22A, 22B, 22C of cover 20 when filter cartridge 38 is disposed within interior 16 of housing 12.

[0048] The faceplate 44 of the filter cartridge 38 may further include a sensor opening 60. The sensor opening 60 may be positioned on the faceplate 44 to receive at least a portion of the particulate sensor 30 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed in the interior 16 of the housing 12. For example, the sensor opening 60 of the faceplate 44 is configured to receive the particulate sensor 30 such that the particulate sensor 30 is at least partially disposed within the interior chamber 45 of the filter cartridge 38 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed in the housing 12. The particulate sensor 30 may be oriented such that the sensor element 33 faces toward the ports 56A, 56B, 56C of the faceplate 44 when the particulate sensor 30 is at least partially disposed within the interior chamber 45 of the filter cartridge 38. This may improve the ability of the particulate sensor 30 to detect the presence of particulates entering the cartridge through the ports 56A, 56B, 56C of the faceplate 44. Additionally, the sealing member 32 surrounding at least a portion of the particulate sensor 30 is configured to provide a seal between the outer surface 46 of the faceplate 44 and the inner surface 23 of the cover 20 surrounding the sensor opening 60 to prevent liquids, gases, and other particulates from exiting the interior chamber 45 of the filter cartridge 38 through the sensor opening 60 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed within the housing 12. While the sealing member 32 is described above as being coupled to the cover 20, it is also contemplated that the sealing member 32 may be coupled to the outer surface 46 of the faceplate 44.

[0049] The placement and location of various features of the filter cartridge 38, and more specifically, the faceplate 44, can aid in orienting the filter cartridge 38 within the housing 12. As described above, the location of the alignment slots 19A, 19B and alignment features 64A, 64B of the housing 12 may be complementary positioned to align the ports 56A, 56B, 56C of the faceplate 44 with the openings 26A, 26B, 26C of the cover 20 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed within the housing 12. The location of the alignment slots 19A, 19B of the housing 12 may similarly orient the sensor opening 60 relative to the sensor 30 so that the particulate sensor 30 can be at least partially disposed within the sensor opening 60 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed within the housing 12. For example, as described above, the first alignment slot 19A may be positioned approximately at 11 o'clock and the second alignment slot 19B may be positioned approximately at 5 o'clock. The complementary alignment features 64A, 64B may be positioned at the same location on the filter cartridge 38. The particulate sensor 30 may then be positioned at approximately 12 o'clock on the cover 20, and the sensor opening 60 may likewise be positioned at approximately 12 o'clock. This placement of the complementary features allows the particulate sensor 30 to be at least partially disposed within the sensor opening 60 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed within the housing 12.

[0050] The positions of the alignment features 64A, 64B of the filter cartridge 38 may be complementary to the positions of the annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C of the faceplate 44 so that the annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C are disposed within the openings 26A, 26B, 26C of the cover 20 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed within the housing 12. For example, as described above, the first alignment feature 64A may be located at approximately 11 o'clock and the second alignment feature 64B may be located at approximately 5 o'clock. The annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C may be arranged in a generally linear configuration along an axis extending between 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock. The complementary openings 26A, 26B, 26C in the cover 20 may be similarly positioned such that the annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C are disposed within the openings 26A, 26B, 26C in the cover 20 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed within the housing 12. The combination of these various complementary features ensures that the filter cartridge 38 is inserted into the housing 12 in a single orientation such that the particulate sensor 30 can be disposed within the sensor opening 60 and the annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C can be disposed within the openings 26A, 26B, 26C when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed within the housing 12. While not described in detail, other configurations or arrangements of the ports 56A, 56B, 56C relative to the openings 26A, 26B, 26C and the sensor opening 60 relative to the particulate sensor 30 are envisioned.

[0051] 5B, a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge 38 is illustrated to show various internal components of the filter cartridge 38. The filter cartridge 38 of the filter assembly 10 may further include a filter portion 66 disposed within the interior chamber 45 defined by the cartridge cover 40. The filter portion 66 of the filter cartridge 38 may include one or more filter layers 68A, 68B, 68C, 68D, and 68E. Each filter layer 68A, 68B, 68C, 68D, and 68E may have a different material and / or pore size configured to collect different sizes and / or types of particulates as liquid or gas passes through the various filter layers 68A, 68B, 68C, 68D, and 68E. For example, one or more of the filter layers 68A, 68B, 68C, 68D, and 68E may include a fibrous or porous material that removes solid particulates, such as dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria, from the air. Alternatively, one or more of the filter layers 68A, 68B, 68C, 68D, and 68E may include a sorbent or catalyst, such as charcoal (carbon), which can also remove odors and / or gaseous pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds or ozone. For example, the first filter layer 68A may include a thick filter foam containing a melt-jetted plastic material configured to capture larger particles prior to the ULPA filter media. The second filter layer 68B may include a ULPA pleat pack containing a 3.8 cm (1.5 inch) deep filtration media with approximately 40 pleats. It may be attached to a cardboard tube using a spin-bonding technique. Additional layers 68C, 68D, and 68E of the filter portion 66 may include activated carbon, such as a 12.7 cm (5.0 inch) inner diameter activated carbon foam attached to a cardboard tube.

[0052] 6, a perspective view of the inner surface 48 of the faceplate 44 is shown. The faceplate 44 of the filter cartridge 38 may further include one or more cages 61A, 61B, 61C positioned on and protruding distally from the inner surface 48 of the faceplate 44. Each cage 61A, 61B, 61C may be configured to at least partially surround a port 56A, 56B, 56C of the faceplate 44. The cages 61A, 61B, 61C may be configured to prevent over-insertion of a tube 110 coupled to the faceplate 44 via the ports 56A, 56B, 56C and / or the annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C. For example, the tube 110 may slide into the annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C and through the ports 56A, 56B, 56C of the faceplate 44. The cages 61A, 61B, 61C may be positioned on the inner surface 48 of the faceplate 44 and configured to stop the fitting of the tube 110 once it passes through the faceplate 44.

[0053] In FIG. 7 , the filter cartridge 38 is shown without the cartridge cover 40. Although the housing 12 is not shown in FIG. 7 , the particulate sensor 30 is shown within the interior chamber 45 of the filter cartridge 38 as if the filter cartridge 38 were disposed within the housing 12. As seen in FIG. 7 , the filter portion 66 of the filter cartridge 38 may be spaced apart from the faceplate 44, and more specifically, from the inner surface 48 of the faceplate 44 (not visible in FIG. 7 ). The filter portion 66 may be spaced apart from the inner surface 48 of the faceplate 44 to define a void space 70 within the interior chamber 45 of the filter cartridge 38. The ports 56A, 56B, 56C and the sensor opening 60 may be in fluid communication with the void space 70. The void space 70 may be configured to receive smoke, liquid, gas, or other particulate matter collected via a tube 110 coupled to the ports 56A, 56B, 56C of the faceplate 44. The void space 70 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the particulate sensor 30 via the sensor opening 60, such that at least a portion of the particulate sensor 30 is disposed within the void space 70 when the filter cartridge 38 is disposed within the housing 12. The particulate sensor 30 may be configured to detect the presence of smoke, liquid, gas, or other particulates entering the filter cartridge 38 via the ports 56A, 56B, 56C. For example, as described above, the particulate sensor 30 may include an optical sensor configured to detect the presence of smoke within the void space 70. Alternatively, it is further contemplated that the particulate sensor 30 may include a chemical sensor configured to detect the presence of gases or particulates other than oxygen within the void space 70.

[0054] 8 and 9, various views of the filter cartridge 38 disposed within the housing 12 are shown. FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the filter cartridge 38 disposed within the housing 12. The cover 20 of the housing 12 has been omitted to illustrate the positioning and relationship of the filter cartridge 38 to the housing 12. Specifically, as seen in FIG. 8, the particulate sensor 30 may be inserted through the sensor opening 60 such that the particulate sensor 30 is at least partially disposed within the filter cartridge 38. Additionally, exemplary configurations of the coupling members 62A, 62B of the filter cartridge 38 and the complementary coupling features 15A, 15B of the wall members 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D of the housing 12 are shown. For example, the coupling members 62A, 62B of the filter cartridge 38 may include tabs configured to engage the complementary coupling features 15A, 15B, which include notches, in the wall members 14A, 14C. The coupling members 62A, 62B may engage with complementary coupling features 15A, 15B when the filter cartridge 38 is inserted into the housing 12. Alternatively, the coupling members 62A, 62B may be manipulated or depressed to disengage from the complementary coupling features 15A, 15B to remove the filter cartridge 38 from the housing 12.

[0055] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of filter assembly 10 including filter cartridge 38 disposed within housing 12. Specifically, FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary configuration of filter assembly 10 in which filter cartridge 38 is disposed within housing 12, and how faceplate 44 interacts with cover 20 of housing 12. For example, as seen in FIG. 9, annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C of faceplate 44 may be at least partially disposed within sockets 22A, 22B, 22C of cover 20. It is contemplated that distal ends 59A, 59B, 59C of annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C may be positioned flush with outer surface 21 of cover 20 when filter cartridge 38 is disposed within interior 16 of housing 12. Alternatively, it is contemplated that distal ends 59A, 59B, 59C of annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C may be positioned to be distal and / or extend beyond outer surface 21 of cover 20 when filter cartridge 38 is disposed within interior 16 of housing 12. By positioning distal ends 59A, 59B, 59C of annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C either flush with or distal to outer surface 21 of cover 20, flue 110 can be directly coupled to filter cartridge 38, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood that particulates collected through flue 110 will end up entirely within filter cartridge 38 rather than housing 12, thereby reducing the likelihood of contamination and / or the need for sterilization of housing 12 between medical procedures. It is further contemplated that distal ends 59A, 59B, 59C of annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C may be positioned to be proximal to exterior surface 21 of cover 20 when filter cartridge 38 is disposed within interior 16 of housing 12. In this configuration, smoke exhaust pipe 110 may be coupled directly to filter cartridge 38, although coupling smoke exhaust pipe 110 to ports 56A, 56B, 56C is less desirable and may result in contamination of housing 12.

[0056] 9 also illustrates an exemplary configuration of filter assembly 10 in which protrusion 24B of inner surface 23 of cover 20 is at least partially disposed within a recess defined by first portion 50 and second portion 52 of faceplate 44. For example, as shown in FIG. 9 , protrusion 24B of inner surface 23 of cover 20 defined by a recess in outer surface 21 of cover 20 is positioned adjacent second portion 52 of faceplate 44 when filter cartridge 38 is disposed within interior 16 of housing 12.

[0057] Although not shown in FIG. 9 , it should be understood that the aperture cover 26 may be coupled to the outer surface 21 of the cover 20. As described above, the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C may be pivotally connected to the main body 27 of the aperture cover 26 such that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C can move relative to the main body 27 between an open position and a closed position. The flaps 28A, 28B, 28C may be configured to cover and / or seal the respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C and / or ports 56A, 56B, 56C when in the closed position. The flaps 28A, 28B, 28C may be configured to expose the respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C and / or ports 56A, 56B, 56C when in the open position.

[0058] During operation, the filter assembly 10, including the filter cartridge 38 disposed in the housing 12, may be installed in or coupled to a medical waste collection system 100. This process is described in detail below. Once the filter assembly 10 is installed in the medical waste collection system 100, a tube 110, such as a flue, may be coupled to the filter assembly 10 by coupling a mating portion of the tube 110 to one of the ports 56A, 56B, 56C and / or annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C of the filter cartridge 38. Suction may then be applied to the proximal end of the filter cartridge 38 by a suction source of the medical waste collection system 100. For example, when the filter assembly 10 is installed in the medical waste collection system 100, the rear plate 42 of the filter cartridge 38 may be coupled to a suction source of the medical waste collection system 100 configured to draw suction through the filter cartridge 38. Suction applied to the filter cartridge 38 may be drawn through a tube 110 connected to any of the ports 56A, 56B, 56C and / or the annular bosses 58A, 58B, 58C of the filter cartridge 38. Particulates are collected via the tube 110 and deposited on the filter cartridge 38. The particulates may include fluids, smoke, or other gases. The particulates first accumulate in the void space 70 between the filter portion 66 and the inner surface 48 of the faceplate 44 before being drawn toward the filter portion 66. A particulate sensor 30 may be positioned within the void space 70 and configured to detect the presence of particulates in the void space 70. The particulate sensor 30 may then send a signal to a controller 102 of the medical waste collection system 100. The controller 102 of the medical waste collection system 100 may be configured to adjust the settings of the suction source based at least in part on the signal received from the sensor 30. For example, if no particulates are detected by the particulate sensor 30 in the void space 70, the controller 102 may be configured to operate the suction at a lower power setting.Alternatively, if particulates are detected by the particulate sensor 30 in the void space 70, the controller 102 may be configured to operate the suction at a higher power setting to help draw the particulates into the filter cartridge 38. The various filter layers 68A, 68B, 68C, 68D, 68E of the filter portion 66 may filter out various particulates drawn into the filter portion 66 by the suction.

[0059] 10-11B show various partially exploded views of an exemplary configuration of the filter assembly 10. The partially exploded views serve to illustrate various steps of a method for modifying the filter assembly 10. Specifically, FIGS. 10 and 11A show various steps of a method for replacing the filter assembly 10 related to the removal and installation of the filter cartridge 38 / 38A. FIG. 11B shows the filter assembly 10 including another filter cartridge 38B. While the filter cartridge 38 / 38A shown in FIGS. 10 and 11A has a generally cylindrical shape, as shown in FIG. 11B, it is also contemplated that the filter cartridge 38B may have a generally square cuboid, rectangular cuboid, or similar three-dimensional shape, as described above. The opening 18 and slots 19A, 19B in the housing 12 may be modified to fit and / or receive the filter cartridges 38, 38A, 38B. This is true for any of the configurations of filter cartridges 38, 38A, 38B of filter assembly 10 described above or below.

[0060] 12, a partially exploded view of an exemplary configuration of a medical waste collection system 100 including the filter assembly 10 described above is shown. The medical waste collection system 100 may include a main component (H) configured to receive the filter assembly 10. The main component may also be referred to as a console, cart, station, receptacle, etc. The main component (H) may define an opening or receptacle 108 that receives the filter assembly 10.

[0061] The partially exploded views help illustrate various steps in a method of modifying the filter assembly 10 of the medical waste collection system 100.

[0062] A method for replacing the filter assembly 10 of the medical waste collection system 100: An exemplary method for replacing the filter cartridge 38 of the filter assembly 10 used with the medical waste collection system 100 is described below. As described above, the filter assembly 10 may include a housing 12 defining an interior 16, an opening 18 in the housing 12, and slots 19A, 19B. The housing (enclosure) may include a front cover 20 having sockets 22A, 22B, 22C, and a particulate sensor 30 disposed within the housing 12. A method for replacing the filter cartridge 38 of the filter assembly 10 may include the steps of providing the filter cartridge 38. The filter cartridge 38 may include a faceplate 44 having ports 56A, 56B, 56C for removably coupling a flue gas exhaust 110 fitting to the faceplate 44, alignment features 64A, 64B coupled to the exterior of the filter cartridge 38, and a sensor opening 60 in the faceplate 44. It is contemplated that the filter cartridge 38 may include any combination of the features described above.

[0063] The method may further include orienting the filter cartridge 38 so that the alignment features 64A, 64B of the filter cartridge 38 are inserted into the slots 19A, 19B of the housing 12 prior to sliding the filter cartridge 38 through the opening 18. For example, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 11 , the filter cartridge 38 may be rotated to position the alignment features 64A, 64B of the filter cartridge 38 so that they are inserted into the slots 19A, 19B of the housing 12.

[0064] Once the alignment features 64A, 64B of the filter cartridge 38 are aligned with the slots 19A, 19B of the housing 12, the method may include installing the filter cartridge 38 within the housing 12 by sliding the filter cartridge 38 through the opening 18 such that the alignment features 64A, 64B are disposed within the slots 19A, 19B. For example, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 11 , the filter cartridge 38 may be moved distally relative to the housing 12 by sliding the filter cartridge 38 through the opening 18 of the housing 12 to position the filter cartridge 38 within the interior of the housing 12. This should position the particulate sensor 30 at least partially within the sensor opening 60 of the filter cartridge 38 and position the ports 56A, 56B, 56C of the filter cartridge 38 at least partially within the openings 22A, 22B, 22C of the cover 20.

[0065] The method may further include installing the filter assembly 10 in an opening or receptacle 108 of the medical waste collection system 100. Installing the filter assembly 10 may also include connecting the particulate sensor 30 to the medical waste collection system 100. For example, the filter assembly 10 may be installed in the medical waste collection system 100 by inserting the filter assembly 10 into the receptacle 108. When the filter assembly 10 is inserted into the receptacle 108, the sensor mating 36 may mate with a complementary mating on the medical waste collection system 100 to connect the particulate sensor 30 to the controller 102 of the system 100.

[0066] The method may further include removing the filter assembly 10 from the medical waste collection system 100 and removing the filter cartridge 38 from the interior 16 of the original housing 12. After the previous filter cartridge 38 is removed, the method may further include orienting the subsequent filter cartridge 38B so that the alignment features 64A, 64B of the subsequent filter cartridge 38B are inserted into the grooves of at least one of the wall members 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D. The subsequent filter cartridge 38B may then be installed back into the housing 12 by sliding the subsequent filter cartridge 38B through the opening 18 so that the alignment features 64A, 64B are disposed in the slots 19A, 19B, the particulate sensor 30 is at least partially disposed in the sensor opening 60 of the subsequent filter cartridge 38B, and the ports 56A, 56B, 56C of the subsequent filter cartridge 38B are aligned with the openings 22A, 22B, 22C of the cover 20. The filter assembly 10 including the subsequent filter cartridge 38B may then be installed into the medical waste collection system 100. The housing 12, including the cover 20, may be configured to be reusable for multiple procedures. For example, the housing 12 and cover 20 may be reused for three medical procedures, four medical procedures, or more. In the exemplary configuration of the housing 12 and cover 20, it is envisioned that the housing 12 and cover 20 may be reused for four separate medical procedures. However, it may be advantageous to replace filter cartridge 38 after each medical procedure. Thus, filter cartridge 38 may be removed from housing 12 and replaced with a new filter cartridge 38B after each medical procedure.

[0067] The method may further include the steps of removing the filter assembly 10 from the medical waste collection system 100, removing the filter cartridge 38, orienting a subsequent filter cartridge 38B, installing the subsequent filter cartridge 38B, and repeating the steps of installing the filter assembly 10 in the medical waste collection system 100.

[0068] The method may further include counting the occurrences of subsequent filter cartridge installations within the housing (enclosure), indicating the number of uses of the filter assembly 10. This may be accomplished by including a transceiver or identification tag 72, 74, such as an RFID tag, in each of the housing 12 and filter cartridge 38 (see FIGS. 10 and 11). Each transceiver 72, 74 may include a memory that may contain one or more data related to the housing 12 and / or filter cartridge 38. For example, the transceivers 72, 74 may identify a particular type and / or various characteristics of the housing 12 and / or filter cartridge 38. This may include a specific serial number or identification number associated with each of the housing 12 and / or filter cartridge 38. The memory of the transceivers 72, 74 may also include the pore size and / or filtration rate of the filter cartridge 38. The transceivers 72, 74 can identify the type of housing 12 and filter cartridge 38 for the purpose of verifying that a compatible filter cartridge 38 is installed in the housing 12, and thus that a compatible housing 12 and / or filter cartridge 38 is installed in the medical waste collection system 100. The medical waste collection system 100 may include a reader 106 or antenna coupled to the controller 102, where the reader 106 is configured to read the transceivers 72, 74 of the housing 12 and / or filter cartridge 38 and communicate data received from the transceivers 72, 74 to the controller 102 of the medical waste collection system 100. The transceivers 72, 74 may be read by the reader 106 or antenna of the medical waste collection system 100, and the data may be forwarded to the controller 102. The controller 102 may be configured to use the serial numbers of the housing 12 and / or filter cartridge 38 to determine whether any of the housings 12 and / or filter cartridges 38 have been previously installed in the medical waste collection system 100. The controller 102 may also verify that the housing 12 and / or filter cartridge 38 are compatible with the medical waste collection system 100 .The controller 102 may then be configured to operate the medical waste collection system 100 based on the data received from the transceivers 72, 74. For example, the controller 102 may be configured to prevent operation of the medical waste collection system 100 if the controller 102 identifies that either the housing 12 and / or the filter cartridge 38 have exceeded a threshold number of uses or are incompatible with the medical waste collection system 100. The controller 102 may also be configured to adjust the suction source of the medical waste collection system 100 based on the type and / or pore size of the filter cartridge 38 installed.

[0069] Alternatively, the filter assembly 10 may include a mechanical counter attached to the cover 20 that rotates a specific angle when the filter cartridge 38 is replaced. The counter may have a dial or rotatable member with numbers or other markings printed on one side that is visible from outside the filter assembly 38 through a hole, window, or transparent member in the cover 20. After the filter cartridge 38 has been replaced a certain number of times, the counter will not rotate and the filter cartridge 38 may be prevented from being inserted into the housing 12.

[0070] Utilizing the filter assembly 10 including the transceivers 72, 74 and / or controller 102 described above, the method may further include counting occurrences of installation of the filter assembly 10 within the medical waste collection system 100, which may indicate the number of uses of the filter assembly 10. This may also include indicating when a threshold number of uses of the filter assembly 10 has been reached to notify a user that the filter assembly 10 needs to be replaced. This may include indicating when a threshold number of uses has been reached for either the housing 12 and / or the filter cartridge 38. For example, if the filter cartridge 38 is intended to be a single-use filter cartridge 38, the controller 102 may prevent operation of the medical waste collection system 100 if the controller 102 identifies that the filter cartridge 38 has been previously installed and / or used. In another example, if the housing 12 is intended to be used for up to four procedures, the controller 102 may prevent operation of the medical waste collection system 100 if the controller 102 identifies that the housing 12 has previously been installed and / or used for four medical procedures.

[0071] The method may further include providing a visual indication of the occurrence of installation of a subsequent filter cartridge 38 within the housing 12 and / or the occurrence of installation of the filter assembly 10 within the medical waste collection system 100.

[0072] The method may further include counting each occurrence of installing the filter cartridge 38 within the housing 12 by sliding the filter cartridge 38 through the opening 18 indicative of the number of uses of the filter assembly 10. Although not shown, it is envisioned that the housing 12 may include an antenna similar to the antenna 106 of the medical waste collection system 100, the antenna of the housing 12 configured to read data from the transceiver 72 of the filter cartridge and communicate the data to the controller 102 of the medical waste collection system 100. The operation of the controller 102 and / or the medical waste collection system 100 may be similar or identical to that described above with respect to the operation of the medical waste collection system 100 based on the data communicated between the transceivers 72, 74 of the filter assembly 10 and the antenna 106 of the medical waste collection system 100. For example, the controller 102 may be configured to count each occurrence of installing the cartridge 38 within the housing 12 indicative of the number of uses of the filter assembly 10. The controller 102 may then be configured to indicate when the number of uses of the filter assembly 10 has reached a threshold, thereby informing the user that the filter assembly 10 needs to be replaced.

[0073] 12 , it is further envisioned that filter assembly 10 of medical waste collection system 100 may optionally include second sensor 202. Second sensor 202 may also be referred to as a flap sensor, connection sensor, port sensor, etc. Second sensor 202 may be disposed on or within housing 12 of filter assembly 10 and configured to identify the position of one or each of flaps 28A, 28B, 28C for selectively covering sockets 22A, 22B, 22C of filter assembly 10. More specifically, the second sensor 202 may be configured to identify when each individual flap 28A, 28B, 28C is in a first position in which the flap 28A, 28B, 28C covers the corresponding socket 22A, 22B, 22C, and when each individual flap 28A, 28B, 28C is in a second position in which the corresponding socket 22A, 22B, 22C is exposed to allow coupling with the flue socket 22A, 22B, 22C. The second sensor 202 may include a proximity sensor, a Hall effect sensor, a mechanical switch, an optical sensor, or a similar sensor configured to identify the presence and / or absence of items such as the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. For example, the second sensor 202 may include a Hall Effect sensor configured to detect a magnetic field, and each of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C may include a member 204 (also shown in FIGS. 16-17B ) identifiable by the Hall Effect sensor 202. The member 204 may be referred to or described as an element, indicator, identifier, tag, component, feature, or the like. The member 204 may include and / or be at least partially formed of one of a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material detectable by the Hall Effect sensor 202. As another example, the member 204 may be formed from a reflective material capable of activating an optical sensor. In yet another configuration, the member may be formed from a conductive material configured to activate a capacitive or inductive sensor.This list is not intended to be exhaustive, and other combinations of sensors 202 and / or corresponding members 204 are contemplated that can identify when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are covering or not covering sockets 22A, 22B, 22C.

[0074] For example, during operation, second sensor 202, such as a Hall Effect sensor, may be positioned and / or oriented on or within housing 12 of filter assembly 10 such that the Hall Effect sensor can identify the position of flaps 28A, 28B, 28C based on the presence or absence of a change in a magnetic field caused by the members of flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. For example, second sensor 202 may be positioned such that second sensor 202 can detect a first magnetic field when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a first position and covering corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C based on the presence of member 204 in proximity to second sensor when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C cover corresponding sockets 22A, 28B, 28C. Alternatively, the second sensor 202 may be positioned such that it can detect a second magnetic field (or the absence of a magnetic field) when the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the second position exposing the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C based on the absence of the member 204 in proximity to the second sensor when the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are exposing the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C.

[0075] The reverse scenario is also contemplated, where second sensor 202 and / or member 204 are positioned on or within housing 12 such that second sensor 202 can detect the second magnetic field (or the absence of a magnetic field) when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the first position covering the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C based on the absence of member 204 proximate to the second sensor when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C cover the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C. In this scenario, second sensor 202 can then detect the first magnetic field when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the second position exposing the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C based on the presence of member 204 proximate to the second sensor when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C expose the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C.

[0076] The second sensor 202 may be further connected to the controller 102 to control one or more operating characteristics of the medical waste collection system 100. The controller 102 of the medical waste collection system 100 may be configured to adjust settings of the suction source 306 (such as a blower assembly) based at least in part on a signal received from the second sensor 202.

[0077] The medical waste collection system 100 may also include a user interface 112. The user interface 112 may include a display. The user interface 112 may also include a touch screen, icons, buttons, switches, or similar user input mechanisms for controlling the operation of the system 100. The user interface 112 may be connected to the controller 102 and configured to input data or instructions to the controller 102 for controlling one or more operating characteristics of the system 100. For example, the user interface 112 may include buttons or icons configured to allow a user to input settings for the operation of the suction source. The user interface 112 may also include buttons or icons for selecting the size, type, and / or number of surgical instruments to be connected to the system 100 via one or more sockets 22.

[0078] 13-15 illustrate an exemplary configuration of suction source 306, which is a suction source for medical waste collection system 100. Suction source 306 may be disposed in a cavity or compartment 307 defined by main components (H). Suction source 306 is in fluid communication with a flue conduit 302 connected to filter assembly 10 (the filter assembly is shown diagrammatically). When suction source 306 is activated, it draws fluid into filter assembly 10 through one or more of sockets 22A, 22B, and 22C. Suction source 306 includes a fan and a blower motor 308 that operates the fan. Suction source 306 may include a centrifugal fan, and blower motor 308 may be a brush motor. However, those skilled in the art will realize alternative embodiments utilizing different implementations of suction source 306.

[0079] The sound-attenuating enclosure 320 in which the suction source 306 is disposed is used to attenuate noise resulting from the operation of the suction source 306. The sound-attenuating enclosure 320 defines an inlet chamber 322 extending between a first enclosure inlet 322a and a second enclosure inlet 322b at one end of the sound-attenuating enclosure 320. The second enclosure inlet 322b receives filtered air that passes through the exhaust opening 314. The sound-attenuating enclosure 320 further defines an enclosure outlet 324 that directs the filtered, warmed air from the suction source 306 to the environment.

[0080] In addition to the sound-attenuating enclosure 320, a silencer 321 may be attached to the centering ring 312 to further attenuate noise caused by the suction source 306. During operation of the suction source 306, cooling air is drawn from within the waste collection unit 100 through the silencer 321. More specifically, the silencer 321 defines an inlet 319 through which the cooling air enters the sound-attenuating enclosure 320. The inlet 319 may include a valve in communication with and / or controlled by the controller 102. The controller 102 may be configured to open or close the valve of the inlet 319 based on operating conditions of the medical waste collection system 100 to ensure adequate cooling of the blower motor. For example, the controller 102 may be configured to open the valve of the inlet 319 when the flaps 28A, 28B, and 28C are in a first position and covering the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, and 22C. When flaps 28A, 28B, and 28C are in the first position, air that would otherwise flow from the environment into filter assembly 10, pass through filter assembly 10, and be used to cool blower motor 306 is prevented from flowing through filter assembly 10 and therefore unavailable to cool suction source 306. Opening the valves of inlets 319 provides another path for air to enter sound-attenuating enclosure 320 and cool the blower motor when flaps 28A, 28B, and 28C are in the first position. Conversely, controller 102 is configured to close the valves of inlets 319 when flaps 28A, 28B, and 28C are in the second position, exposing corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, and 22C so that airflow from the environment can enter filter assembly 10 and pass through the filter assembly. Air drawn from the external environment through sockets 22A, 22B, and 22C can be used to cool suction source 306. Closing the valve of inlet 319 when additional cooling air is not required through inlet 319 can provide the advantage of further attenuating the sound generated by suction source 306 during operation of system 100.Even when the flue 302 is blocked and / or all of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the first position, covering the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C and preventing the flow of outside air into and through the filter assembly 10, the cooling air supplied through the inlet 319 can keep the blower motor 308 cool enough to avoid overheating and / or failure.

[0081] 16A-17B show configurations of filter assembly 10 that include second sensor 202 and member 204 on flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. Second sensor and / or member 204 are optional features of filter assembly 10. It is not a requirement that a filter assembly include one or any of these features.

[0082] As described above, second sensor 202 may be positioned on or within filter assembly 10 and configured to identify the position of flaps 28A, 28B, 28C covering sockets 22A, 22B, 22C defined by housing 12 and / or cover 20 of filter assembly 10. Filter assembly 10 may include a single second sensor 202 capable of detecting the position of one or more flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 16A-17B, the filter assembly may include a separate second sensor 202A, 202B, 202C for each flap 28A, 28B, 28C of filter assembly 10.

[0083] The member 204 may be any item disposed on and / or coupled to the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C that is identifiable and / or detectable by the second sensor 202. For example, as described above, the member 204 may be formed from one of a ferromagnetic or magnetic material that is detectable by the Hall Effect sensor 202. As another example, the member 204 may be formed from a reflective material that can activate an optical sensor. In yet another configuration, the member 204 may be formed from a conductive material configured to activate a capacitive or inductive sensor. The combination of the second sensor 202 and the member 204 may be positioned on the filter assembly 10 such that the presence or absence of the member 204 detected by the second sensor 202 indicates the position of the flap. 16B, second sensor 202 and member 204 may be positioned on filter assembly 10 such that when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the first position, member 204 is proximate or adjacent to second sensor 202. In this arrangement, second sensor 202 may be positioned generally below each of sockets 22A, 22B, 22C such that detection or identification of member 204 by second sensor 202 can indicate that flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are covering the respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C, and lack of detection or identification of member 204 by second sensor 202 can indicate that flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the second position exposing the respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C.

[0084] 16A , it is also contemplated that second sensor 202 and member 204 may be positioned on filter assembly 10 such that member 204 is spaced from and / or not detectable / identifiable by second sensor 202 when flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the first position. In this arrangement, lack of detection or identification of member 204 by second sensor 202 can indicate that flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are covering their respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C, and detection or identification of the presence of member 204 by second sensor 202 can indicate that flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the second position exposing their respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C.

[0085] The second sensor 202 may be further configured to generate a signal based on the position of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. For example, the second sensor 202 may be configured to generate a first signal when the sensor determines that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a first position covering the respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C. The second sensor 202 may be further configured to generate a second signal when the sensor determines that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a second position exposing the respective sockets 22A, 22B, 22C. It is also contemplated that the second sensor 202 may be configured to utilize the absence of a signal as an indication of the position of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. For example, the second sensor 202 may be configured to generate a first signal when the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a first position and not generate a signal when the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a second position, or vice versa.

[0086] The second sensor 202 may be configured to communicate a signal indicating and / or identifying the position of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C to the controller 102. The signal from the second sensor 202 may include data that specifically identifies whether the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a first position or a second position. For example, the signal from the second sensor 202 may include data indicating that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a first position, and the controller 102 is configured to operate the system 100 based at least in part on the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C being in the first position. Alternatively, the signal from the second sensor 202 may be configured to include data indicating that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a second position, and the controller 102 is configured to operate the system 100 based at least in part on the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C being in the second position.

[0087] In another configuration of the system 100, the signal from the second sensor 202 may be configured to include general data, such as true / false, yes / no, 1 / 0, or similar data, based on whether the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the first position or not, and the controller 102 is further configured to identify the position of the flaps based on the signal received from the second sensor 202. For example, the second sensor 202 may be configured to send to the controller 102 a signal including data indicating “True” when the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the first position and a signal including data indicating “False” when the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are not in the first position. The controller 102 may then be configured to incorporate a "True" response to indicate that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the first position and operate the system 100 based on the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C being covered. Alternatively, the controller 102 may then be configured to incorporate a "False" response to indicate that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are not in the first position and operate the system 100 based on the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C being exposed.

[0088] The controller 102 may be further configured to enable and / or disable operation of the system 100 based on the positions of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. For example, the controller 102 may be configured to disable operation of the suction source 306, and therefore the system 100, when all of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a first position covering the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C. Referring to FIG. 16 , when all of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a first position covering the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C, there are no exposed sockets 22A, 22B, 22C. The controller 102 may be programmed and / or configured to interpret this to mean that there is no flue gas duct 110 connected to the system 100, and thus operation of the system 100 may be disabled.

[0089] Alternatively, when one or more of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the second position exposing the corresponding sockets 22A, 22B, 22C, the controller may be configured to operate the system based on the size of the sockets 22A, 22B, 22C and / or the number of exposed sockets 22A, 22B, 22C. For example, the controller 102 may be further configured to control the operation of the system 100 based on the number of sockets 22A, 22B, 22C exposed by the corresponding flap 28A, 28B, 28C. In this example, when the second sensor 202A identifies that the first flap 28A is in the second position exposing the first socket 22A, as seen in FIG. 17A , the controller 102 may be configured to operate the system 100, including the suction source 306, at a first volumetric flow rate. This may be based on the size, shape, etc., of the first socket 22A, and may identify the size of the surgical instrument and / or flue 110 coupled to the system 100. Additionally, if the second sensor 202B identifies that the second flap 28B is in the second position exposing the second socket 22B, the controller 102 may be configured to operate the system 100, including the suction source 306, at a second volumetric flow rate. This may be based on the size, shape, etc., of the second socket 22B, and may identify the size of the surgical instrument and / or flue 110 coupled to the system. The system 100 may further be configured such that if the second sensor 202C identifies that the third flap 28C is in the second position exposing the third socket 22C, the controller 102 may be configured to operate the system 100, including the suction source 306, at a third volumetric flow rate. This may be based on the size, shape, etc. of the third socket 22B, and may identify the size of the surgical instrument and / or flue coupled to the system 100. The first, second, and third volumetric flow rates may each be the same or different from one another. Additionally, the controller 102 may be configured to operate the system 100 at a volumetric flow rate corresponding to any combination of the first, second, and / or third sockets 22A, 22B, 22C exposed by the corresponding flaps 28A, 28B, 28C.For example, the controller 102 may be configured to operate the system 100 at a volumetric flow rate greater than any of the first, second, or third volumetric flow rates when multiple receptacles 22A, 22B, 22C are exposed by corresponding flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. FIG. 17B illustrates an example in which a combination of first and second receptacles 22A, 22B are exposed by corresponding flaps 28A, 28B. The exposure of multiple receptacles 22A, 22B, 22C by corresponding flaps 28A, 28B, 28C indicates that multiple surgical instruments will be coupled to the system 100, and therefore, a greater volumetric flow rate will be required than if only a single instrument were coupled to the system 100.

[0090] The user interface 112 may be configured to identify to the user which of the sockets 22A, 22B, 22C are exposed and / or covered by the corresponding flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. For example, as shown in FIG. 17A , the user interface may be configured to identify to the user via the controller 102 with a visual notification which of the sockets 22A, 22B, 22C are exposed / covered by the corresponding flaps 28A, 28B, 28C. The user interface 112 may be configured to identify the exposed / covered sockets 22A, 22B, 22C via text such as “covered” or “closed” to indicate that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a first position and / or “exposed” or “open” to indicate that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in a second position. Alternatively, the user interface 112 may be configured to identify the positions of the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C via a color-coding system, such as a green light or dot, indicating that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the second position, exposing the sockets 22A, 22B, 22C. Alternatively, a red light or dot may be utilized by the user interface 112 to indicate that the flaps 28A, 28B, 28C are in the first position, covering the sockets 22A, 22B, 22C. The particular color used to indicate which position the flaps are in is not important, so long as the user understands which color indicates which flap position. Additionally, it is contemplated that the user interface 112 may be configured to provide an audible notification identifying which of the sockets 22A, 22B, 22C are exposed / covered by the corresponding flaps 28A, 28B, 28C.

[0091] A method of operating a filter assembly including a vacuum pump, a flap covering a socket, a sensor, and a controller may include receiving, with the controller, a signal from the sensor indicating that the flap is covering the socket. The method may further include preventing operation of the vacuum pump with the controller based on the signal. The method may also include receiving, with the controller, a second signal from the sensor indicating that the flap has moved away from covering the socket, and enabling operation of the vacuum pump with the controller based on the second signal. The method may also include displaying, on a user interface, one or more icons for controlling one or more operating characteristics of the vacuum pump based on the second signal received by the controller.

[0092] Constituent clauses: I. A method of replacing a filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system including a flue gas pipe, comprising: Providing a filter assembly, the assembly comprising: a housing including an opening in the housing, a groove on an inner surface of the housing, a front cover having an opening, and a sensor disposed within the housing; 1. A filter cartridge comprising: a faceplate having a port for removably coupling a flue gas pipe to the faceplate; an alignment feature coupled to the exterior of the cartridge; and a filter cartridge including a sensor opening in the faceplate; orienting the filter cartridge such that alignment features on the filter cartridge are insertable into grooves on the inner surface of the housing before sliding the filter cartridge through the opening; installing the filter cartridge within the housing by sliding the filter cartridge through the opening such that the alignment feature is disposed within the groove, the sensor is at least partially disposed within the sensor opening of the filter cartridge, and the port of the filter cartridge is aligned with the opening in the cover; and installing the filter assembly in a medical waste collection system. II. the faceplate further includes an annular boss surrounding the port and extending distally from an outer surface of the faceplate; Item 10. The method of item 1, wherein the step of installing the filter cartridge further includes the step of sliding the filter cartridge through the opening such that the annular boss is at least partially disposed within the opening in the cover. III. The method of paragraph I or II, wherein the step of installing the filter assembly further includes the step of connecting a sensor to a medical waste collection system. IV. Removing the filter assembly from the medical waste collection system; removing the filter cartridge from the interior of the housing; orienting the subsequent filter cartridge such that an alignment feature of the subsequent filter cartridge is inserted into a groove in at least one of the wall members; installing a subsequent filter cartridge within the housing by sliding the subsequent filter cartridge through the opening such that the alignment feature of the subsequent filter cartridge is disposed within the groove, the sensor is at least partially disposed within the sensor opening of the subsequent filter cartridge, and the port of the subsequent filter cartridge is aligned with the opening in the cover; The method of any one of paragraphs I to III, further comprising: installing a filter assembly including a subsequent filter cartridge within the medical waste collection system. V. The method of claim IV, further comprising repeating the steps of claim IV after each use of the medical waste collection system to replace the filter cartridge. VI. The method of paragraph IV, further comprising the step of counting each occurrence of installation of a subsequent filter cartridge into the housing, which indicates the number of uses of the filter assembly. VII. Counting each occurrence of installation of the filter assembly within the medical waste collection system indicating the number of uses of the filter assembly; The method of any one of paragraphs IV and VI, further comprising indicating when a threshold number of uses of the filter assembly has been reached to notify a user that the filter assembly needs to be replaced. VIII. The method of paragraphs VI or VII, further comprising providing a visual indication of the occurrence of subsequent installations of the filter cartridge within the housing and / or the occurrence of installations of the filter assembly within the medical waste collection system. IX. The method of claim I, further comprising the step of counting each occurrence of the step of installing the filter cartridge within the housing by sliding the filter cartridge through an opening that indicates the number of uses of the filter assembly. X. Counting each occurrence of the step of placing the filter assembly within the medical waste collection system indicating the number of uses of the filter assembly; The method of claim I, further comprising the step of indicating when a threshold number of uses of the filter assembly has been reached to notify a user that the filter assembly needs to be replaced. XI. A filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system including a flue gas coupler, comprising: a housing defining an interior, the housing including a cover; a sensor coupled to the cover and disposed within the housing; A filter cartridge removably disposed within a housing, a faceplate, and a filter cartridge including a filter portion spaced apart from a faceplate to at least partially define a void space between the faceplate and the filter portion; the faceplate includes a first port configured to be removably coupled to the flue coupler such that the first port communicates with the void space to allow material to pass through the faceplate and enter the void space; The faceplate includes a sensor opening configured to receive a sensor when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing such that the sensor is at least partially disposed within the void space and configured to detect the presence of a substance entering the void space through the first port, a filter assembly. XII. The filter assembly of paragraph XI, wherein the filter cartridge further includes a first alignment feature coupled to the outer periphery of the faceplate, the first alignment feature configured to orient the filter cartridge within the housing. XIII. The filter assembly of paragraph XII, wherein the housing includes a plurality of wall members defining an interior of the housing, and one of the plurality of wall members includes a groove configured to receive an alignment feature of the filter cartridge when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing. XIV. The filter assembly of paragraph XIII, wherein the filter cartridge further includes a second alignment feature coupled to an outer periphery of the faceplate opposite the alignment feature, wherein a second wall member of the plurality of wall members includes a second groove configured to receive the second alignment feature of the filter cartridge when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing, wherein the first alignment feature includes a first dimension and the second alignment feature includes a second dimension, and the first dimension is smaller than the second dimension such that the first dimension and the second dimension are configured to orient the filter cartridge relative to the housing when disposed within the housing. XV. The filter assembly of paragraph XI, wherein the faceplate further includes a second port configured to communicate with the void space to allow material to pass through the faceplate and enter the void space, the first port having a first dimension and the second port having a second dimension such that flue gas couplers of different sizes can be coupled to the faceplate. XVI. The filter assembly of paragraph XV, wherein each of the first port and the second port includes an annular boss surrounding the port and extending distally from the outer surface of the faceplate, each annular boss configured to form a seal between the flue coupler and the faceplate to ensure that all waste passing through the flue coupler is collected in the filter cartridge. XVII. The filter assembly of paragraph XV, wherein the faceplate includes a third port, the first, second, and third ports being arranged in a side-by-side linear arrangement on the faceplate, each of the first, second, and third ports having different dimensions configured to receive different sized flue couplers, and each port including an annular boss surrounding the port and extending distally from an outer surface of the faceplate, the annular boss configured to form a seal between the flue coupler and the faceplate to ensure that all particles passing through the flue coupler are collected in the filter cartridge. XVIII. The filter assembly of paragraph XVII, wherein the cover further includes a plurality of complementary openings corresponding to the positions of the ports in the faceplate when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing, and each annular boss surrounding a port is at least partially disposed within one of the plurality of complementary openings such that a distal end of each annular boss is positioned distal to the cover. XIX. The filter assembly of paragraph XVIII, wherein the cover further includes a flap removably disposed over each of the plurality of complementary openings in the cover and configured to cover each annular boss that is not coupled to one of the flue gas couplers. XX. The filter assembly of paragraph XI, further comprising a sealing member disposed on the outer surface of the faceplate and surrounding the sensor opening, the sealing member configured to form a seal between the outer surface of the faceplate and the inner surface of the cover to prevent the flow of matter from within the gap space into the interior of the housing through the sensor opening. XXI. The filter assembly of paragraph XI, wherein the filter cartridge includes a liquid-impermeable coating disposed on at least one of an inner surface and an outer surface of the filter cartridge, the liquid-impermeable coating configured to prevent liquid from exiting the filter cartridge. XXII. The filter assembly of paragraph XI, wherein the first port includes a cage located on an inner surface of the faceplate and extending proximally from the inner surface to at least partially surround the first port, the cage configured to prevent over-insertion of the flue coupler when coupled to the first port. XXIII. The filter assembly of paragraph XI, wherein the filter cartridge further includes a coupling member disposed on an outer periphery of the faceplate, the coupling member configured to removably secure the filter cartridge within the housing. XXIV. A filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system including a flue gas coupler, comprising: a housing defining an interior, the housing including a cover; a cover including an opening defining a passageway from the interior of the housing to the exterior of the housing; a filter cartridge removably disposed within the housing, the filter cartridge comprising: a faceplate positioned adjacent to the cover when the filter cartridge is removably disposed therein, the faceplate including an inner surface and an opposing outer surface; a filter portion spaced from the faceplate to at least partially define a gap space between the inner surface of the faceplate and the filter portion; the faceplate having a first port in communication with the void space and configured to be removably coupled to the flue gas coupler to allow material to pass through the faceplate and into the void space; an annular boss surrounding the first port and extending distally from an outer surface of the faceplate, the annular boss configured to form a seal between the flue gas coupler and the faceplate; The filter assembly, wherein an annular boss surrounding the first port extends through the opening in the cover such that a distal end of the annular boss is positioned distal to the cover. XXV. The filter assembly of paragraph XXIV, wherein the filter cartridge includes a liquid-impermeable coating disposed on at least one of the inner and outer surfaces of the filter portion, the liquid-impermeable coating configured to prevent liquid from exiting the filter cartridge. XXVI. Further comprising a sensor coupled to the cover and disposed within the housing; The filter assembly of claim XXIV, wherein the faceplate further includes a sensor opening configured to receive the sensor when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing such that the sensor is at least partially disposed within the void space. XXVII. The filter assembly of paragraph XXIV, wherein the cover further includes a flap disposed on the exterior of the cover and configured to cover the annular boss when the flue gas coupler is not present. XXVIII. A filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system including a flue gas coupler, comprising: a housing defining an interior, the housing including a cover having an interior surface and an exterior surface; a filter cartridge removably disposed within the housing, the filter cartridge comprising: a faceplate including an inner surface positioned adjacent to the cover when the filter cartridge is removably disposed therein and an opposing outer surface, the outer surface including a first portion and a second portion; a filter portion spaced from the faceplate to at least partially define a gap space between the inner surface of the faceplate and the filter portion; the cover includes a protrusion extending proximally from an inner surface; The first portion is positioned distally from the second portion to define a recess in the outer surface of the faceplate for receiving the protrusion on the inner surface of the cover when the filter cartridge is removably disposed within the housing, a filter assembly. XXIX. An opening in the cover defining a passage from the interior of the housing to the exterior of the housing; a first port in the faceplate in communication with the void space and configured to be removably coupled to the flue gas coupler to allow material to pass through the faceplate and into the void space; an annular boss surrounding the first port and extending distally from an outer surface of the faceplate, the annular boss configured to form a seal between the flue coupler and the faceplate to ensure that all particles passing through the flue coupler are collected within the filter cartridge; The filter assembly of paragraph XXVIII, wherein the annular boss surrounding the first port is at least partially disposed within the opening in the cover such that a distal end of the annular boss is positioned distal to the cover. XXX. Further comprising a sensor coupled to the cover and disposed within the housing; The filter assembly of claim XXVIII, wherein the faceplate further includes a sensor opening configured to receive the sensor when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing such that the sensor is at least partially disposed within the void space. XXXI. A filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system including a flue gas pipe, comprising: a housing defining an interior, the housing including a cover; a sensor coupled to the cover and disposed within the housing; a filter cartridge removably disposed within the housing, the filter cartridge comprising: a face plate, a cartridge cover, and a rear plate defining an internal chamber; a filter portion disposed within the interior chamber and spaced apart from the faceplate to at least partially define a gap space between the faceplate and the filter portion; the faceplate includes a first port in communication with the void space and configured to be removably coupled to the flue gas pipe to allow material to pass through the faceplate and into the void space; The filter assembly further comprises an absorbent material disposed within at least one of the interior chamber and / or the interior of the flue gas pipe to absorb liquid material collected by the flue gas pipe to prevent damage to internal components of the filter cartridge. XXXII. A filter cartridge of a filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system having at least one flue gas coupler, the filter assembly including a housing defining an interior and including a cover and a sensor coupled to the cover, the filter cartridge comprising: a faceplate having an inner surface and an opposing outer surface; a first alignment feature coupled to the faceplate, the first alignment feature configured to orient the filter cartridge within the housing; a filter portion having a first end and a second end, the first end spaced from an inner surface of the faceplate to at least partially define a gap space between the faceplate and the filter portion; the faceplate includes a first port and a second port each configured to receive one of the at least one flue gas couplers, each port configured to communicate with the void space to allow smoke to pass through the faceplate and enter the void space, the first port having a first dimension and the second port having a second dimension to allow for removable coupling of different configurations of the at least one flue gas coupler to the faceplate; The faceplate includes a sensor opening configured to receive the sensor when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing such that the sensor is at least partially disposed within the void space. XXXIII. The filter cartridge of paragraph XXXII, further comprising a liquid-impermeable coating disposed on an exterior surface of the filter cartridge, the liquid-impermeable coating configured to prevent liquid from entering the filter portion. XXXIV. The filter cartridge of paragraph XXXII, further comprising a liquid-impermeable coating disposed on an interior surface of the filter cartridge, the liquid-impermeable coating configured to prevent liquid from entering the filter portion. XXXV. The filter cartridge of paragraph XXXII, comprising a liquid-impermeable coating disposed on an exterior surface and an interior surface of the filter cartridge, the liquid-impermeable coating configured to prevent liquid from entering the filter portion. XXXVI. The filter cartridge of any one of paragraphs XXXII through XXXV, wherein each port includes an annular boss surrounding the respective port and extending distally from the outer surface of the faceplate, the annular boss configured to form a seal between each of the at least one flue gas couplers and the faceplate to ensure that all particles passing through each of the at least one flue gas couplers are collected within the filter cartridge. XXXVII. The filter cartridge of paragraph XXXVI, wherein each annular boss extends distally from the outer surface of the faceplate such that a distal end of each annular boss is located distally of the cover when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing. XXXVIII. The filter cartridge of any one of paragraphs XXXII to XXXVII, wherein each port includes a cage positioned on the inner surface of the faceplate and extending proximally from the inner surface to at least partially surround each port, the cage configured to prevent over-insertion of each of the at least one flue coupler when coupled to one of the ports. XXXIX. The filter cartridge of any one of paragraphs XXXII to XXXVIII, wherein the outer surface of the faceplate includes a first portion and a second portion, the second portion positioned proximally relative to the first portion such that the second portion defines a recess in the faceplate configured to receive a proximally extending protrusion on the cover of the housing. XL. The filter cartridge of paragraph XXXIX, wherein each of the first port, the second port, and the sensor opening is positioned in the first portion of the faceplate so as to be in fluid communication with a portion of the void space where the distance between the filter portion and the inner surface of the faceplate is greatest. XLI. The filter cartridge of any one of paragraphs XXXII through XL, further comprising a coupling member disposed on an outer periphery of the faceplate, the coupling member configured to removably secure the filter cartridge within the housing. XLIII. The filter cartridge of any one of paragraphs XXXII through XLI, wherein the faceplate includes a third port, the first, second, and third ports being arranged in a side-by-side linear arrangement on the faceplate, each of the first, second, and third ports having different dimensions configured to receive one of the at least one flue gas couplers, each of the at least one flue gas couplers varying in size, each of the ports including an annular boss surrounding the port and extending distally from the outer surface of the faceplate, the annular boss configured to form a seal between each of the at least one flue gas couplers and the faceplate. XLIV. The filter cartridge of any one of paragraphs XXXII to XLIII, wherein the faceplate further includes a valve disposed at least partially within each port configured to prevent backflow of particles entering the void space through the port. XLV. Further comprising a second alignment feature coupled to the faceplate; the first alignment feature has a first dimension and the second alignment feature has a second dimension; The filter cartridge of any one of paragraphs XXXII to XLIV, wherein the first dimension is smaller than the second dimension such that the first dimension and the second dimension are configured to orient the filter cartridge relative to the housing when disposed within the housing. XLVI. The filter cartridge of paragraph XLV, wherein the second alignment feature is diametrically opposed to the first alignment feature. XLVII. A filter cartridge for a filter assembly for filtering smoke, the filter assembly including a filter assembly housing having a front cover at least partially defining an interior thereof, and a sensor assembly having a sensor housing and a sensor, the filter cartridge comprising: a faceplate configured to be positioned within the filter assembly housing near the front cover, the faceplate having an inner surface and an opposite outer surface, the faceplate defining a port configured to be removably coupled to the flue gas pipe, and a sensor opening separate from the port, the sensor opening sized to receive at least a portion of a sensor housing of the sensor assembly; a filter portion having a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface, and a side surface extending between the front surface and the rear surface, the front surface being directed toward an inner surface of the faceplate; the faceplate and the filter portion are spaced apart from one another to at least partially define a gap space between an inner surface of the faceplate and a front surface of the filter portion; The sensor opening and the port are complementarily arranged and communicate with the void space such that when the filter cartridge is disposed within the filter assembly housing and the flue gas pipe is removably coupled to the port, the sensor is positioned within the void space to detect smoke received from the flue gas pipe through the port within the void space before it reaches the filter portion, the filter cartridge. XLVIII. The filter cartridge of paragraph XLVII, wherein the port includes an annular boss surrounding the port and extending distally from the outer surface of the faceplate, the annular boss configured to form a seal between the flue gas flue and the faceplate to ensure that all particles passing through the flue gas flue are collected within the filter cartridge. XLIX. The filter cartridge of paragraph XLVIII, wherein the annular boss extends distally from the outer surface of the faceplate such that a distal end of the annular boss is located distally of the cover when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing. L. The filter cartridge of any one of paragraphs XLVII to XLIX, wherein the port includes a cage positioned on the inner surface of the faceplate and extending proximally from the inner surface to at least partially surround the port, the cage configured to prevent over-insertion of the flue gas pipe when coupled to the port. LI. A filter cartridge described in any one of paragraphs XLVII to L, wherein the outer surface of the faceplate includes a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being positioned proximally relative to the first portion such that the second portion defines a recess in the faceplate configured to receive a protrusion on the cover of the housing. LII. A method of replacing a filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system including a flue gas pipe, comprising: Providing a filter assembly, the assembly comprising: a housing including an opening in the housing, a groove on an inner surface of the housing, a front cover having an opening, and a sensor disposed within the housing; 1. A filter cartridge comprising: a faceplate having a port for removably coupling a flue gas pipe to the faceplate; an alignment feature coupled to the exterior of the cartridge; and a filter cartridge including a sensor opening in the faceplate; orienting the filter cartridge such that alignment features on the filter cartridge are insertable into grooves on the inner surface of the housing before sliding the filter cartridge through the opening; installing the filter cartridge within the housing by sliding the filter cartridge through the opening such that the alignment feature is disposed within the groove, the sensor is at least partially disposed within the sensor opening of the filter cartridge, and the port of the filter cartridge is aligned with the opening in the cover; and installing the filter assembly in a medical waste collection system. LIII. A method of operating a filter assembly including a vacuum pump, a flap covering a socket, a sensor, and a controller, comprising: receiving a signal from the sensor at the controller indicating that the flap has been moved to expose the socket; and enabling operation of the vacuum pump with the controller based on the signal. LIV. The method of claim LIII, further comprising operating a vacuum pump based on a signal from the sensor, the signal further indicating the size of the socket exposed by moving the flap to expose the socket. The LV. filter assembly includes a plurality of sockets having flaps covering each of the plurality of sockets; The method of claim LIII, further comprising operating a vacuum pump based on a signal from the sensor, the signal further indicating a quantity of the plurality of sockets exposed by moving the flap to expose the corresponding socket. LVI. The method described in paragraph LIV, wherein the filter assembly further comprises a user interface, and further includes a step of enabling or disabling one or more features of the user interface based at least in part on the size of the socket exposed by moving the flap to expose the socket. LVII. Receiving a second signal from the sensor at the controller, the second signal indicating that the flap is covering the socket; The method of any one of paragraphs LIII to LVI, further comprising disabling operation of the vacuum pump with the controller based on the second signal.

[0093] In the foregoing description, several embodiments have been described. However, the embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the filter assembly 10, housing 12, and / or filter cartridge 38 to any particular configuration. The terminology used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings, and the system may be practiced in ways not specifically described.

Claims

1. 1. A surgical smoke evacuation system comprising: a main component defining a receptacle and including a suction source and a controller in electronic communication with said suction source; a filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising: a housing configured to be removably disposed within the receptacle of the main component, the housing defining a first socket for removably receiving a flue gas pipe; a filter disposed within the housing; a flap coupled to the housing and configured to be movable from a first position covering the first socket to a second position exposing the first socket to allow coupling of the flue pipe with the first socket; a sensor configured to be disposed in electronic communication with the controller when the filter assembly is coupled to the main component, the sensor being coupled to the housing or the flap and configured to detect the flap in the first position; The controller is configured to disable operation of the suction source based on the sensor detecting the flap in the first position.

2. 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a valve associated with the suction source, the valve being movable between a closed position in which the gap is sealed from an external environment and an open position in which the gap is exposed to the external environment, the controller further configured to move the valve from the closed position to the open position based on the sensor detecting the flap in the first position.

3. 3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a member disposed on the flap, the member being at least partially formed from one of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material, and the sensor including a Hall Effect sensor configured to detect a change in a magnetic field based on the presence or absence of the member to determine a position of the flap.

4. 1. A surgical smoke evacuation system comprising: a housing defining a first socket for removably receiving a flue gas pipe; a filter disposed within the housing; a suction source configured to apply suction to the first socket to draw fluid through the filter; a first flap coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which the first flap covers the first socket to a second position in which the first socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue pipe to the first socket; a sensor coupled to the housing and configured to detect the first flap in the first position; A user interface; a controller in electronic communication with the sensor and the user interface, the controller configured to determine that the first flap is in a second position based on the absence of a signal received from the sensor, and to cause the user interface to display information based on the absence of a signal.

5. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to cause the user interface to display information including one or more icons for controlling one or more operating characteristics of the suction source based on the signal from the sensor indicating that the first flap is in the second position.

6. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured, based on the sensor detecting the first flap in the first position, to disable operation of the suction source and present a warning on the user interface for a user to insert or reinsert the flue into the first socket.

7. a second socket defined by the housing; and a second flap coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which the second flap covers the second socket to a second position in which the second socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue pipe to the second socket; The controller displaying a first configuration of icons on the user interface with the first flap in the second position and the second flap in the first position; 5. The system of claim 1, further configured to cause a second configuration of icons to be displayed on the user interface with the second flap in the second position and the first flap in the first position.

8. a second socket defined by the housing; and a second flap coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which the second flap covers the second socket to a second position in which the second socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue pipe to the second socket; The controller a first volumetric flow rate indicating that the first socket having a first socket dimension is exposed when the first flap is in the second position and the second flap is in the first position; a second volumetric flow rate indicating that the second socket having a second socket size is exposed when the first flap is in the first position and the second flap is in the second position; a third volumetric flow rate indicating that when the first flap is in the second position and the second flap is in the second position, the first socket having the first socket size is exposed and the second socket having the second socket size is exposed; The system of claim 1 or 4, further configured to operate the suction source.

9. a user interface in electronic communication with the controller; The controller displaying a first configuration of buttons on a user interface for manual manipulation by a user to control one or more operational characteristics of the suction source when the first flap is in the second position and the second flap is in the first position; 10. The system of claim 1 or 4, further configured to display a second configuration of buttons on the user interface for manual manipulation by a user to control one or more operational characteristics of the suction source when the second flap is in the second position and the first flap is in the first position.

10. 10. The system of claim 8 or 9, wherein the controller is further configured to disable operation of the suction source based on the sensor detecting that both the first flap and the second flap are in the first position.

11. a main component defining a cavity, the suction source being at least partially disposed within the cavity; a valve disposed on the main component, the valve being movable between a closed position in which the cavity is sealed from an external environment and an open position in which the cavity is exposed to the external environment; 10. The system of claim 8 or 9, wherein the controller is further configured to move the valve from the closed position to the open position based on the sensor detecting that both the first flap and the second flap are in the first position.

12. 1. A smoke exhaust system comprising: a main component including a controller in electronic communication with the receptor, suction source, and sensor; a filter cartridge, the filter cartridge comprising: a housing configured to be removably disposed within the receptacle, the housing defining a first socket for removably receiving a flue; a filter disposed within the housing; a valve associated with the suction source, the valve being movable between a closed position in which the cavity is sealed from the external environment and an open position in which the cavity is in fluid communication with the external environment; a first flap coupled to the housing and configured to be movable from a first position in which the first flap covers the first socket to a second position in which the first socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue pipe to the first socket; a sensor coupled to the housing and configured to detect the first flap in the first position; and wherein the controller is configured, based on the sensor detecting the first flap in the first position, to at least partially open the valve to supply ambient air from the external environment to the gap to cool the suction source.

13. 13. The smoke evacuation system of claim 12, wherein the controller is further configured to disable operation of the suction source based on the sensor detecting the first flap in the first position.

14. a second socket defined by the housing; and a second flap coupled to the housing and configured to be moved from a first position in which the second flap covers the second socket to a second position in which the second socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue pipe to the second socket; The controller at a first volumetric flow rate when the first flap is in the first position and the second flap is in the second position; at a second volumetric flow rate when the first flap is in the second position and the second flap is in the first position; a third volumetric flow rate when the first flap is in the second position and the second flap is in the second position; The smoke evacuation system of claim 12, further configured to operate the suction source.

15. 15. The smoke evacuation system of claim 14, wherein the third volumetric flow rate is greater than either the first volumetric flow rate or the second volumetric flow rate.

16. 15. The smoke evacuation system of claim 14, wherein the controller is further configured to disable operation of the suction source based on the sensor detecting both the first flap and the second flaps in the first position.

17. 1. A filter assembly for use with a primary device including a suction source, comprising: a housing defining a first socket for removably receiving a flue gas pipe; a filter disposed within the housing; a first flap coupled to the housing and configured to be movable from a first position in which the first flap covers the first socket to a second position in which the first socket is exposed to allow coupling of the flue pipe to the first socket; a sensor coupled to the housing or the first flap and configured to identify a position of the first flap relative to the first socket.

18. 18. The filter assembly of claim 17, further comprising a member disposed on the first flap, the member detectable by the sensor to determine a position of the first flap.

19. 20. The filter assembly of claim 18, wherein the member is at least partially formed from one of a magnetic material or a ferromagnetic material.

20. 20. The filter assembly of claim 19, further comprising a fastener disposed on the housing proximate to the first socket, the fastener being at least partially formed from one of a ferromagnetic material and a magnetic material, the fastener being magnetically attracted to a member disposed on the first flap.

21. 21. The filter assembly of claim 19 or 20, wherein the sensor comprises a Hall Effect sensor configured to detect a change in a magnetic field proximate a fastener based on the position of the first flap and to generate a signal indicating that the first flap is in either the first position or the second position based on the magnetic field.

22. 22. The filter assembly of claim 17, further comprising: a second socket having an inner diameter different from the first socket; and a second sensor positioned and coupled to the housing or the second flap.

23. 23. The filter assembly of claim 17, wherein the housing further includes a cover removably coupled to the housing, the cover configured to provide access to an interior of the housing for removal and insertion of the filter.

24. 24. The filter assembly of claim 23, wherein the first socket is defined by the cover of the housing.

25. 25. The filter assembly of claim 23 or 24, wherein the sensor is disposed in the cover of the housing.

26. The filter is a faceplate having an inner surface and an opposing outer surface; 26. The filter assembly of claim 17, comprising: a filter media having a first end and a second end, the first end spaced from an inner surface of the faceplate to at least partially define a void space between the faceplate and the filter media.

27. 27. The filter assembly of claim 17, wherein the sensor is positioned above the first socket defined by the housing, and the sensor is configured to detect when the first flap is in the second position.

28. 28. The filter assembly of claim 27, wherein the sensor is configured to identify that the first flap is in the first position based on the sensor not detecting that the first flap is in the second position.

29. 29. The filter assembly of claim 17, wherein the sensor is positioned below the first socket defined by the housing, and the sensor is configured to detect when the first flap is in the first position.

30. 30. The filter assembly of claim 29, wherein the sensor is configured to identify that the first flap is in the second position based on the sensor not detecting that the first flap is in the first position.

31. 31. The filter assembly of claim 27, wherein the sensor is configured to generate a signal indicating that the first flap is in the first position or the second position.

32. 1. A method of replacing a filter assembly for use with a medical waste collection system including a flue gas pipe, comprising: Providing a filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising: a housing including an opening in the housing, a groove on an inner surface of the housing, a front cover having an opening, and a particle sensor disposed within the housing; A filter cartridge comprising: a faceplate having a port for removably coupling said flue gas pipe; an alignment feature coupled to the exterior of the cartridge; and a filter cartridge including a sensor opening in the faceplate; orienting the filter cartridge such that the alignment features of the filter cartridge are inserted into the grooves on the inner surface of the housing before sliding the filter cartridge through the opening; installing the filter cartridge within the housing by sliding the filter cartridge through the opening such that the alignment feature is disposed within the groove, the particulate sensor is at least partially disposed within the sensor opening of the filter cartridge, and the port of the filter cartridge is aligned with the opening in the cover; placing the filter assembly within the medical waste collection system; A method comprising:

33. the faceplate further includes an annular boss surrounding the port and extending distally from an outer surface of the faceplate; 33. The method of claim 32, wherein installing the filter cartridge further comprises sliding the filter cartridge through the opening in the cover such that the annular boss is at least partially disposed within the opening.

34. 1. A filter assembly for use with a smoke evacuation system including a smoke evacuation pipe coupler, comprising: a housing defining an interior, the housing including a cover including an opening defining a path from the interior of the housing to an exterior of the housing; a filter cartridge removably disposed within the housing; The filter cartridge comprises: a faceplate disposed adjacent to the cover with the filter cartridge removably disposed therein, the faceplate including an inner surface and an opposing outer surface; a filter portion spaced from the faceplate to at least partially define a gap space between the filter portion and the inner surface of the faceplate; the faceplate includes a first port in communication with the void space and configured to be removably coupled with the flue gas coupler such that material can pass through the faceplate and enter the void space; an annular boss surrounding the first port and extending distally from the outer surface of the faceplate, the annular boss configured to form a seal between the flue gas coupler and the faceplate; The filter assembly, wherein the annular boss surrounding the first port extends through the opening in the cover such that a distal end of the annular boss is disposed distal to the cover.

35. a particle sensor coupled to the cover and disposed within the interior of the housing; 35. The filter assembly of claim 34, wherein the faceplate further includes a sensor opening configured to receive the particulate sensor when the filter cartridge is installed in the interior of the housing such that the particulate sensor is at least partially disposed within the void space.

36. 1. A filter cartridge for a filter assembly for use with a smoke evacuation system having at least one smoke evacuation pipe coupler, the filter assembly including a housing defining an interior and including a cover and a particulate sensor coupled to the cover, the filter cartridge comprising: a faceplate having an inner surface and an opposing outer surface; a first alignment feature coupled to the faceplate, the first alignment feature configured to orient the filter cartridge within the interior of the housing; a filter portion having a first end and a second end, the first end spaced from the inner surface of the faceplate to at least partially define a gap space between the faceplate and the filter portion; the faceplate comprises a first port and a second port each configured to receive one of the at least one flue gas couplers, each port configured to communicate with the void space to allow smoke to pass through the faceplate and enter the void space, the first port having a first dimension and the second port having a second dimension to allow removable coupling of different configurations of the at least one flue gas coupler to the faceplate; the faceplate includes a particulate sensor opening configured to receive the particulate sensor when the filter cartridge is disposed within the housing such that the particulate sensor is at least partially disposed within the void space.

37. 37. The filter cartridge of claim 36, comprising a liquid-impermeable coating disposed on an exterior surface of the filter cartridge, the liquid-impermeable coating configured to prevent liquid from entering the filter portion.

38. 37. The filter cartridge of claim 36, comprising a liquid-impermeable coating disposed on an interior surface of the filter cartridge, the liquid-impermeable coating configured to prevent liquid from entering the filter portion.

39. 37. The filter cartridge of claim 36, comprising a liquid-impermeable coating disposed on an exterior and interior surface of the filter cartridge, the liquid-impermeable coating configured to prevent liquid from entering the filter portion.

40. 40. The filter cartridge of claim 36, wherein each of the ports includes an annular boss surrounding the respective port and extending distally from the outer surface of the faceplate, the annular boss configured to form a seal between each of the at least one flue gas couplers and the faceplate to ensure that all particles passing through each of the at least one flue gas couplers are collected within the filter cartridge.

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