Steam sterilizer carts and steam sterilization systems

Abstract

To provide a steam sterilizer cart in which user can be made aware of the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart.SOLUTION: The steam sterilizer cart is placed in a steam sterilizer having a sterilization temperature of a first temperature. The steam sterilizer cart includes a temperature indicator that changes color at a second temperature that is lower than the first temperature.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a steam sterilizer cart and a steam sterilization system. [Background technology]

[0002] In the technical field of steam sterilization, a sterilization detection indicator such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-254620 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Items to be sterilized are loaded onto a steam sterilizer cart and transported into the steam sterilizer. When the sterilization process is completed in the steam sterilizer, the steam sterilizer cart is removed from the steam sterilizer. The steam sterilizer cart is likely to be at a high temperature immediately after being removed from the steam sterilizer. Therefore, there is a need for a technology that allows the user of the steam sterilizer cart to recognize the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to make the user aware of the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a steam sterilizer cart that is housed in a steam sterilizer having a first sterilization temperature, and that is equipped with a temperature indicator that changes color at a second temperature that is lower than the first temperature. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart can be recognized by the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a steam sterilization system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a steam sterilizer according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a transport vehicle including a cart for a steam sterilizer according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a temperature indicator assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a temperature indicator assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing how the temperature indicator according to the embodiment changes color. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a chemical indicator assembly according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments. The components of the embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate. In addition, some components may not be used.

[0010] [Steam sterilization system] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of a steam sterilization system 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the steam sterilization system 1 includes a steam sterilizer 3, a transport vehicle 6 including a steam sterilizer cart 48, and a temperature indicator assembly 7 including a temperature indicator 73.

[0011] The steam sterilizer 3 uses steam to sterilize the sterilization target S. The sterilization temperature of the steam sterilizer 3 is a first temperature Ta. As an example, the first temperature Ta is 135°C.

[0012] The transport vehicle 6 transports the sterilization target S. The transport vehicle 6 has a steam sterilizer cart 48 on which the sterilization target S is loaded, and a stretcher 49 for transporting the steam sterilizer cart 48. The steam sterilizer cart 48 is stored in the steam sterilizer 3. The sterilization target S is stored in the steam sterilizer 3 while loaded on the steam sterilizer cart 48.

[0013] The temperature indicator assembly 7 is disposed on at least a portion of the steam sterilizer cart 48. The temperature indicator assembly 7 is releasably attached to the steam sterilizer cart 48. The temperature indicator 73 indicates the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48. The temperature indicator 73 changes color at a second temperature Tb that is lower than the first temperature Ta. The second temperature Tb is a temperature at which a user of the steam sterilization system 1 does not feel discomfort from heat or is not burned. As an example, the second temperature Tb is 40°C.

[0014] [Steam sterilizer] Figure 2 is a diagram schematically showing a steam sterilizer 3 according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the steam sterilizer 3 includes a sterilization tank 8, a jacket 9, a jacket steam supply device 10, a jacket drain discharge device 11, a jacket exhaust device 12, a pressure reducing device 13, a pressure recovery device 14, a sterilization tank steam supply device 15, a sterilization tank drain discharge device 16, a sterilization tank exhaust device 17, a jacket pressure sensor 18, a sterilization tank pressure sensor 19, and a sterilization tank temperature sensor 20.

[0015] The sterilization tank 8 has a processing space 21 in which the item to be sterilized S is stored. The processing space 21 is the internal space of the sterilization tank 8. An entrance / exit is provided in part of the sterilization tank 8. The entrance / exit of the sterilization tank 8 is opened and closed by a door (not shown). By opening the door, a user of the steam sterilization system 1 can load or unload the item to be sterilized S into or from the processing space 21 through the entrance / exit of the sterilization tank 8. In an embodiment, the item to be sterilized S is loaded onto a cart 48 for a steam sterilizer and is loaded or unloaded into or from the processing space 21.

[0016] The jacket 9 is disposed around the sterilization tank 8. A jacket space 22 is formed between the sterilization tank 8 and the jacket 9.

[0017] The jacket steam supply device 10 supplies steam to the jacket space 22. The jacket steam supply device 10 has a jacket steam supply line 23 that connects a steam supply source (not shown) and the jacket space 22, and a jacket steam supply valve 24 arranged on the jacket steam supply line 23. Steam from the steam supply source is supplied to the jacket space 22 via the jacket steam supply line 23. The jacket steam supply device 10 can switch between supplying and stopping the supply of steam to the jacket space 22. The supply of steam to the jacket space 22 is switched between being supplied and being stopped by opening and closing the jacket steam valve 24.

[0018] The jacket drain discharge device 11 discharges drain generated in the jacket space 22 from the jacket space 22. The jacket drain discharge device 11 has a jacket drain discharge line 25 connected to the jacket space 22, and a steam trap 26 and a check valve 27 arranged in the jacket drain discharge line 25. The drain generated in the jacket space 22 is discharged from the jacket space 22 via the jacket drain discharge line 25.

[0019] The jacket exhaust device 12 exhausts gas from the jacket space 22. The jacket exhaust device 12 has a jacket exhaust line 28 connected to the jacket space 22, and a jacket exhaust valve 29 and a check valve 30 arranged in the jacket exhaust line 28. The gas in the jacket space 22 is exhausted from the jacket space 22 via the jacket exhaust line 28. When steam is supplied to the jacket space 22 with the jacket exhaust valve 29 open, the gas in the jacket space 22 is expelled from the jacket space 22 via the jacket exhaust line 28. In an embodiment, the jacket exhaust valve 29 is a temperature control valve that opens and closes based on the temperature of the gas passing through the jacket exhaust valve 29. The jacket exhaust valve 29 closes when the temperature of the gas passing through the jacket exhaust valve 29 reaches or exceeds an operating temperature.

[0020] The decompression device 13 exhausts gas from the processing space 21 to reduce the pressure of the processing space 21. The decompression device 13 has a vacuum line 31 connected to the processing space 21, and a vacuum valve 32, a vacuum pump 33, and a check valve 34 arranged in the vacuum line 31. When the vacuum pump 33 is driven, the gas in the processing space 21 is sucked by the vacuum pump 33 and exhausted from the processing space 21 via the vacuum line 31. The decompression device 13 can switch between reducing the pressure of the processing space 21 and stopping the pressure reduction. When the vacuum pump 33 is switched between driving and stopping the driving, the processing space 21 is switched between reducing the pressure and stopping the pressure reduction.

[0021] The pressure-recovery device 14 supplies outside air to the depressurized processing space 21 to restore the pressure in the processing space 21. The pressure-recovery device 14 has an air supply line 35 connected to the processing space 21, and a sterile filter 36, an air supply valve 37, and a check valve 38 arranged in the air supply line 35. By opening the air supply valve 37 while the processing space 21 is depressurized, outside air is supplied to the processing space 21 via the air supply line 35. The processing space 21 is restored to pressure by supplying outside air to the processing space 21 via the air supply line 35.

[0022] The sterilization tank steam supply device 15 supplies steam to the processing space 21. The sterilization tank steam supply device 15 has a sterilization tank steam supply line 39 that connects a steam supply source (not shown) to the processing space 21, and a sterilization tank steam supply valve 40 arranged on the sterilization tank steam supply line 39. Steam from the steam supply source is supplied to the processing space 21 via the sterilization tank steam supply line 39. The sterilization tank steam supply device 15 can switch between supplying and stopping the supply of steam to the processing space 21. The supply of steam to the processing space 21 is switched between being supplied and being stopped by opening and closing the sterilization tank steam supply valve 40.

[0023] The sterilization tank drain discharge device 16 discharges drain generated in the processing space 21 from the processing space 21. The sterilization tank drain discharge device 16 has a sterilization tank drain discharge line 41 connected to the processing space 21, and a steam trap 42 and a check valve 43 arranged in the sterilization tank drain discharge line 41. The drain generated in the processing space 21 is discharged from the processing space 21 via the sterilization tank drain discharge line 41.

[0024] The sterilization tank exhaust device 17 exhausts gas from the processing space 21. The sterilization tank exhaust device 17 has a sterilization tank exhaust line 44 connected to the processing space 21 via at least a portion of the sterilization tank drain discharge line 41, and a sterilization tank exhaust valve 45 and a check valve 46 arranged in the sterilization tank exhaust line 44. The gas in the processing space 21 is exhausted from the processing space 21 via at least a portion of the sterilization tank drain discharge line 41 and the sterilization tank exhaust line 44. By supplying steam to the processing space 21 with the sterilization tank exhaust valve 45 open, the gas in the processing space 21 is expelled from the processing space 21 via at least a portion of the sterilization tank drain discharge line 41 and the sterilization tank exhaust line 44.

[0025] The downstream end of vacuum line 31, the downstream end of jacket exhaust line 28, and the downstream end of sterilization tank exhaust line 44 are each connected to a first portion 41A of sterilization tank drain discharge line 41. The downstream end of jacket drain discharge line 25 is connected to a second portion 41B of sterilization tank drain discharge line 41. First portion 41A is defined downstream of check valve 43. Second portion 41B is defined downstream of first portion 41A. Check valve 47 is disposed in sterilization tank drain discharge line 41 between first portion 41A and second portion 41B.

[0026] The jacket pressure sensor 18 detects the pressure in the jacket space 22 .

[0027] The sterilization tank pressure sensor 19 detects the pressure in the processing space 21 .

[0028] The sterilization tank temperature sensor 20 detects the temperature of the processing space 21 .

[0029] Next, we will explain the operation of the steam sterilizer 3. The steam sterilizer 3 performs an air removal process to remove air from the processing space 21, a sterilization process to sterilize the sterilization target S stored in the processing space 21, and a drying process to dry the sterilization target S. In addition, steam is supplied to the jacket space 22, and the jacket space 22 is heated.

[0030] Before the process of purging air from the processing space 21, the sterilization target S is placed in the processing space 21 by the transport cart 6. Furthermore, before the process of purging air from the processing space 21, the air in the jacket space 22 is replaced with steam. When replacing the air in the jacket space 22 with steam, steam is supplied to the jacket space 22 by the jacket steam supply device 10, and gas is exhausted from the jacket space 22 by the jacket exhaust device 12. In this embodiment, steam is supplied to the jacket space 22 and air is pushed out of the jacket space 22 by opening the jacket steam supply valve 24 while the jacket exhaust valve 29 is open.

[0031] Supplying steam to the jacket space 22 increases the temperature of the jacket space 22. Also, the temperature of the gas passing through the jacket exhaust valve 29 increases. When the temperature of the gas passing through the jacket exhaust valve 29 reaches or exceeds the operating temperature, the jacket exhaust valve 29 closes. Closing the jacket exhaust valve 29 stops the jacket exhaust device 12 from discharging gas from the jacket space 22. With the discharge of gas from the jacket space 22 stopped, steam is supplied to the jacket space 22 by the jacket steam supply device 10. Based on the detection result of the jacket pressure sensor 18, the supply of steam by the jacket steam supply device 10 is controlled so as to maintain a constant pressure in the jacket space 22. Drain generated in the jacket space 22 is discharged from the jacket space 22 by the jacket drain discharge device 11.

[0032] After the jacket space 22 is filled with steam, the process of purging air from the processing space 21 begins. When purging air from the processing space 21, with the depressurization by the depressurization device 13 stopped, the sterilization tank steam supply device 15 supplies steam to the processing space 21, and the sterilization tank exhaust device 17 exhausts gas from the processing space 21. In an embodiment, the sterilization tank steam supply valve 40 opens with the sterilization tank exhaust valve 45 open, thereby supplying steam to the processing space 21 and pushing air out of the processing space 21. After the supply of steam by the sterilization tank steam supply device 15 and the exhaust of gas by the sterilization tank exhaust device 17 are completed, the processing space 21 is depressurized by the depressurization device 13. In an embodiment, with the sterilization tank steam supply valve 40 and the sterilization tank exhaust valve 45 both closed, the vacuum valve 32 opens, thereby depressurizing the processing space 21. After the depressurization by the depressurization device 13 is completed, steam is supplied to the processing space 21 by the sterilization tank steam supply device 15. Steam is supplied to the processing space 21 by the sterilization tank steam supply device 15 until the processing space 21 reaches atmospheric pressure, and then the processing space 21 is depressurized by the depressurization device 13. The depressurization of the processing space 21 and the supply of steam to the processing space 21 are repeated multiple times, thereby removing air from the processing space 21.

[0033] After the process of purging air from processing space 21 is completed, the sterilization process of the sterilization object S begins. With the depressurization by depressurization device 13 stopped, steam is supplied to processing space 21 by sterilization tank steam supply device 15. Based on the detection result of sterilization tank temperature sensor 20, the supply of steam by sterilization tank steam supply device 15 is controlled so that processing space 21 is maintained at a specified sterilization temperature for a specified sterilization time. As described above, the sterilization temperature is the first temperature Ta. The sterilization object S is sterilized by filling processing space 21, in which the sterilization object S is stored, with steam.

[0034] After the sterilization process of the sterilization object S is completed, the drying process of the sterilization object S is started. With the supply of steam by the sterilization tank steam supply device 15 stopped, gas is exhausted from the processing space 21 by the sterilization tank exhaust device 17. In this embodiment, steam is exhausted from the processing space 21 by opening the sterilization tank exhaust valve 45 while the sterilization tank steam supply valve 40 is closed. After the steam is exhausted from the processing space 21, the processing space 21 is depressurized by the depressurization device 13. By depressurizing the processing space 21, the sterilization object S is dried.

[0035] [Steam sterilizer cart] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a transport vehicle 6 including a steam sterilizer cart 48 according to an embodiment. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the transport vehicle 6 has a steam sterilizer cart 48 on which the object to be sterilized S is loaded, and a stretcher 49 for transporting the steam sterilizer cart 48. The steam sterilizer cart 48 is stored in the steam sterilizer 3. The object to be sterilized S is stored in the steam sterilizer 3 while being loaded on the steam sterilizer cart 48.

[0036] The steam sterilizer cart 48 has support columns 50, shelves 53, and cart wheels 52. There are four support columns 50. The shelves 53 support the items S to be sterilized. The items S to be sterilized are placed on the shelves 53. The items S to be sterilized are placed on the shelves 53 while contained in a packaging member such as a sterilization bag, nonwoven fabric, or sterilization container. Note that the items S to be sterilized may also be placed on the shelves 53 without being contained in a packaging member.

[0037] A plurality of shelf boards 53 are provided at intervals in the vertical direction. Each shelf board 53 has a plurality of through holes 55. Pipes 56 are fixed to the support posts 50. The shelf boards 53 are supported by the support posts 50 via the pipes 56.

[0038] The cart wheels 52 are attached via brackets to the lowest shelf 53. The rotation of the cart wheels 52 causes the steam sterilizer cart 48 to move.

[0039] The stretcher 49 can move while supporting the steam sterilizer cart 48. The stretcher 49 has a base 57, stretcher wheels 58, and a handle 59. The base 57 supports the steam sterilizer cart 48. The steam sterilizer cart 48 is placed on the base 57. Guide rails 60 are provided on the base 57. The cart wheels 52 of the steam sterilizer cart 48 are guided by the guide rails 60. The stretcher wheels 58 are attached to the bottom of the base 57. The stretcher 49 moves as the stretcher wheels 58 rotate. The handle 59 is held by a user of the steam sterilization system 1. The user can move the stretcher 49 by holding the handle 59.

[0040] The steam sterilizer cart 48 is movable between the stretcher 49 and the sterilization tank 8. As shown in Figure 1, guide rails 61 are provided at the bottom of the treatment space 21. After the cart wheels 52 of the steam sterilizer cart 48 move from the base 57 to the treatment space 21, they are guided by the guide rails 61. The object S to be sterilized is stored in the treatment space 21 while being placed on the shelf boards 53 of the steam sterilizer cart 48.

[0041] [Temperature indicator assembly] Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a temperature indicator assembly 7 according to an embodiment. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a temperature indicator assembly 7 according to an embodiment. The temperature indicator assembly 7 is disposed in at least a portion of the steam sterilizer cart 48.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, and 5, the temperature indicator assembly 7 includes a case 70, a temperature indicator 73, and a hook 74.

[0043] The temperature indicator 73 changes color at a second temperature Tb that is lower than the first temperature Ta. As an example, the second temperature Tb is 40°C. In this embodiment, the temperature indicator 73 is a coated film of thermochromic ink. Thermochromic ink refers to ink that changes color based on temperature. The temperature indicator 73 is housed in the case 70.

[0044] The case 70 has an internal space 75 in which the temperature indicator 73 is housed. In this embodiment, the internal space 75 of the case 70 in which the temperature indicator 73 is housed is a sealed space. The case 70 prevents the temperature indicator 73 from coming into contact with steam in the processing space 21 when the temperature indicator assembly 7 is housed in the steam sterilizer 3.

[0045] At least a portion of the case 70 is formed from the same material as the material forming the steam sterilizer cart 48. In an embodiment, the material forming the steam sterilizer cart 48 is stainless steel. At least a portion of the case 70 is formed from stainless steel.

[0046] The case 70 has a base member 71 and a cover member 72 joined to the base member 71. The base member 71 has a base plate portion and a frame portion disposed on the periphery of the base plate portion. The cover member 72 is disposed inside the frame portion. In this embodiment, the outer shape of the case 70 is substantially rectangular parallelepiped.

[0047] The base member 71 is made of the same material as the material that forms the steam sterilizer cart 48. In this embodiment, the base member 71 is made of stainless steel. The temperature indicator 73 is arranged so as to contact the base member 71. The cover member 72 forms an internal space 75 of the case 70 between itself and the base member 71. The cover member 72 is made of transparent glass. The temperature indicator 73 is arranged so as to be spaced apart from the cover member 72.

[0048] The hook 74 is connected to the upper part of the base member 71. The hook 74 is hung on at least a part of the steam sterilizer cart 48. The case 70 is releasably attached to the steam sterilizer cart 48 via the hook 74.

[0049] In the embodiment, the temperature indicator assembly 7 including the temperature indicator 73 is disposed on the side of the steam sterilizer cart 48. In the embodiment, the hook 74 is hung on the side of the shelf 53. By hanging the hook 74 on the side of the shelf 53, the temperature indicator 73 is disposed on the side of the shelf 53. The outer shape of the shelf 53 is substantially rectangular. The side of the shelf 53 refers to the long side of the shelf 53.

[0050] [Temperature indicator] 6 is a diagram showing how the temperature indicator 73 according to the embodiment changes color. As shown in FIG. 6, when the temperature indicator 73 is equal to or higher than the second temperature Tb, the color of the temperature indicator 73 is a first color (e.g., red), and when the temperature indicator 73 is lower than the second temperature Tb, the color of the temperature indicator 73 is a second color (e.g., blue). The temperature indicator 73 changes color at the boundary of the second temperature Tb. When the temperature of the temperature indicator 73 drops from equal to or higher than the second temperature Tb to lower than the second temperature Tb, the color of the temperature indicator 73 changes from the first color to the second color. When the temperature of the temperature indicator 73 rises from lower than the second temperature Tb to equal to or higher than the second temperature Tb, the color of the temperature indicator 73 changes from the second color to the first color.

[0051] [How to use] Next, a method of using the temperature indicator assembly 7 will be described. When the sterilization object S is to be sterilized in the steam sterilizer 3, the temperature indicator assembly 7 is carried into the steam sterilizer 3 together with the sterilization object S and the steam sterilizer cart 48. As described above, the sterilization temperature of the steam sterilizer 3 is the first temperature Ta. Therefore, when the sterilization object S is sterilized at the first temperature Ta, the steam sterilizer cart 48 and the temperature indicator assembly 7 are each heated to the first temperature Ta. The first temperature Ta is higher than the second temperature Tb. Therefore, the color of the temperature indicator 73 becomes the first color.

[0052] The material forming the base member 71 of the case 70 is the same as the material forming the steam sterilizer cart 48. Therefore, when the base member 71 and the steam sterilizer cart 48 are heated simultaneously in the steam sterilizer 3, the temperatures of the base member 71 and the steam sterilizer cart 48 rise to the same temperature. The temperature indicator 73 is in contact with the base member 71. Therefore, the temperature indicator 73 can indicate the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 being heated.

[0053] When the sterilization process is completed in the steam sterilizer 3, the temperature indicator assembly 7 is removed from the steam sterilizer 3 together with the object to be sterilized S and the steam sterilizer cart 48. Immediately after being removed from the steam sterilizer 3, the temperature indicator assembly 7, the object to be sterilized S, and the steam sterilizer cart 48 are likely to be at high temperatures. The temperatures of the temperature indicator assembly 7, the object to be sterilized S, and the steam sterilizer cart 48 immediately after being removed from the steam sterilizer 3 are at least higher than the second temperature Tb. Therefore, immediately after being removed from the steam sterilizer 3, the color of the temperature indicator 73 is the first color.

[0054] The temperature indicator assembly 7 is disposed on the side of the shelf 53. A user can see the temperature indicator 73 through the cover member 72. By confirming through the cover member 72 that the color of the temperature indicator 73 is the first color, the user can recognize that the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 is higher than the second temperature Tb.

[0055] The temperature indicator assembly 7, the object to be sterilized S, and the steam sterilizer cart 48 are each naturally cooled (natural air-cooled) after being removed from the steam sterilizer 3. That is, the temperatures of the temperature indicator assembly 7, the object to be sterilized S, and the steam sterilizer cart 48 gradually decrease. As described above, the material forming the base member 71 of the case 70 is the same as the material forming the steam sterilizer cart 48. Therefore, the base member 71 and the steam sterilizer cart 48 are naturally cooled simultaneously, and the temperatures of the base member 71 and the steam sterilizer cart 48 decrease to the same temperature. Therefore, the temperature indicator 73 can indicate the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 as it is naturally cooled.

[0056] When the temperature of the temperature indicator 73 falls below the second temperature Tb due to natural cooling, the color of the temperature indicator 73 changes to the second color. As the base member 71 and the steam sterilizer cart 48 are simultaneously natural cooled, the temperatures of the base member 71 and the steam sterilizer cart 48 drop to the same temperature. Therefore, the change in color of the temperature indicator 73 from the first color to the second color can be considered to indicate that the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 has changed from above the second temperature Tb to below the second temperature Tb. By confirming through the cover member 72 that the color of the temperature indicator 73 is the second color, the user can recognize that the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 is lower than the second temperature Tb.

[0057] After the user confirms that the color of the temperature indicator 73 is the second color, the user handles the steam sterilizer cart 48 and the object to be sterilized S. This prevents the user from touching the steam sterilizer cart 48, which is at a high temperature.

[0058] [effect] As described above, according to the embodiment, the steam sterilizer cart 48 stored in the steam sterilizer 3, whose sterilization temperature is the first temperature Ta, is provided with a temperature indicator 73 that changes color at the second temperature Tb, which is lower than the first temperature Ta. By visually checking the temperature indicator 73, the user can confirm whether the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 removed from the steam sterilizer 3 has dropped. The temperature indicator 73 visually indicates a change in temperature as a change in color. Therefore, the user can recognize at a glance whether the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 has dropped. By handling the steam sterilizer cart 48 after the temperature indicator 73 has changed from the first color to the second color, the user can avoid touching the high-temperature steam sterilizer cart 48.

[0059] The temperature indicator 73 is disposed on the side of the shelf board 53. This allows the user to easily view the temperature indicator 73.

[0060] The temperature indicator 73 is housed in the case 70. This prevents the temperature indicator 73 from deteriorating.

[0061] The internal space 75 of the case 70 in which the temperature indicator 73 is housed is an airtight space. This prevents the temperature indicator 73 from coming into contact with high-temperature steam when the temperature indicator assembly 7 is housed in the steam sterilizer 3. This prevents deterioration of the temperature indicator 73.

[0062] At least a portion of the case 70 is formed from the same material as the material forming the steam sterilizer cart 48. In this embodiment, the material forming the steam sterilizer cart 48 is stainless steel. The base member 71 of the case 70 is formed from the same material as the material forming the steam sterilizer cart 48. The temperature indicator 73 is arranged to contact the base member 71. This prevents the temperature of the temperature indicator 73 from dropping to the second temperature Tb before the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 drops to the second temperature Tb before the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 drops to the second temperature Tb before the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 drops to the second temperature Tb, even though the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 is equal to or higher than the second temperature Tb. This may cause the user to be unable to correctly recognize the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48. According to the embodiment, the temperature of the temperature indicator 73 is prevented from dropping to the second temperature Tb before the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48. Therefore, by confirming that the temperature indicator 73 has changed from the first color to the second color, the user does not need to touch the high-temperature steam sterilizer cart 48.

[0063] The case 70 has a cover member 72 made of transparent glass, so that the user can see the temperature indicator 73 through the cover member 72.

[0064] The case 70 is releasably attached to the steam sterilizer cart 48 via the hook 74. Therefore, the user can attach the temperature indicator assembly 7 to any position on the steam sterilizer cart 48. Also, the user can share one temperature indicator assembly 7 with multiple steam sterilizer carts 48.

[0065] [Other embodiments] 7 is a perspective view showing a chemical indicator assembly 80 according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 7, the chemical indicator assembly 80 has a base plate 81, a chemical indicator 83 supported by the base plate 81, and a hook 84 connected to the base plate 81.

[0066] The chemical indicator assembly 80 may be stored in the steam sterilizer 3 together with the item to be sterilized S, the steam sterilizer cart 48, and the temperature indicator assembly 7. The chemical indicator 83 changes color based on the sterilization state of the item to be sterilized S. This allows the user to confirm whether the item to be sterilized S and the steam sterilizer cart 48 have been sterilized based on the color of the chemical indicator 83.

[0067] The base plate 81 is releasably attached to the steam sterilizer cart 48 via the hooks 84. This allows the user to attach the chemical indicator assembly 80 to any position on the steam sterilizer cart 48. Also, the user can share one chemical indicator assembly 80 with multiple steam sterilizer carts 48.

[0068] In the above-described embodiment, at least a portion of the case 70 is made of the same material as the material that forms the steam sterilizer cart 48. The specific heat [J / (kg·K)] of the material that forms the case 70 may be greater than the specific heat [J / (kg·K)] of the material that forms the steam sterilizer cart 48. In other words, the case 70 may be made of a material that is more difficult to cool than the steam sterilizer cart 48. This prevents the temperature of the temperature indicator 73 from dropping to the second temperature Tb before the temperature of the steam sterilizer cart 48 drops to the second temperature Tb when the steam sterilizer cart 48 and the temperature indicator assembly 7 are simultaneously removed from the steam sterilizer 3.

[0069] In the above-described embodiment, the temperature indicator assembly 7 may be fixed to the steam sterilizer cart 48. Alternatively, the temperature indicator 73 may be provided directly on the steam sterilizer cart 48. For example, a temperature-indicating ink forming the temperature indicator 73 may be applied to the surface of the steam sterilizer cart 48.

[0070] In the above-described embodiment, the transport vehicle 6 has a steam sterilizer cart 48 that supports the sterilization target S, and a stretcher 49 that transports the steam sterilizer cart 48. Furthermore, the steam sterilizer cart 48, separated from the stretcher 49, is stored in the processing space 21 while supporting the sterilization target S. The steam sterilizer cart 48 and the stretcher 49 may not be separated, and the transport vehicle 6 may be stored in the processing space 21 while supporting the sterilization target S. Furthermore, when the transport vehicle 6 is stored in the processing space 21 while supporting the sterilization target S, guide rails for guiding the wheels of the transport vehicle 6 may or may not be provided in the processing space 21.

[0071] Also, the stretcher 49 may be omitted. The steam sterilizer cart 48 supporting the sterilization object S may be carried into or out of the processing space 21 by any transport method. For example, the steam sterilizer cart 48 may be carried into the processing space 21 using portable guide rails. [Explanation of symbols]

[0072] 1...Steam sterilization system, 3...Steam sterilizer, 6...Transport cart, 7...Temperature indicator assembly, 8...Sterilization tank, 9...Jacket, 10...Jacket steam supply device, 11...Jacket drain discharge device, 12...Jacket exhaust device, 13...Decompression device, 14...Pressure recovery device, 15...Sterilization tank steam supply device, 16...Sterilization tank drain discharge device, 17...Sterilization tank exhaust device, 18...Jacket pressure sensor, 19...Sterilization tank pressure sensor, 20...Sterilization tank temperature sensor, 21...Processing space, 22...Jacket space, 23...Jacket steam supply line, 24...Jacket steam supply valve, 25...Jacket drain discharge line, 26...Steam trap, 27...Check valve, 28...Jacket exhaust line, 29...Jacket exhaust valve, 30...Check valve, 31...Vacuum line, 32...Vacuum valve, 33...Vacuum pump, 34...Check valve, 35...Air supply line, 3 6...sterile filter, 37...air inlet valve, 38...check valve, 39...sterilization tank steam supply line, 40...sterilization tank steam supply valve, 41...sterilization tank drain discharge line, 41A...first part, 41B...second part, 42...steam trap, 43...check valve, 44...sterilization tank exhaust line, 45...sterilization tank exhaust valve, 46...check valve, 47...check valve, 48...steam sterilizer cart, 49...stretcher, 50...support, 52...cart wheels, 53 ...Shelf, 55...Through-hole, 56...Pipe, 57...Base, 58...Stretcher wheel, 59...Handle, 60...Guide rail, 61...Guide rail, 70...Case, 71...Base member, 72...Cover member, 73...Temperature indicator, 74...Hook, 75...Internal space, 80...Chemical indicator assembly, 81...Base plate, 83...Chemical indicator, 84...Hook, S...Object to be sterilized.

Claims

1. A cart for a steam sterilizer to be stored in a steam sterilizer having a first sterilization temperature, a temperature indicator that changes color at a temperature at which a user does not feel uncomfortable due to heat or at a second temperature at which the user is not burned after the device is removed from the steam sterilizer; The temperature indicator is housed in a case, At least a portion of the case is made of the same material as the material forming the steam sterilizer cart, or the specific heat of the material forming the case is greater than the specific heat of the material forming the steam sterilizer cart. Steam sterilizer cart.

2. The pillars and a shelf supported by the support and on which an object to be sterilized is placed, The temperature indicator is located on the side of the shelf.

2. The steam sterilizer cart of claim 1.

3. The internal space of the case is an enclosed space.

2. The steam sterilizer cart of claim 1.

4. The case has a base member made of the same material as the material forming the steam sterilizer cart, and a cover member made of glass that forms an internal space of the case between the base member and the cover member. A cart for a steam sterilizer according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A chemical indicator that changes color based on the sterilization state of the object to be sterilized is provided. A cart for a steam sterilizer according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. Steam sterilizer cart, a steam sterilizer having a first sterilization temperature and configured to accommodate the steam sterilizer cart; a temperature indicator disposed on at least a portion of the steam sterilizer cart, the temperature indicator changing color at a temperature at which a user does not feel discomfort due to heat or at a second temperature at which the user is not burned after the cart is removed from the steam sterilizer; The temperature indicator is housed in a case, At least a portion of the case is made of the same material as the material forming the steam sterilizer cart, or the specific heat of the material forming the case is greater than the specific heat of the material forming the steam sterilizer cart. Steam sterilization system.

7. the temperature indicator is located on the side of the steam sterilizer cart; 7. The steam sterilization system of claim 6.

8. a case for accommodating the temperature indicator; the case is releasably attached to the steam sterilizer cart; 8. The steam sterilization system according to claim 6 or 7.

Images