A device for holding objects inside a sterilization / disinfection device.

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention is directed to an apparatus (10) for holding an object within a sterilization apparatus. The apparatus includes at least one support member (12) for contacting engagement with one or more contact surfaces of the object. The at least one support member is formed from a material that allows a sterilization medium to reach one or more contact surfaces of the object so that the one or more contact surfaces are sterilized during the sterilization process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for holding an object within a sterilization / disinfection device. In particular, the present invention relates to an apparatus for holding one or more medical objects within a sterilization / disinfection device.

[0002] For example, the systems and methods according to embodiments of the present invention may be used to hold an ultrasonic probe in a sterilization / disinfection device. For convenience, most of this application refers to its context, but it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

Background Art

[0003] The following discussion of the prior art is intended to place the present invention in an appropriate technical context and to enable a complete understanding of the related advantages. However, any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should not be construed as an admission that such technology is widely known or forms part of the general knowledge in the field.

[0004] Ultrasonic probes are used in a variety of intracavitary procedures, including rectal, vaginal, and endoscopic examinations, as well as for surface use. These probes are generally constructed integrally with a power supply and data cords used to link the probe to a control console.

[0005] To avoid cross-contamination, these probes need to be disinfected or sterilized. For this reason, sterilization / disinfection devices having a hollow chamber are typically used. When such a device is used, the probe is usually held in a position inside the chamber by engaging the probe's cord using an elastic clamp, thereby allowing the probe to be suspended at a predetermined position within the cavity. Once the probe is in position, the door of the sterilization / disinfection device can be closed, thereby sealing the chamber.

[0006] The sterilization process, in one application, involves swirling a mist of liquid disinfectant and air around the exposed surface of the probe, followed by a drying process. Once the sterilization / disinfection process is complete, the device door is opened and the probe is removed. In another application, the sterilization / disinfection process involves exposing the probe surface to UV or gamma radiation.

[0007] The latest technologies may benefit from more robust and versatile sterilization / disinfection processes. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] Systems and methods according to embodiments of the present invention act to hold objects to be disinfected / sterilized within a disinfection / sterilization chamber in a manner that can reduce the obstruction of disinfection with respect to the disinfection / sterilization medium, and also act to mitigate any obstruction that may exist. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In one embodiment, a device for holding an object within a disinfection device is provided, and the device is: At least one support member that contacts and engages with one or more contact surfaces of the object, The at least one support member is formed from a material that allows a disinfectant medium to reach the one or more contact surfaces of the object so that the one or more contact surfaces are disinfected during the disinfection process.

[0010] In one embodiment, the disinfectant medium is a disinfectant solution. Preferably, the disinfectant solution contains hydrogen peroxide.

[0011] In one embodiment, at least one support member is formed from a fluid-permeable material such that a disinfectant solution moves through the at least one support member to reach one or more contact surfaces during the disinfection process.

[0012] In one embodiment, at least one support member is formed from fine fibers such as PET (polyester), polypropylene, and / or nylon.

[0013] In one embodiment, the disinfectant solution moves along the surface of at least one support member via wicking so as to reach one or more contact surfaces during the disinfection process.

[0014] In one embodiment, at least one support member is formed from a solid material such as PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), PVDF (polyvinylidene difluoride), and / or ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene).

[0015] In one embodiment, the disinfectant medium is UV (ultraviolet) or gamma radiation.

[0016] In one embodiment, at least one support member is formed from a transparent / translucent plastic such as quartz glass and / or a methacrylate-based polymer.

[0017] In one embodiment, the device includes a pair of support members. Preferably, the device includes a spring clamp, and the clamp has the pair of support members.

[0018] In one embodiment, at least one support member includes a net for supporting an object during sterilization. Preferably, the net has a thickness of approximately 0.1 to 5 mm.

[0019] In one embodiment, at least one support member includes a basket for transporting objects during disinfection.

[0020] In one embodiment, the support member includes a bag adapted for transporting an object during disinfection. Preferably, the bag is formed from a material that substantially resists the entry of contaminants so that the object remains sterile when removed from the disinfection device (e.g., Tyvek®).

[0021] In one embodiment, the apparatus includes an elongated hanger.

[0022] In one embodiment, at least one support member has a relatively small footprint so as to minimize one or more contact areas of the object.

[0023] In one embodiment, the disinfection apparatus comprises a sealed chamber, and during the disinfection process, the apparatus for holding an object is adapted to suspend the object within the chamber.

[0024] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the apparatus is impregnated with a dye that changes color when exposed to a disinfectant solution or UV or gamma radiation for a predetermined period.

[0025] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the apparatus is impregnated with a dye that changes color when exposed to a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time.

[0026] In one embodiment, the object includes an ultrasonic probe.

[0027] Throughout this specification, reference to "one embodiment", "some embodiments" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the phrases "in one embodiment", "in some embodiments" or "in an embodiment" occurring in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are they necessarily all referring to all embodiments. Further, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the present disclosure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1]This is a perspective view of a device for holding an object inside a disinfection device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of a disinfection device used for disinfecting medical objects. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the disinfection device shown in Figure 2, with the door open. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the device for holding the object, with the object suspended inside the chamber of the disinfection device shown in Figures 2 and 3. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of a device for holding an object within a disinfection device according to a further embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of the device for holding the object in Figure 5 and suspending the object within the chamber of the disinfection apparatus shown in Figures 2 and 3. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of a device for holding an object within a disinfection device according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of the device for holding the object in Figure 7 and suspending the object within the chamber of the disinfection apparatus shown in Figures 2 and 3. [Figure 9] This is a partial perspective view of a device for holding an object within a disinfection device according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view of the device for holding the object in Figure 9 and suspending the object within the chamber of the disinfection apparatus shown in Figures 2 and 3. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0029] Herein, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout. In the following description, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations incorporated herein have been omitted for the sake of brevity and clarity.

[0030] It should be noted that the terms “disinfection” and “sterilization” are used interchangeably throughout this application because the concepts described are applicable in either context. Similarly, the terms “disinfection” and “sterilization” are used interchangeably throughout this application.

[0031] composition First, referring to Figures 2 and 3, the configuration of this application is outlined, showing a disinfection device 100 used for disinfecting items used in the medical industry. In particular, the figures illustrate the disinfection device 100, which is primarily designed for disinfecting ultrasonic probes. However, other items used in the medical industry may be disinfected using the same device.

[0032] Ultrasound probes are used for a variety of intracavitary procedures, including rectal, vaginal, and esophageal examinations, as well as for surface applications such as prenatal and other examinations. These probes are typically built with a power / data code to supply power to the probe and link to a control console. In most cases, probes do not need to be completely sterilized, but they do need to be disinfected regularly. This usually takes the form of disinfection to a high level after each use to prevent cross-contamination. In this regard, the level of contaminant removal achieved by the disinfection process is generally regulated by relevant medical standards to minimize the possibility of cross-contamination.

[0033] The use of the disinfection device 100 will be explained with particular reference to Figure 3. When in use, the door 102 of the device is first opened, exposing the internal chamber 104. The probe is then placed inside the chamber 104 and fixed in place. The door 102 is then closed, and the disinfection process is started by the user activating it.

[0034] In one application, a disinfectant medium in the form of a misting / vaporizing disinfectant fluid is introduced into the chamber. The fluid is dispersed to swirl around the ultrasonic probe during the disinfection process. Following this fluid dispersion, an airflow is introduced to dry the outer surface of the probe. Upon completion of this process, the outer surface of the probe is disinfected.

[0035] The misting disinfectant can contain a controlled amount of ultrafine hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which enters the chamber through a side port and gently swirls around the probe to cover its entire surface. The mist particles can pass through exposed areas of the probe, including shadow areas formed by gaps, grooves, and imperfections on the probe surface. As part of the disinfection process, the mist flow is stopped and an airflow is introduced into the chamber to allow the exposed surfaces of the probe to dry to a sufficient level. In this regard, it should be understood that drying of the probe surface is an important aspect of the disinfection process when using a misting disinfectant fluid, and that the disinfectant fluid should be substantially removed from the probe surface upon completion.

[0036] In another application, the disinfectant medium is the formation of UV (ultraviolet) or gamma rays, emitted from an internally mounted lamp or other radiation source, and reaching the external surface of the object being disinfected. Ultraviolet or gamma rays have a strong germicidal effect. They are absorbed by the DNA of any microorganism present, destroying its structure and inactivating any living cells. Microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, yeast, and fungi become harmless within seconds of UV irradiation.

[0037] In either of the two applications described above, the probe is typically secured within the chamber 104 of the disinfection device 100 via a clamp 106 located at the top of the chamber. This clamp 106 is intended to engage with the probe's power / data cord, thereby allowing it to be suspended within the chamber 104 during the disinfection process. However, ultrasound probes, and indeed other medical objects requiring disinfection, are being developed with wireless communication devices that do not require an internal power supply or external cord. In a configuration where the probe is suspended within the chamber 104, the absence of a cord presents a problem simply in that resting the wireless probe within the chamber may prevent the disinfectant medium from reaching the area of ​​the wireless probe that is in contact with the chamber wall. Similarly, suspending the probe within the chamber using a conventional bracket results in insufficient disinfection of the area of ​​the probe in contact with the bracket, as the bracket blocks the disinfectant medium. In other words, such a support structure may prevent the disinfectant medium from reaching its respective barrier surface. In such situations, the level of contaminant removal may be insufficient to meet regulated medical standards.

[0038] development With this problem in mind, the systems and methods according to embodiments of the present invention act to reduce instances of blockage and mitigate the harmful effects of blockage while holding the object to be disinfected within the disinfection chamber, and otherwise can mitigate the harmful effects of blockage from the corresponding support structure. In contrast, conventional solutions for dealing with the disinfection of mating surfaces include UV-transparent trays, which are bulky and can more directly interfere with the disinfection medium (in any case, the tray may, of course, be unsuitable in terms of the contents of the chemical disinfectant). Furthermore, in many embodiments of the present invention, the support mechanism is flexible, thereby accommodating a variety of forming factors. For example, in many embodiments of the present invention, a mesh is implemented to hold the object to be disinfected within the disinfection chamber, and the mesh may be configured to be "effectively transparent" to the disinfection medium. The combination of the fact that the mesh is inherently porous and made from a material that is effectively transparent to the disinfection medium can allow the disinfection medium to interact efficiently with the surface of the target object.

[0039] For example, in some embodiments of the present invention, a net is realized that is permeable to a disinfectant fluid, such as aerosolized H2O2. Therefore, such a net can be used, for example, with a disinfection apparatus that utilizes H2O2 as the disinfectant medium. Placing an object to be disinfected within the net inevitably creates a bonding surface, but the aerosolized H2O2 can still reach each bonding surface of the target, as the net is permeable to it. In some embodiments, the net is made from a material characterized by good suction properties that facilitate the disinfectant chemical to reach otherwise blocked surfaces of the object to be disinfected. Essentially, the net can be described as "effectively permeable," and highly permeable materials, including polyester (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate ["PET"]), polypropylene, and / or nylon, are suitable for creating this net. Of course, it should be recognized that any suitable material that allows the disinfectant fluid to reach the mating surface can be implemented according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0040] In many embodiments, a porous basket that is effectively transparent to the disinfectant is implemented. Similar to the net described above, the basket can be advantageous because it can accommodate various form factors internally. Similarly, as previously mentioned, openings present within the basket can allow the disinfectant to interact more directly with the target surface. The basket is even more advantageous if it can provide the desired structural rigidity. As previously mentioned, the basket can be made from any suitable material according to embodiments of the present invention. For example, the basket can be made from materials such as polybutylene terephthalate, polyvinylidene fluoride, and / or acrylonitrile butadiene. Without being bound by theory, such materials are thought to feature good wicking properties and promote capillary action that allows the disinfectant fluid to be guided to the contact portion of the surface of the target object and disinfect their barrier areas.

[0041] In some embodiments, the support structure features a relatively small footprint, yet can still suspend a disinfection target within a disinfection chamber. Advantageously, having a small footprint minimizes the contact area that would otherwise be obstructed during the disinfection process. Examples of support structures with a relatively small footprint include clamping mechanisms. The mating portion of the support structure can be effectively permeable to the disinfection medium. For example, such a component can be fitted with a material that facilitates wicking at the mating surface or moves along the structural surface, so that the fluid disinfectant can reach the mating surface and thereby enable disinfection. Examples of such materials include polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), and / or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Of course, it should be recognized that any suitable material can be used in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] As mentioned above, many disinfection devices use electromagnetic radiation to disinfect target objects. Therefore, many embodiments work to keep the target object for disinfection within an electromagnetic radiation-based disinfection chamber while (a) reducing obstruction (e.g., compared to conventional solutions) and (b) mitigating the harmful effects of obstruction that may arise from the corresponding support structure.

[0043] Therefore, for example, the nets and baskets described above can be made from materials that are transparent to UV radiation and / or gamma radiation. Similarly, the clamp structures described above can be made from materials that are transparent to UV radiation and / or gamma radiation. Suitable materials include, for example, quartz glass and / or transparent / translucent methacrylate polymers. Of course, it should be recognized that any suitable material may be used according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] As can be understood, the above structure can provide an efficient mechanism for holding objects to be disinfected within a disinfection chamber while improving surface area exposure so that the disinfectant medium can interact more directly with the surface of the target object. Furthermore, this structure allows the disinfectant medium to reach surfaces where a barrier exists. In this way, the support mechanism can provide sufficient structural rigidity while enabling the disinfectant medium to interact efficiently with the surface of the object. Furthermore, it should be noted that many of the embodiments disclosed herein can be made to be compatible with chemical disinfection. As will be seen in light of the following examples, many of the disclosed embodiments may be even more advantageous as they can be made to be coupled with conventional disinfection systems. For example, many conventional disinfection systems utilize a clamping mechanism from which an ultrasonic probe is suspended via their embedded cables. Certain embodiments disclosed herein can similarly be made to interface with such a mechanism, and thus enable conventional systems to disinfect wireless medical devices.

[0045] To ensure that this is understood, the above concepts can be implemented in any of the various ways according to embodiments of the present invention. Specific examples are presented below.

[0046] First Example Referring to Figure 1, an apparatus 10 for holding an object within a disinfection apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided. In this example, the object is proposed to be a wireless ultrasonic probe 16, but the object can be any other object that requires disinfection. Furthermore, it should be recognized that in this embodiment the proposed disinfection medium is a disinfectant solution. As described above, when using a disinfectant, the disinfection process may involve misting or vaporizing the disinfectant within the chamber of the disinfection device 100 to disperse and swirl the fluid around the probe for a given period of time. In this regard, in order to hold the probe 16 within the device 100, the device 10 includes a support member 12 for contacting and engaging with one or more contact surfaces of the probe during the disinfection device. According to this embodiment, the support member is formed of a fluid-permeable material that allows the disinfectant fluid to reach the contacted or blocked surface, at least partially in the area of ​​contact with the probe. For example, the material may be directly permeable to fluid, and / or the material may be "effectively permeable" insofar as it is characterized by good suction properties that allow the disinfectant medium to reach the contact surface. In this way, the misted / aerosolized disinfectant can reach the mating surface and disinfect it. In the illustrated embodiment, at least one support member 12 includes a net 14 used to contain and suspend the object during the disinfection process.

[0047] Contacting the probe with a fluid-permeable material during disinfection allows the disinfectant mist / aerosol to permeate through the contact points of the support member to the surface of the ultrasonic probe 16 during the disinfection process. By having a net formed from the fluid-permeable material, the sterilizing fluid can also evaporate more easily from the surface of the probe during the drying phase of the sterilization process, i.e., when the swirling of the sterilizing fluid mist is complete.

[0048] The device 10 further includes a retaining ring 18 that is detachably attached to the net 14. Furthermore, an elongated hanger 20 is provided for detachable engagement with the retaining ring 18, thereby supporting the net 14. When the hanger 20 engages with the retaining ring 18, a probe or other object can be placed within the net.

[0049] As best shown in Figure 4, the hanger 20 is then positioned on the clamp 106 at the top of the chamber 104, and the mesh and probe 16 are suspended inside the chamber, but without contact with the chamber wall. The door 102 of the disinfection device 100 can then be closed, and the disinfection process can be started by the user by activating it.

[0050] It should be understood that the hanger 20 and the retaining ring 18 do not need to be formed from a fluid-permeable material, and in some cases, the hanger may be in the form of a flexible cable without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0051] Advantageously, the fluid permeability of the net 14 allows the disinfectant mist to penetrate the net and come into contact with all outer surfaces of the probe 16, including the portion that comes into contact with the net material during the disinfection process. Similarly, once the disinfectant mist is complete and the drying phase begins, the fluid permeability of the net can allow the disinfectant fluid on the probe surface to evaporate to a sufficient level.

[0052] The net 14 can be formed from a woven material having fine fibers of PET (polyester), polypropylene, and / or nylon. These materials can provide sufficient fluid permeability to achieve the level of fluid transfer necessary to provide adequate disinfection of the probe surface during a given disinfection cycle.

[0053] In this embodiment, the net 14 can be formed from a polyester polymer mesh. The thickness of the net material may be a consideration in this configuration of disinfection function. For example, if the net material is too thick, the level of fluid permeability of the disinfectant during the disinfection cycle may be insufficient to cover the outer surface of the probe. On the other hand, if the net material is too thin, the net is structurally inadequate and may not be able to keep the probe and / or other objects suspended during the disinfection cycle, and may collapse during the cycle. Furthermore, it should be understood that it is advantageous for the net material to be structurally and substantially resistant enough to mitigate degradation between multiple uses and while stored for a long period before use. In this regard, the inventors have found that when using a polyester polymer material for the net, a thickness of 0.1 to 5 mm, preferably 0.2 mm, can provide a sufficient level of fluid transfer and will be sufficiently structurally resilient.

[0054] As mentioned earlier, one advantage of the mesh is that the surface of the target object to be disinfected can be directly exposed to the disinfectant fluid through the mesh's inherent pores. In many cases, a significant portion of the target object can be exposed in this way. This allows for more efficient disinfection. A mesh characterized by any appropriate opening size may be implemented according to embodiments of the present invention. For example, opening sizes from about 0.1 mm to about 10 mm can be implemented.

[0055] Second Example In a modification of the first example, instead of the net 14 described above, at least one support member may be in the form of a sterilization bag formed of a fluid-permeable material. In a manner similar to the previous embodiment, the bag containing the object to be sterilized can be suspended in the sterilization chamber 104 using a hanger 20 or similar means during the sterilization / disinfection process. Furthermore, the fluid permeability of the bag material allows a mist of the disinfectant fluid to come into contact with the exposed surfaces of the object contained in the bag during the sterilization / disinfection process. At the same time, the fluid-permeable material of the bag also allows the disinfectant fluid to evaporate from the exposed surfaces of the contained object during the drying cycle. However, the bag differs from the net 14 of the previous embodiment in that it is formed from a material that can prevent the intrusion of contaminants after sterilization / disinfection. In particular, once the bag is removed from the sterilization / disinfection device, the intrusion of contaminants into the sealed bag can be prevented. Thus, once the sterilization / disinfection process is complete, the bag can be removed from the chamber and remain sealed until the object needs to be used. In this way, the object can be handled more easily and can maintain a sterile state for a longer period. Tyvek® is a suitable material for forming bags.

[0056] Third Example A further embodiment of the present invention, a modification of the net 14 and hanger 20 of the previous embodiment, is shown in Figure 5. As shown, the hanger 20 here forms an elongated hanger 22 having a hook portion 24 at one end and a ring 26 at the other end. In this embodiment, at least one support member 12 here takes the form of a net 28 having a support opening 30. The support opening is engageable with the hook portion 24 of the hanger 22, so that the net can be suspended within the chamber 104. The net 28 is formed from the same fluid-permeable material as the net 14, allowing a flow of disinfectant fluid to flow over the surface of an object, and similarly allowing the disinfectant fluid to dry during the drying process.

[0057] As shown in Figure 6, in this embodiment, the hook portion 24 engages with the support opening 30 of the net 28 to support the net 28. The hanger 22 can then be positioned within the clamp 106 in the same manner as in the first embodiment to hold an object within the disinfection device 100. However, in this embodiment, a separate retaining ring 18 is not required. Furthermore, it should be noted that the elongated hanger 22 can be used in other variations of the support member, as will be discussed further below.

[0058] Fourth Embodiment Referring next to Figure 7, a device 10 for holding an object within a disinfection device according to a further embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this embodiment, the support member 12 includes a basket 32 ​​having opposing front and rear sides 34, a bottom 36, and a pair of opposing side walls 38.

[0059] The front and rear sides of the basket include support openings 40, which can engage with the hook portion 24 of the elongated hanger 22, as described with reference to the embodiments above.

[0060] As shown in Figure 8, similar to the previous embodiment, the object to be disinfected is placed in the basket 32 ​​and suspended in the chamber 104 of the disinfection device 100. In this configuration, the hanger 22 engages with a clamp at the top of the chamber 106, holding the object inside the chamber.

[0061] Furthermore, the basket 32 ​​according to this embodiment can be formed from a fluid-permeable material so that, once the disinfectant fluid is dispersed in the chamber, the disinfectant fluid can pass through the basket to reach the contact surface of the object. In one possible modification, it is proposed that the basket 32 ​​be formed from natural polypropylene, which can have the required fluid permeability properties. Of course, it can be understood that any suitable material can be implemented according to embodiments of the present invention. For example, polyethylene terephthalate ("PET") and / or nylon can be used. Advantageously, the larger opening provided allows the basket 32 ​​to have less resistance to fluid contact with the surface of the object being disinfected than the nets of the first and second embodiments. Suitable opening sizes for the basket can include sizes greater than 0.1 mm. As can be understood, the basket can be characterized by any suitable thickness according to embodiments of the present invention. For example, the basket can be implemented with a thickness of about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm. Although specific geometric shapes have been illustrated and described, it goes without saying that baskets of any suitable geometric shape can be implemented according to embodiments of the present invention. For example, the basket may be cylindrical or have a polygonal base, according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0062] Fifth Example Next, referring to Figure 9, a device 10 for holding an object within a disinfection device is shown according to a further embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the device 10 includes a spring clamp 50.

[0063] The spring clamp 50 includes a pair of support members 12 in the form of a pair of opposing fingers 52. Each finger engages with a track 56 mounted on a base 54. This engagement allows the fingers to be adapted to slide between a closed configuration and an open configuration. Furthermore, by providing a spring 58, the fingers 52 are biased into a closed configuration to hold an object between them. A link arm 60 is provided, one end of which is attached to the base 54 by a screw or other coupling mechanism, and the other end of which engages with an elongated hanger 22 via a screw mount 62.

[0064] Similar to the embodiments described above, the finger 52, which is proposed to come into contact with the object to be sterilized, can be formed from a material that allows the sterilizing fluid to reach the contact surface, for example, via wicking. Such materials include PBT, PVDF, and / or ABS, which can have good wicking properties. As with the previous embodiments, only the finger 52 needs to be formed from such a material. The remaining components can be formed from any material suitable for the purpose.

[0065] As best illustrated in Figure 10, during use, a separating force is applied to separate the fingers 52 against the biasing force of the spring 58. Once separated, the object is positioned between the fingers 52 and held in place by the biasing force. The assembly of the fingers 52, base 54, link arm 60, and elongated hanger 22 is then placed inside the chamber 104 and held in place by the clamp 106 at the top of the chamber. The door 102 of the disinfection device 100 can then be closed, and the disinfection process can be started by the user by activating it. During this process, the disinfectant is again misted and dispersed around the object. The effective permeability of the fingers allows the disinfectant to reach the contact surface.

[0066] In some embodiments, a support structure characterized by a relatively small footprint can suspend a disinfection target object within a disinfection chamber. An example of a support structure with a relatively small footprint is the spring clamp described above. The mating portion of the support structure can be made effectively transparent to the disinfection medium. For example, such a component may be fitted with a material that facilitates wicking at the mating surface so that the chemical disinfectant can reach the mating surface and thereby enable disinfection. Examples of such materials include polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), and / or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Of course, it should be recognized that any suitable material can be used according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0067] As can be understood, the disclosed spring clamp can provide better structural support, for example, for simply suspending an object to be disinfected. Furthermore, by utilizing the clamping force, the contact area can be effectively reduced.

[0068] As should be understood, the concepts described above can be implemented in various ways according to embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, the examples described above are merely examples of how the concepts may be implemented and not an exhaustive list of embodiments of the present invention. For example, a single device may include different forms or multiple support members, thereby enabling the simultaneous holding of multiple objects within the device.

[0069] UV / gamma ray irradiation As mentioned above, some disinfection devices use electromagnetic radiation to disinfect objects. For example, ultraviolet radiation and gamma-ray radiation can be effective in disinfecting target objects. Therefore, the inventive concept of this application can be extended to this configuration as well. For example, the holding structure can be made of a material that is transparent to such radiation. In this regard, each of the holding structures in the above example can be made of a material that transmits the respective electromagnetic radiation. Therefore, for example: In the first embodiment, the net 14 can be made from a material that is effectively transparent to UV radiation and / or gamma radiation. In the second embodiment, the bag can be formed from a material that is effectively transparent to UV radiation and / or gamma radiation. In the fourth embodiment, the basket 32 ​​can be made from a material that is effectively transparent to UV radiation and / or gamma radiation. In the fifth embodiment, the finger 52 can be made from a material that is effectively transparent to UV radiation and / or gamma radiation.

[0070] Therefore, accessories for use in disinfection chambers based on the application of electromagnetic radiation can be realized. Suitable materials that are transparent to electromagnetic radiation include quartz glass and transparent / translucent plastics such as methacrylate polymers.

[0071] As can be understood, the above structure may be advantageous over conventional UV-transmitting trays, at least in that it provides a reduced bonding surface. A more direct interaction between electromagnetic radiation and the target surface can result in more efficient disinfection.

[0072] Other aspects The examples described above can be reinforced and enhanced in various ways according to embodiments of the present invention. For example, in some embodiments, the selected material may result in a decrease in sterilization performance at the contact point between the support member and the object to be sterilized, which can be addressed by operating a specific cycle of the sterilization device, thereby increasing the sterilization capacity to mitigate the expected performance decrease.

[0073] In some embodiments, the support members are limited-use items. In such circumstances, at least a portion of the support members may be impregnated with a dye that reacts with the disinfectant medium such that the support members change color upon completion of a predetermined number of disinfection processes. In this way, a visual indicator is provided to the user, making it easy to determine whether the device is suitable for use.

[0074] In numerous embodiments, it has been proposed that at least a portion of the effectively transparent material used in the support member is impregnated with a dye that reacts to a predetermined temperature generated during the disinfection process, so that the support member changes color upon completion of a given number of disinfection processes. The predetermined temperature may be any selected temperature, and in one application, it may be 50 degrees Celsius or higher. In this way, a visual indicator is provided to the user, making it easy to determine whether the device is suitable for use.

[0075] In some embodiments, the support member allows for the attachment of a unique identifier to enable traceability of the support member to a specific disinfection cycle. The unique identifier may be the formation of a digital solution such as an RFID tag or a barcode / QR code®. Alternatively, the unique identifier may be an analog solution such as a serial number. In another embodiment, the support member has an embedded unique identifier to enable traceability of the support member to a specific disinfection cycle.

[0076] In one embodiment, the support member 12 is provided to the user in sterile packaging with an "application-specific" date indicating the date on which the packaging seal is no longer guaranteed.

[0077] Advantageously, the present invention provides a device for holding an object within a disinfection apparatus such that all exposed surfaces of the object are exposed to a disinfecting medium during the disinfection process.

[0078] In the above description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that, for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof. However, this method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires features beyond those explicitly stated in each claim. Rather, as the following claims demonstrate, not all features of the previously disclosed single embodiment contain inventive elements. Therefore, the following detailed description is explicitly incorporated into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a distinct embodiment of the invention.

[0079] The description provided herein includes numerous specific details. However, it will be found that embodiments of the present invention can be carried out without such specific details. In other examples, well-known methods, structures, and techniques are not described in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this description.

[0080] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described, those skilled in the art may make other modifications and further modifications without departing from the spirit of the invention, and such changes and modifications are intended to be within the scope of the invention. For example, any formula given above is merely representative of the procedures that may be used. Functions can be added or removed from the block diagram, and operations can be swapped between function blocks. Steps may be added or removed in the methods described within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A device for holding an ultrasonic probe inside a disinfection device, the device comprising an enclosed chamber, the device: The ultrasonic probe comprises at least one support member that contacts and engages with one or more contact surfaces of the ultrasonic probe, A long, slender hanger is connected to at least one of the support members, The at least one support member has a relatively small footprint so as to minimize the one or more contact areas of the ultrasonic probe. The at least one support member is formed from a material that allows the disinfectant solution to reach the one or more contact surfaces of the ultrasonic probe by its suction properties so that the one or more contact surfaces are disinfected during the disinfection process. A device for holding an ultrasonic probe within a disinfection apparatus, wherein during the disinfection process, the elongated hanger suspends the ultrasonic probe within the enclosed chamber via the at least one support member.

2. An apparatus for holding an ultrasonic probe in a disinfection apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the disinfectant solution contains hydrogen peroxide.

3. An apparatus for holding an ultrasonic probe within a disinfection apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one support member is formed of a fluid-permeable material so that the disinfectant solution can move through the at least one support member to reach one or more contact surfaces during the disinfection process.

4. The device for holding an ultrasonic probe in a disinfection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one support member is formed from fine fibers such as PET (polyester), polypropylene and / or nylon.

5. A device for holding an ultrasonic probe in a disinfection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the disinfectant solution moves along the surface of the at least one support member during the disinfection process to reach the one or more contact surfaces.

6. An apparatus for holding an ultrasonic probe in a disinfection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one support member is formed from a solid material such as PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), PVDF (polyvinylidene difluoride), and / or ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene).

7. A device for holding an ultrasonic probe within a disinfection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a pair of support members.

8. A device for holding an ultrasonic probe in a disinfection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a spring clamp, wherein the spring clamp has a pair of support members.

9. The apparatus for holding an ultrasonic probe within a disinfection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one support member includes a net that supports the ultrasonic probe during the disinfection process.

10. A device for holding an object inside a disinfection device according to claim 9, wherein the thickness of the net is approximately 0.1 to 5 mm.

11. A device for holding an ultrasonic probe in a disinfection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the at least one support member comprises a basket for transporting the ultrasonic probe during the disinfection process.

12. An apparatus for holding an ultrasonic probe in a disinfection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the support member comprises a bag configured to support the ultrasonic probe during the disinfection process.

13. A device for holding an ultrasonic probe within a disinfection device according to claim 12, wherein the bag is formed of a material that substantially resists the entry of contaminants, and the ultrasonic probe remains sterile when removed from the disinfection device.

14. An apparatus for holding an ultrasonic probe in a disinfection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that at least a part of the apparatus is impregnated with a disinfectant solution or a dye that changes color when exposed to UV or gamma rays for a predetermined period of time.

15. An apparatus for holding an ultrasonic probe in a disinfection apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein at least a portion of the apparatus is impregnated with a dye that changes color when exposed to a predetermined temperature.

Images