Sterilization device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a sterilization apparatus capable of sterilizing an object to be sterilized, by using hydrogen peroxide as a sterilant. The sterilization apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a sterilization housing having a sterilization chamber in which an object to be sterilized is accommodated; a vaporizer which is connected to the sterilization housing so as to supply hydrogen peroxide to the sterilization chamber; a supply device for supplying a hydrogen peroxide solution to the vaporizer; a vacuum pump which provides negative pressure to the vaporizer so as to lower the internal pressure of the vaporizer to an evaporation pressure at which moisture can be evaporated from the hydrogen peroxide solution; a connector assembly having a connecting flow path which connects the vaporizer and the vacuum pump and a connector valve capable of opening and closing the connecting flow path; and a controller for controlling the vacuum pump and the connector valve, wherein the concentration of the concentrated hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer can be changed by changing, according to preset conditions, the time for which the negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer.

Description

sterilization device

[0001] The present invention relates to a sterilization device, and more specifically, to a sterilization device capable of sterilizing an object to be sterilized using hydrogen peroxide as a sterilizing agent.

[0002] Sterilizers are used to sterilize medical devices and other items. Sterilizers are designed to completely eliminate all living microorganisms through physical and chemical action.

[0003] The sterilization methods of sterilizers include steam sterilization and chemical sterilization.

[0004] Sterilizers that utilize steam sterilization utilize the moist heat of pressurized saturated steam to sterilize items. Because these sterilizers sterilize items at high temperatures, they are not suitable for sterilizing items that are sensitive to heat.

[0005] Sterilization devices that utilize chemical sterilization sterilize objects using chemical sterilants. Chemical sterilants include hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid.

[0006] Hydrogen peroxide, used in chemical sterilization, boasts a wide range of sterilizing power and a rapid sterilization rate. Its low-temperature sterilization ensures the safety of sterilized items. Its residues are water and oxygen, making it safe for users and environmentally friendly. As an oxidizing sterilant, hydrogen peroxide can destroy lipid membranes, DNA, and other essential cellular components, even eliminating microbial spores that cannot be removed with standard disinfectants.

[0007] For effective sterilization, the use of highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide solutions is recommended. However, due to safety concerns, such as explosion risks, if the concentration of hydrogen peroxide solution exceeds a specified concentration (e.g., 60 wt%), handling, including transportation and storage, is restricted.

[0008] For this reason, sterilization devices that use hydrogen peroxide receive a low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution and use it by concentrating it to the concentration required for sterilization.

[0009] Therefore, in order to improve a sterilization device using hydrogen peroxide, a technology is required that can effectively concentrate a low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution to an appropriate concentration required for sterilization.

[0010] The present invention has been conceived in consideration of the above-described points, and aims to provide a sterilization device capable of effectively concentrating a low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution to a concentration required for sterilization and improving sterilization efficiency.

[0011] The purpose of the present invention is not limited to what has been described above, and other purposes not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described problem, a sterilizing device comprises: a sterilizing housing having a sterilizing chamber in which a material to be sterilized is accommodated; a vaporizer connected to the sterilizing housing for supplying hydrogen peroxide to the sterilizing chamber; a supply device for supplying a hydrogen peroxide solution to the vaporizer; a vacuum pump for providing a negative pressure to the vaporizer so as to lower the internal pressure of the vaporizer to an evaporation pressure at which moisture can be evaporated from the hydrogen peroxide solution; a connector assembly having a connecting path connecting the vaporizer and the vacuum pump and a connector valve capable of opening and closing the connecting path; and a controller for controlling the vacuum pump and the connector valve, wherein a time for which the negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer varies according to preset conditions, thereby varying the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer.

[0013] The connector assembly may include a first end connector connecting the vaporizer and the connector valve and having a first end connector path; a connector tube disposed between the connector valve and the vacuum pump and having a connector tube path; a first middle connector connected to one end of the connector tube to connect the connector valve and the connector tube and having a first middle connector path; a second middle connector connected to the other end of the connector tube and having a second middle connector path; and a second end connector connecting the second middle connector and the vacuum pump and having a second end connector path.

[0014] The first end connector flow path, the valve flow path of the connector valve, the first middle connector flow path, the connector pipe flow path, the second middle connector flow path, and the second end connector flow path form the connecting flow path, and the connecting flow path can have at least one diameter expansion section and at least one diameter reduction section.

[0015] Among the above connecting euros, the diameter of the first end connector euro may be the smallest.

[0016] The diameter of the first middle connector euro and the diameter of the second middle connector euro may be the same, and the diameter of the connector pipe euro may be larger than the diameter of the first middle connector euro and the diameter of the second middle connector euro.

[0017] The second end connector may include a first connector connected to the second middle connector; a second connector connected to the vacuum pump; and a third connector connected to the sterilizing housing.

[0018] The time for which negative pressure is provided to the above carburetor can be varied in multiples of a preset minimum reference time.

[0019] The output of the vacuum pump can be controlled so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer is linearly reduced at a reduction rate according to a preset reference slope within a range that does not exceed a preset first target pressure during the minimum reference time.

[0020] When the time for which the negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer increases by n times the minimum reference time, the output of the vacuum pump may be controlled so that, during the minimum reference time, the internal pressure of the vaporizer linearly decreases at a rate according to the reference slope, but reaches a preset first target pressure when the minimum reference time is reached, and after the minimum reference time, the internal pressure of the vaporizer linearly decreases at a rate according to the preset slope, but reaches a preset second target pressure when the time is n times the minimum reference time.

[0021] A sterilizing device according to the present invention comprises: a bypass pipe having a bypass pipe passage connected to the connecting passage; and a bypass valve controlled by the controller to open and close the bypass pipe passage, wherein, during the minimum reference time, when the internal pressure of the vaporizer decreases at a rate of decrease greater than the reference slope, the bypass valve is controlled so that fluid flows into the connecting passage through the bypass pipe, thereby controlling the rate of decrease of the internal pressure of the vaporizer; and, during a time n times the minimum reference time, when the internal pressure of the vaporizer decreases at a rate of decrease greater than a preset slope, the bypass valve is controlled so that fluid flows into the connecting passage through the bypass pipe, thereby controlling the rate of decrease of the internal pressure of the vaporizer.

[0022] The above bypass pipe can connect the sterilization housing and the connector assembly so that the gas of the sterilization chamber can flow into the connecting path.

[0023] The sterilizing device according to the present invention as described above can increase the sterilizing power for a sterilized object accommodated in a sterilization chamber by evaporating moisture from a hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to a vaporizer to concentrate the hydrogen peroxide solution and supplying the concentrated hydrogen peroxide to a sterilization chamber.

[0024] Furthermore, the sterilizing device according to the present invention can concentrate a hydrogen peroxide solution using a vaporizer, thereby enabling the supply and use of a low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution. Furthermore, since the low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution has relatively low transportation and storage costs and is relatively easy to handle, it can be used, thereby reducing operating costs.

[0025] Furthermore, the sterilization device according to the present invention can sterilize objects by concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution to more precise and diverse concentrations. For example, for objects with relatively excellent chemical resistance, sterilization can be performed by concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution to a relatively high concentration, thereby increasing sterilization efficiency. Furthermore, for objects with relatively poor chemical resistance, sterilization can be performed by concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution to a relatively low concentration, thereby reducing damage to the objects and preventing shortening of their lifespan.

[0026] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0027] Figures 1 and 2 are perspective views showing a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 is a side view showing a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 is a front view showing a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing a partial configuration of a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a sterilization housing of a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a vaporizer and connector assembly of a sterilizing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a vaporizer and connector assembly of a sterilizing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 9 is a graph showing an example of a change in pressure inside a vaporizer during a hydrogen peroxide solution concentration process of a sterilizing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 10 is a front view showing a sterilization device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing a part of the configuration of a sterilization device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a vaporizer and connector assembly of a sterilizing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 13 is a graph showing an example of a change in pressure inside a vaporizer during a hydrogen peroxide solution concentration process of a sterilizing device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] [Explanation of drawing symbols for major parts]

[0040] 100, 200: Sterilization device 110: Sterilization housing

[0041] 111: Sterilization chamber 118: Blower

[0042] 122: Inlet pipe 124: Outlet pipe

[0043] 126: Inlet valve 128: Outlet valve

[0044] 130: Supply device 132: Supply pipe

[0045] 140: Carburetor 150: Vacuum pump

[0046] 160: Connector assembly 161: Connecting euro

[0047] 162: First end connector 165: Connector valve

[0048] 170: Connector tube 173: First middle connector

[0049] 176: Second middle connector 179: Second end connector

[0050] 190: Controller 210: Bypass pipe

[0051] 213: Bypass valve

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0053] In describing the present invention, the size and shape of components shown in the drawings may be exaggerated or simplified for clarity and convenience of explanation.

[0054] Additionally, terms specifically defined in consideration of the structure and operation of the present invention may vary depending on the intent or custom of the user or operator. These terms should be interpreted with meanings and concepts consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the contents of this specification.

[0055] In order to clearly explain the present invention, the description of parts unrelated to the technical idea of ​​the present invention is omitted, and the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0056] In addition, in various embodiments, components having the same configuration are described only in representative embodiments using the same symbols, and in other embodiments, only configurations different from the representative embodiments are described.

[0057] Throughout the specification, when a part is said to be "connected" to another part, this includes not only "directly connected" but also "indirectly connected" with other elements intervening. Furthermore, when a part is said to "include" a component, this may mean that the other component is included, rather than excluded, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0058] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are perspective views showing a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a side view showing a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a front view showing a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a part of a configuration of a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] As shown in the drawing, a sterilizing device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a sterilizing housing (110) capable of accommodating a sterilized object, a supply device (130) for supplying a hydrogen peroxide solution, a vaporizer (140) for concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution and supplying hydrogen peroxide to the sterilizing housing (110), a vacuum pump (150) for providing negative pressure to the vaporizer (140), a connector assembly (160) for connecting the vaporizer (140) and the vacuum pump (150), and a controller (190) for controlling the vacuum pump (150). A sterilization device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention can receive a low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution, concentrate it to a concentration suitable for sterilization, and introduce the concentrated hydrogen peroxide into a sterilization housing (110) to sterilize an object to be sterilized in the sterilization housing (110).

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4 and 6, a sterilization chamber (111) for receiving a sterilized object is provided inside the sterilization housing (110). A tray (116) capable of supporting the sterilized object may be placed in the sterilization chamber (111). The sterilization housing (110) has an entrance (112) through which the sterilized object may enter and exit, an inlet (113) for introducing hydrogen peroxide, and an outlet (114) for discharging fluid such as air or hydrogen peroxide from the sterilization chamber (111). A door (not shown) for opening and closing the entrance (112) may be installed in the sterilization housing (110).

[0061] The sterilizing housing (110) is connected to the vaporizer (140) through the inlet pipe (122). The inlet pipe (122) is coupled to the sterilizing housing (110) so that the flow path therein is connected to the inlet port (113). The hydrogen peroxide concentrated in the vaporizer (140) can be introduced into the sterilizing chamber (111) in the form of vapor through the inlet pipe (122) and the inlet port (113).

[0062] An inlet valve (126) is connected to the inlet pipe (122). The inlet valve (126) can control the flow of hydrogen peroxide through the inlet pipe (122) by opening and closing the flow path inside the inlet pipe (122). The inlet valve (126) can be configured to block the flow of hydrogen peroxide through the inlet pipe (122) or control the flow rate of hydrogen peroxide through the inlet pipe (122). In addition, the inlet valve (126) can be formed in the form of an automatic control valve that is automatically controlled by a controller (190).

[0063] The sterilizing housing (110) is connected to a vacuum pump (150) through a discharge pipe (124). The discharge pipe (124) is connected to the sterilizing housing (110) so that the flow path therein is connected to the discharge port (114). When the vacuum pump (150) operates, air or a fluid such as hydrogen peroxide in the sterilizing chamber (111) can be discharged through the discharge port (114) and the discharge pipe (124).

[0064] A discharge valve (128) is connected to the discharge pipe (124). The discharge valve (128) can control the flow of fluid through the discharge pipe (124) by opening and closing the flow path inside the discharge pipe (124). The discharge valve (128) can be configured to block the flow of fluid through the discharge pipe (124) or control the flow rate of fluid through the discharge pipe (124). In addition, the discharge valve (128) can be formed in the form of an automatic control valve that is automatically controlled by a controller (190).

[0065] The specific configuration of the sterilization housing (110) is not limited to that shown, and may be changed to various other configurations capable of accommodating the material to be sterilized.

[0066] A blower (118) is installed in the sterilizing housing (110). The blower (118) can increase the sterilization efficiency of the object to be sterilized by hydrogen peroxide by actively flowing air or hydrogen peroxide in the sterilizing chamber (111). The blower (118) may include a fan (119) placed in the sterilizing chamber (111) and a motor (120) placed outside the sterilizing housing (110) to provide rotational force to the fan (119). In addition, the blower (118) may be changed to various other configurations that can generate airflow in the sterilizing chamber (111).

[0067] In addition, a heater (not shown) for heating air or hydrogen peroxide in the sterilization chamber (111), a thermometer (not shown) for measuring the temperature of the sterilization chamber (111), a pressure gauge (not shown) for measuring the pressure of the sterilization chamber (111), etc. may be installed in the sterilization housing (110).

[0068] The supply device (130) is for supplying a hydrogen peroxide solution to the vaporizer (140). The supply device (130) may be connected to the vaporizer (140) via a supply pipe (132). The supply device (130) may be configured to be controlled by a controller (190) to automatically supply a preset amount of hydrogen peroxide solution to the vaporizer (140). A hydrogen peroxide solution diluted to an appropriate concentration may be supplied to the vaporizer (140) via the supply device (130).

[0069] For example, a hydrogen peroxide solution diluted to a concentration of less than 40 wt% for easy transportation or handling can be supplied to a vaporizer (140) through a supply device (130). A hydrogen peroxide solution with a concentration of less than 40 wt% is easy to store and handle, and has the advantage of reducing transportation or storage costs because it is subject to fewer institutional restrictions related to the transportation of hazardous materials.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, 7 and 8, a vaporizer (140) is connected to a sterilizing housing (110) via an inlet pipe (122) so as to supply hydrogen peroxide to a sterilizing chamber (111). The vaporizer (140) accommodates a hydrogen peroxide solution and has an internal space in which moisture or hydrogen peroxide can evaporate from the hydrogen peroxide solution. A preset amount of hydrogen peroxide solution can be supplied to the internal space of the vaporizer (140).

[0071] The volume of the internal space of the vaporizer (140) is larger than the volume of the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140). When the hydrogen peroxide solution is supplied into the vaporizer (140), the level of the hydrogen peroxide solution in the internal space of the vaporizer (140) is lower than the height of the internal space of the vaporizer (140), and a space capable of accommodating moisture or hydrogen peroxide evaporated from the hydrogen peroxide solution above the water surface of the hydrogen peroxide solution can be secured. The vaporizer (140) can concentrate the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied from the supply device (130) and supply the concentrated hydrogen peroxide in the form of vapor to the sterilization chamber (111).

[0072] The vaporizer (140) can concentrate the hydrogen peroxide solution by utilizing the difference in vapor pressure between hydrogen peroxide and water. That is, when the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) is lowered by the vacuum pump (150), the hydrogen peroxide solution can be concentrated by evaporating moisture from the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140). Since water has a higher vapor pressure than hydrogen peroxide, it evaporates more quickly, and since water has a lower molecular weight, water can diffuse into the gas phase more quickly than hydrogen peroxide and be discharged from the vaporizer (140).

[0073] A pressure gauge (145) for measuring the internal pressure of the carburetor (140) may be installed in the carburetor (140). The measurement signal of the pressure gauge (145) may be transmitted to the controller (190). The measurement signal of the pressure gauge (145) may be used by the controller (190) to control the vacuum pump (150).

[0074] Additionally, the vaporizer (140) may be equipped with a heater (not shown) for heating the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140) and a thermometer (not shown) for measuring the temperature inside the vaporizer (140). The measurement signal of the thermometer may be used by the controller (190) to control the heater.

[0075] The vacuum pump (150) provides a negative pressure to the vaporizer (140) so as to lower the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) to an evaporation pressure at which moisture can be evaporated from the hydrogen peroxide solution. The vacuum pump (150) is connected to the vaporizer (140) via a connector assembly (160). When the vacuum pump (150) operates, moisture is removed from the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140), thereby concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140).

[0076] Additionally, the vacuum pump (150) is connected to the sterilizing housing (110) through the discharge pipe (124). The vacuum pump (150) can create a vacuum atmosphere in the sterilizing chamber (111) by providing negative pressure to the sterilizing housing (110).

[0077] The vacuum pump (150) can be controlled by the controller (190) to lower the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) to a preset pressure or to lower the pressure of the sterilization chamber (111) to a preset pressure.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, 7 and 8, a connector assembly (160) connects a vaporizer (140) and a vacuum pump (150), and can provide a passage through which a fluid such as air or moisture inside the vaporizer (140) is discharged. The connector assembly (160) has a connecting passage (161) that serves as a fluid discharge passage. The connector assembly (160) includes a first end connector (162) connected to a carburetor (140), a connector valve (165) that can open and close a connecting passage (161), a connector pipe (170) arranged between the connector valve (165) and a vacuum pump (150), a first middle connector (173) connected to one end of the connector pipe (170), a second middle connector (176) connected to the other end of the connector pipe (170), and a second end connector (179) connected to the vacuum pump (150).

[0079] The first end connector (162) connects the vaporizer (140) and the connector valve (165). The first end connector (162) is provided with a first end connector passage (163) constituting a connecting passage (161) inside. The first end connector passage (163) is a portion having the smallest diameter among the connecting passages (161). The first end connector passage (163) is connected to a space above the water surface of the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140) among the internal spaces of the vaporizer (140), and moisture evaporated from the hydrogen peroxide solution can be discharged through the first end connector passage (163).

[0080] The connector valve (165) connects the first end connector (162) and the first middle connector (173). The connector valve (165) includes a valve body (166) in which a valve path (167) is formed, and an opening / closing device (168) for opening / closing the valve path (167). The valve path (167) constitutes a connecting path (161). The connector valve (165) can open / close the connecting path (161). That is, the opening / closing device (168) opens / closes the valve path (167), thereby controlling the flow of fluid through the connecting path (161). The connector valve (165) can be controlled by a controller (190).

[0081] A connector pipe (170) is arranged between a connector valve (165) and a second end connector (179). A first middle connector (173) is connected to one end of the connector pipe (170), and a second middle connector (176) is connected to the other end of the connector pipe (170). A connector pipe passage (171) constituting a connecting passage (161) is provided inside the connector pipe (170). The connector pipe (170) can be formed in various shapes, such as a bent pipe shape or a straight pipe shape, depending on the arrangement of the connector valve (165) and the second end connector (179).

[0082] The first middle connector (173) connects the connector valve (165) and the connector pipe (170). The first middle connector (173) is provided with a first middle connector passage (174) constituting a connecting passage (161) inside. The diameter of the first middle connector passage (174) is larger than the diameter of the first end connector passage (163), and smaller than the diameter of the valve passage (167) and the diameter of the connector pipe passage (171).

[0083] The second middle connector (176) connects the connector pipe (170) and the second end connector (179). The second middle connector (176) is provided with a second middle connector passage (177) that constitutes a connecting passage (161) inside. The specific configuration of the second middle connector (176) is the same as that of the first middle connector (173), and the diameter of the second middle connector passage (177) may be the same as the diameter of the first middle connector passage (174).

[0084] The second end connector (179) connects the second middle connector (176) and the vacuum pump (150). In addition, the second end connector (179) connects the discharge pipe (124) and the vacuum pump (150). The second end connector (179) is provided with a second end connector path (180) constituting a connecting path (161) inside. The second end connector (179) includes a first connection portion (181) connected to the second middle connector (176), a second connection portion (182) connected to the vacuum pump (150), and a third connection portion (183) connected to the sterilizing housing (110) via the discharge pipe (124).

[0085] The connecting path (161) of the connector assembly (160) includes a first end connector path (163), a valve path (167), a first middle connector path (174), a connector pipe path (171), a second middle connector path (177), and a second end connector path (180). The fluid coming out of the vaporizer (140) can sequentially pass through the first end connector path (163), the valve path (167), the first middle connector path (174), the connector pipe path (171), the second middle connector path (177), and the second end connector path (180) to flow to the vacuum pump (150).

[0086] The connecting passage (161) has at least one diameter expanding section and at least one diameter reducing section along the direction of fluid flow. Since the fluid passing through the first end connector passage (163) flows into the valve passage (167), and the diameter of the valve passage (167) is larger than the diameter of the first end connector passage (163), the valve passage (167) can form a diameter expanding section. In addition, since the fluid passing through the valve passage (167) flows into the first middle connector passage (174), and the diameter of the first middle connector passage (174) is smaller than the diameter of the valve passage (167), the first middle connector passage (174) can form a diameter reducing section. In addition, since the fluid passing through the first middle connector passage (174) flows into the connector pipe passage (171), and the diameter of the connector pipe passage (171) is larger than the diameter of the first middle connector passage (174), the connector pipe passage (171) can form a diameter expansion section. In addition, since the fluid passing through the connector pipe passage (171) flows into the second middle connector passage (177), and the diameter of the second middle connector passage (177) is smaller than the diameter of the connector pipe passage (171), the second middle connector passage (177) can form a diameter reduction section. In addition, since the fluid passing through the second middle connector passage (177) flows into the second end connector passage (180), and the diameter of the second end connector passage (180) is larger than the diameter of the second middle connector passage (177), the second end connector passage (180) can form a diameter expansion section.

[0087] In this way, the connecting passage (161) having at least one diameter expanding section and at least one diameter reducing section along the direction of fluid flow can discharge the fluid from the vaporizer (140) at an appropriate speed. That is, when the vacuum pump (150) operates, the fluid flowing into the connecting passage (161) from the vaporizer (140) can pass through the connecting passage (161) without being too fast or too slow while flowing slowly in the diameter expanding section and quickly in the diameter reducing section. The flow rate of the fluid discharged from the vaporizer (140) through the connecting passage (161) may refer to a negative pressure providing speed or an internal pressure decreasing speed of the vaporizer (140). In addition, the negative pressure providing speed to the vaporizer (140) or the internal pressure decreasing speed of the vaporizer (140) is related to an evaporation speed of the hydrogen peroxide solution within the vaporizer (140). Taking these points into account, it is possible to more precisely control the moisture evaporation rate while suppressing the evaporation of hydrogen peroxide by lowering the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) to an evaporation pressure at which moisture can evaporate from the hydrogen peroxide solution and by appropriately controlling the rate at which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140). In addition, by more precisely controlling the rate at which moisture evaporates from the hydrogen peroxide solution, the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide solution can be changed more precisely and diversely.

[0088] The connecting passage (161) has the smallest diameter of the first end connector passage (163) connected to the vaporizer (140). Since the first end connector passage (163) is connected to a space above the water surface of the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140) among the internal spaces of the vaporizer (140), moisture that evaporates earlier than hydrogen peroxide in the hydrogen peroxide solution and moves to a space relatively higher than hydrogen peroxide can be discharged more quickly, and discharge of hydrogen peroxide through the connecting passage (161) can be minimized.

[0089] The controller (190) can control the blower (118), the inlet valve (126), the discharge valve (128), the supply device (130), the vacuum pump (150), and the connector valve (165). When concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140), the controller (190) can control the closing of the inlet valve (126) and the discharge valve (128) and the opening of the connector valve (165) so that both the flow path of the inlet pipe (122) and the flow path of the discharge pipe (124) are closed and the connecting flow path (161) is opened. And when the concentrated hydrogen peroxide from the vaporizer (140) is introduced into the sterilization chamber (111) to sterilize the object to be sterilized placed in the sterilization chamber (111), the controller (190) can control the closing of the connector valve (165) and the opening of the inlet valve (126) so that the flow path of the inlet pipe (122) is opened and the connecting flow path (161) is closed. In addition, when the residual gas is discharged from the sterilization chamber (111) after the sterilization of the object to be sterilized is completed in the sterilization chamber (111), the controller (190) can control the closing of the inlet valve (126) and the opening of the discharge valve (128) so that the flow path of the inlet pipe (122) is closed and the flow path of the discharge pipe (124) is opened.

[0090] The sterilizing device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention can change the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140) more precisely and diversely by using a method of optimizing the moisture evaporation rate using the connector assembly (160) described above and a method of changing the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) according to preset conditions.

[0091] The time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) can be controlled by the operation of the connector valve (165). That is, the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) can be changed by changing the timing at which the controller (190) closes the connector valve (165) according to a preset process while the vacuum pump (150) is operating to provide negative pressure to the vaporizer (140). As the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) increases, the time for which moisture is discharged from the vaporizer (140) increases, allowing the hydrogen peroxide solution to be concentrated to a higher concentration.

[0092] Even if the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) during the process of concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution varies according to preset conditions, the output of the vacuum pump (150) can be maintained constant. In this case, the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) can be reduced in proportion to the time at a constant rate.

[0093] Table 1 below shows the results of an experimental example in which the change in concentration of hydrogen peroxide solution was measured while changing the time for which negative pressure was provided to the vaporizer.

[0094] Table 1

[0095]

[0096] In the above experimental example, a sterilizing device manufactured to apply the features of the present invention was used, and 10 ml of a 35 wt% hydrogen peroxide solution was supplied to a vaporizer, and the concentration of the concentrated hydrogen peroxide solution was measured while increasing the time for which negative pressure was provided to the vaporizer by a multiple of the minimum reference time (30 seconds).

[0097] Looking at Table 1 above, it can be seen that as the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer increases, the volume of the hydrogen peroxide solution decreases and the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide solution increases.

[0098] Additionally, looking at Table 1 above, it can be seen that as the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer is increased by a multiple of the minimum reference time, the amount of hydrogen peroxide solution decreases by approximately the same amount.

[0099] As described above, the sterilizing device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention can increase the sterilizing power for a sterilized object accommodated in the sterilization chamber (111) by evaporating moisture from the hydrogen peroxide solution supplied to the vaporizer (140) to concentrate the hydrogen peroxide and supplying the concentrated hydrogen peroxide to the sterilization chamber (111).

[0100] In addition, the sterilization device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention can concentrate a hydrogen peroxide solution using a vaporizer (140), and thus can supply and use a low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution. In addition, since a low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution, which has relatively low transportation and storage costs and is relatively easy to handle, can be used, operating costs are low.

[0101] In addition, the sterilization device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention can sterilize an object to be sterilized by concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution to more precise and diverse concentrations. For example, for an object to be sterilized with relatively excellent chemical resistance, sterilization can be performed by concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution to a relatively high concentration, thereby increasing sterilization efficiency. Furthermore, for an object to be sterilized with relatively poor chemical resistance, sterilization can be performed by concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution to a relatively low concentration, thereby reducing damage to the object to be sterilized and preventing the problem of shortening the lifespan of the object to be sterilized.

[0102] As previously described, the sterilization device (100) according to the present invention changes the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) by controlling the operation of the connector valve (165) during the concentration process of the hydrogen peroxide solution. However, the sterilization device (100) according to the present invention can change the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) by controlling the vacuum pump (150).

[0103] In addition, although it has been previously described that the sterilization device (100) according to the present invention lowers the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) at a constant rate in proportion to time during the process of concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution, the sterilization device (100) according to the present invention can operate so that the rate at which the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) decreases changes according to the time during which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) during the process of concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution.

[0104] For example, the sterilizing device (100) according to the present invention can be operated so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) changes as shown in the graph in Fig. 9 during the process of concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution. In Fig. 9, the vertical axis represents the internal pressure (P) of the vaporizer (140), and the horizontal axis represents the time (T) during which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140).

[0105] In this case, the sterilizing device (100) can perform a concentration process of the hydrogen peroxide solution so that the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) changes in multiples of the minimum reference time (T1) according to preset conditions.

[0106] In addition, the sterilizing device (100) can control the output of the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) linearly decreases along a reference pressure change line (L1) having a preset reference slope during a minimum reference time (T1). In the process of decreasing the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) during the minimum reference time (T1), the controller (190) can receive a measurement signal measuring the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) from the pressure gauge (145) and control the output of the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) does not exceed a preset first target pressure (pa1).

[0107] In addition, the sterilizing device (100) can control the output of the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) decreases at a different rate when the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) increases by a time (T2, T3, T4,...) that is n times the minimum reference time (T1), exceeding the minimum reference time (T1).

[0108] Specifically, the sterilizing device (100) can control the output of the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) linearly decreases along a reference pressure change line (L1) having a reference slope for a minimum reference time (T1), but reaches a preset first target pressure (pa1) when the minimum reference time (T1) is reached. A method of maintaining the output of the vacuum pump (150) at a preset first output can be used to linearly decrease the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) along the reference pressure change line (L1). The first target pressure (pa1) can be set to an appropriate pressure that is lower than the evaporation pressure (Pv) at which evaporation of moisture from the hydrogen peroxide solution begins.

[0109] In addition, the sterilizing device (100) can control the output of the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) linearly decreases along a pressure change line (L2, L3, L4,...) having a preset slope after a minimum reference time (T1), but reaches a preset second target pressure (pa2) when the time reaches n times the minimum reference time (T1). A method of maintaining the output of the vacuum pump (150) at a preset output can be used to linearly decrease the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) along a pressure change line (L2, L3, L4,...) having a preset slope. The second target pressure (pa2) can be set to an appropriate pressure greater than the first target pressure (pa1). For example, the second target pressure (pa2) may be set to a pressure at which hydrogen peroxide begins to evaporate from the hydrogen peroxide solution, or a pressure at which the amount of hydrogen peroxide evaporated from the hydrogen peroxide solution reaches a significant evaporation amount. The significant evaporation amount of hydrogen peroxide may be an amount corresponding to A% of the amount of water evaporation, and A% may be set to various values ​​such as 10%, 20%, or 30%.

[0110] For example, as shown in the graph of FIG. 9, if the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) is twice the minimum reference time (T1) (T2), the controller (190) may control the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) linearly decreases along the reference pressure change line (L1) until the minimum reference time (T1) is reached, and may control the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) linearly decreases along the second pressure change line (L2) until the time (T2) which is twice the minimum reference time (T1) is reached after the minimum reference time (T1). A method of maintaining the output of the vacuum pump (150) at a preset second output may be used to linearly decrease along the internal second pressure change line (L2) of the vaporizer (140).

[0111] In addition, when the time for which the negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) is three times the minimum reference time (T1) (T3), the controller (190) may control the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) linearly decreases along the reference pressure change line (L1) until the minimum reference time (T1) is reached, and may control the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) linearly decreases along the 3 pressure change line (L3) until the time (T3) which is three times the minimum reference time (T1) is reached after the minimum reference time (T1). A method of maintaining the output of the vacuum pump (150) at a preset 3rd output may be used to linearly decrease along the internal 3 pressure change line (L3) of the vaporizer (140).

[0112] In this way, by controlling the sterilization device (100) so that the rate at which the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) decreases changes according to the time during which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) during the process of concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution, moisture can be removed from the hydrogen peroxide solution more quickly, the amount of hydrogen peroxide discharged during moisture removal can be minimized, and waste of hydrogen peroxide can be reduced.

[0113] Meanwhile, FIG. 10 is a front view showing a sterilization device according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a part of a sterilization device according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a vaporizer and connector assembly of a sterilization device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] The sterilization device (200) shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 further includes a bypass pipe (210) compared to the sterilization device (100) described above.

[0115] The bypass pipe (210) is configured to introduce fluid into the connecting path (161) of the connector assembly (160). The bypass pipe (210) connects the sterilizing housing (110) and the connector assembly (160). Inside the bypass pipe (210), a bypass pipe path (211) is provided that can cause gas in the sterilizing chamber (111) to flow into the connector pipe path (171).

[0116] A bypass valve (213) capable of opening and closing the bypass pipe path (211) is connected to the bypass pipe (210). The bypass valve (213) is controlled by a controller (190).

[0117] A sterilization device (200) according to another embodiment of the present invention can sterilize an object to be sterilized in the sterilization chamber (111) by concentrating a hydrogen peroxide solution in a vaporizer (140) like the sterilization device (100) described above and introducing the concentrated hydrogen peroxide into the sterilization chamber (111).

[0118] During the process of concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution, the rate of decrease in the pressure inside the vaporizer (140) may change due to various reasons, such as deformation of the connector assembly (160).

[0119] In another embodiment of the present invention, the sterilizing device (200) can slow down the rate of decrease in the pressure inside the vaporizer (140) by introducing gas from the sterilizing chamber (111) into the connecting passage (161) through the bypass pipe passage (211) when the rate of decrease in the pressure inside the vaporizer (140) is faster than the preset rate during the process of concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution.

[0120] Specifically, the sterilizing device (200) can control the bypass valve (213) to allow fluid to flow into the connecting passage (161) through the bypass pipe (210) when the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) decreases at a rate of decrease greater than a preset reference slope during the minimum reference time (T1) during the concentration process of the hydrogen peroxide solution. When the vacuum pump (150) operates to discharge gas from the vaporizer (140) through the connecting passage (161), and the gas of the sterilizing chamber (111) is introduced into the connecting passage (161), the intensity of the negative pressure acting on the vaporizer (140) is reduced, thereby slowing down the decrease rate of the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140). Therefore, the decrease rate of the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) can be quickly adjusted without precisely controlling the output of the vacuum pump (150).

[0121] In addition, the sterilizing device (200) can slow down the rate of decrease in the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) by controlling the bypass valve (213) to allow fluid to flow into the connecting path (161) through the bypass pipe (210) when the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) decreases at a rate of decrease greater than a preset slope after a minimum reference time (T1) during the concentration process of the hydrogen peroxide solution.

[0122] For example, the sterilizing device (200) according to the present embodiment can be operated so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) changes as shown in the graph in FIG. 13 during the process of concentrating the hydrogen peroxide solution.

[0123] When the time for which negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer (140) is twice the minimum reference time (T1) (T2), the controller (190) controls the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) decreases linearly along the reference pressure change line (L1) until the minimum reference time (T1) is reached, and can control the vacuum pump (150) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) decreases linearly along the second pressure change line (L2) until the time (T2) twice the minimum reference time (T1) is reached after the minimum reference time (T1).

[0124] Meanwhile, under the condition that the vacuum pump (150) is controlled to output according to a pre-described process, the internal pressure reduction speed of the vaporizer (140) may change due to various causes, such as changes in the flow resistance of the gas through the connecting passage (161).

[0125] For example, if the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) decreases at a rate along an abnormal pressure change line (Le) that has a greater slope than the second pressure change line (L2) rather than along the second pressure change line (L2) for a time (T2) that is twice the minimum reference time (T1), the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) may exceed the preset second target pressure (pa2) when the time (T2) that is twice the minimum reference time (T1) is reached. In this case, a problem may arise in which a large amount of hydrogen peroxide is evaporated and discharged from the hydrogen peroxide solution.

[0126] To prevent such problems, the sterilizing device (200) according to another embodiment of the present invention can slow down the rate of decrease in the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) by controlling the bypass valve (213) so that fluid flows into the connecting passage (161) through the bypass pipe (210) when the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) decreases at a rate along the ideal pressure change line (Le). By allowing fluid to flow into the connecting passage (161) through the bypass pipe (210), the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) can decrease at a rate along the adjustment pressure change line (Lr).

[0127] In this way, in the process of controlling the rate of decrease of the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140), the controller (190) receives a measurement signal for the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) from the pressure gauge (145) and feedback-controls the bypass valve (213) to allow an appropriate flow rate of fluid to flow into the connecting passage (161) through the bypass pipe (210). In addition, by allowing an appropriate flow rate of fluid to flow into the connecting passage (161) through the bypass pipe (210), it is possible to quickly control the rate of decrease of the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) so that the internal pressure of the vaporizer (140) is reduced at a rate along a preset 2 pressure change line (L2).

[0128] Although the drawing shows that the bypass pipe (210) is configured to connect the sterilizing housing (110) and the connector pipe (170), the specific configuration of the bypass pipe (210) can be changed in various ways. For example, the bypass pipe (210) can be configured to be connected to a part other than the connector pipe (170) of the connector assembly (160) so as to allow fluid to flow into the connecting passage (161). In addition, although introducing gas from the sterilizing chamber (111) into the connecting passage (161) through the bypass pipe (210) is advantageous in preventing contamination of the connecting passage (161), the bypass pipe (210) can be configured to introduce air around the sterilizing device (100) into the connecting passage (161), or can be configured to introduce another gas into the connecting passage (161).

[0129] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to these embodiments, and various modifications may be implemented without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical spirit of the present invention, but to explain it, and the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are exemplary in all aspects and not restrictive. The protection scope of the present invention should be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the rights of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sterilizing housing having a sterilizing chamber in which a sterilized material is accommodated; A vaporizer connected to the sterilizing housing for supplying hydrogen peroxide to the sterilizing chamber; A supply device for supplying hydrogen peroxide solution to the above vaporizer; A vacuum pump providing a negative pressure to the vaporizer so as to lower the internal pressure of the vaporizer to an evaporation pressure capable of evaporating moisture from the hydrogen peroxide solution; A connector assembly having a connecting path connecting the above carburetor and the above vacuum pump, and a connector valve capable of opening and closing the connecting path; A bypass pipe having a bypass pipe path connected from the above sterilization chamber to the above connecting path; A bypass valve for opening and closing the above bypass pipe flow path; and A controller for controlling the vacuum pump, the connector valve and the bypass valve; When the time for which the negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer is within the preset minimum reference time, the internal pressure of the vaporizer is linearly reduced at a reduction rate according to the preset reference slope, and the output of the vacuum pump is controlled so as to reach the preset first target pressure when the minimum reference time is reached. When the time for which the negative pressure is provided to the vaporizer is n times the preset minimum reference time, after the minimum reference time, the internal pressure of the vaporizer is linearly reduced at a reduction rate according to the preset slope, but the output of the vacuum pump is controlled so as to reach the preset second target pressure when the time of n times the minimum reference time is reached. During the above minimum reference time, when the internal pressure of the vaporizer decreases at a rate of decrease greater than the reference slope, the bypass valve is controlled to allow fluid to flow into the connecting path through the bypass pipe, thereby controlling the rate of decrease of the internal pressure of the vaporizer. A sterilizing device in which, after the above minimum reference time, if the internal pressure of the vaporizer decreases at a rate of decrease greater than a preset slope, the bypass valve is controlled to allow fluid to flow into the connecting passage through the bypass pipe, thereby controlling the decrease rate of the internal pressure of the vaporizer.

2. In paragraph 1, The above connector assembly, A first end connector connecting the above carburetor and the above connector valve, and having a first end connector euro; A connector pipe arranged between the above connector valve and the vacuum pump and having a connector pipe path; A first middle connector connected to one end of the connector tube to connect the connector valve and the connector tube, the first middle connector having a first middle connector path; A second middle connector connected to the other end of the above connector tube and having a second middle connector euro; and A sterilizing device comprising a second end connector connecting the second middle connector and the vacuum pump and having a second end connector path.

3. In paragraph 2, The first end connector flow path, the valve flow path of the connector valve, the first middle connector flow path, the connector pipe flow path, the second middle connector flow path, and the second end connector flow path form the connecting flow path, A sterilizing device wherein the above connecting passage has at least one diameter expanding section and at least one diameter reducing section.

4. In paragraph 3, A sterilizing device having the smallest diameter of the first end connector euro among the above connecting euros.

5. In paragraph 4, The diameter of the first middle connector euro is the same as the diameter of the second middle connector euro, A sterilizing device in which the diameter of the above connector pipe is larger than the diameter of the first middle connector pipe and the diameter of the second middle connector pipe.

6. In paragraph 2, The above second end connector, A first connecting portion connected to the second middle connector; a second connection connected to the vacuum pump; and A sterilizing device comprising a third connecting portion connected to the above sterilizing housing.

Images