Medical waste treatment system

Abstract

The present invention provides a crushing and sterilizing system for treating medical waste, the system comprising: a sealed tank; a crusher which is mounted in a crushing part of the sealed tank, and which crushes medical waste by means of shear force generated between a plurality of rotary blades attached to the circumference of a rotor and a plurality of fixed blades attached to the inner surface of the sealed tank; a screw by which the medical waste is transferred back and forth; a microwave heater, which generates microwaves so as to heat the medical waste in a sterilizing part of the sealed tank; a steam generator; a suction blower connected to the sealed tank through an exhaust duct; a reactor for suctioning air in the sealed tank with the suction force of the suction blower; and a plasma torch for pyrolyzing harmful substances and odor contained in the air in the reactor.

Description

Medical Waste Disposal System

[0001] The present invention relates to a medical waste treatment system that completely physicochemically decomposes and sterilizes infectious medical waste in a short period of time by using the strong sterilizing power of microwaves and steam, and more specifically, to a medical waste treatment system that prevents the release of hazardous substances and odors during the process of crushing medical waste and sterilizing or pyrolysis gasifying it, and further, to crush medical waste, pyrolysis gasify it first using heat in an oxygen-free state, and then completely incinerates it secondarily without soot or odor using plasma.

[0002] In general, medical waste generated from hospitals, clinics, public health centers, medical research institutes, and educational institutions has a high risk of contamination by pathogens and hazardous substances such as pathogens, heavy metals, and toxins due to the nature of the places where it is generated, and there is a risk of causing harm to the human body, such as infection. Therefore, it must be safely disposed of to minimize the generation of harmful substances to the environment or the human body.

[0003] Among these medical wastes, the most common method of disposal for wastes with a high risk of infection, such as blood products, human tissues, and needles, is to place them in dedicated containers and transport them to dedicated incinerators in each region using dedicated transport vehicles, where they are then incinerated. However, this causes environmental problems such as the production of carcinogenic substances such as dioxins and furans, as well as smoke, dust, and foul odors.

[0004] Recently, medical waste has been shredded and sterilized in a sealed environment to prevent recycling, and then converted to general waste before disposal, thereby blocking the risk of infection during transportation and reducing costs.

[0005] In particular, the combined method of sterilizing medical waste by simultaneously using microwaves (ultra-short waves) and high-temperature steam after shredding the medical waste has a different sterilization rate depending on the state of shredding and the rate of shredding of the medical waste. Therefore, shredding is very important for the high-temperature steam to penetrate deep into the medical waste and for efficient sterilization.

[0006] As a related conventional technology, Patent Document 1 discloses a 'medical waste sterilization crusher using a modular crusher'.

[0007] However, since this is a structure that easily releases hazardous substances into the air during the process of shredding medical waste by feeding it into a shredder, it is vulnerable to infection and secondary contamination. In addition, due to the characteristics of sterilization using vibration and friction heat that heats moisture up to 100℃ using microwaves and high-pressure steam heat, there are limitations to sterilization due to uneven wavelengths and local overheating, and there is a problem that a strong unpleasant odor is generated during the sterilization process.

[0008] In addition, the risk of workers being exposed to electromagnetic waves is high, and if metal substances, etc. enter the interior, it can easily lead to a major accident such as a fire.

[0009] Moreover, because it uses a two-axis shredder type shredder, the arrangement and adjustment work to match the gap between the two relatively rotating cutters is very cumbersome and inconvenient, and there is a problem that soft medical waste such as paper, cloth, and gloves get wrapped around the cutter, causing overload and a high failure rate.

[0010] Meanwhile, since the single-axis shredder type shredder is characterized by shredding through the shearing force of the rotating blade and the fixed blade fixed to the rotating shaft, the fixed blade wears out more severely than the rotating blade, so the fixed blade must be replaced frequently. At this time, the gap with the rotating blade must be precisely adjusted while reassembling, so the replacement work is quite difficult and tricky.

[0011] Accordingly, the inventor of the present invention comprehensively considered all the above-mentioned matters and, at the same time, sought to solve the technical limitations and problems of the existing medical waste disposal system, and, in the process of crushing and sterilizing or pyrolysis and gasifying medical waste using a hybrid method that simultaneously uses microwaves and steam, prevents biological hazardous substances such as viruses and bacteria (germs) and offensive odors from leaking to the outside, thereby preventing workers from being exposed to pathogens and removing hazardous substances and offensive odors, and, in addition, prevents secondary environmental pollution by crushing medical waste, pyrolysis and gasifying it using microwaves, and then completely incinerating it, and, further, maximizes the efficiency of crushing medical waste. As a result of this, the inventor of the present invention has made great efforts and continued research to develop a new structure of a medical waste disposal system.

[0012] Therefore, the technical problem and purpose to be solved by the present invention is to provide a medical waste treatment system capable of removing harmful substances and odors.

[0013] Another technical problem and object of the present invention is to provide a medical waste disposal system that can improve the crushing efficiency of medical waste.

[0014] Another technical problem and purpose to be solved by the present invention is to provide a medical waste treatment system capable of completely incinerating medical waste.

[0015] In order to effectively achieve a specific technical purpose while embodying a new idea for solving the technical problem of the present invention as described above, a specific means according to an aspect of the present invention is provided, including: a sealed tank having a crushing section formed on one side of a horizontally long cylinder, a sterilizing section formed on the opposite side, an inlet formed in the crushing section, and an outlet formed in the sterilizing section; a shredder installed in the crushing section of the sealed tank and configured to crush medical waste fed into the crushing section through the inlet by a shear force generated between a plurality of rotating blades attached to the periphery of a transversely rotating rotor connected to an electric motor and a plurality of fixed blades attached to the inner surface of the crushing section; a screw attached to the periphery of the rotor in the sterilizing section of the sealed tank and configured to reciprocally transport medical waste crushed in the crusher by rotating forward and reversely by the electric motor; a microwave heater configured to generate microwaves by receiving power to heat the medical waste fed by the screw in the sterilizing section of the sealed tank; and a high-temperature steam heater configured to generate high-temperature steam. The present invention proposes a shredding and sterilization system for medical waste disposal, comprising: a steam generator for generating steam; a suction blower connected to the sealed tank and an exhaust duct for sucking and removing air inside the sealed tank; a reactor installed in the exhaust duct between the sealed tank and the suction blower for sucking air inside the sealed tank with the suction force of the suction blower; a steam distributor for distributing steam supplied from the steam generator to the sterilization section of the sealed tank and the reactor; a microwave generator for generating microwaves by receiving power; a plasma torch for pyrolyzing hazardous substances and odors contained in the air inside the reactor by emitting a plasma jet using the steam supplied from the steam generator and the microwaves supplied from the microwave generator; and a control unit for controlling the overall operation of the system.

[0016] Accordingly, the present invention prevents workers from being exposed to pathogens by preventing biological hazardous substances such as viruses and bacteria (germs) and offensive odors from leaking out during the process of crushing medical waste and sterilizing it using microwaves and steam simultaneously, and also prevents secondary contamination by removing hazardous substances and offensive odors.

[0017] In addition, a preferred embodiment (aspect) of the present invention further comprises a first gate that opens and closes the inlet according to the operation of the first actuator, a second gate that opens and closes the outlet according to the operation of the second actuator, an electric damper that is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct between the sealed tank and the reactor and controls the speed and flow rate of air flowing into the reactor, a cooler that is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct and cools the high-temperature air (combustion gas) that has passed through the reactor, and a filter dust collector that is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct and separates and collects fine dust or particulate matter in the high-temperature air (combustion gas) that has passed through the cooler, thereby more reliably preventing secondary pollution and filtering out harmful particles contained in the gas discharged from the reactor to prevent air pollution.

[0018] In addition, a preferred embodiment (aspect) of the present invention further comprises a cleaning duct connecting the crushing section of the sealed tank and the reactor, an inlet fan installed in the middle of the cleaning duct to suck high-temperature air (combustion gas) inside the reactor and send it to the crushing section of the sealed tank, and a check valve attached in the middle of the cleaning duct to open and close the flow path, wherein the control unit controls the steam distributor to supply high-temperature, humid steam generated from the steam generator to the crushing section and sterilization section of the sealed tank, thereby separating and removing residues and attachments inside the sealed tank, and then controls the inlet fan and the check valve to supply high-temperature air (combustion gas) inside the reactor to the crushing section and sterilization section of the sealed tank, thereby sterilizing and drying the inside of the sealed tank, thereby reliably preventing secondary contamination by malodorous components and infectious bacteria.

[0019] In addition, as a preferred embodiment (aspect) of the present invention, the shredding section of the sealed tank can improve operational efficiency by forming an inclined, groove-shaped chute so that the medical waste shredded in the shredder naturally slides down to the sterilization section due to its own weight.

[0020] In addition, as a preferred embodiment (aspect) of the present invention, the rotary blade of the shredder is configured to include a first rotary blade formed by protruding from the outer circumference, and arranged in a tapered shape with a diameter that gradually increases toward the sterilization section of the sealed tank at regular intervals along the length direction of the rotor, and a second rotary blade formed by protruding from the outer circumference, and attached to the circumference of the rotor between the first rotary blades, and having a diameter smaller than that of the adjacent first rotary blades and arranged in a tapered shape with a diameter that gradually increases toward the sterilization section of the sealed tank, so that the diameter of the rotary blade decreases toward the front of the shredder, and the crushing power is significantly improved, and medical waste pushed out from the first rotary blade can be crushed by the second rotary blade, so that the crushing efficiency can be maximized.

[0021] In addition, even if the rotation direction of the screw is changed, the medical waste that has moved toward the sterilization section of the sealed tank can be prevented from returning to the shredder, thereby increasing the sterilization efficiency.

[0022] In addition, as a preferred embodiment (aspect) of the present invention, the fixed blade of the shredder comprises: a first fixed blade arranged in a tapered shape with a constant interval along the longitudinal direction of the rotor so as to be engaged with the first rotary blade and gradually shortening in length toward the sterilization section of the sealed tank; a second fixed blade arranged in a tapered shape with a constant interval along the longitudinal direction of the rotor so as to be engaged with the second rotary blade and gradually shortening in length toward the sterilization section of the sealed tank; a mounting bracket that arranges the first and second fixed blades in a row and fixes them to the inner surface of the sealed tank; a support that is installed on the inner surface of the sealed tank and supports a shear force acting on the mounting bracket; a bearing that is respectively mounted on the front and rear journals of the rotary blades among the rotors located in the sterilization section of the sealed tank; a bearing formed in a semicircular ring shape and assembled by wrapping around the circumference of the bearing from both sides, and maintaining and protecting the state in which the bearing is mounted on the journal of the rotor. By including a pair of bearing housings and a support arm that connects and supports both ends of the mounting bracket and the bearing housings, respectively, adjustment of the gap between the fixed blade and the rotating blade and maintenance can be made simple and easy.

[0023] Meanwhile, a specific means according to another embodiment (aspect) of the present invention is a sealed tank having a crushing section formed on one side of a horizontal long cylinder, a gasification section formed on the opposite side, an inlet formed in the crushing section, and an outlet formed in the gasification section, a shredder installed in the crushing section of the sealed tank and configured to crush medical waste fed into the crushing section through the inlet by a shear force generated between a plurality of rotating blades attached to the circumference of a first horizontally rotating rotor connected to a first motor and a plurality of fixed blades attached to the inner surface of the crushing section, a screw attached to the circumference of the second rotor in the gasification section of the sealed tank and configured to reciprocally transport medical waste crushed in the crusher by rotating forward and backward by a second motor, an insulating plate installed between the crushing section and the gasification section and configured to block heat from the gasification section from being transferred to the crushing section, an insulating plate configured to generate microwaves by receiving power and to generate microwaves by the screw in the gasification section of the sealed tank. The present invention provides a medical waste shredding and gasification system, comprising: a microwave heater for heating transported medical waste; a steam generator for generating high-temperature steam; a suction blower connected to the sealed tank and an exhaust duct for sucking and removing gas inside the sealed tank; a reactor installed in the exhaust duct between the sealed tank and the suction blower for sucking in gas inside the sealed tank by the suction force of the suction blower; a microwave generator for generating microwaves by receiving power; a plasma torch for emitting a plasma jet using steam supplied from the steam generator and microwaves supplied from the microwave generator to incinerate gas inside the reactor; a control unit for controlling the overall operation of the system; and an electric heating coil installed on the inner wall of a gasification unit of the sealed tank for controlling the temperature inside the gasification unit under the control of the control unit.

[0024] Accordingly, the present invention can prevent workers from being exposed to pathogens by preventing biological hazardous substances such as viruses and bacteria (germs) and offensive odors from leaking outside during the process of crushing medical waste and pyrolysis gasification using microwaves, and can also prevent secondary contamination caused by hazardous substances and offensive odors by completely incinerating the pyrolysis gas.

[0025] According to an embodiment that implements the technical idea on which the unique solution is based in order to solve the technical problem of the present invention, in the process of crushing medical waste to convert it into general waste and sterilizing biological hazardous substances such as viruses and bacteria (germs) by simultaneously using microwaves and steam, hazardous substances and odors do not leak to the outside, thereby preventing workers from being exposed to pathogens.

[0026] In addition, polluted air or gas containing harmful gases, dust, and bad odors can be thermally decomposed by high-temperature combustion of a plasma jet in a reactor, thereby removing harmful gases and bad odors from the air and purifying it.

[0027] In addition, by separating and removing residues and attachments inside the sealed tank with high-temperature, humid steam generated from the steam generator, and then sterilizing and drying the inside of the sealed tank with high-temperature air (gas) exhausted from the reactor, secondary contamination by foul-smelling substances and infectious bacteria can be reliably prevented.

[0028] In addition, since the diameter of the rotating blade gradually decreases toward the front of the shredder, not only is the crushing power greatly improved, but medical waste that is not crushed by the first rotating blade and is pushed out can be easily crushed by the second rotating blade, preventing stagnation and maximizing crushing efficiency.

[0029] Moreover, even if the rotation direction of the screw is changed, the medical waste that has moved from the shredding section to the sterilization section of the sealed tank can be prevented from returning to the shredding section, thereby increasing the sterilization efficiency.

[0030] In addition, the structure is set by assembling the bearings fitted into the rotor using the bearing housing fixed to the free end of the support arm, and then fixing the mounting bracket with the fixed blades arranged in a row to the inner surface of the sealed tank by bolting, so that the gap between the fixed blade and the rotating blade can be easily adjusted, and the fixed blade can be supported more stably.

[0031] Furthermore, in the process of shredding medical waste in an oxygen-free or low-oxygen atmosphere inside a sealed tank and heating it with microwaves to pyrolyze and gasify it, biologically hazardous substances such as viruses and bacteria (germs) and foul odors do not leak out, preventing workers from being exposed to pathogens.

[0032] In addition, by completely incinerating and removing polluted air or pyrolysis gas containing harmful gases, dust, and odors through high-temperature combustion of a plasma jet in a reactor, secondary environmental pollution caused by harmful substances and odors can be prevented.

[0033] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a medical waste disposal system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a sealed tank constituting a medical waste disposal system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 3 is a front view showing a sealed tank constituting a medical waste disposal system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a shredder constituting a medical waste disposal system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a shredder constituting a medical waste disposal system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a sealed tank and a shredder constituting a medical waste disposal system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a medical waste disposal system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 8 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a sealed tank constituting a medical waste disposal system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a sealed tank and a shredder constituting a medical waste disposal system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0043] The drawings attached hereto may be exaggerated or simplified in some parts for the purpose of explaining the composition of the technology, the operation and working principles of the technology, convenience of understanding, and clarity of the technology, and it is disclosed that each component in the drawings does not exactly match the actual size and shape.

[0044] Meanwhile, the meaning of "part" and "unit" used in the present invention means a module type that performs a unit or role that processes at least one function or certain operation intended for a device or system, and this can be implemented by means such as hardware or software or a combination of hardware and software, or a device or assembly that can perform an independent operation.

[0045] Additionally, the terms first, second, etc. used in the present invention can be used to describe various components. That is, the terms first, second, etc. can be used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0046] Meanwhile, the pyrolysis used in the present invention is defined as a chemical decomposition reaction that converts medical waste into pyrolysis gas, etc. by combustion at a high temperature (500 to 1000°C) in an oxygen-free or low-oxygen atmosphere.

[0047] [Example 1]

[0048] The main elements constituting the medical waste treatment system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention include a sealed tank (10), a crusher (20), a screw (30), a microwave heater (40), a steam generator (50), a suction blower (60), a reactor (70), a spray nozzle (71), a steam distributor (73), a microwave generator (74), a plasma torch (75), and a control unit (80), as shown in FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0049] The sealed tank (10) is formed in a horizontal, long cylindrical shape with a sealed steel pressure-resistant tank structure, and a crushing section (11) is formed on one side and a sterilization section (12) is formed on the opposite side.

[0050] And, at the bottom of the shredding section (11), an inclined groove-shaped chute (11a) is formed so that the medical waste shredded in the shredder (20) slides naturally down to the sterilization section (12).

[0051] Additionally, an inlet (13) is formed at the top of the crushing section (11), and an outlet (14) is formed at the bottom of the sterilizing section (12).

[0052] And, a first gate (15) is installed in the inlet (13) to open and close the inlet (13) according to the operation of the first actuator (16), and a second gate (17) is installed in the outlet (14) to open and close the outlet (14) according to the operation of the second actuator (18).

[0053] That is, the first actuator (16) is configured to open and close the first gate (15) in a vertical direction, and the second actuator (18) is configured to open and close the second gate (17) in a horizontal direction.

[0054] And, an electromagnetic wave blocking filter or packing may be attached to each of the first gate (15) and the second gate (17) to block electromagnetic waves irradiated from the microwave heater (40) from leaking to the outside.

[0055] That is, since the internal space of the sealed tank (10) is difficult to completely seal due to the input and discharge of medical waste, the user can be prevented from being exposed to electromagnetic waves by confining the electromagnetic waves within the internal space with an electromagnetic wave blocking filter or packing.

[0056] And, an electric damper (19) is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) between the sealed tank (10) and the reactor (70) to control the speed and flow rate of air flowing into the reactor (70).

[0057] Additionally, a check valve is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) to automatically restrict the flow of air and prevent backflow.

[0058] Here, a transparent sight glass is provided in the middle part of the sealed tank (10) to view the inside, so that the crushing and transport status of medical waste can be easily checked.

[0059] In addition, a temperature sensor for measuring the internal temperature of the sealed tank (10), a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure, and a temperature controller for preventing overheating may be installed.

[0060] Meanwhile, as the first and second actuators (16)(18), it is preferable to employ a linear actuator having a structure in which a rotary AC motor is extended in a straight line or a linear actuator using a rotary motor and a rack and pinion mechanism, but is not limited thereto, and a pneumatic rodless cylinder having a structure in which a rod moves forward and backward using the magnetic force of a permanent magnet and air pressure, or an electric actuator that converts the rotational motion of an electric motor (24V DC permanent magnet motor) into linear motion by a ball screw to generate force (thrust) and enables precise position control with multiple positioning settings within a stroke may also be employed.

[0061] In addition, a structure that controls the fluid energy (force) applied from a hydraulic (pneumatic) pump and changes the direction of movement with a control valve and transmits it to a hydraulic cylinder, hydraulic motor, or pneumatic solenoid valve that performs mechanical work can be adopted and applied.

[0062] For example, a hydraulic cylinder in which hydraulic pressure is applied to both sides of the piston so that the output acts in both extension and contraction, a pneumatic actuator that operates the piston inside the cylinder by compressed air, a hydraulic actuator that operates the piston inside the cylinder by hydraulic pressure, and an electro-hydraulic actuator that uses an electric motor as a power source to operate a hydraulic pump and move the cylinder by the hydraulic pressure can be used.

[0063] In addition, the control unit (80) may transmit a control signal to a driving source such as a compressor to operate a cylinder (push loader, piston or plunger) with hydraulic or pneumatic pressure, thereby moving forward and backward or extending and contracting, or may be configured as a structure of a conventional hydraulic motor or an electric cylinder (linear actuator) that converts rotational motion into linear motion to perform extending and contracting by operating an electric motor according to the opening and closing of a switch of a controller.

[0064] For example, it is possible to apply devices and actuator mechanisms that convert energy and control signals into mechanical work, such as a linear reciprocating cylinder that uses two cylinders as a group, a linear motor that performs linear motion, a structure that converts the rotational motion of a servo motor into linear motion by meshing with a servo motor and a gear drive method such as a rack and pinion, such as a lead screw, or a structure that controls the position by rotating a ball screw with a stepping motor using an encoder.

[0065] Meanwhile, the motor (21) may have its operating shaft directly connected to the rotor (22) or may be connected to the rotor (22) through a separate electric device in order to transmit rotational force to the rotor (22) according to the opening / closing signal of the control unit (80).

[0066] Here, the electric motor (21) converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to obtain rotational power, and a conventional electric motor that is easy to start (drive) and operate by signal current, easy to select a model suitable for the load, has little noise and vibration, and does not emit exhaust pollution can be used.

[0067] For example, a servo motor that changes voltage input into a rotation angle according to the magnitude or signal of the applied voltage to quickly perform stop and reverse operations and rotate at a certain angle, or a stepping motor that rotates at a certain angle each time a pulse signal is given to control speed and direction, can be employed, or a geared motor that includes a reducer that reduces the rotational speed of the motor and controls the output to the force required for driving can be employed.

[0068] In addition, a hydraulic motor that generates power by applying high pressure generated by a hydraulic pump driven by a motor or engine to an operating shaft can be adopted so that operation is reliable, automatic remote control is possible, and speed adjustment, stopping, reversing, etc. are easily performed.

[0069] Meanwhile, unit bearings (31) are mounted on both ends of the central portion of the sealed tank (10) to support the load applied to the rotor (22) and rotate it smoothly.

[0070] A shredder (20) is installed inside the shredding unit (11) to shred medical waste fed into the shredding unit (11) through the inlet (13) of the sealed tank (10) into pieces smaller than a specific size by interlocking the rotating blade (23) and the fixed blade (24).

[0071] That is, the shredder (20) can crush medical waste fed into the shredding section (11) through the inlet (13) into pieces of about 1 to 5 cm in size suitable for sterilization by the opposing shearing force generated between the plurality of rotating blades (23) and the plurality of fixed blades (24) so ​​that high-temperature steam can penetrate deep into the inside of medical waste such as metal, glass, plastic, vinyl, and fiber.

[0072] And the rotary blade (23) is formed in a disk shape and is attached to the circumference of the transverse rotation rotor (22) connected to the electric motor (21), and the fixed blade (24) is formed in a plate shape and is attached to the inner surface of the crushing section (11).

[0073] That is, the rotary blade (23) and the fixed blade (24) are arranged at a constant interval in the axial direction of the rotor (22), and in particular, the fixed blade (24) is arranged to prevent medical waste from falling between the sealed tank (10) and the rotary blade (23) while also having the function of scraping out medical waste caught in the rotary blade (23).

[0074] Here, it is preferable that the axial width (thickness) of the rotary blade (23) and the fixed blade (24) be formed to be the same at about 25 mm or more and arranged alternately.

[0075] In addition, the central hole of the rotary blade (23) is formed in a polygonal shape, and correspondingly, the cross-sectional shape of the rotor (22) is formed in a polygonal shape, so that wear due to mutual interference when the rotational force of the rotor (22) is transmitted to the rotary blade (23) can be minimized.

[0076] Meanwhile, the rotary blade (23) of the shredder (20) is configured to include a plurality of first rotary blades (23a) and a plurality of second rotary blades (23c).

[0077] The first rotary blade (23a) is formed integrally with a plurality of sawtooth-shaped first cutters (23b) arranged at regular intervals on the outer circumference, and is arranged in a tapered shape with a diameter that gradually increases toward the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at regular intervals along the length direction of the rotor (22).

[0078] The second rotary blade (23c) is formed integrally with a plurality of second sawtooth cutters (23d) arranged at regular intervals on the outer periphery, and is attached to the periphery of the rotor (22) between the first rotary blades (23a).

[0079] In addition, the second rotary blade (23c) has a smaller diameter than the adjacent first rotary blade (23a) and is arranged in a tapered shape with the diameter gradually widening as it goes toward the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10).

[0080] Here, the first and second cutters (23b) (23d) are formed as inclined surfaces inclined at an angle in the direction of rotation, and a “V” shaped groove is formed at the tip portion thereof, thereby reducing the load during the process of cutting and crushing medical waste.

[0081] Meanwhile, the fixed blade (24) of the shredder (20) is composed of a first fixed blade (24a), a second fixed blade (24b), a mounting bracket (25), a stay (25a), a support (26), a bearing (27), a bearing housing (28), and a support arm (29).

[0082] The first fixed blade (24a) is arranged in a tapered shape so that its length gradually becomes shorter as it goes toward the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at regular intervals along the length direction of the rotor (22) so as to be engaged with the first rotating blade (23a).

[0083] The second fixed blade (24b) is arranged in a tapered shape so that its length gradually becomes shorter as it goes toward the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at regular intervals along the length direction of the rotor (22) so as to be engaged with the second rotating blade (23c).

[0084] The mounting bracket (25) serves to fix the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) in a row to the inner surface of the sealed tank (10).

[0085] That is, the mounting bracket (25) is formed of channel steel with a cross-sectional shape in the shape of the letter ㄷ.

[0086] The stay (25a) serves to maintain the positions of the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) constant.

[0087] That is, the stay (25a) can be assembled into a single unit by being inserted into the through hole formed in the upper portion of the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b).

[0088] The support (26) is firmly fixed to the inner surface of the sealed tank (10) by a welding or other joining method to support the shear force applied to the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) and the mounting bracket (25) when the rotary blade (23) rotates counterclockwise.

[0089] Bearings (27) are mounted on the front and rear journal portions of the rotary blade (23) of the rotor (22) located within the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) so that the rotor (22) rotates smoothly.

[0090] The bearing housing (28) is formed in a semicircular ring shape on one half and is assembled to surround the circumference of the bearing (27) on both sides.

[0091] That is, the bearing housing (28) is fixed to the free end of the support arm (29) to maintain and protect the bearing (27) while it is mounted on the journal of the rotor (22).

[0092] The support arm (29) is fixed between the two ends of the mounting bracket (25) and the bearing housings (28) to connect and support the fixed blade (24) and the rotor (22).

[0093] The screw (30) is attached to the circumference of the rotor (22) in the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) to reciprocate and transfer the medical waste shredded in the shredder (20) by rotating it in the forward and reverse directions by the electric motor (21).

[0094] And the time for medical waste to pass through the sterilization unit (12) by the screw (30) can be arbitrarily set by adjusting the rotation speed of the rotor (22).

[0095] Here, it is preferable to use a spiral screw or ribbon screw for stirring while transporting and returning medical waste as the screw (30).

[0096] The microwave heater (40) generates microwaves when powered from a separate power supply unit, and serves to heat and sterilize medical waste passing through the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) while being transported by a screw (30) for a certain period of time.

[0097] That is, a plurality of microwave heaters (40) are installed on the upper part of the sealed tank (10) and, when the sealed tank (10) is closed by the first and second gates (15) (17), microwaves are irradiated toward the inside of the sterilization section (12) through the waveguide.

[0098] Here, the microwave heater (40) may be configured to include a magnetron that heats moisture in medical waste.

[0099] For example, medical waste that is shredded in a shredder (20) and transported by a screw (30) can be sterilized by passing it through multiple magnetrons that each produce an output of 2,000 watts at a frequency of 2,450 MHz.

[0100] That is, the magnetron is a structure in which hot electrons are emitted from the cathode's heating wire, and a high-voltage electric field is applied to the cylindrical outer anode and the inner cathode of the pure copper, and a magnetic field in the direction perpendicular to the electric field is formed by permanent magnets installed above and below.

[0101] Electrons ejected from the cathode are driven toward the anode by the electric field and, under the influence of the magnetic field, begin to rotate within the cylinder. As the electrons pass through the vanes formed on the anode side, they generate a high-frequency electromagnetic field in the cavity resonator.

[0102] When the AC voltage of 220 V from the power supply is changed to a high voltage of 4000 V or more and current is passed through the magnetron, microwaves that vibrate at a wavelength of 12.2 cm and a high frequency in the 245 GHz band are generated in the magnetron.

[0103] When microwaves hit an object to be irradiated, the dipoles that make up the object rapidly change the direction of their axis alignment due to the high-frequency electric field, and the frictional heat generated at this time generates heat.

[0104] For example, the microwave heater (40) may be composed of a magnetron, a waveguide, a circulator, a dummy load, a 3-stub tuner, an applicator, a plunger, and a power supply.

[0105] That is, when power is supplied to the filament and anode of the magnetron from the power supply, the microwaves generated in the magnetron are transmitted to the applicator through the waveguide, the circulator, and the 3-stub-tuner.

[0106] The reflected power of the microwave energy emitted from the magnetron is not absorbed by the irradiated object and can return and damage the magnetron. To protect this, a circulator is used to change the direction of the reflected power. The energy of the reflected wave is absorbed by a dummy load through which cooling water flows and is then released to the outside. To minimize the reflected power, a 3-stub tuner or plunger is used as a matcher.

[0107] The steam generator (50) receives power from a separate power supply unit and serves to generate high-temperature steam.

[0108] That is, the steam generator (50) supplies steam to promote temperature increase in the sealed tank (10) and supplies steam (superheated steam) used as operating gas to the plasma torch (75).

[0109] Here, the steam generator (50) is 5 to 8 kgf / m 2 By primarily heating and vaporizing water supplied from the outside while driving, steam having a pressure of 5 to 6 bar and a temperature of 100 to 300°C can be produced.

[0110] For example, it can be configured to increase the pressure of a water tank by air pressure to supply water, control the exact supply amount using an LMFC (Liquid Mass Flow Controller), generate steam using a vaporizer, and then supply the steam to a plasma torch (75).

[0111] The suction blower (60) is connected to the sealed tank (10) and the reactor (70) through an exhaust duct (P1) to suck out the air inside the sealed tank (10) after sterilizing medical waste and supply it to the reactor (70).

[0112] That is, the intake blower (60) generates an airflow that is sucked in by a turbo fan, sucks in air through the exhaust duct (P1), and maintains the flow at a constant speed while generating negative pressure inside the sealed tank (10), thereby preventing harmful substances and odors from leaking into the atmosphere.

[0113] Here, the suction blower (60) can be an industrial high-pressure blower that sucks and pumps outside air at a constant speed, flow rate, and pressure by utilizing the centrifugal force of the gas generated by the high-speed rotation of the impeller so that air and foreign substances inside the sealed tank (10) can be smoothly sucked in.

[0114] For example, the pressure inside the casing increases due to centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the impeller, generating a vortex motion. This can be applied by adopting a ring blower that blows outside air with strong suction and discharge pressure, or an explosion-proof blower that can obtain high pressure and has high efficiency.

[0115] Meanwhile, the air inside the sealed tank (10) may contain non-decomposable waste gases such as VOCs, PFCs, NF3, SF6, etc., or odorous gases such as NH3, H2S, etc.

[0116] The reactor (70) is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) between the sealed tank (10) and the suction blower (60) so that it can supply air inside the sealed tank (10) by the suction force of the suction blower (60).

[0117] That is, the reactor (70) is formed in a cylindrical shape in which air is supplied from a sealed tank (10) through an exhaust duct (P1) and fuel is supplied through an injection nozzle (71) to cause a combustion reaction.

[0118] And the reactor (70) has a plasma torch (75) installed at the center of the tip, a chamber (76) formed to introduce air into the plasma jet generation section of the plasma torch (75), and a furnace (77) arranged at the center of the chamber (76) to thermally decompose air introduced through the chamber (76) by burning it at high temperature with a plasma jet emitted from the plasma torch (75).

[0119] Additionally, the inner circumferential surface of the furnace (77) is formed in a spiral structure to cause air to vortex, and is attached with a ceramic refractory material that can withstand temperatures of 6,000°C or higher.

[0120] A plurality of injection nozzles (71) are radially arranged and mounted around the reactor (70) to inject fuel sent from the fuel injection pump (72) into the reactor (70).

[0121] That is, the injection nozzle (71) is connected to the fuel injection pump (72) by a pipe flange joint to inject hydrocarbon fuel such as LPG or LNG sent from the fuel injection pump (72) into the inside of the front end of the furnace (77) to amplify the flame and to allow a complete combustion reaction to proceed quickly, and is inclined at a certain angle toward the furnace (77).

[0122] The steam distributor (73) serves to distribute and supply steam supplied from the steam generator (50) to the sterilization section (12) and the reactor (70) of the sealed tank (10).

[0123] That is, the steam distributor (73) divides the steam supplied from the steam generator (50) into two according to the control of the control unit (80) and supplies the steam to the sterilization unit (12) and the reactor (70) of the sealed tank (10) at a constant ratio.

[0124] And the steam distributor (73) is connected to the sealed tank (10) through a branch pipe to divide the steam into two or more and supply it by distributing it evenly throughout the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10).

[0125] The microwave generator (74) generates microwaves when power is supplied from a separate power supply unit.

[0126] That is, the microwave generator (74) supplies energy to convert steam into plasma.

[0127] For example, a microwave generator (74) is composed of a magnetron that generates microwaves with a wavelength of 10 to 100 cm and a frequency band of 2450±50 MHz, a waveguide that transmits microwaves generated from the magnetron to a plasma torch (75), an isolator that prevents damage to the magnetron due to reflected microwaves, a two-way power monitor that can measure the applied power and the returned power of the microwave by receiving a signal from the input, a 3-stub tuner for impedance matching to maximize microwave energy transfer, a discharge tube, a discharge tube holder, and a control unit (80) that raises the temperature of the heater to about 800°C, so that a plasma flame (flame column) can be stably sustained by a swirling gas inside the discharge tube.

[0128] Here, the microwave generator (74) can apply a semiconductor microwave (Solid State Microwave: SSMW) method that generates microwaves using semiconductor elements.

[0129] At this time, silicon-based lateral diffusion metal-oxide semiconductor (LDMOS) or field-effect transistor (FET) can be used as the semiconductor.

[0130] The plasma torch (75) uses steam supplied from a steam generator (50) and microwaves supplied from a microwave generator (74) to emit a plasma jet, thereby thermally decomposing harmful substances and odors contained in the air within the reactor (70).

[0131] That is, the plasma torch (75) is installed at the center of the front end of the chamber (76) of the reactor (70) to quantitatively supply steam of 150°C or higher to the plasma generation center of the reactor (70) and to convert the steam into a high-temperature flame using electromagnetic waves as a catalyst.

[0132] Here, the plasma torch (75) is connected to a 75 kW power supply (power) and can be configured to burn harmful substances at a central temperature of about 6000°C or higher under atmospheric pressure, and to use steam as a plasma oxidizer to stably form a thermal space of 5,000 K or higher in a short period of time.

[0133] That is, the plasma torch (75) can employ a structure in which plasma made of steam transmits energy to the air via microwaves, so that no electrode is required and a gas containing an oxidizing agent can be used, and water molecules are ionized by the discharge of steam and decomposed into various radicals such as H, OH, and O, thereby increasing the speed of chemical reaction with hazardous gases and eliminating the need for a catalyst, and by inducing advanced oxidation, hazardous substances are thermally decomposed and converted into stabilized gases and then released.

[0134] The control unit (80) controls the overall operation and output of the system, which is displayed digitally along with sequential operation according to a pre-input setting program based on switch opening and closing signals for power and operation control, etc., and detection signals received from various sensors, etc.

[0135] That is, the control unit (80) controls the overall operation of the first and second actuators (16) (18), the electric motor (21), the microwave heater (40), the steam generator (50), the suction blower (60), the microwave generator (74), the fuel injection pump (72), and the opening and closing operation of the valve.

[0136] For example, the control unit (80) measures the load applied to the rotor (22) and automatically stops when the load exceeds a certain size or repeats forward and reverse operation to remove the overload material applied to the rotating blade (23) or screw (30) and then controls forward operation, thereby enabling continuous operation without stopping the operation.

[0137] Additionally, the control unit (80) can control the motor (21) to cause the rotary blade (23) of the shredder (20) to stop after rotating for a preset time or to continuously rotate up to a preset accumulated weight.

[0138] In addition, the control unit (80) can sound an alarm or turn on an alarm light when each process starts or ends to notify the operator of whether or not it is operating.

[0139] And, since the control unit (80) may damage the shredder (20) if a large torque exceeding a certain torque occurs in the rotating blade (23) of the shredder (20) due to medical waste being caught in the blade, the control unit (80) detects the torque of the rotating blade (23) using a torque sensor, compares the reference torque with the current detected torque, and outputs an alarm and stops the device if the detected torque is greater than the reference torque.

[0140] Here, the control unit (80) can be provided in the form of an LCD (OLED) touch screen or operation panel that allows the operator to directly operate switches, etc. or select and input specific commands.

[0141] In addition, in the case of the operation panel type, a power switch, an operation (driving) switch, a reverse rotation switch, a stop switch, etc. can be configured, and a touch screen or monitor can be configured to output torque values, torque arrival time, operation time, reverse operation time, rpm, etc. on the screen.

[0142] Meanwhile, the control unit (80) can be operated organically and sequentially by a pre-input microprocessor or PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) type setting program (control program included in a logic computer).

[0143] The main functions and operating principles of the medical waste disposal system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention configured as described above are described as follows.

[0144] First, medical waste that is fed into the shredding section (11) of the sealed tank (10) through the inlet (13) is finely shredded by the shear force generated between the rotating blade (23) and the fixed blade (24) of the shredder (20) and moves into the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10).

[0145] In this process, the crushing power is greatly improved due to the structural characteristic that the diameter of the rotating blade (23) of the shredder (20) gradually decreases as it goes forward, and even if the rotation direction of the screw (30) is changed, the medical waste that has moved toward the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) does not return toward the crushing section (11), so the crushing efficiency can be improved.

[0146] Next, the medical waste moved to the sterilization section (12) is heated by microwaves irradiated from the microwave heater (40) while moving horizontally back and forth by the forward and reverse rotation of the screw (30).

[0147] That is, sterilization of medical waste is achieved by high-temperature air generated when moisture in a sealed tank (10) is heated by microwaves irradiated from a microwave heater (40).

[0148] At this time, the control unit (80) can control the first and second actuators (16) (18) to close the inlet (13) and outlet (14), and control the electric damper (19) to close the exhaust duct (P1) until sterilization is completed.

[0149] In addition, the control unit (80) can evenly sterilize medical waste by rotating the screw (30) at a low speed while performing the sterilization operation to stir the medical waste.

[0150] Thereafter, by the operation of the suction blower (60), the air in the sealed tank (10) moves through the exhaust duct (P1) and flows into the interior of the furnace (77) through the center of the chamber (76), and the harmful substances or odors in the air are sterilized and burned at a high temperature of 1300°C or higher by the plasma jet emitted from the plasma torch (75) into the interior of the furnace (77), and then are exhausted from the reactor (70).

[0151] At this time, a large amount of oxidizing radicals such as O, OH, HO2 and ozone are generated in the gas flowing into the furnace (77) through the chamber (76) by the plasma discharge of the plasma torch (75).

[0152] That is, the plasma torch (75) moves microwaves generated in the microwave generator (74) into the interior of the reactor (70), the steam distributor (73) moves steam into the microwave passage of the plasma torch (75) to activate it into a plasma state, and at the same time, the suction blower (60) forces air into the interior of the reactor (70) through the exhaust duct (P1) together with the steam activated into a plasma state to cause a high-temperature reaction (1,000 to 1,500°C) with a plasma jet.

[0153] At this time, fuel such as LPG sent from the fuel injection pump (72) is injected into the inside of the front end of the furnace (77) through the injection nozzle (71) or is injected into the inside of the furnace (77) while mixed with a gas such as air (harmful gas) in the chamber (76).

[0154] In this way, air pollutants, including bad odors, are transformed into harmless substances and removed through a chain reaction of oxidizing radicals, ozone, and activated electrons.

[0155] Meanwhile, the exhaust heat (high temperature gas) from the reactor (70) can be used as a heat source for secondary sterilization and internal drying by supplying hot air to a sealed tank (10).

[0156] In addition, medical waste that has been sterilized by staying in the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) for a certain period of time can be discharged to the outside through the discharge port (14) by the screw (30).

[0157] In this way, the medical waste treatment system according to Example 1 of the present invention can prevent secondary pollution by removing harmful substances and odors contained in the air forcibly removed from the sealed tank (10) through thermal decomposition by high-temperature combustion in a reactor (70).

[0158] The main elements constituting the medical waste treatment system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention include, as shown in FIG. 1, a sealed tank (10), a crusher (20), a screw (30), a microwave heater (40), a steam generator (50), a suction blower (60), a reactor (70), a spray nozzle (71), a steam distributor (73), a microwave generator (74), a plasma torch (75), a control unit (80), an inlet fan (90), and an opening / closing valve (91).

[0159] And the crushing section (11) of the sealed tank (10) and the reactor (70) are connected through a cleaning duct (P2).

[0160] The inlet fan (90) is installed in the middle of the cleaning duct (P2) to suck in high-temperature gas generated during thermal decomposition in the reactor (70) under the control of the control unit (80) and send it to the crushing unit (11).

[0161] Here, the inlet fan (90) can be applied by adopting a ring blower or an explosion-proof blower, etc., which causes a vortex motion as the pressure inside the casing increases due to centrifugal force resulting from the rotation of the impeller, thereby sending out the combustion gas inside the reactor (70) with strong suction force and discharge pressure.

[0162] The opening / closing valve (91) is attached in the middle of the cleaning duct (P2) to open and close the flow path of the cleaning duct (P2) to control the flow rate and flow of high-temperature air (combustion gas) supplied from the reactor (70) to the sealed tank (10).

[0163] Here, the opening / closing valve (91) may employ a solenoid valve that switches its opening / closing operation by electromagnetic force that converts electric energy into magnetic energy according to a control signal from the control unit (80).

[0164] The main functions and operating principles of the medical waste disposal system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention configured as described above are described as follows.

[0165] First, the control unit (80) controls the steam distributor (73) to supply high temperature and humid steam generated from the steam generator (50) to the crushing unit (11) and sterilization unit (12) of the sealed tank (10), thereby separating and removing residues and attachments within the sealed tank (10).

[0166] Thereafter, the control unit (80) controls the inlet fan (90) and the check valve (91) to supply high-temperature air inside the reactor (70) to the crushing unit (11) and sterilization unit (12) of the sealed tank (10), thereby sterilizing and drying the inside of the sealed tank (10).

[0167] Here, among the components related to the medical waste disposal system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, components having the same or similar operational effects as those of Embodiment 1 described above use the same reference numerals, and repetitive and specific descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0168] [Example 3]

[0169] The main elements constituting the medical waste treatment system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention include, as shown in FIG. 1, a sealed tank (10), a crusher (20), a screw (30), a microwave heater (40), a steam generator (50), a suction blower (60), a reactor (70), a spray nozzle (71), a steam distributor (73), a microwave generator (74), a plasma torch (75), a control unit (80), an inlet fan (90), a check valve (91), a cooler (95), and a filter dust collector (96).

[0170] A cooler (95) is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) to cool the high-temperature air coming from the reactor (70).

[0171] That is, the cooler (95) can cool the high-temperature air (combustion gas) exhausted from the reactor (70) at a high temperature to a temperature below a predetermined temperature.

[0172] A filter dust collector (96) is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) to separate and collect particulate matter or fine dust generated during the mechanical processing or combustion process of crushing medical waste in the air passing through the cooler (95).

[0173] That is, the high temperature air (hot air) exhausted from the reactor (70) is cooled in a cooler (95) and then filtered while passing through a filter dust collector (96), so that the harmful particles contained therein are discharged into the atmosphere in a filtered state, thereby preventing air pollution and the generation of secondary pollutants.

[0174] Meanwhile, a SiC coating layer is formed on the outer surface of the filter dust collector (96), and MnO is formed on the inside. X + V2O5+ TiO2 catalyst coating layer is formed to remove fine dust and SO X, NO X A modular catalytic filter that collects and filters components can be employed.

[0175] Here, among the components related to the medical waste disposal system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, components having the same or similar operational effects as those of Embodiments 1 and 2 described above use the same reference numerals, and repetitive and specific descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0176] [Example 4]

[0177] The main elements constituting the medical waste treatment system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention include a sealed tank (10), a crusher (20), a screw (30), an insulating plate (35), a microwave heater (40), a steam generator (50), a suction blower (60), a reactor (70), a spray nozzle (71), a steam distributor (73), a microwave generator (74), a plasma torch (75), a control unit (80), and an electric heating coil (100), as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 and FIGS. 7 to 9.

[0178] The sealed tank (10) is formed in a horizontal, long cylindrical shape with a sealed steel pressure-resistant tank structure, and a crushing section (11) is formed on one side and a gasification section (12) is formed on the opposite side.

[0179] And, at the bottom of the shredding section (11), an inclined, groove-shaped chute (11a) is formed so that the medical waste shredded in the shredder (20) naturally slides down to the gasification section (12).

[0180] Additionally, an inlet (13) is formed at the top of the crushing section (11), and an outlet (14) is formed at the bottom of the gasification section (12).

[0181] And, a first gate (15) is installed in the inlet (13) to open and close the inlet (13) according to the operation of the first actuator (16), and a second gate (17) is installed in the outlet (14) to open and close the outlet (14) according to the operation of the second actuator (18).

[0182] That is, the first actuator (16) is configured to open and close the first gate (15) in a vertical direction, and the second actuator (18) is configured to open and close the second gate (17) in a horizontal direction.

[0183] In addition, the first gate (15) and the second gate (17) may be formed as a sealed or electromagnetic wave blocking structure to maintain an oxygen-free or low-oxygen atmosphere inside the sealed tank (10) during the thermal decomposition process and to block electromagnetic waves irradiated from the microwave heater (40) from leaking to the outside.

[0184] That is, since the internal space of the sealed tank (10) is difficult to completely seal due to the input and discharge of medical waste, the user can be prevented from being exposed to electromagnetic waves by applying a sealed structure or confining electromagnetic waves within the internal space with an electromagnetic wave blocking filter or packing.

[0185] And, an electric damper (19) is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) between the sealed tank (10) and the reactor (70) to control the speed and flow rate of air flowing into the reactor (70).

[0186] Additionally, a check valve is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) to automatically restrict the flow of air and prevent backflow.

[0187] Here, a transparent sight glass is provided in the middle part of the sealed tank (10) to view the inside, so that the crushing and transport status of medical waste can be easily checked.

[0188] In addition, a temperature sensor for measuring the internal temperature of the sealed tank (10), a pressure sensor for measuring the pressure, and a temperature controller for preventing overheating may be installed.

[0189] Meanwhile, as the first and second actuators (16)(18), it is preferable to employ a linear actuator having a structure in which a rotary AC motor is extended in a straight line or a linear actuator using a rotary motor and a rack and pinion mechanism, but is not limited thereto, and a pneumatic rodless cylinder having a structure in which a rod moves forward and backward using the magnetic force of a permanent magnet and air pressure, or an electric actuator that converts the rotational motion of an electric motor (24V DC permanent magnet motor) into linear motion by a ball screw to generate force (thrust) and enables precise position control with multiple positioning settings within a stroke may also be employed.

[0190] In addition, a structure that controls the fluid energy (force) applied from a hydraulic (pneumatic) pump and changes the direction of movement with a control valve and transmits it to a hydraulic cylinder, hydraulic motor, or pneumatic solenoid valve that performs mechanical work can be adopted and applied.

[0191] For example, a hydraulic cylinder in which hydraulic pressure is applied to both sides of the piston so that the output acts in both extension and contraction, a pneumatic actuator that operates the piston inside the cylinder by compressed air, a hydraulic actuator that operates the piston inside the cylinder by hydraulic pressure, and an electro-hydraulic actuator that uses an electric motor as a power source to operate a hydraulic pump and move the cylinder by the hydraulic pressure can be used.

[0192] In addition, the control unit (80) may transmit a control signal to a driving source such as a compressor to operate a cylinder (push loader, piston or plunger) with hydraulic or pneumatic pressure, thereby moving forward and backward or extending and contracting, or may be configured as a structure of a conventional hydraulic motor or an electric cylinder (linear actuator) that converts rotational motion into linear motion to perform extending and contracting by operating an electric motor according to the opening and closing of a switch of a controller.

[0193] For example, it is possible to apply devices and actuator mechanisms that convert energy and control signals into mechanical work, such as a linear reciprocating cylinder that uses two cylinders as a group, a linear motor that performs linear motion, a structure that converts the rotational motion of a servo motor into linear motion by meshing with a servo motor and a gear drive method such as a rack and pinion, such as a lead screw, or a structure that controls the position by rotating a ball screw with a stepping motor using an encoder.

[0194] Meanwhile, unit bearings (22a) are mounted on both ends of the central portion of the sealed tank (10) to support the load applied to the first rotor (22) and rotate it smoothly.

[0195] A shredder (20) is installed inside the shredding unit (11) to shred medical waste fed into the shredding unit (11) through the inlet (13) of the sealed tank (10) into pieces smaller than a specific size by interlocking the rotating blade (23) and the fixed blade (24).

[0196] That is, the shredder (20) can crush medical waste fed into the shredding section (11) through the inlet (13) into pieces of about 1 to 5 cm in size suitable for sterilization by the opposing shearing force generated between the plurality of rotating blades (23) and the plurality of fixed blades (24) so ​​that high-temperature steam can penetrate deep into the inside of medical waste such as metal, glass, plastic, vinyl, and fiber.

[0197] And inside the shredding section (11), a first rotor (22) of a horizontal rotation type connected to a first motor (21) is installed, and unit bearings (22a) are respectively installed on the front and rear journal portions of the first rotor (22) to support the first rotor (22) and allow it to rotate smoothly.

[0198] In addition, the rotary blade (23) is formed in a disk shape and attached to the periphery of the first rotor (22), and the fixed blade (24) is formed in a plate shape and attached to the inner surface of the crushing section (11).

[0199] That is, the rotary blade (23) and the fixed blade (24) are arranged at a constant interval in the axial direction of the first rotor (22), and in particular, the fixed blade (24) is arranged to prevent medical waste from falling between the sealed tank (10) and the rotary blade (23) while also having the function of scraping out medical waste caught in the rotary blade (23).

[0200] Here, it is preferable that the axial width (thickness) of the rotary blade (23) and the fixed blade (24) be formed to be the same at about 25 mm or more and arranged alternately.

[0201] In addition, the central hole of the rotary blade (23) is formed in a polygonal shape, and correspondingly, the cross-sectional shape of the first rotor (22) is formed in a polygonal shape, so that when the rotational force of the first rotor (22) is transmitted to the rotary blade (23), wear due to mutual interference can be minimized.

[0202] Here, the first motor (21) may be directly connected to the first rotor (22) through its operating shaft or may be connected to the first rotor (22) through a separate electric device in order to transmit rotational force to the first rotor (22) according to the opening / closing signal of the control unit (80).

[0203] Meanwhile, the rotary blade (23) of the shredder (20) is configured to include a plurality of first rotary blades (23a) and a plurality of second rotary blades (23c).

[0204] The first rotary blade (23a) is formed integrally by arranging a plurality of sawtooth-shaped first cutters (23b) at regular intervals on the outer circumference, and is arranged in a tapered shape with a diameter that gradually increases toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at regular intervals along the length direction of the first rotor (22).

[0205] The second rotary blade (23c) is formed integrally with a plurality of second sawtooth cutters (23d) arranged at regular intervals on the outer circumference, and is attached to the circumference of the first rotor (22) between the first rotary blades (23a).

[0206] In addition, the second rotary blade (23c) has a smaller diameter than the adjacent first rotary blade (23a) and is arranged in a tapered shape with the diameter gradually widening as it goes toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10).

[0207] Here, the first and second cutters (23b) (23d) are formed as inclined surfaces inclined at an angle in the direction of rotation, and a “V” shaped groove is formed at the tip portion thereof, thereby reducing the load during the process of cutting and crushing medical waste.

[0208] Meanwhile, the fixed blade (24) of the shredder (20) is composed of a first fixed blade (24a), a second fixed blade (24b), a mounting bracket (25), a stay (25a), a support (26), a bearing (27), a bearing housing (28), and a support arm (29).

[0209] The first fixed blade (24a) is arranged in a tapered shape with a constant interval along the length direction of the first rotor (22) so as to be engaged with the first rotating blade (23a) and its length gradually becomes shorter as it goes toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10).

[0210] The second fixed blade (24b) is arranged in a tapered shape with a constant interval along the length direction of the first rotor (22) so as to be engaged with the second rotating blade (23c) and its length gradually becomes shorter as it goes toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10).

[0211] The mounting bracket (25) serves to fix the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) in a row to the inner surface of the sealed tank (10).

[0212] That is, the mounting bracket (25) is formed of channel steel with a cross-sectional shape in the shape of the letter ㄷ.

[0213] The stay (25a) serves to maintain the positions of the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) constant.

[0214] That is, the stay (25a) can be assembled into a single unit by being inserted into the through hole formed in the upper portion of the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b).

[0215] The support (26) is firmly fixed to the inner surface of the sealed tank (10) by a welding or other joining method to stably support the shear force applied to the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) and the mounting bracket (25) when the rotary blade (23) rotates counterclockwise.

[0216] Bearings (27) are mounted on the front and rear journal sections of the rotary blades (23) of the first rotor (22) located in the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10) so that the first rotor (22) rotates smoothly.

[0217] The bearing housing (28) is formed in a semicircular ring shape on one half and is assembled to surround the circumference of the bearing (27) on both sides.

[0218] That is, the bearing housing (28) is fixed to the free end of the support arm (29) to maintain and protect the bearing (27) mounted on the journal of the first rotor (22).

[0219] The support arm (29) is fixed between the two ends of the mounting bracket (25) and the bearing housings (28) to connect and support the fixed blade (24) and the first rotor (22).

[0220] The screw (30) is attached to the circumference of the second rotor (32) installed in the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10) to reciprocate and transfer the medical waste shredded in the shredder (20) by rotating it in the forward and reverse directions by the second electric motor (31).

[0221] And inside the gasification unit (12), a second rotor (32) of a horizontal rotation type connected to a second motor (31) is installed, and a screw (30) is attached to the circumference of the second rotor (32).

[0222] Additionally, unit bearings (33) are each mounted on the front and rear journal sections of the second rotor (32) to support the second rotor (32) and allow it to rotate smoothly.

[0223] Here, the time for medical waste to pass through the gasification unit (12) by the screw (30) can be arbitrarily set by adjusting the rotation speed of the second rotor (32).

[0224] In addition, it is preferable to apply a spiral screw or ribbon screw that stirs while transporting and returning medical waste as the screw (30).

[0225] Meanwhile, the second motor (31) may be directly connected to the second rotor (32) through its operating shaft or may be connected to the second rotor (32) through a separate electric device in order to transmit rotational power to the second rotor (32) according to the opening / closing signal of the control unit (80).

[0226] Here, the first and second electric motors (21)(31) can be used as conventional electric motors that convert electrical energy into mechanical energy to obtain rotational power, are easy to start (drive) and operate by signal current, are easy to select a model suitable for the load, have little noise and vibration, and do not produce exhaust pollution.

[0227] For example, a servo motor that changes voltage input into a rotation angle according to the magnitude or signal of the applied voltage to quickly perform stop and reverse operations and rotate at a certain angle, or a stepping motor that rotates at a certain angle each time a pulse signal is given to control speed and direction, can be employed, or a geared motor that includes a reducer that reduces the rotational speed of the motor and controls the output to the force required for driving can be employed.

[0228] In addition, a hydraulic motor that generates power by applying high pressure generated by a hydraulic pump driven by a motor or engine to an operating shaft can be adopted so that operation is reliable, automatic remote control is possible, and speed adjustment, stopping, reversing, etc. are easily performed.

[0229] An insulating plate (35) is installed between the shredding section (11) and the gasification section (12) to block the heat of the gasification section (12) from being transferred to the shredding section (11).

[0230] That is, the insulation plate (35) is made of a ceramic material that is fire-resistant and heat-resistant, thereby blocking heat transfer and minimizing the temperature rise of the crushing section (11), thereby preventing the crushing efficiency from decreasing.

[0231] The microwave heater (40) generates microwaves when powered from a separate power supply unit and serves to heat medical waste passing through the gasification unit (12) of the sealed tank (10) by the screw (30) for a certain period of time to a certain temperature (500 to 800°C).

[0232] That is, a plurality of microwave heaters (40) are installed on the upper part of the sealed tank (10) and, when the sealed tank (10) is closed by the first and second gates (15) (17), microwaves are irradiated toward the inside of the gasification unit (12) through the waveguide.

[0233] Here, the microwave heater (40) may be configured to include a magnetron that heats moisture in medical waste.

[0234] For example, medical waste that is shredded in a shredder (20) and transported by a screw (30) can be heated by passing it through multiple magnetrons that each produce an output of 2,000 watts at a frequency of 2,450 MHz.

[0235] That is, the magnetron is a structure in which hot electrons are emitted from the cathode's heating wire, and a high-voltage electric field is applied to the cylindrical outer anode and the inner cathode of the pure copper, and a magnetic field in the direction perpendicular to the electric field is formed by permanent magnets installed above and below.

[0236] Electrons ejected from the cathode are driven toward the anode by the electric field and, under the influence of the magnetic field, begin to rotate within the cylinder. As the electrons pass through the vanes formed on the anode side, they generate a high-frequency electromagnetic field in the cavity resonator.

[0237] When the AC voltage of 220 V from the power supply is changed to a high voltage of 4000 V or more and current is passed through the magnetron, microwaves that vibrate at a wavelength of 12.2 cm and a high frequency in the 245 GHz band are generated in the magnetron.

[0238] When microwaves hit an object to be irradiated, the dipoles that make up the object rapidly change the direction of their axis alignment due to the high-frequency electric field, and the frictional heat generated at this time generates heat.

[0239] For example, the microwave heater (40) may be composed of a magnetron, a waveguide, a circulator, a dummy load, a 3-stub tuner, an applicator, a plunger, and a power supply.

[0240] That is, when power is supplied to the filament and anode of the magnetron from the power supply, the microwaves generated in the magnetron are transmitted to the applicator through the waveguide, the circulator, and the 3-stub-tuner.

[0241] The reflected power of the microwave energy emitted from the magnetron is not absorbed by the irradiated object and can return and damage the magnetron. To protect this, a circulator is used to change the direction of the reflected power. The energy of the reflected wave is absorbed by a dummy load through which cooling water flows and is then released to the outside. To minimize the reflected power, a 3-stub tuner or plunger is used as a matcher.

[0242] The steam generator (50) receives power from a separate power supply unit and serves to generate high-temperature steam.

[0243] That is, the steam generator (50) supplies steam (superheated steam) used as an operating gas to the plasma torch (75).

[0244] Here, the steam generator (50) is 5 to 8 kgf / m 2 By primarily heating and vaporizing water supplied from the outside while driving, steam having a pressure of 5 to 6 bar and a temperature of 100 to 300°C can be produced.

[0245] For example, it can be configured to increase the pressure of a water tank by air pressure to supply water, control the exact supply amount using an LMFC (Liquid Mass Flow Controller), generate steam using a vaporizer, and then supply the steam to a plasma torch (75).

[0246] The suction blower (60) is connected to the sealed tank (10) and the reactor (70) through an exhaust duct (P1) to suck out air and pyrolysis gas inside the sealed tank (10) by suction and supply them to the reactor (70).

[0247] That is, the intake blower (60) generates an airflow that is sucked in by a turbo fan, sucks in air and gas through the exhaust duct (P1), and maintains the flow at a constant speed while generating negative pressure inside the sealed tank (10), thereby preventing harmful substances and odors from leaking into the atmosphere.

[0248] Here, the suction blower (60) can be applied by adopting an industrial high-pressure blower that sucks and pumps outside air at a constant speed, flow rate, and pressure by utilizing the centrifugal force of the gas generated by the high-speed rotation of the impeller so that air, gas, and various foreign substances inside the sealed tank (10) can be smoothly sucked in.

[0249] For example, the pressure inside the casing increases due to centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the impeller, generating a vortex motion. This can be applied by adopting a ring blower that blows outside air with strong suction and discharge pressure, or an explosion-proof blower that can obtain high pressure and has high efficiency.

[0250] Meanwhile, the air inside the sealed tank (10) may contain non-decomposable waste gases such as VOCs, PFCs, NF3, SF6, etc., or odorous gases such as NH3, H2S, etc.

[0251] The reactor (70) is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) between the sealed tank (10) and the suction blower (60) so that it can receive air and gas inside the sealed tank (10) by the suction force of the suction blower (60).

[0252] That is, the reactor (70) is formed in a cylindrical shape in which air and gas are supplied from a sealed tank (10) through an exhaust duct (P1) and fuel is supplied through an injection nozzle (71) to cause a combustion reaction.

[0253] And the reactor (70) has a plasma torch (75) installed at the center of the tip, a chamber (76) formed to introduce air into the plasma jet generation section of the plasma torch (75), and a furnace (77) arranged at the center of the chamber (76) to thermally decompose air introduced through the chamber (76) by burning it at high temperature with a plasma jet emitted from the plasma torch (75).

[0254] Additionally, the inner circumferential surface of the furnace (77) is formed in a spiral structure to cause air to vortex, and is attached with a ceramic refractory material that can withstand temperatures of 6,000°C or higher.

[0255] A plurality of injection nozzles (71) are radially arranged and mounted around the reactor (70) to inject fuel sent from the fuel injection pump (72) into the reactor (70).

[0256] That is, the injection nozzle (71) is connected to the fuel injection pump (72) by a pipe flange joint to inject hydrocarbon fuel such as LPG or LNG sent from the fuel injection pump (72) into the inside of the front end of the furnace (77) to amplify the flame and to allow a complete combustion reaction to proceed quickly, and is inclined at a certain angle toward the furnace (77).

[0257] The microwave generator (74) generates microwaves when power is supplied from a separate power supply unit.

[0258] That is, the microwave generator (74) supplies energy to convert steam into plasma.

[0259] For example, a microwave generator (74) is composed of a magnetron that generates microwaves with a wavelength of 10 to 100 cm and a frequency band of 2450±50 MHz, a waveguide that transmits microwaves generated from the magnetron to a plasma torch (75), an isolator that prevents damage to the magnetron due to reflected microwaves, a two-way power monitor that can measure the applied power and the returned power of the microwave by receiving a signal from the input, a 3-stub tuner for impedance matching to maximize microwave energy transfer, a discharge tube, a discharge tube holder, and a control unit (80) that raises the temperature of the heater to about 800°C, so that a plasma flame (flame column) can be stably sustained by a swirling gas inside the discharge tube.

[0260] Here, the microwave generator (74) can apply a semiconductor microwave (Solid State Microwave: SSMW) method that generates microwaves using semiconductor elements.

[0261] At this time, silicon-based lateral diffusion metal-oxide semiconductor (LDMOS) or field-effect transistor (FET) can be used as the semiconductor.

[0262] The plasma torch (75) emits a plasma jet using steam supplied from a steam generator (50) and microwaves supplied from a microwave generator (74) to completely incinerate the gas within the reactor (70).

[0263] That is, the plasma torch (75) is installed at the center of the front end of the chamber (76) of the reactor (70) to quantitatively supply steam of 150°C or higher to the plasma generation center of the reactor (70) and to convert the steam into a high-temperature flame using electromagnetic waves as a catalyst.

[0264] Here, the plasma torch (75) is connected to a 75 kW power supply (power) and can be configured to burn harmful substances at a central temperature of about 1300°C or higher under atmospheric pressure, and to use steam as a plasma oxidizer to stably form a thermal space of 5,000 K or higher in a short period of time.

[0265] That is, the plasma torch (75) can employ a structure in which plasma made of steam transmits energy to the air via microwaves, so that no electrode is required and gas containing an oxidizing agent can be used, and water molecules are ionized by discharge of steam and decomposed into various radicals such as H, OH, and O, thereby increasing the speed of chemical reaction with harmful gases, eliminating the need for a catalyst, and converting the gas into a stabilized gas by thermally decomposing it by inducing advanced oxidation and then releasing it.

[0266] The control unit (80) controls the overall operation and output of the system, which is displayed digitally along with sequential operation according to a pre-input setting program based on switch opening and closing signals for power and operation control, etc., and detection signals received from various sensors, etc.

[0267] That is, the control unit (80) controls the overall driving / operation of the first and second actuators (16)(18), the first and second electric motors (21)(31), the microwave heater (40), the steam generator (50), the suction blower (60), the microwave generator (74), the fuel injection pump (72), the electric heating coil (100), and the opening / closing operation of the valve.

[0268] For example, the control unit (80) measures the load applied to the first and second rotors (22) (32) and automatically stops when the load exceeds a certain size or repeats forward and reverse operation to remove the overload material applied to the rotating blade (23) or screw (30) and then controls forward operation, thereby enabling continuous operation without stopping the operation.

[0269] In addition, the control unit (80) can control the first electric motor (21) to cause the rotary blade (23) of the shredder (20) to stop after rotating for a preset time or to continuously rotate up to a preset accumulated weight.

[0270] In addition, the control unit (80) can sound an alarm or turn on an alarm light when each process starts or ends to notify the operator of whether or not it is operating.

[0271] And, since the control unit (80) may damage the shredder (20) if a large torque exceeding a certain torque occurs in the rotating blade (23) of the shredder (20) due to medical waste being caught in the blade, the control unit (80) detects the torque of the rotating blade (23) using a torque sensor, compares the reference torque with the current detected torque, and outputs an alarm and stops the device if the detected torque is greater than the reference torque.

[0272] Here, the control unit (80) can be provided in the form of an LCD (OLED) touch screen or operation panel that allows the operator to directly operate switches, etc. or select and input specific commands.

[0273] In addition, in the case of the operation panel type, a power switch, an operation (driving) switch, a reverse rotation switch, a stop switch, etc. can be configured, and a touch screen or monitor can be configured to output torque values, torque arrival time, operation time, reverse operation time, rpm, etc. on the screen.

[0274] Meanwhile, the control unit (80) can be operated organically and sequentially by a pre-input microprocessor or PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) type setting program (control program included in a logic computer).

[0275] An electric heating coil (100) is installed on the inner wall of the gasification unit (12) of the sealed tank (10) to control and maintain the temperature within the gasification unit (12).

[0276] That is, the electric heating coil (100) heats the air and gas in the gasification unit (12) and controls the temperature by generating heat through a heating element within the coil when separate power is supplied under the control of the control unit (80).

[0277] Here, an electric heating coil (100) can be used as an electric air heater that heats air and gas by inserting a heating wire such as a nichrome wire that generates heat by passing electricity into the coil so that it can be installed in the gasification section (12) of a sealed tank (10) and completely insulating it.

[0278] [Operating Principle and Function]

[0279] The main functions and operating principles of the medical waste shredding and gasification system according to the embodiment of the present invention configured as described above are described as follows.

[0280] First, medical waste that is fed into the shredding section (11) of the sealed tank (10) through the inlet (13) is finely shredded by the shear force generated between the rotating blade (23) and the fixed blade (24) of the shredder (20) and moves toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10).

[0281] In this process, the crushing power is greatly improved due to the structural characteristic that the diameter of the rotating blade (23) of the crusher (20) gradually decreases as it goes forward, and even if the rotation direction of the screw (30) is changed, the medical waste that has moved toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10) does not return toward the crushing section (11), so the crushing efficiency can be improved.

[0282] Next, the medical waste moved to the gasification unit (12) is heated and maintained at a temperature range of 500 to 1000°C by microwaves irradiated by the microwave heater (40) and the electric heating coil (100) while moving horizontally back and forth by the forward and reverse rotation of the screw (30).

[0283] That is, when moisture in a sealed tank (10) is heated by microwaves irradiated from a microwave heater (40), thermal decomposition and gasification of medical waste are achieved due to the high-temperature heat generated.

[0284] At this time, the control unit (80) can control the first and second actuators (16) (18) to close the inlet (13) and the outlet (14), and control the electric damper (19) to close the exhaust duct (P1) until pyrolysis gasification is completed.

[0285] In addition, the control unit (80) can evenly pyrolysis gasify the medical waste by rotating the screw (30) at a low speed while performing the pyrolysis gasification operation to stir the medical waste.

[0286] Thereafter, by the operation of the suction blower (60), the pyrolysis gas in the sealed tank (10) moves through the exhaust duct (P1) and flows into the interior of the furnace (77) through the center of the chamber (76), and is completely incinerated at a high temperature of 1300°C or higher by the plasma jet emitted from the plasma torch (75) into the interior of the furnace (77), and then is exhausted from the reactor (70).

[0287] At this time, a large amount of oxidizing radicals such as O, OH, HO2 and ozone are generated in the gas flowing into the furnace (77) through the chamber (76) by the plasma discharge of the plasma torch (75).

[0288] That is, the plasma torch (75) moves microwaves generated in the microwave generator (74) into the interior of the reactor (70), the steam generator (50) supplies steam to the microwave passage of the plasma torch (75) to activate it into a plasma state, and at the same time, the suction blower (60) pressurizes gas into the interior of the reactor (70) together with the steam activated into a plasma state through the exhaust duct (P1) to cause a high-temperature reaction (1,000 to 1,500°C) with a plasma jet.

[0289] At this time, fuel such as LPG sent from the fuel injection pump (72) is injected into the inside of the front end of the furnace (77) through the injection nozzle (71) or injected into the inside of the furnace (77) while mixed with the gas in the chamber (76).

[0290] In this way, pollutants in the air and gas, including bad odors, are converted into harmless substances and removed through a chain reaction of oxidizing radicals, ozone, and activated electrons.

[0291] Meanwhile, the exhaust heat (high temperature gas) from the reactor (70) can be used as a heat source for secondary sterilization and internal drying by supplying hot air to the gasification unit (12) of the sealed tank (10), or can be supplied as a heat source for a hot water boiler, etc.

[0292] In addition, residues such as tar or char containing various organic compounds generated during thermal decomposition gasification of medical waste for 2 hours in the gasification unit (12) of the sealed tank (10) can be discharged to the outside through the discharge port (14).

[0293] In this way, the medical waste shredding and gasification system according to Example 4 of the present invention can prevent secondary environmental pollution by completely incinerating and removing harmful substances and odors contained in the gas by pyrolysis and gasification of medical waste in a sealed tank (10) and then burning them at high temperatures in a reactor (70).

[0294] [Example 5]

[0295] The main elements constituting the medical waste treatment system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention include, as shown in FIG. 1, a sealed tank (10), a crusher (20), a screw (30), an insulating plate (35), a microwave heater (40), a steam generator (50), a suction blower (60), a reactor (70), a spray nozzle (71), a steam distributor (73), a microwave generator (74), a plasma torch (75), a control unit (80), an inlet fan (90), an opening / closing valve (91), and an electric heating coil (100).

[0296] And the crushing section (11) of the sealed tank (10) and the reactor (70) are connected through a cleaning duct (P2).

[0297] The inlet fan (90) is installed in the middle of the cleaning duct (P2) to suck in high-temperature gas generated during thermal decomposition in the reactor (70) under the control of the control unit (80) and send it to the crushing unit (11).

[0298] Here, the inlet fan (90) can be applied by adopting a ring blower or an explosion-proof blower, etc., which causes a vortex motion as the pressure inside the casing increases due to centrifugal force resulting from the rotation of the impeller, thereby sending out the combustion gas inside the reactor (70) with strong suction force and discharge pressure.

[0299] The opening / closing valve (91) is attached in the middle of the cleaning duct (P2) to open and close the flow path of the cleaning duct (P2) to control the flow rate and flow of high-temperature air (combustion gas) supplied from the reactor (70) to the sealed tank (10).

[0300] Here, the opening / closing valve (91) may employ a solenoid valve that switches its opening / closing operation by electromagnetic force that converts electric energy into magnetic energy according to a control signal from the control unit (80).

[0301] The main functions and operating principles of the medical waste disposal system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention configured as described above are described as follows.

[0302] First, the control unit (80) controls the steam distributor (73) to supply high-temperature, high-humidity steam generated from the steam generator (50) to the crushing unit (11) and gasification unit (12) of the sealed tank (10), thereby separating and removing residues and attachments within the sealed tank (10).

[0303] Thereafter, the control unit (80) controls the inlet fan (90) and the check valve (91) to supply high-temperature air inside the reactor (70) to the crushing unit (11) and the gasification unit (12) of the sealed tank (10), thereby sterilizing and drying the inside of the sealed tank (10).

[0304] Here, among the components related to the medical waste disposal system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention, components having the same or similar operational effects as those of Embodiment 4 described above use the same reference numerals, and repetitive and specific descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0305] [Example 6]

[0306] The main elements constituting the medical waste treatment system according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention include, as illustrated in FIG. 1, a sealed tank (10), a shredder (20), a screw (30), an insulating plate (35), a microwave heater (40), a steam generator (50), a suction blower (60), a reactor (70), a spray nozzle (71), a steam distributor (73), a microwave generator (74), a plasma torch (75), a control unit (80), an inlet fan (90), a check valve (91), a cooler (95), a filter collector (96), and an electric heating coil (100).

[0307] A cooler (95) is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) to cool the high-temperature air coming from the reactor (70).

[0308] That is, the cooler (95) can cool the high-temperature air (combustion gas) exhausted from the reactor (70) at a high temperature to a temperature below a predetermined temperature.

[0309] A filter dust collector (96) is installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) to separate and collect particulate matter or fine dust generated during the mechanical processing or combustion process of crushing medical waste in the air passing through the cooler (95).

[0310] That is, the high temperature air (hot air) exhausted from the reactor (70) is cooled in a cooler (95) and then filtered while passing through a filter dust collector (96), so that the harmful particles contained therein are discharged into the atmosphere in a filtered state, thereby preventing air pollution and the generation of secondary pollutants.

[0311] Meanwhile, a SiC coating layer is formed on the outer surface of the filter dust collector (96), and MnO is formed on the inside. X + V2O5+ TiO2 catalyst coating layer is formed to remove fine dust and SO X, NO X A modular catalytic filter that collects and filters components can be employed.

[0312] Here, among the components related to the medical waste disposal system according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention, components having the same or similar operational effects as those of Embodiments 4 and 5 described above use the same reference numerals, and repetitive and specific descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0313] A medical waste treatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention has industrial applicability in that it can safely treat and prevent secondary environmental pollution such as harmful gases and odors by efficiently crushing medical waste with a high risk of infection generated in a medical institution, uniformly sterilizing or pyrolyzing it into gas, and then completely incinerating it.

Claims

1. A sealed tank (10) having a crushing section (11) formed on one side of a horizontal long cylinder, a sterilizing section (12) formed on the opposite side, an inlet (13) formed in the crushing section (11), and an outlet (14) formed in the sterilizing section (12); A shredder (20) that shreds medical waste fed into the shredding section (11) through the inlet (13) by a shear force generated between a plurality of rotating blades (23) attached to the circumference of a rotor (22) that is installed in the shredding section (11) of the sealed tank (10) and rotated by an electric motor (21) and a plurality of fixed blades (24) attached to the inner surface of the shredding section (11); A screw (30) attached to the circumference of the rotor (22) in the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) and rotated forward and backward by the electric motor (21) to reciprocate and transport the medical waste crushed in the crusher (20); A microwave heater (40) that generates microwaves when power is supplied to heat medical waste transported by the screw (30) within the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10); A steam generator (50) that produces high-temperature steam; A suction blower (60) connected to the sealed tank (10) and the exhaust duct (P1) to suck in and remove air inside the sealed tank (10); A reactor (70) installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) between the sealed tank (10) and the suction blower (60), and supplied with air inside the sealed tank (10) by the suction force of the suction blower (60); A plurality of injection nozzles (71) for injecting fuel sent from a fuel injection pump (72) into the above reactor (70); A steam distributor (73) that distributes steam supplied from the steam generator (50) to the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) and the reactor (70); A microwave generator (74) that generates microwaves when power is supplied; A plasma torch (75) that emits a plasma jet using steam supplied from the steam generator (50) and microwaves supplied from the microwave generator (74) to thermally decompose harmful substances and odors contained in the air within the reactor (70); and A control unit (80) that controls the overall operation of the system; A medical waste disposal system including:

2. In paragraph 1, A washing duct (P2) connecting the crushing section (11) of the above-mentioned sealed tank (10) and the above-mentioned reactor (70); An inlet fan (90) installed in the middle of the above cleaning duct (P2) to suck in high-temperature air (combustion gas) inside the reactor (70) and send it to the crushing unit (11); and A check valve (91) attached in the middle of the above washing duct (P2) to open and close the flow path; Including more, The above control unit (80) A medical waste disposal system in which the steam distributor (73) is controlled to supply high-temperature, humid steam generated from the steam generator (50) to the crushing section (11) and sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) to separate and remove residues and attachments in the sealed tank (10), and then the inlet fan (90) and the check valve (91) are controlled to supply high-temperature air in the reactor (70) to the crushing section (11) and sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) to sterilize and dry the inside of the sealed tank (10).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The rotary blade (23) of the above shredder (20) is A plurality of first cutters (23b) are formed integrally by arranging them at regular intervals along the outer circumference, and a first rotary blade (23a) is arranged in a tapered shape with a diameter that gradually increases toward the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at regular intervals along the length direction of the rotor (22); and A second rotary blade (23c) is formed integrally by arranging a plurality of second cutters (23d) at regular intervals around the outer circumference and is attached to the circumference of the rotor (22) between the first rotary blades (23a), and is arranged in a tapered shape with a diameter smaller than that of the adjacent first rotary blades (23a) and a diameter that gradually becomes wider as it goes toward the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10); Includes, The fixed blade (24) of the above shredder (20) is A first fixed blade (24a) arranged in a tapered shape with a length that gradually becomes shorter as it goes toward the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at a constant interval along the length direction of the rotor (22) so as to be engaged with the first rotary blade (23a); A second fixed blade (24b) arranged in a tapered shape with a length that gradually becomes shorter as it goes toward the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at a constant interval along the length direction of the rotor (22) so as to be engaged with the second rotary blade (23c); A mounting bracket (25) that arranges the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) in a row and fixes them to the inner surface of the sealed tank (10); A stay (25a) that maintains the positions of the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) at a constant level; A support (26) installed on the inner surface of the above-mentioned sealed tank (10) and supporting the shear force acting on the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) and the above-mentioned mounting bracket (25); Bearings (27) each mounted on the front and rear journal portions of the rotary blade (23) of the rotor (22) located in the sterilization section (12) of the sealed tank (10); A pair of bearing housings (28) formed in a semicircular ring shape with one half wrapped around the circumference of the bearing (27) on both sides and fixed to the free end of the support arm (29) to maintain and protect the bearing (27) in a state of being mounted on the journal of the rotor (22); and A pair of support arms (29) each fixed between the two ends of the mounting bracket (25) and the bearing housings (28), connecting and supporting the fixed blade (24) and the rotor (22); A medical waste disposal system including:

4. A sealed tank (10) having a crushing section (11) formed on one side of a horizontal long cylinder, a gasification section (12) formed on the opposite side, an inlet (13) formed in the crushing section (11), and an outlet (14) formed in the gasification section (12); A shredder (20) that shreds medical waste fed into the shredding section (11) through the inlet (13) by the shear force generated between a plurality of rotating blades (23) attached to the periphery of a first rotor (22) that is installed in the shredding section (11) of the sealed tank (10) and rotated by a first motor (21) and a plurality of fixed blades (24) attached to the inner surface of the shredding section (11); A screw (30) installed in the gasification unit (12) of the above-mentioned sealed tank (10), attached to the circumference of the second rotor (32) rotated by the second motor (31), and rotated forward and reverse by the second motor (31) to reciprocate and transport the medical waste crushed in the crusher (20); An insulating plate (35) installed between the crushing unit (11) and the gasification unit (12) and blocking the heat of the gasification unit (12) from being transferred to the crushing unit (11); A microwave heater (40) that generates microwaves when power is supplied to heat medical waste transported by the screw (30) within the gasification unit (12) of the sealed tank (10); A steam generator (50) that produces high-temperature steam; A suction blower (60) connected to the sealed tank (10) and exhaust duct (P1) to suck in and remove gas within the sealed tank (10); A reactor (70) installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) between the sealed tank (10) and the suction blower (60), and supplied with gas within the sealed tank (10) by the suction force of the suction blower (60); A plurality of injection nozzles (71) for injecting fuel sent from a fuel injection pump (72) into the above reactor (70); A microwave generator (74) that generates microwaves when power is supplied; A plasma torch (75) that incinerates gas within the reactor (70) by emitting a plasma jet using steam supplied from the steam generator (50) and microwaves supplied from the microwave generator (74); A control unit (80) that controls the overall operation of the system; and An electric heating coil (100) installed on the inner wall of the gasification unit (12) of the above-mentioned sealed tank (10) and controlling the temperature within the gasification unit (12) by the control of the control unit (80); A medical waste disposal system including:

5. In paragraph 4, The rotary blade (23) of the above shredder (20) is A plurality of first cutters (23b) are formed integrally by arranging them at regular intervals along the outer circumference, and a first rotary blade (23a) is arranged in a tapered shape with a diameter that gradually increases toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at regular intervals along the length direction of the first rotor (22); and A second rotary blade (23c) is formed integrally by arranging a plurality of second cutters (23d) at regular intervals around the outer circumference and is attached to the circumference of the first rotor (22) between the first rotary blades (23a), and is arranged in a tapered shape with a diameter smaller than that of the adjacent first rotary blades (23a) and a diameter that gradually becomes wider as it goes toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10); Includes, The fixed blade (24) of the above shredder (20) is A first fixed blade (24a) arranged in a tapered shape with a length that gradually becomes shorter as it goes toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at a constant interval along the length direction of the first rotor (22) so as to be engaged with the first rotary blade (23a); A second fixed blade (24b) arranged in a tapered shape with a length that gradually becomes shorter as it goes toward the gasification section (12) of the sealed tank (10) at a constant interval along the length direction of the first rotor (22) so as to be engaged with the second rotary blade (23c); A mounting bracket (25) that arranges the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) in a row and fixes them to the inner surface of the sealed tank (10); A stay (25a) that maintains the positions of the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) at a constant level; A support (26) installed on the inner surface of the above-mentioned sealed tank (10) and supporting the shear force acting on the first and second fixed blades (24a) (24b) and the above-mentioned mounting bracket (25); Bearings (27) mounted on the front and rear journal portions of the rotary blade (23) of the first rotor (22) located in the crushing section (11) of the sealed tank (10); A pair of bearing housings (28) formed in a semicircular ring shape with one half wrapped around the circumference of the bearing (27) on both sides and fixed to the free end of the support arm (29) to maintain and protect the bearing (27) in a state of being mounted on the journal of the rotor (22); and A pair of support arms (29) each fixed between the two ends of the mounting bracket (25) and the bearing housings (28), connecting and supporting the fixed blade (24) and the rotor (22); A medical waste disposal system including:

6. In paragraph 1 or paragraph 4, A first gate (15) that opens and closes the above-mentioned inlet (13) according to the operation of the first actuator (16); A second gate (17) that opens and closes the above discharge port (14) according to the operation of the second actuator (18); An electric damper (19) installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) between the sealed tank (10) and the reactor (70) to control the speed and flow rate of air flowing into the reactor (70); A cooler (95) installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) to cool the high-temperature air (combustion gas) coming from the reactor (70); and A filter dust collector (96) installed in the middle of the exhaust duct (P1) to separate and collect fine dust or particulate matter in the air (combustion gas) that has passed through the cooler (95); A medical waste disposal system further comprising:

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