Anodizing Container for Implant Sterilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sterilization and packaging processes for medical implants are time-consuming and costly, requiring separate devices and processes that complicate the preparation and transportation of sterile implants.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a container with a chamber and a carrier that allows for electropolishing, anodizing, sterilization, cleaning, and transportation of implants within a single system, utilizing electrolytic solutions and electrodes for treatment, and a sealing mechanism to maintain sterility until implantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate sterilization and packaging processes are used, then sterilization effectiveness is ensured, but process time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sterilization and packaging operations into a single integrated process. The implant is sterilized in situ within the final packaging container using electrolytic sterilization, eliminating the need for separate sterilization and packaging steps. This merging of operations maintains sterilization effectiveness while significantly reducing process time and the number of handling steps required.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging container is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the sterilization chamber and the final sterile packaging. The container includes electrodes for electrolytic sterilization, sealing mechanisms for hermetic closure, and carrier structures for implant holding. This multi-functionality allows a single device to perform what previously required separate specialized equipment.
2Reliability
If separate sterilization and packaging processes are used, then sterilization quality is maintained, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging sterilization and packaging into one integrated system, the patent reduces process complexity. Instead of coordinating multiple separate processes with different equipment and protocols, the system uses a single container that performs both functions, simplifying the overall workflow and reducing the number of steps required to achieve sterile packaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-functional container design consolidates multiple process requirements into a single device. The container provides sterilization capability through integrated electrodes, maintains sterility through hermetic sealing, and enables transportation. This universality reduces the complexity of managing multiple specialized devices and processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are used for treatment and packaging, then functional requirements are met, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single container design that fulfills multiple functional requirements: sterilization chamber, packaging vessel, and transportation container. This eliminates the need to manufacture and coordinate multiple separate devices, reducing overall system cost while maintaining all necessary functions for implant treatment and sterile packaging.
Solution Approach 2:
By combining the functions of separate sterilization equipment and packaging systems into one integrated container, the patent reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and maintained. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs and simplifies the supply chain while preserving all essential functional capabilities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This integrated system streamlines the treatment and packaging of medical implants, ensuring they remain sterile and reducing the complexity and cost of the sterilization and packaging process, while allowing for efficient preparation and transportation.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing electrolytic solutions and electrodes for treatment
Implementation Method 2
anodizing, sterilization, cleaning, and transportation of implants
Implementation Method 3
a sealing mechanism to maintain sterility until implantation
Data Source
AI summary
A device is for treating and packaging implants. The device includes a container including a chamber therein. The chamber is closed by a removable seal. The device also includes a carrier sized and shaped to be inserted into the chamber. The carrier includes a carrying structure configured to connect an implant thereto. A portion of the carrier may be formed of an electrically conductive material.