Hinged Lid Runoff Seal That Returns Fluid to the Basin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical device processors with horizontal hinging lids face challenges in managing fluid runoff from the lid when the lid is hinged open after a processing cycle, leading to potential contamination of non-decontaminated surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A flexible seal with a base, flap, and protuberance that seals the lid when closed and directs fluid runoff back into the basin when open, using a negative slope to prevent contact with non-decontaminated surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a drainage channel system is provided in the processing tray to receive and direct runoff away from the basin, then runoff can be effectively managed, but additional area outside the sealing interface is required which is not suitable for space constrained applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing function and runoff management function into a single integrated flexible seal structure. The seal includes a first portion that seals against the processing tray and a second portion that directs runoff back into the basin, eliminating the need for separate drainage channels outside the sealing interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible seal performs multiple functions: it provides a fluid-tight seal between the lid and processing tray, and simultaneously manages runoff by directing it back into the basin. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional drainage infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If the lid is hinged open after processing, then access to the basin is enabled, but gravity causes fluid droplets to run down the lid and potentially contact non-decontaminated surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The second portion of the flexible seal acts as an intermediary element that intercepts runoff on the lid and redirects it back into the basin. This mediator prevents direct contact between runoff and non-decontaminated surfaces while allowing the lid to remain open for access.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of allowing runoff to flow outward away from the basin, the seal structure inverts the flow direction by guiding runoff back into the basin. The second portion of the seal creates a pathway that reverses the natural gravitational flow direction.
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
The flexible seal effectively prevents fluid runoff from contacting non-decontaminated surfaces by redirecting it into the basin, eliminating the need for additional drainage channels and maintaining decontamination integrity.
Implementation Method 1
when the lid is in the open position, at a hinge side of the lid at least a portion of a lower surface of the protuberance has a negative slope relative to horizontal in a direction toward an opening in the basin
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical device processor includes a basin, a lid, and a flexible seal that seals the lid when the lid is in a sealed position and directs fluid runoff unimpeded back into the basin when the lid is the open position. The flexible seal includes a base, a flap extending from the base, and a protuberance extending from the flap. The flexible seal may be configured such that when the lid is in the sealed position at least a portion of a lower surface of the flap sealingly contacts a rim of the basin. The flexible seal may further be configured such that when the lid is in the open position, at a hinge side of the lid at least a portion of a lower surface of the protuberance has a negative slope relative to horizontal in a direction toward an opening in the basin.