Sterilization Specimen Holder Counter Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sterilization challenge specimen holders lack a mechanism to track the number of uses, leading to potential performance deterioration and errors in recording usage, necessitating a device to count the number of cycles for timely refurbishment or disposal.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical counting device with a shaft, handle, and locking unit that allows one-way rotation, featuring a position indicating assembly and recesses on a locking plate to track the number of uses, ensuring accurate counting and facilitating timely maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sterilization challenge specimen holder is used for a predetermined number of uses, then the device operates reliably, but the device must be discarded or refurbished after the predetermined number of uses occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The counting device is mounted directly to the specimen holder and automatically counts uses through mechanical engagement with the sterilization chamber door mechanism, eliminating the need for manual recording by operators. The device serves itself by tracking its own usage through the opening/closing actions of the chamber door.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual documentation systems with an automated mechanical counting mechanism that uses the motion of the sterilization chamber door to drive a counter, substituting human-operated recording with a self-actuating mechanical system.
2Ease of operation
If documentation of uses is recorded on an instrument separate from the holder, then the holder can be used, but errors in counting occur due to operators forgetting to record uses
Solution Approach 1:
The counting device is physically mounted directly to the specimen holder, merging the counting function with the holder itself. This integration ensures that the usage count is recorded at the source without requiring separate documentation instruments or manual transcription by operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated counting device automatically records uses through mechanical engagement with the chamber door mechanism, eliminating the need for operator intervention and preventing errors from forgetting to record uses.
3Reliability
If the holder is refurbished or discarded after the predetermined number of uses, then performance deterioration is prevented, but it is difficult to track the number of times the holder is used
Solution Approach 1:
The counting device mounted on the holder automatically tracks and retains usage information, enabling the holder to monitor its own service life and providing accurate data for determining when refurbishment or disposal should occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The counting device provides continuous feedback on the number of uses through a visible indicator, allowing operators to monitor the holder's usage in real-time and make informed decisions about refurbishment or disposal based on actual usage data rather than estimates.
Data Source
AI summary
A counting device includes a shaft, a handle affixed to a first end of the shaft, and a locking unit mounted in the handle spaced from the shaft. A locking plate has an opening for accommodating the shaft. The locking plate has a plurality of recesses facing the locking unit for cooperating with the locking unit. A position indicating assembly is coupled to the shaft to move as the handle is rotated. The recesses are arranged in a circular pattern on the locking plate such that the locking unit engages each recess as the handle is rotated around the shaft. The recesses are configured to permit one-way rotation of the handle.