Automated Incubator Self-Sterilization via Component Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated incubators cannot perform dry heat sterilization due to the inability of their mechanics and electronics to withstand high temperatures, limiting their ability to effectively sterilize internal components without using hazardous chemicals.
Innovation Solution
The self-sterilizing automated incubator design relocates all mechanics and electronics outside the incubation chamber, allowing for high-temperature dry heat sterilization cycles up to 180°C, while maintaining control over humidity, CO2, and N2 levels, and using temperature and humidity sensors to regulate conditions safely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dry heat sterilization is performed at high temperatures (120-160°C), then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but the mechanics and electronics inside the incubation chamber cannot withstand the high temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The incubator is divided into two distinct zones: a sterilization chamber that can withstand high temperatures for sterilization, and an incubation chamber that maintains controlled conditions for cell culture. The mechanics and electronics are relocated to the incubation chamber or positioned to avoid high-temperature exposure, allowing the sterilization chamber to operate at sterilization temperatures without damaging sensitive components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanics and electronics are extracted from the sterilization chamber and relocated to the incubation chamber or external positions. This separation allows the sterilization chamber to be heated to high temperatures for effective sterilization while the sensitive mechanical and electronic components remain in a temperature-controlled environment.
2Reliability
If hazardous chemicals are used for decontamination, then sterilization of internal surfaces is achieved, but personnel safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sterilization method is changed from chemical decontamination to physical dry heat sterilization. By altering the sterilization parameter from chemical agents to high-temperature heat treatment, the system achieves effective sterilization of internal surfaces without introducing hazardous chemicals that would compromise personnel safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of high-temperature sterilization (which could damage electronics) into a benefit by relocating electronics to safe zones, thereby enabling effective sterilization without chemicals. The high temperature, which was previously a hazard to electronics, becomes a beneficial sterilization agent for surfaces and components that must be sterilized.
3Extent of automation
If automated object movers are placed inside the incubation chamber, then automation functionality is enabled, but the mechanics cannot withstand high sterilization temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The automated object handling system is segmented into two parts: the automation control electronics and mechanics are positioned in the incubation chamber or external safe zones, while the sterilization chamber is equipped with high-temperature resistant components. This segmentation allows automated functionality to be maintained while protecting sensitive components from high sterilization temperatures.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary heating system is introduced that can heat the sterilization chamber independently of the incubation chamber. This allows the sterilization chamber to reach high temperatures for sterilization while the incubation chamber maintains its controlled temperature environment, protecting the automated mechanics and electronics from thermal damage.
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
Enables safe and efficient dry heat sterilization of internal components within automated incubators, reducing the need for hazardous chemicals and ensuring personnel safety, while maintaining optimal conditions for cell growth.
Implementation Method 1
Dry heat sterilization generally involves subjecting potentially contaminated items to a temperature of 120-160°C for a period of one to two hours
Implementation Method 2
The automated incubator also includes an atomizing nozzle for introducing water directly into the incubation chamber
Implementation Method 3
The heating system also controls the levels of CO2 and N2 in the chamber
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and system for self-sterilizing an automated incubator is disclosed. The internal temperature of the automated incubator is elevated by forcing hot air to flow into the internal incubation chamber, wherein all mechanics and electronics associated with the automated plate mover are outside the internal incubation chamber. During sterilization, the heating system of the automated incubator will force hot air to flow over the internal surfaces of the incubator, thereby reducing contaminating microorganism resistance by inducing dehydration.