Optical Sensor Cleaning Indicator for Disinfection Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning and disinfection devices are prone to human errors due to manual operation, unreliable visual evaluation of optical properties, and increased costs, which affect the reliability and reproducibility of the disinfection process.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning and disinfection device with a washing chamber, optical sensor, and cleaning indicator that automatically evaluates the optical properties of the active surface, reducing manual intervention and ensuring consistent washing conditions, thereby enhancing the reliability and reproducibility of the disinfection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual positioning of the cleaning indicator is used, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning accuracy and reliability of assessment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-positioning and self-evaluation automatically. The cleaning indicator is automatically positioned in the washing chamber, and the optical sensor automatically evaluates the optical properties of the active surface without requiring manual intervention, thereby achieving both simplicity and high reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical positioning and visual evaluation by operators are replaced with an automated optical sensing system. The optical sensor detects optical property changes automatically, eliminating human error in positioning and evaluation while maintaining system simplicity
2Device complexity
If visual evaluation by operator is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of optical property assessment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Visual evaluation by human operators is replaced with an optical sensor that objectively measures optical properties. The sensor detects changes in optical properties (such as color, transparency, or fluorescence) with high precision, eliminating subjective judgment and human error in the evaluation process
Solution Approach 2:
An optical sensor acts as an intermediary between the cleaning indicator and the evaluation system. The sensor objectively measures optical property changes without direct human intervention, providing precise and reliable data while maintaining system simplicity
3Device complexity
If manual documentation of cleaning process is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and time efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically documents the cleaning process by capturing optical property data and generating assessment results without requiring manual documentation. The optical sensor automatically records measurements, and the system processes and stores the data, freeing operators from time-consuming manual tasks while maintaining simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automatic feedback by continuously monitoring optical properties and generating real-time assessment results. This automated feedback loop eliminates manual documentation requirements, improves productivity, and provides immediate information about cleaning effectiveness without adding complexity
4Reliability
If trained operators perform positioning and evaluation tasks, then reliability improves, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-evaluation automatically without requiring trained operators. The optical sensor and processing unit work autonomously to assess cleaning effectiveness, eliminating the need for expensive trained personnel while maintaining high reliability through consistent, objective measurements
Solution Approach 2:
Manual evaluation by trained operators is replaced with an automated optical sensing and processing system. This substitution eliminates labor costs associated with training and employing skilled personnel while maintaining or improving reliability through objective, repeatable measurements
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 device provides a reliable and reproducible assessment of the disinfection process, reducing errors and costs by automating the evaluation of optical properties and ensuring consistent washing conditions, allowing for efficient and effective cleaning and disinfection of medical and other sensitive items.
Implementation Method 1
The assessment of the cleaning and/or disinfection process is carried out through the visual and manual evaluation of the optical properties, in particular through the visual evaluation of the coloring of the active surface
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~2a
Figure 2b~2c
AI summary
The invention relates to a cleaning and/or disinfection device (100) comprising at least one washing chamber (130), a load carrier (150) movable relative to the washing chamber (130), a washing device (140) for dispensing a cleaning solution (141), a cleaning indicator (120) with at least one active surface (121), and an optical sensor (110). The washing chamber (130) also includes at least one housing (133), at least one door (132), and an inner area (131) at least partially enclosed by the housing (133). During the cleaning and/or disinfection process (100), the inner area (131) is substantially fluid-tight, and the load carrier (150) and the washing device (140) are arranged within the inner area (131).Furthermore, during the cleaning and/or disinfection process, the active surface (121) is located inside and the optical sensor (110) is located outside the inner area (131). In an evaluation state of the device (100), the optical sensor (110) and the cleaning indicator (120) are arranged relative to each other such that at least a portion of the light coming from the active surface (121) of the cleaning indicator (120) reaches the optical sensor (110) to evaluate an optical property of the active surface (121).