Portable Circulation Device for Sterilization Chamber Gas Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing washer systems are not designed for optimal mixing and circulation of carrier gases and chemical deactivating vapors or gases, and external blowers, pumps, or fans are inadequate for effective distribution and disposal in decontamination or sterilization chambers.
Innovation Solution
A portable device with a housing, blower, and a movable filter/catalyst element that can be placed in the chamber to facilitate the circulation and disposal of chemical deactivating vapors or gases, using a blower to create high-velocity jets for mixing and an actuator to position the filter for effective destruction during the aeration phase.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If external blowers, pumps, or fans are used to circulate carrier gas containing chemical deactivating vapor or gas, then the chemical deactivating vapor or gas can be introduced into the chamber, but the circulation and distribution throughout the chamber is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation system is segmented into multiple independent portable devices distributed throughout the chamber, each with its own blower and filter assembly. This segmentation allows multiple localized circulation zones that collectively achieve uniform gas distribution throughout the entire chamber, resolving the inadequacy of single external blowers.
Solution Approach 2:
Portable circulation devices with integrated blowers and filter assemblies serve as intermediaries between the external gas supply and the chamber environment. These devices actively mix and distribute the carrier gas containing chemical deactivating vapor, ensuring thorough circulation and contact with all surfaces in the chamber.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a filter or catalyst is placed in the flow path to destroy the chemical deactivating vapor or gas, then the vapor or gas can be removed from the carrier gas, but the filter must be repositioned during different phases of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is designed to be movable within the portable device housing, allowing it to be dynamically repositioned between different operational phases. During circulation phase, the filter is positioned to allow maximum gas flow; during destruction phase, it is repositioned to engage with the chemical deactivating vapor for catalytic destruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system operates in periodic cycles, alternating between circulation phase (where instruments are exposed to chemical deactivating vapor) and destruction phase (where the vapor is removed by the filter). The filter position changes periodically to match these phases, enabling the system to adapt to different operational requirements.
3Ease of operation
If a portable circulation device is placed in the chamber, then adequate mixing and circulation can be achieved, but the device adds complexity to the system configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The portable circulation device integrates multiple functions into a single unit: gas circulation via blower, chemical deactivating vapor destruction via filter/catalyst, and positioning mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate external components, simplifying overall system configuration while maintaining effective circulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable circulation device is self-contained with integrated power supply, control systems, and operational mechanisms. Once placed in the chamber, it autonomously performs circulation and destruction functions without requiring complex external connections or control systems, reducing system configuration complexity.
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 ensures efficient distribution and removal of chemical deactivating vapors or gases within the chamber, enhancing the decontamination or sterilization process by creating turbulent flow and utilizing a chemically active filter to destroy the vapor or gas, thereby improving the effectiveness of the decontamination or sterilization cycle.
Implementation Method 1
using a blower to create high-velocity jets for mixing
Implementation Method 2
The catalyst or filter is comprised of a material that is chemically active with respect to molecules of the chemical deactivating vapor or gas as, by way of example and not limitation, by catalysis
Implementation Method 3
The catalyst or filter is comprised of a material that is chemically active with respect to molecules of the chemical deactivating vapor or gas as, by way of example and not limitation, by catalysis, physical forces, electrical forces, or chemical reaction
Implementation Method 4
Adequate mixing of the carrier gas and the chemical deactivating vapor or gas in the chamber increases the likelihood that the chemical deactivating vapor or gas in the chamber will be conveyed through the catalyst or filter
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A
AI summary
The present invention provides an apparatus for circulating a carrier gas containing a chemical deactivating vapor or gas in a chamber. The apparatus includes a housing defining a flow path therethrough. The housing has an inlet end and an outlet end. A blower is provided for conveying a carrier gas containing a chemical deactivating vapor or gas along the flow path. A filter that includes a filter element is provided. The filter is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the filter element is fluidly isolated from the flow path when the filter is in the first position, and the filter element is disposed in the flow path when the filter is in the second position. An actuator is provided for moving the filter between the first position and the second position.