Rotating Cover Sampling Device for Medical Sterilization Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical sterilization devices lack the ability to determine the effectiveness of their sterilization solutions due to concentration changes and soil levels, making it difficult for users to assess their performance.
Innovation Solution
A sampling device with multiple vessels and a rotating cover mechanism that allows for sequential sampling of solutions within a medical sterilization device, enabling the collection of multiple samples at different stages of the sterilization process, and potentially incorporating real-time analysis using sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single sampling vessel is used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to collect multiple samples at different stages is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device is divided into multiple independent sampling vessels (first sampling vessel, second sampling vessel, etc.) that can be selectively activated. Each vessel corresponds to a specific sampling stage, allowing the system to collect multiple samples at different stages of the sterilization process without requiring a completely complex integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover assembly is made rotatable relative to the base assembly, enabling dynamic switching between different sampling vessels. The cover can rotate to position the orifice over different vessels based on the current sampling stage, providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through mechanical rotation rather than complex electronic control.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sampling vessels are added, then the ability to monitor solution effectiveness improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the orifice for sampling, acts as a rotational mechanism to switch between vessels, and serves as a structural connection between the base and vessels. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while enabling precise monitoring of solution effectiveness at multiple stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling vessels are positioned within the housing structure, with the cover assembly rotating over them. The vessels are nested within the overall device housing rather than requiring separate external structures for each sampling point, which minimizes the increase in overall device complexity while maintaining the capability for multi-stage monitoring.
3Productivity
If the cover is made rotatable to switch sampling vessels, then the ability to collect sequential samples improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly rotates periodically between different positions to bring different vessels into alignment with the orifice. This periodic rotation enables sequential sampling at different stages without requiring continuous complex control mechanisms - the system simply rotates to the next required position based on the sampling stage, providing efficient sequential sampling with relatively simple mechanical action.
Data Source
AI summary
A sampling device and associated methods for assessing operation of a medical washing device includes a base, a cover, a fluid path, a sensor, and a controller. The cover is selectively removably mounted to the base and includes an opening. The fluid path is in fluid communication with the opening, and has an outlet through which the fluid is discharged. The sensor is a sensor of an analytical characteristic, and is disposed in the fluid path. The controller is in communication with the sensors.