Self-Sterilizing Package With Dual-Layer Wall And Gas Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sterilization methods require large, expensive equipment and specialized operators due to the need for toxic sterilizing gases, which poses safety risks and limits mobility and field use.
Innovation Solution
A self-sterilizing package with a dual-layer wall comprising a permeable inner layer, an impermeable outer layer, and an interstitial space containing a reactant and co-reactant that produce a sterilizing gas, allowing for on-site sterilization without external equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sterilization methods using toxic sterilizing gases are employed, then sterilization effectiveness is achieved, but safety risks and equipment complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sterilizing gas from external sources and generates it in situ within the package using a gas-generating component containing reactants that produce the sterilizing gas when activated. This eliminates the need for external toxic gas storage and handling, directly addressing the safety risk while maintaining sterilization effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dual-layer wall structure with an inner permeable layer and outer impermeable layer as an intermediary system. The inner layer allows sterilizing gas to pass through to contact the product, while the outer layer contains any excess gas, acting as a safety barrier that prevents harmful gas exposure while enabling effective sterilization.
2Reliability
If large equipment is used to supply sterilizing gas, then sterilization capability is provided, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The package is designed to be self-sterilizing through the inclusion of a gas-generating component with reactants that produce sterilizing gas autonomously when activated. This eliminates the need for external sterilization equipment, facilities, and specialized operators, directly reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining sterilization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the sterilization function into a compact integrated package containing the product, dual-layer wall, and gas-generating component. This segmentation allows the sterilization system to be miniaturized and portable, eliminating the need for large centralized sterilization equipment.
3Ease of manufacture
If sterilizing gas is generated on-site, then equipment investment is reduced, but control precision and gas efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls the sterilizing gas generation by adjusting parameters such as the type and amount of reactants in the gas-generating component, the activation method, and the package volume. This allows precise control of gas generation to match the specific sterilization needs of different products and package sizes, achieving manufacturing precision without requiring expensive control equipment.
4Reliability
If conventional sterilization systems are used, then sterilization function is provided, but mobility and field use capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sterilization system into a portable, self-contained package that can be easily transported and used in the field. The package includes all necessary components (dual-layer wall, gas-generating component with reactants) integrated into a compact unit, enabling mobility and field use while maintaining sterilization function.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-sterilizing package requires no external equipment, power sources, or specialized facilities to operate. The reactants in the gas-generating component autonomously produce sterilizing gas when activated, enabling the system to function independently in field conditions without infrastructure support.
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
This solution enables safe, efficient, and cost-effective sterilization of products by minimizing exposure to harmful gases and eliminating the need for large equipment, while providing increased mobility and safety benefits.
Implementation Method 1
The interstitial space comprises a reactant and a co-reactant that combine to produce a sterilizing, sanitizing, or disinfecting gas
Implementation Method 2
the inner permeable layer, an outer impermeable layer
Data Source
AI summary
The presently disclosed subject matter provides a system and method for sterilizing a wide variety of products. Specifically, in some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a package that is capable of self-sterilizing by initiating sterilizing conditions inside the package interior without the necessity of being treated with an externally-supplied sterilizing medium. Particularly, the disclosed package includes at least one dual-layer lid that comprises inner and outer layers and an interstitial space that houses a sterilizing gas-producing component.