Color-Changing Sensor Patch for Sanitizing Efficacy Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current sanitizing processes lack effective detection methods to determine the efficacy of antimicrobial coatings and disinfectant substances in various industries, making it unclear whether surfaces or areas have been adequately sanitized.
Innovation Solution
A sanitizing process detection system comprising a substrate with a sensor patch that changes color upon exposure to disinfecting agents, paired with an optical detector and processor to assess the color change and indicate the efficacy of the sanitizing process, using a smartphone for image recognition and data analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If color indicator products are used to monitor antimicrobial solution levels, then the concentration of antimicrobial solutions can be detected, but it is not always apparent whether a sanitising process has effectively sanitised an area, space or surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color-changing indicators that respond to the presence and concentration of disinfecting agents. The indicator transitions from one color state to another based on the chemical interaction with the disinfectant, providing visual confirmation that the sanitizing process has occurred and been effective, thereby resolving the uncertainty about sanitizing efficacy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a chemical intermediary substance that reacts with the disinfecting agent to produce a detectable signal. This intermediary acts as a mediator between the disinfectant and the detection system, enabling indirect but reliable measurement of sanitizing effectiveness through the chemical reaction products
2Ease of operation
If manual monitoring methods are used to assess sanitising effectiveness, then simplicity is maintained, but accuracy and reliability of detection are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sanitizing monitoring system is designed to be self-indicating through color changes that occur automatically upon exposure to disinfecting agents. The indicator performs the detection function autonomously without requiring manual intervention for assessment, maintaining operational simplicity while achieving accurate detection through the self-changing color signal
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual color changes as the primary detection mechanism, allowing users to assess sanitizing effectiveness through simple visual observation rather than complex measurements. This maintains ease of operation while providing reliable detection through distinct color transitions that indicate the presence and effectiveness of the sanitizing process
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
Provides accurate and reliable real-time monitoring of sanitizing efficacy, ensuring surfaces meet cleanliness thresholds and maintaining records of deployment times and locations, enhancing sanitation protocols in industries like food, hospitality, and healthcare.
Implementation Method 1
a substrate with a sensor patch which is impregnated with a chemical which produces a colour change on exposure to a disinfecting and/or sterilising agent
Implementation Method 2
an optical detector includes a processor and an optical sensor which is operative to detect the colour change
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a system and method for detecting a sanitising process and for determining the efficiency of a sanitising process.A sanitising process detection system comprises a substrate with a sensor patch for detection of a disinfecting and/or sterilising agent.The sensor patch produces a colour change on exposure to disinfecting and/or sterilising agent.An optical detector is configured to detect the colour of the sensor patch at one or more predetermined time instants.A processor compares images of the colour of the sensor patch, at a predetermined instant in time, with a datum (such as control or the colour of the sensor patch prior to exposure to the disinfecting and/or sterilising agent) and its output is used to determine the presence of a colour change and thereby indicates the efficacy of the sanitising process.