Sterilant-Responsive Sensor Switch for Remote Sterilization Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization indicators require visual inspection of color development, which is subjective and lacks definitive remote sensing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device with a sterilant-responsive switch integrated into a monitoring loop, coupled to an integrated circuit, that changes impedance states based on exposure to sterilization conditions, allowing for remote and objective detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual inspection of color development is used to evaluate sterilization indicators, then the method is simple and requires no additional equipment, but the evaluation is subjective and lacks definitive remote sensing capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual inspection system with an electronic sensing system. The sterilization indicator integrates RFID circuitry, conductive traces, and a sterilant-responsive switch that electronically detect and transmit sterilization status, eliminating the need for visual color evaluation and providing objective, remote sensing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor device combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: the RFID tag provides identification and tracking, the conductive traces monitor electrical continuity, and the sterilant-responsive switch detects sterilization conditions. This multi-functional integration enables both remote identification and definitive sterilization verification without requiring separate evaluation systems.
2Reliability
If a sterilant-responsive switch is integrated into the monitoring loop, then remote sensor reading becomes definitive and objective, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the RFID tag, conductive traces, and sterilant-responsive switch into a single integrated sensor device. The RFID circuitry and monitoring loop are combined within the same housing, with the sterilant-responsive switch directly integrated into the electrical circuit, creating a unified system that provides both identification and reliable sterilization detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The sterilant-responsive switch utilizes parameter changes in electrical impedance or conductivity in response to sterilant exposure. When the sterilant contacts the switch, it triggers a measurable electrical parameter change that the RFID reader can detect, providing reliable and objective sterilization verification through electronic parameter monitoring rather than visual assessment.
3Ease of manufacture
If RFID tags without independent power are used, then the tags are smaller and more cost effective, but they require external power from the reader which limits remote sensing capability
Solution Approach 1:
The passive RFID tag harvests power from the electromagnetic field emitted by the external reader to operate its internal circuitry and sensor components. This self-powering capability enables the tag to autonomously perform sterilization monitoring and transmit data without requiring an internal battery or external power connection, maintaining cost-effectiveness while enabling remote sensing functionality.
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 a definitive remote sensor reading, ensuring accurate and reliable detection of adequate sterilization processes without the need for visual inspection.
Implementation Method 1
allowing the sterilant-responsive switch to absorb the sterilant which changes the sterilant-responsive switch from a first impedance state to a second impedance state
Implementation Method 2
When interrogated by an RFID tag reader, the RFID tag wirelessly transmits its ID code to the RFID tag reader
Implementation Method 3
the EAS transponder circuit absorbs and/or reflects energy from the electromagnetic field emitted by the reader through a mechanism (e.g., magnetic field, in near-field such as capacitive coupling or inductive coupling, far-field such as electromagnetic backscattering)
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a sensor device having an integrated circuit and a monitoring loop coupled to the integrated circuit. The monitoring loop includes a first conductive trace and a second conductive trace, each having a first end electrically coupled to the integrated circuit and a second end. The monitoring loop includes a sterilant-responsive switch electrically coupling the second ends of the first conductive trace and the second conductive trace. The sterilant-responsive switch has a first impedance state and a second impedance state. The sterilant-responsive switch modifies an electrical connection between the first conductive trace and the second conductive trace based on exposure to an adequate environmental condition in an adequate sterilization process. The sensor device also includes an antenna coupled to the integrated circuit forming an antenna loop that is distinct from the monitoring loop.