Sterilant-Responsive Sensor Switch for Remote Sterilization Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization indicators rely on visual color changes, which are subjective and lack definitive remote sensing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device with a sterilant-responsive switch that changes impedance states based on exposure to sterilization conditions, integrated with a monitoring loop and antenna, allowing for remote and objective detection of adequate sterilization processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If visual color change indicators are used for sterilization detection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and reliability are compromised due to subjective visual judgment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the visual/mechanical color change indicator system with an electronic sensor system that uses electrical conductivity changes to detect sterilization. The sensor device includes conductive traces, a sterilant-responsive switch, and an integrated circuit that electronically measure and transmit sterilization status, eliminating subjective visual judgment while maintaining relatively simple device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electronic measurement system between the sterilization process and the indication of completion. The sterilant-responsive switch acts as an intermediary element that translates the physical-chemical changes during sterilization into electrical signal changes, which are then processed by the integrated circuit for accurate, objective detection.
2Device complexity
If visual inspection is required to determine sterilization adequacy, then the device complexity is minimized, but the loss of time increases due to manual inspection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automatic feedback system where the sensor device continuously monitors sterilization conditions through the sterilant-responsive switch and provides real-time electronic feedback about sterilization status. The integrated circuit processes the electrical conductivity changes and can immediately indicate when sterilization is complete, eliminating manual inspection time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual visual inspection process with an automated electronic sensing and signaling system. The sensor device automatically detects and communicates sterilization completion status through electrical signals, eliminating the time required for human visual assessment.
3Reliability
If a sterilant-responsive switch with impedance states is integrated into the sensor device, then the measurement precision and reliability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the sterilant-responsive switch, specifically changes in electrical impedance/conductivity, to detect sterilization status. The switch transitions between different electrical states in response to sterilant exposure, providing reliable and measurable signals that indicate sterilization completion without requiring complex mechanical structures.
4Loss of time
If remote sensing capability is implemented through RFID or similar technology, then the loss of time for manual inspection is reduced, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the sensor device with multi-functionality, combining the sterilization detection function with wireless communication capabilities in a single integrated unit. The sensor device can both detect sterilization status through the sterilant-responsive switch and communicate this information remotely via RFID or similar wireless technology, eliminating the need for separate manual inspection processes.
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 and remote sensing capability for sterilization processes, ensuring sterility without the need for visual inspection, and allowing for real-time monitoring of environmental conditions within a sterilization chamber.
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
The presence of an article bearing an RFID tag may be electronically detected by wirelessly interrogating the RFID tag
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.