Sterile Goods Locator Control for Sterilization-Proof Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sterilizable devices for locating sterile goods face challenges in withstanding high temperatures, moisture, and pressure changes during washing or sterilization processes, which can damage the power source and electronic systems.
Innovation Solution
A sterilizable device with a controller that detects these conditions and temporarily deactivates parts of the electronic system to protect it, using temperature and pressure sensors, and a mechanism to re-activate after conditions are safe, ensuring the device's longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the electronic system remains active during sterilization, then the device can perform locating functions continuously, but the high temperature and moisture will damage the electronic components and power source
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is configured to detect the sterilization process in advance (through temperature and/or pressure sensors) and proactively deactivate the electronic system before damage can occur. This preliminary detection and response action allows the device to protect its components while maintaining the ability to resume locating functions after sterilization completes.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the electronic system is deactivated during sterilization, then the components are protected from damage, but the device cannot perform locating functions during the process
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic system operates in periodic cycles - active during normal use, deactivated during sterilization detection, and reactivated after sterilization completes. This periodic on-off operation based on process detection minimizes the total time the system is non-functional while ensuring protection during critical sterilization periods.
3Reliability
If temperature threshold is set low for early protection, then electronic components are better protected, but the device may deactivate unnecessarily during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The controller acts as an intermediary that processes multiple parameters (temperature and pressure readings) and uses logic to distinguish between sterilization conditions and normal operation. This intermediary processing prevents false deactivation by requiring specific parameter combinations that indicate actual sterilization processes rather than normal temperature variations.
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
The device effectively protects the power source and electronic components from damage during sterilization processes, extending its service life and ensuring reliable operation post-process.
Implementation Method 1
the controller comprises a shape memory element, in particular a bimetal, which can assume at least a first shape and a second shape depending on the temperature
Implementation Method 2
The controller is preferably designed to detect a temperature and to deactivate at least part of the electronic system when a predetermined temperature threshold or a temperature threshold that can be predefined
Data Source
AI summary
A sterilizable device for locating sterile goods includes an energy source and electronic system for transmitting a locating signal. The energy source is configured to supply the electronic system with energy. The device includes a controller configured to detect a washing or sterilizing process and deactivate at least part of the electronic system at least temporarily in the washing or sterilizing process.