Sterilisation Autoclave Gap Nozzles for Uniform Steam Circulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization autoclaves face issues with slow diffusion and non-uniform distribution of water vapor, high energy consumption, formation of liquid films and stagnation zones, and require moving components for circulation, leading to inefficient sterilization processes.
Innovation Solution
The use of heating plates with integrated nozzles and coils to introduce sterilizing fluid into the chamber, creating a Venturi effect for rapid and uniform distribution, eliminating the need for moving components and optimizing steam circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If moving components such as fans are used to circulate air and steam inside the sterilisation chamber, then the circulation of air and steam is optimized, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical circulation systems (fans, motors) with a fluid-dynamic system using steam injection and condensation. Steam is introduced through nozzles positioned strategically in the chamber, and its condensation on chamber walls creates natural circulation currents that distribute steam and heat uniformly without any moving mechanical parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The sterilisation system uses the steam itself to create circulation patterns. By injecting steam at specific locations and utilizing the phase change from vapor to liquid upon contact with cooler surfaces, the system generates self-sustaining convection currents that continuously circulate the sterilising medium throughout the chamber.
2Ease of operation
If steam spreading pipes and modulating valves are used to introduce steam, then steam distribution is controlled, but the diffusion is slow and non-uniform
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single steam introduction system, the patent divides the steam injection into multiple discrete nozzles positioned at different locations and heights within the chamber. This segmentation allows steam to be introduced simultaneously at multiple points, creating numerous circulation patterns that rapidly achieve uniform distribution throughout the entire chamber volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions nozzles with specific orientations and locations tailored to different regions of the chamber. Each nozzle is strategically placed to address local circulation needs, ensuring that steam reaches all areas including corners and recesses efficiently, rather than relying on a single centralized injection point.
3Reliability
If high energy consumption is used for operation during vacuum pump depressurisation, heating, sterilisation, cooling steps, then the sterilisation process is effective, but the energy consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent exploits the phase transition of water from liquid to vapor and back to liquid to create a thermally efficient circulation system. Steam injection provides rapid heating, and the subsequent condensation on chamber walls releases latent heat directly to the surfaces needing sterilisation, reducing the total energy required compared to conventional heating methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic cycles of steam injection followed by condensation phases, creating rhythmic thermal patterns that enhance heat distribution efficiency. This periodic action allows thermal energy to be delivered in optimized bursts rather than continuous input, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining sterilisation effectiveness.
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
Achieves rapid and uniform temperature distribution, reduces energy consumption, minimizes condensate formation, and ensures efficient steam circulation without moving parts, enhancing sterilization efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
introducing a flow of sterilising fluid, taken from the outside, into said sterilisation chamber (2) through at least one nozzle (4a, 4b) configured to introduce the flow of sterilising fluid directly into an open gap (6) present in said sterilisation chamber (2), delimited by a plate (3) distanced from one of the internal walls of said sterilisation chamber (2), so that said flow of sterilising fluid introduced into said gap (6) creates a suction dragging effect into said remaining volume ensuring fluid circulation in said sterilisation chamber (2)
Data Source
AI summary
Sterilization autoclave (1) comprising: a sterilisation chamber (2); a removable door; a plate (3) having two opposing sides with a greater extension and positioned in the sterilisation chamber (2) in proximity to a first wall (2a) of said sterilisation chamber (2), said plate (3) being positioned so as to have a first side (2a) of said two opposing sides facing said first wall (2a) and one or more nozzles (4a, 4b) configured to introduce a flow of sterilising fluid into the sterilisation chamber (2), wherein: the plate (3) identifies with said first wall (2a) an open gap (6) having a predefined separate secondary volume and in fluid communication with the remaining volume of the sterilisation chamber (2), said one or more nozzles (4a, 4b) are positioned to introduce a flow of sterilising fluid directly into said open gap (6), so that said flow of sterilising fluid introduced into the gap (6) creates a suction dragging effect into said secondary volume of fluid present inside the remaining volume of the sterilisation chamber (2) ensuring fluid circulation in said sterilisation chamber (2).