Sterilization Monitoring via Gas Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for monitoring electron beam sterilization of containers are hindered by the inability to assess the sterilization result in real-time without intercepting radiation, leading to inefficiencies and incomplete sterilization.
Innovation Solution
A system that analyzes the gas or liquid medium from the container post-irradiation to verify the sterilization effect, using a checking device that can be integrated into the sterilization process to measure substances released due to electron beam interaction, such as a mass spectrometer for inline analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor is arranged in a fixed position opposite an emitter window to monitor sterilization, then the sterilization process can be monitored, but the sensor intercepts part of the radiation that cannot then be used for sterilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (gas or liquid medium) that carries information about the sterilization process. Instead of placing a sensor directly in the radiation path, the sensor detects substances that have interacted with the radiation field, serving as a mediator that conveys sterilization data without blocking the radiation beam.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical sensor system that directly intercepts radiation with a chemical detection system. By detecting chemical or physical changes in a gas or liquid medium caused by radiation interaction, the system substitutes direct radiation measurement with indirect chemical analysis, eliminating the need for sensors in the radiation path.
2Measurement precision
If the emitter is moveable and mounted on a carousel to allow measurement when passing the sensor, then the sensor can measure without continuously intercepting radiation, but the sensor still intercepts a significant part of electrons and forms shadows on the surface to be sterilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a gas or liquid medium as an intermediary to carry sterilization information. This eliminates the need for moveable emitters and direct sensor placement, as the medium naturally conveys the effects of radiation interaction without requiring the sensor to be in the direct radiation path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the direct radiation path by detecting substances that have been modified by radiation interaction. This separates the measurement process from the radiation delivery path, eliminating shadows and interference with the sterilization process.
3Measurement precision
If parameters of the emitter are permanently monitored (current and voltage), then the emitter operation can be tracked, but it cannot monitor the quality of the irradiation such as beam profile homogeneity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where the detection of gas or liquid medium changes provides real-time information about irradiation quality. This feedback mechanism allows continuous monitoring of sterilization effectiveness, enabling adjustments to ensure consistent beam profile and radiation distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct electromagnetic parameter monitoring with chemical or physical detection of radiation effects in a medium. This substitution enables indirect measurement of irradiation quality through substance interaction, providing reliable verification of beam homogeneity and distribution.
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
Ensures each container receives a sufficient dose of radiation by providing real-time monitoring and verification of sterilization efficacy, preventing incomplete treatment and optimizing the sterilization process without interfering with the radiation used.
Implementation Method 1
the effect of the radiation is measured on the basis of a gas and/or a liquid medium—in particular taken from the container—in an area or an environment of the container
Implementation Method 2
measure substances released due to electron beam interaction
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A device for sterilizing containers (10) comprising a transport device (2) which transports the containers (10) along a predetermined transport path (P), a first sterilization device (4) which exposes at least one region of the containers (10) to radiation in order to sterilize them, and a monitoring device (6) arranged downstream of the first sterilization device (4) along the transport path (P) of the containers (10) for monitoring the sterilization process. According to the invention, the monitoring device serves to analyze at least one gaseous medium occurring in the region of the containers.