Sterilization Indicator Reader With Color Sensor And Single-PCB Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization indicator reading apparatuses are complex and costly due to the use of photodiodes with filters and multiple printed circuit boards, making them difficult to manufacture and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A compact reading apparatus with a housing containing a well for sterilization indicators, a heating element, an excitation source, and a color sensor, along with a controller circuit, all mounted on a single printed circuit board, which uses a low-cost color sensor to detect fluorescence and verify activation, and features a display visible from a distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If photodiodes with filters are used to detect fluorescent response, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the excitation source, detection circuit, and multiple detection functions into a single integrated printed circuit board assembly. The LED serves both as excitation source and its emitted light is detected by the photodiode, eliminating the need for separate filter components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The photodiode serves multiple functions: detecting fluorescent response from spores, detecting activation of the sterilization indicator, and monitoring the excitation light intensity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection components, simplifying the device structure while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple printed circuit boards are arranged in various configurations, then functionality is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates all electronic components including the excitation source driver, detection circuit, signal processing unit, and control logic onto a single printed circuit board. This consolidation maintains full functionality while dramatically simplifying manufacturing processes and reducing assembly complexity compared to multi-board configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The single printed circuit board is designed with distinct functional zones and modules that can be independently designed and tested, allowing for modular development while maintaining a compact integrated structure that simplifies manufacturing.
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 apparatus provides efficient and cost-effective monitoring of sterilization efficacy by simplifying the design, reducing manufacturing complexity, and ensuring reliable detection of sterilization effectiveness with a user-friendly interface.
Implementation Method 1
a substance fluorescently responsive to spore concentration
Implementation Method 2
A color sensor can be positioned adjacent the well to receive reflected light from the sterilization indicator
Implementation Method 3
a heating element thermally coupled to a portion of the well
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a reading apparatus that a well formed from a portion of a housing. The well dimensioned to receive at least a portion of a sterilization indicator having spores. The reading apparatus can also have a heating element thermally coupled to a portion of the well and an excitation source to excite the substance in the sterilization indicator. The reading apparatus can have a sterilization indicator activation circuit for detecting activation of the sterilization indicator. The excitation source is positioned such that light from the excitation source is directed into the well. A color sensor can be positioned adjacent the well to receive reflected light from the sterilization indicator.