Sterilizer Guide Duct for Bioindicator Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring sterilization processes, such as the use of physical sensors and biological indicators, are inadequate as they provide indirect or incomplete information and require costly, complex BIER apparatuses for determining sterilization efficacy, which are not widely available and are laborious to use.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allows bioindicators to undergo pre-treatment, sterilization, and post-treatment within a standard sterilizer, using a test tube with a memory sensor to ensure exposure to sterilization conditions, eliminating the need for dedicated BIER machines and simplifying the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated BIER apparatuses are used to determine sterilization efficacy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a standard sterilizer that copies the functionality of a dedicated BIER apparatus by introducing bioindicators through a guide duct and using the sterilizer's existing heating and agitation systems to achieve the same sterilization efficacy measurements without requiring specialized equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The standard sterilizer is made multi-functional by enabling it to perform both normal sterilization operations and bioindicator testing, eliminating the need for separate dedicated BIER apparatuses while maintaining measurement precision through the use of memory sensors and controlled introduction/removal mechanisms
2Measurement precision
If dedicated BIER apparatuses are used for bioindicator treatment, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to limited availability and complex procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation by allowing users to introduce and remove bioindicators themselves through the guide duct and valves, eliminating the need for specialized laboratory equipment and complex procedures while maintaining measurement accuracy through standardized protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares bioindicators in advance in test tubes with memory sensors, and pre-positions the guide duct and valves in the sterilizer, so that when testing is needed, the procedure can be quickly executed without complex setup, improving both ease of operation and measurement reliability
3Ease of operation
If physical sensors are used to monitor sterilization parameters, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to indirect information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses bioindicators as intermediary elements that directly experience the sterilization conditions and provide definitive information about sterilization effectiveness, bridging the gap between simple physical parameter monitoring and accurate sterilization verification without requiring complex dedicated apparatus
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
This approach provides reliable, efficient, and cost-effective monitoring of sterilization processes by ensuring bioindicators are subjected to actual sterilization conditions within the standard sterilizer, reducing the need for specialized equipment and improving the accuracy of sterilization monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
a test tube with a memory sensor to ensure exposure to sterilization conditions
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for characterizing the bioindicators in sterilization processes using an autoclave and the like, in which a bioindicator is kept in the same conditions as the sterilization chamber (2) and extracted after a predetermined time interval. For this purpose the chamber (2) has, passing through it, a tube (5) on the ends of which valves (8-9, 10-11) are mounted, said valves allowing the insertion, from above, of a bioindicator sample and its extraction from below, when required, without a significant loss of sterilizing agent. Alternatively, the duct (5) may also be arranged outside the sterilization chamber (2) and kept in communication therewith by a bypass connection.