Suction Device Sterilization Canister with Integrated Sponge
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sterilizing medical instruments, such as suction devices, are often cumbersome, partially effective, and lack convenient, cost-efficient solutions for preventing contamination and sterilization between uses.
Innovation Solution
A canister with a built-in sponge saturated with an anti-bacterial solution and a screw-on storage compartment for extra solution, allowing for easy sterilization of suction devices and tubing, along with an attached handle for patient use, providing a convenient and cost-effective method for disinfection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sterilization methods are used, then sterilization effectiveness is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The sterilization device is segmented into distinct functional components: a housing containing a saturated sponge for direct contact sterilization, a removable bottom for solution refilling, and an attached handle for portability. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-service sterilization through its design: the saturated sponge automatically contacts the instrument upon insertion, the seal punctures itself when the instrument passes through, and the bottom can be easily removed for solution refilling without requiring complex operations or specialized training.
2Reliability
If comprehensive sterilization is provided, then contamination prevention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sterilization functions are merged into a single integrated device: the sponge provides immediate contact sterilization, the enclosed solution reservoir provides additional disinfection, and the handle provides portable attachment capability. This merging achieves comprehensive contamination prevention without requiring multiple separate devices or complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal applicability: it can sterilize various medical instruments including suction devices and tubing, can be attached to different bedrails via the handle, and allows flexible solution refilling. This multi-functionality achieves broad contamination prevention without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
3Ease of operation
If portable sterilization is provided, then ease of operation improves, but sterilization effectiveness may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sponge is pre-saturated with anti-bacterial solution during manufacturing or initial preparation, and the bottom is pre-filled with additional disinfectant solution. This preliminary action ensures that the portable device contains sufficient sterilizing agent to maintain effectiveness throughout its use period without requiring complex refilling procedures or external connections.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an apparatus for disinfecting a medical instrument comprising: a housing having a first end and a second end; a sponge that is adapted to be received within said housing; an entrance lid that is removably carried by said first end of said housing; an insertion opening defined in said entrance lid, said insertion opening being adapted to receive a medical instrument so that at least a portion of the medical instrument may be inserted into said insertion opening and contact said sponge; a bottom that is removably carried by said second end of said housing, wherein said bottom is adapted to store a disinfecting solution; and a transfer opening defined in said second end of said housing, whereby when said bottom is secured to said second end, said bottom is in fluid communication with said housing.