UVC Endoscope Sterilization for Rapid Surface Decontamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for sterilizing medical instruments are time-consuming, costly, and inconsistent, leading to healthcare-acquired infections due to inadequate disinfection, particularly in instruments like endoscopes that require thorough decontamination to prevent bacterial transmission.
Innovation Solution
A handheld sterilization device using ultraviolet C (UVC) light from a 3.5 mm×3.5 mm LED, with a wavelength of 275 nm, capable of achieving 4-log to 8-log microbial reduction in less than 10 seconds, featuring a body with an activation switch, indicator lights, and an adapter that can be disposable or reusable, allowing efficient sterilization of instrument surfaces and endoscope working channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sterilization methods are used, then sterilization is achieved, but sterilization time is excessive and cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical/thermal sterilization systems with a UV-C LED-based optical sterilization system. The device uses a 3.5 mm×3.5 mm UV-C LED emitting at 275 nm wavelength to deliver sterile light through an adapter to instrument surfaces, achieving rapid microbial reduction without the time-consuming and expensive conventional sterilization processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sterilization parameters by using UV-C light at a specific wavelength (275 nm) delivered at controlled optical power (10-50 mW) for a short duration (5-10 seconds). This parameter change enables rapid sterilization that is both effective and efficient, reducing sterilization time by up to 66% compared to conventional methods
2Reliability
If conventional sterilization methods are used, then sterilization is achieved, but cost is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable adapter that can be discarded after use, eliminating the need for expensive reusable sterilization equipment and reducing overall sterilization costs. The adapter is a low-cost component that delivers UV-C light through the instrument channel and is then discarded, ensuring single-use sterility without investing in costly reusable systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive conventional sterilization infrastructure with a portable, battery-powered UV-C LED device. This substitution eliminates the need for large sterilization chambers, complex control systems, and expensive operational costs associated with conventional methods, making sterilization accessible and cost-effective
3Reliability
If conventional sterilization methods are used, then sterilization is achieved, but consistency is poor leading to infections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates indicator lights that provide visual feedback to confirm proper sterilization has been achieved. The system includes sensors and control circuits that monitor the sterilization process and indicate when the instrument surface has received adequate UV-C exposure, ensuring consistent and reliable sterilization results that prevent bacterial transmission
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces inconsistent conventional sterilization methods with a controlled UV-C LED system that delivers precise wavelengths (275 nm) at controlled power levels (10-50 mW) for specific durations (5-10 seconds). This substitution ensures consistent microbial reduction achieving 4-log to 8-log reduction reliably
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 device significantly reduces sterilization time by up to 66%, achieves rapid microbial reduction exceeding standard disinfection levels, and prevents infections by ensuring thorough sterilization of medical instruments, including endoscopes, within seconds, thus enhancing provider efficiency and clinical outcomes while reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The devices can deliver ultraviolet light to sterilize an instrument surface(s). In some embodiments, the ultraviolet light can be ultraviolet C (UVC) light.
Implementation Method 2
In some embodiments, the devices can deliver UVC light from a 3.5 mm×3.5 mm light-emitting diode (LED) with a 275 nm wavelength
Implementation Method 3
In some embodiments, the devices can deliver UVC light from a 3.5 mm×3.5 mm light-emitting diode (LED) with a 275 nm wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein generally are sterilization devices that can allow sterilization of surface(s) of instrument(s). Methods of using these devices are also described.