UV-C IV Pole Drape for Faster Equipment Sterilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for sterilizing IV poles and related equipment in healthcare settings are time-consuming, cause material deterioration, and may not effectively prevent the spread of nosocomial infections, diverting staff from direct patient care.
Innovation Solution
A self-sterilizing IV pole system with a reflective drape containing UV LED lights that emits UV-C radiation at 255-280 nm, capable of eliminating 99.9% of microorganisms without the need for disinfectant chemicals or manual scrubbing, by attaching to wheelchairs or stretchers and providing sufficient UV radiation for sterilization within 30 minutes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If strong disinfectant solutions with steam and high pressure are used for sterilization, then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but material deterioration occurs and the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/chemical sterilization system (steam, high pressure, chemical disinfectants) with an optical system (UV-C LEDs). The UV-C LEDs emit ultraviolet radiation at wavelengths between 255-280 nm that directly inactivate microorganisms through photodamage to their DNA and RNA, eliminating the need for mechanical scrubbing, chemical sprays, and extended drying times while achieving effective sterilization within 30 minutes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sterilization parameter from thermal/chemical energy to optical energy. By using UV-C LEDs operating at specific wavelengths (255-280 nm), the system achieves microbial inactivation through a different physical mechanism that does not involve heat, moisture, or chemicals, thereby avoiding material deterioration and reducing processing time.
2Reliability
If strong disinfectant solutions are used for sterilization, then sterilization effectiveness is improved, but material deterioration and cracking occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical disinfectants with UV-C optical radiation. The UV-C LEDs emit ultraviolet light that penetrates surfaces and inactivates microorganisms through photochemical damage to microbial DNA and RNA, completely avoiding the chemical degradation and physical cracking that occur with strong disinfectant solutions on vinyl and leather materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the previously harmful effect of UV radiation (which can degrade materials) into a beneficial sterilization method by using UV-C LEDs at controlled wavelengths and intensities. The system delivers sufficient UV dose for microbial inactivation while limiting exposure time and intensity to prevent material damage, thereby transforming a potentially harmful agent into a safe and effective sterilization tool.
3Reliability
If manual cleaning and sterilization protocols are followed, then infection prevention is improved, but staff time for direct patient care is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service sterilization system where the UV-C LED pole automatically sterilizes the wheelchair and surrounding area without requiring staff to manually clean surfaces. The system is activated by simply positioning the pole and turning it on, allowing the equipment to sterilize itself and the environment autonomously, freeing staff from time-consuming manual cleaning tasks while maintaining infection prevention standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the labor-intensive manual cleaning system with an automated UV-C radiation system. The UV-C LEDs emit ultraviolet light that sterilizes surfaces and air without requiring physical contact, wiping, or drying, thereby eliminating the need for staff to spend time on manual sterilization while ensuring consistent and effective infection prevention.
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 system efficiently sterilizes equipment with minimal staff involvement, reducing the time spent on sterilization processes and minimizing equipment deterioration, while effectively eliminating pathogens, thus reducing the risk of infection transmission.
Implementation Method 1
UV LED lights at a wavelength that kills microorganisms that covers the equipment providing sufficient UV radiation for killing microorganisms
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for sterilizing a wheelchair, stretcher or the like, that comprises an intravenous (IV) pole attaching to the wheelchair or stretcher having an electrical connector at the pole top, and a reflective drape having an interior lined with UV LED lights that electrically connects to the connector on top of the IV pole when draped over the wheelchair or stretcher. The UV LED lights sterilize the wheelchair or other equipment that is under the drape after a period of exposure to UV radiation without using disinfectant chemical sprays or wiping with disinfectant cloths and without staff attention.