Integrated Washer Sterilization Detection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for sterilization and detection of unwanted materials, such as bioburden and pathogens, are inefficient in removing and detecting these contaminants from products, particularly in medical settings.
Innovation Solution
A comprehensive sterilization and detection system comprising a washer with integrated sprayers, emitters, sensors, and displays, which uses fluid spraying, energy emission, and detection technologies to remove and detect unwanted materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sterilization systems are used, then sterilization function is provided, but detection capability is insufficient and efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (washing, sterilization, and detection) into a single integrated system. The washer includes both sterilization components (emitters for UV or other energy forms) and detection components (sensors for detecting bioburden or contaminants), allowing simultaneous or sequential operation of these functions without requiring separate equipment, thereby improving reliability while managing complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The washer is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform washing, sterilization, and detection operations. The system includes adjustable settings for different sterilization methods (UV, heat, chemical) and detection modes, making it universally applicable to various medical instruments and contamination types, thus improving sterilization effectiveness while providing a comprehensive solution.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sterilization methods are combined, then detection accuracy improves, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs detection continuously or at multiple stages during the sterilization process rather than requiring separate detection steps. Sensors monitor contaminants throughout the washing and sterilization cycles, allowing real-time feedback and adjustment, which maintains high detection accuracy without significantly extending the overall processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is configured to detect contaminants before, during, and after sterilization processes. By performing preliminary detection of bioburden levels and monitoring throughout the process, the system can adjust sterilization parameters in real-time, ensuring accurate detection while optimizing cycle duration to prevent excessive time loss.
3Productivity
If advanced detection technologies are integrated, then contaminant removal efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that detect contaminants (bioburden, pathogens, residues) and provide feedback to the control system. Based on detection results, the system automatically adjusts sterilization parameters (intensity, duration, method selection) to optimize contaminant removal efficiency. This closed-loop feedback mechanism improves productivity while managing complexity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection and sterilization functions are divided into separate modular components within the washer. Detection sensors, emitters, and control systems are distinct modules that can be independently configured and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high contaminant removal efficiency through specialized functionality in each segment.
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 effectively removes and detects unwanted materials, ensuring the cleanliness and safety of medical products by utilizing a combination of fluid spraying, energy emission, and advanced detection technologies.
Implementation Method 1
one or more sprayers configured to spray fluid to remove a first quantity of the unwanted materials
Implementation Method 2
an emitter configured to emit energy to remove a second quantity of the unwanted materials
Implementation Method 3
a sensor configured to detect a third quantity of the unwanted materials
Data Source
AI summary
A washing system may include a washer, sprayer, emitter, sensor, and display. The washer may include a housing and one or more supports configured to receive a product associated with unwanted materials. The sprayer may be configured to remove a first quantity of unwanted materials. The emitter may be configured to remove a second quantity of unwanted materials. The sensor may be configured to detect a third quantity of unwanted materials. The display may be configured to indicate a fourth quantity of unwanted materials.