JP2013094394A - Sterilization device, sterilization method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent a cartridge in which a sterilant remains from being taken out from a sterilization device so as to prevent a user from contacting the sterilant, and to reduce the disposal cost of the sterilant.SOLUTION: This sterilization device takes out a hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution from the cartridge containing the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution and sterilizes an object. When the cartridge is installed to the sterilization device, the sterilization device locks such that the cartridge cannot be taken out, and performs sterilization processing to dispose of the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution inside the cartridge. The sterilization device releases the lock by the locking such that the cartridge can be taken out after performing the disposal processing of the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution inside the cartridge.

Description

  The present invention relates to a sterilization apparatus, a sterilization method, and a program. In particular, the present invention relates to a sterilization apparatus, a sterilization method, and a program for preventing a cartridge in which a sterilant remains from being removed from the sterilization apparatus and reducing the disposal cost of the sterilant.

  Medical instruments such as syringes and surgical tools cannot be reused because pathogens may adhere to them unless they are sterilized after use, which may adversely affect the human body. For this reason, there are sterilization apparatuses that sterilize objects that require sterilization, such as medical instruments.

As one of the sterilization apparatuses, a sterilization apparatus and a sterilization method for sterilizing an object using hydrogen peroxide as a sterilizing agent have been proposed (for example, Patent Document 1).
JP-T-08-505787

  However, for example, an amount of sterilizing agent for one sterilization treatment is sucked from a cartridge containing a sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution) that can be sterilized multiple times. In the sterilization apparatus that performs sterilization on the cartridge, if the user removes the sterilant remaining in the cartridge during the first sterilization process and the second sterilization process, the remaining sterilant is removed from the sterilizer. Going out, the user can handle the sterilant. Therefore, there is a possibility that a user who does not have knowledge of handling the sterilant will take out the sterilant from the sterilizer.

  Also, the amount of sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution) that can be sterilized for one time does not remain in the cartridge, but if a small amount of sterilizing agent remains, it remains in the cartridge. The sterilizing agent must be discarded. Therefore, for example, when the sterilizing agent is an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, hydrogen peroxide is a chemical designated as a deleterious substance. End up.

  In addition, the sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution) in the cartridge is naturally decomposed with the passage of time after the manufacture of the cartridge. Sterilization effect may not be obtained.

  In addition, when the use of the sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution) in the cartridge is started, components that decompose hydrogen peroxide are mixed in. When a sterilizing agent that has passed a period is used, a sufficient sterilizing effect may not be obtained.

  An object of the present invention is to prevent removal of a sterilizing agent from the sterilizing apparatus in order to prevent the user from touching the sterilizing agent, and to reduce the disposal cost of the sterilizing agent. It is to provide a mechanism that can do this.

  The present invention is a sterilization apparatus for taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from a cartridge containing the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution and sterilizing an object, and removing the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from the cartridge. Sterilizing means for sterilizing an object, lock means for locking the cartridge so that it cannot be removed when the cartridge is attached to the sterilization apparatus, and performing sterilization by the sterilizing means, A disposal means for discarding the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge and a lock by the locking means so that the cartridge can be taken out after the disposal of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge is performed. A sterilizing device comprising: release means for releasing

  Further, the present invention is a sterilization method in a sterilization apparatus for taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from a cartridge containing an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution and sterilizing an object, wherein the sterilization means of the sterilization apparatus includes the sterilization means described above. A sterilization step of taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from the cartridge to sterilize an object, and a lock means of the sterilizer can take out the cartridge when the cartridge is attached to the sterilizer. A locking step for locking so as not to be performed, a disposal step for discarding the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge by the disposal means of the sterilization device performing a sterilization process by the sterilization step, The release means removes the cartridge after the disposal of the hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge. As can be characterized by and a release step for releasing the locking by the locking step.

  The present invention also provides a program that can be read and executed by a sterilizer that sterilizes an object by taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from a cartridge containing an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution. Sterilizing means for taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution and sterilizing an object, and lock means for locking the cartridge so that it cannot be taken out when the cartridge is attached to the sterilizing apparatus. A disposal means for discarding the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge by performing a sterilization process by the sterilization means; and after the disposal of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge, It functions as a release means for releasing the lock by the lock means so that it can be taken out. And wherein the Rukoto.

  According to the present invention, in order to prevent the user from touching the sterilant, the cartridge in which the sterilant remains can not be taken out from the sterilizer, and the disposal cost of the sterilant can be reduced.

It is the figure which looked at the external appearance of the sterilizer based on this invention from the front. It is a figure which shows an example of the structure of the hardware of the sterilizer which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen displayed on the display part 102 of the sterilizer 100. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of each process of the sterilization process by the sterilizer which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of the sterilization process shown to S111 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of the pre-sterilization process shown to S501 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of the sterilization process shown to S502 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of the ventilation process shown to S503 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of the sterilization discharge | emission process shown to S114 of FIG. Concentration furnace 208, valve (V1) 211, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, metering tube 214, valve (V2) 215, vaporization furnace 216, valve (V5) 217 of sterilization apparatus 100 according to the present invention, It is a figure which shows an example of the block block diagram which concerns on the hardware constitutions of the valve (V9) 227. It is a figure which shows an example of the cartridge attachment request | requirement screen 1101 displayed on the display part 102 of the sterilizer 100. FIG. It is the figure which looked at the cartridge 205 containing the sterilant used for the sterilizer 100 which concerns on this invention from the side. It is a figure which shows an example of a sectional view of section 1 when an injection needle is stuck in a cartridge, and an example of a sectional view of section 1 when an injection needle is not stuck in a cartridge.

The sterilization apparatus and sterilization method of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
<Description of FIG. 1>
First, the external appearance of the sterilizer according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 1 is a front view of an external appearance of a sterilization apparatus according to the present invention.

  Reference numeral 100 denotes a sterilization measure according to the present invention, 101 denotes a cartridge mounting door, 102 denotes a display unit, 103 denotes a printing unit 103, and 104 denotes a sterilization chamber door.

The cartridge mounting door 101 is a door for mounting a cartridge which is a container filled with a sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen peroxide solution liquid). When the cartridge mounting door 101 is opened, there is a cartridge mounting location, and the user can mount the cartridge there.
The display unit 102 is a display screen of a touch panel such as a liquid crystal display.

  The printing unit 103 is a printer that prints a history of sterilization processing and printing results on printing paper, and appropriately prints a history of sterilization processing and printing results on printing paper.

  The sterilization chamber door 104 is a door for placing an object to be sterilized in a sterilization chamber in order to sterilize an object to be sterilized (object to be sterilized) such as a medical instrument. When the door 104 of the sterilization chamber is opened, there is a sterilization chamber, and the object to be sterilized can be put in the sterilization chamber by closing the door 104 of the sterilization chamber.

The sterilization chamber is a casing having a predetermined capacity. The pressure in the sterilization chamber can be maintained from atmospheric pressure to vacuum pressure. Further, the temperature in the sterilization chamber is maintained within a predetermined range during the sterilization process.
<Description of FIG. 2>
Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the sterilizer 100 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the sterilization apparatus 100 according to the present invention.

  The sterilization apparatus 100 according to the present invention includes an arithmetic processing unit (such as an MPU) 201, a display unit 102, a printing unit 103, a lock operation control unit 202, an extraction needle operation control unit 203, and a sterilization chamber door 104. , Liquid sensor 204, cartridge 205, RF-ID reader / writer 206, liquid feed rotary pump 207, concentration furnace 208, air feed pressurization pump 209, intake HEPA filter 210, and valve (V1). 211, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, metering tube 214, valve (V2) 215, vaporizer 216, valve (V5) 217, valve (V9) 227, valve ( V7) 226, a sterilization chamber (also referred to as a vacuum chamber) 219, a pneumatic vacuum pump 220, an exhaust HEPA filter 221, and a sterilizing agent decomposing device 222.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid sensor 204, the cartridge 205, the RF-ID reader / writer 206, the liquid feed rotary pump 207, the concentration furnace 208, the air feed pressurization pump 209, the intake HEPA filter 210, and the valve (V 1) 211. , Valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, metering tube 214, valve (V2) 215, vaporizer 216, valve (V5) 217, valve (V9) 227, valve (V7) 226, sterilization chamber (vacuum) 219, a pneumatic vacuum pump 220, an exhaust HEPA filter 221, and a sterilant decomposition apparatus 222 are connected to each other by lines. This conduit is made of stainless steel, a material that is difficult to oxidize.

  An arithmetic processing unit (MPU or the like) 201 performs arithmetic processing and controls each hardware constituting the sterilization apparatus 100.

  Since the display unit 102, the printing unit 103, and the door 104 of the sterilization chamber have already been described with reference to FIG.

  The lock operation control unit 202 is a unit that performs the operation of locking and unlocking the cartridge mounting door 101. By locking the cartridge mounting door 101, the cartridge mounting door 101 is prevented from being opened, and the cartridge mounting door 101 is opened. By unlocking the mounting door 101, the cartridge mounting door 101 can be opened.

  The cartridge 205 is a sealed container filled with a sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or a hydrogen peroxide solution liquid). An RF-ID storage medium is provided below the cartridge 205. The storage medium includes a serial number as information for identifying the cartridge, the date of manufacture of the cartridge, and the first cartridge. The date and time (first use date and time) used in the sterilizer and the remaining amount of the sterilant filled in the cartridge are stored.

  The extraction needle operation control unit 203 is a unit that operates the extraction needle to puncture the extraction needle (injection needle) for aspirating the sterilizing agent in the cartridge from the top of the cartridge.

  That is, when an extraction needle (injection needle) for aspirating the sterilizing agent in the cartridge is inserted from the upper part of the cartridge, the extraction needle (injection needle) is directed toward the cartridge and operated to be lowered from the upper part of the cartridge. Thus, the extraction needle (injection needle) can be inserted from the top of the cartridge. When the extraction needle (injection needle) is removed from the cartridge, the extraction needle (injection needle) can be removed from the cartridge by operating to raise the extraction needle (injection needle) above the cartridge (FIG. 13).

  The liquid sensor 204 is a device that detects whether the liquid sterilant in the cartridge 205 passes through a pipe (conduit) that is connected from the extraction needle (injection needle) to the liquid feed rotary pump 207. Specifically, it is possible to detect whether a sterilant passes through the tube from a spectrum obtained by irradiating the tube with infrared rays.

  The RF-ID reader / writer 206 is a device that can read the serial number, the date of manufacture, the date of first use, and the remaining amount of sterilant from the RF-ID provided on the lower side of the cartridge 205. Further, the device can write the date and time of initial use and the remaining amount of sterilizing agent from the RF-ID reader / writer 206 to the RF-ID provided on the lower side of the cartridge 205. The RF-ID reader / writer 206 is installed at the lower part of the cartridge mounting location behind the cartridge mounting door 101, and reads the RF-ID provided on the lower side of the cartridge 205. Data such as the date and time of first use and the remaining amount of sterilant can be written in the RF-ID.

  The liquid feed rotary pump 207 is electrically connected to the concentrating furnace 208 via a conduit, and is electrically connected to the liquid sensor 204 via a conduit. The liquid feed rotary pump 207 is a device that sucks the liquid sterilant in the cartridge 205 with a pump and sends the sterilant through a conduit to the concentration furnace 208. Further, the liquid feeding rotary pump 207 can suck a predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent from the cartridge 205 in cooperation with the liquid sensor 204.

  The concentrating furnace 208 is electrically connected to the liquid feeding rotary pump 207, the air feeding and pressurizing pump 209, the measuring pipe 214, and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 through conduits. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 10, the concentrating furnace 208 heats the sterilizing agent fed from the liquid feed rotary pump 207 through the conduit using a heater, and evaporates (vaporizes) moisture contained in the sterilizing agent to sterilize. Concentrate the agent. Further, the vaporized water is pushed out to the conduit connected to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 by the air sent through the conduit from the pneumatic pressurizing pump 209 and exhausted from the concentration furnace 208. Further, a valve (1) 211 is provided between the conduit between the measuring pipe 214 and the concentrating furnace 208.

  The air pressure pressurizing pump 209 is electrically connected to the concentrating furnace 208, the intake HEPA filter 210, and a conduit. The air feed pressurization pump 209 is a device that conducts the outside air (air) of the sterilizer 100 through the intake HEPA filter 210 through a conduit with the intake HEPA filter 210 and sends it to the concentrating furnace 208.

  The intake HEPA filter 210 is electrically connected to each other by a pneumatic pressure pump 209, a sterilization chamber 219, a vaporization furnace 216, and a conduit. The inhalation HEPA filter 210 filters dust, dust, germs, and the like in the outside air (air) outside the sterilization apparatus 100 with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) filter to clean the air. Then, the cleaned air is sent to the concentrating furnace 208 through a conduit by an air feeding and pressure pump 209. Further, the purified air is conducted through a conduit with the vaporizing furnace 216 and sent to the vaporizing furnace 216, or conducted through a conduit with the sterilization chamber 219 and sent into the sterilization chamber 219. That is, the intake HEPA filter 210 is electrically connected to the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100. Therefore, a conduit between the air feed pressurization pump 209 and the intake HEPA filter 210, a conduit between the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210, and between the vaporizer 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210 are provided. The conduit is in communication with outside air (air) via the intake HEPA filter 210.

  A valve (V9) 227 is provided in the conduit between the intake HEPA filter 210 and the vaporizing furnace 216. A valve (V 7) 226 is provided in the conduit between the intake HEPA filter 210 and the sterilization chamber 219.

  The valve (V1) 211 is a valve provided in a conduit between the concentrating furnace 208 and the metering pipe 214, and enables conduction by a conduit between the concentrating furnace 208 and the metering pipe 214 by opening the valve. The valve is closed so that the conduit between the concentrating furnace 208 and the metering pipe 214 cannot be connected by closing the valve.

  The valve (V3) 212 is a valve provided in a conduit between the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219. By opening the valve, the conduit between the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 can be connected. The valve is closed so that the connection between the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 is disabled. Further, this valve is provided in the vicinity of the measuring pipe 214, and is provided at a position closer to the measuring pipe 214 than at least a valve (V4) described later.

  The valve (V4) 213 is a valve provided in a conduit between the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219. By opening the valve, the conduit between the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 can be connected. The valve is closed so that the connection between the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 is disabled. This valve is provided near the sterilization chamber 219, and is provided at a position closer to the sterilization chamber 219 than at least a valve (V3) described later.

  In this embodiment, the valve (V4) 213 and the valve (V3) 214 are opened and closed to enable or disable the conduit between the measuring tube and the sterilization chamber. Whether to open or close one of the valve (V4) 213 and the valve (V3) 214 enables or disables the conduit between the measuring tube and the sterilization chamber. Also good.

  The measuring pipe 214 is connected by a conduit between the concentrating furnace 208, the vaporizing furnace 216, and the sterilization chamber 219.

When the valve (V1) 211 is opened, the sterilizing agent flows into the measuring pipe 214 from the concentrating furnace 208, and when the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are opened, the metering pipe 214 is unnecessary from the cartridge 205. This is a device that removes unnecessary air flowing in from the inside of the concentration furnace 208 by the measuring tube 214. Details of the measuring tube 214 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The valve (V2) 215 is a valve provided in a conduit between the metering pipe 214 and the vaporizing furnace 216. By opening the valve, the conduit between the metering pipe 214 and the vaporizing furnace 216 can be connected. And the valve is closed to disable conduction by a conduit between the metering pipe 214 and the vaporizing furnace 216.

The vaporizing furnace 216 is electrically connected by conduits between the measuring pipe 214, the intake HEPA filter 210, and the sterilization chamber 219. The vaporizing furnace 216 is an application example of the vaporizing chamber of the present invention.
The vaporizing furnace 216 is a device that vaporizes the sterilant by being depressurized by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220.

  The valve (V5) 217 is a valve provided in a conduit between the vaporizing furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219. By opening the valve, conduction by the conduit between the vaporizing furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219 is possible. And the valve is closed to disable conduction by a conduit between the vaporizing furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219.

  The valve (V9) 227 is a valve provided in a conduit between the vaporizer 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210, and is opened by the conduit between the vaporizer 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210. This is a valve that enables conduction and closes the valve to disable conduction by a conduit between the vaporizing furnace 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210. That is, the valve (V9) 227 is a valve that can open and close the conduction between the vaporizing furnace 216 and the outside air (atmosphere).

  The valve (V7) 226 is a valve provided in a conduit between the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210. By opening the valve, the valve (V7) 226 is formed by a conduit between the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210. It is a valve that enables conduction and closes the valve to disable conduction by a conduit between the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210. That is, the valve (V7) 226 is a valve that can open and close the connection between the sterilization chamber 219 and the outside air (atmosphere).

  The sterilization chamber (also referred to as a vacuum chamber) 219 is a casing having a predetermined capacity for sterilizing an object to be sterilized such as a medical instrument as described with reference to FIG. The pressure in the sterilization chamber can be maintained from atmospheric pressure to vacuum pressure. Further, the temperature in the sterilization chamber is maintained within a predetermined range during the sterilization process. Further, a pressure sensor is provided in the sterilization chamber 219, and the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 can be measured by the pressure sensor. The sterilization apparatus 100 determines whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 or the like is a predetermined atmospheric pressure using the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 measured by the pressure sensor.

  The air feed vacuum pump 220 is provided in the sterilization chamber 219, the vaporizer 216, the metering tube 214, the conduit between the metering tube 214 and the vaporizer 216, the conduit between the vaporizer 216 and the sterilization chamber 219, The gas in the space in the conduit between the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 is sucked, and the pressure in each space is reduced to a vacuum state (a state filled with a gas having a pressure lower than atmospheric pressure). Device.

  The pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is connected to the sterilization chamber 219 by a conduit, and is connected to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 by a conduit.

  The exhaust HEPA filter 221 is electrically connected to the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 by a conduit. Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 is electrically connected to the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 by a conduit. Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 is connected to the concentration furnace 208 by a conduit.

  The exhaust HEPA filter 221 removes the gas sucked from the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 by the air feed vacuum pump 220 from dust, dust, germs, etc. in the gas sent from the conduit between the air feed vacuum pump 220 and the like. Filter with a High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter (HEPA) filter to clean the aspirated gas. The cleaned gas passes through a conduit between the sterilant decomposer 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221, and is sent to the sterilizer decomposer 222. The sterilant decomposer 222 removes the sterilant contained in the gas. The molecules are decomposed, and the decomposed molecules are released out of the sterilizer 100.

  Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 cleans the gas exhausted from the concentration furnace 208 through a conduit between the concentration furnace 208 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221. This gas is water that has been vaporized by superheating the sterilant in the concentrating furnace 208, but contains a small amount of sterilant. Therefore, this gas passes through a conduit between the sterilant decomposer 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221. To the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222. Then, the sterilizing agent decomposition apparatus 222 decomposes the molecules of the sterilizing agent contained in the gas, and releases the decomposed molecules out of the sterilizing apparatus 100.

  The sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 is connected by a conduit between the exhaust HEPA filter 221. The sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 decomposes the molecules of the sterilizing agent contained in the gas sent from the conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and sterilizes the molecules generated by the decomposition. Release out of device 100.

For example, when the sterilizing agent is hydrogen peroxide or a hydrogen peroxide solution, the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 can decompose vaporized hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen using manganese dioxide as a catalyst. Device.
<Description of FIG. 4>
Next, an example of each step of the sterilization process by the sterilizer according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

Each step (process) shown in FIG. 4 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilization apparatus by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilization apparatus 100.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of each step of sterilization processing by the sterilization apparatus according to the present invention.

  When the sterilizer 100 is turned on, first, the RF-ID reader / writer 206 reads data from the RF-ID (storage medium) provided on the lower side of the cartridge 205 (reading means) (step S101). ).

  In step S101, the data read from the RF-ID (storage medium) includes a serial number as information for identifying the cartridge, the date of manufacture of the cartridge (including the date of manufacture of the cartridge), and the cartridge. Is the date and time when the sterilizer is used for the first time (first use date and time) and the remaining amount of the sterilant filled in the cartridge. That is, an RF-ID (storage medium) provided in the cartridge 205 stores in advance a serial number, date of manufacture, date of first use, and remaining amount of sterilant.

  Next, when it is determined in step S101 that data has been read from the RF-ID (step S102: YES), the sterilizer 100 determines that a cartridge is installed at the cartridge mounting location in the sterilizer 100. Then, the cartridge mounting door 101 is locked (locking means) (step S103). That is, the cartridge is locked so that it cannot be taken out.

  For example, the cartridge may not be taken out by not removing the injection needle inserted into the cartridge (see FIG. 13).

  Then, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not there is a predetermined amount of sterilizing agent for one sterilization in the cartridge. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent acquired from the RF-ID is larger than a predetermined amount for one sterilization. That is, when it is determined that the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent is larger than the predetermined amount for one sterilization, there is a predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent for one sterilization in the cartridge (a sufficient sterilization process can be performed). (Step S104: YES), the process of step S105 is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent is less than a predetermined amount (for example, 8 ml) for one sterilization, there is no predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent for one sterilization in the cartridge (sufficient sterilization). It is determined that the process cannot be executed (step S104: NO), and the process of step S112 is performed.

  In step S105, the sterilizer 100 determines whether a predetermined period (for example, 13 months) has elapsed from the date of manufacture of the cartridge acquired from the RF-ID. That is, it is determined whether or not a condition for whether a predetermined time (predetermined period) has passed since the cartridge manufacturing date (including the manufacturing date) is satisfied.

  If it is determined that a predetermined period has elapsed since the date of manufacture (step S105: YES), it is determined that sufficient sterilization processing cannot be performed, and the process of step S112 is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined period has not elapsed since the date of manufacture (step S105: NO), it is determined that sufficient sterilization processing can be performed, and the process of step S106 is performed.

  In step S106, the sterilizer 100 determines whether a predetermined period (for example, two weeks) has elapsed from the first use date and time acquired from the RF-ID.

  If it is determined that a predetermined period (for example, two weeks) has elapsed from the first use date and time acquired from the RF-ID (step S106: YES), it is determined that sufficient sterilization processing cannot be performed. Then, the process of step S112 is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined that a predetermined period (for example, two weeks) has not elapsed (step S106: NO), it is determined that sufficient sterilization processing can be performed, and the process of step S107 is performed.

The sterilizer 100 displays a sterilization start screen (301 in FIG. 3) on the display unit 102 in step S107.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 102 of the sterilization apparatus 100.

  On the sterilization start screen 301, a “sterilization start button” is displayed. The “sterilization start button” 302 in the sterilization start screen 301 displayed in step S107 can be pressed (activated) by the user.

  Then, when the “sterilization start button” 302 is pressed by the user (step S108: YES), the sterilization apparatus 100 displays a sterilization mode selection screen (303 in FIG. 3) on the display unit 102.

  The sterilization mode selection screen 303 displays a “mode for concentrating and sterilizing sterilizing agents” button 304 and a “mode for sterilizing without concentrating sterilizing agents” button 305.

  The sterilizer 100 accepts selection of either the “mode for sterilizing and sterilizing the sterilizing agent” button 304 or the “mode for sterilizing without concentrating the sterilizing agent” button 305 from the user (step S110). The sterilization process (step S111) according to the mode of the selected button is performed. Details of the sterilization process (step S111) will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Thus, it becomes possible to switch and use the sterilization processing mode with one sterilization apparatus in accordance with a user instruction. That is, when the “concentrate sterilant and sterilize” button 304 is pressed by the user, the sterilant is concentrated and sterilized, and the “mode sterilize without concentrating sterilant” button 305 is displayed. If pressed, sterilization is performed without concentrating the sterilant.

  Then, when the sterilization process (step S111) ends, the sterilization apparatus 100 returns the process to step S100.

  The sterilizer 100 displays a sterilization start screen (301 in FIG. 3) on the display unit 102 in step S112. However, the “sterilization start button” 302 in the sterilization start screen (301 in FIG. 3) displayed in step S112 is displayed so as not to be pressed by the user (the “sterilization start button” 302 is not active). . Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from receiving an instruction to start the sterilization process.

  Then, the sterilizer 100 determines from the serial number acquired from the RF-ID in step S101 whether or not the cartridge installed at the cartridge mounting location has already been subjected to the sterilizing agent discharge processing ( Step S113). Specifically, the memory (storage unit) in the sterilization apparatus 100 stores a serial number for identifying a cartridge that has already been subjected to the sterilizing agent discharge process, and the serial number acquired from the RF-ID in step S101 is stored in the memory. By determining whether or not the serial number stored in the memory (storage unit) matches, the cartridge currently attached to the sterilization apparatus 100 is a cartridge that has already been subjected to the sterilizing agent discharge process. It is determined whether or not.

If it is determined that the cartridge currently attached to the sterilization apparatus 100 has already been subjected to the sterilizing agent discharge process (step S113: YES), the process of step S115 is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the cartridge has not been subjected to the sterilizing agent discharge process (step S113: NO), the entire remaining amount of the liquid sterilizing agent remaining in the cartridge is sucked and all the sterilizing agents are removed. A sterilant discharging process (discarding process) (step S114) that is decomposed and released to the outside of the sterilizing apparatus 100 is performed, and then the process of step S115 is performed. Details of the sterilant discharge process in step S114 will be described later with reference to FIG.
Step S114 is an application example of a discarding unit that discards the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge.

When the process of step S114 is performed, the serial number read in step S101 is stored in the memory (storage unit) in the sterilization apparatus 100 as the serial number for identifying the cartridge that has already been subjected to the sterilant discharge process (step 115). .
In step 115, the sterilizer 100 unlocks the cartridge mounting door 101.
Step S115 is an application example of the release means for releasing the lock by the lock means.

  For example, the lock can be released by removing the injection needle inserted in the cartridge from the cartridge (see FIG. 13).

  If it is determined in step S102 that data could not be read from the RF-ID in step S101 (step S102: NO), the sterilizer 100 has a cartridge installed at the cartridge mounting location in the sterilizer 100. It is determined that there is no cartridge attachment request screen 1101 shown in FIG. 11 (step S116).

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cartridge attachment request screen 1101 displayed on the display unit 102 of the sterilization apparatus 100.
An “OK” button 1102 is displayed on the cartridge attachment request screen 1101.

  Then, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the “OK” button 1102 on the cartridge attachment request screen 1101 has been pressed by the user (step S117). If the “OK” button 1102 is pressed (YES), the cartridge mounting request screen 1101 is displayed. The door 101 is unlocked (step S118), and the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, when the “OK” button 1102 is not pressed (NO), the cartridge attachment request screen 1101 is continuously displayed.

The unlocking and locking process of the cartridge mounting door 101 is performed by an operation by the lock operation control unit 202.
<Description of FIG. 5>
Next, an example of detailed processing of the sterilization processing shown in S111 of FIG. 4 will be described using FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of detailed processing of the sterilization processing shown in S111 of FIG.

  Each process (process) shown in FIG. 5 is performed by controlling the operation of each apparatus in the sterilization apparatus by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilization apparatus 100.

  First, in step S501, the sterilizer 100 operates the pneumatic vacuum pump 220, sucks the gas in the sterilization chamber 219, and reduces the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (45 Pascals). Process. Detailed processing of the pre-sterilization process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S502, the sterilization apparatus 100 performs a sterilization process of sterilizing an object to be sterilized by putting a sterilizing agent in the sterilization chamber 219. Detailed processing of the sterilization process will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, in step S503, the sterilizer 100 performs a ventilation process for removing the sterilant contained in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216. Detailed processing of the ventilation process will be described later with reference to FIG.
<Description of FIG. 6>
Next, an example of detailed processing of the pre-sterilization process shown in S501 of FIG. 5 will be described using FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of detailed processing of the pre-sterilization process shown in S501 of FIG.

  Each process (process) shown in FIG. 6 is performed by controlling the operation of each apparatus in the sterilization apparatus by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilization apparatus 100.

  First, the sterilizer 100 operates the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 to start a process of sucking the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 (step S601).

  In step S602, the sterilization apparatus 100 determines whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (45 Pascals). Specifically, it is determined whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 measured by a pressure sensor provided in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (45 Pascals).

  If it is determined in step S602 that the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has not been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (45 Pascals) (NO), the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is continuously operated to sterilize the chamber 219. And the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S602 that the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (45 Pascals) (YES), the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is continuously operated to sterilize. The gas in the chamber 219 is sucked and the process of step S502 is started.
<Explanation of FIG. 7>
Next, an example of detailed processing of the sterilization process shown in S502 of FIG. 5 will be described using FIG.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of detailed processing of the sterilization process shown in S502 of FIG.

  Each process (process) shown in FIG. 7 is performed by controlling the operation of each apparatus in the sterilization apparatus by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilization apparatus 100.

  First, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve (V5) 217, and conducts the conduit between the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216 (step S701). Thereby, since the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is currently sucked and depressurized by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220, depressurization in the sterilization chamber 219 and in the vaporizing furnace 216 is started (step S702).

  Then, in step S110, the sterilizer 100 determines which one of the “mode for sterilizing and sterilizing the sterilant” button 304 and the “mode for sterilizing without sterilizing agent” button 305 is pressed (step S110). S703). If it is determined that the “mode for sterilizing and sterilizing” button 304 is pressed (YES), the process of step S704 is performed, and the “mode for sterilizing without concentrating sterilizing agent” button 305 is pressed. If it is determined (NO), the process of step S728 is performed.

  Here, first, a case where the “mode for sterilizing and sterilizing sterilizing agent” button 304 is pressed (when sterilizing agent is concentrated and sterilized) will be described.

  In step S704, the sterilizer 100 operates the liquid feed rotary pump 207 to suck out a predetermined amount (2 milliliters) of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205. Then, the sucked predetermined amount of sterilizing agent is put into the concentration furnace 208. The predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent sucked out here is an amount that can saturate the space in the sterilization chamber 219 with the sterilizing agent.

  In step S705, the sterilizer 100 writes the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent remaining in the cartridge 205 in the RF-ID of the cartridge 205 attached to the cartridge attachment location. Specifically, a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined amount (2 milliliters) sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S704 from the remaining amount of the sterilant in the cartridge 205 read in step S101 is stored in the RF-ID.

  In addition, the sterilization apparatus 100 determines that the cartridge is not used this time when the first use date and time (date and time when the cartridge is first used in the sterilization apparatus) read from the RF-ID in step S101 does not include information indicating the date and time. Judged to be used for the first time in a sterilizer. Thus, only when it is determined that the cartridge is used for the first time in the sterilizer, the current date and time information is also written in the RF-ID.

  Next, since the sterilizer 100 heats the heater provided in the concentration furnace 208 whenever the sterilization apparatus 100 is powered on, the sterilant placed in the concentration furnace 208 in step S704 is Heated by the heat of the heater, the moisture contained in the sterilant in the concentration furnace 208 is evaporated (step S706).

  That is, when the sterilizing agent is a hydrogen peroxide solution (also referred to as an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution), the heater provided in the concentration furnace 208 is specifically heated at 80 degrees here. Thereby, water can be mainly evaporated (vaporized), and the sterilizing agent can be concentrated.

  Next, in step S707, the sterilizer 100 determines whether a predetermined time (6 minutes) has elapsed since the sterilizing agent was added to the concentration furnace 208 in step S704. If it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed since the sterilizing agent was put into the concentration furnace 208 (YES), the process of step S708 is performed. On the other hand, if a predetermined time has not elapsed since the sterilizing agent was put into the concentrating furnace 208 (NO), the sterilizing agent is continuously put in the concentrating furnace 208 and the sterilizing agent is subsequently concentrated.

  Next, in step S708, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (500 Pascals).

  When the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and in the vaporization furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined pressure (YES), the sterilizer 100 determines that the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 in step S709. Are opened for a predetermined time (the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are opened for a predetermined time (3 seconds) and the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are closed)). The pressure is reduced. On the other hand, when the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 is not reduced to a predetermined pressure (NO), the sterilant is continuously concentrated.

In step S710, the sterilizer 100 then opens the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 for a predetermined time and closes the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 in step S709. When the valve (V1) is opened for a predetermined time (3 seconds), the atmospheric pressure in the measuring tube 214 is lower than the atmospheric pressure in the concentrating furnace 208 (external). It is sucked in (step S710). Here, by opening and closing the valve (V1) for a predetermined time, the sterilant contained in the concentrating furnace 208 is sucked into the measuring tube 214. Here, not only the sterilizing agent but also the air in the concentration furnace 208 is sucked into the measuring tube 214 together.
After that, the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 is continuously depressurized by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220.

  Therefore, the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is lower than the atmospheric pressure in the measuring tube. Specifically, the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is 400 Pa, and the atmospheric pressure in the measuring tube is a value of atmospheric pressure (101325 Pa). The reason why the pressure in the measuring tube rises to near atmospheric pressure is that not only the sterilizing agent but also the air in the concentrating furnace 208 is sucked into the measuring tube 214 together.

  Next, in step S711, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 for a predetermined time (3 seconds), and sterilizes the air in the measuring tube (not including the liquid sterilant). Sucked into chamber 219. That is, here, when the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are opened and the predetermined time has elapsed, the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are closed.

  Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 has been reduced to a predetermined pressure (80 Pa), and when it is determined that the pressure has been reduced (step S712). The valve (V5) 217 is closed (step S713).

Then, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve (V2) 215 (step S714). As a result, the sterilizing agent in the measuring tube 214 is sucked into the vaporizing furnace 216 and vaporized in the vaporizing furnace 216.
Here, the sterilizing agent is vaporized in the vaporizer as a molecular cluster.

  The inside of the sterilization chamber 219 has a larger volume than the vaporization furnace 216, and in the vaporization furnace 216, the sterilant is vaporized as a molecular cluster.

  That is, as one of the conditions for the sterilizing agent to form a molecular cluster (amount of the sterilizing agent and its temperature, the atmospheric pressure in the vaporizing furnace and its temperature, etc.), there is the volume of the vaporizing furnace. The inner volume is suitable for the sterilant to form a molecular cluster according to the current state of the vaporizing furnace.

  That is, since the volume of the vaporizing furnace 216 is smaller than the volume of the sterilization chamber 219 and the sterilizing agent is suitable for forming a molecular cluster, the distance between the sterilizing agent molecules in the vaporizing furnace 216 is The distance between the molecules of the sterilant in the sterilization chamber 219 is close, and the sterilant is in an environment in which a molecular cluster is easily formed in the vaporization furnace 216.

Also at this time, the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 continues to suck the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 and depressurize the interior of the sterilization chamber 219. The atmospheric pressure rises in the vaporizing furnace 216 into which the sterilizing agent in the measuring tube 214 has been sucked.
That is, the atmospheric pressure in the vaporizing furnace 216 is higher than the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219.

Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (50 Pa) and a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve (V2) 215 was opened in step S714 ( Step S715), when the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined pressure (50 Pa), and a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve (V2) 215 was opened in Step S714 (YES), the pneumatic vacuum The suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pump 220 is stopped (step S716), and the valve (V5) 217 is opened (step S717). As a result, the vaporized sterilizing agent diffuses into the sterilization chamber 219, and the object to be sterilized can be sterilized.
This diffuses because the atmospheric pressure (50 Pa) in the sterilization chamber 219 is lower than the atmospheric pressure in the vaporization furnace 216.

Here, the sterilizing agent that diffuses further subdivides the molecular cluster of the sterilizing agent in the vaporizing furnace 216, so that the sterilizing agent can be further diffused into the sterilization chamber, and the sterilizing action can be enhanced. In other words, this makes it possible to effectively sterilize, for example, the inner lumen of an elongated tube (object to be sterilized).
In addition, it becomes possible to effectively sterilize a fine lumen of an object to be sterilized.

  Here, the sterilizing agent that diffuses further subdivides the molecular cluster of the sterilizing agent in the vaporizing furnace 216, so that the sterilizing agent can be further diffused into the sterilization chamber, and the sterilizing action can be enhanced. In other words, this makes it possible to effectively sterilize, for example, the inner lumen of an elongated tube (object to be sterilized).

  In step S717, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve (V5) 217 was opened. If it is determined that a predetermined time (330 seconds) has elapsed since the valve (V5) 217 was opened. (Step S718: YES), the valve (V9) 227 is opened (Step S719).

  Thereby, since the atmospheric pressure in the vaporizing furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219 is lower than the atmospheric pressure outside the sterilizing apparatus 100, the outside air (air) outside the sterilizing apparatus 100 that has been cleaned with the intake HEPA filter is removed. And is sucked into the vaporizing furnace 216. Then, the sterilizing agent filled in the vaporizing furnace 216 as a gas and the sterilizing agent adhering to the inner surface of the vaporizing furnace 216 are sent into the sterilization chamber 219 by the air sent into the vaporizing furnace 216. The sterilization effect on the object to be sterilized in the sterilization chamber 219 is enhanced. That is, for example, this enhances the sterilization effect on a portion that is difficult to sterilize, such as the back of a thin tube to be sterilized.

In step S719, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve (V7) 226 after a predetermined time (15 seconds) has elapsed since opening the valve (V9) 227, and is further cleaned by the intake HEPA filter 210. Further, outside air (air) outside the sterilization apparatus 100 is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219. This is because the atmospheric pressure inside the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216 is lower than the atmospheric pressure outside the sterilization apparatus 100, so the outside air (air) outside the sterilization apparatus 100 is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219.
Thereby, the sterilization effect | action about the parts which are hard to sterilize, such as the back of the thin tube etc. which are to be sterilized, increases.

  Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 and the inside of the vaporizing furnace 216 have increased to atmospheric pressure, and when it is determined that the pressure has increased to atmospheric pressure (step S721: YES), the valve (V2) 215 is closed.

  Next, the sterilizer 100 closes the valve (V7) 226 (step S723), and resumes the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 (step S724). Thereby, the outside air (air) outside the sterilization apparatus 100 cleaned by the intake HEPA filter 210 is sucked into the vaporizing furnace 216. The sterilizing agent filled as a gas in the vaporizing furnace 216 and the sterilizing agent adhering to the inner surface of the vaporizing furnace 216 are further transferred into the sterilization chamber 219 by the air sent into the vaporizing furnace 216. It is sent.

  As a result, the sterilization effect on a portion that is difficult to sterilize such as the back of a thin tube to be sterilized is enhanced, and the sterilizing agent in the vaporizing furnace 216 can be effectively reduced.

  The sterilizer 100 then closes the valve (V9) 227 after a predetermined time (15 seconds) after resuming the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 in step S724 (step S724). S725).

  At this time, suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 is continuously performed by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220. In step S725, the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 are sealed, and the sterilization chamber 219 and The inside of the vaporizing furnace 216 is depressurized (step S726).

  Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not the process from step S702 to step S726 has been executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 4 times) (step S727). If it is determined that the process has been executed (YES), the process proceeds to step S503. Process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the processing from step S702 to step S726 has not been executed a predetermined number of times, the processing after step S702 is performed again. As described above, by performing the processing from step S702 to step S726 a predetermined number of times, the effect of the sterilization effect on the object to be sterilized is increased, and the object to be sterilized can be sufficiently sterilized.

  Next, a case where it is determined in step S703 that the “mode for sterilization without concentrating sterilant” button 305 is pressed (when sterilization is performed without concentrating the sterilant) will be described.

  When it is determined in step S703 that the “mode for sterilization without concentrating sterilizing agent” button 305 is pressed (NO), the sterilizer 100 determines that the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 is a predetermined pressure ( It is determined whether the pressure has been reduced to 1000 Pa) (step S728).

  When it is determined that the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined pressure (100 Pa) (step S728: YES), the sterilizer 100 operates the liquid feeding rotary pump 207. Then, a predetermined amount (2 ml) of the sterilant in the cartridge 205 is sucked. Then, the sucked predetermined amount of sterilizing agent is put into the concentration furnace 208 (step S729).

The predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent sucked out here is an amount that can saturate the space in the sterilization chamber 219 with the sterilizing agent.

  Next, in step S730, the sterilizer 100 writes the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent remaining in the cartridge 205 in the RF-ID of the cartridge 205 attached to the cartridge attachment location. Specifically, a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined amount (2 milliliters) sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S729 from the remaining amount of the sterilant in the cartridge 205 read in step S101 is stored in the RF-ID.

  In addition, in step S730, the sterilizer 100 does not include information indicating the date and time in the first use date and time (date and time when the cartridge was first used in the sterilizer) read from the RF-ID in step S101. This time, it is determined that the cartridge has been used for the first time in the sterilizer. Thus, only when it is determined that the cartridge is used for the first time in the sterilizer, the current date and time information is also written in the RF-ID.

  And if the sterilizer 100 performs the process of step S730, it will perform the process after step S709 already demonstrated.

  In step S728, when the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 reaches 1000 Pa, the suction of the sterilant is started in step S729, and when the sterilant is completely sucked in step S729, the pressure is less than 500 Pa. Therefore, the process can efficiently shift to S709.

As described above, after the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and in the vaporization furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined pressure (1000 Pascals) at which the pressure reduction in the measuring tube 214 is started, the sucked-in predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent is concentrated. In the furnace 208, the measuring tube 214 can be immediately depressurized in step S709. After that, in step S710, the sterilizing agent in the concentrating furnace 208 is put in the measuring tube, so that the measuring tube 214 is immediately sterilized from the concentrating furnace 208. It becomes possible to put the agent. That is, the sterilizing agent can be put into the measuring tube 214 without being concentrated in the concentration furnace 208.
<Description of FIG. 8>
Next, an example of detailed processing of the ventilation process shown in S503 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of detailed processing of the ventilation process shown in S503 of FIG.

Each process (process) shown in FIG. 8 is performed by controlling the operation of each apparatus in the sterilization apparatus by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilization apparatus 100.
First, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve V (7) 226 (step S801).

  Then, the sterilizer 100 continues the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 (step S802).

  In step S802, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is started, the valve V (7) 226 is closed (step S804), and the pneumatic vacuum pump Suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by 220 is performed. Thereby, the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 is depressurized.

  Next, when the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 is depressurized to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (50 Pa) (step S806: YES), the sterilizer 100 opens the valve V (7) 226 (step S807). As a result, the outside air (air) outside the sterilization apparatus 100 cleaned by the intake HEPA filter 210 is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219. This is because the air pressure inside the sterilization chamber 219 is lower than the air pressure outside the sterilization device 100, so that outside air (air) outside the sterilization device 100 is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219.

  Then, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 has increased to atmospheric pressure, and if it is determined that the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 has increased to atmospheric pressure (step S808: YES), It is determined whether the processing from step S804 to step S808 has been performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 4 times) (step S809). If the processing from step S804 to step S808 has been performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 4 times) (YES), The valve V (7) 226 is closed (step S810), and the ventilation process ends.

  On the other hand, if the processing from step S804 to step S808 has not been performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 4 times) (NO), the processing from step S804 is performed again.

Thereby, the sterilizing agent adhering to the surface in the sterilization chamber 219 and the sterilizing agent remaining as a gas in the sterilization chamber 219 are sucked by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220. The sucked gas (including the sterilizing agent) passes through the exhaust HEPA filter 221, the sterilizing agent is decomposed by the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222, and the decomposed molecules are released to the outside.
<Description of FIG. 9>
Next, an example of detailed processing of the sterilization discharge processing shown in S114 of FIG. 4 will be described using FIG.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of detailed processing of the sterilization discharge processing shown in S114 of FIG.

  Each step (process) shown in FIG. 9 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilization apparatus by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilization apparatus 100.

First, the sterilizer 100 executes the sterilization process described above (step S901). The detailed process (process) of the sterilization process executed in step S901 is the process of FIG. 5 already described.
That is, the sterilization process (FIG. 5) is performed again as a process for discarding the sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution) in the cartridge 205.

Since the detailed process (process) of each process (process) of step S501, step S502, and step S503 described in FIG. 5 has already been described, the detailed process (process) of the sterilization process performed in step S901 is described here. ), A process (process) different from the sterilization process performed in step S111 will be described, and the description of the same process will be omitted.

  In step S703 of FIG. 7 which is a detailed process (process) of the sterilization process in step S502, in the sterilization process performed in step S111, a “mode for concentrating and sterilizing a sterilant” button 304 and “not concentrate the sterilant”. It is determined which of the “sterilization mode” buttons 305 has been pressed. In the sterilization process performed in step S901, one of the modes is set in advance by the user, and the process according to the set mode is performed. It will be.

  Thus, by performing the sterilization discharge process in step S114, the sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution) in the cartridge 205 is vaporized, and the vaporized sterilizing agent is It is decomposed to produce water and oxygen and discharged to the outside.

  That is, the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 decomposes and generates molecules generated by decomposing sterilizing agent molecules contained in the gas sent from the conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221. (Water and oxygen) are discharged out of the sterilizer 100.

  Next, when the sterilization apparatus 100 performs the process of step S901, it determines whether or not a sterilizing agent remains in the cartridge 205 (step S902). If the sterilant remains in the cartridge 205 (YES), the sterilization process is performed again in step S901. If no sterilant remains in the cartridge 205 (NO), the sterilant discharge process (step S114) is ended, and the process of step S115 is performed.

Specifically, in the determination processing in step S902, whether or not the sterilizing agent remains in the cartridge 205 from the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 written in the RF-ID in step S705 or step S730. Determine. That is, when the remaining amount of sterilant in the cartridge 205 written in the RF-ID in step S705 or step S730 indicates 0 (zero), it is determined that no sterilant remains in the cartridge 205, When the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 written in the RF-ID in step S705 or S730 shows a positive value, it is determined that the sterilizing agent remains in the cartridge 205.
<Description of FIG. 10>

  Next, referring to FIG. 10, the concentration furnace 208, valve (V1) 211, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, metering tube 214, valve (V2) 215, vaporization of the sterilization apparatus 100 according to the present invention. A block configuration related to the hardware configuration of the furnace 216, the valve (V5) 217, and the valve (V9) 227 will be described.

  10 shows a concentration furnace 208, a valve (V1) 211, a valve (V3) 212, a valve (V4) 213, a measuring pipe 214, a valve (V2) 215, a vaporizer 216, a valve ( It is a figure which shows an example of the block block diagram which concerns on the hardware constitutions of V5) 217 and valve | bulb (V9) 227.

  In the hardware shown in FIG. 10, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same hardware as the hardware shown in FIG.

  In step S704 and step S729, the liquid feeding rotary pump 207 is operated to suck a predetermined amount (2 milliliters) of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205, and the sucked predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent is put into the concentration furnace 208.

In step S706, as shown in FIG. 10, the concentrating furnace 208 is provided with a heater at the bottom of the concentrating furnace 208, and the sterilizing agent is heated by the heat of the heater. When the sterilizing agent is an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, water is vaporized by the heat of the heater. The vaporized water is pushed out by the air fed through the conduit from the pneumatic pressurizing pump 209 to the conduit connected to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and exhausted from the concentration furnace 208. Thereby, a sterilant (hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution) is concentrated.
As described with reference to FIG. 7, the sterilant in the concentration furnace 208 enters the measuring tube 214 in step S <b> 710.
As shown in FIG. 10, the measuring pipe 214 includes a straight pipe portion 1001 and a branch pipe portion 1002.
The straight pipe portion 1001 is a straight tubular portion. The pipe of the straight pipe portion 1001 is arranged in the direction of gravity.
Further, the branch pipe portion 1002 is a tubular portion extending in a branch shape from an intermediate portion or an upper portion of the straight pipe portion 1001.
The straight pipe part 1001 is installed so that the axis of the straight pipe part and the axis of the branch pipe part 1002 are perpendicular to each other.

  Because of such a configuration, the sterilizing agent that has entered from the concentration furnace 208 is configured to accumulate in the straight tube portion 1001 in the measuring tube 214. A portion where the sterilant is collected in the straight pipe portion 1001 is referred to as a sterilant reservoir portion 1003.

  That is, the sterilant reservoir 1003 has a sufficient space for the sterilant entering from the concentration furnace 208 to enter.

  Therefore, the sterilant that has entered from the concentration furnace 208 is accumulated in the sterilant reservoir 1003, and the air that has entered from the concentration furnace 208 together with the sterilant is a space other than the sterilant space that has accumulated in the sterilant reservoir 1003. It will be full. That is, the space other than the space for the sterilizing agent is a space in the branch pipe portion 1002, and is a space communicating with the space in the branch pipe portion 1002, and therefore, in step S711, the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) By opening 213, the air is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219.

  Then, by opening the valve (V2) in step S714, the sterilant accumulated in the sterilant reservoir 1003 is sucked into the vaporizing furnace 216 and vaporized. As shown in FIG. 10, the liquid sterilizing agent enters the vaporizing furnace 216 from the upper part of the vaporizing furnace 216, so that the sterilizing agent is easily vaporized.

Further, a conduit between the intake HEPA filter 210 and the vaporizing furnace 216 is provided at the upper part of the vaporizing furnace 216 as shown in FIG. Therefore, when the valve (V9) is opened in step S719, air (outside air) passes from the upper part of the vaporization furnace 216 to the sterilization chamber 219 at the lower part of the vaporization furnace 216. It becomes easy to remove the agent and the sterilizing agent vaporized in the vaporizing furnace 216 in a wide range, and it becomes possible to flow more of the removed sterilizing agent into the sterilization chamber 219.

<Description of FIG. 12>
Next, the cartridge 205 containing the sterilizing agent used in the sterilization apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 12 is a side view of the cartridge 205 containing the sterilizing agent used in the sterilization apparatus 100 according to the present invention.
The cartridge shown in FIG. 12 is a cartridge containing an amount of a sterilizing agent that can be sterilized multiple times in one bottle.
As shown in FIG. 12, the cartridge is composed of a container and its lid.

The appearance of the container is in the shape of a cup. The material of the container is polypropylene (plastic) that is resistant to hydrogen peroxide, which is a sterilant.
The lid is bonded to the outer periphery of the container. The lid is made of polypropylene (plastic) that is resistant to hydrogen peroxide, which is a sterilizing agent.
A cross section of the cartridge at the center point of the cartridge as viewed from the upper side of the cartridge is defined as a cross section 1.
<Description of FIG. 13>

  Next, an example of a cross-sectional view of the cross section 1 when the injection needle is stuck in the cartridge and an example of a cross-sectional view of the cross section 1 when the injection needle is not stuck in the cartridge will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view of the cross-section 1 when the injection needle is stuck in the cartridge (left side view) and a cross-sectional view of the cross-section 1 when the injection needle is not stuck in the cartridge (right-side view). It is.

  The lid of the cartridge has a hole for inserting (pricking) the extraction needle (injection needle) for aspirating the sterilizing agent in the cartridge at the center point. It is an insertion port for inserting into the inside of the cartridge from above.

  When the injection needle is stabbed into the cartridge by the operation of the extraction needle operation control unit, a view as shown on the left side of FIG. 13 is obtained. Then, the sterilizing agent in the cartridge can be extracted (sucked). Further, the cartridge is fixed by the injection needle, and the cartridge cannot be taken out.

  Further, when the injection needle is removed from the cartridge by the operation of the extraction needle operation control unit, a diagram as shown on the right side of FIG. 13 is obtained. In this case, since the injection needle is not stuck in the cartridge, the cartridge can be taken out.

As described above, according to this embodiment, in order to prevent the user from touching the sterilizing agent, the cartridge in which the sterilizing agent remains cannot be taken out from the sterilizing apparatus, and the disposal cost of the sterilizing agent is reduced. It becomes possible to make it. Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, there is no need to newly provide a device for vaporizing the sterilizing agent in order to discard the sterilizing agent, and a conduit for conducting the vaporized sterilizing agent to be discarded to the sterilization decomposition device. In addition, it is possible to reduce the cost for manufacturing the sterilizer.
In addition, the present invention is a program that can be read and executed by a sterilization apparatus, and provides the program that causes the sterilization apparatus to function as means for each of the above-described processes (steps), thereby achieving each effect according to the present invention. It is possible.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Sterilizer 101 Cartridge attachment door 102 Display part 103 Printing part 104 Sterilization room door

Claims (8)

A sterilizer for taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from the cartridge containing the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution and sterilizing the object,
Sterilization means for taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from the cartridge and sterilizing the object;
Lock means for locking the cartridge so that it cannot be removed when the cartridge is attached to the sterilizer;
Disposing means for discarding the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge by performing sterilization by the sterilizing means,
Release means for releasing the lock by the lock means so that the cartridge can be taken out after the disposal of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge is performed;
A sterilization apparatus comprising: The cartridge is a cartridge provided with a storage medium storing data relating to disposal of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge,
A reading means for reading the data from a storage medium provided in the cartridge;
The locking means locks the cartridge so that it cannot be removed when the data can be read by the reading means,
A determination unit for determining whether the data read by the reading unit satisfies a predetermined condition;
When the determining unit determines that the data read by the reading unit satisfies the predetermined condition, the discarding unit removes the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge by the discarding unit. The sterilizer according to claim 1, wherein the sterilizer is discarded. The data includes the amount of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution remaining in the cartridge;
The determination means reads the amount of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution remaining in the cartridge read by the reading means as the amount of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution used in one sterilization treatment as the predetermined condition. 3. The sterilizer according to claim 2, wherein it is determined whether or not a condition of whether or not the toner remains in the cartridge is satisfied. The data includes the date of manufacture of the cartridge,
The determination unit is configured to determine whether the manufacturing date read by the reading unit satisfies a condition that a predetermined time has elapsed from a manufacturing date of the cartridge as the predetermined condition. The sterilizer according to 2 or 3. The data includes the date of first use of the cartridge,
The determination unit determines whether the first use date read by the reading unit satisfies the condition that a predetermined time has elapsed from the first use date of the cartridge as the predetermined condition. The sterilizer according to any one of claims 2 to 4.   6. The disposal unit according to claim 1, wherein the discarding unit performs sterilization processing by the sterilizing unit, and discards all the hydrogen peroxide solutions in the cartridge by decomposing using a catalyst. The sterilizer according to item 1. A sterilization method in a sterilizer for taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from a cartridge containing an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution and sterilizing an object,
The sterilization means of the sterilizer takes out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from the cartridge and sterilizes the object,
A locking step of locking the sterilizer so that the cartridge cannot be removed when the cartridge is attached to the sterilizer;
A disposal step of discarding the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge by performing a sterilization process by the sterilization step by the disposal unit of the sterilizer,
A releasing step of releasing the lock by the locking step so that the releasing means of the sterilizer can remove the cartridge after the disposal of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge is performed;
A sterilization method comprising: There is a program that can be read and executed by a sterilizer that sterilizes an object by taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from the cartridge containing the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution,
The sterilizer,
Sterilization means for taking out the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution from the cartridge and sterilizing the object;
Lock means for locking the cartridge so that it cannot be removed when the cartridge is attached to the sterilizer;
Disposing means for discarding the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge by performing sterilization by the sterilizing means,
A program which functions as a release means for releasing the lock by the lock means so that the cartridge can be taken out after the disposal of the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge.

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