JP2015119880A - Sterilization apparatus and control method therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To properly extract a quantity of liquid sterilant to be used in a sterilization process from a cartridge containing the liquid sterilant.SOLUTION: The liquid sterilant is extracted from the cartridge, and after the liquid sterilant passing through the passage way is detected, a gas is introduced into the passage way. According to the number of extraction operations performed to extract the liquid sterilant during a period from the introduction of the gas into the passage way until the liquid sterilant passing through the passage way cannot be detected, the volume of the passage way in a period from the extraction of the liquid sterilant until the detection of the liquid sterilant, and the quantity of liquid sterilant to be used in a sterilization process, the number of extraction operations to be performed to extract the quantity of liquid sterilant to be used in the sterilization process is determined.

Description

  The present invention relates to a sterilization apparatus and a control method thereof, and more particularly to a technique for appropriately taking out the amount of a sterilant used in a sterilization process from a container in which a liquid sterilant is stored.

After using a medical instrument such as a syringe or a surgical tool, pathogenic bacteria may adhere to the medical instrument. Therefore, it is necessary to perform sterilization before the next use.
Therefore, a sterilization apparatus that sterilizes an object that requires sterilization such as a medical instrument is generally known.
As a method for sterilizing a medical instrument used in medical treatment in this way, a sterilization apparatus that sterilizes using hydrogen peroxide gas is known.

In this sterilization apparatus, generally, hydrogen peroxide gas is generated by evaporating an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, and the generated hydrogen peroxide gas is put into a sterilization chamber and brought into contact with an object to be inspected. The object can be sterilized.
Conventionally, a sterilization apparatus provided with a catalyst for decomposing the hydrogen peroxide gas to decompose the hydrogen peroxide gas introduced into the sterilization chamber is also known.
For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a sterilization apparatus and a sterilization method for sterilizing an object using hydrogen peroxide as a sterilizing agent.
JP-T-08-505787

However, a pump (particularly a rotary pump) performs a predetermined operation from one bottle (cartridge) filled with a liquid sterilizing agent (for example, a sterilizing agent containing an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution) used for sterilization. When extracting a predetermined amount of liquid sterilant for sterilization of the pump, it is possible to extract a predetermined amount of liquid sterilant even if the pump performs a predetermined operation with the aging of the pump. It may disappear.
As described above, when the amount of liquid sterilizing agent extracted varies, the sterilizing effect may become unstable.

  In addition, when the tube for extracting the liquid sterilant contains a lot of gas and when the tube is filled with liquid, even if the pump performs a predetermined operation, a predetermined amount of liquid It may not be possible to extract the sterilizing agent. This is because of resistance due to gas, and even if the pump carries out a predetermined operation due to variations in the amount of sterilant transported, it becomes difficult to stably transport a predetermined amount of sterilant. It is because it ends. On the other hand, when the tube for extracting the liquid sterilant is filled with liquid, there is no resistance due to gas, so there is little variation in the amount of sterilant transported. It is easy to stably transport the sterilizing agent.

  That is, if the tube that extracts the liquid sterilant contains a lot of gas, even if the pump performs a predetermined operation, the amount of the gas is smaller than when the tube is filled with liquid. If the amount of liquid sterilant extracted varies, such as when liquid sterilant is extracted, the sterilization effect may become unstable.

  Therefore, in order to check whether a predetermined amount of liquid sterilant has been extracted, it may be possible to install a flow meter in the sterilizer. However, since the flow meter is generally an expensive part, the production cost Becomes higher.

Therefore, a mechanism for extracting a predetermined amount of liquid sterilant, such as a flow meter, is required without having to install a new device in the sterilizer to check whether a predetermined amount of liquid sterilant has been extracted. It is.
An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for appropriately taking out the amount of a sterilant used in a sterilization process from a container in which a liquid sterilant is stored.

  The present invention is a sterilization apparatus for performing a sterilization process for taking out a liquid sterilant from a container in which the liquid sterilant is stored and sterilizing an object, and taking out the liquid sterilant from the container; A path for taking out the liquid sterilant from the container by the take-out means, a detection means for detecting the liquid sterilant passing through the path, an introduction means for introducing gas into the path, and the take-out means After removing the liquid sterilant from the container and detecting the liquid sterilant passing through the path by the detection means, the introduction means introduces a gas into the path, and the gas enters the path. After the introduction, the number of operations in which the extraction means performs the extraction operation before the detection means can no longer detect the liquid sterilant passing through the path, and the liquid is removed from the container. In order to take out the amount of the sterilant used in the sterilization process from the container according to the volume in the path until the liquid sterilant is detected by the detection means and the amount of the sterilant used in the sterilization process. Determining means for determining the number of times of the extraction operation to be performed by the extraction means.

  The present invention also provides a control method in a sterilization apparatus for performing a sterilization process for sterilizing an object using a liquid sterilant supplied through a path for taking out the liquid sterilant from a container in which the liquid sterilant is stored. An extraction step for removing the liquid sterilant from the container, a detection step for detecting the liquid sterilant passing through the path, an introduction step for introducing gas into the path, and the extraction step. After removing the liquid sterilant from the container and detecting the liquid sterilant passing through the path by the detecting step, the gas is introduced into the path by the introducing step, and the gas is introduced into the path. The extraction step was performed until the liquid sterilant passing through the path could not be detected by the detection step. The sterilizing agent used in the sterilization process according to the number of operations, the volume in the path from when the liquid sterilant is detected in the detection step, and the amount of the sterilizing agent used in the sterilization process And a determining step for determining the number of times of the unloading operation by the unloading step to be performed in order to unload the amount from the container.

  According to the present invention, the amount of the sterilant used in the sterilization process can be appropriately taken out from the container in which the liquid sterilant is stored.

It is a front view of the external appearance of the sterilizer based on this invention. 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. It is a figure which shows an example of the cartridge attachment request | requirement screen 1001 displayed on the display part 102 of the sterilizer 100. FIG. It is the figure (side view) which looked at the cartridge 205 of the sterilizing agent used for the sterilizer based on this invention from the side. It is sectional drawing of the cross section 1 of a cartridge when the tip of the extraction needle | hook 203-A is inserted to the bottom of a cartridge or the bottom vicinity in order to attract | suck the sterilant in a cartridge. It is a figure which shows an example of the specific internal structure of the liquid feeding rotary pump. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the detailed process of the frequency | count calculation process of step S1102. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a path until the sterilant sucked out from the cartridge 205 is put into the concentration furnace 208.

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 sterilizer according to the present invention as viewed from the front.

  Reference numeral 100 denotes a sterilization apparatus according to the present invention, reference numeral 101 denotes a cartridge mounting door, reference numeral 102 denotes a display unit, reference numeral 103 denotes a printing unit 103, and reference numeral 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 (for example, a 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 the history of sterilization processing and the results of processing on printing paper, and appropriately prints the history of sterilization processing and results of processing 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. As described above, an object to be sterilized (also simply referred to as an object) is stored in 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.
The sterilization apparatus 100 is a sterilization apparatus that performs a sterilization process of taking out a liquid sterilant from a container (cartridge 205) storing a liquid sterilant and sterilizing an object.
<Description of FIG. 2>
Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the sterilizer according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the sterilization apparatus 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, an air feed vacuum pump 220, an exhaust HEPA filter 221, a sterilant decomposer 222, a liquid feed rotary pump 223, an exhaust And a vaporization furnace 224..

  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 (for example, an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide solution having a hydrogen peroxide concentration of 60%). The sterilizing agent filled in the cartridge 205 contains hydrogen peroxide (solute) as a sterilizing component that produces a sterilizing effect, and is a liquid sterilizing agent in which this hydrogen peroxide is dissolved in water (solvent).
In this example, water will be described as a solvent, and hydrogen peroxide will be described as a solute as a sterilizing component.

  Further, a storage medium such as an RF-ID 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 cartridge. 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 are stored.

  The extraction needle operation control unit 203 is a unit that operates the extraction needle to puncture an extraction needle (a tube for taking out the sterilizing agent from the cartridge) for sucking 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.

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 to the liquid feed rotary pump 207 and the liquid feed rotary pump 223 from the extraction needle (injection needle). It is. 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 liquid sensor 204 is an application example of detection means for detecting a liquid sterilant passing through the path.
Further, the liquid sensor 204 can detect not only the liquid sterilizing agent passing through the path but also the gas passing through the path.

  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 rotary pump and sends the sterilant to the concentrating furnace 208 through a conduit. 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 liquid feed rotary pump 207 is an application example of a take-out means for taking out a liquid sterilant from a container.

  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. The concentrating furnace 208 heats the sterilizing agent introduced from the liquid feed rotary pump 207 through the conduit using a heater, and evaporates (vaporizes) moisture and the like contained in the sterilizing agent to concentrate the sterilizing agent. Further, the vaporized water (gas) is pushed out by the air fed from the air feed pressurizing pump 209 through the conduit to the conduit connected to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 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 introduces 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 concentration 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 purified air is introduced into the concentrating furnace 208 through a conduit by an air feeding and pressure pump 209.

  The purified air is conducted through a conduit with the vaporizing furnace 216 and introduced into the vaporizing furnace 216, or is conducted through a conduit with the sterilization chamber 219 and introduced 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) 213 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 valve (V3) 213 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.

  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 valve (V2) 215 and / or the valve (V5) 217 and / or the liquid feed rotary pump 207 are application examples of the introducing means of the present invention for introducing the sterilizing agent vaporized by the vaporizing means into the sterilization chamber. .

  The vaporizing furnace 216 (also referred to as a vaporizing chamber) 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 means of the present invention for vaporizing a liquid sterilant.

  The inside of the vaporizing furnace 216 is an apparatus that vaporizes the sterilizing agent by introducing a liquid sterilizing agent into the vaporizing furnace 216 that has been decompressed by the air-feeding 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 arithmetic processing unit 201 of 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 an application example of the vacuum means of the present invention for evacuating (reducing pressure) the sterilization chamber.

  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. The exhaust HEPA filter 221 is electrically connected to the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 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 is configured such that the gas sucked from the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 or the like by the air feed vacuum pump 220 is dust, dust, germs, etc. in the gas sent from the conduit between the air feed vacuum pump 220 and the like. Is filtered with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) filter to clean the aspirated gas.

  The cleaned gas passes through a conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221, and is sent to the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222, and the sterilizing agent ( The molecules of the drug) are decomposed, and the decomposed molecules are released out of the sterilization apparatus 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 vaporized by superheating the sterilizing agent in the concentrating furnace 208, but contains water as a main component, but contains a small amount of the sterilizing agent. Therefore, the sterilizing agent decomposing device 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 are included. To the sterilant decomposer 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.

  Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 cleans the vaporized sterilizing agent sent from the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 through the conduit between the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221.

  Then, the cleaned sterilizing agent (gas) passes through a conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and is sent to the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222, and the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 converts the gas into the gas. The molecule | numerator of the sterilizing agent contained is decomposed | disassembled and the molecule | numerator after decomposition | disassembly is discharge | released out of the sterilizer 100. FIG.

  The sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 is connected by a conduit between the exhaust HEPA filter 221. The sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 decomposes sterilizing agent molecules contained in the gas sent from the conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and decomposes them to generate molecules (water , Oxygen) is released out of the sterilizer 100.

  The sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 is an apparatus that can decompose vaporized hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen using a catalyst (for example, manganese dioxide), for example, when the sterilizing agent is an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution. is there.

  The liquid feed rotary pump 223 is electrically connected to the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 via a conduit, and is electrically connected to the liquid sensor 204 via a conduit.

  The liquid feed rotary pump 223 sucks all the liquid sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 by the rotary pump, and sends all the sterilizing agent sent through the conduit between the liquid sensor 204 and the liquid feed rotary pump 223 to the liquid feed. This is a device for feeding to the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 through a conduit between the feed rotary pump 223 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224.

  The exhaust evaporation furnace 224 is electrically connected to the liquid feed rotary pump 223 by a conduit, and is electrically connected to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 by an conduit.

The exhaust evaporation furnace 224 heats all the liquid sterilizing agents in the cartridge 205 sent through a conduit between the liquid feed rotary pump 223 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 by a heater provided in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224. Vaporize all of the sterilant. The vaporized sterilizing agent is sent to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 through a conduit between the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224.
<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 (each hardware) in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 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 (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, and the date and time when the cartridge was first used in the sterilizer. (First use date and time) and the remaining amount of 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 (step S103).

  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.

  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.

  When the sterilization apparatus 100 accepts selection from the user 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 cartridge It is determined whether or not 205 is unopened (step S1101). If it is determined that the cartridge 205 is unopened (YES), a rotation speed calculation process is performed (step S1102). The sterilization process (step S111) according to the mode of the button selected by is performed. Details of the sterilization process (step S111) will be described later with reference to FIG. If it is determined that the cartridge 205 is not unopened (step S1101: NO), the process skips to step S1102, and the process proceeds to step S111. Details of the rotation speed calculation process in step S1102 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S1101, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not information indicating the date and time is included 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. If it is determined that the information indicating the date and time is not included, it is determined that the cartridge is used for the first time in the sterilization apparatus (the cartridge 205 is unopened).

  The process of step S1102 is performed only when the unopened cartridge 205 is used, and is not performed after opening. This is because the aging change of the conveyance amount due to the aging deterioration of the liquid feeding rotary pump 207 is negligibly small within the expiration date of the opened cartridge (for example, two weeks determined in S106).

  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 S101.

  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 (storage unit). 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 sterilizing agent discharge process (step S114) that is decomposed and released to the outside of the sterilizer 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.

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 sterilizing agent discharge process.
In step 115, the sterilizer 100 unlocks the cartridge mounting door 101.

  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, and the cartridge attachment request screen 1001 shown in FIG. 10 is displayed (step S116).

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cartridge attachment request screen 1001 displayed on the display unit 102 of the sterilization apparatus 100.
An “OK” button 1002 is displayed on the cartridge attachment request screen 1001.

  Then, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not the “OK” button 1002 on the cartridge attachment request screen 1001 has been pressed by the user (step S117). If the “OK” button 1002 is pressed (YES), it is for cartridge attachment. The door 101 is unlocked (step S118), and the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, when the “OK” button 1002 is not pressed (NO), the cartridge attachment request screen 1001 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 before sterilization to reduce the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 Pascals). Process the 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.

In the sterilization process in the sterilization process shown in FIG. 5 (including the processes of FIGS. 6, 7, and 8), a tube (conduit) through which sterilization gas flows and each device (hardware) will be described as a sterilization gas path.
<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 step (process) shown in FIG. 6 is performed by controlling the operation of each device (each hardware) in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 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). Here, it is assumed that all the valves of the sterilizer 100 are closed.

  In step S602, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 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 (for example, 45 Pascals).

  In step S602, when it is determined that the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is not reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 Pascal) (NO), the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is continuously operated to sterilize. The gas in the chamber 219 is sucked 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 (for example, 45 Pascals) (YES), the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is continuously operated. Then, the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is sucked, and the process of step S502 is started. When starting the process of step S502, the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is continuously sucked and decompressed by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220.
<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 step (process) shown in FIG. 7 is performed by controlling the operation of each device (each hardware) in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 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 a predetermined amount (for example, 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 S704, the sterilizer 100 sucks a predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent from the cartridge 205 by rotating the transport rotor by the number of rotations calculated in step S1417 shown in FIG. It is charged into the concentration furnace 208.

  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 (for example, 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).

  The reason why the heater provided in the concentrating furnace 208 is always heated when the sterilization apparatus 100 is turned on is to prepare for the case where it is necessary to sterilize immediately by surgery or the like.

  When the sterilizing agent is, for example, an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, the heater provided in the concentration furnace 208 is specifically heated here at 80 degrees. Thereby, water can be mainly evaporated (vaporized), and the sterilizing agent can be concentrated.

  Next, in step S707, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 6 minutes) has elapsed since the sterilant 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 (for example, 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 (for example, 3 seconds), and the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are closed)). The inside of 214 is depressurized. 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 (for example, 3 seconds), the atmospheric pressure in the measuring tube 214 is lower than the atmospheric pressure in the concentrating furnace 208 (external). (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, for example, 400 Pa, and the atmospheric pressure in the measuring tube is a value of the atmospheric pressure (for example, 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 (for example, 3 seconds), and air in the measuring tube (not including liquid sterilant). Is sucked into the sterilization 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. As a result, the air in the measuring tube 214 is sucked out into the sterilization chamber 219, and at this time, the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 is continuously depressurized by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220, so that the air is sucked out into the sterilization chamber 219. The air is discharged outside the sterilization chamber through the exhaust HEPA filter 221.

  Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 80 Pa). In 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 has a volume larger than that of the vaporizing furnace, and in the vaporizing furnace, the sterilizing agent is vaporized as a molecular cluster. This is because the volume of the vaporizing furnace is smaller than that in the sterilization chamber, and the distance between the molecules of the sterilant in the sterilization chamber is so close that molecular clusters are easily formed due to intermolecular forces.

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.
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.

Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 50 Pa) and a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve (V2) 215 was opened in step S714. (Step S715), and when the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 50 Pa) and a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve (V2) 215 was opened in Step S714 (YES) Then, the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum 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 is diffused because the atmospheric pressure (eg, 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 clusters in the vaporization furnace, so that the sterilizing agent can be further diffused into the sterilization chamber, and the sterilization effect can be enhanced.
In addition, it becomes possible to effectively sterilize a fine lumen of an object to be sterilized.

  Next, in step S717, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since opening the valve (V5) 217 (step S718). After opening the valve (V5) 217, the sterilizer 100 determines whether a predetermined time (for example, , 330 seconds) (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.
As described above, the sterilization apparatus 100 is a sterilization apparatus that sterilizes an object using a sterilization gas (vaporized sterilant).

In step S719, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve (V7) 226 when a predetermined time (for example, 15 seconds) has elapsed since opening the valve (V9) 227, and further cleans it with the intake HEPA filter 210. The 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).

  Then, the sterilizer 100 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.

  Next, after the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is restarted, the valve (V9) 227 is closed after a predetermined time (for example, 15 seconds) (step 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 processing 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 processing has been executed (YES), step S503 is performed. Perform the 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 (NO), 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 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 ( For example, 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 (for example, 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).

  In step S729, the sterilizer 100 sucks a predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent from the cartridge 205 by rotating the transport rotor by the number of rotations calculated in step S1417 shown in FIG. 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.

  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 (for example, 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.

  When the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 reaches 1000 Pa in step S728, the sterilizing agent starts to be sucked in step S729, and when the sterilizing agent is sucked in step S729, the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 falls below 500 Pa. be able to.

As described above, after the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and in the vaporization furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined pressure (for example, 1000 Pascals) at which pressure reduction in the measuring tube 214 is started, a predetermined amount of sterilizing agent sucked out. Can be immediately reduced in step S709, and the sterilizing agent in the concentration furnace 208 is then added to the measuring tube in step S710. It becomes possible to put a sterilant immediately. That is, the sterilizing agent can be put into the measuring tube 214 without being substantially 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.
The sterilizer 100 continues to perform the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 after restarting in step S724.
First, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve V (7) 226 (step S801).

  When a predetermined time has elapsed after opening the valve V (7) 226, the valve V (7) 226 is closed (step S803), and then the suction (vacuum evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is continued. )I do. 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 (for example, 50 Pa) (step S804: YES), the sterilizer 100 opens the valve V (7) 226 (step S805). 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 S806: YES), It is determined whether the processing from step S803 to step S805 has been performed a predetermined number of times (for example, four times) (step S807). If the processing from step S803 to step S805 has been performed a predetermined number of times (for example, four times) (YES), The valve V (7) 226 is closed (step S809), the ventilation process is terminated, and the process returns to step S101.

  On the other hand, if the processing from step S803 to step S805 has not been performed a predetermined number of times (for example, four times) (NO), the processing from step S803 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 sucks all the liquid sterilant in the cartridge 205 by the liquid feed rotary pump 223 and sends it through a conduit between the liquid sensor 204 and the liquid feed rotary pump 223. All the sterilizing agents are introduced into the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 through a conduit between the liquid feed rotary pump 223 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 (step S901).

  The sterilization apparatus 100 is configured so that all the liquid sterilizing agents (sterilizing agents stored in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224) are sent by the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 through the conduit between the liquid feed rotary pump 223 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224. Is heated by a heater provided in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 to vaporize all of the sterilant. The vaporized sterilizing agent is sent to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 through a conduit between the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 (step S902).

  Here, the heater provided in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 is heated to a temperature higher than the boiling point of the sterilant (hydrogen peroxide) (the boiling point of hydrogen peroxide is 141 degrees). Therefore, all of the sterilizing agent is vaporized by the exhaust evaporation furnace 224.

  Then, the sterilizer 100 cleans the vaporized sterilant sent through the conduit between the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 with the exhaust HEPA filter 221, (Containing the agent) passes through the conduit between the sterilant decomposer 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and is sent to the sterilizer decomposer 222.

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 generates molecules generated by decomposing. Is released out of the sterilizer 100 (step S903).
<Description of FIG. 11>
Next, the state of the cartridge 205 and the extraction needle 203-A inserted into the cartridge 205 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 11 is a side view of the sterilizing agent cartridge 205 used in the sterilization apparatus according to the present invention as viewed from the side.

  The cartridge shown in FIG. 11 is a cartridge that contains a sterilizing agent in an amount that can be sterilized multiple times in one bottle.

  The cartridge shown in FIG. 11 contains a chemical solution containing hydrogen peroxide (medicine) used as a sterilizing agent.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the cartridge includes a first container and a lid of the first container.

  The external appearance of the first container has a cup shape. The material (material) of the first container is polypropylene (plastic) that is resistant to hydrogen peroxide as a sterilant. The first container is also provided to protect a second container described later.

  The lid is a lid for closing the first container above the first container. In other words, the lid is bonded to the flange on the outer periphery of the first 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. 12>

  Next, the internal structure of the cartridge when the tip of the extraction needle 203-A is inserted to the bottom of the cartridge or near the bottom in order to suck the sterilizing agent in the cartridge will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the cross section 1 of the cartridge when the tip of the extraction needle 203-A is inserted to the bottom of the cartridge or near the bottom in order to suck the sterilizing agent in the cartridge.

  The sterilizer 100 operates so that the extraction needle 203-A (injection needle) is directed toward the cartridge and is lowered from the upper part (upper side) to the lower part (lower side) of the cartridge. The extraction needle 203-A (injection needle) is inserted into the opening portion).

  At this time, the sterilizer 100 operates so that the injection needle penetrates the hole of the lid and the hole of the cap, and the tip of the injection needle comes to the lower part of the second container 409.

As shown in FIG. 12, in step S103, the sterilizing agent in the cartridge can be extracted by inserting the injection needle to the bottom or near the bottom of the cartridge.
<Description of FIG. 13>
Next, a specific internal configuration of the liquid feeding rotary pump 207 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a specific internal configuration of the liquid feeding rotary pump 207.

The liquid feed rotary pump 207 includes a tube 1303 on the tube IN side, a tube 1304 on the tube OUT side, a housing 1301, and a disk-shaped transfer rotor 1302.
The tube 1303 on the tube IN side corresponds to 501-B shown in FIG. 15, and the tube 1304 on the tube OUT side corresponds to 501-C in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the drive shaft of the transport rotor 1302 is provided at the center point of the housing 1301, and the drive shaft is provided eccentric to the transport rotor 1302.

Then, the conveying rotor 1302 incorporated in the housing 1301 rotates, and the sterilant is conveyed from the tube 1303 on the tube IN side to the tube 1304 on the tube OUT side by squeezing the tube (tube) in the housing.
FIG. 13A shows a state in which the sterilant is conveyed to the tube 1303 on the tube IN side.
FIG.13 (b) has shown that the sterilant in a tube is conveyed by the conveyance rotor 302 turning counterclockwise from the state of Fig.13 (a).
The liquid feed rotary pump 207 has a characteristic that the transport amount per one rotation of the transport rotor 1302 varies depending on the state of filling the sterilizing agent in the tube.

For example, the transport amount per one rotation of the transport rotor 1302 varies depending on whether the tube (tube) is filled with the sterilizing agent or the tube (tube) is filled with the sterilizing agent.
Further, in the state where all the tubes are filled with the sterilizing agent, the conveying amount per one rotation of the conveying rotor 1302 is not easily changed, and the sterilizing agent can be stably conveyed.
<Description of FIG. 14>
Next, detailed processing of the number calculation processing in step S1102 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of detailed processing of the number of times calculation processing in step S1102.
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a path until the sterilant sucked out from the cartridge 205 is put into the concentration furnace 208.
As shown in FIG. 15, the devices described in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted here.

  501 -C shown in FIG. 15 is a conduit through which the concentrating furnace 208 and the liquid feed rotary pump 207 are conducted, and 501 -B is a conduit through which the liquid sensor 204 and the liquid feed rotary pump 207 are conducted. 501-A is a conduit through which the liquid sensor 204 and the extraction pipe (203-A) are conducted.

  Reference numerals 501 -A, 501 -B, and 501 -C are application examples of paths for taking out a liquid sterilant from the cartridge 205 (container) by the liquid feed rotary pump 207 (takeout means).

  There is no sterilant remaining in each part (203-A, 501-A, 501-B, 207, 501-C) constituting the sterilant transport path (in the path for transporting the sterilant). To do.

Further, the volume inside the 203-A extraction tube and the total volume of 501-A are measured in advance, and this volume is defined as VX. Further, the total volume of 501-B, 207, and 501-C is measured in advance, and this volume is defined as VY.
FIG. 15A shows a state in which the tip of the extraction tube (extraction needle) 203-A is not immersed in the liquid sterilant in the cartridge.

FIG. 15B shows a state in which the tip of the extraction tube (extraction needle) 203-A is immersed in the liquid sterilant in the cartridge, and the sterilant and air are conveyed by the extraction tube. It shows the state.
Each process (process) shown in FIG. 14 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, under the control of the extraction needle operation control unit 503, the sterilizer 100 moves the extraction needle 203-A to a position where the liquid sterilant in the cartridge 205 can be sucked out (S1401).
Then, the sterilizer 100 rotates the transport rotor 1302 of the liquid feeding rotary pump 507 to suck out the sterilant (S1402).

  Then, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not the liquid sensor 204 has detected the liquid sterilant. If it is determined that the liquid sterilizer has detected (step S1403), the rotation of the transport rotor 1302 is stopped and the sterilant is stopped. Stop sucking out. On the other hand, when the liquid sensor 204 detects the liquid sterilant and determines that it is in the house (step S1403: NO), the transport rotor 1302 is continuously rotated to suck out the sterilant.

  When it is determined in step S1403 that the liquid sensor 204 has detected the liquid sterilant and the rotation of the transport rotor 1302 is stopped, the sterilizer 100 determines the number of rotations (RX) that the transport rotor 1302 has rotated in step S1403. Using the liquid sensor 204 and the volume (VX) in the tube up to the tip of the extraction tube (203-A), the amount of liquid sterilant (CX) conveyed by one rotation of the conveying rotor 1302 is calculated. (Step S1404).

  Specifically, a value obtained by dividing the volume (VX) in the tube up to the tip of the liquid sensor 204 and the extraction tube (203-A) by the number of rotations (RX) that the transport rotor 1302 is rotated in step S1403. Is the amount (CX) of the liquid sterilant that is transported by one rotation of the transport rotor 1302.

Here, the amount (CX) of the liquid sterilant transported by one rotation of the transport rotor 1302 is the amount of liquid transported by one rotation of the transport rotor 1302 in a state where air is contained in the pipe. The amount of sterilant.
Next, the sterilizer 100 calculates the number of rotations (RY) necessary for transporting the liquid sterilant to the concentration furnace 208 (step S1405).

  In step S1405, specifically, the volume (VY) in the pipes (501-B, 502-C) from the liquid sensor 204 to the concentrating furnace is rotated once by the CX (conveying rotor 1302) calculated in step S1404. Then, the value obtained by dividing by the amount of liquid sterilant transported) is calculated as the number of revolutions (RY) necessary for transporting the liquid sterilant to the concentration furnace 208.

  At this time, since the pipes (501-B, 502-C) from the liquid sensor 204 to the concentrating furnace contain gas, the rotation calculated above is taken into consideration when the resistance due to the gas is taken into consideration. It is necessary to rotate the transport rotor 1302 more than the number (RY).

Therefore, in step 1405, the correction coefficient h (a value equal to or greater than 1 and obtained by experiment) is further multiplied by the rotation speed (RY) calculated above, and the obtained value is multiplied by the rotation speed. Calculate as (RY).
h is a predetermined correction coefficient representing a decrease in the conveyance amount when the path is not filled with a sterilizing agent, and takes a value of 1 or more.

The sterilizer 100 rotates the transport rotor 1302 of the liquid feeding rotary pump 507 only RY times calculated in step S145, and the tube (path) of the tube from the tip of the extraction tube (extraction needle 203-A) to the concentration furnace 208 is routed. All the routes (VX and VY) are filled with the liquid sterilant (S1406).
In this way, all the paths (VX and VY) of the pipe (path) from the tip of the extraction pipe (extraction needle 203-A) to the concentration furnace 208 are once filled with the liquid sterilant.

  Next, the sterilizer 100 raises the extraction needle 203-A to a position where it is not immersed in the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 under the control of the extraction needle operation control unit 203 (S1407).

Then, the sterilizer 100 rotates the transport rotor 1302 of the liquid feeding rotary pump 207 by ra times (for example, once) to take in air into the extraction needle 203-A (S1408).
Steps S1407 and S1408 are application examples of the introducing means for introducing gas into the path of the present invention.

  Then, the sterilizer 100 inserts the extraction needle 203-A to a position where the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 can be sucked out by the control of the extraction needle operation control unit 203 (S1409).

  Then, the sterilizer 100 rotates the transport rotor 1302 of the liquid feeding rotary pump 507 only rb times (for example, once) to extract the sterilizing agent into the extraction needle 503 -A (S1410).

  The sterilizer 100 then raises the extraction needle 203-A to a position where it is not immersed in the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 under the control of the extraction needle operation control unit 203 (S1411).

  Then, the sterilizer 100 rotates the transport rotor 1302 of the liquid feeding rotary pump 207 rc times (for example, once) to take in air into the extraction needle 203-A (S1412).

The sterilization apparatus 100 then inserts the extraction needle 203-A to a position where the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 can be sucked out under the control of the extraction needle operation control unit 203 (S1413).
Then, the sterilizer 100 rotates the transport rotor 1302 of the liquid feeding rotary pump 507 to transport the sterilizing agent and bubbles in the path (S1414).
At present, as shown in FIG. 15B, two bubbles pass through the pipe.
Then, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not the liquid sensor 204 has detected a bubble pattern passing through the pipe (step S1415).
Here, the bubble pattern indicates a pattern in which two bubbles shown in FIG. 15B are continuously passing through the pipe.
Although two bubbles have been described here, three or more consecutive bubbles may be used as a bubble pattern.

  Here, a pattern in which two bubbles pass through the tube in succession is used as a bubble pattern, but this is to prevent the bubbles from entering the tube and calculating an incorrect rotational speed in step S1417. It is used. That is, it is shown that the intended conveyance is performed by using the bubble pattern.

  When it is determined that the liquid sensor 204 has detected a bubble pattern passing through the pipe (step S1415: YES), the sterilizer 100 determines the volume in the pipe to the tip of the liquid sensor 204 and the extraction pipe (203-A) ( VX) is divided by the number of rotations (RZ) that the transport rotor 1302 is rotated in step S1414 until the bubble pattern is detected in step S1415, and the liquid that is transported by one rotation of the transport rotor 1302 The amount of sterilizing agent (CZ) is calculated (step S1416).

  Here, the amount (CZ) of the liquid sterilant transported by one rotation of the transport rotor 1302 is the amount of liquid sterilant transported by one rotation of the transport rotor 1302 in a state where no air is contained in the pipe. The amount of sterilant. Since the amount of bubbles in the tube is negligible, it can be considered that there is almost no air in the tube.

  Then, the sterilizer 100 stores the CZ calculated in step 1416 (the amount of liquid sterilant transported by one rotation of the transport rotor 1302) in the memory.

  Then, in steps S704 and S729 of FIG. 7, the sterilizer 100 transports a predetermined amount (for example, 2 milliliters) to be removed from the cartridge by rotating the transport rotor 1302 once in the CZ (stored in the memory). (The amount of liquid sterilizing agent) and the obtained value is determined as the number of rotations (number of rotations) of the transport rotor 1302 in order to put the predetermined amount of sterilizing agent into the concentration furnace 208 (step S1417). .

In step S704 and step S729 in FIG. 7, the sterilizer 100 rotates the transport rotor 1302 by the number of rotations calculated in step S1417, so that a predetermined amount of sterilant is accurately transported to the concentration furnace 208. Is possible.
Step S1417 is an application example of the determining means of the present invention.

That is, the sterilizer 100 takes out a liquid sterilant from the cartridge 205 (container) by the liquid feed rotary pump 207 (takeout means) (step S1402), and sterilizes the liquid passing through the path by the liquid sensor 204 (detection means). After detecting the agent (step S1403: YES), the gas is introduced into the path by steps S1407 and S1408 (introducing means), and the gas is introduced into the path, and then the liquid sensor 204 (detecting means). The number of operations performed by the liquid feed rotary pump 207 (extraction means) until the liquid sterilant passing through the path cannot be detected (step S1415: YES) (the number of operations performed in step S1414) (Number of rotations of the transport roller)) and the liquid sensor 204 ( Sterilization treatment according to the volume in the path until the liquid sterilant is detected by the extraction means) (this volume is stored in the memory) and the amount of sterilant used in the sterilization treatment (predetermined amount). The number of sterilizing agents to be used in step (b) is determined in order to take out the amount of sterilizing agent from the container.
As a result, the amount of the sterilant used in the sterilization process can be appropriately taken out from the container in which the liquid sterilant is stored.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated based on embodiment, this invention is not limited to these embodiment, Various forms of the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention are also contained in this invention. .

For example, the function of the above embodiment may be used as a sterilization method, and this sterilization method may be executed by a sterilization apparatus. Moreover, you may make it make the computer with which the sterilizer equips the program which has the function of the above-mentioned embodiment run.
The control program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, for example.

  The present invention can also be realized by executing the following processing. That is, software (program) that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus via a network or various recording media, and the computer (or CPU, MPU, etc.) of the system or apparatus reads the program. To be executed.

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

Claims (5)

A sterilization apparatus for performing a sterilization process for taking out a liquid sterilant from a container storing a liquid sterilant and sterilizing an object,
Removing means for removing the liquid sterilant from the container;
A path for removing liquid sterilant from the container by the removing means;
Detecting means for detecting a liquid sterilant passing through the path;
Introducing means for introducing gas into the path;
After the liquid sterilant is taken out from the container by the take-out means and the liquid sterilant passing through the path is detected by the detection means, a gas is introduced into the path by the introduction means, and the gas The number of times the extraction means has performed the extraction operation until the detection means cannot detect the liquid sterilant passing through the path, and the detection According to the volume in the path until the liquid sterilant is detected by the means and the amount of sterilant used in the sterilization process, the amount of sterilant used in the sterilization process should be taken out from the container Deciding means for deciding the number of times of taking out operation by the taking out means
A sterilization apparatus comprising: The take-out means further comprises a roller, and is a pump that removes the liquid sterilant from the container by squeezing the path as the roller rotates.
The determination means takes out the liquid sterilant from the container by the pump, detects the liquid sterilant passing through the path by the detection means, and then introduces gas into the path by the introduction means. Then, after the gas is introduced into the path, the number of rotations of the roller of the pump until the detection means cannot detect the liquid sterilant passing through the path, and the gas is taken out from the container. The amount of the sterilant used in the sterilization process is taken out from the container according to the volume in the path until the liquid sterilant is detected by the detection means and the amount of the sterilant used in the sterilization process. The sterilizer according to claim 1, wherein the number of rotations of the roller of the pump to be performed is determined. The path includes an extraction tube for removing liquid sterilant from the container;
The introduction means is configured to introduce gas into the path by moving the extraction pipe to a position where it is not immersed in the liquid sterilant of the container and performing an extraction operation by the extraction means. Item 3. The sterilizer according to item 1 or 2. The introducing means introduces a bubble pattern that is a plurality of bubbles into the path,
The determining means takes out the liquid sterilant from the container by the take-out means, detects the liquid sterilant passing through the path by the detecting means, and then introduces the bubbles into the path by the introducing means. After introducing the pattern and introducing the plurality of gases into the path, the number of operations performed by the take-out means by the detection means until the bubble pattern passing through the path is detected, and The amount of the sterilizing agent used in the sterilization process is determined according to the volume in the path until the liquid sterilizing agent is detected by the detection means and the amount of the sterilizing agent used in the sterilization process. The sterilization apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the number of times of taking-out operation by the taking-out means to be performed for taking out from the apparatus is determined. A control method in a sterilization apparatus for performing a sterilization process for sterilizing an object using a liquid sterilant supplied through a path for taking out the liquid sterilant from a container in which the liquid sterilant is stored,
Removing the liquid sterilant from the container;
Detecting a liquid sterilant passing through the path;
An introducing step of introducing a gas into the path;
After removing the liquid sterilant from the container by the removing step and detecting the liquid sterilant passing through the path by the detecting step, the gas is introduced into the path by the introducing step, and the gas And the number of operations in which the extraction operation in the extraction step is performed until the detection of the liquid sterilizing agent passing through the path becomes impossible by the detection step, and the detection that is extracted from the container. According to the volume in the path until the liquid sterilant is detected in the step and the amount of sterilant used in the sterilization process, the amount of sterilant used in the sterilization process should be taken out from the container A determination step for determining the number of operations of the extraction operation by the extraction step;
The control method characterized by including.

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