JP2017006462A - Sterilization device and sterilization method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a mechanism capable of efficiently removing a sterilization agent which is left in a path where the sterilization agent passes.SOLUTION: There is provided a sterilization device for sterilizing a sterilization object, using a sterilization agent. The sterilization device comprises: a sterilization chamber for storing the sterilization object; a path for introducing the sterilization agent into the sterilization chamber; a first valve which is disposed between the sterilization chamber and the path; a second valve which introduces ambient air into the sterilization chamber; and pressure reduction means for reducing pressure in the sterilization chamber. The sterilization device is configured so that, the pressure reduction means reduces pressure in a state of opening the first valve, then the first valve is closed in a state in which pressures in the sterilization chamber and the path are reduced, the second valve is opened for making a state in which, the pressure in the path are further reduced relative to the pressure in the sterilization chamber, then, the first valve is opened in a state in which the pressure in the path are further reduced relative to the pressure in the sterilization chamber.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 23

Description

  The present invention relates to a sterilization apparatus and a sterilization method, and more particularly to a technique for removing a sterilant remaining in a path through which the sterilant passes.

In general, pathogens may adhere to medical instruments such as syringes and surgical tools, which may adversely affect the human body and cannot be reused unless sterilized after use. For this reason, a sterilization apparatus for sterilizing an object that requires sterilization such as a medical instrument is used.
As one of these sterilization apparatuses, a sterilization apparatus that sterilizes an object using hydrogen peroxide as a sterilizing agent is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  Conventionally, sterilizing agents used in sterilizers are often supplied in a dedicated container (hereinafter referred to as a sterilizing cartridge) for convenience and safety. Sterilization is performed by sucking out the agent and exposing the sterilant to an object in a sterilization room.

JP-T-08-505787

  As described above, when the sterilant is sucked out from the sterilization cartridge and the sterilant is exposed to the object in the sterilization chamber, the path for sucking the sterilant from the sterilization cartridge and transporting it to the sterilization chamber (such as each conduit and each valve) Depending on the material and shape of the path, the sterilizing agent may adhere to or remain in the path of the sterilizing agent.

  1) The sterilizing agent remaining in the route undergoes chemical changes over time (when the sterilizing agent is a hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution, it is decomposed and its concentration is reduced, but it is decomposed to produce water). During the sterilization process, a new sterilizing agent may or may not be extruded. Then, the sterilant used in the next sterilization process and the sterilant used in the previous sterilization process (or water generated by the decomposition of the sterilant used in the previous sterilization process) are mixed. This may have an uncertain effect on the sterilization effect in the next sterilization process and hinder the control of normal sterilization process.

  2) Furthermore, the sterilant remaining in the path will continue to contact the path. Considering that sterilizing agents (for example, aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution) have a strong chemical action (oxidation or reduction action, etc.) to inactivate bacteria, there is a risk that the pathway will deteriorate and its life will be reduced. is there.

  3) In addition, during maintenance of the sterilizer and replacement of parts, an operator who replaces parts may be exposed to the sterilant remaining in the path (directly touching, or sucking gasified materials). There is also.

  Thus, it is necessary to prevent the sterilizing agent from adhering to the path of the sterilizing agent and each valve to deteriorate each valve, and further, the water generated by decomposing the sterilizing agent adhering to each valve is decomposed. It is necessary to prevent the possibility that the sterilization effect due to the next sterilization process is reduced.

  It is also possible to reduce the sterilant path and the inside of each valve to vaporize and remove the residual sterilant, but if the sterilant path and each valve are depressurized to vaporize a part of the residual sterilant. In some cases, the temperature of the remaining sterilizing agent decreases due to the heat of vaporization and solidifies (becomes solid).

In that case, in order to reduce the cost, it may be difficult to remove the residual sterilant, particularly when a path for the sterilant and a heater for heating each valve are not provided.
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that can effectively remove the sterilant remaining in the path through which the sterilant passes.

  The present invention is a sterilization apparatus for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using a sterilant, a sterilization chamber for storing the sterilization object, a path for introducing the sterilant into the sterilization chamber, A first valve provided between the sterilization chamber and the path; a second valve provided for introducing air into the sterilization chamber; and a decompression means for depressurizing the sterilization chamber; The apparatus performs decompression by the decompression means with the first valve opened, closes the first valve with the sterilization chamber and the path decompressed, and opens the second valve to open the path. And the first valve is opened in a state where the path is depressurized from the sterilization chamber.

  The present invention is also a sterilization apparatus for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent, a sterilization chamber for storing the sterilization object, a decompression means for decompressing the sterilization chamber, and an atmosphere. A storage pipe in which the sterilant is stored, the storage pipe from which the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe is sucked out, and a conduit through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are connected, and the sterilant is stored in the storage pipe A first valve provided for sucking out the air contained in the storage pipe into the sterilization chamber decompressed by the decompression means via the conduit, and a path through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are conducted. A second valve provided in a path for introducing the sterilant stored in the storage pipe into the sterilization chamber, and a third valve provided for introducing the atmosphere into the sterilization chamber. The sterilizer opens the first valve while the reduction is performed. Pressure is reduced by the means, the first valve is closed in a state where the inside of the sterilization chamber and the storage tube is decompressed, and the inside of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber by opening the third valve, The second valve is opened in a state where the inside of the storage tube is decompressed more than the sterilization chamber.

  The present invention is also a sterilization apparatus for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent, a sterilization chamber for storing the sterilization object, a decompression means for decompressing the sterilization chamber, and an atmosphere. A storage pipe in which the sterilant is stored, the storage pipe from which the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe is sucked out, and a conduit through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are connected, and the sterilant is stored in the storage pipe A passage through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are electrically connected, and a first valve provided for sucking out the atmosphere contained in the storage tube into the sterilization chamber decompressed by the decompression means, A second valve provided in a path for introducing the sterilizing agent stored in a tube into the sterilization chamber, and a third valve provided for introducing the atmosphere into the sterilization chamber, Depressurization by the depressurization means with the second valve opened The second valve is closed in a state where the inside of the sterilization chamber and the storage tube is depressurized, and the inside of the storage tube is made to be depressurized more than the sterilization chamber by opening the third valve. The first valve is opened in a state where the pressure is lower than that in the sterilization chamber.

  The present invention also provides a sterilization chamber for storing an object to be sterilized, a path for introducing a sterilizing agent into the sterilization chamber, a first valve provided between the sterilization chamber and the path, and the sterilization A control method in a sterilization apparatus comprising a second valve provided for introducing air into a chamber and a decompression means for depressurizing the sterilization chamber, wherein the sterilization apparatus opens the first valve The pressure is reduced by the pressure reducing means in a state, the first valve is closed in a state where the sterilization chamber and the passage are decompressed, and the passage is decompressed from the sterilization chamber by opening the second valve. The first valve is opened in a state where the path is decompressed more than the sterilization chamber.

  The present invention also provides a sterilization chamber for storing an object to be sterilized, decompression means for depressurizing the sterilization chamber, a storage pipe that contains air and stores a sterilant, and the air contained in the storage pipe absorbs the air. A storage pipe to be taken out, and a conduit that connects the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber, and the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe in which the sterilant is stored is reduced in the sterilization chamber by the decompression unit. A path through which the first valve provided for sucking out through the conduit and the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are connected, and the path for introducing the sterilizing agent stored in the storage pipe into the sterilization chamber A sterilization method in a sterilization apparatus comprising a second valve provided and a third valve provided for introducing air into the sterilization chamber, wherein the sterilization apparatus opens the first valve Pressure reduction by the pressure reducing means in the state, and the sterilization chamber and The first valve is closed in a state where the inside of the storage pipe is decompressed, and the third valve is opened to make the inside of the storage pipe more decompressed than the sterilization chamber, and the inside of the storage pipe is decompressed more than the sterilization chamber. In this state, the second valve is opened.

  The present invention also provides a sterilization chamber for storing an object to be sterilized, decompression means for depressurizing the sterilization chamber, a storage pipe that contains air and stores a sterilant, and the atmosphere included in the storage pipe includes A storage pipe to be sucked out, and a conduit connected between the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber, and the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe in which the sterilizing agent is stored are reduced in the sterilization chamber by the decompression unit. A first valve provided for sucking out, and a path through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are electrically connected, and a path provided for introducing the sterilizing agent stored in the storage pipe into the sterilization chamber. A sterilization method in a sterilization apparatus comprising two valves and a third valve provided for introducing air into the sterilization chamber, wherein the sterilization apparatus opens the second valve and reduces the pressure. Pressure reduction by means, the sterilization chamber and the storage tube In a state where the pressure is reduced, the second valve is closed, and the third valve is opened, so that the inside of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber, and the inside of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber And opening the first valve.

  According to the present invention, the sterilant remaining in the path through which the sterilant passes can be effectively removed.

It is the figure which looked at the external appearance from an example about an example of the sterilizer by the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the example about the hardware constitutions of the sterilizer shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating an example of the sterilization process performed with the sterilizer shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the sterilization start screen displayed on a display part in the sterilizer shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cartridge attachment request screen displayed on the display unit illustrated in FIG. 2. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the example about the sterilization process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating an example of the pre-sterilization process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the example about the sterilization process process shown in FIG. 6 (the 1). It is a flowchart for demonstrating the example about the sterilization process process shown in FIG. 6 (the 2). It is a flowchart for demonstrating the example about the ventilation process process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the example about the sterilant discharge | emission processing shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing in detail a concentration furnace, a valve, a metering tube, and a vaporization furnace in the sterilization apparatus shown in FIG. 2. It is the figure which looked at the cartridge of the sterilizing agent used with the sterilizer shown in FIG. 2 from the side. It is a figure which shows the cross section of the cartridge shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the example about the valve purging process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 1st valve | bulb purging process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 2nd valve purging process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 3rd valve purging process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 4th valve purging process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 5th valve purging process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 6th valve purging process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart in order to demonstrate an example at the time of performing a valve purging process in the pre-sterilization process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart in order to demonstrate an example at the time of performing a valve purging process in the sterilization process shown to FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B (the 1). FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining an example when valve purging is performed in the sterilization process shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B (part 2). It is a figure which shows an example of the flowchart for demonstrating the 1A valve | bulb purging process shown in FIG. Valve (V1) 211, valve (V2) 215, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, valve (V5) 217 shown in FIG. 2 (electromagnetic valve 2402), conduit provided with the valve, FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of a cross-sectional view of a hexagonal nipple 2401 used for fastening and conducting the valve with the conduit. Valve (V1) 211, valve (V2) 215, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, valve (V5) 217 shown in FIG. 2 (electromagnetic valve 2402), conduit provided with the valve, FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of a cross-sectional view of a hexagonal nipple 2401 used for fastening and conducting the valve with the conduit. Valve (V1) 211, valve (V2) 215, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, valve (V5) 217 shown in FIG. 2 (electromagnetic valve 2402), conduit provided with the valve, FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of a cross-sectional view of a hexagonal nipple 2401 used for fastening and conducting the valve with the conduit.

Hereinafter, an example of a sterilization apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
<Description of FIG. 1>
FIG. 1 is a front view of an example of a sterilizer according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  On the front of the illustrated sterilization apparatus 100, a cartridge mounting door 101, a display unit 102, a printing unit 103, and a sterilization chamber door 104 are arranged. The cartridge mounting door 101 is a door that is opened and closed when a cartridge, which is a container filled with a sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen peroxide solution liquid), is mounted. When the cartridge mounting door 101 is opened, there is a cartridge mounting location, and the user can mount the cartridge at the mounting location.

  The display unit 102 is a display screen of a touch panel such as a liquid crystal display, for example. The printing unit 103 is a printer that prints a history of sterilization processing and a sterilization result on printing paper, and a user appropriately prints the history of sterilization processing and the sterilization result on printing paper using the printer.

  The sterilization chamber door 104 is, for example, a door that is opened and closed when an object to be sterilized (an object to be sterilized) such as a medical instrument is placed in the sterilization chamber in order to sterilize the object. When the sterilization chamber door 104 is opened, there is a sterilization chamber, and the user can put an object to be sterilized in the sterilization chamber, close the sterilization chamber door 104, and put an object to be sterilized in the sterilization chamber.

The sterilization chamber is a housing having a predetermined capacity. The atmospheric pressure (pressure) in the sterilization chamber can be maintained from atmospheric pressure to vacuum pressure. The temperature in the sterilization chamber is maintained at a predetermined range during the sterilization process.
<Description of FIG. 2>
FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of the hardware configuration of the sterilizer shown in FIG.

  The sterilizer 100 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, a cartridge mounting door 101, a liquid sensor 204, a cartridge 205, and an RF- An ID reader / writer 206, a liquid feed rotary pump 207, a concentration furnace 208, and an air feed pressurization pump 209 are provided. Further, the sterilizer 100 includes an intake HEPA filter 210, a valve (V1) 211, a valve (V3) 212, a valve (V4) 213, a metering tube 214 (also a suction cylinder, a storage tube that simply stores a liquid sterilant. Valve (V2) 215, vaporizer 216, valve (V5) 217, valve (V9) 227, valve (V7) 226, sterilization chamber (also referred to as vacuum chamber) 219, air feed vacuum pump 220, exhaust It has a HEPA filter 221, a sterilizing agent decomposing device 222, a liquid feed rotary pump 223, and an exhaust evaporation furnace 224. Here, the arithmetic processing unit (MPU or the like) 201 functions as a control unit such as a CPU.

  The illustrated sterilization apparatus 100 is an apparatus for taking out a sterilant from a cartridge 205 containing a sterilant and sterilizing an object to be sterilized. The arithmetic processing unit (such as MPU) 201 performs arithmetic processing to control the entire sterilization apparatus 100, that is, each hardware constituting the sterilization apparatus 100. The display unit 102, the printing unit 103, and the cartridge mounting door 101 have been described with reference to FIG.

  The lock operation control unit 202 performs operations for locking and unlocking the cartridge mounting door 101. The lock operation control unit 202 can open the cartridge mounting door 101 by locking the cartridge mounting door 101 so as not to open the cartridge mounting door 101 and unlocking the cartridge mounting door 101. Like that.

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

  This RF-ID is a storage medium in which data relating to the disposal of the sterilant in the cartridge 205 (serial number, date of manufacture, date of first use, remaining amount of sterilant, or any data) is stored. It is.

  The extraction needle operation control unit 203 operates the extraction needle to puncture the extraction needle (injection needle) for sucking the sterilizing agent in the cartridge from the top of the cartridge. For example, when the extraction needle (injection needle) for aspirating the sterilizing agent in the cartridge is inserted from the upper part of the cartridge, the extraction needle operation control unit 203 points the extraction needle (injection needle) toward the cartridge and moves the upper part of the cartridge. Operate to drop from. Thereby, the extraction needle (injection needle) can be pierced from the top of the cartridge.

  When the extraction needle (injection needle) is removed from the cartridge, the extraction needle operation control unit 203 operates to raise the extraction needle (injection needle) toward the upper part of the cartridge. Thereby, the extraction needle (injection needle) can be removed from the cartridge. The extraction needle is, for example, a straw (thin cylinder) for sucking the sterilizing agent in the cartridge.

  In the liquid sensor 204, whether or not the liquid sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 passes through a pipe (conduit) that conducts (connects) from the extraction needle (injection needle) to the liquid feeding rotary pump 207 and the liquid feeding rotary pump 223. Is detected. Specifically, it is detected whether or not the sterilant passes through the conduit according to the spectrum obtained as a result of irradiating the conduit with infrared rays.

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

  The liquid feed rotary pump 207 is connected (connected) to the concentration furnace 208 by a conduit, and is further connected to the liquid sensor 204 by a conduit. The liquid feed rotary pump 207 sucks the liquid sterilant in the cartridge 205 and sends the sterilant through the conduit to the concentration furnace 208. The liquid feed rotary pump 207 sucks a predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent from the cartridge 205 in cooperation with the liquid sensor 204.

  The concentrating furnace 208 is connected to the liquid feeding rotary pump 207, the air feeding and pressurizing pump 209, the measuring pipe 214, and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 through conduits. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 11, the concentrating furnace 208 heats the sterilizing agent sent from the liquid feed rotary pump 207 through the conduit using a heater, and evaporates (vaporizes) moisture contained in the sterilizing agent to sterilize. Concentrate the agent. The vaporized water is pushed out by the air fed through the conduit from the pneumatic feed pressure pump 209 to the conduit connected to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and exhausted from the concentration furnace 208. A valve (1) 211 is provided in the conduit between the measuring pipe 214 and the concentrating furnace 208.

  The air pressure pressurizing pump 209 is connected to the concentrating furnace 208 and the intake HEPA filter 210 by a conduit. The air feeding and pressurizing pump 209 conducts the outside air (air) of the sterilizer 100 through the intake HEPA filter 210 through a conduit with the intake HEPA filter 210 and sends it to the concentration furnace 208.

  The intake HEPA filter 210 is electrically connected to an air supply pressurization pump 209, a sterilization chamber 219, and a vaporization furnace 216 by a conduit. The inhalation HEPA filter 210 filters dust, dust, germs, and the like in the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100 using a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter to clean the air. Then, the purified air is sent to the concentrating furnace 208 through a conduit by an air feed pressurizing pump 209. Further, the cleaned air is sent to the vaporizing furnace 216 that is conducted by a conduit with the vaporizing furnace 216, and further sent to the sterilization chamber 219 that is conducted by a conduit with the sterilizing chamber 219.

  That is, the intake HEPA filter 210 is electrically connected to the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100. For this reason, a conduit between the air feed pressurizing 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 connected to the outside air (air) through 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 measuring pipe 214, and conducts the concentrating furnace 208 and the measuring pipe 214 by opening the valve. The valve (V1) 211 closes the concentrating furnace 208 and the measuring tube 214 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, and conducts the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 by opening the valve. The valve (V3) 212 closes the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 by closing the valve. Further, the valve (V3) 212 is provided near the measuring pipe 214, and is provided at a position closer to the measuring pipe 214 than at least a valve (V4) 213 described later.

  The valve (V4) 213 is a valve provided in a conduit between the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219, and conducts the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 by opening the valve. The valve (V4) 213 closes the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 by closing the valve. The valve (V4) 213 is provided near the sterilization chamber 219, and is provided at least at a position closer to the sterilization chamber 219 than the valve (V3) 212.

  In the sterilization apparatus shown in FIG. 2, the metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 are made conductive or non-conductive by opening and closing the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213, but the valve (V4) 213 and the valve (V3) The metering tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 may be made conductive or non-conductive by opening and closing one of 213.

  That is, only one of the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 may be provided, and the one valve may be opened and closed so that the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 are connected or disconnected. .

  The measuring pipe 214 is connected to each of the concentrating furnace 208, the vaporizing furnace 216, and the sterilization chamber 219 through a conduit. By opening the valve (V 1) 211, the sterilant flows from the concentration furnace 208 into the measuring pipe 214. On the other hand, by opening the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213, unnecessary air sucked from the cartridge 205 flows into the concentrating furnace 208 from the intake HEPA filter 210 and into the measuring pipe 214 from the concentrating furnace 208 The unnecessary air is removed by the metering tube 214. Details of the measuring tube 214 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The valve (V2) 215 is a valve provided in a conduit between the measuring pipe 214 and the vaporizing furnace 216, and conducts the measuring pipe 214 and the vaporizing furnace 216 by opening the valve. The valve (V2) 215 closes the measuring pipe 214 and the vaporizing furnace 216 by closing the valve.

  The vaporizing furnace 216 is connected to each of the measuring pipe 214, the intake HEPA filter 210, and the sterilization chamber 219 by a conduit. The vaporizing furnace 216 is also called a vaporizing chamber 216 and is an example of a vaporizing chamber. The vaporizing furnace 216 is a device that is depressurized by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 and vaporizes the sterilant.

  The valve (V5) 217 is a valve provided in a conduit between the vaporization furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219, and conducts the vaporization furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219 by opening the valve. The valve (V5) 217 closes the vaporization furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219 by closing the valve.

  The valve (V9) 227 is a valve provided in a conduit between the vaporizing furnace 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210, and conducts the vaporizing furnace 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210 by opening the valve. The valve (V9) 227 closes the vaporization furnace 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210 by closing the valve. That is, the valve (V9) 227 is a valve that opens and closes the connection 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, and conducts the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210 by opening the valve. The valve (V7) 226 closes the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210 by closing the valve. That is, the valve (V7) 226 is a valve that opens and closes 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 housing 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 at any pressure from atmospheric pressure to vacuum pressure. The temperature in the sterilization chamber is maintained at a predetermined range during the sterilization process. Furthermore, a pressure sensor is provided in the sterilization chamber 219, and the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is measured by the pressure sensor. The sterilization apparatus 100 (that is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 in this case) has a predetermined pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 or the like according to the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 measured by the pressure sensor. It is determined whether or not.

  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, In addition, the gas in the space in the conduit between the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 is sucked and reduced in pressure to be in a vacuum state (a state filled with a gas having a pressure lower than atmospheric pressure). The pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is connected to the sterilization chamber 219 by a conduit, and is further connected to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 by a conduit.

  The exhaust HEPA filter 221 is connected to the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 by a conduit. Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 is electrically connected to the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 by a conduit. 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 filtered by the HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter for suction, which is contained in the gas sucked from the sterilization chamber 219 or the like by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 and sucked. Clean the gas. Then, the cleaned gas is sent to the sterilant decomposer 222 through a conduit between the sterilizer decomposer 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221. Then, the sterilizing agent decomposing 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 gas exhausted from the concentration furnace 208 through a conduit between the concentration furnace 208 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221. This gas is water that is vaporized by heating the sterilant in the concentrating furnace 208, but contains a small amount of sterilant. Therefore, the gas passes through a conduit between the sterilant decomposer 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and is sterilized. It is sent to the agent decomposition device 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 sterilant sent from the exhaust evaporator 224 through the conduit. The cleaned sterilant (gas) is sent to the sterilant decomposer 222 through a conduit between the sterilizer decomposer 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221. Then, the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 decomposes the molecules of the sterilizing agent contained in the gas, and releases the decomposed molecules out of the sterilizing apparatus 100.

  In this way, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 purifies the gas sent through the conduit, thereby making it difficult for dust and dirt to accumulate in the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 and extending the product life of the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222. be able to.

  The sterilizing agent decomposing device 222 is connected to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 by a conduit. 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 converts the generated molecules into the sterilizing apparatus 100. To the outside.

  The sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 is an apparatus that decomposes the sterilizing agent. For example, when the sterilizing agent is hydrogen peroxide or a hydrogen peroxide solution, the vaporized hydrogen peroxide is used as a catalyst using manganese dioxide as a catalyst. It is a device that decomposes into oxygen.

  The liquid feed rotary pump 223 is electrically connected to the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 by a conduit and is electrically connected to the liquid sensor 204 by a conduit. The liquid feed rotary pump 223 sucks all the liquid sterilant in the cartridge 205 and exhausts all the sterilant sent through the conduit through the conduit between the liquid feed rotary pump 223 and the exhaust evaporator 224. Send to 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 a conduit. The exhaust evaporation furnace 224 heats all the liquid sterilizing agents in the cartridge 205 sent through the conduit from the liquid feed rotary pump 223 by a heater provided in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 to vaporize all of the sterilizing agents. The vaporized sterilizing agent is sent from the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 through a conduit.
<Description of FIG. 3>
FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the sterilization process performed by the sterilization apparatus shown in FIG.

  3 is performed under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 201. That is, by executing a program that can be read and executed by the arithmetic processing unit 201, the operation of the sterilization apparatus 100 is controlled to perform the sterilization process.

  In the sterilization apparatus 100, when the power is turned on, the RF-ID reader / writer 206 (reading unit / writing unit) reads data from an RF-ID (storage medium) provided on the lower side of the cartridge 205 (step). S301).

  In step S301, as data read from the RF-ID (storage medium), as described above, the serial number, which is information for identifying the cartridge, the date of manufacture of the cartridge, the date and time when the cartridge was first used in the sterilizer ( First use date and time) and the remaining amount of the sterilant filled in the cartridge are read. In other words, the RF-ID (storage medium) provided in the cartridge 205 stores in advance the serial number, the date of manufacture, the first use date (first use date information), and the remaining amount of the sterilant.

  The first use date and time (date and time when the cartridge was first used in the sterilizer) is not stored in the RF-ID of the cartridge used for the first time in the sterilizer 100. That is, the serial number, the date of manufacture, and the remaining amount of the sterilant are stored in the RF-ID of the cartridge that is used for the first time. The serial number, the date of manufacture, the date of first use, and the remaining amount of sterilant are stored in the RF-ID of the cartridge used for the second time and thereafter.

  Therefore, in step S301, for the RF-ID of the cartridge that is used for the first time, the serial number, the date of manufacture, and the remaining amount of the sterilant are read. On the other hand, for the RF-ID of the cartridge used for the second time and thereafter, the serial number, the date of manufacture, the date of first use, and the remaining amount of the sterilant are read.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether data can be read from the RF-ID (step S302). Even if the first use date and time cannot be read from the RF-ID of the cartridge that is used for the first time in the process of step S302, if the serial number, the date of manufacture, and the remaining amount of the sterilant can be read, the arithmetic processing unit 201 It is determined that data can be read from the RF-ID.

  Next, when it is determined that the data has been read from the RF-ID (YES in step S302), the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that the cartridge is installed at the cartridge mounting location, and the lock operation control unit 202 mounts the cartridge. The door 101 is locked (locked) (step S303). That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 locks (locks) the cartridge so that it cannot be taken out.

  In this way, when data is read from the RF-ID by the RF-ID reader / writer 206 serving as a reading unit, the arithmetic processing unit 201 locks the cartridge 205 so that it cannot be taken out.

  For example, the cartridge can be prevented from being taken out by not removing the injection needle inserted into the cartridge. That is, in the process of step S303, it is possible to insert the injection needle into the cartridge to extract the sterilizing agent in the cartridge and to prevent the cartridge from being taken out.

  In this way, the arithmetic processing unit 201 locks (locks) the cartridge mounting door 101 so that the cartridge cannot be taken out when the cartridge is mounted at the cartridge mounting location.

When a cartridge containing a surplus of sterilizing agent is attached to the mounting position of the cartridge in the sterilizing apparatus 100, the user does not touch the sterilizing agent because locking (locking) is performed so that the cartridge cannot be taken out. Can be.
As described above, when the cartridge is attached to the sterilization apparatus, the arithmetic processing unit 201 performs locking so that the cartridge cannot be taken out.

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined amount or more of a sterilizing agent (for example, 8 milliliters) equivalent to one sterilization is present in the cartridge (step S304). Specifically, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent acquired from the RF-ID is larger than a predetermined amount for one sterilization.

  If it is determined that the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount for one sterilization (YES in step S304), the arithmetic processing unit 201 has at least a predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent for one sterilization in the cartridge ( It is determined that sufficient sterilization can be performed. Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined period (for example, 13 months) has elapsed from the date of manufacture of the cartridge acquired from the RF-ID (step S305).

  If it is determined that the predetermined period has not elapsed since the date of manufacture (NO in step S305), the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that sufficient sterilization processing can be performed. Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined period (for example, two weeks) has elapsed from the first use date and time acquired from the RF-ID (step S306).

  In the process of step S306, since the first use date and time cannot be read from the RF-ID of the cartridge that is used for the first time, in the process of step S306, the arithmetic processing unit 201 always uses the first use date and time for the cartridge that is used for the first time. It is determined that a predetermined period (for example, two weeks) has not elapsed since

  If it is determined that a predetermined period (for example, two weeks) has not elapsed since the first use date (NO in step S306), the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that sufficient sterilization processing can be performed. And the arithmetic processing part 201 displays the sterilization start screen mentioned later on the display part 102 (step S307).

<Description of FIG. 4>
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the sterilization start screen displayed on the display unit 102 in the sterilization apparatus 100 shown in FIG.
A sterilization start button 402 is displayed on the sterilization start screen 401, and the sterilization start button 302 can be pressed (active) by the user.

  Referring also to FIG. 3, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the sterilization start button 402 has been pressed by the user (step S308). If the sterilization start button 402 is not pressed down (NO in step S308), the arithmetic processing unit 201 returns to the process in step S307 and continues displaying the sterilization start screen 401.

  On the other hand, when sterilization start button 402 is pressed down (YES in step S308), arithmetic processing unit 201 displays sterilization mode selection screen 403 shown in FIG. 4 on display unit 102 (step S409).

  The sterilization mode selection screen 403 shown in FIG. 4 displays a “mode for sterilizing by concentrating sterilant” button 404 and a “mode for sterilizing without concentrating sterilant” button 405.

  The arithmetic processing unit 201 accepts selection of either the “mode for sterilizing and sterilizing a sterilant” button 404 or the “mode for sterilizing without sterilizing agent” button 405 from the user (step S310). And the arithmetic processing part 201 performs the sterilization process according to the mode of the button selected by the user (step S311).

  The sterilization process in step S311 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the sterilization process in step S311 ends, the arithmetic processing unit 201 returns to the process in step S301.

  In this way, it becomes possible to switch the sterilization processing mode with a single sterilization apparatus in accordance with a user instruction. That is, when the “mode for concentrating and sterilizing sterilizing agent” button 404 is pressed by the user, the sterilizing agent is concentrated and sterilization processing is performed. On the other hand, when the “mode of sterilization without concentrating sterilant” button 405 is pressed, the sterilization process is performed without concentrating the sterilant.

  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 (NO in step S304), the arithmetic processing unit 201 stores a predetermined amount of sterilizing agent for one sterilization in the cartridge. It is determined that there is no (cannot perform sufficient sterilization). And the arithmetic processing part 201 displays the sterilization start screen 401 shown in FIG. 4 on the display part 102 (step S312).

  However, here, the sterilization start button 402 displayed on the sterilization start screen 401 is displayed so that it cannot be pressed by the user (that is, the sterilization start button 402 is not active). As a result, the arithmetic processing unit 201 prevents the user from receiving a sterilization start instruction.

  If it is determined that a predetermined period has elapsed since the date of manufacture (YES in step S305), the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that sufficient sterilization processing cannot be performed, and proceeds to step S312.

  Similarly, when it is determined that a predetermined period (for example, two weeks) has elapsed since the first use date and time (YES in step S306), the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that sufficient sterilization processing cannot be performed. The process proceeds to step S312.

  After the processing in step S312, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that the cartridge installed at the cartridge mounting location has already been subjected to the sterilizing agent discharge processing based on the serial number acquired from the RF-ID in step S301. It is determined whether or not (step S313).

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 arithmetic processing unit 201 determines from the RF-ID in step S301. It is determined whether or not the acquired serial number matches the serial number stored in the memory (storage unit). Thereby, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the cartridge currently attached to the sterilization apparatus 100 is a cartridge that has already been subjected to the sterilizing agent discharge process.
Here, another example of determining whether or not the cartridge has been subjected to the sterilizing agent discharge process will be described.

  When performing the sterilizing agent discharge process shown in step S314, the arithmetic processing unit 201 records information indicating that the sterilizing agent has already been discharged into the RF-ID of the cartridge 205. In this manner, it may be determined whether the cartridge currently attached to the sterilization apparatus 100 is a cartridge that has already been subjected to the sterilizing agent discharge process.

  If it is determined that the cartridge is not a cartridge that has already been subjected to the sterilant discharge process (NO in step S313), the arithmetic processing unit 201 uses the liquid feed rotary pump 223 to determine all the remaining liquid sterilant remaining in the cartridge. After sucking and disassembling the sterilizing agent, a discharging process of the sterilizing agent released to the outside of the sterilizing apparatus 100 is performed (step S314).

The process in step S314 functions as a discarding unit that discards the aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge. In other words, the discarding means disassembles and discards all the hydrogen peroxide solution in the cartridge using the catalyst. Then, when the process of step S314 is performed, the arithmetic processing unit 201 stores in the memory (storage unit) in the sterilization apparatus 100 as a serial number for identifying a cartridge that has already been subjected to the sterilant discharge process (discard process). The serial number read in is stored.
Note that the sterilant discharge process in step S314 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Thereafter, the arithmetic processing unit 201 releases the lock by, for example, removing the injection needle inserted into the cartridge by the extraction needle operation control unit 203. Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 unlocks the cartridge mounting door 101 by the lock operation control unit 202 (step S315), and the arithmetic processing unit 201 returns to the process of step S301.

  In this manner, before the lock is released, all the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 is sucked out and discarded, so that the user can be prevented from touching the sterilizing agent, and safety is improved.

  If it is determined that the cartridge has already been subjected to the sterilant discharge process (YES in step S313), the arithmetic processing unit 201 proceeds to the process of step S315.

  If it is determined in step S302 that data cannot be read from the RF-ID (NO in step S302), the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that no cartridge is installed at the cartridge mounting location, and the cartridge shown in FIG. An attachment request screen is displayed (step S316).

<Description of FIG. 5>
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the cartridge attachment request screen 501 displayed on the display unit 102 shown in FIG.
In FIG. 5, an OK button 502 is displayed on the cartridge attachment request screen 501 displayed on the display unit 102.

  Referring also to FIG. 3, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the OK button 502 is pressed by the user on the cartridge attachment request screen 501 (step S317). When the OK button 502 is pressed (YES in step S316), the arithmetic processing unit 201 unlocks the cartridge mounting door 101 by the lock operation control unit 202 (step S318). And the arithmetic processing part 201 returns to the process of step S301.

On the other hand, if the OK button 502 is not pressed down (NO in step S316), the arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by and continues displaying the cartridge attachment request screen 501.
Here, the sterilization process (step S311) shown in FIG. 3 will be described.

<Description of FIG. 6>
FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the sterilization process (step S311) shown in FIG.

  Note that the processing according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 is performed under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 201. That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 executes the program that can be read and executed, thereby controlling the operation of the sterilization apparatus 100 and performing the sterilization process.

  When starting the sterilization process, the arithmetic processing unit 201 includes all the valves (valve (V1) 211, valve (V2) 215, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, valve (V5) 217, valve (V9). 227 and valve (V7) 226) are closed.

  Thereafter, the arithmetic processing unit 201 operates the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 to suck the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 and to reduce the pressure until the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 reaches a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 Pascals). Process processing is performed (step S601). The pre-sterilization process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 performs a sterilization process of sterilizing an object to be sterilized by putting a sterilizing agent in the sterilization chamber 219 (step S602). Detailed processing of the sterilization process will be described later with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B.

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 performs a ventilation process for removing the sterilizing agent contained in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216 and / or the sterilizing agent adhering to the flow path of the sterilizing agent ( Step S603). And the arithmetic processing part 201 returns to the process of step S301 shown in FIG. The ventilation process will be described later with reference to FIG.

<Explanation of FIG. 7>
FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the pre-sterilization process (step S601) shown in FIG.

  Note that the pre-sterilization process shown in FIG. 7 is performed under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 201 shown in FIG. That is, by executing a program that can be read and executed by the arithmetic processing unit 201, the operation of the sterilization apparatus 100 is controlled to perform the pre-sterilization process.

  When the pre-sterilization process is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 drives the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 to start a process of sucking the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 (that is, decompression of the sterilization chamber 219) (step S701). . Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 Pascals) (step S702).

  Specifically, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not 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). Determine whether.

  If it is determined that the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has not been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 Pascal) (NO in step S702), the arithmetic processing unit 201 continues to drive the pneumatic vacuum pump 220. Then, the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is sucked, and the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 Pascals) (YES in step S702), the arithmetic processing unit 201 continues to drive the pneumatic vacuum pump 220. Then, the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is sucked, and the process of step S602 shown in FIG. 6 is started.

<Explanation of FIGS. 8A and 8B>
8A and 8B are flowcharts for explaining an example of the sterilization process (step S602) shown in FIG.

  8A and 8B is performed under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 201 shown in FIG. That is, by executing a program that can be read and executed by the arithmetic processing unit 201, the operation of the sterilization apparatus 100 is controlled to perform the sterilization process.

  When the sterilization process is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V5) 217 and connects the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216 with a conduit (step S801). Thereby, since the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is currently sucked by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 and the pressure is reduced, the pressure reduction in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216 is started (step S802).

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines which of the “mode for sterilizing and sterilizing the sterilizing agent” button 404 and the “mode for sterilizing without sterilizing agent concentration” button 405 is pressed, that is, the arithmetic processing unit 201. It is determined whether or not it is a concentration mode (step S803). When it is determined that “mode for sterilizing and sterilizing” button 404 is pressed, that is, in the concentration mode (YES in step S803), arithmetic processing unit 201 drives liquid feeding rotary pump 207. Then, a predetermined amount (for example, 2 ml) of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 is sucked. As a result, the sucked-in predetermined amount of sterilant enters the concentration furnace 208 (step S804). Here, the predetermined amount is, for example, an amount that can saturate the space in the sterilization chamber 219 with a sterilant.

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 writes the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent remaining in the cartridge 205 to the RF-ID of the cartridge 205 attached to the attachment location of the cartridge (step S805).

  Specifically, the arithmetic processing unit 201 subtracts a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined amount (for example, 2 milliliters) sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S804 from the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 read in step S301. To remember. That is, in step S805, the arithmetic processing unit 201 subtracts the value obtained by subtracting the total amount of the sterilant sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S804 from the remaining amount of the sterilant in the cartridge 205 read in step S301. Store in ID.

In step S805, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that the first use date and time read from the RF-ID in step S301 (date and time when the cartridge is first used in the sterilizer) does not include information indicating the date and time. This time, it is determined that the cartridge is used for the first time in the sterilization apparatus 100. That is, if the first use date / time cannot be read from the RF-ID in step S301, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that the cartridge has been used for the first time in the sterilizer.
In this way, only when it is determined that the cartridge has been used for the first time in the sterilization apparatus 100, the arithmetic processing unit 201 writes the current date and time information in the RF-ID.

  Next, when the sterilizer 100 is turned on, the heater provided in the concentrating furnace 208 is always energized, so that the sterilizing agent put into the concentrating furnace 208 in step S804 is generated by the heat of the heater. When heated, the moisture contained in the sterilant in the concentration furnace 208 evaporates (step S806). That is, the bactericide is concentrated.

  When the sterilizer 100 is turned on, the heater provided in the concentration furnace 208 is always energized, for example, so that the sterilizer 100 can be used immediately at any time in an operating room. It is. As described above, the time required for heating the concentration furnace 208 by always energizing the heater of the concentration furnace 208 is reduced, so that the sterilization apparatus can be used immediately at any time.

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

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 6 minutes) has elapsed since the sterilizing agent was added to the concentration furnace 208 in step S804 (step S807). If it is determined that a predetermined time has not elapsed since the sterilizing agent was put into the concentrating furnace 208 (NO in step S807), the arithmetic processing unit 201 returns to the process of step S806, and subsequently puts the sterilizing agent into the concentrating furnace 208. Leave the sterilant concentrated.

  If it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed since the sterilizing agent was put into the concentrating furnace 208 (YES in step S807), the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216 is a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 500 It is determined whether or not the pressure has been reduced to (Pascal) (step S808).

  When the pressure in sterilization chamber 219 and vaporization furnace 216 is not reduced to a predetermined pressure (NO in step S808), operation processing unit 201 returns to the process in step S806 and continues to concentrate the sterilant.

  On the other hand, when the pressure in sterilization chamber 219 and vaporization furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined pressure (YES in step S808), arithmetic processing unit 201 sets valves (V3) 212 and valve (V4) 213 to predetermined pressures. Time is opened (step S809). Here, 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. Thereby, the arithmetic processing unit 201 depressurizes the inside of the measuring tube 214 (sets to a negative pressure).

  In step S809, after opening the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 for a predetermined time and closing the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V1). Time (for example, 3 seconds) is opened (step S810). Accordingly, since the atmospheric pressure in the measuring tube 214 is lower than the atmospheric pressure in the concentrating furnace 208 (external), the sterilizing agent contained in the concentrating furnace 208 is sucked into the measuring tube 214.

  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. Then, not only the sterilizing agent but also the air in the concentration furnace 208 is sucked into the measuring tube 214 together.

Then, subsequently, the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 is decompressed by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220. For this reason, 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 about 400 Pa, and the atmospheric pressure in the measuring tube 214 is about atmospheric pressure (101325 Pa).
The reason why the atmospheric pressure in the measuring tube 214 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, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds), and sterilizes the air in the measuring tube 214 (not including the liquid sterilant). Suck out to 219 (step S811). That is, here, when the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are opened and a predetermined time elapses, the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 80 Pa) (step S812). If the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 is not reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 80 Pa) (NO in step S812), the arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by.

  On the other hand, when the atmospheric pressure in sterilization chamber 219 and vaporization furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 80 Pa) (YES in step S812), arithmetic processing unit 201 closes valve (V5) 217 (step). S813).

  Thereafter, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V2) 215 (step S814). 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 vaporizing furnace 216 as a molecular cluster.

  The volume of the sterilization chamber 219 is larger than that of the vaporization furnace 216, and in the vaporization furnace 216, the sterilant is vaporized as a molecular cluster. This is because the volume of the vaporizing furnace 216 is smaller than that of the sterilization chamber 219, and the distance between the molecules of the sterilant in the sterilization chamber 219 is close, and molecular clusters are easily formed by intermolecular force.

  Also at this time, the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is continuously sucked by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220, and the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced. And the atmospheric pressure rises in the vaporizing furnace 216 into which the sterilizing agent in the measuring tube 214 is sucked. That is, the atmospheric pressure in the vaporizing furnace 216 is higher than the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219.

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not 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 S814. Is determined (step S815). If the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is not reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 50 Pa) or if a predetermined time has not elapsed since the valve (V2) 215 was opened (NO in step S815), the arithmetic processing unit 201 waits. .

  On the other hand, when the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 50 Pa) and a predetermined time elapses after the valve (V2) 215 is opened (YES in step S815), the arithmetic processing unit 201 Suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is stopped (step S816). Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V5) 217 (step S817).

  As a result, the sterilizing agent vaporized in the sterilization chamber 219 diffuses, and the object to be sterilized can be sterilized. Here, since the atmospheric pressure (for example, 50 Pa) in the sterilization chamber 219 is lower than the atmospheric pressure in the vaporizing furnace 216, the sterilizing agent diffuses.

  In the sterilizing agent that diffuses here, as a result of the molecular clusters in the vaporizing furnace being further subdivided, the sterilizing agent can be more effectively diffused into the sterilization chamber, and the sterilization action can be enhanced. In addition, an object to be sterilized such as a fine lumen can be effectively sterilized.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 330 seconds) has elapsed since the valve (V5) 217 was opened in step S817 (step S818). If a predetermined time (for example, 330 seconds) has not elapsed since the valve (V5) 217 was opened (NO in step S818), the arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

  On the other hand, when a predetermined time (for example, 330 seconds) elapses after opening the valve (V5) 217 (YES in step S818), the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V9) 227 (step S819).

  Accordingly, the atmospheric pressure in the vaporization furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219 is lower than the atmospheric pressure outside the sterilizer 100, so that the outside air (air) cleaned by the intake HEPA filter 210 is sucked into the vaporization furnace 216. It is. Then, 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 sent into the sterilization chamber 219 by the air sent into the vaporizing furnace 216 to be sterilized. The sterilization effect on the object to be sterilized in the chamber 219 is enhanced. In other words, for example, the sterilization effect is enhanced even in a portion that is difficult to sterilize, such as the back of a thin tube that is an object to be sterilized.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V7) 226 when a predetermined time (15 seconds) elapses after the valve (V9) 227 is opened in step S819 (step S820). As a result, outside air (air) cleaned by the intake HEPA filter 210 is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219.

  Here, since the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 is lower than the atmospheric pressure outside the sterilizer 100, the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100 is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219. . As a result, the sterilization effect is enhanced even for portions that are difficult to sterilize (especially, lumen portions) such as the back of a thin tube or the like that is a sterilization target.

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 and the inside of the vaporizing furnace 216 have increased to atmospheric pressure (step S821). If the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 and the inside of the vaporizing furnace 216 do not rise to atmospheric pressure (NO in step S821), the arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by.

  On the other hand, when the inside of sterilization chamber 219 and vaporization furnace 216 rise to atmospheric pressure (YES in step S821), processing unit 201 closes valve (V2) 215 (step S822).

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes the valve (V7) 226 (step S823). Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 resumes the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 (step S824). As a result, the outside air (air) cleaned by the intake HEPA filter 210 is sucked into the vaporizer 216 through a conduit in which the intake HEPA filter 210 and the vaporizer 216 are conducted.

  By the air sent into the vaporizing furnace 216, the sterilizing agent filled as a gas in the vaporizing furnace 216 and the sterilizing agent attached to the inner surface of the vaporizing furnace 216 are further sent into the sterilization chamber 219.

  As a result, not only the sterilization action (particularly the lumen part) such as the back of a thin tube that is the object to be sterilized but also the sterilization effect is enhanced, and the sterilant in the vaporizing furnace 216 can be effectively reduced. It becomes possible.

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 restarts the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220, and then closes the valve (V9) 227 after a predetermined time (for example, 15 seconds) ( Step S825).

  Also in this case, suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 is continuously performed by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220, and the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216 are sealed by closing the valve in step S825, and the sterilization chamber 219 is closed. Then, the pressure in the vaporizing furnace 216 is reduced (step S826).

Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the processing from step S802 to step S826 has been executed a predetermined number of times (for example, four times) (step S827). If it is determined that the predetermined number of times of execution has been performed (YES in step S827), operation processing unit 201 proceeds to the process of step S603 shown in FIG.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined number of times of execution has not been performed (NO in step S827), operation processing unit 201 returns to the process of step S802.

  As described above, by executing the processing from step S802 to step S826 a predetermined number of times, the effect of the sterilization action on the sterilization target is increased, and the sterilization target can be sufficiently sterilized.

  Next, when it is determined in step S803 that the “mode for sterilizing without sterilizing agent concentration” button 305 is pressed, that is, when it is determined that the mode is not the concentration mode (NO in step S803), the arithmetic processing unit 201 It is determined whether or not the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 has been reduced to a predetermined pressure (for example, 1000 Pa) (step S828).

  If it is determined that the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 is not reduced to a predetermined pressure (for example, 1000 Pa) (NO in step S828), the arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 1000 Pa) (YES in step S828), the arithmetic processing unit 201 drives the liquid feeding rotary pump 207. Then, a predetermined amount (for example, 2 milliliters) of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 is sucked (step S829). As a result, a predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent sucked up enters 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, for example.

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 writes the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent remaining in the cartridge 205 to the RF-ID of the cartridge 205 attached at the cartridge attachment location (step S830).

  Specifically, the arithmetic processing unit 201 subtracts a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined amount (for example, 2 milliliters) sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S829 from the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 read in step S301. Store in ID.

  Here, it is assumed that the predetermined amount per one time when the sterilizing agent is sucked from the cartridge 205 is 2 ml, for example, and it is determined in step S827 that the predetermined number of times is not performed.

  In this case, assuming that the processing after step S802 is the second time, for example, the total amount of the sterilant sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S829 is (2 ml (predetermined amount) × second time) 4 ml. Therefore, the arithmetic processing unit 201 subtracts the value obtained by subtracting 4 milliliters, which is the total amount of the sterilant sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S829, from the remaining amount of the sterilant in the cartridge 205 read in step S301. Is stored in the RF-ID.

  That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 subtracts the total amount of the sterilant sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S829 from the remaining amount of the sterilant in the cartridge 205 read in step S301, and the RF-ID in step S830. To remember.

  If the first use date and time read from the RF-ID in step S301 (date and time when the cartridge is first used in the sterilizer) does not include information indicating the date and time, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines in step S830 that This time, it is determined that the cartridge 205 is used for the first time in the sterilization apparatus 100.

  That is, if the first use date / time cannot be read from the RF-ID in step S301, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that the cartridge 205 has been used for the first time in the sterilization apparatus 100 this time.

In this way, the arithmetic processing unit 201 writes the current date / time information in the RF-ID only when it is determined that the cartridge 205 has been used for the first time in the sterilization apparatus 100.
After the process of step S830, the arithmetic processing unit 201 proceeds to the process of step S809.

  When the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 reaches a predetermined pressure (for example, 1000 Pa) in step S828, the suction of the sterilant is started in step S829, and the pressure is below 500 Pa when the suction of the sterilant is completed in step S829. , It is possible to shift to S809 efficiently.

  In this way, a predetermined amount of sterilant sucked out after the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and in the vaporizing furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined pressure (for example, 1000 Pascals) at which pressure reduction in the measuring tube 214 is started. Can be put into the concentrating furnace 208 and the pressure in the measuring pipe 214 can be immediately reduced in step S809.

  Thereafter, since the sterilizing agent in the concentration furnace 208 is put into the measuring tube 214 in step S810, the sterilizing agent can be put into the measuring tube 214 immediately from the concentrating furnace 208. 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. 9>
FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the ventilation process (step S603) shown in FIG.

  In addition, the ventilation process shown in FIG. 9 is performed under control of the arithmetic processing part 201 shown in FIG. That is, by executing a program that can be read and executed by the arithmetic processing unit 201, the operation of the sterilizer 100 is controlled to perform the ventilation process.

  When the ventilation process is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve V (7) 226 (step S901). Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve V (7) 226 was opened (step S902). If a predetermined time has not elapsed since the valve V (7) 226 was opened (NO in step S902), the arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by.

When a predetermined time has elapsed after opening the valve V (7) 226 (YES in step S902), the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes the valve V (7) 226 (step S903). Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 continues to perform suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220. As a result, the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 is decompressed.
Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 performs a valve purging process described later (step S904).

  In the valve purging process, a sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution, etc.) adhering to each valve and / or a product such as water generated by decomposition of the sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution, etc.) is removed.

  The arithmetic processing unit 201 continues the decompression in the sterilization chamber 219 (step S905). Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 has been depressurized to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (50 Pa) (step S906). If the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 is not depressurized to a predetermined pressure (50 Pa) (NO in step S906), the arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by.

  On the other hand, when the inside of sterilization chamber 219 is depressurized to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (50 Pa) (YES in step S906), operation processing unit 201 opens valve V (7) 226 (step S907).

  As a result, outside air (air) cleaned by the intake HEPA filter 210 is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219. Here, since the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is lower than the atmospheric pressure outside the sterilizer 100, the outside air (air) is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 has increased to atmospheric pressure (step S908). If the atmospheric pressure in sterilization chamber 219 has not increased to atmospheric pressure (NO in step S908), arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

  On the other hand, when the atmospheric pressure in sterilization chamber 219 rises to atmospheric pressure (YES in step S908), operation processing unit 201 determines whether the processing from step S903 to step S908 has been performed a predetermined number of times (for example, 4 times) ( Step S909).

  If the processes from step S903 to step S908 have not been performed a predetermined number of times (for example, four times) (NO in step S909), the arithmetic processing unit 201 returns to the process of step S903. When the processing from step S903 to step S908 is performed a predetermined number of times (for example, four times) (YES in step S909), the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes the valve V (7) 226 (step S910), and the ventilation process Exit.

  As a result, the sterilizing agent attached to the surface of 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. Here, the sucked gas (including the sterilizing agent) is sent to the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 through the exhaust HEPA filter 221. Then, the sterilizing agent is decomposed in the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222, and the decomposed molecules are released to the outside.

<Description of FIG. 10>
FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the sterilant discharge process (step S314) shown in FIG.

  Note that the sterilant discharge process shown in FIG. 10 is performed under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 201 shown in FIG. That is, by executing a program that can be read and executed by the arithmetic processing unit 201, the operation of the sterilizer 100 is controlled to perform a sterilizing agent discharge process.

  When the sterilizing agent discharge process is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 sucks all the liquid sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 by the liquid feeding rotary pump 223 (step S1001). This liquid sterilant is sent to the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 through a conduit by a liquid feed rotary pump 223.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 heats all the liquid sterilizing agents (sterilizing agents stored in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224) with the heater provided in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 by the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 to sterilize. Vaporize all of the agent. 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 S1002).

  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), for example. For this reason, all the sterilizing agent is vaporized by the exhaust evaporation furnace 224.

  Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 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. The cleaned gas (including the sterilizing agent) is sent to the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 through a conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221.

  Under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 201, the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222 decomposes the molecules of the sterilizing agent contained in the gas and releases the molecules generated by the decomposition out of the sterilizing apparatus 100 (step S1003). Thereafter, the arithmetic processing unit 201 proceeds to the process of step S315 illustrated in FIG.

<Description of FIG. 11>
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing in detail a concentrating furnace, a valve, a metering tube, and a vaporizing furnace in the sterilization apparatus 100 shown in FIG.
In FIG. 11, the same components as those shown in FIG.

  In the processing of Step S804 or Step S829 described above, the arithmetic processing unit 201 drives the liquid feed rotary pump 207 to suck a predetermined amount (for example, 2 milliliters) of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205, and the sucked predetermined amount. The sterilizing agent is put into the concentration furnace 208.

As shown in FIG. 11, a heater is provided in the lower part of the concentration furnace 208, and in the process of step S806, the sterilant is heated by the heat of the heater. When the sterilizing agent is an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, water is vaporized by the heat of the heater. The vaporized water is pushed out by the air fed 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. As a result, the sterilant (aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution) is concentrated.
As described with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the sterilant in the concentration furnace 208 enters the measuring tube 214 in step S810.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the measuring pipe 214 has a straight pipe part 1101 and a branch pipe part 1102. The straight pipe portion 1101 is a straight tubular portion and extends in the direction of gravity. On the other hand, the branch pipe part 1102 is a tubular part extending in a branch shape from the middle part or upper part of the straight pipe part 1101. The straight pipe part 1101 is installed so that the axis of the straight pipe part and the axis of the branch pipe part 1102 are perpendicular to each other.

  With such a configuration, the sterilizing agent that has entered from the concentration furnace 208 is accumulated in the straight pipe portion 1101 in the measuring pipe 214. Here, a portion where the sterilant is accumulated in the straight pipe portion 1101 is referred to as a sterilant reservoir 1103. The sterilant reservoir 1103 has sufficient space for the sterilant entering from the concentration furnace 208 to enter.

  As a result, the sterilant entering from the concentrating furnace 208 is collected in the sterilizing agent reservoir 1103, and the air entering from the concentrating furnace 208 together with the sterilizing agent is other than the space of the sterilant accumulating in the sterilizing agent reservoir 1103. It will fill the space. That is, since the space other than the space for the sterilizing agent is a space communicating with the space in the branch pipe portion 1102, when the valve (V 3) 212 and the valve (V 4) 213 are opened in step S 811, the space in the sterilization chamber 219 is opened. The air will be sucked out.

  When the valve (V2) is opened in step S814, the sterilant stored in the sterilant reservoir 1103 is sucked into the vaporizing furnace 216 and vaporized. As shown in FIG. 11, since the liquid sterilant enters the vaporizer 216 from the upper part of the vaporizer 216, the sterilant is easily vaporized.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11, a conduit between the intake HEPA filter 210 and the vaporizing furnace 216 is provided at the upper part of the vaporizing furnace 216. For this reason, when the valve (V9) is opened in step S819, air (outside air) flows from the upper part of the vaporizing furnace 216 to the sterilization chamber 219 at the lower part of the vaporizing furnace 216.

  As a result, the sterilizing agent adhering to the inside of the vaporizing furnace 216 and the sterilizing agent vaporized in the vaporizing furnace 216 can be easily removed over a wide range, and the removed sterilizing agent can be flowed into the sterilization chamber 219.

<Description of FIG. 12>
12 is a side view of the sterilizing agent cartridge 205 used in the sterilization apparatus 100 shown in FIG.

  A cartridge 205 shown in FIG. 12 is a cartridge containing a sterilizing agent in an amount capable of performing sterilization multiple times in one bottle. The cartridge 205 stores a chemical solution such as hydrogen peroxide used as a sterilizing agent.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the cartridge 205 has a first container and a lid that closes the first container. The external appearance of the first container has a cup shape. The material (material) of the first container is, for example, polypropylene (plastic) resistant to hydrogen peroxide as a sterilizing agent. 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. That is, the lid is bonded to the outer peripheral ridge of the first container. The lid is made of, for example, polypropylene (plastic) that is resistant to hydrogen peroxide, which is a sterilizing agent.
Here, when viewed from the upper side of the cartridge 205, a cross section of the cartridge 205 at the center point of the cartridge 205 is a cross section 1.
Next, the structure when an extraction needle (injection needle) for aspirating a sterilant is inserted into the cartridge 205 shown in FIG. 12 will be described.

<Description of FIG. 13>
FIG. 13 is a view showing a cross section 1 of the cartridge 205 shown in FIG.

  When the extraction needle operation control unit 203 controls the arithmetic processing unit 201 to drop the extraction needle (injection needle) toward the cartridge 205 from the top of the cartridge 205, the extraction needle (injection needle) is inserted into the hole of the lid and the cap. ) Is inserted. At this time, the extraction needle operation control unit 203 performs control so that the injection needle passes through 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.

  In step S303 described in FIG. 3, by inserting the injection needle into the cartridge 205, the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 can be extracted and the cartridge 205 cannot be taken out. .

<Description of FIG. 14>
FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the valve purging process shown in FIG.

  The valve purging process shown in FIG. 14 is performed under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 201 shown in FIG. That is, by executing a program that can be read and executed by the arithmetic processing unit 201, the operation of the sterilizer 100 is controlled to perform the valve purging process.

  As shown in the figure, the bubble purging process includes a 1A valve purging process (valve purging process 1A) to a sixth valve purging process (valve purging process 6), and under the control of the arithmetic processing unit 201, Sequential valve purging process 1A (step S1401A), valve purging process 1B (step S1401B), valve purging process 2 (step S1402), valve purging process 3 (step S1403), valve purging process 4 (step S1404), valve purging process 5 (Step S1405) and the valve purging process 6 (Step S1406) are performed.

<Description of FIG. 23>
FIG. 23 is a flowchart for explaining detailed processing of the 1A valve purging step (step S1401A) shown in FIG.

  The arithmetic processing unit 201 continues to drive the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 to perform the suction of the sterilization chamber 219. In step S2301, the valve (V1) 211, the valve (V7) 226, and the valve (V9) are sequentially provided. 227 is closed.

  In step S2302, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213. At this time, when the valve (V2) 215 and the valve (V5) 217 are not opened, the arithmetic processing unit 201 also opens the valve (V2) 215 and the valve (V5) 217.

  As a result, the measuring tube 214, the vaporizing chamber 216, and the sterilization chamber 219 communicate with each other through a conduit and are sucked by the air-feeding vacuum pump 220, so that the inside of the measuring tube 214, the vaporizing chamber 216, and the sterilization chamber 219 is decompressed. The Rukoto.

  Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the inside of the measuring tube 214, the vaporization chamber 216, and the sterilization chamber 219 has reached a predetermined pressure (step S2303). When it is determined that the inside of the measuring tube 214, the vaporization chamber 216, and the sterilization chamber 219 does not reach a predetermined pressure (NO in step S2303), the arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the inside of the measuring tube 214, the vaporization chamber 216, and the sterilization chamber 219 reaches a predetermined pressure (atmospheric pressure) (YES in step S2303), the arithmetic processing unit 201 performs steps S2304 to S2307. The valve (V2) 215, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) 213, and the valve (V5) 217 are sequentially closed.

Although the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 have been described above, only one of the valves may be provided. For example, when the valve (V3) 212 is provided and the valve (V4) 213 is not provided, the process of step S2306 is not executed and the process is skipped to step S2307.
At this time, the inside of the measuring tube 214, the vaporization chamber 216, and the sterilization chamber 219 are in a state of a predetermined atmospheric pressure or less.
Next, the arithmetic processing unit 201 stops the suction operation by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 (step S2308), and opens the valve (V7) 226 (step S2309).

  As a result, the air purified by the intake HEPA filter 210 is sucked into and introduced into the sterilization chamber 219 that has been depressurized from the atmospheric pressure through the conduit provided with the valve (V7) 226.

  Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 has reached a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure) (step S2310). When it is determined that the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 has not reached the predetermined atmospheric pressure (NO in step S2310), the arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by.

  Here, in step S2310, the arithmetic processing unit 201 does not determine whether or not the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 has reached a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure), but instead, in step S2309, the valve (V7). It is also possible to determine whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since opening 226.

  In step S2310, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed since the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 reached a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure) and the valve (V7) 226 was opened in step S2309. Can also be determined.

  If it is determined that the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 reaches a predetermined atmospheric pressure (YES in step S2310), the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes (V7) 226 in step S2311.

  Here, (V7) 226 is closed in step S2311, but (V7) 226 can be closed when a predetermined time has elapsed after executing the processing in step S2314 described later.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valves in the order of the valve (V4) 213, the valve (V3) 212, and the valve (V5) 217 in steps S2312 to S2314.

Although the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 have been described above, only one of the valves may be provided. For example, when the valve (V3) 212 is provided and the valve (V4) 213 is not provided, the process of step S2312 is not executed and the process is skipped to step S2313.
And the arithmetic processing part 201 advances a process to the 1A valve | bulb purging process (valve purging process 1A: step S1401B).
Here, the process and process of step S2312 to step S2314 are demonstrated concretely.

  Since the conduit between the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 is depressurized from the atmospheric pressure by the pneumatic vacuum pump, when the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V4) 213 in step S2312. From the atmospheric pressure sterilization chamber 219, air is sucked into the conduit between the valve (V 3) 212 and the valve (V 4) 213. Therefore, it is difficult to remove from the conduit between the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 by the flow of atmospheric fluid flowing in the sterilization chamber 219, and the residual sterilant attached to the conduit and the valve (V4) 213 Can be removed.

  It is easy to remove the residual sterilant adhering to the valve (V4) 213 by the flow opposite to the flow (the atmosphere from the sterilization chamber 219 to the conduit between the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213). This is to generate a flow of

  Next, when the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed after opening the valve (V4) 213 and / or determines that the sterilization chamber 219 has reached a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure), V3) 212 is opened.

  As a result, the inside of the measuring tube 214 and the conduit between the measuring tube 214 and the valve (V3) 212 are in a state of being depressurized from the atmospheric pressure by the pneumatic vacuum pump. When the valve (V3) 212 is opened in step S2313, the atmosphere from the atmospheric sterilization chamber 219 is sucked into the measuring tube 214 through the conduit provided with the valve (V3) 212. come.

  For this reason, it is difficult to remove from the measuring pipe 214 through the conduit provided with the valve (V3) 212 by the flow of the atmospheric fluid flowing into the sterilization chamber 219, and the residue attached to the conduit or the valve (V3) 212. The sterilant can be removed.

  It is easy to remove the residual sterilant adhering to the valve (V3) 212 because the flow opposite to the flow (from the sterilization chamber 219 to the inside of the measuring tube 214 via the conduit provided with the valve (V3) 212 is provided. This is because the air flow to

  Next, when the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed after opening the valve (V3) 212 and / or determines that the sterilization chamber 219 has reached a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure), V5) Open 217.

  As a result, the inside of the vaporizing chamber 216 is in a state where the pressure is reduced from the atmospheric pressure by the air-feeding vacuum pump. Therefore, when the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V5) 217 in step S2314, the atmospheric pressure sterilization chamber Atmospheric air is sucked into the vaporizing chamber 216 through a conduit provided with a valve (V5) 217.

  For this reason, it is difficult to remove from the vaporization chamber 216 through the conduit provided with the valve (V5) 217 by the flow of atmospheric fluid flowing to the sterilization chamber 219, and the residue adhered to the conduit and the valve (V5) 217. The sterilant can be removed.

The residual sterilant adhering to the valve (V5) 217 can be easily removed by the flow opposite to the flow (from the sterilization chamber 219 through the conduit provided with the valve (V5) 217 in the vaporization chamber 216). This is because the air flow to
Next, some modifications of the 1A valve purging process (step S1401A) shown in FIG. 23 will be described.

  In the valve purging step 1A shown in FIG. 23 (step S1401A), the valve (V7) 226, the valve (V9) 227, the valve (V1) 211 are closed, the valve (V2) 215, the valve (V5) 217, With the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 opened, the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 performs an operation of sucking the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, and the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, the measuring tube 214, and the vaporization chamber 216 are operated. When the pressure is reduced and the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, the metering tube 214, and the vaporization chamber 216 is below a predetermined pressure, the valve (V2) 215, the valve (V5) 217, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) ) 213 is closed, the suction operation by the pneumatic pump 220 is stopped, the valve (V7) 226 is opened, a predetermined period has elapsed since the valve (V7) 226 was opened, and / or the sterilization chamber 219 is A given pressure (e.g. high When the pressure (pressure) is reached, the valve (V4) 213 and the valve (V3) 212 are opened to measure from the sterilization chamber 219 via the conduit provided with the valve (V4) 213 and the valve (V3) 212. It has been described that the atmosphere is caused to flow through the pipe 214 and the valve (V5) 217 is opened, whereby the atmosphere is caused to flow from the sterilization chamber 219 to the vaporization chamber 216 through a conduit provided with the valve (V5) 217.

  In the first modified example, the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes the valve (V7) 226, the valve (V9) 227, the valve (V1) 211, the valve (V3) 212, and the valve (V4) 213, and the valve (V2). 215, the valve (V5) 217 is opened, and in that state, the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 performs an operation of sucking the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, and the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, the measuring tube 214, and the vaporization chamber 216 is depressurized. When the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, the metering tube 214, and the vaporization chamber 216 is below a predetermined atmospheric pressure, the valve (V2) 215 and the valve (V5) 217 are closed and the suction operation by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 is performed. The valve (V7) 226 is opened, the valve (V7) 226 is opened, and a predetermined period has elapsed, and / or the sterilization chamber 219 reaches a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure), Sterilization chamber 219 is opened by opening valve (V5) 217. From the vaporization chamber 216, the valve (V2) 215 is provided by flowing the atmosphere to the vaporization chamber 216 through the conduit provided with the valve (V5) 217 and opening the valve (V2) 215. You may make it flow air | atmosphere to the measurement pipe | tube 214 via a conduit | pipe.

  In the case of the first modification, since the atmosphere flows from the vaporizing chamber 216 to the measuring pipe 214 through the conduit provided with the valve (V2) 215, the valve (V2) 215 is provided from the measuring pipe 214. The residual sterilizing agent adhering to the conduit and the valve (V2) 215, which is difficult to remove with a gas (fluid) such as the air flowing into the vaporizing chamber 216 through the conduit, is easily removed.

  In the case of the first modified example, since the atmosphere flows from the sterilization chamber 219 to the vaporization chamber 216 through a conduit provided with the valve (V5) 217, the valve (V5) 217 is moved from the vaporization chamber 216 to the valve (V5) 217. The residual sterilizing agent attached to the conduit and the valve (V5) 217, which is difficult to remove with a gas (fluid) such as air flowing into the sterilization chamber 217 via the provided conduit, can be easily removed.

  In the second modification, the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes the valve (V7) 226, the valve (V9) 227, the valve (V1) 211, the valve (V2) 215, and the valve (V5) 217, V3) 212 and valve (V4) 213 are opened, and in that state, the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 performs an operation of sucking the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, depressurizes the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 and the measuring tube 214, and sterilization chamber When the inside of 219 and the inside of the measuring pipe 214 become a predetermined atmospheric pressure or lower, the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are closed to stop the suction operation by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220, and the valve (V7) When a predetermined period has elapsed since opening the valve 226 and opening the valve (V7) 226, and / or when the sterilization chamber 219 reaches a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure), the valve (V4) 213, the valve ( V3) By opening 212, from the sterilization chamber 219, the valve V4) 213, via a conduit valve (V3) 212 is provided, may be supplied to the air in the metering tube 214.

  In the case of this second modification, since the atmosphere flows from the sterilization chamber 219 to the measuring pipe 214 through the conduit provided with the valve (V4) 213 and the valve (V3) 212, the measuring pipe 214 (V4) 213 and the fluid (gas) flowing into the sterilization chamber 219 through the conduit provided with the valve (V3) 212, it is difficult to remove the conduit, the valve (V4) 213, and the valve (V3) 212. The attached residual sterilant is also easy to remove.

  In the third modification, the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes the valve (V7) 226, the valve (V9) 227, the valve (V1) 211, the valve (V2) 215, and the valve (V5) 217, V3) 212 and valve (V4) 213 are opened, and in that state, the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 performs an operation of sucking the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, depressurizes the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 and the measuring tube 214, and sterilization chamber When the inside of 219 and the inside of the measuring pipe 214 become a predetermined atmospheric pressure or lower, the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are closed to stop the suction operation by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220, and the valve (V7) Open valve (V5) 217 when a predetermined period has elapsed since opening 226 and opening valve (V7) 226 and / or when sterilization chamber 219 reaches a predetermined atmospheric pressure (eg, atmospheric pressure). The valve (V5) 217 is installed from the sterilization chamber 219. When a predetermined period of time has passed since the atmosphere was passed to the vaporizing chamber 216 through the pipe and the valve (V5) 217 was opened, and / or the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 reached a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure). In this case, the air may flow from the vaporizing chamber 216 into the measuring pipe 214 through a conduit provided with the valve (V2) 215 by opening the valve (V2) 215.

  In the case of the third modified example, the atmosphere flows from the sterilization chamber 219 to the vaporization chamber 216 via a conduit provided with the valve (V5) 217, and further, the valve (V2) 215 is moved from the vaporization chamber 216 to the vaporization chamber 216. Since the atmosphere of the measuring pipe 214 flows through the provided conduit, the fluid (gas) flowing from the measuring pipe 214 to the vaporizing chamber 216 through the conduit provided with the valve (V2) 215, or from the vaporizing chamber 216. The fluid (gas) flowing into the sterilization chamber 219 through the conduit provided with the valve (V5) 217 is difficult to remove and remains attached to each conduit, valve (V2) 215, and valve (V5) 217. Sterilizing agents are also easier to remove.

  In the fourth modification, the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes the valve (V7) 226, the valve (V9) 227, the valve (V1) 211, the valve (V3) 212, and the valve (V4) 213, V2) 215 and valve (V5) 217 are opened, and in that state, the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 performs the operation of sucking the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, and the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, the vaporization chamber 216, and the inside of the measuring tube 214 When the pressure is reduced and the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, the vaporization chamber 216, and the measuring tube 214 is below a predetermined pressure, the valve (V2) 215 and the valve (V5) 217 are closed, and the air feed vacuum pump 220 When the suction operation is stopped, the valve (V7) 226 is opened, a predetermined period has elapsed since the valve (V7) 226 is opened, and / or when the sterilization chamber 219 reaches a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, atmospheric pressure) The valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are In Kukoto, from the sterilization chamber 219, the valve (V3) 212, via a conduit valve (V4) 213 is provided, may be supplied to the air in the metering tube 214.

In the case of the fourth modified example, since the atmosphere flows from the sterilization chamber 219 to the measuring pipe 214 through the conduit provided with the valve (V4) 213 and the valve (V3) 212, the measuring pipe 214 (V4) 213 and the fluid (gas) flowing into the sterilization chamber 219 through the conduit provided with the valve (V3) 212, it is difficult to remove the conduit, the valve (V4) 213, and the valve (V3) 212. The attached residual sterilant is also easy to remove.
Further, in the present embodiment and the first to fourth modifications described above, a configuration without the vaporization chamber 216 may be used.

  That is, in the case where the vaporizing chamber 216 is not provided, the vaporizing chamber 216 shown in the drawing is a conduit for introducing a sterilizing agent into the sterilizing chamber, and either the valve (V2) 215 or the valve (V5) 217 is used. Only the valve is provided, and the processing of the present embodiment and the above-described first to fourth modifications is executed. Thus, by opening the valve (V2) 215 or the valve (V5) 217, the measuring pipe 214 is connected to the sterilization chamber 219 and the conduit provided with the valve (V2) 215 or the valve (V5) 217. Communication (conduction) will occur.

  In the present embodiment and the first to fourth modifications described above, the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are described. However, as described above, the valve (V3) 212 is provided. Alternatively, only one of the valves (V4) 213 may be provided. When only one of the valve (V3) 212 or the valve (V4) 213 is provided, the metering tube is opened in the sterilization chamber by opening the valve (V3) 212 or the valve (V4) 213. 219 and the valve (V3) 212 or the valve (V4) 213 are communicated (conducted).

  Further, the sterilization apparatus 100 can also execute the processes and steps described in the present embodiment and the first to fourth modifications described above as a process and a process in step S1401A.

  That is, after executing the processes and steps described in FIG. 23, the processes and steps of the first modification are executed, then the processes and processes of the second modification are executed, and then the third modification is performed. The process and process of this 4th modification are performed after that. After these processes and steps are executed as the processes and steps of step S1401A, the processes and steps of step S1401B can be executed.

<Description of FIG. 15>
FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining detailed processing of the 1B valve purging step (step S1401B) shown in FIG.

  The arithmetic processing unit 201 drives the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 to resume suction, and in steps S1501 to S1507, the valve (V1) 211, the valve (V2) 215, the valve (V3) 212, and the valve (V4) 213 are sequentially provided. The valve (V5) 217, the valve (V7) 226, and the valve (V9) 227 are closed.

  Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 has reached a predetermined pressure (step S1508). When the inside of sterilization chamber 219 does not reach a predetermined pressure (NO in step S1508), arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

  On the other hand, when the inside of sterilization chamber 219 reaches a predetermined pressure (YES in step S1508), arithmetic processing unit 201 opens valve (V5) 217 (step S1509).

  At this time, the vaporizing furnace 216 is at a higher pressure than the sterilization chamber 219 in a vacuum state. For this reason, a strong air flow is generated from the vaporizing furnace 216 to the sterilization chamber 219 due to the pressure difference, and the movement of the sterilant remaining in the valve (V5) 217 and its conduit is promoted.

In general, the internal structure of the valve has irregularities, and the sterilant that enters the gap is less likely to evaporate. Also, the valves and conduits are not warmed to reduce costs. For this reason, the sterilant adhering to the valve and the conduit is difficult to evaporate. Such residual sterilizing agents that are difficult to evaporate can be removed by blowing away in order to send them to the sterilization chamber.
Then, the sterilizing agent moved to the sterilizing chamber 219 is sucked out by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 to the sterilizing agent decomposing apparatus 222.

  Subsequently, by driving the air feed vacuum pump 220, the inside of the sterilization chamber 219, the valve (V5) 217, the vaporizing furnace 216, and the conduit connected to them was evacuated, and the boiling point decreased due to the pressure drop. The sterilant continues to evaporate gradually.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed after opening the valve (V5) 217 (step S1510). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in step S1510), arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

  On the other hand, when the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step S1510), operation processing unit 201 determines whether or not the inside of sterilization chamber 219 has become a predetermined pressure or lower (step S1511). If the inside of sterilization chamber 219 does not become a predetermined pressure or lower (NO in step S1511), arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by.

  When the inside of sterilization chamber 219 is equal to or lower than the predetermined pressure (YES in step S1511), operation processing unit 201 proceeds to the second valve purging process (valve purging process 2).

<Description of FIG. 16>
FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the second valve purging step shown in FIG.

  When the second valve purging process (valve purging process 2) is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V2) 215 (step S1601). At this time, the measuring tube 214 is at a higher pressure than the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizing furnace 216 in a vacuum state. For this reason, due to the pressure difference, a strong air flow is generated from the measuring pipe 214 to the vaporizing furnace 216, and the movement of the sterilant remaining in the valve (V2) 215 and its conduit is promoted.

  Further, since the arithmetic processing unit 201 continues the operation of the pneumatic vacuum pump, the sterilant that has moved to the vaporizing furnace 216 has moved to the sterilization chamber 219, and the sterilant that has moved to the sterilization chamber 219 has no gas. It is discharged by the vacuum pump 220.

  By continuing the operation of the pneumatic vacuum pump, the sterilization chamber 219, the valve (V5) 217, the vaporizing furnace 216, and the conduit connected thereto are in a vacuum state, and the sterilizing agent whose boiling point is lowered due to the lowering of the atmospheric pressure gradually. Continue to evaporate.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed after opening the valve (V2) 215 (step S1602). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in step S1602), arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

  On the other hand, when the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step S1602), operation processing unit 201 determines whether or not the inside of sterilization chamber 219 has become a predetermined pressure or lower (step S1603). If the inside of sterilization chamber 219 does not become a predetermined pressure or lower (NO in step S1603), arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by.

When the inside of sterilization chamber 219 is equal to or lower than the predetermined pressure (YES in step S1603), operation processing unit 201 proceeds to the third valve purging step (valve purging step 3).
<Description of FIG. 17>
FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the third valve purging step shown in FIG.

  When the third valve purging process (valve purging process 3) is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V1) 211 (step S1701). At this time, the sterilization chamber 219, the vaporizing furnace 216, and the measuring pipe 214 are in a vacuum state, whereas the concentrating furnace 208 connected by the valve (V1) 211 is in an atmospheric pressure state.

  Therefore, a strong air flow is generated from the concentration furnace 208 to the measuring pipe 214 due to the pressure difference, and the movement of the sterilant remaining in the valve (V1) 211 and its conduit is promoted. As a result, the sterilant that has moved to the sterilization chamber 219 is discharged by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220.

  By continuing the operation of the pneumatic vacuum pump, the sterilization chamber 219, the valve (V5) 217, the vaporizer 216, the valve (V2) 215, the metering pipe 214, the valve (V1) 211, and the conduit connected thereto Air continues to flow, and the movement of the sterilant remaining in the path is promoted.

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed after opening the valve (V1) 211 (step S1702). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in step S1702), arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

  On the other hand, when the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step S1702), operation processing unit 201 determines whether or not the inside of sterilization chamber 219 has become a predetermined pressure or lower (step S1703). If the inside of sterilization chamber 219 does not become a predetermined pressure or lower (NO in step S1703), arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

  When the inside of sterilization chamber 219 is equal to or lower than the predetermined pressure (YES in step S1703), operation processing unit 201 proceeds to the fourth valve purging step (valve purging step 4).

  In the valve purging step 3, the atmosphere is continuously introduced from the concentrating furnace 208, but the inner diameter of the conduit between the concentrating furnace 208 and the valve (V1) 211 is narrow, for example, 1 mm in diameter, and the physical piping resistance. Since the air flow rate is small and the exhaust amount of the pneumatic vacuum pump is sufficiently large as described above, the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 can be set to a predetermined pressure or less.

<Description of FIG. 18>
FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the fourth valve purging step shown in FIG.

  When the fourth valve purging process (valve purging process 4) is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 closes the valve (V2) 215 (step S1801). When the predetermined time has elapsed, the arithmetic processing unit 201 sequentially opens the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 (steps S1802 and S1803).

  Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 continues the operation of the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 and causes the air via the valve (V1) 211 and the measuring tube 214 to flow through the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213. This facilitates the movement of the sterilant remaining in the path.

  The arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve (V4) 213 was opened in step S1803 (step S1804). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in step S1804), arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

  On the other hand, when a predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step S1804), operation processing unit 201 determines whether or not the inside of sterilization chamber 219 has become a predetermined pressure or lower (step S1805). If the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 does not become a predetermined pressure or lower (NO in step S1805), the arithmetic processing unit 201 stands by.

  When the inside of sterilization chamber 219 is equal to or lower than the predetermined pressure (YES in step S1805), operation processing unit 201 proceeds to the fifth valve purging step (valve purging step 5).

  Even in the fifth valve purging step, air is continuously introduced, but the inner diameter of the conduit between the concentrating furnace 208 and the valve (V1) 211 is thin, for example, 1 mm in diameter, and the physical piping resistance is large. The air flow rate is also low. For this reason, when the exhaust amount of the pneumatic vacuum pump is sufficiently large as in this case, the sterilization chamber 219 can be set to a predetermined pressure or less.

<Description of FIG. 19>
FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the fifth valve purging step shown in FIG.

  When the fifth valve purging process (valve purging process 5) is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 sequentially closes the valve (V1) 211 and the valve (V5) 217 (steps S1901 and S1902). Thereafter, the arithmetic processing unit 201 sequentially opens the valve (V2) 215 and the valve (V9) 227 (steps S1903 and S1904).

  At this time, the arithmetic processing unit 201 continues the operation of the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 and causes air to flow through the valve (V9) 227, the valve (V2) 215, the valve (V3) 212, and the valve (V4) 213. This facilitates the movement of the sterilant remaining in the path.

  In this case, since air flows through the valve (V2) 215 in the opposite direction to the valve purging steps 1 to 4, it can be expected to promote the movement of the residual sterilant that cannot be moved by the air flow in one direction. .

  The arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve (V9) 227 was opened in step S1904 (step S1905). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in step S1905), arithmetic processing unit 201 waits.

  On the other hand, when the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step S1905), operation processing unit 201 proceeds to the sixth valve purging process (valve purging process 6).

<Description of FIG. 20>
FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining the sixth valve purging step shown in FIG.

  When the sixth valve purging process (valve purging process 6) is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 sequentially selects the valve (V1) 211, the valve (V2) 215, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) 213, the valve (V5), the valve (V7) 226, and the valve (V9) 227 are closed (steps S2001 to S2007). Then, the arithmetic processing unit 201 proceeds to the process of step S905 illustrated in FIG.

  The valve purging process of FIG. 14 is performed in the ventilation process shown in FIG. 6, but the valve purging process may be performed in the pre-sterilization process shown in FIG.

<Description of FIG. 21>
FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining an example when the valve purging process is performed in the pre-sterilization step shown in FIG.
In FIG. 21, the same steps as those in the pre-sterilization process shown in FIG.

  When the pre-sterilization process is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 drives the pneumatic vacuum pump 220 to start a process of sucking the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 (that is, decompression of the sterilization chamber 219) (step S701). .

  Subsequently, the arithmetic processing unit 201 performs the valve purging process of FIG. 14 (step S904). Then, as described above, the arithmetic processing unit 201 determines whether or not the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 Pascals) in step S702. .

In this way, when valve purging is performed in the pre-sterilization process, the sterilizing agent attached to the path such as each valve can be effectively removed even when the following situation occurs.
1) Removal of the sterilant when the abnormal termination occurs due to a power failure or the like during the pre-sterilization process, and the sterilant remains in the piping or the measuring tube.
2) Removal of moisture and sterilizing agent in the case where sterilizing agent and moisture remain in pipes and measuring tubes due to condensation.
3) Removal of the sterilant if the valve is not fully purged in the previous ventilation process for other reasons.

<Description of FIGS. 22A and 22B>
22A and 22B are flowcharts for explaining an example when performing valve purging processing in the sterilization step shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B.
22A and 22B, the same steps as those in the pre-sterilization process shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  When the sterilization process is started, the arithmetic processing unit 201 performs the valve purging process of FIG. 14 (step S904). Thereafter, the arithmetic processing unit 201 proceeds to the process of step S801, and performs the sterilization process as described in FIGS. 8A and 8B.

In this way, when valve purging is performed in the sterilization process, even when the following situation occurs, the sterilizing agent attached to the path such as each valve can be effectively removed.
4) Removal of the sterilant when the sterilant remains in the pipes and measuring pipes due to a power failure during the sterilization process.
5) Removal of moisture and sterilizing agent in the case where sterilizing agent and moisture remain in pipes and measuring tubes due to condensation.
6) Removal of sterilant if the valve is not fully purged in the previous ventilation process for other reasons.

  In the sterilization process, the processing from step S801 to S827 is repeated a predetermined number of times. If the valve purging process is performed for each repetition, the amount of sterilizing agent remaining in the pipes and measuring pipes is reduced, which not only can improve the sterilization effect but also sterilization. It becomes possible to improve the precision concerning processing.

  As is apparent from the above description, in the embodiment of the present invention, the residual sterilant remaining in the sterilant supply path for sterilizing an object to be sterilized such as a medical instrument can be effectively removed. effective.

  In the example shown in FIG. 1, the valve mechanism includes a valve and a conduit, and the path includes a plurality of valves and conduits. Here, the arithmetic processing unit 201 functions as a control unit to control the sterilization apparatus 100. At least the concentrating furnace 208 (concentrating part), the measuring tube 214 (measuring part), and the vaporizing furnace 216 (vaporizing part) function as supply means, and the air feed vacuum pump 220 functions as decompression means. Further, as described above, the sterilization chamber 219 (sterilization unit) stores objects to be sterilized such as medical instruments.

  As described above, the sterilization apparatus of the present invention is a sterilization apparatus 100 for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent, and includes a sterilization chamber 219 for storing the sterilization object, and the sterilizing agent. A path for introduction into the sterilization chamber (for example, a conduit provided with a measuring tube 214, a valve (V2) 215, a vaporization chamber 216, a conduit provided with a valve (V5) 217), and between the sterilization chamber and the path The first valve (for example, the valve (V2) 215, the valve (V5) 217, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) 213) provided in the sterilization chamber, and the first valve provided for introducing the atmosphere into the sterilization chamber Two valves (for example, valve (V7) 226) and a decompression means (for example, pneumatic vacuum pump 220) for depressurizing the sterilization chamber. The sterilizer opens the first valve in step S2302. In this state, the pressure is reduced by the pressure reducing means. In step S2307, the first valve is closed in a state where the sterilization chamber and the path are depressurized, and in step S2309, the second valve is opened so that the path is depressurized from the sterilization chamber. In step S2312 to step S2314, the first valve is opened in a state where the path is decompressed from the sterilization chamber.

  In the sterilizer, the path includes a storage pipe (metering pipe 214) for storing the sterilant and a vaporizing chamber 216 for vaporizing the sterilant stored in the storage pipe. A third valve (for example, the valve (V2) 215) provided between the storage pipe and the vaporizing chamber, and a fourth valve (for example, a valve (for example, the valve (V)) provided between the vaporizing chamber and the sterilization chamber. V5) 217), and in step S2302, the sterilizer performs pressure reduction by a pressure reducing means with the third valve and the fourth valve opened, and the sterilization chamber, the storage pipe, and the vaporization When the chamber is decompressed, the third valve and the fourth valve are closed, and the second valve (for example, the valve (V7) 226) is opened, so that the storage pipe and the vaporizing chamber are connected to the sterilization chamber. The fourth valve (for example, the valve (V ) 217) opened, third valves (e.g., characterized by opening the valve (V2) 215).

  Further, the sterilizer is configured so that the sterilizer can reduce the pressure by the pressure reducing means while the third valve (for example, the valve (V2) 215) and the fourth valve (for example, the valve (V5) 217) are opened. The third valve (for example, the valve (V2) 215) and the fourth valve (for example, the valve (V5) 217) are closed while the sterilization chamber, the storage tube, and the vaporization chamber are decompressed. Then, by opening the second valve (for example, the valve (V7) 226), the storage tube and the vaporization chamber are decompressed from the sterilization chamber, and the storage tube and the vaporization chamber are When the fourth valve (for example, the valve (V5) 217) is opened in a state where the pressure is lower than that of the chamber, and a predetermined period has elapsed since the fourth valve (for example, the valve (V5) 217) is opened; and When the sterilization chamber reaches a predetermined pressure, the third valve (for example, the valve (V2) 215) may be opened. The features.

  Further, the sterilization apparatus of the present invention is a sterilization apparatus 100 for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent, and includes a sterilization chamber 219 for storing the object to be sterilized, and a reduced pressure for depressurizing the sterilization chamber. Means (pneumatic pump 220), a storage pipe containing the atmosphere and storing the sterilant, and a storage pipe (measuring pipe 214) from which the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe is sucked, the storage pipe and the storage pipe The decompression means is provided in a conduit (for example, a conduit provided with a valve (V3) 212, a valve (V4) 213) connected to the sterilization chamber, and the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe in which the sterilizing agent is stored The first valve (for example, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) 213) provided to suck out the sterilization chamber, which has been depressurized by the above, through the conduit, and the storage tube and the sterilization chamber are electrically connected. Path (for example, conduit provided with valve (V2) 215, vaporization chamber 2 6, a valve provided with a valve (V5) 217), and a second valve (for example, valve (V2) 215 provided in the passage for introducing the sterilizing agent stored in the storage pipe into the sterilization chamber) , A valve (V5) 217) and a third valve (for example, valve (V7) 226) provided for introducing the atmosphere into the sterilization chamber, and the sterilizer comprises the first valve (for example, The valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213) are opened, pressure is reduced by the pressure-reducing means, the first valve is closed while the inside of the sterilization chamber and the storage tube is pressure-reduced, and the third By opening a valve (for example, the valve (V7) 226), the inside of the storage pipe is decompressed from the sterilization chamber, and the second valve (for example, from the sterilization chamber is decompressed) The valve (V2) 215 and the valve (V5) 217) are opened.

  In this sterilization apparatus, the path through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are connected includes a vaporization chamber for vaporizing the sterilant stored in the storage pipe, and the second valve is connected to the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber. A fourth valve (for example, the valve (V2) 215) provided between the vaporization chamber and a fifth valve (for example, the valve (V5) 217) provided between the vaporization chamber and the sterilization chamber; And the sterilizer performs pressure reduction by the pressure reducing means with the first valve (for example, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) 213) opened, and the inside of the sterilization chamber and the storage tube is depressurized. In this state, the first valve (for example, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) 213) is closed, and the third valve (for example, the valve (V7) 226) is opened so that the inside of the storage tube is in the sterilization chamber. The fifth valve (for example, the valve (V5) 217) in a state where the pressure in the storage tube is further reduced than in the sterilization chamber. Opened, the fourth valve (e.g., valve (V2) 215), characterized in that the open.

  Further, the sterilization apparatus of the present invention is a sterilization apparatus 100 for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent, and includes a sterilization chamber 219 for storing the object to be sterilized, and a reduced pressure for depressurizing the sterilization chamber. Means (for example, pneumatic vacuum pump 220), a storage pipe that contains the atmosphere and stores the sterilant, and a storage pipe (for example, the metering pipe 214) from which the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe is sucked, It is provided in a conduit (for example, a conduit provided with a valve (V3) 212, a valve (V4) 213) that connects the storage tube and the sterilization chamber, and is included in the storage tube in which the sterilant is stored. The first valve (for example, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) 213) provided for sucking the atmosphere into the sterilization chamber decompressed by the decompression means, and the storage tube and the sterilization chamber are electrically connected. Pathways (eg, conduits with valves (V2) 215, gas Chamber 216, a conduit provided with valve (V5) 217), and a second valve (for example, valve (V2) provided in a path for introducing the sterilizing agent stored in the storage pipe into the sterilization chamber) 215, a valve (V5) 217) and a third valve (for example, a valve (V7) 226) provided for introducing the atmosphere into the sterilization chamber, the sterilizer includes the second valve ( For example, the valve (V2) 215 and the valve (V5) 217) are opened, pressure is reduced by the pressure reducing means, and the second valve (for example, the valve (V2) is pressed while the sterilization chamber and the storage pipe are decompressed. ) 215, valve (V5) 217) is closed, and the third valve (for example, valve (V7) 226) is opened, so that the inside of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber, and the inside of the storage tube is The first valve (for example, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) 213) in a state where the pressure is reduced from the sterilization chamber Characterized in that opening the.

  Further, in this sterilization apparatus, the path through which the storage tube and the sterilization chamber are connected includes a vaporization chamber 216 that vaporizes the sterilant stored in the storage tube, and the second valve (for example, the valve (V2) ) 215, valve (V5) 217) is provided between a fourth valve (for example, valve (V2) 215) provided between the storage tube and the vaporization chamber, and between the vaporization chamber and the sterilization chamber. And a sterilizer is provided with the fourth valve (eg, valve (V2) 215) and the fifth valve (eg, valve (V5)). 217) is opened, the pressure is reduced by the pressure reducing means, and the fourth valve (for example, the valve (V2) 215) and the fifth valve are decompressed in the sterilization chamber, the vaporization chamber, and the storage tube. Closing the valve (eg, valve (V5) 217) and opening the third valve (eg, valve (V7) 226); and The inside of the storage tube is made to be decompressed more than the sterilization chamber, and the first valve (for example, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4)) in a state where the inside of the vaporization chamber and the storage tube is decompressed more than the sterilization chamber. 213) is opened.

<Description of FIG. 24>
FIG. 24 shows the valve (V1) 211, valve (V2) 215, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, valve (V5) 217 shown in FIG. 2 (solenoid valve 2402), and the valves are provided. It is a figure which shows an example of the sectional view of the hexagonal nipple 2401 used in order for the conduit | pipe and the said valve | bulb which were made to connect with the said conduit | pipe and to conduct.

FIG. 24A is a cross-sectional view of a valve (solenoid valve 2402) showing the valve in an open state, a conduit provided with the valve, and a hexagonal nipple 2401 used for fastening and conducting the valve with the conduit. It is a figure which shows an example.
That is, FIG. 24A shows a state where the conduit (path) in the valve (solenoid valve) is not pushed by the plunger 2403 and the path is in communication (conduction).
First, FIG. 24A will be described.
As shown in FIG. 24A, the distal end portion of the conduit 2406 includes a tapered female thread portion 2407.
Further, the hexagon nipple 2401 includes a tapered male screw portion 2408 and a tapered male screw portion 2409 on the left and right.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 24B, the valve (solenoid valve 2402) is a plunger 2403 that closes the valve by crushing the tube 2404 (path) in the solenoid valve 2402 so that the path is not in communication (conduction). It has. As shown in FIG. 24A, the plunger 2403 moves to a position where the pipe 2404 (path) in the electromagnetic valve 2402 is not crushed and the path is in communication (conduction) to open the valve.

FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional view of a valve (solenoid valve 2402) showing a state in which the valve is closed, a conduit provided with the valve, and a hexagonal nipple 2401 used for fastening and conducting the valve with the conduit. It is a figure which shows an example.
That is, FIG. 24B shows a state where the conduit (path) in the valve (solenoid valve) is pushed by the plunger 2403 and the path is not in communication (conduction).
Further, the valve (electromagnetic valve 2402) includes a tapered female screw portion 2410 and a tapered female screw portion 24112 in the left and right tubes 2404 (path).
As shown in FIG. 24A, the distal end portion of the conduit 2417 includes a tapered female thread portion 2415.
The hexagon nipple 2413 includes a tapered male screw portion 2412 and a tapered male screw portion 2414 on the left and right.

  A tapered female thread portion 2407 of the conduit 2406 is fastened to a tapered male thread portion 2408 of the hexagonal nipple 2401, and a tapered male thread portion 2409 of the hexagonal nipple 2401 and a tapered female thread portion 2410 of the solenoid valve 2402 are fastened.

  Further, the taper female screw portion 2415 of the conduit 2417 is fastened with the taper male screw portion 2414 of the hexagonal nipple 2413, and the taper female screw portion 2412 of the hexagonal nipple 2413 and the taper female screw portion 24112 of the solenoid valve 2402 are fastened. Yes.

Accordingly, the inside 2405 (path) in the conduit, the pipe 2411 (path) in the hexagonal nipple 2401, the pipe 2404 (path) in the electromagnetic valve 2402, the pipe 2416 (path) in the hexagonal nipple 2413, and the inside 2418 in the duct. (Route) is in communication.
FIG. 24A shows that when the valve is opened, the fluid flows in the direction indicated by the dotted arrow, and the fluid flows from the path (A) to the path (B).
The dotted line arrow shown in FIG. 24A indicates the direction in which the fluid flows.

For example, in FIG. 24A, when (A) is the metering tube 214, (B) is the sterilization chamber 219, the solenoid valve 2402 is the valve (V3) 212, and the valve (V4) 213 is not provided, 2406 corresponds to the branch pipe portion 1102 (FIG. 11) of the measuring pipe 214, and the conduit 2417 is a conduit that communicates with the sterilization chamber 219.
In this case, FIG. 24A shows a state where the valve (V3) 212 is opened in step S811, for example.

  As described above, the valve (V3) 212 (solenoid valve 2402) is provided by the hexagonal nipple 2401 and the hexagonal nipple 2413 so as to be conductive to the conduits (conduit 2406 and conduit 2417).

  In S811 in FIG. 8A, the arithmetic processing unit 201 opens the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds), thereby reducing the pressure of the air (gas) in the measuring tube 214. Suck into sterilization chamber 219.

  In S811 of FIG. 8A, as described above, when only one of the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 is provided, only one of the provided valves is kept for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) Open.

  At this time, the gas sucked into the decompressed sterilization chamber 219 is a gas mainly composed of water, but a sterilant gas (if the sterilant is hydrogen peroxide, a hydrogen peroxide gas). ) Is also included.

  Therefore, in S811 of FIG. 8A, the gas including water gas and sterilant gas passes through the inside 2405 of the conduit 2406 of FIG. 24A as the branch 1102, as indicated by the dotted arrow in FIG. Then, it passes through the pipe 2411 in the hexagonal nipple 2401, passes through the pipe 2404 in the solenoid valve 2402, passes through the pipe 2416 in the hexagonal nipple 2413, passes through the conduit 2417, and conducts with the conduit 2417. Then, it is sucked out into the sterilized chamber 219 whose pressure has been reduced.

  The conduit 2406, the hexagon nipple 2401, the tube 2404 in the solenoid valve 2402, the hexagon nipple 2413, and the conduit 2417 are each made of metal, and the conduit 2406, the hexagon nipple 2401, the tube 2404 in the solenoid valve 2402, the hexagon nipple. 2413 and a heater such as a heater for heating the conduit 2417 are not provided in order to reduce costs.

Therefore, the pipe 2406, the pipe 2405 in the hexagon nipple 2401, the pipe 2411 in the solenoid valve 2402, the pipe 2404 in the solenoid valve 2402, the pipe 2416 in the hexagon nipple 2413, and the pipe 2417 in the pipe 2417 are fed by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220. When the pressure is reduced, the temperature of each metal of the conduit 2406, the hexagonal nipple 2401, the pipe 2404 in the solenoid valve 2402, the hexagonal nipple 2413, and the conduit 2417 decreases. Therefore, in S811 of FIG. 8A, gas (water gas and sterilizing agent) passing through the conduit 2405, the tube 2411, the tube 2404, the tube 2416, and the conduit 2418 in the direction of the dotted arrow in FIG. 24A. A gas containing a gas) comes into contact with each metal whose temperature has decreased, and a part of the metal is liquefied (condensed, condensed, or condensed).
The liquid liquefied here includes not only water molecules but also sterilant molecules (sterilized component molecules). Therefore, the liquid liquefied here is called a residual sterilant.

Also, in order to prevent fluid leakage, taper screws (2407, 2408, 2409, 2410, 2412, 24112, 2414, 2415 in FIG. 24A) are used to fasten the solenoid valve 2402 and the conduit 2406, and the solenoid valve 2402 and the conduit 2417. doing.
However, when using a taper screw, the taper male screw portion 2409 cannot be inserted to the deepest portion of the screw hole which is the taper female screw portion 2410.
Similarly, the tapered male screw portion 2412 cannot be inserted to the deepest portion of the screw hole that is the tapered female screw portion 24112.

  Therefore, the tapered male screw portion 2409 cannot be inserted into the position where the residual sterilizing agent A shown in FIG. 24A remains, and the residual sterilizing agent A tends to remain as a liquid at the position.

  Similarly, the tapered male screw portion 24112 cannot be inserted into the position where the residual sterilizing agent B shown in FIG. 24A remains, and the residual sterilizing agent B tends to remain as a liquid at that position.

  Thus, as shown in FIG. 24A, the reason why the residual sterilizing agent A and the residual sterilizing agent B are likely to remain on the path is that the structure of the tube 2404 of the electromagnetic valve 2402 is complicated and the fluid leaks. This is because the use of a taper screw to prevent the formation of uneven portions in the path and the absence of a heater or the like for heating each conduit or each electromagnetic valve.

  As described above, in step S811, the gas including water gas and sterilant gas comes into contact with the metal of each conduit or solenoid valve, and a part thereof is liquefied (condensed, condensed, or condensed). In step S811, the electromagnetic valve 2402 is closed as shown in FIG. 24B (that is, the plunger 2403 descends to crush the tube 2404 (path) and the path does not communicate (conduct)), and in step S812, sterilization is performed. Since the chamber is evacuated by the pneumatic pump 220, the residual amount of the residual sterilant B is reduced by evacuation. That is, in the state where the electromagnetic valve 2402 is closed, the inside of the pipe 2416 and the inside of the conduit 2418 is depressurized by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220, so that part or all of the liquid residual sterilant B is vaporized, and the sterilization chamber 219. To be introduced. Therefore, the residual amount of residual sterilant B is smaller than that of residual sterilant A.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 24A, due to the structure of the tube 2404 of the electromagnetic valve 2402, in step S811, the flow of the fluid such as gas is more than the position of the residual sterilant A shown in FIG. The residual sterilizing agent B is easier to remove than the residual sterilizing agent A. Therefore, the residual amount of residual sterilant B is smaller than that of residual sterilant A.

  Therefore, in order to remove the residual sterilant A, it is conceivable to reduce the pressure inside the tube 2404 and vaporize and remove the residual sterilant A. However, the pressure inside the tube 2404 is reduced to remove a part of the residual sterilant A. When it evaporates, the temperature of the remaining residual sterilizing agent A may decrease due to the heat of vaporization and may solidify.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 24C, by flowing a fluid such as air in the direction opposite to the dotted line arrow in FIG. 24A, the sterilization chamber is passed from the measuring tube 214 through the conduit provided with the valve (V3) 212. The residual sterilant A, which is difficult to remove only with the fluid flowing through 219, is easily removed.

For example, in FIG. 24C, when (A) is the metering tube 214, (B) is the sterilization chamber 219, the solenoid valve 2402 is the valve (V3) 212, and the valve (V4) 213 is not provided, 2406 corresponds to the branch pipe portion 1102 (FIG. 11) of the measuring pipe 214, and the conduit 2417 is a conduit that communicates with the sterilization chamber 219.
In this case, for example, FIG. 24C shows a state where the valve (V3) 212 is opened in step S2313 of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 24C, by flowing a fluid such as air in the direction opposite to the dotted arrow in FIG. 24A, the flow of the fluid can easily hit the position of the residual sterilant A shown in FIG. A can be easily removed.

  FIG. 24C shows that the residual sterilant A is removed from the position of the residual sterilant A shown in FIG. 24A by the flow of fluid such as the atmosphere in the direction opposite to the dotted arrow in FIG. 24A.

  In FIG. 24, the solenoid valve 2402 is described as the valve (V3) 212 as an example, but the solenoid valve 2402 is the valve (V2) 215, (A) is the measuring tube 214, and (B) is the vaporization chamber 216 or sterilization. The same effect can be obtained when the chamber 219 is used.

The same effect can be obtained when the solenoid valve 2402 is the valve (V5) 217, (A) is the measuring tube 214 or the vaporizing chamber 216, and (B) is the sterilization chamber 219.
As described above, according to the present invention, the sterilant remaining in the path through which the sterilant passes can be effectively removed.

  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 installation door 102 Display part 103 Printing part 104 Sterilization room door

Claims (12)

A sterilization apparatus for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using a sterilant,
A sterilization chamber for storing the object to be sterilized;
A path for introducing the sterilant into the sterilization chamber;
A first valve provided between the sterilization chamber and the path;
A second valve provided for introducing air into the sterilization chamber;
Decompression means for decompressing the sterilization chamber;
With
The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means with the first valve opened, closes the first valve with the sterilization chamber and the path decompressed, and opens the second valve. A sterilization apparatus characterized in that the path is made to be decompressed more than the sterilization chamber, and the first valve is opened in a state where the path is decompressed more than the sterilization chamber. The path includes a storage tube that stores a sterilant, and a vaporization chamber that vaporizes the sterilant stored in the storage tube,
The first valve includes a third valve provided between the storage tube and the vaporization chamber, and a fourth valve provided between the vaporization chamber and the sterilization chamber,
The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means with the third valve and the fourth valve opened, and the third valve with the sterilization chamber, the storage pipe, and the vaporization chamber decompressed, And the fourth valve is closed, and the second valve is opened, so that the storage tube and the vaporization chamber are depressurized more than the sterilization chamber, and the storage tube and the vaporization chamber are more than the sterilization chamber. The sterilizer according to claim 1, wherein the fourth valve is opened and the third valve is opened in a decompressed state.   The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means with the third valve and the fourth valve opened, and the third valve with the sterilization chamber, the storage pipe, and the vaporization chamber decompressed, And the fourth valve is closed, and the second valve is opened, so that the storage tube and the vaporization chamber are depressurized more than the sterilization chamber, and the storage tube and the vaporization chamber are more than the sterilization chamber. In a decompressed state, the fourth valve is opened, and the third valve is opened when a predetermined period has elapsed since the fourth valve was opened and / or when the sterilization chamber reaches a predetermined pressure. The sterilizer according to claim 2.   The sterilizer according to claim 1, wherein the path includes a vaporizing chamber that vaporizes the sterilant.   The sterilization apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the path includes a storage pipe that stores the sterilizing agent. A sterilization apparatus for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using a sterilant,
A sterilization chamber for storing the object to be sterilized;
Decompression means for decompressing the sterilization chamber;
A storage pipe in which the sterilizing agent is stored, including the atmosphere, and the storage pipe from which the air included in the storage pipe is sucked;
For sucking out the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe in which the sterilizing agent is stored, to the sterilization chamber decompressed by the decompression means, through the conduit, provided in a conduit connecting the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber. A first valve provided in
A second valve provided in a path through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are conducted, and the sterilizing agent stored in the storage pipe is introduced into the sterilization chamber;
A third valve provided for introducing air into the sterilization chamber;
With
The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means with the first valve opened, closes the first valve with the decompression inside the sterilization chamber and the storage tube, and opens the third valve. The sterilization apparatus is characterized in that the inside of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber, and the second valve is opened while the interior of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber. The path through which the storage tube and the sterilization chamber are connected includes a vaporization chamber that vaporizes the sterilant stored in the storage tube,
The second valve includes a fourth valve provided between the storage tube and the vaporization chamber, and a fifth valve provided between the vaporization chamber and the sterilization chamber,
The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means with the first valve opened, closes the first valve with the decompression inside the sterilization chamber and the storage tube, and opens the third valve. The inside of the storage tube is made to be in a state where the pressure is reduced from the sterilization chamber, the fifth valve is opened in a state where the pressure in the storage tube is reduced from the sterilization chamber, and the fourth valve is opened. 6. The sterilizer according to 6. A sterilization apparatus for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using a sterilant,
A sterilization chamber for storing the object to be sterilized;
Decompression means for decompressing the sterilization chamber;
A storage pipe in which the sterilizing agent is stored, including the atmosphere, and the storage pipe from which the air included in the storage pipe is sucked;
Provided in a conduit connecting the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber, and provided for sucking out the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe in which the sterilizing agent is stored into the sterilization chamber decompressed by the decompression means. One valve,
A second valve provided in a path through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are conducted, and the sterilizing agent stored in the storage pipe is introduced into the sterilization chamber;
A third valve provided for introducing air into the sterilization chamber;
With
The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means with the second valve opened, closes the second valve with the decompression inside the sterilization chamber and the storage tube, and opens the third valve. The sterilization apparatus is characterized in that the inside of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber, and the first valve is opened while the interior of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber. The path through which the storage tube and the sterilization chamber are connected includes a vaporization chamber that vaporizes the sterilant stored in the storage tube,
The second valve includes a fourth valve provided between the storage tube and the vaporization chamber, and a fifth valve provided between the vaporization chamber and the sterilization chamber,
The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means in a state where the fourth valve and the fifth valve are opened, and the fourth valve in a state where the interior of the sterilization chamber, the vaporization chamber, and the storage tube is decompressed, And the fifth valve is closed, and the third valve is opened to make the vaporization chamber and the storage tube are depressurized more than the sterilization chamber, and the vaporization chamber and the storage tube are from the sterilization chamber. The sterilizer according to claim 8, wherein the first valve is opened in a state where the pressure is reduced. A sterilization chamber for storing objects to be sterilized;
A path for introducing a sterilant into the sterilization chamber;
A first valve provided between the sterilization chamber and the path;
A second valve provided for introducing air into the sterilization chamber;
Decompression means for decompressing the sterilization chamber;
A control method in a sterilizer comprising:
The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means with the first valve opened, closes the first valve with the sterilization chamber and the path decompressed, and opens the second valve. The sterilization method is characterized in that the path is set to a pressure lower than that in the sterilization chamber, and the first valve is opened in a state where the path is lower than the pressure in the sterilization chamber. A sterilization chamber for storing objects to be sterilized;
Decompression means for decompressing the sterilization chamber;
A storage pipe that contains the atmosphere and stores the sterilant, and a storage pipe that sucks out the air contained in the storage pipe;
For sucking out the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe in which the sterilizing agent is stored, to the sterilization chamber decompressed by the decompression means, through the conduit, provided in a conduit connecting the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber. A first valve provided in
A second valve provided in a path through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are conducted, and the sterilizing agent stored in the storage pipe is introduced into the sterilization chamber;
A third valve provided for introducing air into the sterilization chamber;
A sterilization method in a sterilization apparatus comprising:
The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means with the first valve opened, closes the first valve with the decompression inside the sterilization chamber and the storage tube, and opens the third valve. The sterilization method is characterized in that the inside of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber, and the second valve is opened while the interior of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber. A sterilization chamber for storing objects to be sterilized;
Decompression means for decompressing the sterilization chamber;
A storage pipe in which the sterilant is stored including the atmosphere, and the storage pipe from which the air included in the storage pipe is sucked, and
Provided in a conduit connecting the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber, and provided for sucking out the atmosphere contained in the storage pipe in which the sterilizing agent is stored into the sterilization chamber decompressed by the decompression means. One valve,
A second valve provided in a path through which the storage pipe and the sterilization chamber are conducted, and the sterilizing agent stored in the storage pipe is introduced into the sterilization chamber;
A third valve provided for introducing air into the sterilization chamber;
A sterilization method in a sterilization apparatus comprising:
The sterilizer performs decompression by the decompression means with the second valve opened, closes the second valve with the decompression inside the sterilization chamber and the storage tube, and opens the third valve. The sterilization method is characterized in that the inside of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber, and the first valve is opened while the interior of the storage tube is decompressed from the sterilization chamber.

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