JP2021137645A - Sterilization unit and control method - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a mechanism capable of providing a sterilization unit capable of shortening a sterilization processing time, even when performing test sterilization.SOLUTION: The inside of a sterilizing container for storing an object to be sterilized is decompressed to a prescribed pressure, and a time until the inside of the sterilizing container is decompressed to the prescribed pressure is measured. Then, it is determined whether a decompression operation before sterilization is to be executed or not according to the measurement result.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

The present invention relates to a sterilizer, a sterilization method, and a program, and more particularly to a mechanism capable of providing a sterilizer capable of shortening the sterilization process time even when performing test sterilization.

Medical devices such as syringes and surgical tools cannot be reused because they may have pathogens attached to them unless they are sterilized after use, which may affect the human body. Therefore, there are sterilizers that sterilize objects that require sterilization, such as medical instruments.

However, especially in a sterilizer that has a process of reducing the pressure to a high degree of vacuum, the gas contained in the material of the object that needs to be sterilized (entering the micropores called micropores) is under high vacuum (in a high vacuum). It may be released from the material at 100 Pa (abs)) and inhibit decompression. This gas may be contained in the material of the object from the beginning, or may be contained in the material when the sterilizing gas is put into the sterilizing container or when the air is introduced into the sterilizing container.

The gas is released from the material under high vacuum and the decompression is hindered, which causes the following problems.
1) The sterilization processing time becomes long.
2) The doctor's schedule goes wrong. (In extreme cases, the start of surgery is delayed)
3) Depending on the degree, an error may occur and the sterilization process may be interrupted. In that case, the disinfectant and the time to reach it are wasted. In addition, it is complicated because it is necessary to reduce the number of processed materials and start over.

Similar problems also occur when the object requiring sterilization has a large amount of water (mainly due to poor drying during cleaning performed before sterilization). The reason is that the decompression is hindered by the vaporization of water under medium vacuum (2000 Pa (abs)).

Patent Document 1 describes that a chamber (also referred to as a sterilization container) containing an object requiring sterilization is depressurized to a predetermined pressure below atmospheric pressure, which is less than the saturation pressure of water or other liquid, and reaches that pressure. Describes a technique for determining that water remains in an object or the like that needs to be sterilized when the elapsed time is longer than a predetermined time.

Special table No. 6-511805 Public relations

However, Patent Document 1 does not describe the gas contained in the material of the object that needs to be sterilized. Therefore, at the pressure of Patent Document 1 (a predetermined pressure of atmospheric pressure or less, which is less than the saturation pressure of water or other liquid), the gas in the material cannot be detected, and the gas still exists from the material under high vacuum. Is released, which hinders decompression.

Therefore, the applicants measured the time required for the inside of the sterilization container to be test-decompressed to a predetermined pressure, and to reduce the pressure to a predetermined pressure. We are considering a mechanism to confirm that is not released.

By the way, in the sterilization apparatus of the present applicants, a process called pre-sterilization decompression is performed in which the pressure in the sterilization container is reduced to a predetermined pressure before the sterilization process.

Therefore, if the test decompression is performed in addition to the pre-sterilization decompression, the test decompression is performed first, and when the test decompression is completed, the pre-sterilization process is performed, so that the sterilization process takes time. Not preferable.

An object of the present invention is to provide a sterilizer capable of shortening the sterilization processing time even when performing test sterilization.

The present invention is a sterilization apparatus that executes a sterilization process for sterilizing the object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent after performing a pre-sterilization decompression operation in which the inside of the sterilization container for storing the object to be sterilized is depressurized to a predetermined pressure. A storage means for storing a test decompression condition including a threshold time set by the user, a pressure for decompressing the inside of the sterilization container under the test decompression condition, a decompression means for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container, and the decompression. When it is determined by the means to determine whether or not the pressure has been reduced within the threshold time up to the pressure of the test decompression condition stored in the storage means, and when it is determined by the determination means that the pressure can be reduced within the threshold time. It is characterized in that it is provided with an execution control means for controlling the sterilization process so that the sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation.

Further, the present invention includes a storage means for storing a test decompression condition including a threshold time set by the user and a pressure for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container under the test decompression condition, and the inside of the sterilization container for storing the object to be sterilized. This is a control method for a sterilizer that executes a sterilization process for sterilizing the object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent after performing a pre-sterilization decompression operation for depressurizing to a predetermined pressure. Whether or not the decompression step of depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container and the determination means of the sterilization device were able to depressurize the pressure of the test decompression condition stored in the storage means within the threshold time by the decompression step. When the determination determination step and the execution control means of the sterilization apparatus determine that the pressure can be reduced within the threshold time in the determination step, control is performed so that the sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation. It is characterized by including an execution control process.

Further, the present invention is provided with a storage means for storing a test decompression condition including a threshold time set by the user and a pressure for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container under the test decompression condition, and a sterilization container for storing an object to be sterilized. A program that can be read and executed by a sterilizer that executes a sterilization process that sterilizes the object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent after performing a pre-sterilization decompression operation that depressurizes the inside to a predetermined pressure. A decompression means for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container, a determination means for determining whether or not the decompression means has been able to depressurize the pressure of the test decompression condition stored in the storage means within the threshold time, and the above. When the determination means determines that the pressure can be reduced within the threshold time, the determination means functions as an execution control means for controlling the sterilization process so that the sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism capable of providing a sterilization apparatus capable of shortening the sterilization processing time even when performing test sterilization.

It is the figure which looked at the appearance of the sterilizer which concerns on this invention from the front. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware structure of the sterilizer which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen displayed on the display part 102 of a sterilizer 100. It is a figure which shows an example of each process of the sterilization process by the sterilizer which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of the sterilization process shown in S111 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of the sterilization pre-process shown in S501 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of the sterilization process shown in S502 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed processing of the ventilation process shown in S503 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of the sterilization discharge process shown in S114 of FIG. Concentrating furnace 208, valve (V1) 211, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, measuring tube 214, valve (V2) 215, vaporizer 216, valve (V5) 217 of the sterilizer 100 according to the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the block block composition diagram which concerns on the hardware composition of the valve (V9) 227. It is a figure which shows an example of the cartridge attachment request screen 1101 displayed on the display part 102 of a sterilizer 100. It is the figure which looked at the cartridge 205 of the sterilizing agent used for the sterilizing apparatus which concerns on this invention from the side. It is sectional drawing of the cross section 1 of the cartridge which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the sterilized material decompression characteristic confirmation screen displayed on the display part 102 of a sterilizer 100. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of confirming the decompression characteristic of a sterilized material shown in S122 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed processing of the decompression characteristic determination of a sterilized material of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the message for each determination result by the sterilized material decompression characteristic determination, which is displayed in 1411 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of confirming the decompression characteristic of a sterilized material shown in S122 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed process of confirming the decompression characteristic of a sterilized material shown in S122 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the message for each determination result by the sterilized material decompression characteristic determination, which is displayed in 1411 of FIG.

The sterilization apparatus, the sterilization method, and the program of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, the first embodiment of the sterilizer according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
<Explanation of Fig. 1>

First, the appearance of the sterilizer according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 1 is a front view of the appearance of the sterilizer according to the present invention.

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

The cartridge mounting door 101 is a door for mounting a cartridge, which is a container filled with a sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or a liquid of a hydrogen peroxide solution). When the cartridge mounting door 101 is opened, there is a mounting place for the cartridge, and the user can mount the cartridge there.

The display unit 102 is a display screen of a touch panel such as a liquid crystal display.

The printing unit 103 is a printer that prints the history of the sterilization process and the sterilization result on the printing paper, and appropriately prints the history of the sterilization process and the sterilization result on the printing paper.

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

The sterilization chamber is a housing having a predetermined capacity. The pressure (pressure) in the sterilization chamber can maintain the pressure from atmospheric pressure to vacuum pressure. Further, the temperature in the sterilization chamber is maintained within a predetermined range during the sterilization process.
<Explanation of Fig. 2>

Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the sterilizer according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the sterilizer according to the present invention.

The sterilizer 100 according to the present invention includes an arithmetic processing unit (MPU or the like) 201, a display unit 102, a printing unit 103, a lock operation control unit 202, an extraction needle operation control unit 203, and a cartridge mounting door 101. , Liquid sensor 204, cartridge 205, RF-ID reader / writer 206, liquid feed rotary pump 207, concentration furnace 208, air feed pressurization pump 209, intake HEPA filter 210, and valve (V1). 211, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, measuring pipe 214, valve (V2) 215, vaporizer 216, valve (V5) 217, valve (V9) 227, and valve ( From V7) 226, a sterilization chamber (also called a vacuum chamber) 219, an air pump 220, an exhaust HEPA filter 221, a sterilizer decomposition device 222, a liquid feed rotary pump 223, and an exhaust evaporation furnace 224. It is configured.
The sterilizer 100 is a device that takes out the sterilizer from the cartridge 205 containing the sterilizer and sterilizes the object.

The arithmetic processing unit (MPU or the like) 201 performs arithmetic processing and controls each hardware constituting the sterilizer 100.

Since the display unit 102, the printing unit 103, and the cartridge mounting door 101 have already been described with reference to FIG. 1, the description thereof will be omitted here.

The lock operation control unit 202 is a unit that locks and unlocks the cartridge mounting door 101. By locking the cartridge mounting door 101, the cartridge mounting door 101 is prevented from opening, and the cartridge is also locked. By unlocking the mounting door 101, the cartridge mounting door 101 can be opened.

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

This RF-ID is a storage medium that stores data related to the disposal of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 (serial number, date of manufacture, date and time of first use, total remaining amount of sterilizing agent, or any data). be.

The extraction needle operation control unit 203 is a unit that operates the extraction needle in order to pierce the extraction needle (injection needle) for sucking the sterilizing agent in the cartridge from the upper part of the cartridge.

That is, when the extraction needle (injection needle) for sucking the sterilizing agent in the cartridge is pierced from the upper part of the cartridge, the extraction needle (injection needle) should be directed toward the cartridge and lowered from the upper part of the cartridge. Then, the extraction needle (injection needle) can be pierced from the top of the cartridge. When the extraction needle (injection needle) is pulled out from the cartridge, the extraction needle (injection needle) can be pulled out from the cartridge by operating so as to raise the extraction needle (injection needle) above the cartridge.

The extraction needle is a straw (thin cylinder) for sucking the sterilizing agent in the cartridge.

The liquid sensor 204 determines whether the liquid sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 passes through a pipe (conduit) that conducts (connects) the liquid sterilizing agent from the extraction needle (injection needle) to the liquid feeding rotary pump 207 and the liquid feeding rotary pump 223. It is a device to detect. Specifically, it is possible to detect whether or not the sterilizing agent has passed through the tube from the spectrum obtained by irradiating the tube with infrared rays.

The RF-ID reader / writer 206 is a device that can read the serial number, the date of manufacture, the date and time of first use, and the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent from the RF-ID provided on the lower side of the cartridge 205. Further, it is an apparatus capable of writing the date and time of the first use and the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent 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 place on the back of the cartridge mounting door 101, and can read the RF-ID provided on the lower side of the cartridge 205. It is possible to write data such as the date and time of initial use and the remaining amount of sterilizing agent in the RF-ID.

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

The concentrating furnace 208 is electrically connected to a liquid feeding rotary pump 207, an air feeding pressurizing pump 209, a measuring pipe 214, and an exhaust HEPA filter 221 by conduits, respectively. As will be described later in FIG. 10, the concentrating furnace 208 heats the sterilizing agent sent from the liquid feeding rotary pump 207 through the conduit by using a heater to evaporate (vaporize) the water contained in the sterilizing agent and sterilize it. Concentrate the agent. Further, the vaporized water is pushed out to the conduit conducting the exhaust HEPA filter 221 by the air sent from the air supply pressurizing pump 209 through the conduit, and is exhausted from the concentrating furnace 208. Further, a valve (1) 211 is provided between the conduit between the measuring pipe 214 and the concentrating furnace 208.

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

The intake HEPA filter 210 is electrically connected to the air supply pressurizing pump 209, the sterilization chamber 219, the vaporization furnace 216, and the conduit, respectively. The intake HEPA filter 210 purifies the air by filtering dust, dust, germs, etc. in the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100 with a HEPA (High Effectiveness Particulate Air Filter) filter. Then, the purified air is sent to the concentrating furnace 208 through a conduit by the air feed pressurizing pump 209. Further, the purified air is conducted by a conduit with the vaporizer 216 and sent to the vaporizer 216, or is conducted by a conduit with the sterilization chamber 219 and sent to the sterilization chamber 219. That is, the intake HEPA filter 210 is conducting with the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100. Therefore, the conduit between the air supply pressurizing pump 209 and the intake HEPA filter 210, the conduit between the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210, and between the vaporizer 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210. The conduit is conducting with the outside air (air) via the intake HEPA filter 210.

A valve (V9) 227 is provided in the conduit between the intake HEPA filter 210 and the vaporizer 216. A valve (V7) 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 the conduit between the concentrating furnace 208 and the measuring pipe 214, and by opening the valve, conduction by the conduit between the concentrating furnace 208 and the measuring pipe 214 is enabled. , It is a valve that makes it impossible to conduct by a conduit between the concentrating furnace 208 and the measuring pipe 214 by closing the valve.

The valve (V3) 212 is a valve provided in the conduit between the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219, and by opening the valve, the conduction by the conduit between the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 is enabled. , A valve that makes it impossible to conduct by a conduit between the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 by closing the valve. Further, this valve is provided near the measuring pipe 214, and is provided at least at a position closer to the measuring pipe 214 than the valve (V4) described later.

The valve (V4) 213 is a valve provided in the conduit between the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219, and opening the valve enables conduction by the conduit between the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219. , A valve that makes it impossible to conduct by a conduit between the measuring tube 214 and the sterilization chamber 219 by closing the valve. Further, this valve 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) described later.

In this embodiment, opening and closing of the valve (V4) 212 and the valve (V3) 213 enables or disables the continuity of the conduit between the measuring tube and the sterilization chamber. By opening and closing one of the valves (V4) 213 and the valve (V3) 213, the conduction of the conduit between the measuring tube and the sterilization chamber is enabled or disabled. May be good.

That is, by providing only one of the valves (V4) 213 and the valve (V3) 213 and opening and closing one of the valves, the conduction of the conduit between the measuring tube and the sterilization chamber is made. You can also make it possible or impossible.

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

By opening the valve (V1) 211, the sterilizing agent flows into the measuring tube 214 from the concentrating furnace 208, and by opening the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213, the measuring tube 214 is sucked from the inside of the cartridge 205. This is a device for removing air and / or unnecessary air that has flowed into the concentrating furnace 208 from the intake HEPA filter 210 and has flowed into the measuring pipe 214 from the concentrating furnace 208 by the measuring pipe 214. Details of the measuring tube 214 will be described later with reference to FIG.

The valve (V2) 215 is a valve provided in the conduit between the measuring pipe 214 and the vaporization furnace 216, and by opening the valve, conduction can be performed by the conduit between the measuring pipe 214 and the vaporization furnace 216. It is a valve that makes it impossible to conduct by a conduit between the measuring pipe 214 and the vaporization furnace 216 by closing the valve.

The vaporization furnace 216 is conducted by a conduit between the measuring pipe 214, the intake HEPA filter 210, and the sterilization chamber 219, respectively. The vaporization furnace 216 is an application example of the vaporization chamber of the present invention.

The vaporizer 216 is a device that vaporizes the sterilizing agent by reducing the pressure by the air pump 220.

The valve (V5) 217 is a valve provided in the conduit between the vaporization furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219, and by opening the valve, conduction can be performed by the conduit between the vaporization furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219. It is a valve that makes it impossible to conduct by a conduit between the vaporization furnace 216 and the sterilization chamber 219 by closing the valve.

The valve (V9) 227 is a valve provided in the conduit between the vaporizer 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210, and is provided by the conduit between the vaporizer 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210 by opening the valve. It is a valve that enables conduction and makes it impossible to conduct by a conduit between the vaporization furnace 216 and the intake HEPA filter 210 by closing the valve. That is, the valve (V9) 227 is a valve capable of opening and closing the continuity between the vaporizer 216 and the outside air (atmosphere).

The valve (V7) 226 is a valve provided in the conduit between the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210, and by opening the valve, the conduit between the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210 is provided. It is a valve that enables conduction and makes it impossible to conduct by a conduit between the sterilization chamber 219 and the intake HEPA filter 210 by closing the valve. That is, the valve (V7) 226 is a valve capable of opening and closing the continuity between the sterilization chamber 219 and the outside air (atmosphere).

As described in FIG. 1, 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. The pressure in the sterilization chamber can be maintained from atmospheric pressure to vacuum pressure. Further, the temperature in the sterilization chamber is maintained within a predetermined range during the sterilization process. Further, a pressure sensor is provided in the sterilization chamber 219, and the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 can be measured by the pressure sensor. The sterilizer 100 uses the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 measured by the pressure sensor to determine whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 or the like is at a predetermined atmospheric pressure.

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

The air pump 220 is conducted by a conduit with the sterilization chamber 219, and is conducted by a conduit with the exhaust HEPA filter 221.

The exhaust HEPA filter 221 is conducted by a conduit with the air supply vacuum pump 220. Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 is conducted by a conduit with the exhaust evaporation furnace 224. Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 is conducted by a conduit with the sterilizing agent decomposition device 222. Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 is conducted by a conduit with the concentrating furnace 208.

The exhaust HEPA filter 221 uses the gas sucked from the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 and the like by the air pump 220, and dust, dust, germs, etc. in the gas sent from the conduit between the air pump 220 and the gas. Is filtered with a HEPA (High Effectivey Particulate Air Filter) filter to purify the sucked gas. Then, the purified gas is sent to the sterilizing agent decomposition device 222 through the conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposition device 222 and the HEPA filter 221 for exhaust, and the sterilizing agent contained in the gas is sent by the sterilizing agent decomposition device 222. The molecules are decomposed and the decomposed molecules are released to the outside of the sterilizer 100.

Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 purifies the gas exhausted from the enrichment furnace 208 by the conduit between the enrichment furnace 208 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221. This gas is water vaporized by heating the sterilizing agent in the concentrating furnace 208, but because it contains a trace amount of the sterilizing agent, it passes through a conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposition device 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221. , Is sent to the disinfectant decomposition apparatus 222. Then, the sterilizing agent decomposition device 222 decomposes the molecules of the sterilizing agent contained in the gas, and the decomposed molecules are released to the outside of the sterilizing device 100.

Further, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 cleans the vaporized sterilizing agent sent from the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 through the conduit between the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221. Then, the washed sterilizing agent (gas) is sent to the sterilizing agent decomposing device 222 through the conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposing device 222 and the HEPA filter 221 for exhaust, and is converted into the gas by the sterilizing agent decomposing device 222. The molecules of the contained sterilizing agent are decomposed, and the decomposed molecules are released to the outside of the sterilizing apparatus 100.

By purifying the gas sent through the conduit, the exhaust HEPA filter 221 makes it difficult for dust and dirt to collect in the sterilizing agent decomposition device 222, and can extend the product life of the sterilizing agent decomposition device 222.

The sterilizing agent decomposition device 222 is conducted by a conduit between the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and the exhausting HEPA filter 221. The sterilizer decomposition device 222 decomposes the molecules of the sterilizer contained in the gas sent from the conduit between the sterilizer decomposition device 222 and the HEPA filter 221 for exhaust, and sterilizes the molecules produced by the decomposition. Discharge out of device 100.

The sterilizer decomposition device 222 is a device that decomposes the sterilizer. For example, when the sterilizer is hydrogen peroxide or a hydrogen peroxide solution, vaporized hydrogen peroxide is used as a catalyst and manganese dioxide is used as a catalyst. , A device that can decompose into water and 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 pumps all the liquid sterilizers in the cartridge 205 and feeds all the liquid sterilizers sent through the conduit between the liquid sensor 204 and the liquid feed rotary pump 223. It is a device that sends to the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 through a conduit between the rotary pump 223 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224.

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

The exhaust evaporation furnace 224 heats all the liquid sterilizers in the cartridge 205, which are sent through the conduit between the liquid feed rotary pump 223 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224, by the heater provided in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224. Evaporate all of the sterilizer. Then, the vaporized sterilizing agent is sent to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 through the conduit between the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224.

<Explanation of Fig. 4>

Next, an example of each step of the sterilization process by the sterilizer according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

Each step (treatment) shown in FIG. 4 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100.

That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100 executes a program that can be read and executed to control the operation of each device and execute each step (process) shown in the figure.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of each step of the sterilization process by the sterilizer according to the present invention.

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

The RF-ID reader / writer 206 is an application example of the reading means of the present invention.

The data read from the RF-ID (storage medium) in step S101 includes the serial number as information for identifying the cartridge, the date of manufacture of the cartridge, and the date and time when the cartridge was first used in the sterilizer. There are (first use date and time) and the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent filled in the cartridge. That is, the RF-ID (storage medium) provided on the cartridge 205 stores the serial number, the date of manufacture, the date and time of first use (information on the date and time of first use), and the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent in advance. The RF-ID of the cartridge used for the first time in the sterilizer does not store the date and time of the first use (the date and time when the cartridge was first used in the sterilizer). Therefore, the RFID of the cartridge used for the first time stores the serial number, the date of manufacture, and the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent, but the RF-ID of the cartridge used after the second time is serial. The number, date of manufacture, date and time of first use, and remaining amount of sterilizer are stored. Therefore, in step S101, the serial number, the date of manufacture, and the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent are read from the RF-ID of the cartridge used for the first time. In addition, the serial number, the date of manufacture, the date and time of first use, and the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent are read from the RFID of the cartridge used from the second time onward.

Therefore, in step S102, even if the first use date and time cannot be read from the RF-ID of the cartridge used for the first time, if the serial number, the date of manufacture, and the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent can be read, the RF-ID can be used. It is determined that the data has been read.

Next, when it is determined in step S101 that the data has been read from the RF-ID (step S102: YES), the sterilizer 100 determines that the cartridge is installed at the cartridge mounting location in the sterilizer 100. , The cartridge mounting door 101 is locked (step S103). That is, it is locked so that the cartridge cannot be taken out. In this way, when the data is read by the reading means, the cartridge 205 is locked so that it cannot be taken out.

Further, for example, by preventing the injection needle inserted into the cartridge from being pulled out, it is possible to prevent the cartridge from being taken out.

That is, by inserting the injection needle into the cartridge in step S103, the sterilizing agent in the cartridge can be extracted and the cartridge cannot be taken out.

In this way, when the cartridge is attached to the attachment location of the cartridge in the sterilizer 100, the cartridge is locked so that it cannot be taken out.

If a cartridge containing a remainder of the sterilizing agent is installed at the mounting location of the cartridge in the sterilizer 100, the sterilizing agent is given to the user because the cartridge is locked so that the cartridge cannot be taken out. You will be able to prevent it from being touched.

As described above, the sterilizer 100 locks the cartridge so that it cannot be taken out when the cartridge is attached to the sterilizer. This is an application example of the locking means of the present invention.

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

In step S105, the sterilizer 100 determines whether a predetermined period (for example, 13 months) has passed from the date of manufacture of the cartridge acquired from the RF-ID.

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

In step S106, the sterilizer 100 determines whether a predetermined period (for example, 2 weeks) has passed from the first use date and time obtained from the RF-ID (step S106).

Therefore, for example, in step S101, the first use date and time cannot be read from the RF-ID of the cartridge used for the first time. Therefore, in step S106, a predetermined period (for example, for example) from the first use date and time obtained from the RF-ID. It is determined that 2 weeks) has not passed (step S106: NO).

Then, if it is determined that a predetermined period (for example, 2 weeks) has passed from the first use date and time obtained from the RF-ID (step S106: YES), it is determined that sufficient sterilization cannot be performed. , Step S112 is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined period (for example, 2 weeks) has not passed (step S106: NO), it is determined that sufficient sterilization processing can be performed, and the processing of step S107 is performed.
<Explanation of Fig. 3>

In step S107, the sterilizer 100 displays the sterilization start screen (301 in FIG. 3) on the display unit 102.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 102 of the sterilizer 100.

On the sterilization start screen 301, a "sterilization start button" and a "sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation button" are displayed. The "sterilization start button" 302 in the sterilization start screen 301 displayed in step S107 is pressable (active) by the user (an example of a receiving means for receiving a sterilization process start instruction from the user in the present invention). ..

Then, when the user presses the "sterilization start button" 302 in FIG. 3 (step S108: YES), the sterilizer 100 displays the sterilization mode selection screen (303 in FIG. 3) with the "sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation button". When 306 is pressed (step S120: YES), the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation screen (307 in FIG. 3) is displayed on the display unit 102.
The screen for confirming the reduced pressure characteristics of the sterilized material will be described with reference to FIG.
<Explanation of FIG. 14>

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 102 of the sterilizer 100.

The screen of FIG. 14 shows a button (1401) for opening and closing the door 104 of the sterilization chamber, a button (1402) for selecting whether or not to automatically start sterilization after confirming the decompression characteristics of the sterilized material, and automatically starting sterilization. Button to set the judgment value at the time (1403), button to select to omit the pre-sterilization step when sterilization is automatically started (1404), button to start confirmation of sterilized product decompression characteristics (1405), current pressure value (1406), display of the elapsed time since the start of confirmation of sterilized product decompression characteristics (1407), display of judgment result of confirmation of sterilized product decompression characteristics (1408), display of a list of the judgment criteria (1409), It has a predicted sterilization process time (1410), advice (1411), and a button (1413) for setting whether to remove water.

The door open / close button (1401) can open and close the door 104 of the sterilization chamber. It is also used when putting in equipment to be tested for adsorption characteristics, or to reduce or increase the number of equipment depending on the result of the adsorption characteristics test.

The button (1402) for selecting whether or not to automatically start sterilization after confirming the decompression characteristics of the sterilized material sets whether or not to automatically start sterilization according to the result after confirming the decompression characteristics of the sterilized material. (An example of a receiving means for receiving an instruction to start a sterilization process from a user in the present invention).

The button (1403) for setting the determination value at the time of automatically starting sterilization can arbitrarily set the determination value at which sterilization is automatically started. If the judgment value is bad, the sterilization process takes time, and in some cases, an error occurs, so the selection formula is used.

The button (1405) for starting the decompression property confirmation of the sterilized material is a button for starting the adsorption property test. Instead of the cancel button while checking the decompression characteristics of the sterilized material.

In 1406, the pressure during confirmation of the decompression characteristic of the sterilized material is displayed.

In 1407, the elapsed time from the start of the confirmation of the reduced pressure characteristics of the sterilized material is displayed.

In 1408, the determination result is displayed in five stages of A to E.

In 1409, a list of time and determination as a determination criterion for confirming the decompression characteristic of the sterilized material is displayed. In the figure, the A judgment is the most preferable. The determination criteria of 1409 may be set by the user by operating the display unit 102, or may be set by default.

A message corresponding to the determination result is displayed in 1411. For example, in the case of judgment D, the message "There are many sterilized products. Please reduce the sterilized products." Is displayed. In addition, an example of a message for each determination result is shown in FIG.

The button (1413) for setting whether to perform the water removal can set whether to perform the water removal treatment in the sterilization chamber before executing the sterilized product decompression characteristic check.
When checking the decompression characteristics of a sterilized product in this way, an error occurs when the pressure is not reduced to a predetermined pressure even at a predetermined time (a time that cannot be arbitrarily set by the user) as in the pre-sterilization step described later. Instead, the user can arbitrarily set a reference time that causes an error when the pressure is not reduced to a predetermined pressure.

Returning to the description of FIG.

In step S121, the sterilizer 100 selects whether or not to automatically start sterilization after confirming the sterilized product decompression characteristics via the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation screen (307 in FIG. 3) displayed on the display unit 102. (1402), setting of a judgment value when sterilization is automatically started (1403), selection of whether to omit the pre-sterilization step when sterilization is automatically started (1404), and setting of whether to remove water. (1413) is accepted from the user. Step S121 is an example of the storage means in the present invention for storing the test depressurization condition including the threshold time set by the user and the pressure for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container under the test decompression condition.

In step S122, the sterilizer 100 confirms the decompression characteristics of the sterilized material. The details of the process in step S122 will be described with reference to FIG. 15, which will be described later.

On the sterilization mode selection screen 303, a "mode for concentrating and sterilizing the sterilizing agent" button 304 and a "mode for sterilizing without concentrating the sterilizing agent" button 305 are displayed.

The sterilizer 100 accepts from the user the selection of either the "mode for concentrating the sterilizing agent and sterilizing" button 304 or the "mode for sterilizing without concentrating the sterilizing agent" button 305 (step S110), and the user selects the button. The sterilization process (step S111) is performed according to the mode of the selected button (an example of the execution means for executing the sterilization process by receiving the start instruction of the sterilization process from the user in the present invention). Details of the sterilization process (step S111) will be described later with reference to FIG.

In this way, according to the instruction of the user, it is possible to switch and use the sterilization processing mode with one sterilizer. That is, when the "mode for concentrating and sterilizing the sterilizing agent" button 304 is pressed by the user, the sterilizing agent is concentrated and sterilized, and the "mode for sterilizing without concentrating the sterilizing agent" button 305 is displayed. If pressed, sterilize without concentrating the sterilizer.

Then, when the sterilization process (step S111) is completed, the sterilizer 100 returns the process to step S101.

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

Then, the sterilizer 100 determines from the serial number obtained from the RF-ID in step S101 whether or not the cartridge installed at the cartridge mounting location is a cartridge that has already been discharged from the sterilizer ( Step S113). Specifically, the memory (storage unit) in the sterilizer 100 stores a serial number that identifies the cartridge for which the sterilizing agent has already been discharged, and the serial number obtained from the RF-ID in step S101 is stored. By determining whether or not the serial number matches the serial number stored in the memory (storage unit), the cartridge currently attached to the sterilizer 100 is a cartridge for which the sterilizing agent has already been discharged. Judge whether or not.

In addition, another example of determining whether or not the cartridge has been subjected to the discharge treatment of the sterilizing agent will be described here.

When the sterilizing agent discharging process of step S114 is performed, the sterilizing apparatus 100 records in the RF-ID of the cartridge 205 information indicating that the cartridge has already been discharged from the sterilizing agent.

Further, in step S113, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not the information indicating that the cartridge has already been discharged of the sterilizing agent can be read in step S101, and determines that the information can be read. If this is done (S113: YES), the process proceeds to step S115, and if it is determined that the information could not be read, the process proceeds to step S114 (S113: NO).

In this way, it is also possible to determine whether or not the cartridge currently attached to the sterilizer 100 is a cartridge that has already been subjected to the discharge treatment of the sterilizing agent.

If it is determined that the cartridge currently attached to the sterilizer 100 is a cartridge for which the sterilizing agent has already been discharged (step S113: YES), the process of step S115 is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the cartridge has not already been discharged from the sterilizing agent (step S113: NO), all the remaining amount of the liquid sterilizing agent remaining in the cartridge is sucked up and all the sterilizing agent is removed. The sterilizing agent is discharged (step S114), which is decomposed and discharged to the outside of the sterilizer 100, and then the process of step S115 is performed. Details of the disinfectant discharge treatment in step S114 will be described later with reference to FIG.

Step S114 is an application example of a disposal means for discarding the hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution in the cartridge. That is, the disposal means disposes of all the hydrogen peroxide solutions in the cartridge by decomposing them using a catalyst.

If the data read in step S101 is determined in steps S104, S105, and S106 to satisfy a predetermined condition, the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 is discarded by the disposal means.

That is, here, the predetermined conditions are a condition that the amount of the sterilizing agent used in one sterilization process remains in the cartridge, a condition that a predetermined time has passed from the date of manufacture of the cartridge, and a cartridge. It is a condition including the condition that a predetermined time has passed from the first use date of.

When the process of step S114 is performed, the serial number read in step S101 is stored in the memory (storage unit) in the sterilizer 100 as the serial number for identifying the cartridge that has already been discharged (discarded) of the sterilizing agent. ..

The sterilizer 100 unlocks the cartridge mounting door 101 in step 115.

Step S115 is an application example of the unlocking means for unlocking by the locking means.

For example, the lock can be released by removing the injection needle inserted in the cartridge from the cartridge.

In this way, since all the sterilizing agents in the cartridge 205 are sucked out and discarded (S114) before the lock is released, it is possible to prevent the user from touching the sterilizing agents, and the safety is improved. do.

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

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the cartridge mounting request screen 1101 displayed on the display unit 102 of the sterilizer 100.

The "OK" button 1102 is displayed on the cartridge mounting request screen 1101.

Then, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the "OK" button 1102 on the cartridge installation request screen 1101 is pressed by the user (step S117), and if the "OK" button 1102 is pressed (YES), the cartridge installation is used. The door 101 is unlocked (step S118), and the process returns to step S101. On the other hand, if the "OK" button 1102 is not pressed (NO), the cartridge installation request screen 1101 is continuously displayed.

The cartridge mounting door 101 is unlocked and locked by the operation of the lock operation control unit 202.

<Explanation of FIG. 5>

Next, an example of the detailed treatment of the sterilization treatment shown in S111 of FIG. 4 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a detailed process of the sterilization process shown in S111 of FIG.

Each step (treatment) shown in FIG. 5 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100.

That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100 executes a program that can be read and executed to control the operation of each device and execute each step (process) shown in the figure.

When starting the step shown in step S501 shown in FIG. 5, all the valves of the sterilizer 100 (valve (V1) 211, valve (V2) 215, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, valve (V9) ) 227, the valve (V7) 226) is in a closed state.

First, in step S501, the sterilizer 100 operates the air-feeding vacuum pump 220 to suck the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 and reduce the pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 until it reaches a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 pascals). Perform the pre-sterilization process. The detailed processing of the pre-sterilization process will be described later with reference to FIG.

Then, in step S502, the sterilizer 100 puts a sterilizing agent in the sterilization chamber 219 and performs a sterilization step of sterilizing the object to be sterilized. The detailed processing of the sterilization process will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, in step S503, the sterilizer 100 performs a ventilation step process for removing the sterilizing agent contained in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizer 216. The detailed processing of the processing of the ventilation step will be described later with reference to FIG.
<Explanation of FIG. 6>

Next, an example of the detailed processing of the pre-sterilization step shown in S501 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of detailed processing of the pre-sterilization step shown in S501 of FIG. The process of FIG. 6 is an example of the pre-sterilization decompression operation in the present invention in which the inside of the sterilization container storing the object to be sterilized is depressurized to a predetermined pressure.

Each step (treatment) shown in FIG. 6 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100.

That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100 executes a program that can be read and executed to control the operation of each device and execute each step (process) shown in the figure.

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

Then, in step S602, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 pascals). Specifically, it is determined whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 measured by the pressure sensor provided in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 45 pascals).

If it is determined in step S602 that the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has not been reduced to a predetermined pressure (for example, 45 pascals) (NO), the process proceeds to step S603, and 3 minutes have elapsed from the start of decompression. The air pump 220 is continuously operated to suck the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 and reduce the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219.

On the other hand, in step S602, when it is determined that the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined air pressure (for example, 45 pascals) (YES), the air pump 220 is continuously operated. , The gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is sucked in, and the process of step S502 is started.

In step S603, the sterilizer 100 determines whether 3 minutes have passed since the start of depressurization. If 3 minutes have passed from the start of depressurization, the process proceeds to step S604. The gas is sucked and the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced.

In step S604, the sterilizer 100 changes the predetermined pressure referenced in step S602. Specifically, the criterion is loosened so as to determine whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 measured by the pressure sensor provided in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to, for example, 50 pascals. ..

In step S605, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has been reduced to a predetermined pressure (50 pascals in this embodiment). Specifically, it is determined whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 measured by the pressure sensor provided in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (50 pascals in this embodiment). do.

If it is determined in step S605 that the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has not been reduced to a predetermined pressure (50 pascals in this embodiment), the process proceeds to step S606, and the pressure reduction is started. Until 15 minutes have passed, the air pump 220 is continuously operated to suck the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 and reduce the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219.

On the other hand, in step S605, when it is determined that the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined pressure (50 pascals in this embodiment) (YES), the air pump 220 is used. The operation is continued, the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is sucked, and the process of step S502 is started.

In step S606, the sterilizer 100 determines if 15 minutes have passed since the start of depressurization. If 15 minutes have passed from the start of depressurization, the process proceeds to step S607. The gas is sucked and the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced.

In step S607, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 has been reduced to a predetermined pressure (50 pascals in this embodiment). Specifically, it is determined whether the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the sterilization chamber 219 measured by the pressure sensor provided in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (50 pascals in this embodiment). do.

In step S607, since the pressure (atmospheric pressure) in the bacterial chamber 219 is not reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure, an error indicating that the process of step S502 cannot proceed is displayed and the present process is terminated.
The predetermined atmospheric pressure (45 pascals or 50 pascals) that serves as a criterion for determining the steps S602 and step S605 in the pre-sterilization step is predetermined for each sterilizer 100 and can be arbitrarily set by the user. No.
<Explanation of FIG. 7>

Next, an example of the detailed processing of the sterilization step shown in S502 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of detailed processing of the sterilization step shown in S502 of FIG.

Each step (processing) shown in FIG. 7 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100.

That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100 executes a program that can be read and executed to control the operation of each device and execute each step (process) shown in the figure.

First, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve (V5) 217 to conduct the conduit between the sterilizer chamber 219 and the vaporizer 216 (step S701). As a result, since the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 is currently sucked and depressurized by the air pump 220, the depressurization in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 is started (step S702).

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

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

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

Then, in step S705, the sterilizer 100 writes the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent remaining in the cartridge 205 into the RF-ID of the cartridge 205 attached to the cartridge mounting location. Specifically, the value obtained by subtracting the predetermined amount (for example, 2 ml) sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S704 from the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 read in step S101 is stored in the RF-ID.

That is, the value obtained by subtracting the cumulative amount of the sterilizing agent sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S704 from the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 read in step S101 is stored in the RF-ID in step S705.

If the first use date and time (the date and time when the cartridge was first used in the sterilizer) read from the RF-ID in step S101 does not include information indicating the date and time, the sterilizer 100 will use the cartridge this time. Determined to be used for the first time in a sterilizer. That is, when the sterilizer 100 cannot read the date and time of the first use from the RF-ID in step S101, it determines that the cartridge has been used for the first time in the sterilizer this time.
Only when it is determined that the cartridge has been used for the first time in the sterilizer in this way, the current date and time information is also written to the RF-ID.

Next, since the sterilizer 100 heats the heater provided in the concentrator 208 whenever the sterilizer 100 is turned on, the sterilizer put into the concentrator 208 in step S704 is the sterilizer. It is heated by the heat of the heater and evaporates the water contained in the sterilizing agent in the concentrating furnace 208 (step S706).

The reason for always heating the heater provided in the concentrating furnace 208 when the sterilizer 100 is turned on is, for example, to enable the sterilizer to be used immediately at any time in the operating room. be. In this way, by eliminating the time required to heat the heater of the concentrating furnace, the sterilizer can be used immediately at any time.

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

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

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

Then, when the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizer 216 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (YES), the sterilizer 100 sets the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 in step S709. By opening the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) and closing the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213). The pressure inside 214 is reduced. On the other hand, if the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizer 216 is not reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (NO), the sterilizing agent is continuously concentrated.

Then, in step S710, the sterilizer 100 then opens the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 for a predetermined time and closes the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 in step S709. When the valve (V1) is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds), the air pressure in the measuring tube 214 is lower than the air pressure in the concentrating furnace 208 (external), so that the sterilizing agent contained in the concentrating furnace 208 is contained in the measuring tube. It is sucked into 214 (step S710). Here, by opening and closing the valve (V1) for a predetermined time, the sterilizing agent contained in the concentrating furnace 208 is sucked into the measuring pipe 214. Here, not only the sterilizing agent but also the air in the concentrating furnace 208 is sucked into the measuring tube 214.

After that, the pressure inside the sterilization chamber 219 is continuously reduced by the air pump 220.

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

Next, in step S711, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 for a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds), and the air in the measuring tube (does not include the liquid sterilizer). Is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219. That is, here, when the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are opened and the predetermined time elapses, the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) 213 are closed.

Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizer 216 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 80 Pa), and when it is determined that the atmospheric pressure is reduced (step). S712), the valve (V5) 217 is closed (step S713).

Then, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve (V2) 215 (step S714). As a result, the sterilizing agent in the measuring pipe 214 is sucked into the vaporization furnace 216 and vaporized in the vaporization furnace 216.

Here, the sterilizing agent is vaporized in the vaporization furnace as molecular clusters.

The sterilization chamber has a larger volume than the vaporizer, and in the vaporizer, the sterilizer is vaporized as molecular clusters. This is because the volume of the vaporizer is smaller than that in the sterilization chamber, so that the distance between the molecules of the sterilizer in the sterilization chamber is short, and it is easy to form molecular clusters due to the intermolecular force.

At this time as well, the air pump 220 continuously sucks the gas in the sterilization chamber 219 and depressurizes the inside of the sterilization chamber 219. The air pressure rises in the vaporizer 216 in which the sterilizing agent in the measuring pipe 214 is sucked.

That is, the air pressure in the vaporizer 216 is higher than the air pressure in the sterilization chamber 219.

Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 50 Pa) and a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve (V2) 215 was opened in step S714. (Step S715), when the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 50 Pa) and a predetermined time has elapsed since the valve (V2) 215 was opened in step S714 (YES). , The suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the air pump 220 is stopped (step S716), and the valve (V5) 217 is opened (step S717). As a result, the vaporized sterilizing agent diffuses into the sterilizing chamber 219, and the object to be sterilized can be sterilized.

This diffuses because the air pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 (for example, 50 Pa) is lower than the air pressure in the vaporizer 216.

With the sterilizing agent diffused here, the molecular clusters in the vaporization furnace are further subdivided, the sterilizing agent can be further diffused into the sterilizing chamber, and the sterilizing action can be enhanced.

In addition, it becomes possible to effectively sterilize a small lumen such as an object to be sterilized.

Then, it is determined whether a predetermined time (for example, 330 seconds) has elapsed since the valve (V5) 217 was opened in step S717, and a predetermined time (for example, 330 seconds) has passed since the valve (V5) 217 was opened. When it is determined that the lapse has passed (step S718: YES), the valve (V9) 227 is opened (step S719).

As a result, the air pressure inside the vaporizer 216 and the air pressure inside the sterilization chamber 219 is lower than the air pressure outside the sterilizer 100, so that the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100 cleaned by the intake HEPA filter is released. , Sucked into the vaporizer 216. 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. , The sterilizing action on the object to be sterilized in the sterilization chamber 219 is enhanced. That is, for example, this enhances the sterilizing action on a portion that is difficult to sterilize, such as the back of a thin tube to be sterilized.

Then, when a predetermined time (15 seconds) has elapsed from opening the valve (V9) 227 in step S719, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve (V7) 226 and is further cleaned by the intake HEPA filter 210. Further, the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100 is sucked into the sterilizer chamber 219. This is because the air pressure inside the sterilizer chamber 219 and the air pressure inside the vaporizer 216 is lower than the air pressure outside the sterilizer 100, so that the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100 is sucked into the sterilizer chamber 219.

As a result, the sterilizing action of a part that is difficult to sterilize (particularly the lumen part) such as the back of a thin tube to be sterilized is enhanced.

Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 and the inside of the vaporizer 216 have risen to atmospheric pressure, and when it is determined that the pressure has risen to atmospheric pressure (step S721: YES), the valve (V2). Close 215 (step S722).

Next, the sterilizer 100 closes the valve (V7) 226 (step S723) and resumes suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the air pump 220 (step S724). As a result, the outside air (air) outside the sterilizer 100 cleaned by the intake HEPA filter 210 is sucked into the vaporizer 216 through the conduit in which the intake HEPA filter 210 and the vaporizer 216 are conducting. .. Then, the sterilizing agent filled as a gas in the vaporizing furnace 216 by the air sent into the vaporizing furnace 216 and the sterilizing agent adhering to the inner surface of the vaporizing furnace 216 are further added to the sterilizing chamber 219. Be sent in.

As a result, the sterilizing action of a part that is difficult to sterilize (particularly the lumen part) such as the back of a thin tube to be sterilized is enhanced, and the sterilizing agent in the vaporizer 216 can be effectively reduced. ..

Then, the sterilizer 100 closes the valve (V9) 227 after a predetermined time (for example, 15 seconds) after restarting the suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the air pump 220 in step S724. (Step S725).

At this time as well, suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 is continuously performed by the air pump 220, and the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 are sealed by step S725, and the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 and the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 are sealed. The pressure inside the vaporizer 216 will be reduced (step S726).

Next, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the processes of steps S702 to S726 have been executed a predetermined number of times (for example, four times) (step S727), and if it is determined that the processes have been executed (YES), step S503. Perform processing. On the other hand, if it is determined that the processes of steps S702 to S726 have not been executed a predetermined number of times, the processes of steps S702 and subsequent steps are performed again. By executing the processes from step S702 to step S726 a predetermined number of times in this way, the effect of the sterilizing action on the object to be sterilized is enhanced, and the object to be sterilized can be sufficiently sterilized.

Next, a case where it is determined in step S703 that the "mode for sterilizing without concentrating the sterilizing agent" button 305 is pressed (when sterilizing without concentrating the sterilizing agent) will be described.

When it is determined in step S703 that the "mode for sterilizing without concentrating the sterilizing agent" button 305 is pressed (NO), the sterilizer 100 sets the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizer 216 to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (NO). For example, it is determined whether the pressure has been reduced to 1000 Pa) (step S728).

Then, when it is determined that the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporizer 216 has been reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 100 Pa) (step S728: YES), the sterilizer 100 uses the liquid feed rotary pump 207. It operates and sucks a predetermined amount (for example, 2 ml) of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205. Then, a predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent sucked up is put into the concentrating furnace 208 (step S729).

The predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent to be sucked up here is, for example, an amount that can saturate the space in the sterilizing chamber 219 with the sterilizing agent.

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

Further, when the predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent sucked from the cartridge 205 is, for example, 2 ml, it is determined in step S727 that the sterilizing agent has not been executed a predetermined number of times (NO), and the processing after step S702 can be performed. For example, in the second case, the cumulative amount of the sterilizing agent sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S729 is (2 ml (predetermined amount) × second time =) 4 ml, so that the cartridge 205 read in step S101 The value obtained by subtracting 4 ml, which is the cumulative amount of the sterilizing agent sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S729, from the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent is stored in the RF-ID in step S730.
That is, the value obtained by subtracting the cumulative amount of the sterilizing agent sucked from the cartridge 205 in step S729 from the remaining amount of the sterilizing agent in the cartridge 205 read in step S101 is stored in the RF-ID in step S730.

Further, in step S730, when the first use date and time (the date and time when the cartridge was first used in the sterilizer) read from the RF-ID in step S101 does not include information indicating the date and time, the sterilizer 100 includes information indicating the date and time. This time, it is determined that the cartridge has been used for the first time in a sterilizer. That is, when the sterilizer 100 cannot read the date and time of the first use from the RF-ID in step S101, it determines that the cartridge has been used for the first time in the sterilizer this time.

Only when it is determined that the cartridge has been used for the first time in the sterilizer in this way, the current date and time information is also written to the RF-ID.

Then, when the sterilizer 100 performs the process of step S730, the process of step S709 and subsequent steps already described is performed.

In step S728, when the inside of the sterilizing chamber 219 reaches a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 1000 Pa), the sterilizing agent is started to be sucked in step S729, and by the time the sterilizing agent is sucked in step S729, the pressure drops below 500 Pa. Can be migrated to.

In this way, the atmospheric pressure in the sterilization chamber 219 and the vaporization furnace 216 is reduced to a predetermined atmospheric pressure (for example, 1000 Pascal) at which the depressurization in the measuring tube 214 is started, and then a predetermined amount of the sterilizing agent is sucked up. Can be immediately depressurized in the measuring tube 214 in step S709, and then the sterilizing agent in the concentrating furnace 208 is put into the measuring tube in step S710. It becomes possible to add a sterilizing agent immediately. That is, the sterilizing agent can be put into the measuring tube 214 without being concentrated in the concentrating furnace 208.
<Explanation of FIG. 8>

Next, an example of the detailed processing of the ventilation step shown in S503 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of detailed processing of the ventilation step shown in S503 of FIG.

Each step (treatment) shown in FIG. 8 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100.

That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100 executes a program that can be read and executed to control the operation of each device and execute each step (process) shown in the figure.

First, the sterilizer 100 opens the valve V (7) 226 (step S801).

Then, the sterilizer 100 continues to suck (evacuate) the inside of the sterilization chamber 219 by the air pump 220 (step S802).

After opening the valve V (7) 226 in step S801, suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the air pump vacuum pump 220 is performed in step S802, and when a predetermined time elapses (step S803: YES), the valve V (7) Close 226 (step S804), and continue suction (evacuation) in the sterilization chamber 219 by the air pump 220. As a result, the pressure inside the sterilization chamber 219 is reduced.

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

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

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

As a result, the sterilizing agent adhering to the surface in the sterilizing chamber 219 and the sterilizing agent remaining as a gas in the sterilizing chamber 219 are sucked by the pneumatic vacuum pump 220. The gas sucked here (including the sterilizing agent) passes through the exhaust HEPA filter 221, the sterilizing agent is decomposed by the sterilizing agent decomposition device 222, and the decomposed molecules are released to the outside.
<Explanation of FIG. 9>

Next, an example of the detailed treatment of the sterilization discharge treatment shown in S114 of FIG. 4 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a detailed treatment of the sterilization discharge treatment shown in S114 of FIG.

Each step (treatment) shown in FIG. 9 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100.
That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100 executes a program that can be read and executed to control the operation of each device and execute each step (process) shown in the figure.

First, the sterilizer 100 sucks all the liquid sterilizers in the cartridge 205 by the liquid feed rotary pump 223, and sends them all through the conduit between the liquid sensor 204 and the liquid feed rotary pump 223. Is sent into the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 through the conduit between the liquid feed rotary pump 223 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 (step S901).

Then, the sterilizer 100 uses the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 to send all the liquid sterilizers (sterilizers stored in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224) through the conduit between the liquid feed rotary pump 223 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224. Is heated by a heater provided in the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 to vaporize all of the sterilizing agent. Then, the vaporized sterilizing agent is sent to the exhaust HEPA filter 221 through the conduit between the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 (step S902).

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

Then, the sterilizer 100 purifies the vaporized sterilizing agent sent through the conduit between the exhaust evaporation furnace 224 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221 by the exhaust HEPA filter 221 and purifies the gas (sterilization). The agent (including the agent) is sent to the disinfectant decomposition device 222 through a conduit between the disinfectant decomposition device 222 and the exhaust HEPA filter 221.

Then, the sterilizing agent decomposing device 222 decomposes the molecules of the sterilizing agent contained in the gas sent from the conduit between the sterilizing agent decomposing device 222 and the HEPA filter 221 for exhaust, and the molecules produced by decomposing the molecules. Is discharged out of the sterilizer 100 (step S903).
<Explanation of FIG. 10>

Next, using FIG. 10, the condensing furnace 208, valve (V1) 211, valve (V3) 212, valve (V4) 213, measuring tube 214, valve (V2) 215, vaporization of the sterilizer 100 according to the present invention. The block configuration related to the hardware configuration of the furnace 216, the valve (V5) 217, and the valve (V9) 227 will be described.

FIG. 10 shows the condensing furnace 208, the valve (V1) 211, the valve (V3) 212, the valve (V4) 213, the measuring pipe 214, the valve (V2) 215, the vaporizer 216, and the valve (valve (V1) 211" of the sterilizer 100 according to the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the block block composition diagram which concerns on the hardware composition of V5) 217, valve (V9) 227.

Each hardware shown in FIG. 10 has the same reference numerals as the same hardware as each hardware shown in FIG.

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

In step S706, as shown in FIG. 10, the concentrating furnace 208 is provided with a heater at the lower part of the concentrating furnace 208, and the sterilizing agent is heated by the heat of the heater. When the sterilizing agent is an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, the heat of this heater vaporizes the water. Then, the vaporized water is pushed out to the conduit conducting the exhaust HEPA filter 221 by the air sent from the air supply pressurizing pump 209 through the conduit, and is exhausted from the concentrating furnace 208. As a result, the sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution) is concentrated.

As described with reference to FIG. 7, in step S710, the sterilizing agent in the concentrating furnace 208 enters the measuring tube 214.

As shown in FIG. 10, the measuring pipe 214 is composed of a straight pipe portion 1001 and a branch pipe portion 1002.

The straight pipe portion 1001 is a straight tubular portion. The pipe of the straight pipe portion 1001 is arranged in the direction of gravity.

Further, the branch pipe portion 1002 is a tubular portion extending in a branch shape from the middle portion or the upper portion of the straight pipe portion 1001.

The straight pipe portion 1001 is installed so that the axial center of the straight pipe portion and the axial center of the branch pipe portion 1002 are perpendicular to each other.

Due to such a configuration, the sterilizing agent that has entered from the concentrating furnace 208 is configured to collect in the straight pipe portion 1001 in the measuring pipe 214. The portion where the sterilizing agent is accumulated in the straight pipe portion 1001 is called the sterilizing agent accumulating portion 1003.

That is, the sterilizing agent reservoir 1003 has a sufficient space for the sterilizing agent coming from the concentrating furnace 208 to enter.

Therefore, the sterilizing agent that has entered from the concentrating furnace 208 is accumulated in the sterilizing agent reservoir 1003, and the air that has entered from the concentrating furnace 208 together with the sterilizing agent is a space other than the sterilizing agent space that is accumulated in the sterilizing agent reservoir 1003. In addition, it will be filled. That is, since the space other than the space of the sterilizing agent is the space in the branch pipe portion 1002 and the space in communication with the space in the branch pipe portion 1002, the valve (V3) 212 and the valve (V4) in step S711. By opening 213, the air is sucked into the sterilization chamber 219.

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

Further, a conduit between the intake HEPA filter 210 and the vaporizer 216 is provided in the upper part of the vaporizer 216 as shown in FIG. Therefore, when the valve (V9) is opened in step S719, air (outside air) escapes from the upper part of the vaporization furnace 216 to the sterilization chamber 219 under the vaporization furnace 216, so that the sterilization adhering to the inside of the vaporization furnace 216 is performed. It becomes easy to remove the agent and the vaporized sterilizing agent in the vaporization furnace 216 in a wide range, and more of the removed sterilizing agent can be flowed to the sterilization chamber 219.
<Explanation of FIG. 12>
<Explanation of FIG. 13>

Next, with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, a state in which the extraction needle is inserted into the cartridge 205 and the cartridge 205 will be described.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the sterilizer cartridge 205 used in the sterilizer according to the present invention.

The cartridge shown in FIG. 12 is a cartridge containing an amount of sterilizing agent that can be sterilized multiple times in one bottle.

The cartridge shown in FIG. 12 stores a chemical solution such as hydrogen peroxide used as a sterilizing agent.

As shown in FIG. 12, the cartridge is composed of a first container and a lid of the first container.

The appearance of the first container is in the shape of a cup. The material of the first container is polypropylene (plastic) which is resistant to hydrogen peroxide, which is a sterilizing agent. This first container is also provided to protect the second container described later.

The lid is a lid for closing the first container on the upper side of the first container. That is, the lid is adhered to the outer peripheral edge of the first container. The material of this lid is polypropylene (plastic) that is resistant to hydrogen peroxide, which is a sterilizing agent.

The cross section of the cartridge at the center point of the cartridge when viewed from the upper side of the cartridge is defined as the cross section 1.

Next, with reference to FIG. 13, the structure when the extraction needle (injection needle) for sucking the sterilizing agent in the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge according to the present invention will be described.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a cross section 1 of the cartridge according to the present invention.

The sterilizer 100 directs the extraction needle (injection needle) toward the cartridge and operates so as to lower the extraction needle (injection needle) from the upper part of the cartridge, whereby the extraction needle (injection needle) is inserted into the hole of the lid and the hole of the cap.

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

As shown in FIG. 13, in step S103, by inserting the injection needle into the cartridge, the sterilizing agent in the cartridge can be extracted and the cartridge cannot be taken out.

<Explanation of FIG. 15>

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of processing before and after the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation processing in the first embodiment of the present invention.

Each step (treatment) shown in FIG. 15 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100.

That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100 executes a program that can be read and executed to control the operation of each device and execute each step (process) shown in the figure.

Before executing the process of FIG. 15, the user opens the door 104 of the sterilization chamber and wants to confirm the decompression characteristics of the sterilized material in the sterilization chamber 219, or the equipment to sterilize after confirming the decompression characteristics of the sterilized material. Is installed, and the door 104 of the sterilization chamber is closed.

In step S1501, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not the button (1405) for starting the confirmation of the decompression characteristic of the sterilized product has been pressed by the user. When the button (1405) for starting the confirmation of the reduced pressure characteristic of the sterilized product is pressed by the user, the process proceeds to step S1519.

In step S1502, the sterilizer 100 closes all valves, activates the air pump 220, starts depressurizing the sterilization chamber, and begins counting the elapsed time. Step S1502 is an example of the depressurizing means for depressurizing the inside of the sterile container in the present invention. The elapsed time is counted until the pressure inside the sterile container is reduced to a predetermined pressure (measurement means in the present invention).

In step S1503, the sterilizer 100 displays the pressure and elapsed time of the sterilizer chamber on the display unit 102. The pressure and elapsed time of the sterilization chamber are always displayed on the display unit 102. Further, the sterilizer 100 continues to monitor the pressure value output from the vacuum gauge (not shown in the block diagram).

In step S1504, the sterilizer 100 has a predetermined pressure (this time, it is set to 50 Pa, which is the same as the decompression value in the sterilization cycle, but the predetermined pressure is the same as the predetermined pressure in the pre-sterilization step, or the predetermined pressure in step S1504. Is higher.) Judge whether or not the pressure has been reduced to. If the pressure is reduced to a predetermined pressure, the process proceeds to step S1504, and if the pressure is not reduced to a predetermined pressure, the pressure reduction is repeated until the pressure is reduced to a predetermined pressure. The predetermined pressure in step S1504 is a pressure for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container under the test depressurization condition.

In step S1505, the sterilizer 100 performs a process of determining the decompression characteristic of the sterilized product according to the time elapsed until the pressure is reduced to a predetermined pressure. The details of the process of step S1505 will be described with reference to FIG.
<Explanation of FIG. 16>

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation process.

Each step (processing) shown in FIG. 16 is performed by controlling the operation of each device in the sterilizer by the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100.

That is, the arithmetic processing unit 201 of the sterilizer 100 executes a program that can be read and executed to control the operation of each device and execute each step (process) shown in the figure.

In this embodiment, the determination A is the best determination result, and the determination E is the worst determination result.

As a more specific example, in the determination A and the determination B, since the amount of the sterilized product is small, the sterilization may be started as it is, or the sterilized product can be added. Judgment C is a judgment that it is preferable to start sterilization as it is because it is not preferable to increase the amount of the sterilized product further because the amount of the sterilized product is sufficient. Since the amount of the sterilized product is large in the determination D, it is preferable to start sterilization after reducing the amount of the sterilized product. Judgment E is a determination that the amount of the sterilized product is excessive and it is necessary to start sterilization after reducing the amount of the sterilized product considerably. If sterilization is started in the state of determination E, there is a high possibility that the sterilization process will not be completed within the predetermined sterilization processing time or an error will occur.

In step S1601, the sterilizer 100 determines in step S1504 whether or not the time elapsed until it is determined that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is within 3,000 seconds.

If the time elapsed until it is determined that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure in step S1504 is within 3,000 seconds, it is determined that the determination is A (step S1602), and the process of FIG. 16 is terminated. If the time elapsed until it is determined in step S1504 that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is more than 3:00 seconds, the process proceeds to step S1603.

In step S1603, the sterilizer 100 determines in step S1504 whether or not the time elapsed until it is determined that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is within 3 minutes 01 seconds to 3 minutes 30 seconds.

If the time elapsed until it is determined that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure in step S1504 is within 3 minutes 01 seconds to 3 minutes 30 seconds, it is determined as determination B (step S1604), and the process of FIG. 16 is completed. do. If the time elapsed until it is determined in step S1504 that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is more than 3 minutes and 30 seconds, the process proceeds to step S1605.

In step S1605, the sterilizer 100 determines in step S1504 whether or not the time elapsed until it is determined that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is within 3 minutes 31 seconds to 4 minutes 00 seconds.
If the time elapsed until it is determined that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure in step S1504 is within 3 minutes 31 seconds to 4 minutes 00 seconds, it is determined as determination C (step S1606), and the process of FIG. 16 is completed. do. If the time elapsed until it is determined in step S1504 that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is more than 4 minutes 00 seconds, the process proceeds to step S1607.

In step S1607, the sterilizer 100 determines in step S1504 whether or not the time elapsed until it is determined that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is within 4 minutes 01 seconds to 5 minutes 00 seconds.
If the time elapsed until it is determined in step S1504 that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is within 4 minutes 01 seconds to 5 minutes 00 seconds, it is determined as determination D (step S1608), and the process of FIG. 16 is completed. do. If the time elapsed until it is determined in step S1504 that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is more than 5 minutes and 00 seconds, it is determined as determination E (step S1609), and FIG. End the process.

This is the end of the description of the process of FIG.

Returning to the description of FIG.

In step S1506, the sterilizer 100 displays the result of the sterilized product decompression characteristic determination process performed in step S1505 on 1408 (FIG. 14) of the display unit 102.

In step S1507, the sterilizer 100 determines the time (predicted sterilization processing time) required for the user to sterilize the equipment put into the sterilization chamber when executing the processing of FIG. 15 in 1410 of the display unit 102. It is displayed in (FIG. 14).

In step S1508, the sterilizer 100 displays a message (advice) according to the determination result of the decompression characteristic of the sterilized product performed in step S1505 on 1411 (FIG. 14) of the display unit 102. For example, if the judgment result is E (when the time elapsed until it is determined that the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure is more than 5 minutes 00 seconds), "There are too many sterilized products. Display the message "Please reduce the number of sterilized products." (When the time measured by the measuring means in the present invention is longer than a predetermined time, the sterilized material in the sterilization container performs the sterilization treatment. An example of an output means that outputs a message that it is not suitable for execution).

In step S1509, the sterilizer 100 determines in S121 of FIG. 4 whether or not the user has set to automatically start sterilization. If the user has set the automatic start of sterilization, the process proceeds to step S1512, and if the user has not set the automatic start of sterilization, the process proceeds to step S1510.

In step S1510, the sterilizer 100 stops the depressurization of the sterilization chamber.

In step S1511, the sterilizer 100 introduces air into the sterilization chamber and returns the sterilization chamber to atmospheric pressure. Then, the process of FIG. 15 is completed.

In step S1512, the sterilizer 100 determines whether the result determined in step S1505 is a determination result satisfying the automatic sterilization start condition (2403) set by the user in S121 of FIG.
Step S1512 is an example of a determination means for determining whether or not the pressure reduction means has been able to reduce the pressure within the threshold time up to the pressure of the test pressure reduction condition stored in the storage means in the present invention.

If the result determined in step S1505 is a determination result satisfying the automatic sterilization start condition set by the user in S121 of FIG. 4, the process proceeds to step S1513, and the result determined in step S1505 is determined in S121 of FIG. If the determination result does not satisfy the automatic sterilization start condition set by the user, the process proceeds to step S1510. In other words, if it is considered that the sterilization process will not cause a significant problem, the subsequent sterilization process will be performed, and if the sterilization process is performed as it is, the subsequent sterilization process will be interrupted. do. That is, it is determined whether or not the sterilization process is executed according to the measurement result by the measuring means (when the determination means in the present invention determines that the pressure can be reduced within the threshold time, the sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation. An example of an execution control means for controlling so as to be performed).

As a more specific example, if the automatic start condition of sterilization set by the user in S121 of FIG. 4 is "judgment C", the results of judgment in step S1505 are "judgment A", "judgment B", and "judgment". In the case of "C", the process proceeds to step S1513.

In step S1513, the sterilizer 100 determines in S121 of FIG. 4 whether or not the user has made the setting (1404) to omit the pre-sterilization step. If the user has set to omit the pre-sterilization step, the process proceeds to step S1517, and if the user has not set to omit the pre-sterilization step, the process proceeds to step S1514. That is, if the user has set to omit the pre-sterilization step, the sterilization process is executed without performing the pre-sterilization step (means).

In this embodiment, the user sets whether to omit the pre-sterilization step, but as another embodiment, the user does not accept the setting of whether to omit the pre-sterilization step in step S121 of FIG. If it is determined that the determination result satisfies the automatic start sterilization condition set by the user in step S1512, the pre-sterilization step is automatically omitted (if it is determined to execute the sterilization process, the pre-sterilization means is performed. It may be performed without sterilization).

In step S1514, the sterilizer 100 stops the depressurization of the sterilization chamber.

In step S1515, the sterilizer 100 introduces air into the sterilization chamber and returns the sterilization chamber to atmospheric pressure.

In step S1516, the sterilizer 100 starts the pre-sterilization step. Since the details of the process of step S1516 are the same as the process of FIG. 6, the description thereof will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the user sets whether to omit the pre-sterilization step, but as another embodiment, the user does not accept the setting of whether to omit the pre-sterilization step in step S121 of FIG. If it is determined that the determination result does not satisfy the automatic start sterilization condition set by the user in step S1512, the pre-sterilization step is automatically executed (if it is determined not to execute the sterilization process, the sterilization process is executed. Before that, the inside of the sterilization container may be depressurized to a predetermined pressure).

In step S1517, the sterilizer 100 starts the sterilization step (an example of an execution means for executing the sterilization process by receiving an instruction to start the sterilization process from the user in the present invention). Since the details of the process of step S1517 are the same as the process of FIG. 7, the description thereof will be omitted.

As described above, in the case where the automatic start of sterilization is set, the determination of automatic start or more is performed, and the pre-sterilization step is omitted, the sterilization process is required by omitting the pre-sterilization step. The time is shortened (about 3 minutes) and the convenience of the user is improved.

In step S1518, the sterilizer 100 performs a ventilation step and ends the process of FIG. Since the details of the process of step S1518 are the same as the process of FIG. 8, the description thereof will be omitted.

In step S1519, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not to remove water in the sterilizer chamber. If the water removal is performed, the process proceeds to step S1520, and if the water removal is not performed, the process proceeds to step S1502. Whether or not to remove water in the sterilization chamber is set by the user in step S121 of FIG. 4 via the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation screen (307 in FIG. 3) displayed on the display unit 102 of the sterilizer 100. (1413 in FIG. 14). As another embodiment, the step of removing water may always be performed without setting whether or not the user removes water in the sterilization chamber.

In step S1520, the sterilizer 100 closes all valves, activates the air pump 220, starts depressurizing the sterilization chamber, and begins counting elapsed time. Step S1520 is an example of the liquid removing means in the present invention for removing the liquid by depressurizing the sterilized container to a predetermined pressure at which the liquid in the sterilized container evaporates.

In step S1521, the sterilizer 100 displays the pressure and elapsed time of the sterilizer chamber on the display unit 102. The pressure and elapsed time of the sterilization chamber are always displayed on the display unit 102. Further, the sterilizer 100 continues to monitor the pressure value output from the vacuum gauge (not shown in the block diagram).

In step S1522, the sterilizer 100 determines whether or not the pressure has been reduced to a predetermined pressure (this time, the pressure is 1000 Pa, which is the atmospheric pressure at which water can be removed). If the pressure is reduced to a predetermined pressure, the process proceeds to step S1504, and if the pressure is not reduced to a predetermined pressure, the pressure reduction is repeated until the pressure is reduced to a predetermined pressure.

In step S1523, the sterilizer 100 introduces air into the sterilization chamber and returns the sterilization chamber to atmospheric pressure. The reason for performing this treatment is that the sterilized product decompression characteristic determination process determines the sterilized product decompression characteristic based on the elapsed time from atmospheric pressure to a predetermined pressure.

In step S1524, the sterilizer 100 waits for a predetermined time. This is because when the treatment in step S1520 is performed, a part of the gas in the micropores is also discharged accordingly, and then when the atmosphere is introduced in step S1523, the gas enters the micropores, but the amount is saturated ( This is because it takes some time to reach a stable state at atmospheric pressure.
By performing the treatments from step S1519 to step S1524, the water (liquid) in the sterilization chamber is removed. Therefore, when the judgment result by the decompression characteristic judgment of the sterilized material is not good, it is found that the cause is not due to the liquid but due to the gas, and as a result, it becomes possible to give more appropriate advice to the user. ..

This is the end of the description of the process of FIG.

Next, with reference to FIG. 18, a flowchart of processing before and after the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation processing in the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of processing before and after the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation processing in the second embodiment of the present invention.

In the flowchart of the process before and after the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation process in the first embodiment of FIG. 15, the setting of whether to omit the pre-sterilization step is accepted in step S121 of FIG. 4, and the instruction not to omit the pre-sterilization step is accepted. In this case, the processes from step S1513 to step S1516 are executed even if the determination result satisfies the automatic start sterilization condition set by the user. In the flow chart of the processing before and after the processing, the step S121 of FIG. 4 does not accept the setting of whether to omit the pre-sterilization step (that is, without executing the processing of steps S1513 to S1516 of FIG. 15). When it is determined in S1812 that the determination result satisfies the condition for automatically starting sterilization set by the user, the pre-sterilization step is automatically performed.

The processes from step S1801 to step S1812 in FIG. 18 are the same as the processes from step S1501 to step S1512 in FIG. 15, and the processes from step S1813 to step S1820 are the steps in FIG. Since each process is the same as each process from S1517 to step S1524 of FIG. 15, the description thereof will be omitted.
This is the end of the description of FIG.

Next, with reference to FIG. 19, a flowchart of processing before and after the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation processing in the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of processing before and after the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation processing according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

In the flowchart of the process before and after the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation process in the first embodiment of FIG. 15, it is assumed that the pre-sterilization step of step S1516 is executed after step S1515, but in this embodiment, it is the same as step S1515. If the user additionally inputs the sterilized product after step S1915, which is the process of FIG. 19, the process returns to the first process of the flowchart of FIG.

Further, in the flowchart of the processing before and after the sterilized product decompression characteristic confirmation processing in the first embodiment of FIG. 15, it is assumed that the processing of FIG. 15 is completed when the processing of step S1511 is completed, but in this embodiment, it is referred to as step S1511. When the user performs an act of reducing the number of sterilized products after step S1911, which is a similar process, the process returns to the process of step S1902 of FIG. 19 (similar to step S1502 of FIG. 15).

The processes from step S1901 to step S1910 are the same as the processes in step S1510 in FIG. 15, and the processes from step S1912 to step S1914 are the same as the processes in steps S1512 to S1514 in FIG. Since each process from step S1916 to step S1924 is the same process as each process from step S1516 to step S1524 in FIG. 15, description thereof will be omitted.

In step S1911, the sterilizer 100 introduces air into the sterilization chamber, and when the sterilization chamber is returned to atmospheric pressure, the process proceeds to step S1925.

In step S1925, the sterilizer 100 displays a screen including a button for accepting a selection from the user as to whether or not the number of sterilized products has been reduced on the display unit 102 of the sterilizer 100.

In step S1926, when the sterilizer 100 accepts the user's choice to reduce the sterilized material through the screen displayed on the display unit 102 of the sterilizer 100 in step S1925 (YES in step S1926), When the user returns to step S1902 and receives a selection (end instruction) from the user that the number of sterilized products has not been reduced (NO in step S1926), this process ends.

When it is determined in step S1912 that the sterilized product is not suitable for automatically initiating the sterilization process, the user can perform the process of step S1925 and step S1926 after the process of step S1925. The door 104 of the sterilization chamber is opened, the number of sterilized products set in the sterilization chamber is reduced, the treatment between steps S101 to S108 and steps S120 to S121 in FIG. 4 is omitted, and the decompression characteristic of the sterilized product is judged again. It can be run by the sterilizer 100. At that time, since the pressure inside the sterilization container is reduced in step S1902, the water in the sterilization chamber has already been removed, so that the steps of removing water from step S1919 to step S1924 can be omitted, and the sterilization process can be performed. It is possible to shorten the time required for.

In step S1915, when the sterilizer 100 introduces air into the sterilization chamber and returns the sterilization chamber to atmospheric pressure, the process proceeds to step S1927.

In step S1927, the sterilizer 100 displays a screen including a button for accepting the selection of whether or not the sterilized product has been added from the user on the display unit 102 of the sterilizer 100.

In step S1928, when the sterilizer 100 receives the selection from the user that the sterilized product has been added via the screen displayed on the display unit 102 of the sterilizer 100 in step S1025 (YES in step S1928), If the user returns to step S1901 and receives a selection (NO in step S1928) that the sterilized product has not been reduced (NO in step S1928), the process proceeds to step S1916.

When it is determined in step S1913 that the pre-sterilization step is not omitted, by executing the processes of steps S1927 and S1928, the user opens the door 104 of the sterilization chamber after the process of step S1927 and enters the sterilization chamber. The sterilized product to be set can be added, the processing in steps S101 to S108 and steps S120 to S121 in FIG. 4 can be omitted, and the sterilizer 100 can be made to perform the sterilized product decompression characteristic determination again.
This is the end of the description of FIG.

Next, with reference to FIG. 20, the message for each determination result by the determination of the reduced pressure characteristic of the sterilized material, which is displayed in 1411 of FIG. 14 in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, will be described.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a message for each determination result by determination of decompression characteristics of sterilized material, which is displayed in 1411 of FIG. 14 in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

When the determination A is determined in step S1602 of FIG. 16, the determination B is determined in step S1604, and the determination C is determined in step S1602, the message "There is no delay in the sterilization process". Is displayed.

If the determination D is determined in step S1608 of FIG. 16, the message "There is a possibility that the sterilization process may be delayed. If possible, reduce the number of sterilized products." Is displayed.

If the determination E is determined in step S1609 of FIG. 16, the message "There is a possibility that a considerable delay may occur in the sterilization process. Please reduce the sterilized products." Is displayed.
This is the end of the description of FIG.

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism capable of providing a sterilization apparatus capable of shortening the sterilization processing time even when performing test sterilization.

100 Sterilizer 101 Cartridge mounting door 102 Display 103 Printing 104 Door of sterilization room

The present invention relates to a sterilizer and a control method , and more particularly to a mechanism capable of providing a sterilizer capable of shortening the sterilization processing time even when a test depressurization is performed.

Special Table 6-51185 Gazette

An object of the present invention is to provide a sterilizer capable of shortening the sterilization processing time even when a test depressurization is performed.

The present invention is a sterile device that executes after the depressurization operation prior to sterilization to reduce the pressure in the sterilization chamber for storing an object to be sterilized to a predetermined pressure, the sterilization process for sterilizing the object to be sterilized with a sterilizing agent Te, a decompression means for decompressing said sterilization chamber, and measuring means for the pressure reducing means for measuring an elapsed time from the start of pressure reduction of the sterilization chamber, if the elapsed time is outside of a predetermined threshold value , Air is introduced into the sterilization chamber to control the pressure in the sterilization chamber to return to atmospheric pressure, and when the elapsed time is within a predetermined threshold range, the pressure in the sterilization chamber is returned to atmospheric pressure. A control means for executing control to start sterilization without sterilization, and a display control means for displaying a message recommending the user to work on the object to be sterilized on the display unit when the elapsed time is out of a predetermined threshold range. Ru equipped with.

The present invention is a control method for a sterilizer that executes a sterilization process for sterilizing the object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent after performing a pre-sterilization decompression operation in which the sterilization chamber for storing the object to be sterilized is depressurized to a predetermined pressure. When the pressure reducing step of depressurizing the sterilization chamber, the measurement step of measuring the elapsed time from the start of depressurization of the sterilization chamber in the depressurizing step, and the elapsed time are out of a predetermined threshold range. In addition, air is introduced into the sterilization chamber to control the pressure in the sterilization chamber to return to atmospheric pressure, and when the elapsed time is within a predetermined threshold range, the pressure in the sterilization chamber is reduced to atmospheric pressure. A control step of executing control to start sterilization without returning, and a display control step of displaying a message recommending work on the object to be sterilized by the user when the elapsed time is out of a predetermined threshold range. , Including .

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism capable of providing a sterilization apparatus capable of shortening the sterilization processing time even when the test depressurization is performed.

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

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism capable of providing a sterilization apparatus capable of shortening the sterilization processing time even when the test depressurization is performed.

Claims (8)

A sterilizer that executes a sterilization process that sterilizes the object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent after performing a pre-sterilization decompression operation that decompresses the inside of the sterilization container that stores the object to be sterilized to a predetermined pressure.
A storage means for storing a test decompression condition including a threshold time set by the user and a pressure for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container under the test decompression condition.
A decompression means for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container and
A determination means for determining whether or not decompression has been achieved within the threshold time up to the pressure under the test decompression condition stored in the storage means by the decompression means.
A sterilization apparatus comprising: an execution control means for controlling so that a sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation when it is determined by the determination means that the pressure can be reduced within a threshold time. When the determination means determines that the pressure can be reduced within the threshold time, the execution control means does not receive an instruction from the user to perform the sterilization process without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation, and the pre-sterilization means. The sterilization apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sterilization process is controlled so as to be performed without performing a depressurization operation. Further provided with a receiving means for receiving an instruction from the user as to whether or not to control the sterilization process so that the sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation when the determination means determines that the pressure can be reduced within the threshold time.
When the execution control means receives an instruction from the user to control the sterilization process so that the sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation, the sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation. The sterilizer according to claim 1, wherein the sterilizer is controlled so as to be used. The storage means further stores the pre-sterilization decompression operation threshold time, which is the threshold time in the pre-sterilization decompression operation.
The threshold time is determined by accepting input of the threshold time from the user.
The sterilizer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the decompression operation threshold time before the first sterilization is stored in the sterilizer in advance without receiving an input from the user. A display means for displaying a test decompression condition setting screen for allowing the user to set the test decompression condition stored in the storage means, and a display means for displaying the test decompression condition setting screen.
Further, a test decompression condition setting receiving means for receiving the setting of the test decompression condition from the user via the test decompression condition setting screen is further provided.
The sterilization apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the storage means stores the test decompression conditions received from the user by the test decompression condition setting receiving means. The claim is characterized in that the pressure for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container under the test depressurization condition is the same as the predetermined pressure in the decompression operation before sterilization, or the pressure for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container under the test decompression condition is higher. The sterilizer according to any one of 1 to 5. A storage means for storing a test decompression condition including a threshold time set by the user and a pressure for decompressing the inside of the sterilization container under the test decompression condition is provided, and the inside of the sterilization container for storing the object to be sterilized is depressurized to a predetermined pressure. This is a control method for a sterilizer that executes a sterilization process for sterilizing the object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent after performing a decompression operation before sterilization.
The decompression means of the sterilizer is a decompression step of decompressing the inside of the sterilization container.
A determination step of determining whether or not the determination means of the sterilizer has been able to reduce the pressure within the threshold time to the pressure of the test decompression condition stored in the storage means by the decompression step.
The execution control means of the sterilization apparatus includes an execution control step of controlling so that the sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation when it is determined in the determination step that the pressure can be reduced within the threshold time. A method of controlling a sterilizer, characterized in that. A storage means for storing a test decompression condition including a threshold time set by the user and a pressure for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container under the test decompression condition is provided, and the inside of the sterilization container for storing the object to be sterilized is stored up to a predetermined pressure. A program that can be read and executed by a sterilizer that executes a sterilization process that sterilizes the object to be sterilized using a sterilizing agent after performing a decompression operation before depressurization.
The sterilizer
A decompression means for depressurizing the inside of the sterilization container and
A determination means for determining whether or not decompression has been achieved within the threshold time up to the pressure under the test decompression condition stored in the storage means by the decompression means.
A program characterized by functioning as an execution control means for controlling so that a sterilization process is performed without performing the pre-sterilization decompression operation when the determination means determines that the pressure can be reduced within a threshold time.

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