JP3763786B2 - Steam sterilization system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to a steam sterilization system for sterilizing an object to be sterilized with steam.
[0002]
[Prior art]
  In hospitals, etc., for sterilization of objects to be sterilized such as therapeutic bandages, scalpels, forceps, and surgical gowns, the sterilization chamber containing the objects to be sterilized is usually pressurized with saturated steam to a predetermined pressure and temperature. A steam sterilization method is used in which is maintained for a certain period of time.
  As a supply source for supplying steam to the steam sterilization apparatus used in such a steam sterilization method, a steam sterilization system has been devised in which a saturated steam generator having a heat storage tank and a saturated steam generator is connected.
[0003]
  FIG. 11 shows the overall structure of a conventionally known steam sterilization system.
  The steam sterilizer 9 is connected to a saturated steam generator 8 composed of a heat storage tank 10 and a saturated steam generator tank 12.
  In the heat storage tank 10, a heat storage unit 11 made of a solid heat storage material and a liquid heat storage material is provided. A heat transfer tube 16 is disposed in the heat storage unit 11, and water is supplied into the heat transfer tube 16 by the pump 14. The water that has passed through the heat transfer tube is superheated and is supplied as superheated steam into the heating tube 20 disposed in the saturated steam generation tank 12.
  On the other hand, the water that is the source of saturated water vapor supplied into the evaporation tank 18 is treated water that has been subjected to water treatment such as microfiltration and deionization, and is supplied to the evaporation tank 18 through the pipe 7 by the pump 9. Has been.
[0004]
  The heat storage tank is provided with a heat storage unit as described above and an electric heater (not shown) provided to pass through the heat storage unit and heat the heat storage unit.
  The electric heater is provided so as to be able to heat the whole over the water inlet side of the heat transfer tube and the superheated steam outlet side.
  Heating of the heat storage tank is performed mainly by supplying inexpensive late-night power to the electric heater.
  When midnight power is applied for about 10 hours, superheated steam at about 500 ° C. is stably obtained from the heat storage tank for about 7 hours and 8 hours.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
  In the steam sterilization system as described above, each of the heat storage tank, the saturated steam generation tank, and the steam sterilization apparatus is operated independently of each other.
  That is, since each of these devices was controlled without being linked to each other, even if the saturated steam generator generates more steam than necessary or the steam sterilizer needs more steam, When the temperature is low and a large amount of saturated water vapor cannot be generated, there is a problem that the operation efficiency of the entire system is poor.
[0006]
  Even when there are multiple steam sterilizers, there is no means to control these steam sterilizers in coordination with the heat storage tank or saturated steam generator. However, there was a problem that the operation efficiency of the entire system was poor.
[0007]
  Further, the heat storage tank stores heat by energizing an electric heater. However, as described above, it is common to energize mainly using inexpensive midnight power.
  However, there may be cases where all of the amount of heat used in the daytime cannot be covered just by energizing at night, and if the amount of steam used in the steam sterilizer is large, turn on the heat storage tank again by energizing in the daytime. There is a need to heat.
  In such a case, more economical operation is possible by making it possible to select which power is cheaper depending on the time of day.
[0008]
  Furthermore, since the heat storage tank and the saturated steam generation tank do not grasp each other's operating conditions, a large amount of heat is required even though there is an abnormality in the heat storage tank, or the generation amount of saturated steam is small. Nevertheless, a large amount of heat was supplied to the saturated steam generation tank, and there were many unreasonable and wasteful operations.
[0009]
  Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and the object of the present invention is to control the operation by organically linking the saturated steam generator and the sterilizer, which are each component constituting the steam sterilization system. Another object of the present invention is to provide a steam sterilization system that can efficiently perform sterilization work, and a steam sterilization system that can select and switch a plurality of electric powers having different charge systems.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  The present invention has the following configuration in order to solve the above problems. That is, according to the steam sterilization system according to the present invention, it has a heat storage tank and a saturated steam generation tank, and heats water in the saturated steam generation tank with superheated steam obtained by overheating in the heat storage tank. Saturated water vapor generator for generating saturated water vaporIs provided,Steam sterilization apparatus for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generatorAre provided in parallel,1st control means which controls the amount of saturated steam generation of the saturated steam generator based on the operating condition of the steam sterilizerIs provided, and second control means for controlling the operation timing of each steam sterilizer based on the amount of saturated steam generated in the saturated steam generator is provided.
  By adopting this configuration, the amount of saturated water vapor generated can be increased or decreased based on the operating status of the steam sterilizer, so that sterilization can be performed with high operational efficiency. Furthermore, when a control trouble or the like of the steam sterilizer occurs, the operation of the saturated steam generator can be stopped by a signal indicating that a control trouble or the like transmitted from the steam sterilizer side has occurred.In addition, since the second control means for controlling the operation timing of each steam sterilizer based on the amount of saturated steam that can be generated in the saturated steam generator, a plurality of the steams regardless of the amount of saturated steam generated. The steam sterilizer can be reliably operated without degrading the performance of each.
[0011]
  The steam sterilization system according to the present invention has a heat storage tank, a saturated steam generation tank, and water supply means for supplying water to the heat storage tank, and is supplied from the water supply means into the heat storage tank. A saturated steam generator for generating saturated steam by heating the water in the saturated steam generating tank with superheated steam obtained by superheating the water, and sterilization using the saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator A steam sterilizer for sterilizing an object, a first detection means for detecting a steam amount of the steam sterilizer and / or a steam generation amount in the saturated steam generator, and detected by the first detector And third control means for controlling the amount of water supplied from the water supply means connected to the heat storage tank based on the amount of steam and / or the amount of water vapor generated.
  By adopting this configuration, the amount of water supplied to the heat storage tank is adjusted based on the amount of water vapor that is actually generated, so that unnecessary heat is generated or the amount of heat is insufficient. And saturated water vapor can be generated efficiently.
[0012]
  The steam sterilization system according to the present invention has a heat storage tank and a saturated steam generation tank, and heats the water in the saturated steam generation tank with the superheated steam obtained by overheating in the heat storage tank, thereby saturated steam. A steam sterilizer that sterilizes an object to be sterilized using the saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator, and the heat storage tank includes a solid heat storage material and a liquid heat storage device. An electric heater for heating the solid heat storage material and the liquid heat storage material, and a heat transfer tube that superheats water passing therethrough to form superheated steam are provided in a heat storage section that is filled with a material. In order to heat, a plurality of power supply lines having different charge systems are input and provided, and a first storage means for storing a charge system for each time of each power supply system in advance is provided to detect the current time It is inexpensive to use any of the plurality of power supply lines based on the fee structure stored in the first storage means from the current time detected by the time detection means. It is characterized in that fourth control means is provided which can determine whether or not there is and switch to the determined power supply line.
  By adopting this configuration, heat can be stored in the heat storage tank using cheaper electric power based on the current time, which can contribute to reducing the running cost of the entire steam sterilization system.
[0013]
  Further, two systems for daytime power and midnight power are input as the plurality of power supply lines, and the fourth control means supplies from the power supply line for midnight power when heating the heat storage tank at night. The electric heater is heated using the electric power, and when the temperature of the heat storage tank decreases during the day, the electric heater is controlled using the electric power supplied from the power supply line for daytime electric power. It is characterized by doing.
  According to this, the steam sterilization process of the steam sterilization system is performed during the day, and heat is stored using the power from the power supply line for midnight power at night when the steam sterilization process is not performed from the cost aspect. This is reasonable, but if the temperature of the heat storage tank drops drastically during the day and there is a need for additional heating, use the power from the power supply line for daytime power. Can be made possible.
[0014]
  The steam sterilization system according to the present invention has a heat storage tank and a saturated steam generation tank, and heats the saturated steam generation tank by heating the water in the saturation steam generation tank with the superheated steam obtained by overheating in the heat storage tank. Saturated steam generator to be generated, steam sterilizer to sterilize an object to be sterilized using saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator, steam generation amount of saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator, steam Temperature, pressure or temperature or damage of the heat storage tankPresence or absenceSecond detection means for detecting the operation status of the saturated steam generator, second storage means for storing operation status data detected by the second detection means, and stored in the second storage means It is characterized by comprising a fifth control means for controlling the operation of the heat storage tank and / or the saturated water vapor generation tank based on the contents.
  By adopting this configuration, the operation of the heat storage tank and the operation of the saturated steam generation tank can be controlled based on the operation status data detected by the second detection means, so that the amount of heat and the generated saturated steam are not wasted. The operation of the heat storage tank and the operation of the saturated steam generation tank can be performed efficiently.
[0015]
  And a temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of the heat storage tank, and an alarm signal output means for outputting an alarm signal to the steam sterilization apparatus when the temperature detected by the temperature detection means is lowered. If the temperature of the heat storage tank is lowered and there is a risk that saturated steam necessary for the steam sterilization process will not be generated, sterilization is temporarily stopped in preparation for such a case. Control can be performed.
[0016]
  The steam sterilization system according to the present invention has a heat storage tank and a saturated steam generation tank, and heats the water in the saturated steam generation tank with the superheated steam obtained by overheating in the heat storage tank, thereby saturated steam. A steam sterilization system comprising: a saturated steam generator that generates water; and a steam sterilizer that sterilizes an object to be sterilized using the saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator, wherein the saturated steam generator includes: , Provided in parallel,It is characterized by comprising sixth control means for controlling the amount of saturated steam generated by coordinating each saturated steam generator based on the operating status of the steam sterilizer.
  By adopting this configuration, the capacity of the saturated steam generator can be increased.When a plurality of saturated steam generators are provided by providing sixth control means for controlling the amount of saturated steam generated by coordinating the saturated steam generators based on the operating status of the steam sterilizer Even so, sterilization can be performed efficiently without wasting the generated saturated water vapor.
[0017]
  The steam sterilizer is provided in parallel with a plurality of units, and a seventh control means for controlling the operation timing of each steam sterilizer based on the amount of saturated steam that can be generated from each saturated steam generator. In the case where there are a plurality of saturated steam generators and a plurality of steam sterilizers, it is ensured that the performance of each of the plurality of steam sterilizers is not deteriorated. In addition to being able to operate, sterilization can be performed efficiently without wasting the generated saturated water vapor.
[0018]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(First embodiment)
  1st Embodiment of the steam sterilization system which concerns on this invention is described based on FIGS.
  The steam sterilization system 30 includes a saturated steam generator 38 composed of a heat storage tank 32 and a saturated steam generator 34, and a steam sterilizer 38 connected to the saturated steam generator 36.
[0019]
  First, the configuration of the heat storage tank 32 will be described.
  The water to be superheated in the heat storage tank 32 of the saturated steam generator 36 may be normal tap water that has not been subjected to any treatment, pure water that has undergone microfiltration, deionization treatment, or the like, RO (Reverse osmosis) Treated water such as water or soft water may be used.
  Water passes through the water supply pipe 40 and is supplied to the heat storage tank 32. A water supply pump 42 is provided in the middle of the water supply pipe 40, and water is supplied into the heat storage tank 32 by operating the water supply pump 42.
[0020]
  The water supply pipe 40 to the heat storage tank 32 is connected to one end of the heat transfer pipe 44 in the heat storage tank 32, and water is supplied into the heat transfer pipe 44.
  The water passing through the heat transfer tube 44 is superheated at a high temperature of the heat storage section 35 in the heat storage tank 32 to become superheated steam (Superheated Vapor).
  A supply pipe 46 for supplying superheated steam to the saturated steam generation tank 34 is connected to the other end of the heat transfer pipe 44.
[0021]
  The heat storage tank will be described in more detail based on FIG.
  The heat storage tank 32 shown in FIG. 2 is supplied with an electric heater 31 for heating the heat storage material and treated water in a heat storage unit 35 filled with a heat storage material in which a solid heat storage material and a liquid heat storage material are mixed. A heat pipe 44 is provided. Furthermore, the outer peripheral surface of the heat storage unit 35 is covered with a heat insulating material 47 to prevent heat dissipation from the heat storage unit 35.
  As the heat storage material filled in the heat storage unit 35, a solid heat storage material and a liquid heat storage material having different particle diameters are used, and the solid heat storage materials having different particle diameters are small particles in the gaps between the large heat storage solid heat storage materials. A solid heat storage material having a diameter is filled so as to enter, and a liquid heat storage material is filled in a gap between the solid heat storage material having a large particle size and the solid heat storage material having a small particle size (not shown).
[0022]
  As the solid heat storage material, one or two or more kinds of particles selected from magnesia, magnetite, silica and alumina can be suitably used, and as the liquid heat storage material, nitrate can be suitably used. Nitrate is solid at room temperature, but melts and becomes liquid at 142 ° C. or higher.
  As an example of the composition of the heat storage material forming the heat storage unit 42, 55% large particle size magnesia, 25% small particle size magnesia, and 20% nitrate are preferable.
[0023]
  Next, the configuration of the saturated water vapor generation tank 34 will be described.
  The supply pipe 46 is connected to one end of the heating pipe 48 in the saturated steam generation tank 34 and supplies superheated steam into the heating pipe 48.
  The heating pipe 48 is disposed inside the saturated water vapor generation tank 34 and is formed in a meandering shape such as a spiral shape or a polygonal line shape so as to increase the contact surface area. The superheated steam that passes through the heating pipe 48 exchanges heat with the treated water 39 stored in the saturated steam generation tank 34, heats the treated water 39, evaporates the treated water, and generates saturated steam.
[0024]
  As the water 39 stored in the saturated water vapor generation tank 34, treated water such as pure water, RO (reverse osmosis) water, soft water, etc. subjected to microfiltration, deionization processing, or the like is used.
  The treated water is supplied to the saturated steam generation tank 34 through the treated water supply pipe 50. The treated water feed pipe 50 is provided with a feed water pump 52 on the way, and the treated water is supplied into the saturated steam generation tank 34 by operating the feed water pump 52.
[0025]
  The saturated steam generated in the saturated steam generation tank 34 is output through the steam supply pipe 54.
  Although not shown in the drawings, it is preferable to provide a known technique such as a baffle or a cyclone between the saturated steam generation tank 34 and the steam supply pipe 54 as a means for preventing entrainment of droplets. is there.
[0026]
  Next, the configuration of the steam sterilizer will be described.
  The steam sterilizer 38 has a main body 58 provided with a sterilization tank for storing an object to be sterilized. The main body 58 has a double can structure composed of an outer cylinder 60 and an inner cylinder 62, and the inside of the inner cylinder 62 is configured as a sterilization tank. A jacket portion 64 is formed between the inner cylinder 62 and the outer cylinder 60.
[0027]
  The steam supply pipe 54 is disposed between the saturated steam generator 34 and the steam sterilizer 38 and supplies saturated steam to the steam sterilizer 38.
  A steam supply valve 56 for opening and closing the steam supply pipe is provided in the middle of the steam supply pipe 54. The steam supply pipe 54 is connected to the inner cylinder 62 and supplies saturated water vapor into the inner cylinder 62. Saturated water vapor supplied into the inner cylinder 62 sterilizes the article to be sterilized.
[0028]
  The sterilization operation of the steam sterilizer 38 is controlled by a sterilization control means 68 including a CPU and a memory.
  Further, the steam sterilizer 38 includes a steam amount sensor 72 that measures the amount of saturated steam to be steamed, a temperature sensor 74 that measures the temperature in the inner cylinder 62, and a pressure sensor 76 that measures the pressure in the inner cylinder 62. Is provided.
  The CPU of the sterilization control means 68 reads out the control program stored in advance in the memory, the read control program, the steam amount signal a from the steam amount sensor 72, the temperature signal b from the temperature sensor 74 and / or the pressure. The sterilization operation is controlled based on the pressure signal c from the sensor 76.
[0029]
  The sterilization operation is a series of operations including a conditioning (vacuum) process, a sterilization process, an exhaust process, a drying process, and a completion process.
  Hereinafter, the sterilization operation performed by the sterilization control means of the steam sterilizer will be described with reference to FIG. Hereinafter, the inner cylinder 62 may be referred to as a sterilization tank 62.
  First, the sterilization tank in which the article to be sterilized is stored in an airtight state, and the conditioning process A is entered. In this conditioning step A, saturated water vapor is introduced into the jacket portion 64 to heat the inside of the sterilization tank 62, and the air in the sterilization tank 62 is exhausted to be in a vacuum state.
[0030]
  Next, saturated water vapor is supplied into the sterilization tank 62, and the pressure in the sterilization tank 62 is increased to heat the object to be sterilized. Thereafter, the inside of the sterilization tank 62 is opened to atmospheric pressure, and the air is discharged again to form a vacuum state.
  By repeating this steaming / exhausting operation a plurality of times, the object to be sterilized can be sufficiently heated.
[0031]
  After conditioning process A, the process proceeds to sterilization process B.
  In the sterilization step B, saturated water vapor is supplied into the sterilization tank 62 and the pressure is increased to a predetermined pressure, and then the predetermined pressure is maintained at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time.
  After completion of the sterilization step B, the air in the sterilization tank 62 is exhausted and the process proceeds to the exhaust step C.
  When the exhaust stroke C ends, the process proceeds to the drying stroke D.
[0032]
  In the drying step D, the air in the sterilization tank 62 that has been pressurized and exhausted to atmospheric pressure is exhausted to evaporate water adhering to the object to be sterilized in the sterilization tank 62. At this time, since the temperature of the object to be sterilized decreases with the evaporation of the water, heated clean air is introduced into the sterilization tank 62 so that the water can be easily evaporated from the object to be sterilized. The inside of 62 is pressurized to near atmospheric pressure to raise the temperature of the object to be sterilized. Such exhaust-introducing operation can be repeated a plurality of times to sufficiently dry the article to be sterilized.
  After the drying step D is completed, a completion step E for introducing clean air into the sterilization tank 62 is performed to complete a series of sterilization operations.
[0033]
  The sterilization control means 68 not only controls the steam sterilization apparatus 38 so as to perform the above-described sterilization work, but also can control the saturated steam generation apparatus 36 including the heat storage tank 32 and the saturated steam generation tank 34. Is provided. Specifically, the control signal line 68a from the sterilization control means 68 includes a feed water pump 42 that feeds water to the heat storage tank 32, and a treated water feed pump 52 that feeds treated water into the saturated steam generation tank 34. The two pumps 42 and 52 can be controlled.
  That is, the sterilization control means 68 can control the supply amount of saturated water vapor from the saturated water vapor generating device 36 based on the sterilization work currently being performed.
[0034]
  The specific control content of the sterilization control means 36 will be described.
  For example, if the sterilization control means 36 is performing the conditioning process A or the sterilization process B of the steam sterilizer 38, it requires saturated steam, so that the saturated steam generation amount of the saturated steam generator 36 increases. To control.
  In the case of increasing the amount of saturated steam generated in this way, the sterilization control means 68 controls the water supply pump 42 to increase the amount of water supplied into the heat storage tank 32 and generate a large amount of superheated steam to generate saturated steam. The evaporation amount of the treated water in the generation tank 34 can be increased.
[0035]
  Further, when the amount of saturated steam generation is increased, the amount of treated water in the saturated steam generation tank 34 also decreases immediately, so that the sterilization control means 68 controls the water supply pump 42 to control the inside of the heat storage tank 32. At the same time, the amount of treated water supplied to the saturated water vapor generation tank 34 can be increased by controlling the treated water feed pump 52.
[0036]
  When the sterilization control means 68 is performing the exhaust stroke C, the drying stroke D, or the completion stroke E in a series of sterilization operations, it is not necessary to supply saturated water vapor. In such a case, even if a large amount of saturated steam is generated by the saturated steam generator 36, energy is wasted.
  Therefore, in the case of reducing the amount of saturated steam generated, the sterilization control means 68 controls the water supply pump 42 to reduce the amount of water supplied into the heat storage tank 32 and reduce the amount of generated superheated steam. It is possible to reduce the evaporation amount of the treated water in the saturated water vapor generation tank 34 by reducing the amount.
[0037]
  Further, in the case of reducing the amount of saturated steam generated, the amount of treated water in the saturated steam generating tank 34 does not decrease, so the sterilization control means 68 controls the water supply pump 42 to supply it into the heat storage tank 32. In addition to reducing the amount of water to be processed, it is possible to control the treated water feed pump 52 to reduce the amount of treated water supplied into the saturated steam generation tank 34.
[0038]
  The sterilization control means 68 does not control the saturated water vapor generation amount of the saturated water vapor generation device 36 depending on which of the sterilization operations currently being performed, but the vapor amount signal from the vapor amount sensor 72. a, based on the temperature signal b from the temperature sensor 74 and / or the pressure signal c from the pressure sensor 76, the amount of saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator 36 is controlled regardless of the current sterilization process. Also good.
[0039]
  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the sterilization control means 68 that is provided in the steam sterilization apparatus 38 and controls the sterilization operation can control the saturated steam generation amount of the saturated steam generation apparatus 34.
  However, as shown in FIG. 4, the steam control means 70 for controlling the saturated steam generation amount of the saturated steam generator 34 may be provided so as to operate in response to the control signal d of the sterilization control means 68.
[0040]
  The steam control means 70 in FIG. 4 is installed in the vicinity of the heat storage tank 32 or the saturated steam generation tank 34 and originally controls the saturated steam generation apparatus 36 regardless of the operation of the steam sterilization apparatus 38. is there.
  The water vapor control means 70 includes a CPU, a memory, and the like. The CPU reads a control program stored in advance in the memory, and controls the operation of generating saturated water vapor based on the read control program.
[0041]
  The operation of the system shown in FIG. 4 will be described.
  First, if the sterilization control means 68 is performing the conditioning process A or the sterilization process B of the steam sterilizer 38, saturated steam is required, so that the amount of saturated steam generated increases to the steam control means 70. The control signal d is output to
  Upon receipt of the control signal d, the water vapor control means 70 controls the water supply pump 42 to increase the amount of water supplied into the heat storage tank 32, generate a large amount of superheated water vapor, and evaporate the treated water in the saturated water vapor generation tank 34. Can be increased.
  Also, the steam control means 70 that has received the control signal d controls the feed water pump 42 to increase the amount of water supplied into the heat storage tank 32 and at the same time controls the treated water feed pump 52 into the saturated steam generation tank 34. It can control to increase the amount of treated water to be supplied.
[0042]
  On the other hand, when the sterilization control means 68 is performing the exhaust stroke C, the drying stroke D, or the completion stroke E in a series of sterilization operations, the control signal is sent to the steam control means 70 so as to reduce the amount of saturated steam generated. d is output.
  Upon receiving the control signal d, the water vapor control means 70 controls the water supply pump 42 to reduce the amount of water supplied into the heat storage tank 32, reduce the amount of superheated water vapor generated, and evaporate the treated water in the saturated water vapor generation tank 34. Can be reduced.
  Upon receiving the control signal d, the steam control means 70 controls the feed water pump 42 to reduce the amount of water supplied into the heat storage tank 32, and at the same time controls the treated water feed water pump 52 into the saturated steam generation tank 34. Control can be made to reduce the amount of treated water to be supplied.
[0043]
  Note that the sterilization control means 68 shown in FIG. 4 also determines the amount of saturated water vapor generated by the saturated water vapor generator 36 depending on which of the sterilization operations currently being performed, as in the case shown in FIG. Rather than outputting the control signal d for control, the sterilization operation is performed based on the steam signal a from the steam sensor 72, the temperature signal b from the temperature sensor 74, and / or the pressure signal c from the pressure sensor 76. A control signal for controlling the amount of saturated water vapor generated by the saturated water vapor generator 36 may be output to the water vapor control means 70 regardless of the current process.
[0044]
(Second Embodiment)
  A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
  However, the same components as those in the first embodiment described above may be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof may be omitted.
  In the steam sterilization system of the second embodiment, a plurality of steam sterilizers 38 are connected in parallel to one saturated steam generator 36 composed of one heat storage tank 32 and one saturated steam generator 34. In this case, the sterilization control means 68 of each steam sterilization apparatus 38 automatically adjusts the timing of the work so that the process of the sterilization work can be shifted so that the generation amount of saturated steam is not greatly increased or decreased. There is.
[0045]
  That is, the sterilization control means 68a, 68b, 68c for controlling the steam sterilization devices 38a, 38b, 38c to perform the sterilization work are connected to the respective sterilization control means 68a, 68b, 68c. A sterilization operation similar to the sterilization operation described in the embodiment is performed.
  Central control means 80 is connected to each sterilization control means 68a, 68b, 68c. The central control unit 80 is connected to a storage unit 82 in which an average value α of the amount of water vapor that can be generated by the saturated water vapor generator 36 is stored in advance.
[0046]
  The central control means 80 reads the average value α of the amount of steam generated from the storage means 82, and makes each sterilization so that the sum of the amount of steam used by each steam sterilizer 38a, 38b, 38c does not exceed the average value α. The control means 68a, 68b, 68c is automatically adjusted so as to shift the timing of the process of using saturated water vapor in each sterilization operation.
[0047]
  For example, when the steam sterilizer 38a is currently using the steam amount β, the steam amount β is detected by a steam amount sensor 72 (not shown in FIG. 5) as shown in FIG. .
  Based on the steam amount signal from the steam amount sensor 72, the water vapor amount β used by the sterilization control means 68 a is detected, and this water vapor amount β is transmitted to the centralized control seed means 80.
  In the central control means 80, the value of β is compared with the average value α of the water vapor generation amount stored in the storage means 82 in advance. Therefore, if the central control means 80 determines that the value of β is close to α, the other steam sterilizers 38b, 38c do not perform the sterilization process (conditioning process A, sterilization process B) using steam. To control.
  With such a configuration, the saturated steam generator 36 can stably supply saturated steam.
[0048]
(Third embodiment)
  Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. Here, only the structure of the heat storage tank 32 is shown, and the saturated steam generation tank 34 and the steam sterilization apparatus 38 are omitted.
  In addition, about the component same as embodiment mentioned above, the same code | symbol may be attached | subjected and description may be abbreviate | omitted.
  In the present embodiment, as a power supply line 92 (power supply line) connected to the electric heater 31 in the heat storage tank 32, two power supply lines 92b for late-night power and power supply line 92a for daytime power are input in parallel. The power supply control means 94 for selecting which power supply line to connect to supply power is characteristic.
[0049]
  In the heat storage tank 32 of the present embodiment, two systems of a power line 92a for daytime power and a power line 92b for midnight power are wired as power lines 92 connected to the electric heater 31. Electromagnetic switches 96a and 96b for opening and closing the power input are provided on the power lines for the daytime power supply line 92a and the midnight power supply line 92b.
  The power supply control means 94 controls the opening and closing of the electromagnetic switches 96a and 96b.
  The power supply control means 94 is connected to the storage means 99 and controls based on a control program stored in advance in the storage means 99. The power supply control means 94 also has a time detection function for detecting the current time.
  Further, in the storage means 99, there is configured a data table X in which charges for midnight power and daytime power are stored for an arbitrary time.
[0050]
  When trying to heat the heat storage tank 32, the power supply control means 94 first detects the current time, and reads the charges for midnight power and daytime power from the data table X based on the detected current time. The power supply control means 94 determines which power line is cheaper to connect from the read late-night power and daytime power charges.
  The power control means 94 controls the electromagnetic switches 96a and 96b so as to be connected to the cheaper power line determined from the current time.
  With such a configuration, heat can be stored using cheaper electric power during heat storage in the heat storage tank 32, so that cost reduction during heat storage can be achieved.
[0051]
(Fourth embodiment)
  Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
  This embodiment is characterized in that a plurality of saturated steam generators are connected in parallel. Here, as an example, three saturated steam generators 36a, 36b, and 36c are connected in parallel.
  In the present embodiment, the steam sterilizer 38 may be either a single unit or a plurality of units that are connected. However, when a plurality of steam sterilizers 38 are provided, as described in the second embodiment, the concentration of automatically adjusting the work timing so that the sterilization process of each steam sterilizer can be shifted. Control means may be provided.
  Further, the same constituent elements as those in the above-described embodiment are given the same reference numerals (a, b, c may be added to the reference signs to recognize which constituent elements of the saturated steam generator). The description may be omitted.
[0052]
  Each of the saturated water vapor generators 36a, 36b, and 36c is provided with water vapor control means 70a, 70b, and 70c that can independently control the operation of generating saturated water vapor. The water vapor control means 70a, 70b, 70c are respectively connected to the water supply pumps 42a, 42b, 42c for supplying superheated water to the corresponding saturated water vapor generators 36a, 36b, 36c and the saturated water vapor generation tanks 34a, 34b, 34c. It is connected to the treated water feed pumps 52a, 52b, 52c for supplying treated water, and is controlled so as to adjust the amount of saturated steam generated by each of the saturated steam generators 36a, 36b, 36c.
[0053]
  The generated saturated steam is supplied through the steam supply pipes 54a, 54b, 54c provided in the saturated steam generators 36a to 36c. The three steam supply pipes 54a, 54b, and 54c are connected and integrated so as to become one steam supply pipe 84 on the way to the steam sterilizer 38.
  In the present embodiment, steam supply source valves 56a, 56b, and 56c are provided in the three steam supply tubes 54a, 54b, and 54c, respectively, and a steam sterilizer is provided by adjusting each of the steam supply source valves. The distribution of the amount supplied to 38 can be controlled. The steam supply valves 56a, 56b, and 56c can be controlled by the water vapor control means 70a, 70b, and 70c.
[0054]
  Saturated water vapor discharged from a plurality of saturated water vapor generators 36 is supplied to the steam sterilizer 38 through a single steam supply tube 84. Each saturated water vapor is supplied to the steam sterilizer 38 in a stable manner. A cooperative control means 86 for cooperatively controlling the water vapor generating device 36 is provided.
[0055]
  In addition, in order for the cooperative control means 86 to enable cooperative control, each steam supply pipe 54a, 54b, 54c is provided with steam amount sensors 88, 89, 91 for detecting the amount of saturated steam, and the detected steam The quantity is connected to the cooperative control means 86 as steam quantity data generated by each saturated steam generator.
[0056]
  The cooperative control means 86 is constituted by a CPU, a memory, and the like, and each saturated steam generator 36 is determined from steam amount data from the steam amount sensors 88, 89, 91 based on a control program stored in the memory in advance by the CPU. Operate cooperatively and control the control means 70a, 70b, 70c in a coordinated manner so that stable saturated water vapor can be generated.
[0057]
  For example, when the saturated water vapor generation device 36a has a larger saturated water vapor generation amount than the other saturated water vapor generation devices 36b and 36c, the saturated water vapor generation amount of the saturated water vapor generation device 36a increases. The cooperative control unit 86 controls the control unit 70a in order to suppress the generation amount.
  Further, when the saturated steam generation amount of the saturated steam generator 36a is smaller than the other saturated steam generators 36b and 36c and the saturated steam generation amount is small as a whole, the saturated steam generation amount of the saturated steam generator 36a. Therefore, the cooperative control means 86 controls the control means 70a.
[0058]
  In the fourth embodiment described above, a plurality of saturated steam generators are connected in parallel to one or a plurality of steam sterilizers. It is also preferable that they are installed together at a location and the periphery of the plurality of saturated steam generators is covered with a heat insulating material (not shown).
  Thus, by installing a plurality of saturated steam generators together and covering the periphery with a heat insulating material, the capacity of the saturated steam generator can be increased.
[0059]
(Fifth embodiment)
  Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
  Constituent elements that are the same as those in the above-described embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.
  According to the present embodiment, when the temperature of the heat storage tank is lowered for some reason, the amount of saturated steam generated is reduced, so that this fact is provided so that it can be communicated to the steam sterilizer side.
[0060]
  The heat storage tank 32 is provided with a temperature sensor 100 that detects the temperature in the heat storage tank 32. The temperature sensor 100 is connected to the sterilization control means 68 and outputs the detected temperature value of the heat storage tank 32 to the sterilization control means 68 as temperature data e.
  The sterilization control means 68 is connected with warning means 102 for informing the user. The warning unit 102 includes a speaker that emits a warning sound or a warning sound, a warning display unit that displays a warning, and the like.
  When the warning means 102 informs the user that the amount of saturated water vapor has been reduced, the user can take measures such as temporarily stopping the sterilization operation.
[0061]
  In the case where the temperature of the heat storage tank 32 is detected as in this embodiment, the warning means 102 need not be connected to the sterilization control means 68.
  When the warning means 102 is not provided as described above, the sterilization control means 68 stops or stops the operation of the steam sterilization apparatus 38 when the temperature sensor 100 detects that the temperature in the heat storage tank 32 has decreased. So as to control.
  In this way, the user can automatically suspend the sterilization operation without directly suspending the sterilization operation.
[0062]
(Sixth embodiment)
  Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
  The sixth embodiment is characterized in that a breakage detecting means capable of detecting this breakage when a pipe in the saturated water vapor generating apparatus is broken is provided.
  Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, a case will be described in which pinhole detection means for detecting the occurrence of a pinhole in a heat transfer tube in a heat storage tank is provided as an example of breakage.
[0063]
  Pinholes may be generated in the heat transfer tubes in the heat storage tank due to corrosion, weld seams, etc., but even if they occur, it is difficult to detect because they are inside the heat storage tank.
  In this embodiment, the pinhole detection means is provided so that the pinhole in the heat storage tank can be reliably detected. If the pinhole detection means is provided in the heat storage tank 32, it is not preferable because the heat storage tank 32 itself is at a high temperature.
  Therefore, it is preferable that the pinhole detection means is provided not on the heat storage tank itself but on other components. That is, since it is not necessary to operate the heat storage tank 32 which becomes high temperature, safety in operation can be ensured.
[0064]
  As a specific example of the pinhole detection means, there is a leak test means for performing a leak test.
  Such leak test means is generally composed of valves 106 and 107 provided at both ends of the heat transfer tube 44 and a pressure gauge 108 for measuring the pressure in the heat transfer tube 44. According to this, a pinhole is detected by pressurizing or depressurizing the inside of the heat transfer tube 44, closing both the valves 106 and 107, and measuring the pressure change in the closed heat transfer tube 44 with the pressure gauge 108. .
[0065]
  As another example of the pinhole detecting means, there is provided an electric conductivity measuring means 110 that measures the electric conductivity of water that has passed through the heat transfer tube 44.
  Such electrical conductivity measuring means 110 measures the electrical conductivity of the water passing through the heat transfer tube 44. That is, if a pinhole is opened in the heat transfer tube 44, nitrate or the like of the liquid heat storage material in the heat storage tank 32 enters the heat transfer tube 44 and the electric conductivity of the water passing through the heat transfer tube 44 changes. Therefore, it is possible to detect the presence or absence of pinholes.
[0066]
  Furthermore, as another example of the pinhole detecting means, there is provided a PH measuring means 112 for measuring the pH of water that has passed through the heat transfer tube 44.
  Such a PH measuring unit 112 measures the pH of water passing through the heat transfer tube 44. That is, if the pinhole is open in the heat transfer tube 44, the pH of the water passing through the heat transfer tube 44 changes as the nitrate of the liquid heat storage material in the heat storage tank 32 enters the heat transfer tube 44. The presence or absence of pinholes can be detected.
[0067]
  The electrical conductivity measuring means 110 and the PH measuring means 112 described above may be provided in the supply pipe 46 or may be provided in the drain pipe 113 that has passed through the saturated water vapor generation tank 34.
[0068]
  By the way, the superheated steam generated in the heat storage tank 32 is directly jetted into the treated water 39 of the saturated steam generating tank 34 to generate saturated steam (direct heating), or in the treated water 39 even in indirect heating. In the case where there is a pinhole in the heating pipe 48, the presence or absence of a pinhole in the heat transfer pipe 44 in the heat storage tank 32 can also be detected by measuring the electrical conductivity or PH of the treated water 39.
  This is because the heat storage material enters the superheated water from the pinhole of the heat transfer tube 44 and leaks into the treated water 39 to contaminate the treated water 39.
[0069]
(Seventh embodiment)
  Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
  This embodiment has a combination of the first embodiment, the fifth embodiment, and the sixth embodiment described above. A storage unit that stores these pieces of information as management data, and a control unit that manages the data. The feature is that it is provided.
  In addition, about the component same as embodiment mentioned above, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description may be abbreviate | omitted.
[0070]
  The steam sterilizer 38 is provided with a steam sensor 72 that measures the amount of saturated steam to be fed, a temperature sensor 74 that measures the temperature in the inner cylinder 62, and a pressure sensor 76 that measures the pressure in the inner cylinder 62. It has been.
  Further, the saturated water vapor generator 36 is provided with pinhole detecting means 108, 110 or 112.
[0071]
  Steam amount data a from the steam amount sensor 72, temperature data b from the temperature sensor 74, and pressure data c from the pressure sensor 76 are input to the control means 120.
  Further, the pressure value, PH value, electrical conductivity, etc. from the pinhole detection means 108, 110 or 112 are also input to the control means 120 as pinhole data f. The control means 120 determines whether or not there is a pinhole in the heat transfer tube 44 of the heat storage tank 32 based on the pinhole data f from the pinhole detection means 108, 110 or 112.
[0072]
  The control unit 120 includes a CPU, a memory, and the like, and operates based on a control program stored in advance in the memory.
  A storage unit 122 is connected to the control unit 120, and the steam amount data a from the steam amount sensor 72, the temperature data b from the temperature sensor 74, the pressure data c from the pressure sensor 76, the pinhole detection unit 108, Pinhole data f such as a pressure value, a PH value, and electric conductivity from 110 or 112 is stored as management data g.
[0073]
  The control means 120 can exchange the current data of each apparatus between the saturated steam generator 36 that is a source of saturated steam and the steam sterilizer 38 that consumes the saturated steam. And the operation | movement of the saturated steam generator 36 and the steam sterilizer 38 can be controlled based on the present data of such each apparatus.
[0074]
  In each of the embodiments described above, the superheated steam is not directly contacted with the treated water for generating saturated steam, but is heated by heat exchange through a heating tube (indirect heating). The superheated steam may be directly brought into contact with the treated water stored in the saturated steam generation tank 34 (bubbling heating).
[0075]
【The invention's effect】
  According to the steam sterilization system of the first aspect of the present invention, since the amount of saturated steam generated can be increased or decreased based on the operation status of the steam sterilizer, sterilization can be performed with high operational efficiency. Furthermore, when a control trouble or the like of the steam sterilizer occurs, the operation of the saturated steam generator can be stopped by a signal indicating that a control trouble or the like transmitted from the steam sterilizer side has occurred.In addition, since the second control means for controlling the operation timing of each steam sterilizer is provided based on the amount of saturated steam that can be generated in the saturated steam generator, a plurality of saturated steam is generated regardless of the amount of saturated steam generated. The steam sterilizer can be reliably operated without degrading the performance of each.
[0076]
  Claim 2According to the steam sterilization system, the amount of water supplied to the heat storage tank is adjusted based on the amount of water vapor that is actually generated, so that unnecessary heat is generated or the amount of heat is insufficient. And saturated water vapor can be efficiently generated.
[0077]
  Claim 3According to the steam sterilization system, heat can be stored in the heat storage tank using cheaper electric power based on the current time, which can contribute to reducing the running cost of the entire steam sterilization system.
[0078]
  Also,Claim 4According to the described steam sterilization system, when the temperature of the heat storage tank is drastically reduced during the day and there is a need for reheating, the power supplied from the power line for daytime power is used. Can be revoked.
[0079]
  Claim 5According to the steam sterilization system according to the present invention, the operation of the heat storage tank and the operation of the saturated steam generation tank can be controlled based on the operation status data detected by the second detection means, so that the amount of heat and the generated saturated steam are not wasted. The operation of the heat storage tank and the operation of the saturated steam generation tank can be performed efficiently.
[0080]
  Also,Claim 6According to the described steam sterilization system, when there is a possibility that saturated steam that is necessary for sterilization work is not generated due to a decrease in the temperature of the heat storage tank, sterilization is temporarily stopped in preparation for such a case. Control can be performed.
[0081]
  Claim 7According to the steam sterilization system, the capacity of the saturated steam generator can be increased.Further, even when a plurality of saturated steam generators are provided, sterilization can be performed efficiently without wasting the generated saturated steam.
[0082]
  Claim 8According to the steam sterilization system according to the present invention, even when there are a plurality of saturated steam generators and a plurality of steam sterilizers, it is ensured without reducing the performance of each of the steam sterilizers. It can be operated and can be efficiently sterilized without wasting the generated saturated water vapor..
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first embodiment of a steam sterilization system according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the structure of a heat storage tank used in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a sterilization process of the steam sterilization apparatus used in FIG. 1;
4 is a schematic diagram illustrating another example in the first embodiment of FIG. 1; FIG.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second embodiment of the steam sterilization system according to the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a third embodiment of the steam sterilization system according to the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a fourth embodiment of the steam sterilization system according to the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a fifth embodiment of a steam sterilization system according to the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a sixth embodiment of a steam sterilization system according to the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a seventh embodiment of a steam sterilization system according to the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a conventional steam sterilization system.
[Explanation of symbols]
  30 Steam sterilization system
  31 Electric heater
  32 heat storage tank
  34 Saturated steam generation tank
  35 Heat storage part
  36 Saturated steam generator
  38 Steam sterilizer
  39 treated water
  40 Water supply pipe
  42 Water supply pump
  44 Heat transfer tube
  46 Supply pipe
  47 Insulation
  48 Heating tube
  50 treated water supply pipe
  52 Water supply pump
  54 Steam supply pipe
  56 Steaming source valve
  58 body
  60 outer cylinder
  62 Inner cylinder (sterilization tank)
  64 Jacket part
  68 Sterilization control means
  70 Water vapor control means
  72 Steam sensor
  74 Temperature sensor
  76 Pressure sensor
  80 Central control means
  82 Memory means
  84 Steam supply pipe
  86 Cooperative control means
  88, 89, 91 Steam volume sensor
  92 Power line
  92a Power line for daytime power
  92b Midnight power line
  94 Power control means
  96 Electromagnetic switch
  99 Memory means
  100 temperature sensor
  102 Warning means
  106,107 Valve
  108 Pressure gauge
  110 Electrical conductivity measuring means
  112 PH measuring means
  113 Drain pipe
  120 Control means
  122 Storage means

Claims (8)

A saturated water vapor generation device that has a heat storage tank and a saturated water vapor generation tank, and heats the water in the saturated water vapor generation tank by superheated steam obtained by overheating in the heat storage tank to generate saturated water vapor ;
A plurality of steam sterilization devices for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator are provided in parallel.
First control means for controlling the amount of saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator based on the operating status of the steam sterilizer is provided,
A steam sterilization system comprising a second control means for controlling the operation timing of each steam sterilizer based on an amount of saturated steam generated in the saturated steam generator. It has a heat storage tank, a saturated steam generation tank, and water supply means for supplying water to the heat storage tank, and the superheated steam obtained by overheating the water supplied from the water supply means into the heat storage tank A saturated steam generator for heating the water in the saturated steam generating tank to generate saturated steam;
A steam sterilizer for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator;
First detection means for detecting the amount of steam in the steam sterilizer and / or the amount of steam generated in the saturated steam generator;
And third control means for controlling the amount of water supplied from the water supply means connected to the heat storage tank based on the amount of steam and / or the amount of water vapor detected by the first detection means. Steam sterilization system. A saturated steam generator that has a heat storage tank and a saturated steam generation tank, and heats water in the saturated steam generation tank with superheated steam obtained by overheating in the heat storage tank to generate saturated steam;
A steam sterilizer that sterilizes an object to be sterilized using saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator,
The heat storage tank is filled with a solid heat storage material and a liquid heat storage material, an electric heater that heats the solid heat storage material and the liquid heat storage material, and superheated steam by superheating water passing through the interior. A heat transfer tube is provided,
In order to heat the electric heater, a plurality of power supply lines with different charge systems are input and provided,
First storage means for storing in advance a charge system according to each time of each power supply system is provided,
Time detection means for detecting the current time is provided,
From the current time detected by the time detection means, based on the charge system stored in the first storage means, it is determined which of the plurality of power supply lines is cheaper to use, and the determination A steam sterilization system is provided, wherein a fourth control means capable of switching to the power supply line on the connected side is provided. Two systems for daytime power and midnight power are input as the plurality of power supply lines,
The fourth control means includes
During the night heating of the heat storage tank, the electric heater is heated using the power supplied from the power supply line for midnight power,
The steam according to claim 3 , wherein when the temperature of the heat storage tank is lowered during the day, the electric heater is controlled to be heated using electric power supplied from a power supply line for daytime electric power. Sterilization system. A saturated steam generator that has a heat storage tank and a saturated steam generation tank, and heats water in the saturated steam generation tank with superheated steam obtained by overheating in the heat storage tank to generate saturated steam;
A steam sterilizer for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator;
A second detection means for detecting the operating amount of the saturated steam generator, whether the amount of steam generated by the saturated steam generator, the steam temperature, the pressure, the temperature of the heat storage tank, or the presence or absence of damage;
Second storage means for storing driving situation data detected by the second detection means;
A steam sterilization system comprising fifth control means for controlling the operation of the heat storage tank and / or the saturated steam generation tank based on the contents stored in the second storage means. Temperature detecting means for detecting the temperature of the heat storage tank, and alarm output means for outputting an alarm signal to the steam sterilization apparatus when the temperature detected by the temperature detecting means decreases. The steam sterilization system according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 . A saturated steam generator that has a heat storage tank and a saturated steam generation tank, and heats water in the saturated steam generation tank with superheated steam obtained by overheating in the heat storage tank to generate saturated steam;
A steam sterilization system comprising a steam sterilization device for sterilizing an object to be sterilized using saturated steam generated by the saturated steam generator,
A plurality of the saturated steam generators are provided in parallel,
A steam sterilization system comprising: sixth control means for controlling the amount of saturated steam generated by coordinating the saturated steam generators based on the operating status of the steam sterilizer. The steam sterilizer is provided in parallel with a plurality of units, and includes seventh control means for controlling the operation timing of each steam sterilizer based on the amount of saturated steam that can be generated from each saturated steam generator. The steam sterilization system according to claim 7 .

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