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WO1993006948A1 - Appareil de nettoyage et de sterilisation - Google Patents

Appareil de nettoyage et de sterilisation Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1993006948A1
WO1993006948A1 PCT/US1992/008720 US9208720W WO9306948A1 WO 1993006948 A1 WO1993006948 A1 WO 1993006948A1 US 9208720 W US9208720 W US 9208720W WO 9306948 A1 WO9306948 A1 WO 9306948A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
ozone
container
valve
drum
further including
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1992/008720
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Terrence R. Langford
Original Assignee
Kew Import/Export Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US07/774,047 external-priority patent/US5184633A/en
Priority claimed from US07/954,978 external-priority patent/US5207237A/en
Application filed by Kew Import/Export Inc. filed Critical Kew Import/Export Inc.
Priority to EP92922089A priority Critical patent/EP0642393A4/fr
Priority to JP5507238A priority patent/JPH07500428A/ja
Publication of WO1993006948A1 publication Critical patent/WO1993006948A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
    • G02C13/00—Assembling; Repairing; Cleaning
    • G02C13/008—Devices specially adapted for cleaning contact lenses
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L11/00—Methods specially adapted for refuse
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L12/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L12/08—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising contact lenses; Accessories therefor using chemical substances
    • A61L12/12—Non-macromolecular oxygen-containing compounds, e.g. hydrogen peroxide or ozone
    • A61L12/122—Ozone
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/16—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using chemical substances
    • A61L2/20—Gaseous substances, e.g. vapours
    • A61L2/202—Ozone
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/24—Apparatus using programmed or automatic operation

Definitions

  • This invention relates generally to cleansing and sterilization of items and more particularly to the cleansin and sterilization of items through the use of ozone.
  • contact lens wear is ultimately determined by the care and aseptic handling of the lenses.
  • contact lens wearers With over seventeen million contact lens wearers in the United States spending two billion dollars on contact len supplies, a simple one step cleaning and sterilizing process is sought. Both hard and soft lenses currently need daily, o in the case of extended wear contacts, weekly cleaning and antiseptic treatment.
  • contact lenses are susceptible to both: buildups of protein and lipids from the wearer; and also from contamination from microorganisms. Either of these, buildup or contamination, can have debilitating affects such as reduced vision, scarring of the eye, and even blindness.
  • Hydrophilic contact lenses being soft and composed mainly of water, have made the problem of cleaning even more difficult. Physical pressure on the hydrophilic lense may cause rips; strong disinfectants become lodged within the bod of hydrophilic lense itself and then irritate the wearer's ey causing an ulcer.
  • both the hard and soft contact lense is susceptible to a wide variety of contaminating microorganisms including: Acanthamoeba,
  • hydrophilic contact lenses make them more susceptible to the formation of "jelly bu p" deposits which are composed primarily of lipids and calcium. These lipid formations are usually long and intermediate chain cholesterol esters and triglycerides which are particularly difficult to remove from a soft lense without damaging the lense.
  • a good review of this problem is "Origin and Composition of Lipid Deposits on Soft Contact Lenses" by Hart et al., and appearing in Ophthalmology, April 1986, vol. 93, No. 4, page 495.
  • proteins and other contaminants that are left in the contact lense can substantially produce irritation in the eyes of the user.
  • a cleansin and sterilization mechanism is created which is usable on contact lenses, surgical instruments, dental tools, and other items which require regular cleansing and sterilization.
  • the apparatus uses ozone as the cleansing and sterilization medium, the apparatus provides for added guaranty of operation through th use of feedback mechanism to assure that all the components . are working and that the to-be-cleaned items are exposed to the ozone bath for the specified time.
  • the item is capable of communicating, vis phone line, to a central unit which monitors the operation and performance of the mechanism.
  • the present invention consists of a housing having therein an ozone generator, a pump, and a controller.
  • a container holding the items to be sterilized and cleansed is insertable into the housing.
  • the controller assures that both the pump and ozone generator are operating. Via valves in the container, ozone is directed over the to-be-cleaned items forming an ozone bath. After the proper amount of time has elapsed, the controller either shuts down the pump and ozone generator, or the controller redirects the ozone to another container (depending on the embodiment in use) .
  • the container with the now sterilized items, is removable from the housing and may be carried with the user or moved to a location where the items will be used (i.e. in an operating theater, moved to the operating table) .
  • the items within the container are kept sterile through the use of self- sealing valves which seal when the container is removed from the housing.
  • An ozone generator creates a bath of ozone and saline. cage or other suitable arrangement, submerges the contact lenses into this bath for a predetermined amount of time.
  • a timer either deactivates the ozone generator at the proper time or alerts the user so that the contact lense should be removed from the bath.
  • Ozone was discovered in 1840 by Christian Friedrich Schonbein. Ozone is three oxygen atoms bonded together. Unfortunately, ozone has a very short life, usually about twenty minutes. As the ozone breaks down, its natural by products are pure water and stable oxygen.
  • ozone It is the off-gas ozone which has created the largest concern for health reasons. Standards for the protection of users range in the 0.10 to 0.12 parts per million range. Because of ozone's ability to control bacteria and virus microorganisms, ozone has been used since the 1890's to purify water for drinking. More recently, ozone has been used in swimming pools to reduce the dependency on chemical purification. Production of ozone is typically created by passing air past an ultraviolet light in a sealed chamber. This produces an ozone-rich air which is then pumped into a saline bath. Sterilization using ozone is effective for all ocular pathogens including viruses, bacteria, fungus, and most importantly amoebae. The time of actual ozone exposure to the contact lenses is less than or equal to the present method of heat or chemical aseptisizing, usually ten minutes.
  • Ozone is the second most powerful oxidant known. This means that ozone: is a powerful oxidant for pollutants and organic contaminants; and, is an excellent sterilant for microorganisms. When compared to chorine, ozone has an oxidizing potential 50% greater and can destroy bacteria and viruses up to three thousand times faster.
  • Ozone is also a strong oxidizing agent which causes small suspended particles to coagulate and precipitate away from the contact lenses. This assists in the cleaning of the contact lenses since removed matter is quickly and effectively removed from the proximity of the contact lense.
  • the first is a home-use apparatus for the cleaning of a single pair of contact lenses; the second is an eye care practitioner's office apparatus for the production cleaning of multiple contact lenses.
  • the invention is particularly powerful for the home use application.
  • the main part which fails in the cleansing and contact lenses is the user himself.
  • the user forgets to cleanse the contact lense and then "swears" to his doctor that the cleansing was done religiously.
  • the present invention accomplishes these objectives by having a prescribed number of "cleanings/sterilizations" logged onto a memory chip.
  • the user is able to use the device only this many times and then must return to the physician to have the use data reestablished.
  • the physician is able to poll the device, via the phone lines, as to the actual number of uses the user has made of the device.
  • Diodes LEDs and shuts down the operation, or, b) If the count is under a predetermined warning level (i.e. 10), then the operator is notified via the LEDs and the ozone generator and pump are activated, or, c) If the count is above the warning level, the computer notifies the user via the LEDs and th ozone generator and pump are activated; 5) The computer waits a short period of time (i.e. 300 milliseconds) and checks to see that the pump and light are activated;
  • the contact lenses are automatically removed from the ozone bath at the termination of the proper elapsed time and the ozone generator is switched "off". Once removed from the ozone bath, the contact lenses are rinsed with a saline solution, permitting any ozone which may have impregnated the lenses, particularly hydrophilic contact lenses, to break down into harmless elements.
  • the preferred embodiment of the present invention utilizes an ozone generator producing from 0.01 grams to 1 gram of ozone per hour. This is the preferred level since it reduces any health dangers which might occur form air- suspended off-gassed ozone. Those of ordinary skill in the art readily recognize how to construct an ozone generator having this capability.
  • ozone generators currently use ultraviolet radiation. These are usually the lowest cost ozone generator on a per unit basis. This decrease in cost is due to the fac that the air does not go through an initial drying process. Newer units being produced utilize a corona discharge technique which dry the air before charging the air with ozone. This drying permits the corona discharge apparatus to produce a higher ozone concentration.
  • ozone normally is produced from dried air (-60 degrees fahrenheit dew point) in concentrations of one to two percent and from dry oxygen in concentrations of two to four percent. More than eighty percent of the electrical energy applied to the electric discharge field is converted to heat and, if this is not quickly removed from the cell, the heat causes rapid decomposition of the ozone back to oxygen. The rate of this reverse reaction increases rapidly above thirty-five degrees centigrade. Proper cooling of the ozone generator cells is critical to maintaining consistent yields of ozone.
  • the controller also detects when a container is placed with a slot in the housing and then operates on the multiple containers on a first come-first served approach.
  • the ozone generator is sufficiently large, then multiple containers may be cleansed/sterilized simultaneously.
  • the air flow is generated by a bellows type low pressure pump.
  • the containers are automatically sealed upon removal from the housing. This is accomplished by any of several mechanisms well known to those in the art. This feature, of sealing upon removal, permits the transportation of the contact lense, or other such device, without fear of contamination.
  • this opening shifts and indicia so that, later, the user is able to determined that the container has been opened and that the items are no longer considered sterile.
  • the ozone generator preferably produces 0.01 grams to 5 grams of ozone per hour. Studies have determined that ozone levels of as low as 0.001 grams per hour are effective and that 0.006 grams per hour is an efficient balance between sterilizing affect and energy demands for the generation of the ozone.
  • One important attribute of the present invention is its ability to provide a variety of levels of "cleaning" . It has been found that by varying the amount of ozone and the amount of elapsed time of exposure, contact lenses may be disinfected, asepticized, or even sterilized. None of the current state of the art devices can achieve these results without damaging the contact lenses or producing harmful effects to the eye.
  • a pressurized source of oxygen communicates with the ozone generator.
  • This pressurized oxygen is "dry" in that no water vapor is present.
  • the ozone generator creates ozone from som of the oxygen and communicates an ozone/oxygen gaseous stream.
  • the stream is ideal for treatment of surgical instruments (dental and medical instruments) which would degrade if water was present.
  • One particularly useful aspect of the present invention is an adapter which is used to communicate the ozone from the ozone generator into a hollow tubing.
  • tubes are used for such applications a gastroscopy, colonoscopy, or other such endoscopy examinations. These tubes are generally hollow with two or more openings into which tools for physician viewing or treatment is inserted and communicated to the area of concern. Once used, these tools are contaminated and must be either sterilized or discarded. Sterilization of these tubes is particularly difficult since the tubes are destroyed with intense heat (eliminating the autoclave as a sterilizing mechanism) and chemical treatment does not always probe into every crevice within the tube, leaving contaminated pockets within the tubing.
  • an adapter is used to directly communicate ozone from the inlet of the container to all but one of the openings in the tube.
  • N being an integer greater than one
  • the adapter communicates with all of the openings except for one of them. Ozone therefore is passed into the tube in such a manner that it must flow through all areas of the tube before it finally escapes from the one opening still open.
  • the ozone which finally passes from the tubing easily sterilizes the outside of the tubing and all portions of the tubing is sterilized since all possible pockets are eliminated.
  • This aspect of the invention creates a device which is able to effectively sterilize tubing.
  • an adapter is also effecti for sterilizing any hollow article having openings. This would include endoscope handles and other non-tubularly shape articles.
  • each port i equipped with a valve which permits attachment/detachment between either the ozone generator or an ozone destruct mechanism. Each valve also automatically seals upon detachment.
  • valves ar pressure activated.
  • the inlet port is opened only when pressure from the ozone generator exceeds a preselected limit This keeps the contents of the flexible bag sterile until ozone is present.
  • the outlet port is opened when pressur within the bag exceeds a preselected level. This permits the bag to swell to a point and then release the gas. The induce pressure within the bag keeps the ozone gas under pressure so as to prolong the life of the ozone in the gaseous state or i suspended in a liquid.
  • the bag is equipped with a single opening into which the to-be-sterilized items are placed.
  • a “lid” arrangement is secured to the single opening through a screw-type action.
  • the “lid” has two openings whic are selectively open/closed the sterilizing unit. These two openings act as an inlet and an outlet port.
  • An adapter as discussed above, is also usable by connection to the interior portion of the inlet port. This permits hollow tubes and articles i.e. endoscope handles) to be effectively sterilized within the flexible bag.
  • a liquid ozonizated bath is also applicable to certain situations.
  • the present invention provides for an efficient method and apparatus to create this ozonizated bath which is designed to optimize the life and effectiveness of the ozone.
  • a liquid such as distilled water
  • ozone gas as described before
  • Excess gas is vented to keep the reservoir at a preselected pressure level.
  • the ozone gas is diffused into the liquid either directly or through a diffuser mechanism well known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
  • the reservoir is also chilled to optimize the suspension of the ozone within the liquid.
  • the ozonizated liquid is created, it is usable in any of the applications already discussed.
  • the ozonenated liquid is pumped or released into a container having a material to be sterilized and the excess liquid, together with any debris, is carried to an ozone destruct mechanism such as activated charcoal.
  • the waste liquid and debris is sterile so it may be disposed of safely through traditional waste water systems such as sewer systems.
  • This embodiment is particularly useful for the sterilization of materials where a liquid bathing action is preferred due to added contact, agitation for physical removal of contaminates, or for the water's inherit cleansing action.
  • Agitating of the liquid medium is beneficial and is accomplished through a variety of methods well known to those in the art.
  • Mechanical agitation forces the water to move against the item and thereby remove debris; sonic agitation also dislodges the debris and also forces the suspended ozone gas into a "fiz-type" of state which further encourages the dislodging of debris.
  • This embodiment of the invention is particularly useful for the cleansing and sterilization of endoscopes which have biological debris attached to them.
  • the cleansin of material from a laparoscope is greatly facilitated by the agitation action.
  • one aspect of the present invention relates to the treatment of flexible, usually woven, material which have become contaminated with biological wastes.
  • One such application is generated in the medical field associated generally with surgeries; those of ordinary skill in the art readily recognize various other applications which generate a similar type of waste.
  • red bag In the surgical application, a large number of sponges, bandages, wipes, and the like are generated. These biologically contaminated waste materials are discarded into receptacle called a "red bag" .
  • the red bags are collected from the various points within the hospital and are typically incinerated. The steps between the operating room and final incineration requires numerous handling by humans which increases the potential of infection to these handlers. Additionally, many hospitals are not licensed to have incinerators.
  • the present invention is a self-contained mechanism whic is "wheeled" into the operating room (or other suitable place) next to the surgeon.
  • the surgeon disposes of the waste by throwing it into the self-contained mechanism's drum's top opening.
  • the top of the drum is sealed and the mechanism is "wheeled” into another room.
  • the mechanism is attached to electrical power, a liquid source, and a waste water disposal port.
  • the preferred liquid in this application is distilled water, but, those of ordinary skill in the art readily recognize various other liquids which serve this function. Once so connected, the mechanism is started. Note that at no time, other than the surgeon, is the waste handled by any human.
  • the mechanism creates an ozonenated bath a discussed before and mixes this with a detergent which is pumped into the drum.
  • a detergent which is pumped into the drum.
  • the contents of waste, ozonenated liquid, and detergent are mixe and agitated so that an initial bathing/sterilization action is performed.
  • the drum is both pressurized and chilled to increase the life of the ozone.
  • water is used to create a bath. This water is either distilled or is filtered so that a maximum life of the ozone gas is obtained.
  • ozone is also useful to degrade detergent.
  • the detergent with water (without ozone) is used as an initial washing action followed by the addition of an ozone bath.
  • This structure provides for not only the cleansing and sterilization, but also a break-down of the detergent rendering it less harmful for the environment.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a personal use embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of a production use embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the operation a personal use embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 4 is a block diagram of the preferred embodiment of the ozone generator.
  • Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating the interactio of the components for the preferred embodiment of the contact lense cleanser/sterilizer.
  • Figure 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention utilizing multiple container capability.
  • Figure 7 is a block diagram of the dry ozone aspect of the present invention.
  • Figure 8 is a cutaway view of a flexible bag embodiment of the present invention incorporating an adapter.
  • Figure 9 is a close-up cut-away view of the preferred pressure release valve as is used in the flexible bag embodiment.
  • Figures 10A-10E are side views of a flexible bag embodiment in use.
  • Figure 11 is a block diagram of the creation of ozonenated liquid and its use in sterilization.
  • Figure 12 is a perspective view of the self-contained mechanism showing its application in a surgical application.
  • FIG. 13 is a cut-away view of the preferred self- contained mechanism showing the components thereof. Drawings in Detail:
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a personal use embodiment of the invention. This embodiment is intended to be used by the contact wearer to periodically clean and disinfect their own contact lenses at home.
  • Contact lense cleaner 10 receives its power via electrical cord 18 which utilizes household electrical current. This electrical current is used to power clock 11 and the ozone generator (not shown) . Clock 11 is a countdown type of clock showing the remaining time necessary for proper cleaning the contact lenses.
  • the contact lenses are placed in cage 13.
  • removable top 14 permits access to the interior portion of cage 13.
  • Cage 13, once the contact lenses are placed therein, is lowered, as illustrated by arrow 15, into basin 12 (having saline therein and lid 17 is closed, as illustrated by arrow 16.
  • lid 17 causes latch 19A to enter receptacle 19B which signals clock 11 that the contact lenses are suitable placed within basin 12. Clock 11 then activates the ozone generator (not shown) to create a bath of ozone and saline within basin 12.
  • clock 11 deactivates the ozone generator and releases lid 17 by latch 19a.
  • the raising of the lid signals the user that the contact lenses are clean and ready for rinsing and use.
  • cage 13 is removabl and has a protrusion which supports it above basin 12. This permits the enclosed contact lenses to drip dry and also provide a time lapse for any absorbed ozone to convert to its benign by-products before the user again places the contact lenses within their eyes.
  • contact lenses may not only be cleaned but either disinfected, asepticized, or even sterilized. Control of these factors, amount of ozone and elapsed time, depends upon the manufacturer and user to obtain the desired results.
  • Figure 2 illustrates an embodiment of the invention for production cleaning. This embodiment is wired into the electrical current of the shop and is activated by a simple on/off switch 24.
  • the bath of ozone and saline contained within unit 20 is created and is constantly fed ozone until the work shift is completed or when the task is completed.
  • a plurality of holders (21A, 21B, 21C, 21D, 21E, and 21F are used to clean contact lenses in parallel.
  • Each holder such as holder 21A, maintains the cage holding the contact lenses in the bath.
  • the holder raises the cage from the bath.
  • holders 21A, 21C, 21D, 21E, and 21F all have cages (such as cage 23 for holder 21A) emersed in the bath.
  • Holder 21B has raised indicating to the operator that cage 26 must have its existing contact lenses removed and another set secured therein.
  • cage 26 is placed in orifice 25 on holder 2IB as indicated by arrow 27.
  • Keeper 28 secures cage 26 in position; the handle of holder 2IB is then pushed down forcing secured cage 26 into bath 22.
  • Keeper 28 is used in this embodiment to secure cage 26 within holder 21B.
  • keeper 28 is timed controlled to prevent removal of cage 26 before an allotted amount of time has elapsed for proper drying of the contact lenses.
  • timing devices for holders 21A, 21B, etc. such as: electronic clocks linked to the holder; spring timed mechanism; and the like.
  • This embodiment of the invention also illustrates the mechanism which may be used for the personal cleaning apparatus.
  • a mechanism with a single holder is suitable for use by a single user.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the operation of an embodiment of the invention. Electrical power is supplied vi plug 31 to power switch 32 and timer 30.
  • Start switch 35 informs timer 30 when the cage holding the contact lenses is properly positioned.
  • Start switch 35 may be a variety of switches well known in the art including the latch switch first illustrated in figure 1, a manually operated switch, or any other well known to those in the art.
  • start switch 35 activates timer 30, activates ozone generator 33 via power switch 32.
  • Ozone generator provides ozone to basin 34, with saline therein, until such time as timer 30 deactivates the ozone generator 33 by denyin electrical power through power switch 32.
  • timer 30 acts as a controller for the entire operation of the mechanism.
  • FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the preferred ozone generator for the invention.
  • Ozone generator 40 receives standard electrical energy 41 being 115 volts at 60 hertz. This electrical energy passes through circuit board 42 and is modified to drive transformer 43 at the prescribed rate as determined by operator adjustment knob 44. Utilizing the operator adjustment know 44, the operator is able to vary the concentration of ozone being produced by ozone generator 40. Leads from transformer 43 feed a cathode 46A and anode 46B positioned within the ozone reaction chamber 45.
  • Ozone reaction chamber 45 is preferably constructed of stainless steel and has a glass dielectric therein.
  • Air pump 47 draws in outside air 48 into the system and through ozone reaction chamber 45 producing a flow of ozone 49.
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the interaction of the components for the preferred embodiment of the contact lense cleanser/sterilizer.
  • Main unit 50 receives electrical power (not shown) via a typical house outlet of 110 volt.
  • Microcomputer 52 acts as a controller for the entire unit. By activating relay 1, microcomputer 52 is able to activate pump 55; by activating relay 54, microcomputer is able to activate ballast 56 which energizes the Ultraviolet ozone generator 58.
  • Air flow from pump 55 is passed through the ozone generator 58 and ozone is created.
  • the ozonizated air flow passes into container 51 via valve 59. Ozone bubbles within the air flow are broken into small bubbles via diffuser 60.
  • Diffusion of the ozone increases the surface area of the ozon and thereby increases the overall effectiveness.
  • the diffused ozone air flow passes through chamber 61 where the items to-be-cleaned are placed. Finally, the ozone air flow is exhausted via valve 62.
  • Both valve 59 and valve 62 seal when container 51 is removed from housing 50.
  • Container 51 keeps the contact lenses, or other items, sterile until container 51 is opened.
  • Microcomputer 52 is able to communicate with a remote computer (not shown) via remote communication link 57.
  • this remote communication link is a modem type device although those of ordinary skill in the art readily recognize various other mechanism which will serve • this purpose.
  • Memory located in this embodiment within microcomputer 52, is nonvolatile permitting a constant upgrade of the operational data and also of the time parameters and usage of the device. This information is easily communicated via the remote communication link 57.
  • remote communication 57 permits a remote computer, such as in a physician's office, to reset the device permitting the operator to use the device once his allotted amount of uses has been completed. This practice assures the physician that the user is actually using the device and also forces the user to come in for scheduled reexamination to assure that the contact lense is not causing some unforeseen damage to the eye.
  • Microcomputer 52 is able to monitor, via sensors (not shown) the operation of pump 55, ballast 56, ozone generator 58, and that container 51 is securely placed within housing 50. So long as everything is operating within specification microcomputer operates the assemblage until the predetermine amount of time has elapsed.
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention utilizing multiple container capability.
  • Housing 70 contains multiple slots 71A, 71B, and 71C. Although this embodiment illustrates three slots, those of ordinary skill in the art readily recognize that any number slots is possible.
  • slot 71B is empty at the present time.
  • a container once a container has had its contents sterilized, it may be removed and stored without contaminating the contents since the valves (not shown) are self-sealing and l 79 is also sealed.
  • indicators 73A and 73B are used to indicate if the contents are sterile or not.
  • the microcomputer moves indicator 73B to a "+ " indicating that the sterilization process in complete; openin of the lid moves indicate to a "-" (as shown in 73A. In this fashion, a sterile container is easily identified.
  • Status display 75 is used by the microcomputer to communicate with the operator. Switch 76 permits the operato to activate/deactivate the device.
  • FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the dry ozone aspect of the present invention.
  • Oxygen gas is supplied from a pressure vessel, illustrated in this example as a pressurized bottle 63, to ozone generator 40.
  • Ozone generator 40 converts some of the oxygen gas into ozone resulting in an oxygen/ozone mixture being delivered to flexible bag 64.
  • Flexible bag 64 contains an instrument 67 therein which is exposed to the oxygen/ozone gas mixture 68 which circulate within flexible bag 64 and then exits, 69, to ozone destruction mechanism 65 before being exhausted into the atmosphere 66.
  • Ozone destruction mechanism 65 is any one of many well known to those of ordinary skill in the art including, but not limited to, activated charcoal filters.
  • the dry ozone gas so generated is particularly useful for metal instruments and for sharpened instruments where heat would dull their edge.
  • Figure 8 is a cutaway view of a flexible bag embodiment of the present invention incorporating an adapter.
  • Flexible bag 64 in this embodiment, is constructed of two sheets of impermeable material, well known to those of ordinary skill in the art, which are sealed around the periphery.
  • An inlet port 80A and an outlet port 80B permit the introduction and exhausting, respectively, of ozone gas.
  • Connectors, such as connector 86, press into and seal with ports, permitting ozone to be communicated, as illustrated by arrow 84B.
  • the ozone stream passes valve 85A, and in this embodiment, pass into adapter 81.
  • Adapter 81 attaches to the interior side of input port 80A.
  • adapter 81 has three connectors, 82A, 82B, and 82C, which connect to three openings in tube 83.
  • Ozone gas is thus forced into each opening to pass through the entirety of the tube 83 and finally exit from end 87 as illustrated by arrow 84A.
  • the ozone fully sterilizes the interior of tube 83 and the ozone then proceeds to sterilize the exterior of tubing 83 once it exits.
  • valve 85B of outlet port 80B opens permitting the gas to escape as illustrated by arrow 84C.
  • Valve 85B is important in that it maintains pressure within flexible bag 6 so as to increase the life and effectiveness of the ozone, an also assures that no inward flow is permitted through the outlet port 80B; this latter attribute prevents contaminatio of the interior of bag 64.
  • the flexible bag configured with the inlet port and outlet port with associated valves, is applicable to a variety of situations where a steriliant, other than ozone, is used.
  • the bag is equipped with a single opening into which the to-be-sterilized items are placed.
  • a “lid” arrangement is secured to the single opening through a screw-type action.
  • the “lid” has two openings whic are selectively open/closed the sterilizing unit. These two openings act as an inlet and an outlet port.
  • valves are not pressure activate but seal upon removal of the bag from the ozone generator.
  • an ozone laden gas or an ozone laden liquid is usable as the sterilizing agent.
  • gas or liquid the steriliant is passed through the bag and then through the exit port.
  • Figure 9 is a close-up cut-away view of the preferred pressure release valve as is used in the flexible bag embodiment.
  • Those of ordinary skill in the art readily recognize various other valves which are useful in this application including a shut-off valve found in various applications.
  • figure 9 illustrates an outlet port valve, those of ordinary skill in the art readily recognize that by simply turning the valve to face the other direction, the same valve is useable as the inlet port's valve.
  • Inlet port 8OB is constructed to have shoulders 90 imposed therein.
  • Ball 91 seals the opening between shoulders 90 and is retained by post 92 and spring 93.
  • pressure within chamber 94 fed from the flexible bag- not shown in this figure, increases, the force exerted on ball 91 increas until such time that the pressure overcomes the force from spring 93 permitting some internal gas to escape until such time that the pressure is reduced to a point where spring 93 may again reseal the valve.
  • This valve permits the controlled exhausting of gas without any reverse flow which would cause contamination within the flexible bag.
  • An alternative port arrangement doesn't use pressurized valves but instead relies upon valves which are automatically opened by the ozone generator after ozone steriliant begins t flow and which closes the valves prior to the shut-down of th ozone steriliant.
  • FIGS 10A-10E are side views of a flexible bag embodiment in practical use.
  • ozone generator 40 passes ozone vi input port 80A into the flexible bag causing it to inflate, 100A.
  • One end of the flexible bag is sealed, 101A. Sealing of the bag is accomplished through a variety of methods well known to those of ordinary skill in the art, including but no limited to, the formation of a resealing mechanism in which a bead on one edge is securable to a bead locking mechanism. I this embodiment, the sealing is through heat melding of the sides of the flexible bag to each other.
  • Flexible bag 100B is detached from the ozone generator 40 and is deflated through manual pressure 103.
  • Manual pressure 103 forces gas 102C through the outlet port of bag 100C so that the bag becomes smaller 100D and easier to store and move.
  • Flexible bag 100D is stored and easily handled without losing the sterile integrity of the bag.
  • the end 101E of the bag 100E is cut off, 101E, resulting in opening 104 from which the sterile instruments are removed. In this manner, the instruments are kept sterile until such time that they are used.
  • bag 100E Should the user wish to reuse bag 100E, then by simply placing the contaminated instruments into the bag via opening 104 and resealing the opening, through a heat sealing operation, the bag is reused several times.
  • Figure 11 ia a block diagram of the creation of ozonenated liquid and its use in sterilization.
  • FIG. 11 creates such source of ozone.
  • ozone gas under pressure 110A t pipe 111 By applying ozone gas under pressure 110A t pipe 111, the ozone is forced into bath 114 within reservoir 113.
  • reservoir 113 is sealed for pressurization and is chilled (not shown) to prolong the life of the suspended ozone within the water.
  • distilled water is used as the liquid medium, but those of ordinary skill in the art readily recognize various other liquids which will work in this application.
  • the gaseous ozone is passed through diffuser 112 into th water and is suspended therein. Excess gas is vented so that pressure within the reservoir is kept within tolerances of th container.
  • the ozonenated water is passed through connect valve 115A to container 116 for sterilization of the contents.
  • Connect valve 115B permits container 116 to be removed from the ozone destruct mechanism 117.
  • FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the self-contained mechanism showing its application in a surgical application.
  • This embodiment has applications to operating rooms, dressing stations, maternity rooms, and delivery rooms. Anywhere there is a large volume of biologically contaminated material generated, this embodiment is useful.
  • Figure 13 is a cut-away view of the preferred self- contained mechanism showing the components thereof.
  • Container 121 has it's drum 133 sealed via lid 131. Lid 131 helps to maintain pressurization of drum 133. Note, no human handling of the contaminated material is required. Mechanism 121 is easily moved from the operating room to another location via wheels 132.
  • mechanism 121 is attached to a water source 130A, a waste disposal source 13OB, and an electrical source (not shown) .
  • Activation of the mechanism causes water reservoir 113 to be charged with ozone from ozone generator 40.
  • reservoir 113 is pressurize and chilled to a selected temperature.
  • the operator fills a detergent reservoir 137 via fill hole 130C.
  • water source 130A flows though filter 140 which removes suspended particles and probides a relatively pure source of water to the mechanism 121.
  • Filter 140 is preferrably constructed of a coconut carbon wilth silver impregnated carbon with cation and anion resins so that maximum filtration is obtained.
  • Computer 135 controls the timing and operation of the entire mechanisms. Using valve block 136, and piping 138A, 138B, and 138C, the computer directs the following sequential operation:
  • drum 133 is filled with a bath mixture of ozonenated water (reservoir 113) with detergent (detergent reservoir 137) ⁇ note, in some embodiments, this step is broken into two components- a detergent bath followed by an ozone bath to sterilize and break ⁇ down the detergent ⁇ ;
  • motor 134 causes agitator 139 to agitate the liquid mixture and contaminated fabric material within dru 133;
  • drum 133 is filled with a bath of ozonenated water from reservoir 113;
  • drum 133 is emptied of all liquid and residue.
  • drum 133 is chilled to extend the life of ozone therein and thereby obtain an enhanced sterilizing operation. Additionally, in another embodiment, drum 133 is spun to help dislodge liquid from the fabrics within drum 133.
  • the contaminated fabrics are cleaned and sterilized permitting the now sterilized fabrics to be disposed in any traditional means and even to be susceptible for reuse.
  • the operator of the mechanism is not required to touch, handle, or physically move the contaminated material except while it is contained with the drum. The risk to the operator of becoming ill due to the is reduced to a bare , minimum. It is clear from the foregoing that the present invention provides for new and improved cleaning and sterilization mechanism, and involves the use of numerous inventions.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Ophthalmology & Optometry (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Disinfection Or Sterilisation (AREA)
  • Materials For Medical Uses (AREA)
  • Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)
  • Eyeglasses (AREA)

Abstract

On décrit un appareil de nettoyage et de stérilisation utilisable pour les lentilles de contact, les instruments chirurgicaux et dentaires ou d'autres articles nécessitant régulièrement un nettoyage et une stérilisation. Utilisant l'ozone (58) comme fluide de nettoyage et de stérilisation, l'appareil (50) confère un surcroît de garantie de bonne marche grâce à un mécanisme de réaction (53 et 54) assurant que tous les composants (55 et 58) fonctionnent et que les articles à nettoyer sont exposés au bain d'ozone pendant la durée nécessaire. De plus, l'appareil (50) peut communiquer par ligne téléphonique (57) avec une unité centrale surveillant son fonctionnement et son efficacité. D'autres caractéristiques de l'invention concernent des techniques de stérilisation améliorées grâce à la facilité d'emploi ou l'efficacité notamment.
PCT/US1992/008720 1991-10-08 1992-10-06 Appareil de nettoyage et de sterilisation WO1993006948A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP92922089A EP0642393A4 (fr) 1991-10-08 1992-10-06 Appareil de nettoyage et de sterilisation.
JP5507238A JPH07500428A (ja) 1991-10-08 1992-10-06 洗浄及び滅菌機構

Applications Claiming Priority (10)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/774,047 1991-10-08
US07/774,047 US5184633A (en) 1990-07-20 1991-10-08 Cleansing and sterilization mechanism suitable for contact lenses and the like
US95496692A 1992-09-30 1992-09-30
US95496892A 1992-09-30 1992-09-30
US07/954,966 1992-09-30
US07/954,978 1992-09-30
US07/954,979 US5245845A (en) 1990-07-20 1992-09-30 Flexible article sterilizing mechanism
US07/954,979 1992-09-30
US07/954,968 1992-09-30
US07/954,978 US5207237A (en) 1990-07-20 1992-09-30 Ozoneated liquid system

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1993006948A1 true WO1993006948A1 (fr) 1993-04-15

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Country Status (5)

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EP (1) EP0642393A4 (fr)
JP (1) JPH07500428A (fr)
AU (1) AU2781492A (fr)
CA (1) CA2120628A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO1993006948A1 (fr)

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1996005869A1 (fr) * 1994-08-23 1996-02-29 Novartis Ag Procede de sterilisation d'articles et de constitution d'environnements de stockage steriles
EP0700319A4 (fr) * 1993-05-14 1997-12-10 Kew Import Export Inc Dispositif de nettoyage/sterilisation d'endoscope
CN1068393C (zh) * 1993-07-19 2001-07-11 株式会社金星社 臭氧杀菌自动洗涤机
EP2025352A1 (fr) * 2007-08-10 2009-02-18 Albert Sturm Procédé de nettoyage et de désinfection d'une lentille de contact avec des réactifs oxydatifs
WO2009062490A1 (fr) * 2007-11-13 2009-05-22 Endo-Technik Wolfgang Griesat Gmbh Procédé, dispositif et programme informatique pour visualiser le processus de séchage d'endoscopes
DE202009003699U1 (de) * 2009-03-18 2010-08-12 Nold, Yves Behältnis für eine Kontaktlinsen-Aufbewahrungsflüssigkeit
CN106269592A (zh) * 2015-05-29 2017-01-04 深圳市富云帝科技有限公司 清洁机及其清洁方法

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2005087278A1 (fr) * 2004-03-18 2005-09-22 Treated Air Systems Inc. Dispositif et procede destines a l'utilisation de l'ozone comme un desinfectant
US8354057B2 (en) 2006-11-29 2013-01-15 Doug Heselton Apparatus and method for using ozone as a disinfectant
EP2441476A1 (fr) * 2010-10-15 2012-04-18 Albert Sturm Récipient pour un liquide de conservation de lentilles de contact et dispositif de nettoyage et/ou de désinfection pour des lentilles de contact se trouvant dans un liquide de conservation de lentilles de contact
EP2627362B1 (fr) * 2010-10-15 2014-12-10 Albert Sturm Contenant pour un liquide de conservation de lentilles de contact et dispositif de nettoyage et/ou de décontamination pour des lentilles de contact se trouvant dans un liquide de conservation de lentilles de contact
FR3037501B1 (fr) * 2015-06-22 2019-08-16 Nosseum Factory Systeme pour desinfecter un objet, notamment un casque et particulierement un casque de motard.

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US5082558A (en) * 1990-08-31 1992-01-21 Burris William A Compact contact lens purification system using ozone generator
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Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0700319A4 (fr) * 1993-05-14 1997-12-10 Kew Import Export Inc Dispositif de nettoyage/sterilisation d'endoscope
CN1068393C (zh) * 1993-07-19 2001-07-11 株式会社金星社 臭氧杀菌自动洗涤机
WO1996005869A1 (fr) * 1994-08-23 1996-02-29 Novartis Ag Procede de sterilisation d'articles et de constitution d'environnements de stockage steriles
US5618492A (en) * 1994-08-23 1997-04-08 Auten; Richard D. Process for sterilizing articles and providing sterile storage environments
EP2025352A1 (fr) * 2007-08-10 2009-02-18 Albert Sturm Procédé de nettoyage et de désinfection d'une lentille de contact avec des réactifs oxydatifs
WO2009021936A1 (fr) * 2007-08-10 2009-02-19 Albert Sturm Procédé de nettoyage et désinfection d'une lentille de contact au moyen de réactifs oxydants
WO2009062490A1 (fr) * 2007-11-13 2009-05-22 Endo-Technik Wolfgang Griesat Gmbh Procédé, dispositif et programme informatique pour visualiser le processus de séchage d'endoscopes
DE202009003699U1 (de) * 2009-03-18 2010-08-12 Nold, Yves Behältnis für eine Kontaktlinsen-Aufbewahrungsflüssigkeit
CN106269592A (zh) * 2015-05-29 2017-01-04 深圳市富云帝科技有限公司 清洁机及其清洁方法
CN106269592B (zh) * 2015-05-29 2023-06-20 深圳市富云帝科技有限公司 清洁机及其清洁方法

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0642393A4 (fr) 1996-03-27
AU2781492A (en) 1993-05-03
JPH07500428A (ja) 1995-01-12
EP0642393A1 (fr) 1995-03-15
CA2120628A1 (fr) 1993-04-15

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