초록 ▼

The present invention provides a system and method for real-time monitoring and control of anti-microbial cycle parameters within a load-simulation device 6. The system and method simulate the same conditions as those within an acceptable standard challenge load to be sterilized. Integration of the

The present invention provides a system and method for real-time monitoring and control of anti-microbial cycle parameters within a load-simulation device 6. The system and method simulate the same conditions as those within an acceptable standard challenge load to be sterilized. Integration of the system into a control system 17 allows critical anti-microbial parameter levels to be achieved and maintained within the simulated load throughout a cycle, thus resulting in a significant reduction in the number of unsuccessful cycles. A redundant parameter-monitoring system 100 within the system is included. When acceptable parameter levels are shown to have been met, the processed load is automatically released for use immediately upon completion of the cycle, thus eliminating the need for biological indicators and chemical integrators.

대표청구항 ▼

[ We claim:] [12.] A method for monitoring and controlling a parameter value in a simulated load during an anti-microbial process performed in a decontamination apparatus having a control system, said method comprising the steps of:(a) positioning a challenge load-simulating device in said decontami

[ We claim:] [12.] A method for monitoring and controlling a parameter value in a simulated load during an anti-microbial process performed in a decontamination apparatus having a control system, said method comprising the steps of:(a) positioning a challenge load-simulating device in said decontamination apparatus, said device comprising a resistance barrier resistant to penetration of an anti-microbial agent and a receiving area for said anti-microbial agent that penetrates said resistance barrier, said anti-microbial agent being a chlorine-based agent and selected from the group consisting of chlorine gas, hypochlorites, chlorine dioxide, chloramines, chlorine trifluoride, chlorine pentafluoride, and combinations thereof;(b) sealably fitting a first sensor probe within said device, such that said first sensor probe is positioned in said receiving area for real-time sensing therein of a parameter value during the anti-microbial process, said first sensor probe comprising a transmitting means for transmitting the sensed parameter value from said first sensor probe to said control system;(c) exposing said load-simulating device to said chlorine-based anti-microbial agent during said anti-microbial process;(d) sensing in real-time said parameter value within said receiving area of said device during said process;(e) transmitting in real-time the sensed parameter value in said load-simulating device from said first sensor probe to said control system; and(f) controlling the value of said parameter in real time during said process in response to a signal from said control system.