And Rack, Support Or Handling Means Patents (Class 422/297)
  • Patent number: 6645430
    Abstract: A container and method for cleaning, rinsing, disinfecting, or sterilizing a device disposes an instrument in a container below partition having an aperture for passing fluid. The container is filled to a level above the partition to ensure that the device is submerged in the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventor: Szu-Min Lin
  • Publication number: 20030190272
    Abstract: The present invention provides, among other things, sterilization containers, inner bags, and methods for the radiation sterilization of liquid products. In particular, the invention provides sterilization containers for the irradiation sterilization of a pooled volume of liquid product greater than about, fifteen liters, and methods for the irradiation sterilization of liquid products.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: Dennis Raine, Danette Bounelis
  • Publication number: 20030190257
    Abstract: A cartridge holder (30) for an automated endoscope reprocessor (10) is mounted on a movable rack (14). As the rack is wheeled into the chamber, a connector (164) on the cartridge holder (164) automatically makes a fluid connection with a connection port (158) within the chamber. The cartridge holder includes a base (42) and a lid (44), which is pivotally connected to the base by a hinge (110). A cartridge (40) holding a dose of a disinfectant concentrate or reagents is positioned in a well (50) defined by the base and the lid closed. Water flows through the cartridge holder via a fluid passageway (A) defined in part by the lid and in part by the hinge. The water mixes with the concentrate or reagents and the resulting disinfectant solution passes out of a lower end (205) of the cartridge into the well. The solution flows upwardly, around the cartridge, through an annular space (232) between the cartridge and the well, disinfecting the well in the process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Applicant: STERIS INC.
    Inventors: Eric Halstead, Serge Coulombe
  • Publication number: 20030185731
    Abstract: A sterilization container system for sterilizing instruments provides at least two sterilization enclosures separated vertically by a stacking device. The stacking device allows diffusion between the enclosures and into the enclosures through their upper and lower facing portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventors: Su-Syin Wu, Charles Howlett
  • Publication number: 20030185732
    Abstract: The method comprises a first stage of formation of a batch of a specific number of full containers to be emptied, which are then subjected to an operation of external washing by spraying with hot, de-ionised water and a subsequent rinsing operation, likewise by spraying with de-ionised water, passing then to a step of drying of the containers and afterwards to a step of cutting off one end of the containers, which then pass to a gripping step, in the same number of containers that were arranged in the batch at the start of the method, these being inverted to permit the fall and collection of the masses of plasma.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Applicant: PROBITAS PHARMA, S.A.
    Inventors: Sergi Roura Adell, Jose Ramon Sanchez Sabate, Victor Grifols Lucas
  • Patent number: 6620390
    Abstract: A sterilizing container for holding surgical instruments or other sterilizing material during sterilization and for maintaining the sterilized condition during storage and transportation. The container has a body portion with at least one opening to permit exchange of media during the sterilization process. The filter is fitted in a sealing manner into the opening and permits at least a limited exchange of media and forms a barrier to microorganisms during storage. A self-closing inlet valve is provided so as to open toward the inside of the container when a predetermined pressure difference between external pressure and internal pressure is exceeded. A self-closing outlet valve is provided so as to open outward when a predetermined pressure difference between internal pressure and external pressure is exceeded. The filter is clamped in a holding frame and is supported all around on the holding frame with a form fit. The holding frame in turn is clamped on the edge of the container opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Wagner GmbH Fabrik fur Medizinische Gerate
    Inventor: Peter Wagner
  • Patent number: 6610251
    Abstract: A pressure cleaning vessel 1 is connected to a vacuum chamber P by way of a connecting pipe in the sterilizing and cleaning equipment which utilizes a supercritical fluid. The objects to be treated is impregnated, for a given period, in the supercritical fluid with which the pressure cleaning vessel 1 has been filled. Thereafter, the connection between the pressure vessel 1 and the vacuum chamber P is opened so as to generate sudden bubbling within the vessel 1 as a result of a large pressure difference. Thorough sterilization is achieved at the time when the supercritical fluid having penetrated into bacteria and viruses suddenly explodes and destroys these organisms instantly by its power of vaporization and expansion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha SR Kaihatsu
    Inventor: Masayuki Kanno
  • Publication number: 20030152501
    Abstract: The present invention provides an enclosure for storing hunting apparel while imparting either a natural or artificial scent to the stored hunting apparel to mask the human scent, thereby improving the hunting of big game animals. The container has an apparel storage compartment and a scent source storage compartment. The container may be comprised of a rigid portable enclosure, a non-rigid portable enclosure, or a cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Rick Byrd, Bruce Coody
  • Patent number: 6605252
    Abstract: A method of sterilizing liquid is performed by providing a vibrationally stirring apparatus having a vibration generating unit containing a vibration motor (14), a vibrating rod (7) operationally connected to the vibration generating unit, vibration vanes (10) fixed to the vibrating rod, and vibration vane fixing members (9) for fixing the vibration vanes to the vibrating rod, wherein the vibration vane (10) has a surface made of sterilizing metal and the vibration vane fixing member (9) is made of magnetic field generating material; submerging the vibration vanes and the vibration vane fixing members in the liquid (LIQ) taken in a treatment tank (13); and vibrating the vibration vane at an amplitude of 0.1 to 15.0 mm and at a vibrational frequency of 200 to 1000 times per minute by the vibration generating unit to cause vibrationally stirring of the liquid, thereby sterilizing the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Japan Techno Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryushin Omasa
  • Publication number: 20030138347
    Abstract: A sterilization system employs an attachable/detachable container to which is connected a source of sterilant for sterilizing items within the container. When disconnected from the source of sterilant the container is sealed from microbial ingress.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Szu-Min Lin
  • Patent number: 6596232
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are disclosed to effectively flow the fluid through the lumen device during the cleaning, disinfecting or sterilizing process, preferably with the use of two interfaces and two sources of fluid. By flowing the fluid into two adjacent compartments, the loss of the fluid due to the gap can be reduced or eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Szu-Min Lin, Mitch Agamohamadi
  • Publication number: 20030133833
    Abstract: A unitary container housing having a plurality of sealed compartments each containing a dry composition which will gradually release an antimicrobially active gas upon exposure to moist air, and each compartment being separately openable to expose its contents to the environment, and a method of using the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventors: John E. Thomas, Patrick H. Kilawee
  • Patent number: 6589477
    Abstract: A flash sterilization container(10) comprises a pan(12) forming the bottom of the container holding a tray (14), with a cover (16) forming the top of the container, and a filter element (20). The filter (20) covers an opening in the cover (16) so that the inside of the container (10) formed when the cover is removably sealed to the pan (12) can communicate with the atmosphere surrounding the sealed container allowing steam to enter and exit the container passing through the filter (20). Items to be sterilized are placed on the tray (14) and the cover (16) is attached and sealed to the pan (12). The sealed container is then placed in an autoclave or other source of pressurized steam. The filter is composed of a material which will allow the pressurized steam to pass through but which is relatively impervious to dust and microorganisms thereby maintaining the sterility of the interior of the container and its contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Case Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Marcia A. Frieze, Allan S. Frieze
  • Patent number: 6589478
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for carrying out the process, which enables the disinfection of flat and enclosing surfaces using steam. In order to achieve this, a disinfection head 1, which exhibits a nozzle assembly 3 and a suction bell 6, is connected to a holder 2 such that it can move. The holder has an inlet hose 13 to enable the steam to be introduced into the disinfection head and an outlet suction hose 7. The inlet hose is connected to an initial evaporator cell 9 and the outlet suction hose is connected to a collection container 8. The initial evaporator cell, the collection is container, the suction pumps and the necessary valves and heating elements are joined together in a mobile unit 23.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignees: Genoveva Beurer
    Inventors: Bettina Keim, Martin Schaffer
  • Publication number: 20030124024
    Abstract: A dehydrating and sanitizing device for baby stuff includes a bowl with a heating member received therein and an inclined plate is connected to the heating member so as to guide water to flow in a collection drawer located at a lower edge of the inclined plate. Several sanitizing bulbs are connected to the inside of the bowl. A rack is located in the bowl for the nursing bottles and teats being put thereon and a cover is mounted to an open top of the bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Yuan-Fu Chang
  • Patent number: 6585942
    Abstract: A sterilization container for sterilizing, storing and transporting medical instruments is provided with a collar-shaped base, a lid, and a removable bottom received within the base. Circumferentially spaced channels are provided on the walls of the base which receive removable inserts which not only secure the bottom against upward movement relative to the base but also provide landings to support insert trays received within the container. The inserts can also be provided with slots that support dividers within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Paragon Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Bussell, Gregg Fedorka
  • Publication number: 20030118491
    Abstract: The invention relates to a container and methods for sterilizing medical instruments with various embodiments including use of an instrument tray and a thermostatically controlled valve. In particular, this invention relates to a sterilization container useful for sterilization with various sterilization techniques including gas, gas plasma and steam. The sterilization container of the present invention permits steam or gas sterilant penetration and prevents microorganisms and dust from entering. The materials used may be made of a suitable metal, including an aluminum alloy, that may be heat treated and/or anodized or coated with a suitable material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Marcia A. Frieze, Allan S. Frieze, Ron Amster
  • Patent number: 6582653
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for the sterilization-in-place of a bag assembly includes rigid bag and tube support members arranged in a clamshell configuration to surround and support the bag assembly so that pressurized steam can be supplied to the interior of the bag assembly without the danger of rupture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen Warburton-Pitt
  • Patent number: 6582654
    Abstract: A fluid delivery system (20) for an automated processor (A) includes spray nozzles (102, 104, 106, 108, 110) for sequentially spraying washing, microbial decontaminant and rinsing solutions over a lumened device (B), such as an endoscope. The fluid delivery system also includes connection ports (150, 152, 154) for connecting with internal passages (187) of the device to deliver the washing and microbial decontaminant solutions thereto. A removable rack (21), specially configured for the particular device, positions the device within a chamber (12). The spray nozzles are located on rear and side walls (114, 116, 118) and on a door (18) of the chamber, such that the device is impinged with spray from all directions. Sets (102, 104) of the spray nozzles are pulsed in sequence so that the spray jets (122) do not cancel each other out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Steris Inc.
    Inventors: Jude A. Kral, Robert M. Priest, Daniel N. Kelsch, James C. Hlebovy, Bill R. Sanford, Alan J. Greszler, Francis John Zelina, Kenneth J. Klobusnik
  • Patent number: 6579418
    Abstract: Pressurized web treatment systems include a moving web that passes through a pressurized treatment chamber having a sealing assembly with a leakage control system. Leakage control is achieved by the cooperative effect of localized leak detectors and leak reduction means that applies a local sealing force on the seal assembly responsive to a signal from the leak detectors such that increased sealing occurs in the vicinity of the leak. In particular, an air press for paper web dewatering has improved efficiency by virtue of the leakage control system, which features local leak detectors and local force generation means associated with a flexible seal assembly to reduce leakage at the edges of the stationary plenum of the air press. Local leak detection can be based on sonic measurement with microphones, detection of escaping tracer gas, optical signals, and other means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Dean Lindsay, Michael Alan Hermans, Frank Stephen Hada
  • Patent number: 6579503
    Abstract: An implant sterilization tray includes an integral torquing fixture for holding an implant stationary. By incorporating the fixture into the instrument tray, a large, stable base is provided for holding the implant. The user can more readily hold the implant in a stable position with the implant resting in the case and the case resting on a table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.
    Inventors: Linggawati Tanamal, Vincent Webster, Mark A. Lazzeri, Petrus Krafft, Verlon C. Caldwell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6572819
    Abstract: A sterilization container for sterilizing, storing and transporting instruments is provided with a base portion having a plurality of drainage wells. Each drainage well has a downwardly sloping surface terminating in a drainage aperture. Upper portions of the sloping surfaces support a flexible instrument holding mat within the container. Sterilization containers are formed of thermoplastic liquid crystal polymer, such as a wholly aromatic polyester. A latch mechanism comprises a latch member rotatably supported upon torsion bars within a recessed portion of the container which presents no sharp surfaces to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Su-Syin Wu, Charles Howlett
  • Patent number: 6565819
    Abstract: A device for the rapid sanitizing of a toothbrush comprising a housing having an upper portion, a mid portion and a lower portion, with an aperture located in the mid portion of the housing for receiving the bristle portion of a toothbrush. The upper portion of the housing has a reservoir for water, and a tube is connected for carrying selected amounts of water to a pan mounted in the lower portion of the housing. The pan is configured to contain a relatively small quantity of water delivered during a relatively short interval of time from the reservoir by means of a pump driven by an electric motor. A heater is mounted closely below the pan and arranged to heat and vaporize the small quantity of water delivered to the pan at a given moment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Jose D. Herrera
  • Patent number: 6558622
    Abstract: A chamber (10) is supplied with a pressurized cleaning agent of carbon dioxide and cosolvents from a first source (12) and an antimicrobial fluid, such as ethylene oxide or hydrogen peroxide from a second source (16). Chamber conditions are maintained in the sub-critical range for the carbon dioxide. The cleaning agent and antimicrobial fluid are recirculated through a separator (32) and a condenser (38) to filter contaminants from the mixture before returning the carbon dioxide, and optionally the antimicrobial fluid and other additives, to the chamber. Medical instruments or other articles within the chamber are cleaned by the cleaning agent and sterilized by the antimicrobial fluid in a single cycle, rendering them ready for reuse in a short period of time. The instruments may be cleaned and stored in hermetically sealable containers (82). The cleaning agent is rapidly evaporated from surfaces of the articles at the end of the cycle by reducing the pressure in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Steris Corporation
    Inventor: Paul S. Malchesky
  • Publication number: 20030082073
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for decontaminating mail. The preferred embodiment includes a sealable container of sufficient size to hold one or more pieces of mail. A chamber, in gaseous communication with the container, holds a quantity of oxidizer material, and a heater is used to raise the temperature of the oxidizer to form a disinfecting gas that permeates the mail. The oxidizer material is preferably a liquid such as chlorine dioxide or hydrogen peroxide. The apparatus may further include a timer so that the oxidizer is heated for a desired period of time, a pressure relief valve, and/or an indicator responsive to the pressure within the container when sealed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventor: Roy J. Mankovitz
  • Patent number: 6555054
    Abstract: A flow-through rack assembly (14) includes porous hangers (44) which support items to be decontaminated within a decontamination chamber (12). A plurality of nozzles (16) spray a decontaminant fluid, such as peracetic acid, over the items. The rack assembly includes tubes (42) which convey a portion of the decontaminant fluid under pressure to internal channels (52) of the porous hangers. The fluid permeates the hanger surface, flowing over regions of the items which are in contact with the hangers. The rack assembly ensures decontamination of those regions which may be otherwise inaccessible to fluid sprayed from the nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Steris Inc.
    Inventors: Jude A. Kral, Richard A. Schieman
  • Patent number: 6544473
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and an apparatus for performing heating and sterilizing treatment on the inside of a PET bottle with a low heat resistance securely and without thermal deformation thereof, where a steam jetting nozzle is inserted into the bottle from a mouth portion thereof to jet steam from the nozzle, the steam is circulated inside the bottle to be exhausted from the mouth portion, the steam is caused to contact with a bottle inner face securely, and simultaneously cooling water is sprayed on an outer face of the bottle so that thermal deformation of the bottle wall face is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Shintaku Kogyo Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Kenichi Shintaku, Eizou Amano
  • Patent number: 6537509
    Abstract: An autoclave sterilization installation has a recovery outlet for recovering sterilized objects in such a way that the objects can be transferred in total safety. The recovery outlet is equipped with a removable rigid closure member which is adapted to withstand high pressures and includes an annular coupling flange which receives a recovery container which is preferably disposable. The closure member closes off the opening in the flange during the sterilization cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Isolateur Denominateur Commun
    Inventors: Bernard Saint-Martin, Christiane Prioult
  • Patent number: 6534000
    Abstract: A sterilization cassette and a sterilization method for sterilizing, storing, and dispensing dental instruments. The sterilization cassette includes a mounting bar and a locking bar for dental pliers of various types, a removable instrument tray, and a case with a front side which opens and hinges in two places, allowing the cassette to be arranged in horizontal and vertical configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Steri Source, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis J. Michaelson, Jeffrey W. Mix
  • Publication number: 20030012690
    Abstract: A reagent dissolution device and methods of using the same, wherein the device comprises a housing (40), a diluent (25), and at least one reagent bed (35), wherein the diluent (25) and the at least one reagent bed (35) are separated by a friable barrier (50) and a flow distribution disk (100). Alternate embodiments include chambers with a plurality of reagent beds as well as chambers for the mixing of two or more liquid reagents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Michael A. Taylor, Carolyn Fitzgerald
  • Publication number: 20030007914
    Abstract: The invention relates to an autoclave for medical appliances and instruments with a chamber (13) in which the appliances to be sterilized are located, with a steam generator (5) and a condensate collector (11), whereby the steam generator is connected with the chamber (13) by a steam pipe (9) and the condensate collector (11) is connected with the chamber (13) by a feed pipe (35) of the condensate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: Daniele Giovanni Ongaro
  • Publication number: 20030007915
    Abstract: The invention relates to an autoclave for sterilising medical and in particular dental appliances and instruments, with a chamber (13), in which the appliances to be sterilised are located, with a steam generator (5), connected with the chamber (13) and a condensate pipe (34) connecting the chamber (13) with a condenser (19), and a further pipe (39) connecting the condenser (19) with a vacuum pump (20) and finally leading into a tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: Daniele Giovanni Ongaro
  • Publication number: 20020192108
    Abstract: A sterilization container for sterilizing, storing and transporting instruments is formed of a liquid crystal polymer, such as a wholly aromatic polyester. The container is strong yet has thin walls so that condensation is minimized. Suitable polymers include wholly aromatic polyesters such as: polybenzoate-naphthalate; polybenzoate-terephthalate-bisphenol-isophthalate; polybenzoate-terephthalate-ethylene glycol; and polynaphthalate-amino terephthalate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Su-Syin Wu
  • Patent number: 6491882
    Abstract: The invention relates to a high-pressure device (1) having a cylindrical high-pressure vessel (3) and prestressing means in order to exert an axial pressure on the vessel. The vessel (3) can have been formed from a number of layers of composite material, such as glass, carbon or aramide fibers which are oriented in the peripheral direction and are embedded in a matrix of epoxy resin or polyurethane. By applying the axial prestress to the pressure vessel (3), the tangential stress is distributed more uniformly over the wall thickness of the high-pressure vessel (3), the stress decreasing at the inside of the wall and increasing at the outside thereof. As a result, the innermost fibers of a high-pressure vessel (3) made of composite material are subjected to appreciably less stress, which has a beneficial effect on the life of the high-pressure vessel (3), and all fibers of the wall are utilized effectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: ATO B.V.
    Inventors: Robert Willem Van Den Berg, Paul Vincent Bartels, Ludo Jean Maria Mathilde Van Schepdael
  • Publication number: 20020182106
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for treating goods, such as, for example, fumigating and re-cooling perishable goods, such as fruit, using a tarp and floor seal. The apparatus encloses goods on a surface and includes a canopy that is substantially impermeable to flowable materials, such as gas, liquid, or a combination thereof; an upper perimeter for supporting an upper portion of the canopy; a lower perimeter for supporting a lower portion of the canopy, the lower perimeter to be placed in proximity to the surface; a support structure for supporting the upper perimeter and lower perimeters; and a gasket in communication with the lower perimeter, wherein the gasket is deformable to substantially seal the chamber by compressing the gasket against the surface. The apparatus may also include an intermediate support structure for providing support to the canopy and a conduit in communication with the chamber to supply cool air to the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Roy Richardson, John Achzet, Robert Dickinson, James Rushing
  • Publication number: 20020182105
    Abstract: A washing vessel capable of housing an endoscope is formed in an apparatus body. A washing solution containing a detergent is spurted against the endoscope arranged within the washing vessel for washing the endoscope. Also, an oxide-based disinfecting-sterilizing solution is supplied into the washing vessel for disinfecting-sterilizing the endoscope after the washing step together with the washing vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Applicant: OLYMPUS OPTICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Nakanishi, Daisaku Negoro, Naoya Taya, Hitoshi Hasegawa, Eiri Suzuki, Hisashi Kuroshima
  • Patent number: 6485684
    Abstract: A fluid disinfection or sterilization system includes spray nozzles (26) for spraying an anti-microbial fluid on the exterior of an endoscope (14) supported in a microbial decontamination chamber (10a, 10b). The endoscope includes interior lumens which are microbially decontaminated by flowing anti-microbial fluid from outlets (28) through the lumens. A port (36) is connected with a leak detector. In order to ensure that the proper leak detector and anti-microbial fluid ports of the disinfection or sterilization system are interconnected with the proper lumen ports of the endoscope, a tethered connection assembly (50) is provided. The tethered interconnection assembly includes fittings (60, 62, 64) which are uniquely configured for interconnection with an appropriate one of a high pressure port, a low pressure port, and the leak detector port. Fittings at the other end of the tube assemblies (56) are configured for interconnection with appropriate corresponding ports of the endoscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Steris Inc.
    Inventors: Tara Denise Mapson, Yury Keselman, David Jesurun, Victor M. Selig, Joseph Tvergyak, Richard A. Schieman, Bruce L. Vavra, Joseph T. Sestak
  • Publication number: 20020159917
    Abstract: The present invention includes a method and system for cleaning, disinfecting, or sterilizing objects, such as medical or dental instruments or devices. The system of the invention includes an energy source, such as a sonicator, adapted and configured to impact the object with energy, such as ultrasonic energy; a liquid transporter adapted and configured to circulate around, through, and/or into the object a wash composition, an antimicrobial composition, a rinse composition, or a plurality of these compositions; and a dryer adapted and configured to dry the object, preferably, in the presence of a sterilant. The method of the invention includes contacting the object with a wash composition and energy, such as ultrasonic energy; treating the object with an antimicrobial composition; rinsing the object with a rinse composition; and drying the object, preferably in the presence of a sterilant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Sally Kay Swart, Shaun Patrick Kennedy
  • Patent number: 6468482
    Abstract: A flash sterilization container (10) comprises a pan (12) forming the bottom of the container holding a tray (14), with a cover (16) forming the top of the container, and a filter element (20). Items to be sterilized are placed on the tray (14) and the cover (16) is attached and sealed to the pan (12). The sealed container is then placed in an autoclave or other source of pressurized steam. Items which require “stat” sterilization can be placed in a basket (80) with a plurality of vent holes (83) which further limits the amount, and therefore the whole mass, of the instruments placed into the container for sterilization and significantly decreases the time required for sterilization. The filter (20) allows the steam to enter the interior of the container and sterilize any items contained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Case Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Marcia A. Frieze, Allan S. Frieze, Kate Kislevitz
  • Publication number: 20020146344
    Abstract: During the treatment, in particular cleaning, disinfecting and drying, of used, dirty endoscopes, in order to render them suitable once again for subsequent use, the following steps take place: placing a used, dirty endoscope in a rack, connecting the passages of the endoscope to a connection block which is arranged in a fixed position in the rack, placing the rack, with the endoscope therein, in at least one device for treating the endoscope, the connection block being connected to a counter-connection block which is present in the treatment device, in order to bring about a connection between the endoscopes and the treatment device, subjecting the endoscope which is accommodated in the rack to a specific treatment in the treatment device, taking the rack with the endoscope therein out of the treatment device, and uncoupling the endoscope from the connection block after it has been taken out of the final treatment device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 1999
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: JOHANNES ANTONIUS WALTA
  • Patent number: 6451255
    Abstract: A method for sterilizing the interior of the lumen, where a dry booster which does not contain liquid and which has a volume at least 2 times the volume of the lumen is attached to the end of the lumen. The lumen and dry booster are placed in a sterilization chamber, and germicide is introduced into the chamber. A higher pressure is created outside the booster than inside the booster. The empty dry booster draws germicide into the lumen, sterilizing the interior of the lumen. The method can be enhanced by reducing the pressure in the chamber before introducing the germicide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold R. Williams, Hans Strobel, Henry K. Hui, Leslie A. Feldman, Szu-Min Lin
  • Patent number: 6447718
    Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for decontaminating contaminated matter, such as an object or substance, with ultrasonic transient cavitation is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a container for containing a contaminated object, a pressure source for pressurizing the container to a predetermined pressure, a vibration source operably connected to the container, and a cleaning solution comprising a predetermined concentration of a volatile substance. The presence of the volatile substance in the cleaning solution, along with the pressurization and vibration thereof, enhances the effect of ultrasonic transient cavitation and improves decontamination of the contaminated matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventors: Stephen Douglas Carter, Kenneth Arthur Cunefare
  • Patent number: 6436357
    Abstract: A sterilizable bracket (10) for supporting medical instruments (22) includes a resilient body (12) that surrounds and encapsulates a relatively rigid metal skeleton (14) which is attached to a plurality of studs (16) which secure the bracket (10) to a sterilizable tray (18). instruments (22) are received in indentations (24) in the resilient body (12). Each indentation (24) includes a plurality of ribs or fingers (28) which permit sterilizing steam to flow around the instruments (22). The resilient body (12) comprises a silicone material which encapsulates the skeleton backbone (14) which, in turn, gives the bracket (10) strength and flexibility. Threaded studs (16) having a slot (46) at one end and threads (50) at the other are employed to attach the bracket (10) to the sterilizable tray (18). The slot (46) in the head (44) of each of the studs (16) receives the metal skeleton backbone (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Case Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Marcia A Frieze, Allan S. Frieze
  • Patent number: 6426041
    Abstract: A sterilizable, surgical instrument tray that can deliver, in an instant nearly, 100 ringed surgical instruments held and displayed in a perpendicular fashion in a space and manner similar to that used by surgical scrub nurses on their operating room back tables, as well as hold and display with easy access, a number of forceps, knife handles and retractors. A surgical instrument tray, capable of retaining all the general/major/trauma instruments and arranging these instruments in such a way that said tray may be placed in the operating room in sterile manner, being ready for operational usage. Due to the design and construction of the tray, with recessed sections of applicable shape and size to accommodate certain instruments, upon extraction of the instruments from the tray, the instruments are in ready position to be relayed to the person performing the operation, with no further manipulation of the instruments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Inventor: Sharon G. Smith
  • Patent number: 6423266
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and an apparatus for cleaning or sterilizing a device having a lumen. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing a container having at least one interface separating the container into two or more compartments; b) placing the device across the interface with one open end of the device in one of the compartments and another open end in another compartment; and c) adjusting the interface to at least partially seal around the device, and generating a flow of a cleaning solution, rinse solution, or chemical germicide through the lumen to clean or sterilize the inner surface of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Alfredo M. Choperena, Szu-Min Lin, Paul Jacobs
  • Patent number: 6419886
    Abstract: For use in medical trays the filtering flat material (2) has to be such that no micro-organisms can penetrate through it. In order to arrange such a filter (1) for achieving closure of a tray's partial surface including through openings which ensures sterility, a closed sealing line, which surrounds the through openings, is formed in the area of each flat partial surface having through openings, along which two tray parts to be assembled and including co-operating clamping surfaces enable clamping the seal (3) of the filter (1). By the elasticity of the seal (3) sufficiently good closure is ensured even by small clamping pressure and even with not precisely plane clamping surfaces. The bond of the seal (3) to the filtering flat material (2) has the additional advantage that the filter (1) can also be arranged at a lower surface by pressing its seal (3) into a corresponding groove and does not loosen due to gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventors: Harald Oberdorfer, Heinz Suter
  • Patent number: 6413481
    Abstract: A sterilization tunnel for pharmaceutical containers such as vials has an inlet zone, a sterilization zone, and a cooling zone. A conveyor belt for the vials is disposed inside the sterilization tunnel. An emptying device that can be raised and lowered is disposed in the vicinity of the cooling zone. In order to empty the sterilization tunnel, the frame-shaped emptying device is lowered onto the conveyor belt and then pushes an emptying slider, which is being moved through the sterilization tunnel together with the last vials disposed on the conveyor belt, out from the sterilization tunnel. The emptying device permits a particularly simple operation of the sterilization tunnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Ingbert Pennekamp, Manfred Windsheimer
  • Patent number: 6403042
    Abstract: An apparatus for disinfecting or sterilizing contaminated materials including a first worm screw (15) inside a pretreatment chamber (14) and a second worm screw (17) arranged close to the end of the first worm screw (15) and extending inside a treatment chamber (16). Elements are provided for sealing both ends of the treatment chamber (16) so that an elevated pressure can be maintained in the treatment chamber. Energy can be introduced into the treatment chamber in a controlled manner to supply or produce steam sufficient to create and maintain an elevated pressure and temperature needed to disinfect and/or sterilize the contaminated material. The pretreatment chamber (14) and the treatment chamber (16) are connected to each other by a reversing component (1) having two tube sections (2, 3) which form an angle relative to each other and which are secured to the pretreatment chamber (14) and the treatment chamber (16) by flanges (4, 5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Helmut Goeldner
  • Publication number: 20020068029
    Abstract: An apparatus for disinfecting and sterilizing dental handpieces includes a treating chamber with an internal holding stub which has through-channels for connecting exterior treatment fluid source elements to internal standard channels in and through the handpieces to through-flush treatment fluid through these channels from a socket end to a tip end of the handpiece. The treating chamber is laid-out as a pressure resistant autoclaving chamber provided with steam generation at elevated temperature and pressure. The through-channels of the holding stub are alternatively connectable through an outlet valve to the exterior atmosphere so as to enable back-flushing of pressurized steam from the treating chamber through the internal channels from the tip end to the socket end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: Peter Johansen
  • Publication number: 20020068028
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for removing fumes from an endoscope disinfecting apparatus configured for disinfecting an endoscope with a disinfecting solution. In architecture, the exhaust system includes a fan housing, a fan disposed within the fan housing, an exhaust hose connected to the fan housing, and wherein the exhaust system is connected to the endoscope disinfecting apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: H. Thomas Hight