Abstract: A microprocessor controls a heater which generates steam inside the sealed chamber of a sterilizer. During that portion of the sterilizer cycle wherein sterilizing conditions are trying to be attained, the microprocessor monitors both the temperature and pressure levels inside the chamber by controlling the heater and waits until both variables reach predetermined levels before starting a sterilize timer. Once the timer is started, it is stopped if the level of either one of the temperature or pressure variables drops below a predetermined minimum value which, in the preferred embodiment, air their optimum values. While the sterilize timer is timing, the pressure level rather than the temperature level is used by the microprocessor to control the heater. These features allow a more reliable and accurate control of the generation and maintenance of sterilizing conditions inside the chamber, resulting in greater assurance of complete sterilization while minimizing the expenditure of time and energy.

Abstract: The present invention relates to logically controlled unique temperature systems, and it more particularly relates to methods and apparatus for establishing and controlling thermal systems wherein sensing means may anticipate temperature conditions at other points, such as at the work or loads and wherein the controlled heating means are related to the thermal capacity of the system. This arrangement is particularly compatible with unique logical control wherein the temperature signal(s) is converted to a digital pulse train for logical analysis, in turn capable of controlling the heating means by discrete energy bursts. Also, the computer or logical means are capable of sounding an alarm in the event of abnormal conditions or conditions deviating from predetermined patterns.