Transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportaion system
In an exemplary embodiment, a transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) system and device for sterilizing medical instrument trays with instruments is provided. The system includes a plurality of SSDT devices that are selectively vertically and horizontally stackable. Each SSDT device comprises a transparent filtered lid (TFL) assembly configured to provide a transparent interior chamber within which the medical instrument trays and the instruments are sterilized, stored, displayed and transported. The TFL includes a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors. Each SSDT device also includes a configurable filtered base carriage (CFBC) assembly configured to latch and seal a bottom edge of the TFL assembly. The CFBC assembly includes a base carriage platform having a plurality of base interconnectors configured to, in a first mode, have a plurality of wheels selectively attached thereto and, in a second mode, interconnect to a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors of another TFL assembly.
This application claims priority benefit of Provisional Patent Application No. 61/281,032, filed Nov. 12, 2009, titled “MODULAR SURGICAL TRAY STERILIZATION AND TRANSPORT SYSTEM” having the same inventor of the instant patent application and which is incorporated herein by references as if set forth in full below.
NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT PROTECTIONA portion of the disclosure of this patent document and its figures contain material subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever.
BACKGROUNDI. Field
The invention relates to a transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) device and system.
II. Background
Hospitals have excessive costs associated with wrapping surgical instrument trays individually both from a human resource capital and a material cost standpoint. The wrapping method has many draw backs including labor intensive, material intensive, and is subject to human error and waste. Overall, the wrapping method is generally not efficient.
For example, the wrapping method loads the medical instrument trays with the instruments and/or supplies needed for a surgical procedure, and then individually wraps each tray with a filter wrap sheet which is discarded after each use. Thus, the filter wrapping process which uses the filter wrap sheet does not promote environment conservation and provides the least secure solution for protecting sterilized surgical instruments as the filter wrap sheet has no means of protection from tears, punctures, piercings, non-sterile liquids, etc.
The filter wrap sheet is subject to damage in a variety of ways. For example, care should be taken to prevent punctures or tears from the corners or other protuberances radiating from the trays that may snag, tear or puncture the protective filter wrap sheet.
After removal of a filter wrapped tray from the autoclave, there is a potential for contamination of the sterilized trays and instruments. Currently, the sterilized instruments should be used within a set time period (hereinafter referred to as a “shelf life”) after sterilization before becoming stale, albeit the trays may have not been opened. Hospitals regularly re-sterilize many stale trays which wastes water, energy and personnel resources for re-sterilization.
In another system, surgical instrument tray containers include lids with a filter. However, these containers are not cost efficient, as each container can generally only hold a single tray. Another drawback with both the filter wrap process and the surgical instrument tray containers is that the contents of the surgical tray itself cannot be easily inspected. Some containers include two filters on the lid. The filters obscure the personnel's ability to inspect the instruments within the container.
Each surgeon requests a list of medical instruments for carrying out a particular surgical procedure. However, the personnel delivering the surgical instruments may get the trays mixed up because of the inability to visually inspect the interior of the instrument trays. When sterile instruments are erroneously opened for the wrong surgeon, the opened sterile instruments, even though not used, must be re-sterilized causing a waste in water, material and labor. Furthermore, the single tray storage containers are not readily stackable on top of one another as the steam, sterilant agent and/or heated air is not allowed adequate unobstructed ingress and egress for sterilization of the instruments within the container. Thus, the capacity of the autoclave to sterilize multiple trays is generally not efficiently utilized as stacking, in a space efficient manner, is not easily accommodated.
In another system, a wheeled cabinet configured to house therein a plurality of trays (e.g., eight or twelve trays) has been designed. However, not all surgeries require eight or twelve trays. For example, some surgeries only need four (4) trays. Typically, the wheeled cabinet has one door to access the trays and is made of stainless steel which does not allow the instruments to be viewed before opening the cabinet. Thus, the surgical team does not have full access to the trays and cannot visually inspect the instruments to minimize errors and waste before opening. Furthermore, the surgical team may waste time finding and accessing a particular tray needed of the many trays stored in the wheeled cabinet. The wheeled cabinet is not modular, customizable and re-customizable to adapt the cabinet on demand to conduct a surgery. The wheeled cabinet is bulky and takes up space in an environment where storage space is needed.
Thus, there is a need for a system that reduces the time for sterile processing and reduces material and resource costs associated with preparing surgical instruments.
There is a need for a system that is modular, customizable and re-customizable so that only those surgical instrument trays that are needed for surgery are sterilized, stored, displayed and transported to and from the surgery rooms in a compact and organized manner.
There is a need for a device and system that allows multiple trays with instruments to be viewed 360 degrees in a single container that is sterile and secure.
SUMMARYThe aforementioned problems, and other problems, are reduced, according to exemplary embodiments, by a transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) device and system configured to stack within each device a plurality of trays.
In an exemplary embodiment, a transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) device for sterilizing medical instrument trays with instruments is provided. The SSDT device comprises a transparent filtered lid (TFL) assembly configured to provide a transparent interior chamber within which the medical instrument trays and the instruments are sterilized, stored, displayed and transported. The TFL includes a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors. The SSDT device also includes a configurable filtered base carriage (CFBC) assembly configured to latch and seal thereto a bottom edge of the TFL assembly. The CFBC assembly includes a base carriage platform having a plurality of base interconnectors being configured to, in a first mode, have a plurality of wheels selectively attached thereto and, in a second mode, interconnect to a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors of another TFL assembly.
In another exemplary embodiment, a transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) device for sterilizing medical instrument trays with instruments is provided. The SSDT device comprises a transparent filtered lid (TFL) assembly configured to provide a transparent interior chamber within which the medical instrument trays and the instruments are sterilized, stored, displayed and transported. The device includes a configurable filtered base carriage (CFBC) assembly configured to latch and seal thereto a bottom edge of the TFL assembly. Moreover, the device includes a shelf assembly coupled to the CFBC assembly, the shelf assembly having a shelf elevated above the CFBC assembly and being configured to stack thereon a first set of medical instrument trays with a first number of instruments and permits ingress or egress of steam, a sterilant agent or air. The CFBC assembly is configured to stack thereon and below the shelf a second set of medical instrument trays with a second number of instruments.
In another exemplary embodiment, a transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) system for sterilizing medical instrument trays with instruments is provided. The SSDT system comprises a plurality of transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) devices configured to be stacked vertically and/or horizontally.
Other systems, methods, and/or devices according to embodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of the following drawings, and further description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, and/or devices be included within this description, be within the scope of the present invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.
The above and other exemplary embodiments, objects, uses, advantages, and novel features are more clearly understood by reference to the following description taken in connection with the accompanying figures wherein:
The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any configuration or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other configurations or designs. Furthermore, use of the words “present invention” is used herein to convey only some of the embodiments of the invention. For example, the word “present invention” would also include alternative embodiments and equivalent systems and components that one of ordinary skill in the art understands. An example is that the materials used for the exemplary embodiments may be made out of man-made materials, natural materials, and combinations thereof. A further example is that the apparatus or components of the apparatus may be manufactured by machine(s), human(s) and combinations thereof.
Some of the embodiments of the invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure).
The terms transparent and translucent may be used interchangeable. In some instances, transparent materials may be colored, tinted or clear. Translucent materials may be colored and tinted and may be less clear than a transparent material. Nonetheless, transparent and translucent provides a surface that has a see through quality or property.
Referring now to the drawings, and in particular
The CFBC assembly 104, TFL assembly 170 and shelf assembly 150 are described in more detail below. One or more elements of the CFBC assembly 104, TFL assembly 170 and shelf assembly 150 described herein may be omitted or substituted. Furthermore, elements may be added
The CFBC assembly 104 includes a base carriage platform 106 that latches and seals a bottom edge of the TFL assembly 170 so that the interior chamber CH1 is closed. The SSDT device 100 is constructed and arranged to provide a user with a configurable, re-configurable and stackable unit so that several SSDT devices may be used together, linked together and moved in unison when linked, as will be described in relation to
The CFBC assembly 104 has a length of approximately 22-29.4 inches measured from end to end; a depth of approximately 20-25.5 inches; and a height of approximately 2-4 inches without wheel assemblies. As can be appreciated, the CFBC assembly 104 may have other dimensions but is generally limited to the area within an autoclave.
Each SSDT device 100 includes a shelf assembly 150 which provides a shelf 154 to stack a plurality of instrument trays within the interior chamber under the transparent filtered lid (TFL) assembly 170. As can be appreciated, one or more instrument trays may be placed on top of the shelf 154. The base carriage platform 106 can support one or more instrument trays below the shelf 154. Nonetheless, other objects or items may be placed without the need for a tray above or below the shelf 154 to allow a multitude of different surgical items, products or instruments of varying sizes to be sterilized in a transparent or translucent container. Furthermore, the shelf assembly 150 is removable in order to fit larger objects within the interior chamber defined within the five walls of the TFL assembly 170.
Referring also to
The removable filter assembly 140B includes a filter keeper frame 141B, a filter 145B and a plurality of fasteners 146B. Each fastener 146B includes a knob head 147A and threaded shank 147B wherein one end of the threaded shank 147B is coupled to the knob head 147A. The filter 145B may be a Hepa Filter to block and filter bacteria and microbial organism from entering into the interior chamber CH1 through the vent opening or port 110. In the exemplary embodiment, the filter 145B may include a means for changing color and/or threads arranged in a pattern to provide a visual indication to indicate that sterilization in accordance with industry standards has been performed.
In the exemplary embodiment, the vent opening or port 110 has an area which is much smaller than the area of the base carriage platform 106. Therefore, the amount of filter material being disposed of after each surgery is relatively small in comparison to the size of the filter sheets used to completely wrap instrument trays. In the exemplary embodiment, the vent opening or port 110 is an opening with no cross supports, grating or other structures within the opening. In an alternate embodiment, grating, cross supports or other structures may be placed to span across the opening.
In the exemplary embodiment, the filter keeper frame 141 has an interior profile of a four leaf clover. Nonetheless other geometrical and non-geometrical shapes may be used such as, without limitation, circular, elliptical, square, triangular, rectangular, and other shapes. The filter keeper frame 141 is essentially the same as keeper frame 141B in the base carriage platform and keeper frame 141L in the TFL assembly 170.
Returning again to
In the exemplary embodiment, when the filter 145 is crimped and secured across the vent opening or port 110, the perimeter edges of the filter 145B may extend slightly beyond or hang over the filter keeper frame 141B.
The horizontal surface 107A includes apertures 113 to be aligned with apertures 144A of the filter keeper frame 141B. The depth of the apertures 113 do not pierce or completely extend through the thickness of the horizontal surface 107A. In other words, the aperture is sufficiently deep to receive and secure the threaded shank 146B of fastener 146 without the threaded shank 146B passing through to the underside of the horizontal surface 107A.
The horizontal surface 107A further includes a plurality of spaced apart treads 114 arranged on the top (interior) side of the horizontal surface 107A and around the vent opening or port 110. The treads 114 are arranged within the interior boundary of the perimeter seal channel 108 and do not obstruct the closing of the TFL assembly 170. The treads 114 are spaced from each other to form a gap to permit steam, sterilant agent and/or heated air flow between and around the treads 114, as well as, provide for fluid run-off during and after a sterilization cycle.
In the exemplary embodiment, the treads 114 are linear raised strip structures and may have varying horizontal lengths. The treads 114 may be irregular in length instead of being linear. For example, the treads 114 may be arranged at an angle or at a slant. Alternately, the treads may be wavy or curved. The treads 114 may all have the same vertical height so that the trays or other objects may be balanced on the top of the treads 114. When a tray or other object is placed on the treads 114, the instrument tray and any aperture of the tray allow steam, sterilant agent or heated air to pass down to the space or gap between treads 114 and out through the vent opening or port 110. Likewise, if necessary, air, steam and a sterilant agent if entering through the vent opening or port 110 would flow within the gaps and up to and through the instrument trays.
The horizontal surface 107A of the base carriage platform 106 includes one or more base-to-wall connectors 118A adjacent a first interior side of the perimeter seal channel 108 and one or more base-to-wall connectors 118B adjacent to a second interior side of the perimeter seal channel 108. As will be described in more detail in relation to
The one or more base-to-wall connectors 118A include four base-to-wall connectors 118A which are spaced apart. The details of the base-to-wall connectors 118A will be described in more detail in relation to
Referring also to
The underside of the horizontal surface 107A includes a plurality of multi-mode base interconnectors 125. The plurality of wheel lock receptacles 123 are in proximity to the multi-mode base interconnectors 125. Markers M1 and M2, as best seen in
In the exemplary embodiment, the plurality of multi-mode base interconnectors 125 are coupled to the exterior side of the horizontal surface 107A, and in proximity to a corner on an interior side of the vertically dependent skirt 107B. The plurality of multi-mode interconnectors 125 are coupled to, supported by and integrated with the underside of the horizontal surface 107A. The multi-mode interconnectors 125 are isolated from the interior chamber CH1. In a first mode, each multi-mode base interconnector 125 is configured to removably couple to a wheel-to-carriage adaptor 196 of a respective one wheel assembly 190 (
The underside of the horizontal surface 107A in proximity to the vent opening or port 110 and specifically surrounding the vent opening or port 110, there is a lip LPB for selective attachment of a removable filter cover 139. The removable filter cover 139 is attached to the lip LPB in a manner similar to the coupling between a plastic lid to a bowl rim. For example, the removable filter cover 139 is snapped on or held in place by a tight fit between the surface of the lip LPB and the cover 139 fitted over the lip. The removable filter cover 139 protects the filter and, after sterilization, provides a strong and durable barrier to prevent bacterial or microbial organism intrusion. The removable filter cover 139 may be made of a transparent plastic or an opaque plastic.
The vertically dependent skirt 107B of the CFBC assembly 104 further includes an aperture or hole 126 formed between two adjacent recesses 120 and provides a means of attaching an integrity band IB (
A first side wall of the second set of two parallel side walls includes a second pair of recesses 120 between which a first set of interlock connectors 127A is coupled, formed or integrated with the first side wall. The first set of interlock connectors 127A includes a first pair of blocks BA1 and BA2 with aligned through holes form therein to receive the handle bar 111. The handle bar 111 is an elongated rod or bar having a flared end 111A and a pin receiving hole 111B in proximity to an end opposite the flared end 111A. The pin receiving hole 111B is configured to have selectively attach thereto a keeper pin P1.
The handle bar 111 is removable such as by removing the keeper pin P1 and sliding the elongated bar of the handle bar 111 out of the first pair of blocks. In the exemplary embodiment, the spacing between the first pair of blocks BA1 and BA2 allows a user's hand to be received therebetween and grasp the handle bar 111.
A second side wall of the second set of two parallel side walls includes a second pair of recesses 120 between which a second interlock connector 127B is coupled, formed or integrated with the second side wall. The second interlock connector 127B includes a block BB1 (
The handle bar 111 is removable such as by removing the keeper pin P1 and sliding the elongated bar of the handle bar 111 out of position. The flared end 111A of the handle bar 111 may be removable such as by a threaded connection. The end opposite the flared end 111A may also include a removable flared end. In such a configuration, the keeper pin P1 may be eliminated. Nonetheless, other means of removing and securing the handle bar 111 may be used.
In the exemplary embodiment, the length of the block BB1 is smaller than the spacing between the first pair of blocks BA1 and BA2. The length of block BB1 fits between the blocks BB1 and BB2 and may still allow a user's hand to grasp the handle bar 109. The spacing between the second pair of blocks and the spacing between the first pair of blocks is different. In operation, two adjacent SSDT devices 100 can be hitched or linked together with a single handle bar 111 linking block BB1 to blocks BA1 and BA2. The handle bar 111 can be slid into place and the keeper pin P1 installed to hitch two adjacent SSDT devices together.
The CFBC assembly 104 further includes a carriage support assembly 133 having a set of washer strips 129C and 129D to be fastened to washer strips 129A and 129B (
The wheel assembly 190 further includes a wheel-to-carriage adaptor 196. The adaptor 196 includes a connector plate 197A and a wheel-to-carriage interconnector 197B. The connector plate 197A is fastened to the adaptor connector plate 195 via fasteners 198. The wheel-to-carriage interconnector 197B includes a through hole 199 to be described in more detail below.
The wheel locking pin 200 includes, in general, an elongated shank 202 configured to have a locking knob 204 coupled or attached thereto via a pin 206. The elongated shank 202 is received in the hole 125A and hole 199 and passes therethrough. The locking knob 204 is received in the wheel lock receptacles 123 and is configured to be turned approximately 90 degrees from marker M1 to marker M2. At marker M2, the wheel assembly 190 is locked. Other locking arrangements may be used.
In operation, the latch 132 can be taped over with sterilization tape, as best seen in
The latches 132 are independently operated. The latches 136 are similar to latches 132 except that the latch actuator 132B of two side by side latches 136 are linked together via a latching bar 136A. The latching bar 136A includes a hole H1 to be aligned with hole 126. An integrity band IB can be journalled through hole H1 and hole 126 locked in a manner similar to a pad lock. The integrity band IB (
As can be appreciated, the two latches 136 may be modified with a single latch or may include more than two latches 136. However, the latch or latches 136 should be banded. Furthermore, latches 132 may be banded. The SSDT device may include one or more latches which are configured to be banded with an integrity band.
The shelf 154 includes at least one shelf connector 158SA and 158SB configured to interconnect the shelf 154 to the side walls 152A and 152B, respectively. Thus, the side walls 152A and 152B include at least one wall connector (only 158WB shown). Fasteners 159 (e.g., screws, bolts) are provided to further fasten the at least one shelf connector 158SA and 158SB to the at least one wall connector (only 158WB shown).
In the exemplary embodiment, the at least one shelf connector 158SA and 158SB are male connectors while the at least one wall connector are female connectors. Nonetheless, the at least one shelf connector 158SA and 158SB may be female connectors while the at least one wall connector would be male connectors. The connectors between the shelf and the side walls 152A and 152B may be snapped together or friction fit coupled. Nonetheless, the shelf and sidewalls may be integrated or coupled into a single structure requiring no fasteners. The fasteners may be screws, bolts, or other fasteners.
In the exemplary embodiment, one or more reinforcement vertical rails 160A and 160B are configured to be coupled to the side walls 152A and 152B, respectively, and/or the base carriage platform 106. Additionally, one or more shelf reinforcement horizontal rails 162 are configured to be coupled to an underside of the shelf 154. The shelf reinforcement horizontal rails 162 are essentially parallel to the base carriage platform 106 and perpendicular to the side walls 152A and 152B. The vertical rail 160A and 160B are essentially parallel and aligned.
The rails 160A and 160B and rails 162 may be made of a non-corrosive metal such as stainless steel or other metals.
The side walls 152A and 152B include channels 161A and 161B, respectively to receive and install the rails 160A and 160B, respectively. The channels 161A and 161B extend the length of the side walls 152A and 152B. The side walls 152A and 152B further include apertures A1 for fasteners 159 to fasten the one or more shelf reinforcement rails 162 and rails 160A and 160B thereto.
The side walls 152A and 152B and/or shelf 154 may be made of clear polypropylene, a clear plastomer, propylene homopolymers or other transparent or translucent plastics.
The top wall 174E is sloped toward the four vertical walls 174A, 174B, 174C and 174D to permit run-off of any fluid adhering to wall 174E as the result of the sterilization cycle, described in detail below in relation to
Each latch connecting pad 180 is constructed and arranged to have attached thereto a latch locking bracket 182 via fasteners 183. The latches 132 and 136 when latched to locking bracket 182 pulls or draws the edge 176 down into the gasket or seal 138.
The removable filter assembly 140L includes a filter keeper frame 141L, a filter 145L and a plurality of fasteners 146L. Each fastener 146L includes a knob head 146A and threaded shank 146B wherein one end of the threaded shank 146B is coupled to the knob head 146A. The filter 145L may be a Hepa Filter.
In the exemplary embodiment, the filter keeper frame 141L has an interior profile of a four leaf clover. Nonetheless other geometrical and non-geometrical shapes may be used such as, without limitation, circular, elliptical, square, triangular, rectangular, and other shapes. Although the removable filter assemblies 140L and 140B have the same general shape, the shapes of the removable filter assembly 140L may be different and varied from the removable filter assembly 140B.
A filter cover 139 is also used to cover and protect the filter 145L. The filter cover 139 is intended to be attached to the top exterior side of the transparent box-shaped structure 172.
The top exterior surface of the top wall 174E in proximity to the corners includes a set of lid interconnectors 178 having at least one aperture 178A formed therein. The set of lid interconnectors 178 allows two adjacent SSDT devices to be horizontally stacked vertically wherein the CFBC assembly 104 of one SSDT device can be stacked above the other SSDT device as described in relation to
The top vent opening or port 185 includes a frame flange channel 186 in an underside of the top wall 174E, the frame flange channel 186 being dimensioned to receive therein the inner flange 142L to crimp and secure a perimeter of the filter 145L across the vent opening or port 185. The filter 145L may also be stretched taut across the vent opening or port 185. A lip LPT is coupled to the top of wall 174E wherein the filter cover 139 is selectively attached to lip LPT to cover the filter 145L.
The top vent opening or port includes apertures 187 in the underside of the top wall 174E. The apertures 187 are to be aligned with apertures of the filter keeper frame 141L. The depth of the apertures 187 does not extend through the thickness of the top wall 174E. In other words, the aperture 187 is sufficiently deep to receive and secure the threaded shank 146B of fastener 146L without the threaded shank 146B passing through to the underside of the top wall 174E. The apertures should be concealed or closed to the exterior and do not provide a path for bacteria or microbial organism intrusion.
In the exemplary embodiment, the TFL assembly 170 has a length of approximately 20-26 inches, a depth of approximately 18-24 inches and a height of approximately 10-16 inches. The height is measured from the edge 176 to the top of interconnectors 178. As can be appreciated, the TFL assembly 170 may have other dimensions but is generally limited to the area within an autoclave.
In the exemplary embodiment, the transparent box-shaped structure 172 and interconnectors 178 are made of clear polypropylene, a clear plastomer, propylene homopolymers or other transparent or translucent plastics. All transparent material may be translucent.
The four vertical walls 1302A, 1302B, 1302C and 1302D and a bottom horizontal wall 1302E of tray 1300 are transparent or translucent and permits visual inspection of a chemical indicator CI (
The tray 1300 is made of clear polypropylene, a clear plastomer, propylene homopolymers or other transparent or translucent plastics. In an alternate embodiment, the tray 1300 may be a stainless steel tray. The tray 1300 may be made of other materials (plastic or metals) suitable for repeated use in a high heat and wet environments of an autoclave.
The tray 1300 has a generally rectangular shape. However other shapes may be used. For example, tray 1300 may be square or round.
In
In the exemplary embodiment, no trays are shown on the CFBC assembly 1404. However, trays may be placed on the CFBC assembly 1404. The filter 1445 is shown covering the vent opening or port 1485. The latches 1432 are shown taped with strips of sterilization tape 1402. Additionally, latch bars are banded with integrity bands IB such that the latch bars if lifted would break the integrity band IB to indicate a compromise or tampering.
The transparent properties of the TFL assembly 1470 allow multiple trays to be viewed so that instruments can be quickly identified and accessed. The plurality of trays can be viewed 360 degrees while the TFL assembly 1470 remains sealed and latched.
The SSDT device 1400 has a generally rectangular or box shape. However, other geometrical and non-geometrical shapes may be used.
As can be appreciated, one or more of the steps may be omitted in the pre-sterilization phase 1510 of the medical instrument tray sterilization process.
One or more of the steps of the sterilization method 1500 may be performed in the depicted order, contemporaneously with other steps, in parallel or in a different order.
The sterilization phase 1512 includes tailorizing the SSDT devices 1800A-1800D (
At Step 1710, a chemical indicator (CI) 1401 (
Simultaneously with, before or after the packaging of the trays 1300, each SSDT device 1800A, 1800B, 1800C and 1800D of the SSDT system is also tailorized. The SSDT system includes a plurality of SSDT devices 1800A-1800D. The system may include transparent trays 1300 or other metal trays. At a minimum each SSDT device 1800A-1800D has two internal filters (e.g., filters 145B and 145L) to be installed or replaced to cover vent openings or ports 110 and 185 in the CFBC assembly 106 and the TFL assembly 170, respectively. The filters 145B and 145L are installed on the interior and are generally tamperproof once installed and the TFL assembly 170 latched. When the filters 145B and 145L are installed, the vent openings or ports 110 and 185 are left open but are filtered so that there is ingress and egress of steam, a sterilant agent and/or air through the vent openings or ports when sterilization takes place in the autoclave or sterilization chamber.
Tailorizing the SSDT devices for a particular surgeon may include installing or removing wheel assemblies 190. The SSDT devices 1800A-1800D are modular and may be selectively linked for a particular surgery. Therefore, if the shelf assembly 150 is not necessary, the shelf assembly 150 may be removed. Depending on the size of some items a surgeon may request, the shelf assembly 150 may need to be removed to provide clearance within the interior chamber CH1. Removal of the shelf assembly 150 would provide a larger distance or clearance between the underside of the TFL assembly 170 and the base carriage platform 106 to accommodate objects that may be much larger than a tray.
Furthermore, the shelf assembly may be removed so that the SSDT device would support one or two trays. For example, if a particular surgeon only requires ten (10) trays, three SSDT devices may be used. In one example, one SSDT device would include four trays; a second SSDT device would include four trays; and a third SSDT device would include two trays and/or other items.
If a second surgeon only wanted 4 trays, when sterilizing, three SSDT devices would be associated and tailorized for the first surgeon while a fourth SSDT device would be associated and tailorized for a second surgeon. When autoclaving, one of the top SSDT devices can be removed after sterilization so that it can be separately transported to a separate operating room (OR). The translucent or transparent properties, allows the personnel to easily visually inspect the instruments and separate SSDT devices without compromising the integrity banding, CIs and latch taping.
Referring now to
In
The horizontal stacking of the SSDT devices, and/or hitching SSDT devices serve to create a customized set of SSDT devices for use in packaging medical instruments for a single surgical procedure. Each SSDT device 1800A-1800D may be used to sterilize up to four trays 1300 with surgical instruments or other trays. Two SSDT device 1800A and 1800B may be used to sterilize 4-8 instrument trays. Nonetheless, each SSDT device may sterilize one or more instrument trays up to four trays per SSDT device. As can be appreciated, the SSDT device may be made bigger to support additional instrument trays.
Most autoclaves would only fit two horizontally stacked SSDT devices 1800A and 1800B on a first layer. Nonetheless, the number of horizontally stacked SSDT devices is a function of the size of the autoclave. The linking or hitching of the SSDT devices 1800A-1800B allows the set of SSDT devices to be easily moved off and on the autoclave carriage 1910 (
In the exemplary embodiment, the horizontally stacked SSDT devices are hitched or linked together so that when the set of SSDT devices are off-loaded from the autoclave carriage 1910, all SSDT devices 1800A, 1800B, 1800C and 1800D move together in unison. The wheel assemblies 1890A and 1890B of the first layer SSDT devices 1800A and 1800B are used to roll the set of SSDT devices 1800A, 1800B, 1800C and 1800D off and on to the autoclave carriage 1910.
At Step 1714, a plurality of loaded medical instrument trays T1A-T4A are placed in the first SSDT device 1800A and trays T1B-T4B are placed on the second SSDT device 1800B of the first layer, as best seen in
At Step 1716, the TFL assemblies 1870A and 1870B of the first and second SSDT devices 1800A and 1800B, respectively, are installed to close the SSDT devices 1800A and 1800B. Thereafter, at Step 1718, the TFL assemblies 1870A and 1870B are latched and locked which automatically seals the TFL assemblies 1870A and 1870B to the CFBC assemblies 1804A and 1804B, respectively.
In the exemplary embodiment, the integrity bands 1891A and 1891B are installed to band the latching bar. The integrity band serves to indicate that the latches have not been opened since sterilization. Each SSDT device 1800A and 1800B includes two integrity bands. The integrity band may be installed before Step 1720, during Step 1730 or some other time before the system is placed in the autoclave.
At Step 1720, a third CFBC assembly 1804C of a third SSDT device 1800C and/or a fourth CFBC assembly 1804D of a fourth SSDT device 1800D are stacked vertically on top of the SSDT device 1800B and 1800A, respectively, as best seen in
At Step 1724, the TFL assemblies 1870C and 1870D of the third and fourth SSDT devices 1800C and 1800D, respectively, are installed to close the SSDT devices 1800C and 1800D. Thereafter, at Step 1726, the TFL assemblies 1870C and 1870D are latched and locked which automatically seals the TFL assemblies 1870C and 1870D to the CFBC assemblies 1804C and 1804D, respectively, of the SSDT devices 1800C and 1800D, respectively, as best seen in
Referring again to
In an exemplary embodiment, all SSDT devices 1800A-1800D include a set of interlock connectors 1827A and 1827B that allow the devices to be selectively horizontally stacked and connected. The interconnectors (e.g., interconnectors 178) on the TFL assemblies allow the devices to be vertically stacked. As can be appreciated, the size of the SSDT device 1800A-1800D may vary. For example, the second layer SSDT devices stacked above the first layer SSDT device may have a shorter height. Nonetheless, all devices may have the same or different height, width and depth.
In an alternate embodiment, the SSDT devices on the second layer may be made smaller so that two side-by-side SSDT devices can fit over a single SSDT device on the first layer. In this case additional interconnectors on the TFL assemblies may be needed.
During sterilization, the system, since modular, may only use three stacked SSDT devices. The three SSDT devices may include a primary SSDT device (e.g., SSDT device 1800A) with one SSDT device 1800D stacked vertically above the SSDT device 1800A and another SSDT device 1800B stacked horizontally with respect to the primary SSDT device 1800A.
Alternately, in lieu of SSDT device 1800D, the SSDT device 18000 could be stacked on top of SSDT device 1800B with location of the SSDT 1800D empty.
Nonetheless, the system may include four SSDT devices 1800A-1800D. The four SSDT devices 1800A-1800D may each be horizontally stacked in series. Alternately, the four SSDT devices 1800A-1800D may be stacked as two rows and two columns. Other arrangements are provided. If only two SSDT devices are needed, the stacking arrangement of SSDT devices 1800A and 1800D may be used.
Referring now to
Once the one or more the SSDT devices 1800A-1800D are taped and banded for integrity, the set of SSDT devices 1800A-1800D are delivered to the autoclave 1920 or sterilization chamber (e.g., autoclave) using the autoclave carriage 1910, at Step 1732.
At Step 1734, the set of SSDT devices 1900A-1900D are rolled into the autoclave 1920 or sterilization chamber. The wheel assemblies of the SSDT devices 1900A-1900B horizontally stacked serve to assist in the rolling of the set of SSDT devices 1800A-1800D off of the autoclave carriage 1910 and into the autoclave. The wheel assemblies also allow the set of SSDT devices 1800A-1800D to be rolled back onto the autoclave carriage 1910.
At Step 1736, sterilization of the set of SSDT devices 1900A-1900D takes place in the autoclave 1920 or sterilization chamber wherein steam or sterilant agent is permitted to be saturate without air flow. Alternately, the steam or sterilant agent enters from the top and is pulled through to the bottom of the autoclave 1920.
At Step 2016, the steam or sterilant agent is infused into the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B on the first layer through the top vent opening or ports (e.g., vent openings or ports 185) of the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B. Additionally, at Step 2018, the sterilant agent or steam existing or pulled out through the bottom vent opening or port (e.g., vent openings or ports 110) in the SSDT devices 1900C and 1900D is infused through the top vent opening or port (e.g., vent openings or ports 185) on the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B, respectively, where the interior chambers of the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B are filled.
At Step 2020, the medical instruments and trays within the interior chamber of SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B are sterilized by the steam or sterilant agent. At Step 2022, the steam or sterilant agent is channeled out through the bottom vent openings or ports (e.g., vent openings or ports 110) of the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B.
The autoclave 1920 may have a drying cycle to dry the fluid of the steam or sterilant agent. Therefore, during the drying cycle, at Step 2030, the air or heated air will enter the sterilization chamber. At Step 2032, the air or heated air is infused through the vent openings or ports (e.g., vent openings or ports 185) at the top of each SSDT device 1900C and 1900D. The interior chamber, trays and instruments within the SSDT devices 1900C and 1900D of the second layer are dried with the air, at Step 2034.
At Step 2036, the air is infused into the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B on the first layer through the top vent openings or ports (e.g., vent openings or ports 185) of the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B. Additionally, at Step 2038, the air existing or pulled out through the bottom vent openings or ports (e.g., vent openings or ports 110) in the SSDT devices 1900C an 1900D is infused through the top vent openings or ports (e.g., vent openings or ports 185) on the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B, respectively, where the chambers of the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B are filled with the air for drying.
At Step 2040, the medical instruments and trays within the chamber of SSDT device 1900A and 1900B are dried by the air. At Step 2042, the air is channel out through the bottom vent openings or ports (e.g., vent openings or ports 110) of the SSDT devices 1900A and 1900B.
During the sterilizing step, the autoclave 1920, in general, infuses the autoclave chamber with a sterilant agent or steam for a steam or sterilizing cycle. The steam or sterilizing cycle is generally followed by a drying cycle. The SSDT devices 1900A-1900D are subjected to a steam cycle followed by a drying cycle. The steam cycle may be 4 minutes. The drying cycle may be 40 minutes. Nonetheless, other cycle times may be employed and may be a function of the autoclave operation.
The filter is made of a material that permits passage of sterilizing fluids while excluding passage of microorganisms. In an exemplary embodiment, the single-use disposable filter includes a temperature sensitive indicator embedded within the fibers of the filter. A portion of the single-use disposable filter may automatically provide an indicator such as a color or image responsive to the sterilization temperatures.
In an autoclave where the sterilant agent or steam is forced, the steam or sterilant agent is pulled through the top vent opening or port to the bottom vent opening or port through the shelf assembly and trays and into the lower SSDT device immediately below the top SSDT device. The bottom vent opening or port in the top SSDT device is aligned with the top vent opening or port in the lower SSDT device which provides a path for the sterilant agent or steam from the top SSDT device to the bottom SSDT device. The forced air pulls the sterilant agent from the interior chamber of the bottom SSDT device out through the bottom vent opening or port thereof and out of the autoclave.
In another exemplary embodiment, there is no forced air with the sterilant agent or steam, the steam or sterilant agent saturates the sterilization chamber of the autoclave and falls under gravity toward the bottom the of sterilization chamber of the autoclave. Thus, the steam or sterilant agent enters the interior chamber of the SSDT device through the vent openings or ports. Specifically, the top vent opening or port on the top SSDT device receives the sterilant agent or steam which falls under gravity. Thus, the sterilant agent or steam under gravity would transfer to a bottom SSDT device through alignment of the top vent opening or port of the bottom SSDT device and the bottom vent opening or port in an upper SSDT device stacked above the bottom SSDT device. The sterilant agent or steam falls under gravity from the interior chamber of the bottom SSDT device out through the bottom vent opening or port thereof and out to the autoclave.
Referring again to
At Step 1740, all CI and/or other indicators should be inspected as well as the sterilization tape and filters. In the exemplary embodiment, the filters may be configured to change colors based on the sterilization process.
At Step 1742, the instruments in the trays may be inspected before leaving the sterilization area to make sure the proper instruments for the scheduled surgery and surgeon are fully assembled and ready for use. The transparent properties of the TFL assemblies allows the trays and instrument to be inspected in approximately 360 degrees when on the shelf assembly. The trays under the shelf may also be inspected.
At Step 1744, the protection filter covers 139 (
Thus, personnel may visually inspect the CIs, integrity bands and the instruments before transporting the SSDT system or separated SSDT devices to an operating room or storage area without opening the TFL assemblies or compromising the CIs, integrity bands or seals. The ability to visually inspect instruments without compromising the CIs, integrity bands or seals will serve to minimize delivering the wrong or insufficient set of surgical instruments to a particular operating room and surgeon. In the know systems the filter wrap or integrity bands are compromised in order to take a look at the instruments.
Before the SSDT device(s) are removed from the sterilization area, filter covers are installed over the vents or ports. Thus the set of SSDT devices may be stored.
Sterilization phase 1512 is followed by the post-sterilization phase 1514. During the post-sterilization phase 1514, personnel will transport the visually inspected unsealed set of SSDT devices to the operating room or storage area. The SSDT devices can be visually inspected when sealed and locked in the operating room or storage area to check for the correct set of instrument trays without compromising the CI, integrity band or seal. When opening the SSDT device, the integrity band is removed and latched unlatched. If sterilization tape is used, the tape is removed. Thereafter, instrument trays from the SSDT device are removed.
The SSDT device permits ingress and egress of a sterilizing agent but bars entry of microorganisms which could contaminate the materials and instruments stored within. The devices are configured to maintain the sterility of the trays, instruments and other items until the TFL assembly is removed.
While the present invention has been described with respect to various features, aspects, and embodiments, those skilled and unskilled in the art will recognize the invention is not so limited. Other variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) device for sterilizing medical instrument trays with instruments, the SSDT device comprising:
- a transparent filtered lid (TFL) assembly configured to provide a transparent interior chamber within which the medical instrument trays and the instruments are sterilized, stored, displayed and transported, the TFL including a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors; and
- a configurable filtered base carriage (CFBC) assembly configured to latch and seal thereto a bottom edge of the TFL assembly, the CFBC assembly includes a base carriage platform having a plurality of base interconnectors being configured to, in a first mode, have a plurality of wheels selectively attached thereto and, in a second mode, interconnect to a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors of another TFL assembly.
2. The device according to claim 1, further comprising:
- a shelf assembly coupled to the CFBC assembly, the shelf assembly having a shelf elevated above the base carriage platform and being configured to stack thereon a first set of medical instrument trays with a first number of instruments wherein the base carriage platform is configured to stack below the shelf a second set of medical instrument trays with a second number of instruments.
3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the TFL assembly, the CBFC assembly and the shelf assembly are made of plastic material configured to withstand temperatures within an autoclave.
4. The device according to claim 1, further comprising:
- a first disposable filter removably coupled to the TFL assembly; and
- a second disposable filter removably coupled to the base carriage platform of the CFBC assembly, wherein the first disposable filter and the second disposable filter are vertically aligned and configured to permit ingress or egress of steam, sterilant agent or air therethrough while filtering bacteria or microbial organisms.
5. The device according to claim 4, further comprising:
- a first filter cover configured to be attached to an exterior top side of the TFL assembly over the first disposable filter; and
- a second filter cover configured to be attached to an exterior underside of the base carriage platform over the second disposable filter.
6. The device according to claim 1, further comprising:
- a first handle bar coupled to a first side of the base carriage platform; and
- a second handle bar coupled to a second side of the base carriage platform.
7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the base carriage platform comprises:
- first interlock connectors on the first side of the base carriage platform; and
- a second interlock connector on the second side of the base carriage platform wherein a first handle bar is removably coupled to the first interlock connectors and the second interlock connector.
8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the first interconnector of the base carriage platform is configured to be selectively attached to another second interlock connector of another CFBC assembly wherein the first handle bar is configured to hitch together the first interlock connectors to said another second interlock connector of the another CFBC assembly.
9. The device according to claim 1, further comprising:
- the plurality of wheels; and
- a plurality of locking pins, a respective one locking pin being removably coupled to both a respective one base interconnector and a respective one wheel to selectively lock or unlock the wheel to the CFBC assembly.
10. The device according to claim 1, wherein the TFL assembly includes:
- a top ceiling wall having a vent opening formed therein, the vent opening configured to permit ingress or egress of steam, sterilant agent or air therethrough;
- a plurality of vertical side walls, vertically depending from the top ceiling wall, wherein the top ceiling wall and the plurality of vertical side walls are transparent; and
- a lid filter assembly removable attached to an underside of the top ceiling wall and around the vent opening, the lid filter assembly including a filter configured to cover the vent opening.
11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the top ceiling includes a sloped surface to promote fluid run-off in a direction toward the plurality of vertical side walls.
12. The device according to claim 10, wherein an base carriage platform comprises:
- a base vent opening configured to be covered by a second filter; and
- a plurality of treads arranged around the base vent opening, wherein the treads have a same vertical height and a space between adjacent treads permits a flow of steam, a sterilant agent or air and fluid run-off
13. The device according to claim 1, wherein the trays includes four trays.
14. The device according to claim 1, wherein the CBFC assembly further comprises:
- a gasket embedded in and in proximity to a perimeter of the base carriage platform; and
- a plurality of latches coupled to the base carriage platform, the plurality of latching being configured to be latched to the TFL assembly and pull down an edge of the TFL assembly into the gasket.
15. The device according to claim 1, wherein an underside of the CFBC assembly is configured to be vertically stacked on top of a top exterior side of the TFL assembly.
16. A transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) device for sterilizing medical instrument trays with instruments, the SSDT device comprising:
- a transparent filtered lid (TFL) assembly configured to provide a transparent interior chamber within which the medical instrument trays and the instruments are sterilized, stored, displayed and transported;
- a configurable filtered base carriage (CFBC) assembly configured to latch and seal thereto a bottom edge of the TFL assembly; and
- a shelf assembly coupled to the CFBC assembly, the shelf assembly having a shelf elevated above the CFBC assembly and being configured to stack thereon a first set of medical instrument trays with a first number of instruments and permits ingress or egress of steam, a sterilant agent or air and the CFBC assembly is configured to stack thereon and below the shelf a second set of medical instrument trays with a second number of instruments.
17. The device according to claim 16, wherein the TFL includes a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors; and the CFBC assembly comprises a base carriage platform having a plurality of base interconnectors being configured to, in a first mode, have a plurality of wheels selectively attached thereto and, in a second mode, interconnect to a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors of another TFL assembly.
18. The device according to claim 17, wherein the TFL assembly, the CBFC assembly and the shelf assembly are made of plastic material configured to withstand temperatures within an autoclave.
19. The device according to claim 16, further comprising:
- a first disposable filter removably coupled to the TFL assembly; and
- a second disposable filter removably coupled to the CFBC assembly, wherein the first disposable filter and the second disposable filter are vertically aligned and configured to permit ingress or egress of the steam, the sterilant agent or the air therethrough while filtering bacteria or microbial organisms.
20. The device according to claim 19, further comprising:
- a first filter cover configured to be attached to an exterior top side of the TFL assembly over the first disposable filter; and
- a second filter cover configured to be attached to an exterior underside of the CFBC assembly over the second disposable filter.
21. The device according to claim 16, wherein the CFBC assembly comprise a base carriage platform; and further comprising:
- a first handle bar coupled to a first side of the base carriage platform; and
- a second handle bar coupled to a second side of the base carriage platform.
22. The device according to claim 16, wherein the base carriage platform comprises:
- first interlock connectors on the first side of the base carriage platform; and
- a second interlock connector on the second side of the base carriage platform wherein a first handle bar is removably coupled to the first interlock connectors and the second interlock connector.
23. The device according to claim 22, wherein the first interconnector of the base carriage platform is configured to be selectively attached to another second interlock connector of another CFBC assembly wherein the first handle bar is configured to hitch together the first interlock connectors to said another second interlock connector of the another CFBC assembly.
24. The device according to claim 16, further comprising:
- the plurality of wheels; and
- a plurality of locking pins, a respective one locking pin being removably coupled to both the CFBC assembly and a respective one wheel to selectively lock or unlock the wheel to the CFBC assembly.
25. The device according to claim 16, wherein the TFL assembly includes:
- a top ceiling wall having a vent opening formed therein, the vent opening configured to permit ingress or egress of the steam, the sterilant agent or the air therethrough;
- a plurality of vertical side walls, vertically depending from the top ceiling wall, wherein the top ceiling wall and the plurality of vertical side walls are transparent; and
- a lid filter assembly removable attached to an underside of the top ceiling wall and around the vent opening, the lid filter assembly including a filter configured to cover the vent opening.
26. The device according to claim 25, wherein the top ceiling includes a sloped surface to promote fluid run-off in a direction toward the plurality of vertical side walls.
27. The device according to claim 25, wherein the CFBC assembly comprises:
- a base carriage platform comprising: a base vent opening configured to be covered by a second filter; and a plurality of treads arranged around the base vent opening, wherein the treads have a same vertical height and a space between adjacent treads permits a flow of the steam, the sterilant agent or the air and fluid run-off.
28. The device according to claim 27, wherein the trays includes four trays.
29. The device according to claim 27, wherein the CBFC assembly further comprises:
- a gasket embedded in and in proximity to a perimeter of the base carriage platform; and
- a plurality of latches coupled to the base carriage platform, the plurality of latching being configured to be latched to the TFL assembly and pull down an edge of the TFL assembly into the gasket.
30. The device according to claim 16, wherein an underside of the CFBC assembly is configured to be vertically stacked on top of a top exterior side of the TFL assembly.
31. A transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) system for sterilizing medical instrument trays with instruments, the SSDT system comprising:
- a plurality of transparent sterilization, storage, display and transportation (SSDT) devices configured to be stacked vertically or horizontally, each SSDT device comprising: a transparent filtered lid (TFL) assembly configured to provide a transparent interior chamber within which the medical instrument trays and the instruments are sterilized, stored, displayed and transported, the TFL including a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors; and a configurable filtered base carriage (CFBC) assembly configured to latch and seal thereto a bottom edge of the TFL assembly, the CFBC assembly includes a base carriage platform having a plurality of base interconnectors being configured to, in a first mode, have a plurality of wheels selectively attached thereto and, in a second mode, interconnect to a plurality of exterior lid interconnectors of another TFL assembly of the plurality of SSDT devices.
32. The system according to claim 31, wherein said each SSDT device comprises:
- a shelf assembly coupled to the CFBC assembly, the shelf assembly having a shelf elevated above the base carriage platform and being configured to stack thereon a first set of medical instrument trays with a first number of instruments wherein the base carriage platform is configured to stack below the shelf a second set of medical instrument trays with a second number of instruments.
33. The system according to claim 31, wherein said each SSDT device further comprises:
- a first disposable filter removably coupled to the TFL assembly; and
- a second disposable filter removably coupled to the base carriage platform of the CFBC assembly, wherein the first disposable filter and the second disposable filter are vertically aligned and configured to permit ingress or egress of steam, sterilant agent or air therethrough while filtering bacteria or microbial organisms.
34. The system according to claim 33, wherein said each SSDT device further comprises:
- a first filter cover configured to be attached to an exterior top side of the TFL assembly over the first disposable filter; and
- a second filter cover configured to be attached to an exterior underside of the base carriage platform over the second disposable filter.
35. The system according to claim 31, wherein said each SSDT device further comprises:
- a first handle bar coupled to a first side of the base carriage platform; and
- a second handle bar coupled to a second side of the base carriage platform.
36. The system according to claim 31, wherein the base carriage platform comprises:
- first interlock connectors on the first side of the base carriage platform; and
- a second interlock connector on the second side of the base carriage platform wherein a first handle bar is removably coupled to the first interlock connectors and the second interlock connector of the base carriage platform is configured to be selectively attached to another second interlock connector of another CFBC assembly.
37. The system according to claim 31, wherein said each SSDT device further comprises:
- the plurality of wheels; and
- a plurality of locking pins, a respective one locking pin being removably coupled to both a respective one base interconnector and a respective one wheel to selectively lock or unlock the wheel to the CFBC assembly.
38. The system according to claim 31, wherein the TFL assembly of said each SSDT device includes:
- a top ceiling wall having a vent opening formed therein, the vent opening configured to permit ingress or egress of steam, sterilant agent or air therethrough;
- a plurality of vertical side walls, vertically depending from the top ceiling wall, wherein the top ceiling wall and the plurality of vertical side walls are transparent; and
- a lid filter assembly removable attached to an underside of the top ceiling wall and around the vent opening, the lid filter assembly including a filter configured to cover the vent opening.
39. The system according to claim 40, wherein an base carriage platform comprises:
- a base vent opening configured to be covered by a second filter;
- a plurality of treads arranged around the base vent opening, wherein the treads have a same vertical height and a space between adjacent treads permits a flow of steam, a sterilant agent or air and fluid run-oft
- a gasket embedded in and in proximity to a perimeter of the base carriage platform; and
- a plurality of latches coupled to the base carriage platform, the plurality of latching being configured to be latched to the TFL assembly and pull down an edge of the TFL assembly into the gasket.
40. The system according to claim 31, wherein an underside of the CFBC assembly is configured to be vertically stacked on top of a top exterior side of the TFL assembly of another SSDT device of the plurality of SSDT devices.
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 23, 2010
Publication Date: May 12, 2011
Inventors: Timothy J. Ladison (Williamsburg, VA), Christina Jo (Dindl) Snyder (Sudlersville, MD)
Application Number: 12/799,380