Sterilizer

Abstract

The present invention is of a sterilization device, which features a sterilization chamber for accommodating at least one item for sterilization, a power means for powering the device, a means for providing a sterilization medium for sterilizing the item and a plurality of sterilization cycle programs. The plurality of sterilization cycle programs include at least one S class sterilization cycle program and at least one B class sterilization cycle program. In a first state the sterilization device provides sterilization using the at least one S class sterilization cycle program and the at least one B class sterilization cycle program is locked and unavailable for use by a user. The present invention provides a sterilization device which is adaptable to unlock and provide B class sterilization. Furthermore, the present invention provides a method of converting a convertible S Class sterilization device to a B Class sterilization device.

Claims

1. A sterilization device comprising: a sterilization chamber for accommodating at least one item for sterilization; a power means for powering the device; a means for providing a sterilization medium for sterilizing the at least one item; and a plurality of sterilization cycle programs comprising: at least one S class sterilization cycle program; and at least one B class sterilization cycle program.

2. The sterilization device of claim 1, wherein in a first state the sterilization device provides sterilization using the at least one S class sterilization cycle program and the at least one B class sterilization cycle program is locked and unavailable for use by a user.

3. The sterilization device of claim 2, comprising a second state and wherein in the second state the sterilization device provides the at least one B Class sterilization cycle program unlocked and available for use by a user.

4. The sterilization device of claim 2, wherein the at least one locked B class sterilization cycle program is configured to be unlocked with a code.

5. (canceled)

6. (canceled)

7. (canceled)

8. (canceled)

9. (canceled)

10. (canceled)

11. The sterilization device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises at least one air removal system and wherein the air removal system is configured to provide air removal from the sterilization chamber and wherein the at least one air removal system comprises a steam pulsing system comprising water, a water pump and a water heater and wherein the sterilization chamber comprises: at least one inlet for at least one of steam and water; and at least one outlet for at least one of air and steam; and wherein the steam pulsing system is connected to the at least one inlet of the sterilization chamber.

12. (canceled)

13. The sterilization device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises at least one air removal system and wherein the air removal system is configured to provide air removal from the sterilization chamber and wherein the at least one air removal system comprises a vacuum system and wherein the sterilization chamber comprises at least one valve and the vacuum system is connected to the at least one valve.

14. The sterilization device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises at least one air removal system and wherein when the device is in a first state and the at least one program for providing B class sterilization is locked, the at least one air removal system is configured to provide air removal from the sterilization chamber sufficient for S class sterilization and wherein when the device is configured to a second state and the at least one program for providing B class sterilization is unlocked, the at least one air removal system is configured to provide air removal sufficient for producing B class sterilization.

15. (canceled)

16. The sterilization device of claim 14, wherein when the device is configured to a second state and the at least one program for B class sterilization cycle is unlocked, the device provides S class sterilization or B class sterilization.

17. (canceled)

18. (canceled)

19. (canceled)

20. (canceled)

21. The sterilization device of claim 1, further comprising at least one controller for controlling the sterilization cycles of the sterilization device.

22. (canceled)

23. (canceled)

24. (canceled)

25. (canceled)

26. A sterilization system comprising: the sterilization device of claim 1, wherein the at least one B class sterilization cycle program is in a locked state and cannot be run in a locked state and wherein the sterilization device provides S class sterilization and is adaptable to unlock and provide B class sterilization; and a code for unlocking the at least one locked B class sterilization cycle.

27. (canceled)

28. (canceled)

29. (canceled)

30. A method of sterilization, the method comprising: providing a device of claim 2; placing at least one item in the sterilization chamber; and running at least one sterilization cycle for sterilizing the at least one item.

31. (canceled)

32. A method of converting a sterilization device for providing S class sterilization into a sterilization device for providing B class sterilization, the method comprising: providing a device of claim 2, wherein the device is in a first state; and inputting a code for unlocking the at least one B class sterilization cycle program for providing the sterilization device with at least one available B class sterilization cycle program and for converting the sterilization device from a first state wherein the at least one B class sterilization cycle is locked into a second state wherein the at least one B class sterilization cycle program is unlocked.

33. The method of sterilization of claim 30, the method comprising: providing the device of claim 2, wherein the device is in a first state and the at least one B class sterilization cycle program is locked; unlocking the at least one B class sterilization cycle program to provide at least one available B class sterilization cycle program; and running at least one B class sterilization cycle for sterilizing the at least one item.

34. (canceled)

35. (canceled)

36. The sterilization device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of sterilization cycle programs further comprises at least one N class sterilization cycle program; and wherein in a first state the sterilization device provides sterilization using the at least one N class sterilization cycle program and the at least one S class sterilization cycle program is locked and unavailable for use by a user and the at least one B class sterilization cycle program is locked and unavailable for use by a user.

37. (canceled)

38. (canceled)

39. The sterilization device of claim 36, wherein in a second state the at least one S class sterilization cycle program is unlocked and available for use by a user and the sterilization device provides sterilization using either the at least one N class sterilization cycle program or the at least one S class sterilization cycle program and the at least one B class sterilization cycle program is locked and unavailable for use by a user.

40. The sterilization device of claim 36, wherein in a third state the at least one B class sterilization cycle program is unlocked and available for use by a user and the at least one S class sterilization program is unlocked and available for use by a user and the sterilization device provides sterilization using either the at least one N class sterilization cycle program or the at least one S class sterilization cycle program or the at least one B class sterilization cycle program.

41. The sterilization device of claim 3736, wherein in a fourth state the at least one B class sterilization cycle program is unlocked and available for use by a user and the sterilization device provides sterilization using either the at least one N class sterilization cycle program or the at least one B class sterilization cycle program and the at least one S class sterilization cycle program is locked and unavailable for use by a user.

42. The sterilization system of claim 26, comprising: a code for unlocking at least one locked S class sterilization cycle; and wherein the plurality of sterilization cycle programs of the sterilization device further comprises at least one N class sterilization cycle program wherein the at least one S class sterilization cycle program is in a locked state; and wherein the sterilization device provides N class sterilization and is adaptable to unlock and provide S class sterilization and B class sterilization.

43. The sterilization system of claim 42, wherein the sterilization device comprises a passive steam air removal system and at least one of a steam pulsing system and a vacuum system to provide air removal from the sterilization chamber.

44. (canceled)

45. (canceled)

46. The method of sterilization of claim 30, wherein the at least one sterilization cycle is an S class sterilization cycle.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The various features of the invention will best be appreciated by simultaneous reference to the description which follows and the accompanying drawings, which are not drawn to scale and in which:

[0024] FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an exemplary sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0025] FIGS. 2a and 2b show schematic views of at least part of an exemplary system for providing sterilization conditions to a sterilizer of the present invention;

[0026] FIGS. 3a and 3b show schematic views of an exemplary sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0027] FIG. 4 shows a schematic view of exemplary programs of an exemplary sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0028] FIGS. 5a and 5b shows schematic views of exemplary programs of an exemplary sterilizer with an unlocked Class B sterilization cycle program according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0029] FIGS. 6a-6e show schematic views of an exemplary sterilizer system according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0030] FIG. 7 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method of converting an exemplary Class S convertible sterilizer to a Class B sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0031] FIG. 8 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method of converting an exemplary Class N convertible sterilizer to a Class B sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0032] FIG. 9 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method of use of an exemplary sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0033] FIG. 10 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method of use of an exemplary sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention; and

[0034] FIG. 11 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method of use of an exemplary sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] In one aspect the present invention is of a sterilization device. The sterilization device is configured to provide at least one S class sterilization cycle and at least one B class sterilization cycle. The sterilization device provides S Class sterilization and may be adaptable to provide B class sterilization. In an additional aspect the present invention is of a sterilization device which is configured to provide at least one N class sterilization cycle, at least one S class sterilization cycle and at least one B class sterilization cycle. In a further aspect, the present invention provides a sterilization system featuring a sterilization device and a key for unlocking B class sterilization cycles of the sterilization device. In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of converting a sterilization device to a B Class sterilization device. Furthermore, the present invention provides a method of sterilization.

[0036] The device and system of the present invention have many advantages. The invention ensures that a user is not limited to use of only one class of sterilization from a single sterilizer. The invention provides a user with the option of converting a same S Type sterilizer to a B sterilizer at a future date. The invention provides a user with the option of converting a same N Type sterilizer to an S Type sterilizer and/or a B Type sterilizer. The invention also provides a way of reducing waste caused by throwing out of redundant S Type sterilizers and redundant N Type sterilizers. The invention may also enable a user to choose between S Type and B Type sterilization with a single sterilizer. The invention may also facilitate a user having the choice of using an N Type, S Type or B Type sterilization with a single sterilizer.

[0037] As used herein the terms ‘Class’ and ‘Type’ may be used interchangeably.

[0038] As used herein the terms ‘locked’ and ‘locked state’ may include, but are not limited to a state where a sterilization program or cycle is configured so that it cannot be used by a user without being unlocked in a suitable way. The unlocking may be by a suitable key.

[0039] As used herein the term ‘available’ may include, but is not limited to a state where the cycle is configured such that it can be used and run by a user. The term includes the state where the cycle is not locked.

[0040] As used herein the terms ‘adapting’ and ‘adapted’ may include, but are not limited to upgrading and reconfiguring of the sterilizer. The terms may include any suitable method of adapting, such as but not limited to using physical and/or software means.

[0041] As used herein the term ‘distribution system’ may include, but is not limited to any suitable means for providing a material from a first location to a second location. The term includes providing a material from one part of a system to another part of a system.

[0042] As used herein the term ‘sterilization chamber’ may include, but is not limited to a compartment where sterilization may be carried out.

[0043] As used herein the term ‘connection’ may include, but is not limited to direct and indirect attachment.

[0044] As used herein the term ‘inlet’ may include, but is not limited to a means of entry. The term may include any suitable means of entry, such as, but not limited to vents, ducts, pipes, flues and openings.

[0045] As used herein the term ‘outlet’ may include, but is not limited to a means of exit. The term may include an opening or passage configured for letting something out. The term may include vents, pipes, ducts and exits for expelling something.

[0046] As used herein the term ‘channel’ may include, but is not limited to a passage or a structure, which provides a passage or pathway for a material, such as a gas, vapor or liquid to flow along. The term may include a channel made from a material resistant to the material it is carrying. The term may include a channel for a separated passage of a material.

[0047] As used herein the term ‘sterilization device’ may include, but is not limited to a sterilizer, which features a sterilization chamber. The sterilizer may provide the sterilization chamber with sterilization conditions, materials, and other means for facilitating a sterilization process and sterilization of items in the sterilization chamber.

[0048] As used herein the term ‘sterilization’ may include, but is not limited to elimination, killing, removal or deactivation of biological agents, such as, but not limited to microorganisms, pathogens, bacteria, viruses, fungi, spore forms and prions from a specified region. Sterilization may be performed using a sterilization process and may run for longer than is required to provide a sterility assurance level. The term may include a process providing a sterility assurance level of at least 10.sup.−6.

[0049] As used herein the term ‘disinfection’ may include, but is not limited to a process to destroy microorganisms on a specified region. The term includes a method, which is less effective than sterilization at killing microorganisms and may not kill all microorganisms on a specified area, such as resistant bacterial spores.

[0050] As used herein the term ‘sterilization cycle’ may include, but is not limited to at least one stage of a sterilization procedure. The sterilization cycle may include all the stages of the sterilization procedure or only at least one stage.

[0051] As used herein the terms ‘a’ and ‘an’ may mean ‘one’ or ‘more than one’.

[0052] As used herein the terms ‘comprising’, ‘including’, ‘containing’, ‘featuring’, ‘having’ and any forms of the terms thereof are inclusive and open ended and do not exclude additional, elements or methods steps, which are not recited.

[0053] The principles and operation of a system and device, such as a sterilizer, as well as methods of use thereof according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the figures. The figures show non-limiting aspects of the present invention.

[0054] The Sterilization Device

[0055] FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an exemplary sterilizer 10 according to an aspect of the present invention. The sterilizer 10 is configured as a sterilizer for providing S Class sterilization. Non-limiting examples of suitable sterilizers 10 for providing S Class sterilization include steam sterilizers and tabletop autoclaves. The sterilizer 10 is also configured as a sterilizer for providing B Class sterilization. The sterilizer may be a two class sterilizer providing S Class and B Class sterilization cycles.

[0056] In one aspect, the sterilizer features a plurality of states. In a first state, the sterilizer is provided wherein the B Class sterilization cycles are unavailable for use by a user and the user can only use the sterilizer in this first state for S Class sterilization. In this first state, the B Class sterilization cycle programs are in a dormant or locked state. The sterilizer 10 may be adapted to a second state wherein the B Class sterilization cycles are available for use.

[0057] The sterilization device 10 may feature a sterilization chamber 12. The sterilization chamber 12 may be any suitable sterilization chamber and may be constructed from any suitable material, such as, but not limited to stainless steel or polycarbonate. The sterilization chamber 12 may be of any suitable size and shape for sterilizing at least one item. FIG. 1 shows an example of a square shaped sterilization chamber 12, however this is not intended to be limiting. The sterilization chamber 12 may be a single chamber or may include multiple chambers or multiple sub compartments. The sterilization chamber 12 may include any suitable door 14, which can be closed during a sterilization cycle. The door may include any opening and closing mechanism. The sterilizer 10 may include any suitable shelving or racks for placement of items to be sterilized.

[0058] The sterilizer 10 may include at least one system for providing sterilization conditions to the sterilization chamber 12. The at least one system for providing sterilization conditions to the sterilization chamber may include a heating device 16 for providing heat to the sterilization chamber 12. The heating device may be any suitable heating device. One non-limiting example of a suitable heating device is an electrical jacket heater for heating the sterilization chamber. The heating device 16 may be configured so that it surrounds the sterilization chamber 12 or may be positioned in any other suitable way so that it provides uniform heat to the sterilization chamber. The heating device may provide heat of a temperature greater than about 100° C. In some embodiments, the heating device may provide a temperature of greater than about 120° C.

[0059] The at least one system for providing sterilization conditions to the sterilization chamber may include a means 18 for providing steam 20 to the sterilization chamber 12. The means 18 for providing steam 20 to the sterilization chamber may be positioned externally from the sterilization chamber 12. As shown schematically in FIG. 2a, the means 18 for providing steam 20 to the sterilization chamber 12 may include a steam supply 20 or a source of suitable water 22 for conversion to steam 20. The water 22 may be stored in a reservoir 24. In some embodiments, the sterilizer 10 may be connectable to an external water source, such as a water tap. A suitable water pump 26 may pump the water. The means 18 for providing steam 20 to the sterilization chamber 12 may be suitably connected to at least one steam inlet 28 of the sterilization chamber 12 to provide steam 20 into the chamber 12. In one non-limiting embodiment, the steam 20 may be produced by a steam generator 30, such as but not limited to an electrical pipe water heating system 30. The resulting steam 20 may be provided to the sterilization chamber by a steam distribution channel 32, such as, but not limited to a tubing 32 via a steam valve, which may be upstream 34 and which may be connected to the inlet port 28 of the sterilization chamber 12. The water pump 26 may facilitate providing the steam to the sterilization chamber 12 for sterilization of the contents of the sterilization chamber 12. The water pump 26 may provide water to the steam generator 30 and the steam may flow from the steam generator 30 to the sterilization chamber 12. The water pump 26 may be controlled by a pump control 27 to provide control of steam pulsing. As such, the means 18 for providing steam 20 to the sterilization chamber may be configured as a steam pulsing system 46, which may feature the water pump 26 and the water heating system as shown in FIG. 2b.

[0060] In an alternative example, which is not shown in FIG. 1, the means 18 for providing steam 20 to the sterilization chamber 12 may be positioned in the sterilization chamber 12. In such an example, the means 18 for providing steam 20 may not need a water pump 26 and may produce and provide the steam by a water source and a heating system.

[0061] As shown schematically in FIG. 1, the at least one system for providing sterilization conditions to the sterilization chamber may include means for active air removal 40 from the sterilization chamber 12. The sterilization chamber 12 may include at least one outlet 36 for releasing air and/or steam. In one embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the sterilizer 10 of the present invention has a means for sufficient active air removal for Class S sterilization 42 and the sterilizer 10 has an additional means for sufficient active air removal for Class B sterilization 44. The means for sufficient air removal for Class S sterilization 42 may include a means for providing steam pulsing 46 to the sterilization chamber 12 as described hereinabove and in FIG. 2b and may include the means 18 for providing steam 20 to the sterilization chamber configured as a steam pulsing system 46. The means for sufficient air removal for Class B sterilization 44 may include a vacuum system 48, such as but not limited to a vacuum pump 48 connected in a suitable way to the sterilization chamber 12. In one non-limiting embodiment, the vacuum system 48, such as the vacuum pump 48 is connected to the sterilization chamber 12 with a valve 50. The vacuum system 48 may include any device or component for providing a sufficient vacuum. An additional non-limiting example of a suitable vacuum system 48 is a water pump.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment, shown schematically in FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b, the sterilizer has a means which can be operated to provide sufficient air removal for both Class S and Class B sterilization. The same means may be operated differently with different conditions depending on the Class of sterilization to be achieved. In one non-limiting example shown in FIG. 3a, the means may be a vacuum system 48, such as a vacuum pump 48, which can be operated using conditions for providing Class S sterilization 42 and which can be operated using different parameters for Class B sterilization 44. In such an example, the sterilizer device includes means 18 for providing steam 20 to the sterilization chamber, which in one non-limiting example may be a steam pulsing system 46. However, in this example the function of the steam pulsing system and its operation, is to provide steam for sterilization without the need for the steam pulsing system to be controlled to remove a certain amount of air to result in the desired Class of sterilization. In an alternative non-limiting example, shown schematically in FIG. 3b, the means to provide sufficient air removal for both Class S and Class B sterilization may be a steam pulser 46, which can be operated using conditions for providing Class S sterilization and which can be operated using different parameters for Class B sterilization. In a further non-limiting example, the means may include a combination of a vacuum system 48, such as a vacuum pump 48 and a steam pulser 46 which can be operated using respective conditions for Class S 42 or Class B 44 sterilization.

[0063] As shown schematically in FIG. 1, the sterilizer 10 may include a control 60. The figure shows one non-limiting arrangement of the features of the control. The device may include any suitable arrangement and order of the control components. The control may include a switch 62 to start and stop the sterilization device. The control may include a suitable keyboard 64. The control may include power controlling means 66. The control may include a clock 68 for measuring time. The control may include a timer 70 for setting the time of the sterilization cycle. The control may include a screen 72 and a display 74.

[0064] The control 60 may include different programs 76 of sterilization cycle. The programs may be provided as part of a menu 78. The programs 76 may be preset and/or may be programmable. FIG. 4 shows a schematic view of exemplary programs of an exemplary sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention. The control 60 may include at least one program 76a for a S Class sterilization cycle 42. The at least one program for S Class sterilization may include any suitable number of programs 76a. The control 60 may include at least one program 76b for a B Class sterilization cycle 44. The at least one program 76b for B Class sterilization may include any suitable number of programs 76b. In one non-limiting example, the sterilization device 10 may include at least two B Class sterilization cycle programs 76b. Non-limiting examples of B Class sterilization cycle programs 76b may include a 121° C. B Class cycle and a 134° C. B Class cycle. As previously described, in a first state the at least one program 76b for a B Class sterilization cycle may be unavailable to a user. The sterilizer may include the components for providing B Class sterilization, but in this state the B Class sterilization cycle program 76b may be locked in any suitable way to prevent a user from accessing or using a B Class sterilization cycle. Typically, a user may purchase the sterilizer device of the present invention with the device configured to run S Class sterilization and with the B Class sterilization programs in a locked, unusable state. In such a state, the user can only run Class S sterilization. The sterilizer device may be adaptable to provide the option of a B Class sterilization program to the user. The sterilizer may be adapted, such that the locked B Class sterilization cycle program may be opened with a suitable key resulting in the sterilizer in a second state wherein a B Class sterilization cycle can be run by a user. When a user does not have a key to unlock the B Class sterilization cycles, the B Class sterilization will not be available for use to the user. A suitable key may include a code. The code may be inputted using any suitable method, such as but not limited to imputing the code into the control using the keyboard. In one non-limiting example the code may be inputted remotely. The code may be given to a user in any suitable way, such as, but not limited to by electronic mail, postal delivery, phone, verbally, over the WWW (IoT) network and combinations thereof. The code may be a unique code, which is configured to be different for each device. The code may be any suitable code, such as, but not limited to a QR code, a barcode, a 2D code, a sequence of a suitable number of numbers or, letters, or symbols or combinations thereof. Opening of the locked B Class sterilization cycle and selection of a B Class sterilization cycle may activate the means and parameters sufficient for air removal for Class B sterilization as described above. In one embodiment, unlocking of the B Class sterilization cycles may circumvent the sterilizer S Class sterilization system to only provide a user with options of B Class sterilization cycles 76b as shown schematically in FIG. 5a. In an alternative embodiment, unlocking of the B Class sterilization cycles may provide a user with options of operating either a S Class sterilization cycle 76a or a B Class sterilization cycle 76b as shown schematically in FIG. 5b. In such an embodiment, a user may select which type of sterilization, S Class or B Class to run on an item to be sterilized in the sterilizer device. In a further alternative embodiment, the sterilizer may be provided with both S Class and B Class sterilization classes in an unlocked state and with no need to unlock the sterilizer to provide B Class sterilization. In such an embodiment a user may select either a S Class sterilization cycle 76a or a B Class sterilization cycle 76b as shown schematically in FIG. 5b.

[0065] In some embodiments, the locked sterilization class may be unlocked once and may then remain unlocked. In one embodiment, the at least one B Class sterilization cycles 76b may be relockable. In one non-limiting example, the unlocking of the at least one B Class sterilization cycle 76b may be for a specific time duration after which the B Class sterilization cycles relock 76b. Alternatively, the at least one B Class sterilization cycle 76b may be locked remotely. Such a relockable sterilizer may be suitable for a subscription payment scheme for use of the B Class Sterilization cycles. In one embodiment, the at least one B Class sterilization cycle once unlocked may be made unavailable. Unavailability of B Class sterilization may result from a selection choice in a sterilization cycle menu, such as but not limited to selecting an S Class sterilization menu.

[0066] The controller 60 may include means for controlling the sterilization cycles of the sterilization device. The controller may include a heating control 80 for controlling the temperature provided to the chamber. The device may include at least one thermometer 82 for measuring the temperature. The controller may include a control 84 for controlling the production of steam. The controller may include a means for controlling pulsing of steam 86 provided to the incubation chamber. The controller may control the water pump to control pulsing of steam, which may be by controlling the pump control 27. The controller may include a means for controlling pressure 88. The controller may include a pressure measuring device 90. The controller may include a means for controlling the time of a sterilization cycle 92. The controller may include a means for opening and closing steam inlets 94 for allowing steam into the incubation chamber. The controller may include a means for controlling operation and parameters of a vacuum system, such as a vacuum pump 96. The controller may include means for closing and opening steam and air outlets of the sterilization chamber.

[0067] The sterilizer may include a power supply 100 and electrical connections for powering the sterilization device 10 and its components. The power supply 100 may be any suitable power supply that supplies power. The sterilizer may include a safety valve 102.

[0068] The sterilizer may be constructed from materials suitable for Class S sterilization conditions and suitable for Class B sterilization conditions.

[0069] In one non-limiting embodiment, the sterilizer of the present invention may be configured to provide three classes of sterilization cycle, Class N, Class S and Class B. In such an embodiment, the three class sterilizer may have four states. In a first state, sterilization cycles/s of Class N may be available to a user. The sterilization cycles of Class S and Class B may be locked in any suitable way as described herein for Class B, such as with a lock, which can be opened with a suitable key. In one non-limiting example a different key may unlock each of the locked classes. In a second state, Class S sterilization cycle/s may be unlocked providing a user with unlocked and available sterilization cycles of Class N and Class S. In a third state, Class S and Class B sterilization cycles may be unlocked to provide a user with unlocked and available sterilization cycles of Class N, Class S and Class B. In a fourth state, Class B sterilization cycles may be unlocked providing a user with unlocked and available Class N and Class B sterilization cycles. In one non-limiting embodiment, the three class sterilizer may be provided with Class N, Class S and Class B sterilization cycles, which are available to a user on selection of the desired class of sterilization.

[0070] The three class sterilizer may feature substantially the same components as the two class S and B sterilizer 10 described hereinabove. To avoid repetition the components of the sterilizer 10 which provide Class S and Class B sterilization will not be described again. In the three class sterilizer, Class N sterilization may be provided by gravity displacement of air using steam. Referring to FIG. 1, the means 18 for providing steam 20 to the sterilization chamber 12, which is available in the previously described two class S and B sterilizer can provide steam to the sterilization chamber for passive air removal facilitating Class N sterilization conditions. In a first state, the sterilization device may be configured to only provide passive air removal for Class N sterilization and the conditions and components for providing Class S and Class B are not activated. They can be locked or they can be open and available only on selection of that Class and the resulting reconfiguration of the device, such as unlocking or activating the conditions relating to the selected class of sterilization cycle. Unlocking Class S sterilization cycles may feature opening and making available to the sterilization device air removal by steam pulsing or by a vacuum system, such as a vacuum pump configured with parameters for Class S sterilization as previously described. Unlocking Class B sterilization cycles may feature opening and making available to the sterilization device air removal by steam pulsing or a vacuum system, such as a vacuum pump configured with parameters for Class B sterilization as previously described. The sterilizer may be constructed from materials suitable for Class N sterilization conditions, Class S sterilization conditions and Class B sterilization conditions.

[0071] The sterilizer of the present invention may be suitable for a variety of sterilization applications. Non limiting examples include sterilization of instruments used in medical clinics and all types of dental clinic.

[0072] Sterilization System

[0073] The present invention provides a sterilization system as shown schematically in FIG. 6a. The system features a sterilization device 10 as described hereinabove and in FIGS. 1-4. The device may be a device configured to provide Class S sterilization and Class B sterilization, wherein in a first state the Class B sterilization cycles are locked and unavailable for use. The sterilization system includes a key 110 for unlocking at least one Class B sterilization cycle of the sterilizer 10. In one non-limiting example the key 110 may be a code. The code may be inputted by a user using the sterilizer keyboard 64 or by any suitable method. The code may include software commands to open Class B sterilization cycles. In one non-limiting example, the code may include software commands to lock Class S sterilization cycles. In an alternative non-limiting embodiment, the key may be a physical key. Use of the key with the sterilizer device may facilitate physical connection to the sterilization chamber of any necessary opening or activation of means for active air removal sufficient for Class B sterilization. The physical key may also cause disconnection from the sterilization chamber of the means for active air removal sufficient for Class S sterilization. FIG. 6b shows schematically a non-limiting example of a sterilizer of the present invention including a vacuum system, such as, but not limited to a vacuum pump to provide Class B sterilization. The vacuum system, such as the vacuum pump 48 may include at least one valve 112, which may be provided closed and which may be configured to prevent air removal of the sterilization chamber by the vacuum system, such as the vacuum pump. The vacuum system, such as the vacuum pump may be connected to at least one additional valve 50 to provide control of the air evacuation. Adapting 116 the sterilizer by use of the key 110 may cause opening of the valve 112 on the vacuum system, such as the vacuum pump to allow sufficient air removal from the sterilization chamber and control by valve 50 to provide Class B sterilization. In one embodiment, the key may cause opening and/or closing of any suitable inlet or outlet for facilitating unblocked access of the air removal system to the sterilization chamber for sufficient air removal to provide the target class of sterilization on selection of that sterilization class. In an alternative embodiment as shown schematically in FIG. 6c, a sterilizer may include a vacuum system, such as a vacuum pump 48 configured to provide Class B sterilization, wherein the vacuum system, such as a vacuum pump does not include the at least one valve 112 as described for FIG. 6b. The sterilizer may be adapted to unblock Class B sterilization cycles by employing the code 110. The code 110 may facilitate use of Class B sterilization cycles by providing commands of a suitable sequence, order and parameters for sufficient air removal by the vacuum system, such as the vacuum pump to provide Class B sterilization. In one embodiment as shown schematically in FIG. 6d, the sterilizer may include a steam pulser 46, which can be configured to provide both Class S and Class B sterilization. The sterilizer with blocked Class B sterilization cycles may be adapted 116 to facilitate Class B sterilization by employing the code 110, which provides commands, including commands to the steam pulser 46 of a suitable sequence, order and parameters for sufficient air removal to provide Class B sterilization. In some embodiments as shown schematically in FIG. 6e, a sterilizer with blocked Class B sterilization cycles may include both a vacuum system, such as a vacuum pump 48 and a steam pulser 46 to provide both Class S and Class B sterilization. The sterilizer may be adapted 116 to unblock the Class B sterilization cycles by use of the code 110 which provides commands to facilitate Class B sterilization. Commands may include commands to the relevant air removal system such as to at least one of the steam pulser and the vacuum system, such as the vacuum pump of a suitable sequence, order and parameters for sufficient air removal to provide Class B sterilization.

[0074] In one non-limiting embodiment, the system may include a sterilization device configured to provide Class N, Class S and Class B sterilization, wherein at least one of the Class S and Class B sterilization cycles are locked. The system may include two keys 110, a first key for unlocking Class S sterilization cycles and a second key for unlocking Class B sterilization cycles. The key for unlocking Class B sterilization cycles may work as described for the key for unlocking Class B sterilization cycles in a Class S and Class B sterilizer. Use of the key for unlocking Class S sterilization cycles may facilitate physical connection and/or commands to the sterilization chamber of any necessary opening or activation of means or conditions for active air removal sufficient for Class S sterilization.

[0075] Method of Converting a Sterilizer to a B Class Sterilizer

[0076] The present invention provides a method of converting a convertible Class S sterilizer of the present invention to a Class B sterilizer. FIG. 7 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method of converting an exemplary convertible Class S sterilizer to a Class B sterilizer according to an aspect of the present invention. The method features providing a Class S sterilizer of the present invention 200, which is upgradeable to a sterilizer providing Class B sterilization. The sterilizer includes at least one Class B sterilization cycle program which is locked and which in its Class B locked state cannot be used by a user for Class B sterilization. A user can only use the upgradeable Class S sterilizer in this Class B locked state for a Class S sterilization cycle. The method includes a user obtaining a key for unlocking at least one Class B program 202. The key may be obtained by purchasing it from a suitable source, such as, but not limited to the manufacturer of the sterilizer. The key may be any suitable key, which may include a code. The method features the user inputting the code into the sterilizer device 204. Inputting may be by any suitable way, such as, but not limited to typing the code using a keyboard of the sterilizer. The code may work in any suitable way, such as by software commands to unlock the Class B sterilization cycles. Unlocking may include at least one of activating Class B sterilization cycle programs and physical connection of means for providing conditions for Class B sterilization to the sterilization chamber 206, as described hereinabove. Once the Class B sterilization cycle is unlocked, the sterilizer is configured to provide Class B sterilization, which is available for a user to run a Class B sterilization cycle.

[0077] FIG. 8 shows schematically a flow chart of an exemplary method of converting an exemplary sterilizer providing N Class sterilization to a sterilizer providing B Class sterilization. The method features providing a Class N sterilizer of the present invention 210, which is upgradeable to a sterilizer providing Class B sterilization. The sterilizer includes at least one Class B sterilization cycle program which is locked and which in its Class B locked state cannot be used by a user for Class B sterilization. A user can only use the upgradeable Class N sterilizer in this Class B locked state for a Class N sterilization cycle. The method includes a user obtaining a key for unlocking the at least one Class B program 212. In an embodiment wherein the key is a code, the method features the code being inputted into the sterilizer 214. Inputting the code may be by any suitable method. Inputting the code facilitates unlocking at least one Class B Sterilization program so that it is available for use by a user 216.

[0078] Method of Sterilization

[0079] The present invention provides a method of sterilizing at least one item as shown schematically in the flow chart of FIG. 9. The method includes providing a sterilizer of the present invention, the sterilizer providing Class S sterilization cycles, which are available for use by a user and the sterilizer including at least one Class B sterilization cycle, which is locked and unavailable for use by a user 220. The method includes a user inserting at least one item to be sterilized in the sterilizer 222. The at least one item to be sterilized is an item specified for suitability to be sterilized by a Class S sterilization cycle. The user selects a Class S sterilization program 224. The user runs the sterilization cycle 226 and the sterilizer works to provide the sterilization chamber with the Class S sterilization conditions 228. The Class S sterilization cycle sterilizes the at least one item 230. The order of the steps is not meant to be limiting and any suitable order may be used.

[0080] In an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides a method of sterilizing at least one item as shown schematically in the flow chart of FIG. 10. The method includes providing a sterilizer of the present invention, the sterilizer providing Class S sterilization cycles, which are available for use by a user and the sterilizer including at least one Class B sterilization cycle, which is locked and unavailable for use by a user 250. A user may unlock the sterilizer of the present invention 252 for enabling Class B sterilization as described hereinabove and in FIG. 7. Unlocking may be achieved by inputting a code into the sterilizer 254, which may be done using the sterilizer keyboard. A user may insert at least one item to be sterilized into the sterilization chamber 256. The at least one item may be an item for which the Class S sterilization cycle was not recommended as being sufficient for sterilization of that item and wherein Class B sterilization is needed for sterilization of that item. The user selects a Class B sterilization cycle from the program options 258. The user runs the Class B sterilization program 260. The sterilizer provides the incubation chamber with the Class B sterilization conditions and the at least one item is sterilized under these conditions 262. The order of the steps is not meant to be limiting and any suitable order may be used.

[0081] In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a method of sterilizing at least one item as shown schematically in the flow chart of FIG. 11. The method includes providing a sterilizer of the present invention, the sterilizer providing at least one Class S sterilization cycle, which is available for use by a user and the sterilizer providing at least one Class B sterilization cycle, which is available for use by a user 280. The method includes a user inserting at least one item to be sterilized 282 in the sterilizer. The user selects a Class S or Class B sterilization cycle 284. Selection may depend on the item to be sterilized and which class of sterilization is needed for sterilization of that item. In one non-limiting example, the sterilization device may automatically select which class of sterilization is needed. The user runs the sterilization cycle 286 and the sterilizer works to provide the incubation chamber with the sterilization conditions of the selected class of sterilization 288. The selected sterilization class sterilizes the at least one item 290. The order of the steps is not meant to be limiting and any suitable order may be used.

[0082] Reference is made to the following example, which together with the above descriptions illustrates the invention in a non-limiting fashion.

Example 1

[0083] A dentist purchases a sterilizer of the present invention which provides S Class sterilization and is upgradeable to provide B Class sterilization. She uses the standard mode of the sterilizer for sterilizing dental equipment specified as being suitable for S Class sterilization. The dentist expands her practice and some equipment of her associate cannot be sterilized by S Class sterilization. She does not want to buy a B Class sterilizer. Instead, the dentist buys the code for converting the S Class sterilizer of the present invention to a sterilizer that can provide B Class sterilization. She inputs the code and the B Class sterilization programs are unlocked and available to use. She has upgraded the sterilizer, which can now sufficiently sterilize all the equipment of her clinic.

[0084] One skilled in the art can appreciate from the foregoing description that the broad systems, devices and techniques of the aspects of the present invention can be implemented in a variety of forms. Therefore, while the aspects of this invention have been described in connection with particular examples thereof, the true scope of the aspects of the invention should not be so limited since other modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon a study of the specification, and following claims.