Remotely detectable sterilization monitor
US4850716A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 20, 1987 |
| Grant date | Jul 25, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 20, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01K11/06
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A monitor for detection of temperature and/or steam conditions indicative of sterilization. The monitor comprises means for creating a remotely detectable response upon interrogation by an electromagnetic field and means for changing the response upon exposure to a predetermined set of temperature and steam conditions. The remotely detectable response is preferably produced through the interaction of an electromagnetic interrogation field with magnetic components of the monitor, wherein the characteristic harmonic response generated by the magnetic components is either inhibited or enabled by the change in configuration of one or more elements of the detector. Sterilization conditions are detected through one or more compounds known to have melting points which are above the temperature used in the sterilization process. Melting of the chemical compound produces the change in configuration of the element or elements of the monitor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.