Enhanced Sterilization System for Aseptic Filler Chambers
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An advanced sterilization system for aseptic filler chambers, providing improved efficiency, safety, and adaptability in various container filling applications.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for sterilizing the interior of an aseptic filler chamber has limitations in terms of sterilization efficiency, adaptability to different container types, and maintenance requirements. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing novel sterilization methods, integrated sensors, and modular designs to ensure enhanced sterilization performance, reduced downtime, and increased flexibility.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced sterilization system comprises a sterilizer that can utilize ozone gas, UV light, or a combination of steam and dry heat to achieve a higher level of sterilization. The system is equipped with sensors to detect residual sterilant and adjust the concentration of ozone gas based on the type of container to be filled. The sterilizer is integrated with a heating element to rapidly heat the sterilant to an optimal temperature and a circulation pump to ensure uniform distribution within the chamber. The modular design enables easy replacement or upgrade of the sterilizer, and a real-time monitoring system tracks the sterilization process. The system also features a cleaning mechanism to remove residual sterilant from the chamber.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel sterilization methods, integrated sensors, and modular designs that are not present in the original patent. The use of ozone gas, UV light, and combined steam and dry heat sterilization, as well as the integration of sensors and modular components, provide a significant improvement over the existing patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the enhanced sterilization system could include the use of other sterilization agents, such as chlorine dioxide or vaporized hydrogen peroxide, or the integration of additional sensors to monitor temperature, humidity, or other environmental factors. The system could also be adapted for use in other applications, such as sterilizing medical equipment or food processing equipment.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced sterilization system has significant commercial potential in the food and beverage industry, particularly in applications involving aseptic filling of containers with sensitive products. The system's improved efficiency, safety, and adaptability make it an attractive solution for manufacturers seeking to minimize downtime, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure high-quality products.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61L2/208 |
| A | A61 | A61L2/06 |
| A | A61 | A61L2/18 |
| A | A61 | A61L2202/15 |
| A | A61 | A61L2202/23 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,690 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method for sterilizing interior of aseptic filler chamber |
| Assignee(s) | NIPPON TELEGRAPH AND TELEPHONE CORPORATION |