Measurement probe with heat cycle event counter

摘要

A measurement device is disclosed, embodiments of which are adapted to withstand, detect, and record detection of heat cycle events, including autoclave cycles. Embodiments of the measurement device comprise a sensor for measuring a characteristic of a medium and a heat cycle detection unit. Embodiments of the heat cycle detection unit comprise a temperature or atmospheric pressure responsive element, a detection module, data interface, and data memory. In one disclosed embodiment, the temperature or pressure responsive element is configured to respond to a characteristic of a heat cycle event while the heat cycle detection unit is off. In another disclosed embodiment, the detection module is configured to automatically power off the heat cycle detection unit in response to detecting an autoclave cycle. Methods of using the devices are also disclosed.

主权项

1. A measurement device adapted to withstand and automatically count a heat sterilization or cleaning cycle, comprising:
a measurement probe comprising a sensor configured to detect a characteristic of a medium and generate a measurement signal; a condition responsive element comprising either a temperature responsive element or a pressure responsive element, wherein the condition responsive element is a first switch configured to transition from a first state to a second state when the first switch exceeds a first temperature or a first pressure; and a heat cycle detection unit comprising a detection module, a data interface, and a data memory; wherein the detection module is configured to:
detect a heat cycle event using the condition responsive element, andrecord detection of the heat cycle event in the data memory in response to the first switch transitioning from the first state to the second state.