JAMES A HOPPER
Engineers in Wexford, PA
License number
Pennsylvania PE023958E
Category
Engineers
Type
Professional Engineer
Address
Address
Wexford, PA 15090
Professional information
Autoclave With Heat Chamber Having Sliding Peripheral Wall
US Patent:
5762889, Jun 9, 1998
Filed:
Mar 7, 1997
Appl. No.:
8/813580
Inventors:
James A. Hopper - Wexford PA
International Classification:
A61L 200
US Classification:
422295
Abstract:
An autoclave having end walls sturdily attached to one another by rods and a mobile, cylindrical lateral wall. When the lateral wall is moved into an operable position over the end walls, thereby sealing a working chamber defined between the end walls and when steam is introduced into the working chamber, each end wall will counteract pressure acting on its opposing counterpart. The autoclave need not be reinforced to hold the walls together. The rods connecting the end walls are hollow, and have ports disposed within the working chamber, so that steam may be introduced into the working chamber through these rods. Air from within the working chamber may also be vented by the rods. The lateral wall is vertically oriented and moved. A retaining wall traps condensate, which would otherwise escape when the lateral wall is lifted. An optional powered apparatus lifts and lowers the lateral wall into positions respectively exposing and sealing the working chamber.