Control device and method for controlling and online treatment of deviations in the batch - sterilization process

摘要

The present invention comprises a batch sterilization system, a controller for use in the batch sterilization system, and a method performed by the controller. The system, controller, and method are used to administer and provide on-line correction of a batch sterilization process performed on a batch of containers. The controller (104) compiles an actual retort time-temperature profile during the batch sterilization process from the actual retort temperatures sensed by a sensor (103). While this is occurring, the controller controls a batch sterilizer (102) so as to administer an initial portion of the batch sterilization process before a temperature deviation has begun according to a scheduled time-temperature profile. This temperature deviation is between the actual retort time-temperature profile and the scheduled processing time-temperature profile. In response to the temperature deviation, the controller defines a re-scheduled remaining time-temperature profile for a remaining portion of the batch sterilization process that begins when the temperature deviation clears. This is done by simulating the batch sterilization process based on the actual retort time-temperature profile. During the temperature deviation, the controller controls the batch sterilizer so as to administer corrections to clear the temperature deviation between the actual retort and rescheduled remaining time-temperature profiles. When the temperature deviation has finally cleared, the controller controls the batch sterilizer so as to administer the remaining portion of the batch sterilization process according to the re-scheduled remaining time-temperature profile.