Patent Publication Number: US-11654206-B2

Title: Mobile sterilization apparatus and method for using the same

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/119,753, filed Aug. 31, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/831,144, filed Dec. 4, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,111,972, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/369,713, filed on Dec. 5, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,833,524, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/644,094, filed on Mar. 10, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,808,545, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/950,502, filed on Mar. 10, 2014 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/053,338, filed on Sep. 22, 2014, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY 
     This invention relates to medical devices and procedures in general, and more particularly to sterilization apparatus and procedures for sterilizing medical instruments and/or devices and maintaining sterility until their intended use. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Many medical procedures require the use of sterile instruments and/or devices to perform the medical procedure. Providing sterile instruments and/or devices for these medical procedures is currently a time-consuming and expensive undertaking that requires, among other things, many man-hours, specialized equipment, etc. 
     In the past, hospitals (and/or other surgical facilities, e.g., surgicenters, etc.) have used an instrument tray sterilization system, in which trays containing the required instruments and/or devices for a given procedure are wrapped with a specially manufactured disposable wrap. The wrapped trays are then autoclaved and processed to the manufacturers&#39; recommendations. The trays are then removed from the autoclave, allowed to cool, and then stored until the contents are needed for a procedure. Prior to the use of the instruments and/or devices, additional man-hours are expended to inspect the wraps so as to ensure that there is no damage that might lead to the contents being deemed non-sterile. 
     In part to address some of the shortcomings discussed above, mobile sterilization cabinets have been introduced.  FIGS.  1 - 3    show an exemplary prior art mobile sterilization cabinet  5 . Sterilization cabinet  5  typically comprises a rectangular-shaped interior chamber  10  ( FIG.  2   ) surrounded by a cabinet bottom  25 , cabinet side walls  26 , a cabinet back wall  27  and a cabinet top  40 . Cabinet  5  may further comprise one or more doors  30  to selectively open up or close off interior chamber  10  of cabinet  5 . See, for example,  FIG.  2    which shows a cabinet  5  with one door  30  in the open position, and  FIG.  3    which shows cabinet  5  with two doors  30  in the closed position. Cabinet  5  may further comprise a gasket (not shown) at the interface of the door(s) and frame of cabinet  5  for sealing cabinet  5  when the door(s) is (are) closed. 
     Interior chamber  10  of cabinet  5  is preferably also equipped with shelves  45  for supporting surgical trays within chamber  10 . 
     Furthermore, cabinet  5  comprises one or more vents  35  formed in the cabinet top  40  and/or cabinet bottom  25 . vent  35  is covered by a filter  50 , and a filter cover  55  holds filter  50  in place against vent  35 . 
     In order to move cabinet  5  into an autoclave or into an operating room or storage room, cabinet  5  comprises wheels  20  mounted directly to cabinet bottom  25 . In use, medical instruments and/or instrument trays are positioned on shelves  45 , and the shelves are loaded into interior chamber  10  of cabinet  5 . Alternatively, shelves  45  may be loaded into cabinet  5  and then the medical instruments and/or instrument trays positioned on shelves  45 . Then the entire cabinet  5  is wheeled into an autoclave which is subsequently activated. The hot air and steam generated by the autoclave is able to penetrate into interior chamber  10  of cabinet  5  by way of vents  35 , thereby sterilizing cabinet  5  and its contents. At the end of the autoclaving cycle, cabinet  5  is removed from the autoclave, allowed to cool, and then moved to a storage space or directly to an operating room or other space for use in connection with a medical procedure. Sterilized cabinet  5  is kept closed until such time that its contents are required for a medical procedure. So long as cabinet  5  is kept closed, the contents will remain sterile, inasmuch as filters  50  prevent the passage of contaminants through vents  35  into the interior of the cabinet. 
     While the introduction of mobile sterilization cabinets has allowed for significant savings and efficiencies in hospital sterilization procedures, several shortcomings remain. For example, existing prior art cabinets can be difficult to maneuver into and out of an autoclave and can be difficult to maneuver around a hospital (e.g., to a storage area or an operating room). 
     Further, existing cabinets  5  can be difficult to store in increasingly crowded hospitals where space is frequently at a premium. In addition, opening existing cabinets at the desired time can significantly expand the footprint of the existing cabinets, inasmuch as space must be allocated to accommodate the swing radius of the door(s). 
     In addition, existing cabinets can sometimes retain water in the bottom of the cabinet at the end of the autoclave cycle. This is undesirable for several reasons, one of which is that the water can serve as a conduit through which contaminants can be “pulled” (e.g., by a wicking action, through a filter  50  in cabinet bottom  25  and into interior chamber  10 ). 
     It can also be difficult for medical personnel to visually assess the current status of existing cabinets or their contents. For example, it is difficult for personnel to know whether an existing cabinet that has been autoclaved is still too hot to handle or whether it has cooled to the point where it may be safely handled. Similarly, it can be difficult for personnel to visually ascertain or verify the status and/or inventory of the contents inside of an existing cabinet without having to open the cabinet and thereby violate the sterile field. 
     Additional shortcomings of existing cabinets include cumbersome interior shelving, an inability to sufficiently isolate smaller areas within the cabinet, difficulty in accessing and changing filters, etc. 
     Still other deficiencies of existing cabinets are known to those skilled in the art. 
     Thus there is a need for a new and improved mobile sterilization apparatus and method for sterilizing medical instruments and devices, storing the sterilized medical instruments and devices in a sterile condition until use, and then delivering the sterilized medical instruments and devices to a location where a medical procedure will be performed, that does not suffer from one or more of the disadvantages associated with the prior art. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention provides a new and improved mobile sterilization apparatus and method for sterilizing medical instruments and devices, for storing the sterilized medical instruments and devices in a sterile condition until use, and then delivering the sterilized medical instruments and devices to a location where a medical procedure will be performed. 
     In one preferred form of the invention, there is provided a mobile sterilization system comprising: a sterilization cabinet, the sterilization cabinet comprising: a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels, a back panel and a door configured so as to define an interior chamber; a plurality of casters or wheels mounted to the bottom panel, each of the plurality of casters or wheels being mounted to the bottom panel by a caster or wheel bracket, wherein the caster or wheel bracket comprises a lateral projection; perforations formed in at least one of the bottom panel, top panel and two side panels; and at least one filter configured to cover the perforations; and a transfer cart, the transfer cart comprising: an upper platform for receiving a sterilization cabinet, the upper platform comprising a pair of transfer cart tracks extending longitudinally along the upper platform, wherein each of the transfer cart tracks comprises a lateral projection; and a lower support structure for supporting the upper platform and for receiving wheels; wherein the sterilization cabinet is received on the transfer cart such that the lateral projections of the caster or wheel brackets engage the lateral projections of the transfer cart tracks, whereby to prevent side-to-side and up-and-down movement of the sterilization cabinet relative to the transfer cart. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided apparatus for holding equipment to be sterilized and/or for storing sterilized equipment, the apparatus comprising: a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels, a back panel and a door configured so as to define an interior chamber; a plurality of casters or wheels mounted to the bottom panel; a plurality of perforations formed in at least one of the bottom panel, top panel, two side panels and back panel; at least one filter configured to cover said plurality of perforations; and a drain formed in said bottom panel. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided apparatus for holding equipment to be sterilized and/or for storing sterilized equipment, the apparatus comprising: a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels, a back panel and a door configured so as to define an interior chamber; a plurality of casters or wheels mounted to the bottom panel; a plurality of perforations formed in at least one of the bottom panel, top panel, two side panels and back panel; and at least one filter configured to cover said plurality of perforations; wherein at least one of the bottom panel, top panel, two side panels, back panel and door comprise a see-through material. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided apparatus for holding equipment to be sterilized and/or for storing sterilized equipment, the apparatus comprising: a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels, a back panel and a door configured so as to define an interior chamber; a plurality of casters or wheels mounted to the bottom panel; a plurality of perforations formed in at least one of the bottom panel, top panel, two side panels and back panel; at least one filter configured to cover the plurality of perforations; and at least one filter port for receiving the filter, wherein the filter port comprises a pair of rails positioned along a periphery of the plurality of perforations, the rails being sized and disposed so as to slidably receive the filter and position the filter over the perforation. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided apparatus for holding equipment to be sterilized and/or for storing sterilized equipment, the apparatus comprising: a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels, a back panel and a door configured so as to define an interior chamber; a plurality of casters or wheels mounted to the bottom panel; a plurality of perforations formed in at least one of the bottom panel, top panel, two side panels and back panel; a filter configured to cover the plurality of perforations; and a perforated filter plate for securing the filter over the plurality of perforations. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing an apparatus for holding equipment to be sterilized and/or for storing sterilized equipment, the method comprising: providing a bottom panel, a top panel, a left side panel, a right side panel, a back panel and a door; securing the bottom panel, the top panel, the left side panel, the right side panel and the back panel together with a seal therebetween so as to form a rectangular chamber having an opening for receiving the equipment to be sterilized; and mounting a door to at least one of the bottom panel, top panel, right side panel and left side panel so as to close off the chamber. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided apparatus for holding equipment to be sterilized and/or for storing sterilized equipment, the apparatus comprising: a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels, a back panel and a door configured so as to define an interior chamber; a plurality of casters or wheels mounted to the bottom panel; a plurality of perforations formed in at least one of the bottom panel, top panel, side panels and back panel; a filter configured to cover the plurality of perforations; and a temperature indicator for indicating the temperature of the interior chamber. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided apparatus for holding equipment to be sterilized and/or for storing sterilized equipment, the apparatus comprising: a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels, a back panel and a door configured so as to define an interior chamber; a plurality of casters or wheels mounted to the bottom panel; a plurality of perforations formed in at least one of the bottom panel, top panel, side panels and back panel; a filter configured to cover the plurality of perforations; wherein the interior chamber comprises at least two individual compartments within the interior chamber, and further wherein each individual compartment comprises perforations formed in a wall of the individual compartment and a filter configured to cover the perforations; and at least two doors, each door being configured to selectively close off one of the individual compartments. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided a method for sterilizing medical instruments, the method comprising: providing a mobile sterilization system comprising: a sterilization cabinet, the sterilization cabinet comprising: a cabinet bottom, a cabinet top, cabinet side walls, a cabinet back wall and a door configured so as to define an interior chamber; perforations formed in at least one of the cabinet bottom, cabinet top and cabinet side walls; and at least one filter configured to cover said perforations; and a transfer cart, the transfer cart comprising: an upper platform for receiving a sterilization cabinet; and a lower support structure for supporting the upper platform and for receiving wheels; wherein the sterilization cabinet is received on the transfer cart; positioning the medical instruments to be sterilized in the sterilization cabinet; and sterilizing the medical instruments. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided a mobile sterilization system comprising: a sterilization cabinet, the sterilization cabinet comprising: a bottom panel, a top panel, two side panels, a back panel and a door configured so as to define an interior chamber; a plurality of casters or wheels mounted to the bottom panel; perforations formed in at least one of the bottom panel, top panel and two side panels; and at least one filter configured to cover the perforations; and a transfer cart, the transfer cart comprising: an upper platform for receiving a sterilization cabinet, the upper platform comprising a pair of railings adjustably mounted to the upper platform, and further comprising adapters for releasably securing the transfer cart to a support structure; and a lower platform for supporting the upper platform and for receiving wheels; wherein, when the pair of railings are secured to the support structure using the adapters, the sterilization cabinet may be transferred from the transfer cart to the support structure. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided apparatus for transporting a container along a surface, the apparatus comprising: an upper platform for receiving the container, wherein the upper platform comprises a locking mechanism for releasably securing the container to the upper platform; and a support structure for supporting the upper platform, the support structure comprising wheels for moving the support structure along the surface; wherein the support structure is configured to raise and lower the upper platform relative to the surface. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided a filter cartridge for use in a sterilization cabinet, the filter cartridge comprising: a frame; and at least one filter held by the frame; wherein at least a portion of the filter cartridge is configured to change color to indicate a status of the filter cartridge. 
     In another preferred form of the invention, there is provided apparatus comprising: a docking station for receiving a sterilization cabinet, the docking station comprising: a frame; a first platform mounted to the frame for receiving a sterilization cabinet; a second platform mounted to the frame for receiving additional items to be sterilized; and a plurality of casters or wheels mounted to the frame for permitting the docking station to be moved along a surface; wherein the docking station is sterilizable; and wherein the docking station comprises a locking feature for locking a transfer cart carrying a sterilization cabinet to the frame while the sterilization cabinet is moved from the transfer cart to the docking station. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other objects and features of the present invention will be more fully disclosed or rendered obvious by the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, which is to be considered together with the accompanying drawings wherein like numbers refer to like parts, and further wherein: 
         FIGS.  1 - 3    are schematic views showing a prior art mobile sterilization cabinet; 
         FIGS.  4 - 6 ,  7 A- 7 D and  8 A- 8 D  are schematic views showing a novel mobile sterilization system comprising a novel sterilization cabinet and a novel transfer cart; 
         FIG.  9    is a schematic view showing a further embodiment of the novel sterilization cart of the present invention; 
         FIG.  10    is a schematic view showing another embodiment of the novel sterilization cart of the present invention; 
         FIG.  11    is a schematic view showing an electronic control system of the mobile sterilization system of the present invention; 
         FIG.  12    is a schematic view showing a universal transfer cart formed in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIGS.  13 - 21 ,  22 A,  22 B,  23 ,  24 ,  25 A and  25 B  are schematic views showing further details of the mobile sterilization system of the present invention; 
         FIG.  26    is a schematic view showing a novel sterilization cabinet formed with multiple internal sterilization chambers; 
         FIG.  27    is a schematic view showing a status indicator feature of the sterilization cabinet of the present invention; 
         FIG.  28    is a schematic view showing a mobile sterilization system comprising external shelving; 
         FIGS.  29 A-D  and  30 A-D are exploded schematic views of a novel sterilization cabinet formed in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG.  30 E  is a schematic view of a novel docking station formed in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIGS.  31 - 41    are photographs of an improved drain and filter assembly for the sterilization cabinet of the present invention; and 
         FIGS.  42 - 45    are schematic views of the improved drain and filter assembly of  FIGS.  31 - 41   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present invention provides a new and improved mobile sterilization apparatus and method for sterilizing medical instruments and devices, for storing the sterilized medical instruments and devices in a sterile condition until use, and then delivering the sterilized medical instruments and devices to a location where a medical procedure will be performed. 
     Looking now at  FIG.  4   , there is shown a novel mobile sterilization system  100  comprising a novel sterilization cabinet  105  and a novel transfer cart  200 . 
     Sterilization cabinet  105  typically comprises a rectangular-shaped interior chamber  110  ( FIG.  13   ) surrounded by a cabinet bottom  125 , cabinet side walls  126 , a cabinet back wall  127  and a cabinet top  140 . Cabinet  105  may further comprise one or more doors  130  to selectively open up or close off interior chamber  110  of cabinet  105 . Cabinet  105  may further comprise a gasket (not shown) at the interface of the door(s) and frame of cabinet  105  for sealing cabinet  105  when the door(s) are closed. 
     Interior chamber  110  of cabinet  105  is preferably also equipped with shelves  145  ( FIG.  23   ) for supporting surgical trays or instruments, etc. within chamber  110 . 
     Furthermore, cabinet  105  comprises one or more vents  135  formed in at least one of the cabinet side walls  126 , cabinet back wall  127 , the cabinet top  140  and cabinet bottom  125 . vent  135  is covered by a filter  150 , and a filter cover  155  ( FIG.  23   ) holds filter  150  in place over vent  135 . Further details of sterilization cabinet  105  (e.g., improvements to doors  130 , filters  150 , shelves  145 , etc.) will be discussed in further detail below. 
     In order to move sterilization cabinet  105  along a surface (e.g., along a floor, along transfer cart  200 , etc.), sterilization cabinet  105  comprises a plurality of casters or wheels  160  (generally shown in the figures in schematic form). In one preferred form of the invention, casters or wheels  160  are mounted to cabinet bottom  125 , e.g., via a wheel or caster bracket (see below) of the sort well known in the art. Note that casters or wheels  160  are not visible in a number of the figures due to the angle of view of those figures, however, wheels or casters  160  can be clearly seen in  FIGS.  7 C,  13 ,  22 A,  22 B,  23 ,  24 ,  25 A,  27 ,  29 D,  30 D,  36 ,  37 ,  39 ,  41 ,  43  and  44   . 
     While sterilization cabinet  105  can be moved along a floor via its casters or wheels  160 , in many situations it can be desirable to move sterilization cabinet  105  on transfer cart  200 , e.g., into an autoclave or into an operating room or storage room. 
     More particularly, transfer cart  200  provides a platform upon which sterilization cabinet  105  may be positioned for transport between locations. By way of example but not limitation, transfer cart  200  may be used to move sterilization cabinet  105  from one part of a facility to another (e.g., a sterile processing department or an autoclave to an operating room). In addition, and again by way of example but not limitation, transfer cart  200  may be used to transfer sterilization cabinet  105  into and out of storage, and/or to move sterilization cabinet  105  into and out of an autoclave, and/or to move sterilization cabinet  105  between facilities or hospital rooms. 
     Transfer cart  200  generally comprises an upper platform  205  ( FIG.  4   ) for receiving sterilization cabinet  105 , a lower platform  210  to which a mechanism (e.g., wheels) for moving the transfer cart between locations is mounted. Vertical risers  215  extend between upper platform  205  and lower platform  210 . Transfer cart  200  preferably also comprises a handle  220  for maneuvering transfer cart  200  between locations. 
     Looking now at  FIGS.  4  and  5   , transfer cart  200  comprises swiveling casters  225  for moving transfer cart  200  between locations. Casters  225  may be adjusted between a swiveling condition and a non-swiveling condition by way of easily-accessed, foot-operated pedal adjustment(s) on casters  225 , or by way of adjustments performed from a handle  220 . In other words, a user is able to adjust casters  225  from a first configuration wherein the casters are swivelable and a second configuration wherein the casters  225  are locked against swiveling. This feature allows a user to exercise additional control over transfer cart  200  when it is being moved between locations. Casters  225  can also be anti-static as an added safety feature. 
     Preferably, transfer cart  200  may be provided with a compliant shock-absorbing suspension system that enables a smoother “ride” over varying terrain and inclines as well as during shipping with, and without, instrument trays (loaded with medical instrumentation or other contents) being positioned in sterilization cabinet  105 . 
     By way of example but not limitation, mobile sterilization system  100  may be transported fully loaded by remotely-located sterile processing companies to and from medical or other facilities that are sometimes hundreds of miles away from a remotely-located sterile processing facility. The shock-absorbing suspension system allows for improved safety and security of the loaded medical instrument trays to limit possible damage and/or displacement caused during transportation. 
     As shown in  FIG.  5   , a shock-absorbing suspension system may comprise shock-absorbing suspension springs  230  positioned on casters  225  and/or resilient springs  235  mounted between upper platform  205  and lower platform  210  in place of vertical risers  215 . 
     Alternatively, vertical risers  215  may be formed in a telescopic configuration and resilient springs  235  may be disposed around and/or inside telescopic vertical risers  215 . Resilient springs  235  are set so as to bias upper platform  205  and lower platform  210  away from one another, so as to provide shock absorption functionality for upper platform  205  (and sterilization cabinet  105 ) when casters  225  encounter a bump or some other surface abnormality that would cause a shock to transfer cart  200 . Additional shock-absorbing springs  230  or resilient springs  235  may be mounted to any other load-bearing parts of transfer cart  200  so as to provide shock absorption during transportation of mobile sterilization system  100 . 
     Transfer cart  200  may also comprise a “dead man&#39;s” safety grip and/or auto-braking system. More particularly, and still looking at  FIG.  5   , there is shown a dead man&#39;s safety grip  240 . Dead man&#39;s safety grip  240  is connected (either electronically, mechanically or otherwise) to one or more wheel brakes capable of preventing casters (or other wheels) from moving (not shown). In one form of the invention, the wheel brakes are configured so that their default position is with the brakes applied to casters  225  of transfer cart  200 , thereby prohibiting movement of transfer cart  200 . When dead man&#39;s safety grip  240  is actuated by a user, the wheel brakes are moved to a second configuration, whereby to allow the wheels to roll freely. Accordingly, the wheels (and, by extension, the transfer cart) are prevented from rolling unless dead man&#39;s safety grip  240  is actuated. This feature provides foolproof braking during loading and unloading of sterilization cabinet  105  onto transfer cart  200 , and during loading and unloading of the contents of sterilization cabinet  105 . 
     Transfer cart  200  may also comprise a power assist mechanism  245  ( FIG.  4   ) which can be built into, or otherwise attached to, transfer cart  200 . As shown in  FIG.  5   , power assist mechanism  245  may comprise a motor configured to drive casters  225  when a motor/servo power assist handle or other control (not shown) is actuated by a user (e.g., by turning the handle, in the manner of a motorcycle throttle grip). Power assist mechanism  245  may assist in the transportation of heavier loads for longer distances, on inclines and/or over uneven surfaces. Power assist mechanism  245  may drive the wheels either forward or in reverse. 
     In one embodiment, and looking now at  FIG.  6   , transfer cart  200  may be provided with a mechanism for linking the transfer cart to one or more other transfer carts  200  so that the transfer cart may be used to tow (or push) another transfer cart during transport between locations. To effectuate such linking capability, transfer cart  200  may be provided with a male component  250  at one end of lower platform  210  of transfer cart  200  and a female component  255  disposed at the opposite end of lower platform  210  of transfer cart  200 , whereby to allow the male or female component of a given cart to be linked with the complementary male or female component on another cart. One or both of male component  250  and female component  255  can be retracted or folded under transfer cart  200  when the transfer cart or tugging/linking feature is not in use. 
     In one embodiment, transfer cart  200  may also be configured with bumpers and/or rollers  260  ( FIG.  7 A ) to protect transfer cart  200  and/or other objects, and to otherwise facilitate movement of transfer cart  200  from one location to another (e.g., during transportation through a hospital hallway). 
     Looking now at  FIGS.  7 A- 7 D , transfer cart  200  is preferably releasably secured to cabinet  105  by a combination of complimentarily configured tracks or rails and a locking latch or similar device. 
     Preferably, transfer cart  200  is provided with an improved safety feature of interlocking tracks or rails to catch interlocking caster brackets (which mount to casters or wheels  160  to cabinet  105 ). More particularly, lips  265  extend inboard from a pair of transfer cart tracks or rails  270 , which themselves extend upward from a side or top surface of upper platform  205  of transfer cart  200  (i.e., with one track or rail  270  extending along each side of transfer cart  200 ). Lips  265  are configured to slidably engage elongated projection  165  of cabinet caster or wheel bracket  170  so as to prevent sterilization cabinet  105  from moving either laterally (i.e., side-to-side), or up-and-down, with respect to transfer cart  200  while cabinet  105  is positioned on transfer cart  200 . 
     Transfer cart  200  and sterilization cabinet  105  are preferably formed so as to provide autolocking features to keep cabinet  105  secured to transfer cart  200 . More particularly, and looking now at  FIGS.  7 A and  7 B , transfer cart  200  may be configured with a center locking latch  275  that is mounted to upper platform  205  of transfer cart  200 . Center locking latch  275  may be configured to receive a bar  175  which extends across the bottom of sterilization cabinet  105  such that, after bar  175  is received by latch  275 , sterilization cabinet  105  is prohibited from moving forward or backward with respect to transfer cart  200 . 
     Transfer cart  200  is preferably configured so as to be “universal” by providing railings and attachments that are adjustable so as to be able to accommodate the dimensions of different sterilization cabinets or other cargo, and/or the dimensions of different destinations of sterilization cabinet  105  (e.g., different autoclaves or storage racks). 
     More particularly, and looking now at  FIGS.  8 A- 8 D , transfer cart  200  may be configured with universal railings  280  which are of adjustable width along directional arrow  1  or  3  shown in  FIG.  8 A , and a detachable adapter  285  which is also configured to be of adjustable width. Adjustable rails  280  and adapter  285  may be fit together, such as in the male/female configuration shown in  FIG.  8 B , so as to allow for a smooth surface for the transfer of sterilization cabinet  105  from transfer cart  200  to a destination (e.g., a storage rack, autoclave, etc.). The width of universal rails  210  and adapter  285  is determined at least in part by reference to the width of the corresponding features at the destination (e.g., it may be determined by the width of a storage rack or the relevant components of an autoclave). 
     Adapter  285  may be configured to extend straight out above upper platform  205  (such as is shown in  FIG.  8 A ), or to fold down (such as is shown in  FIGS.  8 C and  8 D ) so as to not protrude at the end of transfer cart  200 . Alternatively, adapter  285  may be configured so as to be entirely removable from the transfer cart. Where detachable adapter  285  is configured to be removable from transfer cart  200 , adapter  285  may be further configured to be stowed in an unobtrusive location on transfer cart  200 , or it may be configured to be stored near a destination location for ready use. 
     The universal fit feature described above improves production capacity, lowers cost, and enhances the ease and safety of moving mobile sterilization system  100  (e.g., through hospital hallways). When adapter  285  is removed and/or folded away (such as shown in  FIGS.  8 C and  8 D ), a blunt-nosed, shorter and less dangerous cart front is presented at the front end of mobile sterilization system  100 . As discussed previously, adapter  215  may either stay with each transfer cart  200  as a folding or stowable component or it may be left at a desired destination (e.g., in a sterile processing department to be stored adjacent to the autoclave or next to a storage rack or rack system). 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, an alternative transfer cart is provided which is capable of being vertically adjusted so as to raise and lower the upper platform of a transfer cart (and, in turn, a sterilization cabinet  105  secured to the upper platform) in order to meet the needs of a user. By way of example, the upper platform of the transfer cart can be lowered for easier visibility during transportation between locations, and then raised to a desired height when the sterilization cabinet is opened at a desired location. 
     The vertically-adjustable transfer cart may be raised and lowered mechanically (e.g., such with a scissor lift, as will be discussed in further detail below) electronically, hydraulically, pneumatically, by a battery-operated power device, or by some other appropriate means. 
     To this end, and looking now at  FIG.  9   , a vertically-adjustable transfer cart  300  is provided. 
     Vertically-adjustable transfer cart  300  is generally similar to transfer cart  200  discussed above, except that vertical risers  215  and lower platform  210  are replaced by a scissor lift  315  having an upper end  320  and a lower end  325 . 
     Sterilization cabinet  105  is configured to be secured to upper platform  305  of transfer cart  300  in the same manner discussed above. Scissor lift  315  is connected to upper platform  305  at its upper end  320  and to wheels  330  at its lower end  325  for moving the transfer cart between locations. 
     In accordance with this aspect of the invention, scissor lift  315  may be actuated so as to enable upper platform  305  to be lowered until it is substantially flush with the floor. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, and looking now at  FIG.  10   , a vertically-adjustable transfer cart  400  is provided. Transfer cart  400  is generally similar to transfer cart  200  discussed above, except that vertical risers  215  are replaced by a scissor lift  415  having an upper end  420  and a lower end  425 . 
     More particularly, transfer cart  400  comprises an upper platform  405  which is configured to be secured to sterilization cabinet  105  as discussed above, a lower platform  410  and a scissor lift  415  extending between upper platform  405  and lower platform  410 . 
     Actuation of scissor lift  415  in this embodiment will move upper platform  405  up and down, as described above, however, upper platform  405  is not lowered all the way to ground level (i.e., it is lowered to the level of lower platform  410 ). This embodiment can provide additional stability for transfer cart  400 . 
     Scissor lifts  315  and  415  of transfer carts  300  and  400 , respectively, may be actuated (i.e., raised and lowered) by a lift mechanism that can be a mechanical hand-crank or hydraulic or pneumatic hand-pump, or which may be power-assisted (mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) via electric or battery operation. 
     In addition, transfer carts  300  and  400  may comprise an electronic control system (such as that shown in  FIG.  11    and discussed in more detail below) which may allow a user to pre-program specific heights into the electronic control system, which will direct the transfer cart to assume a desired height (e.g., for loading the sterilization cabinet into a particular autoclave, or a preferred height for operating room or sterile processing department staff who will unload, load or transport the sterilization cabinet). This feature allows for height adjustments, thereby providing ergonomic benefits without compromising the sterile field on account of the nurse or scrub technician&#39;s physical stature. 
     An additional benefit of the height adjustment feature described above is that the sterilization cabinet can be lowered to allow for better line of sight over the top of the cabinet during transportation and to provide a lower center of gravity so as to reduce the possibility of tipping. The pre-programmed heights may be set by the user as discussed above. 
     Looking now at  FIG.  11   , the transfer cart of the present invention (e.g., transfer carts  200 ,  300  and  400 ) may also be provided with an electronic control system  290  for tracking and/or identifying the transfer cart and the contents of sterilization cabinet  105 . 
     More particularly, electronic control system  290  of the transfer cart of the present invention preferably has the ability to be electronically traced with a LOJACK®-like device, or a similar tracing-type system. In other words, the location of the transfer cart (e.g., building, floor, room) may be remotely monitored by use of a global positioning system (GPS), radio-frequency identification (RFID), or other location-tracking device. 
     In addition, electronic control system  290  may use RFID, or other identification technology, to identify a particular sterilization cabinet  105 , the contents of that sterilization cabinet  105  (e.g., trays or instruments), its location, current temperature, and/or sterilization status (e.g., pre- or post-sterilization, sterile or non-sterile, etc.). Electronic control system  290  may also provide additional information such as date, operator, cycles, cycle type, and contents inside sterilization cabinet  105 , among other things. 
     The information provided by electronic control system  290  may be displayed on a screen to a user, or audibly delivered through a speaker to a user. 
     Looking now at  FIG.  12   , a universal transfer cart  500  is provided. Universal transfer cart  500  may act as a transfer cart for other apparatus (e.g., an interchangeable case cart component  505  for holding instrument trays, but not sterilizing instrument trays) in addition to acting as a transfer cart for sterilization cabinet  105 . Sterilization cabinets and case cart components can be vertically stacked on storage racking systems, e.g., up to 4 cabinets high. See, for example,  FIG.  20   , which shows (schematically) two sterilization cabinets  105  vertically stacked on top of one another. 
     Looking now at  FIGS.  13 - 27   , additional features of sterilization cabinet  105  will now be discussed in further detail. 
     In a preferred form of the present invention, door  130  can be provided in a variety of configurations in order to minimize the footprint needed when access to the interior of sterilization cabinet chamber  105  is required. 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, and looking now at  FIG.  13   , door  130  can be hinged to one side of sterilization cabinet  105  and opened 180 degrees. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, and looking now at  FIG.  14   , door  130  can be mounted to cabinet side wall  126  with hinges  180  so as to allow door  130  to open 270 degrees. If desired, door  130  and side wall  126  may be equipped with apparatus (e.g., a “hook and mesh” fastener, such as a Velcro™ fastener) so as to allow door  130  to be releasably secured to side wall  126  of cabinet  105  in order to keep the open door proximate to (and roughly parallel to) side wall  126  of cabinet  105 , thereby reducing the overall footprint of cabinet  105  when door  130  is open. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, and looking now at  FIG.  15   , door  130  can comprise a pair of French doors  130 , with a gasket or other sealing closure in the middle of, and around, each door  130  (not shown), and with both French doors  130  optionally being configured to be opened and releasably attached to the side of the cabinet in the manner described above. 
     In still another embodiment of the invention, and looking now at  FIGS.  16  and  17   , door  130  can be opened and slid down (as in  FIG.  16   ) or up (as in  FIG.  17   ) along an internal or external track (not shown) positioned along the left and/or right side walls  126  of sterilization cabinet  105 . Alternatively, door  130  may be swung over the top of sterilization cabinet  105  (not shown). 
     In yet another embodiment of the present invention, and looking now at  FIG.  18   , door  130  may comprise one or more bi-fold door(s)  130  which may be opened (and folded away) so as to expose interior chamber  110 . In one preferred form of the invention, bi-fold door(s)  130  are constructed so that they may be folded back 270 degrees (e.g., in the manner described above) so that door(s)  130  may be positioned approximately parallel to side wall  126  of sterilization cabinet  105 . Additionally, bi-fold door(s)  130  and side walls  126  are preferably constructed so as to allow door(s)  130  to be releasably secured to side walls  126  (e.g., with a “hook and mesh” fastener, e.g., a Velcro™ fastener) when door(s)  130  are folded back against side walls  126 . 
     In another form of the present invention, the sterilization cabinet can have a dome closing top (not shown) rather than a door, i.e., the top of the sterilizable cabinet can move upward to expose the contents of the sterilization cabinet. The shape of the dome top is generally configured to allow for an airtight fit around the sterilization cabinet. 
     Accordingly, the dome top may be any shape that allows it to be properly fit over the top of the frame of sterilization cabinet  110 . In this embodiment, the dome top can be lifted (e.g., manually, mechanically, with electronic assist, etc.) to expose the contents of sterilization cabinet  105 . If desired, the dome top may be formed of a transparent material so as to allow full visibility of the contents within sterilization cabinet  105 . 
     In still another form of the present invention, and looking now at  FIG.  19   , sterilization cabinet  110  may comprise a frame wherein back wall  127 , side walls  126  and door(s)  130  can be loosened from frame  185  and slid down along internal or external tracks to the outside of the transfer cart  200 . In this embodiment of the invention, handle  220  of transfer cart  200  may be removable so as to facilitate the smooth sliding of the side walls and/or door along the tracks. 
     In another preferred form of the present invention, means may be provided to enable a user to assess the contents of the sterilization cabinet without having to open the door of the sterilization cabinet. 
     More particularly, the entire sterilization cabinet  105  may be formed out of a transparent material (e.g., glass, a transparent polymer, etc.) so as to provide visibility to the contents within the sterilization cabinet. See, for example,  FIG.  20   , which shows a transparent sterilization container  105  positioned on top of transfer cart  200 , and a second non-transparent sterilization container  105  positioned on top of transparent sterilization container  105 . 
     In another embodiment, and looking now at  FIG.  21   , sterilization cabinet  105  may be provided with one or more windows  190  (or “oven doors”) located on one or more of the side walls  126 , back wall  127  or door(s)  130  of sterilization cabinet  105 . This allows for visibility into the cabinet to ascertain the contents of the cabinet and whether all of the desired equipment and instruments are enclosed. 
     If desired, the entire cabinet or window(s)  190  may be formed of a high temperature polycarbonate material and/or a “switchable” smart glass/film that changes from clear to opaque and/or another suitable material (e.g., to indicate a “sterile” or “non-sterile” state). 
     In another form of the present invention, an improved filter and filter port is provided in order to improve access to the filter for replacing, or otherwise accessing, the filter. Looking now at  FIGS.  22 A and  22 B , sterilization cabinet  105  may be provided with filter ports  152  that are accessible from the outside of the cabinet, thereby allowing for easier access to check and change filters  150  (e.g., easier than with filter cover  155 ). By way of example but not limitation, externally accessible filter port  152  may comprise a drawer-type access shelf for slidably receiving filters  150  and positioning the filter over vent  135 . After being slidably placed in the desired position over vent  135  in filter port  152 , filters  150  may be held in place by a locking bar  154  which controls a cam mechanism  156  (which releasably locks filters  150  in place). 
     Filter  150  may comprise cardboard, filter cassettes, reusable carbon filters or other filter materials and constructions known in the art. Filter  150  may also be a bi-layer filter created by sewing, gluing, encasing, crimping or pressing two layers of filter material together and forming to a desired size. Filter  150  may also be configured to change color to convey information concerning their status (e.g., a first color may indicate that a filter is suitable for use, while a second color may indicate that a filter should not be used and should be replaced, etc.). Thus, in one preferred form of the invention, the filter is manufactured using a process that incorporates chemical (s) into or onto the filter (in whatever pattern desired, including one requested by the customer) that will change color after the sterilization cabinet has been sterilized (as long as the sterilization process met certain predetermined parameters). In other words, the filters themselves become a Class 5 status indicator in addition to all of the other indicators which may be used during the sterilization process. This type of filter is a great improvement over the filters currently available on the market, as it provides a fail-safe mechanism to ensure that single use disposable filters are used only once. It also enables the operating room staff to visually confirm that the process has been accomplished by a quick glance at the large filter material. 
     Filters  150  may also be used for purposes other than in conjunction with an existing sterilization cabinet and/or mobile sterilization system  100 . 
     In some applications of the present invention, it may be appropriate to not use any filters with the cabinets. 
     Looking again at  FIG.  13   , sterilization cabinet  105  may have a drain  195  positioned in the cabinet floor  125  to allow for the removal of water that may have accumulated within the cabinet during the sterilization process. In this construction, drain  195  is placed at the lowest point in the bottom of sterilization cabinet  110 . Preferably, bottom panel  125  is designed with a pitch to the lowest point in the panel, whether in the middle of the panel or along one side of the panel or in a corner of the panel. One or more drains may be used in each cabinet. 
     If desired, drain  195  may be thermostatically-controlled. In this form of the invention, drain  195  may be formed with a so-called “bimetallic” construction, e.g., a shape memory alloy such as Nitinol which can change configuration in response to temperature changes. By way of example but not limitation, drain  195  may be configured to open when the temperature within the sterilization cabinet is higher in order to release the excess water created during the sterilization process, and to close when the temperature within the sterilization cabinet is lower so as to seal the sterilization cabinet from potential containments. 
     In another embodiment, drain  195  may be configured to open and close depending on the pressure level within the sterilization cabinet. By way of example but not limitation, drain  195  may be configured to open when the pressure within the sterilization cabinet is within a certain level in order to release the excess water created during the sterilization process, and to close when the pressure within the sterilization cabinet is within a certain level so as to seal the sterilization cabinet from potential containments. 
     In still another embodiment, drain  195  may be configured to open and close depending on the amount of time that has lapsed since the sterilization process. By way of example but not limitation, drain  195  may be configured to open during the time it takes to sterilize the contents of the sterilization cabinet in order to release the excess water created during the sterilization process, and to close after the contents of the sterilization cabinet have been sterilized so as to seal the sterilization cabinet from potential containments. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, sterilization cabinet  110  comprises improved shelf management options so as to provide less cumbersome interior shelving than prior art sterilization cabinets. 
     More particularly, and looking now at  FIG.  23   , sterilization cabinet  105  may be configured with “wrinkle walls” or stamped walls  146  for ease of removing and replacing shelves  145  at multiple heights without the need for adjusting clips within the cabinet. In this aspect of the invention, shelves  145  are adjustable into varying height positions, which adjustments may preferably be accomplished with one hand (e.g., through the use of “squeeze and release” shelving or other similar alternatives). 
     Alternatively, and looking now at  FIG.  24   , shelving supports  147  may be bolted to cabinet  110  so as to support shelves  145 . 
     In still another aspect of the invention, and looking now at  FIGS.  25 A and  25 B , shelves  145  may be attached to shelving supports  147  by spring-loaded pegs  148 . 
     In another embodiment, drawer-style shelves may also be used (not shown). In addition, the shelves may be constructed of various materials which may aid in the sterilization process and/or provide other advantages (e.g., the shelves may be formed of aluminum for better heat transfer, or may be formed of materials that are less expensive, etc.). 
     In another embodiment, the present invention provides a sterilization cabinet which has the ability to isolate smaller areas inside of the sterilization cabinet. 
     More particularly, and looking now at  FIG.  26   , sterilization cabinet  105  is configured so as to provide multiple chambers  110  within cabinet  105 . More particularly, in this form of the invention, sterilization cabinet  105  comprises separate individual chambers  110 , each of which are accessible by a separate door  130 . Preferably, each chamber  110  is provided with its own vent  135  and filter  150  to allow for steam or heat penetration during the sterilization process. In addition, each individual chamber  110  may have a sterile/unsterile indicator  197  (of the same or a similar type as will be described in greater detail below) to indicate the sterile/non-sterile condition of that compartment. 
     Compartmentalization provides the option of the contents of the several chambers  110  being used in different procedures. In other words, all chambers  110  and their contents can be sterilized at the same time, and then the contents of individual chambers  110  can be used without compromising the sterility of the other chambers  110  or their contents. By way of example but not limitation, four trays (placed in one or more chambers  110 ) can be brought to an operating room for a “4 tray procedure” (i.e., a medical procedure requiring those four trays of sterilized medical instruments), and another eight trays placed in a separate set of chambers within the same sterilization cabinet  105  can be brought to a second operating room for an “8 tray procedure” (i.e., a medical procedure requiring those eight trays of sterilized medical instruments). Compartmentalized sterilization cabinet  105 , in combination with transfer cart  200 , can thus serve as a delivery system for more than one medical procedure, providing several efficiencies including, but not limited to, requiring fewer staff to deliver the sterile trays and requiring less equipment to deliver the trays to the desired location. 
     In addition to the foregoing, sterilization cabinet  105  may be provided with additional features for assisting in the determination of the completion of the sterile processing or for providing additional information about the status of the cabinet (e.g., whether the sterilization cabinet is too hot to open). 
     By way of example but not limitation, such additional features may include indicators on the windows or panels of the cabinet that change color after sterile processing of the cabinet and then change back after the cabinet is opened (and hence rendered non-sterile). 
     In addition, and looking now at  FIG.  27   , an external indicator  197  positioned on the cabinet itself may indicate when the cabinet is too hot to touch (e.g., by “lighting up” or otherwise making the “hot” indicator more visually prominent than the “cold” indicator) and/or making the “hot” indicator less visually apparent when the cabinet has reached appropriate handling temperature. Similarly, another indicator  198  may indicate whether the door of the cabinet has been opened (e.g., by “lighting up” or otherwise making the “UNSTERILE” indicator more visually prominent than the “STERILE” indicator). The indicators may also provide other information to a user in the manner described above (e.g., whether the door has been “OPENED” or has remained “CLOSED”). 
     Sterilization Cabinet Sizing and Configurations 
     Sterilization cabinet  105  can be fabricated in many sizes including, but not limited to, sterilization cabinets that can be specifically sized to receive four trays, or eight trays, or nine trays, or twelve trays, etc. 
     Furthermore, and looking now at  FIG.  28   , each size cabinet can also be manufactured with separate external shelving  600  positioned on the exterior of one or more side walls  126  for maximizing space usage (e.g., in the autoclave chamber for each cycle in the autoclave). External shelving  600  can accommodate additional trays of wrapped instruments or rigid containers and is attachable to cabinet  105  for easy unloading when the cycle is completed. External shelves  600  may be individually mounted to the outside of cabinet  105  (as in the case of external shelving  600 ). Alternatively, the external shelves can take the form of a rack  650  which can be removably attached (e.g., clipped to) a side wall  126  of sterilization cabinet  105 . Each shelving unit may come with its own transfer cart according to the size needed, and all shelves may be compactible or foldable for easy storage when not in use. 
     Construction Materials 
     Sterilization cabinet  105  has many options with respect to the raw materials for cabinet production. In one preferred form of the invention, sterilization cabinet  105  may be manufactured out of stainless steel. However, it should be appreciated that sterilization cabinet  105  can also be manufactured out of various materials in addition to stainless steel, including but not limited to aluminum (which may allow for a lighter version of the product and the potential for multiple color options during anodizing), or a polymer. 
     If desired, door handle  132 , deadman&#39;s safety grip  240  and any other surfaces that may be handled in order to move mobile sterilization system  100  may be covered with a disposable sanitary wrap or film in accordance with sterile procedures. 
     Alternative Configurations 
     Sterilization cabinet  105  can also be configured to be used as a “back table” during a medical procedure. More particularly, once the sterilization cabinet is opened (e.g., via either the door configurations discussed above, and/or the dome top discussed above, etc.), the shelves can be displayed to the user using a “toolbox” or “tackle box” design, swinging shelves, or movable shelf system, thereby allowing easy access to all of the inner trays. 
     Manufacturing Technique 
     Looking now at  FIG.  29   , there is shown an exploded diagram of an embodiment of sterilization cabinet  105  which is “bolted together” around an internal frame. More particularly, sterilization cabinet  105  may comprise a frame  112 , and side walls  126 , rear wall  127 , top wall  140  and bottom wall  125  may be attached to frame  112  to form interior chamber  110  of cabinet  105 . Each of the walls may be attached to frame  112  by bolts  113  or other suitable means. A sealant  114  or O-ring type seal (not shown) may be placed at the interface of frame  112  and between each of the walls so as to ensure an air-tight seal. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, and looking now at  FIG.  30   , each of the walls of sterilization cabinet  105  may be bolted together without a frame. In this embodiment, each of the side, back, top and bottom panels are attached to one another with bolts  113 , with a layer of sealant  114  being applied to the interface between each of the panels. 
     The embodiments of the invention shown in  FIGS.  29  and  30    may provide additional advantages including, but not limited to, reduced shipping costs, inasmuch as the disassembled sterilization cabinet could be shipped in a smaller shipping container (e.g., with the top, bottom, side and back panels and door(s) lying flat against one another). The sterilization cabinet can then be assembled on-site by appropriately trained personnel, who could then verify proper assembly (including an air tight seal) by biological testing methods well known to those in the art. 
     Docking Station 
     Mobile sterilization system  100  may also be configured for use with an optional docking station. Looking now at  FIG.  30 E , docking station  700  comprises a frame  705  and wheels  715 . The frame  705  provides a space  720  for receiving one or more sterilization cabinets  105 . Docking station  700  preferably also comprises shelves  725  (which can receive additional sterilizable instrument containers). Docking station  700  is itself sterilizable and may be placed directly in an autoclave. 
     In one preferred form of the invention, transfer cart  200  and docking station  700  are configured to be releasably secured to one another. In this form of the invention, a user may bring transfer cart  200  (carrying sterilization cabinet  105 ) up to docking station  700  and then releasably secure transfer cart  200  to docking station  700  (or otherwise ensure that neither transfer cart  200  nor docking station  700  will move during transfer of sterilization cabinet  105  from transfer cart  200  to docking station  700 ); cabinet  105  may then be easily moved from transfer cart  200  onto docking station  700 . Transfer cart  200  may then be detached from docking station  700  and docking station  700  (and its passenger containers) moved into the autoclave for sterilization. 
     Some advantages of using docking station  700  in conjunction with mobile sterilization system  100  include but are not limited to: (i) more efficient use of autoclave space inasmuch as the sterilization cabinet  110  may be placed on docking station  700  which is also loaded with additional containers requiring sterilization; and (ii) freeing up transfer cart  200  for other uses after sterilization cabinet  105  is transferred from transfer cart  200  to docking station  700 . 
     In this respect it should be noted that, in some forms of the invention, transfer cart  200  is not intended to be sterilizable (e.g., where transfer cart  200  carries heat- and moisture-sensitive components such as electronics, etc.). 
     Improved Condensation Drain and Filter Ports 
     In still another form of the present invention, an improved condensation drain and filter port is provided for significantly enhancing the performance of sterilization cabinet  105 . 
     More particularly, it has been discovered that the removal of condensate from a sterilization cabinet in its liquid form (as opposed to by evaporation) significantly enhances the performance of a sterilization cabinet. It has been found that steam used during the sterilization process generates a substantial amount of condensate (i.e., liquid water) during the sterilization process. The condensate flows by gravity to the lowest point of the sterilization cabinet. During the drying phase of the sterilization process, a vacuum acts on the autoclave chamber. As the pressure of sterilization cabinet is equalizing with that of the autoclave, the condensation is pulled through a drain (more particularly described below) disposed at the lowest point of the sterilization cabinet and out of sterilization cabinet. 
     More particularly, in another preferred embodiment of the invention, and looking now at  FIGS.  31 - 45   , there is provided an improved drain  800  configured to allow condensate to escape sterilization cabinet  105  without compromising its sterility. Drain  800  is disposed at the lowest point in bottom wall  125  of sterilization cabinet  105 . Preferably, sterilization cabinet  105  comprises a pitched floor so that any condensate is directed by gravity to the lowest point in bottom wall  125 . 
     Drain  800  comprises a recess  805  formed below the lowest point in bottom wall  125  of sterilization cabinet  105 . Configuring the drain in this manner prevents any residual moisture from remaining in cabinet  105 . Recess  805  may be formed of thick stainless steel or other material so as to retain heat and enhance evaporation of any condensate that has flowed into recess  805 . 
     Drain  800  preferably comprises a grill plate/screened floor  810  disposed over recess  805 . Grill plate/screened floor  810  provides a rigid platform to support a filter (as is more particularly described below). Grill plate/screened floor  810  is permeable so as to allow condensate to pass through it. A filter  815  is disposed on top of grill plate/screened floor  810 . Filter  815  is configured so as to allow condensate to pass through it and out of sterilization cabinet  105  while preventing contaminants from entering sterilization cabinet  105 . 
     A rigid filter door  820  is disposed across recess  805  and on top of filter  815 , thereby capturing filter  815  between filter door  820  and grill plate/screened floor  810 . Filter door  820  comprises perforations  825  to allow condensate to pass from sterilization cabinet  105  through filter door  820 . Filter door  820  is also formed with handle  830 , which is held in place by handle brackets  835 . Handle  830  allows a user to easily remove filter door  820  (as described below) so as to provide access to filter  815  so that filter  815  may be changed as required. Filter  815  may be changed by removing filter door  820  by twisting handle  830  out from under handle brackets  835 . 
     One or more gaskets (not shown) may be placed against one or more sides of filter  815  (e.g., between filter door  820  and filter  815 , and/or between filter  815  and grill plate/screened floor  810 ) so as to form a seal to prevent the passage of microbial contamination. 
     In addition to the foregoing, it has also been discovered that it may be advantageous to configure sterilization cabinet  105  with improved filter ports  900  ( FIG.  36   ) disposed in the side wall  126  of sterilization cabinet  105  (in lieu of or in addition to other locations) to allow for improved steam penetration and airflow and to provide an improved vent-to-volume ratio. Filter ports  900  may be configured to be circular portals in the panels of sterilization cabinet  105 . Filter ports  900  are covered with circular plates  905  so as to allow for a single point of attachment  910  (e.g., at the center of the circle) and for an even compression of filter gaskets (more particularly described below). 
     Filter ports  900  comprise a filter  915  and a plate  905  having perforations  920 , with filter  915  and plate  905  being mounted to the outside of sterilization cabinet  105 , or mounted to the inside of sterilization cabinet  105 , in alignment with perforations formed in the side panels of sterilization cabinet  105 . Perforations  920  allow for the passage of steam into and out of the sterilization cabinet  105 . One or more filters  915  are positioned intermediate the circular plate  905  and cabinet  105  and prevent the passage of microbial contamination therethrough. 
     Circular plates  905  are provided with gaskets (not shown) so as to create an effective seal between plate  905  and filter  915 . Plates  905  are also provided with a twist handle (not shown) which allows for plate  905  to be locked into place and for easy removal when a change of filter  915  is required. 
     In one preferred form of the invention, filter  915  is disposed intermediate plate  905  and the outside of a side panel of sterilization cabinet  105  so as to allow filter  915  to be accessed from the outside of sterilization cabinet  105 . In another preferred form of the invention, filter  915  is disposed intermediate plate  905  and the inside of a panel of sterilization cabinet  105  so as to allow filter  915  to be accessed from the inside of sterilization cabinet  105  for added filter protection. Filter ports  900  may also be provided with covers (not shown) to prevent damage during transportation. 
     Filter ports  900  and the components thereof are more consistent with the design of other rigid containers in the marketplace, thereby allowing for a crossover of intuitive training and also for a preferred manufacturing process. 
     Modifications 
     It should also be understood that many additional changes in the details, materials, steps and arrangements of parts, which have been herein described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of the present invention, may be made by those skilled in the art while still remaining within the principles and scope of the invention.