Endoscope disinfection device for otolaryngology

Abstract

The present invention discloses an otolaryngology endoscope disinfection device, which is in the field of medical disinfection equipment technology. The device comprises a disinfection body, a disinfection treatment area disposed within the body, and a chemical disinfection area connected to a circulation channel. The circulation channel is provided with an injection mechanism for injecting disinfectant into the circulation channel and a power mechanism for driving the circulation of fluid within the circulation channel. The chemical disinfection area is provided with a cavitation nucleus activation mechanism for generating cavitation nuclei in the chemical disinfection area and a plurality of guide plates. The sidewalls of the guide plates are provided with a shield scale array in the opposite direction of the fluid flow in the circulation channel. The shield scale array adopts a bionic shark skin shield scale structure. This solution combines turbulence and cavitation effects, which are mutually reinforcing and promote each other to improve the cleaning effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention belongs to the technical field of medical disinfection equipment, in particular to an endoscope disinfection device for otolaryngology. Background Art

[0002] Otolaryngology endoscopes are indispensable diagnostic and therapeutic tools in the field of otolaryngology. They can penetrate into narrow and complex cavities such as the ear canal, nasal cavity, and throat, providing doctors with clear visual images and helping to accurately diagnose conditions such as otitis media, sinusitis, and throat tumors. They can also assist in minimally invasive surgical procedures such as nasal polypectomy and vocal cord nodule removal. With the continuous advancement of medical technology, the frequency and scope of use of otolaryngology endoscopes continue to expand, becoming a near-essential instrument for daily diagnosis and treatment in otolaryngology.

[0003] Since ENT endoscopes come into direct contact with the patient's mucosal tissue and may even enter sterile areas, cross-infection can easily occur if not thoroughly disinfected. For example, pathogens from the patient's body fluids and blood, such as bacteria, viruses (such as influenza virus, new coronavirus, etc.), and fungi, may remain on the surface of the endoscope. Without effective disinfection, these pathogens can spread between different patients and cause serious infections, which not only endangers the health of patients, but also increases the difficulty of hospital infection control and brings huge medical and legal risks to medical institutions. Therefore, ensuring the strict disinfection of ENT endoscopes is a key link in ensuring medical safety.

[0004] Although the existing technology has made certain progress in the field of ENT endoscope disinfection, the following major defects still exist: ENT endoscopes often contain complex structures such as slender pipes, curved parts (such as the laryngoscope insertion part) and precision valves, and traditional brushing and soaking methods are difficult to thoroughly clean these hidden areas. For example, the patent publication number CN114146202B discloses an ENT endoscope disinfection device, which uses a rolling brush to scrub the surface of the endoscope, but the rolling brush can only act on the exposed surface, and has limited cleaning effect on hidden areas such as the inside of the pipe and the biopsy channel, which greatly affects the disinfection efficiency and disinfection effect. In addition, chemical disinfectants may remain on the surface of the endoscope or inside the pipe, and enter the patient's body during subsequent use, causing adverse consequences such as allergic reactions and toxic reactions.

[0005] In view of the defects of the existing technology, there is an urgent need for a new device that can disinfect ENT endoscopes efficiently, thoroughly and safely. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the purpose of the present invention is to provide an ENT endoscope disinfection device, which combines the advantages of chemical disinfection and physical disinfection and improves the disinfection effect through the synergistic effect of multiple fields.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows:

[0008] An otolaryngology endoscope disinfection device comprises a disinfection body; a disinfection treatment area is provided in the disinfection body, the disinfection treatment area comprises a physical disinfection area and a chemical disinfection area; the chemical disinfection area is connected to a circulation channel, the circulation channel is provided with an injection mechanism for inputting disinfectant into the circulation channel and a power mechanism for driving the circulation flow of fluid in the circulation channel; the chemical disinfection area is provided with a cavitation nucleus activation mechanism for generating cavitation nuclei in the chemical disinfection area and a plurality of guide plates; the side walls of the guide plates are provided with a shield scale array in the opposite direction of the fluid flow in the circulation channel, and the shield scale array adopts a bionic shark skin shield scale structure.

[0009] Working principle:

[0010] When the disinfectant flows at high speed in the circulation channel, turbulence is generated as it passes through the shield-scale array on the guide plate. The high Reynolds number vortices in the turbulent field reduce the static pressure of the fluid (i.e., the disinfectant) below the saturated vapor pressure, improving the efficiency of cavitation nucleus activation. Simultaneously, turbulent pulsation promotes a more uniform distribution of cavitation bubbles. The instantaneous pressure peak generated by cavitation collapse and the turbulent shear stress form a vector superposition, producing a shear-shock composite stripping effect on the contaminants on the endoscope being treated. The combination of turbulence and cavitation, which superimpose and promote each other, achieves a unique nonlinear enhancement effect.

[0011] The above scheme has the following beneficial effects:

[0012] 1. This solution combines turbulence and cavitation effects. Turbulence can enhance fluid mixing and shear forces, allowing the disinfectant to more evenly cover the endoscope surface and hidden areas. The design of the bionic shark skin shield scale structure can effectively guide turbulence, form high Reynolds number vortices, reduce the static pressure of the fluid, and thus promote the activation of cavitation nuclei. The cavitation effect generates instantaneous high pressure and temperature through the formation and collapse of bubbles, which can mechanically remove contaminants. The superposition of the pressure peak generated by the collapse of cavitation bubbles and the turbulent shear stress can thoroughly clean hidden areas such as slender pipes, bends, and precision valves of the endoscope, solving the problem that traditional methods are difficult to clean.

[0013] 2. This program reduces the use of chemical disinfectants, reduces residual risks, and avoids allergic and toxic reactions through the synergistic effect of physical disinfection and chemical disinfection.

[0014] 3. Compared to traditional methods of generating turbulence, such as mechanical stirring, this solution's bionic shield-scale structure does not physically damage the delicate components of the endoscope, preventing structural fatigue or damage caused by mechanical stress. Furthermore, turbulent pulsation promotes a more uniform distribution of cavitation bubbles, avoiding the localized cavitation effect seen in traditional methods, thereby achieving more comprehensive cleaning and disinfection results.

[0015] Furthermore, the physical disinfection area includes a pick-and-place cavity, which is located at the top of the chemical disinfection area. An ultraviolet lamp layer and a placement mechanism are provided in the pick-and-place cavity. The placement mechanism is used to divide the ENT endoscope into a non-contact part and a contact part and fix them in the pick-and-place cavity and the chemical disinfection area respectively. The ultraviolet lamp layer is used to perform physical disinfection on the non-contact part of the ENT endoscope.

[0016] Benefits: Contact areas frequently come into contact with patients, presenting a high risk of infection and requiring more thorough disinfection. By securing them within the chemical disinfection zone, turbulence and cavitation effects are utilized for deep cleaning and disinfection, ensuring thorough destruction of pathogens.

[0017] The non-contact part is mainly the doctor's operating area, with a relatively low risk of infection. Physical disinfection is carried out through the ultraviolet lamp layer to reduce the use of chemical disinfectants while ensuring the disinfection effect.

[0018] The non-contact parts are disinfected with ultraviolet light, which significantly reduces the use of chemical disinfectants, reduces costs and environmental pollution.

[0019] Furthermore, the cavitation nucleus activation mechanism includes an ultrasonic generator, which is located at the bottom of the chemical disinfection area.

[0020] Beneficial Effects: The ultrasonic generator, located at the bottom of the chemical disinfection zone, can directly introduce high-frequency vibrations into the disinfectant, generating a large number of cavitation nuclei. These cavitation nuclei form, grow, and eventually collapse in the disinfectant, generating shear forces and microjets, thus forming a cavitation effect.

[0021] Furthermore, the placement mechanism includes a plurality of card blocks, which are located between adjacent guide plates. Each card block is provided with a card slot, which is used to clamp the connection between the contact part and the non-contact part on the ENT endoscope.

[0022] Benefits: The slots on the clamping block precisely latch onto the endoscope's connector, ensuring the contact and non-contact sections are accurately separated and secured within the chemical disinfection zone and access chamber. This design prevents endoscope shifting during disinfection, ensuring accurate zoned disinfection. The contact section is secured within the chemical disinfection zone, fully exposed to turbulence and cavitation, ensuring thorough cleaning and disinfection. The non-contact section is secured within the access chamber, fully exposed to the UV light layer for efficient physical disinfection.

[0023] Furthermore, the injection mechanism includes a first liquid storage chamber and a second liquid storage chamber, the first liquid storage chamber and the second liquid storage chamber are used to store disinfectant and sterile water respectively, the first liquid storage chamber and the second liquid storage chamber are respectively connected to the circulation channel, and the first liquid storage chamber and the second liquid storage chamber are respectively provided with a first valve and a second valve on the communication path between the first liquid storage chamber and the second liquid storage chamber and the circulation channel.

[0024] Beneficial Effects: By controlling the first and second valves, disinfectant and sterile water can be precisely injected into the circulation channel as needed, ensuring optimal usage and avoiding waste. After the disinfection process, flushing with sterile water effectively removes residual disinfectant from the endoscope surface and the interior of the tubing, reducing the risk of chemical residue.

[0025] Furthermore, the power mechanism includes a circulation pump, which is located on the communication path between the circulation channel and the chemical disinfection area.

[0026] Beneficial Effects: The circulation pump rapidly drives the disinfectant through the circulation channel, ensuring uniform distribution throughout the chemical disinfection zone and significantly improving disinfection efficiency. The high-speed fluid flow provided by the circulation pump enhances the turbulence generated by the shield scale array on the guide plate, further increasing the activation efficiency of cavitation nuclei and promoting the cavitation effect.

[0027] Furthermore, a waste liquid collecting mechanism is provided at the bottom of the circulation channel. The waste liquid collecting mechanism includes a waste liquid tank. The waste liquid tank is connected to the circulation channel. A third valve is provided on the communication path between the waste liquid tank and the circulation channel.

[0028] Beneficial Effects: The waste liquid collection mechanism can promptly collect waste liquid from the circulation channel, preventing waste liquid from accumulating in the circulation channel and affecting the disinfection effect and equipment operation. By setting up the waste liquid tank, waste liquid can be collected and processed in a centralized manner, reducing waste liquid residue in the equipment and reducing the risk of secondary contamination.

[0029] Furthermore, a vacuum drying mechanism is provided in the circulation channel, and the circulation channel is connected to the outside world; the vacuum drying mechanism includes a vacuum pump and a fourth valve, the fourth valve is located on the path connecting the circulation channel with the outside world, and the vacuum pump is used to vacuum the circulation channel.

[0030] Benefits: The vacuum pump quickly extracts moisture from the circulation channel, achieving efficient drying and ensuring the endoscope is completely dry before use, preventing the growth of microorganisms caused by residual moisture. Vacuum drying ensures that every part of the endoscope, including hidden areas such as slender pipes and precision valves, is evenly dried, avoiding localized moisture residue.

[0031] Furthermore, the block and the guide plate are both made of transparent material.

[0032] Beneficial Effects: The transparent block and guide plate ensure smooth UV light penetration, allowing it to not only disinfect non-contact areas but also penetrate the chemical disinfection zone to assist disinfectants in disinfecting contact areas. This penetration allows UV light to reach more areas of the endoscope, including the contact area, providing dual protection for physical and chemical disinfection, enhancing disinfection effectiveness.

[0033] The synergistic effect of ultraviolet rays and chemical disinfectants can significantly improve disinfection efficiency, reduce disinfection time, and improve the utilization efficiency of equipment.

[0034] Furthermore, a non-toxic fluorescent dye is mixed in the first liquid storage chamber; and the system also includes a collection unit and a control unit; the collection unit is used to collect the distribution of the disinfectant in the chemical disinfection area; the control unit is used to determine whether the disinfectant is evenly distributed and whether the disinfectant remains based on the distribution of the disinfectant, and to control the operation of the circulation pump, the ultrasonic generator and the second valve.

[0035] Beneficial effect: When chemical disinfection is carried out in the circulation channel, the acquisition unit can excite the non-toxic fluorescent dye to emit light through the light emitted by the ultraviolet lamp layer, thereby obtaining a fluorescent image of the disinfectant. The control unit determines whether the disinfectant is evenly distributed on the endoscope based on the fluorescent image, and then adjusts the power of the circulation pump and / or ultrasonic generator to make the disinfectant evenly distributed in the chemical disinfection area.

[0036] When the disinfection and cleaning is completed, the control unit also determines whether there is any disinfectant residue through the collected fluorescent image, and controls the second valve to open again, re-injecting sterile water into the circulation channel for flushing until there is no disinfectant residue.

[0037] By mixing a non-toxic fluorescent dye within the first liquid storage chamber, the collection unit uses light from the UV lamp layer to stimulate the fluorescent dye to emit light, allowing real-time monitoring of the disinfectant distribution within the chemical disinfection area and determining whether the disinfectant is evenly distributed. This real-time monitoring ensures uniform distribution of the disinfectant throughout the chemical disinfection area, preventing localized concentrations of excessively high or low concentrations and improving disinfection effectiveness.

[0038] By mixing a non-toxic fluorescent dye within the first liquid reservoir and installing a collection unit and control unit, the system monitors the distribution of the disinfectant in real time, automatically adjusting the power of the circulation pump and ultrasonic generator to ensure uniform disinfectant distribution and thoroughly remove any residue. This design significantly improves disinfection effectiveness, reduces the risk of chemical residue and cross-infection, protects the delicate structure of the endoscope, and enhances the device's automation and ease of operation. It also effectively utilizes the dual functionality of the UV lamp layer, allowing the UV light to both physically disinfect and assist in monitoring disinfectant distribution, optimizing the device's structure and functionality. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 The figure is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the ENT endoscope disinfection device of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Front view of .

[0041] Figure 3 for Figure 2Cross-sectional view along the AA direction.

[0042] Figure 4 for Figure 2 Cross-sectional view along the BB direction.

[0043] Figure 5 This is a partial schematic diagram of the shield scale array in the ENT endoscope disinfection device of the present invention.

[0044] The figure marks in the drawings of the specification include: 1. disinfection body; 2. sealing door; 101. first liquid storage chamber; 102. second liquid storage chamber; 103. first valve; 104. second valve; 105. circulation channel; 106. third valve; 107. waste liquid tank; 108. groove; 109. take-and-place chamber; 110. ultraviolet lamp layer; 111. image sensor; 112. ultrasonic generator; 113. guide plate; 114. shield scale array; 115. circulation pump; 116. fourth valve; 117. tenon; 118. card block; 119. card slot. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The following describes embodiments of the present invention in detail. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are intended only to explain the present invention and are not to be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0046] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "longitudinal", "transverse", "vertical", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating the orientation or position relationship, are based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0047] In the description of the present invention, unless otherwise specified and limited, it should be noted that the terms "installed", "connected" and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection, or it can be the internal communication between two components. It can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0048] The following is further described in detail through specific implementation methods:

[0049] The embodiment is basically as shown in the attached Figure 1-Figure 5As shown: An ENT endoscope disinfection device mainly comprises a disinfection body 1, which is provided with a disinfection treatment area therein, and the disinfection treatment area is divided into a physical disinfection area and a chemical disinfection area.

[0050] Specifically, combined with Figure 3 As shown, the physical disinfection area includes a take-and-place chamber 109, Figure 3 The left side of the central access chamber 109 is pivotally connected to a sealed door 2, which allows the operator to remove or place the endoscope into the access chamber 109. The access chamber 109 is located above the chemical disinfection area and contains a UV lamp layer 110 and a placement mechanism. The placement mechanism is used to secure the ENT endoscope to the non-contact and contact parts of the access chamber 109 and the chemical disinfection area, respectively.

[0051] In this embodiment, the contact portion refers to the part of the endoscope that comes into direct contact with the patient's mucosal tissue during use. These areas are at a higher risk of infection and require specific disinfection. For example, the insertion portion, which is the front end of the endoscope and is used for insertion into the patient's ear canal, nasal cavity, or throat, and the curvature portion, located at the end of the insertion portion, is designed to adapt to the curvature of the human body's cavities, helping doctors better observe and operate.

[0052] Non-contact parts refer to those parts of the endoscope that do not come into direct contact with the patient's mucosal tissue during use. These parts pose a relatively low risk of infection, but they still require appropriate disinfection. For example, the operating part, located at the rear end of the endoscope, is used by the physician to control the operation of the endoscope. It is primarily handled by the physician's hands and does not come into direct contact with the patient.

[0053] The ultraviolet lamp layer 110 is used to physically disinfect the non-contact part of the ENT endoscope. In this embodiment, the ultraviolet lamp layer 110 is located at the top of the loading and unloading cavity 109.

[0054] The chemical disinfection zone is connected to a circulation channel 105. Specifically, in this embodiment, the circulation channel 105 has a "U"-shaped structure. The chemical disinfection zone coincides with a non-corner portion of the circulation channel 105, specifically directly below the access cavity 109. The circulation channel 105 is provided with an injection mechanism for injecting disinfectant into the circulation channel 105 and a power mechanism for driving the circulation of fluid within the circulation channel 105.

[0055] Specifically, the injection mechanism includes a first liquid storage chamber 101 and a second liquid storage chamber 102, which are located at the top of a circulation channel 105. The first and second liquid storage chambers 101 and 102 are used to store a disinfectant and sterile water, respectively. Preferably, in this embodiment, the disinfectant is mixed with a non-toxic fluorescent dye, such as sodium fluorescein. The first and second liquid storage chambers 101 and 102 are each connected to the circulation channel 105. A first valve 103 and a second valve 104 are installed on the paths connecting the first and second liquid storage chambers 101 and 102 to the circulation channel 105, respectively.

[0056] As attached Figure 4 As shown, the power mechanism includes a circulation pump 115 , which is installed in the circulation channel 105 .

[0057] The chemical disinfection area is provided with a cavitation nucleus activation mechanism for generating cavitation nuclei in the chemical disinfection area and several guide plates 113. The side walls of the guide plates 113 are provided with shield scale arrays 114 along the opposite direction of the fluid flow in the circulation channel 105. The shield scale arrays 114 are integrated with the guide plates 113, and the shield scale arrays 114 adopt a bionic shark skin shield scale structure.

[0058] Specifically, the cavitation nucleus activation mechanism includes an ultrasonic generator 112, located at the bottom of the chemical disinfection zone. This generator is used to generate cavitation nuclei within the zone and enhance the cavitation effect. It also includes several ultrasonic transducers, each employing a piezoelectric ceramic disc transducer. The ultrasonic transducer array is distributed across the bottom of the zone.

[0059] Specifically, combined with Figure 3 , Attachment Figure 4 and attached Figure 5 As shown, the placement mechanism includes a plurality of blocks 118, which are located between adjacent guide plates 113. The blocks 118 and the tops of the guide plates 113 are integrated. The blocks 118 are each provided with a slot 119, which is used to clamp the connection between the contact portion and the non-contact portion on the ENT endoscope. Preferably, in this embodiment, the blocks 118 and the guide plates 113 are both made of a transparent material. Preferably, in this embodiment, a tenon 117 is welded and fixed to the top of the outermost guide plate 113. The tenon 117 is rectangular in shape. Grooves 108 are provided on the tops of the two side walls of the chemical disinfection area. The grooves 108 are used to engage with the tenon 117 to facilitate the rapid disassembly and fixation of the guide plates 113.

[0060] Preferably, a waste liquid collection mechanism is provided at the bottom of the circulation channel 105, and the waste liquid collection mechanism includes a waste liquid tank 107 opened at the bottom of the circulation channel 105, the waste liquid tank 107 is connected to the circulation channel 105, and a third valve 106 is installed on the communication path between the waste liquid tank 107 and the circulation channel 105.

[0061] Preferably, a vacuum drying mechanism is also provided in the circulation channel 105, and the circulation channel 105 is connected to the outside world; the vacuum drying mechanism includes a vacuum pump and a fourth valve 116, the fourth valve 116 is located on the path connecting the circulation channel 105 with the outside world, and the vacuum pump is used to vacuum the circulation channel 105.

[0062] Preferably, the system further includes a collection unit and a control unit. The collection unit is used to collect the distribution of the disinfectant in the chemical disinfection area. In this embodiment, the collection unit integrates multiple sets of image sensors 111, which are used to collect fluorescent images from all directions in the chemical disinfection area for integration into a three-dimensional fluorescent image. The control unit is used to determine whether the disinfectant is evenly distributed and whether there is any residual disinfectant based on the distribution of the disinfectant, and to control the operation of the circulation pump 115, ultrasonic generator 112, and second valve 104. In this embodiment, the control unit is electrically connected to electrical equipment such as the first valve 103, the third valve 106, the fourth valve 116, the ultrasonic transducer, the vacuum pump, and the ultraviolet lamp layer 110.

[0063] Specifically, when chemical disinfection is performed in the circulation channel 105, the collection unit can excite the non-toxic fluorescent dye to emit light through the light emitted by the ultraviolet lamp layer 110, thereby obtaining fluorescent images of the disinfectant in all directions. The control unit integrates the fluorescent images to form a three-dimensional fluorescent image, and determines whether the disinfectant is evenly distributed on the endoscope based on the three-dimensional fluorescent image. Then, by adjusting the power of the circulation pump 115 and / or the ultrasonic generator 112, the disinfectant is evenly distributed in the chemical disinfection area.

[0064] When the disinfection and cleaning is completed, the control unit also determines whether there is any disinfectant residue through the collected fluorescent image, and controls the second valve 104 to open again, re-injecting sterile water into the circulation channel 105 for flushing until no disinfectant remains.

[0065] The specific implementation process is as follows:

[0066] Open the sealed door 2, take the guide plate 113 out of the chemical disinfection area along the groove 108, then insert the treated ENT endoscope (hereinafter referred to as endoscope) into the slot 119 along the gap between the guide plates 113, and then put the guide plate 113 back into the chemical disinfection area, and fix the guide plate 113 by engaging the tenon 117 and the groove 108.

[0067] The sealing door 2 is closed, and the second valve 104 and the ultraviolet lamp layer are activated, allowing the sterile water in the second liquid storage chamber 102 to enter the circulation channel 105 for the first preliminary flushing, flushing away larger impurities such as body fluids, tissues, and secretions, and the ultraviolet rays physically disinfect the endoscope. When the sterile water soaks the guide plate 113 (after a preset time), the control unit activates the circulation pump 115 and the ultrasonic generator 112. The circulation pump 115 drives the sterile water to flow at high speed in the circulation channel 105. When it passes through the shield scale array 114 on the guide plate 113, a turbulent field is generated. The synergistic effect of turbulence and cavitation effect is utilized to flush away impurities on the endoscope. The high Reynolds number vortex in the turbulent field can reduce the static pressure of the fluid to below the saturated vapor pressure, which can improve the activation efficiency of cavitation nuclei (cavitation nuclei refer to tiny bubbles or cavitation bubbles in liquids. Their formation and existence are the core factors of liquid cavitation). At the same time, in conjunction with the cavitation generated by the ultrasonic generator 112, the microjets generated by the collapse of the cavitation are used to flush and peel off the dirt, while promoting the shear stress in the turbulent field to improve the cleaning effect.

[0068] After the first round of flushing is completed, the control unit activates the third valve 106 to discharge the liquid in the circulation channel 105 into the waste liquid tank 107 for subsequent centralized processing, and then closes the third valve 106.

[0069] The control unit starts the first valve 103, allowing the disinfectant in the first liquid storage chamber 101 to enter the circulation channel 105 until the disinfectant submerges the guide plate 113. The control unit then starts the circulation pump 115 and the ultrasonic generator 112 again, using vortex shear to accelerate cavitation generation, and using microjets coupled with shock waves to produce a shear-impact composite peeling effect, thereby promoting the diffusion of the disinfectant and the disinfection effect.

[0070] At the same time, the control unit uses the fluorescent images collected in real time by the acquisition unit in various directions to integrate them into a three-dimensional fluorescent image to determine whether the disinfectant is evenly distributed. If the distribution is uneven, the control unit increases the power of the circulation pump 115, thereby increasing the Reynolds number of the fluid and promoting turbulent flow. Alternatively, the control unit increases the power of the ultrasonic generator 112 to promote the generation of cavitation and accelerate the uniform diffusion of the disinfectant. Specifically, when the control unit determines that the disinfectant is locally uneven through the three-dimensional fluorescent image, the control unit controls the operation of the ultrasonic transducer corresponding to the locally uneven part, thereby enhancing local cavitation in that part of the area. Through fluorescent image feedback and intelligent control, dynamic optimization of the disinfectant distribution is achieved, ensuring the uniformity and reliability of the disinfection effect.

[0071] After the disinfection is completed, the control unit opens the third valve 106 again to discharge the liquid in the circulation channel 105 into the waste liquid tank 107, and then closes the third valve 106.

[0072] The control unit then starts the second valve 104 again, allowing the sterile water in the second liquid storage chamber 102 to enter the circulation channel 105 for a second flush to flush out the disinfectant. After the flushing is completed, the control unit monitors the residual disinfectant in real time through the acquisition unit, and controls the operation of the circulation pump 115, ultrasonic generator 112, ultrasonic transducer, etc. until there is no disinfectant residue, and then all the liquid in the circulation channel 105 is discharged into the waste liquid tank 107.

[0073] Finally, the control unit controls the fourth valve 116 and the vacuum pump to perform vacuum drying to evaporate the moisture in the endoscope and the circulation channel 105. After drying, the control unit turns off all equipment and the staff opens the sealed door 2 to take out the endoscope.

[0074] In this embodiment, physical disinfection (ultraviolet light) and chemical disinfection (disinfectant) are combined to adopt differentiated treatment strategies for different infection risk areas (contact parts and non-contact parts).

[0075] The real-time monitoring of the disinfectant distribution by fluorescent images, combined with the dynamic adjustment of the circulation pump 115 and ultrasound, ensures that the disinfection effect is uniform and without residue.

[0076] For areas where disinfectant is unevenly distributed, precise cavitation enhancement is achieved by controlling local ultrasonic transducers, avoiding energy waste caused by overall power increase.

[0077] The above device was used to conduct simulation experiments:

[0078] Purpose of the experiment:

[0079] Verify the cleaning effect of the synergistic effect of turbulence and cavitation on hidden areas.

[0080] Assess chemical disinfectant residual risk and flushing efficiency.

[0081] The degree of damage caused by the test device to the precision components of the endoscope.

[0082] Compare the comprehensive performance of traditional disinfection methods (such as mechanical scrubbing and immersion) with that of this device.

[0083] Experimental groups and controls

[0084]

[0085] Experimental methods:

[0086] Cleaning effect test

[0087] Simulated pollutants:

[0088] Artificial pollutants: blood-protein mixture (simulated body fluid), bacterial biofilm (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus).

[0089] Endoscope model: 3D printed ENT endoscope (including complex structures such as slender tubes, bends, valves, etc.).

[0090] Detection method:

[0091] ATP bioluminescence method: detect the residual amount of pollutants (RLU value).

[0092] Colony counting method: After disinfection of the biofilm, samples are taken for culture and the sterilization rate (Log10 reduction value) is calculated.

[0093] Endoscopic imaging: Observe the cleanliness of hidden areas (such as the inner wall of the pipe) through the endoscope camera.

[0094] Disinfectant residue detection:

[0095] Fluorescent labeling method: Utilize fluorescein sodium mixed in disinfectant to quantitatively analyze the residual amount through three-dimensional fluorescence imaging system.

[0096] High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC): Detects the residual concentration of active ingredients of disinfectants (such as peracetic acid).

[0097] Cytotoxicity assay: The residual solution was used to treat human mucosal epithelial cells, and the cell viability was detected (CCK-8 method).

[0098] Device injury assessment:

[0099] Surface morphology analysis: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe scratches or wear on the endoscope surface (such as the curved part).

[0100] Fatigue test: After repeated disinfection 100 times, the mechanical properties of the endoscope (such as bending flexibility and valve sealing) are tested.

[0101] Real-time control effect verification:

[0102] Dynamic adjustment experiment: During the disinfection process, artificially create uneven local disinfectant distribution (such as blocking part of the area) to observe whether the control unit can achieve uniform coverage by adjusting the circulation pump power or the local ultrasonic transducer.

[0103] Energy consumption comparison: record the energy consumption (electricity and disinfectant usage) of the experimental group and the control group to complete a single disinfection.

[0104] Experimental steps:

[0105] Pretreatment: The endoscope model was immersed in artificial pollutants for 24 hours to simulate clinical contamination scenarios.

[0106] Group treatment: Disinfection operations were performed according to the methods of the experimental group and the control group.

[0107] Data collection:

[0108] Cleanliness rate: quantitative detection of pollutants before and after disinfection.

[0109] Residual amount: Fluorescence imaging and HPLC analysis after washing.

[0110] Device damage: SEM observation and functional testing.

[0111] Time and energy consumption: record a single disinfection cycle and resource consumption.

[0112] Data analysis: Statistical methods (such as ANOVA) were used to compare differences between groups, and the significance level was set at p < 0.05.

[0113] Experimental results:

[0114]

[0115]

[0116] Conclusion: By reshaping fluid dynamics with the biomimetic shark skin scale structure and constructing a directional vortex network within the disinfectant circulation, this method achieves, for the first time, full-coverage cleaning of complex pipe interiors. This "fluid carving" technology, without mechanical contact, precisely delivers disinfectant to corners inaccessible to traditional methods, such as bends and valve crevices, significantly improving cleaning effectiveness.

[0117] The above is only an embodiment of the present invention, and common knowledge such as the specific structure and / or characteristics of the scheme is not described in detail here. It should be pointed out that for those skilled in the art, without departing from the structure of the present invention, several variations and improvements can be made, which should also be regarded as the scope of protection of the present invention, and these will not affect the effect of the implementation of the present invention and the practicality of the patent. The scope of protection required by this application shall be based on the content of its claims, and the specific implementation methods and other records in the specification can be used to interpret the content of the claims.

Claims

1. An otolaryngology endoscope disinfection device, comprising a disinfection body (1); a disinfection treatment area is provided in the disinfection body (1), the disinfection treatment area including a chemical disinfection area, and is characterized in that: The chemical disinfection area is connected to a circulation channel (105), and an injection mechanism for inputting disinfectant into the circulation channel (105) and a power mechanism for driving the circulation flow of the fluid in the circulation channel (105) are provided in the circulation channel (105). A cavitation nucleus activation mechanism for generating cavitation nuclei in the chemical disinfection area and a plurality of guide plates (113) are provided in the chemical disinfection area. The side walls of the guide plates (113) are provided with shield scale arrays (114) along the opposite direction of the fluid flow in the circulation channel (105). The shield scale arrays (114) adopt a bionic shark skin shield scale structure. The disinfection treatment area also includes a physical disinfection area, which includes a pick-up and placement cavity (109). The pick-up and placement cavity (109) is located on the top of the chemical disinfection area. An ultraviolet lamp layer (110) and a placement mechanism are provided in the pick-up and placement cavity (109). The placement mechanism is used to divide the ENT endoscope into a non-contact part and a contact part and fix them in the pick-up and placement cavity (109) and the chemical disinfection area respectively. The ultraviolet lamp layer (110) is used to physically disinfect the non-contact part of the ENT endoscope.

2. The ENT endoscope disinfection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cavitation nucleus activation mechanism comprises an ultrasonic generator (112), which is located at the bottom of the chemical disinfection area.

3. The ENT endoscope disinfection device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The placement mechanism comprises a plurality of card blocks (118), wherein the card blocks (118) are located between adjacent guide plates (113), and each card block (118) is provided with a card slot (119), and the card slot (119) is used to clamp the connection portion between the contact portion and the non-contact portion on the ENT endoscope.

4. The ENT endoscope disinfection device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The injection mechanism comprises a first liquid storage chamber (101) and a second liquid storage chamber (102), wherein the first liquid storage chamber (101) and the second liquid storage chamber (102) are used to store disinfectant and sterile water respectively, and the first liquid storage chamber (101) and the second liquid storage chamber (102) are respectively connected to a circulation channel (105), and a first valve (103) and a second valve (104) are respectively provided on the communication path between the first liquid storage chamber (101) and the second liquid storage chamber (102) and the circulation channel (105).

5. The ENT endoscope disinfection device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The power mechanism comprises a circulation pump (115), and the circulation pump (115) is located on the communication path between the circulation channel (105) and the chemical disinfection zone.

6. The ENT endoscope disinfection device according to claim 5, characterized in that: A waste liquid collecting mechanism is provided at the bottom of the circulation channel (105), the waste liquid collecting mechanism comprising a waste liquid tank (107), the waste liquid tank (107) being connected to the circulation channel (105), and a third valve (106) being provided on the communication path between the waste liquid tank (107) and the circulation channel (105).

7. The ENT endoscope disinfection device according to claim 6, characterized in that: A vacuum drying mechanism is also provided in the circulation channel (105), and the circulation channel (105) is communicated with the outside world. The vacuum drying mechanism includes a vacuum pump and a fourth valve (116). The fourth valve (116) is located on the path connecting the circulation channel (105) with the outside world. The vacuum pump is used to evacuate the circulation channel (105).

8. The ENT endoscope disinfection device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The block (118) and the guide plate (113) are both made of transparent material.

9. The ENT endoscope disinfection device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The first liquid storage chamber (101) is mixed with a non-toxic fluorescent dye; and further comprises a collection unit and a control unit; the collection unit is used to collect the distribution of the disinfectant in the chemical disinfection area; the control unit is used to judge whether the disinfectant is evenly distributed and whether the disinfectant remains based on the distribution of the disinfectant, and to control the operation of the circulation pump (115), the ultrasonic generator (112) and the second valve (104).

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