Holder for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces and sieve basket with such a holder

Abstract

A holding device (12) for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces (14, 16, 18), in particular in a sieve basket (10), comprising a frame (22), at least two handpiece receptacles (80) held on the frame for holding and storing a respective surgical handpiece (14, 16, 18), a cleaning fluid connection (158) for introducing a cleaning fluid, and a distributor (50) which is in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80), wherein the holding device has at least one filter device (120) through which the cleaning fluid can flow, which filter device is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80), characterized in that the holding device (12) comprises a filter cleaning connection (74) which is in fluid communication with the at least one filter device (120).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a holding device for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces, in particular in a sieve basket comprising a frame, at least two handpiece receptacles held on the frame for holding and storing a surgical handpiece each, a cleaning fluid connection for introducing a cleaning fluid and a distributor which is in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid connection and the at least two handpiece receptacles, wherein the holding device has at least one filter device through which the cleaning fluid can flow, which filter device is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection and the at least two handpiece receptacles.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention also relates to a sieve basket, in particular for a cleaning and disinfection device for cleaning implants and surgical instruments, with a holding device for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces, which holding device comprises a frame, at least two handpiece receptacles held on the frame for holding and storing a surgical handpiece each, a cleaning fluid connection for introducing a cleaning fluid and a distributor which is in fluid connection with the cleaning fluid connection and the at least two handpiece receptacles.

[0003] Holding devices of the type described above are used primarily for cleaning surgical handpieces. These surgical handpieces include, for example, burrs or shaver handpieces, which have a longitudinal channel that cannot be cleaned manually with brushes. Bristles may loosen contaminants inside the handpieces but cannot completely remove them. Furthermore, contaminants and, in the worst case, even bristles can get into the ball bearings provided on the handpieces, causing them to become blocked and, in the worst case, even damaged.

[0004] Holding devices for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces, particularly in a sieve basket, comprising a frame, at least two handpiece receptacles held thereon for holding and storing a surgical handpiece each, a cleaning fluid connection for introducing a cleaning fluid, and a distributor fluidically connected to the cleaning fluid connection and the at least two handpiece receptacles, as known, for example, from DE 10 2005 048 211 A1, allow the handpieces to be cleaned easily and safely in a cleaning and disinfection device. Since the cleaning fluid used in a cleaning and disinfection device is constantly circulated, it cannot be ruled out that contaminants in the cleaning fluid may enter the interior of the handpieces during the cleaning process and clog them.

[0005] DE 10 2004 029 970 B3 discloses a flexible rinsing device for instrument reprocessing. DE 10 2008 011 743 A1 discloses an emergency trolley with coupling devices. DE 93 10 601 U1 relates to cassettes for holding medical, particularly dental, instruments. DE 20 2004 014 041 U1 describes dirt filters for piping systems. Finally, DE 198 03 083 A1 discloses a backwashable filter for liquids containing contaminants.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve a holding device and a sieve basket of the type described above so that surgical handpieces can be cleaned quickly and safely.

[0007] This object is achieved according to the invention in a holding device of the type described above in that it comprises a filter cleaning connection which is in fluid connection with the at least one filter device.

[0008] The at least one filter device can, in particular, ensure that the cleaning fluid circulated in a cleaning and disinfection device, which is also referred to simply as a "washing machine," is filtered before flowing through the surgical handpieces to be cleaned. This prevents coarse contaminants in particular from penetrating the interior of the handpieces, further contaminating them, and in the worst case, even clogging them. Furthermore, it is advantageous for the holding device to comprise a filter cleaning connection that is fluidly connected to the at least one filter device. The filter cleaning connection can, in particular, be used to specifically clean the filter device from time to time.For example, a special cleaning fluid can be introduced into the holding device through the filter cleaning connection in order to clean the filter device, in particular the filter element encompassed by it, without having to remove it from the filter housing.

[0009] To simplify the design of the holding device and, in particular, to minimize the number of filter devices, it is advantageous to install at least one filter device between the cleaning fluid connection and the distributor. This generally makes it possible to provide only a single filter device. Alternatively, however, it would also be conceivable to assign each handpiece holder its own filter device with a filter element.

[0010] To minimize manufacturing costs and improve handling, it is advantageous to have a single filter unit. Unlike with multiple filter units, only one filter unit requires regular maintenance, significantly reducing maintenance effort.

[0011] It is advantageous if the at least one filter device comprises a filter housing and a filter element held in the filter housing. The filter housing is preferably designed such that the filter element can be easily replaced. For this purpose, the filter housing can be designed, in particular, in two parts, wherein the two parts of the filter housing are advantageously designed to be detachably connectable to one another. The filter element is preferably arranged in the filter housing such that the cleaning fluid, after flowing through the cleaning fluid connection, must flow completely through the filter element on its way to the at least two handpiece receptacles.

[0012] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the filter housing can comprise a filter element receptacle, a cleaning fluid inlet, and a cleaning fluid outlet, and the cleaning fluid inlet and the cleaning fluid outlet are each fluidly connected to the filter element receptacle. This makes it possible, particularly when a filter element is arranged in the filter element receptacle, to ensure that all of the cleaning fluid flowing through the filter housing actually flows through the filter element. It should be noted at this point that the cleaning fluid can, in particular, be a liquid, for example, water, to which suitable detergents can be added to loosen contaminants on handpieces to be cleaned.

[0013] Preferably, the cleaning fluid inlet and the cleaning fluid connection are fluidly connected to each other. In particular, they can be directly connected to each other, so that cleaning fluid provided by a cleaning and disinfection device can be introduced, for example, directly via a hose into the cleaning fluid connection and flow from this cleaning fluid inlet of the filter housing.

[0014] It may also be advantageous if the cleaning fluid outlet and the at least two handpiece receptacles are fluidically connected. This allows cleaning fluid purified by the filter device to flow from the filter housing to the at least one handpiece receptacle.

[0015] In principle, it would be conceivable for the filter housing to have multiple cleaning fluid outlets. In this case, the filter housing would also function as a distributor. However, it is advantageous if the cleaning fluid outlet and the distributor are fluidically connected. The cleaning fluid can then flow from the filter housing to the distributor and be distributed there to the two or more handpiece receptacles. This has the particular advantage that a potentially damaged filter unit can be completely replaced if it is designed to be detachably connected to the frame or the distributor.

[0016] It is advantageous if at least one handpiece receptacle is provided with a valve that is closed in a basic position in which the handpiece receptacle is unequipped. Equipping handpiece receptacles with a valve in the manner described has the advantage that no cleaning fluid can leak from unequipped handpiece receptacles. In other words, all of the cleaning fluid flowing through the holding device is then directed only to the handpiece receptacle(s) that is / are equipped with a handpiece. When equipped with a handpiece, the valve of the handpiece receptacle is preferably open.

[0017] It is advantageous if the valve is open when the handpiece is connected to the handpiece holder. In particular, the valve can be designed such that it opens automatically when a handpiece is connected. For this purpose, it can preferably have an actuating element that is moved by the handpiece when it is connected to the handpiece holder in such a way that the valve is moved from its basic position, in which it is closed, to an open position, in which it can be flowed through by the cleaning or rinsing fluid.

[0018] It is further advantageous if the holding device comprises at least one valve closing device that automatically closes the valve of the handpiece holder after a handpiece is removed from the handpiece holder. Such a valve closing device simplifies the handling of the holding device, as an operator does not have to manually close the valve after removing the handpiece and thus cannot forget to do so.

[0019] A particularly simple and compact design of the at least one valve closing device can be achieved in particular by comprising at least one closing member and at least one associated return member for automatically moving the at least one closing member into a closed position in which the at least one valve is closed. In the closed position, the valve thus assumes the basic position. In particular, the return member can also be arranged and designed such that opening of the valve is only possible against a return force exerted by the return member. A force required to open the valve can in particular be exerted by the handpiece, which is coupled to the at least two handpiece receptacles.

[0020] It is advantageous if the at least two handpiece receptacles comprise a first coupling element of a coupling device, which can be engaged with a second coupling element of a handpiece in a cleaning position. The coupling device makes it possible to securely hold the handpiece on the handpiece receptacles. This can be used, on the one hand, to apply the necessary force to move and hold the return member in an open position. Furthermore, it can also ensure, for example, that the surgical handpiece cannot accidentally fall off the respective handpiece receptacle, for example, by becoming loose.Since the cleaning fluid flows through the holding device and thus also through the surgical handpiece with a certain fluid pressure during cleaning, it is particularly important that the handpieces cannot accidentally detach from the respective handpiece holder so that the desired cleaning effect can be achieved safely and reproducibly.

[0021] The coupling device is particularly easy to manufacture if the first coupling element is in the form of an annular groove, a threaded section, or part of a bayonet connection. The annular groove can, in particular, form part of an automatic coupling which serves to accommodate second coupling elements movable in a radial direction toward a longitudinal axis of the coupling device, for example, a plurality of balls spring-loaded in the direction of the longitudinal axis on a coupling ring of a handpiece. The threaded section can, in particular, be in the form of an internal or external thread section. Likewise, the part of the bayonet connection can be in the form of a male or female bayonet connector. For optimal use, the first coupling element is designed to correspond to the second coupling element provided on the surgical handpiece.

[0022] In order to ensure as far as possible that the entire cleaning fluid flowing through the at least two handpiece receptacles can also flow through the surgical handpiece in order to clean the interior of the handpiece as it flows through, it is advantageous if at least one of the handpiece receptacles comprises a sealing element for sealing the handpiece receptacle and a handpiece connected thereto in a cleaning position.

[0023] The filter device can be easily cleaned if the filter cleaning port is fluidically connected to the cleaning fluid outlet. This makes it possible to direct a cleaning fluid for cleaning the filter device through the filter cleaning port and allow it to flow to the cleaning fluid outlet, counter to the flow direction of the cleaning fluid used when cleaning surgical handpieces.

[0024] In principle, it would be conceivable to arrange the filter cleaning connection directly on the filter device. Preferably, the filter cleaning connection is arranged or configured to be fluidly connected to the distributor. Such an arrangement enables simple and safe handling of the holding device, as the filter cleaning connection can be positioned in a location that is easily accessible to an operator.

[0025] A particularly simple design of the holding device can be achieved in particular by arranging or forming the filter cleaning connection coaxially or substantially coaxially with a longitudinal axis of the distributor. For example, the distributor can be formed from a tube, with one end of the tube forming the filter cleaning connection.

[0026] It is advantageous if the filter cleaning connection has a coupling element for coupling to a fluid line. This allows the fluid line to be easily and securely connected to the filter cleaning connection. This is particularly important when the cleaning fluid for cleaning the filter device is introduced into the holding device at high pressure.

[0027] To improve the use of the holding device, especially in hospitals, it is advantageous if the coupling element is designed in the form of a Luer-Lock connector. Such a Luer-Lock connector is standardized and widely compatible with fluid lines and their connectors.

[0028] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the filter cleaning connection comprises a backflow valve which is closed below a predetermined limit closing pressure prevailing between an interior of the at least one filter device and an exterior of the valve cleaning connection. Such a backflow valve ensures that the filter cleaning connection is always closed when no cleaning fluid is introduced through it. Conversely, the backflow valve can also ensure, in particular, that when the holding device is used to clean handpieces, i.e. when a cleaning fluid flows from the cleaning fluid connection to the at least one handpiece receptacle, the filter cleaning connection is closed and thus no cleaning fluid can escape at this point.

[0029] It is advantageous if the limit closing pressure is greater, preferably at least twice as high, than the pressure prevailing in the cleaning fluid at the cleaning fluid connection. In other words, this means that the non-return valve is designed in such a way that it only opens when a sufficient fluid pressure is applied to it, which is preferably twice as high as the pressure prevailing in the cleaning fluid, especially in the filter device.

[0030] The limit closing pressure is preferably at least 1 bar. It is advantageous if it is at least 2 bar. The non-return valve is designed accordingly to ensure reliable closing below the limit closing pressure.

[0031] To prevent the filter cleaning port from developing a leak during normal cleaning operations when cleaning surgical handpieces, it is advantageous for the backflow valve to be closed when the pressure inside the at least one filter device is greater than on the outside of the filter cleaning port. Particularly when the filter cleaning port is not exposed to a cleaning fluid from the outside to clean the filter device, the fluid pressure inside the filter device is normally greater than on the outside of the filter cleaning port. The backflow valve is then closed to prevent the filter cleaning port from developing a leak through which a cleaning fluid could escape unused.

[0032] The design of the holding device is particularly simple if the distributor is designed in the form of an elongated sleeve or tube. The at least two handpiece receptacles can then be arranged or designed on the distributor, for example, in the form of corresponding connecting pieces.

[0033] It is advantageous if the distributor defines a distributor longitudinal axis, if the at least two handpiece receptacles each define a receptacle longitudinal axis, and if the distributor longitudinal axis runs perpendicular to the receptacle longitudinal axis. Preferably, the distributor longitudinal axis and the receptacle longitudinal axis can also be oriented perpendicular to each other. Longitudinal axes running perpendicular to each other make it particularly easy to load the holding device with surgical handpieces, since these can, for example, be oriented parallel to each other.

[0034] It may also be advantageous for the holding device to comprise a connecting device for detachably connecting the frame to a sieve basket. In particular, the frame may have corresponding projections that can engage in recesses in the sieve basket to temporarily and securely connect the holding device to the sieve basket. This is particularly desirable because, due to the supply of the cleaning fluid to the holding device, forces are exerted by the fluid. In unfavorable cases, this can lead to a relative movement of the holding device in the sieve basket, which can cause undesirable damage to parts contained in the sieve basket, in particular to the handpieces to be cleaned.

[0035] The object stated at the outset is further achieved according to the invention in a strainer basket of the type described at the outset in that at least one filter device through which the cleaning fluid can flow is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection and the at least two handpiece receptacles.

[0036] Providing at least one filter device offers the particular advantages explained in detail above in connection with the preferred embodiments of the holding device. In particular, the filter device can be easily removed from a cleaning and disinfection device together with the holding device and, if the latter is connected to the strainer basket, together with the strainer basket. In particular, replacing the filter device, for example, if a filter element is heavily contaminated, can then be carried out easily.

[0037] Furthermore, it may be advantageous, particularly in a strainer basket of the type described above, to provide a filter cleaning connection that is fluidly connected to the at least one filter device. The filter cleaning connection makes it easy to clean the filter device, for example, by introducing a cleaning fluid specifically suited for this purpose through the filter cleaning connection.

[0038] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the strainer basket comprises one of the advantageous holding devices described above. It then also has, in particular, the advantages outlined above in connection with the described holding devices.

[0039] The above description therefore includes in particular the embodiments of a holding device and a strainer basket explicitly listed in the following numbered sentences: 1. Holding device (12) for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces (14, 16, 18), in particular in a sieve basket (10), comprising a frame (22), at least two handpiece receptacles (80) held on the frame for holding and storing a respective surgical handpiece (14, 16, 18), a cleaning fluid connection (158) for introducing a cleaning fluid and a distributor (50) which is in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80), characterized by at least one filter device (120) through which the cleaning fluid can flow, which filter device is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80). 2. Holding device according to sentence 1, characterized in that the at least one filter device (120) is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the distributor (50). 3. Holding device according to sentence 1 or 2, characterized in that only a single filter device (120) is provided. 4. Holding device according to one of the preceding sentences, characterized in that the at least one filter device (120) comprises a filter housing (128) and a filter element (168) held in the filter housing (128). 5. Holding device according to sentence 4, characterized in that the filter housing (128) comprises a filter element receptacle (166), a cleaning fluid inlet (160) and a cleaning fluid outlet (162) and that the cleaning fluid inlet (160) and the cleaning fluid outlet (162) are each in fluid communication with the filter element receptacle (166). 6. Holding device according to sentence 5, characterized in that the cleaning fluid inlet (160) and the cleaning fluid connection (158) are in fluid communication with each other. 7. Holding device according to sentence 5 or 6, characterized in that the cleaning fluid outlet (162) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80) are in fluid communication. 8. Holding device according to one of the sentences 5 to 7, characterized in that the cleaning fluid outlet (162) and the distributor (50) are in fluid communication. 9. Holding device according to one of the preceding sentences, characterized in that at least one handpiece holder (80) is provided with a valve (82) which is closed in a basic position in which the handpiece holder (80) is unequipped. 10. Holding device according to sentence 9, characterized in that the valve (82) is open when the handpiece (14, 16, 18) is coupled to a handpiece holder (80). 11. Holding device according to sentence 9 or 10, characterized by at least one valve closing device (184) which automatically closes the valve (182) of the handpiece holder (80) after removal of a handpiece (14, 16, 18) from the handpiece holder (80). 12. Holding device according to sentence 11, characterized in that the at least one valve closing device (184) comprises at least one closing member (186) and at least one associated return member (192) for automatically moving the at least one closing member (186) into a closed position in which the at least one valve (182) is closed. 13. Holding device according to one of the preceding sentences, characterized in that the at least one handpiece receptacle (80) comprises a first coupling element (102) of a coupling device (104) which can be brought into engagement with a second coupling element (106) of a handpiece (14, 16, 18) in a cleaning position. 14. Holding device according to sentence 13, characterized in that the first coupling element (102) is designed in the form of an annular groove (100), a threaded section or a part of a bayonet connection. 15. Holding device according to one of the preceding sentences, characterized in that at least one of the handpiece receptacles (80) comprises a sealing element (110) for sealing the handpiece receptacle (80) and a handpiece (14, 16, 18) connected thereto in a cleaning position. 16. Holding device according to one of the preceding sentences, in particular according to the preamble of sentence 1, characterized by a filter cleaning connection (74) which is in fluid connection with the at least one filter device (120). 17. Holding device according to sentence 16, characterized in that the filter cleaning connection (74) is in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid outlet (162). 18. Holding device according to sentence 16 or 17, characterized in that the filter cleaning connection (74) is in fluid communication with the distributor (50). 19. Holding device according to one of the sentences 16 to 18, characterized in that the filter cleaning connection (74) is arranged or formed coaxially or substantially coaxially to a distributor longitudinal axis (48) of the distributor (50). 20. Holding device according to one of the sentences 16 to 19, characterized in that the filter cleaning connection (74) has a coupling element (76) for coupling to a fluid line. 21. Holding device according to sentence 20, characterized in that the coupling element (76) is designed in the form of a Luer-Lock connection (76). 22. Holding device according to one of the sentences 16 to 21, characterized in that the filter cleaning connection (74) comprises a backflow valve (72) which is closed below a predetermined limit closing pressure which prevails between an interior of the at least one filter device (120) and an outside of the filter cleaning connection (74). 23. Holding device according to sentence 22, characterized in that the limit closing pressure is greater, preferably at least twice as great, than a pressure in the cleaning fluid prevailing at the cleaning fluid connection (158). 24. Holding device according to sentence 22 or 23, characterized in that the limit closing pressure is at least 1 bar, preferably at least 2 bar. 25. Holding device according to one of the sentences 22 to 24, characterized in that the backflow valve (72) is closed when the pressure inside the at least one filter device (120) is greater than on an outer side (214) of the filter cleaning connection (74). 26. Holding device according to one of the preceding sentences, characterized in that the distributor (50) is designed in the form of an elongated sleeve or a tube. 27. Holding device according to one of the preceding sentences, characterized in that the distributor (50) defines a distributor longitudinal axis (48), that the at least two handpiece receptacles (80) define a receptacle longitudinal axis (78) and that the distributor longitudinal axis (48) extends transversely to the receptacle longitudinal axis (78). 28. Holding device according to one of the preceding sentences, characterized by a connecting device (216) for releasably connecting the frame (22) to a sieve basket (10). 29. A sieve basket (10), in particular for a cleaning and disinfection device for cleaning implants and surgical instruments, with a holding device (12) for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces (14, 16, 18), which holding device (12) comprises a frame (22), at least two handpiece receptacles (80) held thereon for holding and storing a respective surgical handpiece (14, 16, 18), a cleaning fluid connection (158) for introducing a cleaning fluid and a distributor (50) which is in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80), characterized in that at least one filter device (120) through which the cleaning fluid can flow is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80). 30. Screen basket according to sentence 29, in particular according to the preamble of sentence 29, characterized by a filter cleaning connection (74) which is in fluid connection with the at least one filter device (120). 31. Screen basket according to sentence 29 or 30, characterized by a holding device (12) according to one of sentences 2 to 28.

[0040] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention serves to explain it in more detail in conjunction with the drawings. They show: Fig. 1: a schematic, perspective view of a sieve basket with a holding device arranged therein, which is equipped with surgical handpieces; Fig. 2: an enlarged view of the holding device equipped with handpieces from Fig. 1; Fig. 3: a partially broken plan view of the Fig. 2 holding device shown without handpieces; Fig. 4: a sectional view along line 4-4 in Fig. 3; Fig. 5: a sectional view along line 5-5 in Fig. 3; and Fig. 6: a sectional view along line 6-6 in Fig. 3.

[0041] In Fig. 1 shows an exemplary sieve basket, designated overall by reference numeral 10, with a holding device 12 arranged therein for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces 14, 16, and 18. The bottom and side walls of the sieve basket 10 are made of a mesh or perforated sheet material. Furthermore, two pivotable carrying handles 20 for holding and transporting the sieve basket 10 are pivotably arranged diametrically opposite one another on the end faces of the basket.

[0042] The holding device 12 comprises a frame 22 with two parallel, elongated legs 24 that are symmetrical to one another. The legs 24 have an upper side 26 and an outer side 28 that runs perpendicular to the upper side by bending the material, preferably a stainless metal sheet, from which the frame 22 is made. The upper sides 26 form part of the upper side of a frame plate 30. Foot parts 34 protrude perpendicularly from free ends 32 of the legs 24, extending transversely therefrom and the outer sides 28, the free ends of which are bent over and each define a small base plate 36. At the other end of the frame plate 30, two foot parts 38 also protrude therefrom, the outer sides of which lie in a plane with the respective outer side 28 of the associated leg 24.The foot parts 38 are slightly larger than the foot parts 34, but each also has a small base plate 40 formed by bending the sheet metal material. These plates are angled 90° relative to the foot parts 38 and point toward each other. The four base plates 36 and 40, together with their undersides, define a base plane for the holding device 12.

[0043] The foot parts 38 extend slightly beyond a proximal end 42 of the frame plate 30 and also have a tab-like projection 44, the outer side of which lies in a plane with the respective outer side 28 of the associated leg 24. The two projections 44 are aligned parallel to each other and each provided with a circular cross-sectional opening 46, wherein the openings 46 are aligned coaxially with a longitudinal axis 48.

[0044] A tubular distributor 50 is held between the projections 44 coaxially to the longitudinal axis 48. A first end of the distributor is provided with a blind hole 54 which has an internal thread 56. A short annular flange 58 projects from the first end 52, the outer diameter of which is adapted to an inner diameter of the opening 46 and has a height which essentially corresponds to a thickness of the projection 44. To fix the distributor 50 to the frame 22, a screw bolt 60 with its threaded section 62 having an external thread is screwed to the internal thread 56 of the blind hole 54, wherein a head 64 of the screw bolt 60 has a larger outer diameter than the opening 46 and thus abuts the outside of the projection 44. The head 64 carries a tool holder 66 in the form of an internal polygon pointing away from the distributor 50.

[0045] At the opposite end 68, the distributor 50 also has a blind hole 70, which serves to secure the distributor 50 to the other projection 44 of the frame 22. A non-return valve 72 is inserted into the blind hole 70 and partially penetrating the opening 46. The non-return valve 72 has a filter cleaning connection 74 in the form of a Luer lock connection 76 pointing away from the projection 44. The filter cleaning connection 74, as well as the non-return valve 72, are arranged and aligned coaxially with the longitudinal axis 48, which simultaneously forms a longitudinal axis of the distributor 50.

[0046] Protruding from the distributor 50, with their longitudinal axes 78 aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 48, are three handpiece receptacles 80 arranged parallel to one another and equidistant from one another. These are essentially rotationally symmetrical connecting pieces 82. These have a first end section 84 provided with an external thread 86, which corresponds to an internal thread 88 of a transverse bore 90 in the distributor 50.

[0047] An outer diameter of the connecting piece 82 widens continuously in the proximal direction from a proximal end of the external thread 86 and defines a conical section 92. This is followed by a cylindrical section 94 up to a proximal or free end 96 of the connecting piece 82. On an outer side 98 of the cylindrical section of the connecting piece 82, a short annular projection 99 is formed approximately centrally, which is trapezoidal in longitudinal section and points radially away from the receiving longitudinal axis and has an annular surface 101 inclined in the proximal direction, which defines a stop surface for proximal ends of the handpieces 14, 16 and 18.

[0048] A sealing element 110 in the form of an O-ring is inserted into an annular groove 108 which is open radially outwards between the annular projection 99 and the end 96 and which is essentially square in longitudinal section, in order to seal the connecting piece 82 relative to the handpiece 14, 16 or 18.

[0049] Between the annular groove 108 and the end 96, a further annular groove 100, which is substantially semicircular in longitudinal section, is provided, which forms a first coupling element 102 of a coupling device 104 for releasably connecting the handpiece receptacle 80 to one of the handpieces 14, 16, or 18. A corresponding second coupling element 106 is formed on each of the handpieces 14, 16, and 18 in the region of their proximal ends, specifically in the form of six balls 103 movably mounted on a rotating ring of the handpieces 14, 16, and 18, which balls can be displaced via a cone inside the rotating ring. By displacing the rotating ring parallel to the longitudinal axis 78 of the holder, the balls 103 can be moved radially away from the longitudinal axis 78 of the holder and out of the annular groove 100, so that the balls 103 release the annular groove 100 and the respective handpiece 14, 16 or 18 can be released from the handpiece holder 80.Conversely, coupling of the handpieces 14, 16, or 18 to one of the handpiece receptacles 80 is achieved by sliding the handpieces 14, 16, or 18 onto a handpiece receptacle 80 in the direction of the distributor 50 until the balls 103 engage in the annular groove 100, in particular due to a resilient preload of the rotating ring, snap into the annular groove 100. The handpiece receptacles 80 are preferably designed to correspond to a motor coupling connection formed on a drive for the handpieces 14, 16, or 18, which in turn is designed to correspond to the handpieces 14, 16, or 18 in order to be able to detachably connect the handpieces 14, 16, or 18 to the drive.

[0050] Between the first end 52 of the distributor 50 and the nearest handpiece receptacle 80, a short cylindrical connecting piece 112 is formed, projecting obliquely from the distributor 50 in the direction of the frame plate 30, and is in fluid communication with an elongated hollow cylindrical interior 114 of the distributor 50. One end 118 of a connecting hose 116 is pushed onto the connecting piece 112 to establish a fluid connection between the distributor 50 and a filter device 120.

[0051] The filter device 120 is attached to a bent tab 122 of the frame plate 30 below the distributor 50. The tab 122 has a circular cross-sectional opening 124, into which a first housing part 126 of a filter housing 128 is inserted. A recess 130 formed on an outer side of the filter housing 128 serves as a stop on the tab 122, so that the first housing part 126 can only be pushed through the opening 124 up to the recess 130. Thus, only a short, sleeve-shaped connecting piece 132, which is provided with an external thread 134, protrudes from the opening 124. An internal thread 136 of a union nut 138 of a hose connector 140 is screwed to the external thread 134, which comprises a hose connection piece 142 pointing away from the tab 122, onto which the other end 144 of the connecting hose 116 is pushed.It should also be noted that the frame plate 30 has a slot-like opening 146 in the area of ​​the connecting piece 112, through which the connecting hose 116 is guided from the distributor 50 to the hose connecting piece 142.

[0052] The first housing part 126 widens inwardly in a direction away from the connection piece 132 up to its proximal end 148. It is provided on an outer side with an external thread 150, which corresponds to an internal thread 152 of a second housing part 154 of the filter housing 128. An inner diameter of the second housing part 154 decreases toward an end facing away from the connection piece 132, which carries a further hose connection piece 156, which can be connected to a hose (not shown) of a cleaning and disinfection device, also known as a "washing machine or dishwasher," in order to supply cleaning fluid for cleaning the handpieces 14, 16, and 18. The hose connection piece 156 thus forms a cleaning fluid connection 158 for introducing a cleaning fluid. At the same time, the hose connection piece 156 also forms a cleaning fluid inlet 160 of the filter device 120.The connecting piece 132 forms a cleaning fluid outlet 162 of the filter device 120. The cleaning fluid inlet 160 and the cleaning fluid outlet 162 point in opposite directions and are coaxial with a filter housing longitudinal axis 164.

[0053] A filter element receptacle 166 for a circular disk-shaped filter element 168 is formed inside the filter housing 128. The filter element receptacle 166 is defined by an annular groove 170 which is open in the direction of the filter housing longitudinal axis 164 and which is delimited by an annular surface 172 of the first housing part 126 pointing in the direction of the cleaning fluid inlet 160, a cylindrical inner wall 174 of the second housing part 154 formed coaxially to the filter housing longitudinal axis 164, and an annular surface 176 on the second housing part 154 which directly adjoins the inner wall 174 and runs parallel to the annular surface 172 and points in the direction of the cleaning fluid outlet 162.

[0054] The filter device 120 is designed such that a cleaning fluid at a pressure of up to 0.4 bar, preferably 0.2 bar, can be passed through the cleaning fluid inlet 160 into the interior of the filter housing 128 and through the filter element 168. Sealing of the filter element 168 to the first housing part 126 is made possible by a sealing element 178, which is held in a groove 180 on the first housing part 126, which is open essentially toward the filter element receptacle 166. The sealing element 178 is designed in the form of a sealing ring.

[0055] As described, the filter device 120 is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection 158 and the at least two handpiece receptacles 80. Furthermore, the filter device 120 is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection 158 and the distributor 50. Furthermore, the cleaning fluid inlet 160 and the cleaning fluid outlet 162 are fluidly connected to the filter element receptacle 166, so that all of the cleaning fluid introduced through the cleaning fluid inlet 160 can flow through the filter element 168 and out of the filter device 120 through the cleaning fluid outlet 162. Furthermore, the cleaning fluid inlet 160 and the distributor 50 are fluidly connected to one another, in particular via the connecting hose 116.

[0056] The handpiece receptacles 80 are further provided with a valve 182, which is closed in a basic position in which the respective handpiece receptacle 80 is unequipped. If the handpiece receptacle 80 is equipped with one of the handpieces 14, 16, or 18, the valve 182 opens automatically. The valve 182 can be automatically closed by means of a valve closing device 184 when the handpiece 14, 16, or 18 previously coupled to the handpiece receptacle 80 is removed. The valve closing device 184 comprises a closing member 186 in the form of a valve tappet, which is essentially rod-shaped and has an almost hemispherical thickening 188 at its proximal end.

[0057] In a blind hole 190 extending transversely to the longitudinal axis 48 into the interior of the distributor 50, a return element 192 in the form of a helical spring is held between an end surface 194 of the blind hole 190 pointing in the direction of the connecting piece 82 and a flat end surface 196 of the thickened portion 188 pointing in the direction of the end surface 194. The return element 192 is in the form of a compression spring and presses the thickened portion 188 away from the end surface 194, so that an outer surface 198 of the thickened portion forming part of a spherical surface bears against a conical surface 200 of the connecting piece 82 tapering away from the end surface 194 and thus closes a proximal end of the same in a basic or closed position.

[0058] If a handpiece, for example the handpiece 18, is screwed onto the handpiece receptacle 80, a proximal end 202 of the handpiece 18 presses a distal end 204 of the closing member 186 and thus also the closing member 186 against the action of the return member 192 in the direction of the end surface 194. In this case, the thickened portion 188 moves away from the conical surface 200 and a fluid connection is established between the end 96 and the interior of the distributor 50, so that the cleaning fluid can flow through the connection piece 82 into the interior of the handpiece 18 in order to free it of contaminants.

[0059] As already mentioned, the valve 182 automatically closes the handpiece receptacle 80 when the handpiece 14, 16 or 18 has been removed from the handpiece receptacle 80, since the return member 192 then presses the closing member 186 with the outer surface 198 against the conical surface 200 again.

[0060] The non-return valve 72 comprises a spherical closing element 206, which closes an opening 208 of the filter cleaning connection 74 in a basic position. For this purpose, a return element 210 in the form of a further compression spring is provided, which is supported on a transverse pin 212 inserted in the blind hole 70 inside the distributor 50, transverse to the longitudinal axis 48. The transverse pin 212 is held in a bore near a proximal end of the non-return valve 72.

[0061] The cleaning fluid connection 74 is in fluid communication with the filter device 120 via the distributor 50, the connection piece 112, and the connecting hose 116. In particular, the filter cleaning connection 74 is in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid outlet 162. The Luer lock connection 76 forms a coupling element for coupling to a fluid line (not shown), for example, another hose, with which cleaning fluid can be directed under high pressure toward the closing member 206.

[0062] The non-return valve 72 is closed when a limit closing pressure, defined in particular by the closing element 206 and the return element 210, is undershot, which prevails between an interior of the filter device 120 and an environment 214 of the filter cleaning connection 74. The limit closing pressure is preferably selected to be greater than the pressure in the cleaning fluid introduced into the filter device 120 through the cleaning fluid connection 158. Preferably, the limit closing pressure is at least twice as high as the pressure in the cleaning fluid at the cleaning fluid connection 158. Advantageously, the limit closing pressure is at least 1 bar, preferably even at least 2 bar.This ensures that the backflow valve 72 always remains closed when the holding device 12 is used to clean handpieces 14, 16 and 18, i.e. when a cleaning fluid flows through the cleaning fluid connection 158 into the filter device 120 and from there to the handpiece receptacles 80.

[0063] If the handpieces 14, 16, and 18 are removed from the handpiece receptacles 80, another hose containing high-pressure cleaning fluid, which is higher than the limit closing pressure, can be introduced through the filter cleaning connection 74. The non-return valve 72 opens due to the high pressure and allows the cleaning fluid to be introduced into the distributor 50. Since the valves 82 assume the closed position and the effect of the return elements 192 is further amplified due to the pressure in the cleaning fluid prevailing in the distributor 50, the handpiece receptacles 80 remain closed and no cleaning fluid can escape from them. As a result, all of the cleaning fluid introduced through the filter cleaning connection 74 is conducted through the hose connection 116 to the filter device 120 and can be used to clean the filter device 120.The filter element 168 can become contaminated during operation, with dirt particles closing pores in the filter element 168, so that the amount of fluid flowing through the filter device 120 decreases over time and the cleaning result deteriorates. The filter cleaning connection 74 and its arrangement, as well as the provision of the non-return valve 72, allow the filter element 168 to be cleaned without having to remove it from the filter housing 128. This significantly increases the service life of the holding device 12. Furthermore, only a single filter element 168 needs to be replaced when necessary, since it alone cleans the cleaning fluid flowing to all handpiece receptacles 80.

[0064] The frame 22 of the holding device 12, which is formed entirely in one piece, further comprises a connecting device 216 for detachable connection to the strainer basket 10. The connecting device 216 comprises, in particular, the foot parts 34 and 38 and the base plates 36 and 40. The foot parts 34 and 38, as well as the base plates 36 and 38, have a certain elasticity or flexibility, so that they can be hooked into corresponding recesses provided on the strainer basket 10 to ensure that the holding device 12 cannot move within the strainer basket 10 when the strainer basket 10 is inserted into a washing machine or dishwasher.

[0065] The holding device 12 is preferably made of a non-rusting material, in particular a non-rusting instrument or stainless steel, which is also suitable for use in washing machines and dishwashers operated with aggressive cleaning agents.

[0066] The holding device 12 also allows the handpieces 14, 16, and 18 to be arranged in a defined manner within the sieve basket 10 for cleaning and storage purposes. This ensures direct assignment of the handpieces 14, 16, and 18 to the sieve basket 10, since the holding device itself can be arranged within the sieve basket 10.

Claims

[1] Holding device (12) for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces (14, 16, 18), in particular in a sieve basket (10), comprising a frame (22), at least two handpiece receptacles (80) held thereon for holding and storing a respective surgical handpiece (14, 16, 18), a cleaning fluid connection (158) for introducing a cleaning fluid, and a distributor (50) which is in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80), wherein the holding device has at least one filter device (120) through which the cleaning fluid can flow, which filter device is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80), characterized by that the holding device (12) comprises a filter cleaning connection (74) which is in fluid connection with the at least one filter device (120). [2] Holding device according to claim 1, characterized bythat the at least one filter device (120) is interposed between the cleaning fluid connection (158) and the distributor (50). [3] Holding device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that only a single filter device (120) is provided. [4] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one filter device (120) comprises a filter housing (128) and a filter element (168) held in the filter housing (128). [5] Holding device according to claim 4, characterized by that the filter housing (128) comprises a filter element receptacle (166), a cleaning fluid inlet (160) and a cleaning fluid outlet (162), and that the cleaning fluid inlet (160) and the cleaning fluid outlet (162) are each in fluid communication with the filter element receptacle (166). [6] Holding device according to claim 5, characterized bythat the cleaning fluid inlet (160) and the cleaning fluid connection (158) are in fluid communication with each other. [7] Holding device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by that the cleaning fluid outlet (162) and the at least two handpiece receptacles (80) are in fluid communication. [8] Holding device according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized by that the cleaning fluid outlet (162) and the distributor (50) are in fluid communication. [9] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one handpiece holder (80) is provided with a valve (82) which is closed in a basic position in which the handpiece holder (80) is unequipped. [10] Holding device according to claim 9, characterized byat least one valve closing device (184) which automatically closes the valve (182) of the handpiece holder (80) after removal of a handpiece (14, 16, 18) from the handpiece holder (80). [11] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one handpiece receptacle (80) comprises a first coupling element (102) of a coupling device (104) which can be brought into engagement with a second coupling element (106) of a handpiece (14, 16, 18) in a cleaning position. [12] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one of the handpiece receptacles (80) comprises a sealing element (110) for sealing the handpiece receptacle (80) and a handpiece (14, 16, 18) connected thereto in a cleaning position. [13] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the filter cleaning connection (74) is in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid outlet (162). [14] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the filter cleaning connection (74) is in fluid communication with the distributor (50). [15] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the filter cleaning connection (74) is arranged or formed coaxially or substantially coaxially to a distributor longitudinal axis (48) of the distributor (50). [16] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the filter cleaning connection (74) has a coupling element (76) for coupling to a fluid line. [17] Holding device according to claim 16, characterized by that the coupling element (76) is designed in the form of a Luer-Lock connection (76). [18] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the filter cleaning connection (74) comprises a backflow valve (72) which is closed below a predetermined limit closing pressure which prevails between an interior of the at least one filter device (120) and an outside of the filter cleaning connection (74). [19] Holding device according to claim 18, characterized by that the limit closing pressure is greater, preferably at least twice as great, than a pressure in the cleaning fluid prevailing at the cleaning fluid connection (158). [20] Holding device according to claim 18 or 19, characterized by that the limit closing pressure is at least 1 bar, preferably at least 2 bar. [21] Holding device according to one of claims 18 to 20, characterized by that the backflow valve (72) is closed when the pressure inside the at least one filter device (120) is greater than on an outer side (214) of the filter cleaning connection (74). [22] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the distributor (50) defines a distributor longitudinal axis (48), that the at least two handpiece receptacles (80) define a receptacle longitudinal axis (78) and that the distributor longitudinal axis (48) runs transversely to the receptacle longitudinal axis (78). [23] Holding device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a connecting device (216) for releasably connecting the frame (22) to a sieve basket (10). [24] Sieve basket (10), in particular for a cleaning and disinfection device for cleaning implants and surgical instruments, with a holding device (12) for cleaning and storing surgical handpieces (14, 16, 18), characterized by that the holding device (12) is designed in the form of a holding device (12) according to one of the preceding claims.

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