Detergent Cartridge

Abstract

Provided herein are detergent cartridges for storing and transporting detergent, techniques for mixing the detergent with a fluid within the detergent cartridge, and techniques for dispensing the resulting fluid cleaning composition from the detergent cartridge.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims priority to Australian Patent Application No. 2022902786 entitled "Dry Powder Cartridge" filed on 26 September 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to a cartridge for storing and transporting a cleaning agent, mixing the cleaning agent with a fluid, and dispensing the resulting fluid cleaning composition. [Background technology]

[0003] [Prior art] Many devices and systems contain internal channels and lumens that require periodic or regular cleaning. For example, there are many different types of medical devices (medical instruments) that can be used to perform diagnostic and / or surgical procedures. An endoscope is one type of medical instrument that can be used to visually inspect hollow organs or body cavities. Specially designed endoscopes are used for various procedures, such as bronchoscopy, cystoscopy, gastroscopy, and rectoscopy. Endoscopes, and other available diagnostic and / or surgical medical devices, are reusable for multiple patients and contain one or more internal lumens that must be cleaned between uses. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one aspect, a irrigant cartridge is provided that includes a tank configured to hold a dry powder, a closure assembly configured to attach to the tank to form an enclosed volume, at least one first port disposed within the closure assembly and configured for fluid entry into the tank, a riser tube extending from the at least one first port into the tank, and one or more second ports disposed within the closure assembly configured for fluid entry into and fluid exit from the tank.

[0005] In another aspect, a method is provided that includes fluidly coupling at least one first port and one or more second ports of a cartridge to a cleaning device, where the cartridge forms a sealed container containing at least one powder, introducing a fluid into the cartridge through the at least one first port and introducing a fluid into the cartridge through the one or more second ports, where the fluid and powder form a fluid cleaning composition, and dispensing the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge through at least one of the one or more second ports.

[0006] In another aspect, a method is provided that includes fluidly coupling a cartridge to a cleaning device, where the cartridge forms a sealed container containing at least one powder, introducing a fluid from a first hydration location within the cartridge and introducing a fluid from a second hydration location within the cartridge, where the fluid and the at least one powder form a fluid cleaning composition within the cartridge, and dispensing the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge.

[0007] In another aspect, a cartridge for storing dry powder, hydrating the dry powder to produce a slurry, and dispensing the slurry includes a closure assembly and a tank closed by the closure assembly, the closure assembly including at least one first port operable to allow passage of fluid into the tank or venting of gas from the tank, and one or more second ports operable to allow passage of fluid into the tank and passage of slurry from the tank, the tank adapted to hold the dry powder, a conduit extending from the first port in the tank defining a first hydration position, and one or more second ports defining second hydration positions.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an endoscope with a cleanable internal lumen in combination with an irrigant cartridge, according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0010] [Figure 2A] 1 is a flow chart illustrating an example of a method for cleaning an internal lumen of a medical device using a fluid cleaning composition dispensed from an irrigant cartridge, according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0011] [Figure 2B] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the first stage / phase of a process for cleaning an internal lumen with a fluid cleaning composition.

[0012] [Figure 2C] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a second stage / phase of a process for cleaning an internal lumen with a fluid cleaning composition.

[0013] [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the use of an irrigant cartridge with a luminal irrigation device, according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0014] [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an irrigant cartridge according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0015] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the irrigant cartridge of FIG. 4 shown with a travel cap according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0016] [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another irrigant cartridge according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0017] [Figure 7A]1A-1C are a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of an irrigant cartridge with a luminal irrigation device for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (fluid irrigation composition) according to certain embodiments described herein. [Figure 7B] 1A-1C are a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of an irrigant cartridge with a luminal irrigation device for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (fluid irrigation composition) according to certain embodiments described herein. [Figure 7C] 1A-1C are a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of an irrigant cartridge with a luminal irrigation device for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (fluid irrigation composition) according to certain embodiments described herein. [Figure 7D] 1A-1C are a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of an irrigant cartridge with a luminal irrigation device for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (fluid irrigation composition) according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0018] [Figure 8A] 10A-10C are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of another cleaning agent cartridge for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (a fluid cleaning composition) according to certain embodiments described herein. [Figure 8B] 10A-10C are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of another cleaning agent cartridge for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (a fluid cleaning composition) according to certain embodiments described herein. [Figure 8C] 10A-10C are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of another cleaning agent cartridge for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (a fluid cleaning composition) according to certain embodiments described herein. [Figure 8D] 10A-10C are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of another cleaning agent cartridge for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (a fluid cleaning composition) according to certain embodiments described herein. [Figure 8E] 10A-10C are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of another cleaning agent cartridge for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (a fluid cleaning composition) according to certain embodiments described herein. [Figure 8F] 10A-10C are a series of diagrams illustrating the operation of another cleaning agent cartridge for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (a fluid cleaning composition) according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0019] [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a computing device configured to operate as a control system for the hydration of powders and dispensing of the resulting fluid cleaning composition, according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0020] [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example method according to certain embodiments described herein.

[0021] [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a method according to certain embodiments described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Provided herein are irrigant cartridges for storing and transporting irrigants (e.g., dry powders, liquids, etc.), techniques for mixing the irrigant with a liquid within the irrigant cartridge, and techniques for dispensing the resulting fluid irrigant composition from the irrigant cartridge. The fluid irrigant composition can be used, for example, to clean an internal channel / lumen of a system / device. It should be understood that the irrigant cartridges and associated techniques can be used with any of a number of different systems / devices, such as medical instruments with internal channels / lumens, food / beverage service lines, etc. However, for ease of explanation only, the techniques will be described primarily with reference to cleaning an endoscope lumen.

[0023] An endoscope is a rigid or flexible, elongated, tubular medical instrument incorporating an optical or video system and a light source. Typically, an endoscope is configured so that one end can be inserted into a patient's body through either a surgical incision or a natural body orifice. The internal structures near the insertion end of the endoscope can be viewed by an external observer.

[0024] Endoscopes are used not only for examinations, but also for diagnostic and surgical procedures. For example, endoscopy is used worldwide for screening, diagnosing, and treating gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, allowing for early detection and treatment. Endoscopic procedures are becoming increasingly popular due to their minimally invasive nature and favorable patient outcomes (due to faster healing times and reduced risk of infection), which leads to improved patient turnover in hospitals and clinics.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of one example of an endoscope 100 in which aspects of the technology provided herein can be implemented. As shown, endoscope 100, like most endoscopes, has a long, tubular structure with a distal end / tip 102 at one end for insertion into a patient and a proximal or connector end 104 at the opposite end, with a control handle 106 located between the two ends (e.g., generally midway along the length between connector end 104 and distal end 102). Connector end 104 includes multiple connectors that allow the endoscope to be coupled to, for example, a light source 108, a water source 110, a suction source (not shown in FIG. 1), and a pressurized air source 112. For example, shown in FIG. 1A are a suction port / connector 137, a water jet (auxiliary) port / connector 139, a water port / connector 141, and an air port / connector 143. The control handle 106 is held by the operator during the procedure and controls the endoscope 100 via valves, which in this example include a suction valve 114 , an air / water valve 116 , a biopsy valve 118 , and a control wheel 120 .

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1, the endoscope 100 includes internal channels used to deliver air and / or water, provide suction, and allow access for forceps and other medical instruments needed during a procedure. Thus, the distal tip 102 contains a camera lens (not shown in FIG. 1), lighting, air, and water outlets, as well as suction and forceps outlets. Some of the internal channels run from one end of the endoscope 100 to the other, while others operate through valve sockets in the control handle. Some channels branch, while others combine two into one.

[0027] 1 are a biopsy / suction channel 122, an air channel 124, a water channel 126, and a water jet channel 128. The biopsy / suction channel 122 includes two sections, referred to as a proximal section 122A and a distal section 122B, which are connected via a suction valve 114. The air channel 124 also includes two sections, referred to as a proximal section 124A and a distal section 124B, which are connected via an air / water valve 116. Similarly, the water channel 126 also includes two sections, referred to as a proximal section 126A and a distal section 126B, which are connected via an air / water valve 116. The water channel distal section 126B is coupled to the air channel distal section 124B at a location 130 within the distal end 102. Water jet channel 128 extends directly from connector end 104 to distal end 102 (through control handle 106) and is similarly referred to as having proximal and distal sections 128A, 128B. Proximal sections 122A, 124A, 126A, and 128A of the channel are sometimes referred to as being located within universal cord section (cord) 132 of endoscope 100, while distal sections 122B, 124B, 126B, and 128B of the channel are sometimes referred to as being located within insertion tube 134 of the endoscope. More generally, proximal sections 122A, 124A, 126A, and 128A as used herein are portions of the channel located between connector end 104 and control handle 106 and / or a valve (e.g., valve 114 or 116) at the midpoint of control handle 106. Distal sections 122B, 124B, 126B, and 128B are portions of the channel located between control handle 106 and / or a valve (e.g., valve 114 or 116) at the midpoint of control handle 106 and the distal end 102 of endoscope 102.

[0028] Endoscopes are expensive and must be reused. As a result, to avoid cross-infection between patients, each endoscope must be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, or sterilized after use. This includes not only cleaning the exterior of endoscope 100, but also cleaning and disinfecting the internal channels / lumens (e.g., lumens 122, 124, 126, and 128 in FIG. 1).

[0029] Endoscopes used for colonoscopy are typically 2.5 to 4 meters long and contain one or more luminal channels with diameters of a few millimeters or less. Properly cleaning and disinfecting such long, narrow channels between patients presents considerable challenges. The cleaning challenge is further exacerbated by the fact that there is not just one configuration / type of endoscope. In fact, there are various endoscopic devices, each suited to a specific insertion purpose: colonoscopes for insertion into the large intestine, bronchoscopes for insertion into the airways, and gastroscopes for examination of the stomach. For example, gastroscopes have a smaller diameter than colonoscopes, bronchoscopes are even smaller and shorter in length, and duodenoscopes have a different tip design to access the bile duct.

[0030] Various options are available for mechanically removing biological residues from the lumen, the first step in the cleaning and disinfection process. To date, the most common procedure for cleaning the lumen is the use of small brushes attached to a long, thin, flexible line. In some countries, brushing is a mandatory technique for luminal cleaning. These brushes are passed through the lumen while the endoscope is submerged in warm water and cleaning solution. The brushes are then pushed and pulled along the length of the lumen to scrape off the soil / biological load. This typically requires manual back-and-forth scrubbing. Water and cleaning solution are then flushed through the lumen. This flush-brush process is repeated three times until the endoscope reprocessing technician determines the lumen is clean. At the end of this cleaning process, air is pumped into the lumen to dry it. A flexible, pull-through device with a wiping blade can also be used to physically remove material. A liquid flow through the lumen at limited pressure can also be used.

[0031] However, typically only the larger suction / biopsy lumens (e.g., 122 in Figure 1) can be cleaned with brushing or pull-through. The air / water channels (e.g., channels 124 and 126) may be too small for a brush, so these lumens are typically flushed only with water and cleaning solutions.

[0032] After mechanical cleaning, chemical cleaning can be performed to remove any remaining biological contaminants. Because endoscopes are sensitive and expensive medical devices, they cannot be treated with high temperatures or harsh chemicals to remove biological residues. For this reason, mechanical cleaning must be as thorough as possible. Current mechanical cleaning methods often fail to completely remove biofilms from the lumen, especially when cleaning relies solely on liquid flow. No matter how effective a traditional cleaning process is, traces of microorganisms remain in the channels, which is nearly inevitable.

[0033] There is significant research demonstrating that brush-based cleaning methods, even when performed as prescribed, do not completely remove biofilms from within the lumen of endoscopes. Current manual brushing procedures are not only ineffective, but also suffer from other drawbacks. Due to the wide variety of endoscope makes and models, there are many subtle variations in manual cleaning procedures. This has led to confusion and ultimately to low compliance with the cleaning process. Current brushing systems are also dangerous in that the chemicals currently used to clean endoscopes can have adverse effects on reprocessing staff.

[0034] Current manual brushing systems are also labor-intensive and lead to increased costs. Therefore, current approaches to cleaning and disinfecting the lumens of medical cleaning devices remain inadequate, and residual microorganisms are recognized as a significant threat to patients and staff exposed to these devices. For example, there is evidence that inadequate cleaning and disinfection of the internal structures of endoscopes has led to bacterial transmission between patients, resulting in fatal infections. Between 2010 and 2015, over 41 hospitals worldwide (mostly in the United States) reported endoscope-associated bacterial infections, affecting 300–350 patients (http: / / www.modernhealthcare.com / article / 20167415 / NEWS / 167419935). Reducing the biological burden of various medical devices is expected to lead to overall reductions in infection and mortality rates.

[0035] Furthermore, if endoscopes are not properly cleaned and dried, biofilms can accumulate on the luminal walls. Biofilms begin to form when planktonic microorganisms attach to surfaces and become surrounded by a protective polysaccharide layer. The microorganisms then begin to multiply or form aggregates with other microorganisms, increasing the extent of the polysaccharide layer. Over time, multiple attachment sites can combine to form large biofilm deposits. Once bacteria and other microorganisms are incorporated into a biofilm, they become significantly more resistant to chemical and mechanical cleaning than when they are planktonic. The microorganisms themselves are not substantially more resistant; rather, resistance is conferred by the polysaccharide film, which allows the microorganisms to be deeply embedded within the film and isolated from any chemical reactions. Any biofilm remaining after a cleaning attempt quickly returns to equilibrium, allowing further microbial growth to continue within the film. Endoscope lumens are particularly prone to biofilm formation. These are exposed to a large biological load, and subsequent cleaning of these long, narrow lumens is extremely challenging due to the difficulty of access and the inability to monitor the cleaning process.

[0036] Healthcare facilities are under great pressure to reprocess endoscopes as quickly as possible. Because endoscopes are manually cleaned, technician training and attitude are critical to determining device cleanliness. If biofilm remains on the instrument, patients may contract endoscope-associated infections. Typically, these infections occur in outbreaks and can have fatal consequences for patients.

[0037] As noted above, manual cleaning procedures have been used for many years. However, recently, systems and methods have been provided that overcome or ameliorate at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art, or at least provide a useful alternative. In particular, the use of certain fluid cleaning compositions propelled through each lumen of a medical device has been found to be particularly effective in safely removing unwanted material through physical interaction with the lumen. In certain such techniques, a fluid cleaning composition in the form of a "slurry" is generated, dispensed into appropriate amounts, and then delivered at an appropriate rate through at least some of the lumens. In some embodiments, the dispensed amount of slurry may be referred to herein as a "cleaning slug" or "slug."

[0038] As used herein, the term "fluid cleaning composition" refers to a fluid solution capable of removing (e.g., physically separating, dissolving, etc.) contaminants. Fluid cleaning compositions can be saturated or unsaturated solutions, and in some cases, fluid cleaning compositions can include solid particles, e.g., dry powder cleaning agents present in solvents above their respective saturation limits. As used herein, the term "slurry" refers to a fluid solution (e.g., certain fluid cleaning compositions) that includes solid (e.g., powder) particles suspended in a fluid.

[0039] 2A illustrates an exemplary method 240 for cleaning a lumen of a medical device using a fluid cleaning composition in the form of a slurry and cleaning slugs. The method 240 of FIG. 2A begins at 242 with the creation, mixing, or other acquisition of a slurry. At 244, the slurry is dispensed in an appropriate amount. At 246, the dispensed amount of slurry (i.e., cleaning slug) is delivered (e.g., propelled) through at least a portion of the lumen to be cleaned. Of course, this process can be implemented in a variety of ways.

[0040] For example, any suitable slurry can be implemented. In one example, the slurry includes a liquid component and a powder component. The liquid component of the slurry promotes the flowability of the composition, while the presence of the powder can interact with the walls of the target lumen (e.g., channel) and act to clean the lumen. According to certain examples, the powder components of the slurry are present in amounts that exceed their respective saturation limits in the respective liquids, thereby promoting cleaning interactions between the mixture and the walls of the lumen. In certain embodiments, the slurry includes a mixture of sodium bicarbonate powder and water, with the sodium bicarbonate present in an amount greater than its respective saturation level. For example, in some embodiments, the sodium bicarbonate can be present in an amount greater than 10% by mass of the mixture at certain stages. For the disclosed application, a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and water has been determined to be particularly effective. Furthermore, these components are readily available. However, it will be understood that any suitable slurry can be used in alternative examples.

[0041] In some configurations, the powder in the slurry is present in an amount less than the saturation level of each of the associated liquids. However, the liquid is delivered to the target lumen before the powder is completely dissolved in the liquid. In this way, undissolved powder can still interact with the target lumen to be cleaned.

[0042] It will further be appreciated that the slurry can be generated / obtained in any of a variety of ways. For example, in certain embodiments, powder is obtained from a cartridge or other consumable chamber / container, water is obtained from a tap, and these components are mixed in a holding chamber (or in the consumable chamber itself) just prior to cleaning (e.g., within a few days or weeks). This approach can be advantageous in that powders such as sodium bicarbonate can be relatively stable, have a long shelf life, and a suitable source of water is readily available. However, in other embodiments, the slurry can be obtained in an already mixed form.

[0043] As previously mentioned, method 240 requires dispensing appropriate amounts of slurry, sometimes referred to herein as cleaning slugs. As illustrated, the dispensed amounts are then delivered through the lumen to be cleaned. Delivering the slurry in discrete amounts can be advantageous as long as the discrete amounts can be delivered periodically at an appropriate rate, allowing the periodic application of the composition to facilitate cleaning of the lumen without clogging or obstructing the target lumen. Furthermore, the discrete nature of the delivered amounts can make it easier to maintain an appropriate delivery rate, which can also aid in cleaning. For example, if the slurry is delivered continuously (rather than in discrete, dispensed amounts), this approach risks "clogging" or otherwise obstructing the lumen by slowing the rate at which the slurry flows through the lumen, thus affecting the cleaning effectiveness.

[0044] In particular, varying the amount of slurry can provide a suitable amount depending on the various characteristics of the lumen to be cleaned. For example, the air / water channel within an endoscope is typically one of the narrowest lumens and therefore can be better cleaned with a relatively small amount of slurry (whereas using a large amount of slurry can clog such a narrow channel). In contrast, the aspiration / biopsy channel of an endoscope is typically among the widest lumens and therefore can be better cleaned with a larger amount of slurry. Thus, the amount of slurry dispensed to clean a particular lumen will depend on the shape of the lumen to be cleaned. Of course, it should be understood that the amount of slurry dispensed may be, or alternatively may be, a function of any of a variety of parameters, including those related to the target.

[0045] The amount of slurry dispensed may be determined in any of a variety of ways. For example, in certain embodiments, a valve may be used to draw a target amount of slurry from a reservoir, such as the irrigant cartridges described elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, a self-regulating pressurized system is used to draw the appropriate amount of slurry from the reservoir.

[0046] As previously mentioned, method 240 of FIG. 2A further includes delivering a portion of the slurry through at least a portion of the lumen to be cleaned. Typically, a carrier fluid (e.g., air, water, etc.) is used to deliver (e.g., propel) the portion of the slurry at a suitable velocity through at least a portion of the lumen to be cleaned. The portion of the slurry is delivered in a manner (e.g., suitable size, suitable velocity, etc.) that provides suitable physical interaction between the mixture and the wall of the lumen, meaning that undissolved powder physically contacts or flows toward the wall of the lumen, removing contaminants (e.g., biological load) therefrom. Of course, the portion of the slurry can be delivered through the lumen in any suitable manner to enable cleaning of the lumen.

[0047] Notably, method 240 can be repeated any number of times to facilitate cleaning of a lumen of a medical device. For example, FIG. 2B illustrates the delivery of a single cleaning slug 248 (e.g., a dispensed amount of slurry) through lumen 252 to remove contaminants from the lumen wall, with the general direction of travel of slug 248 represented by arrow 261. That is, as illustrated, lumen 252 has one or more contaminants 254 (e.g., biological load) on the interior surface / wall 256 of the lumen. Additionally, cleaning slug 248 is shown being delivered through lumen 252 and physically interacting with the lumen wall to remove contaminants 254 therefrom. Cleaning slug 248 can be considered to be entrained in a carrier fluid, which in this example includes air (represented by arrow 263).

[0048] In general, cleaning slugs provided herein (such as cleaning slug 248) can have a variety of forms / configurations. For example, in certain embodiments, cleaning slugs provided herein can be relatively single / integral masses (e.g., that may substantially clog the lumen during passage), sometimes referred to herein as "integral slugs." However, in other embodiments, cleaning slugs can be "aggregates" or "clusters" of smaller masses / groups that pass through the lumen as a loose group (e.g., that may not occlude the lumen during passage), sometimes referred to herein as "cluster slugs." Figure 2B schematically illustrates an example in which slug 248 is a cluster slug.

[0049] In certain embodiments, cleaning slugs can transition between different forms during the slug's life cycle. For example, the slugs may be distributed (initially generated) as single slugs, but then transition to clustered slugs. This transition can occur prior to entering the lumen (e.g., in the delivery chamber) and / or while passing through the lumen.

[0050] As mentioned above, FIG. 2B schematically illustrates the delivery of cleaning slug 248 through lumen 252. In certain examples, FIG. 2B represents a first stage / phase of the cleaning process, and FIG. 2C represents a second stage / phase of the cleaning process. More specifically, after cleaning slug 248 is delivered through lumen 252 (as in FIG. 2B ), a fluid flow is delivered through lumen 252 without any slug. In the example of FIG. 2C , the fluid flow is comprised of water 265, with the general direction of movement again represented by arrow 261. In certain examples, the fluid flow (e.g., water 265) is configured to remove residue 247 from the lumen. Residue 247 may include, for example, remnants of contaminants 254 and / or portions of slug 248 that may remain on the walls of lumen 252 after the slug has passed (e.g., the slug may break down into different clusters, some of which remain on the walls of lumen 252). If present, some of the slug 248 that may remain on the walls of the lumen 252 can be washed through the lumen 252 by the fluid flow and thus aid in the cleaning process.

[0051] 2B and 2C generally depict arrangements in which the second stage (fluid flow) is interspersed between the delivery of cleaning slugs. That is, in the embodiments of FIG. 2B and FIG. 2C, the delivery of each cleaning slug is followed by a fluid-only flow. In certain alternative embodiments, multiple slugs may alternatively be delivered through the lumen simultaneously or sequentially without separation (e.g., without a fluid-only flow).

[0052] It will be appreciated that in different embodiments, any number of cleaning slugs may be delivered through the lumen. Generally, the use of a series of separate / individual cleaning slugs 248, rather than a single bulk stream, allows each individual cleaning slug to maintain sufficient kinetic energy and pass through the lumen at a velocity that allows particles within the slug to favorably interact with the walls of the lumen and remove contaminants.

[0053] As previously mentioned, the luminal cleaning process as described above with reference to Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C may be implemented in a number of different ways for a number of different lumens. For context, one particular example implementation will be described with reference to cleaning at least a portion of endoscope 100 of Figure 1A.

[0054] More specifically, in one example cleaning process / cycle, one cleaning slug is fired / jetted into water jet channel 128 via water jet connector 138, then nine cleaning slugs are fired into biopsy / aspiration channel 122 via suction connector 137, then one cleaning slug is fired into water jet channel 128 via water jet connector 138, three cleaning slugs are fired into distal portion 122B of biopsy / aspiration channel 122 via biopsy valve 128, then one cleaning slug is fired into water jet channel 128 via water jet connector 138, then nine cleaning slugs are fired into biopsy / aspiration channel 122 via suction connector 137. The cleaning cycle may further include firing / jetting six (6) cleaning slugs into air channel 124 via air connector 143 and firing (e.g., in parallel) six (6) cleaning slugs into water channel 126 via water connector 141. The firing of the irrigation slug within each target lumen may be followed by a fluid flow, as described above with reference to Figure 2C. The irrigation slug and fluid flow may be delivered via one or more connectors (e.g., one connector for an air pipe and one connector for an air / water bottle).

[0055] In one specific example, approximately 180-200 grams of slurry may be used to clean a typical flexible GI endoscope. For example, approximately 80-100 grams may be used to clean a relatively large channel (e.g., the aspiration / biopsy channel 122) for a total of 21 jets, with a delay of approximately 15 seconds between each jet. For a relatively small channel (e.g., the air / water channel), the process may use approximately 60-80 grams for a total of 12 jets, with a delay of approximately 30 seconds between each jet. For other small channels (e.g., the water jet channel 128), the process may use approximately 10-20 grams for a total of three jets, with a delay of approximately 30 seconds between each jet. Each of these channels may also receive a subsequent fluid flow (e.g., after each cleaning slug), as described above with reference to FIG. 2C.

[0056] As previously mentioned, the cleaning slug is delivered to the target lumen at a velocity appropriate / sufficient to remove contaminants from the wall of the target lumen. The velocity of the cleaning slug may vary based on, for example, the properties of the target lumen, the properties of the slurry used to form the cleaning slug, etc. In one example, the slug velocity for a relatively large lumen may be approximately 1000 mm / sec.

[0057] Additionally, the irrigation slug can be delivered within a specific pressure and fluid flow (air) range. In certain examples, the irrigation slug can be delivered at pressures such as up to about 26 psi (air, which is regulated by a PPR as described below) or up to about 24 psi (water). Example air flow metrics include about 50 SLPM (large channel unloaded), about 11-17 SLPM (large channel dispensed), about 7-10 SLPM (large channel fully loaded), about 5-7 SLPM (small channel unloaded), and about 0.1 SLPM (small channel fully loaded). It should be understood that these ranges and values ​​are merely illustrative. Further details regarding irrigation of medical device lumens are disclosed in applicant's PCT application PCT / AU2022 / 050568, filed June 9, 2022, entitled "System and Method for Irrigating Lumens with a Fluid Composition," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0058] 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a luminal lavage device / apparatus 370 in which embodiments provided herein can be implemented. The luminal lavage device / apparatus 370 includes multiple connectors 372. The connectors 372 include at least one gas connector 374 for connecting the luminal lavage device 370 to a gas source (e.g., a compressed dry air source), at least one water connector 376 for connecting the luminal lavage device 370 to a water source (e.g., a potable water source), and a device drain fitting 378.

[0059] As shown, the luminal cleaning device 370 also includes an interface / connector 380 for an endoscope adapter hose 382. The endoscope adapter hose 382 connects the luminal cleaning device 370 to one or more lumens of an endoscope, such as the endoscope 100.

[0060] As previously mentioned, in one example of an automated lumen cleaning process as implemented by lumen cleaning device 370, a powder is mixed with a liquid to form a slurry, which is then dispensed and flowed into at least one internal channel / lumen of the medical device to remove biological load adhering to the walls of the lumen. In the example of Figure 3, lumen cleaning device 370 is configured to interface with irrigant cartridge 390 (schematically represented in Figure 3 by a dashed box) configured to store, transport, and mix dry powder and liquid (e.g., water) to form a slurry.

[0061] 3, the irrigant cartridge 390 is shown within the luminal lavage device 370. However, it will be apparent that this particular relationship between the irrigant cartridge 390 and the luminal lavage device 370 is merely exemplary. For example, in other embodiments, the irrigant cartridge 390 can be located partially or completely external to the luminal lavage device 370 (e.g., interfacing with an external component of the luminal lavage device 370). Details of exemplary irrigant cartridges for interfacing within luminal lavage devices, such as the luminal lavage device 370, are provided below.

[0062] For ease of explanation, aspects of the technology provided herein are generally described with reference to the dispensing of cleaning agents in powder form and fluid cleaning compositions in slurry form, however, as described elsewhere herein, the technology provided herein can be used with other types of cleaning agents and other types of fluid cleaning compositions.

[0063] More specifically, FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an irrigant cartridge 490 including a reservoir portion (reservoir) 491 and a closure assembly 492, according to various embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the reservoir 491 includes a first (proximal) end 401 and a second (distal) end 403, and defines an interior / internal volume 405. As shown, the closure assembly 492 includes a body 493 having at least two ports, referred to as a first port 494 and a second port 495. The body 493 is configured to attach to the first end 401 of the reservoir 491, and the ports 494 and 495 are configured to close the interior volume 405 of the cartridge 490 (i.e., the area within the reservoir 491) from uncontrolled contact with air, water, or other contaminants, yet are operable to allow materials to enter or exit the cartridge upon user request or at predetermined times, for example, during an automatic cleaning cycle.

[0064] For simplicity of explanation, Figure 4 shows only a single first port 494 and a single second port 495. However, it will be apparent that there can be multiple first ports and / or multiple second ports. As explained further below, the first port(s) and second port(s) can be used to allow fluid inflow and outflow, which can further aid in, for example, hydration of solid powders and / or dispensing of slurries.

[0065] As described further below, irrigant cartridge 490 is configured to be attached to a cleaning device, which can access the contents of the cartridge via ports 494 and 495. Ports 494 and 495 retain the powder within cartridge 490 until the cartridge contents are dispensed in a controlled manner by the cleaning device. In certain embodiments, ports 494 and 495 can each include a port member configured to at least initially retain the powder within cartridge 490. The port member can be, for example, a pressure-activated valve, a frangible membrane that is impermeable to fluids, or the like.

[0066] More specifically, in one embodiment, ports 494 and 495 each include a valve (e.g., a one-way override valve, a two-way valve, etc.) that is actuated by a pressure differential across the valve (e.g., generated by air, water, or an external mechanical element such as a pin). That is, the cleaning device can generate a sufficient pressure differential across the valve to allow fluid to enter, hydrate the powder with a liquid (e.g., water), and / or dispense the resulting slurry, as described below. The valve can be configured to remain permanently open once actuated, or to close when the pressure differential is removed. In certain examples, first port 494 and / or second port 495 can include, for example, a plug valve, a butterfly valve, or a needle valve, or a resilient flap, a pinch valve, a cross-slit valve, a dome valve, etc. When the valve is actuated, the device can prevent removal of the cartridge until the contents of the cartridge are consumed by the device.

[0067] In alternative embodiments, first port 494 and / or second port 495 may be septa in the form of a frangible or pierceable membrane that can be pierced by a piercing element, such as a needle or cannula, self-seals around the piercing element while it remains in place, and then substantially or completely self-seals when the piercing element is withdrawn. Typical materials for such frangible or pierceable membranes include butyl rubber or silicone rubber, although any suitable material may be selected having regard to its relative inertness to the cartridge's intended contents. For ease of explanation, embodiments are primarily described herein with reference to first port 494 and / or second port 495 as pressure-activated valves.

[0068] 4, the closure assembly further includes a riser tube (e.g., a conduit) 496 extending from the first port 494 to the interior 405 of the tank 491. The riser tube 496 has a distal end 497, which in this example is adjacent the second end 403 of the tank 491. The riser tube 496 functions to ensure that flow through the first port 494 is only through the riser tube 496.

[0069] In the example of FIG. 4, closure assembly 492 is configured to close tank 491, actuate the interface with lumen cleaning device 370 (e.g., medical instrument lumen cleaning device, food or beverage system cleaning device, dental line cleaning device, etc.), and support internal structures within the cartridge that facilitate mixing and dispensing of the slurry.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the irrigant cartridge 490 can be provided to a user optionally containing a predetermined amount of water-insoluble or partially water-soluble solid particles. The particles can be in dry form or in non-agglomerated, i.e., particulate, form. The solid particles can exist as a flowable solid, and the irrigant cartridge 490 can be a disposable, consumable product.

[0071] As used herein, a water-soluble particle is a particle that partially dissolves in water, such that a saturated solution of the particle in a water-soluble solid can be formed in a desired volume of water. An example of a suitable particulate material is sodium bicarbonate.

[0072] Sodium bicarbonate can provide a useful solids volume fraction of the slurry with little waste in the form of dissolved material. However, any other particulate material with suitable solubility can be used in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, such as anhydrous sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, or potassium bicarbonate, which have a solubility of 30 g / L at 20° C. Other compounds can also be used, including amino acids such as glycine.

[0073] Protecting the contents of the irrigant cartridge 490 from moisture prior to use can be a significant challenge. For example, in instances where the solid substance is sodium bicarbonate, even a relatively low moisture content can lead to content degradation. Low moisture permeability (e.g., less than 10 mg / day / liter) may be desirable to prevent premature decomposition of the sodium bicarbonate. In other cases, moisture may cause the contents to cake or clump over time, which can adversely affect the substance's flowability and mixability with liquid components.

[0074] Therefore, according to certain embodiments provided herein, it may be advantageous to provide a substantially airtight seal between the closure assembly 492 and the tank 491 to prevent moisture ingress at this joint. This airtight seal between the closure assembly 492 and the tank 491 may be provided in a number of different ways, such as a threaded lock connection, a press fit, or a weld. Furthermore, the cartridge components (e.g., the closure assembly 492 and the tank 491) may be formed from any one or more suitable moisture-impermeable materials that are chemically inert to the initial contents and / or slurry and have sufficient mechanical strength for use in a cleaning device as well as packaging.

[0075] More specifically, the irrigant cartridge 490 can be thought of as conceptually having two distinct states during its lifecycle. In its initial state, the irrigant cartridge 490 operates as a moisture barrier and as a physical protection for the contents for delivery to and storage by the user. However, as described further below, the irrigant cartridge 490 is also configured to engage / connect with a cleaning device. When the irrigant cartridge 490 is engaged with the cleaning device, the irrigant cartridge 490 operates as part of a fluid system, and the powder within the irrigant cartridge 490 can be hydrated and pressurized with a liquid, such as water, to help deliver the resulting slurry to the lumen. Thus, the closure assembly 492 and the reservoir 491 are formed from materials that enable the irrigant cartridge 490 to operate in both of these states (e.g., as a package and as part of a larger fluid system).

[0076] In certain embodiments, closure assembly 492 and / or tank 491 may be formed from one or more of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, aluminum, glass, or aluminum or glass coated with polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polytetrafluoroethylene, etc. In one particular example, high density polyethylene (HDPE) may be relatively effective as a moisture barrier, blocking moisture to levels below 10 mg / day / liter.

[0077] Additionally, exposure to light and / or heat (above 60°C) can result in decomposition of the contents. The use of light blocking materials in the cartridge, as well as coating or packaging of the cartridge, can provide controls for temperature-controlled manufacturing, storage, shipping, and protection from light of the product.

[0078] To prevent inadvertent exposure of the contents to moisture prior to use, the closure assembly 492 is provided with an additional cover 498 (shown in FIG. 5 ) that can be removed by the user to expose ports 494 and 495 immediately prior to engaging the irrigant cartridge 490 with the cleaning device. For example, the additional cover 498 may be in the form of a liner (e.g., a plastic or foil liner, a combination of multiple polymer layers and aluminum foil layers, etc.) sealed around the closure and peelable by the user. Transfer of dry powder can be another issue, especially when performed in a humid environment. To address this issue, the cartridge functions as a powder reservoir when engaged with the device, thereby avoiding dry powder transfer issues. The device hydrates the dry powder (e.g., with a liquid such as water) to create a slurry, which is pumped from the cartridge into the device as needed.

[0079] As noted above, FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of an irrigant cartridge 490 that includes a first port 494 and a second port 495. Also, as noted above, the presence of two ports is merely exemplary, and certain embodiments provided herein may include one or more additional first ports (e.g., each with an associated riser tube) and one or more additional second ports. For example, FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an irrigant cartridge 690 that includes a tank portion (tank) 691 and a closure assembly 692. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 4, the tank 691 includes a first end 601, a second end 603, and defines an interior volume 605. The closure assembly 692 includes a body 693 having three ports, referred to as a first port 694, a second port 695A, and a second port 695B. 4, body 693 is configured to attach to first end 601 of reservoir 691, and ports 694, 695A, and 695B are configured to close interior volume 605 of cartridge 690 (i.e., the area within reservoir 691) from uncontrolled contact with atmosphere, water, or other contaminants, but are operable to allow substances to enter or exit the cartridge upon user request or at predetermined times, for example, during an automatic cleaning cycle. Ports 694, 695A, and 695B can have any of the arrangements described above with reference to FIG. 4 and can be located in any position on closure assembly 692.

[0080] 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D are a series of schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of an irrigant cartridge with a luminal cleaning device for mixing and dispensing a hydrated solid powder (slurry), according to certain embodiments described herein. For ease of explanation only, FIGS. 7A-7D are described together with reference to an irrigant cartridge 490 including a first port 494 and a second port 495 (FIG. 4) and a luminal cleaning device 370 (FIG. 3). FIG. 7A shows the irrigant cartridge 490 separated from the luminal cleaning device 370, while FIGS. 7B-7D show the irrigant cartridge 490 fluidly coupled to the luminal cleaning device 370. A cleaning device, such as an endoscope 100, can be attached to the luminal cleaning device 370 simultaneously with the irrigant cartridge 490.

[0081] According to certain embodiments provided herein, the irrigant cartridge 490 first has a quantity of powder 411 dispensed into the reservoir 491, and then the closure assembly 491 is attached to the reservoir 491 to close the reservoir. The irrigant cartridge 490 can be stored, transported, and / or used in any orientation. However, in certain examples, the irrigant cartridge 490 is typically positioned within a lumen irrigation device, such as the lumen irrigation device 370, such that the closure assembly 491 is held as a base portion positioned below the reservoir 491 (e.g., in use, the reservoir 491 is positioned above the closure assembly 491). This orientation can be advantageous for ejecting the cartridge 490 during mixing and dispensing the hydrated powder (slurry) as needed.

[0082] 7A shows that the dry powder 411 is held within the tank 491 and the riser tube 496 extends above the dry powder when the cartridge 490 is oriented such that the closure assembly 492 is below the tank 491. However, the tank 491 also includes a volume 412 of gas (e.g., air) to allow the dry powder 411 to move freely. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the powder 411 can extend above the riser tube 496 when the irrigant cartridge 490 is oriented such that the closure assembly 492 is below the tank 491.

[0083] 7B and 7C , the irrigant cartridge 490 is fluidly coupled to the luminal irrigation device 370, where the irrigant cartridge 490 can be, for example, internal to, on, or the like of the luminal irrigation device 370. In this example, the luminal irrigation device 370 includes a socket 715 for receiving the irrigant cartridge 490 (e.g., closure assembly 492) and holding the irrigant cartridge 490 in place such that ports 494 and 495 of the closure assembly 492 are accessible through port interfaces 721 and 723, respectively, of the luminal irrigation device 370. The port interfaces 721 and 723 can include openings / apertures configured to fluidly mate / couple with the respective ports 494 and 495 in the closure assembly 492 (e.g., to provide a substantially fluid-tight seal with the ports 494 and 495). Additionally, in certain embodiments, the port interfaces 721 and 723 can include valve actuators that actuate to open the ports 494 and 495.

[0084] In certain embodiments, port interfaces 721 and / or 723 can receive a supply of gas or liquid at sufficient pressure to actuate / open ports 494 and 495. For example, the gas or liquid supply can create a pressure differential across the valve, allowing gas or liquid from the irrigation device to open ports 494 and 495, allowing gas or liquid to flow directly into cartridge 490, or to propel gas, liquid, or slurry from cartridge 490. Alternatively, port interfaces 721 and / or 723 can include mechanical components such as push rods, flaps, cylinders, or other known means, thus allowing fluid communication between lumen irrigation device 370 and reservoir 491 and controlling the flow of material into and out of cartridge 490.

[0085] As previously mentioned, according to embodiments provided herein, it is apparent that the irrigant cartridge may include multiple first and / or second ports (e.g., one first port and two second ports), each of which may be actuated by a corresponding plurality of valves on the device. When multiple ports are present, one or more ports may be inactivated or kept hidden. This arrangement allows a single cartridge configuration to be used with differently configured irrigation devices.

[0086] 7A-7C, the luminal lavage device 370 is configured to dispense gas (e.g., air) from a gas source via a gas connector 374 and water from a water source via a water connector 376 into the cartridge 490 (e.g., via the port interface 721 and the first port 494) in a controlled manner. The luminal lavage device 370 is also configured to expel and / or drain fluids via an exhaust line and a device exhaust fitting 378. Additionally, the luminal lavage device 370 is configured to control various mixing parameters, such as air and water pressure, time spent in the cartridge 490, and total and flow rates of air and water entering and exiting the cartridge 490. In one particular example, the luminal lavage device 370 operates under the control of a computing device. Lumen cleaning device 370 can also control the discharge of slurry from cartridge 490 via second port 495 and port interface 723 to direct and / or propel the fluid cleaning composition into the lumen of endoscope 100 (via connector 380), again at a controlled flow rate, which is most commonly controlled by a computing system (e.g., as shown in FIG. 9 ). In certain examples, the slurry is propelled into the lumen of endoscope 100 by a delivery mechanism 757. In certain examples, the delivery mechanism can be implemented as described in commonly owned International Patent Application No. PCT / AU2022 / 050568, filed June 9, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0087] As previously mentioned, the irrigant cartridge 490 engages with the luminal irrigation device 370, for example, via a socket 715 configured (e.g., shaped and / or sized) to mate with at least a portion of the exterior portion of the closure assembly 492. The closure assembly 492 and / or socket 715 may further include positioning, engaging, and / or retaining components to properly position the cartridge 490. For example, the closure assembly 492 may include positioning one or more lugs 717 that facilitate a bayonet-type connection with the device via a complementary slot 719.

[0088] It will be apparent that the particular lug and slot engagement is merely exemplary, and the irrigant cartridge can be engaged with the luminal irrigation device in other ways. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the closure assembly 492 may include external threads configured to mate with corresponding threads on the socket 715, and a stopper is provided to ensure correct orientation of the valves and ports within the luminal irrigation device 370. In one particular example, the luminal irrigation device 370 may include a locking mechanism (not shown) that prevents the irrigant cartridge 490 from being manually removed from the device until the mixing, dispensing, and, if used, irrigation cycles are complete.

[0089] When the irrigant cartridge 490 is fluidly coupled to the lumen irrigation device 370, ports 494 and / or 495 are actuated in a desired manner by one or more port interfaces (e.g., valve actuators) 721 and / or 723, respectively, to allow the device to hydrate the contents of the reservoir 491. More specifically, in one example, the port interface 721 is actuated to open the first port 494, placing the opening of the port interface 721 in fluid communication with the riser tube 496. The port interface 721 allows gas or liquid to enter the cartridge 490.

[0090] 7B, 7C, and 7D show the cartridge 490 in use attached to the lumen cleaning device 370, each representing a different stage / phase of operation. Referring first to the phase shown in FIG. 7B, in this example, the first port 494 is opened by the port interface 721, and water enters the tank 491 via the riser tube 496. Thus, hydration of the powder 411 begins adjacent the distal end 425 of the riser tube 496, referred to herein as the "first hydration location" 427. That is, water flows through the port interface 721, and the path of the hydration water is indicated as H1 (i.e., initially through the riser tube 496). Next, the water exits the hydration pathway at the distal end 425 of the riser tube and first contacts the adjacent dry powder 411. Thus, in this phase, the hydration pathway extends into the tank, and the first hydration location is located a distance away from the ports 494 and 495. For example, the first hydration location can be located at the midpoint of reservoir 491 or at a location further away from ports 494 and 495, e.g., 50%, 75% or more of the distance toward the distal end of the reservoir relative to closure assembly 492. In other words, the first hydration location can be located within the distal half, distal third, or distal quarter of reservoir 491. The flow of water to first port 494 is then stopped, e.g., after a period of time, after a certain amount of water has been delivered, etc.

[0091] Referring now to FIG. 7C , once hydration water is provided by the first port 494, its flow is stopped and the second port 495 is opened by the port interface 723, after which hydration of the powder 411 begins at what is referred to as the “second hydration location” 429. In this example, water flows through the port interface 723, entering the reservoir near the proximal end 401 as shown. The path of the hydration water in this case is shown as H2. Simultaneously, the first port 494 reopens (e.g., due to an increase in pressure), thereby allowing gas to exit at the distal end 403 of the cartridge 490 via the riser tube 496. The exit flow, exiting through the device drain fitting 378, is generally indicated by arrow V1. Next, the flow of water to the second port 495 and the flow of air from the first port 494 are stopped, e.g., after a period of time, e.g., after a certain amount of water has been delivered.

[0092] As previously mentioned, Figures 7B and 7C illustrate first and second hydration phases, respectively, that hydrate powder 411 from two separate locations (i.e., first hydration location 427 and second hydration location 429). It will be apparent that the first and second hydration phases depicted in Figures 7B and 7C can be repeated any number of times, e.g., in an alternating order, until the initial powder 411 is sufficiently hydrated to form a slurry. The number of times each of the first and second hydration phases is performed will vary depending, for example, on the size of the container, the powder, the hydration parameters, etc.

[0093] In certain examples, a control loop can operate to set the iterations / repetitions of the first and second hydration phases. For example, the control system can control the operation based on predetermined data or, in some cases, using real-time data measurements, such as water flow rate, pressure data (e.g., data from pressure sensors in the vessel and / or cleaning device), rheological data (e.g., data regarding the output flow from the cartridge), etc. The control can set, for example, the number of iterations of the first and second hydration phases, the time for which water is introduced into the cartridge (e.g., opening first port 494 for 2 seconds), etc.

[0094] It should also be apparent that the first and second hydration phases may not be performed sequentially, as shown in Figures 7A and 7B, but may instead be performed substantially simultaneously in some embodiments. For example, in one alternative embodiment, first port 494 and second port 495 may be opened simultaneously, and hydration of powder 411 may begin simultaneously in both the first and second hydration locations.

[0095] As previously mentioned, Figures 7B and 7C show that cartridge 490 is configured to hydrate solid powder 411 contained therein at two separate hydration locations via different pathways H1 and H2. This helps address the fact that single-point hydration from outside the solid bolus can cause problems. For example, dispensing water only from the top can lead to the formation of trapped air pockets, while dispensing water only from the bottom can lead to floating pockets of solids, ultimately leading to both inefficient hydration and partially homogenized hydration of the contents.

[0096] Introducing water at two locations can reduce the chance of agglomeration and further promote mixing of the water with the solid powder 411. Even if the mismixing of the solids and liquid is relatively temporary, it can distort the relative water / solids ratio exiting the cartridge. Therefore, it is important to note that good mixing of the solids and liquids can be important, and while mixing can be checked and assisted in a manual process, it can be beneficial in an automated process to mix in a way that produces repeatable and predictable results every time. In certain instances, the amount of water can be calculated given the amount of powder present in the tank and the target solids percentage required for the slurry.

[0097] Returning to the embodiment of Figures 7A-7D, once the desired level of hydration of powder 411 is reached by adding an appropriate amount of water, water addition is terminated and the resulting slurry can be dispensed for use, for example, in cleaning the lumens of endoscope 100. Figure 7D shows the contents of irrigant cartridge 490 as resulting slurry 431 (i.e., hydrated powder). As noted elsewhere herein, in certain instances of slurry 431, the water partially dissolves solid powder 411 to form a saturated solution, with no further solids dissolved and solid particles remaining suspended. The slurry may experience some settling, and there may be a small layer of water or saturated solution above the slurry; the relative effects can be adjusted in advance to account for this.

[0098] In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7D , the slurry is dispensed through the second port 495 and used by the cleaning device in cleaning the endoscope 100. In certain embodiments, the port interface 721 may be used to introduce air and / or water through the first port 494. As the air and / or water enters the cartridge and flows through the hydration pathway H1, some compression of the air in the headspace may occur, but generally, the water introduced through the first port 494 displaces the slurry 431 through the port 495. The orientation of the outlet port 495 below the container 490 ensures that the slurry 431 is dispensed into the cleaning device 370. The slurry 431 is discharged through pathway S1 and may be propelled by the delivery mechanism 757 into the endoscope 100, where it is discarded after the desired cleaning has occurred.

[0099] In certain embodiments, the flow of slurry 431 may be regulated by irrigation device 370, i.e., delivery mechanism 757. For example, delivery mechanism 757 may be provided with a portion of slurry 431 (e.g., via a pump) from cartridge 490, which may then propel the portion of slurry 431 into the lumen of endoscope 100. Commonly owned International Patent Application No. PCT / AU2022 / 050568, filed June 9, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, describes examples of delivery mechanisms that may be used with cartridge 490. In alternative embodiments, slurry 431 may be propelled directly into the lumen of endoscope 100 by pressure generated, for example, by air and / or water entering container 490 via first port 494.

[0100] As described elsewhere herein, the slurry 431 can be dispensed in a number of different ways. For example, the slurry 431 can be dispensed in a selected / configured ration to the particular lumen to be cleaned. As a result, the slurry 431 can be dispensed over multiple cycles.

[0101] In certain embodiments, once slurry 431 has been dispensed from the cartridge, the cartridge may be rinsed with water, drained, and dried through one or more ports. That is, cartridge 490 may be rinsed with water (e.g., through port 494), drained (e.g., through port 495), and dried with air (e.g., through ports 494 and / or 495). In this manner, the cartridge may be removed in a substantially clean and dry state, which may improve convenience and safety.

[0102] As mentioned above, FIGS. 7A-7D are described with reference to an embodiment in which cartridge 490 includes a single first port and a single second port. However, as also mentioned above, this particular arrangement is merely exemplary, and in alternative embodiments, there can be multiple first ports and / or multiple second ports. FIG. 6 illustrates one such embodiment in which cartridge 690 includes one first port 694 and two second ports, referred to as second ports 695A and 695B. FIGS. 8A-8F are a series of views illustrating the operation of cartridge 690. For ease of explanation, FIGS. 8A-8F are described together, with cartridge 690 shown separately from its associated cleaning device.

[0103] Referring first to FIG. 8A , a perspective view of portions of cartridge 690, namely, closure assembly 692 and first (proximal) end 601 of reservoir 691, is shown. Shown in FIG. 8A are first port 694, second port 695A, and second port 695B. Also shown in FIG. 8A is a tamper-evident feature 677 on closure assembly 692, which serves to prevent closure assembly 692 from being removed (e.g., unscrewed) from reservoir 691 and protect the cartridge contents from moisture ingress. In one form, tamper-evident feature 677 is in the form of teeth configured to be engageable with a complementary set of teeth on reservoir 691.

[0104] In one particular embodiment, first port 694, second port 695A, and second port 695B are formed from a thermoplastic elastomer material, and plastic securing features (e.g., plastic tamper-evident features 677) are used in conjunction with closure assembly 692. The use of these materials allows the entire cartridge 690 (e.g., reservoir 691 and closure assembly 692) to be recycled without disassembly / separation of the individual components.

[0105] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of cartridge 690 taken along section line 8B-8B of FIG. 8A, depicting the first phase / stage of the hydration process. In this example, water is added through first port 694, while second ports 695A and 695B are held closed. More specifically, in this example, first port 694 is opened, and water enters tank 691 via riser tube 696. Thus, hydration of powder 611 begins at a "first hydration location" 627 adjacent distal end 625 of riser tube 696. That is, water exits the hydration pathway at distal end 625 of riser tube 696 and first contacts adjacent dry powder 611. Thus, in this phase, the hydration pathway extends into the tank, and the first hydration location is located a distance away from ports 694, 695A, and 695B. For example, the first hydration location can be located at the midpoint of the reservoir 691 or further away from ports 694, 695A, and 695B, e.g., 50%, 75% or more of the distance toward the distal end of the reservoir relative to the closure assembly 692. In other words, the first hydration location 627 can be located within the distal half, distal third, or distal quarter of the reservoir 691. The flow of water to the first port 694 is then stopped, e.g., after a period of time, after a certain amount of water has been delivered, or when a pressure setpoint has been met.

[0106] Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view of cartridge 690 taken along line 8C-8C of Figure 8A and depicts one embodiment of the second phase / stage of the hydration process, while Figures 8B, 8D, and 8E are cross-sectional views of cartridge 690 taken along line 8B-8B of Figure 8A and depict another embodiment of the second phase / stage of the hydration process, in which air is evacuated from the distal end of cartridge 690 via first port 694 (open to the atmosphere via a drain line) and water is added via second ports 695A and 695B.

[0107] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8C , once hydration water is provided through the first port 694 in a first stage, its flow is stopped and second ports 695A and 695B are opened, and then hydration of the powder 611 begins at the so-called “second hydration location” 629. In this example, water enters the reservoir near the proximal end 601, and the two paths of hydration water in this case are designated H2. Simultaneously, as shown in FIG. 8D , the first port 694 reopens, allowing fluid (e.g., gas or saturated solution) to exit the distal end 603 of the cartridge 690 via the riser tube 696. The exit flow is generally designated by arrow V1. Next, the flow of water to the second ports 695A and 695B and the flow of air from port 694 are stopped, e.g., after a certain time has elapsed or a certain amount of water has been delivered.

[0108] As previously mentioned, FIG. 8B illustrates a first hydration stage associated with cartridge 690 (e.g., hydration at first hydration position 427), while FIGS. 8C and 8D collectively illustrate a second hydration stage associated with cartridge 690 (e.g., hydration at second hydration position 429). In particular, FIG. 8D illustrates the state of the cartridge 690 contents in two simultaneous portions, a first portion including partially hydrated powder 611 and a second portion including a saturated solution forming fluid cleaning composition 631. This particular state of the cartridge 690 contents may represent, for example, the contents after one or two iterations of the first and second hydration stages. In practice, the first and second hydration stages may be repeated multiple times, e.g., in alternating order, until the initial dry powder 611 is sufficiently hydrated to form slurry 631. The number of times each of the first and second hydration phases is performed may vary depending, for example, on the size of the container, the powder, the hydration parameters, etc.

[0109] Once the desired level of hydration of powder 611 is reached by adding an appropriate amount of water, the addition of water is terminated and the resulting fluid slurry 631 can be dispensed for use, for example, in cleaning the lumens of an endoscope. Figures 8E and 8F show the contents of irrigant cartridge 690 as the resulting slurry 631 (i.e., hydrated powder) and the dosing / dispensing of slurry 631. In this example, water is delivered through first port 694 and slurry 631 is dispensed through second port 695A and / or second port 695B.

[0110] In certain embodiments, the slurry 631 may be propelled into the lumen by, for example, a delivery mechanism within the lumen cleaning device. For example, the delivery mechanism may extract the portion of the slurry 631 from the cartridge 690 (e.g., a pump) and then propel the portion of the slurry 631 into the lumen of the endoscope 100 via ports 695A and / or 695B, shown as exit paths S1 and S2. Commonly owned International Patent Application No. PCT / AU2022 / 050568, filed June 9, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, describes an example of a delivery mechanism for use with the container 690 to propel the portion of the slurry 631 into the lumen.

[0111] In an alternative embodiment, the slurry 631 may be propelled into the lumen of the endoscope 100 by pressure generated, for example, by air and / or water entering the container 790 through the first port 694. In one such embodiment, fluid enters the cartridge 690 along hydration path H1 through the first port 694 and displaces a quantity of the slurry 631. The displaced slurry 631 is dispensed through ports 695A and / or 695B, shown as exit paths S1 and S2. The orientation of the exit port(s) 695A and / or 695B below the container 690 ensures that the slurry 631 is dispensed to the cleaning device.

[0112] 8A-8F generally include multiple second ports 695A and 695B to allow for faster drainage of slurry from container 690. Multiple second ports 695A and 695B may be used to provide multiple slurry streams for cleaning multiple endoscope channels and / or multiple endoscopes, or the multiple slurry streams may be recombined to provide a higher flow rate of slurry 631.

[0113] As mentioned above, for ease of explanation, aspects of the technology provided herein are outlined above with reference to the dispensing of a cleaning agent in powder form and a fluid cleaning composition in slurry form. However, it will be apparent that the technology provided herein can also be used with other types of cleaning agents and other types of fluid cleaning compositions. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the initial contents of the container are a concentrated liquid (e.g., disinfectant), to which a fluid (e.g., water) can be added to dilute the concentrated liquid to a level appropriate for use as a cleaning composition. In other words, in the above description, a powder can be used in place of a liquid or other cleaning agent, potentially with some modifications to the workflow, and dispensed to form a fluid cleaning composition for use, for example, in cleaning a lumen.

[0114] As described elsewhere herein, hydration of the irrigant (e.g., powder) in the irrigant cartridge and dispensing of the resulting fluid irrigation composition can be controlled by a control system. Figure 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a computing device 917 configured to operate as a control system for hydration and dispensing, as described elsewhere herein. The computing device 937 also operates as a control system for the luminal irrigation device. The computing device 937 can include, for example, a personal computer, a server computer, a handheld device, a laptop device, a multiprocessor system, a microprocessor-based system, a programmable consumer electronic device (e.g., a smartphone), a network PC, a minicomputer, a mainframe computer, a tablet, a remote control unit, a distributed computing environment including any of the above systems or devices, or the like. The computing device 937 can be a single virtual or physical device operating in a networked environment via a communications link to one or more remote devices, such as an implantable medical device or implantable medical device system.

[0115] In its most basic configuration, the computing device 937 includes at least one processing unit 945 and memory 947. The processing unit 925 includes one or more hardware or software processors (e.g., central processing units) that can retrieve and execute instructions. The processing unit 945 can communicate with and control the performance of other components of the computing system 937.

[0116] Memory 937 is one or more software- or hardware-based computer-readable storage media operable to store information accessible by processing unit 945. Memory 947 can store, among other things, instructions executable by processing unit 945 (to implement an application or perform the operations described herein) and other data. Memory 947 may be volatile memory (e.g., RAM), nonvolatile memory (e.g., ROM), or a combination thereof. Memory 947 may include temporary or non-temporary memory and / or one or more removable or non-removable storage devices. In examples, memory 947 may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM (Electronically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), flash memory, optical disk storage, magnetic storage, solid-state storage, or other memory media usable to store information for later access. In examples, memory 947 encompasses a modulated data signal (e.g., a signal having one or more characteristics set or changed to encode information in the signal), such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery medium. By way of example and not limitation, memory 947 may include wired media, such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, wireless media, such as acoustic, RF, infrared, or other wireless media, or a combination thereof. In one particular embodiment, memory 947 includes cartridge control logic 949 that, when executed, enables processing unit 945 to perform aspects of the provided technology.

[0117] In the depicted example, system 937 further includes a network adapter 951, one or more input devices 953, and one or more output devices 955. System 937 may include a system bus, component interfaces, a graphics system, a power source (e.g., a battery), among other components. Network adapter 951 is the component of computing system 937 that provides network access (e.g., access to at least one network). Network adapter 951 may provide wired or wireless network access and may support one or more of a variety of communication technologies and protocols, such as ETHERNET, cellular, BLUETOOTH, near field communication, RF (radio frequency), etc. Network adapter 931 may include one or more antennas and associated components configured for wireless communication according to one or more wireless communication technologies and protocols.

[0118] The one or more input devices 953 are devices through which the computing system 937 receives input from a user. The one or more input devices 953 may include physically manipulable user interface elements (e.g., buttons, switches, or dials), a touchscreen, a keyboard, a mouse, a pen, and a voice input device, among other input devices. The one or more output devices 955 are devices through which the computing system 937 can provide output to a user. The output device(s) 955 may include a display and one or more speakers, among other output devices.

[0119] 9 is merely exemplary, and it will be apparent that aspects of the technology provided herein can be implemented in multiple different types of systems / devices. For example, computing system 937 can be a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a mobile phone, or a surgical system.

[0120] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method 1061 according to certain embodiments described herein. Method 1061 begins at 1063, where at least one first port and one or more second ports of a cartridge forming a sealed container containing at least one powder are fluidly coupled to a cleaning device. At 1065, the cleaning device introduces a fluid into the cartridge through the at least one first port to at least partially hydrate the at least one powder. At 1067, the cleaning device introduces a fluid into the cartridge through the one or more second ports to at least partially hydrate the at least one powder. The fluid and powder form a fluid cleaning composition. At 1069, the fluid cleaning composition is dispensed from the cartridge through at least one of the one or more second ports.

[0121] 11 is a flow chart illustrating another example of a method 1161 according to certain embodiments described herein. The method 1161 begins at 1163, where a cartridge forming a sealed container and containing at least one powder is fluidly coupled to a cleaning device. At 1165, a fluid is introduced from a first hydration location within the cartridge. At 1167, a fluid is introduced from a second hydration location within the cartridge. The fluid and the at least one powder form a fluid cleaning composition. At 1169, the fluid cleaning composition is dispensed from the cartridge.

[0122] The irrigant cartridges and related technology provided herein may offer many advantages over other cartridge systems. For example, according to certain embodiments provided herein, hydration of the solid powder occurs at two locations, including one adjacent to the proximal end of the container and one more distal location (e.g., the center or distal portion of the container). The use of two hydration locations allows fluid (e.g., water) to contact the mass of solid material at two points, thereby promoting uniform mixing. Furthermore, it may be effective to attach the cartridge solely via the closure assembly. In this case, because the volume required to clean a lumen (e.g., the lumen of an endoscope) is not small, a mechanism with a fully internal cartridge would require a significantly increased form factor. The single point of cartridge attachment also facilitates alignment and removal, minimizing the possibility of damage to the cartridge or cleaning device.

[0123] Furthermore, according to the embodiments provided herein, mixing of the powder and fluid occurs entirely within the cartridge, while the exterior of the cartridge is kept dry. Many conventional cartridge mixing and extraction systems leave the cartridge wet after use and upon removal. Aside from the inconvenience and mess, in environments where medical equipment is decontaminated and reprocessed, large amounts of water can cross-contaminate the capsule during handling if the user's hands or gloves are "dirty." Because the cartridge is fluidly coupled, dispensing / metering of dry powder is not required. Finally, the cartridge provides multiple ports that can be actuated to allow fluid inflow and outflow, whereby each port can serve a variety of functions, as described.

Claims

1. 1. A cleaning agent cartridge, comprising: a tank configured to hold a dry powder; a closure assembly configured to be attached to the tank to form an enclosed volume; at least one first port disposed within the closure assembly and configured for fluid entry into the tank; a riser tube extending from the at least one first port into the tank; one or more second ports disposed within the closure assembly configured for fluid inflow and outflow from the tank; Detergent cartridge.

2. the one or more second ports are operable to allow passage of slurry from the tank; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 1 .

3. The slurry comprises a fluid cleaning composition. The cleaning agent cartridge according to claim 2 .

4. the at least one first port is configured to drain fluid from the tank; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 1 .

5. the distal end of the riser tube defines a first hydration position, and the one or more second ports define a second hydration position separate from the first hydration position; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 1 .

6. the one or more second ports include at least two second ports each configured for fluid inflow and fluid outflow into and from the tank; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 1 .

7. the at least one first port is configured for fluid inflow and outflow from the tank; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 1 .

8. each of the at least one first port and the one or more second ports includes a port member; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 1 .

9. the port member is a pressure-activated valve; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 8.

10. the port member is a frangible membrane impermeable to gas or liquid; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 8.

11. the tank having a first end and a second end to which the closure assembly is attached, and the riser tube extending over at least 50% of the distance between the first end and the second end; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 1 .

12. the riser tube extends over at least 75% of the distance between the first end and the second end; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 11.

13. the at least one first port is fluidly isolated from the one or more second ports in the closure assembly; The cleaning agent cartridge of claim 1 .

14. fluidly coupling at least one first port and one or more second ports of the cartridge to a cleaning device, the cartridge forming a sealed container containing at least one powder; introducing a fluid into the cartridge through the at least one first port; introducing a fluid into the cartridge through the one or more second ports, wherein the fluid and powder form a fluid cleaning composition; and dispensing the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge through at least one of the one or more second ports. method.

15. further comprising repeatedly introducing fluid into the cartridge in alternating order via the at least one first port and the one or more second ports.

15. The method of claim 14.

16. and controlling the number of repetitions of the alternating sequence based on one or more real-time measurements.

16. The method of claim 15.

17. further comprising substantially simultaneously introducing fluid into the cartridge via the at least one first port and the one or more second ports.

15. The method of claim 14.

18. and further comprising evacuating fluid from the closed container while introducing fluid into the cartridge through the one or more second ports.

15. The method of claim 14.

19. Discharging fluid from the sealed container while introducing fluid into the cartridge through the one or more second ports includes: venting gas from the sealed container while introducing fluid into the cartridge through the one or more second ports.

20. The method of claim 18.

20. the one or more second ports include a plurality of second ports; dispensing the fluid cleaning composition through at least one of the one or more second ports comprises dispensing the fluid cleaning composition through each of the plurality of second ports.

15. The method of claim 14.

21. Dispensing the fluid cleaning composition through each of the plurality of second ports includes: sequentially dispensing the fluid cleaning composition through the plurality of second ports.

21. The method of claim 20.

22. Dispensing the fluid cleaning composition through each of the plurality of second ports includes: simultaneously dispensing the fluid cleaning composition through the plurality of second ports.

21. The method of claim 20.

23. the cartridge includes a riser tube attached to the at least one first port; introducing fluid into the cartridge through the at least one first port includes introducing fluid through a distal end of the riser tube.

15. The method of claim 14.

24. the cartridge includes a proximal end and a distal end; introducing fluid into the cartridge through the one or more second ports includes introducing fluid from the proximal end of the cartridge.

15. The method of claim 14.

25. Dispensing the fluid cleaning composition through at least one of the one or more second ports includes: introducing a fluid into the cartridge through the at least one first port and discharging a corresponding amount of the fluid cleaning composition through the one or more second ports.

15. The method of claim 14.

26. introducing a fluid into the cartridge through the at least one first port; discharging a corresponding amount of the fluid cleaning composition through the one or more second ports comprises introducing a liquid into the cartridge through the at least one first port.

26. The method of claim 25.

27. introducing a fluid into the cartridge through the at least one first port; discharging a corresponding amount of the fluid cleaning composition through the one or more second ports comprises introducing a gas into the cartridge through the at least one first port.

26. The method of claim 25.

28. Dispensing the fluid cleaning composition through at least one of the one or more second ports includes: pumping a quantity of the fluid cleaning composition out of the cartridge through the one or more second ports.

15. The method of claim 14.

29. Fluidly coupling the at least one first port and the one or more second ports of the cartridge to the cleaning device includes: mechanically attaching a proximal end of the cartridge to a socket of the cleaning device.

15. The method of claim 14.

30. Fluidly coupling at least one first port and one or more second ports of the cartridge to the cleaning device includes: aligning and engaging the at least one first port and the one or more second ports with corresponding port interfaces of the cleaning device; 15. The method of claim 14.

31. each of the at least one first port and the one or more second ports includes a pressure-activated valve; The method comprises: selectively supplying the fluid to the at least one first port or the one or more second ports at a pressure sufficient to actuate a corresponding pressure-activated valve; 15. The method of claim 14.

32. further comprising controlling the amount of fluid using a predetermined flow rate for a predetermined time or a predetermined pressure within the cartridge.

15. The method of claim 14.

33. The fluid cleaning composition is a mixture of sodium bicarbonate or sodium carbonate in a saturated solution.

15. The method of claim 14.

34. Dispensing the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge through at least one of the one or more second ports includes: extracting a dose of the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge using a delivery mechanism; and propelling the dispensed amount of the fluid cleaning composition into at least one lumen.

15. The method of claim 14.

35. fluidly coupling a cartridge to a cleaning device, the cartridge forming a sealed container containing at least one powder; introducing a fluid into the cartridge from a first hydration location; introducing a fluid from a second hydration location within the cartridge, the fluid and the at least one powder forming a fluid cleaning composition within the cartridge; and dispensing the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge. method.

36. further comprising repeatedly introducing fluid into the cartridge from the first hydration location and the second hydration location in alternating order.

36. The method of claim 35.

37. and controlling the number of repetitions of the alternating sequence based on one or more real-time measurements.

37. The method of claim 36.

38. further comprising introducing fluid into the cartridge substantially simultaneously from the first hydration location and the second hydration location in the alternating sequence.

36. The method of claim 35.

39. further comprising venting gas from the enclosed container while introducing fluid from the second hydration location within the cartridge.

36. The method of claim 35.

40. the cartridge has a proximal end and a distal end, and introducing fluid from the first hydration location within the cartridge includes introducing fluid from a location relatively closer to the distal end than to the proximal end.

36. The method of claim 35.

41. the cartridge has a proximal end and a distal end, at least one first port disposed at the proximal end of the cartridge, a riser tube attached to the at least one first port, and introducing fluid from the first hydration location within the cartridge includes introducing fluid through the distal end of the riser tube.

36. The method of claim 35.

42. the cartridge having a proximal end and a distal end; introducing fluid from the second hydration location within the cartridge includes introducing fluid from a location relatively closer to the proximal end than to the distal end.

36. The method of claim 35.

43. the cartridge having a proximal end and a distal end; one or more second ports located at the proximal end of the cartridge; introducing fluid from the second hydration location within the cartridge includes introducing fluid through the one or more second ports.

36. The method of claim 35.

44. Dispensing the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge comprises: opening one or more second ports in the cartridge; and releasing the fluid cleaning composition through the one or more second ports.

36. The method of claim 35.

45. the one or more second ports comprise a plurality of ports, and discharging the fluid cleaning composition through the one or more second ports comprises discharging the fluid cleaning composition through each of the plurality of ports.

45. The method of claim 44.

46. Discharging the fluid cleaning composition through each of the plurality of ports comprises sequentially discharging the fluid cleaning composition through the plurality of ports.

46. ​​The method of claim 45.

47. Discharging the fluid cleaning composition through each of the plurality of ports comprises simultaneously discharging the fluid cleaning composition through the plurality of ports.

46. ​​The method of claim 45.

48. Dispensing the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge comprises:

36. The method of claim 35, comprising introducing a fluid into the cartridge and discharging a corresponding amount of the fluid cleaning composition through one or more ports.

49. Dispensing the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge comprises pumping a quantity of the fluid cleaning composition from the cartridge through one or more ports.

36. The method of claim 35.

50. 1. A cartridge for storing a dry powder, hydrating the dry powder to form a slurry, and dispensing the slurry, the cartridge including a closure assembly and a tank closed by the closure assembly; the closure assembly includes at least one first port operable to allow passage of fluid into the tank or vent of gas from the tank, and one or more second ports operable to allow passage of fluid into the tank and passage of slurry from the tank; the tank is adapted to hold the dry powder, a conduit extending from the first port in the tank to define a first hydration location, and the one or more second ports defining a second hydration location; cartridge.

51. the closure assembly further includes at least two second ports operable to allow the passage of fluid into the tank and / or to allow the passage of slurry from the tank; 51. The cartridge of claim 50.

52. the first port is operable to allow drainage of liquid from the tank; 51. The cartridge of claim 50.

53. the one or more second ports are operable to allow evacuation of gas or liquid from the tank; 51. The cartridge of claim 50.

54. at least one of the at least two second ports is operable to allow drainage of liquid from the tank; 52. The cartridge of claim 51.

55. Each of the ports includes a port member resiliently held against the seat; 51. The cartridge of claim 50.

56. the port member is a pressure-activated valve; 56. The cartridge of claim 55.

57. the port member is a frangible membrane impermeable to gas or liquid; 56. The cartridge of claim 55.

58. the conduit extends at least 50% of the distance into the tank; 51. The cartridge of claim 50.

59. the conduit extends at least 75% of the distance into the tank; 51. The cartridge of claim 50.

Images