Pneumatic connectors

Abstract

A pneumatic connector includes a housing configured to receive a tubular structure, such as an endoscope. A deformable component is disposed within the housing. The housing is configured to direct working fluid against the deformable component to compress the deformable component against the tubular structure and retain the tubular structure within the housing.

Description

PNEUMATIC CONNECTORSBACKGROUNDField of the Invention[oooi] The present invention generally relates to pneumatic connectors for connecting an end of a tubular structure, such as a distal tip of an endoscope, to another system or device.Related Art

[0002] There are several different types of systems / de vices that include and / or are partially formed by tubular structures (tubes) having interior conduits / lumens that can need cleaning. The lumens can include, for example, dental lines, food / drink lines, medical lumens, etc.

[0003] A number of different medical devices (medical instruments), in particular, can include tubular structures with interior lumens that can be used to perform diagnostic and / or surgical procedures. For example, an endoscope is a medical device having a general tube-like shape / arrangement that includes interior lumens that can be used to visually inspect hollow organs or body cavities, deliver / extract fluids, etc. Specially designed endoscopes are used for different examinations, such as bronchoscopy, cystoscopy, gastroscopy, and proctoscopy. Endoscopes, as well as other available diagnostic and / or surgical medical devices are reuseable across multiple patients and, as such, the interior lumens must be cleaned between uses.SUMMARY

[0004] In one aspect, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises: a housing configured to receive a tubular structure; and a deformable component disposed within the housing, wherein the housing is configured to receive a working fluid to deform the deformable component, and the deformable component is configured to compress against the tubular structure upon deformation to retain the tubular structure within the housing.

[0005] In another aspect, a method is provided. The method comprises: inserting a portion of tubular structure into a pneumatic connector; delivering a working fluid into the pneumatic connector to cause a deformable component to compress against the tubular structure, wherein the deformable component retains the tubular structure in the pneumatic connector while the working fluid is delivered to the pneumatic connector; and directing a cleaning fluid flow into the tubular structure and the pneumatic connector.

[0006] In another aspect, a pneumatic connector is provided. The pneumatic connector comprises: a body having a first end and a second end; and a pneumatic clamping mechanismdisposed at the first end, wherein the pneumatic clamping mechanism is controllable such that the first end of the pneumatic connector can have different internal diameters to couple to a plurality of tubular structures having different outside diameters.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0008] FIG. 1 A is a graph illustrating endoscope distal tip diameter distributions for a number of different endoscopes.

[0009] FIG. IB is a schematic diagram illustrating an endoscope in use with a pneumatic connector, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein.[ooio] FIG. 2A is a flowchart of an example method for cleaning an interior lumen of a medical device using liquid-powder mixtures, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.[ooii] FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram illustrating one stage / phase of a process for cleaning a lumen, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 2C is a schematic diagram illustrating another stage / phase of a process for cleaning a lumen, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an example pneumatic connector, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the pneumatic connector of FIG. 3;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the pneumatic connector of FIG. 3;

[0016] FIG. 6 is another cross-sectional view of the pneumatic connector of FIG. 3;

[0017] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of another pneumatic connector, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another pneumatic connector, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein.

[0019] FIG. 9 is another cross-sectional view of the pneumatic connector of FIG. 3 shown with a pneumatic clamping mechanism in a closed configuration;

[0020] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a pneumatic clamping mechanism diaphragm, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein;

[0021] FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of another pneumatic clamping mechanism diaphragm, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein;

[0022] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of an example pneumatic connector having a quick connect feature, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein;

[0023] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the quick connect feature of FIG. 12A;

[0024] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another pneumatic connector, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein;

[0025] FIG. 14 is another perspective view of the pneumatic connector of FIG. 13;

[0026] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another pneumatic connector, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein;

[0027] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another pneumatic connector, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein; and

[0028] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a method, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] As noted, there are a number of different types of systems / devices that are at least partially formed by one or more tubular structures (tubes) that include interior conduits / lumens, such as dental lines, food / drink lines, medical lumens, etc. In certain circumstances, there may be a need to fluidically couple the lumens of a tubular structure to a separate device / system. For example, the interior lumen(s) of a tubular structure may need periodic and / or regular cleaning. There are a wide variety of different techniques that can be used to perform this lumen cleaning, but several of these techniques include passing some form of cleaning fluid through the target lumen(s). Commonly-owned International Patent Publication No. WO2022256871A1, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein, describesa lumen cleaning system in which a cleaning fluid in the form of fluidic contaminant-detaching composition is passed through target lumens.

[0030] During a lumen cleaning process, and / or for other reasons, there may be a need to fluidically couple the distal end of an interior lumen of a tubular structure, such as an endoscope, to a separate device / system that manages the flow of the cleaning fluid as it exits the distal ends of the lumen. However, tubular structures can have a number of different sizes that can make this fluidic coupling challenging. For example, FIG. 1A is a graph illustrating a distribution of distal tip outside diameters across a number of different endoscopes (e.g., from different manufacturers, for different uses, etc.). More specifically, in FIG. 1A, the horizontal axis 50 represents different distal tip outside diameters (in millimeters), while the vertical axis 52 represents a frequency or number of endoscopes with distal tips corresponding to each specific distal tip outside diameter.

[0031] Presented herein is a “pneumatic connector device,” sometimes referred to herein as a “pneumatic connector” or an “adjustable connector,” that is configured to facilitate fluidic coupling between a plurality of different types of tubular structures (e.g., different types of endoscopes) having different outside diameters and another (separate) device. In particular, a pneumatic connector in accordance with embodiments presented herein includes a body with a receiving part / receiving end (first end) and distal end (second end). The receiving end includes a pneumatic clamping mechanism that is controllable such that the receiving end of the pneumatic connector can have different internal diameters and, accordingly, fit (mate with) different tubular structures (e.g., endoscopes) having different outside diameters. Within the body of the pneumatic connector are one or more lumens that form fluidic pathways between lumens of a tubular structure and the other device.

[0032] For ease of description, the pneumatic connectors presented herein are primarily described with reference to use with a distal end / tip of an endoscope during a lumen cleaning process. However, it is to be appreciated that the pneumatic connectors presented herein can also or alternatively be used with other types of tubular structures and for other purposes. Before describing the pneumatic connectors of the present disclosure, a description of an endoscope and one example type of endoscope cleaning is first provided below.

[0033] An endoscope is an elongate tubular medical device that may be rigid or flexible, and which incorporates an optical or video system and light source. Typically, an endoscope is configured so that one end can be inserted into the body of a patient via a surgical incision orvia one of the natural openings of the body. Internal structures near the inserted end of the endoscope can thus be viewed by an external observer.

[0034] As well as being used for investigation, endoscopes are also used to carry out diagnostic and surgical procedures. Endoscopic procedures are increasingly popular as they are minimally invasive in nature and provide a better patient outcome (through reduced healing time and exposure to infection) enabling hospitals and clinics to achieve higher patient turnover.

[0035] FIG. IB is a schematic diagram of an example endoscope 100 with a pneumatic connector 101 in accordance with techniques presented herein. As shown, endoscope 100, similar to most endoscopes, has a long tube-like structure with a distal end (distal tip) 102 at one end for insertion into a patient and an opposing proximal or connector end 104, with a control handle 106 located between the two ends (e.g., generally at the center of the length between connector end 104 and distal end / tip 102). The connector end 104 includes a plurality of connectors that enables the endoscope 100 to be attached to, for example, a light source 108, water source 110, a suction source (not shown in FIG. 1), and a pressurized air source 112. For example, shown in FIG. IB, is 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 to control the endoscope 100 via valves, which include, in this example, a suction valve 114, an air / water cylinder (valve) 116, and a biopsy valve 118, and control wheels 120.

[0036] As shown in FIG. IB, endoscope 100 includes internal channels used either for delivering air and / or water, providing suction, or allowing access for forceps and other medical equipment required during the procedure. As such, the distal tip 102 contains exits for the lighting, air, and water, as well as exits for suction and forceps. Some of the internal channels run from one end of the endoscope 100 to the other, while others run via valve sockets at the control handle. Some channels bifurcate while and others join from two into one.

[0037] More specifically, shown in FIG. IB is 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 proximal section 122A and distal section 122B that are connected via the suction valve 114. The air channel 124 also includes two sections, referred to as proximal section 124A and distal section 124B that are connected via the air / water cylinder (valve) 116. Similarly, the water channel 126 also includes two sections, referred to as proximal section 126A and distal section 126B that are connected via the air / water cylinder 116. Thedistal section 126B of the water channel 126 joins to the distal section 124B of the air channel 124 at a location 130 within the distal section 133 ofthe endoscope 100 and each exit via nozzle 149. The water-jet channel 128 extends directly from the connector end 104 to the distal end 102 (via the control handle 106) but is similarly referred to as having a proximal section 128A and distal section 128B. The proximal sections 122A, 124A, 126A, and 128A of the channels are sometimes referred to as being located within a universal cord section (cord) 132 of the endoscope 100, while the distal sections 122B, 124B, 126B, and 128B of the channels are sometimes referred to as being located within an insertion tube 134 of the endoscope 100. More generally, as used herein, the proximal sections 122A, 124A, 126A, and 128A are the portions of the channels located between the connector end 104 and a valve (e.g., valve 114 or 116) at the control handle 106 and / or a mid-point of the control handle 106, as applicable. The distal sections 122B, 124B, 126B, and 128B are the portions of the channels located between the valve (e.g., valve 114 or 116) at the control handle 106 and / or a mid-point of the control handle 106, and the distal end 102 of the endoscope 100.

[0038] The high cost of endoscopes means they must be re-used. As a result, because of the need to avoid cross infection from one patient to the next, each endoscope must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected or sterilized after each use. This involves the cleaning of not only the outer of the endoscope 100, but also cleaning and disinfecting the internal channels / lumens (e.g., lumens 122, 124, 126, and 128 of FIG. IB).

[0039] Endoscopes used for colonoscopic procedures are typically between 2.5 and 4 meters long and have one or more lumen channels of diameter of no more than a few millimeters. Ensuring that such long narrow channels are properly cleaned and disinfected between patients presents a considerable challenge. The challenge of cleaning is also made more difficult by the fact that there is not just one configuration / type of endoscope. Indeed, there are a variety of endoscopic devices, each suited to a particular insertion application, such as colonoscopes inserted into the colon, bronchoscopes inserted into the airways, gastroscopes for investigation of the stomach, etc. Gastroscopes, for instance, are smaller in diameter than colonoscopes; bronchoscopes are smaller again and shorter in length, while duodenoscopes have a different tip design to access the bile duct.

[0040] A variety of options are available to mechanically remove biological residues from the lumen, which is the first stage in the cleaning and disinfection process. One procedure for cleaning the lumens utilizes small brushes mounted on long, thin, flexible lines. Brushing is the mandated means of cleaning the lumen in some countries. These brushes are fed into thelumens while the endoscope is submerged in warm water and a cleaning solution. The brushes are then pushed / pulled through the length of the lumens in an effort to scrub off the soil / bio burden. Manual back and forth scrubbing is typically required. Water and cleaning solutions are then flushed down the lumens. These flush-brush processes are repeated three times or until the endoscope reprocessing technician is satisfied that the lumen is clean. At the end of this cleaning process air is pumped down the lumens to dry them. A flexible pull-through device having wiping blades may also be used to physically remove material. A liquid flow through the lumen at limited pressure can also be used.

[0041] In general, however, only the larger suction / biopsy lumens (e.g., 122 in FIG. IB) can be cleaned by brushing or pull throughs. Air / water channels (e.g., channels 124 and 126) are generally too small for brushes so these lumens are usually only flushed with water and cleaning solution.

[0042] There has been significant research to show that the method of cleaning with brushes, even when performed as prescribed, may not completely remove biofilm in endoscope lumens. As well as lacking in efficacy, the current manual brushing procedures suffer from other drawbacks. The large number of different endoscope manufacturers and models results in many minor variations of the manual cleaning procedure. This has led to confusion and ultimately poor compliance in cleaning processes.

[0043] The current system of manual brushing is also labor intensive, leading to increased cost. Thus, the current approaches to cleaning and disinfecting the lumens in medical cleaning apparatus are still inadequate, and residual microorganisms are now recognized as a significant threat to patients and staff exposed to these devices. For example, there is evidence of bacterial transmission between patients from inadequate cleaning and disinfection of internal structures of endoscopes, which in turn has led to patients acquiring mortal infections. Between 2010 and 2015 more than 41 hospitals worldwide, most in the U.S., reported bacterial infections linked to the scopes, affecting 300 to 350 patients (http: / / www.modemhealthcare.com / article / 20167415 / NEWS / 167419935). It would be expected that a reduction in the bioburden in various medical devices would produce a concomitant overall reduction in infection rates and mortality.

[0044] In addition, if endoscopes are not properly cleaned and dried, biofilm can build up on the lumen wall. Biofilms start to form when a free-floating microorganism attaches itself to a surface and surrounds itself with a polysaccharide layer. The microorganism then multiplies,or begins to form aggregates with other microorganisms, increasing the extent of the polysaccharide layer. Multiple sites of attachment can in time join up, forming significant deposits of biofilm. Once bacteria or other microorganisms are incorporated in a biofilm, they become significantly more resistant to chemical and mechanical cleaning than they would be in their free-floating state. The organisms themselves are not inherently more resistant, rather, resistance is conferred by the polysaccharide film and the fact that microorganisms can be deeply embedded in the film and isolated from any chemical interaction. Any residual biofilm remaining after an attempt at cleaning quickly returns to an equilibrium state and further growth of microorganisms within the film continues. Endoscopes lumens are particularly prone to biofilm formation. They are exposed to significant amounts of bioburden, and subsequent cleaning of the long narrow lumens is quite difficult due to inaccessibility and the inability to monitor the cleaning process.

[0045] There is considerable pressure in medical facilities to reprocess endoscopes as quickly as possible. Because endoscopes are cleaned by hand, training and attitude of the technician are important in determining the cleanliness of the device. Residual biofilm on instruments can result in a patient acquiring an endoscope acquired infection. Typically, these infections occur as outbreaks and can have fatal consequences for patients.

[0046] As noted, there are a number of different types of cleaning fluids that can be used to clean the lumens of a device. These cleaning fluids include, for example, water, modified water, detergent solutions (e.g., mixtures of water and detergent), liquid-powder mixtures (e.g., mixtures of sodium bicarbonate powder and water), etc. The use of a liquid-powder mixture propelled through respective lumens of a device has been found to be particularly effective at removing unwanted matter via physical contact, yet safely interacting with the lumens to clean them. In these techniques, a liquid-powder mixture may be created, apportioned into a suitable amount, and then delivered at a suitable velocity through at least a portion of the lumen. The liquid-powder mixture is sometimes referred to herein as a ‘slurry,’ and the apportioned amount of the liquid-powder mixture is sometimes referred herein to as a ‘cleaning shot’ or ‘shot.’

[0047] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary method 240 of cleaning a lumen of a medical device using a cleaning fluid in the form of an apportioned amount of the liquid-powder mixture (cleaning shot). The method 240 of FIG. 2A begins at 242 with the creating, mixing, or otherwise obtaining of a liquid-powder mixture. At 244, the liquid-powder mixture is apportioned into a suitable amount. At 246, the apportioned amount of the liquid-powdermixture is delivered (e.g., propelled) through at least a portion of a lumen to be cleaned. This process may of course be implemented in any of a variety of ways.

[0048] For example, any suitable liquid-powder mixture may be implemented. As can be appreciated, the liquid component of the mixture can facilitate the fluidity of the mixture, while the presence of the powder can act to interact with the walls of the target lumen (e.g., channel) to thereby clean the lumen. In accordance with certain examples, the powder component of the liquid-powder mixture is present within the mixture in amounts greater than the respective saturation limit within the respective liquid, which can facilitate a cleaning interaction between the mixture and the walls of the lumen. In certain embodiments, the liquid-powder mixture comprises a mixture of sodium bicarbonate powder and water, where the sodium-bicarbonate is present in an amount greater than the respective saturation level. For example, in a number of embodiments, sodium-bicarbonate can, at certain stages, be present in an amount greater than 10% of the mixture by mass. It has been determined that a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and water can be particularly effective in the disclosed application. Moreover, these constituent components are readily available. However, it would be appreciated that any suitable liquidpowder mixture can be used in alternative examples. One consideration for powder selection may be that it has a Mohs hardness higher than a target biofilm / bioburden, but softer than the target lumen walls.

[0049] In some arrangements, the powder in the mixture is present in an amount below the respective saturation of the associated liquid. However, the liquid is delivered to the target lumen prior to the complete dissolution of the powder in the liquid. In this way, the undissolved powder can still interact with the target lumen to be cleaned.

[0050] Moreover, it is to be appreciated that the liquid-powder mixture can be created / obtained in any of a variety of ways. For example, in certain embodiments, a powder is obtained from a cartridge or other consumable chamber / container, water is obtained from a tap, and these constituent components are mixed within a holding chamber (or within the consumable chamber itself) proximate (e.g., within days or weeks) to the time of cleaning. This approach may be advantageous insofar as powders, such as sodium bicarbonate, can be relatively stable and can have a long shelf life and suitable sources of water are readily available. However, in other embodiments, the mixture may be obtained in an already mixed form.

[0051] As noted, method 240 involves apportioning the liquid-powder mixture into a suitable amount. As illustrated, the apportioned amounts are subsequently delivered through a lumento be cleaned. Delivering discrete amounts of the mixture can be advantageous insofar as the discrete amounts can be delivered periodically at suitable velocities, and the periodic application of the composition can help facilitate the cleaning of the lumen while not clogging / blocking the target lumens. Moreover, the discrete nature of the delivered amounts can facilitate the maintenance of a suitable delivery velocity, which can also aid cleaning. For example, if the liquid-powder mixture was delivered continuously (and not in discrete, apportioned amounts), this approach might risk ‘clogging’ or otherwise obstructing the lumen to reduce the velocity at which the liquid-powder mixture flows through the lumen, and can thereby impact cleaning efficacy.

[0052] Notably, different amounts of liquid-powder mixture may be differently suitable for the different characteristics of lumens to be cleaned. For example, air / water channels within an endoscope are typically amongst the narrowest lumens and, accordingly, may be more suitably cleaned with relatively smaller amounts of a liquid-powder mixture (whereas using larger amounts of a liquid-powder mixture may result in blocking such a narrow channel). In contrast, the suction / biopsy channels of an endoscope are typically amongst the widest lumens and, accordingly, may be more suitably cleaned with relatively larger amounts of liquid-powder mixture. As such, the amount of liquid-powder mixture apportioned for use in cleaning a given lumen is a function of the geometry of the lumen to be cleaned. It should of course be appreciated that the amount of liquid-powder mixture apportioned can also or alternatively be a function of any of a variety of parameters, including those that relate to the target.

[0053] The apportioned amount of the liquid-powder mixture can 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 liquid-powder mixture from a reservoir. In some embodiments, a self-regulating pressurized system is used to draw a suitable amount of liquid-powder mixture from the reservoir.

[0054] As noted, method 240 of FIG. 2A further includes delivering the apportioned amount of liquid-powder mixture through at least a portion of the lumen to be cleaned. In general, a carrier fluid (e.g., air, water, etc.) is used to deliver (e.g., propel) the apportioned amount of the liquid-powder mixture through at least a portion of the lumen to be cleaned at a suitable velocity. The apportioned amount of the liquid-powder mixture is delivered in a manner (e.g., suitable size, suitable velocity, etc.) to provide an appropriate physical interaction between the mixture and the walls of the lumen, meaning that the undissolved powder will physically contact or run against the walls of the lumen to remove contaminants (e.g., bioburdens)therefrom. Of course, the apportioned amount of the liquid-powder mixture may be delivered through the lumen in any suitable way to enable cleaning of a lumen.

[0055] Notably, method 240 can be iterated any number of times to facilitate the cleaning of the lumen of a medical device. For example, FIG. 2B illustrates the delivery of one cleaning shot 248 (e.g., an apportioned amount of a liquid-powder mixture) through a lumen 252 to remove contaminants from walls 256 of the lumen 252, where the general direction of travel of the shot 248 is represented by arrows 261. That is, as shown, the lumen 252 has one or more contaminants 254 (e.g., bioburdens) disposed on the inner surface / walls 256 of the lumen 252. It is further illustrated that the cleaning shot 248 is delivered through the lumen 252 to physically interact with the walls 256 of the lumen 252 and thereby remove the contaminants 254 therefrom. The cleaning shot 248 can be considered to be entrained within a carrier fluid, which in this example comprises air (represented by arrows 263).

[0056] In general, cleaning shots presented herein, such as cleaning shot 248, can have different forms / arrangements. For example, in certain embodiments, a cleaning shot presented herein can be a relatively singular / unitary mass (e.g., potentially substantially occluding the lumen while traveling therethrough), which is sometimes referred to herein as a “unitary shot.” However, in other embodiments, a cleaning shot can be an “agglomeration” or “cluster” of smaller masses / groups that travel through the lumen as a loose group (e.g., potentially not occluding the lumen while traveling therethrough), sometimes referred to herein as a “cluster shot.” FIG. 2B schematically illustrates an example in which the shots 248 are cluster shots.

[0057] In certain embodiments, a cleaning shot can transition between different forms during the shot’s life cycle. For example, a shot could be apportioned (initially created) as a unitary shot, but then transition to a cluster shot. This transition could occur before entering the lumen (e.g., in a delivery chamber) and / or while traveling through the lumen.

[0058] As noted above, FIG. 2B generally illustrates the delivery of a cleaning shot 248 through a lumen 252. In certain examples, FIG. 2B represents a one stage / phase of a cleaning process, while FIG. 2C represents another stage / phase of the cleaning process. More specifically, in certain examples, before or after a cleaning shot 248 is delivered through the lumen 252 (as in FIG. 2B), a fluid flow is delivered through the lumen 252 without any shots The cleaning shots 248 can be formed using water or another liquid. In FIGs. 2B and 2C, the general direction of travel is again represented by arrows 261.

[0059] In certain examples, water 275 can be delivered at any of a number of different stages of a device lumen cleaning cycle. In one example, the fluid flow of FIG. 2C is configured to remove residuals 247 from the lumen 252. The residuals 247 can comprise, for example, some remaining portion of the contaminant 254 and / or portions of the shots 248 that may remain on the walls 256 of the lumens 252 after passage of the shots (e.g., the shot can break up into different clusters, some of which remain on the walls 256 of the lumen 252). If present, portions of the shot 248 that may remain on the walls 256 of the lumen 252 may aid in the cleaning process as these portions are flushed through the lumen 252 by the fluid flow.

[0060] In certain embodiments, a fluid flow (e.g., water) is interspersed between the delivery of cleaning shots. In other embodiments, multiple shots could alternatively be delivered through a lumen either simultaneously or sequentially, without separation (e.g., without a fluid- only flow).

[0061] Importantly, it should be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the cleaning shots are delivered through the lumen sequentially (e.g., one-at-a-time). In general, the use of a series of discrete / individual cleaning shots 248, as opposed to a single large flow, can allow the individual cleaning shots to maintain sufficient kinetic energy to pass through the lumens at a rate that allows the particles with the shots to advantageously interact with, and remove contaminants from, the lumen walls 256.

[0062] As noted above, a lumen cleaning process, such as described above with reference to FIGs. 2A, 2B, and 2C, can be implemented in a number of different manners with a number of different lumens. For context, one specific example implementation is described with reference to cleaning at least part of the endoscope 100 of FIG. IB.

[0063] More specifically, in one example cleaning process / cycle, one (1) cleaning shot is fired / shot into the water-jet channel 128 via water-jet connector 139, nine (9) cleaning shots are then fired into the biopsy / suction channel 122 via suction connector 137, one (1) cleaning shot is then fired into the water-jet channel 128 via water-jet connector 139, three (3) cleaning shots are then fired into the distal section 122B of the biopsy / suction channel 122 via biopsy valve 118, one (1) cleaning shot is then fired into the water-jet channel 128 via water-jet connector 139, and then nine (9) cleaning shots are fired into the biopsy / suction channel 122 via suction connector 137. The cleaning cycle can further include firing / shooting six (6) cleaning shots into the air channel 124 via air connector 143 and firing six (6) cleaning shots into the water channel 126 via water connector 141 (e.g., in parallel). The firing of the cleaningshots within each target lumen can be preceded by, or followed by, a fluid flow, as described above with reference to FIG. 2C. The cleaning shots and fluid flows can be delivered via one, or possible multiple connectors (e.g., one connector for the air pipe and one connector for the air / water bottle).

[0064] In certain examples, approximately 180-200 grams of a slurry could be used to clean a typical flexible GI endoscope. As another example, approximately 80-100 grams of a slurry can be used to clean a relatively large channel (e.g., suction / biopsy channel 122) with 21 shots in total and an approximately 15 second delay between each shot. For a relatively small channel (e.g., air / water channels), the process can use approximately 60-80 grams of a slurry with 12 shots in total and an approximately 30 second delay between each shot. For other small channels (e.g., water-jet channel 128), the process can use approximately 10-20 grams of a slurry with 3 shots in total and an approximately 30 second delay between each shot. Again, each of these channels can also receive a subsequent fluid flow (e.g., after each cleaning shot), as described above with reference to FIG. 2C.

[0065] As noted above, cleaning shots are delivered to a target lumen with a velocity that is suitable / sufficient to remove contaminants from the walls of the target lumen. The velocity of the cleaning shots can vary, for example, based on the attributes of the target lumen, the attributes of the liquid-powder mixture (slurry) used to form the shot, etc. In one illustrative example, the shot velocity for a relatively large lumen may be around 1000 mm / second.

[0066] In addition, the cleaning shots can be delivered within specific pressure and fluid flow (air) ranges. In certain examples, the cleaning shots can be delivered with a pressure up to approximately 26 pounds per square inch (psi) (air, note this is regulated by a PPR as described below), up to approximately 24 psi (water), etc. Example air flow metrics can include approximately 50 standard liters per minute (SLPM) (large channel no load), approximately 11-17 SLPM (large channel during dosing), approximately 7-10 SLPM (large channel during full load), approximately 5-7 SLPM (small channel no load), and approximately 0.1 SLPM (small channel during full load). It is to be appreciated that these ranges and values are merely illustrative.

[0067] During a lumen cleaning process (e.g., a process as the one described with reference to FIGs. 2A, 2B, and 2C, a manual cleaning process, etc.), a cleaning fluid is typically introduced into a lumen at a proximal end of the lumen and the cleaning fluid typically exits the lumen at the distal end of the lumen. In certain arrangements, the cleaning fluid (the cleaning effluent)exiting the distal end of the lumen is managed by a system / device that is separate from the endoscope, meaning that the distal end of the endoscope lumens need to be fluidically coupled to that separate device / system. In accordance with embodiments presented herein, this fluidic coupling between the endoscope lumens and is facilitated by a pneumatic connector that, as noted above, is configured for use with a plurality of endoscopes having different outside diameters. By way of example, a pneumatic connector 101 is coupled to the distal section 133 of the endoscope 100 to fluidically couple the endoscope 100 to a separate system / device used for cleaning lumens of the endoscope 100.

[0068] It is to be appreciated that pneumatic connectors as described herein can be used to connect endoscopes to a number of different devices / systems. Commonly-owned International Patent Application No. PCT / IB2024 / 052684, filed March 2024, entitled “Fluidic Cleaning Effluent Management Accessory,” the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein, provides further details regarding example separate devices / systems to which an endoscope can be connected using a pneumatic connector as presented herein.

[0069] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an example pneumatic connector 301, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein. For ease of description, the pneumatic connector 301 will be described in use with endoscope 100 from FIG. IB.

[0070] As shown, the pneumatic connector 301 includes a proximal portion or housing 303, a flange 305, and a distal portion or interface 307. The housing 303 includes a first opening 390, the flange 305 includes a second opening 392, and the interface 307 includes a third opening 394. The first opening 390, the second opening 392, and the third opening 394 are aligned with one another. Consequently, the pneumatic connector 301 is configured to receive a portion (e.g., the distal section 133) of the endoscope 100 via the openings 390, 392, 394.

[0071] In certain examples, the pneumatic connector 301 is referred to as having / comprising a first end 362, sometimes referred to herein as a receiving part or receiving end, defined by the housing 303, and a second / distal end 372 defined by the interface 307. As shown, disposed in the housing 303 at the receiving end 362 is a pneumatic clamping mechanism 364. The pneumatic clamping mechanism 364 is controllable such that a diaphragm opening 368 (at receiving end 362) can have different internal diameters and, accordingly, fit (mate with) different endoscopes having different outside diameters. Specifically, while the openings 390, 392, 394 are sufficiently sized to individually receive differently sized endoscopes (e.g., endoscopes having distal sections 133 of varying diameters), the pneumatic clampingmechanism 364 is configured to secure the distal section of any received endoscope within the pneumatic connector 301. Consequently, the pneumatic clamping mechanism 364 enables the pneumatic connector 301 to readily couple to any of a plurality of endoscope embodiments having varying sizes, such as without having to utilize a dedicated device or component (e.g., an adapter) for coupling the pneumatic connector 301 to an endoscope having a specifically sized distal section.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 3, the pneumatic clamping mechanism 364 includes a diaphragm 365 and a cage 366 (e.g., sleeve) in which the diaphragm 365 can be inserted. The cage 366 includes an aperture 367 that enables flow of a working fluid (e.g., gas) to impart a force onto the diaphragm 365 to flex and transition the diaphragm 365 from an open configuration to a closed configuration. More specifically, as noted above, the diaphragm 365 defines the diaphragm opening 368 into which the distal section 133 of the endoscope 100 can be inserted. Once the distal section 133 of the endoscope 100 is inserted into the diaphragm opening 368 and through the second opening 392 and the third opening 394 to extend into the interface 307, the working fluid is delivered via the aperture 367 to transition the diaphragm 365 from the open configuration to the closed configuration in which the diaphragm 365 places a retainment force (clamping force) on an outer surface 370 of the endoscope 100. For example, the diaphragm 365 is composed of a flexible or pliable material (e.g., an elastomer such as silicone, EPDM rubber, etc.) such that the material of the diaphragm 365 can be deformed and compressed to reduce a size of the diaphragm opening 368 defined by the diaphragm 365, thereby flexing the diaphragm 365 toward the endoscope 100 and placing a force (e.g., frictional force) on the outer surface 370 of the endoscope 100. Meanwhile, the cage 366 is composed of a sufficiently rigid material (e.g., metal, a copolymer, hard plastic) to hold a position of the diaphragm 365 within the housing 303 and resist deformation to enable the diaphragm 365 to compress against the endoscope 100 in response to working fluid directed thereon. In operation, when in the closed configuration, the diaphragm 365 is configured to abut the outer surface 370 of the endoscope 100 so as to prevent the flow of fluid through the diaphragm opening 368 at / around the outer surface 370. The closed configuration of the diaphragm 365 also blocks movement ofthe distal section 133 of the endoscope 100 relative to the pneumatic connector 301, thereby securing the distal section 133 within the pneumatic connector 301.

[0073] During use (e.g., while the endoscope 100 is connected to the separate device), a control system continually delivers the working fluid via the aperture 367 to retain the diaphragm 365 in the closed configuration, and thereby clamp the diaphragm 365 against the endoscope 100to retain the distal section 133 of the endoscope 100 in the diaphragm opening 368 (e.g., retain the force applied to the outer surface 370). When the endoscope 100 is to be disconnected from the separate device (i.e., the distal section 133 of the endoscope 100 is to be removed from the connector 301), the control system ceases / stops delivery of the working fluid via the aperture 367. The material of the diaphragm 365 is resilient such that, absent a force imparted against the diaphragm 365 (e.g., by the delivered working fluid), the diaphragm 365 adjusts toward a base shape or a profde to transition from the closed configuration toward the open configuration to increase the size of the diaphragm opening 368, thereby reducing the force applied against the distal section 133 of the endoscope 100 and enabling removal of the endoscope 100 from the diaphragm opening 368.

[0074] As noted, a control system regulates the flow of the working fluid via the aperture 367 to close the diaphragm 365. In certain embodiments, the control system is operable to vary / control the flow of the working fluid such that different retainment forces can be applied by the diaphragm 365. For example, in such embodiments, different working fluid flow pressures may be used to retain different endoscopes having different diameters. However, it is noted that the use of different working fluid flow pressures to retain different endoscopes having different diameters may not be necessary and that, in certain embodiments, a relatively same pressure may be used to retain all endoscopes or to retain multiple different endoscopes.

[0075] It is to be appreciated that the pneumatic clamping mechanisms in accordance with embodiments presented herein can have different arrangements, some of which are described below. In addition, further details regarding pneumatic clamping mechanisms for use in / with pneumatic connectors in accordance with embodiments presented herein share certain structural similarities to the pinch valves described in commonly-owned International Patent Application No. PCT / IB2024 / 052644, fded March 19, 2024, entitled “Pinch Valve Subassembly,” the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Accordingly, certain structural details described in PCT / IB2024 / 052644 may be beneficially incorporated in the pneumatic clamping mechanisms / pneumatic connectors described herein.

[0076] Returning to the example of FIG. 3, shown is a dashed box 375. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the portion of the pneumatic connector 301 bounded by dashed box 375. In particular, FIG. 4 illustrates that, within the area of dashed box 375, the cage 366 includes a spacer portion 397 that interfaces with the flange 305. In the absence of the spacer portion 397, when the cage 366 is inserted into the housing 303, the flange 305 would excessively compress a distal end of the diaphragm 365. The resulting effect of this excessive compression is that the diaphragm365 becomes positioned such that a proximal end, opposite the distal end, of the diaphragm 365 would not necessarily or fully engage the housing 303, leading to working fluid leaks at the proximal end of the diaphragm 365. Therefore, the spacer portion 397 is provided to block excessive movement of the flange 305 against the diaphragm 365 to prevent over-compression of the distal end of the diaphragm 365, and therefore enable each of the flange 305 and the housing 303 to sealingly engage opposite ends of the diaphragm 365 to neutralize the leaks that would otherwise occur at the proximal end of the diaphragm 365. Also shown in FIG. 4 are groove features 377 formed into the flange 305 and / or into the cage 366. Each groove feature 377 can receive and capture a portion (e.g., a protruded portion 393) of the diaphragm 365 to inhibit movement / sliding of the diaphragm 365 during use (e.g., prevent movement under pressure) to maintain engagement of the diaphragm 365 to the flange 305 and to the cage 366.

[0077] Referring back to FIG. 3, the pneumatic connector 301 includes the first / receiving end 362, as well as the second end 372 defined by the interface 307. In operation, the interface 307 is configured to interface with, e.g., be connected to, the separate device. In this example, the interface 307 is configured to be detachably connected to the separate device. To facilitate this detachable connection, the interface 307 includes a quick lock feature 373 (e.g., cam lock or quarter quick connect feature) to facilitate easy cleaning, reprocessing, and / or replacement. The quick lock feature 373 can be seen in FIG. 3, but is more clearly shown in FIGs. 5 and 6, which are a perspective view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of the pneumatic connector 301.

[0078] The quick lock feature 373 includes a groove or channel extending at least partially around a perimeter (e.g., a circumference) of the interface 307. The quick lock feature 373 is able to receive and capture a corresponding portion (e.g., a male connector interface, an extension, a protrusion) of the separate device to couple the pneumatic connector 301 to the separate device. By way of example, a user initially places the pneumatic connector 301 against the separate device to insert the portion of the separate device into the quick lock feature 373, and the user rotates the pneumatic connector 301 relative to the separate device to slide the portion of the separate device along the perimeter of the interface 307 and farther into the quick lock feature 373 to couple the pneumatic connector 301 and the separate device to one another.

[0079] It is to be appreciated that the quick lock feature 373 shown in FIGs. 3, 5, and 6 is illustrative of just one type of feature that can be used to facilitate a detachable connection between the pneumatic connector 301 and another device. As such, certain embodimentspresented herein can include different types of features to facilitate a detachable connection between the pneumatic connector 301 and another device.

[0080] In certain embodiments, pneumatic connectors presented herein, such as pneumatic connector 301, include a feature or mechanism designed to prevent over-insertion of an endoscope into the connector. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, this feature comprises a deflector 374 extending at least partially in overlap with (at least partially over and across) the third opening 394. Therefore, inserting the distal section 133 of the endoscope 100 into the interface 307 via the third opening 394 moves the distal section 133 closer to the deflector 374, and excessively inserting the distal section 133 into the interface 307 abuts the distal section 133 against the deflector 374 to provide a resistance that could be felt by a user, thereby allowing the user to stop insertion and / or partially withdraw the endoscope 100 from the pneumatic connector 301 to avoid over-insertion of the endoscope 100 within the pneumatic connector 301.

[0081] It is to be appreciated that the use of a deflector, such as deflector 374 in FIG. 3, is illustrative of just one type of feature that can be used to prevent over-insertion of an endoscope into the connector. As such, certain embodiments presented herein can include different types of features to prevent over-insertion of an endoscope into the connector.

[0082] For example, FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a pneumatic connector 701 that is substantially similar to pneumatic connector 301 except that the interface 307 has been replaced with an interface 707 that includes a cone-shaped stopper 774 that will provide a resistance force if the endoscope 100 is over-inserted. Specifically, the cone-shaped stopper 774 includes tapered surfaces 781 that extend away from the flange 305 and the housing 303 and inwardly toward one another (e.g., to overlap a third opening 794 of the interface 707). Thus, a cross-section of the cone-shaped stopper 774 decreases moving away from the flange 305 and the housing 303. Consequently, inserting the distal section 133 farther into the interface 707 (e.g., to move the outer surface 370 away from the flange 305 and the housing 303) moves the distal section 133 closer to the tapered surfaces 781. Excessively inserting the distal section 133 into the interface 707 abuts the distal section 133 against the tapered surfaces 781 to provide a resistance force that could be felt by a user, thereby allowing the user to stop insertion and / or partially withdraw the endoscope 100 from the pneumatic connector 701 to avoid over-insertion of the endoscope 100 within the pneumatic connector 701.

[0083] FIG. 8 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a pneumatic connector 801 that is substantially similar to pneumatic connector 301 except that the interface 307 has been replaced with an interface 807 that includes two sensors (e.g., position sensors), referred to as first sensor 878(A) and second sensor 878(B), each configured to sense a proximity of the endoscope 100 thereto and provide a notification (e.g., a visual output, an audio output, tactile feedback) indicative of the proximity of the endoscope 100 thereto. The combination of notifications provided by the sensors 878(A) and 878(B) indicates when the endoscope 100 is underinserted, over-inserted, and / or correctly inserted into the connector. For example, prior to insertion of the endoscope 100, both sensors 878(A) and 878(B) will be “off,” meaning that neither of the sensors 878(A) and 878(B) have detected presence / proximity of the endoscope 100 thereto. Therefore, none of the sensors 878(A) and 878(B) provide a notification. While both sensors 878(A) and 878(B) are “off,” the endoscope 100 is considered to be underinserted.

[0084] In the example of FIG. 8, the sensors 878(A) and 878(B) are linearly and sequentially arranged along an axis 876 of the endoscope 100 such that, as the endoscope 100 is inserted into the interface 807, the first sensor 878(A) will first detect proximity of the endoscope 100 thereto before the second sensor 878(B) detects proximity of the endoscope 100 thereto (i.e., first sensor 878(A) is “on” and provides a notification while second sensor 878(B) remains “off’ and does not provide a notification). This condition would indicate that the endoscope 100 extends to the first sensor 878(A) but not to the second sensor 878(B) and is properly inserted. However, if both the first sensor 878(A) and the second sensor 878(B) are “on” and provides a notification to indicate that both sensors 878(A) and 878(B) detects proximity of the endoscope 100 thereto, this condition would indicate that the endoscope 100 extends at least to the second sensor 878(B) and is over-inserted, thereby allowing the user to stop insertion and / or partially withdraw the endoscope 100 from the pneumatic connector 801.

[0085] As noted above, the pneumatic connectors presented herein include a pneumatic clamping mechanism with an openable / closeable diaphragm. These diaphragms may be generally formed from an elastomer material. In accordance with aspects presented herein, and as shown in FIG. 9, which is a cross-sectional view of the pneumatic connector 301, the profile (e.g., shape, thickness, thickness at different points, etc.) of the diaphragm 365 (elastomer) is such that, in the closed configuration, diaphragm 365 will wrap around the outer surface 370 of the endoscope 100 with a relatively higher surface area. Stated differently, the diaphragm 365 is configured in order maximize surface area contact between the diaphragm 365 and theouter surface 370 of the endoscope 100. Maximizing surface area contact between the diaphragm 365 and the outer surface 370 may, for example, distribute any forces applied to the endoscope 100 when the diaphragm 365 is in the closed configuration. To this end, the diaphragm 365 includes edges 371 having a radial compliance to form arcuate recesses in response to a sufficient force (e.g., applied by the working fluid). The arcuate recesses urge movement of working fluid to the edges 371. Because the edges 371 are located near opposite ends of the diaphragm 365, movement of working fluid to the edges 371 causes working fluid to distribute along a substantial elongate length of the diaphragm 365 and correspondingly distribute the pressure applied by the working fluid onto the diaphragm 365. Consequently, the working fluid causes the elongate length of the diaphragm 365 to move substantially evenly toward the outer surface 370 of the endoscope 100 to distribute the force applied to the endoscope 100 and increase the surface area contact between the diaphragm 365 and the outer surface 370.

[0086] FIGs. 10 and 11 illustrate two example diaphragm profdes that may be advantageous in certain examples presented herein. More specifically, FIG. 10 illustrates a diaphragm 1065 having a curved profile (e.g., with a substantially continuous curvature along an elongate length of the diaphragm). The curved profile shown in FIG. 10 may provide a predictable closing arrangement and may result in closing of the diaphragm 1065 at a relatively lower pressure. For instance, a relatively low pressure of working fluid may apply a sufficient force that flexes a center portion 1095 to compress against an endoscope to clamp the endoscope. FIG. 11 illustrates a diaphragm 1165 having a relatively straight profile with edges 1171 having discrete curves at opposite ends of the diaphragm 1165. The profile shown in FIG. 11 may provide a relatively more balanced / consistent pressure between the diaphragm 1165 and an endoscope along an elongate length (represented by line A) because there is an excess of material at the ends (represented by points B) to sufficiently flex the diaphragm 1165 along its elongate length A (e.g., there is ‘slack’ to draw from when pinching narrower lumens). Thus, the profile shown in FIG. 11 may distribute pressure from the working fluid along the elongate length A to distribute a clamping force along the endoscope 100.

[0087] As noted above, a first end of a pneumatic connector in accordance with embodiments presented herein includes an opening (defined by a pneumatic clamping mechanism) to receive an endoscope. In accordance with certain embodiments presented herein, the first end of a pneumatic connector may also include a quick connect feature that could be used, for example, to connect the pneumatic connector to a fluid (e.g., water) source for cleaning, flushing, etc.the pneumatic connector. FIG. 12A is a perspective view of an example pneumatic connector 1201 having a quick connect feature 1279. The quick connect feature 1279 may be configured, for example, for connection to a faucet or fitting (e.g., threads, push-and-click, etc.). That is, the quick connect feature 1279 enables the pneumatic connector 1201 to be readily coupled to the fluid source to receive fluid from the fluid source. Specifically, the quick connect feature 1279 directs fluid into the housing 303 (e.g., via the first opening 390), which subsequently directs fluid to the flange 305 (e.g., via the second opening 392) and the interface 307 (e.g., via the third opening 394) to clean each of the housing 303, the flange 305, and the interface 307. FIG. 12B illustrates the quick connect feature 1279 in more detail, along with an adapter 1280 for connection to a threaded faucet / fitting. That is, the quick connect feature 1279 is configured to couple to the pneumatic connector 1201, and the adapter 1280 is configured to couple to the quick connect feature 1279 and to a fluid source to fluidically couple the pneumatic connector 1201 to the fluid source. In some embodiments, the quick connect feature 1279 is readily couplable to the pneumatic connector 1201 (e.g., without having to use another component / device). For example, a portion of the quick connect feature 1279 may extend into the housing 303 (e.g., via the first opening 390), while a remainder of the quick connect feature 1279 extends out of the housing 303 and is exposed to enable the quick connect feature 1279 to couple to a fluid source, such as via the adapter 1280.

[0088] FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of a pneumatic connector 1301 where a portion of the connector, namely the interface 1307, is transparent so as to allow a user to have visibility into proper positioning of the endoscope 100 therein (e.g., so the user can visually see if / when the endoscope 100 is properly inserted into the connector). The illustrated pneumatic connector 1301 also includes the deflector 374 to provide a resistance upon abutment against an endoscope 100 to indicate over-insertion of the endoscope 100 within the pneumatic connector 1301. FIG. 14 is another view of the pneumatic connector 1301 of FIG. 13 illustrating that the pneumatic connector 1301, as well as other pneumatic connectors presented herein, may include a pressure relief valve 1382. In this example, the pressure relief valve 1382 may operate to open when the pressure inside the pneumatic connector 1301 (e.g., inside the pneumatic clamping mechanism) reaches a certain threshold level. For instance, a sufficient pressure within the pneumatic connector 1301 applies an amount of force against the pressure relief valve 1382 to physically open the pressure relief valve 1382. Opening of the pressure relief valve 1382 would open the pneumatic clamping mechanism and, accordingly, discharge working fluid from within the housing 303 to reduce a pressure imparted by the working fluidonto the endoscope 100 and therefore release the endoscope 100 to prevent damage (e.g., caused by excessive clamping pressure / force applied by the working fluid) to the endoscope 100.

[0089] FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of a pneumatic connector 1501 in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein where the pneumatic connector 1501 is connected to a pressure regular 1586 via a supply line 1585. In this example, a pressure relief valve 1582 is located at the supply line 1585, between the pneumatic connector 1501 and the pressure regular 1586. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 14, the pressure relief valve 1582 may operate to open when the pressure inside the pneumatic connector 1501 (e.g., inside the pneumatic clamping mechanism) reaches a certain level. Opening of the pressure relief valve 1582 would open the pneumatic clamping mechanism and, accordingly, reduce working fluid flow into the housing 303 to reduce a pressure imparted by the working fluid onto the endoscope 100 and therefore release the endoscope 100 to prevent damage (e.g., caused by excessive clamping pressure / force applied by the working fluid) to the endoscope 100.

[0090] Although certain pneumatic connector structures have been described / illustrated herein, it would be appreciated that pneumatic connectors can be implemented in any of a number of form factors or arrangements in accordance with embodiments of the invention. For example, in some embodiments, an inflatable toroid structure can be used to create a seal with the distal section of an endoscope in lieu of a diaphragm shown in the above embodiments. For example, FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a pneumatic connector 1601 in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein that includes a pneumatic clamping mechanism 1664 in the form of an inflatable toroid structure 1691 positioned within the housing 303. Specifically, the inflatable toroid structure 1691 is deformable and is configured to receive a working fluid flow and deform by inflating in response. Inflating the inflatable toroid structure 1691 increases a space occupied by the inflatable toroid structure 1691 within the housing 303 and therefore moves the inflatable toroid structure 1691 toward the endoscope 100. Sufficient inflation of the inflatable toroid structure 1691 causes the inflatable toroid structure 1691 to apply a force onto the endoscope 100 to retain the endoscope 100 within the pneumatic connector 1601. Sufficient inflation of the inflatable toroid structure 1691 also causes the inflatable toroid structure 1691 to sealingly engage the flange 305 and / or the housing 303, thereby neutralizing potential working fluid leaks through the pneumatic connector 1601. Suspending delivery of working flow into the inflatable toroid structure 1691 causes the inflatable toroid structure 1691 to discharge working fluid within the inflatable toroid structure 1691 to deflate the inflatabletoroid structure 1691, thereby moving the inflatable toroid structure 1691 away from the endoscope 100 and reducing a force applied by the inflatable toroid structure 1691 to the endoscope 100. Consequently, the endoscope 100 is able to move relative to the housing 303, such as for removal from the pneumatic connector 1601.

[0091] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a method 1783 using a pneumatic connector (e.g., any of the pneumatic connectors 301, 701, 801, 1201, 1301, 1501, 1601) in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein. It should be noted that the method 1783 can be performed differently than depicted. For example, an additional operation can be performed, and / or any of the depicted operations can be performed differently, performed in a different order, and / or not performed.

[0092] At 1787, a portion of a tubular structure, such as a distal section of an endoscope, is inserted into a first end (e.g., a receiving end) of the pneumatic connector. In some embodiments, the pneumatic connector includes a component, such as a deflector, a stopper, and / or a sensor, to prevent over-insertion of the tubular structure within the pneumatic connector. A second end (e.g., a distal end), opposite the first end, of the pneumatic connector is configured to fluidically couple to a separate device such that inserting the tubular structure into the pneumatic connector also fluidically couples the tubular structure to the separate device.

[0093] At 1796, a working fluid is directed into the pneumatic connector to cause a deformable component within the pneumatic connector to compress against the tubular structure. Specifically, the working fluid directed into the pneumatic connector applies a force that deforms the deformable component to move into contact with the tubular structure. A sufficient amount of force applied by the working fluid causes the deformable component to compress against the tubular structure, thereby preventing movement of the tubular structure relative to the pneumatic connector to retain the tubular structure within the pneumatic connector. In some embodiments, the deformable component includes a diaphragm, which is configured to flex in response to the force applied by the working fluid. In additional or alternative embodiments, the deformable component includes an inflatable structure, which is configured to inflate in response to the force applied by the working fluid.

[0094] At 1799, a cleaning fluid flow (e.g., a cleaning shot, a slurry, a liquid-powder mixture) is directed into the tubular structure and the pneumatic connector. In one example, the cleaningfluid flow exits the tubular structure and passes through the pneumatic connector to another device.

[0095] A method opposite the method 1783 can be performed to decouple the tubular structure from the pneumatic connector. For instance, delivery of working fluid into the pneumatic connector is suspended, which causes the deformable component to move away from the tubular structure and therefore reduces a force applied to the tubular structure. Consequently, the tubular structure can then be moved out of the pneumatic connector at the first end of the pneumatic connector.

[0096] As noted, merely for ease of illustration, the techniques presented herein are primarily described with reference to use of the pneumatic connectors with a specific type of tubular structure, namely endoscopes. However, as noted elsewhere herein, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to use with endoscopes or, more generally, to only use with medical devices, or with reference to fluidic compositions. As such, it is to be appreciated that the techniques presented herein can be used to in association with different tubular structures used in any of a number of different applications, such as dental lines, food / drink lines, other medical lumens, etc.

[0097] Certain aspects of the techniques presented herein have been described with reference to various descriptions of fluid dynamics. It is to be appreciated that these various descriptions are provided for purposes of illustration and that the innovation presented herein works regardless of the believed understanding of the fluid dynamics.

[0098] As should be appreciated, while particular uses of the technology have been illustrated and discussed above, the disclosed technology can be used with a variety of devices in accordance with many examples of the technology. The above discussion is not meant to suggest that the disclosed technology is only suitable for implementation within systems akin to that illustrated in the figures. In general, additional configurations can be used to practice the processes and systems herein and / or some aspects described can be excluded without departing from the processes and systems disclosed herein.

[0099] This disclosure described some aspects of the present technology with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which only some of the possible aspects were shown. Other aspects can, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. Rather, these aspects were provided so that this disclosure wasthorough and complete and fully conveyed the scope of the possible aspects to those skilled in the art.[ooioo] As should be appreciated, the various aspects (e.g., portions, components, etc.) described with respect to the figures herein are not intended to limit the systems and processes to the particular aspects described. Accordingly, additional configurations can be used to practice the methods and systems herein and / or some aspects described can be excluded without departing from the methods and systems disclosed herein.[ooioi] According to certain aspects, systems and non-transitory computer readable storage media are provided. The systems are configured with hardware configured to execute operations analogous to the methods of the present disclosure. The one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media comprise instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute operations analogous to the methods of the present disclosure.

[0102] Similarly, where steps of a process are disclosed, those steps are described for purposes of illustrating the present methods and systems and are not intended to limit the disclosure to a particular sequence of steps. For example, the steps can be performed in differing order, two or more steps can be performed concurrently, additional steps can be performed, and disclosed steps can be excluded without departing from the present disclosure. Further, the disclosed processes can be repeated.

[0103] Although specific aspects were described herein, the scope of the technology is not limited to those specific aspects. One skilled in the art will recognize other aspects or improvements that are within the scope of the present technology. Therefore, the specific structure, acts, or media are disclosed only as illustrative aspects. The scope of the technology is defined by the following claims and any equivalents therein.

[0104] It is also to be appreciated that the embodiments presented herein are not mutually exclusive and that the various embodiments may be combined with another in any of a number of different manners.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An apparatus, comprising: a housing configured to receive a tubular structure; and a deformable component disposed within the housing, wherein the housing is configured to receive a working fluid to deform the deformable component, and the deformable component is configured to compress against the tubular structure upon deformation to retain the tubular structure within the housing.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tubular structure is a distal end of an endoscope, and wherein the apparatus is configured to receive a cleaning fluid flow from the distal end of the endoscope retained within the housing.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the deformable component comprises a diaphragm configured to compress against the tubular structure in response to delivery of the working fluid into the housing.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising: a cage disposed within the housing, wherein the diaphragm extends within the cage, and wherein the cage comprises an aperture configured to direct the working fluid against the diaphragm.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the deformable component comprises an inflatable element configured to compress against the tubular structure in response to delivery of a the working fluid directed into the housing to inflate the inflatable element.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the deformable component is configured to release the tubular structure upon suspension of delivery of the working fluid into the housing.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising a pressure relief valve configured to open in response to a pressure within the apparatus reaching a threshold level to discharge working fluid from the housing and reduce compression against the tubular structure.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing includes an elongate aperture configured to receive the tubular structure, and wherein the apparatus further comprises: at least one feature adjacent the elongate aperture configured to prevent over-insertion of the tubular structure into the apparatus.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the at least one feature comprises a deflector that extends at least partially across the elongate aperture to block over-insertion of the tubular structure into the housing.

10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the at least one feature comprises a cone-shaped stopper disposed having tapered surfaces disposed around the elongate aperture, wherein the tapered surfaces are configured to abut against the tubular structure to block over-insertion of the tubular structure into the housing.

11. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the at least one feature comprises an interface that includes at least one sensor configured to sense a proximity of the tubular structure thereto and provide a notification indicative of the proximity of the tubular structure thereto.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a first sensor and a second sensor, each of the first sensor and the second sensor is configured to detect proximity of the tubular structure thereto, and the first sensor and the second sensor are sequentially arranged along an axis of extension of the elongate aperture such that the first sensor and the second sensor detecting the proximity of the tubular structure thereto indicates over-insertion of the tubular structure into the housing.

13. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the housing is configured to couple to a quick connect feature, and the quick connect feature is configured to fluidically couple the housing to another device.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a cam lock feature.

15. A method, comprising: inserting a portion of tubular structure into a pneumatic connector;delivering a working fluid into the pneumatic connector to cause a deformable component to compress against the tubular structure, wherein the deformable component retains the tubular structure in the pneumatic connector while the working fluid is delivered to the pneumatic connector; and directing a cleaning fluid flow into the tubular structure and the pneumatic connector.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein inserting the tubular structure into the pneumatic connector comprises: inserting a distal end of an endoscope into the pneumatic connector.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein directing the cleaning fluid flow into the tubular structure and the pneumatic connector comprises: directing the cleaning fluid flow into the endoscope such that the cleaning fluid flow exits through the pneumatic connector.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein delivering the working fluid into the pneumatic connector to cause the deformable component to compress against the tubular structure comprises: delivering the working fluid into the pneumatic connector to cause a diaphragm to compress against the tubular structure.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the pneumatic connector includes a housing and a cage disposed within the housing, wherein the diaphragm extends within the cage, and wherein delivering the working fluid into the pneumatic connector to cause the diaphragm to compress against the tubular structure comprises: delivering the working fluid through an aperture in the cage.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein delivering the working fluid into the pneumatic connector to cause the deformable component to compress against the tubular structure comprises: delivering the working fluid into the pneumatic connector to cause an inflatable element to inflate and compress against the tubular structure.

21. The method of claim 15, further comprising: suspending delivering of the working fluid to release the tubular structure.

22. The method of claim 15, wherein the pneumatic connector comprises a pressure relief valve, and wherein the method comprises: determining that a pressure within the pneumatic connector has reached a threshold level; and in response to the determining, discharging the working fluid from the pneumatic connector to reduce compression against the tubular structure.

23. The method of claim 15, wherein the pneumatic connector includes an elongate aperture configured to receive the tubular structure, and wherein the method comprises: preventing over-insertion of the tubular structure into the pneumatic connector via at least one feature positioned adjacent to the elongate aperture.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the at least one feature comprises a deflector that extends at least partially across the elongate aperture to block over-insertion of the tubular structure into the pneumatic connector.

25. The method of claim 23, wherein the at least one feature comprises a cone-shaped stopper disposed having tapered surfaces disposed around the elongate aperture, wherein the tapered surfaces are configured to abut against the tubular structure to block over-insertion of the tubular structure into the pneumatic connector.

26. The method of claim 23, wherein the at least one feature comprises an interface that includes at least one sensor, and wherein the method comprises: detecting, with the at least one sensor, a proximity of the tubular structure thereto; and providing a notification indicative of the proximity of the tubular structure to the at least one sensor.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a first sensor and a second sensor, each of the first sensor and the second sensor is configured to detect a proximity of the tubular structure thereto, and the first sensor and the second sensor are sequentially arranged along an axis of extension of the elongate aperture such that the first sensor and thesecond sensor detecting the proximity of the tubular structure thereto indicates over-insertion of the tubular structure into the pneumatic connector.

28. A pneumatic connector, comprising: a body having a first end and a second end; and a pneumatic clamping mechanism disposed at the first end, wherein the pneumatic clamping mechanism is controllable such that the first end of the pneumatic connector can have different internal diameters to couple to a plurality of tubular structures having different outside diameters.

29. The pneumatic connector of claim 28, wherein the body includes one or more lumens that form fluidic pathways between lumens of a tubular structure inserted into the first end and another device.

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