Fluid circulation system for endoscope disinfection

Abstract

A system for endoscope disinfection can include a basin to host an endoscope for high-level disinfection using at least two distinct fluid paths. The first fluid path is designed to pool a portion of fluid within the basin, while the second fluid path is designed to spray another portion of the fluid within the basin using a set of stationary nozzles affixed to the basin wall. These nozzles are each capable of distributing fluid in a plurality of different stream directions. The two fluid paths can be operated independently, such as can be selectively activated to manage fluid distribution within the basin.

Description

FLUID CIRCULATION SYSTEM FOR ENDOSCOPE DISINFECTIONCLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 667,028, filed July 2, 2024, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Automated Endoscope Reprocessors (AERs) are devices used in medical facilities to cleanse and disinfect endoscopes and related medical instruments. AERs typically incorporate a basin where the instruments are placed for cleaning and disinfection. Generally, an AER is covered by a lid that seals the basin, preventing the escape of chemical vapors and ensuring a sterile environment within the basin. The instrument can then be subjected to a series of cleaning, disinfecting, and rinsing cycles using appropriate disinfectant solutions and purified water.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals can describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes can represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

[0004] FIG. 1 A is a back, right orthogonal view of an example of a stationary nozzle of an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER).

[0005] FIG. IB is a front, right perspective view of an example of a stationary nozzle of an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER).

[0006] FIG. 1C is a diagram of an example of an inner fluid flow path of the stationary nozzle from FIG. IB.

[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER) including a plurality of stationary nozzles embedded therein.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a schematic depicting an example of a fluid flow path toward stationary nozzles of an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER).

[0009] FIG. 4 is a flowchart describing a process for disinfecting a medical instrument within an enclosed basin of an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER).

[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates generally an example of a block diagram of a machine.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] This document relates to the field of medical instrument cleaning, and more particularly to systems designed for the disinfection of endoscopes. Certain techniques for disinfection via an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AERs) involve the use of chemical solutions that are applied to the instruments via various flow paths, submersions, or jet stream treatments to neutralize pathogens on surfaces and within channels of the instrument. The effectiveness of such techniques can depend on an ability to deliver the disinfectant solution across each desired inner and outer surface of the instrument, which can be challenging due to the complex shapes and internal channels of devices like endoscopes.

[0012] For example, one approach to high-level disinfection of a medical instrument via an AER involves a plurality of spray bars embedded within a basin of the AER. Such spray bars can generally be operable to rotation and spray a disinfectant solution through small holes along their length, such as to cover the outer surfaces of the endoscope with the solution. This approach can facilitate removal of debris and ensures some level of chemical mixing (e.g., of solvent and solution within the basin or the fluid flow path) due to the impingement created by the ejected fluid. However, certain spray bars can be less effective in non-circular basins due to inadequate coverage areas, and they require significant space (e.g., to complete rotations) within the AER, which is not always desirable. For example, adding a greater amount of spray bars within a basin of an AER can impede space available for medical instruments, such as longer or wider endoscopes.

[0013] Other approaches to the high-level disinfection of a medical instrument via an AER can also involve the use of a plurality unidirectionalnozzles that expel concentrated j ets of solution within the basin. Such nozzles, e.g., when paired with the spray bars within a same basin of the AER, can aid in circulating the disinfectant solution, such as promoting sufficient contact with the instrument’s exterior surfaces. Generally, fluid flow to the spray bars and the nozzles can be supplied via a common fluid line, such as a same fluid line employed to fill the basin or connected directly to a working channel of the instrument. Despite their benefits, certain systems relying on spray bars (e.g., in addition to unidirectional nozzles) or a single, common fluid line for several fluid-dispersal components can struggle with maintaining adequate pressure and flow rate throughout the fluid path, which can include multiple elements like tubing, fittings, and valves. This complexity can necessitate larger pumps and more extensive hardware, which in turn can involve more space and energy for an AER.

[0014] The present inventors have recognized the benefits of an improved fluid dispersal system of an AER. This document describes a system for endoscope reprocessing that includes a dedicated fluid circulation sub-system configured to enhance the disinfection of the endoscope's exterior surfaces. This system can include or use a basin to host the endoscope and two distinct fluid paths for the distribution of the disinfectant solution within the basin. For example, a first fluid path can be arranged to pool the disinfectant within the basin, ensuring that the solution is readily available and uniformly distributed at the base of the basin, e.g., to at least partially submerge a medical instrument. A second fluid path (e.g., fluidly separate from the first fluid path) can include or use a set of stationary nozzles affixed to walls or surfaces of the basin. Such nozzles can each include an internal flow path such as to spray the solution in multiple directions, e.g., to help promote all external surfaces of the endoscope being reached via the solution and adequately disinfected. For example, each nozzle in the set can be capable of distributing fluid via a plurality of streams, each of the plurality of streams oriented in a different direction than one another, such as promoting an agitation and mixing of the disinfectant solution within the basin. In an example, the stationary nozzles can be independently controllable from other system components, allowing for precise management of the disinfectant distribution. For example, the system can allow for selection between different modes, suchas a wash mode where only the first fluid path is active, and a disinfect mode where the second path sprays the disinfectant, depending on the specific cleaning needs at any given time. Such a technique can help simplify the operational aspects of endoscope reprocessing, as compared to other approaches, such as to promote effective disinfection of medical instruments, ultimately contributing to safer medical procedures and better patient outcomes.

[0015] FIG. 1A and FIG. IB show back, right orthogonal and front, right perspective views, respectively, of an example of a stationary nozzle of an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER). A stationary nozzle 102 of an AER can include at least one primary lumen 106 and at least one secondary lumen 104. For example, the stationary nozzle 102 can be arranged within a basin of an AER such that the at least one primary lumen 106 points toward a side of the basin (e.g., pointing at least partially away from a top / lid or a bottom of the basin) such as to spray a jet stream therefrom along (e.g., approximately parallel to) a sidewall of the basin. Herein, “approximately parallel” with respect to a sidewall of the basin means within ± about 10 degrees of parallel, including coating the sidewall with fluid. The at least one secondary lumen 104a can be arranged at an angle from the primary lumen 106 (e.g., arranged approximately orthogonal to the primary lumen 106). The stationary nozzle 102 can be arranged within the basin of the AER such that the at least one secondary lumen 104 points toward a top / lid or a bottom of the basin, such as to spray a jet stream therefrom along (e.g., approximately parallel to) the sidewall of the basin. For example, the jet stream emitted from the at least one primary lumen 106 can be emitted in a direction approximately orthogonal to that of the secondary lumen 104. In an example, the stationary nozzle 102 can include a fluid intake port 108 for receiving fluid, such as a liquid disinfectant, for dispersal via that at least one primary lumen 106 and the at least one secondary lumen 104.

[0016] FIG. 1C is a diagram of an example of an inner fluid flow path of the stationary nozzle 102 from FIG. IB. As shown in FIG. IB, liquid disinfectant received at the fluid intake port 108 can pass through an inner channel of the stationary nozzle and toward the at least one primary lumen 106 and also, concurrently, toward the at least one secondary lumen 104. In an example,the at least one primary lumen 106 can include first and second primary lumens, 106 A and 106B, and the at least one secondary lumen 104 can include first and second secondary lumens, 104 A and 104B. For example, lumens 106 and 104 of the stationary nozzle 102 can be arranged such that the nozzle 102 disperses liquid disinfectant, received via the fluid intake port, in at least two different directions including a first direction i and a second direction ii. Similarly, the nozzle can disperse the liquid disinfectant in at least three directions including a first direction i and a second direction ii, and a third direction iii. Similarly, the nozzle can disperse the liquid disinfectant in at least four directions including a first direction i and a second direction ii, a third direction iii, and a fourth direction iv. In an example, the at least one primary lumen 106 can be sized and shaped such as to emit a stronger (e.g., at least one of longer, more powerful, wider, etc.) jet stream than that of the at least one secondary lumen 104.

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER) including a plurality of stationary nozzles embedded therein. In an example, the AER 250 can include a basin 252 for receiving a medical instrument. The basin can include one or more of the stationary nozzles 102 embedded therein, such as a plurality of stationary nozzles 102 oriented along a sidewall 254 of the basin 252. The basin 252 can be sized and shaped such as to receive a medical instrument (e.g., an endoscope, such as a bronchoscope, a colonoscope, an enteroscope, a gastroscope, a colonoscope, a choledochoscope, a ureteroscope, a hysteroscope, an arthroscope, etc) therein. The basin 252 can be covered via at least one lid 256, such as to define the chamber 258 (e.g., including the basin 252) and to substantially contain a controlled environment that can condition the medical instrument(s) therein during reprocessing. For example, the fluid intake ports 108 of the stationary nozzles 102 can protrude from the sidewall 254 of the basin 252 such as to allow for introduction of spraying of the fluid via the nozzles 102 approximately parallel to the sidewall 254 (e.g., to coat or run alongside the sidewall 254. In an example, an individual stationary nozzle 102 (e.g., each of the stationary nozzles) can define a total protrusion from the sidewall 254 (e.g., from the sidewall 254 to a furthest point or end of the nozzle 102) less than about 8 millimeters (mm), less than about 7.5 mm, lessthan about 7.25 mm less than about 7 mm, less than about 6 mm, or less than about 5 mm, such as defining a total protrusion of about 7.25 mm. In an example, at least three sides of the sidewall 254 can include at least one nozzle 102, such as including at least three nozzles 102 oriented in different directions than one another. In an example, at least four sides of the sidewall 254 can include at least one nozzle 102, such as including at least four nozzles 102 oriented in different directions than one another.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a side-view, pneumatic schematic depicting an example of a fluid flow path toward stationary nozzles of an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER). In an example, the AER 250 can include, use, or be operatively coupled with a chamber 258, sealable via a lid 256 and including a basin 252. The AER 250 can also include the one or more nozzles 102 and a dedicated nozzle fluid line 360 which can include a compressor 362 and at least one pressure regulator 364. Operation of the dedicated nozzle fluid line 360 and other processes carried out by the AER can be controlled or triggered via a system controller 368, manual command via a user interface, or a combination thereof.

[0019] In an example, the AER 250 can include or be coupled to a plurality of discrete fluid circuits (e.g., at least two of 366A, 366B, 366C, 366D, and 360). For example, a first fluid circuit 366a can be operated such as to pool a first portion of fluid (e.g., a disinfecting liquid) within the basin 252. In an example, a second fluid circuit (e.g., the dedicated nozzle fluid line 360) can be operable independent of the first fluid circuit to control the one or more nozzles. For example, the system controller 368 can control at least one of the first or second fluid circuits to perform a wash mode, triggering the first fluid circuit to pool the first portion of the fluid within the basin and regulating that the second fluid circuit is inactive (e.g., no fluid is dispersed from the one or more nozzles 102). Also, the system controller 368 can control at least one of the first or second fluid circuits to perform a disinfect mode, triggering the second fluid circuit to spray the second portion of the fluid within the basin 252 via the at least one of nozzle 102. For example, in the disinfect mode, the first fluid circuit can be activated or deactivated independent of the second fluid circuit. The AER can also include at least one sensor 370 arranged (e.g., within the basin 252) to provide an indication that the fluid has pooled withinthe basin past a specified amount. Here, the system controller 368 can control operation of the system in the disinfect mode based on a received indication that the first portion of the fluid has pooled within the basin 252 past a specified amount. For example, the specified amount can include the basin being filled with the fluid past at least 5% of a fluid capacity, at least 10% of a fluid capacity, at least 20% of the fluid capacity, at least 30% of a fluid capacity, at least 40% of the fluid capacity, at least 40% of the fluid capacity, or at least 50% of the fluid capacity. In an example, the second fluid circuit can include or be coupled to at least one sensor (e.g., sensor 370 or an inline fluid sensor in the dedicated nozzle fluid line 360). Based on data from this sensor, at least one of the system controller 368 or a sensor-controlled switch can trigger distribution of the second fluid, e.g., based on at least one of a specified fluid pressure or a specified flow rate being surpassed in the dedicated nozzle fluid line 360. In an example, the compressor 362 can facilitate the regulation of the second fluid, and the pressure regulator 364 can regulate pressure at the nozzle such that a pressure differential between inside and outside of the basin 252 is maintained with at least one of a specified + / - amount or of a constant amount. The compressor 362 can include, e.g., a piston, motor, pump, reversible compressor with extraction capabilities, or a combination thereof. The pressure regulator 364 can include, e.g., a diaphragm, a plug, pneumatic bellows, a spring, a ventricle, flow restrictor, or a combination thereof. In an example, the pressure regulator can regulate a pressure between about 1 pounds per square inch (psi) and about 10 psi, such as between about 2 psi and about 10 psi, between about 3 psi and about 8 psi, or between about 4 psi and about 6 psi in order to maintain the desired differential in pressure.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a flowchart describing a technique for disinfecting a medical instrument within an enclosed basin of an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER). For example, the technique 400 can be performed, e.g., using the stationary nozzle 102 of FIG. 1A, FIG. IB, and FIG. 1C, or the AER 150 of FIG. 2 and FIG. 3.

[0021] At 402, the technique 400 can include receiving a medical instrument, e.g., placed within a basin of the AER. The medical instrument can include, e.g., endoscopes, laparoscopes, ear, nose, throat (ENT) instruments, cannulas,or other instruments used in medical or diagnostic procedures. In an example, receiving the medical instrument can include pairing one or more coupling ports of the nozzle 102 with one or more fluid ports of the medical instrument.

[0022] At 404, e.g., once the endoscope is securely placed within the basin, fluid distribution can be controlled within the basin. In an example, controlling the fluid distribution can include selection of one or more fluid distribution paths for a fluid, such as a liquid disinfectant. For example, a first fluid path can be selected to pool a first portion of the fluid within the basin. In an example, the activation of this path can depend on the specific mode selected (e.g., a wash mode or disinfect a disinfect mode). Alternatively or additionally, a second fluid path can be selected to spray a second portion of the fluid within the basin through a set of stationary nozzles affixed to the wall of the basin. Here, such nozzles can be actuated to distribute the fluid in multiple streams oriented in different directions, enhancing the coverage and effectiveness of the disinfection process. In an example, the second fluid path can be selected independently of the first fluid path, such as based on respective valves on separated, respective liquid circuits.

[0023] Optionally, at 406, a wash mode of the AER can be triggered. During the wash mode, the first fluid path can be activated such as to pool the fluid within the basin, while the second fluid path can remain inactive or be deactivated. For example, the wash mode can facilitate a preliminary cleaning and soaking of the medical instrument.

[0024] Optionally, at 408, a disinfect mode of the AER can be triggered. During the disinfect mode, the second fluid path can be activated such as to spray the disinfectant solution within the basin. Depending on the system configuration, the first fluid path can either be activated to continue pooling fluid or be inactive to focus the action on spraying. The disinfect mode can facilitate that the disinfectant (such as via multiple jet streams) reaches multiple outer surfaces of the endoscope.

[0025] In an example, the technique 400 can include monitoring a level of fluid in the basin via basin sensors. Such sensors can provide real-time data that can be used (e.g., via a system processor or via determination from a technician) to trigger adjustments in the fluid distribution modes to such as topromote the disinfection process. In an example, a system controller can trigger the disinfect mode based on a received indication that the first portion of the fluid has pooled within the basin past a specified amount, ensuring optimal fluid levels for effective disinfection. For example, the specified amount can include the basin being filled with the fluid past at least 5% of a fluid capacity, at least 10% of a fluid capacity, at least 20% of the fluid capacity, at least 30% of a fluid capacity, at least 40% of the fluid capacity, at least 40% of the fluid capacity, or at least 50% of the fluid capacity. After the fluid has been distributed, including completing a specified contact time with the endoscope surfaces, the fluid distribution within the basin can conclude. The endoscope can be deemed sanitized and ready for removal from the AER.

[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a block diagram of a machine 501 upon which any one or more of the techniques (e.g., methodologies) discussed herein may perform in accordance with some examples. For example, the machine 501 could be used to operate the automated endoscope reprocessor (AER) 250 of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 3, e.g., to control one or more of the discrete fluid circuits (e.g., 366A, 366B, 366C, 366D, and 360 as shown in FIG. 3). Further, the machine 501 could be used to help facilitate activation, deactivation, and regulation of fluid lines based on sensor data (e.g., from the sensor 370 as depicted in FIG. 3). In alternative embodiments, the machine 501 may operate as a standalone device or may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine 501 may operate in the capacity of a server machine, a client machine, or both in server-client network environments. In an example, the machine 501 may act as a peer machine in peer-to-peer (P2P) (or other distributed) network environment. The machine 501 may be a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile telephone, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, such as cloud computing, software as a service (SaaS), other computer cluster configurations.

[0027] Examples, as described herein, may include, or may operate by, logic or a number of components, or mechanisms in an electronic implementation of the machine 501. Such components may be provided by circuitry (e.g., processing circuitry) that is a collection of circuits implemented in tangible entities of the machine 501 that include hardware (e.g., simple circuits, gates, logic, etc.). Circuitry membership may be flexible over time. Circuitry can include members that may, alone or in combination, perform specified operations when operating. In an example, hardware of the circuitry may be immutably designed to carry out a specific operation (e.g., hardwired). In an example, the hardware of the circuitry may include variably connected physical components (e.g., execution units, transistors, circuits, etc.) including a machine readable medium physically modified (e.g., magnetically, electrically, moveable placement of invariant massed particles, etc.) to encode instructions of the specific operation. In connecting the physical components, the underlying electrical properties of a hardware constituent are changed, for example, from an insulator to a conductor or vice-versa. The instructions can enable embedded hardware (e.g., the execution units or a loading mechanism) to create members of the circuitry in hardware via the variable connections to carry out portions of the specific operation when in operation. Accordingly, in an example, the machine readable medium elements are part of the circuitry or are communicatively coupled to the other components of the circuitry when the device is operating. In an example, any of the physical components may be used in more than one member of more than one circuitry. For example, under operation, execution units may be used in a first circuit of a first circuitry at one point in time and reused by a second circuit in the first circuitry, or by a third circuit in a second circuitry at a different time. Additional examples of these components with respect to the machine 501 follow.

[0028] Machine (e.g., computer system) 501 may include a hardware processor 502 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a hardware processor core, or any combination thereof), a main memory 503 and a static memory 504, some or all of which may communicate with each other via an interlink (e.g., bus) 505. The machine 501 may further include a display unit 506, an alphanumeric input device 507 (e.g., akeyboard), and a user interface (UI) navigation device 508 (e.g., a mouse). In an example, the display unit 506, alphanumeric input device 507 and UI navigation device 508 may be a touch screen display. The machine 501 may additionally include a storage device (e.g., drive unit) 509, a signal generation device 510 (e.g., a speaker), a network interface device 511, and one or more sensors 512, such as a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, compass, accelerometer, or other sensor. The machine 501 may include an output controller 516, such as a serial (e.g., universal serial bus (USB), parallel, or other wired or wireless (e.g., infrared (IR), near field communication (NFC), etc.) connection to communicate or control one or more peripheral devices (e.g., a printer, card reader, etc.).

[0029] The storage device 509 may include a machine readable medium 513 that is non-transitory on which is stored one or more sets of data structures or instructions 514 (e.g., software) embodying or utilized by any one or more of the techniques or functions described herein. The instructions 514 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 503, within static memory 504, or within the hardware processor 502 during execution thereof by the machine 501. In an example, one or any combination of the hardware processor 502, the main memory 503, the static memory 504, or the storage device 509 may constitute machine readable media.

[0030] While the machine readable medium 513 is illustrated as a single medium, the term “machine readable medium” may include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, or associated caches and servers) configured to store the one or more instructions 514.

[0031] The term “machine readable medium” may include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying instructions for execution by the machine 501 and that cause the machine 501 to perform any one or more of the techniques of the present disclosure, or that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying data structures used by or associated with such instructions. Nonlimiting machine-readable medium examples may include solid-state memories, and optical and magnetic media. Specific examples of machine- readable media may include: non-volatile memory, such as semiconductor memory devices (e.g., Electrically Programmable Read-Only Memory(EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM)) and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD- ROM disks.

[0032] The instructions 514 may further be transmitted or received over a communications network 515 using a transmission medium via the network interface device 511 utilizing any one of a number of transfer protocols (e.g., frame relay, internet protocol (IP), transmission control protocol (TCP), user datagram protocol (UDP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), etc.). Example communication networks may include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a packet data network (e.g., the Internet), mobile telephone networks (e.g., cellular networks), Plain Old Telephone (POTS) networks, and wireless data networks (e.g., Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 family of standards known as Wi-Fi®), IEEE 802.15.4 family of standards, peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, among others. In an example, the network interface device 511 may include one or more physical jacks (e.g., Ethernet, coaxial, or phone jacks) or one or more antennas to connect to the communications network 515. In an example, the network interface device 511 may include a plurality of antennas to wirelessly communicate using at least one of single-input multiple-output (SIMO), multiple-input multipleoutput (MIMO), or multiple-input single-output (MISO) techniques. The term “transmission medium” shall be taken to include any intangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying instructions for execution by the machine 501, and includes digital or analog communications signals or other intangible medium to facilitate communication of such software.

[0033] The following, non-limiting examples, detail certain aspects of the present subject matter to solve the challenges and provide the benefits discussed herein, among others.

[0034] Example 1 is a system for endoscope reprocessing, the system comprising: a basin to host an endoscope; a first fluid path arranged to selectively distribute a first portion of a fluid by pooling the first fluid within the basin; and a second fluid path arranged to selectively distribute a second portion of the fluid by spraying the second fluid within the basin, the secondfluid path comprising: a fluid pump; and a set of stationary nozzles, wherein an individual nozzle of the set is affixed to a wall of the basin and shaped to distribute fluid, within the basin, via a plurality of streams oriented in different directions; wherein the first and second fluid paths are independently and selectively operable to respectively distribute the first and second fluids.

[0035] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 includes, a system controller configured to control operation of the system between: a wash mode that causes the first fluid path to pool the first portion of the fluid within the basin and the second fluid path is inactive; and a disinfect mode that causes the second fluid path to spray the second portion of the fluid within the basin via the set of stationary nozzles.

[0036] In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 includes, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is activated to pool the first fluid within the basin.

[0037] In Example 4, the subject matter of Examples 2-3 includes, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is inactive.

[0038] In Example 5, the subject matter of Examples 2-4 includes, a basin sensor arranged to provide an indication that the fluid has pooled within the basin at or past a specified amount, wherein the system controller is configured to control operation of the system in the disinfect mode based on a received indication that the first portion of the fluid has pooled within the basin at or past the specified amount.

[0039] In Example 6, the subject matter of Examples 1-5 includes, wherein each individual nozzle of the set of stationary nozzles protrudes from the basin less than eight millimeters (mm).

[0040] In Example 7, the subject matter of Examples 1-6 includes, wherein the second fluid path comprises at least one of a sensor or switch that is configured to control distribution of the second fluid based on at least one of a fluid pressure or flow rate of the second fluid path.

[0041] In Example 8, the subject matter of Examples 1-7 includes, wherein each individual nozzle of the set of stationary nozzles includes: a first lumen shaped to distribute a first stream in a first, upward direction with respect tothe basin and to purge air from the second fluid path; and a second lumen shaped to distribute a second stream in a second direction.

[0042] Example 9 is an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER) comprising: a chamber enclosable and fluidly sealable from an external ambient environment via a lid; a basin, disposed within the chamber, to host a medical instrument; a first fluid path arranged to selectively distribute a first portion of a fluid by pooling the first fluid within the basin; and a second fluid path arranged to selectively distribute a second portion of the fluid by spraying the second fluid within the basin, the second fluid path comprising: a fluid pump; and a set of stationary nozzles, wherein an individual nozzle of the set is affixed to a wall of the basin and shaped to distribute fluid, within the basin, via a plurality of streams oriented in different directions; wherein the first and second fluid paths are independently and selectively operable to respectively distribute the first and second fluids.

[0043] In Example 10, the subject matter of Example 9 includes, a system controller configured to control operation of the AER between: a wash mode that causes the first fluid path to pool the first portion of the fluid within the basin and the second fluid path is inactive; and a disinfect mode that causes the second fluid path to spray the second portion of the fluid within the basin via the set of stationary nozzles.

[0044] In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 includes, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is activated to pool the first fluid within the basin.

[0045] In Example 12, the subject matter of Examples 10-11 includes, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is inactive.

[0046] In Example 13, the subject matter of Examples 10-12 includes, a basin sensor arranged to provide an indication that the fluid has pooled within the basin past a specified amount, wherein the system controller is configured to control operation of the AER in the disinfect mode based on a received indication that the first portion of the fluid has pooled within the basin past a specified amount.

[0047] In Example 14, the subject matter of Examples 9-13 includes, wherein each individual nozzle of the set of stationary nozzles protrudes from the basin less than eight millimeters (mm).

[0048] In Example 15, the subject matter of Examples 9-14 includes, wherein the second fluid path comprises at least one of a sensor or switch that is configured control distribution of the second fluid based on at least one of a fluid pressure or flow rate of the second fluid path.

[0049] In Example 16, the subject matter of Examples 9-15 includes, wherein each individual nozzle of the set of stationary nozzles includes: a first lumen shaped to distribute a first stream in a first, upward direction with respect to the basin and to purge air from the second fluid path; and a second lumen shaped to distribute a second jet stream in a second direction.

[0050] Example 17 is a computing device for controlling sanitization of a medical instrument within an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER) including a processor and a memory device, the memory device including instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the computing device to: receive the medical instrument within a basin of the AER; and control a fluid distribution mode of the AER, based on a level of fluid presently pooled within the basin, to independently control each of: selecting distribution of a first portion of the fluid, via a first fluid path, to pool the first portion of fluid within the basin; and selecting distribution of a second portion of the fluid, via a second fluid path, to spray the second portion of the fluid including a plurality of streams oriented in different directions within the basin via a stationary nozzle affixed to a wall of the basin.

[0051] In Example 18, the subject matter of Example 17 includes, wherein the memory device includes instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the computing device to: activate, during a wash mode of the AER, the first fluid path to pool the first portion of the fluid within the basin while the second fluid path is inactive; and activate, during a disinfect mode of the AER, the second fluid path to spray the second portion of the fluid within the basin via the stationary nozzle.

[0052] In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 includes, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is activated to pool the first fluid within the basin.

[0053] In Example 20, the subject matter of Examples 18-19 includes, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is inactive.

[0054] In Example 21, the subject matter of Examples 18-20 includes, wherein the memory device includes instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the computing device to: provide an indication, via a basin sensor, that fluid has pooled within the basin past a specified amount; and activate the disinfect mode based on a received indication that the first portion of the fluid has pooled within the basin past a specified amount.

[0055] In Example 22, the subject matter of Examples 17-21 includes, wherein the stationary nozzle includes: a first lumen shaped to distribute a first stream in a first, upward direction with respect to the basin and to purge air from the second fluid path; and a second lumen shaped to distribute a second jet stream in a second direction.

[0056] Example 23 is at least one machine-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by processing circuitry, cause the processing circuitry to perform operations to implement of any of Examples 1-22.

[0057] Example 24 is an apparatus comprising means to implement of any of Examples 1-22.

[0058] Example 25 is a system to implement of any of Examples 1-22.

[0059] Example 26 is a method to implement of any of Examples 1-22.

[0060] The above Detailed Description can include references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspectsthereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0061] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain- English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that can include elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim.

[0062] In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” can include “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain- English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that can include elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0063] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features can be grouped together to streamlinethe disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter can lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system for endoscope reprocessing, the system comprising: a basin to host an endoscope; a first fluid path arranged to selectively distribute a first portion of a fluid by pooling the first fluid within the basin; and a second fluid path arranged to selectively distribute a second portion of the fluid by spraying the second fluid within the basin, the second fluid path comprising: a fluid pump; and a set of stationary nozzles, wherein an individual nozzle of the set is affixed to a wall of the basin and shaped to distribute fluid, within the basin, via a plurality of streams oriented in different directions; wherein the first and second fluid paths are independently and selectively operable to respectively distribute the first and second fluids.

2. The system of claim 1, comprising a system controller configured to control operation of the system between: a wash mode that causes the first fluid path to pool the first portion of the fluid within the basin and the second fluid path is inactive; and a disinfect mode that causes the second fluid path to spray the second portion of the fluid within the basin via the set of stationary nozzles.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is activated to pool the first fluid within the basin.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is inactive.

5. The system of claim 2, comprising a basin sensor arranged to provide an indication that the fluid has pooled within the basin at or past a specified amount, wherein the system controller is configured to control operation of thesystem in the disinfect mode based on a received indication that the first portion of the fluid has pooled within the basin at or past the specified amount.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein each individual nozzle of the set of stationary nozzles protrudes from the basin less than 8 millimeters (mm).

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the second fluid path comprises at least one of a sensor or switch that is configured to control distribution of the second fluid based on at least one of a fluid pressure or flow rate of the second fluid path.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein each individual nozzle of the set of stationary nozzles includes: a first lumen shaped to distribute a first stream in a first, upward direction with respect to the basin and to purge air from the second fluid path; and a second lumen shaped to distribute a second stream in a second direction.

9. An automated endoscope reprocessor (AER) comprising: a chamber enclosable and fluidly sealable from an external ambient environment via a lid; a basin, disposed within the chamber, to host a medical instrument; a first fluid path arranged to selectively distribute a first portion of a fluid by pooling the first fluid within the basin; and a second fluid path arranged to selectively distribute a second portion of the fluid by spraying the second fluid within the basin, the second fluid path comprising: a fluid pump; and a set of stationary nozzles, wherein an individual nozzle of the set is affixed to a wall of the basin and shaped to distribute fluid, within the basin, via a plurality of streams oriented in different directions; wherein the first and second fluid paths are independently and selectively operable to respectively distribute the first and second fluids.

10. The AER of claim 9, comprising a system controller configured to control operation of the AER between: a wash mode that causes the first fluid path to pool the first portion of the fluid within the basin and the second fluid path is inactive; and a disinfect mode that causes the second fluid path to spray the second portion of the fluid within the basin via the set of stationary nozzles.

11. The AER of claim 10, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is activated to pool the first fluid within the basin.

12. The AER of claim 10, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is inactive.

13. The AER of claim 10, comprising a basin sensor arranged to provide an indication that the fluid has pooled within the basin past a specified amount, wherein the system controller is configured to control operation of the AER in the disinfect mode based on a received indication that the first portion of the fluid has pooled within the basin past a specified amount.

14. The AER of claim 9, wherein each individual nozzle of the set of stationary nozzles protrudes from the basin less than 8 millimeters (mm).

15. The AER of claim 9, wherein the second fluid path comprises at least one of a sensor or switch that is configured control distribution of the second fluid based on at least one of a fluid pressure or flow rate of the second fluid path.

16. The AER of claim 9, wherein each individual nozzle of the set of stationary nozzles includes: a first lumen shaped to distribute a first stream in a first, upward direction with respect to the basin and to purge air from the second fluid path; and a second lumen shaped to distribute a second jet stream in a second direction.

17. A computing device for controlling sanitization of a medical instrument within an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER) including a processor and a memory device, the memory device including instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the computing device to: receive the medical instrument within a basin of the AER; and control a fluid distribution mode of the AER, based on a level of fluid presently pooled within the basin, to independently control each of: selecting distribution of a first portion of the fluid, via a first fluid path, to pool the first portion of fluid within the basin; and selecting distribution of a second portion of the fluid, via a second fluid path, to spray the second portion of the fluid including a plurality of streams oriented in different directions within the basin via a stationary nozzle affixed to a wall of the basin.

18. The computing device of claim 17, wherein the memory device includes instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the computing device to: activate, during a wash mode of the AER, the first fluid path to pool the first portion of the fluid within the basin while the second fluid path is inactive; and activate, during a disinfect mode of the AER, the second fluid path to spray the second portion of the fluid within the basin via the stationary nozzle.

19. The computing device of claim 18, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is activated to pool the first fluid within the basin.

20. The computing device of claim 18, wherein in the disinfect mode, the first fluid path is inactive.

21. The computing device of claim 18, wherein the memory device includes instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the computing device to: provide an indication, via a basin sensor, that fluid has pooled within the basin past a specified amount; andactivate the disinfect mode based on a received indication that the first portion of the fluid has pooled within the basin past a specified amount.

22. The computing device of claim 17, wherein the stationary nozzle includes: a first lumen shaped to distribute a first stream in a first, upward direction with respect to the basin and to purge air from the second fluid path; and a second lumen shaped to distribute a second jet stream in a second direction.

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