Device self-cleaning

Abstract

Presented herein are techniques related to self-cleaning a cleaning device. The cleaning device includes ports that are configured to direct fluid between an interior of the cleaning device and an exterior of the cleaning device. A plug is removably coupled to the cleaning device and is configured to direct a self-cleaning fluid from one of the ports to another of the ports to recirculate the self-cleaning fluid within the interior of the cleaning device while the plug is coupled to the cleaning device.

Description

Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCTDEVICE SELF-CLEANINGBACKGROUNDTechnical Field[oooi] The present disclosure relates generally to techniques for self-cleaning of a device, such as self-cleaning of a cleaning device.Related Art

[0002] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

[0003] Medical devices (medical instruments) are used to perform different medical procedures. For example, some medical devices can be used to perform diagnostic and / or surgical procedures. Various medical devices, such as endoscopes or ultrasound probes, can be in direct contact with a patient, such as inserted within the patient, during usage. For this reason, medical devices are to be cleaned and disinfected (e.g., sterilized) after use to provide safe usage. In some cases, a medical cleaning device is used to direct a cleaning fluid through the medical device to clean the medical device. It is also desirable to clean the medical cleaning device to place the medical cleaning device in proper condition to adequately clean a medical device.SUMMARY

[0004] In one aspect, a medical device cleaning system is presented. The medical device cleaning system comprises: a cleaning device with a plurality of ports, wherein each port of the plurality of ports is configured to direct fluid between an interior of the cleaning device and an exterior of the cleaning device; and a plug configured to removably couple to the cleaning device and, when coupled to the cleaning device, direct a self-cleaning fluid from at least a first port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device to at least a second port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device to recirculate the self-cleaning fluid within the interior of the cleaning device.

[0005] In another aspect, a plug configured to couple to a cleaning device to perform a selfcleaning operation is presented. The cleaning device comprises a plurality of ports that are each configured to direct fluid between an interior of the cleaning device and an exterior of the cleaning device. The plug comprises: at least a first opening configured to fluidly couple toAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT the at least a first port; at least a second opening configured to fluidly couple to the at least a second port; and a passage fluidly connecting the at least first opening to the at least second opening to fluidly interconnect the at least first port with the at least second port.

[0006] In yet another aspect, a method for self-cleaning a cleaning device is presented. The cleaning device comprises a plurality of ports that are each configured to direct a cleaning fluid between an interior of the cleaning device and an exterior of the cleaning device. The method comprises: flowing the self-cleaning agent from the interior through a first port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device; flowing the self-cleaning agent from the first port to a second port of the plurality of ports via a plug coupled to the cleaning device; and flowing the selfcleaning agent from the second port into the interior of the cleaning device.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

[0008] FIG. 1 is a front view of a cleaning device with which aspects of the techniques presented herein can be implemented;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an adapter interface of the cleaning device of FIG. 1 connected to an adapter during use to clean a medical device;[ooio] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cartridge interface of the cleaning device of FIG. 1 connected to a cartridge during use to clean a medical device;[ooii] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a cleaning device system in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

[0012] FIGs. 5 A, 5B, 5C, and 5D each illustrate a plug for a cleaning device with which aspects of the techniques presented herein can be implemented;

[0013] FIGs. 6A, 6B, and 6C each illustrate another plug for a cleaning device with which aspects of the techniques presented herein can be implemented; and

[0014] FIGs. 7 and 8 are flowcharts illustrating methods, in accordance with certain embodiments presented herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Presented herein are techniques to facilitate self-cleaning of a device, such as a cleaning device (e.g., medical cleaning device), having a plurality of ingress or egress ports (“ports”).Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCTIn particular, certain embodiments presented herein are directed to one or more plugs (e.g., maintenance plugs) that are configured to interface with the ports of a device in order facilitate recirculation of a self-cleaning fluid through the device. Certain embodiments presented herein are also directed to techniques / methods that use the one or more plugs to perform a device self-cleaning process.

[0016] As used herein, a “cleaning device” is a device that is used to clean (e.g., disinfect, sanitize, re-process, decontaminate, wash, etc.) a separate / different device, potentially so that the separate device can be re-used. Although a cleaning device performs a cleaning function, the cleaning device itself may need to be cleaned at certain times. However, the presence of the ingress or egress ports (e.g., ports used to receive fluids from fluid sources, ports used to receive cleaning fluids, ports that are used to output the cleaning fluid through a channel of the medical device, etc.), which should be included in the cleaning process, can make cleaning the cleaning device challenging or inefficient (e.g., result in sub-optimal cleaning process, result in loss of cleaning fluid, etc.). As such, presented herein are techniques for facilitating a “selfcleaning” process / operation of a cleaning device, where the self-cleaning operation recirculates a cleaning fluid within the device. At the end of the self-cleaning operation, the cleaning device can be in a condition for use in subsequent cleaning of other devices.

[0017] As used herein, the term “self-cleaning operation” refers to a process in which the cleaning device operates to clean itself. This self-cleaning operation is different from what is referred to herein as “cleaning operation” of the cleaning device where the cleaning device operates to clean a separate device. For instance, during a self-cleaning (e.g., self-disinfecting, self-sanitizing, self-decontaminating, self-washing, priming) operation in accordance with embodiments presented herein, a self-cleaning fluid (e.g., a self-cleaning agent) is recirculated through the cleaning device, such as repeatedly through one or more fluidic loops formed by one or more plugs that fluidically connect two or more ingress or egress ports of the cleaning device with one another. In contrast, during cleaning operation of the cleaning device, a cleaning fluid exits the cleaning device via one or more egress ports for use in cleaning the separate device (i.e., in normal use the cleaning fluid is not recirculated through the cleaning device).

[0018] In some embodiments, the cleaning device operates by obtaining a cleaning fluid from a fluid source via one or more ingress ports and delivering a cleaning fluid to the separate device via one or more egress ports. In such embodiments, the cleaning device is referred to as including an “interior” portion (i.e., one or more fluidic portions / paths within the body ofAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT the cleaning device and generally bounded by the ingress ports and the egress ports). As used herein, the term “exterior” is used to refer anything outside of the interior portion of the cleaning device. As such, the one or more ingress ports and the one or more egress (“ports”) are configured to enable fluid to flow between an interior of the cleaning device and an exterior of the cleaning device. As used herein, the phrase “between an interior of the cleaning device and an exterior of the cleaning device” does not require or imply a direction of travel for the fluid and certain ports can facilitate a flow from the interior of the cleaning device to the exterior of the cleaning device, facilitate a flow from the exterior of the cleaning device to the interior of the cleaning device, and / or facilitate flow in either direction.

[0019] As described further below, certain embodiments presented herein are directed to one or more plugs (e.g., maintenance plugs) that are configured to facilitate recirculation of a selfcleaning fluid through a cleaning device via the ports of the cleaning device. In particular, a plug provided using the techniques discussed herein fluidly interconnects two or more ports to one another to enable the self-cleaning fluid to flow between the ports. In other words, the plug helps create / form one or more loops to recirculate the self-cleaning fluid, where the selfcleaning fluid travels from the interior of the cleaning device to the exterior of the cleaning device via one of the ports, through a loop / path defined by the plug, then back into the interior of the cleaning device via another of the ports. This flow of self-cleaning fluid (potentially repeatedly) can sufficiently self-clean the ports and / or fluid lines connected to the ports.

[0020] It is to be appreciated that the techniques presented herein can be used to facilitate selfcleaning of a number of different devices configured to direct fluid between an interior and an exterior (e.g., via ports), including in medical or other contexts. For instance, various features disclosed herein can be implemented for a fluid sprayer, a liquid injector, a water filter, and so forth. In any of these implementations, a plug is coupled to a device, receives self-cleaning fluid from an interior of the device, and redirects the self-cleaning fluid back into the interior of the device to recirculate the self-cleaning fluid through the device.

[0021] However, merely for ease of description, the techniques presented herein are generally described with reference to facilitate self-cleaning of medical cleaning device (medical cleaner). One type of medical cleaning device is sometimes referred to as a lumen cleaning device, which is configured to direct a cleaning fluid through channel s / lum ens of the separate device, such as to remove contaminants and other debris (e.g., bioburden) within the separate device. As an example, the cleaning device outputs a cleaning fluid through a channel of theAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT separate device that is typically not easily accessible, such as for manual scrubbing. FIG. 1 illustrates one such device.

[0022] In particular, FIG. 1 is a front view of a cleaning device 100 in the form of a cleaning device (medical device cleaner) that can be used to clean a medical device (not shown) in order to place the medical device in a desirable condition for contact with a patient, such as by disinfecting, decontaminating, sanitizing, washing, and so forth, the medical device. The cleaning device 100 is configured to direct a cleaning fluid into the medical device, such as through internal tubes, during a cleaning operation of the cleaning device 100. To this end, the cleaning device 100 defines an interior (e.g., a fluidic interior configured to direct fluid therethrough) in which the cleaning fluid flows, and the cleaning device 100 includes a first interface 102 (e.g., an adapter interface) with ports 104 (e.g., a first group of ports 104) configured to direct the cleaning fluid out of the interior and toward the medical device. Thus, the ports 104 can be considered outlets configured to discharge cleaning fluid during the cleaning operation.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the cleaning device 100, further illustrating the first interface 102. In particular, the cleaning device 100 is in a cleaning configuration 105 (e.g., configuration to perform a cleaning operation) in which an adapter 106 (e.g., a medical device adapter) is coupled to the first interface 102 of the cleaning device 100. For example, the adapter 106 includes a main body 108 configured to secure to the first interface 102. In some embodiments, the main body 108 is configured to extend into a receptacle 107 at the first interface 102, and the cleaning device 100 includes a lock 109 configured maintain positioning of the main body 108 within the receptacle 107. For instance, the lock 109 is configured to rotate to a locked position 111 that blocks movement of the main body 108 out of the receptacle 107.

[0024] The adapter 106 further includes tubes 110 extending into the main body 108. The main body 108 is configured to fluidly couple each tube 110 to a corresponding port 104 at the first interface 102. For instance, the adapter 106 includes inserts (not shown) that are each fluidly coupled to a tube 110 and that are configured to extend into a corresponding port 104 to fluidly couple each tube 110 to the corresponding port 104. Each tube 110 is also fluidly coupled to a part of the medical device to clean the medical device. As an example, each tube 110 is coupled to a channel of the medical device and is configured to receive cleaning fluid from the interior of the cleaning device 100 and direct the cleaning fluid into the channel, thereby cleaning the channel. Therefore, in the cleaning configuration 105, the cleaning deviceAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT100 is configured to direct the cleaning fluid from the interior to the medical device via the adapter 106.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a detailed view of the cleaning device 100 in the cleaning configuration 105, further illustrating a second interface 220 (e.g., a cartridge interface) of the cleaning device 100. The second interface 220 is configured to fluidly couple the interior of the cleaning device 100 with a cartridge 222 (e.g., a cleaning fluid source, a bottle, a consumable, etc.) configured to direct the cleaning fluid into the cleaning device 100 to enable the cleaning device 100 to direct the cleaning fluid toward the medical device. By way of example, the second interface 220 includes a receptacle 224 in which the cartridge 222 is positioned, and the second interface 220 also includes ports (not shown) configured to receive respective inserts of the cartridge 222 to fluidly couple to the cartridge 222. Thus, the cartridge 222 is configured to direct the cleaning fluid into the cleaning device 100 via the ports of the second interface 220. The illustrated cleaning device 100 also includes a lock 226 configured to secure the cartridge 222 to the second interface 220, such as by blocking movement of the cartridge 222 out of the receptacle 224 in a locked position 228.

[0026] In some embodiments, the cleaning device 100 includes a lid 230 configured to shield the cartridge 222 during the cleaning operation of the cleaning device 100. As an example, the cleaning device 100 defines a compartment 232 in which the cartridge 222 is positioned to couple to the second interface 220. For this reason, the lid 230 is configured to move to the illustrated open position 234 to expose the compartment 232 and provide access to the second interface 220 to enable the cartridge 222 to couple to the second interface 220. The lid 230 is also configured to move to a closed position (e.g., shown in FIG. 1) to cover the compartment 232, thereby shielding the cartridge 222 from a surrounding environment, such as from dust, debris, contaminants, or any other elements that can affect the composition of the cleaning fluid directed into the cleaning device 100. However, it should be understood that the compartment 232 is considered to be an “exterior” of the cleaning device 100, even when the lid 230 is positioned to cover the compartment 232, at least because the compartment 232 is external to the “interior” of the cleaning device 100 (i.e., the cleaning fluid is directed out of the interior of the cleaning device 100 to flow into the compartment 232).

[0027] As noted, in accordance with embodiments presented herein, the cleaning device 100 is also configured to perform a self-cleaning operation. As noted, “self-cleaning” includes any operation to place the cleaning device 100 in a desirable condition to provide cleaning of a medical device and, similar to the cleaning operation, can include self-disinfecting, self-Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT decontaminating, self-sanitizing, self-washing, priming, and the like. To this end, a selfcleaning fluid is directed through the cleaning device 100 to self-clean the interior of the cleaning device 100.

[0028] As used herein, the terms “self-cleaning fluid” and “cleaning fluid” are used to refer to the use of fluids for different purposes / operations (e.g., for a self-cleaning operation and a cleaning operation, respectively). However, it is to be appreciated that a self-cleaning fluid and a cleaning fluid could be the same fluid or have the same composition. That is, in some embodiments, the self-cleaning fluid and the cleaning fluid can have the same composition, etc., while in other embodiments the self-cleaning fluid and the cleaning fluid could have different composition, etc. In other words, as used herein, even if the same fluid type is used in both the self-cleaning operation and the cleaning operation, such a fluid would nevertheless be referred to as a “self-cleaning fluid” in the self-cleaning operation and a “cleaning fluid” in the cleaning operation in order to distinguish between the different usages of the fluid.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a cleaning device system 248 illustrating how a selfcleaning fluid is directed into and through an interior 250 of the cleaning device 100 in a selfcleaning configuration 252 of the cleaning device 100. In the self-cleaning configuration 252, a self-cleaning fluid source 254 (e.g., a bottle, an external reservoir, etc.) is fluidly coupled to the cleaning device 100. In certain embodiments, the cleaning device 100 includes a mount, a compartment, port, or another feature to enable the self-cleaning fluid source 254 to attach to the cleaning device 100 and help fluidly couple the self-cleaning fluid source 254 to the cleaning device 100. In additional or alternative embodiments, the cleaning device 100 is able to circulate self-cleaning fluid without having to utilize a separate, external self-cleaning fluid source 254. For instance, the cleaning device 100 could include the self-cleaning fluid source 254 therein, the cleaning device 100 could store the self-cleaning fluid therein, and / or the cleaning device 100 could otherwise produce the self-cleaning fluid internally (e.g., via a self- contained module).

[0030] In the example of FIG. 4, the cleaning device 100 includes a self-cleaning module 256, which includes various fluid lines (not shown), a pump 257, a tank or reservoir 258, and any other suitable components to enable self-cleaning fluid to flow through the interior 250. To initiate the self-cleaning operation, the self-cleaning module 256 initially receives self-cleaning fluid from the self-cleaning fluid source 254. The self-cleaning module 256 then directs the self-cleaning fluid throughout the interior 250, such as to various fluid lines (e.g., at the first interface 102, at the second interface 220), and / or into the tank 258, such as until a thresholdAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT level within the tank 258 has been reached. The self-cleaning module 256 is then configured to circulate the supply of the self-cleaning fluid throughout the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100 to self-clean various parts of the self-cleaning module 256. In certain embodiments, the tank 258 is configured to store some of the self-cleaning fluid during the self-cleaning operation and supply the self-cleaning fluid as needed to ensure that a sufficient amount of selfcleaning fluid is being circulated throughout the interior 250, such as to enable different amounts of self-cleaning fluid to circulate through the interior 250 depending on the flow path of the self-cleaning fluid.

[0031] In the self-cleaning configuration 252, a first plug 260 (e.g., an adapter interface plug, a first maintenance plug) is removably coupled to the first interface 102, and a second plug 262 (e.g., a cartridge interface plug, a second maintenance plug) is removably coupled to the second interface 220. Thus, the first interface 102 of the cleaning device 100 is configured to interchangeably couple to the adapter 106 and to the first plug 260, and the second interface 220 of the cleaning device 100 is configured to interchangeably couple to the cartridge 222 and to the second plug 262. For instance, the first plug 260 is configured to be inserted into the receptacle 107 of the first interface 102, and coupling of the first plug 260 to the cleaning device 100 is maintained via the locked position 111 of the lock 109. Meanwhile, the second plug 262 is configured to be inserted into the receptacle 224 of the second interface 220, and coupling of the second plug 262 to the cleaning device 100 is maintained via the locked position 228 of the lock 226. Additionally, each plug 260, 262 can be readily decoupled from the cleaning device 100, such as to transition the cleaning device 100 from the self-cleaning configuration 252 to the cleaning configuration 105. For example, the locks 109, 226 are adjusted from the respective locked positions 111, 228 to enable the plugs 260, 262 to be decoupled from the interfaces 102, 220, respectively.

[0032] Although FIG. 4 illustrates the use of two plugs 260, 262, it should be noted that in certain embodiments of the self-cleaning configuration 252, only one of the plugs 260, 262 is utilized without the other of the plugs 260, 262. That is, a single one of the plugs 260, 262 may be removably coupled to the corresponding interface 102, 220, whereas the other of the plugs 260, 262 may not be coupled to its corresponding interface 102, 220 or otherwise utilized

[0033] Returning to the specific example of FIG. 4, while coupled to the cleaning device 100, each plug 260, 262 is configured to recirculate the self-cleaning fluid from the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100 to an exterior 264 of the cleaning device 100 and from the exterior 264 back into the interior 250. That is, in contrast to the cleaning configuration 105 in whichAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT cleaning fluid generally flows one way through each interface 102, 220 (e.g., from the interior 250 to the exterior 264 via the first interface 102, from the exterior 264 into the interior 250 via the second interface 220), self-cleaning fluid can flow unidirectionally or bidirectionally (i.e., from the interior 250 to the exterior 264 then from the exterior 264 back to the interior 250) through either interface 102, 220 in the self-cleaning configuration 252. That is, it is noted that each interface 102, 220 includes ports, and the self-cleaning fluid is configured to flow in one or both directions through various ports through the interfaces 102, 220.

[0034] As an example, the second plug 262 is positioned within the compartment 232 of the cleaning device 100 and is configured to direct the self-cleaning fluid from the interior 250 to the compartment 232 and from the compartment 232 back into the interior 250. Such operation of the plugs 260, 262 enable the self-cleaning fluid to continue to circulate within the interior 250. For instance, the plugs 260, 262 fluidly interconnect the respective ports of the interfaces 102, 220 to one another to enable the self-cleaning fluid to flow and recirculate between the respective ports. In this manner, the plugs 260, 262 help create / form a fluid loop via the ports that can repeatedly direct the self-cleaning fluid between the self-cleaning module 256 and the ports, as well as the fluid lines associated with the ports, to self-clean the cleaning device 100.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the cleaning device 100 includes multiple fluidic interior portions (e.g., fluid paths, interior cleaning engines) that can direct respective flows of the cleaning fluid in different manners during a cleaning operation of the cleaning device 100 in the cleaning configuration 105. For example, a first fluidic interior portion 266 (e.g., a large fluidic interior portion, a first fluid path, a first interior cleaning engine) is configured to direct one or more first flows of cleaning fluid having first flow characteristics (e.g., a first pressure, a first speed, a first flow rate), and a second fluidic interior portion 268 (e.g., a small fluidic interior portion, a second fluid path, a second interior cleaning engine) is configured to direct one or more second flows of cleaning fluid using second flow characteristics (e.g., a second pressure, a second speed, a second flow rate). For instance, the first fluidic interior portion 266 is configured to direct the one or more first flows of cleaning fluid to a corresponding first part (e.g., first channels) of the medical device that are more suitably cleaned via the first flow characteristics rather than via the second flow characteristics, and the second fluidic interior portion 268 is configured to direct the one or more second flows of cleaning fluid to a corresponding second part (e.g., second channels) of the medical device that are more suitably cleaned via the second flow characteristics rather than via the first flow characteristics. Thus, the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 can direct separate cleaning fluid flows to clean differentAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT parts of the medical device more suitably and improve cleaning provided for the medical device.

[0036] For this reason, the first interface 102 also includes separate ports for receiving the respective cleaning fluid flows from the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 for directing toward the medical device. As an example, the first interface 102 includes first ports 104 A configured to receive the cleaning fluid from the first fluidic interior portion 266 and second ports 104B configured to receive the cleaning fluid from the second fluidic interior portion 268. Each of the ports 104 is configured to fluidly couple to the adapter 106 to direct the respective cleaning fluid flows from the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 toward the medical device in the cleaning configuration 105 of the cleaning device 100. Similarly, the second interface 220 has respective ports 272 (e.g., a second group of ports 272) that are fluidly coupled to the fluidic interior portions 266, 268. In the cleaning configuration 105, the ports 272 are configured to direct respective cleaning fluid flows into the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 (e.g., from the cartridge 222).

[0037] In some embodiments, a first port 272A is configured to direct cleaning fluid into the first fluidic interior portion 266, and a second port 272B is configured to direct cleaning fluid into the second fluidic interior portion 268. Thus, each of the first port 272 A and the first port 272A can be considered inlets during the cleaning operation of the cleaning device 100. The second interface 220 can also have a third port 272C configured to direct liquid (e.g., water) to mix with the cleaning fluid directed to the first port 272 A and / or to the second port 272B and provide a desirable composition of the cleaning fluid flowing through the fluidic interior portions 266, 268. Additionally or alternatively, the third port 272C provides draining or venting of cleaning fluid from within the interior 250.

[0038] The fluidic interior portions 266, 268 are arranged such that it may be difficult or inefficient to direct fluid through each fluidic interior portion 266, 268 to effectively self-clean the fluidic interior portions 266, 268. As an example, because the interfaces 102, 220 are exposed to the exterior 264, directing fluid through the interfaces 102, 220 (e.g., from the fluidic interior portions 266, 268) without the plugs 260, 262 causes fluid to flow in a single direction from the interior 250 to the exterior 264 without being able to recirculate back from the exterior 264 to the interior 250. That is, once fluid is discharged from the interior 250 to the exterior 264 without the plugs 260, 262, the fluid may no longer be reusable to continue to self-clean the cleaning device 100. Thus, a continuous flow of self-cleaning fluid would have to be supplied (e.g., by the self-cleaning fluid source 254) to continually direct the self-cleaningAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT fluid through the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 for self-cleaning the cleaning device 100. As another example, without the plugs 260, 262, circulating self-cleaning fluid within the interior 250 will not self-clean certain fluid lines of the cleaning device 100. For instance, selfcleaning fluid can flow between the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 using certain fluid lines (e.g., to effectively self-clean part of the fluidic interior portions 266, 268), but such flow of self-cleaning fluid does not enable the self-cleaning fluid to flow to the interfaces 102, 220 and therefore would not effectively self-clean the interfaces 102, 220 and their associated fluid lines.

[0039] The plugs 260, 262 help create / form a portion of a fluid loop between the ports 104, 272 to recirculate self-cleaning fluid more effectively / efficiently to self-clean the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 by enabling the self-cleaning fluid to recirculate into and out of the interior 250 at the interfaces 102, 220. Specifically, in the self-cleaning configuration 252, the ports 104 are configured to fluidly couple to first passages 270 of the first plug 260 to direct self-cleaning fluid through the first plug 260 and recirculate the self-cleaning fluid into and out of the interior 250 via the first interface 102. Thus, the first passages 270 include both an intake line configured to receive self-cleaning fluid from the interior 250 and a return line configured to direct self-cleaning fluid into the interior 250. Additionally, the ports 272 are configured to fluidly couple to second passages 274 of the second plug 262 to direct self-cleaning fluid through the second plug 262 and recirculate the self-cleaning fluid into and out of the interior 250 via the second interface 220. That is, the second passages 274 also include both an intake line configured to receive self-cleaning fluid from the interior 250 and a return line configured to direct self-cleaning fluid into the interior 250. Thus, the plugs 260, 262 enable the selfcleaning fluid to flow through the interfaces 102, 220 (e.g. to effectively self-clean the interfaces 102, 220 and their associated fluid lines) and repeatedly recirculate through the cleaning device 100 (e.g., to avoid having to provide a continuous flow of self-cleaning fluid for circulation through the cleaning device 100).

[0040] The self-cleaning fluid can be directed in different manners in the self-cleaning operation. That is, various flow paths can be established during the self-cleaning operation, such as to self-clean different fluid lines and / or other parts of the interior 250. To this end, the cleaning device 100 includes valves 276 configured to adjust positions to direct the selfcleaning fluid along different flow paths.

[0041] In a first example flow path, the self-cleaning module 256 is configured to direct selfcleaning fluid to self-clean the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 and the fluid lines extendingAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT between the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 and the first interface 102. By way of example, the self-cleaning module 256 is configured to direct self-cleaning fluid (e.g., from the tank 258) to the first fluidic interior portion 266, and the self-cleaning fluid flows from the first fluidic interior portion 266 to the first interface 102. The self-cleaning fluid then flows from the first interface 102 out of the interior 250 to the first plug 260 (e.g., via the first ports 104A), where the self-cleaning fluid flows through the first passages 270 and back to the first interface 102 into the interior 250 (e.g., via the second ports 104B). The self-cleaning fluid then flows from the first interface 102 to the second fluidic interior portion 268 and back to the self-cleaning module 256 to restart flow through the first example flow path (e.g., to flow back to the first fluidic interior portion 266).

[0042] In additional or alternative embodiments, the self-cleaning module 256 is configured to direct self-cleaning fluid (e.g., from the tank 258) to the second fluidic interior portion 268, and the self-cleaning fluid flows from the second fluidic interior portion 268 to the first interface 102. The self-cleaning fluid then flows from the first interface 102 out of the interior 250 to the first plug 260 (e.g., via the second ports 104B), where the self-cleaning fluid flows through the first passages 270 and back to the first interface 102 into the interior 250 (e.g., via the second ports 104B). The self-cleaning fluid then flows from the first interface 102 to the first fluidic interior portion 266 and back to the self-cleaning module 256 to restart flow through the first example flow path (e.g., to flow back to the second fluidic interior portion 268). In either case, the first plug 260 helps establish the first example flow path to direct self-cleaning fluid repeatedly between the self-cleaning module 256, the first fluidic interior portion 266, the first interface 102, and the second fluidic interior portion 268.

[0043] In a second example flow path, the self-cleaning module 256 is configured to direct self-cleaning fluid to self-clean the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 and the fluid lines extending between the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 and the second interface 220. For instance, the self-cleaning module 256 directs self-cleaning fluid (e.g., from the tank 258) to the second interface 220 (e.g., to the third port 272C), which then directs the self-cleaning fluid to the second plug 262. The second plug 262 apportions the self-cleaning fluid between flow toward the fluidic interior portions 266 (e.g., via the first port 272A) and toward the second fluidic interior portion 268 (e.g., via the second port 272B). In other words, the self-cleaning fluid flows to the second plug 262, where the self-cleaning fluid splits such that the first fluidic interior portion 266 receives a first self-cleaning fluid flow and the second fluidic interior portion 268 receives a second self-cleaning fluid flow. The self-cleaning fluid flows then flowAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT from the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 back to the self-cleaning module 256 to restart the second example flow path.

[0044] In certain embodiments, self-cleaning fluid can be directed sequentially between the interfaces 102, 220 to self-clean both interfaces 102, 220. As an example, the self-cleaning module 256 directs self-cleaning fluid (e.g., from the tank 258) to one of the fluidic interior portions 266, 268, and the self-cleaning fluid flows to the first interface 102, to the first plug 260, back to the first interface 102, to the other of the fluidic interior portions 266, 268, and to the second interface 220 (e.g., via the first port 272A, via the second port 272B). The selfcleaning fluid then flows from the second interface 220 to the second plug 262, then back to the second interface 220 to return to the self-cleaning module 256 (e.g., via the third port 272C) to restart circulation of the self-cleaning fluid. In such an embodiment, one of the ports 272A, 272B can be closed to block flow of the self-cleaning fluid from one of the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 to the other of the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 via the second interface 220 (e.g., from the second plug 262 to the first fluidic interior portion 266 via the first port 272A, from the second plug 262 to the second fluidic interior portion 268 via the second port 272B) to force the self-cleaning fluid to flow from the second interface 220 back to the selfcleaning module 256.

[0045] For each example flow path, the self-cleaning fluid can be recirculated for a threshold duration of time (e.g., 1-5 minutes, 5-10 minutes, 10-60 minutes, over an hour) and / or to complete a threshold quantity of loops (e.g., 3-5 loops, 5-10 loops, 10-20 loops) through the interior 250. Such recirculation of the self-cleaning fluid can sufficiently self-clean the cleaning device 100 to enable the cleaning device 100 to subsequently clean a medical device. In some embodiments, a level of the self-cleaning fluid within the tank 258 is periodically determined (e.g., compared to a target level) during the self-cleaning operation to ensure that there is a sufficient supply of self-cleaning fluid that can be recirculated through the interior 250. For example, the level of the self-cleaning fluid in the tank 258 is determined before initiating a fluid circulation cycle (e.g., repeated flow through one of the flow path examples) and / or during the fluid circulation cycle (e.g., at a predetermined frequency, such as every 100- 1000 milliseconds). In response to the level of self-cleaning fluid within the tank 258 being inadequate (e.g., below the target level), the self-cleaning fluid source 254 can direct additional self-cleaning fluid into the self-cleaning module 256, such as to fill the tank 258 (e.g., above the target level).Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT

[0046] As shown, the ports 104 of the first interface 102 are configured to directly interface with the first passages 270 of the first plug 260. For example, fluid directly circulates between the first passages 270 and the ports 104. Meanwhile, the ports 272 of the second interface 220 indirectly interface with the second passages 274 of the second plug 262. For instance, fluid can circulate between the second passages 274 and the ports 272 via an intermediate feature. However, the ports 104 of the first interface 102 can indirectly interface with the first passages 270 of the second plug 262 and / or the ports 272 of the second interface 220 can directly interface with the pots 272 in alternative embodiments.

[0047] Moreover, each of the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 is fluidly coupled to a drain 278 to remove the self-cleaning fluid from the interior 250 and avoid recirculation of the selfcleaning fluid back into the interior 250. By way of example, after the cleaning device 100 has been sufficiently self-cleaned (e.g., after the self-cleaning operation is completed), the selfcleaning fluid is directed out of the interior 250 to enable the cleaning device 100 to receive cleaning fluid for cleaning a medical device, thereby transitioning from the self-cleaning operation to the cleaning operation. In some embodiments, the self-cleaning fluid is directed from the drain 278 to another component / system that cleans the self-cleaning fluid to place the self-cleaning fluid in condition to perform an additional self-cleaning operation. In additional or alternative embodiments, the self-cleaning fluid is discarded from the drain 278 and is no longer used in an additional self-cleaning operation. In certain implementations, the valves 276 are used to control self-cleaning fluid flow toward the drain 278 (e.g., instead of toward the self-cleaning module 256).

[0048] The valves 276 can be manually adjusted in some embodiments. For example, a user (e.g., a technician, an operator) can adjust the position of the valves 276 to direct the selfcleaning fluid in different manners, such as along different flow paths for self-cleaning different parts of the cleaning device 100. Additionally or alternatively, the valves 276 can be automatically adjusted. To this end, the cleaning device 100 includes or is communicatively coupled to a control system 280 (e.g., an electronic controller, an automation controller, a programmable controller) configured to adjust the position of the valves 276. The control system 280 includes a memory 282 and a processor 284 (e.g., processing circuitry, microprocessors). The memory 282 includes one or more software or hardware-based computer-readable storage media operable to store executable information and can be volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or combinations thereof, including transitory memory or non- transitory memory. The memory 282 can also include one or more removable or non-Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT removable storage devices. In examples, the memory 282 can include any one or more of: Non-Volatile Memory (NVM), Ferroelectric Random Access Memory (FRAM), read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), flash memory, optical disc storage, magnetic storage, solid state storage, or any other memory media usable to store executable information for later access. The processor 284 can be implemented as firmware elements, partially or fully implemented with digital logic gates in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), partially or fully in software, etc. The processor 284 is configured to execute the information stored in the memory 282 to perform various techniques discussed herein, such as to adjust the positions of the valves 276. As an example, the control system 280 is configured to adjust the valves 276 to cause the self-cleaning fluid to flow through the first example flow path for a first duration of time, and the control system 280 is configured to adjust the valves 276 after the first duration of time has elapsed to cause the self-cleaning fluid to flow through the second example flow path for a second duration of time. Therefore, the control system 280 can operate to adjust (e.g., automatically adjust, adjust in response to a user input) the flow of self-cleaning fluid through the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100, such as to self-clean different parts of the interior 250.

[0049] FIGs. 5A, 5B, and 5C provide additional details regarding the first plug 260 configured to couple to the first interface 102. FIG. 5 A is a rear perspective view of the first plug 260. The first plug 260 can include similar features as that of the adapter 106 to facilitate coupling of the first plug 260 to the first interface 102. For example, the first plug 260 includes a main body 390 and inserts 392 extending from a first side 393 of the main body 390. Although the main body 390 is circular in the illustrated embodiments, the main body 390 can have any suitable shape or cross-section to facilitate coupling to the first interface 102 (e.g., for insertion into the receptacle 107). The inserts 392 are configured to extend into the ports 104 of the first interface 102 to couple the first plug 260 to the first interface 102. The first plug 260 also includes tubing 394 extending from a second side 396, opposite the first side 393, of the main body 390. The tubing 394 is fluidly coupled to the inserts 392 and is configured to define the first passages 270 that fluidly interconnect different subsets of the inserts 392 to one another. For example, a first tube 394A fluidly couples a first subset of the inserts 392 to one another, whereas a second tube 394B fluidly couples a second subset of the inserts 392 to one another. The tubing 394 enables self-cleaning fluid to flow between the fluidic interior portions 266, 268 in the self-cleaning configuration 252.Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT

[0050] FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of the first plug 260 illustrating the fluid coupling between the inserts 392 via the tubing 394. In particular, the first tube 394A fluidly couples a first insert 392 A, a second insert 392B, and a third insert 392C to one another. The second tube 394B fluidly couples a fourth insert 392D, a fifth insert 392E, a sixth insert 392F, and a seventh insert 392G to one another.

[0051] In some embodiments, the second insert 392B, the third insert 392C, the fifth insert 392E, the sixth insert 392F, and the seventh insert 392G are configured to fluidly couple to the first ports 104 A of the first interface 102, whereas the first insert 392 A and the fourth insert 392D are configured to fluidly couple to the second ports 104B of the first interface 102. Indeed, a quantity of the first ports 104 A is greater than a quantity of the second ports 104B. Thus, there is a greater quantity of the inserts 392 configured to fluidly couple to the first ports 104 A than a quantity of inserts 392 configured to fluidly couple to the second ports 104B. Flow of self-cleaning fluid through the tubing 394 is dependent on flow of self-cleaning fluid between the fluidic interior portions 266, 268. As an example, for flow of self-cleaning fluid from the first fluidic interior portion 266 to the second fluidic interior portion 268, self-cleaning fluid is directed from the first ports 104A out of the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100, to the first plug 260, and to the second ports 104B to flow back into the interior 250. For this reason, the second insert 392B and the third insert 392C initially receive self-cleaning fluid flows from the first ports 104 A, and the first tube 394 A combines the self-cleaning fluid flows from the second insert 392B and from the third insert 392C (e.g., via a first passage defined by the first tube 394A) for flow to the first insert 392A (e.g., via a second passage defined by the first tube 394A). To this end, the first tube 394A includes a first junction 433 at where the first insert 392 A, the second insert 392B, and the third insert 392C are fluidly coupled to one another. The combined self-cleaning fluid flow passes through the first insert 392 A to one of the second ports 104B for flow back into the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100 and toward the second fluidic interior portion 268. Meanwhile, the fifth insert 392E, the sixth insert 392F, and the seventh insert 392G also initially receive self-cleaning fluid flows from the first ports 104 A, and the second tube 394B combines the self-cleaning fluid flows from the fifth insert 392E, from the sixth insert 392F, and from the seventh insert 392G for flow to the fourth insert 392D. As an example, the second tube 394B includes a second junction 434 fluidly coupling the sixth insert 392F and the seventh insert 392Gto one another (e.g., via a first passage defined by the second tube 394B) and to a segment 436 (e.g., defining a second passage) of the second tube 394B. The second tube 394B also includes a third junction 437 fluidly coupling theAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT segment 436, the fourth insert 392D, and the fifth insert 392E to one another (e.g., via a third passage defined by the second tube 394B). Thus, the segment 436 initially combines selfcleaning fluid flow from the sixth insert 392F and from the seventh insert 392G at the second junction 434 to provide a first combined self-cleaning fluid flow, and the first combined selfcleaning fluid flow and self-cleaning fluid flow from the fifth insert 392E combine at the third junction 437 to provide a second combined self-cleaning fluid flow that is subsequently received by the fourth insert 392D. The second combined self-cleaning fluid flow passes through the fourth insert 392D to another of the second ports 104B for flow back to the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100 and toward the second fluidic interior portion 268.

[0052] As another example, for flow of self-cleaning fluid from the second fluidic interior portion 268 to the first fluidic interior portion 266, self-cleaning fluid is directed from the second ports 104B, out of the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100 to the first plug 260, and to the first ports 104A to flow back into the interior 250. For this reason, the first insert 392A initially receives self-cleaning fluid from one of the second ports 104B, the first tube 394A apportions the self-cleaning fluid between the second insert 392B and the third insert 392C via the first junction 433, and the respective self-cleaning fluid flows pass through the second insert 392B and the third insert 392C to the first ports 104A for flow back into the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100 and toward the second fluidic interior portion 268. Similarly, the fourth insert 392D initially receives self-cleaning fluid from another of the second ports 104B, the second tube 394B apportions the self-cleaning fluid flow between the fifth insert 392E, the sixth insert 392F, and the seventh insert 392G, and the respective self-cleaning fluid flows pass through the fifth insert 392E, the sixth insert 392F, and the seventh insert 392Gto the first ports 104A for flow back into the interior 250 and toward the second fluidic interior portion 268. For example, the self-cleaning fluid flow from the fourth insert 392D splits between the segment 436 and the fifth insert 392E at the third junction 437, and the self-cleaning fluid flow from the segment 436 further splits between the sixth insert 392F and the seventh insert 392G at the second junction 434.

[0053] FIG. 5C is a front perspective view of the first plug 260 further illustrating the inserts 392. Each insert 392 defines a respective opening 439 configured to direct fluid between the first interface 102 and the first plug 260. The tubing 394 fluidly couples corresponding openings 439 to one another to fluidly couple the inserts 392, and therefore the ports 104 of the first interface 102 in the self-cleaning configuration 252, to one another. As an example, one of the openings 439 of the inserts 392 receives a self-cleaning fluid flow from one of the portsAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT104 (e.g., from one of the fluidic interior portions 266, 268), a corresponding tube 394 directs the self-cleaning fluid flow to another of the inserts 392, and the opening 439 of the other insert 392 directs the self-cleaning fluid into another one of the ports 104 (e.g., to the other of the fluidic interior portions 266, 268).

[0054] The first plug 260 additionally includes seals 440 (e.g., O-rings) configured to help couple the first plug 260 to the first interface 102 and to direct self-cleaning fluid in a desirable manner between the first interface 102 and the first plug 260. For instance, positioning the inserts 392 within the ports 104 engages the seals 440 with inner surfaces of the ports 104. Such engagement between the seals 440 and the inner surfaces restricts movement between the inserts 392 and the ports 104, thereby maintaining positioning of the inserts 392 within the ports 104 to maintain coupling of the first plug 260 with the first interface 102. Moreover, engagement between the seals 440 and the inner surfaces blocks unwanted self-cleaning fluid flow between the inserts 392 and the inner surfaces instead of through the openings 439 and / or through the ports 104. That is, the seals 440 force self-cleaning fluid to flow from the openings 439 to the ports 104 and / or from the ports 104 to the openings 439.

[0055] FIG. 5D is a side perspective view of the first plug 260. The illustrated first plug 260 includes an auxiliary body 512 (e.g., a housing) coupled to the main body 390 at the second side 396. By way of example, the auxiliary body 512 shields the tubing 394, thereby maintaining a structural integrity of the tubing 394 and preserving desirable functionality of the first plug 260. The auxiliary body 512 additionally or alternatively includes a profile that can be easily grasped by a user to help the user move the first plug 260, such as to place the first plug 260 in position to couple to the first interface 102 and / or to decouple from the first interface 102. For instance, the auxiliary body 512 includes an L-shape in which a first segment 513 (e.g., a mount) couples to and extends from the main body 390 and a second segment 514 (e.g., a handle) extends transversely from the first segment 513.

[0056] FIGs. 6A, 6B, and 6C provide additional details regarding the second plug 262 configured to couple to the second interface 220. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the second plug 262. The second plug 262 includes a main body 515. Openings 516 are formed into the main body 515, and the openings 516 are configured to fluidly couple to the ports 272 of the second interface 220 while the second plug 262 is coupled to the second interface 220. In some embodiments, the second plug 262 includes inserts 517 extending from the main body 515 and defining the openings 516, and the inserts 517 are configured to be positioned within the ports 272 to fluidly couple the ports 272 and the openings 516 to one another and to couple theAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT second plug 262 to the second interface 220. The main body 515 also defines passages (not shown) that fluidly couple the openings 516 to one another to enable self-cleaning fluid to flow between the openings 516 and therefore between the ports 272 to which the openings 516 are fluidly coupled in the self-cleaning configuration 252 of the cleaning device 100.

[0057] The second plug 262 additionally includes a handle 518 coupled to the main body 515. The handle 518 includes a profile to help a user grasp the second plug 262 for positioning, such as to couple to the second interface 220 and / or to decouple from the second interface 220. In certain embodiments, the handle 518 also covers an interior of the main body 515 to help enclose and / or define the passages that direct the self-cleaning fluid between the openings 516.

[0058] FIG. 6B is a side cross-sectional view of the second plug 262 illustrating an interior 619 at least partially defined by the main body 515 of the second plug 262. In particular, a first internal wall 621 of the second plug 262 within the interior 619 and a second internal wall 623 of the second plug 262 within the interior 619 cooperatively define a passage 625 extending through the main body 515. The passage 625 fluidly connects the openings 516 to one another. Thus, self-cleaning fluid can flow from one of the openings 516 to either or both openings 516 via the passage 625. By way of example, self-cleaning fluid flows from the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100 (e.g., from the third port 272C) into the passage 625 of the second plug 262 via a first opening 516A, and the self-cleaning fluid splits within the passage 625 to flow to both a second opening 516B and a third opening 516C to recirculate back into the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100 (e.g., into the first port 272A, into the second port 272B).

[0059] FIG. 6C is a top cross-sectional view of the second plug 262 further illustrating the interior 619 of the second plug 262. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first internal wall 621 and the second internal wall 623 has a circular or oval cross-section (e.g., forming a cylindrical volume), thereby defining a circularly shaped passage 625 for directing selfcleaning fluid between the openings 516. As an example, self-cleaning fluid flows in a first direction 627 through the first opening 516A (e.g., from the interior 250 of the cleaning device 100) and into the passage 625. The self-cleaning fluid then splits from the first opening 516A to flow along the passage 625 in a second direction 629 toward the second opening 516B or in a third direction 631 toward the third opening 516C. Subsequently, the self-cleaning fluid flows from the second opening 516B and from the third opening 516C into the interior 250, such as toward the fluidic interior portions 266, 268, respectively.Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT

[0060] Each of FIGs. 7 and 8 illustrates a flowchart of a respective method for flowing selfcleaning fluid for self-cleaning a cleaning device (e.g., the cleaning device 100). It should be noted that operations of each method can be performed differently than depicted. As an example, an additional operation can be performed for either method. As another example, any of the depicted operations can be performed differently, performed in a different order, or not performed. Moreover, the respective operations of the methods can be performed in any suitable manner relative to one another, such as sequentially and / or concurrently.

[0061] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method 641 for flowing a self-cleaning fluid into and out of a cleaning device using a plug (e.g., the first plug 260, the second plug 262), thereby recirculating the self-cleaning fluid throughout an interior (e.g., a fluidic interior configured to direct fluid therethrough) of the cleaning device. At block 643, a self-cleaning fluid is obtained within the interior. In some embodiments, the self-cleaning fluid is supplied from a selfcleaning fluid source positioned external to the cleaning device, and a self-cleaning module (e.g., a tank of the self-cleaning module) positioned in the interior of the cleaning device is configured to receive the self-cleaning fluid from the self-cleaning fluid source. In additional or alternative embodiments, the cleaning device already includes (e.g., is pre-filled) the selfcleaning fluid. In further embodiments, the cleaning device produces the self-cleaning fluid, such as via a module within the interior.

[0062] At block 645, the self-cleaning fluid flows from the interior of the cleaning device through a first port of the cleaning device. In particular, the first port exposes the interior of the cleaning device to an exterior environment. Thus, the self-cleaning fluid flows from the interior to an exterior of the cleaning device via the first port. As an example, in a cleaning operation during which the cleaning device cleans a medical device, the first port is used to receive cleaning fluid from an external cleaning fluid source or to direct cleaning fluid out of the cleaning device and toward a medical device.

[0063] At block 647, the self-cleaning fluid flows from the first port to a second port of the cleaning device via a plug coupled to the cleaning device. That is, the plug defines one or more passages that fluidly interconnect the first port and the second port to one another. In certain embodiments, the plug includes tubing that define the one or more passages. In additional or alternative embodiments, the plug includes a main body through which the one or more passages extend. In either case, the self-cleaning fluid flows exterior to the cleaning device to flow from the first port to the second port. Similar to the first port, the second port can be used to receive cleaning fluid from an external cleaning fluid source or to direct cleaning fluid outAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT of the cleaning device and toward a medical device during a cleaning operation of the cleaning device.

[0064] At block 649, the self-cleaning fluid flows from the second port into the interior of the cleaning device. In this way, the plug enables the self-cleaning fluid to flow between multiple ports, such as to flow through and self-clean fluid lines extending from the ports. For instance, the plug helps create / form a portion of a fluid loop in which the self-cleaning fluid can recirculate through the interior of the cleaning device to sufficiently self-clean the interior. By way of example, after the self-cleaning fluid flows into the interior via the second port, the selfcleaning fluid flows through the interior back to the first port. Therefore, the self-cleaning fluid can repeatedly flow between the first port and the second port to self-clean the associated fluid lines.

[0065] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method 751 for directing fluid between different fluidic interior portions (e.g., the first fluidic interior portion 266, the second fluidic interior portion 268) of a cleaning device. At block 753, a self-cleaning fluid is directed from a first fluidic interior portion to a plug coupled to the cleaning device, such as via first ports. At block 755, the self-cleaning fluid flows from the first fluidic interior portion toward a second fluidic interior portion via one or more passages of the plug. However, a first quantity of first ports through which self-cleaning fluid flows from the first fluidic interior portion to the plug is different from a second quantity of second ports through which the self-cleaning fluid flows from the plug to the second fluidic interior portion. Therefore, the plug reconciles the different quantities of ports. Specifically, in embodiments in which the first quantity of first ports is greater than the second quantity of second ports, multiple self-cleaning fluid flows received in the plug from the first quantity of first ports are combined to reduce the quantity of self-cleaning fluid flows and enable receipt by the fewer second quantity of second ports. In embodiments in which the first quantity of first ports is fewer than the second quantity of second ports, selfcleaning fluid received in the plug from the first quantity of first ports is apportioned to increase the quantity of self-cleaning fluid flows and enable receipt by the greater second quantity of second ports. In either case, the plug enables self-cleaning fluid to flow through each port. At block 757, self-cleaning fluid flows from the plug to the second fluidic interior portion via the second ports. Therefore, the plug helps to create / form a portion of a fluid loop in which the self-cleaning fluid can recirculate between the first fluidic interior portion and the second fluidic interior portion. By way of example, after the self-cleaning fluid flows into the second fluidic interior portion, the self-cleaning fluid flows through the interior of the cleaning deviceAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT back to the first fluidic interior portion (e.g., via a self-cleaning module) to repeatedly flow between the first fluidic interior portion and the second fluidic interior portion to self-clean associated fluid lines.

[0066] The method 751 enables self-cleaning fluid to effectively self-clean the fluidic interior portions. For example, similar to the method 641, flowing (e.g., repeatedly flowing) selfcleaning fluid through each port effectively self-cleans fluid lines connected to the ports. Moreover, without the plug, the self-cleaning fluid may not be able to recirculate between the fluidic interior portions. For instance, without the plug, self-cleaning fluid can flow from the second fluidic interior portion to the first fluidic interior portion, but the self-cleaning fluid may not be able to flow back to the second fluidic interior portion. Indeed, the plug completes the fluid loop that enables self-cleaning fluid to flow from the first fluidic interior portion to the second fluidic interior portion, then back to the first fluidic interior portion.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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 was thorough and complete and fully conveyed the scope of the possible aspects to those skilled in the art.

[0069] 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.

[0070] According to certain aspects, systems and non-transitory computer readable storage media are provided. The systems are configured with hardware configured to executeAtty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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

Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCTCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A medical device cleaning system, comprising: a cleaning device comprising a plurality of ports, wherein each port of the plurality of ports is configured to direct fluid between an interior of the cleaning device and an exterior of the cleaning device; and a plug configured to removably couple to the cleaning device and, when coupled to the cleaning device, direct a self-cleaning fluid from at least a first port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device to at least a second port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device to recirculate the self-cleaning fluid within the interior of the cleaning device.

2. The medical device cleaning system of claim 1, wherein the plug comprises: at least a first opening configured to fluidly couple to the at least first port; at least a second opening configured to fluidly couple to the at least second port; and a passage fluidly connecting the at least first opening to the at least second opening to direct the self-cleaning fluid from the at least first port to the at least second port.

3. The medical device cleaning system of claim 1, wherein the cleaning device comprises: a first fluidic portion fluidly coupled to the at least first port; and a second fluidic portion fluidly coupled to the at least second port, wherein the first fluidic portion and the second fluidic portion are configured to direct separate flows of fluid via the at least first port and the at least second port, respectively.

4. The medical device cleaning system of claim 3, wherein the plurality of ports of the cleaning device comprises: a first set of ports fluidly coupled to the first fluidic portion and comprising the at least first port; and a second set of ports fluidly coupled to the second fluidic portion and comprising the at least second port.

5. The medical device cleaning system of claim 4, wherein a number of ports in the first set of ports is different from a number of ports in the second set of ports.Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT6. The medical device cleaning system of claim 5, wherein the number of ports in the first set of ports is greater than the number of ports in the second set of ports.

7. The medical device cleaning system of claim 6, wherein the plug is configured to combine fluid from two or more of the first set of ports to flow to one of the second set of ports or apportion fluid from one of the second set of ports to two or more of the first set of ports.

8. The medical device cleaning system of claim 1, wherein each port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device is an outlet configured to direct fluid from the interior of the cleaning device to the exterior of the cleaning device and toward a medical device.

9. The medical device cleaning system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least first port or the at least second port is an inlet configured to direct fluid from the exterior of the cleaning device into the interior of the cleaning device.

10. The medical device cleaning system of claim 1, wherein the cleaning device is configured to interchangeably couple to an additional component and the plug, and the cleaning device is configured to direct fluid between the additional component and the plug to clean a medical device via the fluid.

11. The medical device cleaning system of claim 10, wherein each port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device is configured to fluidically couple the interior of the cleaning device to the medical device via the additional component and to direct fluid between the interior of the cleaning device and the exterior of the cleaning device to direct fluid between the cleaning device and the medical device.

12. The medical device cleaning system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of ports comprises a first group of ports and a second group of ports, wherein the at least first port and the at least second port are part of a first group of ports, and wherein the medical device cleaning system further comprises: a second plug configured to removably couple to the cleaning device and, when coupled to the cleaning device, direct a self-cleaning fluid from at least a third port of the second group of ports to at least a fourth port of second group of ports of the cleaning device to recirculate the self-cleaning fluid within the interior of the cleaning device.Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT13. A plug configured to couple to a cleaning device to perform a self-cleaning operation, the cleaning device comprising a plurality of ports that are each configured to direct fluid between an interior of the cleaning device and an exterior of the cleaning device, wherein the plug comprises: at least a first opening configured to fluidly couple to at least a first port; at least a second opening configured to fluidly couple to at least a second port; and a passage fluidly connecting the at least first opening to the at least second opening to fluidly interconnect the at least first port with the at least second port.

14. The plug of claim 13, wherein the cleaning device comprises a first fluid path fluidly coupled to the at least first port of the plurality of ports and a second fluid path fluidly coupled to the at least second port of the plurality of ports, wherein the first fluid path and the second fluid path are configured to direct separate fluid flows within the interior of the cleaning device, and wherein the plug is configured to fluidly couple the first fluid path with the second fluid path via the at least first port and the at least second port.

15. The plug of claim 13, comprising: at least a third opening configured to fluidly couple to at least a third port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device; and an additional passage fluidly coupled to the at least third opening and to the passage to fluidly interconnect the at least first port, the at least second port, and the at least third port to one another, wherein the additional passage is configured to combine fluid from the at least first opening and from the at least third opening or the additional passage is configured to apportion fluid between the at least first opening and the at least third opening.

16. The plug of claim 13, comprising: a first insert defining the at least first opening, wherein the first insert is configured to extend into the at least first port of the plurality of ports to fluidly couple the at least first opening to the at least first port; and a second insert defining the at least second opening, wherein the second insert is configured to extend into the at least second port of the plurality of ports to fluidly couple the at least second opening to the at least second port.Atty. Docket No. 1462.0035i Client Ref. No. NAN0057PCT17. The plug of claim 14, comprising a body defining the at least first opening, the at least second opening, and the passage.

18. A method for self-cleaning a cleaning device, the cleaning device comprising a plurality of ports that are each configured to direct a cleaning fluid between an interior of the cleaning device and an exterior of the cleaning device, wherein the method comprises: flowing the self-cleaning agent from the interior of the cleaning device through a first port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device; flowing the self-cleaning agent from the first port to a second port of the plurality of ports via a plug coupled to the cleaning device; and flowing the self-cleaning agent from the second port into the interior of the cleaning device.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein flowing the self-cleaning agent from the interior through the first port of the plurality of ports comprises flowing the self-cleaning agent through a first fluidic interior portion of the cleaning device to the first port, and wherein flowing the self-cleaning agent from the second port of the plurality of ports into the interior of the cleaning device comprises flowing the self-cleaning agent from the second port into a second fluidic interior portion of the cleaning device, the first fluidic interior portion and the second fluidic interior portion being configured to direct separate fluid flows during a cleaning operation of the cleaning device.

20. The method of claim 18, comprising: flowing the self-cleaning agent from the interior through a third port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device; and flowing the self-cleaning agent from the third port to the second port of the plurality of ports of the cleaning device via the plug coupled to the cleaning device to combine the selfcleaning agent from the first port with the self-cleaning agent from the third port within the second port.

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