Disposable Cleaning Units for Medical Device Working Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reusable medical devices with working channels are often subjected to extensive cleaning methods that expose sensitive internal components to high temperatures, pressure, and radiation, leading to potential damage over time.
Innovation Solution
Disposable single-use cleaning units comprising an inner receptacle and an outer receptacle, designed to clean the working channel of reusable medical devices in a localized manner, reducing global exposure and protecting internal components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If global cleaning methods (ovens, irradiation, high pressure) are used to clean the entire medical device, then the working channel is effectively cleaned, but the sensitive internal components are exposed to damaging conditions over time
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is segmented into two distinct pathways: a first channel for cleaning the working channel that allows exposure to cleaning agents, and a second channel for sensitive internal components that remains protected. This segmentation enables differential treatment of different device regions during cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by providing different cleaning conditions to different parts of the device. The working channel receives intensive cleaning through the first channel, while the sensitive internal components are protected through the second channel, allowing each region to receive appropriate treatment based on its specific requirements and sensitivity.
2Productivity
If the entire medical device is subjected to repeated cleaning cycles, then the working channel remains clean, but the internal components accumulate damage and reduce lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The device structure is divided into a first channel pathway for the working channel and a second channel pathway for sensitive components. This segmentation allows repeated cleaning cycles to be performed on the working channel without subjecting the sensitive components to the same cumulative stress, thereby extending overall device lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensitive internal components are effectively extracted from the global cleaning process by providing a separate second channel that bypasses them. This allows the cleaning operations to be performed on the working channel while the sensitive components are taken out of the harmful environment, preserving them for longer use.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If localized cleaning is implemented to protect internal components, then component damage is reduced, but the cleaning system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is segmented into a first channel and a second channel that can be integrated into the existing device architecture. While this adds some structural elements, the segmentation provides a clear and manageable way to protect sensitive components without requiring completely complex or unconventional cleaning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The second channel structure is designed to be multi-functional, serving both as a protective pathway for sensitive components and as an integrated part of the overall cleaning system. This universality helps reduce overall system complexity by combining protection and cleaning functions within a unified structural framework.
Data Source
AI summary
A disposable cleaning unit is described herein including an inner receptacle and an outer receptacle.