Duodenscope Elevator Cleaning Using AER Fluid-Driven Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscope cleaning and disinfection processes are labor-intensive and time-consuming, particularly for the elevator assembly, which can lead to delays in surgical schedules and increased costs due to the need for additional equipment, despite the importance of thorough cleaning to prevent disease transmission.
Innovation Solution
A hands-free cleaning system that harnesses motive energy from the fluid flow within an automatic endoscope reprocessor (AER) to actuate a reciprocating mechanism in the endoscope, using mechanisms such as water wheel, turbine, solenoid, or impact drive mechanisms to move the elevator platform during cleaning and disinfection, reducing the need for manual manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual mechanical manipulation of the elevator assembly is performed during cleaning, then thorough cleaning and disinfection can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system performs self-service by using the fluid flow from the AER to automatically actuate the elevator assembly through the manipulator mechanism, eliminating the need for manual manipulation while maintaining cleaning effectiveness. The system uses its own cleaning fluid to power the mechanical actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs hydraulic principles by utilizing the pressurized fluid flow from the automatic endoscope reprocessor to drive the manipulator mechanism. The fluid pressure is converted into mechanical motion to actuate the elevator assembly during cleaning.
2Productivity
If additional equipment is invested to improve cleaning efficiency, then productivity increases, but capital costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulator assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as both a mechanical actuator for the elevator and a means to harness fluid energy for automation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate manual manipulation steps and additional expensive equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing AER fluid flow to power the manipulator mechanism, eliminating the need for external power sources or additional expensive equipment. The cleaning system serves itself by converting its own fluid flow into mechanical work.
3Reliability
If the elevator assembly is manually actuated during cleaning, then residual particles can be removed, but labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical manipulation with an automated manipulator mechanism that is driven by fluid pressure. The manual mechanical system is substituted with an automated system that uses the AER's fluid flow as its power source.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning process becomes self-service by automatically actuating the elevator assembly through the manipulator mechanism powered by the cleaning fluid itself, eliminating the need for operator intervention and manual effort.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly reduces labor and time required for endoscope cleaning, improving disinfection outcomes without increasing capital costs, by utilizing the fluid flow energy to automate the actuation of internal mechanisms within the endoscope, thereby enhancing efficiency and reducing manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a turbine member having a plurality of blades disposed within a body of the fluid turbine member and configured to rotate perpendicularly to a direction of flow of the fluid flowing across the plurality of blades, the turbine member imparting a rotational force to a shaft from a motive force generated by the fluid flow
Implementation Method 2
a solenoid device assembly including a housing and a plunger rod disposed therein and protruding partially therefrom, the plunger rod having a spring member located concentrically about the plunger rod and adjacent the housing
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope cleansing accessory is described for use with an automatic endoscope reprocessing (AER) apparatus which utilizes the motive force provided by a flowing cleansing fluid already within the AER to actuate an actuator wheel of the endoscope during the cleansing process. The movement or actuation of the actuator wheel during cleansing in turn imparts a back and forth motion to an elevator platform or forceps raiser within the endoscope to loosen tissue and other particles that are then flushed out by the flowing cleansing fluid.