Endoscope Pipeline Clogging Detection Using Elastic Valve Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clogging determination devices for endoscope pipelines face challenges in accurately detecting clogs in branch pipelines due to varying pipe line diameters and resistances, leading to incorrect determinations and the need for model-specific separators, and struggle to maintain pressure balance during washing, especially when a socket is washed simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A clogging determination device with an adapter and valve member that can switch between contact and spaced states, using a shaft part and valve member to isolate or connect multiple pipeline groups, and a switching unit that adjusts fluid pressure or flow rate to determine clogging by comparing back pressure with a threshold value.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separator with a sealing member (O-ring) is used to partition the cylinder space, then clogging detection accuracy for individual pipe lines is improved, but the interior wall contact area becomes unwashable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an elastic member (flexible element) instead of a rigid sealing member like an O-ring. This elastic member can be elastically deformed to contact the interior wall for clogging detection, then retracted to allow washing fluid to reach the interior wall surface, thus resolving the contradiction between detection accuracy and washability.
2Ease of manufacture
If the elastic member is switched to contact state for clogging detection, then interior wall washing is enabled, but clogging detection accuracy decreases due to varying pipe line resistances across different models
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the detection threshold dynamic rather than fixed. The determination unit adjusts the threshold value based on the specific endoscope model and pipe line characteristics, allowing the same hardware to accurately detect clogs across different models without requiring model-specific separators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of the detection threshold adaptively. By adjusting the threshold value according to pipe line resistance variations across different models, the system maintains high detection accuracy while using a universal separator design that can wash the interior wall.
3Extent of automation
If pressure-driven switching is used for the valve member, then automation is improved, but pressure balance is disrupted during simultaneous socket washing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flow-driven valve member that automatically switches between contact and spaced states based on the direction of fluid flow through the pipe lines. During socket washing, the flow direction naturally controls the valve position without disrupting pressure balance, eliminating the need for additional pressure control mechanisms.
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 solution improves both the washing performance of the interior wall and the detection of clogs in any pipeline within a group, eliminating the need for model-specific separators and ensuring accurate clog detection across different endoscope models.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic member is in a spaced state of being spaced apart from an interior wall of a cylinder in a case of being open, but is switched to a contact state in which the elastic member is increased in diameter and is in contact with the interior wall of the cylinder due to an internal pressure difference between an air supply pipe line and a water supply pipe line generated in a case of clogging.
Implementation Method 2
JP2011-521751A discloses a technology of detecting a clogged state of a pipe line by measuring a maximum value and a minimum value of a pressure by using a pressure pulse.
Implementation Method 3
JP2009-514611A discloses a technology of detecting a clogged state of a pipe line by monitoring a time required for a back pressure of a pressurized fluid to drop to a predetermined value.
Data Source
AI summary
A washing adapter to be inserted into a space portion of a cylinder, includes a valve member attached to a shaft part, and the valve member is switchable between a contact state of being in contact with an interior wall of the cylinder and a spaced state of being spaced apart from the interior wall. A clogging determination unit switches the valve member between the contact state and the spaced state. The valve member brings at least one pipe line of an air feeding pipe line, an air supply pipe line, a water feeding pipe line, or a water supply pipe line into a state of being out of communication with the other pipe lines in the space portion in the contact state, and brings all of the pipe lines into a state of being in communication with the other pipe lines in the space portion in the spaced state.