Endoscope Connector Detachment to Block Single-Use Reconnection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing endoscope systems face challenges in preventing the reuse of single-use endoscopes, as they can be inadvertently connected to processors, allowing multiple uses despite manufacturer intentions.

Innovation Solution

A connector unit design featuring a first and second connector with engagement and disengagement mechanisms, utilizing a detachment jig to ensure the single-use endoscope's electrical connection is securely disconnected and the endoscope is rendered inoperable, preventing reuse.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single-use endoscope is designed to be discarded after one use, then compliance with manufacturer guidelines is improved, but the risk of inadvertent reuse and infection increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompliance with manufacturer guidelinesVSAvoidinfection risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The endoscope is designed as a single-use disposable device that is discarded after one use, eliminating the need for reprocessing and ensuring compliance with manufacturer guidelines while preventing infection risks associated with reuse

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is designed with engagement features that prevent reconnection after detachment, proactively blocking any possibility of inadvertent reuse before it can occur, rather than relying on user compliance alone

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If a connector allows easy detachment for single-use endoscope disposal, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of inadvertent reconnection increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of detachmentVSAvoidprevention of inadvertent reconnection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into separate components (first connector on endoscope, second connector on processor) that can be easily detached, while each component has specific engagement features that prevent reconnection, achieving both ease of operation and reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement portions are designed with asymmetric features where the first engagement portion of the first connector engages with the second engagement portion of the second connector in a specific orientation that prevents reengagement, allowing easy detachment while ensuring reliable prevention of inadvertent reconnection

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

3Adaptability or versatility

If a relay adapter is used to connect reusable and single-use endoscopes to a common processor, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with processorVSAvoidconnector configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The processor connector is designed with universal engagement features that can accommodate both reusable endoscopes with standard connectors and single-use endoscopes with the first connector, eliminating the need for relay adapters and reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20260031589A1Method of operating connector unit of endoscope system, and endoscope system

Publication Date: 2026.01.29 OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYST CORP

AI summary

A method of operating a connector unit of an endoscope system, the method including engaging a first engagement portion of a first connector with a second engagement portion of a second connector to electrically connect a first wire to a third wire via a second wire, electrically disconnecting the first wire and the second wire, and detaching the first engagement portion from the second engagement portion. The first connector includes the first wire electrically connected to the second wire. The second connector includes the third wire.