Endoscope Fluid Supply System With Dual Container Refill Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscope fluid containers and tube sets are limited to a maximum capacity of 1 liter and are not designed for refilling, leading to frequent replacements and potential contamination risks during endoscopic procedures.
Innovation Solution
A container and tube set system that includes a first container with a fluid inlet and outlet, a second container for refilling, and a fluid flow control mechanism to manage fluid flow between the containers, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional water bottles with maximum 1 liter capacity are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the duration of action is limited requiring frequent replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid supply system is divided into multiple containers (first container and second container) that can be independently filled and connected. This segmentation allows one container to be refilled while the other continues supplying fluid, effectively extending the overall duration of action without requiring a single overly complex large-capacity container.
Solution Approach 2:
The second container is designed to nest within or couple to the first container through a coupling mechanism. This nested arrangement allows the second container to be integrated into the existing first container system, enabling extended fluid supply capability while minimizing additional complexity and space requirements.
2Loss of substance
If conventional non-refillable tubes are used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to frequent replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed with pre-configured coupling mechanisms and fluid flow control features that enable refilling operations to be performed quickly and reliably. The preliminary design of the coupling interface and flow control valves ensures that the refilling process, while possible, remains streamlined and minimizes disruption to the overall procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
A fluid flow control mechanism acts as an intermediary between the refilling operation and the fluid supply system. This intermediary component controls the fluid flow during refilling, preventing backflow and contamination while enabling the refilling process to occur without compromising the ease of operation or introducing significant complexity.
3Reliability
If frequent container replacements are performed, then the quantity of substance is maintained, but the object-affected harmful factors increase due to contamination risk
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous fluid supply by allowing the second container to be coupled to the first container without interrupting the fluid flow. This continuity eliminates the need to stop the endoscopic procedure for container replacements, maintaining sterility reliability while eliminating time loss associated with frequent replacements.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid flow control mechanism automatically manages the fluid flow between containers, eliminating the need for manual intervention to control flow during container exchanges. This self-regulating capability reduces the time required for container replacements while maintaining sterile conditions through automated flow control.
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
The system allows for continuous use of the fluid containers without frequent replacements, reducing contamination risks and improving the efficiency of endoscopic procedures by maintaining a sterile environment.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid flow control mechanism positioned in-line with the second water supply tube, the fluid flow control mechanism configured to selectively fluidly couple the second container with the first container
Implementation Method 2
Additionally, a peristaltic pump can be used to irrigate the working lumen of debris
Implementation Method 3
a pressure relief mechanism in fluid communication with an interior of the first container
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for providing a flow of fluid to an endoscope. An illustrative container and tube set arranged and configured to couple to an endoscope may comprise, a first container configured to contain a fluid, a first water supply tube including a first lumen extending therethrough and in selective fluid communication with the first container, a first gas supply tube including a second lumen extending therethrough and in fluid communication with the first container, a second container configured to contain a fluid, a second water supply tube including a third lumen extending therethrough and in fluid communication with the second container, and a fluid flow control mechanism positioned in-line with the second water supply tube, the fluid flow control mechanism configured to selectively fluidly couple the second container with the first container.