Endoscope Connector Magnetic Self-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope washing and disinfecting systems require complex and time-consuming manual connections of pipelines, which can lead to errors and inefficiencies in the washing and disinfecting process.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope washing and disinfecting system with a connector portion on the endoscope side that can detachably connect to a universal cord and an endoscope connection portion on the washing and disinfecting device, allowing for direct and secure connection, along with bidirectional wireless communication and non-contact power transmission for automated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual connection of pipelines is used in endoscope washing/disinfecting systems, then the system can be configured with separate connection ports, but the connection process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the universal cord and endoscope body into a single integrated unit with a unified connector portion. This integration eliminates the need for separate manual connections of multiple pipelines, as the connector automatically establishes connections for water supply, suction, and other functions simultaneously, thereby simplifying the connection process and improving efficiency
2Reliability
If manual connection of pipelines is used, then connection flexibility is maintained, but connection errors and inefficiencies occur
Solution Approach 1:
The universal cord is pre-configured with all necessary connection interfaces and routing before use. The connector portion is designed with predetermined connection positions and automatic alignment features, so that when the universal cord is inserted into the washing/disinfecting device, all connections are established automatically without requiring manual manipulation or risking connection errors
Solution Approach 2:
The connector portion incorporates automatic connection mechanisms that self-align and self-secure when the universal cord is inserted. The system performs self-checking of connection status and automatically establishes proper fluid pathways without human intervention, thereby ensuring connection accuracy and eliminating time-consuming manual procedures
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 significantly reduces connection time, minimizes errors, and enhances operational efficiency by enabling automatic and secure connection of the endoscope to the washing and disinfecting device, ensuring thorough washing and disinfecting of the endoscope and its pipelines.
Implementation Method 1
power transmission portion for transmitting power in the electrically non-contact manner
Data Source
AI summary
In a washing/disinfecting tank of an endoscope washing/disinfecting device, an endoscope connection portion to be joined to a connector portion of an endoscope body is provided, and receiving-side bases to be connected to each of pipelines of the endoscope body are provided. In washing/disinfecting the endoscope body, the connector portion is opposed to the endoscope connection portion in the predetermined positioned state, and then, a switch is turned on. Then, an electromagnet disposed at the endoscope connection portion is excited so as to attract and fix the connector portion by a generated magnetic force.