Endoscope Pneumatic Leak Test Using Pressure Gradient Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current leak testing methods for endoscopes are inadequate in detecting directional leaks, particularly in endoscopes with high packing density, as they rely on pressure equalization over extended periods, which can lead to inaccurate results and damage to reprocessing equipment.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a pneumatic leak test where the endoscope is connected to a compressed air hose, with the temporal change of air pressure measured after opening an outlet valve, allowing for the determination of leak tightness based on the temporal gradient of pressure change, enabling rapid and reliable detection even in endoscopes with high packing density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional leak testing methods are used with pressure equalization over extended periods, then measurement of pressure change can be performed, but detection precision for directional leaks deteriorates and test duration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using a vibration source to generate oscillations in the test object, creating periodic pressure variations that enhance leak detection sensitivity. The vibration-induced pressure fluctuations allow directional leaks to be detected more accurately within a short time frame, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and test duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent directly applies mechanical vibration by introducing a vibration source that generates oscillations in the test object. This vibration causes pressure fluctuations that make directional leaks detectable through pressure sensors, achieving high measurement precision without requiring extended test periods, thus resolving the technical contradiction.
2Stability of the object's composition
If compressed air is continuously supplied during leak testing, then pressure can be maintained, but water penetration damage risk increases when leaks are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using pressure sensors to continuously monitor pressure changes and feed this information back to the control unit. The control unit adjusts compressed air supply based on real-time pressure data, maintaining pressure stability while detecting leaks early to prevent water penetration damage, thus resolving the contradiction between pressure stability and equipment damage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing vibration-based leak detection before continuing with extended pressure testing. This preliminary detection phase identifies potential leaks early, allowing the system to take preventive measures before water penetration can occur, thereby maintaining pressure stability while minimizing equipment damage risk.
3Reliability
If endoscopes with high packing density are tested using conventional methods, then pressure equalization occurs, but leak detection reliability deteriorates due to extended equalization times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanical vibration to accelerate the detection process in endoscopes with high packing density. The vibration source generates oscillations that propagate through the dense structure, causing pressure fluctuations that reveal leaks more quickly than conventional static pressure methods, thereby improving reliability while reducing equalization time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic vibration to create oscillating pressure conditions that enhance leak detection in densely packed endoscopes. The periodic nature of the vibration allows for rapid detection cycles, improving reliability without requiring the extended equalization times that would otherwise be necessary for dense structures.
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 allows for quick and accurate leak detection by analyzing the rate of pressure change, distinguishing between intact and leaking endoscopes, and reducing the risk of equipment damage by shortening the test duration to less than 20 seconds.
Implementation Method 1
an endoscope to be processed is connected in an airtight manner to a compressed air hose, which is connectable or connected to a compressed air source
Implementation Method 2
during the pneumatic leak measurement, after opening of an outlet valve a temporal course of the air pressure in the endoscope is measured
Data Source
AI summary
A method for reprocessing an endoscope for the implementation of leak testing the endoscope, the method including: connecting the endoscope in an airtight manner to a compressed air hose, which is operatively connected to a compressed air source; subjecting the endoscope to compressed air up to a predetermined pressure level via the compressed air hose; during the pneumatic leak measurement and after opening of an outlet valve, measuring a temporal course of air pressure in the endoscope without any further compressed air supply; measuring a temporal change of the air pressure at the outlet valve; and determining one of a tightness of the endoscope or a leakage of the endoscope based on a temporal gradient of the temporal change of the air pressure.