Endoscope Reprocessor Weight-Sensing Filter Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope reprocessors face challenges in preventing liquid leakage during filter removal, as the current systems lack effective mechanisms to ensure the filter is securely positioned based on weight or liquid content, leading to cumbersome and inefficient operations.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope reprocessor incorporates a holding unit with a moving member that positions the filtering tool based on its weight or liquid content, using a hindering unit to prevent removal when the filter is full, thereby preventing liquid leakage by ensuring the filter is securely positioned in a way that hinders its removal when filled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the filtering tool is removed from the endoscope reprocessor without weight-based positioning, then the filter replacement operation is simple and quick, but liquid may leak during removal when the filter is full
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary weight detection and positioning actions before filter removal. The moving member automatically positions the filtering tool in a first position when weight is below threshold, enabling safe removal. When weight exceeds threshold, the tool is positioned in a second position where removal is hindered, preventing liquid leakage before the removal attempt occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving member acts as an intermediary mechanism between the filtering tool and the user. It mediates the removal process by conditionally positioning the tool based on weight, and using the hindering unit to prevent removal when the filter is full, thus protecting against liquid leakage without requiring direct user judgment.
2Reliability
If a weight-based positioning system is implemented, then liquid leakage is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system serves itself through automatic weight-based actuation. The moving member automatically transitions between positions based on the filtering tool's weight, and the hindering unit automatically engages or disengages based on position, eliminating the need for external control systems or complex automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses weight parameter changes as the trigger for positioning changes. When the filtering tool's weight exceeds a predetermined threshold, the moving member responds by changing the position parameter, which in turn changes the engagement state of the hindering unit, creating a simple parameter-based control mechanism.
3Productivity
If the filtering tool is freely removable, then the operation is fast and efficient, but it becomes cumbersome to watch out for dripping during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-monitoring through automatic weight detection. The moving member continuously assesses the filtering tool's weight and automatically adjusts positioning and hindering states accordingly, eliminating the need for operators to manually monitor for liquid dripping during the removal process.
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 effectively prevents liquid leakage during filter replacement by ensuring the filter is only removable when empty, simplifying the process and reducing the risk of spills, while maintaining a cost-effective and straightforward design.
Implementation Method 1
a moving member configured to, when the filtering tool is attached to the holding member and a weight of the filtering tool is less than a predetermined value, position the filtering tool in a first position and, when the filtering tool is attached to the holding member and the weight of the filtering tool is greater than or equal to the predetermined value, position the filtering tool in a second position
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope reprocessor includes: a holding member to/from which a filtering tool is attachable and detachable; a fluid introduction conduit and a fluid discharge conduit that communicate with the filtering tool in a state in which the filtering tool is attached to the holding member; a moving member configured to, when the filtering tool is attached to the holding member and a weight of the filtering tool is less than a predetermined value, position the filtering tool in a first position and, when the filtering tool is attached to the holding member and the weight of the filtering tool is greater than or equal to the predetermined value, position the filtering tool in a second position that is different from the first position; and a hindering unit configured to, when the filtering tool is positioned in the second position, hinder removal of the filtering tool from the holding member.