Endoscope Storage Cart With Timer-Based HLDS Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Endoscopes require frequent reprocessing due to the inability of Automated Endoscope Reprocessors to completely dry internal channels, leading to rapid microbial growth, and existing storage solutions lack effective time tracking and security features, increasing operational costs and reducing availability.
Innovation Solution
A cart with a housing and slots for endoscope trays, equipped with a timer and locking mechanism, displays storage time and prevents unauthorized use, ensuring High Level Disinfection Status (HLDS) and secure storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If endoscopes are stored in conventional cabinets or carts without time tracking, then storage simplicity is maintained, but the ability to monitor reprocessing time and prevent contamination is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The storage cart integrates multiple functions into a single device: it stores endoscopes, automatically tracks storage time via sensors and timers, provides visual alerts when HLDS is approaching expiration, and prevents removal of expired endoscopes through locking mechanisms. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by maintaining reliability through comprehensive monitoring while managing complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The cart employs automatic time tracking through sensors that detect when endoscopes are placed in storage slots, eliminating the need for manual logging. The system self-monitors storage duration, automatically alerts users when HLDS is nearing expiration, and self-locks to prevent use of expired endoscopes. This automation maintains reliability while reducing operational complexity.
2Measurement precision
If manual monitoring of reprocessing time is used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but accuracy and reliability of time tracking deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical time tracking with an automated electronic system. Sensors detect when endoscopes are placed in storage slots and trigger electronic timers that precisely track storage duration. Digital displays and visual indicators provide accurate real-time monitoring, eliminating human error in time measurement while requiring minimal user interaction beyond placing and removing endoscopes.
3Reliability
If no locking mechanism is provided in storage carts, then ease of access is maintained, but prevention of unauthorized use of contaminated endoscopes is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is dynamic rather than static: it automatically engages when an endoscope's storage time exceeds the HLDS threshold and disengages when the timer indicates the endoscope is still within safe storage parameters. This dynamic behavior ensures reliability by blocking access to contaminated endoscopes while maintaining ease of operation for valid endoscopes, as users simply need to place or remove trays without dealing with manual locks.
4Reliability
If frequent reprocessing is performed to ensure safety, then patient safety is improved, but operational costs and endoscope wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous feedback through visual indicators (such as colored lights or display screens) that show the remaining HLDS time for each stored endoscope. This feedback enables users to confidently use endoscopes within their safe storage period without premature reprocessing, while automatically identifying which endoscopes require attention. This resolves the contradiction by ensuring patient safety through accurate monitoring while maximizing endoscope availability and reducing unnecessary reprocessing cycles.
Data Source
AI summary
A cart for storage of an endoscope is provided. The cart comprises a housing having a slot configured to slidably receive a tray. The tray is configured to store an endoscope, and a timer is coupled to the housing, slot and/or tray. The timer is configured to display increments of time that the endoscope is stored in the tray. Systems and methods are also provided.