Endoscope Washer Dilution Tank Electrode Sensor Volume Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscope washer-disinfectors face challenges in accurately measuring and controlling the volume of chemicals supplied to the dilution tank, particularly when the chemical volumes are small, leading to precision issues and increased costs due to the need for sophisticated sensors and complex configurations.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a dilution tank with a two-stage storage system and electrode sensors to accurately measure the volumes of base and buffer solutions, using a simpler configuration that includes a metering cup to measure chemical volumes, allowing for precise control and low-cost manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If water level sensors or flow sensors are used to measure chemical volumes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic sensors (water level sensors, flow sensors) with a simple electrode-based detection system. The electrode sensor detects chemical volume through basic electrical conductivity principles, eliminating the need for sophisticated measurement devices while maintaining adequate precision for chemical dispensing applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive electrode sensors that can be easily replaced rather than investing in expensive, complex flow sensors. This approach prioritizes cost-effectiveness and simplicity over long-term durability, suitable for applications where the measurement system can be easily maintained or replaced.
2Manufacturing precision
If sophisticated sensors are used to control chemical volumes, then manufacturing precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes expensive flow control sensors with simple electrode detection combined with basic pump control. This achieves sufficient manufacturing precision for chemical dispensing while dramatically reducing manufacturing costs through the use of inexpensive, easily manufactured components.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode sensor provides self-contained detection capability within the chemical storage container, eliminating the need for external complex sensing systems. The system uses the chemical itself as the medium for detection, reducing the need for additional manufacturing components and processes.
3Measurement precision
If multiple level sensors are disposed in the dilution tank to control chemical volumes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the main dilution tank and places it directly in the chemical storage container. By using the electrode sensor at the source of the chemical, the system achieves accurate volume measurement without requiring multiple sensors distributed throughout the dilution tank, thereby simplifying the overall device configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode sensor serves multiple functions: it detects chemical presence, measures chemical volume, and can potentially monitor chemical concentration. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sensors for each measurement task, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
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 enables accurate measurement and precise control of chemical volumes, ensuring effective disinfection while reducing costs by eliminating the need for complex sensors and flow sensors, thus providing a cost-effective and efficient endoscope washing and disinfection process.
Implementation Method 1
a electrode sensor that detects a volume of the chemicals in the dilution tank
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for washing and disinfecting an endoscope is provided. First and second chemicals and dilution water, which dilutes the chemicals to be used for disinfecting the endoscope, are charged into a tank. The tank includes a first portion, a second portion having an area of base smaller than that of the first portion, a first sensor detecting that the dilution water is charged into the first portion up to a first level, a second sensor detecting that the first chemical is charged into the second portion up to a second level, and a third sensor detecting that the second chemical is charged into the second portion up to a third level. A unit measures a first volume of the first chemical based on a result of the second sensor and measures a second volume of the second chemical based on results of the third sensor and the second sensor.