Flexible Imaging Scope Inspection for Narrow Medical Device Lumens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices, particularly long, flexible endoscopes and catheters, are difficult to clean and inspect internally due to their small size and flexibility, leading to potential contamination and damage, which is labor-intensive and often ineffective.
Innovation Solution
A medical device inspection system comprising a console and a flexible imaging scope with a CMOS image sensor, optical fiber bundle, and connector assembly, capable of detecting pixel size and processing images from multiple scopes with different characteristics, and optionally emitting cleaning/disinfecting light to facilitate internal inspection and cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a small-diameter flexible scope is used to inspect narrow lumens, then the scope can access smaller device lumens, but image quality and visualization adequacy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic selection and switching between multiple scopes with different diameters and pixel densities. The processor can identify which scope is connected and adjust processing parameters accordingly, optimizing the balance between scope diameter and image quality for each specific inspection task.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection system is designed to accommodate multiple scopes with varying characteristics (different diameters, pixel densities, and capabilities). The universal console can process images from any connected scope and adjust its processing algorithms to maintain adequate visualization across different scope types.
2Measurement precision
If manual inspection by trained workers is performed, then inspection accuracy may improve, but labor intensity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The processor analyzes images captured by the scope and provides feedback to the operator, highlighting potential contaminants or defects. This automated analysis reduces the burden on manual inspectors while maintaining high detection accuracy, allowing faster processing without sacrificing quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual visual inspection with automated image processing and analysis algorithms. The processor automatically detects contaminants, cracks, and deformities in the captured images, reducing dependence on highly trained manual inspectors while increasing inspection speed and consistency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple scopes with different characteristics are supported, then system versatility improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
When a scope is connected to the console, the system automatically identifies the scope type and its characteristics (diameter, pixel density, capabilities). The processor self-configures to work with the connected scope without requiring manual setup, reducing the complexity burden on the user while maintaining multi-scope versatility.
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 effectively inspects and disinfects the internal lumens of medical devices, reducing labor intensity and improving the efficacy of cleaning processes by using interchangeable scopes with different diameters and pixel sizes, and integrated light sources for illumination and disinfection.
Implementation Method 1
an optical fiber bundle
Implementation Method 2
a CMOS image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device inspection system includes a console and a flexible imaging scope. The console includes a housing, a video processor, a light source, a visual display on the housing, and an outlet with two ports. The flexible imaging scope is removably connected to the console via the outlet and includes a CMOS image sensor, an optical fiber bundle, and a connector assembly mounted to a proximal end of the imaging scope. The connector assembly includes an electrical image connector and a light source connector, which plug into the two ports of the outlet to connect the flexible imaging scope to the console.