Fluid Distributor with Movable Switching Body for Surgical Instrument Reprocessing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reprocessing devices for surgical instruments, such as endoscopes, face challenges in efficiently and flexibly distributing reprocessing fluids to multiple channels, which affects the effectiveness of cleaning and disinfection processes.
Innovation Solution
A fluid distributor with a movable fluid switching body that can be positioned in various ways within the fluid routing body, allowing for simultaneous or individual connection of multiple channels to a single supply line, enabling flexible and efficient fluid distribution during reprocessing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If stop valves, Y-hose connecting pieces or directional valves are used to supply fluids to channels, then fluid distribution is possible, but the device complexity increases and time loss occurs due to time-consuming connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single integrated fluid distributor body with a movable fluid switching body. Instead of using separate stop valves, Y-hose connecting pieces, and directional valves, the invention integrates all fluid switching capabilities into one component that can redirect fluid flow to multiple channels through the movement of a single switching body.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid distributor is designed as a universal component that can supply fluid to any combination of channels by moving the fluid switching body to different positions. The single distributor body with multiple outlets and a movable switching body provides multi-functional capability, replacing the need for multiple specialized valves and connecting pieces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If stop valves, Y-hose connecting pieces or directional valves are used to supply fluids to channels, then fluid distribution is possible, but loss of time occurs due to time-consuming connections
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distributor is pre-configured with all necessary fluid pathways and connections within the single body structure. The movable fluid switching body can be positioned in advance to prepare for fluid distribution to specific channels, eliminating the need for time-consuming connections of separate valves and hose pieces during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging multiple valve functions into one integrated distributor, the patent eliminates the sequential operation and connection time required for separate valves and Y-hose pieces. The unified structure allows simultaneous or rapid sequential fluid distribution to multiple channels without the time loss associated with assembling and connecting multiple separate components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If channels are connected individually and sequentially to lines of the rinsing circuit, then fluid distribution is possible, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming connections
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distributor employs a movable fluid switching body that can dynamically redirect fluid flow to different channels by moving to various positions. This dynamic mechanism allows rapid switching between channels without the need for physical reconnection, significantly improving productivity compared to static individual connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The single fluid distributor body serves as a universal connection point for all channels, allowing any channel to be connected to the rinsing circuit through the movable switching body. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple fixed connection lines, enabling faster channel access and improving overall reprocessing productivity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a movable fluid switching body is used to enable flexible fluid distribution, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid switching body is designed as a separate movable component within the distributor body, allowing independent movement to control fluid flow to different channels. This segmentation of the switching mechanism from the fixed distributor body provides flexibility while keeping the overall device structure manageable and not excessively complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the fluid switching functionality into a single integrated movable body rather than using multiple separate valves. This consolidation provides the adaptability of multiple valves while reducing the overall device complexity by eliminating redundant components and simplifying the control structure.
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 fluid distributor allows for simultaneous or selective fluid supply to multiple channels, enhancing the efficiency of reprocessing by improving the sanitary results and simplifying the monitoring of cleaning and disinfection processes.
Implementation Method 1
the movable fluid switching body is configured such that, in a first position of the fluid switching body in the fluid routing body, a plurality of or all connections of the fluid routing body can be fluidically connected to the supply line of the fluid switching body simultaneously, so that fluid can be supplied or is supplied to the plurality of or all connections of the fluid routing body simultaneously via the one supply line of the fluid switching body
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid distributor for use with a reprocessing device for reprocessing a surgical instrument having a plurality of channels, including: a routing body having a plurality of connections corresponding to the channels; and a switching body movably disposed in the routing body, the switching body having an interior supply line connected to a fluid reservoir for selectively providing a fluid to one or more of the connections. The switching body can be configured such that, in a first position of the switching body relative to the routing body, the connections of the routing body are each in fluid communication with the supply line of the switching body and in at least a second position of the switching body relative to the fluid routing body less than all of the connections of the routing body are in fluid communication with the supply line of the switching body.