Laser Light-Guide Cleaning for Motion-Controlled Canal Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical instruments with small, circumferentially closed canals, such as endoscopes and surgical instruments, face challenges in effective cleaning due to contamination risks from body fluids, with conventional methods lacking direct verification of cleaning success and potential damage to the canals.
Innovation Solution
A non-therapeutic method using a light guide with a laser beam for cleaning, monitored by motion sensors to ensure the light guide is within the canal, and adjusting laser radiation based on movement thresholds, combined with laser-induced hydrodynamic fluid movement to remove material, and redundant verification methods to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cleaning methods (soaking and flushing) are used, then the cleaning process is simple, but there is no direct verification of cleaning success and contamination risks remain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by using sensors (optical, acoustic, or electrical) to detect the presence of cleaning solution and debris within the canal, providing real-time information about cleaning effectiveness. This allows verification of cleaning success without requiring complex additional equipment, as the feedback is integrated into the existing cleaning system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical cleaning verification methods with optical, acoustic, or electrical detection systems. These sensing mechanisms can detect cleaning status and debris removal more reliably than mechanical inspection, improving verification capability while maintaining system simplicity through non-contact or minimal-contact detection.
2Productivity
If laser beam is used for cleaning, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but risk of canal damage and laser safety hazards increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses motion sensors to continuously monitor the position and movement of the light guide within the canal. When the sensor detects that the light guide is stationary or movement is below a threshold value, it triggers a warning signal or automatically reduces/turns off the laser radiation, preventing canal damage from prolonged laser exposure. This feedback mechanism ensures cleaning effectiveness while mitigating harmful effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements safety measures beforehand by requiring verification that the light guide is properly positioned within the canal before laser radiation is activated. The motion monitoring system is prepared in advance to detect improper positioning and prevent laser activation, cushioning against potential damage before it can occur.
3Reliability
If motion monitoring and verification systems are added, then safety and accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical, acoustic, or electrical sensors instead of complex mechanical monitoring systems to detect light guide position and movement. These sensing technologies provide reliable position verification and motion detection with simpler device architecture, avoiding the need for elaborate mechanical feedback mechanisms while maintaining high reliability.
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
Ensures safe and effective cleaning of canals without damage, reducing contamination risks and enabling automated, error-free procedures.
Implementation Method 1
laser-induced hydrodynamic fluid movement to remove material
Implementation Method 2
a light guide conducting a laser beam
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method and an arrangement for the cleaning of a circumferentially closed canal by means of a light guide conducting a laser beam. The the movement of the light guide within the canal is monitored and that if there is no movement or the movement is below a threshold value then a signal is triggered and/or the laser radiation is turned off or its output is reduced.