Multi-Source Dispenser for Medical Device Reprocessing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical device reprocessing systems face challenges in effectively cleaning and disinfecting the complex channels of endoscopes due to the difficulty in preventing chemical exposure damage to system components, leading to wear and the need for frequent service or replacement.
Innovation Solution
A reprocessing system with a modular design that uses a single pump and measuring device to manage multiple fluids and chemicals, minimizing exposure time and using check and two-way valves to control fluid flow, along with a control system for precise control of reprocessing cycles, including detergent washing, rinsing, disinfection, and purging, to ensure thorough cleaning and extend component lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate pumps and measuring devices are used to handle different fluids, then each fluid can be precisely controlled, but the system complexity increases and component wear accelerates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate pumps and measuring devices into a single multi-source dispenser unit that can handle multiple different fluids (detergent, rinse solution, disinfectant, lubricant) through a unified pump and flow measurement system. This integration reduces the number of components while maintaining the ability to precisely control each fluid type through electronic switching and sequencing.
Solution Approach 2:
The single pump and measuring device are designed to be multi-functional, capable of handling different fluid types (detergent, rinse solution, disinfectant, lubricant) by switching between multiple fluid sources. The system uses a universal pump design that can process various fluids while a control system manages the switching between different fluid delivery modes.
2Reliability
If components are exposed to multiple chemicals and fluids, then thorough cleaning and disinfection is achieved, but component wear increases and service life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system minimizes the exposure time of pump and valve components to harsh chemicals by using quick-opening and quick-closing valve mechanisms. The pump and measuring devices are exposed to chemicals only during brief dispensing intervals rather than continuously, reducing cumulative chemical damage and extending component lifespan while maintaining cleaning effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable or easily replaceable seals, gaskets, and contact components that are specifically designed to withstand chemical exposure for the duration of their service life. These sacrificial components protect the main pump body and electronics from chemical damage, allowing the system to maintain reliability while extending the life of critical components.
3Device complexity
If a single pump handles multiple fluids, then system complexity is reduced, but the difficulty of preventing chemical damage to the pump increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary flushing mechanism where inert fluid (such as water or air) is used to flush the pump interior between dispensing different chemical fluids. This intermediary substance prevents direct contact between incompatible chemicals and reduces chemical residue buildup on pump surfaces, minimizing chemical damage while allowing a single pump to handle multiple fluid types.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump operating parameters (flow rate, pressure, rotation speed) are dynamically adjusted based on the specific fluid being dispensed. The control system modifies pump parameters to optimize performance for each fluid type while minimizing stress on pump components. This parameter adaptation reduces wear and chemical damage by ensuring the pump operates within safe limits for each specific chemical environment.
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 ensures thorough cleaning and disinfection of endoscope channels while reducing wear on components, prolonging their service life and minimizing the need for frequent maintenance or replacement.
Implementation Method 1
A pump is in fluid communication with a plurality of fluid sources... A first plurality of valves are in fluid communication the pump and also in fluid communication with one of the plurality of fluid sources
Implementation Method 2
A measuring device is coupled with the port... The pump is configured to deliver the respective fluid from the fluid source to the port through the measuring device
Implementation Method 3
A control module is operable to open the first plurality of valves, close the first plurality of valves... operable to open a select one of the first plurality of valves to deliver the respective fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method reprocesses an internal channel of a medical device. The reprocessing system includes one or more valves, two or more fluid sources with each associated with a respective one of the valves, a pump that is able to dispense fluid from each of the two or more fluid sources, and a measuring device that measures a parameter of the fluid flow, where the parameter may be a fluid flow volume or a fluid flow time. The method includes using the pump and measuring device to dispense two or more fluids in sequence such that the pump and measuring device is shared among the two or more fluids.