Propeller-Driven Endoscope Brush for Residue-Free Channel Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning techniques for endoscope working channels often result in insufficient cleaning, particularly due to inadequate mechanical action and residual debris left behind.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a propeller-driven brush that combines rotational and linear motion, utilizing a propeller to rotate bristles within the endoscope channel, and a single-use brush head design with reusable components to enhance cleaning efficacy and reduce waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing cleaning techniques are used, then the cleaning process is simple, but the cleaning effectiveness is insufficient with residual debris left behind
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device incorporates a propeller that converts linear motion into rotational motion of the bristles, transforming a static brush into a dynamic cleaning system. The bristles rotate as the device is pushed through the channel, providing enhanced mechanical action that improves cleaning effectiveness without requiring complex mechanical drive mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating bristles create periodic contact with the channel walls, delivering repeated cleaning cycles as the device advances. This periodic mechanical action ensures thorough removal of debris and biofilm that static brushes cannot achieve
2Reliability
If reusable cleaning devices are used, then cost is reduced, but cleaning effectiveness may deteriorate due to wear and residue
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is divided into reusable and disposable segments. The handle, pull cord, and propeller mechanism are reusable, while the brush head with bristles is disposable. This segmentation allows the complex mechanical components to be retained and reused, while only the consumable bristle element is discarded, reducing material waste while maintaining cleaning effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The brush head is designed as a disposable component that is replaced after each use. This ensures consistent cleaning performance without the degradation issues of reusable bristles, while the overall cost is managed by reusing the more expensive mechanical components
3Reliability
If aggressive mechanical cleaning is used, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but damage to the endoscope channel may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The bristles are designed with specific material properties and dimensional characteristics suited for the task. The propeller geometry and bristle arrangement are optimized to concentrate cleaning action on the channel walls while controlling the force applied, achieving effective cleaning without excessive mechanical stress that could damage the delicate endoscope channel
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 propeller-driven brush provides enhanced mechanical action for thorough cleaning, while the single-use design reduces material waste and maintains cleaning effectiveness with minimal residue left in the endoscope channel.
Implementation Method 1
the propeller is configured such that, when a force is applied in a proximal direction in a presence of a fluid, the propeller rotates, thereby causing the rod and the bristles to rotate
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed solutions relate to cleaning devices for medical devices. For example, a cleaning device for cleaning a channel of a medical device includes a rod. The cleaning device further includes a connector at a proximal end of the rod. The cleaning device further includes a flexible cleaner positioned around the rod. The cleaning device further includes a ferrule configured to removably connect with the connector. The cleaning device further includes a pull member connected to the ferrule.