Waterproof Borescope for Surgical Lumen Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical instrument lumen cleaning processes are inefficient due to the inability to visually inspect internal surfaces during cleaning, leading to incomplete removal of debris and the risk of bristle detachment within the lumen, with existing inspection tools being unsuitable for use in liquid environments and unable to withstand sterilization processes.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof surgical instrument lumen inspection system featuring a borescope assembly with a CMOS image sensor, illumination, and a display screen, allowing real-time visualization of cleaning progress and equipped with a cleaning implement, which can be used during cleaning and subsequently sterilized.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional brush cleaning is used to clean surgical instrument lumens, then cleaning capability is improved, but the risk of bristle detachment and inability to visually evaluate cleanliness worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical brush cleaning system with a waterproof camera inspection system that uses optical imaging to visualize the lumen interior. This substitution eliminates the mechanical contact that causes bristle detachment while providing visual feedback to assess cleaning quality. The camera system captures images of the lumen surface, allowing operators to evaluate cleanliness without physical contact.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional brush cleaning is used to clean surgical instrument lumens, then cleaning capability is improved, but the ability to visually evaluate cleanliness worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by capturing images with the waterproof camera and displaying them on a screen. This allows the operator to visually evaluate the cleaning quality in real-time or after cleaning, providing information feedback that was previously unavailable. The system transforms the hidden lumen interior into visible information that can be assessed for cleanliness.
3Measurement precision
If conventional CMOS borescope systems are used for inspection, then inspection capability is improved, but the ability to withstand sterilization and liquid environments worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the inspection system by using a waterproof camera design that can withstand liquid environments and sterilization processes. The camera is specifically engineered with waterproof housing and sealed connections, allowing it to function in conditions that would damage conventional CMOS borescope systems. This parameter change enables the system to maintain inspection capability while gaining sterilization resistance.
4Measurement precision
If inspection is performed after cleaning with borescope systems, then inspection capability is improved, but the timing flexibility and ability to inspect during cleaning worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary inspection action by allowing the waterproof camera to be used during the cleaning process itself, rather than only after cleaning is complete. The operator can inspect the lumen interior in real-time during cleaning, identify areas that need additional attention, and adjust cleaning actions immediately. This eliminates the time delay associated with post-cleaning inspection and allows for more efficient cleaning workflows.
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
Enables effective real-time inspection and cleaning of surgical instrument lumens during the process, reducing the risk of incomplete cleaning and bristle detachment, while being compatible with liquid environments and sterilization procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The borescope assembly includes a borescope, an image sensor and a connector assembly. Upon connection, signals generated by the image sensor are delivered to the image processor.
Implementation Method 2
An illumination source is optionally carried by the housing; with these and relative embodiments, the illumination source is selectively connected to the borescope assembly, providing desired light during borescope operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An inspection system for inspecting a surgical instrument lumen at a cleaning station. The system includes a waterproof housing and a waterproof borescope assembly. The housing carries an image processor electronically connected to a display screen, and provides an imaging port. The borescope assembly includes a borescope, an image sensor and a connector assembly. The connector assembly is configured to selectively connect with the imaging port. When connected, signals from the image sensor are delivered to the image processor. A cleaning implement (e.g., wipe) is optionally provided with the borescope. During a cleaning operation, the inspection system is located in close proximity to cleaning liquid, affording the operator the ability to inspect lumen(s) of the surgical instrument throughout the cleaning operation without fear of damaging the inspection system. The borescope assembly can be disconnected from the housing and repeatedly sterilized or disinfected.