Leak detection method for endoscopes
US6408682B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 21, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jun 25, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 21, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01M3/2838
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
In automated reprocessing system (B), a leak detection system (10) evaluates the integrity of an endoscope (A), having an internal passage (66). The leak detection system includes an interior chamber (42) which is connected to the internal passage by quick connects (18, 20). A source of compressed air (22) pressurizes the chamber and internal passage to a suitable test pressure. A pressure sensor (50) and a temperature sensor (54) detect the pressure and temperature within the chamber and hence in the endoscope passage. Pressure and temperature measurements made over time are used to determine changes in the gas volume, indicative of whether leaks are present in the endoscope. If the endoscope is determined to be free of leaks, the endoscope is washed and microbially decontaminated in the reprocessing system. During the decontamination process, the pressure within the internal passage is maintained in a range at which ingress of fluid is avoided yet the endoscope is not subjected to a potentially damaging pressure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.