Endoscope reprocessor connectivity apparatus and method
US7901349B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 2, 2005 |
| Grant date | Mar 8, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 28, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/701
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and method for detecting connectivity in a channel in an endoscope undergoing reprocessing using an automatic reprocessor, the apparatus including a source of pressurized fluid which may be a gas alone or gas and liquid and a back pressure detector connected to the channel or channels of interest in the endoscope, the method including providing a source of pressurized fluid, directing the pressurized fluid to a channel in an endoscope, monitoring the time for the back pressure in the pressurized fluid to decay to a predetermined level; and determining whether the channel is connected and open or disconnected by comparing the decay time of the actual back pressure to one or more predetermined values corresponding to the specific channel or channels and model of endoscope undergoing reprocessing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.