JP2009072437A - Water leakage detection method of endoscope - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a water leakage detection method capable of detecting the water leakage of an endoscope without performing the removal processing of air by water supply to a channel. <P>SOLUTION: A test liquid for water leakage detection containing a surfactant is applied to the endoscope, pressurization is performed from a pressurizing terminal for the water leakage detection, and presence/no presence of production of air bubbles is viewed to solve the problem. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to endoscope leakage detection for examining leakage of an endoscope used for medical purposes, and more particularly to an endoscope leakage detection method capable of preventing an endoscope failure due to leakage detection.

As is well known, an endoscope is inserted into a living body such as a human body and used for diagnosis and treatment of organs, collection of specimens, and the like.
As is well known, an endoscope basically includes an insertion part to be inserted into a human body, an operation part for operating the endoscope such as an operation of the insertion part, air supply and water supply, an air supply source and a suction pump. And the like (LG (Light Guide) connector) and a universal cord (LG soft part) that connects the connector, the operation part, and the insertion part.

An endoscope is used repeatedly in common with a plurality of patients. Therefore, after use, it is necessary to perform thorough hygiene management and thoroughly clean each time it is used in order to completely prevent infection of bacteria through the endoscope.
For this reason, various endoscope cleaning machines for automatically cleaning an endoscope have been put into practical use.

  In an endoscope cleaning machine, the endoscope is generally cleaned by a cleaning process in which the endoscope is cleaned with a cleaning liquid or a rinse with water, a disinfecting process in which the endoscope is disinfected with a disinfecting liquid, and The rinsing process is performed by rinsing the endoscope with tap water or the like to remove the disinfectant solution or the like.

In the endoscope cleaning machine, each processing liquid (cleaning liquid, disinfecting liquid, water for rinsing) is introduced into the cleaning tank in a state where the endoscope is accommodated in the cleaning tank, and the processing liquid is supplied to the predetermined tank including the cleaning tank. By circulating in the path (in some cases, only immersing may be performed in the disinfection process), the outside of the endoscope is cleaned.
Further, as is well known, an endoscope sprays water for cleaning a forceps channel for inserting a forceps to collect a specimen from an examination site, an examination site or an insertion portion tip, or an examination site. There are various channels (endoscopic channels) such as an air / water supply channel for introducing air for expansion of the air and a suction channel for performing suction.
Therefore, in the cleaning of the endoscope, in each process, the cleaning liquid and the disinfecting liquid are flowed not only to the outside of the endoscope but also to each channel to perform cleaning and disinfection.

In order to perform such cleaning, the entire endoscope has an airtight structure.
However, since the insertion portion (particularly the angle portion (curved portion) near the tip) is vigorously moved and bent / bent, damage is likely to proceed and a hole may be formed. In addition, slack may occur in the connecting portion of the tube such as a channel while repeatedly moving and bending / bending. Furthermore, the endoscope may be damaged due to an erroneous operation such as accidentally damaging the forceps channel with forceps during inspection.

As described above, when the endoscope is used in a state where the endoscope is damaged and the airtightness is insufficient, body fluid or water for washing enters the endoscope during use, and the CCD This may cause endoscope failure such as sensor failure or optical fiber contamination.
In addition, as described above, the endoscope is cleaned by immersing the endoscope in the processing liquid and flowing the processing liquid into the channel, so that the endoscope is damaged and airtightness is insufficient. If so, a processing liquid such as a cleaning liquid may enter the endoscope even during cleaning, causing a similar failure of the endoscope.

  In order to solve such problems, the endoscope performs so-called water leakage detection, in which the endoscope is inspected for leakage due to channel damage, damage to the outer skin of the insertion portion, loosening of the joints of each portion, etc. It is. Further, many endoscope cleaning machines have a function of detecting this water leakage.

As is well known, the insertion portion of the endoscope and the universal cord have a so-called double structure in which a tube serving as a forceps channel or an air / water feeding channel is passed through a tube (tube) serving as an outer skin.
For leak detection, with the endoscope immersed in water, air is introduced into the space between the tube serving as the outer skin and the tube serving as the channel, etc., from a predetermined pressure terminal (water leak detection mouthpiece). This is done by applying pressure. If the channel is damaged by this pressurization, air will enter the channel and air bubbles will be generated from the tip of the insertion part (forceps port, air supply / water supply port), etc., and the outer tube will be damaged. In such a case, since bubbles are generated from the damaged portion of the tube, leakage in the endoscope can be detected by visually observing the bubbles.

Here, if such water leakage detection is performed while air is present in the channel, even if the channel is not damaged, the air originally present in the channel becomes bubbles from the tip of the insertion portion. It is often discharged.
For this reason, as shown in Patent Document 1, water leakage detection is usually performed after removing air in the channels by supplying water into all channels in advance and filling with water.

Japanese Patent No. 2638735

  However, if water leakage is detected when the channel is damaged and the airtightness is not sufficiently maintained, water will be leaked from the channel into the endoscope due to water supply to remove air in the channel, leading to the distal end of the insertion section. This may damage the CCD sensor, the substrate that performs A / D conversion, and the like, which may cause a failure of the endoscope.

  An object of the present invention is to solve the problems of the prior art described above, and it is possible to prevent endoscope failure due to endoscope leakage detection and to perform leakage detection safely. It is to provide a detection method.

  To achieve the above object, the endoscope water leakage detection method of the present invention applies a water leakage detection test solution containing a surfactant to an endoscope, and introduces a gas from a pressure detection terminal for water leakage detection. Thus, there is provided a method for detecting leakage of an endoscope, wherein the inside of the endoscope is pressurized and leakage of the endoscope is detected based on whether or not bubbles are formed by the test liquid.

  In such an endoscope leakage detection method of the present invention, it is preferable that the inspection solution for leakage detection is prepared by preparing a cleaning agent for endoscope cleaning, and a surfactant is used. In the cleaning process using the cleaning liquid, the cleaning process using the cleaning liquid, the disinfection process using the disinfecting liquid, and the rinsing process using the rinsing liquid are used in the cleaning process. A test solution having a higher concentration than the cleaning solution is prepared, and this test solution is applied to the endoscope either before the cleaning step, during the cleaning step, or after any step is completed. In this case, it is preferable to detect leakage of the endoscope. In this case, the detection of leakage of the endoscope is performed by a cleaning process using a cleaning liquid prepared using a cleaning agent containing a surfactant, a disinfecting liquid. A disinfection process using and a rinse solution Preferably carried out by the endoscope washer performing have rinsing step.

According to the endoscope leakage detection method of the present invention having the above-described configuration, a test solution containing a surfactant, preferably a cleaning agent for endoscope cleaning, is used without immersing the endoscope in water. The prepared inspection liquid is applied to an endoscope, and water leakage is detected by introducing air from a pressure terminal for detecting water leakage and pressurizing.
That is, according to the method of the present invention, for example, if an endoscope channel such as a forceps channel, an air / water supply channel, or a suction channel is damaged, air leaks into the channel from the damaged portion, At the tip of the mirror (forceps port, air supply / water supply port, etc.), if the test solution is pressurized and bubbles are formed (soap bubbles are formed), and the outer skin of the endoscope is damaged, Since air leaks and the test solution is pressurized to generate bubbles, the leakage of the endoscope can be detected.
According to the present invention as described above, bubbles are formed by the test liquid containing the surfactant and water leakage is detected, so there is no need to feed water into the channel and remove the air. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to suitably prevent the endoscope from being broken due to damage to the CCD sensor caused by the water supply into the channel in the case of leakage detection, and to safely detect the leakage of the endoscope. .

  Hereinafter, an endoscope leakage detection method according to the present invention will be described in detail based on a preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an example of an endoscope capable of implementing the endoscope leakage detection method of the present invention.
An endoscope 10 shown in FIG. 1 is inserted into an examination site such as a body cavity (gastrointestinal tract, otolaryngology, etc.), and is used to observe the examination site, take a photograph or a movie, collect a tissue, and the like. Endoscope. The endoscope 10 is a so-called electronic scope type endoscope in which an image of an examination site is taken (taken) using a CCD sensor 60, and an examination site is observed and a moving image or a still image is taken. Like the endoscope, the insertion portion 12, the operation portion 14, the connector 16, and the universal cord 18 are configured.

In the water leakage detection method of the present invention, the insertion portion 12 and the universal cord 18 are inserted through a tube (tube) such as a forceps channel or an air / water supply channel into an outer skin. And a pressurizing terminal (pressurizing cap (connector)) for introducing and pressurizing air into the space inside the endoscope for water leakage detection. Basically, it can be used for all endoscopes.
Therefore, in addition to the electronic scope of the illustrated example, it may be a so-called fiberscope type endoscope in which an inspection site is directly visually observed using an objective lens, an optical fiber, an eyepiece lens, etc. Also, there are no particular limitations on medical and industrial uses.

  The insertion part 12 is a long part to be inserted into an examination part such as a body cavity. The tip part 22 at the tip (tip on the insertion side = the opposite end to the operation part 14), the angle part 24, and the flexible part 26 And have.

FIG. 2 conceptually shows the tip 22.
In the endoscope of the illustrated example, a CCD sensor 60 for imaging an examination site is arranged at the distal end portion 22 in the same manner as a known endoscope, and an optical system for imaging the examination site by the CCD sensor 60. (Imaging) lens 62 and a prism 64 for making the image (light) incident on the lens 62 incident on the imaging surface of the CCD sensor 60 are provided. The output signal of the CCD sensor 60 is subjected to predetermined processing such as A / D conversion by the processing substrate 68 and is output. The output signal lines from the processing board 68 are combined into one, and the data cable 70 is inserted through the angle portion 24 and the flexible portion 26, through the operation portion 14 to the universal cord 18 to the connector 16, and to the video connector 56. Is done.

  Further, the distal end portion 22 is provided with an air supply / water supply port 72 for supplying air or water to the examination site, a forceps port 74 for inserting a forceps for collecting tissue into the examination site, and the like. Furthermore, a light guide 76 (its light exit end) that is configured by an optical fiber or the like for illuminating the examination site is also provided.

The angle portion (curved portion) 24 is a region that is bent up and down and left and right (four directions orthogonal) by the operation of the operation portion 14 in order to insert the distal end portion 22 into the target position or to position the tip portion 22 at the target position. In the endoscope 10 of the illustrated example, the angle portion 24 has a configuration in which a large number of circular rings are connected in the same manner as the angle portion of a known endoscope, and the angle portion is curved in this ring. Wires (angle wires) are connected.
The angle portion 24 is bent by an operation of an LR knob 36 and a UD knob 38 of the operation unit 14 described later.

The flexible portion 26 is a portion that connects the distal end portion 22 and the angle portion 24 and the operation portion 14, and is a long portion having sufficient flexibility for insertion into the examination portion.
The flexible portion 26 (and also the angle portion 24) is a conduit connected to a forceps channel (forceps tube) 78, which is a conduit connected to a forceps port 74 for inserting forceps, and an air supply / water supply port 72. An air / water supply channel (air / water supply tube) 80, a data cable 70, a light guide 76, a wire for bending the angle portion 24, and the like are accommodated / inserted.

The operation unit 14 is a part that operates the endoscope 10.
As with a normal endoscope, the operation unit 14 is connected to the forceps channel 78 and is inserted into the forceps port 28 for inserting forceps, and the forceps port 74 is used for suction from the forceps port 74 of the distal end portion 22. The air supply / water supply button 32 and the like for supplying air and water from the air supply / water supply port 72 of the distal end portion 22 to the examination site and the like via the suction button 30 and the air supply / water supply channel 80 are arranged. The suction button 30 and the air / water supply button 32 are configured to be connectable to an air / water supply port 128 and a suction port 130 of the endoscope cleaning machine 200 described later by a known method.
In addition, the endoscope 10 which is an electronic scope is provided with various switches for observing / photographing images with the CCD sensor 60, such as a zoom switch, a still image photographing switch, and a moving image photographing switch. It has been.

  Further, the operation unit 14 includes an LR knob (left / right knob) 36 that bends the angle part 24 leftward and rightward, and a UD knob (up / down) that bends the angle part 24 upward and downward. (Knob) 36 is arranged. In the endoscope 10, like the various known endoscopes, the LR knob 36 and the UD knob 36 are rotated to pull the wire connected to the angle portion 24 and pull the angle portion 24. As a result, the angle portion 24 is bent in the vertical and horizontal directions or in the combined vertical and horizontal directions. The operation unit 14 is also provided with a fixing knob 40 for fixing the LR knob 36 and a fixing lever for fixing the UD knob 36.

The connector (LG (Light Guide) connector) 16 is a part for connecting the endoscope 10 with water supply means, air supply means, suction means, and the like in a facility that uses the endoscope. A water supply connector 48 for connecting to the facility water supply (water supply) means, a ventilation connector 46 for connecting to the air supply means, a suction connector 50 for connecting to the suction means, etc. are arranged (see FIG. 3). ). Further, the connector 16 has an LG bar 52 for connecting a light guide 76 for illuminating the examination site and an illumination light source, an S terminal (not shown) for connecting an S cord when an electronic knife is used, and the like. Is provided.
Further, the connector 16 is connected to an air supply means (air supply line (pipe pipe)) for detecting leakage of the endoscope. 54 is provided.
As described above, since the endoscope 10 is an electronic scope, a video connector 56 for connecting a video processor, a monitor, and the like to the endoscope 10 is further connected to the connector 16. As described above, the data cable 70 that transmits the image captured by the CCD sensor is inserted from the insertion unit 12 through the operation unit 14 to the universal cord 18 and is connected to the video connector 56 through the connector 16.

The universal cord (LG soft part) 18 is a part for connecting the connector 16 and the operation part 14.
The universal cord 18 accommodates a water supply channel 84 connected to the water supply connector 48, an air supply channel 82 connected to the ventilation connector 46, a suction channel 86 connected to the suction connector 50, a light guide 76, a data cable 70, and the like. / Is inserted.

  FIG. 3 schematically shows the internal structure of the insertion portion 12 (soft portion 26), the operation portion 14, the connector 16, and the universal cord 18.

As described above, the insertion portion 12 and the universal cord 18 have a double tube-like structure.
Specifically, a forceps channel 78, an air / water supply channel 80, a data cable 70, and the like are inserted into the tube 12a serving as an outer skin of the insertion portion 12. Further, a water supply channel 84, an air supply channel 82, a suction channel 86, a data cable 70, and the like are inserted into the tube 18a that is the outer skin of the universal cord 18.

In addition, the operation unit 14 and the connector 16 also have a structure having a space communicating with the inside of the tube 12a of the insertion unit 12 and the tube 18a of the universal cord in the housing constituting them. Etc. are accommodated / inserted.
In the illustrated example of the endoscope 10, as shown in FIG. 3, the suction channel 86 inserted through the universal cord 18 is inserted through the insertion unit 12 (operation unit 14) via the suction button 30. Connect to forceps channel 78. The water supply channel 84 and the air supply channel 82 inserted through the universal cord 18 are connected to the air supply / water supply channel 80 inserted through the insertion unit 12 (operation unit 14) via the air supply / water supply button 32.

  Here, in the endoscope 10, in addition to the various channels (endoscopic channels) and the data cable 70 shown in FIG. 3, the light guide 76 and the angle portion 24 are curved as described above. These wires are accommodated / inserted, but are omitted in FIG. 3 for easy understanding of the operation of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3, the pressurizing terminal 54 for detecting leakage of the endoscope communicates with a space in the connector 16 (a space in a housing constituting the connector 16), and air is introduced into this space. Introduce.
As described above, the space in the connector 16, the tube 12 a of the insertion portion 12, the tube 18 a of the universal cord 18, and the space in the operation portion 14 communicate with each other. That is, the internal space of the endoscope 10 communicates.

Accordingly, by introducing air from the pressurizing terminal 54 and pressurizing, the introduced air flows into the internal space of the endoscope 10 [in the connector 16, in the insertion portion 12 (tube 12a), the universal cord 18 (tube 18a). ) And the inside of the operation unit 14] and each channel, the data cable 70, etc. are introduced into the space, and each channel is added from the outside, and the insertion unit 12, the universal cord 18 and the like are added from the inside. Press.
By this pressurization, leakage of the endoscope 10 is detected.

As described above, the endoscope 10 has an airtight structure (liquid tight structure) as a whole in order to clean the outside and the channel each time it is used. Accordingly, the insertion section 12, the operation section 14, the universal cord 18, and the connector 16 are connected to each other in an airtight manner, and a channel or the like inserted therein is also connected in an airtight manner.
However, since the insertion portion 12 is vigorously movable and curved / bent, damage is likely to proceed. In addition, while repeatedly moving and bending / bending, each channel such as the air / water channel inserted through the insertion portion 12 or the universal cord 18 is damaged due to wear or deterioration, and the connection portion is slackened. There is also a case. In addition, the endoscope may be damaged by an erroneous operation such as accidentally damaging the forceps channel with forceps. Further, there are cases where the connection portions of the respective portions such as the connection portion between the insertion portion 12 and the operation portion 14 are loosened or the operation means such as a button for operation is loose while the operation is continued.
As described above, when the endoscope is used or cleaned in a state where the airtightness is not sufficient, the cleaning processing liquid or body fluid enters the endoscope, causing the failure of the endoscope 10. Become. In order to eliminate such inconvenience, water leakage detection is performed to inspect the airtightness of the endoscope.

In the water leakage detection method of the present invention, a test solution containing a surfactant is applied to the endoscope 10 (preferably applied to the entire body), air is introduced from the pressure terminal 54, and the interior of the endoscope 10 is detected. Pressure is applied with air introduced between the space and each channel or data cable 70.
By this pressurization, as described above, the channels such as the forceps channel 78 and the air / water supply channel 80 are pressurized from the outside, and the insertion portion 12 and the universal cord 18 (tube serving as the outer skin thereof), the operation portion 14 and the connector. 16 is pressurized from the inside.

Therefore, when the channels such as the forceps channel 78 and the air / water channel 80 are damaged and a hole is formed, or when the channel and each part are loosened or loosened, the airtightness cannot be maintained. Since air enters into the channels due to pressurization, the forceps port 74 and the air / water supply port 72 that communicate with these channels and open at the distal end portion 22 of the insertion portion 12 are communicated with the channels as well. Then, air bubbles (soap bubbles) of the test liquid are formed in the air supply connector 46, the water supply connector 48, the suction connector 50, and the like that are opened by the connector 16, and water leakage can be detected.
In addition, when the insertion portion 12 and the universal cord 18 (the operation portion 14 and the connector 16) are damaged and a hole is formed, air leaks from the inside to the outside of the endoscope 10 due to pressurization. A bubble of the test solution is formed in the portion, and water leakage can be detected.
Furthermore, when the connection part of each part such as the connection part of the insertion part 12 and the operation part 14 is loosened, or the operation means such as the suction button 30 or the RL knob 36 is loose, and the airtightness cannot be maintained. However, since air leaks out of the endoscope 10 from the inside where the airtightness cannot be maintained due to the pressurization, bubbles of the test liquid are formed in the leaked portion, and water leakage can be detected.

As described above, the conventional water leak detection is performed by supplying water into the endoscope channel to remove air, and then immersing the endoscope in water (or immersing the endoscope in water to air in the channel). The pressure is applied from the pressure terminal, and the bubbles generated in the water are visually observed.
However, in such a conventional water leakage detection method, when the forceps channel or the air / water supply channel is damaged, water is supplied from the damaged portion into the endoscope by water supply for removing air in the channel. As the water enters, the water damages the CCD sensor, the processing substrate, and the like, causing a failure of the endoscope. That is, the detection of water leakage itself may cause an endoscope failure.

On the other hand, since a test liquid containing a surfactant is applied to an endoscope and pressurized to form bubbles and water leakage is detected, there is no need to send water into the channel to remove air.
Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to suitably prevent the endoscope from being broken due to damage to the CCD sensor caused by the water supply into the channel in the case of leakage detection, and to safely detect the leakage of the endoscope. .

In the water leakage detection method of the present invention, the method of applying the test liquid is not particularly limited. If the test liquid can be applied to the entire endoscope 10, a method of immersing the endoscope 10 in the test liquid, a coating means such as a brush Various known liquid application means such as a method of applying the test solution to the endoscope 10 using the above and a method of applying the test solution by spraying can be used.
In the water leakage detection method of the present invention, the test liquid does not necessarily have to be applied to the entire endoscope, and at least the entire insertion portion 12 (including the connection portion between the distal end portion 22 and the operation portion 14), In addition, the test solution may be applied to the entire universal cord 18 (including the operation unit 14 and the connection part with the connector). However, the airtightness of the endoscope is not known from which part, and if there is a part where the airtightness is not maintained even at one place, it may cause a failure when the endoscope 10 is cleaned. The test solution is preferably applied to the entire endoscope.

There are no particular limitations on the inspection liquid, and various liquids can be used as long as they contain a surfactant and do not adversely affect the endoscope 10 (inspection performed after cleaning). For example, a commercially available dishwashing detergent or laundry detergent may be used.
In particular, it is preferable to use a liquid prepared by diluting a cleaning agent for endoscope cleaning to an appropriate concentration as a test liquid for the water leakage detection method of the present invention in terms of safety to the subject.
In particular, an endoscope having a cleaning process for cleaning with a cleaning liquid prepared by diluting the cleaning agent for endoscope cleaning (or further rinsing with water), a disinfection process with a disinfecting liquid, and a rinsing process with water such as tap water. In the mirror cleaning, the leakage detection of the present invention is performed at any timing before, after or during the cleaning process (before rinsing), after the disinfection process (that is, before the rinsing process), or after the rinsing process. preferable. In particular, it is preferable to perform water leakage detection according to the present invention using a test solution prepared by diluting the cleaning agent for endoscope cleaning at a higher concentration than the cleaning solution used in the cleaning step.

In the water leakage detection method of the present invention, the concentration of the test solution is not particularly limited, and the concentration at which bubbles are likely to be generated may be appropriately set according to the surfactant contained therein. According to the examination, the concentration of the surfactant (detergent component) is preferably about 1.5 to 8 wt%, particularly preferably about 2 to 6 wt%.
In general endoscope cleaning, the concentration of the cleaning liquid used for cleaning in the cleaning process is 0.5 to 1.5 wt%, that is, inspection using a cleaning agent for endoscope cleaning is performed. When preparing the liquid, it is preferable that the concentration is higher than that of the cleaning liquid.

Furthermore, in the water leakage detection method of the present invention, the pressure applied in the endoscope 10 is not particularly limited, and may be approximately the same as the pressure applied in water leakage detection performed in a normal endoscope washing machine. .
In addition, according to examination by this inventor, the pressurization pressure in the water leak detection method of this invention becomes like this. Preferably, it is about 100-200 kPa.

In FIG. 4, an example of the endoscope washing machine which implements the water leak detection method of this invention is shown notionally.
4A is a perspective view seen from the front side (side on which an operator performs an operation), and FIG. 4B is a side view.

  The endoscope cleaning machine 200 (hereinafter referred to as the cleaning machine 200) shown in FIG. 4 is a cleaning process in which cleaning with a cleaning agent prepared by diluting a cleaning agent for endoscope cleaning and rinsing with tap water are performed. The endoscope 10 is cleaned by performing a disinfection step with a disinfectant and a rinsing step with tap water.

The cleaning machine 200 has two cleaning tanks 202 (first cleaning tank 202a and second cleaning tank 202b) that house the endoscope 10 and perform cleaning. The cleaning tank 202 places the endoscope 10 on its bottom surface 204 and accommodates the endoscope 10 in the tank.
Moreover, the washing tank 202 has the cover body 206 (206a and 206b). The lid 206 swings around a fulcrum 208 disposed in the vicinity of the end on the back side to open / close the inside of the cleaning tank 202.

  Further, an operation panel 210 for operating the cleaning machine 200 and a start button 212 for instructing start of cleaning of the endoscope 10 are arranged at the upper part on the front side of the cleaning machine 200, and further, at the lower part on the front side. A foot pedal 214 (214a and 214b) for opening / closing the lid 206 is disposed.

  Such a cleaning machine 200 is an apparatus capable of cleaning the endoscope 10 independently and asynchronously in the first cleaning tank 202a and the second cleaning tank 202b, as shown in FIG. It has such a piping system.

As described above, the cleaning machine 200 in the illustrated example includes the two cleaning tanks 202 (the first cleaning tank 202a and the second cleaning tank 202b).
However, the cleaning machine 200 includes a tank for storing a processing liquid for cleaning an endoscope, that is, a cleaning agent tank 100 for storing a cleaning agent and a disinfecting liquid tank 102 for storing a disinfecting solution. There is only one test liquid tank 104 for storing a test solution body (hereinafter referred to as test liquid) for detecting water leakage.
Further, the cleaning agent pump 106 that supplies the cleaning liquid from the cleaning agent tank 100 to the cleaning tank 202, the disinfecting liquid pump 108 that supplies the disinfecting liquid from the disinfecting liquid tank 102 to the cleaning tank 202, and the inspection liquid tank 104 to the cleaning tank 202. There is also only one test liquid pump 110 that supplies the test liquid.
Furthermore, a first air pump 114 for detecting leakage of the endoscope 10, a second air pump 116 for supplying air for discharging the processing liquid into each channel of the endoscope 10, and a drain pump 118. But there is only one. An air filter 120 is provided at the air inlet of the first air pump 114 and the second air pump 116.

That is, the cleaning machine 200 has two cleaning tanks, a first cleaning tank 202a and a second cleaning tank 202b, and can clean two endoscopes 10 simultaneously and asynchronously. The tank for storing the water and the pump for supplying the processing liquid are shared by the two cleaning tanks 202.
In the cleaning machine 200, the first cleaning tank 202a and the second cleaning tank 202b share various pumps and tanks. However, the cleaning in the first cleaning tank 202a, the second cleaning tank 202b, and both the cleaning tanks 202 is independent. And in order to perform asynchronously, as shown in FIG. 5, it has the piping system mutually independent with respect to both the washing tanks 202. As shown in FIG.

In addition, the washing machine 200 of this invention may have a pump, a tank, a piping system, etc. for implementing various processes besides these.
For example, alcohol is introduced into each channel of the endoscope that has been cleaned, an alcohol tank for performing an alcohol flush that promotes drying, an alcohol pump for supplying alcohol, and each port described later for the alcohol You may have piping for connecting to.

The cleaning agent tank 100 stores a cleaning agent that is a stock solution of a cleaning solution for cleaning the endoscope 10 and a test solution for detecting leakage of the endoscope 10. In the cleaning machine 200, the cleaning liquid is prepared by diluting the cleaning agent to a predetermined concentration with tap water, and the inspection liquid is prepared by diluting the cleaning agent to a predetermined concentration higher than the cleaning liquid. .
The disinfectant tank 102 stores a disinfectant obtained by diluting a stock solution of the disinfectant to a predetermined concentration. The disinfectant is repeatedly used until the endoscope is cleaned a predetermined number of times. When the disinfecting liquid is used a predetermined number of times, the disinfecting liquid is completely discarded, and a new disinfecting liquid is prepared / filled in the disinfecting liquid tank 102.
The test liquid tank 104 stores a test liquid for detecting leakage of the endoscope 10. The test solution will be described in detail later.

  Since the first cleaning tank 202a and the second cleaning tank 202b have many parts having the same configuration in the piping system, the following description will be given using the first cleaning tank 202a as a representative example.

In the first cleaning tank 202a (second cleaning tank 202b), a forceps port 126a (126b) for connecting the forceps port 28 (forceps channel 78) of the endoscope 10 and an air / water supply button 32 (air supply) The air supply / water supply port 128a (128b) for connecting the channel 82, the water supply channel 84, and the air supply / water supply channel 80) and the suction port 130a (130b) for connecting the suction button 30 (suction channel 86) are provided. Provided.
In addition, an introduction port for introducing each processing liquid is provided in the first cleaning tank 202a. Specifically, a cleaning liquid port 132a (132b) for introducing the cleaning liquid, a disinfecting liquid port 134a (134b) for introducing the disinfecting liquid, and a water supply port 136a (136b) for introducing tap water are formed. A drain outlet 144 (144b) for draining from the first cleaning tank 202a is also provided.
Further, in the first cleaning tank 202, an air port 138a (138b) connected to the pressurizing terminal 54 serving as an air inlet to the endoscope 10 is also provided in order to detect the water leakage of the present invention.

  The first cleaning tank 202a is provided with a circulation pump 182a (182b) for circulating the processing liquid (cleaning liquid, disinfecting liquid, tap water, etc.) in the tank.

The forceps port 126a is connected to the valves 160a and 162a (152b) via the valve 152a (152b), the air / water supply port 128a is connected via the valve 154a (154b), and the suction port 130a is connected via the valve 156a (156b). 160b and 162b).
The valve 152a, the valve 154a, and the valve 156a are connected in parallel to one pipe, and the valves 160a and 162a are similarly connected in parallel to one pipe.

The valve 160a (160b) is connected to a second air pump 116 for introducing air into each channel of the endoscope 10.
Further, the valve 162a (162b) is connected to a water supply line 164 for supplying tap water to each part of the cleaning machine 200.

The water supply line 164 is connected to a faucet or the like of the water supply, and supplies tap water to the washing machine 200. As shown in FIG. 5, a filter 166 for cleaning the tap water from the upstream side, The pressure reducing valve 168, the first valve 170, and the second valve 172 are configured to prevent excessive pressure from being applied to the piping system in the apparatus.
The pipe from the valve 162a is connected between the first valve 170 and the second valve 172 of the water supply line 164 (hereinafter, between the valve 162a and the first valve 170 and the second valve 172). For convenience, the water supply pipe 163a (163b) is used. This water supply pipe 163a branches off in the middle and is connected to a circulation pump 182a (182b) and a valve 180a (180b) provided in the water supply port 136a of a first cleaning tank 202a (second cleaning tank 202b) described later. .
Further, the second valve 172 is connected to the disinfecting liquid tank 102 and a valve 198a (198b) connected to the discharge port 144a of the first cleaning tank.

On the other hand, the cleaning liquid port 132a is connected to the cleaning agent pump 106 via a valve 176a (176b) and a valve 142. The disinfecting liquid port 134a is connected to the disinfecting liquid pump 108 via a valve 178a (178b).
The water supply port 136a is connected to the water supply pipe 163a (163b) through a valve 180a (180b). In other words, the branch pipe branched from the water supply pipe 163a is connected to the valve 180a, that is, the water supply port 136a.
Further, the test liquid pump 110 is connected between the valve 176a (176b) and the valve 142 via the valve 158.
A circulation pump 182a (182b) is connected to the first cleaning tank 202a (second cleaning tank 202b). The circulation pump 182a supplies the liquid in the first cleaning tank 202a to the branch pipe that branches from the water supply pipe 163a and reaches the valve 180a (that is, the water supply port 136a).

The air port 138a for introducing air for detecting water leakage is connected to a pressure reducing valve 186 connected to the first air pump 114 via a valve 184a (184b).
Further, a pressure gauge 188a (188b) is disposed in the pipe from the air port 138a to the valve 184a. The pressure gauge 188a is preferably a pressure transmitter that outputs a signal to the first air pump 114 when the pressure reaches a predetermined pressure.

The discharge port 144a is a port for discharging the processing liquid from the cleaning tank 202a, and is connected to the drainage pump 118 via the valve 190a (190b). Further, the valve 190 a (190 b) and the drainage pump 118 are branched in the middle and connected to the test liquid tank 104 via the valve 159.
The drain pump 118 sends the liquid in the cleaning tank 202 to a drain line 194 having a valve 192. The water supply line 164 and the drainage line 194 are connected to each other upstream of the filter 166 of the water supply line 164 and upstream of the valve 192 of the drainage line 194 via the bypass valve 196.
Further, the pipe between the discharge port 144a and the valve 190a branches in the middle and is connected to the second valve 172 of the water supply line 164 and the disinfectant tank 102 through the valve 198a (198b).

  In the cleaning machine 200, the endoscope 10 is basically cleaned in the order of cleaning process → disinfection process → rinsing process. In the illustrated example, prior to the cleaning step, leakage detection is performed by the leakage detection method of the present invention as necessary.

Hereinafter, an example of the operation of cleaning the endoscope 10 by the cleaning machine 200 will be described. In the following description, the first cleaning tank 202a is also representative, but the endoscope can also be cleaned in the same manner in the second cleaning tank 202b. Further, in the following description, all the valves are closed except for the valve described as open in the description of each process in each process, even if not specifically described, and other than the pump described as drive, All are stopped.
Further, the operations such as opening / closing of the valve and driving / stopping of the pump are all performed according to an instruction from a control unit of the cleaning machine 200 (not shown).

First, the endoscope 10 is set at a predetermined position in the first cleaning tank 202a by the operator, the air / water supply button 32 of the endoscope 10 is provided in the air / water supply port 128a, and the forceps port 28 is provided in the forceps port 28a. The suction button 30 is connected to the suction port 130a. When water leakage is detected, the pressure terminal 54 of the endoscope 10 is connected to the air port 138a.
In addition, what is necessary is just to perform the connection with each port and the connector (button) of the endoscope 10 by the well-known means currently performed with the endoscope washing machine using a connection pipe, a joint, etc.

  The setting of the endoscope 10 is completed, and an instruction to start cleaning is input by the start button 212. In response to this, the cleaning machine 200 starts cleaning the endoscope 10. Here, in the case where execution of water leakage is instructed according to an instruction input or a preset condition, the cleaning is performed. Prior to the water leak detection.

When water leakage is detected, if there is no test liquid in the test liquid tank 104, the pressure reducing valve 168 and the first valve 170 of the water supply line 164 and the valve 180a connected to the water supply port 136a are opened, A predetermined amount of tap water is introduced into the first cleaning tank 202a from the water supply port 136a through the water supply line 164 through the water supply pipe 163a.
When a predetermined amount of tap water is introduced, the valve 142 and the valve 176a connected to the cleaning liquid port 132a are opened, the cleaning agent pump 106 is driven, and the first cleaning tank 202 passes through the cleaning liquid port 132a from the cleaning agent tank 100. A predetermined amount of cleaning agent is supplied to the first cleaning tank 202a to prepare a test liquid for detecting water leakage, and the endoscope 10 is immersed in the test liquid.
The amount of the tap water and the cleaning agent is such that the endoscope 10 can be completely immersed in the test solution, and the test solution has a surfactant concentration of about 1.5 to 8 wt%, which is higher than the cleaning solution. To do.
The supply of tap water and the supply of cleaning liquid may be performed in parallel. In addition, if necessary, in order to appropriately prepare the test solution, the test solution may be circulated after the tap water and the cleaning agent are supplied in the same manner as the external running water cleaning in the cleaning process described later.

  On the other hand, when the test liquid is present in the test liquid tank 104, the valve 176a connected to the valve 158 and the cleaning liquid port 132a is opened, and the test liquid pump 110 is driven to fully enter the first cleaning tank 202a. A predetermined amount of a test solution that can immerse the entire endoscope 10 is supplied.

After the endoscope 10 is immersed in the test solution in the first cleaning tank 202a, the valve 190a and the valve 159 connected to the drain port 144a are then opened to drain the test solution from the first cleaning tank 202a, and The test liquid is collected in the test liquid tank 104. Thereby, the test liquid is applied to the entire surface of the endoscope 10.
For example, the water supply from the first cleaning tank 202a to the test liquid tank 104 may be performed by gravity drop.
In addition, the test solution is repeatedly used in a predetermined number of leaks. Here, when the test solution is drained after a predetermined number of times of use, the valve 190a and the valve 192 are opened, the drain pump 118 is driven, and the drain line 194 is drained. If necessary, the test liquid in the test liquid tank 104 is supplied to the first cleaning tank 202a and drained in the same manner as described above.

  The number of times the test solution is repeatedly used may be appropriately set according to the main application of the endoscope 10 (the degree of contamination corresponding thereto), the type and size of the endoscope 10, the amount of the test solution, and the like. .

Next, the pressure reducing valve 186 and the valve 184a are opened, and the first air pump 114 is driven. When the value measured by the pressure gauge 188a reaches a predetermined pressure, the driving of the first air pump 114 is stopped. This stop is preferably automatically performed in response to a signal from the pressure gauge 188a to the first air pump 114 according to the pressure measurement result.
When the pressurization is completed, the operator visually observes the endoscope 10. When there is damage or leakage in the endoscope 10, as described above, the distal end portion 22 (forceps port 74 or air / water supply port 72) of the insertion portion 12, the ventilation connector 46, the water supply connector 48, the suction, or the like. Bubbles (soap bubbles) are formed in the outer skin of the connector 50, the insertion portion 12 and the universal cord 18. In this case, water leakage may occur inside the endoscope 10, and at this point, the cleaning of the endoscope 10 is stopped.

If no water leak is confirmed, and if no water leak detection is performed, the cleaning process is started.
In the cleaning process, first, the pressure reducing valve 168 and the first valve 170 of the water supply line 164 and the valve 180a connected to the water supply port 136a are opened, and the water supply port 136a passes through the water supply pipe 163a from the water supply line 164. A predetermined amount of tap water is introduced into the first cleaning tank 202a.
When a predetermined amount of tap water has been introduced, the valve 176a connected to the cleaning liquid port 132a is opened, the cleaning agent pump 106 is driven, and the cleaning agent is supplied from the cleaning agent tank 100 to the cleaning liquid port 132a. A cleaning liquid having a predetermined concentration is prepared in the tank 202a.
The amount of the tap water and the cleaning agent is such that the endoscope 10 can be completely immersed in the test solution, and the concentration of the cleaning solution is about 0.5 to 1.5 wt%, which is lower than the test solution as described above. This is the amount. Moreover, the introduction of tap water and the introduction of the cleaning liquid may be performed in parallel.

When a predetermined amount of cleaning liquid is introduced into the first cleaning tank 202a, the valve 162a is opened, the circulation pump 182 is driven, and, for example, the valve 152a connected to the forceps port 126a and the air / water supply port 128a are connected. The valve 154a and the valve 156a connected to the suction port 130a are sequentially opened for a predetermined time one by one.
Accordingly, the cleaning liquid in the first cleaning tank 202a is circulated through the channel of the endoscope 10, and the channels of the endoscope 10 are sequentially cleaned with the cleaning water (channel cleaning).

When the channel cleaning is completed, the valve 180a corresponding to the water supply port 136a is opened and the circulation pump 182 is driven.
As a result, the cleaning liquid in the first cleaning tank 202a is circulated outside the endoscope 10, and the outside of the endoscope 10 is cleaned with cleaning water (external water cleaning).

When the external running water cleaning is performed for a predetermined time, the valve 190a and the valve 192 are opened, and the drain pump 118 is driven to drain the cleaning liquid in the first cleaning tank 202 (cleaning drain).
When all of the cleaning liquid in the first cleaning tank 202 is drained, the valve 190a and the valve 192 remain open, and the valve 160a is opened to drive the second air pump 116 and to connect to the forceps port 126a. 152a, the valve 154a connected to the air / water supply port 128a, and the valve 156a connected to the suction port 130a are sequentially opened one by one.
Thereby, air is sequentially sent from the forceps port 126a, the air / water supply port 128a, and the suction port 130a to each channel of the endoscope 10, and the cleaning liquid remaining in the channel is discharged from the endoscope (cleaning). Air supply).

When the cleaning of the endoscope 10 with the cleaning liquid is completed, the endoscope 10 is then rinsed with tap water.
The rinsing after the cleaning is basically performed in the same manner as the cleaning with the cleaning liquid except that the cleaning liquid is not introduced into the first cleaning tank 202.
That is, first, the pressure reducing valve 168, the first valve 170, and the valve 180a are opened to introduce a predetermined amount of tap water into the first cleaning tank 202a (introduction of tap water).
After introducing a predetermined amount of tap water into the first cleaning tank 202a, the valve 162a is opened, the circulation pump 182 is driven, and the valves 152a, 154a, and 156a are sequentially opened one by one. Then, in the same manner as the channel cleaning, each channel of the endoscope 10 is sequentially rinsed with tap water, and then the valve 180a is opened and the circulation pump 182 is driven to perform external running water cleaning. Similarly, external running water rinsing for rinsing the exterior of the endoscope 10 with tap water is performed.
When the external running water rinsing is completed, the valve 190a and the valve 192 are opened, and the drain pump 118 is driven to perform drainage in the rinsing process in the same manner as the cleaning drainage, and then the valve 160a is opened and the second air pump 116 is driven, the valve 152a, the valve 154a, and the valve 156a are sequentially opened one by one to supply air in the same manner as the cleaning air supply, and the cleaning process ends.
In the cleaning process, rinsing after cleaning is a process that is performed as a preferred mode, and is not an essential process. If the cleaning liquid is a non-reacting liquid with the disinfecting liquid, rinsing after cleaning is performed. Alternatively, a disinfection step described later may be performed.

When the cleaning process is completed, a disinfection process is then performed.
In the disinfection process, first, the valve 178a connected to the disinfecting liquid port 134a is opened, the disinfecting liquid pump 108 is driven, and a predetermined amount of disinfecting liquid is introduced into the first cleaning tank 202a (disinfecting liquid introduction).

When a predetermined amount of disinfectant is introduced into the first cleaning tank 202a, disinfection in each channel of the endoscope 10 is performed in the same manner as the above-described channel cleaning.
That is, the valve 162a is opened to drive the circulation pump 182, and the valve 152a, the valve 154a, and the valve 156a connected to the ports that connect the respective channels of the endoscope are sequentially one by one for a predetermined time. Only open.
Thereby, the disinfecting liquid in the first cleaning tank 202a is circulated through each channel in the endoscope 10, and each channel of the endoscope 10 is sequentially disinfected with the disinfecting liquid (channel disinfection).

When the channel disinfection is completed, disinfection outside the endoscope 10 is performed in the same manner as the above-described external running water cleaning.
That is, the valve 180a corresponding to the water supply port 136a is opened and the circulation pump 182 is driven to circulate the disinfecting liquid in the first cleaning tank 202a outside the endoscope 10, so that the endoscope 10 is cleaned with the cleaning liquid. Perform external disinfection (external running water disinfection).

When external running water disinfection is performed for a predetermined time, the valve 198a connected to the discharge port 144a is opened, and the disinfecting liquid is returned to the disinfecting liquid tank 102 (disinfecting liquid recovery).
In the cleaning machine 200 in the illustrated example, a pump or the like is not used for collecting the disinfecting liquid, and the disinfecting liquid is collected in the disinfecting liquid tank 102 by dropping due to its own weight.

When the disinfecting liquid in the first cleaning tank 202 is collected in the disinfecting liquid tank 102, air is supplied to each channel of the endoscope 10 in the same manner as the cleaning air supply.
That is, the valve 160a is opened to drive the second air pump 116, and the valves 152a, 154a, and 156a are sequentially opened one by one. As a result, air is sent to each channel of the endoscope 10 from the forceps port 126a, the air / water supply port 128a, and the suction port 130a, and the disinfecting liquid remaining in the channel is discharged from the endoscope 10 (disinfection / feeding). spirit).

The sterilization process is thus completed, and then a rinsing process is performed.
The rinsing step after the disinfection step is basically performed in the same manner as the rinsing in the cleaning step.
That is, first, the pressure reducing valve 168, the valve 180a, and the first valve 170 are opened, and a predetermined amount of tap water is introduced into the first cleaning tank 202a (introduction of tap water).
When the tap water introduction is completed, the valve 162a is opened to drive the circulation pump 182, and the valves 152a, 154a, and 156a are opened one by one for a predetermined time in order to be inspected with tap water. Channel rinsing is performed to rinse each channel of the mirror 10. Next, the valve 180a is opened and the circulation pump 182 is driven to perform external running water rinsing to rinse the outside of the endoscope 10 with tap water.
When the external running water rinsing is completed, the valve 190a and the valve 192 are opened, and the drain pump 118 is driven to drain the rinsing process. Thereafter, the valve 160a is opened to drive the second air pump 116, and the valve 152a, the valve 154a, and the valve 156a are sequentially opened one by one to supply air in the rinsing process. finish.

  When this rinsing process is finished, the washing of the endoscope 10 by the washing machine 200 is finished, and the operator is notified that the washing of the endoscope 10 is finished, for example, by display display or generation of a warning sound.

  As described above, the cleaning machine 200 shares many items such as a tank and a pump with the first cleaning tank 202a and the second cleaning tank 202b. Since both the water supply line 164 and the drain line 194 have independent piping systems, it is possible to perform the same process in both cleaning tanks 202 at the same time, or to perform different processes at the same time (asynchronous processes in both cleaning tanks 202). ) Can also be performed.

In the above example, the water leakage detection according to the present invention is performed prior to the cleaning step, but the present invention is not limited to this, during the cleaning step (between cleaning and rinsing), after the cleaning step, It may be performed at any timing after the disinfection step and after the rinsing step.
Further, when the water leakage detection method of the present invention is carried out with an endoscope washing machine, the present invention is not limited to performing the cleaning of the endoscope, and only the water leakage detection may be performed completely independently of the cleaning. Of course it is good.
Furthermore, there is no particular limitation on whether or not leakage detection is performed when cleaning the endoscope. Water leakage detection may be performed each time cleaning is performed, and water leakage detection is performed every time a predetermined number of cleanings are performed. And leakage detection may be performed in accordance with an input instruction from the operator.

  The water leakage detection method of the present invention is not limited to be performed by an endoscope cleaning machine, but may be performed by a dedicated inspection device or by an independent facility or equipment that is completely different from endoscope cleaning. Needless to say, it can be done.

In the above example, the cleaning machine 200 includes the test liquid tank 104 and the test liquid pump 110 for repeatedly using the test liquid. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the case of having a plurality of cleaning tanks as in the cleaning machine 200 of the illustrated example, one cleaning tank that is less frequently used may act as a test liquid tank.
Alternatively, instead of repeatedly using the test solution, the test solution may be drained every time as in the case of the cleaning solution.

  As described above, the water leakage detection method of the present invention described in detail uses the test solution containing the surfactant as the test solution, introduces air into the endoscope, and pressurizes the tip 22 of the insertion portion 12. In addition, water leakage is detected by generating bubbles in the test solution caused by water leakage of the endoscope 10 with the test solution in the outer skin of the insertion portion 12 and the universal cord 18. By utilizing such a water leak detection method of the present invention, various water leak detection methods can be implemented.

As an example, a pH indicator (test solution containing a pH indicator) whose color changes depending on pH is used as a test solution, and carbon dioxide gas (acid or alkaline, which does not affect the endoscope, preferably the human body, instead of air. A method of pressurizing the inside of the endoscope with a gas that does not affect the gas) is exemplified.
That is, in this method, a pH indicator is used as a test solution and applied to the endoscope 10, and carbon dioxide gas is introduced into the endoscope and pressurized. As a result, if a channel such as the forceps channel 78 is damaged and a hole is formed or the like, carbon dioxide gas enters the channel and the color of the test solution at the distal end portion 22 of the insertion portion 12 changes, and the insertion is performed. If the part 12 or the universal cord 18 is damaged and has a hole, the carbon dioxide gas leaks from this part and the color of the test solution changes, and further, the connection part between the insertion part 12 and the operation part 14, etc. Even if the airtightness cannot be maintained due to looseness in the connecting parts of each part or looseness or looseness of the operation means, the color of the test solution changes due to carbon dioxide leaking from the part where the airtightness cannot be maintained. The leakage of the mirror 10 can be detected.

The pressurization pressure or the like of carbon dioxide may be in accordance with the pressurization with air.
Examples of pH indicators include p-nitrophenol, phenol red, bromthymol blue, bromcresol purple, phenolphthalein, methyl orange, methyl red, thymol blue and the like. In particular, those having a color change region near neutrality are preferable, and examples thereof include p-nitrophenol and phenol red.
Further, when the water leak detection method using the pH indicator is performed by the washing machine 200, it can be performed in the same manner as described above.

  As mentioned above, although the leak detection method of the endoscope of this invention was demonstrated in detail, this invention is not limited to the said Example, In the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention, various improvements and changes are performed. Of course, it's also good.

It is a perspective view which shows notionally an example of the endoscope in which leak detection is performed with the leak detection method of the endoscope of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows notionally the front-end | tip part of the endoscope shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows notionally the inside of the endoscope shown in FIG. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure which shows notionally the endoscope washing machine which implements the water leak detection method of the endoscope of this invention, (A) is a perspective view, (B) is a side view. It is a schematic piping diagram of the endoscope washing machine shown in FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Endoscope 12 Insertion part 14 Operation part 16 Connector 18 Universal code 22 Tip part 24 Angle part 26 Soft part 28,74 Forceps port 30 Suction button 32 Air supply / water supply button 36 LR knob 38 UD knob 40 LR fixation knob 42 UD fixation Lever 46 Ventilation connector 48 Water supply connector 50 Suction connector 52 LG rod 54 Pressure terminal 56 Video connector 60 CCD sensor 62 Lens 64 Prism 68 Processing board 70 Data cable 72 Air supply / water supply port 76 Light guide 78 Forceps channel 80 Air supply / water supply channel 82 Air supply channel 84 Water supply channel 86 Suction channel 100 Cleaning agent tank 102 Disinfection liquid tank 104 Inspection liquid tank 106 Cleaning agent pump 108 Disinfection liquid pump 110 Inspection liquid pump 114 First air pump Pump 116 Second air pump 118 Drain pump 120 Air filter 126a, 126b Forceps port 128a, 128b Air supply / water supply port 130a, 130b Suction port 132a, 132b Cleaning liquid port 134a, 134b Disinfecting liquid port 136a, 136 Water supply port 138a, 138b Air port 144a , 144b Drain port 163a, 163b Water supply pipe 164 Water supply line 166 Filter 168 Pressure reducing valve 170 First valve 172 Second valve 182a, 182b Circulation pump 194 Drain line 200 (Endoscope) Washing machine 202 Washing tank 204 Bottom 206 Body 208 supporting point 210 operation panel 212 start button 214 foot pedal

Claims (4)

  Applying a test liquid for detecting water leakage containing a surfactant to the endoscope, pressurizing the inside of the endoscope by introducing gas from a pressure terminal for detecting water leak, and forming bubbles with the test liquid An endoscope leakage detection method, comprising: detecting leakage of an endoscope according to presence or absence.   The method for detecting leakage of an endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the inspection liquid for detecting leakage is prepared by preparing a cleaning agent for endoscope cleaning. In the cleaning of an endoscope that performs a cleaning process using a cleaning liquid prepared using a cleaning agent containing a surfactant, a disinfection process using a disinfecting liquid, and a rinsing process using a rinsing liquid,
Using the cleaning agent, preparing a test liquid having a higher concentration than the cleaning liquid used in the cleaning process, before the cleaning process, in the middle of the cleaning process, and after any process is completed The endoscope leakage detection method according to claim 1, wherein the inspection liquid is applied to the endoscope to detect leakage of the endoscope.   Endoscope washing machine for detecting leakage of the endoscope by performing a cleaning process using a cleaning liquid prepared using a detergent containing a surfactant, a disinfection process using a disinfecting liquid, and a rinsing process using a rinsing liquid The water leakage detection method according to claim 3, wherein the water leakage detection method is performed.

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