JP2749288C

JP2749288C -

Info

Publication number: JP2749288C
Authority: JP
Publication date: 1999-09-20

Description

【発明の詳細な説明】【０００１】【産業上の利用分野】本発明は、内視鏡を洗浄、消毒する内視鏡洗浄消毒装置に
関する。【０００２】【従来の技術】現在、内視鏡は、体腔内の検査や治療の目的で頻繁に使用されて
いるが、この内視鏡は使用後に必ず洗浄、消毒する必要がある。このために用い
られる一般的な洗浄消毒装置が、例えば特公平１−１７３６３号公報において知
られている。【０００３】この種の内視鏡洗浄消毒装置は、内視鏡を洗浄槽内にセットした後
、洗浄槽内に設けた噴射ノズルから洗浄液を噴射するとともに、内視鏡管路内へ
も送液することにより内視鏡を全体的に洗浄する。その洗浄後、消毒液中に浸漬
し、内視鏡管路内へも送液することにより内視鏡を全体的に消毒する。この後、
清浄水の噴射及び送液により濯ぎを行ない、最後に内視鏡管路内への送気を行な
って管路内の除水を行って完了する。一方、特開平６−７２９０号公報において
は前記洗浄工程においての洗浄方式として超音波により洗浄することが提案され
ている。【０００４】【発明が解決しようとする課題】ところで、使用後の内視鏡には通常の工業製品
等とは違い、様々なタイプの汚れが混在して付着している。すなわち、血液やタ
ンパク質等が固まった様な堅い汚れや、体液のようにどろどろした、柔らかい汚
れ等が挙げられる。前者の汚れには超音波洗浄が非常に効果的であるが、後者の
ような汚れが大量に積み重なった場合にはその超音波洗浄によると振動波が汚れ
に吸収されてしまい、超音波洗浄は適当な洗浄方式とはいい難い。また、被洗浄
物の表面から剥がれかかった汚れに対しても超音波洗浄は効果的な洗浄であると
はいい難い。【０００５】さらに超音波洗浄が適性に行われている場合においても、液中に定
在波が生じ、音波の腹と節ができる。その節部では洗浄性が悪く、被洗浄物全体
として洗浄むらが生じる。そのため、超音波洗浄が適すると思われている場合で
も洗浄が完全であるとはいい難いことが分かった。【０００６】また、上述したどろどろした汚れに対応するため、シャワー洗浄の
併用も考えられる。しかし、シャワーノズルを水道水に直結して水道水圧で行う
場合には、施設によって水道水圧のばらつきがあり、一定の洗浄効果を保証し難
い。また、専用のポンプや配管を用いる場合は装置が複雑に高価になってしまう
という欠点がある。【０００７】さらに、シャワー洗浄では泡立ちが激しくなるために洗剤の種類が
限定されたり、洗浄槽に液を溜めておくことが出来ないため、たれ流し式の洗浄
しか行なえず、ランニングコスト面から、洗剤が使用できず、洗浄力が不足する
という欠点があった。【０００８】一方、従来の濯ぎは溜め濯ぎまたは流水濯ぎで行っていたが、この
場合、超音波洗浄時において細部まで入り込んだ洗浄液や、被洗浄物から落とさ
れた汚れが細部に残ってしまい、濯ぎが長時間かかっていた。また、超音波で濯
ぎを行っている洗浄消毒装置の場合は細部の濯ぎは確実にできるものの、液全体
中には洗浄液成分が残って入れ替わらないため、この場合も時間が多くかかって
いた。【０００９】本発明は前述したような課題を解決するためになされたもので、そ
の目的とするところは、簡便な方式でありながらも、様々な汚れにも高い洗浄力で対応できる内視鏡洗浄消毒装置を提供することにある。【００１０】【課題を解決するための手段】本発明は内視鏡を洗浄消毒する内視鏡洗浄消毒装
置において、内視鏡を洗浄液中に設置するための洗浄槽と、前記洗浄槽の内部中
央部に体積が比較的大きい塔を設け、前記洗浄槽から吸引した洗浄液を循環供給
手段により高圧な状態で噴射することによって、前記洗浄槽内の前記塔の回りに
形成された内視鏡収納領域を回流する液流を作り出し、この液流によって内視鏡
を洗浄する液流洗浄手段と、前記洗浄槽内に設置した内視鏡を超音波により洗浄
する超音波洗浄手段とを具備し、前記超音波洗浄手段による洗浄工程と前記液流
洗浄手段による洗浄工程を組み合わせた一連の動作で内視鏡の洗浄を行うもので
ある。【００１１】【発明の実施の形態】（構成）内視鏡洗浄消毒装置は内視鏡を洗浄液中に設置するための洗浄槽と、前記洗浄槽
内の内視鏡収納領域を回流する液流を作り出し、この液流によって内視鏡を洗浄
する液流洗浄手段と、前記洗浄槽内のに設置した内視鏡を超音波により洗浄する
超音波洗浄手段との２種の洗浄機能を組み合わせて内視鏡の洗浄を行えるように
構成した。また、２種の洗浄機能を適宜組み合わせて洗浄を行う制御手段を設け
る。前記超音波洗浄機能としては洗浄槽の内面に振動板を配置し、振動板を超音
波振動子によって駆動する。また、前記超音波振動子は超音波発振回路によって
駆動される。前記液流洗浄機能としては洗浄槽の側面部の内視鏡の設置部近傍に
ポンプからの管路に連結された液噴出口を設け、あるいは洗浄槽内に洗浄液を撹
拌するプロペラ等の撹拌手段を設ける。（作用・効果）超音波洗浄と液流洗浄を交互に行う。これにより超音波洗浄の洗浄効果と液流洗
浄の洗浄効果が得られる。すなわち、超音波で堅い汚れや細かい部分まで洗浄す
るとともに、柔らかい汚れ等は洗浄槽内の液流や操作部等に直接に吹き付けられ
る高圧水により洗浄される。超音波洗浄は被洗浄物の表面から汚れを浮き上がらせ、ふやけさせる力は強いが、その後、被洗浄物から汚れを引
き剥がす作用は強くない。この状態において洗浄槽内に液流を起こすと、そのふ
やけかかった汚れが被洗浄物から容易に引き剥がされる。また、この洗浄力は定
在波の節にあった洗浄性が悪かった部分についての洗浄力を補うことが出願人の
実験によって確かめられているまた、超音波と液流を同時に動作させると、液の
乱れにより、超音波の定在波が乱れる。これにより、正規の超音波洗浄とは違っ
た音圧分布になり、洗浄むらが減少する。すなわち、超音波洗浄時の定在波の節
部で、洗浄力が弱かった部分も、定在波の乱れによって洗浄力が高まって、洗浄
むらが減少する。【００１２】ところで、超音波洗浄の洗浄槽内では、衝撃力のばらつきが極めて
大きく、洗浄むらだけでなく、内視鏡自体が衝撃力で破壊してしまう可能性があ
る。つまり、定在波の節の、衝撃力が弱い部分に置かれた内視鏡部分に汚れが残
る一方で、定在波の腹の、衝撃力が強い部分に置かれた内視鏡部分が破壊してし
まうことが考えられる。こうした場合に、超音波洗浄と流液洗浄を同時に行うと
、超音波洗浄衝撃力の最高値は通常より低めになるものの、洗浄槽内でまんべん
ない衝撃力の分布になり、一定の洗浄レベルを得やすい。【００１３】よって、超音波洗浄と流液洗浄を別々に行う、同時に行う、流液洗
浄の途中から超音波洗浄を加える、超音波洗浄の途中から流液洗浄を加える等、
２種の洗浄手段を自在に組み合わせて洗浄することができる。【００１４】【発明の実施例】＜第１実施例＞図１ないし図１９を参照して、本発明の第１の実施例を説明する。図１は洗浄消
毒装置本体に組み込まれる洗浄槽１とこれの周辺機器の構成を概略的に示してい
る。同図中１は洗浄槽であり、これの内部中央部分には、体積が比較的大きい塔
３を設ける。この塔３の回りには図２、３で示すように円環状の内視鏡収納領域
２を形成する。塔３は洗浄槽１内の収容液量を削減するためのものである。【００１５】内視鏡収納領域２はその塔３の周囲において深い環状の溝の部分で
形成され、その周囲には内視鏡５の操作部５ａを設置する台部４を形成している。そして、内視鏡５を洗浄消毒しようとする場合、台部４上に内視鏡５
の操作部５ａを載せ、内視鏡５の挿入部５ｂとライトガイドケーブル５ｃの部分
を塔３の周囲の内視鏡収納領域２の部分にある図示しない台の上に載置する。【００１６】洗浄槽１の底部には前記円環状内視鏡収納領域２に対応位置してド
ーナツ状の円板からなる振動板６が設けられている。この振動板６の下面には例
えばランジュバン型の超音波振動子７が取り付けられている。振動板６はその超
音波振動子７により駆動されることにより洗浄槽１内の洗浄液中に超音波振動を
放射する超音波洗浄手段を構成する。【００１７】洗浄槽１の内側面には洗浄槽１内の特に前記内視鏡収納領域２の周
辺部へ向けた液流噴出口１１が設けられている。この液流噴出口１１は洗浄槽１
から吸引した洗浄液を洗浄槽１に高圧な状態で噴射するものである。この液流噴
出口１１には後述する循環供給手段の流液洗浄用ポンプ１２の吐出口から続く流
液洗浄用管路１３の他端が接続されている。【００１８】この液流噴出口１１からは高圧水が噴出されるため、その近傍にお
かれた被洗浄物の部分は非常によく洗浄されることになる。流液噴射口１１は図
２および図３で示すように環状に形成される還流領域の周方向に接する向きで噴
射するように設けられている。そして、流液噴射口１１から洗浄水を噴射すると
、図３で示すように内視鏡収納領域２を含む洗浄槽１内全体に回流する液流が生
じる。つまり、内視鏡５を設置した洗浄槽１で洗浄液の流れを作り内視鏡５を洗
浄する液流洗浄手段を構成する。【００１９】また、流液噴射口１１は１つだけではなく、複数の流液噴射口１１
を設けてもよい。図４は流液噴射口１１を３つ設けた例であり、各流液噴射口１
１は洗浄槽１に対して同じ関係で設けられている。つまり、内視鏡収納領域２に
形成される回流の周方向に向けてそれぞれ同じように噴射する向きで設けられて
いる。そして、３つ流液噴射口１１から洗浄水を噴射して還流する液の流れを協
働的に形成する。【００２０】図５は２つの流液噴射口１１を設けた例であり、各流液噴射口１１
は洗浄槽１に対して同じ関係で設けてもよいが、その一方をより内側の下へ向け
て噴射するように設けてある。いずれも流液噴射口１１から洗浄水を噴射すると、内視鏡収納領域２を含む洗浄槽１内全体に回流する液流が生じる
。複数の流液噴射口１１を設けた場合、洗浄槽１内の回流が、より効果的に生じ
内視鏡全体の洗浄性がアップする。【００２１】ところで、内視鏡５の操作部５ａは他の内視鏡部分に比べ厚みがあ
るため、超音波洗浄時に音波が当たりにくく、挿入部等に比較すると洗浄性が低
下する。また、内視鏡５の操作部５ａは衝撃に弱いため、単に超音波出力を上げ
て洗浄力を高めることができない。そのため、内視鏡５の操作部５ａを台部４上
に載せる際、流液噴射口１１に対する位置や向きにより噴流が効果的に当たるよ
うに決めることが望ましい。【００２２】洗浄槽１に対する内視鏡５の設置の仕方は種々あるが、図２で示す
如く流液噴射口１１の近傍に内視鏡５の操作部５ａを設置すれば、その噴流が操
作部５ａに直接、強く当たり、その操作部５ａを効果的に洗浄することができる
。また、図６で示すように内視鏡５の操作部５ａに横方向から当たるように設置
してもよいものである。【００２３】さらに内視鏡５の操作部５ａに対する噴流の当て方も、その流液噴
射口１１の位置と向きや内視鏡５の設置姿勢によって図７で示すように種々の形
態があり得る。同図（ａ）はライトガイドケーブル側から噴流を当るもの、同図
（ｂ）は接眼部側から噴流を当るもの、（ｃ）は斜め上側方から噴流を当るもの
、同図（ｄ）斜め上側から接眼部に向けて噴流を当てるものである。【００２４】なお、前記例での流液噴出口１１はいずれも洗浄槽１の側面に設け
たものであるが、これに限られるものではなく洗浄槽１の底面や天井面に設けて
もよいし、図８に示すように塔３に設けることも可能である。【００２５】一方、洗浄槽１の内底面には循環液吸込み口１４が設けられており
、循環液吸込み口１４には前記流液洗浄用ポンプ１２の吸込む口に通じる流液洗
浄用管路１５の一端が接続されている。【００２６】同じ循環液吸込み口１４には前記ポンプ１２をバイパスしてスコー
プ管路内洗浄用ポンプ１６の吸引側が接続されている。スコープ管路内洗浄用ポ
ンプ１６の吐出側はスコープ管路内洗浄用管路１７が接続され、このスコープ管
路内洗浄用管路１７は洗浄槽１内の比較的上部に形成されたチャンネル接続口１８に接続されている。内視鏡５を洗浄消毒する際、チャンネル
接続口１８には内視鏡の各種チャンネルに内視鏡管路洗浄用チューブ１９を介し
て接続される。前記スコープ管路内洗浄用管路１７および流液洗浄用管路１３，
１５の管路の吸込み側は洗浄槽１の底部の共通な循環液吸込み口１４に連通され
ている。【００２７】スコープ管路内洗浄用管路１７の途中には第１の逆止弁２１が設け
られている。また、第１の逆止弁２１より下流側に位置してスコープ管路内洗浄
用管路１７の途中の部分には第２の逆止弁２２を介してコンプレッサ２３が接続
されており、コンプレッサ２３からの圧縮空気を内視鏡の各種チャンネル接続口
１８に送り込むことにより内視鏡５のチャンネル内の除水を行うようになってい
る。【００２８】前記洗浄槽１内の比較的上部には洗浄水注入口２４が設けられてお
り、この洗浄水注入口２４には洗浄水供給源が接続されている。ここでの洗浄水
供給源は水道蛇口２５であり、水道蛇口２５には洗浄水供給管路２６が接続され
ている。洗浄水供給管路２６の途中には給水動作を制御する給水弁２７が設けら
れていて、この給水弁２７を開けることにより水道水を洗浄槽１に注入するよう
になっている。【００２９】前記洗浄槽１内の比較的上部には消毒液注入口３１が設けられ、こ
の消毒液注入口３１には途中に消毒液ポンプ３２と消毒液タンク３３を有する消
毒液供給管路３４の供給端が接続されている。消毒液供給管路３４の他端は洗浄
槽１の底部に設けた排出口３６に接続されている。排出口３６には廃棄管路３７
が接続されている。排出口３６は消毒液供給管路３４への連通、廃棄管路３７へ
の連通、および閉止の状態のいずれかを選ぶ図示しない切換え弁が設けられてい
る。廃棄管路３７の途中には廃棄ポンプ３８が設けられている。【００３０】次に、前記内視鏡用洗浄消毒装置により内視鏡５を洗浄消毒する場
合の手順を説明する。まず、使用済みの内視鏡５を洗浄槽１内にセットし、内視
鏡管路洗浄用チューブ１９を内視鏡５とチャンネル接続口１８に接続して連通さ
せる。その後、図示しない各種操作スイッチの操作に伴い、図示しない制御手段
による制御によって洗浄、消毒、濯ぎ、送気の各工程が行われる。【００３１】洗浄工程では図１０のタイムチャートに示すように、初めに給水弁
２７が開き、例えば水道水等の給水源からの洗浄水が、給水系管路２６を通じて
洗浄水注入口２４から洗浄槽１内に供給される。また、予め設定された液量の洗
剤を工程開始前にユーザーが洗浄槽１内に注入しておく。【００３２】そして、洗浄槽１内に一定量の水が供給されると、満水になる前に
内視鏡１に対する流液洗浄が開始される。満水の指定水位に達したら給水弁２７
が閉じられる。この洗浄工程では内視鏡５に付着した大きな汚れ、柔らかい汚れ
、軽い汚れ等が洗浄される。すなわち、洗浄槽１内で渦巻いている液流や流液噴
出口１１から噴出された液の衝撃力によって汚れが落とされる。【００３３】なお、洗浄水注入口２４は通常、真下に向けて開口し、洗浄水を真
下に向けて注入する。しかし、洗浄槽１内の回流がより効果的に行われるような
斜めに向きにしても良い。【００３４】この流液洗浄は、図１０のタイムチャートに示すように、一定量の
洗浄水が洗浄槽１内に注入され、流液洗浄用ポンプ１２の動作に支障がなくなっ
たら、給水しながら流液洗浄用ポンプ１２の動作を始めるのが洗浄力の面から効
果的である。このとき、斜めに向けられた洗浄水注入口２４から洗浄水が流液洗
浄用ポンプ１２による回流の方向に注入されれば、これにより洗浄槽１内の回流
が、より強力に行われるようになる。【００３５】また、図９で示すように、洗浄水注入口２４から注入された洗浄水
が直接に内視鏡５の操作部等、特に洗浄されにくい部分に当たるようにしてもよ
い。この場合には注入する水道水の圧力で上記部分を洗浄できるため、工程時間
の延長等なく、全く通常の工程を行うだけで洗浄力がアップできる。【００３６】予め設定された流液洗浄の工程時間が終了すると、図１１のタイム
チャートで示すように、続いて超音波洗浄が行われる。超音波洗浄では内視鏡５
に付着した堅い汚れや、複雑な形状の部分の汚れ等が強力に落とされる。その後
、超音波洗浄工程が終了すると、再び流液洗浄が行われる。この２度目の流液洗
浄工程では先の超音波洗浄によって、ふやけて内視鏡５から剥がれかかった汚れが落とされる。また、図３で示すように、流液噴射口１１
からの噴流によって洗浄槽１内全体に回流する液流が生じ、洗浄槽１内の各部分
も洗浄される。【００３７】２度目の流液洗浄工程が終了すると廃棄弁３６が開き、同時に廃棄
ポンプ３８が駆動され、洗浄槽１内の洗浄液が外部に廃棄される。また、この２
度目の流液洗浄工程では図１２のタイムチャートに示すように、洗浄槽１内の排
水口３６を開けて、洗浄槽１内の洗浄液を廃棄しながら行うこともできる。この
場合は液面が浅くなってくるにつれ、洗浄槽１内に溜まった液の流れの様子が変
わり、満水時とは違った洗浄分布にすることができる。また、排水時間が短縮で
きるという利点もある。【００３８】洗浄槽１内の洗浄液が外部に廃棄された後、給水弁２７が開いて新
しい水が洗浄槽１内に供給されると共にスコープ管路内洗浄用ポンプ１６が駆動
される。すなわち、濯ぎ洗浄が行われる。この濯ぎ洗浄工程では洗浄槽１内の洗
浄水がオーバーフロー式に順次新しい水と入れ替わりながらの濯ぎでもよいし、
通常のため濯ぎを数回行っても良い。【００３９】また、この濯ぎ洗浄工程の後半ではスコープ管路内洗浄用ポンプ１
６が停止されるとともにコンプレッサ２３がオンされ、チャンネル接続口１８を
介して内視鏡５の各種チャンネル内にエアーが導入され、内視鏡５のチャンネル
内の水切りが行われる。【００４０】なお、この濯ぎ洗浄工程においても超音波洗浄手段による濯ぎ洗浄
工程と液流洗浄手段による濯ぎ洗浄工程を組み合わせた一連の動作を行うことが
できるが、これについては後述する第２の実施例で具体的に説明する。【００４１】濯ぎ洗浄工程が終了した後、続いて消毒工程が行われる。この消毒
工程では、初めに消毒液タンク３３内の消毒液が注入ポンプ３２、消毒液注入管
路３４を介して洗浄槽１に供給される。内視鏡５の全体はその洗浄槽１に溜めら
れた消毒液中に完全に浸漬されるとともに、スコープ管路内洗浄用ポンプ３２の
オン操作により洗浄槽１内の消毒液がチャンネル接続口１８にも供給され、内視
鏡５のチャンネル内の消毒も行われる。このとき、超音波を発振させ消毒を効果
的に行っても良い。そして、所定時間が経過すると排水弁３６が消毒液タンク３３側に開き、消毒液が消毒液タンク３３に回収さ
れる。【００４２】消毒工程の終了後、続いて再び濯ぎ工程が行われる。この濯ぎ洗浄
工程においても超音波洗浄手段による濯ぎ洗浄工程と液流洗浄手段による濯ぎ洗
浄工程を組み合わせた一連の動作を行うことができる。【００４３】この濯ぎ工程の後、コンプレッサ２３の駆動により内視鏡管路内の
水切りが完全に行われる。さらに一定時間経過後、排水ポンプ３８が停止する。
また、この濯ぎ工程の終了後、続いて除水工程が行われ、内視鏡内の管路の水切
りが念入りに行われる。【００４４】なお、前述した例の場合では図１１のフローチャートで示すように
、流液洗浄、超音波洗浄、流液洗浄の順の工程の流れで説明したが、２種の洗浄
方法を様々な形で組み合わせたり、繰り返し回数を増やしたりすることが可能で
ある。また、図１３に示すように流液洗浄、超音波洗浄、流液洗浄に加えて超音
波洗浄といった動作を行うこともできる。【００４５】この流液洗浄と超音波洗浄を同時に行った場合、超音波の定在波が
乱れるため、正規の超音波洗浄時とは違った音圧分布になるため、洗浄むらが減
少する。この超音波洗浄を単独で動作させた場合の音圧と、超音波洗浄と流液洗
浄を同時に動作させた場合おいて、任意の点（ａ〜ｍ）における音圧値（音圧値
は相対値）を、実際に発明者が実験した結果を図４０（ａ）（ｂ）に示す。図４
０（ａ）は超音波洗浄単独で動作させた場合の音圧値であり、その最大値が非常
に大ききが、場所による音圧のばらつきが大きい。図４０（ｂ）超音波洗浄と流
液洗浄を同時に動作させた場合の音圧値であり、その最大値は小さいものの平均
的には一定能力が得られており、そのばらつきも小さい。【００４６】ところで、浸漬したままで一定時間放置する、漬け置き洗浄を加え
てもよい。なお、本実施例では強度的に弱い内視鏡５の操作部５ａの位置を振動
板６の位置からずらしてセットするようにしているが、図１４に示すように操作
部５ａを振動板６の上部に載せて全体の超音波出力を下げて超音波洗浄を行うこ
とも可能である。【００４７】また、流液洗浄の構成手段として流液洗浄用ポンプ１２による高圧水噴射を用いているが、図１５に示すように、ファン等を用いても洗浄水を
噴射させる方式であっても同様の効果が得られる。【００４８】前述したものによれば、超音波洗浄と流液洗浄という２種の洗浄方
法を繰り返し行うため、各洗浄方式の利点が得られ、また、各洗浄方式の欠点が
補われる。その結果として内視鏡に付着する各種汚れを洗浄することができる。
また、この流液洗浄は洗浄液を溜めた状態で行うため、強力な洗剤や温水を使用
できる利点もある。【００４９】また、洗浄槽１の内部中央部に筒状の塔３を設け、さらに塔３の回
りに超音波振動子７を例えば円環状に配置した。このため、洗浄液や消毒液を排
除し、使用液量の削減と装置の小型化を図ることができた。また、図１６で示す
ように液量が少なく、かつ塔３により超音波が反射し、洗浄領域内に超音波を集
中させる。この結果、その超音波洗浄力を高めることができる。超音波振動子を
有効に配置するので、超音波振動子の数を削減でき、コストの削減を図ることが
できる。【００５０】なお、塔３を設けない場合には図１７で示すように内視鏡５に当た
らない超音波が多くなる。＜第２実施例＞本実施例は濯ぎ洗浄工程に本発明を適用し、濯ぎが確実に行え、
かつ濯ぎ時間を短縮できるようにしたものである。【００５１】すなわち、図１８で示すように、超音波洗浄工程終了後、洗浄槽１
内の洗浄液を排出する。その後、再び洗浄槽１内に洗浄液を注入する。流液洗浄
用ポンプ１２及び内視鏡管路内洗浄用ポンプ１６を動作させ、流水濯ぎ洗浄を行
う。一定時間経過後、流液洗浄用ポンプ１６を停止させ、その後、超音波を発振
させ超音波濯ぎを行う。この超音波濯ぎ洗浄が終了した後、洗浄槽１内の液を排
出し、再度流水濯ぎを行うというものである。【００５２】これによれば、初めの流液濯ぎで洗浄液中の洗剤成分のほとんどが
なくなり、その後の超音波濯ぎ洗浄で細部に溜まった洗剤成分が落ちる。さらに
続いて流液濯ぎ洗浄を行うことで完全に液中の洗剤成分がなくせる。この濯ぎ洗
浄工程は通常の超音波濯ぎのみ、または流水濯ぎや溜め濯ぎのみのものよりは効
果的でかつ短時間で行える。【００５３】また、図１９に示すように後の流水濯ぎ洗浄と超音波濯ぎ洗浄の各工程を同時に行うようにしてもよい。＜追加的変形例＞ (1)前述した実施態様では内視鏡５の操作部５ａの超音波に対する耐性を考慮し
て内視鏡５の操作部５ａを洗浄槽１内の還流領域から外して設置したものである
が、図２０で示すように操作部５ａを位置する領域にも超音波振動子７を追加的
に設けてもよいものである。また、図２１で示すように内視鏡５のライトガイド
ケーブルのコネクタ５ｄに対応した領域にも超音波振動子７を設けるようにして
もよい。【００５４】(2)図２２は超音波振動子７による洗浄性をアップさせるためにそ
の超音波振動子７を複数列同心円状に配置して設けた例である。 (3)円筒状の塔３と振動板６との取付け方式は各種考えられるが、図２３はその
一例を示すものである。同図（ａ）（ｂ）（ｄ）は塔３と振動板６の部材がねじ
４１によって締結されている。同図（ｃ）は塔３と振動板６が一体の部材で一体
的に構成したものである。【００５５】(4)洗浄槽１内の中央部位に設ける円筒状の塔３はこれを利用して
以下のような種々の機能を持たすことができる。図２４は温風吹出口４２を設け
る例であり、同図（ａ）で示すように塔３の上部に温風吹出口４２を設け、塔３
の内部をダクトとして利用する。塔３の下部にはヒータ４３付きのブロア４４を
設ける。同図（ｂ）は周囲全体にまんべんなく噴出することができるようにした
ものであり、同図（ｃ）一定の方向に流れを作ることができる温風ガイド４５を
設けたものである。図２５は塔３にシャワー洗浄用ノズル４６を設けたものであ
る。図２６は内視鏡のチャンネル内洗浄用の洗浄チューブ取付口４７を塔３に設
けたものである。図２７は洗浄槽１内の液を加熱または保温するためのヒータ４
８を塔３に設けたものである。このヒータ４８には例えばラバーヒータを用いる
ことができる。【００５６】図２８は塔３に超音波振動子４９を取り付け、洗浄力を向上させる
ようにしたものであり、同図（ａ）はその塔３の側面に取り付けている。同図（
ｂ）はその塔３の上面に取り付けたものであり、同図（ｃ）は塔３の側面に形成
した凹部５１内に超音波振動子４９を取り付けたものである。特に同図（ｂ）（
ｃ）の超音波振動子４９は内視鏡５の先端部や小物の洗浄を行う場合に適する。【００５７】図２９は塔３の上面部分に消毒液注入口５２を設ける(洗剤注入口
でも同様にできる)。同図（ａ）は上向き、同図（ｂ）は下向きに形成したもの
である。特に上向きに形成した同図（ａ）のものによれば、洗浄槽１の天井面５
３、例えばカバーの内面の中央部に消毒液を吹き付けることにより、その天井面
全域に消毒液がゆきわたる。なお、塔３の上面部分に一般の注入口を設けるもの
でもよい。【００５８】図３０（ａ）は塔３の下部に消毒液回収口５４を設け、同図（ｂ）
は液排出口５５を設けたものである。図３１はメンテナンスをするための部品や
工具、または手等を差し入れするための差入れ口５６を塔３の上部に設け、その
差入れ口５６には取外し自在なカバー５７で覆うようにする。【００５９】図３２は塔３の上部に洗剤注入口５８を設けた。ユーザーは装置作
動前、この洗剤注入口５８に洗剤を注入し、動作後一定の時期に電磁弁５９を『
開』動作させることにより、洗剤を洗浄液中に混入させる。これは、洗剤に限ら
ず、使い捨てタイプの消毒液でももちろん可能であり、また、装置内消毒を行う
場合の消毒液注入にも応用できる。【００６０】図３３は内視鏡洗浄消毒装置において用いる交換が必要なフィルタ
の取付け場所を塔３内に設置したものである。同図（ａ）除菌用エアーフィルタ
６１の例であり、同図（ｂ）は除菌用洗浄水用フィルター６２の例である。これ
らのフィルタ６１，６２は塔３の上部等より交換可能となっている。【００６１】図３４は消毒液濃度測定用テストストリップ６３の差入れ口６４を
塔３の上部に形成した。図３５は塔３に液面センサ６５、温度センサ６６、エア
ー抜き６７等を設けるものである。図３６は塔３に紫外線照射部材６８を設ける
。なお、この場合の塔３は透明部材とする。洗浄槽１内や内視鏡５の殺菌に供す
る。【００６２】図３７は塔３の形状を円筒ではなく、同図（ａ）（ｂ）のように多
角柱のものとし、あるいは図示しない円錐等であってもよい。セットされる内視
鏡５に応じてその形状を決めることができる。【００６３】図３８は硬性鏡等をセットさせるために、塔３を変更可能にできるようにしたものである。この場合、直線部をもつ硬性鏡６９が入るようにす
る塔３は半円状にしてある。これにより洗浄槽１内に硬性鏡６９が入るスペース
７０を形成できる。これによれば前述したような軟性の内視鏡５でも硬性鏡６９
も洗浄可能になるとともに、浸漬消毒を行う際の消毒液が少量でよくなるため、
非常に効率がよくなる。また、最小曲げ半径が大きな内視鏡の場合には中心筒を
大きくし、消毒液量の削減を図ることもできる。【００６４】図３９の塔３は洗浄槽１への取り付けに限らず、同図（ａ）で示す
ように洗浄槽カバー７１に取り付けてもよい。また、同図（ｂ）のように洗浄槽
カバー７１と洗浄槽１の両方に取り付けることも可能である。これらの場合、意
図的に中心筒と中心筒の間や中心筒と洗浄槽１の間に隙間７２を設け、その部分
で超音波洗浄を強力に行うようにしてもよい。容積が小さいため、超音波振動子
７からの出力が一定でも音圧が高くなるため、洗浄力を高くできる。［付記］１．内視鏡を洗浄消毒する内視鏡洗浄消毒装置において、内視鏡を洗浄液中に設
置するための洗浄槽と、内視鏡を設置した洗浄槽で洗浄液の流れを作り内視鏡を
洗浄する液流洗浄手段と、前記洗浄槽内に設置した内視鏡を超音波により洗浄す
る超音波洗浄手段とを具備し、前記超音波洗浄手段による洗浄工程と前記液流洗
浄手段による洗浄工程を組み合わせた一連の動作を行うことを特徴とする内視鏡
洗浄消毒装置。２．内視鏡を洗浄消毒する内視鏡洗浄消毒装置において、内視鏡を洗浄液中に設
置するための洗浄槽と、内視鏡を設置した洗浄槽内に溜められた洗浄液を攪拌し
て内視鏡を洗浄する撹拌洗浄手段と、前記洗浄槽内に設置した内視鏡を超音波に
より洗浄する超音波洗浄手段と、前記超音波洗浄手段による超音波洗浄工程と前
記攪拌洗浄手段による攪拌洗浄工程を組み合わせた一連の動作を行わせる制御手
段とを具備したことを特徴とする内視鏡洗浄消毒装置。３．前記超音波洗浄中に、前記流液洗浄工程を同時に行うことを特徴とする付記
第１項に記載の内視鏡洗浄消毒装置。４．前記超音波洗浄と液流洗浄の２つの洗浄方式を、少なくとも同時に行わない
、単独でそれぞれ動かす工程を設けたことを特徴とする付記第１項に記載の内視鏡洗浄消毒装置。５．前記液流洗浄手段はポンプを用い、このポンプからの高圧洗浄液を洗浄槽内
に設けた洗浄液噴出口から噴出させることにより洗浄槽内の少なくとも一部に渦
流を生じさせるようにしたことを特徴とする付記第１項に記載の内視鏡洗浄消毒
装置。６．前記洗浄液噴出口を、内視鏡の操作部等、超音波洗浄によって洗浄されにく
い部分を設置する部位の近傍に設けたことを特徴とする付記第１項に記載の内視
鏡洗浄消毒装置。７．前記超音波洗浄手段による洗浄工程と前記液流洗浄手段による洗浄工程を組
み合わせた一連の動作は内視鏡の濯ぎ洗浄工程のものであることを特徴とする付
記第１項に記載の内視鏡洗浄消毒装置。８．前記液流洗浄手段による濯ぎ洗浄工程は溜め濯ぎまたは流水濯ぎを組み合わ
せて濯ぎを行うことを特徴とする付記第７項に記載の内視鏡洗浄消毒装置。９．前記２つの濯ぎ手段を交互に行うことを特徴とする付記第８項に記載の内視
鏡洗浄消毒装置。１０．濯ぎ洗浄工程の１段階に溜め濯ぎまたは流水濯ぎを行い、その後、超音波
濯ぎを行うことを特徴とする付記第８項に記載の内視鏡洗浄消毒装置。【００６５】【発明の効果】以上説明したように本発明によれば、各洗浄方式の利点が得られ
、また、各洗浄方式の欠点が補われる。その結果として内視鏡に付着する各種汚
れを洗浄することができる。また、本発明により簡単な構成、様々なタイプの汚
れが落とせる洗浄力の高い内視鏡洗浄消毒装置が提供できる。DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0001] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus for cleaning and disinfecting an endoscope.
Related. [0002] 2. Description of the Related Art At present, endoscopes are frequently used for examination and treatment of body cavities.
However, this endoscope must be cleaned and disinfected after use. Used for this
A general cleaning and disinfecting apparatus is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 1-17363.
Have been. [0003] This type of endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus is provided after an endoscope is set in a cleaning tank.
, While spraying the cleaning liquid from the spray nozzle provided in the cleaning tank, and into the endoscope channel
The endoscope is also entirely washed by feeding the liquid. After washing, immersed in disinfectant
Then, the endoscope is entirely disinfected by feeding the liquid into the endoscope channel. After this,
Rinsing is performed by spraying and sending clean water, and finally air is supplied into the endoscope channel.
To complete the water removal in the pipeline. On the other hand, in JP-A-6-7290,
It has been proposed to perform ultrasonic cleaning as a cleaning method in the cleaning step.
ing. [0004] By the way, the endoscope after use is usually an industrial product.
Unlike the above, various types of dirt are mixed and adhered. That is, blood or blood
Hard dirt, such as hardened proteins, or soft dirt, like muddy body fluids
And the like. Ultrasonic cleaning is very effective for the former dirt, while the latter is
If such a large amount of dirt is accumulated, the ultrasonic wave may cause the vibration wave to become dirty.
It is difficult to say that ultrasonic cleaning is an appropriate cleaning method. Also, to be cleaned
Ultrasonic cleaning is effective even for dirt that has come off from the surface of the object
Is not good. Furthermore, even when ultrasonic cleaning is performed properly, the
A standing wave is created, and the belly and nodes of the sound wave are formed. The cleaning properties are poor at the nodes, and the whole
As a result, uneven cleaning occurs. Therefore, when ultrasonic cleaning is considered suitable
It was also found that the cleaning was not perfect. Further, in order to cope with the above-mentioned muddy dirt, shower cleaning is required.
Combinations are also conceivable. However, the shower nozzle is directly connected to the tap water and the tap water pressure is used.
In some cases, tap water pressure varies from facility to facility, making it difficult to guarantee a constant cleaning effect.
No. In addition, when a dedicated pump or piping is used, the apparatus becomes complicated and expensive.
There is a disadvantage that. [0007] Further, in the case of shower cleaning, foaming becomes intense.
It is limited and it is not possible to store liquid in the cleaning tank,
Can only be used, and in terms of running costs, detergents cannot be used, and cleaning power is insufficient.
There was a disadvantage. On the other hand, the conventional rinsing is performed by pool rinsing or running water rinsing.
Cleaning solution that has entered into the details during ultrasonic cleaning,
Stain was left in the details and the rinsing took a long time. Also, rinse with ultrasonic
In the case of cleaning and disinfecting equipment that performs rinsing, although the details can be rinsed reliably, the entire liquid
In this case, too, it takes a long time because the cleaning liquid components remain and cannot be replaced.
Was. [0009] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has been made.
The purpose of is a simple method, but also high in various stains It is an object of the present invention to provide an endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus which can respond with a cleaning power. [0010] [Means for Solving the Problems]The present invention relates to an endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus for cleaning and disinfecting an endoscope.
A cleaning tank for placing the endoscope in the cleaning liquid;
A relatively large tower is provided in the center to circulate and supply the cleaning liquid sucked from the cleaning tank.
By injecting at high pressure by means around the tower in the washing tank
A liquid flow that circulates through the formed endoscope storage area is created, and the liquid flow is used by the endoscope.
Cleaning means for cleaning the endoscope, and an endoscope installed in the cleaning tank by ultrasonic cleaning.
Ultrasonic cleaning means for performing the cleaning step by the ultrasonic cleaning means and the liquid flow
The endoscope is cleaned by a series of operations combining cleaning steps by the cleaning means.
is there. [0011] BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION (Constitution) An endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus includes a cleaning tank for installing an endoscope in a cleaning liquid, and the cleaning tank.
Creates a liquid flow that circulates through the endoscope storage area inside, and cleans the endoscope with this liquid flow
Cleaning means and an endoscope installed in the cleaning tank by ultrasonic cleaning
Endoscope can be cleaned by combining two types of cleaning functions with ultrasonic cleaning means
Configured. In addition, control means for performing cleaning by appropriately combining the two types of cleaning functions is provided.
You. As the ultrasonic cleaning function, a diaphragm is arranged on the inner surface of the cleaning tank, and the diaphragm is
Driven by a wave oscillator. Also, the ultrasonic vibrator is operated by an ultrasonic oscillation circuit.
Driven. As the liquid flow cleaning function, near the installation portion of the endoscope on the side surface of the cleaning tank
Provide a liquid jet port connected to the pipe from the pump, or stir the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank.
A stirring means such as a propeller for stirring is provided. (Action / Effect) Ultrasonic cleaning and liquid flow cleaning are performed alternately. The cleaning effect of ultrasonic cleaning and liquid washing
A cleansing effect is obtained. In other words, use ultrasonic waves to clean hard dirt and fine parts.
And soft dirt is sprayed directly on the liquid flow in the washing tank and on the operation section.
Washing with high pressure water. Ultrasonic cleaning starts from the surface of the object to be cleaned It has a strong power to lift dirt and soften it, but then pull dirt from the object to be cleaned.
The peeling action is not strong. In this state, if a liquid flows into the cleaning tank,
The burnt dirt is easily peeled off from the object to be cleaned. Also, this cleaning power is constant.
Applicant's request is to supplement the detergency of the part with poor detergency at the
It has also been confirmed by experiments.
The disturbance disturbs the standing wave of the ultrasonic wave. This is different from regular ultrasonic cleaning.
The resulting sound pressure distribution reduces uneven cleaning. That is, the node of standing wave during ultrasonic cleaning
The cleaning power of the part where the cleaning power was weak was increased due to the disturbance of the standing wave.
The unevenness is reduced. Meanwhile, in a cleaning tank for ultrasonic cleaning, the dispersion of the impact force is extremely large.
The endoscope itself may be destroyed by the impact force in addition to large and uneven cleaning.
You. In other words, dirt remains on the endoscope placed in the part of the standing wave node where the impact force is weak.
On the other hand, the endoscope placed in the strong impact part of the antinode of the standing wave was destroyed.
It is possible to go around. In such a case, if ultrasonic cleaning and flowing liquid cleaning are performed at the same time,
Although the maximum value of the ultrasonic cleaning impact force is lower than normal,
There is no distribution of impact force, and it is easy to obtain a constant cleaning level. Therefore, the ultrasonic cleaning and the flowing liquid cleaning are performed separately, simultaneously, and the flowing liquid cleaning is performed.
Add ultrasonic cleaning in the middle of cleaning, add liquid washing in the middle of ultrasonic cleaning, etc.
Cleaning can be performed by freely combining two types of cleaning means. [0014] DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS <First Embodiment> A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Figure 1 shows cleaning off
FIG. 2 schematically shows the configuration of a cleaning tank 1 incorporated in the poison apparatus main body and peripheral devices thereof.
You. In the figure, reference numeral 1 denotes a washing tank, in which a relatively large tower is provided in a central portion thereof.
3 is provided. Around this tower 3, an annular endoscope storage area as shown in FIGS.
Form 2 The tower 3 is for reducing the amount of liquid stored in the washing tank 1. The endoscope storage area 2 is a deep annular groove around the tower 3.
A base 4 on which the operation unit 5a of the endoscope 5 is installed is formed therearound. doing. When the endoscope 5 is to be cleaned and disinfected, the endoscope 5 is placed on the base 4.
Of the endoscope 5 and the portion of the light guide cable 5c.
Is placed on a table (not shown) in the endoscope storage area 2 around the tower 3. At the bottom of the cleaning tank 1, a nozzle is provided at a position corresponding to the annular endoscope storage area 2.
A diaphragm 6 made of a donut-shaped disk is provided. The lower surface of the diaphragm 6 has an example
For example, a Langevin type ultrasonic vibrator 7 is attached. The diaphragm 6 is
The ultrasonic vibration is generated in the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 1 by being driven by the ultrasonic vibrator 7.
The radiating ultrasonic cleaning means is constituted. On the inner surface of the cleaning tank 1, the periphery of the endoscope housing area 2 in the cleaning tank 1 is particularly provided.
A liquid flow outlet 11 directed to the side is provided. The liquid jet port 11 is provided for the cleaning tank 1.
The cleaning liquid sucked from the nozzle is jetted into the cleaning tank 1 at a high pressure. This liquid jet
The outlet 11 has a flow from a discharge port of a flowing liquid washing pump 12 of a circulating supply means described later.
The other end of the liquid washing pipeline 13 is connected. Since high-pressure water is jetted from the liquid jet port 11, the vicinity of
The portion of the object to be cleaned will be cleaned very well. Flow liquid injection port 11
As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the fuel is injected in a direction in contact with the circumferential direction of the annular reflux region.
It is provided to shoot. Then, when the washing water is injected from the flowing liquid injection port 11,
As shown in FIG. 3, a liquid flow circulating in the entire cleaning tank 1 including the endoscope storage area 2 is generated.
I will. That is, the flow of the cleaning liquid is made in the cleaning tank 1 in which the endoscope 5 is installed, and the endoscope 5 is washed.
A liquid washing means for cleaning is constituted. Further, the number of flowing liquid jets 11 is not limited to one.
May be provided. FIG. 4 shows an example in which three flowing liquid injection ports 11 are provided.
1 is provided in the same relation to the cleaning tank 1. That is, in the endoscope storage area 2
It is provided in the direction of injecting in the same manner in the circumferential direction of the formed circulation
I have. Then, the washing liquid is injected from the three flowing liquid injection ports 11 to cooperate with the flow of the refluxing liquid.
Form working. FIG. 5 shows an example in which two flowing liquid injection ports 11 are provided.
May be provided in the same relationship with respect to the cleaning tank 1, but
It is provided so as to be injected. In each case, washing water is supplied Is ejected, a liquid flow circulating in the entire cleaning tank 1 including the endoscope housing area 2 is generated.
. When a plurality of flowing liquid injection ports 11 are provided, circulation in the cleaning tank 1 is more effectively generated.
The cleaning performance of the entire endoscope is improved. The operation section 5a of the endoscope 5 is thicker than other endoscope parts.
As a result, it is difficult for ultrasonic waves to strike during ultrasonic cleaning, and cleaning performance is low compared to insertion parts.
Down. In addition, since the operation unit 5a of the endoscope 5 is vulnerable to impact, simply increase the ultrasonic output.
Cannot increase the detergency. Therefore, the operation unit 5a of the endoscope 5 is
When placed on the jet, the jet will hit the jet effectively depending on its position and orientation with respect to the liquid jetting port 11.
It is desirable to decide. There are various ways of installing the endoscope 5 with respect to the cleaning tank 1, but it is shown in FIG.
If the operation unit 5a of the endoscope 5 is installed near the liquid jet port 11 as described above, the jet can be controlled.
The operation unit 5a can be effectively cleaned by directly hitting the working unit 5a strongly.
. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, the endoscope 5 is installed so as to hit the operation unit 5a of the endoscope 5 from the lateral direction.
It may be. The method of applying the jet to the operation unit 5a of the endoscope 5 also depends on the flow liquid jet.
Depending on the position and orientation of the outlet 11 and the installation posture of the endoscope 5, various shapes as shown in FIG.
There can be a state. FIG. 2A shows a jet from the light guide cable side, and FIG.
(B) hits the jet from the eyepiece side, (c) hits the jet obliquely from above
(D) in FIG. 4 (d), which applies a jet toward the eyepiece from obliquely above. Note that the liquid jet ports 11 in the above example are all provided on the side surfaces of the cleaning tank 1.
However, the present invention is not limited to this.
Alternatively, it may be provided in the tower 3 as shown in FIG. On the other hand, a circulating liquid suction port 14 is provided on the inner bottom surface of the washing tank 1.
The circulating fluid suction port 14 is provided with a rinsing fluid that is connected to the suction port of the circulating fluid cleaning pump 12.
One end of the purification pipeline 15 is connected. The same circulating fluid suction port 14 bypasses the pump 12 and
The suction side of the in-pipe cleaning pump 16 is connected. Cleaning port in scope conduit
The discharge side of the pump 16 is connected to a cleaning pipe line 17 in the scope pipe line.
A channel 17 for cleaning the inside of the channel is formed at a relatively high position in the cleaning tank 1. It is connected to the channel connection port 18. When cleaning and disinfecting the endoscope 5, the channel
The connection port 18 is connected to various channels of the endoscope through an endoscope channel cleaning tube 19.
Connected. The scope pipe washing line 17 and the flowing liquid washing pipe 13,
The suction side of the conduit 15 communicates with a common circulating fluid suction port 14 at the bottom of the washing tank 1.
ing. A first check valve 21 is provided in the middle of the cleaning pipe 17 in the scope pipe.
Have been. Further, the cleaning in the scope pipeline is performed by being located downstream of the first check valve 21.
A compressor 23 is connected to a part of the pipe 17 via a second check valve 22.
The compressed air from the compressor 23 is supplied to various channel connection ports of the endoscope.
18 to remove water in the channel of the endoscope 5.
You. A cleaning water inlet 24 is provided at a relatively upper portion in the cleaning tank 1.
The cleaning water inlet 24 is connected to a cleaning water supply source. Wash water here
The supply source is a water tap 25 to which a washing water supply pipe 26 is connected.
ing. A water supply valve 27 for controlling a water supply operation is provided in the middle of the washing water supply pipe 26.
Tap water is injected into the washing tank 1 by opening the water supply valve 27.
It has become. A disinfectant inlet 31 is provided at a relatively upper portion of the cleaning tank 1.
The disinfectant inlet 31 has a disinfectant pump 32 and a disinfectant tank 33 in the middle.
The supply end of the venom supply line 34 is connected. Clean the other end of the disinfectant supply line 34
It is connected to a discharge port 36 provided at the bottom of the tank 1. A waste pipe 37 is provided at the outlet 36.
Is connected. The outlet 36 communicates with the disinfectant supply line 34 and the waste line 37
And a switching valve (not shown) for selecting one of a closed state and a closed state.
You. A waste pump 38 is provided in the middle of the waste pipe 37. Next, when the endoscope 5 is cleaned and disinfected by the endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus.
Will be described. First, the used endoscope 5 is set in the cleaning tank 1, and the endoscope is used.
The endoscope 5 and the channel connection port 18 are connected to each other to connect the endoscope tube cleaning tube 19 to the endoscope 5.
Let Thereafter, in accordance with the operation of various operation switches (not shown), control means (not shown)
Controls the cleaning, disinfection, rinsing, and air supply processes. Will be In the cleaning step, as shown in the time chart of FIG.
27 is opened, for example, washing water from a water supply source such as tap water is supplied through a water supply line 26.
The cleaning water is supplied from the cleaning water inlet 24 into the cleaning tank 1. In addition, a predetermined amount of
The user injects the agent into the cleaning tank 1 before starting the process. When a certain amount of water is supplied into the cleaning tank 1, before the water becomes full,
Fluid washing for the endoscope 1 is started. Water supply valve 27 when the specified water level is reached
Is closed. In this cleaning process, large dirt and soft dirt adhered to the endoscope 5
, Light dirt etc. are washed away. That is, the swirling liquid stream or flowing liquid jet in the cleaning tank 1
The dirt is removed by the impact force of the liquid ejected from the outlet 11. It should be noted that the washing water inlet 24 is normally opened directly below, so that the washing water can be supplied to the inside.
Inject downward. However, the circulation in the cleaning tank 1 is performed more effectively.
It may be oriented diagonally. As shown in the time chart of FIG.
The cleaning water is injected into the cleaning tank 1 so that the operation of the flowing liquid cleaning pump 12 is not hindered.
Then, it is effective in terms of detergency to start the operation of the flowing liquid cleaning pump 12 while supplying water.
It is fruitful. At this time, the washing water flows from the washing water inlet 24 that is directed obliquely.
If it is injected in the direction of circulation by the cleaning pump 12, this will cause the circulation in the cleaning tank 1 to occur.
Will be more powerful. As shown in FIG. 9, the cleaning water injected from the cleaning water inlet 24 is provided.
May directly hit a particularly difficult-to-clean portion, such as the operation unit of the endoscope 5.
No. In this case, since the above portion can be washed with the pressure of the tap water to be injected, the process time
The detergency can be increased simply by performing a normal process without any extension. When the preset process time of the liquid washing is completed, the time shown in FIG.
Subsequently, as shown in the chart, ultrasonic cleaning is performed. Endoscope 5 for ultrasonic cleaning
The hard dirt adhered to the surface, the dirt of a part having a complicated shape, and the like are strongly removed. afterwards
When the ultrasonic cleaning step is completed, the flowing liquid cleaning is performed again. This second flushing
In the cleaning process, the endoscope 5 The dirt that has come off is removed. In addition, as shown in FIG.
A liquid flow circulating in the entire cleaning tank 1 is generated by the jet flow from the
Is also washed. When the second washing process is completed, the waste valve 36 is opened, and
The pump 38 is driven, and the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 1 is discarded outside. In addition, this 2
In the second liquid washing step, as shown in the time chart of FIG.
The cleaning can be performed while opening the water port 36 and discarding the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 1. this
In such a case, the state of the flow of the liquid accumulated in the cleaning tank 1 changes as the liquid level becomes shallower.
Instead, the washing distribution can be different from that when the water is full. In addition, drainage time is shortened
There is also the advantage of being able to. After the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 1 is discarded to the outside, the water supply valve 27 is opened and a new water is supplied.
New water is supplied into the cleaning tank 1 and the pump 16 for cleaning the inside of the scope pipeline is driven.
Is done. That is, rinsing cleaning is performed. In this rinsing washing process, the washing in the washing tank 1 is performed.
Rinsing may be performed while the clean water is replaced with new water in an overflow manner,
Rinsing may be performed several times for normal use. In the latter half of the rinsing step, the pump 1 for cleaning the inside of the scope pipeline is used.
6 is stopped, the compressor 23 is turned on, and the channel connection port 18 is closed.
Air is introduced into various channels of the endoscope 5 through the
The inside is drained. In this rinsing and cleaning step, rinsing and cleaning by ultrasonic cleaning means are also used.
It is possible to perform a series of operations combining the process and the rinsing cleaning process with the liquid washing means.
Although it is possible, this will be specifically described in a second embodiment described later. After the rinsing and cleaning step is completed, a disinfection step is subsequently performed. This disinfection
In the process, first, the disinfecting solution in the disinfecting solution tank 33 is supplied to the injection pump 32 and the disinfecting solution injection pipe.
The water is supplied to the cleaning tank 1 through a passage 34. The entire endoscope 5 is stored in the cleaning tank 1.
Completely immersed in the disinfectant solution used, and
The disinfectant in the cleaning tank 1 is also supplied to the channel connection port 18 by the on operation, and
Disinfection in the channel of the mirror 5 is also performed. At this time, it oscillates ultrasonic waves and disinfects it.
You may go. And the predetermined time elapses And the drain valve 36 opens to the disinfectant solution tank 33 side, and the disinfectant solution is collected in the disinfectant solution tank 33.
It is. After the end of the disinfection step, the rinsing step is performed again. This rinse wash
Also in the process, the rinsing washing process by the ultrasonic washing means and the rinsing washing by the liquid washing means
A series of operations combining cleaning steps can be performed. After the rinsing step, the compressor 23 is driven to drive the endoscope tube.
Draining is completely done. After a certain period of time, the drain pump 38 stops.
After the end of the rinsing step, a water removing step is subsequently performed to drain a pipe in the endoscope.
Is performed carefully. In the case of the above-described example, as shown in the flowchart of FIG.
, Flow cleaning, ultrasonic cleaning, and flow cleaning were described in this order.
It is possible to combine the methods in various ways and increase the number of repetitions
is there. As shown in FIG. 13, in addition to flowing liquid cleaning, ultrasonic cleaning, and flowing liquid cleaning,
Operations such as wave washing can also be performed. When the flowing liquid cleaning and the ultrasonic cleaning are performed simultaneously, the standing wave of the ultrasonic wave is generated.
Since the sound pressure distribution is different from that during regular ultrasonic cleaning, unevenness in cleaning is reduced.
Less. The sound pressure when this ultrasonic cleaning is operated alone, the ultrasonic cleaning and the flowing liquid cleaning
When the purification is operated simultaneously, the sound pressure value (sound pressure value) at any point (am)
Are relative values), and the results of actual experiments performed by the inventor are shown in FIGS. FIG.
0 (a) is the sound pressure value when operated by ultrasonic cleaning alone, and the maximum value is very low.
The sound pressure varies widely depending on the location. Fig. 40 (b) Ultrasonic cleaning and flow
This is the sound pressure value when liquid washing is operated at the same time.
A constant capacity is obtained, and the variation is small. By the way, it is left for a certain period of time while being immersed.
You may. In the present embodiment, the position of the operation unit 5a of the endoscope 5 whose strength is low is vibrated.
Although it is set to be shifted from the position of the plate 6, the operation is performed as shown in FIG.
The part 5a is placed on the upper part of the diaphragm 6 to reduce the overall ultrasonic output and perform ultrasonic cleaning.
Both are possible. As a component of the flowing liquid cleaning, a flowing liquid cleaning pump 12 is used. Although high-pressure water injection is used, as shown in FIG.
The same effect can be obtained even in the case of the method of injecting. According to the above, there are two types of cleaning methods, ultrasonic cleaning and flowing liquid cleaning.
Because the method is repeated, the advantages of each cleaning method are obtained, and the disadvantages of each cleaning method are
Supplemented. As a result, various kinds of dirt adhering to the endoscope can be washed.
In addition, since this liquid washing is performed with the washing liquid stored, use strong detergents or hot water.
There are also benefits that you can do. Further, a cylindrical tower 3 is provided at the center of the inside of the washing tank 1, and
The ultrasonic vibrator 7 is arranged, for example, in an annular shape. Therefore, drain the cleaning solution and disinfectant solution.
Thus, the amount of liquid used can be reduced and the size of the apparatus can be reduced. Also shown in FIG.
The amount of liquid is small as described above, and the ultrasonic waves are reflected by the tower 3, so that the ultrasonic waves are collected in the washing area.
Let it in. As a result, the ultrasonic cleaning power can be increased. Ultrasonic transducer
Effective placement enables reduction of the number of ultrasonic transducers and cost reduction
it can. When the tower 3 is not provided, it hits the endoscope 5 as shown in FIG.
More ultrasonic waves are not required. <Second embodiment> In this embodiment, the present invention is applied to a rinsing and cleaning process, and rinsing can be performed reliably.
In addition, the rinsing time can be reduced. That is, as shown in FIG. 18, after the ultrasonic cleaning step is completed, the cleaning tank 1
Drain the cleaning solution inside. Thereafter, the cleaning liquid is injected into the cleaning tank 1 again. Flow washing
The cleaning pump 12 and the cleaning pump 16 for cleaning the inside of the endoscope channel are operated to perform running water rinsing cleaning.
U. After a certain period of time, the liquid washing pump 16 is stopped, and then ultrasonic waves are oscillated.
And ultrasonic rinsing. After the ultrasonic rinsing cleaning is completed, the liquid in the cleaning tank 1 is drained.
And rinse it again with running water. According to this, most of the detergent components in the cleaning liquid were removed by the first rinsing with the flowing liquid.
It disappears, and the detergent components that have accumulated in the details in the subsequent ultrasonic rinsing and washing are removed. further
Subsequently, the liquid component is rinsed and washed to completely eliminate the detergent component in the liquid. This rinse
The cleaning process is more effective than normal ultrasonic rinsing or running water or pool rinsing only.
It is effective and can be done in a short time. Further, as shown in FIG. 19, subsequent running water rinsing cleaning and ultrasonic rinsing cleaning are performed. May be performed simultaneously. <Additional modification> (1) In the above-described embodiment, the resistance of the operation unit 5a of the endoscope 5 to ultrasonic waves is considered.
The operation unit 5a of the endoscope 5 is set off from the reflux area in the cleaning tank 1.
However, as shown in FIG. 20, the ultrasonic vibrator 7 is additionally provided in a region where the operation unit 5a is located.
It may be provided in. Further, as shown in FIG. 21, a light guide of the endoscope 5 is provided.
The ultrasonic vibrator 7 is also provided in a region corresponding to the connector 5d of the cable.
Is also good. (2) FIG. 22 shows the ultrasonic vibrator 7 for improving the cleaning property.
This is an example in which a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 7 are arranged concentrically in a plurality of rows. (3) Various attachment methods of the cylindrical tower 3 and the diaphragm 6 can be considered, and FIG.
An example is shown. FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3D show that the members of the tower 3 and the diaphragm 6 are screws.
41. FIG. 3C shows the tower 3 and the diaphragm 6 as an integral member.
It is configured in a typical manner. (4) The cylindrical tower 3 provided at the central part in the washing tank 1 utilizes this.
Various functions such as the following can be provided. FIG. 24 shows a hot air outlet 42 provided.
The hot air outlet 42 is provided at the upper part of the tower 3 as shown in FIG.
Use the inside of the as a duct. A blower 44 with a heater 43 is provided at the lower part of the tower 3.
Provide. In the same figure (b), it was made to be able to squirt evenly to the whole circumference.
(C) a hot air guide 45 capable of creating a flow in a certain direction.
It is provided. FIG. 25 shows a tower 3 provided with a shower cleaning nozzle 46.
You. FIG. 26 shows that a washing tube mounting port 47 for washing the inside of the channel of the endoscope is provided in the tower 3.
It is a digit. FIG. 27 shows a heater 4 for heating or keeping the liquid in the cleaning tank 1.
8 is provided in the tower 3. For example, a rubber heater is used as the heater 48.
be able to. FIG. 28 shows that the ultrasonic vibrator 49 is attached to the tower 3 to improve the cleaning power.
FIG. 2A is attached to the side of the tower 3. The same figure (
b) is attached to the upper surface of the tower 3 and FIG.
An ultrasonic vibrator 49 is mounted in the recess 51 thus formed. In particular, FIG.
The ultrasonic transducer 49 of c) cleans the tip of the endoscope 5 and small items. Suitable when performing. FIG. 29 shows that an antiseptic solution inlet 52 is provided on the upper surface of the tower 3 (detergent inlet).
But you can do the same). FIG. 3A shows an upwardly-facing shape, and FIG. 3B shows a downwardly-facing shape.
It is. In particular, according to FIG. 1A formed upward, the ceiling surface 5 of the cleaning tank 1 is formed.
3. For example, by spraying a disinfectant on the center of the inner surface of the cover,
The disinfectant spreads throughout the area. A general inlet is provided at the top of the tower 3.
May be. FIG. 30A shows a disinfectant recovery port 54 provided at the lower part of the tower 3 and FIG.
Is provided with a liquid discharge port 55. FIG. 31 shows parts and parts for maintenance.
An insertion port 56 for inserting a tool, a hand, or the like is provided at an upper portion of the tower 3.
The insertion port 56 is covered with a removable cover 57. In FIG. 32, a detergent inlet 58 is provided at the upper part of the tower 3. The user can create the device
Before the operation, the detergent is injected into the detergent injection port 58, and at a certain time after the operation, the solenoid valve 59 is set to "
By performing the “open” operation, the detergent is mixed into the cleaning liquid. This is limited to detergents
Of course, disposable disinfectants can of course be used, and disinfection within the device is also possible.
It can also be applied to the injection of disinfectant in cases. FIG. 33 shows a filter which needs to be replaced and which is used in the endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus.
Is installed in the tower 3. Fig. (A) Air filter for disinfection
FIG. 6B shows an example of a filter 62 for cleaning water for disinfection. this
These filters 61 and 62 are replaceable from the upper part of the tower 3 and the like. FIG. 34 shows the insertion port 64 of the test strip 63 for measuring the concentration of the disinfecting solution.
Formed at the top of tower 3. FIG. 35 shows a liquid level sensor 65, a temperature sensor 66, air
A hole 67 is provided. FIG. 36 shows an ultraviolet irradiation member 68 provided in the tower 3.
. In this case, the tower 3 is a transparent member. Used for sterilization of cleaning tank 1 and endoscope 5
You. FIG. 37 shows that the shape of the tower 3 is not a cylinder but a multi-column as shown in FIGS.
It may be a prism or a cone (not shown). Endoscope set
The shape can be determined according to the mirror 5. FIG. 38 shows that the tower 3 can be changed to set a rigid endoscope or the like. It is something that can be done. In this case, a rigid endoscope 69 having a straight portion is inserted.
The tower 3 is semicircular. As a result, the space in which the rigid mirror 69 enters the cleaning tank 1
70 can be formed. According to this, even with the flexible endoscope 5 described above, the rigid endoscope 69 is used.
Can be cleaned, and a small amount of disinfectant is required for immersion disinfection.
Very efficient. In the case of an endoscope with a large minimum bending radius,
It is also possible to increase the size and reduce the amount of the disinfecting solution. The tower 3 in FIG. 39 is not limited to being attached to the washing tank 1, but is shown in FIG.
May be attached to the cleaning tank cover 71 as described above. Also, as shown in FIG.
It is also possible to attach to both the cover 71 and the cleaning tank 1. In these cases,
A gap 72 is provided between the center tube and the center tube or between the center tube and the cleaning tank 1 as shown in FIG.
The ultrasonic cleaning may be performed strongly. Ultrasonic vibrator due to small volume
Even if the output from 7 is constant, the sound pressure increases, so that the cleaning power can be increased. [Appendix] 1. In an endoscope washer-disinfector that cleans and disinfects an endoscope, the endoscope is installed in the cleaning solution.
Create a flow of cleaning solution in the cleaning tank for placing
The liquid flow cleaning means to be cleaned and the endoscope installed in the cleaning tank are cleaned by ultrasonic waves.
An ultrasonic cleaning unit, and a cleaning step by the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the liquid washing.
An endoscope that performs a series of operations combining cleaning steps by a cleaning unit.
Cleaning and disinfection equipment. 2. In an endoscope washer-disinfector that cleans and disinfects an endoscope, the endoscope is installed in the cleaning solution.
The cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning tank in which the endoscope is installed and the cleaning tank
Agitating and washing means for washing the endoscope with the endoscope placed in the washing tank to ultrasonic waves.
Ultrasonic cleaning means for further cleaning, ultrasonic cleaning step by the ultrasonic cleaning means and before
A control means for performing a series of operations combining the agitation washing process with the agitation washing means.
An endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus comprising: a step; 3. Supplementary note, wherein the flowing liquid cleaning step is performed simultaneously during the ultrasonic cleaning.
The endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1. 4. The two cleaning methods of the ultrasonic cleaning and the liquid flow cleaning are not performed at least simultaneously.
, A step of independently moving each other is provided. Endoscope cleaning and disinfecting device. 5. The liquid washing means uses a pump, and the high-pressure washing liquid from the pump is supplied to the washing tank.
Vortexing at least a part of the cleaning tank
Endoscope cleaning and disinfecting according to claim 1, wherein a flow is generated.
apparatus. 6. The cleaning liquid jet port is difficult to be cleaned by ultrasonic cleaning such as an operation section of an endoscope.
The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the endoscope is provided in the vicinity of a portion where the portion is to be installed.
Mirror cleaning and disinfecting equipment. 7. A cleaning step by the ultrasonic cleaning means and a cleaning step by the liquid flow cleaning means;
The combined operation is that of the endoscope rinsing and cleaning process.
2. The endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus according to item 1. 8. The rinsing step by the liquid washing means is combined with pool rinsing or running water rinsing.
8. The endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the endoscope is cleaned and rinsed. 9. 9. The endoscope according to claim 8, wherein the two rinsing means are performed alternately.
Mirror cleaning and disinfecting equipment. 10. Rinsing or running water rinsing is performed in one stage of the rinsing process, followed by ultrasonic
9. The endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus according to claim 8, wherein rinsing is performed. [0065] As described above, according to the present invention, the advantages of each cleaning method can be obtained.
Also, the disadvantages of each cleaning method are compensated. As a result, various types of dirt adhering to the endoscope
It can be washed. In addition, the present invention has a simple configuration and various types of contamination.
An endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus having a high cleaning power capable of removing the water can be provided.

【図面の簡単な説明】【図１】第１の実施例に係る内視鏡洗浄消毒装置の構成を概略的に示す説明図。【図２】同じくその洗浄槽付近の平面図。【図３】同じくその洗浄槽付近の流液の還流状態を示す平面図。【図４】第１の実施例の変形例を示す洗浄槽付近の平面図。【図５】第１の実施例の変形例を示す洗浄槽付近の平面図。【図６】同じくその洗浄槽付近の流液と内視鏡との関係を示す平面図。【図７】同じく内視鏡と噴出流との関係を示す説明図。【図８】第１の実施例の変形例を示す洗浄槽付近の平面図。【図９】第１の実施例の注水手段の変形例を示す説明図。【図１０】第１の実施例における流液工程のタイムチャート。【図１１】第１の実施例における洗浄工程のタイムチャート。【図１２】第１の実施例における他の態様の流液工程のタイムチャート。【図１３】第１の実施例におけるさらに他の態様の流液工程のタイムチャート。【図１４】第１の実施例の変形例を示す洗浄槽付近の平面図。【図１５】第１の実施例の変形例を示す洗浄槽付近の平面図。【図１６】第１の実施例における超音波洗浄の作用の説明図。【図１７】第１の実施例の他の例における超音波洗浄の作用の説明図。【図１８】第１の実施例における濯ぎ洗浄工程のタイムチャート。【図１９】第１の実施例における他の濯ぎ洗浄工程のタイムチャート。【図２０】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図２１】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図２２】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図２３】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図２４】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図２５】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図２６】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図２７】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図２８】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図２９】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３０】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３１】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３２】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３３】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３４】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３５】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３６】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３７】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３８】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図３９】洗浄槽に設けた塔の追加的変形例の説明図。【図４０】（ａ）（ｂ）は任意の点における音圧値を実際に実験した結果を示す
図。【符号の説明】１…洗浄槽、２…内視鏡収納領域、３…塔、５…内視鏡、６…振動板、７…超音
波振動子、１１…液流噴出口、１２…流液洗浄用ポンプ１２、１８…チャンネル
接続口、２５…水道蛇口、２６…洗浄水供給管路、２７…吸水弁。BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an explanatory view schematically showing a configuration of an endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the vicinity of the cleaning tank. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a reflux state of a flowing liquid in the vicinity of the washing tank. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the vicinity of a cleaning tank showing a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the vicinity of a cleaning tank showing a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the relationship between the flow liquid near the cleaning tank and the endoscope. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a relationship between an endoscope and a jet flow. FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the vicinity of a cleaning tank showing a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is an explanatory view showing a modification of the water injection means of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a time chart of a flow process in the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a time chart of a cleaning step in the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a time chart of a flow process in another mode in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a time chart of a flow liquid process of still another mode in the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a plan view near a cleaning tank showing a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a plan view of the vicinity of a cleaning tank showing a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of ultrasonic cleaning in the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of ultrasonic cleaning in another example of the first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a time chart of a rinsing cleaning step in the first embodiment. FIG. 19 is a time chart of another rinsing and cleaning process in the first embodiment. FIG. 20 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 21 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 23 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 24 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram of an additional modified example of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 26 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 27 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 29 is an explanatory diagram of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 30 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 31 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 32 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 33 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 34 is an explanatory diagram of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 36 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 37 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 38 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIG. 39 is an explanatory view of an additional modification of the tower provided in the washing tank. FIGS. 40 (a) and 40 (b) are diagrams showing results of actual experiments on sound pressure values at arbitrary points. [Description of Signs] 1 ... Washing tank, 2 ... Endoscope storage area, 3 ... Tower, 5 ... Endoscope, 6 ... Diaphragm, 7 ... Ultrasonic vibrator, 11 ... Liquid jet, 12 ... Flow Liquid cleaning pumps 12, 18: Channel connection port, 25: Water tap, 26: Cleaning water supply pipe line, 27: Water intake valve.

Claims

Claims: 1. An endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus for cleaning and disinfecting an endoscope, comprising: a cleaning tank for installing the endoscope in a cleaning liquid; Relatively large volume
A cleaning tower is provided, and the cleaning liquid sucked from the cleaning tank is supplied to the high pressure state by the circulation supply means.
The endoscope storage formed around the tower in the washing tank by jetting
Producing a liquid flow circulating in the area, a liquid flow cleaning means for cleaning the endoscope with the liquid flow, and an ultrasonic cleaning means for cleaning the endoscope installed in the cleaning tank with ultrasonic waves, An endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus characterized in that the endoscope is cleaned by a series of operations in which a cleaning step by the ultrasonic cleaning means and a cleaning step by the liquid flow cleaning means are combined.