JP6296893B2 - Endoscope cleaning disinfection device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to endoscope washing and disinfecting apparatus having a water level sensing apparatus.

  In an endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus for cleaning an endoscope, a liquid having conductivity and capable of detecting a water level with an electrode sensor is used as a cleaning liquid or a disinfecting liquid. And although RO water etc. which are the water processed with the reverse osmosis membrane may be used as rinse water, since RO water has very low electrical conductivity, a water level cannot be detected with an electrode sensor.

  Float sensors using floats are known as sensors for detecting the level of liquids with extremely low electrical conductivity or insulating liquids, but these liquids dry after contacting the aforementioned cleaning or disinfecting liquid with the float sensor. There is a risk that the float will be fixed.

The present invention has been made in view of the circumstances described above, without being affected by the liquid having a fixing possibility, to provide a detectable endoscope washing and disinfecting apparatus the level of the insulating liquid It is aimed.

An endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is separate from a cleaning tank in which an endoscope is disposed and the cleaning tank, and a container capable of storing liquid , and a first water level in the container. An electrode sensor for detecting a water level of a liquid having conductivity, a water level detection unit being fixed, an enclosure disposed in the container and having an opening at a second water level higher than the first water level, and the enclosure Is located in the float, and floats up and down by buoyancy, signal input unit that moves up and down in conjunction with the float, and transmits a signal, and adjacent to the signal input unit when the float is at a position lower than the second water level and includes a reed switch, to start / stop by the signal input unit are adjacent, a float sensor for detecting the level of the liquid having an insulating property, provided with a water level sensing apparatus comprising, the endoscope to This is a device for cleaning and disinfecting If, based on the detection signal outputted from the electrode sensor, and a control circuit for controlling the apparatus main body to interrupt the washing and disinfecting process.

According to the endoscope washing and disinfecting apparatus that put the present invention, without being affected by the liquid having a fixing possibility, it is possible to detect the water level of the insulating liquid.

The perspective view which shows the endoscope washing | cleaning disinfection apparatus which concerns on an Example. The figure for demonstrating the internal structure of the apparatus main body of the endoscope washing | cleaning disinfection apparatus which concerns on an Example. The figure which shows the structure of the principal part of the water level detection apparatus which concerns on an Example. The cross-sectional perspective view for demonstrating the structure of the water level detection apparatus which concerns on an Example. The perspective view for demonstrating the structure of the water level detection apparatus which concerns on an Example. The schematic block diagram for demonstrating the structure of the water level detection apparatus which concerns on an Example. The figure which shows the example in case the water level rises to the water level WLA in the schematic structure of FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example when the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR rises to the water level WLD in the schematic configuration of FIG. 6. The figure which shows an example of the float sensor which comprises the structure different from what was shown in FIG.3, FIG4 and FIG.5. The figure for demonstrating an example of the arrangement | positioning state of each part of the float sensor of FIG. 9 when the insulating liquid has not penetrate | invaded the internal area | region IR. The figure for demonstrating an example of the arrangement | positioning state of each part of the float sensor of FIG. 9 when the water level of the insulating liquid which permeated the internal area | region IR became more than a predetermined water level.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  1 to 11 relate to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus according to an embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus 2 is an apparatus for cleaning and disinfecting a used endoscope, and is opened and closed on an apparatus main body 3 and an upper portion thereof via, for example, a hinge (not shown). The top cover 303 that is freely connected constitutes a main part.

  In a state where the top cover 303 is closed by the apparatus main body 3, the apparatus main body 3 and the top cover 303 are fixed by, for example, a latch 308 disposed at a position where the apparatus main body 3 and the top cover 303 face each other. It is the composition which becomes.

  A detergent / alcohol tray 311 is disposed in front of the apparatus main body 3 so that it can be pulled out forward of the apparatus main body 3, for example, on the front of the apparatus main body 3.

  The detergent / alcohol tray 311 has a detergent tank 11 in which a cleaning agent, which is a liquid used for cleaning the endoscope, and an alcohol, which is a liquid used for drying the endoscope after cleaning and disinfection. Is stored, and the detergent / alcohol tray 311 can be pulled out, so that the tanks 11 and 13 can be replenished with a predetermined liquid.

  The detergent / alcohol tray 311 is provided with two windows 311m, and the operator can check the remaining amount of cleaning agent and alcohol injected into the tanks 11 and 13 through the windows 311m. It is like that.

  Further, a disinfecting liquid tray 312 is disposed on the front surface of the apparatus main body 3, for example, at the upper part of the right half, so that it can be pulled out forward of the apparatus main body 3. The disinfecting liquid tray 312 stores a disinfecting liquid bottle 17 into which a disinfecting liquid such as peracetic acid, for example, used for disinfecting an endoscope is stored. The liquid bottle 17 can be set in a predetermined manner.

  The disinfecting liquid tray 312 is provided with two windows 312m, which allows the operator to check the remaining amount of the disinfecting liquid injected into the disinfecting liquid bottle 17. Yes.

  Further, on the front surface of the apparatus main body 3 and above the disinfecting liquid tray 312, a sub operation panel 51 in which an indication button for cleaning and disinfecting time, an instruction button for heating the disinfecting liquid, and the like is disposed. ing.

  Further, a pedal switch 314 for opening a top cover 303 closed on the upper portion of the apparatus main body 3 to the upper side of the apparatus main body 3 by an operator's stepping operation is disposed at the lower part of the front surface of the apparatus main body 3 in the drawing. ing.

  Further, setting switches such as a cleaning and disinfection start switch for the apparatus main body 3 and a cleaning and disinfection mode selection switch are disposed on the upper surface of the apparatus main body 3, for example, near the right end on the front side where the operator approaches. A main operation panel 55 is provided, and a reception unit 425 configured to receive, for example, RFID is provided near the left end on the front side where the operator is close.

  A water supply hose 80a connected to a faucet 80 for supplying RO water to the apparatus main body 3 is connected to the upper surface of the apparatus main body 3 on the back side facing the front surface close to the operator. A hose connection port 14b is provided.

  Furthermore, a cleaning / disinfecting tank 4 (hereinafter also referred to as a cleaning tank) in which the endoscope can be stored is provided in the substantially central portion of the upper surface of the apparatus body 3 so that the endoscope storage port can be opened and closed by the top cover 303. Yes.

  The cleaning tank 4 has a first tank main body 350a located on the front surface side close to the operator, and a bottom surface lower than the first tank main body 350a and a rear side from the first tank main body 350a. A storage recess 4b having a second tank main body 350b located in the first tank main body 350a and a terrace section 351 provided continuously around the outer peripheral edge of the endoscope storage port of the second tank main body 350b. And is constituted by.

  The first tank body 350a and the second tank body 350b can be accommodated when the used endoscope is cleaned and disinfected. The first tank body 350a is housed with an endoscope insertion portion, a universal cord, and an endoscope connector wound, and the second tank body 350b has an operation portion of the endoscope. Stored.

  On the bottom surface of the second tank body 350b, the first tank body 350a and the second tank are supplied with cleaning liquid, RO water, alcohol, disinfectant liquid, and the like supplied to the first tank body 350a and the second tank body 350b. A drain outlet 42 for draining from the main body 350b is provided, and the cleaning liquid, RO water, disinfecting liquid, etc. supplied to the first tank main body 350a and the second tank main body 350b are placed inside the endoscope. A circulation port 21 for supplying the liquid again to the first tank main body 350a and the second tank main body 350b from a water supply / circulation nozzle 24, which will be described later, through a mesh filter or the like. Is provided.

  A cleaning case in which a cleaning case that accommodates buttons such as each scope switch of the endoscope and a removable part attached to the endoscope can be attached to the substantially central portion of the bottom surface of the first tank body 350a. An attachment port 406 and a temperature sensor 436 for measuring the temperature of the disinfecting liquid supplied to the first tank body 350a and the second tank body 350b are provided.

  A water level sensor 332 with a cover for detecting the water level of the cleaning liquid, the RO water, the disinfecting liquid, etc. supplied to the first tank main body 350a and the second tank main body 350b is disposed at an arbitrary position on the side surface of the second tank main body 350b. Is provided.

  Furthermore, scales 490 (only one place is shown in FIG. 1) for confirming the horizontal placement of the apparatus body 3 are provided, for example, at three places on the first tank body 350a and the second tank body 350b. Yes.

  The terrace surface 351t of the terrace portion 351 is provided with a detergent nozzle 22 for supplying a cleaning agent to the first tank main body 350a and the second tank main body 350b and a disinfecting liquid nozzle 23 for supplying a disinfecting liquid. ing.

  In addition, cleaning liquid, RO water, disinfecting liquid, or the like for supplying water to the first tank body 350a and the second tank body 350b or sucked from the circulation port 21 to the terrace surface 351t of the terrace portion 351 again. The water supply / circulation nozzle 24 for supplying to the first tank body 350a and the second tank body 350b, and the cleaning liquid, RO water, disinfecting liquid, etc. supplied to the first tank body 350a and the second tank body 350b A float switch 491 for detecting an abnormal water level is provided.

  Further, a plurality of units for supplying cleaning liquid, RO water, alcohol, disinfecting liquid, air, or the like to the air / water supply conduit and the suction conduit provided in the endoscope on the terrace surface 351t of the terrace portion 351. Here, a plurality of air supply / water supply / forceps port connectors 333 and a plurality of for supplying cleaning liquid, RO water, alcohol, disinfectant liquid, air or the like to the auxiliary water supply pipe provided in the endoscope. Here, two auxiliary water supply / forceps raising connectors 334 are provided.

  Next, the internal configuration of the apparatus body 3 of the endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an internal configuration of the apparatus main body of the endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a detergent tank 11 configured to store a liquid detergent, which is a conductive liquid used for cleaning the endoscope, is diluted in the apparatus body 3 to a predetermined concentration. A disinfecting liquid tank 12 configured to store a disinfecting liquid, an alcohol tank 13 configured to store alcohol, and RO water (or pure water) supplied from the faucet 80 is filtered. A water filter 14 and an air filter 15 are disposed. That is, the detergent tank 11 has a function as a chemical solution storage unit that stores a chemical solution that is a conductive liquid used for cleaning the endoscope. Further, the faucet 80 has a function as a supply source of RO water that is an insulating liquid used for cleaning the endoscope. In addition to the function of the RO water supply source, the faucet 80 may further include a function as a tap water supply source, for example.

  The RO water that has passed through the water filter 14 and the dilution valve 18 is supplied to the disinfectant tank 12 to the disinfectant tank 12. The RO water from the faucet 80 is sent to the water filter 14 by opening the valve inside the water supply valve 14A. Accordingly, the disinfecting liquid tank 12 stores the disinfecting liquid diluted to a predetermined concentration.

  The disinfectant tank 12 is fixedly arranged inside the apparatus main body 3.

  The water filter 14 and the air filter 15 are mounted on the trays 14a and 15a, respectively.

  The trays 14a and 15a are configured to be able to be pulled out to the front side of the apparatus main body 3 in a state where the front door of the apparatus main body 3 is opened.

  And, according to the configuration described above, for example, in the state where the front door is opened and the desired tray out of the trays 14a and 15a is pulled out to the front side of the apparatus main body 3, the liquid is replenished to the tank. And (or) operations such as filter replacement can be performed. FIG. 2 shows an example in which the detergent / alcohol tray 311 and the trays 14a and 15a are pulled out.

  On the other hand, for example, when the disinfectant tray 312 (not shown in FIG. 2) of the apparatus body 3 is pulled out, the bottle connector 16 fixed inside the apparatus body 3 is filled with the concentrated disinfectant solution. By connecting the disinfecting liquid bottle 17, the disinfecting liquid tank 12 can be replenished with the disinfecting liquid. Further, the RO water that has passed through the water filter 14 and the dilution valve 18 is supplied to the disinfectant tank 12. The RO water from the faucet 80 is sent to the water filter 14 by opening the valve inside the water supply valve 14A. Accordingly, the disinfecting liquid tank 12 stores the disinfecting liquid diluted to a predetermined concentration.

  One end side of the detergent conduit 22 a is connected to the detergent nozzle 22. Further, the other end side of the detergent conduit 22 a is connected to the detergent tank 11. A detergent pump 27 is provided in the middle of the detergent conduit 22a. That is, the detergent nozzle 22 and the detergent conduit 22 a are configured as a chemical solution supply conduit provided between the detergent tank 11 and the cleaning tank 4.

  One end side of the disinfecting liquid pipe line 23 a is connected to the disinfecting liquid nozzle 23. Further, the other end side of the disinfecting liquid conduit 23 a is connected to the disinfecting liquid tank 12. A chemical pump 28 is provided in the middle of the disinfecting liquid conduit 23a.

  One end side of the water supply / circulation conduit 24 a is connected to the water supply / circulation nozzle 24. The other end of the water supply / circulation conduit 24 a is connected to the three-way switching valve 29.

  The three-way switching valve 29 selectively connects the pipe communicating with the other end of the water supply / circulation pipe 24a to one of the pipe on the water filter 14 side and the pipe on the fluid pump 30 side. It is configured so that it can be switched. Therefore, for example, when the other end side of the water supply / circulation conduit 24a communicates with the conduit on the water filter 14 side via the three-way switching valve 29, the RO water filtered by the water filter 14 is supplied to the water supply / circulation conduit 24a. It is discharged from the circulation nozzle 24 into the housing recess 4 b of the cleaning tank 4. For example, when the other end of the water supply / circulation conduit 24 a communicates with the conduit on the fluid pump 30 side via the three-way switching valve 29, the cleaning water or the disinfecting water taken from the circulation port 21 is used. Is discharged from the water supply / circulation nozzle 24 into the housing recess 4b of the cleaning tank 4 and circulated. That is, the water supply / circulation nozzle 24 and the water supply / circulation conduit 24a are configured as a part of the RO water supply conduit provided between the faucet 80, which is a supply source of RO water, and the cleaning tank 4. .

  Although not shown in the figure, the apparatus main body 3 has a high-pressure nozzle configured to be able to eject the same liquid (RO water or washing water) as the water supply / circulation nozzle 24 into the housing recess 4b at high pressure. A high pressure pump is provided. And according to such a structure, a water flow generate | occur | produces in the accommodation recessed part 4b of the washing tank 4 with the liquid discharged from a high pressure nozzle and the water supply / circulation nozzle 24, and also in the accommodation recessed part 4b by the said generated water flow The installed endoscope is cleaned.

  On the other hand, the circulation port 21 communicates with a CH (channel) block 31 that is a four-way switching valve via a communication path. In addition, a CH (channel) pump 32 and a check valve 33 for preventing washing water or disinfecting water from flowing to the CH pump 32 side are arranged in the communication path from the circulation port 21 side. It is installed. Then, as the CH pump 32 is driven, the cleaning water or the disinfecting water taken from the circulation port 21 is supplied to the CH block 31 side.

  The CH block 31 communicates with the air filter 15 via the air check valve 35. The air check valve 35 is configured not to flow liquid (RO water, cleaning water, and disinfecting water) to the air filter 15 side that communicates with the compressor 34. According to such a configuration, the compressed air supplied from the compressor 34 is discharged to the CH block 31 side via the air filter 15 and the air check valve 35. A pipe line connecting the compressor 34 and the air filter 15 branches to the exhaust valve 42a side for adjusting the pressure of the compressed air supplied from the compressor 34 in the middle.

  The CH block 31 communicates with the alcohol tank 13 via the alcohol valve 36 and the alcohol pump 13A. According to such a configuration, the alcohol pumped from the alcohol tank 13 in response to the driving of the alcohol pump 13A is supplied to the CH block 31 via the alcohol valve 36.

  The liquid and / or gas supplied to the CH block 31 is supplied to the fluid supply line 7 and the air / water supply / forceps port connector 333 or the auxiliary water / forceps for each step included in the cleaning / disinfecting process. It is fed into the housing recess 4b (or an endoscope disposed in the housing recess 4b) via one of the upper connectors 334.

  A switching valve 43 is provided at the drain outlet 42 on the bottom surface of the housing recess 4 b of the cleaning tank 4.

  The switching valve 43 includes a valve that communicates with the disinfecting liquid tank 12. The disinfecting liquid stored in the housing recess 4b can be returned to the disinfecting liquid tank 12 by switching the valve communicating with the disinfecting liquid tank 12 in the switching valve 43 from the closed state to the open state. The disinfecting liquid stored in the disinfecting liquid tank 12 is discharged from the disinfecting liquid drain port 48 every time the number of executions of the disinfecting process included in the cleaning / disinfecting process reaches a predetermined number.

  On the other hand, the switching valve 43 includes a valve that communicates with the drain port 82 through a drain pipe 44a provided in the middle with a drain pump 44 for sucking washing water, rinsing water, and the like stored in the housing recess 4b. Configured. Then, by switching the valve communicating with the drain port 82 in the switching valve 43 from the closed state to the open state, the washing water, the rinsing water, etc. stored in the housing recess 4b are sucked by the drain pump 44 and the outside of the apparatus main body 3 Can be discharged.

  The pumps and valves described above are controlled by a control circuit 46 provided inside the apparatus main body 3 for each process included in the cleaning / disinfecting process.

  The control circuit 46 is connected to an external outlet 81 via the power supply device 47, and controls the operation of each pump and each valve in accordance with an operation performed on either the sub operation panel 51 or the main operation panel 55. It is configured as follows. The control circuit 46 is configured to control the operation of each pump and each valve based on detection signals output from various sensors such as an electrode sensor and a float sensor described later.

  On the other hand, a water level detection device 101 for detecting the occurrence of liquid leakage from a pipe line or the like of the device body 3 is provided at the bottom of the device body 3.

  The water level detection device 101 is provided at a position vertically away from each part of the above-described chemical solution storage unit, chemical solution supply line, and RO water supply line. In addition, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, for example, the water level detection device 101 includes an electrode sensor 111 and a surrounding member 112 inside a tray 131 configured as a container capable of storing liquid. A protective member 113 and a float sensor 114 in which a float 123 (at least a part thereof) is disposed in an internal region IR surrounded by the enclosing member 112. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a main part of the water level detection device according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view for explaining the configuration of the water level detection device according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view for explaining the configuration of the water level detection device according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the electrode sensor 111 is electrically connected when the water level of the conductive liquid (cleaning water, disinfecting water, etc.) stored in the tray 131 reaches the water level WLA. The tray 131 is provided near the bottom surface of the tray 131. That is, the electrode sensor 111 is configured to be provided near the bottom surface of the receiving pan 131 for detecting that the water level of the conductive liquid stored in the receiving pan 131 has reached the water level WLA. The electrode sensor 111 is configured to generate a detection signal when the electrode portion 111 a is electrically connected and to output the generated detection signal to the control circuit 46.

  The enclosing member 112 is formed to have a reverse convex shape in cross section as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, for example. Specifically, on the upper part of the enclosure member 112, the insulating liquid is stored in the inner region IR until the water level of the insulating liquid stored in the tray 131 reaches the water level WLB higher than the water level WLA. A partition wall 112a is provided to prevent intrusion. Further, the lower part of the enclosing member 112 is formed to have a smaller volume than the part where the partition wall 112 a is provided, and the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR is introduced from the bottom surface of the tray 131. Also, a recess 112b configured to be able to be stored from a low water level is provided.

  On the other hand, the surrounding member 112 is made of, for example, rubber or the like, and is configured so that the insulating liquid stored in the internal region IR can be easily discharged.

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the protection member 113 includes an upper plate 113 a that can cover the upper portion of the enclosure member 112 and the float sensor 114, and at least one side of the enclosure member 112. Part) is formed in an open substantially U-shape. In addition, an upper portion of the stem 121 is disposed through the central portion of the upper plate 113a of the protection member 113, and a fixing member 113b for fixing the upper portion of the stem 121 is provided. And according to the structure of such a protection member 113, it can prevent the liquid dripped from the upper direction (above the receiving tray 131) of the water level detection apparatus 101 from directly infiltrating into the internal area | region IR.

  The float sensor 114 includes a stem 121, a stopper 122, and a float 123. In addition, the float sensor 114 is configured to generate a detection signal when a later-described switch unit 121c is in an ON state and output the generated detection signal to the control circuit 46.

  The stem 121 is arranged with its longitudinal axis aligned in a direction parallel to the direction of change in the level of the liquid stored in the tray 131 (or the depth direction of the tray 131). Further, a flange portion 121 a is formed on the upper portion of the stem 121. Further, the lower portion of the stem 121 is disposed in the inner region IR.

  The upper surface of the flange portion 121a is connected to the back surface side of an upper plate 113a (described later) of the protection member 113 through a support member 121b.

  The stopper 122 is provided below the stem 121 and inside the recess 112b. Moreover, the stopper 122 is arrange | positioned in the state aligned so that the predetermined | prescribed height position corresponding to the water level WLC lower than the water level WLA may be made into the stand-by position of the float 123, for example.

  The float 123 is formed so as to have a specific gravity that allows the float 123 to float against an insulating liquid (for example, RO water). The float 123 is formed as a cylindrical member that covers a part of the side surface of the stem 121 between the flange portion 121 a and the stopper 122. Further, the float 123 is configured to be disposed at a predetermined height position (predetermined standby position) defined by the stopper 122 when the insulating liquid does not enter the internal region IR. . Furthermore, the float 123 is configured to move up and down along the longitudinal axis of the stem 121 in accordance with a change in the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR.

  That is, according to the configuration described above, for example, when the insulating liquid does not enter the internal region IR, the lower surface of the float 123 and the stopper 122 are disposed at a height corresponding to the water level WLC. Are arranged in contact with each other. Further, according to the configuration described above, for example, when the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined water level, the upper surface of the float 123 and the lower surface of the flange portion 121a are It arrange | positions in the state contact | abutted. Further, according to the configuration described above, the float 123 moves upward along the longitudinal axis of the stem 121 from the predetermined standby position in response to the rise of the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR. To do.

  On the other hand, in the stem 121, for example, an insulating liquid that is fixedly disposed at a predetermined height corresponding to the water level WLD that is higher than the water level WLA and lower than the water level WLB, and that has entered the internal region IR. Is provided with a switch part 121c configured to switch to an on state or an off state depending on whether or not the water level has reached the water level WLD.

  That is, the water levels WLA to WLD described above have a positional relationship as shown in FIG. 6, for example. FIG. 6 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining the configuration of the water level detection device according to the embodiment.

  The switch unit 121c is configured to switch to an on state or an off state in accordance with an electric field, a magnetic field, or an electromagnetic signal generated from a switch switching unit 123a (described later) provided inside the float 123. Specifically, for example, the switch unit 121c is configured to be turned on when a magnetic field having a predetermined strength is applied, and to be turned off when a magnetic field having a strength lower than the predetermined strength is applied. It consists of a reed switch and the like.

  In the float 123, for example, when the distance to the switch unit 121c is larger than the predetermined distance D1, the switch unit 121c is turned off, while the distance to the switch unit 121c is equal to or less than the predetermined distance D1. There is provided a switch switching unit 123a configured to generate an electric field, a magnetic field or an electromagnetic signal having such an intensity that the switch unit 121c is turned on. Specifically, the switch switching unit 123a is configured by, for example, a magnet that can apply a static magnetic field having a predetermined intensity to the switch unit 121c when the distance to the switch unit 121c reaches a predetermined distance D1. .

  That is, according to the configuration described above, for example, when the insulating liquid does not enter the internal region IR, the bottom surface of the float 123 and the stopper 122 are arranged in contact with each other. As a result, the distance between the switch unit 121c and the switch switching unit 123a is larger than the predetermined distance D1, so that the state in which the switch unit 121c is off is maintained. Further, according to the configuration described above, for example, when an insulating liquid enters the internal region IR, the float 123 moves to the upper side of the stem 121 according to the water level of the insulating liquid. In addition, when the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR rises and reaches the water level WLD, the distance between the switch unit 121c and the switch switching unit 123a is less than or equal to the predetermined distance D1. When the float 123 is arranged at the correct position, the switch unit 121c is switched from the off state to the on state.

  According to the present embodiment, for example, the position where the lower surface of the float 123 and the stopper 122 are in contact with each other (the standby position of the float 123 when the insulating liquid does not enter the internal region IR). Is previously moved upward along the longitudinal axis of the stem 121, so that when the insulating liquid enters the internal region IR, the switch is moved to a position separated by a predetermined distance D1 from the switch portion 121c. You may make it shorten the time until the switch part 123a approaches.

  Subsequently, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

  While any process included in the cleaning / disinfecting process of the endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus 2 is being performed, for example, conductive liquid such as cleaning water and disinfecting water is placed above the water level detection apparatus 101 (the receiving tray 131). When the water level of the conductive liquid that has entered the tray 131 rises and reaches the water level WLA (see FIG. 7), a detection signal is sent from the electrode sensor 111 to the control circuit 46. Is output. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example in the case where the water level rises to the water level WLA in the schematic configuration of FIG.

  Based on the detection signal output from the electrode sensor 111, the control circuit 46 controls each pump and each valve of the apparatus body 3 to interrupt the process currently being performed.

  That is, while any process included in the cleaning / disinfecting process of the endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus 2 is being performed, conductive liquid such as cleaning water and disinfecting water is placed above the water level detecting apparatus 101 (the receiving tray 131). In the case of dripping from above, the current process is interrupted while preventing the conductive liquid from adhering to the float 123 of the float sensor 114 (so as not to enter the internal region IR). Can do.

  On the other hand, while any process included in the cleaning / disinfecting process of the endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus 2 is being performed, for example, an insulating liquid such as RO water is placed above the water level detecting apparatus 101 (on the receiving tray 131). In the case of dripping from above, when the water level of the insulating liquid stored in the tray 131 rises and reaches the water level WLB, the insulating liquid enters the internal region IR, When the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR rises and reaches the water level WLD (see FIG. 8), a detection signal is output from the float sensor 114 to the control circuit 46. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example in the case where the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR rises to the water level WLD in the schematic configuration of FIG. 6.

  Based on the detection signal output from the float sensor 114, the control circuit 46 controls each pump and each valve of the apparatus main body 3 to interrupt the process currently being performed.

  That is, while any process included in the cleaning / disinfecting process of the endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus 2 is being performed, an insulating liquid such as RO water is located above the water level detecting apparatus 101 (above the tray 131). In the case where the liquid is dripped, the process currently being performed can be interrupted based on the detection result of the float sensor 114 detecting the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the liquid having the possibility of fixing such as cleaning water and disinfecting water does not adhere to the float 123 of the float sensor 114. Situations that slow down operation do not occur. As a result, according to the present embodiment, the water level of the insulating liquid such as the RO water can be reliably detected without being affected by the liquid having the possibility of fixing such as the washing water and the disinfecting water.

  Note that the water level detection apparatus 101 of the present embodiment may be configured to include, for example, a float sensor 214 as shown in FIG. 9 instead of the float sensor 114. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a float sensor having a configuration different from that illustrated in FIGS. 3, 4, and 5.

  The float sensor 214 is disposed in the internal region IR, and includes a stem 221, a hinge mechanism 222, a shaft 223, and a float 224 provided at the tip of the shaft 223. The float sensor 214 is configured to generate a detection signal when a later-described switch unit 221c is in an ON state, and output the generated detection signal to the control circuit 46.

  The stem 221 is provided in the internal region IR, and is arranged with its longitudinal axis aligned in a direction orthogonal to the direction of change in the level of the liquid stored in the tray 131 (or the depth direction of the tray 131). . Specifically, the stem 221 is disposed, for example, in a state in which the longitudinal axis is aligned with a predetermined height position corresponding to the water level WLD that is higher than the water level WLA and lower than the water level WLB in the internal region IR. Further, a flange portion 221 a and a fixing member 221 b configured to have a function as a support member that can be supported in a state where the stem 221 is fixed to the side surface of the surrounding member 112 are provided at the proximal end portion of the stem 221. ing. Further, a hinge mechanism 222 is provided at the distal end portion of the stem 221.

  The hinge mechanism 222 is configured to be able to rotate the shaft 223 (and the float 224) about a pin member 222a provided at a predetermined position in the middle of the shaft 223 according to the buoyancy obtained by the float 224. Yes.

  The shaft 223 is configured by providing a float 224 at the tip. Further, the shaft 223 is configured, for example, by providing a pin member 222a at a predetermined position located on the distal end side with respect to an arrangement position of a switch switching unit 223a described later. Further, when the shaft 223 rotates around the pin member 222a as a fulcrum, for example, from the angle θ1 such that the float 224 provided at the tip portion contacts the hinge mechanism 222 at a height position corresponding to the water level WLC. It is configured to be able to rotate within a range up to an angle θ2 such that the end portion comes into contact with the stem 221 at a predetermined height position.

  The float 224 has a specific gravity so that it floats (allows buoyancy) against an insulating liquid (for example, RO water). The float 224 is configured to rotate together with the shaft 223 (using the pin member 222a as a fulcrum) in response to a change in the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR.

  That is, according to the configuration described above, for example, when the insulating liquid does not enter the internal region IR, the float 224 and the hinge mechanism 222 are located at a height corresponding to the water level WLC. It arrange | positions in the state contact | abutted (refer FIG. 10). Further, according to the above-described configuration, for example, when the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR exceeds a predetermined water level, the base end portion of the shaft 223 and the stem 221 contact each other. It arrange | positions in the state which contact | connected (refer FIG. 11). FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of an arrangement state of each part of the float sensor of FIG. 9 when the insulating liquid does not enter the internal region IR. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of an arrangement state of each part of the float sensor of FIG. 9 when the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR is equal to or higher than a predetermined water level.

  On the other hand, the stem 221 is fixedly disposed at a predetermined position between the hinge mechanism 222 and the flange portion 221a, and whether or not the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the internal region IR has reached the water level WLD. A switch unit 221c configured to switch to an on state or an off state according to the above is provided.

  The switch unit 221c is configured to switch to an on state or an off state according to an electric field, a magnetic field, or an electromagnetic signal generated from a switch switching unit 223a provided inside the shaft 223. Specifically, the switch unit 221c is, for example, a reed switch configured to be turned on when a magnetic field having a predetermined strength is applied and turned off when a magnetic field having a strength lower than the predetermined strength is applied. Etc.

  Inside the base end portion of the shaft 223, for example, when the distance to the switch unit 221c is larger than the predetermined distance D2, the switch unit 221c is turned off, while the distance to the switch unit 221c is set to the predetermined distance D2. There is provided a switch switching unit 223a configured to generate an electric field, a magnetic field, or an electromagnetic signal having such an intensity that the switch unit 221c is turned on when the following occurs. Specifically, the switch switching unit 223a is configured by, for example, a magnet that can apply a static magnetic field having a predetermined intensity to the switch unit 221c when the distance to the switch unit 221c reaches a predetermined distance D2. .

  That is, according to the configuration described above, for example, when the insulating liquid does not enter the internal region IR, the float 224 and the hinge mechanism 222 are arranged in contact with each other. Since the distance between the switch unit 221c and the switch switching unit 223a is larger than the predetermined distance D2, the state in which the switch unit 221c is off is maintained. Further, according to the configuration described above, for example, when an insulating liquid enters the internal region IR, the shaft 223 rotates according to the water level of the insulating liquid, and further, the internal region When the water level of the insulating liquid that has entered the IR reaches the water level WLD, the distance between the switch unit 221c and the switch switching unit 223a is a predetermined distance D2 or less (as shown in FIG. 9 When the shaft 223 rotates to the position), the switch unit 221c is switched from OFF to ON.

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, even when the water level detection device 101 includes the float sensor 214, the same effect as when the water level detection device 101 includes the float sensor 114 is provided. An effect can be obtained.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and applications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 2 ... Endoscope washing | cleaning disinfection apparatus, 3 ... Apparatus main body, 4 ... Cleaning tank, 4b ... Accommodating recessed part, 7 ... Flow liquid supply line, 11 ... Detergent tank, 12 ... Disinfection liquid tank, 13 ... Alcohol tank, 13A ... Alcohol pump, 14 ... water filter, 14A ... water supply valve, 14a ... tray, 14b ... water supply hose connection port, 15 ... air filter, 15a ... tray, 16 ... bottle connector, 17 ... disinfectant bottle, 18 ... dilution valve, 21 ... circulation port, 22 ... detergent nozzle, 22a ... detergent line, 23 ... disinfectant nozzle, 23a ... disinfectant line, 24 ... water supply / circulation nozzle, 24a ... water supply / circulation line, 27 ... detergent pump, 28 ... Chemical pump 29 ... Three-way switching valve, 30 ... Flow pump, 31 ... CH block, 32 ... CH pump, 33 ... Check valve, 34 ... Compressor, 35 ... Air check valve, 36 ... Alcohol valve, 42 ... Mizuguchi, 42a ... exhaust valve, 43 ... switching valve, 44 ... drainage pump,
44a ... drain pipe, 46 ... control circuit, 47 ... power supply, 48 ... disinfectant drain port, 51 ... sub operation panel, 55 ... main operation panel, 80 ... faucet, 80a ... water supply hose, 81 ... outlet, 82 ... Drain outlet, 101 ... water level detection device, 111 ... electrode sensor, 111a ... electrode portion, 112 ... enclosure member, 112a ... partition wall, 112b ... recess, 113 ... protective member, 113a ... upper plate, 114,214 ... float sensor, 121 , 221 ... stem, 121b ... support member, 121c, 221c ... switch part, 122 ... stopper, 123 ... float, 123a ... switch switching part, 131 ... saucer, 214 ... float sensor, 221 ... stem, 221a ... flange part, 221b ... Fixing member, 222 ... Hinge mechanism, 222a ... Pin member, 223 ... Shaft, 223a ... Switch unit, 224 ... float, 303 ... top cover, 308 ... latch, 311 ... alcohol tray, 311m ... window part, 312 ... disinfectant tray, 312m ... window part, 314 ... pedal switch, 332 ... water level sensor, 333 ... Forceps port connector, 334 ... Forceps raising connector, 350a ... First tank body, 350b ... Second tank body, 351 ... Terrace part, 351t ... Terrace surface, 406 ... Cleaning case attachment port, 425 ... Receiver part 436 ... Temperature sensor, 490 ... Scale, 491 ... Float switch

Japanese Patent No. 4813996

Claims (4)

A washing tank in which the endoscope is disposed;
A container separate from the washing tank, capable of storing liquid;
A water level detection unit is fixed to the first water level in the container, and an electrode sensor for detecting the water level of the conductive liquid ;
An enclosure disposed in the container and having an opening at a second water level higher than the first water level;
A float that is arranged in the enclosure and moves up and down by buoyancy, a signal input unit that moves up and down in conjunction with the float, and transmits a signal, and the signal input unit when the float is at a position lower than the second water level adjacent to, look including a reed switch, to start / stop by the signal input unit are adjacent, a float sensor for detecting the level of the liquid having an insulating property,
An apparatus main body for cleaning and disinfecting the endoscope,
Based on the detection signal output from the electrode sensor, a control circuit for controlling the apparatus main body to interrupt the cleaning / disinfecting process;
An endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus comprising: The float sensor is
A rod-shaped stem disposed in the container such that the axial direction is the direction of gravity;
The reed switch fixed to the stem;
The float moving up and down along the stem; and
The signal input portion which is fixed to the float,
The endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1, comprising: The float sensor is
A shaft having the float connected to a first end and the signal input connected to a second end;
The shaft is swung between the first end and the second end so that the signal input portion is lowered when the float is raised and the signal input portion is raised when the float is lowered. A hinge part for holding it movable;
The endoscope cleaning and disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1, comprising: A chemical storage unit that stores the conductive liquid,
A chemical supply line connecting the chemical storage section and the cleaning tank;
A water supply line connecting the cleaning tank and a tap water supply source;
The endoscope cleaning / disinfecting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning tank is disposed on the top side in the gravity direction, and the chemical solution supply line and the water supply line are disposed on the ground side in the gravity direction.

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