NL2018625B1 - Coupling device for a medical instrument - Google Patents

Coupling device for a medical instrument Download PDF

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Publication number
NL2018625B1
NL2018625B1 NL2018625A NL2018625A NL2018625B1 NL 2018625 B1 NL2018625 B1 NL 2018625B1 NL 2018625 A NL2018625 A NL 2018625A NL 2018625 A NL2018625 A NL 2018625A NL 2018625 B1 NL2018625 B1 NL 2018625B1
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NL
Netherlands
Prior art keywords
engaging elements
medical instrument
base part
insert
cooperating
Prior art date
Application number
NL2018625A
Other languages
Dutch (nl)
Inventor
Wassenburg Ronald
Elisa Damhuis Karen
Willem Het Lam Jan
Sebastianus Johannes Jozef Deschepper Jeroen
Original Assignee
Wassenburg Medical B V
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Wassenburg Medical B V filed Critical Wassenburg Medical B V
Priority to NL2018625A priority Critical patent/NL2018625B1/en
Priority to US16/494,144 priority patent/US20200069156A1/en
Priority to AU2018244986A priority patent/AU2018244986A1/en
Priority to CA3055279A priority patent/CA3055279A1/en
Priority to EP18716004.9A priority patent/EP3599971A1/en
Priority to PCT/NL2018/050181 priority patent/WO2018182404A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of NL2018625B1 publication Critical patent/NL2018625B1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/00112—Connection or coupling means
    • A61B1/00121—Connectors, fasteners and adapters, e.g. on the endoscope handle
    • A61B1/00128—Connectors, fasteners and adapters, e.g. on the endoscope handle mechanical, e.g. for tubes or pipes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/12—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements
    • A61B1/121—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements provided with means for cleaning post-use
    • A61B1/125—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with cooling or rinsing arrangements provided with means for cleaning post-use using fluid circuits
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B50/00—Containers, covers, furniture or holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments, e.g. sterile covers
    • A61B50/10—Furniture specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B50/00—Containers, covers, furniture or holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments, e.g. sterile covers
    • A61B50/20—Holders specially adapted for surgical or diagnostic appliances or instruments
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B90/00—Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups A61B1/00 - A61B50/00, e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
    • A61B90/70—Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/26—Accessories or devices or components used for biocidal treatment
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B90/00—Instruments, implements or accessories specially adapted for surgery or diagnosis and not covered by any of the groups A61B1/00 - A61B50/00, e.g. for luxation treatment or for protecting wound edges
    • A61B90/70—Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments
    • A61B2090/701—Cleaning devices specially adapted for surgical instruments for flexible tubular instruments, e.g. endoscopes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2202/12—Apparatus for isolating biocidal substances from the environment
    • A61L2202/123—Connecting means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/10—Apparatus features
    • A61L2202/17—Combination with washing or cleaning means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2202/00—Aspects relating to methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects
    • A61L2202/20—Targets to be treated
    • A61L2202/24—Medical instruments, e.g. endoscopes, catheters, sharps

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Surgery (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Medical Informatics (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Biophysics (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (AREA)
  • Endoscopes (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a coupling device for a medical instrument, such as an endoscope, comprising a base part configured for cooperation with at least one part of the medical instrument, wherein the device comprises one or more components connected to the base part, and wherein the base part comprises a flush connector connectable to a flushing device, said flush connector is in direct communication with a channel provided in the base part and the channel comprises at least one opening for flushing the one or more components of the device connected to the base part. The present invention further relates to a method for coupling the device according to the present invention with a medical instrument and use of the device according to the present invention, as well as to a kit-of-parts and an insert for use in the device according to the present invention.

Description

Octrooicentrum
Θ 2018625
(21) Aanvraagnummer: 2018625 (22) Aanvraag ingediend: 31 maart 2017 (51) Int. CL:
A61B 1/12 (2017.01) A61B 1/00 (2018.01) A61L 2/26 (2018.01) A61B 90/70 (2018.01) A61B 50/10 (2018.01) A61B 50/20 (2018.01)
Aanvraag ingeschreven: (73) Octrooihouder(s):
10 oktober 2018 WASSENBURG MEDICAL B.V. te Dodewaard.
(43) Aanvraag gepubliceerd:
- (72) Uitvinder(s):
Ronald Wassenburg te Dodewaard.
(47) Octrooi verleend: Karen Elisa Damhuis te Zwolle.
10 oktober 2018 Jan Willem Het Lam te Zwolle.
Jeroen Sebastianus Johannes Jozef
(45) Octrooischrift uitgegeven: Deschepper te Wijchen.
10 december 2018
(74) Gemachtigde:
ir. H.Th. van den Heuvel c.s.
te 's-Hertogenbosch.
Coupling device for a medical instrument © The present invention relates to a coupling device for a medical instrument, such as an endoscope, comprising a base part configured for cooperation with at least one part of the medical instrument, wherein the device comprises one or more components connected to the base part, and wherein the base part comprises a flush connector connectable to a flushing device, said flush connector is in direct communication with a channel provided in the base part and the channel comprises at least one opening for flushing the one or more components of the device connected to the base part. The present invention further relates to a method for coupling the device according to the present invention with a medical instrument and use of the device according to the present invention, as well as to a kit-of-parts and an insert for use in the device according to the present invention.
NL Bl 2018625
Dit octrooi is verleend ongeacht het bijgevoegde resultaat van het onderzoek naar de stand van de techniek en schriftelijke opinie. Het octrooischrift komt overeen met de oorspronkelijk ingediende stukken.
Coupling device for a medical instrument
The present invention relates to a coupling device for a medical instrument, such as an endoscope. The present invention further relates to a method for coupling the device according to the present invention with a medical instrument and use of the device according to the present invention. The present invention also relates to a kit-of-parts and an insert for use in the device according to the present invention.
Coupling devices for medical instruments, such as channel separators for endoscopes, bronchoscopes and the like are known in the art. Such coupling devices are typically used during the decontamination, i.e. cleaning and disinfecting, of the medical instruments. For example, an endoscope typically includes a plurality of channels which can be configured to direct water, air, and/or any other suitable fluid into a surgical site. In some circumstances, one or more channels in an endoscope can be configured to guide a surgical instrument into the surgical site. In any event, an endoscope includes a control head section having one or more valves, and/or switches, configured to control the flow of fluid through the channels.
Decontamination systems can be used to reprocess previously-used medical devices, such as endoscopes, such that the devices can be used once again. During the decontamination process of, for example, an endoscope, the air and water channels within the endoscope can be evaluated in order to verify that the channels are unobstructed. Also, a source of fluid can be attached to the channel inlets of the endoscope such that fluid from a fluid source can flow through the channels. In order to avoid a flow of fluid through a channel configured to direct air into a surgical site, coupling devices, such as channel separators are used to separate the channels of a medical device.
In a first aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to a coupling device for a medical instrument, such as an endoscope, comprising a base part configured for cooperation with at least one part of the medical instrument, wherein the device comprises one or more components connected to the base part, such as engaging elements, inserts and the like, wherein the base part comprises a flush connector connectable to a flushing device. In the device of the present invention the flush connector is in direct communication with a channel provided in the base part and the channel comprises at least one opening for flushing one or more components of the device connected to the base part. By providing a coupling device wherein the base part is provided with a flush connector and an internal channel in direct communication with the flush connector, the base part as such and its components, e.g. the components connected to the base part and/or the different parts forming the base part can be cleaned, can be disinfected and/or dried using the flush connector in an efficient and reliable manner. The present invention therefore provides a coupling device which can be repeatedly used wherein the formation of contaminations is reduced to an absolute minimum. Unlike rinsing a base part and its components in a cleaning and/or disinfecting medium, the device of the present invention is configured such that the base part and its components can be cleaned and/or disinfected in a targeted manner.
The device of the present invention therefore provides a robust and reliable construction of the base part which can be repeatedly and efficiently flushed after each use. By providing the flush connector of the present invention, the base part and its components can also be dried in a more efficient and targeted manner preventing any microbial growth due to residual liquid after cleaning the base part. Any residual liquid may be removed from the base part by connecting the flush connector to a drying device.
The one or more components of the device connected to the base part may comprise an insert for cooperation with an at least one part of the medical instrument to be received by the device and/or cooperating engaging elements connected to the base part. By providing a base part comprising a channel provided with at least one opening for flushing the one or more components, efficient cleaning and disinfecting of the one or more components is guaranteed. Furthermore, the channel may further facilitate the efficient drying of the one or more components as well.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the channel provided in the base part comprises at least one opening for flushing the engaging elements. In a further embodiment, the base part of the device may comprise one or two recesses for receiving an insert, in such embodiment, the channel may preferably comprise at least one opening debouching into the at least one recess for receiving the insert in order to effectively flush the insert received by the recess of the base part.
The flushing device connectable with the flush connector of the coupling device of the present invention may be configured to flush the device with a flushing medium, such as a flushing liquid and/or air. The flushing liquid may be selected from the group consisting of cleaning liquid, disinfecting liquid, water and combinations thereof. The air may include heated air for the purpose of drying the base part and its components. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flushing device may be part of a cleaning and disinfection machine or drying cabinet for medical instruments, such as endoscopes.
The coupling device of the present invention, i.e. the coupling device of either the first and/or second aspect of the present invention, preferably comprises a channel separator for endoscopes.
In a second aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to a coupling device for a medical instrument, such as an endoscope, comprising a base part configured for cooperation with at least a part of the medical instrument and two cooperating engaging elements connected to the base part, wherein the cooperating engaging elements being movable between a first position and a second position. In the device according to the present invention, the first position comprises a clamping position, wherein the engaging elements are located at a distance from each other such that the engaging elements clampingly engage at least one part of the medical instrument received by the device, whereas the second position comprises a receiving position, wherein the engaging elements are located at a greater distance from each other relative to the first position such that the device is capable of receiving as well as releasing the at least one part of the medical instrument. The present invention provides a device wherein each of the cooperating engaging elements being linearly translationally movable between the clamping position and the receiving position, and wherein the translations of the cooperating engaging elements are located on a coinciding line. The device of the present invention provides herewith a simple and ergonomic device which facilitates the connection and disconnection between the device of the present invention and at least one part of the medical instrument in a reliable manner. With the device of the present invention the operator, e.g. the user of the coupling device, is able to establish a connection between the device of the present invention and at least one part of the medical instrument by simply exerting a pressure on the device of the present invention, e.g. by squeezing, placing at least a part of the device into the at least one part of the medical instrument, e.g. by sliding the one or more components of the device into the at least one part of the medical instrument, and to establish the connection by releasing the pressure exerted on the device. By releasing the pressure, the engaging elements will translationally move from the receiving position to the clamping position, clampingly connect to the at least one part of the medical instrument.
The present invention thus provides a device wherein, due to the linear translational movement of the engaging members the device can be easily positioned by the operator relative to the medical instrument to be connected with the device. Subsequently, without any further effort from the operator, the connection between the device and the medical instrument is established without the need of further changing the position of the device relative to the medical instrument, which facilitates the more ergonomic use of the device, resulting in less user complaints and complications, e.g. injuries like repetitive strain injury (‘RSIj.
The two cooperating engaging elements of the device of the present invention may be substantially conformed, preferably mirrored with respect to one another, in order to establish a reliable connection between the device and the medical instrument wherein the coupling device is repeatedly correctly orientated. Preferably, the two cooperating engaging elements are L-shaped in cross-section, wherein the L-shape of the one engaging element is mirrored with respect to the Lshape of the other engaging element such that, in the clamping position, both engaging elements describe an interrupted U-shape in cross-section. The space between the L-shaped engaging elements in the clamping position, i.e. forming the interrupted U-shape in cross-section, is designed such that a protruding part of the medical instrument, preferably provided with a flange, is received by the space between the L-shaped engaging elements.
The presence of a flange at the at least one part of the medical instrument prevents any unwanted release of the device in clamping position. Therefore, the two cooperating engaging elements are preferably configured to, in the clamping position, engage under a flange at least one part of the medical instrument received by the device. In a further embodiment, the two cooperating engaging elements describe at least a part of the contours of at least one part of the medical instrument to be received by the device. By describing at least a part of the contours of the at least one part, any unwanted disconnection of the device of the present invention with the medical instrument due to a sliding movement of the device relative to the medical instrument is herewith prevented.
In an embodiment of the present invention, the device of the present invention may be configured such that the engaging elements are under pretension in the receiving position. By bringing the engaging elements are under pretension in the receiving position, the coupling between the device and the medical instrument is facilitate by simply releasing the engaging elements. In other words, the default position of the engaging elements of the device of the present invention is the clamping position. Therefore, the device of the present invention is activated, i.e. bringing the engaging elements under pretension, only in case a medical instrument has to be connected with or disconnected from the coupling device.
In order to facilitate the movement of the engaging elements from the clamping position to the receiving position, each of the two cooperating engaging elements may be connected to a grip for translationally moving the engaging element by a user, e.g. the operator, exerting a pressure on the grippers which pressure is directly translated to the engaging elements. Alternatively another device may exert a pressure onto the engaging elements, without the presence of any grippers. Such device may be activated by an intelligent control unit. Even further, another mechanism may be applied to move the engaging elements from the clamping position to the receiving position (and back). Possibly a central activation mechanism may be used wherein an electronic circuit is activated and deactivated by the user. In a further alternative mechanism, the movement of the engaging elements is facilitated using a ballpoint pen-like mechanism for retracting the tip.
In case grips are used, the grips connected to the two cooperating engaging elements are preferably linearly translationally movable between a first grip position and a second grip position, and wherein the translations of the grips are located on a coinciding line. The grips connected to the two cooperating engaging elements in the first grip position are preferably located at a greater distance from each other relative to the second grip position. It is noted that the first grip position preferably corresponds to the clamping position of the engaging elements connected to the grips, and the second grip position preferably corresponds to the receiving position of the engaging elements connected to the grips. In such embodiment of the present invention, a device is provided wherein a pressure exerted on the grips results in a corresponding movement of the engaging elements connected to the grips.
In order to facilitate the ease of use of the grips of the present invention each of the grips connected to the cooperating engaging elements may be provided with at least one fingertip-recess for translationally moving the grip with a fingertip of a user. In a further embodiment, the one grip may be provided with one fingertiprecess for translationally moving the grip with the thumb of a user, whereas the other grip is provided with two fingertip-recesses for translationally moving the grip with the index finger and middle finger of a user.
In order to check the correct coupling between the device and the at least one part of the medical instrument received by the device, each of the grips connected to the cooperating engaging elements may be provided with finger resistances, such as ridges, corrugations or the like.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the device may be configured such that the grips connected to the cooperating engaging elements are under pretension in the second grip position. In other words, the default position for the grips, i.e. the device ‘in rest’, is defined by the grips in the first grip position (corresponding to the engaging elements in the clamping position).
The base part of the device of the present invention may comprise at least one insert, said insert is configured to cooperate with an at least one part of the medical instrument to be received by the device.
In a further embodiment of the present invention, the base part may comprise at least one recess for receiving an insert, said insert is configured to cooperate with an at least one part of the medical instrument to be received by the device. By providing a base part comprising at least one recess for receiving an insert, the interchangeability of inserts is facilitated resulting in a device which is able to be adapted depending on the medical instrument the device has to be coupled with.
Such interchangeability of inserts entails a certain risk, e.g. the inserts may be received by the base part of the device in an incorrect orientation and/or inserts may be located at an incorrect position in case the base part is provided with two or more recesses for receiving inserts. To reduce such risk, the geometry of the at least one recess may be chosen such that the insert can be received only by the base part in a predefined specific orientation. In case the base part comprises at least two recesses for receiving inserts, the geometry of the at least two recesses may be chosen such that they are different with respect to each other.
In a third aspect of the present invention, the invention relates to a method for coupling the device according to the present invention with a medical instrument. The method according to the present invention comprises the steps of:
a) providing the device according to any of the preceding claims;
b) providing a medical device to be coupled with the medical instrument of step a);
c) bringing the engaging elements of the device provided in step a) in the receiving position;
d) receiving at least one part of the medical instrument provided in step b) by the device provided in step a); and
e) bringing the engaging elements of the device provided in step a) in the clamping position, wherein, in steps c) and e), the engaging elements linearly translationally move between the receiving position and the clamping position, and wherein the translations of the cooperating engaging elements are located on a coinciding line. Such method facilitates the connection and disconnection between the device of the present invention and at least one part of the medical instrument in a simple and ergonomic manner. As already noted above, the operator is able to establish a connection between the device of the present invention and at least one part of the medical instrument by simply exerting a pressure on the device of the present invention, e.g. by squeezing, placing at least a part of the device into the at least one part of the medical instrument, e.g. by sliding the one or more inserts of the device into the at least one part of the medical instrument, and to establish the connection by releasing the pressure exerted on the device. By releasing the pressure, the engaging elements will translationally move from the receiving position to the clamping position, clampingly connect to the at least one part of the medical instrument.
The present invention thus provides a method wherein, due to the linear translational movement of the engaging members the device can be easily positioned by the operator relative to the medical instrument to be connected with the device. Subsequently, without any further effort from the operator, the connection between the device and the medical instrument is established without the need of further changing the position of the device relative to the medical instrument. The present invention thus provides a simple and robust method for establishing the connection with the device and at least one part of a medical instrument.
The method of the present invention may further comprises the step of f) bringing the engaging elements in the receiving position for releasing the medical instrument coupled to the device. Again it is noted that by simple exerting a pressure on the device of the present invention, e.g. by squeezing the grippers connected to the engaging elements of the device, the operator is able to easily remove the device from the at least one part of the medical instrument the device is connected to.
It is noted that according to the method of the present invention, the receiving position of the engaging elements may be maintained by exerting pressure on the engaging elements, e.g. by exerting pressure on the grippers connected to the engaging elements, wherein the direction of the pressure exerted on the engaging elements corresponds to the direction of the translational movement of the engaging elements from the clamping position to the receiving position. Such pressure may be exerted on the engaging element by a user, e.g. the operator of the device. However, in an alternative embodiment of the present invention the pressure may be exerted by another device, e.g. initiated or activated by an intelligent control unit.
In a fourth aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to a kit-ofparts comprising the device of the present invention, in particular the device wherein the base part of the device comprises at least one recess for receiving an insert, and a collection of inserts receivable by the device. The collection of inserts is preferably chosen such that the coupling device may be connected to multiple types of medical instruments, e.g. different types of endoscopes wherein each of the endoscopes requires a coupling device comprising specifically designed inserts. By providing a coupling device wherein the inserts can be chosen by the end-user, e.g. the operator of the medical instrument, a device can be configured such that the device is custom-made for the medical instrument the device has to be connected to.
In a fifth aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to an insert for use in the device according to the present invention, in particular the device wherein the base part of the device comprises at least one recess for receiving an insert. The present invention provides hereto an insert which is entirely made of plastic. By providing an insert entirely made of plastic, the insert may be disposed directly after use. A single-use insert is thus provided further reducing the chance of using a contaminated not properly cleaned insert.
It is noted that the insert of the present invention differs from the inserts currently available in that the insert is entirely made of plastic material. The inserts currently available on the market are typically made of stainless steel comprising one or more sealing rings made of a different material, such as a plastic material or rubber. By providing an insert made of different materials, the combination results in an additional risk of unwanted contamination of the insert, in particular at the locations the different materials connect to each other. By providing an insert entirely made of a plastic material, such an additional risk is avoided.
The insert may be made from the same plastic material. Alternatively the properties of the plastic material of the insert may differ for one or more particular surface parts of the insert compared to the properties of the plastic material for the remainder of the surface parts of the insert. In case an insert is provided wherein the properties of the plastic material for certain surface parts deviates from the properties of the plastic material for the remainder of the surface parts, such insert is preferably manufactured using appropriate moulding techniques, such as injection moulding. A preferred moulding technique for manufacturing the inserts of the present invention comprises a two component injection moulding (2K injection moulding) process.
To avoid incorrect usage of the disposable (and easily interchangeable) inserts of the present invention, e.g. by connecting an insert to the base part in a wrong, nonfunctioning orientation, the geometry of the inserts may be chosen such that this geometry is complementary to the geometry of the at least one recess provided in the base part for receiving the insert. The geometry of an insert may be recess specific, not only to avoid an incorrect oriented connection of the insert with the base part, but also to avoid the incorrect positioning of the insert in case the base part is provided with two or more recesses for receiving inserts.
In a sixth, and final, aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to the use of the device of the present invention in a method for cleaning, disinfecting and/or drying of a medical instrument, such as an endoscope.
The present invention will be further elucidated on the basis of the non-limitative exemplary embodiments shown in the following figures. Herein shows:
figure 1A and 1B a perspective view of the coupling device according to the present invention;
figure 2 a front view of the coupling device according to the present invention; figure 3A and 3B a cross-sectional view of the coupling device according to the present invention.
Figure 1A and 1B shows a perspective view of the coupling device 1 according to the present invention. A device 1 is shown comprising a base part 2 and two cooperating engaging elements 3a, 3b. The device 1 further comprises grippers 4a, 4b which grippers 4a, 4b are connected to the cooperating engaging elements 3a, 3b. Both grippers 4a, 4b are provided with a fingertip-recess 5 (only the fingertiprecess 5 of gripper 4a is shown). The device 1 shown in figure 1A and 1B further comprises a flush connector 8. The flush connector 8 is in direct communication with opening 10c (shown in figure 1A) debouching into a recess 6 provided in the base part 2 for receiving inserts 7 as shown in figure 1B. It is further noted that the two cooperating engaging elements 3a, 3b are mirrored with respect to each other. It is further noted that the contours of the two cooperating engaging elements 3a, 3b are chosen such that the contours of the two cooperating engaging elements 3a, 3b partially corresponds to the contours of at least one part of the medical instrument (not shown) to be received by the device 1.
Figure 2 shows a front view of the coupling device 1 shown in figure 1A and 1B. the device 1 shown in figure 2 is provided with one insert 7. The other insert 7 as shown in figure 1B is not shown in figure 2. Consequently, the recess 6 provided in the base part 2 is visualized, wherein the recess 6 is further provided with an opening 10c for flushing the recess 6 and/or an insert 7 (not shown) received by the recess 6. Figure 2 further shows arrows Pi, P2, representing a pressure exerted onto the grippers 4a, 4b in order to move the two cooperating engaging elements 3a, 3b in the direction indicated by arrows Pi P2’. The two cooperating engaging elements 3a, 3b as shown in figure 2 are situated in the clamping position. By exerting a pressure in gripper 4a in the direction of arrow P2, the corresponding engaging element 3a will move into the direction indicated by arrow P2’. Also, by exerting a pressure in gripper 4b in the direction of arrow Pi, the corresponding engaging element 3a will move into the direction indicated by arrow ΡΛ Thus, in case the device 1 is squeezed by a user (not shown), i.e. narrowing the relative distance between both grippers 4a, 4b, the relative distance between the two cooperating engaging elements 3a, 3b is increased in order to bring the device 1 into the receiving position. By releasing the pressure exerted on the grippers 4a, 4, the two cooperating engaging elements 3a, 3b will return in their initial position, i.e. the clamping position, as illustrated in figure 2.
Figure 3A and 3B shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling device 1 shown in figure 1A and 1B. In figure 3A the connection between the gripper 4a and the engaging element 3a, as well as the connection between the gripper 4b and the engaging element 3b is visualized. Furthermore, the internal channel 9 is visualized comprising openings 10a, 10b for flushing the engaging elements 3a, 3b. In figure 3B the openings 10a, 10b are also shown including opening 10d debouching into a recess (not shown) provided with the recess 7.

Claims (15)

ConclusiesConclusions 1. Koppelinrichting voor een medisch instrument, zoals een endoscoop, omvattende een basisdeel ingericht voor samenwerking met ten minste éénA coupling device for a medical instrument, such as an endoscope, comprising a base part adapted to cooperate with at least one 5 onderdeel van het medisch instrument, waarbij de inrichting één of meerdere met het basisdeel gekoppelde onderdelen omvat, met het kenmerk dat het basisdeel een met een spoelinrichting koppelbare spoelaansluiting omvat, en waarbij: de spoelaansluiting in directe verbinding staat met een in het basisdeel voorziene kanaal; enPart of the medical instrument, wherein the device comprises one or more parts coupled to the base part, characterized in that the base part comprises a flush connection connectable to a flushing device, and wherein: the flush connection is in direct connection with a channel provided in the basic part ; and 10 - het kanaal ten minste één opening omvat voor het spoelen van de één of meerdere met het basisdeel gekoppelde onderdelen van de inrichting.- the channel comprises at least one opening for flushing the one or more parts of the device coupled to the base part. 2. Inrichting volgens conclusie 1, met het kenmerk dat de één of meerdere met het basisdeel gekoppelde onderdelen van de inrichting een inzetstuk voorDevice as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the one or more parts of the device coupled to the base part for an insert piece 15 samenwerking met een door de inrichting op te nemen ten minste ene onderdeel van het medisch instrument en/of met het basisdeel verbonden samenwerkend aangrijpelementen omvat.15 comprises cooperation with an at least one part of the medical instrument to be received by the device and / or cooperating engagement elements connected to the base part. 3. Inrichting volgens conclusie 1 of 2, met het kenmerk dat de inrichting tweeDevice according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the device is two 20 met het basisdeel verbonden samenwerkende aangrijpelementen omvat, en waarbij het in het basisdeel voorziene kanaal ten minste één opening omvat voor het spoelen van de aangrijpelementen.20 comprises cooperating engaging elements connected to the base part, and wherein the channel provided in the basic part comprises at least one opening for flushing the engaging elements. 4. Inrichting volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, met het kenmerk dat hetDevice as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the 25 basisdeel ten minste één uitsparing voor opname van een inzetstuk omvat, welk inzetstuk is ingericht voor samenwerking met een door de inrichting op te nemen ten minste ene onderdeel van het medisch instrument, en waarbij het in het basisdeel voorziene kanaal ten minste één opening omvat welke uitmondt in de ten minste ene uitsparing voor opname van het inzetstuk.Base part comprises at least one recess for receiving an insert, which insert is adapted to cooperate with an at least one part of the medical instrument to be received by the device, and wherein the channel provided in the basic part comprises at least one opening which opens into the at least one recess for receiving the insert. 5. Inrichting volgens conclusie 4, met het kenmerk dat de geometrie van de ten minste ene uitsparing zodanig gekozen is dat het inzetstuk slechts in een vooraf bepaalde specifieke oriëntatie kan worden opgenomen door het basisdeel.Device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that the geometry of the at least one recess is chosen such that the insert can only be received by the base part in a predetermined specific orientation. 6. Inrichting volgens conclusie 4 of 5, met het kenmerk dat het basisdeel ten minste twee uitsparingen voor opname van inzetstukken omvat, waarbij de geometrie van de ten minste twee uitsparingen zodanig gekozen is dat deze verschillend ten opzichte van elkaar zijn.Device as claimed in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the base part comprises at least two recesses for receiving inserts, wherein the geometry of the at least two recesses is chosen such that they are different from each other. 7. Inrichting volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, met het kenmerk dat de spoelinrichting is ingericht voor het spoelen van de inrichting met een spoelmedium, zoals een spoelvloeistof en/of lucht.Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the flushing device is adapted to flush the device with a flushing medium, such as a flushing liquid and / or air. 8. Inrichting volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, met het kenmerk dat de spoelinrichting onderdeel is van een reinigings- en desinfecteermachine of droogkast voor medische instrumenten, zoals endoscopen.Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the flushing device is part of a cleaning and disinfecting machine or drying cabinet for medical instruments, such as endoscopes. 9. Inrichting volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, met het kenmerk dat de inrichting een basisdeel volgens één der voorgaande conclusies en twee met het basisdeel verbonden samenwerkende aangrijpelementen omvat, waarbij de samenwerkende aangrijpelementen tussen een eerste positie en een tweede positie beweegbaar zijn, waarbij:Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the device comprises a base part according to any one of the preceding claims and two cooperating engagement elements connected to the base part, wherein the cooperating engagement elements are movable between a first position and a second position, wherein: de eerste positie een klempositie omvat waarbij de aangrijpelementen op een afstand van elkaar gelegen zijn zodanig dat de aangrijpelementen klemmend aangrijpen op een door de inrichting opgenomen ten minste ene onderdeel van het medisch instrument; en de tweede positie een opnamepositie omvat waarbij de aangrijpelementen op een ten opzichte van de eerste positie grotere afstand van elkaar gelegen zijn zodanig dat de inrichting geschikt is voor opname alsmede vrijgave van het ten minste ene onderdeel van het medisch instrument, en waarbij elk van de samenwerkende aangrijpelementen lineair translerend beweegbaar is tussen de klempositie en de opnamepositie, en waarbij de translaties van de samenwerkende aangrijpelementen zijn gelegen op een samenvallende lijn.the first position comprises a clamping position wherein the engaging elements are spaced apart such that the engaging elements engage clampingly on an at least one part of the medical instrument received by the device; and the second position comprises a pick-up position in which the engaging elements are situated at a greater distance from each other relative to the first position, such that the device is suitable for receiving and releasing the at least one part of the medical instrument, and wherein each of the cooperating engaging elements is linearly movable movable between the clamping position and the recording position, and wherein the translations of the cooperating engaging elements are located on a coincident line. 10. Inrichting volgens conclusie 9, met het kenmerk dat de twee samenwerkende aangrijpelementen in hoofdzaak gelijkvormig zijn, bij voorkeur gespiegeld ten opzichte van elkaar zijn.Device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that the two cooperating engaging elements are substantially of the same shape, preferably mirrored with respect to each other. 11. Inrichting volgens conclusie 9 of 10, met het kenmerk dat de twee samenwerkende aangrijpelementen in doorsnede L-vormig zijn, waarbij de L-vorm van het ene aangrijpelement gespiegeld is ten opzichte van de L-vorm van het andere aangrijpelement zodanig dat beide aangrijpelementen in de klempositie eenDevice as claimed in claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the two cooperating engagement elements are L-shaped in cross-section, the L-shape of one engagement element being mirrored with respect to the L-shape of the other engagement element such that both engagement elements in the clamping position a 5 in doorsnede onderbroken U-vorm beschrijven.5 describe a U-shape interrupted in section. 12. Inrichting volgens één der conclusies 9-11, met het kenmerk dat de twee samenwerkende aangrijpelementen ten minste een gedeelte van de contouren van een door de inrichting op te nemen ten minste ene onderdeel van het medisch12. Device as claimed in any of the claims 9-11, characterized in that the two cooperating engaging elements comprise at least a part of the contours of an at least one part of the medical device to be received by the device 10 instrument beschrijven.10 describe the instrument. 13. Inrichting volgens één der conclusies 9-12, met het kenmerk dat de inrichting zodanig is ingericht dat de aangrijpelementen in de opnamepositie onder voorspanning staan.Device as claimed in any of the claims 9-12, characterized in that the device is arranged such that the engaging elements are biased in the receiving position. 14. Inrichting volgens één der conclusies 9-13, met het kenmerk dat elk van de twee samenwerkende aangrijpelementen is verbonden met een greep voor het door een gebruiker translerend bewegen van het aangrijpelement.Device as claimed in any of the claims 9-13, characterized in that each of the two cooperating engaging elements is connected to a grip for moving the engaging element in a translatory manner. 20 15. Inrichting volgens conclusie 14, met het kenmerk dat de met de twee samenwerkende aangrijpelementen verbonden grepen lineair translerend beweegbaar zijn tussen een eerste greep-positie en een tweede greep-positie, en waarbij de translaties van de grepen zijn gelegen op een samenvallende lijn.15. Device as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that the handles connected to the two cooperating engagement elements are linearly movable movable between a first grip position and a second grip position, and wherein the translations of the grips are situated on a coinciding line . 25 16. Inrichting volgens conclusie 14 of 15, met het kenmerk dat de met de twee samenwerkende aangrijpelementen verbonden grepen in de eerste greep-positie op een ten opzichte van de tweede greep-positie grotere afstand van elkaar gelegen zijn.16. Device as claimed in claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the handles connected to the two cooperating gripping elements are situated in the first grip position at a greater distance from each other with respect to the second grip position. 30 17. Inrichting volgens één der conclusies 14-16, met het kenmerk dat de eerste greep-positie overeenkomt met de klempositie van de met de grepen verbonden aangrijpelementen en de tweede greep-positie overeenkomt met de opnamepositie van de met de grepen verbonden aangrijpelementen.17. Device as claimed in any of the claims 14-16, characterized in that the first grip position corresponds to the clamping position of the engaging elements connected to the handles and the second grip position corresponds to the receiving position of the engaging elements connected to the handles. 18. Inrichting volgens één der conclusies 14-17, met het kenmerk dat elk van de met de twee samenwerkende aangrijpelementen verbonden grepen is voorzien van ten minste één vingertop-uitsparing voor het met een vingertop van een gebruiker translerend bewegen van de greep.Device as claimed in any of the claims 14-17, characterized in that each of the handles connected to the two cooperating gripping elements is provided with at least one fingertip recess for translocating the grip with a fingertip of a user. 19. Inrichting volgens één der conclusies 14-18, met het kenmerk dat de inrichting zodanig is ingericht dat de met de twee samenwerkende aangrijpelementen verbonden grepen in de tweede greep-positie onder voorspanning staan.Device as claimed in any of the claims 14-18, characterized in that the device is arranged such that the handles connected to the two cooperating engagement elements are biased in the second grip position. 20. Inrichting volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, met het kenmerk dat de inrichting een kanaalscheider voor endoscopen omvat.Device as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the device comprises a channel separator for endoscopes. 21. Werkwijze voor het koppelen van de inrichting volgens één der voorgaande21. Method for coupling the device according to one of the preceding 15 conclusies met een medisch instrument, omvattende de stappen:15 claims with a medical instrument, comprising the steps of: a) het verschaffen van de inrichting volgens één der voorgaande conclusies;a) providing the device according to any one of the preceding claims; b) het verschaffen van een met de in stap a) verschafte inrichting te koppelen medisch instrument;b) providing a medical instrument to be coupled to the device provided in step a); c) het in de opnamepositie brengen van de aangrijpelementen van de in stap 20 a) verschafte inrichting;c) bringing the engagement elements of the device provided in step 20 a) into the recording position; d) het door de in stap a) verschafte inrichting opnemen van ten minste één onderdeel van het in stap b) verschafte medisch instrument; end) receiving by the device provided in step a) at least one component of the medical instrument provided in step b); and e) het in de klempositie brengen van de aangrijpelementen van de in stap a) verschafte inrichting,e) bringing the engagement elements of the device provided in step a) into the clamping position, 25 met het kenmerk dat in stappen c) en e) de aangrijpelementen lineair translerend bewegen tussen de opnamepositie en de klempositie, en waarbij de translaties van de samenwerkende aangrijpelementen zijn gelegen op een samenvallende lijn.Characterized in that in steps c) and e) the engaging elements move linearly in a linear fashion between the recording position and the clamping position, and wherein the translations of the cooperating engaging elements are located on a coincident line. 22. Werkwijze volgens conclusie 21, met het kenmerk dat de opnamepositieA method according to claim 21, characterized in that the recording position 30 van de aangrijpelementen wordt gehandhaafd door het uitoefenen van druk op de aangrijpelementen, waarbij de richting van de op de aangrijpelementen uitgeoefende druk overeenkomt met de richting van de translerende beweging van de aangrijpelementen van een klempositie naar de opnamepositie.30 of the engaging elements is maintained by applying pressure to the engaging elements, the direction of the pressure exerted on the engaging elements corresponding to the direction of the translational movement of the engaging elements from a clamping position to the receiving position. 35 23. Verzameling van onderdelen omvattende:23. Collection of parts comprising: de inrichting volgens één der conclusies 4-6; en een verzameling van door de inrichting opneembare inzetstukken.the device according to any of claims 4-6; and a collection of inserts receivable by the device. 24. Inzetstuk voor kennelijk gebruik in de inrichting volgens één der conclusiesAn insert for apparent use in the device according to any one of the claims 5 4-6, met het kenmerk dat het inzetstuk geheel is vervaardigd uit kunststof.4-6, characterized in that the insert is entirely made of plastic. 25. Inzetstuk volgens conclusie 24, met het kenmerk dat voor één of meerdere bepaalde oppervlakdelen van het inzetstuk de eigenschappen van het kunststof verschillen van de eigenschappen van het kunststof voor het overige oppervlakdeelAn insert according to claim 24, characterized in that for one or more specific surface parts of the insert the properties of the plastic differ from the properties of the plastic for the remaining surface part 10 van het inzetstuk.10 of the insert. 26. Gebruik van de inrichting volgens één der conclusies 1-20 in een werkwijze voor het reinigen, desinfecteren en/of drogen van een medisch instrument, zoals een endoscoop.Use of the device according to any of claims 1-20 in a method for cleaning, disinfecting and / or drying a medical instrument, such as an endoscope. 1/51/5 3a3a 2/52/5 3/53/5
NL2018625A 2017-03-31 2017-03-31 Coupling device for a medical instrument NL2018625B1 (en)

Priority Applications (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2018625A NL2018625B1 (en) 2017-03-31 2017-03-31 Coupling device for a medical instrument
US16/494,144 US20200069156A1 (en) 2017-03-31 2018-03-23 Coupling device for a medical instrument
AU2018244986A AU2018244986A1 (en) 2017-03-31 2018-03-23 Coupling device for a medical instrument
CA3055279A CA3055279A1 (en) 2017-03-31 2018-03-23 Coupling device for a medical instrument
EP18716004.9A EP3599971A1 (en) 2017-03-31 2018-03-23 Coupling device for a medical instrument
PCT/NL2018/050181 WO2018182404A1 (en) 2017-03-31 2018-03-23 Coupling device for a medical instrument

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Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2013072748A2 (en) * 2011-11-16 2013-05-23 Steelco Spa Device for connecting an endoscope to a washing circuit
WO2015068131A1 (en) * 2013-11-07 2015-05-14 Steelco S.P.A. Washing device for medical instruments

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2013072748A2 (en) * 2011-11-16 2013-05-23 Steelco Spa Device for connecting an endoscope to a washing circuit
WO2015068131A1 (en) * 2013-11-07 2015-05-14 Steelco S.P.A. Washing device for medical instruments

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