阅读说明：本技术 具有专用压力储器的处理系统 (Processing system with dedicated pressure reservoir ) 是由 D·M·吴 T·S·阮 于 2019-06-27 设计创作，主要内容包括：可使用流体分配系统和处理系统从内窥镜的内腔吹扫清洁流体。可以通过通过流体室的入口提供液体来用液体填充流体室的一部分。可以利用流体室中的气体来生成密封压力,并且可以限制通过入口对流体室的附加填充。可以响应于密封压力来分配来自流体室的流体。该分配可以包括利用气体通过流体室的出口来排放液体。可以在多个储器中对气体进行加压,每个储器专用于处理系统的吹扫管线。(The fluid distribution system and the processing system can be used to purge cleaning fluid from the lumen of the endoscope. A portion of the fluid chamber may be filled with liquid by providing the liquid through an inlet of the fluid chamber. The gas in the fluid chamber may be utilized to generate a sealing pressure and additional filling of the fluid chamber through the inlet may be limited. Fluid from the fluid chamber may be dispensed in response to the sealing pressure. The dispensing may include discharging the liquid through an outlet of the fluid chamber with the gas. The gas may be pressurized in multiple reservoirs, each dedicated to a purge line of the processing system.)

1. A fluid dispensing system, comprising:

a fluid chamber comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and outlet adapted to convey a fluid;

the inlet comprising a body including an opening adapted to deliver liquid into the fluid chamber and a gate adapted to substantially block the opening in response to sealing pressure within the fluid chamber to restrict the delivery of liquid through the opening;

a gas port in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and comprising a valve, the valve comprising a first position and a second position, the first position adapted to deliver gas through the gas port into the fluid chamber to generate the sealing pressure, and the second position adapted to restrict gas delivery through the gas port;

the outlet is configured to generate a back pressure to limit liquid delivery through the outlet in response to a fill pressure in the fluid chamber, the fill pressure being less than the sealing pressure; and is

The sealing pressure is adapted to discharge at least one of a liquid and a gas from the fluid chamber through the outlet.

2. A method of fluid dispensing, comprising:

filling a portion of a fluid chamber with liquid by providing liquid through an inlet of the fluid chamber;

generating a sealing pressure with the gas in the fluid chamber and limiting additional filling of the fluid chamber through the inlet; and

dispensing liquid from the fluid chamber in response to the sealing pressure, the dispensing including discharging liquid through an outlet of the fluid chamber with a gas.

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: generating a back pressure in the outlet of the fluid chamber to facilitate filling of the fluid chamber.

4. The method of claims 2-3, wherein filling the portion of the fluid chamber with liquid further comprises gravity filling.

5. The method of claims 2-4, wherein generating the sealing pressure further comprises activating a solenoid valve to provide gas to the fluid chamber.

6. The method of claims 2-5, wherein the inlet comprises a gate and restricting additional filling of the fluid chamber further comprises using the sealing pressure to change a configuration of the gate.

7. The method of claims 2-6, further comprising venting gas through an outlet of the fluid chamber.

8. The method of claims 2-7, wherein dispensing liquid from the fluid chamber further comprises passing liquid through a lumen of an endoscope.

9. A treatment system comprising the fluid dispensing system of any one of claims 1-8.

10. A processing system, comprising:

a process chamber adapted to receive a device comprising an inner cavity;

a fluid connector adapted to provide fluid communication between a fluid distribution system and the lumen;

a fluid distribution system adapted to provide liquid and gas to the lumen in a first stage and a second stage, the first stage adapted to pass fluid consisting essentially of liquid through the lumen and the second stage adapted to pass fluid consisting essentially of gas through the lumen and the second stage adapted to facilitate movement of the first stage;

a first chamber comprising a cavity consisting essentially of a gas, the first chamber in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system;

a first valve in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system, the first valve adapted to control fluid communication between the first chamber and the fluid distribution system; and

a second valve in fluid communication with the first chamber, the second valve adapted to control fluid communication between a source of air and the first chamber.

11. A method for treating a device comprising a lumen, the method comprising:

connecting the inner lumen of the device in fluid communication with a fluid distribution system of a treatment system; and

passing a liquid and a gas through the lumen with the fluid distribution system, comprising:

subjecting the lumen to a first stage comprising passing a fluid consisting essentially of a liquid through the lumen; and

subjecting the lumen to a second stage comprising passing a fluid consisting essentially of a gas through the lumen, wherein the second stage facilitates movement of the first stage.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising monitoring a pressure of gas entering the fluid distribution system while passing liquid and gas through the lumen.

13. The method of claims 11-12, wherein the liquid is a first liquid comprising a soap solution, the method further comprising:

passing a sterilant and gas through the lumen with the fluid distribution system; and

passing alcohol and gas through the lumen with the fluid dispensing system.

14. The method of claims 11-13, further comprising substantially removing liquid from outside the device with a compressed gas.

15. The method of claims 11-14, further comprising:

connecting a first chamber substantially comprising a gas in fluid communication with a second chamber substantially comprising a fluid, the fluid distribution system comprising the second chamber; and

connecting the second chamber in fluid communication with the lumen.

16. The method of claims 11-15, further comprising cleaning an exterior of the device with a flow of liquid.

17. The method of claims 11-16, further comprising passing liquid and gas through a second lumen of the device with a second fluid distribution system.

18. The method of claims 11-17, further comprising: providing the device in a first state to a process chamber of the processing system through a first door of the process chamber; and removing the device in the second state from the process chamber through a second door of the process chamber.

19. The method of claims 11-18, wherein the device is an endoscope.

20. A fluid dispensing system, comprising:

a fluid chamber comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and outlet adapted to convey a fluid;

a diverter disposed within the fluid chamber and adapted to move within the fluid chamber, the diverter comprising:

a first end adapted to restrict liquid transport through the inlet;

a second end adapted to restrict liquid transport through the outlet; and

a body extending from the first end to the second end, the body adapted to facilitate a relationship between movement of the first end and the second end.

21. The system of claim 20, further comprising a fluid source in fluid communication with the inlet, wherein the inlet is adapted to deliver liquid from the fluid source into the fluid chamber.

22. The system of claims 20-21, wherein at least one of the first end and the second end comprises a seal.

23. The system of claims 20-22, wherein the seal is an O-ring.

24. The system of claims 20-23, further comprising:

a gas port in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and comprising a valve comprising a first position adapted to deliver gas into the fluid chamber through the gas port to generate a sealing pressure and a second position adapted to restrict gas delivery through the gas port, wherein the diverter is adapted to prevent fluid delivery through the inlet with the first end in response to the sealing pressure.

25. The system of claim 24, further comprising a resilient member operatively coupled to the diverter, the resilient member adapted to move the diverter to enable delivery of fluid through the inlet of the fluid chamber in response to a fill pressure in the fluid chamber, wherein the fill pressure is less than the sealing pressure.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the resilient member is adapted to move the diverter to restrict fluid delivery through the outlet of the fluid chamber.

27. The system of claims 24-26, wherein the sealing pressure is adapted to discharge at least one of a liquid and a gas from the fluid chamber through the outlet.

28. The system of claims 24-27, wherein the valve is a solenoid valve.

29. The system of claims 24-28, wherein the inlet is substantially blocked in response to a sealing pressure within the fluid chamber.

30. The system of claims 24-29, further comprising:

a compressed gas chamber comprising a gas inlet and a gas outlet;

the gas inlet comprises a source valve comprising a first position and a second position, the first position being adapted to deliver gas into the gas chamber and the second position being adapted to restrict delivery of gas into the gas chamber; and is

The gas outlet is in fluid communication with the gas port, the gas outlet comprising an outlet valve comprising a first position and a second position, the first position being adapted to deliver gas from the gas chamber into the gas port, and the second position being adapted to restrict delivery of gas from the gas chamber into the gas port.

31. The system of any one of claims 24-30,

wherein the diverter is configured to move from a first diverter position to a second diverter position in response to a sealing pressure within the fluid chamber,

the first position is adapted to facilitate delivery of liquid into the fluid chamber through the inlet and to restrict delivery of liquid through the outlet, and

the second position is adapted to restrict delivery of liquid into the fluid chamber through the inlet and to facilitate delivery of liquid through the outlet.

32. The system of claims 20-31, wherein the outlet is in fluid communication with a lumen of an endoscope.

33. The system of claims 20-32, wherein the system is configurable to an orientation suitable for gravity filling the fluid chamber with liquid through the inlet.

34. A processing system, comprising:

a pressure regulator;

a first purge channel configured to be connected to a first endoscope lumen;

a second purge channel configured to connect to a second endoscope lumen;

a first reservoir disposed between and connected to the pressure regulator and the first purge channel; and

a second reservoir disposed between and connected to the pressure regulator and the second purge passage.

35. The processing system of claim 34, further comprising: a first valve disposed between the first reservoir and the first purge channel; and a second valve disposed between the second reservoir and the second purge passage.

36. The treatment system of claim 35, wherein the first valve and the second valve each comprise a solenoid valve.

37. The processing system of claim 36, further comprising a first pressure sensor connected to the first reservoir and a second pressure sensor connected to the second reservoir.

38. The processing system of claim 37, further comprising a third valve disposed between and connected to the pressure regulator and the first reservoir.

39. The processing system of claim 38, wherein said pressure regulator comprises a first pressure regulator, and wherein said third valve is further connected to a second pressure regulator.

40. The treatment system of claim 39, wherein the first pressure regulator is configured to output a pressure of about 30 psi.

41. The treatment system of claim 40, wherein the third valve is configured to place either the first pressure regulator or the second pressure regulator in fluid communication with the first reservoir.

42. The processing system according to claim 41, wherein said third valve is further connected to said second reservoir.

43. A method of purging a cleaning liquid from a first lumen and a second lumen of an endoscope using a treatment system, the first lumen connected to a first line of the treatment system and the second lumen connected to a second line of the treatment system, the method comprising:

pressurizing a first reservoir on the first line with a gas;

pressurizing a second reservoir on the second line with the gas;

flowing the gas from the first reservoir through the first lumen to purge the first lumen of the endoscope; and

flowing the gas from the second reservoir through the second lumen to purge the second lumen of the endoscope.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the steps of pressurizing the first and second reservoirs occur simultaneously.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein pressurizing the first reservoir comprises pressurizing the first reservoir to a pressure between about 25 psi and 35 psi.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein pressurizing the first reservoir comprises pressurizing the first reservoir to a pressure of about 30 psi.

47. The method of claim 45, wherein the steps of pressurizing the first and second reservoirs each comprise activating a pressure regulator.

48. The method of claim 45, further comprising checking the first line and the second line for plugging.

49. The method of claim 45, further comprising repeating the steps of: pressurizing the first reservoir, pressurizing the second reservoir, flowing the gas from the first reservoir through the first lumen, and flowing the gas from the second reservoir through the second lumen.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a fluid dispensing system and method of use thereof, and a treatment system and method of use thereof. In various examples, the disclosure relates to a process.

Background

In the medical field, various medical devices are used in many procedures. These devices vary with the procedure itself. Thus, proper care of these devices is critical to the efficiency of the application and proper corresponding treatment of the patient.

After use of a medical device, such as an endoscope, the medical device is cleaned, sterilized and/or disinfected in order to prepare the medical device for its next use. Cleaning, disinfecting, and/or sterilizing may include attaching the medical device to a reprocessor machine, such as an Automated Endoscope Reprocessor (AER), using a connector (tubing, fittings, etc.). To clean, disinfect, and/or sterilize medical devices, AERs may utilize a fluid pump to circulate fluid through a lumen of the medical device. After performing the cleaning, disinfecting, and/or sterilizing process, the medical device is ready for reuse.

Disclosure of Invention

In one aspect, a fluid dispensing system is provided that includes a fluid chamber. The fluid chamber includes an inlet, an outlet, and a gas port. The inlet and outlet are adapted to convey a fluid. The inlet includes a body and a gate. The body includes an opening adapted to deliver liquid into the fluid chamber. The gate is adapted to form a seal with the body in response to a sealing pressure within the fluid chamber. The seal is adapted to limit the transport of liquid through the opening. The gas port is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber. The gas port includes a valve including a first position and a second position. The first position is adapted to deliver gas into the fluid chamber through the gas port to create a sealing pressure, and the second position is adapted to restrict gas delivery through the gas port.

In another aspect, a fluid dispensing system is provided that includes a fluid chamber. The fluid chamber includes an inlet, an outlet, and a gas port. The inlet and outlet are adapted to convey a fluid. The inlet includes a body and a gate. The body includes an opening adapted to deliver liquid into the fluid chamber. The gate is adapted to substantially block the opening to restrict liquid delivery through the opening in response to a sealing pressure within the fluid chamber. The gas port is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber. The gas port includes a valve including a first position and a second position. The first position is adapted to deliver gas into the fluid chamber through the gas port to create a sealing pressure, and the second position is adapted to restrict gas delivery through the gas port. The outlet is configured to generate a back pressure in response to a fill pressure in the fluid chamber to limit liquid delivery through the outlet. The filling pressure is less than the sealing pressure. The sealing pressure is adapted to discharge at least one of a liquid and a gas from the fluid chamber through the outlet.

In yet another aspect, a fluid dispensing method is provided. A portion of the fluid chamber is filled with liquid by providing the liquid through an inlet of the fluid chamber. The gas in the fluid chamber is utilized to generate a sealing pressure and limit additional filling of the fluid chamber through the inlet. Liquid from the fluid chamber is dispensed in response to the sealing pressure. The dispensing includes discharging the liquid through an outlet of the fluid chamber with the gas.

In a further aspect, a treatment system is provided that includes a fluid dispensing system and a fluid connector. The fluid connector is adapted to provide fluid communication between the fluid distribution system and the interior chamber of the device. The fluid distribution system is adapted to provide liquid and gas to the interior chamber in the first stage and the second stage. The first stage is configured to pass a fluid consisting essentially of a liquid through the lumen. The second stage is configured to pass a fluid consisting essentially of a gas through the lumen. The second stage is adapted to facilitate movement of the first stage.

In another aspect, a processing system is provided that includes a fluid distribution system, a processing chamber, a fluid connector, a first chamber, a first valve, and a second valve. The clean room is adapted to receive a device including an interior cavity. The fluid connector is adapted to provide fluid communication between the fluid distribution system and the lumen. The fluid distribution system is adapted to provide liquid and gas to the interior chamber in the first stage and the second stage. The first stage is adapted to pass a fluid consisting essentially of a liquid through the lumen, and the second stage is adapted to pass a fluid consisting essentially of a gas through the lumen. The second stage is adapted to facilitate movement of the first stage. The first chamber includes a cavity consisting essentially of a gas, and the first chamber is in fluid communication with a fluid distribution system. The first valve is in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system, and the first valve is adapted to control fluid communication between the first chamber and the fluid distribution system. The second valve is in fluid communication with the first chamber, and the second valve is adapted to control fluid communication between the air source and the first chamber.

In yet another aspect, a method for treating a device comprising a lumen is provided. The interior chamber of the device is connected in fluid communication with a fluid distribution system of the treatment system. In the first and second stages, liquid and gas are passed through the internal cavity using a fluid distribution system. In the first stage, a fluid consisting essentially of a liquid is passed through the lumen. In the second stage, a fluid consisting essentially of a gas is passed through the lumen. The second stage facilitates movement of the first stage.

In a further aspect, a fluid dispensing system is provided that includes a fluid chamber. The fluid chamber includes an inlet, an outlet, and a diverter. The inlet and outlet are adapted to convey a fluid. The diverter is disposed within the fluid chamber and the diverter is adapted to move within the fluid chamber. The diverter includes a first end, a second end, and a body. The first end is adapted to restrict liquid transport through the inlet. The second end is adapted to limit the transport of liquid through the outlet. The body extends from a first end to a second end. The body is adapted to facilitate a relationship between movement of the first end and the second end.

In further aspects, a processing system may comprise: a pressure regulator configured to output a pressure (e.g., about 30 psi); a first purge channel configured to be connected to a first endoscope lumen; a second purge channel configured to connect to a second endoscope lumen; a first reservoir disposed between and connected to the pressure regulator and the first purge channel; and a second reservoir disposed between and connected to the pressure regulator and the second purge passage. The processing system may further comprise: a first valve disposed between the first reservoir and the first purge passage; and a second valve disposed between the second reservoir and the second purge passage. The first valve, the second valve, or both may comprise a solenoid valve. The system may also include a first pressure sensor connected to the first reservoir and a second pressure sensor connected to the second reservoir. Additionally, a third valve may be disposed between and connected to the pressure regulator and the first reservoir. The third valve may also be connected to a second pressure regulator. The third valve may be configured to place one of the pressure regulators in fluid communication with the first reservoir. Further, a third valve may be connected to the second reservoir, such that the third valve may also place one of the pressure regulators in fluid communication with the second reservoir.

Thus, the treatment system may be used to purge cleaning liquid from the first and second lumens of the endoscope. After the first lumen is connected to the first line of the treatment system and the second lumen is connected to the second line of the treatment system, the following methods, including variations, may be performed. The method may comprise the steps of: pressurizing a first reservoir on the first line with a gas; pressurizing a second reservoir on the second line with gas; flowing gas from a first reservoir through a first lumen to purge the first lumen of the endoscope; and flowing gas from the second reservoir through the second lumen to purge the second lumen of the endoscope. In a variation of the method, the steps of pressurizing the first and second reservoirs may occur simultaneously. Further, the step of pressurizing the first reservoir may include pressurizing the first reservoir to a pressure between about 25 psi and about 35 psi, such as about 30 psi. Additionally, the steps of pressurizing the first and second reservoirs may each include activating a pressure regulator. Additionally, the first and second lines may be checked for plugging. Finally, the following steps may be repeated: the method includes pressurizing the first reservoir, pressurizing the second reservoir, flowing gas from the first reservoir through the first lumen, and flowing gas from the second reservoir through the second lumen.

It should be understood that the invention described in this specification is not limited to the examples summarized in this summary of the invention. Various other aspects are described and illustrated herein.

Drawings

The features and advantages of the examples, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the examples will be better understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a non-limiting example of a fluid dispensing system according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2A is a system diagram of a non-limiting example of a fluid dispensing system including a gate in a first gate position according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B is a system diagram of the fluid distribution system of FIG. 2A including the gate in a second gate position;

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional front view of a non-limiting example of a fluid dispensing system including a diverter according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3B is a detailed view of the fluid dispensing system of FIG. 3A including the diverter in a first diverter position;

FIG. 3C is a detailed view of the fluid dispensing system of FIG. 3A including the diverter in a second diverter position;

FIG. 3D is a cross-sectional perspective view of the fluid dispensing system of FIG. 3B;

FIG. 4 is a system diagram of a non-limiting example of a processing system according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a system diagram of a non-limiting example of a processing system according to the present disclosure; and

FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a method for using the processing system of FIG. 5.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate certain embodiments, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the examples in any manner.

Detailed Description

Certain exemplary aspects of the present disclosure will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these aspects are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary aspects and that the scope of the various examples of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. Features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary aspect may be combined with features of other aspects. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Reference throughout this specification to "various examples," "some examples," "one example" or "an example" or the like means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one example. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in various examples," "in some examples," "in one example," or "in an example" or the like throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same example. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples. Thus, without limitation, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic illustrated or described in connection with one example may be combined, in whole or in part, with features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other examples. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present examples.

In the present specification, unless otherwise indicated, all numerical parameters are to be understood in all instances as being referred to or modified by the term "about" in that the numerical parameter possesses the inherent variability characteristic of the underlying measurement technique used to determine the numerical value of the parameter. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter described herein should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

Moreover, any numerical range recited herein includes all sub-ranges subsumed within the recited range. For example, a range of "1 to 10" includes all sub-ranges between (and including 1 and 10) the recited minimum value of 1 and the recited maximum value of 10, i.e., having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value of equal to or less than 10. Any maximum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all lower numerical limitations subsumed therein, and any minimum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limitations subsumed therein. Accordingly, applicants reserve the right to modify this specification (including the claims) to explicitly recite any sub-ranges subsumed within that explicitly recited range. All such ranges are inherently described in this specification such that modifications to explicitly recite that any such sub-ranges will comply with the requirements of 35 u.s.c. § 112 and 35 u.s.c. § 132 (a).

As used herein, the grammatical articles "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include "at least one" or "one or more", even if "at least one" or "one or more" is explicitly used in some instances, unless otherwise indicated. Thus, the articles are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., "at least one") of the grammatical object of the article. Further, unless the context of use requires otherwise, the use of a singular noun includes the plural, and the use of a plural noun includes the singular.

As used herein, the term "consisting essentially of means that the component is present at least 50% by weight. For example, "consisting essentially of" may be 50% to 100% by weight, such as, for example, at least 60% by weight, at least 70% by weight, at least 80% by weight, at least 90% by weight, at least 95% by weight, or at least 99% by weight.

The treatment process as described herein may be a cleaning process, a disinfection process, a sterilization process, the like, and combinations thereof. As used herein, "cleaning process" is intended to mean a treatment process that employs a cleaning agent that reduces and/or eliminates debris, such as, for example, dirt, dust, particulates, oils, proteins, carbohydrates, and the like, and combinations thereof. The cleaning agent may be a chemical capable of facilitating the cleaning process, such as, for example, water, soap solution, and the like, and combinations thereof. In various examples, the cleaning agent may help rinse the object.

As used herein, "sterilization process" is intended to mean a treatment process that substantially reduces bioburden. The bioburden can be, for example, bacteria, archaea, eukaryotes, viruses, and/or other forms of biological agents. As used herein, "substantially reduced" is intended to mean that at least 50% and up to 99.9% of the bioburden has been removed from the object, such as, for example, at least 60% and up to 99.9% of the bioburden, at least 70% and up to 99.9% of the bioburden, at least 80% and up to 99.9% of the bioburden, at least 90% and up to 99.9% of the bioburden, at least 95% and up to 99.9% of the bioburden, or at least 99% and up to 99.9% of the bioburden has been removed from the object. The disinfecting agent may be a chemical capable of disinfecting such as, for example, formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, phthalaldehyde, quaternary ammonium compounds, alcohols, and the like, and combinations thereof. In various examples, the alcohol may help dry the object.

As used herein, "sterilization process" is intended to mean a process that reduces and/or eliminates bioburden resulting in sterilized objects being "substantially free" of bioburden. As used herein, "substantially free" is intended to mean that the object is at least 99.9% free of bioburden, in some examples at least 99.99% free of bioburden, in some examples at least 99.999% free of bioburden, and in other examples at least 99.9999% free of bioburden. The sterilization process may include, for example, heat, sterilant, radiation, pressure, and combinations thereof. The sterilant may be a chemical capable of sterilizing. The sterilant can be a chemical capable of sterilizing such as, for example, hydrogen peroxide, ethylene oxide, nitric oxide, ozone, glutaraldehyde, formaldehyde, peracetic acid, chlorine, iodine, sodium hydroxide, and the like, and combinations thereof.

The lumen of some medical devices may contain debris after use, which should be disposed of before further use of the medical device. Typically, a fluid pump may circulate fluid through a lumen of a medical device in order to dispose of debris. The fluid pump may evacuate the lumen (ca vitate) and/or otherwise improperly pump fluid through the lumen. Further, the liquid provided by the liquid pump may not have sufficient momentum and/or force to remove debris. Additionally, to dry the lumen, a separate air pump may have to be used in order to pump air through the lumen. However, having two separate pumps can be cumbersome and create operational drawbacks.

To ensure that medical devices can be efficiently and effectively processed, fluid dispensing systems and methods and processing systems and methods according to the present disclosure are provided.

Referring to fig. 1 and 2A-B, a fluid dispensing system 100 according to the present disclosure is provided. As illustrated, the fluid dispensing system 100 may include a fluid chamber 102 including a cavity 102a configured to receive a fluid (e.g., a liquid and/or a gas). For example, the cavity 102a may be in fluid communication with a liquid source 118 via an inlet section (generally 104) and/or a gas source 120 via a gas port 108. The cavity 102A may be adapted to receive liquid from a liquid source 118 and/or gas from a gas source 120, as illustrated in fig. 2A-B. In various examples, the liquid from the liquid source 118 can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist essentially of a liquid, and the gas from the gas source 120 can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist essentially of a gas.

In various examples, the cavity 102a may be in fluid communication with a plurality of liquid sources including the liquid source 118. Each liquid source may comprise the same liquid or a different liquid. For example, each liquid source may include at least one of a cleaning agent, a disinfecting agent, and a sterilizing agent.

In various examples, cavity 102a may be in fluid communication with a plurality of gas sources including gas source 120. Each gas source may comprise the same gas or a different gas. In various examples, the gas may include at least one of air, nitrogen, argon, ethylene oxide, nitrogen oxides, and ozone. In some examples, the gas may substantially comprise air.

The inlet 104 may be disposed between the cavity 102a and the liquid source 118 and may be in fluid communication with the cavity 102a and the liquid source 118. The inlet 104 may be adapted to deliver fluid into the cavity 102a of the fluid chamber 102. For example, the inlet 104 may include a body 110 including an opening 112 adapted to receive fluid into the cavity 102 a. Liquid from the liquid source 118 may flow through the inlet 104 along the fluid path 134 via the opening 112 into the cavity 102A, as illustrated in fig. 2A. In various examples, the fluid dispensing system 100 may be configured in an orientation suitable for gravity filling the cavity 102a of the fluid chamber 102 with liquid through the inlet 104. For example, the liquid source 118 may be positioned at a height above the height of the cavity 102 a.

The inlet 104 may include a gate 114, which may be adapted to control the delivery of liquid through the opening 112. As illustrated in fig. 2A, the gate 114 may be in a first gate position adapted to facilitate delivery of liquid into the cavity 102A of the fluid chamber 102 via the fluid path 134. As illustrated in fig. 2B, the gate 114 may be movable mechanically or by an external force (such as by pressure) into a second gate position adapted to form a seal 122 with the body 110 so as to limit and/or prevent fluid transport through the opening 112. For example, the gate 114 may substantially block the opening 112 such that fluid travel through the opening 112 may be restricted and/or prevented when the gate 114 is in the second gate position. In various examples, the body 110 may include an elastomer suitable for forming the seal 122 with the gate 114. In some examples, the inlet 104 may include a check valve (not shown), which may include a gate 114 and a body 110.

The position of the gate 114 may be controlled by the pressure within the cavity 102 a. For example, the gate 114 may be moved from a first gate position, as illustrated in fig. 2A, to a second gate position, as illustrated in fig. 2B, in response to a sealing pressure within the cavity 102A of the fluid chamber 102. The sealing pressure may apply a first force to the gate 114 and cause the gate 114 to engage the body 110 of the inlet 104 and form a seal 122 with the inlet 104 such that fluid transport through the opening 112 in the inlet 104 may be restricted and/or prevented. In various examples, the sealing pressure may be greater than the inlet pressure in the inlet 104. In various examples, the sealing pressure is at least 0.1 pounds per square inch (psi), such as, for example, at least 1 psi, at least 2 psi, at least 5 psi, at least 10 psi, or at least 20 psi.

Referring again to fig. 2A, in the first gate position, the opening 112 may be substantially unobstructed by the gate 114 such that the fluid path 134 may be suitable for conveying a fluid. The fluid path 134 may be disposed between the wall 102b of the fluid chamber 102 and the perimeter 114a of the gate 114. In various examples, liquid from the liquid source 118 may flow into the cavity 102A via the fluid path 134 of the inlet 104, as illustrated in fig. 2A. In various examples, the fluid pathway 134 may be blocked by the gate 114 and may limit and/or prevent liquid transport through the opening 112 and the fluid pathway 134, as illustrated in fig. 2B.

The pressure within the cavity 102a may be controlled by selectively introducing gas into the cavity 102a using the gas port 108 and/or removing fluid from the cavity 102a using the outlet 106. The gas port 108 may be disposed between the cavity 102a of the fluid chamber 102 and the gas source 120 and in fluid communication with the cavity 102a of the fluid chamber 102 and the gas source 120. The gas port 108 may include a valve 116 adapted to control the flow of gas from the gas source 120 into the cavity 102 a. For example, the valve 116 may include a first valve position and a second valve position. In the first valve position, the valve 116 may be adapted to deliver gas into the cavity 102a of the fluid chamber 102 through the gas port 108. The delivery of gas into the gas port 108 may generate a sealing pressure within the cavity 102 a. In the second valve position, the valve 116 may be adapted to limit and/or prevent gas delivery through the gas port 108. In various examples, the valve 116 may comprise a solenoid valve. The configuration of valve 116 is for illustration purposes, and other types of valves may be used to control gas flow, as is known in the art.

In various examples, the gas source 120 can include a compressed gas chamber 126 and a gas feed 124. In various examples, the gas feed 124 may include at least one of a gas compressor, a gas cylinder, and a gas feed line (e.g., room air). The gas chamber 126 may be disposed between the gas port 108 and the gas feed 124 and in fluid communication with the gas port 108 and the gas feed 124.

The gas source 120 can include a source valve 128 disposed between and in fluid communication with the compressed gas chamber 126 and the gas feed 124. The source valve 128 may include a first source position and a second source position. In the first source position, the source valve 128 may be adapted to deliver gas into the compressed gas chamber 126. In the second source position, the source valve 128 may be adapted to limit and/or prevent the delivery of gas into the gas chamber 126. The compressed gas chamber 126 may be filled with gas using the source valve 128, and gas may be discharged from the gas chamber 126 into the cavity 102a via the gas port 108 using the valve 116. In various examples, the fluid dispensing system 100 may include a plurality of source valves including the source valve 128. The position of the source valve 128 and the number of source valves are for illustration purposes only, and there may be a different number of source valves, and the source valve 128 may be placed in different positions, as is known in the art.

The gas source 120 may include a pressure transducer 130, which may be in fluid communication with the cavity 102a of the fluid chamber 102 and/or the compressed gas chamber 126. Pressure transducer 130 may be configured to determine a pressure in at least one of gas port 108, cavity 102a, compressed gas chamber 126, and gas feed 124. In various examples, the fluid distribution system 100 may include a plurality of pressure transducers, including the pressure transducer 130. The location of the pressure transducers 130 and the number of pressure sensors are for illustration purposes only, and there may be a different number of pressure transducers, and the pressure transducers 130 may be placed in different locations, as is known in the art.

The gas source 120 can further include a regulator 132 that can be in fluid communication with the gas feed 124 and the source valve 128 and positioned between the gas feed 124 and the source valve 128. The regulator 132 may be adapted to control the pressure of the gas introduced into the compressed gas chamber 126. For example, the gas pressure within the gas chamber 126 may be from 0.1 psi to 100 psi, such as, for example, 1 to 50 psi, 5 to 40 psi, 10 to 30 psi, or 5 to 10 psi. In various examples, the fluid dispensing system 100 may include a plurality of regulators including the regulator 132. The position of the adjuster 132 and the number of adjusters are for illustration purposes only, and there may be a different number of adjusters, and the adjuster 132 may be placed in different positions, as is known in the art.

The outlet 106 may be adapted to receive fluid from the cavity 102a of the fluid chamber 102 and may be adapted to convey fluid out of the fluid chamber 102. In various examples, the outlet 106 may be configured to generate a back pressure in response to a fill pressure in the fluid chamber 102, which may limit fluid delivery through the outlet 106. For example, the outlet 106 may be configured to generate a back pressure using the angled outlet fluid path 136. The fill pressure may be less than the back pressure generated in the outlet 106. In various examples, the fill pressure may be less than the sealing pressure. As illustrated in fig. 2A-B, the height of the fluid path 136 extending through the outlet 106 at the second portion 106B of the outlet 106 may be higher than the height at the first portion 106a of the outlet 106. The first portion 106a of the outlet 106 may be disposed adjacent to the cavity 102 a. In various examples, the first portion 106a may be disposed between the second portion 106b and the cavity 102 a.

The sealing pressure may vent fluid (e.g., at least one of liquid from the liquid source 118 and gas from the gas source 120) from the cavity 102a out of the fluid chamber 102 via the outlet 106. In various examples, the fluid chamber 102 may be configured to discharge fluid in at least two stages in response to a seal pressure. The first stage may discharge a fluid consisting essentially of a liquid and the second stage may discharge a fluid consisting essentially of a gas. In various examples, the second stage may be adapted to facilitate movement of the first stage. For example, the cavity 102a may be filled with a liquid before a sealing pressure is generated in the cavity 102a with gas from the gas port 108. When the sealing pressure is generated, gas from the gas port 108 may push liquid from the cavity 102a into the outlet 106. In various examples, the sealing pressure may be greater than the back pressure generated in the outlet 106.

In various examples, the outlet 106 can be in fluid communication with a lumen of a device (not shown), such as, for example, a medical device (e.g., an endoscope). The outlet 106 may convey fluid from the cavity 102a out of the fluid chamber 102 to an interior cavity of the device in response to the sealing pressure. The fluid may travel through the lumen of the device and may subject the lumen to a treatment process.

Monitoring the pressure with the pressure transducer 130 may indicate the amount of fluid that is flowing or has flowed through the outlet 106. For example, a pressure in the cavity 102a after a certain period of time above a threshold pressure may indicate that a minimal amount, if any, of fluid has been discharged from the outlet 106 and/or to an interior cavity of a device in fluid communication with the outlet 106 (e.g., there is an occlusion in the outlet 106 and/or an occlusion in an interior cavity of the device). The threshold pressure may be equal to or less than the sealing pressure. In various examples, the threshold pressure is greater than the fill pressure.

A pressure in the cavity 102a below the threshold pressure after the period of time may indicate that a desired amount of fluid has been discharged from the cavity 102a through the outlet 106 and/or into the lumen of the device (e.g., there is minimal, if any, occlusion in the outlet 106 and/or in the lumen of the device).

A method for dispensing a fluid with the fluid dispensing system 100 is further provided and may include filling the fluid chamber 102 with a liquid by providing the liquid through the inlet 104 of the fluid chamber 102. Filling of the fluid chamber 102 may include filling at least a portion of the fluid chamber 102 with a liquid. In various examples, the gate 114 may be in a first gate position adapted to facilitate filling of the fluid chamber 102. Thereafter, a sealing pressure may be generated in the fluid chamber 102. The sealing pressure may limit and/or prevent additional filling of the fluid chamber 102 through the inlet 104. For example, the gate 114 may move to a second gate position in response to the sealing pressure and may substantially block the opening 112 in the inlet 104. The sealing pressure may be generated by activating the valve 116 to provide gas to the fluid chamber 102. For example, the valve 116 may be adapted to enable gas to be delivered from the gas source 120 to the fluid chamber 102. In various examples, a back pressure may be generated in the outlet 106 of the fluid chamber 102 in order to facilitate filling of the fluid chamber 102. In some examples, filling the fluid chamber 102 with a liquid further includes gravity filling.

Fluid from the fluid chamber 102 may be dispensed in response to the sealing pressure. For example, the liquid may be discharged through the outlet 106 of the fluid chamber 104 with a gas in response to the sealing pressure. In various examples, the gas may be vented through the outlet 106 of the fluid chamber 104 in response to the sealing pressure. In various examples, the liquid discharged from the fluid chamber 102 can be passed through a lumen of a device (not shown), such as, for example, a medical device (e.g., an endoscope).

Referring to fig. 3A-D, a fluid dispensing system 300 is provided that may be used as a supplement or replacement to the fluid dispensing system 100 discussed herein. As illustrated, the fluid distribution system 300 may include a diverter 338, a fluid chamber 302, an inlet section (generally 304), an outlet 306, and a gas port 308. The inlet 304 may be in fluid communication with a liquid source 318 and the cavity 302a of the fluid chamber 302. The inlet 304 may be adapted to deliver a fluid (such as a liquid) from a liquid source 318 into the cavity 302a of the fluid chamber 302. In various examples, the liquid source 318 may be operatively coupled to the inlet 304 of the fluid chamber 302. The outlet 306 may be in fluid communication with the cavity 302a and may be adapted to convey fluid out of the cavity 302 a.

The gas port 308 may be adapted to deliver gas into the cavity 302a of the fluid chamber 302, and may control the pressure within the cavity 302 a. In various examples, the gas port 308 may include the valve 116 (fig. 1 and 2A-B). For example, the valve 116 may be in fluid communication with the cavity 302A of the fluid chamber 302 and the gas source 120 (fig. 2A-B), and in some examples may be configured in the same manner as provided herein with respect to fig. 1 and 2A-B.

The diverter 338 may be disposed within the cavity 302a of the fluid chamber 302 and may be adapted to move within the cavity 302 a. The diverter 338 may include a first end 338a, a second end 338b, and a diverter body 338 c. In various examples, the second end 338b can be disposed opposite the first end 338 a. Diverter body 338c may extend from first end 338a to second end 338b and may be adapted to facilitate a relationship between movement of first end 338a and second end 338 b. For example, diverter body 338c may be operatively coupled to first end 338a and second end 338b such that when first end 338a moves, second end 338b moves.

The first end 338a may be adapted to restrict fluid transport through the opening 312 in the inlet 304. For example, the first end 338a can include a sealing member 340 adapted to limit and/or prevent fluid from traversing through the opening 312, such as liquid from the liquid source 318. In various examples, the sealing member 340 may include at least one of a gasket and a seal. For example, the sealing member 340 may include an O-ring.

The second end 338b may be adapted to limit the delivery of fluid through the outlet 306. For example, the second end 338b may include a sealing member 342, the sealing member 342 being adapted to limit and/or prevent fluid from traversing through the outlet 306, such as liquid from the liquid source 318 in the cavity 302a and/or gas from the gas port 308 in the cavity 302 a. In various examples, the sealing member 342 may include at least one of a gasket and a seal. For example, the sealing member 342 may comprise an O-ring.

The diverter 338 may be configured to move from a first diverter position as illustrated in fig. 3B to a second diverter position as illustrated in fig. 3C. In various examples, the diverter 338 may change position in response to a sealing pressure within the cavity 302a of the fluid chamber 302. The sealing pressure may apply a first force to the first end 338a of the diverter 338 and cause the first end 338a of the diverter 338 to engage the inlet 304 and form a seal 322 with the inlet 304 such that fluid transport through the opening 312 in the inlet 304 may be limited and/or prevented. The second end 338b of the diverter 338 may be configured such that the force applied to the second end 338b by the sealing pressure may be less than the first force applied to the first end 338 a. For example, and as illustrated in fig. 3D, the second end 338b may have a second fluid opening 376 that is larger than the first fluid opening 378 on the first end 338 a.

The first diverter position may facilitate delivery of fluid into the cavity 302a of the fluid chamber 302 through the inlet 304 and may be adapted to restrict fluid delivery through the outlet 306. For example, in the first diverter position, the second end 338b and the sealing member 342 may block the outlet 306, and the opening 312 in the inlet may be blocked to a minimal extent (if any). In various examples, fluid dispensing system 300 may be oriented such that cavity 302a may be filled with liquid from liquid source 318 through inlet 304 by gravity filling. For example, the fluid dispensing system 300 may be oriented such that the liquid source 318 may be positioned at a height above the height of the cavity 302 a.

The second diverter position may be adapted to restrict delivery of fluid into the cavity 302a of the fluid chamber 302 through the inlet 304 and may be adapted to facilitate delivery of liquid through the outlet 306. For example, in the second diverter position, the first end 338a and the sealing member 340 may block the opening 312 in the inlet 304, and the outlet 306 may be blocked to a minimal extent (if any). In various examples, only one of the opening 312 in the inlet 304 and the outlet 306 may be blocked at a time.

When the diverter 338 is in the second diverter position, the sealing pressure within the cavity 302a may vent fluid (e.g., at least one of liquid in the cavity 302a from the liquid source 318 and gas in the cavity 302a from the gas port 308) from the cavity 302a out of the fluid chamber 302 a. In various examples, the outlet 306 may be in fluid communication with a lumen of a device (not shown), such as, for example, a medical device (e.g., an endoscope). The outlet 306 may deliver fluid from the cavity 302a of the fluid chamber 302 to an inner cavity of the device in response to the sealing pressure.

In various examples, the fluid distribution system 300 may include a resilient member 344 operatively coupled to the diverter 338. In one example, the resilient member may be a spring-like member. The resilient member 344 may apply a force to the diverter 338 and the force may cause the diverter 338 to change positions. For example, the resilient member 344 may move the diverter 338 from the second diverter position as illustrated in fig. 3C to the first diverter position as illustrated in fig. 3B. The resilient member 344 may apply a first force to the diverter 338 that may position the diverter 338 in a first diverter position as illustrated in fig. 3B. The resilient member 344 may maintain the diverter 338 in the first diverter position in response to the fill pressure in the fluid chamber 302. However, the first force exerted by the resilient member 344 on the diverter 338 may be counteracted by the second force exerted on the diverter 338 by the sealing pressure within the cavity 302 a. When the second force is greater than the first force, the diverter 338 may move from a first diverter position as illustrated in fig. 3B to a second diverter position as illustrated in fig. 3C.

Referring to fig. 4, a processing system 400 is provided that includes the fluid distribution system 100a and the process chamber 448. The process chamber 448 may be adapted to receive the device 446. In various examples, the device 446 comprises a medical device (e.g., an endoscope). Fluid dispensing system 100a may be an apparatus or system suitable for providing a fluid flow, such as, for example, fluid dispensing system 100 and/or fluid dispensing system 300 discussed herein. In various examples, the processing system 400 may include two or more fluid distribution systems 100 a-b. The fluid distribution systems 100a-b may share a common gas source or may have separate gas sources (not shown). In a similar manner, fluid dispensing systems 100a-b may share a common liquid source or may have separate liquid sources (not shown). For example, the fluid source of each fluid distribution system 100a-b may be in fluid communication with a shared reservoir (not shown) such that each fluid distribution system 100a-b may receive fluid from the shared reservoir.

The fluid dispensing system 100a may be configured to be in fluid communication with the first lumen of the device 446 using the fluid connector 480 a. In various examples, fluid distribution system 100b may be in fluid communication with a first lumen using fluid connector 480a, or with a second lumen of a device using fluid connector 480 b. In various examples, the first lumen and the second lumen of the device 446 are different. In various examples, the fluid connectors 480a, 480b may be at least one of a fitting and tubing.

Each fluid distribution system 100a-b may control fluid flow through its respective outlet. Thus, fluid flow through the respective lumens of the device 446 in fluid communication with each of the fluid distribution systems 100a-b may be controlled. Each fluid distribution system 100a-b may distribute at least one of a cleaning agent, a disinfecting agent, and a sterilizing agent. In various examples, each fluid dispensing system 100a-b can dispense a different fluid into the first lumen of the device 346. In various examples, the fluid distribution systems 100a-b may be utilized to distribute the same fluid or different fluids into different lumens of the device 446.

The fluid distribution systems 100a-b may be adapted to provide fluid to respective lumens of the device 446 in the first and second stages. In a first stage, the fluid distribution systems 100a-b may be configured to pass a fluid substantially comprising a liquid through the respective lumens. In the second stage, the fluid distribution systems 100a-b may be configured to pass a fluid substantially comprising a gas through the respective lumens. The second stage may be adapted to facilitate movement of the first stage. For example, liquid from the first stage may be forced through the respective lumens by the gas of the second stage. The first and second stages may be repeated as necessary to treat and/or remove debris from the respective lumens.

The process chamber 448 can include a single door or at least two doors. For example, the process chamber 448 may include a first door 450 and a second door 452. The doors 450, 452 can be adapted to receive the device 446 and can enclose the device 446 within the process chamber 448. The first door 450 can receive the device 446 from an environment 454 external to the process chamber 448 and facilitate transfer of the device 446 into the process chamber 448. In various examples, the first door 450 may be operable to load the device 446 into the process chamber 448 when the device 446 is in a first state (such as, for example, an unclean state). In some examples, the first door 450 may be used to load the device 446 but may not be operable to unload the device 446 from the process chamber 448. In some examples, the first door 450 may not be operable when the device 446 is in a second state (such as, for example, a cleaning state). In various examples, the first door 450 may be secured in the locked state after the device 446 has been loaded and/or when the device 446 is in the second state. In various examples, the door 450 may be operable to unload the device 446 from the process chamber 448.

After processing the device 446 in the process chamber 448, the device 446 may be in a second state and removed from the process chamber 448 using the second door 452 of the process chamber 448. The second door 452 can receive the device 446 from the process chamber 448 and facilitate delivery of the device 446 into the environment 454. In various examples, the second door 452 can be operable to unload the device 446 from the process chamber 448 when the device 446 is in the second state. When the device 446 is in the first state, the second door 452 may not be operable to load the device 446 into the process chamber 448 and the second door 452 may not be operable. In various examples, second door 452 may be secured in a locked state before device 446 has been loaded and/or when device 446 is in the first state. In various examples, the door 452 can be operable to load the device 446 into the process chamber 448.

The doors 450, 452 may minimize accidental unloading of the device 446 in an improper condition. For example, the doors 450, 452 may prevent unloading of medical devices in a dirty state from the processing system 400 prior to performing a processing procedure. In various examples, after the device 446 is removed, the processing system 400 is ready to process another device.

The processing system 400 can include a gas dryer 456 disposed within the process chamber 448. The gas dryer 456 may be adapted to remove liquid and/or debris from the exterior surface of the apparatus 446 with compressed gas. The gas dryer 456 may be in fluid communication with a gas source, which may be the same or different from the gas source used by the fluid dispensing system 100 a-b.

The treatment system 400 may include pumps, such as, for example, pump 466a and pump 466 b. The pump 466a can be adapted to recirculate fluid within the process chamber 448 through a recirculation line 474 and/or remove fluid from the process chamber 448 and provide the fluid to a drain (drain) 472. The pump 466b may provide fluid to spray arms, such as, for example, the spray arm 468a and the spray arm 468 b. When present, the spray arms 468a, 468b may deposit (e.g., spray) fluid onto the device 446, such as, for example, outside of the device 446. The pump 466b can provide fluid to the fluid distribution systems 100a-b individually or to a shared reservoir (not shown) with which each fluid distribution system 100a-b can be in fluid communication. The shared reservoir may provide distribution of fluid received from the pump 466b to the fluid distribution systems 100 a-b. In various examples, the pump 466b can provide fluid to all or less than all of the fluid distribution systems 100 a-b. The pump 466b can receive fluid from a basin (basin) 448a of the process chamber 448.

In various examples, the processing system 400 may include check valves, such as, for example, check valve 462a and check valve 462 b. When present, check valves 462a, 462b may prevent backflow in the fluid lines.

Processing system 400 may include a 3-way valve, such as, for example, 3-way valve 470a and 3-way valve 470 b. When present, each 3-way valve 470a-b may be adapted to receive an incoming fluid flow and convey the fluid flow in an outgoing fluid path. For example, 3-way valve 470a may receive fluid flow from pump 466a and direct the fluid flow to drain 472 or 3-way valve 470 a. 3-way valve 470b may receive a flow of water from water source 460 or a flow of fluid from 3-way valve 470a and direct the respective flows to filter 458. The filters 458 can be adapted to remove debris and/or microorganisms from the respective streams and can output the respective streams into the process chamber 448.

The filter 458 may be in fluid communication with a pressure relief valve 464 adapted to relieve excess pressure caused by overloading and/or clogging (clogging) of the filter 458. The pressure relief valve 464 may be in a closed state with the pressure at the filter 458 being less than a threshold relief pressure. Upon reaching or exceeding the threshold relief pressure, the pressure relief valve 464 may change to an open state and output fluid flow from the filter 458 to the exhaust port 472. The location and number of filters 458 are for illustration purposes only, and there may be multiple filters in various locations in the processing system 400.

The processing system 400 can be used to clean a device 446 that includes an interior cavity. For example, the device 446 in the first state can be introduced into the process chamber 448 using the first door 450. The first lumen of the device 446 may be connected to and in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system 100a and/or the fluid distribution system 100b of the treatment system 400. Fluid distribution system 100a-b may be utilized to pass fluid through the first lumen in at least two stages. For example, a first lumen may be subjected to a first stage that includes passing a fluid consisting essentially of a liquid through the lumen. The first lumen may be subjected to a second stage comprising passing a fluid consisting essentially of a gas through the first lumen. The second stage facilitates movement of the fluid of the first stage. For example, liquid from the first stage may be forced through the first lumen by the gas of the second stage. In some examples, the pressure of the gas entering the fluid distribution apparatus may be monitored during the passing of the fluid through the at least two stages of the first lumen. For example, pressure transducer 130 may be utilized to measure pressure. Measuring the pressure may ensure that the fluid passes through the first lumen or may indicate that the first lumen may contain an obstruction.

The device 446 may include a plurality of lumens including a first lumen and a second lumen. The second lumen may be connected in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system 100a and/or the fluid distribution system 100b of the treatment system 400. In various examples, fluid distribution system 100a can pass fluid through a first lumen of device 446, and fluid distribution system 100b can pass fluid through a second lumen of the device. In various examples, the fluid distribution system 100a or the fluid system 100b can pass fluid through both the first lumen and the second lumen of the device 446.

The treatment process may include passing multiple fluids through the lumen of the device 446 in multiple stages (phases). For example, the first stage may include passing a first liquid and a gas through the lumen. The second stage may include passing a second liquid and gas through the lumen, and in various examples, the third stage may include passing a third liquid and gas through the lumen. The first liquid, the second liquid, and/or the third liquid may include at least one of a cleaning agent, a disinfecting agent, and a sterilizing agent. In some examples, the first liquid includes a cleaning agent, the second liquid includes a first sanitizing agent, and the third liquid includes a second sanitizing agent (such as, for example, alcohol). In various examples, the stages may occur in succession, such as, for example, the second stage occurring after the first stage, and the third stage occurring after the second stage. In various examples, the stages may occur in various orders, such as beginning with the second stage or the third stage and ending with the first stage or the second stage.

The processing system 400 can clean the exterior of the device 446 with a flow of liquid. For example, the treatment system 400 may utilize spray arms 468a, 468b to spray liquid onto the device 446. Liquid can be recirculated from the basin 448a of the process chamber 448 and/or from the fluid distribution system 100 a-b.

The treatment system 400 may utilize compressed gas to substantially remove liquid and/or debris from outside the apparatus 446. For example, the treatment system 400 may utilize a gas dryer 456 to flow compressed air across the surface of the device 446.

Fluid dispensing systems and methods and treatment systems and methods according to the present disclosure may pass liquids and gases through the lumen of a device, such that the device (such as a medical device) may be efficiently and effectively treated. Fluid distribution systems and methods and treatment systems and methods according to the present disclosure may create a fluid flow with increased momentum that may effectively and quickly treat the internal cavity of the device.

An embodiment of a treatment system 500 suitable for treating an endoscope having a plurality of lumens is shown in fig. 5. The system 500 includes a purge assembly 501 having the same or at least as many purge channels as there are lumens of the endoscope. As reflected in FIG. 5, purge assembly 501 includes eight purge passages 502 a-h. Thus, the system 500 can be used to disinfect endoscopes having from one to eight lumens (e.g., two lumens).

The system 500 includes a first pressure regulator 504 including a gas (e.g., air, nitrogen) compressor 506 capable of generating an operating pressure of at least 60 psi. The pressure regulator 504 may additionally include a reservoir 507 in which gas may be collected and stored at operating pressure. At the outlet of the pressure regulator 504, a filter 508, such as a bio-activated carbon filter, may be provided. The second pressure regulator 510 may be utilized to further regulate the pressure of the gas to be delivered through the purge channel 502 to the lumen of the endoscope during a purge cycle in which the cleaning liquid in the endoscope lumen is forcibly ejected therefrom. Since endoscopes can typically withstand pressures up to approximately 35 psi, the pressure regulator 510 is capable of reducing the operating pressure to between about 25 psi and about 35 psi, for example, about 30 psi. Optionally, a third pressure regulator 512 may be included, which may further reduce the operating pressure to between about 5 psi and 10 psi, such as 8 psi, which may be used to gently check for blockage of the channel 502 and endoscope lumen prior to beginning the higher pressure purge cycle. A fourth pressure regulator 514 can be utilized to assist in the introduction of cleaning liquid from the system 500 into the endoscope lumen. The fourth pressure regulator 514 may be in fluid communication with various sources of cleaning fluid, such as an alcohol source 516, a cleaning agent source 518, and a disinfection source 520. Valves (e.g., solenoid valves 522, 524, 526, and 528) and pressure sensor 530 and reservoir 532 may be positioned between the fourth pressure regulator 514 and cleaning fluid sources 516, 518, and 520 as reflected in fig. 5 to regulate and monitor the flow of cleaning fluid through the system 500 and ultimately to the medical device (such as an endoscope) connected thereto. The cleaning liquid may flow through various features of the system 500, such as directly to the channel purge assembly 501, or indirectly to the channel purge assembly 501 via the process or wash chambers 448 of the system described above.

The system 500 additionally includes a valve 540 between the second and third pressure regulators 510, 512 on one side and the purge assembly 501 on the other side. A valve 540 may be used to control which of the second and third regulators 510, 512 is used to determine the gas pressure downstream thereof.

In addition to the purge passages 502a-h, the purge assembly 501 includes a plurality of fluid lines 503, one corresponding to each of the purge passages 502a-h, through which fluid flows from the valve 540 to the corresponding purge passage (e.g., 502 a). Each line 503 includes a first line valve 542 and a second line valve 544. Between the first and second line valves 542, 544, a reservoir 536 is disposed that is connected to the pressure sensor 538. Thus, a single reservoir 536 on each purge line 503 is dedicated to pressurizing the corresponding purge channel and the corresponding endoscope lumen connected thereto.

The foregoing configuration enables improved treatment of the endoscope lumen due to shear stresses generated during liquid purging of an endoscope connected to the system 500. In particular, this advantage is realized from the provision of a dedicated pressure sensor 538 and a dedicated reservoir 536 on each purge line 503 upstream of the purge channels 502 a-h. Each reservoir 536 may be pressurized to a pressure approximately equal to the maximum pressure that each endoscope channel may withstand, for example, about 30 psi. After the reservoirs have reached this pressure, i.e., after the reservoirs have been pressurized, the corresponding valves 544 may be opened to release the pressurized gas through the corresponding purge channel 502 and to purge the channel with any liquid therein through the corresponding endoscope channel. This configuration allows the pressure in channels 502a-h and corresponding endoscope lumen to be rapidly or immediately increased from a lower pressure (e.g., ambient pressure) to the pressure in reservoir 536, which the inventors have found to have a greater shear stress on the walls of the endoscope lumen in the cleaning liquid than would be the case if an upstream pressure regulator (such as second pressure regulator 510) were simply activated to form the walls of the endoscope lumen. Furthermore, this configuration enables time savings because each reservoir 536 on each purge line 503 can be pressurized simultaneously so that the pressurized purge can also be performed simultaneously, thereby reducing the likelihood that a pressure drop can result from the use of a single pressure regulator to pressurize each line simultaneously. Further, dedicating one reservoir to each purge line 503 eliminates the possibility of: the pressurized gas will favor flow through those channels 502a-h connected to the larger diameter endoscope lumen (i.e., the path of least resistance) so that the smaller diameter lumen may not experience sufficient flow to generate the increased shear stress desired to achieve the improved purge described herein.

The system 500 may additionally include a processor configured to operate the system 500 in an automated manner. Specifically, the processor should be connected to at least each of the valves of the system 500 (i.e., valves 522, 530, 540, 524, 526, 528, 542, and 544) and the pressure sensors of the system 500 (i.e., sensors 530 and 536). Thus, the processor may be configured to receive pressure data from these sensors and open and close the valves upon determining that a desired pressure is about to be reached or has been reached in the corresponding gas reservoirs (i.e., chambers 532 and 538), as explained below.

Accordingly, the system 500 may be used to perform an improved method for purging an endoscope having a lumen filled with a cleaning liquid (such as alcohol, detergent, or disinfectant). While the system 500 may perform additional methods (such as delivering cleaning liquids to the endoscope), the focus of the methods presented herein is to purge the endoscope of these liquids.

An exemplary method 600 for purging an endoscope is shown in fig. 6. The method 600 may be applied to the processing system 500 as described herein as an example. However, the method 600 may be applied to treatment systems having different designs, including the advantages that may be realized by providing a dedicated gas reservoir that may be used to purge separate endoscope lumens, without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. The method 600 may begin at step 602, which includes checking the purge assembly 501 and the lumen of the endoscope connected thereto for any blockage. For example, when applied to the processing system of FIG. 5, the processor may check that valve 522 is closed such that any pressure generated upstream thereof does not cause gas flow downstream thereof. If the processor determines that the valve 522 is open, the processor sends a signal to the valve 522 to close it. The processor confirmation valve 540 is then configured to allow the third regulator 512 to be in fluid communication with the purge assembly 501, and the second regulator 510 is not in fluid communication with the purge assembly 501 such that the purge assembly 501 does not receive gas pressurized to the "purge pressure" from the second regulator 510. If the processor determines that this is not the state of the valve, the processor sends a signal to the valve 540 to change to this state. Next, the processor opens each valve of the purge assembly 501 (i.e., valves 542 and 544 on each purge line 503). Thus, the pressure generated within the first regulator 504 may be regulated down to, for example, about 8 psi by the third regulator 512 so that gas may flow throughout the purge assembly 501 and the endoscope connected thereto. Accordingly, the processor may be configured to monitor the pressure at the outlet of each purge line, or alternatively at the outlet of each endoscope, to confirm that the outlet pressure corresponds to a predetermined pressure indicating no occlusion for the given pressure at the third regulator 512. Thus, for example, additional pressure sensors may be placed at least one up to the output of each purge line or at least one up to the output of each endoscope lumen.

At step 604, the purge assembly is prepared for purging an endoscope coupled thereto. For example, as applied to system 500, from at least one to all of reservoirs 536 are pressurized, i.e., pressurized to a "purge pressure," and then maintained at that pressure. The processor closes all valves 542 and 544 and switches the valve 540 to allow fluid communication from the second regulator 510 to the purge assembly 501, thereby cutting off fluid communication from the third regulator 512. The processor may then open from at least one up to each valve 542 simultaneously or sequentially, thereby allowing fluid communication between the second regulator 510 and those reservoirs 536 having their upstream valves 542 in an open state. Thus, these reservoirs 536 become pressurized to the same pressure that the second regulator 510 is configured to output, for example, about the maximum pressure of the endoscope (e.g., about 30 psi). The processor monitors the pressure in each reservoir 536 via sensor 538 to determine when the pressure, i.e., the "purge pressure," has been reached. Upon determining that the purge pressure has been reached for a given reservoir 536, the processor causes the corresponding valve 542 to close. Thus, the given reservoir 536 is in a pressurized state, and may be considered a "pressurized reservoir".

At step 606, the pressurized purge module reservoir is opened. When applied to system 500, the processor causes valve 544 downstream of pressurized reservoir 536 to open. In some variations, this occurs after all of reservoirs 536 have been pressurized. In other variations, this occurs after less than all of reservoir 536 has been pressurized. For example, where an endoscope connected to the system 500 includes less than eight lumens (e.g., four lumens), only those four reservoirs 536 connected to the purge channels of the endoscope lumens are pressurized and have the corresponding valves 544 open. Additionally or alternatively, two or more valves 544 may be opened simultaneously. Thus, for example, two or more valves 544 may be opened after their corresponding reservoirs 536 have been pressurized. Additionally or alternatively, two or more valves 544 may be opened sequentially. For example, the valves 544 may be opened after each corresponding reservoir 536 has been pressurized. Further, for example, each valve 544 may open quickly after pressurizing the corresponding reservoir 536.

In either of these variations, at step 608, gas from the pressurized reservoir flows through lumens of the endoscope, purging those lumens containing liquid therein. When applied to the system 500, gas from the pressurized reservoir(s) 536 proceeds through any corresponding purge channel 502a-h and endoscope lumen connected thereto.

At step 610, at least steps 606, and 608, and optionally also step 602, may be repeated as determined by an operator of the processor or processing system. Method 600 may be repeated with or without step 602 each time liquid is introduced or reintroduced. For example, these steps may be performed, first to purge a first cleaning liquid (e.g., a detergent), second to purge a second cleaning liquid (e.g., a disinfectant), and third to purge a third cleaning liquid (e.g., an alcohol). Additionally, these steps may be repeated multiple times to purge a single cleaning liquid to improve treatment of the endoscope by providing repeated exposure of the lumen to purge pressure from a dedicated purge reservoir and consequent increased shear stress along the lumen wall.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the components (e.g., operations), devices, objects, and their accompanying discussion described herein are for conceptual clarity purposes only and that various configuration modifications are contemplated. Thus, as used herein, the specific examples set forth and the accompanying discussion are intended to be representative of their more general categories. In general, the use of any particular example is intended to be representative of its class, and the non-inclusion of particular components (e.g., operations), devices, and objects should not be taken as limiting.

The subject matter described herein sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely exemplary, and that in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being "operably connected," or "operably coupled," to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably couplable," to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components, and/or wirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting components, and/or logically interacting and/or logically interactable components.

Those of skill in the art will understand, with respect to the claims appended hereto, that the operations recited therein can generally be performed in any order. Also, while the various operational flows are presented in a sequence(s), it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other sequences than illustrated, or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternative orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preliminary, complementary, simultaneous, reverse, or other varying orderings, unless context dictates otherwise. Moreover, unless the context dictates otherwise, terms like "responsive," "related," or other past adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variations.

While various examples have been described herein, many modifications, variations, substitutions, changes, and equivalents to those examples may be implemented and will occur to those skilled in the art. Also, where materials for certain components are disclosed, other materials may be used. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing description and appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the scope of the disclosed examples. It is intended that the following claims cover all such modifications and changes.

Various aspects of the subject matter according to the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, the aspects listed in the following numbered clauses.

Claims

CPME2043231P

1. A fluid dispensing system, comprising:

a fluid chamber comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and outlet adapted to convey a fluid;

the inlet comprising a body comprising an opening adapted to deliver liquid into the fluid chamber and a gate adapted to form a seal with the body in response to sealing pressure within the fluid chamber, the seal being adapted to restrict the delivery of liquid through the opening; and

a gas port in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and comprising a valve, the valve comprising a first position and a second position, the first position adapted to deliver gas through the gas port into the fluid chamber to generate the sealing pressure, and the second position adapted to restrict gas delivery through the gas port.

2. The system of clause 1, wherein the sealing pressure is adapted to discharge at least one of a liquid and a gas from the fluid chamber through the outlet.

3. The system of clauses 1-2, wherein the outlet is configured to generate a back pressure to limit liquid delivery through the outlet in response to a fill pressure in the fluid chamber, the fill pressure being less than the sealing pressure.

4. The system of clause 3, wherein the outlet is configured to generate a back pressure using an angled outlet fluid path.

5. The system of clauses 1-4, wherein the valve comprises a solenoid valve.

6. The system of clauses 1-5, wherein the system is configurable to an orientation suitable for gravity filling the fluid chamber with liquid through the inlet.

7. The system of clauses 1-6, wherein the opening is substantially blocked in response to the sealing pressure within the fluid chamber.

8. The system of clauses 1-7, further comprising a fluid pathway disposed between a wall of the fluid chamber and a perimeter of the gate, wherein the fluid pathway is adapted to transport a fluid.

9. The system of clauses 1-8, further comprising:

a compressed gas chamber comprising a gas inlet and a gas outlet;

the gas inlet comprises a source valve comprising a first position and a second position, the first position being adapted to deliver gas into the gas chamber and the second position being adapted to restrict delivery of gas into the gas chamber; and is

The first position of the valve of the gas port is adapted to convey gas from the gas chamber into the gas port, and the second position of the valve of the gas port is adapted to restrict the conveyance of gas from the gas chamber into the gas port.

10. The system of clauses 1-9, wherein the gate is configured to move from a first gate position to a second gate position in response to the sealing pressure within the fluid chamber, the first gate position being adapted to facilitate delivery of liquid into the fluid chamber, and the second gate position being adapted to form the seal with the body.

11. The system of clauses 1-10, wherein the body comprises an elastomer.

12. The system of clauses 1-11, wherein the outlet is in fluid communication with a lumen of an endoscope.

13. A fluid dispensing system, comprising:

a fluid chamber comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and outlet adapted to convey a fluid;

the inlet comprising a body including an opening adapted to deliver liquid into the fluid chamber and a gate adapted to substantially block the opening in response to sealing pressure within the fluid chamber to restrict the delivery of liquid through the opening;

a gas port in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and comprising a valve, the valve comprising a first position and a second position, the first position adapted to deliver gas through the gas port into the fluid chamber to generate the sealing pressure, and the second position adapted to restrict gas delivery through the gas port;

the outlet is configured to generate a back pressure to limit liquid delivery through the outlet in response to a fill pressure in the fluid chamber, the fill pressure being less than the sealing pressure; and is

The sealing pressure is adapted to discharge at least one of a liquid and a gas from the fluid chamber through the outlet.

14. A method of fluid dispensing, comprising:

filling a portion of a fluid chamber with liquid by providing liquid through an inlet of the fluid chamber;

generating a sealing pressure with the gas in the fluid chamber and limiting additional filling of the fluid chamber through the inlet; and

dispensing liquid from the fluid chamber in response to the sealing pressure, the dispensing including discharging liquid through an outlet of the fluid chamber with a gas.

15. The method of clause 14, further comprising: generating a back pressure in the outlet of the fluid chamber to facilitate filling of the fluid chamber.

16. The method of clauses 14-15, wherein the filling of the portion of the fluid chamber with liquid further comprises gravity filling.

17. The method of clauses 14-16, wherein generating the sealing pressure further comprises activating a solenoid valve to provide gas to the fluid chamber.

18. The method of clauses 14-17, wherein the inlet comprises a gate and restricting additional filling of the fluid chamber further comprises using the sealing pressure to change a configuration of the gate.

19. The method of clauses 14-18, further comprising discharging gas through an outlet of the fluid chamber.

20. The method of clauses 14-19, wherein dispensing the liquid from the fluid chamber further comprises passing the liquid through a lumen of an endoscope.

21. A treatment system comprising the fluid dispensing system of any of clauses 1-20.

22. A processing system, comprising:

a fluid connector adapted to provide fluid communication between the fluid distribution system and an interior chamber of the device; and

a fluid distribution system adapted to provide liquid and gas to the lumen in a first stage and a second stage, the first stage configured to pass fluid consisting essentially of liquid through the lumen and the second stage configured to pass fluid consisting essentially of gas through the lumen, and the second stage adapted to facilitate movement of the first stage.

23. The system of clause 22, further comprising a first chamber comprising a cavity consisting essentially of a gas, the first chamber in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system.

24. The system of clause 23, further comprising a pressure transducer in fluid communication with the first chamber.

25. The system of clauses 23-24, further comprising:

a first valve in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system, the first valve adapted to control fluid communication between the first chamber and the fluid distribution system; and

a second valve in fluid communication with the first chamber, the second valve adapted to control fluid communication between a source of air and the first chamber.

26. The system of clauses 22-25, further comprising a processing chamber adapted to receive the device.

27. The system of clause 26, wherein the processing chamber further comprises:

a first door adapted to receive the device, the first door being securable when the device is in a first state; and

a second door adapted to receive the device, the second door being securable, wherein the device is in a second state.

28. The system of clauses 26-27, further comprising a gas dryer disposed within the processing chamber, the gas dryer adapted to remove liquid from an exterior surface of the device with compressed gas.

29. The system of clauses 22-28, further comprising at least two liquid sources in fluid communication with the fluid dispensing system.

30. The system of clauses 22-29, further comprising a second fluid distribution system adapted to provide liquid and gas to a second lumen of the device.

31. The system of clauses 22-30, wherein the device is an endoscope.

32. A processing system, comprising:

a process chamber adapted to receive a device comprising an inner cavity;

a fluid connector adapted to provide fluid communication between a fluid distribution system and the lumen;

a fluid distribution system adapted to provide liquid and gas to the lumen in a first stage and a second stage, the first stage adapted to pass fluid consisting essentially of liquid through the lumen and the second stage adapted to pass fluid consisting essentially of gas through the lumen and the second stage adapted to facilitate movement of the first stage;

a first chamber comprising a cavity consisting essentially of a gas, the first chamber in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system;

a first valve in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system, the first valve adapted to control fluid communication between the first chamber and the fluid distribution system; and

a second valve in fluid communication with the first chamber, the second valve adapted to control fluid communication between a source of air and the first chamber.

33. A method for treating a device comprising a lumen, the method comprising:

connecting the inner lumen of the device in fluid communication with a fluid distribution system of a treatment system; and

passing a liquid and a gas through the lumen with the fluid distribution system, comprising:

subjecting the lumen to a first stage comprising passing a fluid consisting essentially of a liquid through the lumen; and

subjecting the lumen to a second stage comprising passing a fluid consisting essentially of a gas through the lumen, wherein the second stage facilitates movement of the first stage.

34. The method of clause 33, further comprising monitoring the pressure of gas entering the fluid distribution system while passing liquid and gas through the lumen.

35. The method of clauses 33-34, wherein the liquid is a first liquid comprising a soap solution, the method further comprising:

passing a sterilant and gas through the lumen with the fluid distribution system; and

passing alcohol and gas through the lumen with the fluid dispensing system.

36. The method of clauses 33-35, further comprising substantially removing liquid from the exterior of the device with a compressed gas.

37. The method of clauses 33-36, further comprising:

connecting a first chamber substantially comprising a gas in fluid communication with a second chamber substantially comprising a fluid, the fluid distribution system comprising the second chamber; and

connecting the second chamber in fluid communication with the lumen.

38. The method of clauses 33-37, further comprising cleaning an exterior of the device with a flow of liquid.

39. The method of clauses 33-38, further comprising passing a liquid and a gas through a second lumen of the device with a second fluid distribution system.

40. The method of clauses 33-39, further comprising: providing the device in a first state to a process chamber of the processing system through a first door of the process chamber; and removing the device in the second state from the process chamber through a second door of the process chamber.

41. The method of clauses 33-40, wherein the device is an endoscope.

42. A fluid dispensing system, comprising:

a fluid chamber comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet and outlet adapted to convey a fluid;

a diverter disposed within the fluid chamber and adapted to move within the fluid chamber, the diverter comprising:

a first end adapted to restrict liquid transport through the inlet;

a second end adapted to restrict liquid transport through the outlet; and

a body extending from the first end to the second end, the body adapted to facilitate a relationship between movement of the first end and the second end.

43. The system of clause 42, further comprising a fluid source in fluid communication with the inlet, wherein the inlet is adapted to deliver liquid from the fluid source into the fluid chamber.

44. The system of clauses 42-43, wherein at least one of the first end and the second end comprises a seal.

45. The system of clause 44, wherein the seal is an O-ring.

46. The system of clauses 42-45, further comprising:

a gas port in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and comprising a valve comprising a first position adapted to deliver gas into the fluid chamber through the gas port to generate a sealing pressure and a second position adapted to restrict gas delivery through the gas port, wherein the diverter is adapted to prevent fluid delivery through the inlet with the first end in response to the sealing pressure.

47. The system of clause 46, further comprising a resilient member operatively coupled to the diverter, the resilient member adapted to move the diverter to enable fluid delivery through the inlet of the fluid chamber in response to a fill pressure in the fluid chamber, wherein the fill pressure is less than the sealing pressure.

48. The system of clause 47, wherein the resilient member is adapted to move the diverter to restrict fluid delivery through the outlet of the fluid chamber.

49. The system of clauses 46-48, wherein the sealing pressure is adapted to discharge at least one of a liquid and a gas from the fluid chamber through the outlet.

50. The system of clauses 46-49, wherein the valve is a solenoid valve.

51. The system of clauses 46-50, wherein the inlet is substantially blocked in response to the sealing pressure within the fluid chamber.

52. The system of clauses 46-51, further comprising:

a compressed gas chamber comprising a gas inlet and a gas outlet;

the gas inlet comprises a source valve comprising a first position and a second position, the first position being adapted to deliver gas into the gas chamber and the second position being adapted to restrict delivery of gas into the gas chamber; and is

The gas outlet is in fluid communication with the gas port, the gas outlet comprising an outlet valve comprising a first position and a second position, the first position being adapted to deliver gas from the gas chamber into the gas port, and the second position being adapted to restrict delivery of gas from the gas chamber into the gas port.

53. The system according to clauses 46-52,

wherein the diverter is configured to move from a first diverter position to a second diverter position in response to a sealing pressure within the fluid chamber,

the first position is adapted to facilitate delivery of liquid into the fluid chamber through the inlet and to restrict delivery of liquid through the outlet, and

the second position is adapted to restrict delivery of liquid into the fluid chamber through the inlet and to facilitate delivery of liquid through the outlet.

54. The system of clauses 42-53, wherein the outlet is in fluid communication with a lumen of an endoscope.

55. The system of clauses 42-54, wherein the system is configurable to an orientation suitable for gravity filling the fluid chamber with liquid through the inlet.

56. A processing system, comprising:

a pressure regulator;

a first purge channel configured to be connected to a first endoscope lumen;

a second purge channel configured to connect to a second endoscope lumen;

a first reservoir disposed between and connected to the pressure regulator and the first purge channel; and

a second reservoir disposed between and connected to the pressure regulator and the second purge passage.

57. The processing system of clause 56, further comprising: a first valve disposed between the first reservoir and the first purge channel; and a second valve disposed between the second reservoir and the second purge passage.

58. The treatment system of clause 57, wherein the first valve and the second valve each comprise a solenoid valve.

59. The processing system of clause 58, further comprising a first pressure sensor connected to the first reservoir and a second pressure sensor connected to the second reservoir.

60. The treatment system of clause 59, further comprising a third valve disposed between and connected to the pressure regulator and the first reservoir.

61. The treatment system of clause 60, wherein the pressure regulator comprises a first pressure regulator, and wherein the third valve is further connected to a second pressure regulator.

62. The treatment system of clause 61, wherein the first pressure regulator is configured to output a pressure of about 30 psi.

63. The treatment system of clause 63, wherein the third valve is configured to place either the first pressure regulator or the second pressure regulator in fluid communication with the first reservoir.

64. The processing system of clause 64, wherein the third valve is further connected to the second reservoir.

65. A method of purging a cleaning liquid from a first lumen and a second lumen of an endoscope using a treatment system, the first lumen connected to a first line of the treatment system and the second lumen connected to a second line of the treatment system, the method comprising:

pressurizing a first reservoir on the first line with a gas;

pressurizing a second reservoir on the second line with the gas;

flowing the gas from the first reservoir through the first lumen to purge the first lumen of the endoscope; and

flowing the gas from the second reservoir through the second lumen to purge the second lumen of the endoscope.

66. The method of clause 65, wherein the steps of pressurizing the first reservoir and the second reservoir occur simultaneously.

67. The method of clause 65, wherein the step of pressurizing the first reservoir comprises pressurizing the first reservoir to a pressure between about 25 psi and 35 psi.

68. The method of clause 67, wherein pressurizing the first reservoir comprises pressurizing the first reservoir to a pressure of about 30 psi.

69. The method of clause 67, wherein the steps of pressurizing the first and second reservoirs each comprise activating a pressure regulator.

70. The method of clause 67, further comprising checking the first line and the second line for plugging.

71. The method of clause 67, further comprising repeating the steps of: pressurizing the first reservoir, pressurizing the second reservoir, flowing the gas from the first reservoir through the first lumen, and flowing the gas from the second reservoir through the second lumen.