Steris Inc.

Lawrence W Leasko

Jude A Kral

Bernard John Moss

Wynn V Webb

In automated reprocessing system (B), a leak detection system ( ) evaluates the integrity of a device, such as an endoscope (A), having an internal passage ( ). The leak detection system includes an interior chamber ( ) which is connected to the internal passage by quick connects ( ). A source of compressed air ( ) supplies the chamber and internal passage with air to a suitable test pressure. A pressure sensor ( ) and a temperature sensor ( ), in communication with the chamber, detect the pressure and temperature within the chamber and hence in the endoscope passage. Pressure and temperature measurements made over time are used to determine changes in the gas volume, indicative of whether leaks are present in the endoscope. If the endoscope is determined to be free of leaks, the endoscope is washed and microbially decontaminated in the reprocessing system.

Leak detector for endoscopes

A disposable sensor card (,) includes a polymeric substrate (,), such as polyester, printed with a plurality of electrodes (,), and a reuse-prevention system (,) which includes a fuse link (,) and a cut link (,). A controller (,) tests the fuse link and cut link to see if they have been destroyed. If the controller determines that the two links are good, a sensor card support system (,), which includes a ram (,), clamps the sensor card over an opening in a manifold (,) so that the electrodes are in contact with a decontaminant solution, such as peracetic acid solution, passing through the manifold. The controller detects an electrical property of the electrodes and determines a concentration of the decontaminant therefrom. During the clamping process, a cutter (,) severs the cut link. A memory of the cut link is retained by the controller. If power to the controller is interrupted, the memory is lost and the controller detects that the cut link is broken when power is regained. At the end of a decontamination process, the controller switches to a &ldquo;power off&rdquo; mode and detects that the cut link is severed. When the controller detects that the cut link is severed, the controller blows the fuse link and the sensor card support system unclamps the sensor card. The severed cut link provides a visual indication that the card is spent.

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Perry, OH, United States of America

Lawrence W Leasko