Endoscope

Abstract

The present invention provides an endoscope capable of preventing lodging defects caused by foreign objects such as gallstones. The endoscope includes: an operation unit provided with operation members; an insertion unit provided on the front end side of the operation unit and inserted into a subject's body; a front end portion main body located at the front end of the insertion unit and formed with a riser accommodation space; a riser disposed in the riser accommodation space and rotatable between a lodging position and an upright position about a rotation axis, and having a treatment instrument guiding surface; and a top cover mounted on the front end portion main body, covering the riser accommodation space, and having a wall portion defining an opening window that is open on the side facing the treatment instrument guiding surface. The internal space formed by the opposite surface of the treatment instrument guiding surface of the riser and the wall portion of the top cover with the riser in the lodging position is sized to accommodate a virtual sphere with respect to the virtual sphere that can pass through the window gap formed by the riser and the wall portion of the top cover with the riser in the upright position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an endoscope, and more particularly to an endoscope having an upright stand provided on the distal end side of an insertion portion for changing the direction in which a treatment instrument is led out. Background Art

[0002] In an endoscope, various treatment instruments are introduced from a treatment instrument introduction port provided in an operating portion, and the treatment instruments are led out to the outside from a treatment instrument lead-out port opened at the front end portion of the insertion portion for treatment. For example, treatment instruments such as guide wires or angiographic hoses are used in duodenoscopes. Treatment instruments such as puncture needles are used in ultrasonic endoscopes. Treatment instruments such as forceps or snares are used in other direct-viewing and side-viewing mirrors. In order to treat a desired position in the subject, such treatment instruments need to have their lead-out direction changed in the front end component. Therefore, a standing platform for changing the lead-out direction of the treatment instrument is provided at the front end portion. In addition, a treatment instrument standing mechanism for displacing the posture of the standing platform between an upright position and a lying position is provided in the endoscope.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses the structure of an endoscope equipped with an erection stand. The endoscope disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a structure such that, when the erection stand is being erected, the distance from the rear surface of the erection stand to the surface of the erection stand storage space opposite the rear surface is at its maximum at the opening end of the top cover of the erection stand storage space in the area where the erection stand is not exposed.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-029312

[0005] However, in the endoscope of Patent Document 1, when removing bile duct stones with the stand upright, foreign matter such as gallstones may sometimes enter the internal space of the stand and the top cover. Foreign matter that enters the internal space can fill the space used to lower the stand, causing the stand to not lower properly. Furthermore, this failure to lower properly can necessitate interrupting the procedure. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope capable of suppressing the occurrence of a failure of the standing stand to fall down.

[0007] The endoscope according to the first aspect of the present invention includes: an operation unit provided with operation members; an insertion unit provided at the front end side of the operation unit and inserted into the subject's body; a front end unit main body located at the front end of the insertion unit and having a raised table accommodation space; a raised table disposed in the raised table accommodation space, rotatable between a collapsed position and an erected position about a rotation axis, and having a treatment instrument guide surface; and a top cover attached to the front end unit main body, covering the raised table accommodation space, and having a wall portion defining an opening window that is open on the side facing the treatment instrument guide surface. When a virtual sphere that can pass through the window gap formed by the raised table and the wall portion of the top cover with the raised table in the erected position is set as the maximum virtual sphere, the internal space formed by the opposite surface of the treatment instrument guide surface of the raised table and the wall portion of the top cover with the raised table in the collapsed position is sized to accommodate the maximum virtual sphere. The first aspect can prevent the collapse failure caused by foreign objects such as gallstones.

[0008] In the second aspect of the present invention, the raised table has a thin waist portion on the opposite surface that is curved toward the treatment instrument guide surface side. In the second aspect, an internal space can be formed by the thin waist portion of the raised table and the wall portion of the top cover.

[0009] In the third aspect of the present invention, a recess is formed in the wall portion of the top cover at a position facing the opening window. In the third aspect, an internal space can be formed by the raised table and the recess in the wall portion of the top cover.

[0010] In the fourth aspect of the present invention, at least one protrusion that protrudes in a direction away from the treatment instrument guide surface and extends along the opposite surface is provided on the opposite surface of the raised table. In the fourth aspect, the size of the window gap is reduced by the protrusion.

[0011] In the fifth aspect of the present invention, at least one protrusion is composed of a plurality of protrusions with an interval along the opposite surface. The protrusions in the fifth aspect are composed of two or more.

[0012] In the sixth aspect of the present invention, the wall portion of the top cover has an inclined surface that approaches the opening window toward the front end of the top cover at a position on the side facing the opening window. The sixth aspect can guide foreign objects such as gallstones to the internal space.

[0013] The endoscope according to the seventh aspect of the present invention includes: an operation unit provided with operation members; an insertion unit provided on the front end side of the operation unit and inserted into the subject's body; a front end unit main body located at the front end of the insertion unit and formed with a raised table accommodation space; a raised table disposed in the raised table accommodation space and rotatable between a collapsed position and an erected position about a rotation axis, and having a treatment instrument guiding surface; a top cover attached to the front end unit main body and covering the raised table accommodation space, and having a wall portion defining an opening window that is open on the side facing the treatment instrument guiding surface; and a cover disposed at a position blocking a part of the opening window between the position on the opposite side of the treatment instrument guiding surface of the raised table and the front end of the top cover. Similar to the first aspect, the seventh aspect can prevent the collapse failure caused by foreign objects such as gallstones.

[0014] In the eighth aspect of the present invention, the cover is formed of a corrugated structure or a film structure. The eighth aspect can impart stretchability to the cover.

[0015] In the ninth aspect of the present invention, the raised table and the rotation axis are attached to the top cover. The ninth aspect can make the top cover having the raised table and the rotation axis disposable.

[0016] Advantages of the Invention

[0017] According to the endoscope of the present invention, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of collapse failure of the raised table. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 It is a structural diagram of an endoscope system including the endoscope according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 It is an enlarged perspective view showing the front end portion.

[0020] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 An assembled perspective view of the structure of the front end portion shown.

[0021] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the front end unit main body viewed from the X(+) side.

[0022] Figure 5 It is an assembled perspective view of the front end unit main body and the raised table.

[0023] Figure 6 It is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the raised table is in the erected position in the endoscope according to the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 7 It is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the raised table is in the collapsed position in the endoscope according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8It is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the erecting stage of the endoscope in the modification of the first embodiment is in the fallen position.

[0026] Figure 9 It is a view observing from the Z(+) direction the state where the erecting stage of the endoscope in one mode of the first embodiment is in the erected position.

[0027] Figure 10 It is a view observing from the Z(+) direction the state where the erecting stage of the endoscope in another mode of the first embodiment is in the fallen position.

[0028] Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 a cross-sectional view taken along XI-XI.

[0029] Figure 12 It is along Figure 10 a cross-sectional view taken along XII-XII.

[0030] Figure 13 It is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the erecting stage of the endoscope in the second embodiment is in the erected position.

[0031] Figure 14 It is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the erecting stage of the endoscope in the second embodiment is in the erected position.

[0032] Figure 15 It is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the erecting stage of the endoscope in the third embodiment is in the erected position.

[0033] Figure 16 It is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the erecting stage of the endoscope in the third embodiment is in the fallen position.

[0034] Figure 17 It is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the erecting stage of the endoscope in the fourth embodiment is in the erected position.

[0035] Figure 18 It is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the erecting stage of the endoscope in the fourth embodiment is in the erected position.

[0036] Figure 19 It is a view observing from the Z(+) direction the top cover applicable to the first to fourth embodiments.

[0037] Symbol Explanation

[0038] 10 - Endoscope, 12 - Endoscope system, 14 - Processor device, 16 - Light source device, 18 - Display, 20 - Erecting operating lever, 22 - Operating section, 24 - Insertion section, 26 - Flexible section, 28 - Bending section, 30 - Front end section, 32 - Front end section main body, 34 - Top cover, 34A - Opening window, 34B - Wall section, 34C - Inclined surface, 34D - Dimple, 34E - Eaves, 34F - Bearing, 34G - Rib, 36 - Erecting table, 36A - Disposal instrument guiding surface, 36B - Opposite surface, 36C - Side surface, 36D - Base end surface, 36E - Upper surface, 36F - Protrusion, 36F1 - Inclined surface, 36F2 - Front end, 36F3 - Arc surface, 36F4 - Inclined surface, 36G - Rotation axis, 38 - Disposal instrument channel, 40 - Erecting operation wire, 40 - Steel wire, 42 - Air and water supply hose, 44 - Window gap, 45 - Internal space, 46 - Operating section main body, 47 - Cover, 47A - Large diameter section, 47B - Small diameter section, 48 - Grasping section, 49 - Cover, 49A - Concave section, 49B - Convex section, 50 - Anti - kink tube, 52 - Universal cable, 54 - Light source connector, 56 - Electrical connector, 57 - Air and water supply button, 58 - Air and water supply nozzle, 59 - Suction button, 60 - Disposal instrument outlet, 62 - Angle knob, 64 - Disposal instrument inlet, 66 - Erecting table accommodation space, 68 - Partition wall, 68A - Upper surface, 70 - Partition wall, 72 - Optical system accommodation chamber, 74 - Lighting window, 76 - Observation window, 78 - Erecting lever accommodation chamber, 78A - Side surface, 80 - Erecting lever, 80A - Lever section, 82 - Through hole, 84 - Through hole, 86 - Rotation axis, 88 - Hole, A - Diameter, B - Height, Ax - Longitudinal axis, S - Maximum imaginary sphere, SP - Spacing. Detailed implementation mode

[0039] Hereinafter, a preferred implementation mode of the endoscope of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0040] (First implementation mode)

[0041] Figure 1 It is a structural diagram of an endoscope system 12 including an endoscope 10 according to the implementation mode of the present invention. The endoscope system 12 includes an endoscope 10, a processor device 14, a light source device 16, and a display 18.

[0042] The endoscope 10 includes an operating section 22 provided with an operating member, that is, an erecting operating lever 20, and an insertion section 24 provided on the front - end side of the operating section 22 and inserted into the subject's body.

[0043] The insertion portion 24 has a longitudinal axis Ax extending from the proximal end toward the distal end, and successively includes a flexible portion 26, a bending portion 28, and a distal end portion 30 from the proximal end toward the distal end. Regarding the detailed structure of the distal end portion 30, it will be described later, but first, the schematic structure of the distal end portion 30 will be explained.

[0044] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an enlarged distal end portion 30. Here, the endoscope 10 of the embodiment (refer to Figure 1 ) is, for example, a side-view endoscope used as a duodenoscope, Figure 2 and the distal end portion 30 has a structure in a side-view endoscope.

[0045] And, Figure 3 is an assembled perspective view showing the structure of the Figure 2 shown distal end portion 30. As shown in Figure 3 , the distal end portion 30 has a distal end portion main body 32 and a top cover 34, and is constituted by attaching the top cover 34 to the distal end portion main body 32. The distal end portion main body 32 is provided on the distal end side of the insertion portion 24 (refer to Figure 1 ), and a raised platform 36 having a treatment instrument guiding surface 36A to be described later is provided on the distal end portion main body 32. The state where the raised platform 36 is in the fallen position is shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 .

[0046] And, various contents disposed inside the insertion portion 24 of the endoscope 10 (refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 ) are shown in Figure 1 . Specifically, a treatment instrument channel 38 for guiding the distal end portion of a treatment instrument (not shown) to the distal end portion main body 32, a raising operation wire 40 (hereinafter referred to as wire 40) for operating to change the leading direction of the distal end portion of the treatment instrument led out from the distal end portion main body 32, and an air / water supply hose 42 are provided. And, although not shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , contents such as an angle wire for operating to change the bending direction of the bending portion 28 (refer to Figure 1 ), a signal cable for transmitting an image signal, and an optical guide for transmitting illumination light are provided.

[0047] In addition, in this specification, a three-dimensional rectangular coordinate system of three axial directions (X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction) is used for explanation. For example, in Figures 1 to 3In the diagram, the Z(+) direction indicates the upward direction, and the Z(-) direction indicates the downward direction. Furthermore, the X(+) direction indicates the right direction, and the X(-) direction indicates the left direction. Furthermore, the Y(+) direction indicates the distal end side direction of the distal end portion 30, and the Y(-) direction indicates the proximal end side direction of the distal end portion 30. Furthermore, the Y-axis direction, which includes the Y(+) and Y(-) directions, is parallel to the longitudinal axis Ax of the insertion portion 24.

[0048] return Figure 1 The operating portion 22 is generally cylindrical in shape. The operating portion 22 includes an operating portion body 46 on which the erection operating lever 20 is rotatably mounted, and a grip portion 48 connected to the operating portion body 46. The proximal end of the insertion portion 24 is mounted on the distal end of the grip portion 48 via a bend prevention tube 50. The grip portion 48 is gripped by a medical practitioner when operating the endoscope 10.

[0049] Furthermore, a universal cable 52 is provided in the operation unit main body 46. A light source connector 54 is provided at the distal end of the universal cable 52. An electrical connector 56 is branched from the light source connector 54. The electrical connector 56 is connected to the processor device 14, and the light source connector 54 is connected to the light source device 16.

[0050] Furthermore, an air and water supply button 57 and a suction button 59 are provided in parallel on the operating portion main body 46. When the air and water supply button 57 is operated, air and water are supplied to the suction portion 46. Figure 2 The air and water supply hose 42 is provided, so that gas and water can be ejected from the air and water supply nozzle 58 provided on the front end body 32. Figure 1 The air and water supply button 57 can supply air to the air and water supply hose 42 by a single-stage operation, and can supply water to the air and water supply hose 42 by a two-stage operation.

[0051] And, if the operation Figure 1 The attraction button 59 is provided at Figure 2 The suction port of the treatment instrument outlet 60 of the distal end body 32 can suck body fluids such as blood through the treatment instrument channel 38 .

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown, a pair of angle knobs 62, 62 for performing bending operation on the bending portion 28 are provided on the operation portion main body 46. The pair of angle knobs 62, 62 are coaxially rotatably provided.

[0053] The erection operation lever 20 is rotatably provided on the same axis as the angle knobs 62, 62. The erection operation lever 20 is rotated by the hand of the practitioner holding the grip portion 48. When the erection operation lever 20 is rotated, the erection operation lever 20 is rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the erection operation lever 20. Figure 2The wire 40 is pushed and pulled. Through this operation of the wire 40, the posture of the upright table 36 connected to the front end side of the wire 40 is Figure 2 changed between the fallen position and the upright position (not shown).

[0054] As Figure 1 shown, a treatment instrument inlet 64 for introducing a treatment instrument is provided in the gripping portion 48 of the operation unit 22. A treatment instrument (not shown) introduced from the treatment instrument inlet 64 with the front end as the leading end is inserted through Figure 2 the treatment instrument passage 38 and is led out to the outside through a treatment instrument outlet 60 provided in the front end portion main body 32.

[0055] As Figure 1 shown, the flexible portion 26 of the insertion portion 24 has a spiral tube (not shown) formed by spirally winding an elastic thin metal strip. The flexible portion 26 is formed by covering the outside of the spiral tube with a tubular net body woven with metal wires and covering the outer periphery of the net body with an outer skin made of resin.

[0056] The bending portion 28 of the insertion portion 24 has a structure in which a plurality of corner rings (not shown) are rotatably connected to each other. The bending portion 28 is formed by covering the outer periphery of the structure with a tubular net body woven with metal wires and covering the outer periphery of the net body with a rubber tubular outer skin. From the thus formed bending portion 28 to the angle knobs 62, 62, for example, 4 angle wires (not shown) are provided. By rotating the angle knobs 62, 62, these angle wires are pushed and pulled, whereby the bending portion 28 bends in all directions.

[0057] The endoscope 10 of the embodiment configured as described above is, for example, a side-view endoscope used as a duodenoscope, and the insertion portion 24 is inserted into the subject's body through the oral cavity. The insertion portion 24 is inserted from the esophagus through the stomach into the duodenum to perform prescribed examinations or treatments and other procedures.

[0058] In addition, as treatment instruments used in the endoscope 10 of the embodiment, biopsy forceps having a cup capable of extracting living tissue at the front end, an EST (Endoscopic Sphincterotomy) scalpel, a contrast hose, and other treatment instruments can be exemplified.

[0059] Next, Figure 2 and Figure 3 the structure of the front end portion 30 shown will be described in detail.

[0060] Although the description is repetitive, the distal end portion 30 includes a distal end portion main body 32 and a top cover 34 detachably attached to the distal end portion main body 32. The top cover 34 includes a wall portion 34B formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with the front end side sealed, and a substantially rectangular opening window 34A is defined by the wall portion 34B at a part of its outer peripheral surface. As Figure 2 shown, when the top cover 34 is attached to the distal end portion main body 32, the top cover 34 covers the upright table accommodation space 66, and the opening window 34A opens in the first direction Z(+) orthogonal to the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax of the top cover. Thus, the treatment instrument outlet 60 of the distal end portion main body 32 communicates with the opening window 34A via the upright table accommodation space 66.

[0061] The top cover 34 is made of an elastic material such as a rubber material like fluororubber or silicone rubber, and a resin material such as polysulfone or polycarbonate. A ridge engaging portion (not shown) that engages with a groove-shaped engaged portion (not shown) formed in the distal end portion main body 32 is provided on the proximal end side of the top cover 34. By engaging this engaging portion with the engaged portion, the top cover 34 is detachably attached to the distal end portion main body 32. When the treatment of the endoscope 10 is completed, the top cover 34 is detached from the distal end portion main body 32 for cleaning, disinfection, or sterilization, or discarded as disposable.

[0062] The distal end portion main body 32 is made of a corrosion-resistant metal material. As Figure 3 shown, the distal end portion main body 32 has a pair of partition walls 68, 70 protruding toward the Y(+) side, and these partition walls 68, 70 are arranged opposite to each other in the X-axis direction. And, an upright table accommodation space 66 for accommodating the upright table 36 is provided between the partition wall 68 and the partition wall 70. The upright table accommodation space 66 opens in the first direction Z(+) and the Z(-) direction orthogonal to the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax.

[0063] If the positional relationship between the partition wall 68 and the upright table accommodation space 66 is described, the partition wall 68 is arranged adjacent to the upright table accommodation space 66 in the X-axis direction. Moreover, a lighting window 74 and an observation window 76 are arranged adjacent to each other in the Y-axis direction on the upper surface 68A on the Z(+) side of the partition wall 68. Through the observation window 76, the visual field area in the Z(+) direction where the upright table accommodation space 66 opens can be observed.

[0064] If the positional relationship between the observation window 76 and the upright table accommodation space 66 is described, the observation window 76 is arranged adjacent to the upright table accommodation space 66 in the X-axis direction. The X-axis direction is the second direction orthogonal to the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax and orthogonal to the first direction Z(+). In addition, the above-described air and water supply nozzle 58 is provided on the distal end portion main body 32 facing the observation window 76, and thus, the observation window 76 is cleaned by the gas and water ejected from the air and water supply nozzle 58.

[0065] An optical system housing chamber 72 is provided inside the partition wall 68. An illumination unit (not shown) and an imaging unit (not shown) are housed inside the optical system housing chamber 72. The illumination unit includes an illumination lens (not shown) disposed on the optical system housing chamber 72 side of the illumination window 74 and a light guide (not shown) disposed with its front end facing the illumination lens. The light guide extends from the endoscope 10 (refer to FIG. 1 ). Figure 1 ) is provided on the universal cable 52 via the operating portion 22, and its base end is connected to the light source connector 54. Thus, when the light source connector 54 is connected to the light source device 16, the illumination light from the light source device 16 is transmitted to the illumination lens via the light guide and illuminates the field of view area extending from the illumination window 74 in the Z(+) direction.

[0066] The imaging unit includes an imaging optical system (not shown) and a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) or CCD (charge coupled device) type imaging element (not shown) disposed inside the observation window 76. The imaging element is connected to the distal end of a signal cable (not shown), which is connected from the endoscope 10 (refer to FIG. Figure 1 ) is provided on the universal cable 52 via the operation unit 22, and its base end is connected to the electrical connector 56. Thus, when the electrical connector 56 is connected to the processor device 14, the imaging signal of the subject image obtained by the imaging unit is transmitted to the processor device 14 via the signal cable. Then, after image processing by the processor device 14, the image is displayed on the display 18 as the subject image.

[0067] Next, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The structure of the rising stage 36 will be described. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the front end portion main body 32 viewed from the X(+) side. Figure 5 3D is an assembled perspective view of the front end main body 32 and the rising platform 36. Figures 6 to 19 7. In the following, the structure of the rising platform 36 will be described.

[0068] The stand 36 rotates along the axis 86 (refer to Figure 5 ) is rotatably arranged in the erection platform storage space 66, and ... Figure 1 ) is operated to rotate between the upright position and the lying position. When the upright platform 36 is rotated toward the upright position, the treatment tool (not shown) led out from the treatment tool outlet 60 to the upright platform storage space 66 abuts against the treatment tool guide surface 36A of the upright platform 36 and moves toward the top cover 34 ( Figure 2The instrument guide surface 36A is formed on the upper surface (Z(+)) side of the stand 36, forming an arcuate shape that curves upward from the base end toward the tip end. The shape of the instrument guide surface 36A allows the stand 36 to easily guide the instrument.

[0069] A rising rod storage chamber 78 is provided on the X(+) side of the front end body 32. The rising rod storage chamber 78 stores a rising rod 80. The rising rod storage chamber 78 is covered and sealed by a protective plate (not shown).

[0070] The upright rod storage chamber 78 is a concave fan-shaped chamber, and a through hole 82 for inserting the wire 40 is provided on the Y(-) side side 78A along the Y axis. The front end of the wire 40 is inserted through the through hole 82 and fixed to the rod portion 80A of the upright rod 80.

[0071] Furthermore, a through hole 84 is provided in the erection rod storage chamber 78 along the X-axis direction, which penetrates the erection rod storage chamber 78 and the erection platform storage space 66. The rotation shaft 86 of the erection rod 80 is arranged to penetrate the through hole 84 and is pivotally supported so as to be rotatable. The front end of the rotation shaft 86 is fitted into the hole 88 provided at the base end of the erection platform 36. Thus, the erection rod 80 and the erection platform 36 are connected via the rotation shaft 86. Furthermore, if the erection operation rod 20 (refer to Figure 1 ) pushes and pulls the wire 40, rotating the shaft 86 along with the raising rod 80, thereby changing the posture of the raising platform 36 between a lowered position and an upright position (not shown). Furthermore, an O-ring (not shown) is disposed between the rotating shaft 86 and the through-hole 84, thereby preventing the intrusion of gas or liquid between the raising platform storage space 66 and the raising rod storage chamber 78.

[0072] Next, various examples of the endoscope 10 according to an embodiment that can prevent failure of falling down due to foreign matter such as gallstones will be described. Figure 6 1 is a cross-sectional view of the main part showing a state in which the erection base is located at the erection position in the endoscope of the first embodiment. Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the main parts showing a state in which the standing base is located in the collapsed position in the endoscope according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 and Figure 7 3 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the distal end portion main body 32 , and is a side view of the distal end portion main body 32 as viewed from the X(+) side.

[0073] like Figure 6As shown, the upright table 36 has a treatment instrument guiding surface 36A, an opposite surface 36B located on the side opposite to the side where the treatment instrument guiding surface 36A is formed, two side surfaces 36C located on the X(+) side and the X(-) side and facing each other, a base end surface 36D provided at the base end of the hole 88, and an upper surface 36E located on the side opposite to the base end surface 36D.

[0074] As Figure 6 shown, the upright table 36 of the endoscope 10 of the first mode is provided with a protruding portion 36F protruding in a direction away from the treatment instrument guiding surface 36A on the opposite surface 36B.

[0075] The protruding portion 36F has a so-called nozzle shape in which the front end tapers as it moves away from the treatment instrument guiding surface 36A. The protruding portion 36F has a substantially linear inclined surface 36F1 extending from the upper surface 36E toward the front end 36F2 of the protruding portion 36F. The protruding portion 36F has an arc surface 36F3 that bends from the front end 36F2 toward the base end surface 36D and toward the treatment instrument guiding surface 36A side. As a whole, the protruding portion 36F has a shape extending from the upper surface 36E to the base end surface 36D.

[0076] The inclined surface 36F1 is inclined downward with respect to the Y axis in the state where the upright table 36 is upright, and is formed so as not to exceed the upper surface 36E of the upright table 36. Therefore, even when the upright table 36 is in an upright state, the inner wall surface will not be scratched, and the front end portion 30 can be smoothly inserted into the subject's body.

[0077] The arc surface 36F3 forms a narrow waist portion in the upright table 36. The narrow waist portion is a portion that is recessed toward the treatment instrument guiding surface 36A side with respect to an imaginary straight line connecting the front end 36F2 and the base end surface 36D.

[0078] As Figure 6 shown, in the state where the upright table 36 is in the upright position, at least a window gap 44 is formed by the upright table 36 and the wall portion 34B of the top cover 34. In the embodiment, the window gap 44 becomes an opening determined by the wall portion 34B of the top cover 34, the protruding portion 36F of the opposite surface 36B, and the partition wall 68.

[0079] In the first embodiment, in the state where the upright table 36 is in the upright position, the window gap 44 can be narrowed by the protruding portion 36F. Therefore, the diameter A of the maximum imaginary sphere S that can pass through the window gap 44 becomes smaller. Therefore, it is possible to prevent foreign objects such as large gallstones from entering the inside of the top cover 34 through the window gap 44, and thus the probability of foreign objects such as gallstones entering the inside of the top cover 34 can be reduced. The inside of the top cover 34 refers to the space that extends from the hole 88 of the upright table 36 toward the Y(+) side and moves to the opposite surface 36B of the upright table 36 within the top cover 34.

[0080] Figure 7Yes Figure 6 The main part cross-sectional view of the state where the stand 36 is in the fallen position is shown. Figure 7 As shown, the internal space 45 is formed by the opposite surface 36B of the rising base 36 and the wall portion 34B of the top cover 34. In the endoscope 10 of the first embodiment, the internal space 45 is formed by the arcuate surface 36F3 of the opposite surface 36B and the wall portion 34B.

[0081] like Figure 7 As shown, even if the largest imaginary sphere S passes through the window gap 44 and enters the interior of the top cover 34, the internal space 45 is formed to a size that can accommodate the largest imaginary sphere S. Here, the maximum height B from the wall portion 34B to the arcuate surface 36F3 is greater than the diameter A of the largest imaginary sphere S.

[0082] Even when the stand 36 is in the collapsed position, the stand 36 will not interfere with foreign matter such as gallstones, so the endoscope 10 of the first embodiment can suppress the occurrence of poor collapse of the stand 36 (not collapsed to the most collapsed position).

[0083] Figure 8 1 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the endoscope showing a state in which the upright stand is located in the collapsed position according to a modification of the first embodiment. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The same structure is marked with the same symbol, and its detailed description is omitted. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The following describes the different points in the implementation method.

[0084] like Figure 8 As shown, the wall portion 34B constituting the top cover 34 has an inclined surface 34C on the side opposite to the opening window, which is close to the opening window 34A and faces the front end of the top cover 34. The inclined surface 34C is inclined upward toward the front end of the top cover 34 relative to the Y-axis direction.

[0085] The inclined surface 34C can guide foreign matter such as gallstones that have passed through the window gap 44 to a position where the internal space 45 is formed. The inclined surface 34C of the top cover 34 can more reliably prevent the upright 36 from failing to fall down.

[0086] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing a state in which the erection platform is in the erection position in the endoscope of one mode of the first embodiment as viewed from the Z(+) direction. Figure 9 As shown, in the stand 36, a protrusion 36F is formed on the opposite surface 36B. Figure 9In this case, with the protrusion 36F as the center, window gaps 44 are formed on the X(+) side and the X(-) side. The window gaps 44 are respectively constituted by the protrusion 36F and the wall portion 34B, and the protrusion 36F, the wall portion 34B, and the partition wall 68. The protrusion 36F is narrower than the width of the upright table 36 (the distance between the two side surfaces 36C), and constitutes a rib shape.

[0087] In Figure 9 In the endoscope in the manner shown, in the state where the upright table 36 is in the upright position, the window gap 44 can be reduced by the protrusion 36F, so that the diameter A of the maximum imaginary sphere S (not shown) passing through the window gap 44 becomes smaller. This prevents foreign objects such as large gallstones from entering the inside of the top cover 34 through the window gap 44, thereby reducing the probability of foreign objects such as gallstones entering the inside of the top cover 34. The protrusion 36F constitutes a rib shape.

[0088] Figure 10 It is a view observing the state where the upright table is in the upright position in the endoscope of another mode of the first embodiment from the Z(+) direction. Figure 11 It is along Figure 10 the cross-sectional view of XI-XI, Figure 12 It is along Figure 10 the cross-sectional view of XII-XII. As Figure 10 shown, in the upright table 36, the two protrusions 36F are formed on the opposite surface 36B with an interval SP along the opposite surface 36B. In Figure 10 this case, a window gap 44 is formed between the two protrusions 36F. The window gap 44 is formed by the protrusion 36F and the wall portion 34B. The two protrusions 36F are narrower than the width of the upright table 36 (the distance between the two side surfaces 36C), and constitute a rib shape.

[0089] For example, when the upright table 36 is a resin molded product, if the opposite surface 36B of the upright table 36 is stretched, the thickness becomes uneven, and thus sink marks may be generated. Therefore, as Figure 9 and Figure 10 shown, by making the protrusion 36F of the upright table 36 into a rib shape, the wall thickness can be made uniform.

[0090] In Figure 10 this structure, by making the opposite surface 36B of the upright table 36 into a rib structure, using the space of the interval SP, and a rib 34G for strengthening the strength can also be provided on the side of the top cover 34. The rib 34G is effective for the top cover 34 that requires strength (refer to Figure 11 ).

[0091] The upright table 36 having two protrusions 36F is illustrated, but the upright table 36 can be provided with two or more protrusions 36F.

[0092] InFigure 10 In the endoscope of the embodiment shown, when the upright stand 36 is in the upright position, the window gap 44 can be narrowed by the protrusion 36F, thereby reducing the diameter A of the largest imaginary sphere S (not shown) that can pass through the window gap 44. This prevents larger foreign matter such as gallstones from passing through the window gap 44 and entering the interior of the top cover 34, thereby reducing the probability of foreign matter such as gallstones entering the interior of the top cover 34.

[0093] (Second embodiment)

[0094] The endoscope of the second embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Components identical to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. The description will focus on differences from the first embodiment. Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of a main part showing a state in which the standing base is located at the standing position in the endoscope according to the second embodiment. Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of a main part showing a state in which the standing base is located in the lying position in the endoscope according to the second embodiment.

[0095] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, unlike the first embodiment (the rising platform 36 having the arc surface 36F3), the rising platform 36 of the second embodiment has a substantially linear inclined surface 36F4 extending from the front end 36F2 toward the base end surface 36D. The rising platform 36 of the second embodiment does not have a narrow waist.

[0096] The top cover 34 has a recess 34D formed at a position facing the opening window 34A of the wall portion 34B. The recess 34D expands toward the Z(-) side.

[0097] like Figure 11 As shown, when the stand 36 is in the upright position, the stand 36 and the wall 34B of the top cover 34 form a window gap 44. In the embodiment, the window gap 44 is an opening defined by the wall 34B of the top cover 34, the protrusion 36F of the opposite surface 36B, and the partition wall 68.

[0098] Similar to the first embodiment, the protrusion 36F can narrow the window gap 44, thereby preventing larger foreign matter such as gallstones from entering the interior of the top cover 34 through the window gap 44, thereby reducing the probability of foreign matter such as gallstones entering the interior of the top cover 34.

[0099] like Figure 12 As shown, the opposite surface 36B of the stand 36 and the wall portion 34B of the top cover 34 form an internal space 45. In the endoscope 10 of the second embodiment, the internal space 45 is formed by the inclined surface 36F4 of the opposite surface 36R and the recess 34D of the wall portion 34B.

[0100] likeFigure 12 As shown, even if the largest imaginary sphere S passes through the window gap 44 and enters the interior of the top cover 34, the internal space 45 is formed to a size that can accommodate the largest imaginary sphere S, thereby preventing the riser 36 from failing to fall down. Here, the maximum height B from the wall portion 34B to the inclined surface 36F4 is greater than the diameter A of the imaginary sphere S.

[0101] As in the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, it is possible to apply Figure 8 The top cover 34 is shown with a beveled surface 34C.

[0102] Furthermore, similarly to the first embodiment, the second embodiment can be applied Figure 9 and Figure 10 The structure of the rib-shaped protrusion 36F is shown.

[0103] (Third embodiment)

[0104] The endoscope according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Components identical to those in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. The description will focus on differences from the other embodiments.

[0105] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of a main part showing a state in which the standing base is located at the standing position in the endoscope according to the third embodiment. Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of a main part showing a state in which the standing base is located at the lying position in the endoscope according to the third embodiment.

[0106] As in the second embodiment, Figure 13 and Figure 16 As shown, the rising platform 36 of the third embodiment does not have a narrow waist portion.

[0107] On the other hand, unlike the second embodiment, Figure 13 and Figure 16 As shown in FIG. 3 , the wall portion 34B of the roof 34 of the third embodiment includes an overhang 34E extending toward one side of the stand 36. Figure 13 As shown, the opposite surface 36B of the standing platform 36 is close to the overhang 34E of the roof 34 to the extent of almost contacting each other, so that only a small window gap 44 is formed. The window gap 44 is in a state of being almost blocked.

[0108] Therefore, smaller foreign matter such as gallstones is prevented from entering the interior of the top cover 34 through the window gap 44, thereby reducing the probability of foreign matter such as gallstones entering the interior of the top cover 34.

[0109] like Figure 16As shown, an internal space 45 is formed by the opposite surface 36B of the upright table 36 and the wall portion 34B of the top cover 34. In the endoscope 10 of the third embodiment, the internal space 45 is formed by the inclined surface 36F4 of the opposite surface 36B and the wall portion 34B.

[0110] As Figure 16 shown, if the imaginary sphere S (not shown) that has passed through the window gap 44 enters the interior of the top cover 34, the internal space 45 is formed to be sized to accommodate the imaginary sphere S, thereby suppressing the occurrence of the problem of the upright table 36 toppling over. However, as Figure 13 shown, the window gap 44 is very small, so foreign matter can hardly pass through the window gap 44 formed by the upright table 36 and the top cover 34.

[0111] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0112] The endoscope of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same structures as those in the first to third embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the detailed description thereof will be omitted, and the points different from those in the other embodiments will be described.

[0113] Figure 17 is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the upright table is in the upright position in the endoscope of the fourth embodiment. Figure 18 is a main part cross-sectional view showing the state where the upright table is in the upright position in the endoscope of the modified example of the fourth embodiment.

[0114] As Figure 17 shown, the upright table 36 of the fourth embodiment does not have the protruding portion 36F on the opposite surface 36B. On the other hand, in the endoscope of the fourth embodiment, between the opposite surface 36B of the treatment instrument guiding surface 36A of the upright table 36 and the position of the front end of the top cover 34, a cover 47 having a corrugated structure is disposed at a position blocking a part of the opening window 34A.

[0115] In the fourth embodiment, since the cover 47 is disposed, foreign matter such as gallstones can be prevented from entering the interior of the top cover 34. The cover 47 does not cover the treatment instrument guiding surface 36A and the base end side of the wall portion 34B of the top cover 34. Therefore, the movement path of the treatment instrument (not shown) does not interfere with the cover 47, and the treatment instrument can be smoothly operated.

[0116] The cover 47 is composed of a corrugated structure in which the large-diameter portion 47A and the small-diameter portion 47B are repeated, so the cover 47 has flexibility in expansion and contraction. The cover 47 expands and contracts following the rotational movement of the upright table 36 between the upright position and the toppled position. The cover 47 does not interfere with the operation of the upright table 36.

[0117] Refer to Figure 18 to describe the modified example of the fourth embodiment. AsFigure 18 As shown, in a modified example of the fourth embodiment, instead of the corrugated structure cover 47, the membrane structure cover 49 is arranged between the opposite surface 36B of the disposal instrument guide surface 36A of the upright platform 36 and the position of the front end of the top cover 34, at a position blocking a portion of the opening window 34A.

[0118] The provision of the cover 49 prevents foreign matter such as gallstones from entering the interior of the top cover 34. The cover 49 does not cover the treatment instrument guide surface 36A or one side of the base end of the wall portion 34B of the top cover 34. Therefore, the movement path of the treatment instrument (not shown) does not interfere with the cover 49, allowing smooth operation of the treatment instrument.

[0119] The cover 49 is made of a membrane structure (thin film structure) and has a corrugated recess 49A and a raised portion 49B. The recess 49A and raised portion 49B are formed along the X-axis. The corrugated shape of the cover 49 allows for flexible expansion and contraction. The cover 49 expands and contracts in response to the rotational movement of the upright stand 36 between its upright and inverted positions. The cover 49 does not interfere with the movement of the upright stand 36. While a corrugated shape is illustrated as an example of the cover 49, if the material of the cover 49 is stretchable, a corrugated shape is not necessary.

[0120] The cover 47 and the cover 49 can be made of materials such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), PFA (tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer), fluororubber, silicone rubber, and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer).

[0121] Next, refer to Figure 19 The structure of the top cover applicable to the first to fourth embodiments will be described.

[0122] like Figure 19 As shown, the top cover 34 includes a wall portion 34B defining an opening window 34A. A bearing 34F extending in the Y-axis direction is formed inside the top cover 34. The stand 36 has an integrally formed rotating shaft 36G on one side of its base end surface 36D (not shown). The rotating shaft 36G is supported by the bearing 34F of the top cover 34.

[0123] exist Figure 19 In the top cover 34, the stand 36 and the rotating shaft 36G are attached to the top cover 34. With this structure, it can be used as a top cover 34 with the stand 36. The stand 36 and the top cover 34 can be made disposable.

[0124] As described above, the present invention has been explained, but the present invention is not limited to the above examples. Of course, various improvements or modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention.

Claims

1. An endoscope, comprising: An operation section provided with operation members; An insertion section provided at the front end side of the operation section and inserted into a subject's body; A front end section main body located at the front end of the insertion section and formed with a raised table accommodation space; A raised table disposed in the raised table accommodation space, rotatable between a collapsed position and an erected position about a rotation axis, and having a treatment instrument guiding surface; and A top cover mounted on the front end section main body, covering the raised table accommodation space, and having a wall portion defining an opening window that is open on a side facing the treatment instrument guiding surface, When a virtual sphere that can pass through a window gap formed by the raised table and the wall portion of the top cover with the raised table in the erected position is defined as a maximum virtual sphere, an internal space formed by a surface opposite to the treatment instrument guiding surface of the raised table and the wall portion of the top cover with the raised table in the collapsed position is sized to accommodate the maximum virtual sphere.

2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein The raised table has a thin waist portion on the opposite surface that curves toward the treatment instrument guiding surface side.

3. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein A pit is formed at a position on the wall portion of the top cover opposite to the opening window.

4. The endoscope according to claim 2, wherein A pit is formed at a position on the wall portion of the top cover opposite to the opening window.

5. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The raised table has at least one protrusion projecting in a direction away from the treatment instrument guiding surface on the opposite surface of the raised table.

6. The endoscope according to claim 5, wherein The at least one protrusion is composed of a plurality of protrusions spaced apart along the opposite surface.

7. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The wall portion of the top cover has an inclined surface that approaches the opening window toward the front end of the top cover at a position on the side opposite to the opening window.

8. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The raised table and the rotation axis are mounted on the top cover.

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