Optical connection module for endoscope, endoscope and endoscope system

Abstract

An optical connection module for an endoscope, an endoscope, and an endoscope system. The optical connection module (30) for an endoscope comprises: an optical fiber (70) which guides a portion of the outgoing light incident from a fiber end face (70SA) and emitted from a light source (20); a ferrule (31) which has a ferrule end face (31SA) having an opening of a through hole (H31) for inserting the optical fiber (70), the ferrule (31) including a scatterer which scatters a portion of the outgoing light incident on the ferrule end face (31SA) internally, and emits scattered light generated by the scattering from a side face (31SS); and an optical sensor (40) which is arranged around a side face (31SS) of the ferrule (31) and receives the scattered light.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical connection module for an endoscope having a light sensor, an endoscope including the optical connection module for an endoscope having the light sensor, and an endoscope system including the optical connection module for an endoscope. Background Art

[0002] The light source device for an endoscope needs to properly manage the amount of illumination light. In an endoscope system including a light source device using a xenon lamp as a light source, the illumination light generated by the light source device is guided to the front end portion via a bundle of multiple optical fibers (optical fiber bundle) inserted through a universal cable and an insertion portion. Moreover, for example, the optical aperture of the light source device is adjusted according to the brightness of the endoscopic image, thereby controlling the amount of light. That is, the amount of light from the xenon lamp is in a roughly stable state and does not change significantly due to usage conditions.

[0003] In contrast, a light source device for an endoscope using a light emitting element such as a semiconductor laser diode (LD) as a light source has been studied. LDs and the like generate heat when driven, and the amount of light changes due to their own temperature. Therefore, the amount of light is detected in real time, and the drive signal supplied to the light source is controlled based on the detection result. In order to detect the amount of light from the light source, a light receiving element such as a photodiode is used.

[0004] Compared with the signal light used in data communication, the illumination light of the endoscope is a large light quantity. Therefore, when the configuration position of the light receiving element is different, the absolute value of the light quantity received by the light receiving element changes greatly. However, the light quantity range (dynamic range) in which the light receiving element can detect the light quantity with high precision is not wide. Therefore, it is not easy to detect the light quantity of the illumination light output by the light emitting element with high precision using the light receiving element.

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-294329 discloses an optical power monitor device that detects the amount of signal light guided by an optical fiber by a photodiode disposed on the side of a glass ferrule into which the optical fiber is inserted. The signal light incident from the end face of the ferrule is reflected on the inner peripheral surface of the ferrule and guided to the position where the photodiode is disposed.

[0006] That is, a portion of the signal light is focused on the ferrule end face around the incident surface of the optical fiber by a lens that converges in a manner equal to or greater than the numerical aperture of the optical fiber. In addition, in order to reflect the signal light on the inner circumference of the ferrule, the outer circumference of the ferrule is covered with a reflective member.

[0007] Prior art literature

[0008] Patent Literature

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-294329 Summary of the invention

[0010] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0011] An object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an optical connection module for an endoscope that detects light intensity with high accuracy, an endoscope including the optical connection module for an endoscope that detects light intensity with high accuracy, and an endoscope system including the optical connection module for an endoscope that detects light intensity with high accuracy.

[0012] Means for solving problems

[0013] An optical connection module for an endoscope in an embodiment comprises: an optical fiber, which has a fiber end face and guides a portion of outgoing light emitted from a light source and incident on the fiber end face; a ferrule, which has a ferrule end face, the ferrule end face has an opening of a through hole for inserting the optical fiber, the ferrule includes a scatterer that scatters a portion of the outgoing light incident on the ferrule end face internally, and emits the scattered light generated by the scattering from the side; and a light sensor, which is arranged around the side of the ferrule and receives the scattered light.

[0014] An endoscope of an embodiment includes an optical connection module for an endoscope, the optical connection module for an endoscope having: an optical fiber, which has a fiber end face and guides a portion of outgoing light emitted from a light source and incident on the fiber end face; a ferrule, which has a ferrule end face, the ferrule end face has an opening of a through hole for inserting the optical fiber, the ferrule includes a scatterer that scatters a portion of the outgoing light incident on the ferrule end face internally, and emits the scattered light generated by the scattering from the side; and a light sensor, which is arranged around the side of the ferrule and receives the scattered light.

[0015] An endoscope system of an embodiment has a light source device including an optical connection module for an endoscope, and an endoscope that emits illumination light guided by the light source device, the optical connection module for the endoscope having: an optical fiber, which has a fiber end face and guides a portion of outgoing light emitted from a light source and incident on the fiber end face; a ferrule, which has a ferrule end face, the ferrule end face has an opening of a through hole for inserting the optical fiber, the ferrule including a scatterer that scatters a portion of the outgoing light incident on the ferrule end face internally, and emits the scattered light generated by the scattering from a side; and a light sensor, which is arranged around the side of the ferrule and receives the scattered light.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide an optical connection module for an endoscope that detects light intensity with high accuracy, an endoscope including the optical connection module for an endoscope that detects light intensity with high accuracy, and an endoscope system including the optical connection module for an endoscope that detects light intensity with high accuracy. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of an endoscope system including the endoscope according to the embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 It is a configuration diagram of a light source device including an endoscope optical connection module according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3 It is a perspective view of a light source device including the endoscope optical connection module according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional view of a light source device including the endoscope optical connection module according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the optical path in the light source device including the endoscope optical connection module according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a light source device including the endoscope optical connection module according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 It is a cross-sectional view of a light source device including an endoscope optical connection module according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of a ferrule of a light source device including an endoscope optical connection module according to a second modification of the first embodiment.

[0025] Fig. 9 It is a cross-sectional view of a light source device including an endoscope optical connection module according to a second modification of the first embodiment.

[0026] Fig.10 It is a cross-sectional view of a light source device including an endoscope optical connection module according to a third modification of the first embodiment.

[0027] Fig.11 It is a configuration diagram of a light source system for an endoscope according to a second embodiment.

[0028] Fig.12 It is a configuration diagram of a light source system for an endoscope according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] <First Embodiment>

[0030] <Structure of endoscope>

[0031] like Figure 1As shown, an endoscope system 6 including an endoscope 9 of an embodiment includes an endoscope 9, a processor 5A, and a monitor 5B. The endoscope 9 includes an insertion portion 3 and a gripping portion 4. The endoscope 9 is a so-called cordless endoscope. In a cordless endoscope, an image signal obtained by capturing an in-vivo image of a subject is wirelessly transmitted from a transmitting portion 2A to a receiving portion 2B of the processor 5A. The endoscope 9 is built with a pigtail-type endoscope light source device 1 (hereinafter referred to as the "light source device 1") including an endoscope optical connection module (hereinafter referred to as the "optical connection module") 30, which will be described in detail later.

[0032] Compared with an endoscope connected to a processor and a light source device via a universal cable, a cordless endoscope has excellent operability.

[0033] The insertion portion 3 includes a front end portion 3A, a bendable bending portion 3B provided continuously with the base end portion of the front end portion 3A, and an elongated soft portion 3C provided continuously with the base end portion of the bending portion 3B. The bending portion 3B is bent by operating the angle knob 4A of the grip portion 4. The grip portion 4 has a channel opening 4B for a treatment instrument channel through which the insertion portion 3 is inserted.

[0034] Although not shown in the drawings, an illumination optical system for emitting illumination light is disposed at the distal end portion 3A of the endoscope 9 .

[0035] In the light source device 1, the main parts such as the optical connection module 30 are arranged in the holding part 4, and the illumination light is guided to the emission part 80 of the front end part 3A through an optical fiber 70 inserted through the insertion part 3, and is emitted from the illumination optical system (refer to Figure 2 ) The insertion portion 3 of the light source device 1 that guides the illumination light using only one optical fiber 70 has a small diameter and is therefore less invasive.

[0036] In addition, the endoscope 9 is a flexible endoscope for medical use, but the endoscope of other embodiments may be a rigid endoscope or an industrial endoscope. Furthermore, the endoscope of other embodiments may be connected to a processor via a universal cable.

[0037] <Structure of light source device for endoscope>

[0038] like Figure 2 to Figure 5 As shown, the light source device 1 includes an optical connection module 30 as a main component, and the optical connection module 30 is an optical connection module of an embodiment including a ferrule 31 , a light sensor 40 , and an optical fiber 70 .

[0039] In addition, in the following description, the drawings based on the various embodiments are schematic, and it should be noted that the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the ratio of the thickness of each part, and the relative angle are different from the actual situation, and sometimes the drawings also include parts with different size relationships and ratios. In addition, the illustration and the assignment of labels of some structural elements are sometimes omitted. For example, the wires of the optical sensor 40 are not shown.

[0040] The optical connection module 30 guides a part of the outgoing light (illumination light) emitted from the light source 20 to the outgoing portion 80 via the optical fiber 70 as a light guiding member.

[0041] For example, the emission section 80 is provided with a fluorescent body that generates yellow light after receiving blue light emitted from the light emitting section 20A of the light source 20. Therefore, white light including blue light and yellow light is emitted as illumination light from the emission section 80. The light source device 1 may also include a light source 20 that emits white light.

[0042] The light source device 1 further includes a controller 60 that controls the light source 20 according to the output value of the optical sensor 40 to adjust the light intensity of the emitted light. That is, the drive signal output by the driver 50 to the light source 20 is adjusted by the control of the controller 60 .

[0043] In addition, the controller 60 and the light source driver 50 may be separated from the optical connection module 30. For example, the controller 60 may be provided in the processor 5A of the endoscope 9. Furthermore, the CPU of the processor 5A of the endoscope 9 may have the function of the controller 60.

[0044] The light source 20 is a CAN type in which a small semiconductor light emitting element such as a semiconductor laser diode (LD) or a light emitting diode (LED) is housed in a package.

[0045] Part of the outgoing light (illumination light) emitted from the light source 20 is incident on the fiber end face 70SA of the optical fiber 70 through the optical connection module 30 and is guided. That is, the optical fiber 70 has the fiber end face 70SA and guides part of the outgoing light emitted from the light source 20 incident on the fiber end face 70SA.

[0046] In the cylindrical ferrule 31, the opening of the through hole H31 for inserting the optical fiber 70 is located at the ferrule end surface 31SA. The inner diameter of the through hole H31 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the optical fiber 70, and an adhesive (not shown) is provided between the outer peripheral surface of the optical fiber 70 and the inner surface of the through hole H31.

[0047] The optical connection module 30 also includes a lens 33 and a holder 34. The lens 33 converges the outgoing light emitted by the light source 20 on the fiber end face 70SA. The holder 34 is a holding component to which the light source 20, the lens 33, and the ferrule 31 are fixed. The holder 34, which is made by processing a metal such as stainless steel or brass, has an inner surface 34SS, which constitutes a space containing the optical path of the outgoing light converged by the lens 33.

[0048] Moreover, the numerical aperture (NA) of the lens 33 is less than the numerical aperture (NA) of the optical fiber 70. That is, when the outgoing light focused by the lens 33 is incident on the fiber end face 70SA (strictly speaking, the core end face of the optical fiber 70 composed of a core and a cladding), it is efficiently guided in the core and will not be emitted to the outside through the cladding.

[0049] Generally speaking, in a light source device that transmits an optical signal, the optical signal deteriorates due to multiple reflections, and therefore, the fiber end face is inclined relative to a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical fiber. However, in the light source device 1 that transmits illumination light, the fiber end face 70SA is polished perpendicularly to the optical axis O of the optical fiber 70. Therefore, most of the outgoing light is incident on the optical fiber 70, and therefore, the transmission efficiency is high. Even if the outgoing light is incident perpendicularly on the fiber end face 70SA, a part of the outgoing light is also reflected on the fiber end face 70SA. In addition, the optical axis O of the optical fiber 70 is consistent with the main axis through which the strongest light in the light beam of the outgoing light converged on the lens 33 passes.

[0050] In the light source device 1, the outgoing light reflected on the fiber end surface 70SA is further reflected on the inner surface 34SS of the holder 34 and enters the ferrule end surface 31SA. The outgoing light may be reflected on the surface of the lens 33 or may be reflected multiple times.

[0051] The ferrule 31 includes a scatterer that scatters a portion of the outgoing light incident on the ferrule end face 31SA internally, and emits the scattered light generated by the scattering from the side surface 31SS that is the outer peripheral surface. The outgoing light incident on the ferrule end face 31SA is different from a portion of the outgoing light incident on the fiber end face 70SA (guided outgoing light), and is another portion of the outgoing light (scattered outgoing light).

[0052] The ferrule 31 scatters light internally, and therefore, there is no need for a reflective member covering the ferrule for reflecting light on the outer surface of the ferrule.

[0053] The ferrule 31 is fixed in a state of being inserted into the sleeve 32 as a holding member, and thus, as a result, is fixed to the holder 34. As described later, in order to fix the ferrule 31 (optical fiber 70) to the holder 34 after positioning it with high precision, the sleeve 32 has a first cylinder 32A and a second cylinder 32B. The ferrule 31 is inserted and fixed in the first cylinder 32A. The first cylinder 32A is inserted and fixed in the second cylinder 32B. Then, the second cylinder 32B is fixed to the holder 34.

[0054] The light receiving surface 40SA of the optical sensor 40 is arranged in a state parallel to the optical axis O of the optical fiber 70, around the sleeve opening H32 of the sleeve 32, that is, around the side surface 31SS of the ferrule 31. The sleeve opening H32 is preferably a groove having an elongated shape in the optical axis direction in which a plurality of optical sensors 40 can be arranged, so as to position the optical sensor 40 at a position with an appropriate amount of light. The sleeve opening H32 may also be a slit extending to the rear of the sleeve 32.

[0055] The optical sensor 40 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode (PD) receives scattered light emitted to the side surface 31SS of the ferrule 31 and outputs a detection signal having an output value corresponding to the amount of scattered light. The optical sensor 40 may output the detection signal output by the light receiving element after once processing the detection signal.

[0056] Regarding the ring 31, for example, it is preferred that the amount of scattered light emitted from the rear end face 31SB on the opposite side of the ring end face 31SA exceeds 0.1% and is less than 80% of the amount of blue output light (wavelength: 450nm) vertically incident on the ring end face 31SA, and is particularly preferably greater than 5% and less than 60%.

[0057] When the lower limit of the range is exceeded, a detection signal of an appropriate output value is output from the optical sensor 40. When the upper limit of the range is less than the upper limit, the light amount dependence of the scattered light on the arrangement position of the optical sensor 40 is small, and therefore, the output value of the detection signal from the optical sensor 40 does not change significantly depending on the arrangement position.

[0058] The light sensor 40 receives scattered light of an appropriate amount, so the light source device 1 including the optical connection module 30 can detect the light amount with high accuracy. Therefore, the light source device 1 can emit illumination light of an appropriate amount. The endoscope 9 having the light source device 1 including the optical connection module 30 can obtain an endoscopic image of appropriate brightness by the illumination light of an appropriate amount.

[0059] In addition, the light source device 1 is built into the endoscope 9. However, the light source device can also be separated from the endoscope and can be freely detached from the endoscope. For example, the light source device can also be inserted into the treatment instrument channel from the channel opening 4B and used. For example, it can also be a light source device that is inserted into the treatment instrument channel of an endoscope that performs white light illumination and irradiates narrow-band illumination light. Furthermore, the light source device can also be a light source device that irradiates, for example, a cauterization laser for treatment without irradiating illumination light.

[0060] <Method for manufacturing light source device>

[0061] Next, along Figure 6 A method for manufacturing the light source device 1 including the optical connecting module 30 is briefly described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0062] <Step S10> Light source and lens fixing process

[0063] The light source 20 and the lens 33 are positioned and fixed to the holder 34 with high precision. The light source 20 is a CAN type light emitting device (LD).

[0064] The light source 20 may also be a so-called bare chip type. In addition, the end of a waveguide that emits illumination light guided from a separate light source via the waveguide may be used as the light source 20. That is, the light source 20 is not limited to a self-luminous light-emitting element or the like. In addition, the optical connection module 30 may be fixed to the light source module including the light source 20, the lens 33, and the holder 34.

[0065] The lens 33 only needs to have a predetermined numerical aperture, and may be a single lens or a lens group including a plurality of lenses.

[0066] The inner surface 34SS of the retainer 34 made by processing metal such as stainless steel or brass preferably has a reflectivity of 30% or more, and particularly preferably 50% or more, of the wavelength of the emitted light. In order to improve the reflectivity, the inner surface 34SS may be polished to a mirror surface, or a white paint having a high reflectivity may be applied to the inner surface 34SS. The reflectivity is the ratio of the light that is not absorbed / transmitted by the inner surface 34SS but reflected in the emitted light vertically incident on the inner surface 34SS.

[0067] <Step S20> Ring fixing process

[0068] The ferrule 31 with the optical fiber 70 fixed thereto is inserted into the first cylinder 32A of the sleeve 32 and fixed thereto by an adhesive or the like (not shown). After the optical fiber 70 is inserted and fixed to the ferrule 31, the ferrule end face 31SA and the fiber end face 70SA are polished perpendicularly to the optical axis O of the optical fiber 70.

[0069] The amount of scattered light emitted from the rear end face 31SB of the ferrule 31 varies according to the length of the ferrule 31 in the optical axis direction. However, the length of the ferrule 31 is specified at 1 cm, for example, according to the specification. Therefore, in order to make the scattered light of the ferrule 31 fall within the above range, the selection of the material of the ferrule 31 is important.

[0070] The scatterer of the ferrule 31 is preferably formed of a material that transmits scattered light, a mixed material of multiple materials that transmit light and have different refractive indices, or a polycrystalline material that transmits light. The material of the ferrule 31 can be white resin or glass dispersed with fillers such as particles, but is preferably ceramic.

[0071] The optical fiber 70 can be made of glass or resin and can be multimode or single mode as long as it can guide the illumination light to the emission portion 80. In addition, when the optical fiber 70 is a multimode optical fiber, it can be either a step refractive index or a graded refractive index.

[0072] In addition, the order of step S10 and step S20 may be reversed.

[0073] The first cylindrical body 32A to which the ferrule 31 is fixed is inserted into the second cylindrical body 32B of the sleeve 32, and the first cylindrical body 32A is inserted into the second cylindrical body 32B.

[0074] In addition, the front portion (the end portion close to the light source 20 ) of the second cylindrical body 32B is an annular flat plate that abuts against the rear surface of the holder 34 .

[0075] <Step S30> Sleeve positioning process

[0076] In order to position the sleeve 32 (the first barrel 32A and the second barrel 32B) relative to the holder 34, a driving signal of a predetermined intensity is supplied to the light source 20, and the emitted light is converged near the fiber end face 70SA through the lens 33. Then, the amount of illumination light emitted from the emission portion 80 of the optical fiber 70 is monitored by, for example, a light meter, and the sleeve 32 is positioned.

[0077] For positioning, the holder 34 , the first cylindrical body 32A, and the second cylindrical body 32B are held by a jig capable of finely adjusting relative positions.

[0078] The positioning process of the sleeve 32 relative to the holder 34 is composed of a first positioning process (step S31) and a second positioning process (step S32). The first positioning process determines a first position in a plane direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and the second positioning process determines a second position in the optical axis direction.

[0079] In the first positioning step (S31), the second cylinder 32B is moved in two directions in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis O while the front surface of the second cylinder 32B is in contact with the rear surface of the holder 34, and the position where the amount of illumination light is maximum is determined. Then, multiple locations of the second cylinder 32B are welded to the holder 34 using, for example, a YAG laser.

[0080] In the second positioning step (S32), the position of the first cylinder 32A inserted into the second cylinder 32B is moved in the optical axis direction to determine the position where the amount of illumination light is maximum. Then, multiple locations of the first cylinder 32A are welded to the second cylinder 32B using, for example, a YAG laser.

[0081] <Step S40> Optical sensor positioning process

[0082] The optical sensor 40 is disposed in the sleeve opening H32 of the sleeve 32, and the intensity of the detection signal (photocurrent) output by the optical sensor 40 is monitored. In the optical sensor positioning step (S40), the position of the optical sensor 40 is moved in the sleeve opening H32 in the optical axis direction, and the position where the output signal of the optical sensor 40 is optimal is determined.

[0083] The position where the output signal of the optical sensor 40 is optimal refers to the position where scattered light of the dynamic range of the optical sensor 40 is incident, and preferably the position where scattered light of the center of the dynamic range is incident. The optical sensor 40 is fixed to the sleeve 32, for example, by an adhesive (not shown).

[0084] In addition, a plurality of sleeve openings may be provided in a direction parallel to the optical axis O of the sleeve 32, and the optical sensor 40 may be arranged at any optimal sleeve opening among the plurality of sleeve openings. In the case of a plurality of sleeve openings, the length of the sleeve opening in the optical axis direction may be substantially the same as the length of the optical sensor 40. In addition, one sleeve opening formed of a groove or a slit may be provided in the second cylinder 32B, and a plurality of sleeve openings may be provided in the first cylinder 32A.

[0085] Furthermore, when it is expected that the amount of light from the light source 20 changes significantly, a plurality of light sensors 40 may be arranged at one sleeve opening of the sleeve 32, or light sensors 40 may be arranged at each of the plurality of sleeve openings of the sleeve 32. In a light source device having a plurality of light sensors 40, the amount of light emitted from the light source 20 can be controlled based on the output value of the light sensor 40 arranged at the optimal position based on the change in the amount of light.

[0086] <Modification of the First Embodiment>

[0087] The light source devices 1A to 1C and endoscopes 9A to 9C of the optical connection module 30 including the modified example of the first embodiment have similar or identical effects to the light source device 1 and endoscope 9 including the optical connection module 30 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the structural elements with the same functions and the description is omitted.

[0088] <Modification 1 of the First Embodiment>

[0089] like Figure 7 As shown, in the light source device 1A including the optical connection module 30 of this modification, the fiber end face 70SA is inclined relative to the plane perpendicular to the optical axis O of the optical fiber 70. Therefore, the light source device 1A has a lower incident efficiency than the light source device 1, but more emitted light is reflected at the fiber end face 70SA.

[0090] In addition, an inclined surface 34SA facing the ring end surface 31SA is provided on the inner surface 34SS of the retainer 34. In a state where the outgoing light reflected by the fiber end surface 70SA is incident on the inclined surface 34SA and the second reflected light reflected by the inclined surface 34SA is incident on the ring end surface 31SA, the inclination angle of the fiber end surface 70SA and the inclination angle of the inclined surface 34SA are set.

[0091] Compared with light source device 1, light source device 1A receives more scattered light at optical sensor 40. Since optical sensor 40 receives an appropriate amount of scattered light, light source device 1A can detect the light amount with high accuracy. Therefore, light source device 1A can emit illumination light of an appropriate amount.

[0092] In the light source device 1A, two sleeve openings H32A and H32B are provided in a direction parallel to the optical axis O of the sleeve 32, and the light sensor 40 is arranged in the sleeve opening H32A having the best light amount of scattered light among the sleeve openings H32A and H32B. In addition, the sleeve 32 may have three or more sleeve openings.

[0093] <Modification 2 of the First Embodiment>

[0094] like Figure 8 As shown, the ferrule 31B of the light source device 1B including the optical connection module 30 of this modified example is substantially cylindrical, and has a flat notch area C31SS formed by the notch C31 (D cut) on the side (peripheral surface) 31SS. The optical sensor 40 is arranged in a state where the light receiving surface 40SA faces the notch area C31SS.

[0095] Compared with the side surface 31SS without the notch C31, more scattered light is emitted from the notch area C31SS. The optical sensor 40 receives scattered light of an appropriate amount, so the light source device 1B can detect the light amount with high accuracy. Therefore, the light source device 1B can emit illumination light of an appropriate amount.

[0096] Furthermore, when the optical sensor 40 is housed in a hemispherical transparent cover member, a notch having a semicircular cross section may be formed in accordance with the shape of the optical sensor 40 .

[0097] In addition, the plane area C31SS is not limited to the area formed by the D-cut notch C31. For example, a concave portion whose bottom surface is the plane area C31SS may be formed on a part of the side surface 31SS of the ferrule.

[0098] In addition, if Fig. 9 As shown, the notch C31 (notch region C31SS) is not formed to the ferrule end surface 31SA. Therefore, the area of ​​the side surface 31SS of the ferrule 31B closer to the light source 20 than the notch C31 (notch region C31SS) is completely covered by the sleeve 32 over the entire circumference.

[0099] Therefore, in the light source device 1B, the light emitted from the light source 20 does not directly escape to the outside through the sleeve opening H32 , and thus safety is high.

[0100] <Variation 3 of the First Embodiment>

[0101] like Fig.10 As shown, in the light source device 1C including the optical connection module 30 of this modified example, the plane area C31SS formed on the side surface 31SS of the ring 31C is inclined toward the ring end surface 31SA. That is, the light receiving surface 40SA of the optical sensor 40 is arranged in a state opposite to the traveling direction of the outgoing light guided inside the ring 31C.

[0102] Compared with the light source device 1B, more scattered light of the light source device 1C enters the optical sensor 40. Since the optical sensor 40 receives an appropriate amount of scattered light, the light source device 1C can detect the light amount with high accuracy. Therefore, the light source device 1C can emit illumination light of an appropriate amount.

[0103] In addition, in the light source devices 1, 1A to 1C, a portion of the outgoing light focused by the lens 33 may be directly incident on the ferrule end surface 31SA, or reflected on the ferrule end surface 31SA. That is, the numerical aperture (NA) of the lens 33 may exceed the numerical aperture (NA) of the optical fiber 70. However, in order to ensure the light amount of the illumination light, it is preferred that the numerical aperture (NA) of the lens 33 is less than the numerical aperture (NA) of the optical fiber 70.

[0104] In light source devices 1, 1B, and 1C, fiber end surface 70SA may be inclined relative to a plane perpendicular to optical axis O of optical fiber 70 as in light source device 1A. Fiber end surface 70SA is preferably inclined at an angle such that outgoing light reflected by fiber end surface 70SA does not enter lens 33.

[0105] If one light source device also has the structure of each of the light source devices 1A to 1C, then of course the effects of each of the light source devices 1A to 1C are also obtained. Also, endoscopes 9A to 9C having light source devices 1A to 1C have the effects of endoscope 9 and also the effects of light source devices 1A to 1C.

[0106] <Second Embodiment>

[0107] The endoscope light source system 8 (hereinafter referred to as “light source system 8”) of the second embodiment includes two light source devices 1X and 1Y. The light source devices 1X and 1Y have the same effects as the light source device 1, etc. Therefore, the same reference numerals are given to components with the same functions and their description is omitted.

[0108] That is, Fig.11 As shown, the light source system 8 includes a first light source device 1X, a second light source device 1Y, a combiner 90, and a third optical fiber 70Z.

[0109] The first light source device 1X comprises: a first optical fiber 70X, which has a first fiber end face 70XSA, and guides a portion of the first outgoing light emitted from the first light source 20X and incident on the first fiber end face 70XSA; a first ferrule 31X, which has a first ferrule end face 31XSA, and the first ferrule end face 31XSA has an opening of a first through hole H31X for inserting the first optical fiber 70X, and the first ferrule 31X includes a scatterer that scatters another portion of the first outgoing light incident on the first ferrule end face 31SAX internally, and emits the first scattered light generated by the scattering from the first side face 31XSS; and a first optical sensor 40X, which is arranged around the first side face 31XSS and receives the first scattered light.

[0110] The second light source device 1Y comprises: a second optical fiber 70Y, which has a second fiber end face 70YSA, and guides a part of the second outgoing light emitted from the second light source 20Y and incident on the second fiber end face 70YSA; a second ring 31Y, which has a second ring end face 31YSA, and the second ring end face 31YSA has an opening of a second through hole H31Y for inserting the second optical fiber 70Y, and the second ring 31Y includes a scatterer that disperses another part of the second outgoing light incident on the second ring end face 31YSA inside, and emits the second scattered light generated by the scattering from the second side face 31YSS; and a second optical sensor 40Y, which is arranged around the second side face 31YSS and receives the second scattered light.

[0111] The combiner 90 combines the first outgoing light guided by the first optical fiber 70X and the second outgoing light guided by the second optical fiber 70Y. The third optical fiber 70Z guides the third light emitted from the combiner 90. The third light is at least one of the first outgoing light and the second outgoing light.

[0112] The first wavelength of the first emitted light is shorter than the second wavelength of the second emitted light. Furthermore, the distance D1 between the first optical sensor 40X and the first fiber end face 70XSA is shorter than the distance D2 between the second optical sensor 40Y and the second fiber end face 70YSA.

[0113] For example, the first light source 20X emits purple first emission light having a wavelength of 405 nm, and the second light source 20Y emits blue second emission light having a wavelength of 450 nm.

[0114] The first light source device 1X and the second light source device 1Y differ only in light sources, and have the same structure as the rest. Since there are many common components, the light source system 8 can be easily manufactured and cost-reduced.

[0115] The first photosensor 40X and the second photosensor 40Y have wavelength-dependency in light reception sensitivity, similar to general PDs, and are lower in light reception sensitivity to purple light having a shorter wavelength than blue light than to blue light.

[0116] On the other hand, the amount of light emitted from the ferrule end faces 31XSA and 31YSA, scattered inside the ferrules 31X and 31Y, and guided to the rear end face 31SB decreases as it is guided. In conjunction with this, the scattered light emitted from the side face 31SS also decreases as it is guided.

[0117] The light source system 8 includes two light source devices having light sources of different wavelengths, but light sensors are arranged at positions that provide the best light quantity for each wavelength. That is, the first light sensor 40X is arranged at the first sleeve opening H32A, and the second light sensor 40Y is arranged at the second sleeve opening H32B.

[0118] The light source system 8 can detect the light amounts of the first wavelength light and the second wavelength light with high accuracy.

[0119] like Fig.12 As shown, the light source system 8 further includes a controller 60 that controls the first light source 20X and the second light source 20Y based on the output values ​​of the first light sensor 40X and the second light sensor 40Y, thereby adjusting the light amounts of the first outgoing light and the second outgoing light.

[0120] For example, when white light is emitted from the emission portion 80 as illumination light, the drive signal of the second light source 20Y is controlled, but the drive signal is not supplied to the first light source 20X.

[0121] Therefore, the third optical fiber 70Z guides only the blue light emitted from the second light source 20Y. The blue light generates yellow light through the fluorescent material disposed in the emission section 80. Therefore, white light including the blue light and the yellow light is emitted from the emission section 80 as illumination light.

[0122] On the other hand, when narrow-band purple light is emitted from the emission portion 80 as illumination light, the drive signal of the first light source 20X is controlled, but the drive signal is not supplied to the second light source 20Y.

[0123] The third optical fiber 70Z guides the purple light emitted from the first light source 20X. The purple light does not excite the fluorescent material disposed in the emission section 80. The purple light is emitted from the emission section 80 as illumination light.

[0124] The two optical sensors receive scattered light of different wavelengths with appropriate light amounts, so the light source system 8 can detect the light amount with high accuracy. Therefore, the light source system 8 can emit illumination light with an appropriate light amount. The endoscope 9D having the light source system 8 can obtain an endoscopic image with appropriate brightness by using illumination light with an appropriate light amount. That is, the endoscope 9D can obtain an endoscopic image with appropriate brightness regardless of whether it is white light or purple light.

[0125] In addition, the light emitted by the light source devices 1X and 1Y of the light source system 8 is not limited to blue light or violet light. In addition, the light source system 8 may include three or more light source devices.

[0126] If the light source devices 1X and 1Y have the structure of the light source devices 1A to 1C, the light source system 8 and the endoscope 9D having the light source system 8 will naturally have the effects of the light source devices 1A to 1C.

[0127] In the above description, the light source device that emits illumination light with a large light amount, which is particularly effective in the present invention, is described, but the same effect can be obtained with a light source device that outputs an optical signal with a relatively small light amount.

[0128] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various changes, combinations, and applications are possible without departing from the gist of the invention.

[0129] Description of symbols

[0130] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1X, 1Y: light source device for endoscope; 2A: transmitting part; 2B: receiving part; 3: inserting part; 3A: front end; 3B: bending part; 3C: soft part; 4: holding part; 4A: angle knob; 4B: channel opening; 5A: processor; 5B: monitor; 6: endoscope system; 8: light source system for endoscope; 9, 9A to 9D: endoscope; 20: light source; 20X: first light source; 20Y: second light source; 30: optical connection module; 31: ferrule; 31SA: ferrule end face; 31SB: rear end face; 31S S: side; 31X: 1st ferrule; 31Y: 2nd ferrule; 32: sleeve; 32A: 1st cylinder; 32B: 2nd cylinder; 33: lens; 34: retaining frame; 34SA: inclined surface; 34SS: inner surface; 40: optical sensor; 40X: 1st optical sensor; 40Y: 2nd optical sensor; 50: light source driver; 50X: 1st light source driver; 50Y: 2nd light source driver; 60: controller; 70: optical fiber; 70X: 1st optical fiber; 70Y: 2nd optical fiber; 70Z: 3rd optical fiber; 80: output part; 90: combiner.

Claims

1. An optical connection module for an endoscope, characterized in that: The endoscope optical connection module comprises: an optical fiber having a fiber end face and guiding a first portion of the outgoing light emitted from the light source and incident on the fiber end face; a ferrule having a ferrule end face, the ferrule end face having an opening of a through hole for inserting the optical fiber, the ferrule including a scatterer for internally scattering a second portion of the outgoing light incident on the ferrule end face, and emitting scattered light generated by scattering from a side surface which is an outer peripheral surface of the ferrule; a light sensor disposed around the side surface of the ferrule and receiving the scattered light; as well as A controller is configured to adjust the light amount of the outgoing light according to the output value of the light sensor.

2. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The scatterer of the ferrule is formed of a polycrystalline material or a mixed material of a plurality of materials having different refractive indices.

3. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: Regarding the ferrule, the amount of the scattered light emitted from the rear end face on the opposite side to the ferrule end face exceeds 0.1% and is less than 80% of the amount of the emitted light perpendicularly incident on the ferrule end face.

4. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The endoscope optical connection module also has: a lens that converges the emitted light onto the fiber end face; and a holder having an inner surface, the inner surface constituting a space including an optical path of the outgoing light converged by the lens, the holder fixing the lens and the ferrule, The outgoing light reflected by the inner surface of the holder is incident on the ferrule end surface.

5. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 4, characterized in that: The numerical aperture of the lens is less than the numerical aperture of the optical fiber, The outgoing light reflected at the fiber end face is further reflected at the inner surface and is incident on the ferrule end face.

6. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fiber end face is perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical fiber.

7. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fiber end face is inclined relative to the optical axis of the optical fiber.

8. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 4, characterized in that: The inner surface of the holder has an inclined surface inclined toward the ferrule end surface, and the outgoing light reflected by the fiber end surface and the inclined surface is incident on the ferrule end surface.

9. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The side surface of the ferrule has a notched area, The optical sensor is disposed in the notch area.

10. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 9, characterized in that: The notch region is a plane, The plane is inclined toward the ferrule end surface.

11. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The endoscope optical connection module further comprises a sleeve, and the sleeve holds the ferrule by covering the side surface of the ferrule. The sleeve has at least one sleeve opening in which the light sensor can be arranged.

12. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 11, characterized in that: The sleeve opening can be provided with a plurality of optical sensors in a direction parallel to the optical axis of the optical fiber. The optical sensor is arranged at the sleeve opening.

13. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 11, characterized in that: The sleeve has a plurality of sleeve openings in a direction parallel to the optical axis of the optical fiber, and the optical sensor is provided in at least any one of the plurality of sleeve openings.

14. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 11, characterized in that: The side surface of the ferrule has a notch area, and the optical sensor is arranged in the notch area. The notch area is not formed to the end face of the ferrule, An area of ​​the side surface of the ferrule that is closer to the light source than the notch area is covered by the sleeve.

15. The optical connection module for endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that: The emitted light is illumination light.

16. An endoscope, characterized in that: The endoscope includes an endoscope optical connection module, and the endoscope optical connection module has: an optical fiber having a fiber end face and guiding a first portion of the outgoing light emitted from the light source and incident on the fiber end face; a ferrule having a ferrule end face, the ferrule end face having an opening of a through hole for inserting the optical fiber, the ferrule including a scatterer for internally scattering a second portion of the outgoing light incident on the ferrule end face, and emitting scattered light generated by scattering from a side surface which is an outer peripheral surface of the ferrule; a light sensor disposed around the side surface of the ferrule and receiving the scattered light; as well as A controller is configured to adjust the light amount of the outgoing light according to the output value of the light sensor.

17. An endoscope system, characterized in that: The endoscope system includes a light source device including an endoscope optical connection module, and an endoscope for emitting illumination light guided by the light source device. The endoscope optical connection module comprises: an optical fiber having a fiber end face and guiding a first portion of the outgoing light emitted from the light source and incident on the fiber end face; a ferrule having a ferrule end face, the ferrule end face having an opening of a through hole for inserting the optical fiber, the ferrule including a scatterer for internally scattering a second portion of the outgoing light incident on the ferrule end face, and emitting scattered light generated by scattering from a side surface which is an outer peripheral surface of the ferrule; a light sensor disposed around the side surface of the ferrule and receiving the scattered light; as well as A controller is configured to adjust the light amount of the outgoing light according to the output value of the light sensor.

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