Endoscope and insertion portion thereof

Abstract

The present application discloses an endoscope and an insertion portion thereof. The insertion portion includes: an insertion tube; a tip assembly disposed at the front end of the insertion tube; a first camera module and a second camera module disposed on the tip assembly; and a light source for providing light to the first and second camera modules. The optical axis distance between the first and second camera modules is no less than 7 mm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of endoscopes, and in particular to an endoscope and an insertion portion thereof. Background Art

[0002] Endoscopes are widely used in the medical field as inspection instruments that integrate traditional optics, ergonomics, precision mechanics, modern electronics, mathematics, and software. They allow direct observation of the patient's internal organs and allow for diagnosis and treatment. Single-lens endoscopes can only capture images using one light source. For fluorescence, 3D, or other image effects, different endoscopes or cameras must be replaced, which is cumbersome and produces poor quality images. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One embodiment of the present application provides an insertion portion for an endoscope. The insertion portion comprises: an insertion tube; a tip assembly disposed at the front end of the insertion tube; a first camera module and a second camera module disposed on the tip assembly; and a light source for providing light to the first and second camera modules; wherein the optical axis distance between the first and second camera modules is no less than 7 mm.

[0004] In some embodiments, the tip assembly includes a first tip and a second tip, the second tip is mounted on the front end of the insertion tube through a first foldable structure; the first camera module is located at the first tip, and the second camera module is located at the second tip.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first foldable structure includes a support arm for supporting the second tip, a driving arm for driving the movement of the second tip, and a first traction structure for controlling the movement of the driving arm.

[0006] In some embodiments, when the second tip is in a folded state, a distance between an axis of the second tip and an axis of the first tip is less than 0.5 mm.

[0007] In some embodiments, when the second tip is in the open state, the second tip is located on one side of the first tip.

[0008] In some embodiments, when the second tip is in an open state, the second tip is located on one side of the first tip, and the distance between the lens center of the first camera module and the lens center of the second camera module is greater than 7 mm.

[0009] In some embodiments, the light-emitting body includes a first light-emitting body and a second light-emitting body, and the first light-emitting body and the second light-emitting body are respectively located at the front end of the first tip and the second tip, and are respectively used to provide light sources to the first camera module and the second camera module.

[0010] In some embodiments, the insertion portion further includes a bendable portion disposed between the insertion tube and the tip assembly, and the bendable portion is used to adjust the photographing direction of the first camera module and the second camera module.

[0011] In some embodiments, the bending angle of the bendable portion is in the range of 0° to 90°.

[0012] In some embodiments, when the bending angle of the bending portion is 0°, the axis of the tip head assembly is parallel to the axis of the insertion tube; when the bending angle of the bending portion is 90°, the axis of the tip head assembly is perpendicular to the axis of the insertion tube.

[0013] In some embodiments, the tip head assembly includes a tip head, and the first camera module and the second camera module are both arranged on the tip head.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first camera module and the second camera module are spaced apart along the axial direction of the one tip, and the distance between the lens center of the first camera module and the lens center of the second camera module is greater than 7 mm.

[0015] In some embodiments, the insertion portion further includes a reflector assembly, which is used to increase the optical axis distance between the first camera module and the second camera module.

[0016] In some embodiments, the reflector assembly includes a first reflector and a second reflector; the first reflector is arranged at the front end of the first camera module, and the second reflector is arranged at the front end of the second camera module.

[0017] In some embodiments, the reflector assembly includes a second foldable structure, and the first reflector and / or the second reflector are moved between the folded state and the unfolded state by the second foldable structure.

[0018] In some embodiments, the second foldable structure includes a supporting structure for supporting the first reflector and / or the second reflector, and a second traction structure for controlling the rotation of the first reflector and / or the second reflector.

[0019] In some embodiments, the support structure includes a first support surface and a second support surface arranged at the front end of the tip head assembly, and a rotation axis located at the center line of the first support surface and the second support surface; the first reflector and the second reflector are installed on the rotation axis.

[0020] In some embodiments, the second traction structure includes a first traction wire connected to the first reflector, and a second traction wire connected to the second reflector.

[0021] In some embodiments, a rotation angle of the first reflector and / or the second reflector is within a range of 0° to 90°.

[0022] In some embodiments, when the first reflector and the second reflector are in a folded state, an edge distance between the first reflector and the second reflector along a cross-sectional direction of the insertion tube is smaller than a diameter of the insertion tube.

[0023] In some embodiments, when the first reflector and the second reflector are in an open state, the first reflector and the second reflector are respectively perpendicular to the axis of the tip head assembly.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first camera module and the second camera module respectively obtain photographic data through the first reflector and the second reflector, and the optical axis distance between the first camera module and the second camera module is not less than 7 mm.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first camera module includes a camera unit for photographing using ordinary light, and the second camera module includes a camera unit for fluorescence observation.

[0026] One embodiment of the present application provides an endoscope. The endoscope comprises: an insertion portion as described in any of the preceding items; and an operating portion connected to a rear end of the insertion portion; the operating portion comprising a first control knob for controlling the position of a tip assembly of the insertion portion, and / or a second control knob for controlling the position of a reflective mirror assembly.

[0027] In some embodiments, when the first control knob points to the first position, it drives the first traction structure to move toward the operating part, and the driving arm drives the second tip end to move to the open state under the traction of the first traction structure; when the first control knob points to the second position, it drives the first traction structure to move toward the insertion part, and the driving arm drives the second tip end to move back to the folded state under the traction of the first traction structure.

[0028] In some embodiments, when the second control knob points to the third position, it drives the second traction structure to move toward the operating part, and the mirror assembly is driven by the second traction structure to rotate along the rotation axis to an open state; when the second control knob points to the fourth position, it drives the second traction structure to move toward the insertion part, and the mirror assembly is driven by the second traction structure to rotate along the rotation axis to restore to a folded state. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The present application will be further described in the form of exemplary embodiments, which will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are not limiting, and in these embodiments, like numbers represent like structures, wherein:

[0030] Figure 1A-Figure 1C is a schematic structural diagram of an exemplary insertion portion 100 according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0031] Figures 2A-2C is a schematic structural diagram of an exemplary tip assembly 120 according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0032] Figure 3A and 3B is a schematic structural diagram of an exemplary tip assembly 120 according to other embodiments of the present application;

[0033] Figures 4A-4C is a schematic structural diagram of an exemplary endoscope 200 according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0034] In the figure, 100 is the insertion part; 110 is the insertion tube; 120 is the tip assembly, 1210 is the first tip, 1220 is the second tip, 1213 is the support arm, 1215 is the first traction structure, 1217 is the drive arm, 1219 is the storage slot; 1310 is the first camera module, 1320 is the second camera module; 140 is the light-emitting body, 1410 is the first light-emitting body, 1420 is the second light-emitting body; 150 is the bendable part, 1513 is the bending joint, 1517 is the third traction structure, 1517-1 and 1517 -2 is the traction wire; 160 is the reflector assembly, 1610 is the first reflector, 1620 is the second reflector, 1613 is the supporting structure, 1615 is the rotating shaft, 1617 is the second traction structure, 1617-1 is the first traction wire, 1617-2 is the second traction wire; 170 is the operating part; 1710 is the first control knob, 1720 is the second control knob, 1730 is the third control knob, 1713, 1723 and 1733 are turntables, 1715, 1725 and 1735 are push rods; 200 is an endoscope. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of this application more clearly understood, the present application is further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this application and are not intended to limit this application.

[0036] On the contrary, this application covers any alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and solutions made within the spirit and scope of this application as defined by the claims. Furthermore, to facilitate a better understanding of this application, certain specific details are described in detail below in the detailed description of this application. Those skilled in the art will be able to fully understand this application without these details.

[0037] It should be understood that the terms "component," "module," "unit," and / or "module" used herein are a method for distinguishing different components, elements, parts, portions, or assemblies at different levels. However, other terms may be used to replace the terms if they can achieve the same purpose.

[0038] As used in this application and the claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the words "a," "an," "an," and / or "the" are not intended to refer to the singular but may include the plural. Generally speaking, the terms "comprises" and "include" only indicate the inclusion of the steps and elements specifically identified, and these steps and elements do not constitute an exclusive list. A method or apparatus may also include other steps or elements.

[0039] When using an endoscope to observe tissues in the human body, in order to ensure a more accurate judgment of the pathological condition, it is usually necessary to obtain images with multiple different effects. In some embodiments, the endoscope includes a single camera module, the field of view that can be observed is limited, and only one image using the light source can be obtained. If it is necessary to obtain images with fluorescence, 3D effects, or images with a larger depth of field and field angle, it is necessary to replace the endoscope / endoscope camera module or manually adjust the angle of the camera module. The operation is relatively cumbersome and the surgical efficiency is low. In some embodiments, the image clarity and / or depth of field can be improved by setting two or more camera modules in the endoscope. In some embodiments, the camera module is set on the front end face of the insertion part of the endoscope. Due to the influence of the cross-sectional outer diameter of the insertion part, the lens distance between the two or more camera modules is limited. Therefore, the depth of field and / or field angle of the obtained image are also limited. Therefore, it is necessary to provide an endoscope with a large field angle and depth of field that can clearly observe a wide range of fields.

[0040] An embodiment of the present application provides an endoscope and an insertion portion thereof. The insertion portion may include a first camera module and a second camera module disposed on a distal end assembly. The optical axis distance between the first camera module and the second camera module may be no less than 7 mm. By providing two camera modules of the same or different types and simultaneously increasing the optical axis distance between the two camera modules, high-definition fluorescent images, 3D stereo images, or images with a greater depth of field and field of view can be obtained, thereby enriching the functionality of the endoscope and reducing the need to frequently switch between different endoscopes during surgical operations.

[0041] The following will be combined Figures 1A-4C The endoscope and the insertion portion thereof involved in the embodiments of the present application are described in detail. It should be noted that the following embodiments are only used to explain the present application and do not constitute a limitation of the present application.

[0042] Figures 1A-1C 1 is a schematic structural diagram of an exemplary insertion portion 100 according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0043] like Figure 1A As shown, in some embodiments, the insertion portion 100 may include an insertion tube 110, a tip assembly 120, a first camera module 1310, a second camera module 1320, and a light emitting body 140. The rear end of the insertion tube 110 may be connected to the operating unit 170 of the endoscope, and the front end of the insertion tube 110 may be connected to the tip assembly 120. The first camera module 1310, the second camera module 1320, and the light emitting body 140 may be disposed on the tip assembly 120.

[0044] In some embodiments, the tip assembly 120 can perform photography, lighting, and other operations using a camera module and light source mounted on its front end. For example, the tip assembly 120 can capture images of a target object (e.g., tissue within a human body) within a target detection area using the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320, and can provide light for the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 using the light source 140. In some embodiments, the insertion tube 110 can be used to provide a conduit for signal wires, lighting wires, and the like of the tip assembly 120. In some embodiments, the operating unit 170 can be used to control the movement, photography, and lighting of the insertion unit 100.

[0045] Among them, it should be noted that in the embodiments of the present application, the front ends of the structures such as the insertion part, the operating part, the insertion tube, the tip (or the tip assembly) are all the ends corresponding to the target detection area when the endoscope is in use (for example, the end used to extend into the target detection area), and the rear ends are all the ends corresponding to the user when the endoscope is in use, that is, the other end opposite to the front end.

[0046] In some embodiments, the insertion tube 110 and the tip assembly 120 can be shaped like a cylinder, a triangular prism, a square column, or the like. In some embodiments, the insertion tube 110 can comprise a rigid metal tube or a flexible multi-material tube. In some embodiments, the tip assembly 120 can comprise a rigid material such as metal, ceramic, or hard plastic. In some embodiments, the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 can be the same or different types of camera modules. For example, the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 can both be cameras that utilize ordinary light for imaging. In another example, the first camera module 1310 can be a camera that utilizes ordinary light for imaging, and the second camera module 1320 can be a camera that utilizes special observations such as fluorescence observation. In some embodiments, the light source 140 can comprise a light guide for a cold light source, an LED light, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the light source 140 can comprise one or more light sources.

[0047] In some embodiments, the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 5 mm. Preferably, the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 7 mm. More preferably, the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 10 mm. More preferably, the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 15 mm. The optical axis distance may refer to the distance between the light beam corresponding to the lens of the first camera module 1310 and the light beam corresponding to the lens of the second camera module 1320 when acquiring an image. The optical axis distance may increase as the distance between the light beams of the lenses of the two camera modules increases. In some embodiments, the optical axis distance may increase as the distance between the lens centers of the camera modules (such as the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320) increases.

[0048] In some embodiments, the front-end assembly 120 may further include one or more of a software control unit for controlling the camera module's photography, an image processing unit for image processing, a mounting base for mounting the camera module and / or the light emitter, and an insulating protective cover. In some embodiments, the connection between the insertion tube 110 and the operating unit 170, the front-end assembly 120, and the connection between the front-end assembly 120 and the first camera module 1310, the second camera module 1320, and the light emitter 140 may include welding, hinges, gluing, or any combination thereof, and this specification does not limit this.

[0049] like Figure 1BOr as shown in 1C, in some embodiments, the insertion portion 100 may further include a bendable portion 150 disposed between the insertion tube 110 and the tip assembly 120. In some embodiments, the bendable portion 150 may be used to adjust the photographing direction of the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320. In some embodiments, the bending angle of the bendable portion 150 is in the range of 0° to 360°. Preferably, the bending angle of the bendable portion 150 may be in the range of 0° to 180°. More preferably, the bending angle of the bendable portion 150 may be in the range of 0° to 90°. In some embodiments, the bendable portion 150 may be bent 0° to 90° in any direction in space.

[0050] like Figure 1C As shown, in some embodiments, the bendable portion 150 may include a bending joint 1513 and a third traction structure 1517. The bending joint 1513 may be used to provide a rotational connection between the insertion tube 110 and the tip assembly 120, and the third traction structure 1517 may be used to control the rotation of the tip assembly 120. In some embodiments, the ends of the bending joint 1513 may be connected to the insertion tube 110 and the tip assembly 120, respectively, and the ends of the third traction structure 1517 may be connected to the operating portion 170 of the endoscope 200 and the tip assembly 120, respectively.

[0051] In some embodiments, the third traction structure 1517 may include one or more traction wires. For example, the third traction structure 1517 may be a single traction wire, the ends of which may be connected to the operating unit 170 and the distal end assembly 120 of the endoscope 200, respectively. In another example, the third traction structure 1517 may include a traction wire 1517-1 and a traction wire 1517-2, with the ends of traction wire 1517-1 and the ends of traction wire 1517-2 respectively connected to the operating unit 170 and the distal end assembly 120. By performing corresponding operations on the operating unit 170, the third traction structure 1517 can be controlled to drive the distal end assembly 120 to move, thereby controlling the imaging direction of the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320.

[0052] In some embodiments, the operating portion 170 may include a control knob, and the control knob may include a turntable (such as turntables 1713, 1723, 1733) and a push rod (such as push rods 1715, 1725, 1735). The turntable can be used to drive the traction structure (for example, the first traction structure 1215, the second traction structure 1617 or the third traction structure 1517) to move, and the push rod can be used to control the rotation of the turntable. The turntable is fixedly connected to the corresponding push rod, such as the turntable 1713 and the push rod 1715 can be fixedly connected, and the turntable 1723 and the push rod 1725 can be fixedly connected. When the push rod is pushed, the turntable fixedly connected thereto rotates at the same time. In some embodiments, the connection method between the turntable and the push rod may include welding, clamping, integrated molding and other connection methods, which are not limited here. In some embodiments, the traction structure can be wrapped around the outer circumference of the turntable. For example, one end of the first traction structure 1215 can be fixed to the rotating disk 1713 and partially wrapped around the outer circumference of the rotating disk 1713. When the rotating disk 1713 rotates, the first traction structure 1215 can be driven to move. The specific movement of the traction structure can include being wrapped around the rotating disk 1713 along the outer circumference of the rotating disk 1713 or being released and extended from the rotating disk 1713.

[0053] like Figure 4A As shown, in some embodiments, the operating portion 170 may include a third control knob 1730, and the third control knob 1730 may include a turntable 1733 and a push rod 1735, and the push rod 1735 may be fixedly connected to the turntable 1733. After one end of the traction wire 1517-1 and the traction wire 1517-2 are fixedly connected to the turntable 1733, they can be wound around the outer circumference of the turntable 1733 of the third control knob 1730 in opposite directions. For example, the traction wire 1517-1 can be wound around the turntable 1733 in a counterclockwise direction, and the traction wire 1517-2 can be wound around the turntable 1733 in a clockwise manner.

[0054] In some embodiments, when the bending angle of the bendable portion 150 is 0°, the push rod 1735 of the third control knob 1730 can point to the OFF position, at which time the lengths of the traction wires 1517-1 and 1517-2 not wound around the turntable 1733 are the same. When the push rod 1735 of the third control knob 1730 is rotated from the OFF position to the ON position, the push rod 1735 rotates counterclockwise (in the direction indicated by the arrow C in the figure) so that the portion of the traction wire 1517-2 wound on the turntable 1733 is released, and accordingly the portion of the traction wire 1517-1 wound on the turntable 1733 will increase, that is, the traction wire 1517-1 is pulled toward the direction of the operating part 170 (that is, the direction indicated by the arrow A in the figure), and the front end assembly 120 is driven by the traction wire 1517-1 to bend in the direction of the traction wire 1517-1, thereby changing the photographic direction of the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320. It can be understood that Figure 4A The related descriptions are only examples. In some alternative embodiments, the structure of the control knob, the OFF / ON position, etc. can be arranged arbitrarily and reasonably, and this specification does not limit this.

[0055] In some embodiments, when the bending angle of the bendable portion 150 is 0°, the axis of the tip assembly 120 and the axis of the insertion tube 110 may be parallel or substantially parallel, as shown in FIG. Figure 1A Preferably, when the bending angle of the bendable portion 150 is 0°, the axis of the tip assembly 120 and the axis of the insertion tube 110 may be substantially coincident or coincident. When the bending angle of the bendable portion 150 is 90°, the axis of the tip assembly 120 and the axis of the insertion tube 110 may be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular, as shown in FIG. Figure 1B or as shown in 1C.

[0056] In some embodiments, when the endoscope enters and exits the target inspection area, the angle of the flexible portion 150 can be 0°, so that the axis of the insertion tube 110 coincides or substantially coincides with the axis of the tip assembly 120. When observing a target object within the target inspection area, the flexible portion 150 can rotate in any direction to an angle of 0° to 360°. When the insertion portion 100 of the endoscope enters and exits the target inspection area, setting the angle of the flexible portion 150 to 0° reduces the radial dimension of the insertion portion 100, thereby reducing contact with the inner wall of the target inspection area during entry and exit, preventing damage to the endoscope or pain to the patient caused by contact with human tissue, and improving the convenience of endoscope use. When the insertion portion 100 of the endoscope is in the target inspection area to observe the target object, controlling the flexible portion 150 to rotate in any direction and at any angle can improve the field of view and depth of field of the photographic image, helping to obtain more effective images.

[0057] In some embodiments, the bendable portion 150 may include a flexible tube or a rigid tube, which may be wrapped around the outer layer of the bending joint 1513 .

[0058] In some embodiments, the front end assembly 120 may include a front end, and the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be both disposed on the front end. In some embodiments, the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be disposed at intervals along the axis direction of the front end, such as Figure 1B or as shown in 1C. In some embodiments, the distance between the center of the lens of the first camera module 1310 and the center of the lens of the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 5 mm. Preferably, the distance between the center of the lens of the first camera module 1310 and the center of the lens of the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 7 mm. More preferably, the distance between the center of the lens of the first camera module 1310 and the center of the lens of the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 10 mm. More preferably, the distance between the center of the lens of the first camera module 1310 and the center of the lens of the second camera module 1320 may be greater than 15 mm.

[0059] In some embodiments, the inserting portion 100 may include two or more camera modules.

[0060] Figures 2A-2C 1 is a schematic structural diagram of an exemplary front-end assembly 120 according to some embodiments of the present application. Figure 2A is a structural diagram of the second tip 1220 in a folded state, Figure 2B is a structural diagram of the second tip 120 in an open state, Figure 2C FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of the second tip 120 in an open state.

[0061] like Figures 2A-2C As shown, in some embodiments, the tip assembly 120 may include a first tip 1210 and a second tip 1220. The first camera module 1310 may be located on the first tip 1210, and the second camera module 1320 may be located on the second tip 1220. In some embodiments, the second tip 1220 (or the first tip 1210) may be foldably mounted to the front end of the insertion tube 110 via a first foldable structure. The first foldable structure allows the position or state of the second tip 1220 to be changed. In some embodiments, a side surface of the first tip 1210 may be provided with a storage slot 1219 for the second tip 1220. The second tip 1220 may be inserted into the storage slot 1219 when in the folded state.

[0062] In some embodiments, the first foldable structure may include a support arm 1213, a drive arm 1217, and a first traction structure 1215. The support arm 1213 may be used to support the second tip 1220, the drive arm 1217 may be used to drive the second tip 1220 to move, and the first traction structure 1215 may be used to control the movement of the drive arm 1217. Figure 2C As shown, in some embodiments, the support arm 1213 and the driving arm 1217 can be parallel to each other. One end of the support arm 1213 can be hinged to the second tip 1220, and the other end can be hinged to the first tip 1210. One end of the driving arm 1217 can be hinged to the second tip 1220, and the other end can be hinged to the first traction structure 1215. By controlling the movement of the first traction structure 1215, the driving arm 1217 can be driven to move, thereby controlling the position or state of the second tip 1220.

[0063] In some embodiments, the first traction structure 1215 may include a traction wire, one end of which may be connected to the driving arm 1217, and the other end of which may be connected to the operating portion 170. Figure 4B As shown, in some embodiments, the operating portion 170 may include a first control knob 1710, which may include a push rod 1715 and a rotary disk 1713. The push rod 1715 and the rotary disk 1713 may be fixedly connected, and the first traction structure 1215 may be fixedly wound around the rotary disk 1713 of the first control knob 1710. For example, one end of the traction wire may be fixedly connected to the rotary disk 1713 and wound clockwise around the outer circumference of the rotary disk 1713 starting from the end. In some embodiments, the position of the second tip 1220 in the folded state may be defined as an initial position, at which time the push rod 1715 of the first control knob 1710 may be in the second position (e.g., the "OFF" position). In some embodiments, the folding or opening state of the second tip 1220 can be changed by the movement of the push rod 1715. When the push rod 1715 is pushed, the push rod 1715 can rotate along the axis of the turntable 1713, driving the turntable 1713 and the first control knob 1710 fixedly connected thereto to rotate simultaneously, thereby driving the movement of the first traction structure 1215 on the turntable 1713, and then completing the folding or opening operation of the second tip 1220. Figure 4BWhen the push rod 1713 of the first control knob 1710 points to the first position (such as the "ON" position), that is, when the push rod 1715 is pushed from the second position to the first position, the push rod 1715 drives the turntable 1713 to rotate in the direction of the arrow C in the figure, and the portion of the first traction structure 1215 wrapped around the turntable 1713 increases. The first traction structure 1215 moves toward the direction of the operating portion 170 (that is, the direction of the arrow A in the figure) and pulls the driving arm 1217 to rotate toward the direction of the operating portion 170, thereby pulling the driving arm 1217 to rotate. The arm 1217 drives the second tip 1220 to move to the open state; when the first control knob 1710 points to the second position, that is, when the push rod 1715 is pushed from the first position to the second position, the part of the first traction structure 1215 wrapped around the turntable 1713 is released, thereby driving the first traction structure 1215 to move in the direction of the insertion part 100 (that is, the direction of the arrow pointing to B in the figure), and pulling the drive arm 1217 to move in the direction of the arrow pointing to B, thereby driving the second tip 1220 to move back to the folded state.

[0064] It should be noted that, in some alternative embodiments, the first foldable structure may be any other reasonable structure or device. For example, the first foldable structure may only include the driving arm 1217, and the driving arm 1217 may be used to simultaneously support and drive the second tip 1220.

[0065] In some embodiments, the insertion tube 110 may include a scale line. When the insertion unit enters the target detection area and reaches a designated scale position on the insertion tube 110, the first control knob 1710 can be rotated to open the second tip 1220. When observation is complete, the first control knob 1710 can be rotated back to fold the second tip 1220. In some embodiments, the insertion unit 100 may include a position sensor to determine the insertion position of the insertion unit 100. In some embodiments, the insertion position of the insertion unit 100 can be determined using images captured by a camera module.

[0066] In some embodiments, the light-emitting element 140 may include a first light-emitting element 1410 and a second light-emitting element 1420. The first camera module 1310 and the first light-emitting element 1410 may both be disposed on the first front end 1210, while the second camera module 1320 and the second light-emitting element 1420 may both be disposed on the second front end 1220. In some embodiments, the first camera module 1310 may be used in conjunction with the first light-emitting element 1410, and the second camera module 1320 may be used in conjunction with the second light-emitting element 1420. This ensures that the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 have sufficient light source when operating, thereby improving image quality. In some embodiments, the light-emitting element 140 may include only the first light-emitting element 1410 or the second light-emitting element 1420. In some embodiments, the first light-emitting element 1410 and the second light-emitting element 1420 may be the same or different types of light sources. For example, the first light-emitting element 1410 and the second light-emitting element 1420 may both be LED lights. For another example, the first light emitting body 1410 may be an LED lamp, and the second light emitting body 1420 may be an optical fiber bundle. In some embodiments, the first light emitting body 1410 and / or the second light emitting body 1420 may include one or more light sources.

[0067] In some embodiments, when the second tip 1220 is in the folded state, the distance between the axis of the second tip 1220 and the axis of the first tip 1210 is less than 0.5 mm. In some embodiments, when the second tip 1220 is in the folded state, the axis of the second tip 1220 and the axis of the first tip 1210 are nearly coincident or coincident.

[0068] In some embodiments, when the second tip 1220 is in the open state, the second tip is located on one side of the first tip 1210. It should be noted that the side here is not limited to Figure 2BOr the side shown in 2C , in some embodiments, the second tip 1220 can be located in any direction above the first tip 1210, such as above, to the left, to the right, or below. During actual endoscope operation, when the insertion tube 110 rotates, the positional relationship between the second tip 1220 and the first tip 1210 can change. For example, the first tip 1210 can be located in any direction, such as above, to the left, to the right, or below the second tip 1220. In some embodiments, when the second tip 1220 is in an open position, the first camera module 1310 on the first tip 1210 and the second camera module 1320 on the second tip 1220 can be located in the same plane perpendicular to the axis of the first tip 1210 (or the second tip 1220), and the distance between the lens center 1310 of the first camera module and the lens center of the second camera module 1320 can be greater than 5 mm. Preferably, the distance between the center of the lens of the first camera module 1310 and the center of the lens of the second camera module 1320 may be not less than 7 mm. Preferably, the distance between the center of the lens of the first camera module 1310 and the center of the lens of the second camera module 1320 may be not less than 10 mm. Preferably, the distance between the center of the lens of the first camera module 1310 and the center of the lens of the second camera module 1320 may be not less than 15 mm. The open state may refer to the second tip reaching a specified open position, for example, Figure 2B or the position shown in 2C.

[0069] By opening the second tip 1220 when observing the target object in the target detection area, and making the distance between the lens center of the second camera module 1320 on it and the lens center of the first camera module 1310 on the first tip 1210 greater than or equal to 7 mm, the field of view of the endoscope can be increased, thereby obtaining an image with a larger depth of field; at the same time, by folding the second tip 1220 when entering and exiting the target detection area, the space occupied by the endoscope can be reduced, thereby improving convenience of use.

[0070] In some embodiments, the first tip 1210 and the second tip 1220 can both be installed via a foldable structure, or both be fixedly installed, which is not limited in this specification.

[0071] Figure 3A and 3B 1 is a schematic structural diagram of an exemplary front-end assembly 120 according to other embodiments of the present application.

[0072] like Figure 3A and 3BAs shown, in some embodiments, the inserting portion 100 may further include a reflector assembly 160, which may be used to increase the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320. In some embodiments, the reflector assembly 160 may include a light-transmitting mirror.

[0073] In some embodiments, the reflector assembly 160 may include a first reflector 1610 and / or a second reflector 1620. In some embodiments, the reflector assembly 160 may include a second foldable structure, and the first reflector 1610 and / or the second reflector 1620 may be movable between a folded state and an unfolded state through the second foldable structure. In some embodiments, the position of the first reflector 1610 and / or the second reflector 1620 in the folded state may be Figure 3A , the position of the first reflector 1610 and / or the second reflector 1620 when they are in the open state may be Figure 3B In some alternative embodiments, the reflector assembly 160 may include one or more reflectors. For example, a reflector may be provided at the front end of the first camera module 1310 or the second camera module 1320 .

[0074] In some embodiments, the second foldable structure may include a support structure 1613 for supporting the reflector assembly 160 (e.g., the first reflector 1610 and / or the second reflector 1620), and a second traction structure 1617 for controlling the rotation of the reflector assembly 160. In some embodiments, the support structure 1613 may include a first support surface 1613-1 and a second support surface 1613-2 disposed at the front end of the tip assembly 160, and a rotation axis 1615 located at the centerline of the first support surface 1613-1 and the second support surface 1613-2. The first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 may be mounted on the rotation axis 1615. In some embodiments, the second traction structure 1617 may include a first traction wire 1617-1 connected to the first reflector 1610 and a second traction wire 1617-2 connected to the second reflector 1620. In some embodiments, an arcuate groove may be provided on the first supporting surface 1613-1 and / or the second supporting surface 1613-2, and the second traction structure 1617 may drive the reflector assembly 160 to rotate through the arcuate groove. In some embodiments, the rotation angle of the first reflector 1610 and / or the second reflector 1620 may be in the range of 0° to 90°. In some embodiments, an elastic reset member may be used to reset the first reflector 1610 and / or the second reflector 1620. In some embodiments, the elastic reset member may include a spring. In some embodiments, the spring may include a torsion spring. In some embodiments, the first reflector 1610 and / or the second reflector 1620 may be mounted on the rotating shaft 1615 via an elastic reset member.

[0075] In some embodiments, the other end of the second traction structure 1617 can be connected to the operating part 170. For example, Figure 4CAs shown, in some embodiments, the operating portion 170 may include a second control knob 1720, which may include a dial 1723 and a push rod 1725. The other ends of the first traction wire 1617-1 and the second traction wire 1617-2 may be fixedly connected to the second control knob 1720. For example, one end of the first traction wire 1617-1 and one end of the second traction wire 1617-2 may be respectively wound around the dial 1723 of the second control knob 1720 in the same direction. In some embodiments, the position of the mirror assembly 160 when it is in the folded state may be defined as the initial position of the mirror. At this time, the push rod 1725 of the second control knob 1720 may point to a fourth position (the "OFF" position in the figure). When the push rod 1725 of the second control knob 1720 points to the third position (the "ON" position in the figure), that is, when the push rod 1725 is pushed from the fourth position to the third position, the rotation of the push rod 1725 can drive the turntable 1723 fixed thereto to rotate at the same time. When the turntable 1723 rotates, the second traction structure 1617 (such as the first traction wire 1617-1 and the second traction wire 1617-2) connected to the turntable 1723 can move toward the operating part 170 (that is, the direction of the arrow A in the figure) driven by the turntable 1723. At this time, the second traction structure 1617 is driven by the push rod 1725. When the first and second reflectors 1610 and 1620 rotate along the rotation axis 1615 in a direction from the fourth position to the third position (as indicated by arrow C in the figure), the elastic return element is pulled apart, and the reflector assembly 160 rotates along the rotation axis 1615 to the open position under the drive of the second traction structure 1617. When the push rod 1725 of the second control knob 1720 points to the fourth position, that is, when the push rod 1725 is pushed from the third position to the fourth position, the traction force exerted by the second control knob 1720 on the second traction structure 1617 disappears, and the elastic return element returns to its original state, thereby driving the reflector assembly 160 to rotate along the rotation axis 1615 to the folded position. In some embodiments, the angle of rotation of the first and second reflectors 1610 and 1620 along the rotation axis 1615 when opened or folded can be within a range of 60° to 90°. In some embodiments, the reflector assembly 160 can rotate along the rotation axis 1615 by the same angle when opened and folded. In some embodiments, the elastic return member can be installed on the second control knob 1720. When the push rod 1725 of the second control knob 1720 points to the fourth position, the second traction structure 1617 moves toward the direction of the insertion part 100 (i.e., the direction of the arrow B in the figure) driven by the elastic return member of the second control knob 1720, and the mirror assembly 160 rotates along the rotation axis 1615 driven by the second traction structure to return to the folded state.

[0076] In some embodiments, the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in a folded state (eg, Figure 3A), the edge distance L between the first reflective mirror 1610 and the second reflective mirror 1620 along the cross-sectional direction of the insertion tube 110 is less than or equal to the diameter of the insertion tube 110. The edge distance L may refer to the distance between the outer edge of the first reflective mirror 1610 and the outer edge of the second reflective mirror 1620, where the outer edge refers to the side away from the rotation axis 1615. In some embodiments, the edge distance L may be the sum of the widths of the first reflective mirror 1610 and the second reflective mirror 1620. In some embodiments, the edge distance L may be the sum of the widths of the first reflective mirror 1610 and the second reflective mirror 1620 plus the gap between the first reflective mirror 1610 and the second reflective mirror 1620.

[0077] In some embodiments, the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in an open state (eg, Figure 3B When the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the folded state, the angle between the axis of the first reflector 1610 and the axis of the second reflector 1620 is greater than 0°. The axis of the reflector can be the center line of the first reflector 1610 or the second reflector 1620 along the length direction. When the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the folded state, the direction parallel to the axis of the insertion tube 110 is the length direction of the reflector. Figure 3A As shown in Figure 3B, when the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the folded state, the dotted line shown in the figure is the axis of the first reflector 1610 and the axis of the second reflector 1620. Preferably, when the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the unfolded state, the angle between the axis of the first reflector 1610 and the axis of the second reflector 1620 may be greater than 15°. Preferably, when the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the unfolded state, the angle between the axis of the first reflector 1610 and the axis of the second reflector 1620 may be greater than 30°. Preferably, when the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the unfolded state, the angle between the axis of the first reflector 1610 and the axis of the second reflector 1620 may be greater than 60°. Preferably, when the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the open state, the angle between the axis of the first reflector 1610 and the axis of the second reflector 1620 may be greater than 120°. Preferably, when the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the open state, the angle between the axis of the first reflector 1610 and the axis of the second reflector 1620 may be 180°, in which case the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are respectively perpendicular to the axis of the tip head assembly 120.

[0078] In some embodiments, when the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the open state, the angled bevel on the first reflector 1610 reflects the light and enters the first camera module 1310, and the angled bevel on the second reflector 1620 reflects the light and enters the second camera module 1320. The first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 can respectively obtain photographic data through the light reflected by the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620, thereby increasing the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320. For example, the distance between the lens center of the first camera module 1310 and the lens center of the second camera module 1320 may be 3 mm. When the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620 are in the open state, the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 respectively obtain photographic data through the light reflected by the first reflector 1610 and the second reflector 1620, so that the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be greater than 3 mm. In some embodiments, the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 5 mm. Preferably, the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 7 mm. Preferably, the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 10 mm. Preferably, the optical axis distance between the first camera module 1310 and the second camera module 1320 may be no less than 15 mm.

[0079] In some embodiments, the reflection angle of the first reflector 1610 and / or the second reflector 1620 can be determined based on the optical axis distance required by the endoscope. For example, when the optical axis distance requirement is large, the reflection angle of the reflector can be larger. In some embodiments, the insert portion can include only one camera module and one reflector. In some embodiments, the insert portion can include multiple camera modules and corresponding multiple reflector groups.

[0080] One embodiment of the present application also provides an endoscope 200. Figures 4A-4C As shown, in some embodiments, the endoscope 200 may include the insertion portion 100 as described above, and an operating portion 170 connected to the rear end of the insertion portion 100 .

[0081] In some embodiments, the operating portion 170 may include a control knob for controlling the tip assembly 120 and / or the reflector assembly 160 of the insertion portion 100. In some embodiments, the first control knob 1710, the second control knob 1720, and the third control knob 1730 may be the same or different control knobs. When the first control knob 1710, the second control knob 1720, and the third control knob 1730 are the same control knobs, the dial of the control knob may include multiple scale positions, for example, a first position indicating the open state of the tip assembly 120, a second position indicating the folded state of the tip assembly 120, a third position indicating the open state of the reflector assembly 160, or a fourth position indicating the folded state of the reflector assembly 160.

[0082] The beneficial effects that may be brought about by the present application include but are not limited to: (1) by arranging a bendable portion between the tip assembly and the insertion tube to control the photographing direction of the camera module, thereby improving the field of view of the endoscope and obtaining an image with a larger field of view; (2) by arranging two camera modules along the axis direction of the insertion tube, increasing the optical axis distance between the dual camera modules, an image with a better depth of field effect and a larger field of view can be obtained; (3) by arranging two camera modules on the foldable tip assembly, the two camera modules can have a larger optical axis distance, and an image with a larger field of view can be obtained; (4) by arranging a reflector assembly, the camera module can obtain a photographic image through the reflector, which can expand the field of view of the camera module.

[0083] It should be noted that different embodiments may produce different beneficial effects. In different embodiments, the beneficial effects that may be produced may be any one or a combination of the above, or any other possible beneficial effects.

[0084] The basic concepts have been described above. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the detailed disclosure above is merely illustrative and does not limit the present application. Although not explicitly stated herein, those skilled in the art may make various modifications, improvements, and amendments to the present application. Such modifications, improvements, and amendments are suggested in the present application and remain within the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments of the present application.

[0085] At the same time, this application uses specific terms to describe the embodiments of this application. For example, "one embodiment," "an embodiment," and / or "some embodiments" refer to a certain feature, structure, or characteristic related to at least one embodiment of this application. Therefore, it should be emphasized and noted that "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or "an alternative embodiment" mentioned twice or multiple times in different locations in this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, certain features, structures, or characteristics in one or more embodiments of this application may be appropriately combined.

[0086] In addition, unless expressly stated in the claims, the order of the processing elements and sequences described in this application, the use of alphanumeric characters, or the use of other names are not intended to limit the order of the processes and methods of this application. Although the above disclosure discusses some of the invention embodiments currently considered useful through various examples, it should be understood that such details are only for illustrative purposes, and the attached claims are not limited to the disclosed embodiments. On the contrary, the claims are intended to cover all modifications and equivalent combinations that are consistent with the essence and scope of the embodiments of this application. For example, although the system components described above can be implemented by hardware devices, they can also be implemented only by software solutions, such as installing the described system on an existing server or mobile device.

[0087] Similarly, it should be noted that, in order to simplify the presentation of this application and thus facilitate understanding of one or more embodiments of the invention, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments of this application sometimes combine multiple features into a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof. However, this disclosure method does not mean that the subject matter of this application requires more features than those recited in the claims. In fact, an embodiment may have fewer features than all of the features of a single embodiment disclosed above.

[0088] In some embodiments, numbers are used to describe the quantity of components and attributes. It should be understood that such numbers used in the description of the embodiments are modified by the modifiers "about", "approximately" or "substantially" in some examples. Unless otherwise stated, "about", "approximately" or "substantially" indicate that the numbers are allowed to vary by ±20%. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters used in the description and claims are approximate values, which may change according to the required features of individual embodiments. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should take into account the specified significant digits and adopt the general method of retaining digits. Although the numerical domains and parameters used to confirm the breadth of their range in some embodiments of the present application are approximate values, in specific embodiments, the settings of such numerical values ​​are as accurate as possible within the feasible range.

[0089] Each patent, patent application, patent application disclosure, and other materials, such as articles, books, specifications, publications, documents, etc., cited in this application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This includes application history documents that are inconsistent with or conflict with the content of this application, as well as documents (currently or subsequently attached to this application) that limit the broadest scope of the claims of this application. It should be noted that if the descriptions, definitions, and / or use of terms in the accompanying materials of this application are inconsistent or conflicting with the content of this application, the descriptions, definitions, and / or use of terms in this application shall prevail.

[0090] Finally, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this application are merely illustrative of the principles of the embodiments of this application. Other variations may also fall within the scope of this application. Therefore, by way of example and not limitation, alternative configurations of the embodiments of this application may be considered consistent with the teachings of this application. Accordingly, the embodiments of this application are not limited to the embodiments explicitly introduced and described in this application.

Claims

1. An insertion portion for an endoscope, characterized in that The inserting portion comprises: Insertion tube; a tip assembly disposed at the front end of the insertion tube, the tip assembly comprising a first tip and a second tip, the second tip being mounted to the front end of the insertion tube via a first foldable structure; the first foldable structure comprising a support arm for supporting the second tip, a drive arm for driving the second tip, and a first traction structure for controlling the movement of the drive arm; A first camera module, a second camera module, and a light-emitting body for providing light sources to the first camera module and the second camera module, which are arranged on the tip assembly, wherein the first camera module is located at the first tip, and the second camera module is located at the second tip; and a reflector assembly, the reflector assembly comprising a first reflector and a second reflector, wherein the first reflector and / or the second reflector is movable between a folded state and an unfolded state via a second foldable structure; Among them, the optical axis distance between the first camera module and the second camera module is not less than 7 mm.

2. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein When the second tip is in a folded state, a distance between an axis of the second tip and an axis of the first tip is less than 0.5 mm.

3. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein: When the second tip is in the open state, the second tip is located on one side of the first tip.

4. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein When the second tip is in the open state, the second tip is located on one side of the first tip, and the distance between the lens center of the first camera module and the lens center of the second camera module is greater than 7 mm.

5. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein The light-emitting body includes a first light-emitting body and a second light-emitting body, which are respectively located at the front end of the first tip and the second tip, and are respectively used to provide light sources for the first camera module and the second camera module.

6. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein: The insertion portion further includes a bendable portion disposed between the insertion tube and the tip assembly, and the bendable portion is used to adjust the photographing directions of the first camera module and the second camera module.

7. The insertion portion according to claim 6, wherein: The bending angle of the bendable portion is in the range of 0° to 90°.

8. The insertion portion according to claim 7, wherein: When the bending angle of the bendable portion is 0°, the axis of the tip head assembly is parallel to the axis of the insertion tube; when the bending angle of the bendable portion is 90°, the axis of the tip head assembly is perpendicular to the axis of the insertion tube.

9. The insertion portion according to claim 6, wherein: The tip head assembly includes a tip head, and the first camera module and the second camera module are both arranged on the tip head.

10. The insertion portion according to claim 9, wherein: The first camera module and the second camera module are spaced apart along the axial direction of the one tip, and the distance between the lens center of the first camera module and the lens center of the second camera module is greater than 7 mm.

11. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein The reflector assembly is used to increase the optical axis distance between the first camera module and the second camera module.

12. The insertion portion according to claim 11, wherein: The first reflective mirror is arranged at the front end of the first camera module, and the second reflective mirror is arranged at the front end of the second camera module.

13. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein The second foldable structure includes a supporting structure for supporting the first reflector and / or the second reflector, and a second traction structure for controlling the rotation of the first reflector and / or the second reflector.

14. The insertion portion according to claim 13, wherein: The support structure includes a first support surface and a second support surface arranged at the front end of the tip head assembly, and a rotation axis located at the center line of the first support surface and the second support surface; the first reflector and the second reflector are installed on the rotation axis.

15. The insertion portion according to claim 14, wherein: The second traction structure includes a first traction steel wire connected to the first reflector, and a second traction steel wire connected to the second reflector.

16. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein The rotation angle of the first reflector and / or the second reflector is within the range of 0° to 90°.

17. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein When the first reflector and the second reflector are in a folded state, an edge distance between the first reflector and the second reflector along a cross-sectional direction of the insertion tube is smaller than a diameter of the insertion tube.

18. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein When the first reflector and the second reflector are in an open state, the first reflector and the second reflector are respectively perpendicular to the axis of the tip head assembly.

19. The insertion portion according to claim 18, wherein The first camera module and the second camera module respectively obtain photographic data through the first reflector and the second reflector, and the optical axis distance between the first camera module and the second camera module is not less than 7 mm.

20. The insertion portion according to claim 1, wherein The first camera module includes a camera unit for taking photos using ordinary light, and the second camera module includes a camera unit for fluorescence observation.

21. An endoscope, characterized in that: The endoscope comprises an insertion portion according to any one of claims 1 to 20, and an operating portion connected to a rear end of the insertion portion; The operating portion includes a first control knob for controlling the position of the tip assembly of the insertion portion, and / or a second control knob for controlling the position of the mirror assembly.

22. The endoscope according to claim 21, wherein When the first control knob points to the first position, it drives the first traction structure to move toward the operating part, and the driving arm drives the second tip end to move to the open state under the traction of the first traction structure; when the first control knob points to the second position, it drives the first traction structure to move toward the insertion part, and the driving arm drives the second tip end to move back to the folded state under the traction of the first traction structure.

23. The endoscope according to claim 21, wherein The second foldable structure includes a supporting structure for supporting the first reflector and / or the second reflector, and a second traction structure for controlling the rotation of the first reflector and / or the second reflector; The support structure includes a first support surface and a second support surface provided at the front end of the tip assembly, and a rotation axis located at the center line of the first support surface and the second support surface; the first reflector and the second reflector are mounted on the rotation axis; When the second control knob points to the third position, it drives the second traction structure to move toward the operating part, and the mirror assembly rotates along the rotation axis to the open state under the drive of the second traction structure; when the second control knob points to the fourth position, it drives the second traction structure to move toward the insertion part, and the mirror assembly rotates along the rotation axis to restore to the folded state under the drive of the second traction structure.

Images