Endoscope and endoscope system with lens cleaning nozzle

Abstract

The present invention provides an endoscope and an endoscope system having a lens cleaning nozzle. The endoscope includes an insertion section coupled to an operation section and inserted into a subject. The insertion section includes a distal end face including: a first optical system; a second optical system arranged side by side with the first optical system such that a bisector bisects the first optical system and the second optical system; a first illumination unit; a second illumination unit separate from the first illumination unit such that the first optical system and the second optical system are arranged between the two illumination units; a nozzle section arranged on a second line at a second predetermined angle with respect to a line perpendicular to the bisector of the first optical system and the second optical system, wherein the nozzle section is configured to: clean the first optical system based on a first cleaning configuration; and clean the second optical system based on the second cleaning configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an endoscope, and more particularly to a stereoscopic endoscope having a lens cleaning nozzle. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, endoscopes that acquire stereoscopic images of the area to be examined have become popular. Such endoscopes typically include a first objective lens and a second objective lens, respectively positioned on the distal surface of the endoscope's insertion portion. Stereoscopic endoscopes also include first and second image acquisition devices, on which images of the area to be examined are formed through their respective objective lenses. The first and second image acquisition devices are positioned distally in the insertion direction of the insertion portion.

[0003] In endoscopic systems, stereoscopic endoscopes are typically connected to external devices that repeatedly display a first observation image formed on a first image acquisition device and a second observation image formed on a second image acquisition device on a monitor. The observer views the first and second observation images repeatedly displayed on the monitor via dedicated stereoscopic glasses, using one eye to view only the first observation image and the other eye to view only the second observation image. Therefore, the observer can view a 3D image of the area to be examined within the object.

[0004] There has been a long-standing desire to develop an endoscope with a smaller distal end face. Therefore, endoscopes with a single nozzle have been developed. However, due to the unfavorable arrangement of the nozzle and objective lens, these conventional endoscopes with a single nozzle cannot effectively remove water droplets and foreign matter (blood stains, etc.) from the objective lens.

[0005] On the other hand, endoscopes require repeated or frequent cleaning to keep the objectives clean. When the endoscope's insertion section is inserted into the object, water droplets and foreign objects such as blood stains may adhere to the lens surfaces or viewing windows of the objectives on the distal end face, or fog may form on the lens surfaces or viewing windows. In this case, the area to be examined will appear different in the corresponding viewing image. In particular, even if only a portion of the field of view is affected by water droplets or foreign objects, the 3D image will be impaired. Additionally, if the nozzle is positioned too close to the objective and is reflected into the field of view, the 3D image may also be impaired. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, this disclosure relates to an endoscope that substantially avoids one or more problems arising from the limitations and disadvantages of prior art endoscopes.

[0007] One object of this disclosure is to provide an endoscope comprising: an operating portion; and an insertion portion connected to the operating portion and configured for insertion into an object to be examined. The insertion portion includes a distal facet comprising: a first optical system; a second optical system arranged side-by-side with the first optical system such that a bisector divides the first and second optical systems equally; a first illumination unit; a second illumination unit separate from the first illumination unit such that the first and second optical systems are arranged between the two illumination units; a first channel opening disposed on a first line, the first line forming a first predetermined angle with respect to a line perpendicular to the bisector of the first and second optical systems; and a nozzle portion disposed on a second line, the second line forming a second predetermined angle with respect to the line perpendicular to the bisector of the first and second optical systems, wherein the nozzle portion is configured to: clean the first optical system based on a first cleaning configuration; and clean the second optical system based on a second cleaning configuration.

[0008] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an endoscope system comprising: the endoscope described above for acquiring a stereoscopic image of a region to be examined in a subject; and an image processing unit connected to the endoscope for processing the stereoscopic image.

[0009] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a nozzle for cleaning an endoscope, the nozzle comprising: a single nozzle; a first tube connected to the single nozzle to supply a first fluid to clean a first optical system of the endoscope; a second tube connected to the single nozzle to supply a second fluid to clean a second optical system of the endoscope; a first pump connected to the first tube to pump the first fluid at a first jet rate; and a second pump connected to the second tube to pump the second fluid at a second jet rate, wherein the first fluid and the second fluid are simultaneously ejected from the single nozzle.

[0010] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an endoscope comprising: an insertion portion configured for insertion into an object to be examined, and including a distal end including a distal face. On the distal face: a first viewing window arranged for viewing a region of the interior of the object; a second viewing window arranged side-by-side with the first viewing window for viewing the region of the interior of the object and having parallax relative to the first viewing window; a channel arranged for supplying fluid from the outside of the object to the distal end of the insertion portion; and a nozzle arranged for simultaneously spraying the fluid toward the first viewing window and the second viewing window, wherein the nozzle sprays the fluid from the channel into a first spray path to clean the first viewing window and into a second spray path to clean the second viewing window, and wherein the first spray path and the second spray path do not intersect.

[0011] Other features and advantages will be set forth in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the disclosed input device will be realized and achieved by means of the structures particularly pointed out in the written description and its claims and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The following detailed description of preferred embodiments can be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals denote similar elements, and in the drawings:

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of an endoscope system including the stereoscopic endoscope of the first embodiment;

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of the endoscope system shown;

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Enlarged plan view of the distal surface of the insertion portion surrounded by line IV;

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 An enlarged plan view of the distal end face of the insertion section surrounded by IV lines shows the positional relationship between the nozzle and the optical system;

[0017] Figures 5(a) to 5(c) This is a schematic view showing the configuration of a nozzle portion according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0018] Figures 6(a) to 6(c) This is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of the nozzle portion according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram illustrating how fluid is ejected from a nozzle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Figures 8(a) to 8(d) This is a schematic diagram illustrating nozzles with different configurations suitable for a nozzle section according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] In all the illustrations, the dimensions of the components have been appropriately adjusted for clarity. For ease of viewing, in some cases, only some of the mentioned features are labeled with reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be explained with reference to illustrations.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of an endoscope system including an exemplary stereoscopic endoscope. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of the endoscope system shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the endoscope system 100 may include a stereo endoscope 1 and peripheral devices 50. The stereo endoscope 1 picks up a stereo image of the area to be examined in the object.

[0024] The stereoscopic endoscope 1 may include: an insertion part 2 inserted into an object along the insertion direction S; and an operation part 3 connected to the insertion part 2. The stereoscopic endoscope 1 may include: a universal cable 4 extending from the operation part 3; and a connector 5 disposed at the extension end of the universal cable 4. The operation part 3 may include a controller for controlling all operations of the endoscope 1.

[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, the stereoscopic endoscope 1 is exemplified by a flexible endoscope, wherein the insertion portion 2 is flexible. However, the stereoscopic endoscope 1 can be a rigid endoscope, wherein the insertion portion 2 is rigid. Alternatively, the insertion portion 2 may include a flexible main portion and a rigid distal portion having a distal end face 2s.

[0026] Peripheral device 50 may include image processing unit 51, display unit 52 such as 3D monitor connected to image processing unit 51, and input unit 53 connected to image processing unit 51.

[0027] The stereo endoscope 1 can be connected to the image processing unit 51 via a connector 5, which is detachably attached to the image processing unit 51. The stereo endoscope 1 can also be wirelessly connected to the image processing unit 51 without using the universal cable 4 and the connector 5.

[0028] like Figure 2As shown, an image pickup unit 8 is provided at the distal end of the insertion part 2 in the insertion direction S, which picks up an image of the area to be inspected. The image pickup unit 8 may include: a first objective lens optical system 21 for observing the area to be inspected; and a second objective lens optical system 22 for observing the area to be inspected.

[0029] The image acquisition unit 8 may further include a first image acquisition device 31, on which an image of the area to be inspected is formed into a first observation image (not shown) via a first objective lens optical system 21. The image acquisition unit 8 may further include a second image acquisition device 32, on which an image of the area to be inspected is formed into a second observation image (not shown) via a second objective lens optical system 22, the second observation image having parallax with the first observation image.

[0030] In the first objective lens optical system 21, the lens located at the foremost end in the insertion direction S is positioned as the first objective lens 11 (left eye lens) such that the lens surface 11m is exposed on the distal end surface 2s at the distal end of the insertion portion 2. This first objective lens serves as the first observation window. Note that the first observation window is not limited to an objective lens, but can also be a glass cover, etc. The objective lens will be explained below as an embodiment of the first observation window.

[0031] In the second objective lens optical system 22, the lens located at the foremost point in the insertion direction S is positioned as the second objective lens 12 (right eye lens) such that the lens surface 12m is exposed on the distal end face 2s. This second objective lens serves as the second observation window. Note that the second observation window is not limited to an objective lens and can also be a glass cover, etc. The objective lens will be explained below as an example of the second observation window.

[0032] Although labeled as left-eye lens and right-eye lens, this labeling is exemplary and interchangeable; that is, the first objective lens can be the right-eye lens and the second objective lens can be the left-eye lens.

[0033] Note that the arrangement of the first objective lens 11 and the second objective lens 12 on the distal surface 2s, as well as other components disposed on the distal surface 2s, will be explained below.

[0034] At the distal end of the insertion section 2, the first image pickup device 31 may be located behind the first objective lens optical system 21 in the insertion direction S. Additionally, at the distal end of the insertion section 2, the second image pickup device 32 may be located behind the second objective lens optical system 22 in the insertion direction S.

[0035] Reference Figure 2The image processing unit 51 may include: a first image pickup cable 55, the distal end of which is connected to a first image pickup device 31; a second image pickup cable 56, the distal end of which is connected to a second image pickup device 32; an image pickup generation section 60; and a stereoscopic display processing section 70.

[0036] The first image pickup cable 55 and the second image pickup cable 56 are inserted via the insertion part 2 and the operation part 3. When the connector 5 is connected to the image processing unit 51, the proximal ends of the first image pickup cable 55 and the second image pickup cable 56 are connected to the image pickup generation part 60 of the image processing unit 51.

[0037] The image generation section 60 may include a first image generation section 61 and a second image generation section 62. The first image generation section 61 generates a first observation image 201 formed on the first image acquisition device 31. The second image generation section 62 generates a second observation image 202 formed on the second image acquisition device 32.

[0038] The image acquisition and generation unit 60 can be connected to the stereoscopic display processing unit 70. Additionally, the stereoscopic display processing unit 70 can be connected to the display unit 52.

[0039] The stereoscopic display processing unit 70 can optionally repeat the first observation image and the second observation image on the display unit 52. An observer, using dedicated stereoscopic glasses, observes the repeated first and second observation images on the display unit 52 by using only the left eye to observe the first observation image and only the right eye to observe the second observation image. Therefore, the observer can observe the area to be inspected in stereoscopic form. In other words, the observer can view a 3D image of the area being inspected.

[0040] Next, refer to Figure 3 Explain the configuration of the distal end face 2s of the insertion part 2. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An enlarged plan view of the distal end face 2s of the insertion part 2 surrounded by line IV.

[0041] like Figure 3 As shown, the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 are disposed on the distal end face 2s of the distal end of the insertion portion 2. An imaginary line CC passes through the center of the distal end face 2s in the left-right direction and corresponds to the diameter that divides the distal end face 2s into two equal parts (upper part (UP) and lower part (LP)). In this exemplary embodiment, the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 may be arranged side by side on the upper part of the distal end face 2s and spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance.

[0042] The first objective lens 11 of the first optical system 21 may have the same size or the same diameter as the second objective lens 12 of the second optical system 22. Alternatively, the first objective lens 11 of the first optical system 21 may have a different size or a different diameter than the second objective lens 12 of the second optical system 22. In either case, the imaginary line (L) connecting the centers of the first objective lens 11 and the second objective lens 12 is parallel to the imaginary line CC.

[0043] Furthermore, the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 can each be divided into two equal parts by the bisector BB. The bisector BB is an imaginary line parallel to the imaginary line CC. The reference numeral "PP" indicates an imaginary line perpendicular to the bisector BB of the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22. The perpendicular imaginary line PP passes through the center of the distal surface 2s and divides the distal surface 2s into two equal parts (the left part (lp) and the right part (rp)).

[0044] The first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 can be covered by a cover portion 23. The cover portion 23 can be made of a transparent material such as glass. The cover portion 23 can be configured to be detachably attached to the distal end face 2s. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover portion 23 has a circular shape, but it can be a different shape suitable for covering the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22.

[0045] The first optical system 21 is configured to generate a first optical image, and the second optical system 22 is configured to generate a second optical image, such that the first and second optical images can enter with parallax, thereby making the same object image a stereoscopic image.

[0046] like Figure 3 As shown, a first illumination unit 13 and a second illumination unit 14 are disposed on the distal end face 2s, and the first illumination unit 13 and the second illumination unit 14 are adjacent to the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22, respectively. The first illumination unit 13 and the second illumination unit 14 are separated by sufficient space to allow at least a portion of the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 to be arranged between them. The first illumination unit 13 and the second illumination unit 14 can be arranged to sandwich the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22.

[0047] Furthermore, on the distal surface 2s, in this exemplary embodiment, a nozzle portion 18 is arranged at an angle to the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 relative to the bisector BB. The centerline of the nozzle portion 18 can be arranged at a predetermined angle α relative to an imaginary vertical line PP perpendicular to the bisector BB of the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22. The predetermined angle α can be in the range of 0 to 60 degrees.

[0048] The nozzle portion 18 may be disposed in the lower portion of the distal surface 2s, which is close to the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22. A first distance exists between the nozzle portion 18 and the first optical system 21 (see...). Figure 4 The first distance is set such that the nozzle portion 18 can effectively clean the first optical system 21 without reflection in the field of view of the first optical system 21. A second distance exists between the nozzle portion 18 and the second optical system 21 (see...). Figure 4 The second distance is set such that the nozzle portion 18 can effectively clean the second optical system 22 without being reflected in the field of view of the second optical system 22. The first distance is different from the second distance.

[0049] Furthermore, on the distal surface 2s, in this exemplary embodiment, a first channel 19a is arranged obliquely toward the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 relative to the bisector BB. The centerline of the first channel 19a can be positioned at a predetermined angle β relative to an imaginary vertical line PP perpendicular to the bisector BB of the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22. The predetermined angle β can be in the range of 0 to 50 degrees.

[0050] The first channel 19a may be disposed in the lower portion of the distal surface 2s. The nozzle portion 18 is spaced apart from the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22 so that the nozzle portion 18 is not included in the field of view of the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22. In this exemplary embodiment, the nozzle portion 18 may be disposed in the left portion of the distal surface 2s, and the first channel 19a may be disposed in the right portion of the distal surface 2s. The first channel 19a includes an opening through which an elongated medical device can be inserted into the insertion portion 2 of the endoscope 1, and the medical device can protrude from the opening to perform medical examination or medical treatment. The medical device may be, for example, a clamp, a suture device, a scalpel, a strangulation device, a basket, etc.

[0051] Additionally, on the distal end face 2s, in this exemplary embodiment, a second channel 19b may be arranged on the rear side of the nozzle portion 18 relative to both the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22. The second channel 19b may also be arranged on the left portion of the distal end face 2s. The second channel 19b includes an opening through which fluid is sprayed toward the body tissue of the object to be examined. The opening of the second channel 19b may have a smaller diameter than the opening of the first channel 19a.

[0052] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 An enlarged plan view of the distal end face 2s of the insertion portion 2 surrounded by IV line shows the positional relationship between the nozzle portion 18 and the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22.

[0053] In this exemplary embodiment, the nozzle portion 18 is configured to clean the first optical system 21 based on a first cleaning configuration and to clean the second optical system 22 based on a second cleaning configuration. The nozzle portion 18 may include a single nozzle, which may be formed with one orifice or more than one orifice.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, the first cleaning configuration of the nozzle portion 18 includes a first vector indicating a first cleaning direction (or path) toward the first optical system 21. The second cleaning configuration of the nozzle portion 18 includes a second vector indicating a second cleaning direction (or path) toward the second optical system 22. The first and second cleaning directions (paths) have an intersection point located on the rear side of the nozzle portion 18 relative to the first and second optical systems 21 and 22. The first cleaning direction / path is not parallel to the second cleaning direction / path.

[0055] The first cleaning configuration of the nozzle portion 18 also includes a first distance from the nozzle portion 18 to the first optical system 21. The second cleaning configuration of the nozzle portion 18 also includes a second distance from the nozzle portion 18 to the second optical system 22. In this exemplary embodiment, the first distance is shorter than the second distance.

[0056] Figure 5(a) is a view schematically illustrating first and second cleaning configurations of a nozzle portion 18 according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 5(a), the first cleaning configuration further includes a first pump 30a connected to the nozzle portion 18 via a first conduit 40a. The second cleaning configuration further includes a second pump 30b connected to the nozzle portion 18 via a second conduit 40b. The nozzle portion 18 may include a single-opening nozzle or a double-opening nozzle.

[0057] In a dual-opening nozzle, as shown in FIG5(b), a first tube 40a extends into the nozzle portion 18 and connects to the first opening 41a of a single nozzle 42 of the nozzle portion 18, and a second tube 40b extends into the nozzle portion 18 and connects to the second opening 41b of the single nozzle 42 of the nozzle portion 18. The first opening 41a may be connected to the second opening 41b (see FIG8(a)). The first opening 41a and the second opening 41b may be separated by a separator 43 (see FIG8(b)). The first opening 41a may be separated from the second opening 41b (see FIG8(c)). With this exemplary configuration, the first pump 30a for the first tube 40a and the second pump 30b for the second tube 40b may be activated simultaneously, or the first pump 30a may be activated at a different time than the second pump 30b.

[0058] In a single-opening nozzle, as shown in FIG5(c), the first tube 40a and the second tube 40b extend into the nozzle portion 18 and merge into a single tube within the nozzle portion 18. In another exemplary embodiment, the first tube 40a and the second tube 40b may merge within the insertion portion 2. With this exemplary configuration, the nozzle portion 18 is formed with a single nozzle 42 having an opening that connects to both the first tube 40a and the second tube 40b. The first pump 30a for the first tube 40a and the second pump 30b for the second tube 40b may be activated simultaneously, or the first pump 30a may be activated at a different time than the second pump 30b.

[0059] When the operation unit 3 sends a command to the first pump 30a, the first pump 30 is activated to supply fluid to the nozzle section 18 via the first pipe 40a at a first jet rate, and the nozzle section 18 therefore jets fluid at the first jet rate and cleans the first optical system 21. When the operation unit 3 sends a command to the second pump 30b, the second pump 30 is activated to supply fluid to the nozzle section 18 via the second pipe 40b at a second jet rate, and the nozzle section 18 therefore jets fluid at the second jet rate and cleans the second optical system 22. The first pump 30a can be activated at a different time than the second pump 30b. The first pump 30a and the second pump 30b can be activated simultaneously.

[0060] Fluids can be any of liquids, gases, or mixtures of liquids and gases.

[0061] The first injection rate may differ from the second injection rate. In this exemplary embodiment, the first injection rate is lower than the second injection rate.

[0062] The first tube 40a may have the same diameter as the second tube 40b. Alternatively, the first tube 40a may have a different diameter than the second tube 40b.

[0063] Figure 6(a) is a view schematically illustrating first and second cleaning configurations of a nozzle portion 18 according to another exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 6(a), the first cleaning configuration includes a pump 30 connected to the nozzle portion 18 via a pipe 40. In the first cleaning configuration, fluid is ejected at a first jet rate. The second cleaning configuration also includes a pump 30 connected to the nozzle portion 18 via a pipe 40. In the second cleaning configuration, fluid is ejected at a second jet rate. The nozzle portion 18 may include a single-opening nozzle or a double-opening nozzle.

[0064] In a double-opening nozzle, as shown in FIG6(b), the tube 40 extends into the nozzle portion 18 and connects with the first opening 41a of the single nozzle 42 of the nozzle portion 18 (in Figures 8(a) to 8(c) It is connected to the second opening 41b of the single nozzle 42 of the nozzle section 18 (in the middle) and also connected to the second opening 41b of the nozzle section 18. Figures 8(a) to 8(c)(See Figure 8(a)). The first opening 41a and the second opening 41b can be connected (see Figure 8(b)). The first opening 41a and the second opening 41b can be separated by a separator 43 (see Figure 8(c)). The first opening 41a can be separated from the second opening 41b (see Figure 8(c)). With this exemplary configuration, the pump 30 can be activated to simultaneously inject fluid into the first opening 41a and the second opening 41b at different or the same injection rates. Figures 8(a) to 8(c) As shown, the first opening 41a and the second opening 41b are configured to have different orifice areas, thereby obtaining different injection rates. Alternatively, the pump 30 can be activated at one time to inject fluid into the first opening 41a at a first injection rate, and at a different time to inject fluid into the second opening 41b at a second injection rate.

[0065] In a single-orifice nozzle, as shown in FIG6(c), a tube 40 can be formed by merging a first tube 40a and a second tube 40b within the nozzle portion 18. Alternatively, a tube 40 can be formed by merging a first tube 40a and a second tube 40b within the insertion portion 2. With this exemplary configuration, the nozzle portion 18 forms a single nozzle 42 as shown in FIG8(d). The first injection rate and the second injection rate of the pump 30 can be activated alternately. Furthermore, as shown in the left view of FIG8(d), the single nozzle 42 can be configured with orifices of different sizes on both the right and left ends of the single nozzle 42 to obtain different injection rates of fluid ejected from different orifices. Additionally, as shown in the right view of FIG8(d), the single nozzle 42 is configured to deflect from its bottom surface, so that the right orifice and the left orifice are set at different heights, thereby further dispersing the injection of fluid.

[0066] When the operation unit 3 sends a first command to the pump 30, the pump 30 is activated to supply fluid to the nozzle section 18 via the pipe 40 at a first jet rate, and the nozzle section 18 therefore jets fluid at the first jet rate and cleans the first optical system 21. When the operation unit 3 sends a second command to the pump 30, the pump 30 is activated to supply fluid to the nozzle section 18 via the pipe 40 at a second jet rate, and the nozzle section 18 therefore jets fluid at the second jet rate and cleans the second optical system 22. The operation unit 3 can send the first command and the second command at the same time or at different times. Furthermore, even if the pump 30 is activated to supply fluid at the same pumping pressure, the corresponding jet rates of the fluid jetted from the first opening 41a and the second opening 41b can be different by making the orifice areas of the first opening 41a and the second opening 41b different.

[0067] Fluids can be any of liquids, gases, or mixtures of liquids and gases.

[0068] The first injection rate may differ from the second injection rate. In this exemplary embodiment, the first injection rate is lower than the second injection rate.

[0069] Figure 7 This is a schematic view illustrating the first and second injection configurations according to another exemplary embodiment. Figure 7 As shown, the nozzle portion 18 is arranged at an inclined angle relative to the first optical system 21 (11) and the second optical system 22 (12). The first cleaning configuration includes a first spray area FR, and the second cleaning configuration includes a second spray area SR. The first spray area FR and the second spray area SR are divided by the centerline 18a (or the nozzle spray direction) of the nozzle portion 18.

[0070] In this exemplary embodiment, in the front view of the distal end face 2s of the endoscope, the left side 21 (11) is defined as the right eye and the right side 22 (12) is the left eye.

[0071] The center line 18a can be positioned to extend in a direction passing through the region between the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22. The center line 18a can slightly overlap the first optical system 21 or the second optical system 22. However, the center line 18a is positioned so as not to pass through or overlap either the first optical system 21 or the second optical system 22. In particular, the center line 18a is positioned so as not to overlap either the first objective lens 11 (right eye lens) of the first optical system 21 or the second objective lens 12 (left eye lens) of the second optical system 22.

[0072] With this configuration, it is prevented that the nozzle section 18 is arranged substantially in the same direction on the distal surface 2s of the first optical system 21 and the second optical system 22, because as the flow rate (or pressure) of the jet fluid decreases with distance from the nozzle, the nozzle becomes difficult to remove stains and the like left far from the nozzle. In other words, when the center line 18a of the nozzle jet direction passes through both the right eye lens 12 and the left eye lens 11, it is difficult to clean the long paths of the left and right fields of view simultaneously (the horizontal path of the left eye image + the horizontal path of the right eye image).

[0073] In this embodiment, the path (the vertical path of the left eye image and the vertical path of the right eye image) can be shortened, and the time for water droplets, dirt, etc. to pass through can be reduced.

[0074] Reference Figure 7The first spray region FR can be defined by a center line 18a and a side line 18b. The second spray region SR can be defined by a center line 18a and a side line 18c. The side line 18b is positioned to extend from the nozzle portion 18 toward the first optical system 21 in a direction away from the center line 18a. The side line 18c is positioned to extend from the nozzle portion 18 toward the second optical system 22 in a direction away from the center line 18a. Therefore, the shape of the first spray region FR can be designed to be conical, and the size of the first spray region FR gradually increases toward the first optical system 21, so that the first spray region completely covers the first optical system 21. In an exemplary embodiment, the first spray region FR does not overlap with the second objective lens 12 of the second optical system 22. In another exemplary embodiment, the first spray region FR may slightly overlap with the second objective lens 12 of the second optical system 22. The shape of the second spray region SR can be designed to be conical, and the size of the second spray region SR gradually increases toward the second optical system 22, so that the second spray region SR completely covers the second optical system 22. In one exemplary embodiment, the second jetting region SR does not overlap with the first objective lens 11 of the first optical system 21. In another exemplary embodiment, the second jetting region SR may slightly overlap with the first objective lens 11 of the first optical system 21.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first spraying region has a centerline 18d extending toward the first optical system 21, and the second spraying region has a centerline 18e extending toward the second optical system 22. Centerlines 18d and 18e are not parallel. Centerlines 18d and 18e extend at an opening angle. With this exemplary configuration, the fluid sprayed by the first cleaning configuration effectively cleans the first optical system 21 within the first spraying region, and the fluid sprayed by the second cleaning configuration effectively cleans the second optical system 22 within the second spraying region. Therefore, water droplets, stains, etc., flowing from one field of view can be prevented from flowing to another field of view, thereby reducing the time water droplets, stains, etc., remain in the other field of view.

[0076] Figures 8(a) to 8(d)The views shown are schematic representations of nozzles adapted for different configurations of the nozzle section 18, provided as exemplary embodiments. Figure 8(a) shows three (3) exemplary configurations of the nozzle 42 adapted for the nozzle section 18. A single nozzle 42 comprises two interconnected circles. The left circle (smaller) corresponds to a first opening 41a, and the right circle (larger) corresponds to a second opening 41b. As shown in the left exemplary configuration of Figure 8(a), the nozzle 42 can be shaped like two circles with different diameters that slightly overlap each other. As shown in the middle exemplary configuration of Figure 8(a), the nozzle 42 can be shaped like two circles with different diameters connected to each other via a shared space such as a parallelogram space. The right exemplary configuration of Figure 8(a) is similar to the middle exemplary configuration of Figure 8(a) except that the right exemplary configuration of Figure 8(a) includes a flat bottom surface connecting the two circles (first opening 41a and second opening 41b) as a shared space.

[0077] Figure 8(b) shows other different exemplary types of the nozzle 42 suitable for the nozzle portion 18. Regarding the exemplary type on the left side of Figure 8(b), the nozzle 42 can be divided into two distinct parts by means of a separator 43. The left part (smaller part) corresponds to the first opening 40a, and the right part (larger part) corresponds to the second opening 40b. The middle view of Figure 8(b) is a cross-sectional view VV of the exemplary type on the left side, showing the integrally formed separator 43. The exemplary type on the right side of Figure 8(b) shows that the nozzle 42 can be divided into two distinct parts (first opening 41a and second opening 41b) by means of a separator 43 detachably attached to the nozzle.

[0078] Figure 8(c) shows other different exemplary types of the nozzle 42 suitable for the nozzle section 18. As shown in Figure 8(c), the nozzle 42 may be formed by two separate openings (these two openings correspond to the first opening 41a and the second opening 41b) and connected to the first tube 40a and the second tube 40b respectively.

[0079] Figure 8(d) illustrates other different exemplary configurations of the nozzle 42 suitable for the nozzle section 18. A single nozzle 42 is configured to connect to both the first tube 40a and the second tube 40b. In the exemplary configuration on the left side of Figure 8(d), the nozzle 42 may be shaped like a cone with two ends of different sizes. In the exemplary configuration on the right side of Figure 8(d), the nozzle 42 may be shaped like an oblique rectangle or other geometry with two ends (preferably curved).

[0080] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with the foregoing exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that additions, deletions, modifications, and substitutions not specifically described may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0081] Relevant application data

[0082] This application is based on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 150,147, filed on February 17, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An endoscope, the endoscope comprising: Operations Department; as well as An insertion part, connected to the operating part and configured to be inserted into the object to be inspected, the insertion part including a distal surface, The distal surface of the insertion portion includes: First optical system; A second optical system is arranged side by side with the first optical system, such that the dividing line equally bisects the first optical system and the second optical system. First lighting unit; A second illumination unit is separate from the first illumination unit, such that the first optical system and the second optical system are arranged between the two illumination units; A first channel opening is arranged on a first line, the first line forming a first predetermined angle with respect to a line perpendicular to the bisectors of the first and second optical systems; and A nozzle portion is arranged on a second line, the second line forming a second predetermined angle with respect to a line perpendicular to the bisectors of the first and second optical systems, wherein the nozzle portion is configured such that: Clean the first optical system based on the first cleaning configuration; and Clean the second optical system using the second cleaning configuration; The first cleaning configuration includes a first vector indicating a first cleaning direction toward the first optical system. The second cleaning configuration includes a second vector indicating a second cleaning direction toward the second optical system, and The first vector and the second vector intersect at a point located behind the nozzle relative to both the first optical system and the second optical system. The centerline of the nozzle portion is positioned to extend in a direction passing through the region between the first optical system and the second optical system, and the centerline is positioned not to pass through either the first optical system or the second optical system; A vertical imaginary line passes through the center of the distal surface and divides the distal surface into a first part and a second part, the areas of the first part and the second part being equal. Wherein, the vertical imaginary line is perpendicular to the bisector of the first optical system and the second optical system, and The first optical system and the nozzle portion are located within the first portion, and the second optical system is located within the second portion.

2. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein, The distal surface further includes: A cover portion covering both the first optical system and the second optical system, the cover portion including a first region corresponding to the first optical system and a second region corresponding to the second optical system. The first cleaning configuration is configured to clean the first area of ​​the cover portion, and the second cleaning configuration is configured to clean the second area of ​​the cover portion.

3. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein, The first cleaning configuration and the second cleaning configuration are respectively configured to clean the first optical system and the second optical system simultaneously.

4. The endoscope of claim 3, wherein, The nozzle portion includes a nozzle, the nozzle including a single nozzle orifice, and the nozzle portion is configured to eject fluid from the single nozzle orifice to clean both the first optical system and the second optical system.

5. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein, The nozzle portion includes a single nozzle, the single nozzle comprising: A first opening, the first opening being configured to eject fluid toward the first optical system based on the first cleaning configuration; and A second opening is configured to eject fluid toward the second optical system based on the second cleaning configuration.

6. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein, The first cleaning configuration includes a first distance set from the nozzle portion to the first optical system. The second cleaning configuration includes a second distance set from the nozzle portion to the second optical system, and The first distance is shorter than the second distance.

7. The endoscope of claim 1, wherein, The distal surface further includes a second channel opening through which fluid is sprayed toward the body tissue of the object, and The second channel opening is arranged on the rear side of the nozzle portion relative to both the first optical system and the second optical system.

8. The endoscope according to claim 7, wherein, The first channel opening is configured to allow an elongated medical device inserted into the insertion portion from the proximal side of the endoscope to protrude.

9. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein, The first cleaning configuration includes a first opening, and the second cleaning configuration includes a second opening. The first opening and the second opening have different sizes.

10. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein, The first cleaning configuration is configured to spray fluid at a first spray rate, and the second cleaning configuration is configured to spray fluid at a second spray rate. The first injection rate is different from the second injection rate.

11. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein, The nozzle portion includes: Single nozzle; A first tube is connected to the single nozzle to supply a first fluid to clean the first optical system; A second tube is connected to the single nozzle to supply a second fluid to clean the second optical system; A first pump, connected to the first pipe, thereby pumping the first fluid at a first jet rate; and A second pump, connected to the second pipe, pumps the second fluid at a second jet rate. The first fluid and the second fluid are simultaneously ejected from the single nozzle.

12. The endoscope according to claim 11, wherein, The first injection rate is different from the second injection rate.

13. The endoscope according to claim 12, wherein, The single nozzle includes: a first opening configured to spray the first fluid into the first optical system; and a second opening configured to spray the second fluid into the second optical system.

14. The endoscope according to claim 13, wherein, The first opening and the second opening have different sizes.

15. The endoscope according to claim 13, wherein, The first opening is connected to the second opening.

16. The endoscope according to claim 13, wherein, The first opening and the second opening are separated by a separator.

17. The endoscope of claim 13, further comprising a separator detachably attached to the single nozzle to separate the first opening and the second opening.

18. An endoscope system, said endoscope system include ： The endoscope according to claim 1 is used to acquire a stereoscopic image of the area to be examined in a subject; and An image processing unit is connected to the endoscope to process the stereoscopic image.

19. The endoscope system of claim 18, further comprising: A display unit is configured to display an image processed by the image processing unit. as well as An input unit is connected to the image processing unit.

20. An endoscope, the endoscope comprising: An insertion portion, configured to be inserted into an object to be inspected, includes a distal end, the distal end including a distal face. On the distal end face: The first observation window is arranged to be used for observing the interior of the object; The second observation window is arranged side by side with the first observation window for observing the area inside the object, and has parallax relative to the first observation window; The channel is arranged to supply fluid from the outside of the object to the distal end of the insertion portion; and The nozzles are arranged to simultaneously spray the fluid toward both the first and second observation windows. The nozzle, based on a first cleaning configuration, sprays fluid from the channel into a first spray path to clean the first viewing window, and based on a second cleaning configuration, sprays fluid from the channel into a second spray path to clean the second viewing window. Wherein, the first injection path and the second injection path do not intersect; An imaginary line passing through the center of the distal surface and parallel to the bisector divides the distal surface into an upper part and a lower part. The nozzle is disposed on the lower part of the distal surface, and the first observation window and the second observation window are arranged side by side on the upper part of the distal surface. A vertical imaginary line passes through the center of the distal surface and divides the distal surface into a first part and a second part, the areas of the first part and the second part being equal. Wherein, the vertical imaginary line is perpendicular to the bisector of the first and second observation windows, and The first observation window and the nozzle are located within the first portion, and the second observation window is located within the second portion.

21. The endoscope according to claim 20, wherein, The centerline of the first injection path is not parallel to the centerline of the second injection path.

22. The endoscope according to claim 20, wherein, The nozzle includes a single nozzle orifice, from which the first injection path and the second injection path are formed.

23. The endoscope according to claim 22, wherein, The single nozzle includes a first opening for the first injection path and a second opening for the second injection path, and The first opening is connected to the second opening.

24. The endoscope according to claim 23, wherein, The first opening and the second opening have different sizes.

25. The endoscope according to claim 22, wherein, The single nozzle includes a separator that is detachably attached to the nozzle and divides the nozzle into a first opening for the first spray path and a second opening for the second spray path.

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