Endoscope imaging device and endoscope

Abstract

An endoscope imaging device and an endoscope in which the joining strength of a signal cable is high and the joining reliability of the signal cable is high are provided. The endoscope imaging device includes a lens barrel in which an imaging lens is provided inside; an imaging element that receives light that has passed through the imaging lens and performs photoelectric conversion; a circuit substrate that is electrically connected to the imaging element; at least one optical member that is disposed between the lens barrel and the imaging element; a holding member that links the optical member and the lens barrel; a signal cable that is electrically connected to the imaging element and has a sheath that constitutes an outer periphery; a fixing member that is provided to the sheath of the signal cable; a protection tube that covers the sheath of the signal cable; and a linking member that holds the signal cable provided with the fixing member with respect to the holding member. The signal cable is fixed to the linking member, and the protection tube is disposed such that a front end face is located more on the side of the lens barrel than a rear end face on the side opposite the lens barrel of the linking member, and more on the side of the rear end face than the fixing member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an endoscopic imaging device and endoscope for acquiring images of an object to be observed, and more particularly to an endoscopic imaging device and endoscope having a fixing component and a protective tube on a signal cable. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, diagnostic work has been widely carried out using endoscopic systems equipped with endoscopic light source devices, endoscopes (endoscopic observers), and processors.

[0003] The endoscope has an insertion part that is inserted into the patient's body. Illumination light from an endoscopic light source device is shone onto the object being observed through the insertion part. The endoscope captures an image of the object being observed by the illumination light using an imaging element and generates an image signal. A processor performs image processing on the image signal generated by the endoscope to generate an observation image for display on a monitor. The imaging element is electrically connected to a signal cable via a circuit board made of a flexible wiring board or the like, and the signal cable is electrically connected to the processor.

[0004] Signal cables are composite multi-core cables with multiple signal lines. Because the signal cable extends the entire length of the insertion section, it is subjected to strong pulling force each time the insertion section forms a loop or bends. Therefore, sometimes a large force is applied to the signal cable, which can lead to the signal cable peeling off from the circuit board or the signal cable breaking. Various solutions have been proposed to prevent such peeling or breakage of the signal cable from the circuit board.

[0005] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an endoscope comprising: a distal body having an observation window and a barrel mounting hole formed opposite to the observation window; a lens barrel mounted in the barrel mounting hole; a solid-state imaging element for photoelectric conversion of an optical image formed by the lens barrel; a substrate on which the solid-state imaging element is mounted; a signal cable consisting of a plurality of bare wires electrically connected to the substrate and an outer sheath covering the bare wires; a cable mounting member having a cable fixing portion having a locking portion fixed at one end and the outer sheath of the signal cable fixed at the other end; and a locking receiving portion formed on the distal body near the barrel mounting hole to hold the locking portion in a swingable manner.

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-170765 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The endoscope in Patent Document 1 includes: a cable mounting component having a cable fixing portion for securing the outer sheath of a signal cable; and a locking receiving portion formed on the end body near the endpiece mounting hole to hold the locking portion in a freely swinging manner. However, in the endoscope of Patent Document 1, as described above, when the insertion portion is looped or bent and pulled forcefully, if a large force is applied to the signal cable, there is a possibility that the signal cable may be stripped from the circuit board or the signal cable may break.

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide an endoscope camera device and endoscope with high signal cable bonding strength and high signal cable bonding reliability.

[0009] To achieve the above objectives, one aspect of the present invention provides an endoscopic imaging device for acquiring images of an object under observation. The endoscopic imaging device comprises: a lens barrel containing an imaging lens; an imaging element receiving light passing through the imaging lens and performing photoelectric conversion; a circuit board electrically connected to the imaging element; at least one optical component disposed between the lens barrel and the imaging element; a holding member connecting the optical component and the lens barrel; a signal cable electrically connected to the imaging element and having an outer sheath forming the periphery; a fixing member disposed on the outer sheath of the signal cable; a protective tube covering the outer sheath of the signal cable; and a connecting member holding the signal cable with the fixing member disposed relative to the holding member. The signal cable is fixed to the connecting member, and the protective tube is configured such that its front end face is located further from the lens barrel side than the rear end face of the connecting member on the side opposite to the lens barrel, and further from the rear end face side than the fixing member.

[0010] The preferred signal cable is fixed to the connecting component with adhesive.

[0011] The preferred protective tube is softer than the adhesive in its cured state.

[0012] Preferably, the connecting components cover the imaging element, circuit board, and optical components.

[0013] Preferably, the connecting component is provided with a through hole.

[0014] Preferably, the opening diameter of the through hole in the connecting component is 0.6 mm or more.

[0015] Preferably, the through hole of the connecting component is located closer to the fixing component than the front end face of the protective tube.

[0016] Preferably, it has a cover disposed on the connecting part, covering the imaging element, circuit board and optical components, and the cover is configured to contain metal.

[0017] Preferably, there is a clearance between the inner surface of the protective tube and the outer sheath of the signal cable.

[0018] Preferably, a gap is provided between the end of the connecting member of the fixing member on the rear end face and the front end face of the protective tube to configure the protective tube.

[0019] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention provides an endoscope having the endoscopic imaging device of the present invention.

[0020] Invention Effects

[0021] According to the present invention, an endoscope imaging device and an endoscope are provided that have high signal cable bonding strength and high signal cable bonding reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an endoscope system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view showing a first example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic front view illustrating a first example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic side view illustrating a first example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic bottom view illustrating a first example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic perspective view showing a second example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a schematic side view illustrating a second example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the signal cable of an endoscopic camera device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective view showing a third example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 10 This is a schematic perspective view of the connecting component of a third example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 11 This is a schematic side view illustrating a third example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 12 This is a schematic perspective view showing a fourth example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Symbol Explanation

[0035] 10-Endoscope system, 12-Endoscope, 14-Light source device, 16-Processor device, 20, 20a, 20b, 20c-Endoscope imaging device, 22-Lens barrel, 23-Imaging lens, 24-Holding component, 24a-Mounting barrel, 24b-Flange, 24c-Protrusion, 24e-Back side, 25-Imaging element, 25a-Light receiving surface, 26, 46-Circuit board, 26a-Plate-shaped part, 26b, 46c-First bend, 26c, 46d-Second bend, 27-Prism, 27a-Incident surface, 27b-Exit surface, 27c-Side surface, 28-Signal cable, 28a-Signal line, 28b-Sheathing layer, 28c-Shielding conductor, 28d-Outer sheath, 29 - Connecting component, 29a- Arm, 29b- Retaining part, 29c, 44h- Rear end face, 30, 30a- Electronic component, 31- Cover glass, 32- Sensor protection part, 33- Filling component, 34- Protrusion, 36- Fixing component, 37- Protective tube, 37a- Front end face, 37b- Inner surface, 38- Adhesive, 39- Gap, 40- Through hole, 41- Clearance, 42- Engaging part, 44- Connecting component, 44a- Retaining part, 44b- Arm, 44c- Opening, 44e- Inner side, 44f- Bottom, 44g- Substrate part, 45a- Base end, 45b- End, 46a- Surface, 46b- Back side, 46e- Bending part, 50- Cover, C- Optical axis, D- Opening diameter. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Hereinafter, the endoscopic imaging device and endoscope of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Furthermore, the figures described below are illustrative for illustrating the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the figures shown below.

[0038] The terms "parallel," "perpendicular," and "orthogonal" used in the following descriptions include the error ranges that are generally permissible in this technical field.

[0039] [Endoscopic System]

[0040] The endoscope system illuminates the observation site (not shown) inside the body of the subject and takes a picture of the observation site. It generates and displays a display image of the observation site based on the image signal obtained by the picture.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an endoscope system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Endoscopic system 10 includes an endoscope 12, a light source device 14, and a processor device 16. In addition to the endoscope 12 described later, there is an endoscopic imaging device 20 (see reference). Figure 2 Apart from the portion that is part of the endoscope, the endoscope system 10 has the same structure as a conventional endoscope.

[0043] Endoscope 12 includes an endoscopic imaging device. Furthermore, although not shown in detail, endoscope 12 includes an insertion section for insertion into the patient, an operating section connected to the insertion section, and a universal plug extending from the operating section. The insertion section comprises a distal end, a curved section connected to the distal end, and a flexible section connecting the curved section and the operating section. The endoscopic imaging device will be described later.

[0044] An endoscope camera device 20 is provided at the distal end of the endoscope 12 (reference). Figure 2 This endoscopic imaging device includes an illumination optical system that emits illumination light to illuminate the area being observed, and an imaging element and imaging optical system that capture images of the area being observed. The bending section is configured to bend in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the insertion section, and the bending action of the bending section is operated by an operating section. Furthermore, the flexible section is configured to deform relatively flexibly to conform to the shape of the insertion path of the insertion section.

[0045] An endoscope camera device 20 (reference) is provided at the operating end of the operating part. Figure 2 The device includes buttons for shooting actions and knobs for bending actions of the bending section. Furthermore, the operating section has an inlet for inserting surgical instruments such as electrosurgical scalpels, and the insertion section has an instrument channel extending from the inlet to the end portion for inserting instruments such as forceps.

[0046] A connector is provided at the end of the universal plug cord, and the endoscope 12 is connected via the connector to the light source device 14 that generates illumination light emitted from the illumination optics system at the end and the endoscope camera device 20 that processes the image emitted from the end (see reference). Figure 2 The processor device 16 that acquires the video signal is connected.

[0047] The processor device 16 processes the input video signal, generates video data of the observed area, and displays the generated video data on a monitor (not shown) or records it to a storage medium such as a hard disk. Alternatively, the processor device 16 may be composed of a processor such as a personal computer.

[0048] The light source device 14 is a device for performing the following: [referencing] the endoscopic imaging device 20 (see reference) for the endoscope 12. Figure 2The endoscope 12 captures images of the object to be observed within the body cavity, acquires image signals of the object, and generates illumination light, such as white light or light of a specific wavelength composed of three primary colors (red, green, and blue), which is supplied to the endoscope 12. The light propagates through the light guide within the endoscope 12 and is emitted from the illumination optical system at the end of the insertion part of the endoscope 12 to illuminate the object to be observed within the body cavity.

[0049] A light guide or a wire assembly (signal cable) is housed inside the insertion section, the operating section, and the universal plug cord. Illumination light generated by the light source device 14 is guided via the light guide to the illumination optics system at the distal end, and at least one of the signal and power is transmitted via the wire assembly to the endoscope imaging device 20 at the distal end (see reference). Figure 2 Transmission between the processor device 16 and the processor device 16.

[0050] Furthermore, the endoscope system 10 may also include a water supply tank for storing cleaning water, a suction pump for aspirating material (including the supplied cleaning water) from the body cavity, and a supply pump for supplying cleaning water from the water supply tank or external air into the endoscope.

[0051] [The first example of an endoscopic camera device]

[0052] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a first example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a schematic front view illustrating a first example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is a schematic side view illustrating a first example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a schematic bottom view illustrating a first example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, Figure 4 Indicates removal Figure 2 The state of the connecting component 29.

[0053] exist Figure 1 The distal end of the endoscope 12 of the endoscope system 10 shown is equipped with Figure 2 The endoscopic camera device 20 shown is also called a camera.

[0054] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The endoscopic imaging device 20 shown acquires images of the object being observed. The endoscopic imaging device 20 includes an imaging lens 23, a lens barrel 22 for holding the imaging lens 23, a holding member 24, an imaging element 25, a circuit board 26, a prism 27, and a signal cable 28. Furthermore, the endoscopic imaging device 20 includes a connecting member 29.

[0055] Prism 27 is, for example, a right-angle prism with an incident surface 27a and an exit surface 27b orthogonal. Prism 27 is an example of an optical component disposed between the lens barrel 22 and the imaging element 25, but the optical component is not limited to prism 27. In addition, prism 27 is not necessarily required depending on the placement of the imaging element 25, and it can also be a structure that accommodates other optical components.

[0056] Imaging lens 23 is an optical element that images the light incident on it onto the light-receiving surface 25a of imaging element 25. Imaging lens 23 is held by lens barrel 22.

[0057] The lens barrel 22 is a cylindrical component that holds one or more imaging lenses 23 internally. The lens barrel 22 holds the imaging lens 23 in such a way that the optical axis C of the imaging lens 23 is perpendicular to the incident surface 27a of the prism 27. The endoscope imaging device 20, for example, has three imaging lenses 23, which are held by the lens barrel 22.

[0058] Here, the direction parallel to the optical axis C is designated as the X direction. Of the two directions orthogonal to the optical axis C, one is designated as the Y direction, and the remaining direction is designated as the Z direction. The Y direction corresponds to the width direction of the endoscope camera device 20, and the Z direction corresponds to the height direction of the endoscope camera device 20.

[0059] There are no particular limitations on the structure of the imaging lens 23 and the lens barrel 22. For example, it can be a structure with one imaging lens 23, or it can be a structure with two or more imaging lenses 23. Furthermore, each imaging lens 23 can be a convex lens or a concave lens.

[0060] Imaging element 25 is an imaging element that performs imaging by converting the light imaged by imaging lens 23 into an electrical signal through photoelectric conversion. Imaging element 25 is a conventionally known imaging element that can use a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) type image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor.

[0061] The imaging element 25 is positioned further from the base end than the lens barrel 22. For example... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the imaging element 25 is electrically connected to the circuit board 26, for example, via conductive bumps 34. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, the imaging element 25 is mounted on the circuit board 26 with its light-receiving surface 25a parallel to the optical axis C of the imaging lens 23. Note that "mounted" refers to electrical connection.

[0062] In order to securely connect the imaging element 25 and the circuit board 26, an underfill layer (not shown) can also be provided between the imaging element 25 and the circuit board 26.

[0063] The bump 34 is made of metal or alloy. More specifically, the bump 34 is made of solder. The bump 34 formed by solder is also called a solder ball. In addition, the bump 34 is not limited to solder or the like as long as it can electrically connect the imaging element 25 to the circuit board 26. Furthermore, the imaging element 25 and the circuit board 26 can also be directly electrically connected.

[0064] Furthermore, due to the difference in the coefficients of thermal expansion between the imaging element 25 and the circuit board 46, stress is generated at the junction of the imaging element 25 and the circuit board 26, for example at the bump 34, but the bottom filler layer alleviates this stress. Through the bottom filler layer, the imaging element 25 and the circuit board 26 are firmly connected, the reliability of the electrical connection is increased, and a highly reliable endoscope imaging device 20 is obtained.

[0065] The underfiller constituting the underfill layer is not particularly limited, and an underfiller that serves as a sealing resin between the imaging element 25 and the circuit board 26 can be appropriately used. For example, a one-component heat-curing epoxy resin can be used as the underfiller. In this case, after supplying the underfiller, heating is maintained at a predetermined temperature to form the underfill layer.

[0066] The circuit board 26 is a substrate for mounting the imaging element 25. In addition to the imaging element 25, electronic components 30, 30a are mounted on the circuit board 26.

[0067] Furthermore, the circuit board 26 is provided with multiple connection terminals (not shown) for inputting or outputting signals or power to the imaging element 25 and electronic components 30, 30a. Signal line 28a of the signal cable 28 (see reference) Figure 4 It is electrically connected to the connecting terminal.

[0068] In the example shown, the circuit board 26 has a shape in which a generally L-shaped plate-like component is bent at two points. Specifically, the circuit board 26 has a first bent portion 26b bent about an axis orthogonal to the optical axis C of the imaging lens 23 and a second bent portion 26c bent about the optical axis C. An imaging element 25, electronic components 30, 30a, and connection terminals are mounted on the three plate-like portions connected by these two bent portions. Furthermore, the imaging element 25 is mounted on... Figure 4 The upper surface of the plate-shaped portion 26a of the circuit board 26 on the lower middle side.

[0069] The circuit board 26 can also be a flexible substrate. Furthermore, the circuit board 26 can be bent at one or more points. The arrangement of the imaging element 25, electronic components 30, 30a, and connection terminals on the circuit board 26 is not particularly limited. The circuit board 26 can be, for example, made of a flexible printed circuit board.

[0070] Signal cable 28 is connected to the connection terminal on circuit board 26, and imaging element 25 is electrically connected to signal cable 28. The imaging element 25 converts light into an electrical signal, which is transmitted via signal cable 28. Signal cable 28 is inserted into the insertion part, operating part, universal tether, etc., of the endoscope, and connects to processor device 16 (reference). Figure 1 Electrical connection. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the signal cable 28 as long as it has a structure with an outer sheath 28d forming the outer periphery.

[0071] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the signal cable 28 has: a plurality of signal lines 28a; a sheathing layer 28b covering each signal line 28a; a shielding conductor 28c, which is covered by the sheathing layer 28b and disposed around the plurality of signal lines 28a as a whole; and an outer sheath 28d covering the shielding conductor 28c. As described above, the outer sheath 28d constitutes the outer periphery of the signal cable 28. The sheathing layer 28b, the shielding conductor 28c, and the outer sheath 28d are, for example, cylindrical. The shielding conductor 28c of the signal cable 28 is referred to as a shielding element. The signal cable 28 has, for example, four signal lines 28a. The number of signal lines 28a corresponds to the structure of the endoscope imaging device 20 and is not particularly limited; it can be two, three, or five or more.

[0072] The signal cable 28 is a multi-core cable with multiple signal lines 28a bundled together, shielded by a conductor 28c, and housed in a cylindrical sheath 28d.

[0073] The cover glass 31 is disposed on the light-receiving surface 25a of the imaging element 25 to protect the light-receiving surface 25a.

[0074] A prism 27 is disposed between the lens barrel 22 and the imaging element 25, separated by a cover glass 31. The prism 27 guides light passing through the imaging lens 23 to the light-receiving surface 25a of the imaging element 25. The prism 27 bends the light passing through the imaging lens 23, held by the lens barrel 22, by, for example, 90°, changing the light path and guiding it to the light-receiving surface 25a of the imaging element 25. The prism 27 is configured such that its incident surface 27a faces the base end of the lens barrel 22. Furthermore, the prism 27 is configured such that its exit surface 27b faces the light-receiving surface 25a of the imaging element 25. In this case, the prism 27 is configured such that its exit surface 27b faces the cover glass 31.

[0075] The retaining member 24 is a component that holds the lens barrel 22 and the prism 27. The retaining member 24 is a generally cylindrical component, and the lens barrel 22 is embedded inside the cylindrical part to hold the lens barrel 22. The inner surface of the retaining member 24 is bonded and fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the lens barrel 22.

[0076] As the adhesive for bonding the retaining component 24 to the lens barrel 22, various known adhesives used in conventional endoscopes can be used. The same applies to adhesives used to bond other components together.

[0077] The retaining member 24 has a polygonal flange 24b on the end face of the mounting tube 24a, which abuts against the incident surface 27a of the prism 27. This positions the prism 27. The retaining member 24 holds the lens tube 22 and the prism 27 in a predetermined position, fixing the relative position of the lens tube 22 and the prism 27, that is, the relative position of the lens tube 22 and the light-receiving surface 25a of the imaging element 25. The exit surface 27b of the prism 27 faces the imaging element 25.

[0078] Here, the relative position of the lens barrel 22 with respect to the holding member 24 in the optical axis C direction of the imaging lens 23 is adjusted so that it is focused with the light-receiving surface 25a of the imaging element 25, thereby bonding and fixing it to the holding member 24.

[0079] The connecting component 29 is provided with a fixing component 36 relative to the retaining component 24 (see reference). Figure 4 and Figure 5 The signal cable 28 is a component of the signal cable. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the connecting member 29 is a component formed by bending a sheet metal. Specifically, the connecting member 29 has a shape that bends a sheet metal at two points extending along the optical axis C. Therefore, the cross-section of the connecting member 29 perpendicular to the optical axis C is approximately C-shaped. The connecting member 29 is configured to include a connection terminal (connection point to the signal cable 28) on the circuit board 26 inside the approximately C-shaped section. That is, as... Figure 2 As shown, the connecting member 29 is configured to cover the circuit board 26 from the upper side. The connecting member 29 also covers the imaging element 25, the prism 27, and the electronic components 30, 30a, serving as a cover for them. Furthermore, the connecting member 29 also functions as a protective component for the imaging element 25, the prism 27, and the electronic components 30, 30a.

[0080] The connecting member 29 has a pair of arms 29a on its end side. The pair of arms 29a engage with the flange 24b of the retaining member 24.

[0081] Furthermore, the connecting member 29 has a retaining portion 29b that holds the signal cable 28 at the base end. The retaining portion 29b bends along the outer sheath 28d and narrows in the Y direction from the arm portion 29a toward the rear end face 29c. The signal cable 28 is fixed and held on the retaining portion 29b.

[0082] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the cable has a fixing member 36 provided on the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 and a protective tube 37 covering the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28. As described above, the signal cable 28 is fixed to the connecting member 29.

[0083] The fixing component 36 is provided on the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28, and the outer sheath 28d is fixed to the signal line 28a of the signal cable 28 by fastening. The fixing component 36 is, for example, a ring-shaped component, and the outer sheath 28d is fixed to the signal line 28a of the signal cable 28 by riveting and fastening the fixing component 36.

[0084] The fixing member 36 is not limited to a circular shape, as long as it can fix the outer sheath 28d to the signal line 28a of the signal cable 28. It can also be a polygonal ring-shaped member. Furthermore, the fixing member 36 may not be circular, but rather have a structure with gaps, such as a C-ring. In this case, the separate ends are brought closer together by riveting, the opening of the fixing member 36 becomes smaller, and the outer sheath 28d is fixed to the signal line 28a of the signal cable 28. The fixing member 36 may be made of metal or alloy, for example.

[0085] like Figure 5 As shown, the protective tube 37 is configured such that its front end face 37a is located further from the lens barrel 22 side than the rear end face 29c of the connecting member 29 on the side opposite to the lens barrel 22, and further from the rear end face 29c side than the fixing member 36. That is, the protective tube 37 is disposed on the signal cable 28 in an overlapping manner with respect to the connecting member 29. The front end face 37a of the protective tube 37 refers to the end face of the protective tube 37 on the lens barrel 22 side.

[0086] If the protective tube 37 is arranged overlappingly on the signal cable 28 as described above, the area of ​​the outer sheath 28d inside the connecting member 29 becomes smaller. Therefore, when the signal cable 28 is fixed to the connecting member 29 using adhesive, the bonding area becomes smaller. However, by providing the fixing member 36, the fixing strength can be supplemented. Moreover, the protective tube 37 can improve the strength near the rear end face 29c of the connecting member 29. As a result, in the signal cable 28, even if the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 does not shift, damage to the internal signal wire 28a (core wire) can be suppressed in the event of excessive load concentration caused by the abrupt change in rigidity near the rear end face 29c of the connecting member 29.

[0087] Furthermore, as described above, the signal cable 28 used in the endoscope imaging device 20 is configured such that multiple signal lines 28a are bundled together with an outer sheath 28d. The signal lines 28a are easily damaged, therefore requiring protection from the outer sheath 28d or a connecting member 29. The connecting member 29 is made of metal or the like, and the rigidity of its rear end face 29c changes drastically, resulting in a significant concentration of load on the signal cable 28. Therefore, when the outer sheath 28d shifts due to the bending motion of the endoscope or sliding against other contents, exposing the signal lines 28a outside the connecting member 29, damage to the signal lines 28a occurs near the rear end face 29c of the connecting member 29.

[0088] However, by fixing the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 with the fixing member 36, the fixing strength of the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 is improved. Furthermore, the protective tube 37 is overlapped and fixed relative to the connecting member 29 as described above. This compensates for the reduction in the adhesive area of ​​the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 with the fixing strength of the fixing member 36, and improves the strength near the rear end face 29c of the connecting member 29 with the protective tube 37. Therefore, an endoscope imaging device 20 with high bonding strength and high bonding reliability of the signal cable 28 can be obtained.

[0089] Furthermore, the connecting component 29 is connected to the retaining component 24 and the signal cable 28 respectively, thereby preventing the connection between the connecting terminal on the circuit board 26 and the signal line 28a of the signal cable 28 from being pulled when the signal cable 28 is pulled, thus preventing the connection between the connecting terminal and the signal line 28a from being broken.

[0090] The arm portion 29a of the connecting member 29 and the flange portion 24b of the retaining member 24, as well as the retaining portion 29b of the connecting member 29 and the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28, are bonded and fixed, for example, using adhesive 38. In the case of adhesive fixation, the adhesive 38 is in a cured state. However, as long as the retaining portion 29b of the connecting member 29 and the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 can be fixed, the bonding and fixing using adhesive 38 is not limited.

[0091] When using adhesive 38 for bonding and fixing, the protective tube 37 is preferably more flexible than the adhesive 38 in its cured state. Because the protective tube 37 is more flexible than the adhesive 38 in its cured state, it can be easily bent, reducing the load on the signal cable 28 at the rear end face 29c of the connecting member 29. The adhesive 38 is, for example, an epoxy resin-based adhesive, and the protective tube 37 is, for example, made of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). In addition to epoxy adhesives, silicone-based or acrylic adhesives can be used as the adhesive 38.

[0092] Furthermore, it is preferable to configure the protective tube 37 by providing a gap 39 between the end 36b on the rear end face 29c side of the connecting member 29 of the fixing member 36 and the front end face 37a of the protective tube 37. By providing the gap 39 and configuring the fixing member 36 and the protective tube 37, the bonding area of ​​the adhesive 38 can be ensured. The signal cable 28 can be fixed to the connecting member 29 more reliably. Moreover, if the signal cable 28 is pulled to the opposite side of the lens barrel 22, the fixing member 36 is held in place by the adhesive 38, which can prevent damage to the signal cable 28.

[0093] Furthermore, the gap 39 ensures sufficient bonding area for the adhesive 38, and is therefore preferably 1 mm or more. A larger bonding area results in greater bonding strength, so there is no particular upper limit to the gap 39. However, due to structural limitations of the endoscope camera device 20, the upper limit of the gap 39 is approximately 3 mm. The gap 39 is measured using a micrometer or vernier caliper.

[0094] Alternatively, for example, the aforementioned fixing component 36 and protective tube 37 can be assembled using a clamp or device capable of positioning their respective components in a specified position.

[0095] In the endoscopic imaging device 20, the observation image of the imaging element 25 is read from the imaging lens 23, imaged on the light-receiving surface 25a of the imaging element 25, and converted into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is output to the processor device 16 (reference) via the signal cable 28. Figure 1 The signal is converted into a video signal and displayed on a monitor connected to the processor device 16.

[0096] Here, in the endoscopic imaging device 20, the connecting part 29 is made of metal and has a sensor protection part 32 that covers the side of the imaging element 25. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the connecting member 29 has a sensor protection part 32 extending downward from two opposing sides with a cross-section that is approximately C-shaped.

[0097] The sensor protection unit 32 is positioned at a position that is repeated when the two sides of the imaging element 25 parallel to the optical axis C of the imaging lens 23 are viewed from a direction perpendicular to those sides. Furthermore, the width of the sensor protection unit 32 in the direction of the optical axis C is larger than the width of the side of the imaging element 25, covering the entire side of the imaging element 25.

[0098] Furthermore, in Figure 2 and Figure 3In the example shown, as a preferred embodiment, a filling member 33 is provided between the sensor protection section 32 and the side of the imaging element 25. Therefore, the imaging element 25 is in physical contact with the connecting member 29 via the filling member 33. Furthermore, the connecting member 29 is in physical contact with the holding member 24 and the signal cable 28. By covering the side of the imaging element 25 with the sensor protection section 32 and filling the space between the side of the imaging element 25 and the sensor protection section 32 with the filling member 33, a heat dissipation path is formed from the imaging element 25, consisting of the filling member 33, the connecting member 29, the holding member 24, and the signal cable 28. Therefore, heat generated from the imaging element 25 can be dissipated efficiently. Furthermore, by covering the imaging element 25 with a rigid metal material, the imaging element 25 can be protected.

[0099] There are no particular limitations on the metal material used to form the connecting component 29, but a metal material with high thermal conductivity is preferred. However, considering factors such as machinability, availability, and strength, stainless steel and copper alloys are preferred as the connecting component 29.

[0100] The material for the filling component 33 can be an adhesive or a sealant. As an adhesive, various adhesives used in endoscopes can be used.

[0101] As a sealant, various sealants used in endoscopes can be utilized. Higher thermal conductivity is better for both adhesives and sealants, but insulation is preferred.

[0102] The filling component 33 preferably fills the entire area between the side of the imaging element 25 and the sensor protection portion 32, but it may also fill at least a portion between the side of the imaging element 25 and the sensor protection portion 32.

[0103] Furthermore, in Figure 3 In the example shown, the filling component 33 fills the entire area between the side of the cover glass 31 and the sensor protection part 32. By also filling the area between the side of the cover glass 31 and the sensor protection part 32, heat from the imaging element 25 can be transferred more efficiently.

[0104] Furthermore, in Figure 2 In the example shown, the sensor protection section 32 is configured such that its width is greater than the width of the side of the imaging element 25, covering the entire side of the imaging element 25, but this is not a limitation. The sensor protection section 32 only needs to cover at least a portion of the side of the imaging element 25. From a heat dissipation point of view, the sensor protection section 32 preferably covers the entire side of the imaging element 25.

[0105] Here, in Figure 3In the example shown, the structure is provided with a filling member 33 between the side of the imaging element 25 and the sensor protection part 32, but it is not limited to this. The side of the imaging element 25 and the sensor protection part 32 can also be in direct contact.

[0106] [Second example of an endoscopic camera device]

[0107] Endoscopic camera device 20 is not limited to Figures 2-5 The structure is shown. The second example of an endoscopic imaging device will be described below.

[0108] Figure 6 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a second example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a schematic side view illustrating a second example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the middle, to and Figures 2-5 The same structures of the endoscopic camera device 20 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0109] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The endoscopic camera device 20a shown is Figures 2-5 The difference between the endoscopic camera device 20 shown is that a through hole 40 is provided on the connecting part 29; otherwise, the structure is the same. Figures 2-5 The endoscopic camera device 20 shown has the same structure. Endoscopic camera device 20a is similar to... Figure 2 Similarly, the endoscope camera device 20 shown can achieve the effect of high connection strength and high connection reliability of the signal cable 28.

[0110] In the endoscopic imaging device 20a, by providing the through hole 40, the filling path of the adhesive 38 can be increased, thereby increasing the supply of adhesive 38 and further improving the bonding strength. Moreover, by providing the through hole 40, the filling status after the adhesive 38 is injected can be easily confirmed.

[0111] Preferably, the opening diameter D of the through hole 40 is 0.6 mm or more. If the opening diameter D is 0.6 mm or more, the adhesive 38 can be easily injected, for example, using a syringe.

[0112] In order to maintain the strength of the connecting member 29, the opening diameter D of the through hole 40 is preferably less than 1 / 2 of the length of the connecting member 29 in the Y direction.

[0113] The opening diameter D of the through hole 40 is measured using a micrometer, vernier caliper, or pin gauge.

[0114] like Figure 7As shown, the through hole 40 provided on the connecting member 29 is preferably located in the optical axis C direction, closer to the fixing member 36 than the front end face 37a of the protective tube 37. By providing the through hole 40 at such a position, it is easy to supply adhesive 38 to the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28, which can further improve the bonding strength between the signal cable 28 and the connecting member 29. In this case, if the through hole 40 is located above the gap 39, adhesive 38 can be supplied to the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 more reliably, so the outer sheath 28d is more reliably bonded to the connecting member 29 by the adhesive 38, which is therefore more preferable. Furthermore, the through hole 40 can also be located above the fixing member 36.

[0115] Here, Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the signal cable of an endoscopic camera device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] The outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 is covered with a protective tube 37, but if Figure 8 As shown, a clearance 41 is preferably present between the inner surface 37b of the protective tube 37 and the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28. By providing a clearance 41 between the protective tube 37 and the signal cable 28, when the signal cable 28 bends, the signal cable 28 bends the clearance 41 before the protective tube 37, and the protective tube 37 bends after the signal cable 28 bends. This reduces the load on the signal cable 28 near the rear end face 29c of the connecting member 29 and suppresses damage to the signal wire 28a (core wire) of the signal cable 28.

[0117] Furthermore, if the clearance 41 is 0.05–0.2 mm, the load on the signal cable 28 is reduced, further suppressing damage to the signal wire 28a (core wire) of the signal cable 28. The clearance 41 is obtained by measuring the outer diameter of the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 and the inner diameter of the protective tube 37, and calculating the difference between the outer diameter of the outer sheath 28d and the inner diameter of the protective tube 37. The outer diameter of the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28 and the inner diameter of the protective tube 37 are measured using a micrometer or vernier caliper.

[0118] [The third example of an endoscopic camera device]

[0119] Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a third example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 This is a schematic perspective view showing the connecting component of a third example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 This is a schematic side view illustrating a third example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, Figure 11 Indicates removal Figure 9 The state of connecting component 44. In Figures 9-11In the middle, to and Figures 2-5 The same structures of the endoscopic camera device 20 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0120] Endoscopic camera device 20b and endoscopic camera device 20 (reference) Figure 2 Compared to the circuit board 46, the connecting component 44 has a different structure, but its structure is otherwise basically the same. Figures 2-5 The endoscopic camera device 20 shown has the same structure.

[0121] like Figure 9 As shown, the endoscopic imaging device 20b includes: a lens barrel 22; a holding member 24; an imaging element 25; a circuit board 46 that houses the imaging element 25 and electronic components 30, 30a; and a connecting member 44 that holds the signal cable 28 relative to the holding member 24. Figure 11 As shown, the imaging element 25 is electrically connected to the circuit board 46 via conductive bumps 34. Furthermore, a bottom filler layer (not shown) may be provided between the imaging element 25 and the circuit board 46. Additionally, electronic components 30 and 30a are electrically connected to the circuit board 46.

[0122] Furthermore, the endoscope camera device 20b has a locking part 42 that engages the retaining member 24 with the connecting member 44.

[0123] Here, as Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, the direction parallel to the optical axis C is designated as the X direction. Of the two directions orthogonal to the optical axis C, one is designated as the Y direction, and the remaining direction is designated as the Z direction. The Y direction corresponds to the width direction of the endoscopic imaging device 20b, and the Z direction corresponds to the height direction of the endoscopic imaging device 20b.

[0124] The retaining member 24 has a cylindrical mounting portion 24a that fits into the outer periphery of the lens barrel 22 and a flange portion 24b that is integrally connected to the mounting portion 24a. A prism 27 is provided on the back side 24e of the flange portion 24b.

[0125] The prism 27 is, for example, a right-angle prism with an incident surface 27a and an exit surface 27b orthogonal. The incident surface 27a is positioned facing the back surface 24e of the flange portion 24b. Thus, the incident surface 27a is opposite to the imaging lens 23.

[0126] A cover glass 31 is disposed on the imaging element 25. A prism 27 is disposed on the cover glass 31, and the exit surface 27b of the prism 27 is opposite to the imaging element 25.

[0127] The imaging element 25 is disposed, for example, parallel to the optical axis C of the imaging lens 23 on the surface 46a of one end of the circuit board 46, and is positioned below the flange 24b of the holding member 24. On the back surface 46b of the circuit board 46, opposite to the light-receiving surface 25a of the imaging element 25, a plurality of connection terminals (not shown) for inputting or outputting signals or power to the imaging element 25 and the electronic components 30, 30a are provided.

[0128] The circuit board 46 is, for example, made of a flexible substrate. The flexible substrate is, for example, a flexible wiring substrate. Figure 11 As shown, the circuit board 46 is bent in two places, having a first bent portion 46c and a second bent portion 46d. Between the first bent portion 46c and the second bent portion 46d, two electronic components 30 are provided on the surface 46a of the circuit board 46, for example. On the surface 46a of the circuit board 46 connected to the second bent portion 46d, for example, three electronic components 30 and two electronic components 30a are provided.

[0129] By bending the circuit board 46 at two points to form the first bent portion 46c and the second bent portion 46d, the size can be reduced in the X direction, enabling miniaturization of the endoscopic imaging device 20b in the X direction. That is, the endoscopic imaging device 20b can be shortened. Figure 11 As shown, signal line 28a of signal cable 28 is electrically connected to a connection terminal (not shown) provided on the back side 46b of the other end of circuit board 46.

[0130] Furthermore, the bending of the circuit board 46 is not limited to two locations, and can be appropriately determined according to the device structure or size, such as the number of electronic components 30, 30a. As described above, the imaging element 25 is electrically connected to the circuit board 46 via conductive bumps 34. As described above, an underfill layer may also be provided between the imaging element 25 and the circuit board 46. The underfill layer is as described above.

[0131] The conductive bump 34 is connected to an electrode disposed on the connection surface of the imaging element 25 with the circuit board 46. The bump 34 is electrically connected to the wiring layer of the circuit board 46.

[0132] In the endoscopic imaging device 20b, at least one optical component is disposed between the lens barrel 22 and the imaging element 25. The optical component is not particularly limited to the prism 27 described above.

[0133] The engaging portion 42 has at least one protrusion on the retaining member 24 and a recess on the connecting member 44 that engages with the protrusion of the retaining member 24. In the engaging portion 42, the engagement of the protrusion of the retaining member 24 with the recess of the connecting member 44 securely fixes the retaining member 24 and the connecting member 44. Furthermore, the recess of the connecting member 44 also includes a through opening, which will be described later.

[0134] exist Figure 9 and Figure 11 The flange 24b of the retaining member 24 shown has two protrusions 24c positioned opposite each other and spaced apart from the prism 27. The two protrusions 24c cover a portion of the side surface 27c of the prism 27, and the prism 27 is fixed by clamping it with the two protrusions 24c. The two protrusions 24c are identical in shape and size, and are located on both sides of the flange 24b of the retaining member 24. Furthermore, the side surface 27c of the prism 27 is orthogonal to both the incident surface 27a and the exit surface 27b.

[0135] In the retaining member 24, the protrusion 24c of the flange portion 24b (reference) Figure 9 and Figure 11 For example, the shape is quadrilateral, but one corner has been cut off. Therefore, the protrusion 24c of the flange 24b (refer to...) Figure 9 and Figure 11 It is actually a pentagon.

[0136] The connecting component 44 holds the signal cable 28 relative to the holding component 24.

[0137] For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, the connecting member 44 has a retaining portion 44a, which has a flat bottom 44f formed by bending a sheet metal and a flat base portion 44g connected to the bottom 44f. The retaining portion 44a side is designated as the base end 45a in the connecting member 44. The base portion 44g is bent along the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28. The signal cable 28 uses, for example, adhesive 38 (see reference). Figure 11 It is bonded and fixed to the connecting part 44.

[0138] Arms 44b are provided on the flat substrate portions 44g facing each other across the opening in the retaining portion 44a. The connecting member 44 has a pair of arms 44b. The arms 44b bend outwards from the base end 45a side than the retaining portion 44a and then extend in a straight line. Therefore, the distance between the ends 45b sides of the pair of arms 44b is wider than the distance between the base ends 45a sides, and this distance depends on... Figure 9 The protrusion 24c of the retaining member 24 shown is appropriately determined. Furthermore, an opening 44c is provided at the end 45b of each arm portion 44b.

[0139] The opening 44c of the arm 44b engages with the protrusion 24c of the retaining member 24. The opening 44c is formed, for example, by cutting a portion of the arm 44b into a quadrilateral shape.

[0140] Furthermore, the size and shape of the opening 44c can be the same as the outer shape of the protrusion 24c. Here, the statement that the size and shape of the opening 44c are the same as the outer shape of the protrusion 24c means that it includes the tolerance range generally allowed in this technical field. Therefore, the opening 44c and the protrusion 24c can have any of the following: clearance fit, transition fit, and interference fit.

[0141] Additionally, in the following description, "same size and shape" means, as described above, within the range of errors generally permissible in this technical field.

[0142] As described above, by having a structure with an engaging portion 42 that engages the openings 44c of the pair of arms 44b with the protrusions 24c of the retaining member 24, the recesses fit into the protrusions, thus shortening the length of the endoscopic imaging device 20b in the Y direction orthogonal to the optical axis C, and suppressing the enlargement of the endoscopic imaging device 20b. Furthermore, a secure fixation between the retaining member 24 and the connecting member 44 can be achieved.

[0143] Furthermore, by making the thickness of the arm portion 44b consistent with the height of the protrusion 24c, when the openings 44c of the pair of arms 44b respectively engage with the protrusions 24c of the retaining member 24, the length of the endoscope camera device 20b in the Y direction orthogonal to the optical axis C can be shortened. Through this structure, the endoscope camera device 20b can be further miniaturized.

[0144] In the connecting member 44, it is preferable that the pair of arms 44b bend closer to each other on the end 45b side than on the base end 45a side of the arm 44b. That is, it is preferable that the pair of arms 44b bend in the closing direction. Thus, by widening one arm 44b, the opening 44c of the arm 44b can be fitted into the protrusion 24c of the retaining member 24, and assembly can be easily performed.

[0145] As described above, it is preferable that the pair of arms 44b bend closer to each other on the end 45b side than on the base end 45a side of the arms 44b, but this can also be the state of the parts before assembly.

[0146] Furthermore, a through opening 44c is provided in the arm portion 44b, but it is not limited to this; it may also be a recessed portion with a bottom that is not through.

[0147] In the connecting member 44, the signal cable 28 is fixedly held inside the retaining part 44a 44e, for example, by adhesive 38. Furthermore, the method of fixing the signal cable 28 is not particularly limited as long as the signal cable 28 does not detach from the retaining part 44a or the signal wire 28a detaches during endoscope use. The signal cable 28 is fixed to the connecting member 44, for example, using adhesive 38.

[0148] Endoscopic camera device 20b is similar to endoscopic camera device 20, such as Figure 11 As shown, a fixing component 36 is provided on the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28, and a protective tube 37 is also provided. Therefore, in the endoscope camera device 20b, similar to the endoscope camera device 20, the signal cable 28 has high bonding strength and high bonding reliability.

[0149] Furthermore, in the endoscope camera device 20b, it is also related to the endoscope camera device 20 (see reference). Figure 4 Similarly, such as Figure 11 As shown, a gap 39 is preferably provided between the end 36b on the rear end face 44h side of the connecting member 44 of the fixing member 36 and the front end face 37a of the protective tube 37. Furthermore, as... Figure 8 As shown, preferably there is a clearance 41 between the inner surface 37b of the protective tube 37 and the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28.

[0150] In addition, in the retaining member 24, the two protrusions 24c can be the same size and shape as described above, that is, identical, but their size and shape can also be different.

[0151] Furthermore, in the retaining member 24, the shape of the protrusion is not particularly limited to the aforementioned quadrilateral; it can also be a circle, ellipse, triangle, pentagon, hexagon, or other polygon, or a shape formed by combining these shapes. Moreover, it can be not only a single shape, but also a shape with multiple protrusions of the same shape, or a specific pattern.

[0152] In the engaging portion 42, a protrusion and a recess engage at one location, but the engaging location is not limited to one; it can also be a structure in which a protrusion has multiple engaging locations.

[0153] Furthermore, the size of the protrusion of the retaining member 24 is preferably, for example, the size of at least a portion of the side surface 27c of the prism 27. By setting the size of the protrusion to cover at least a portion of the side surface 27c of the prism 27, the prism 27 can be clamped and fixed more stably, and it can be utilized for positioning of the prism relative to the retaining member in the Y direction during assembly.

[0154] As the upper limit of the size of the protrusion of the retaining member 24, it can be set to completely cover the size of the side 27c of the prism 27.

[0155] Furthermore, in the retaining member 24, the prism 27 and the circuit board 46 are surrounded by the arm portion 44b by two protrusions 24c facing each other. As a result, the engagement between the retaining member 24 and the connecting member 44 is stable, and the prism 27 and the circuit board 46 are also protected.

[0156] The retaining component 24 is designed with two protrusions 24c, but it is not limited to this as long as it does not become too large, and more than three protrusions may also be provided. That is, the number of engaging parts may also be more than three.

[0157] Prism 27 is a component that guides the light from imaging lens 23 to imaging element 25. It is not limited to a right-angle prism, and the shape of prism 27 can also be appropriately used according to the arrangement position of imaging element 25. In addition, prism 27 is not necessarily required depending on the arrangement position of imaging element 25, and it can also be a structure that arranges other optical components.

[0158] For example, by using a prism 27 that bends the optical axis C of the imaging lens 23 at a right angle, the freedom of the placement of the imaging element 25 can be increased, and a larger imaging element 25 can be used without being limited by the size of the flange 24b of the holding member 24.

[0159] Furthermore, after the retaining member 24 is bonded and fixed to the prism 27, they are clamped in from the side using the arm 44b, and the arm 44b is connected to the retaining member 24 and the prism 27 by bonding. The engagement between the retaining member 24 and the prism 27 is also made more secure by bonding the arm 44b from the side. Moreover, by bonding not only the side of the retaining member 24 but also the side 27c of the prism 27 to the arm 44b, the fixing strength of the arm 44b is also improved.

[0160] Regarding the connection strength between the retaining component 24 and the arm 44b, since the protrusion 24c and the opening 44c (recess) are of the same shape and size, and the cross section of the arm receives forces in the X and Z directions, the mechanical strength of the endoscope camera device 20b is enhanced.

[0161] The bent portion 46e is the end on the side of the first bent portion 46c, and is the bending starting point of the first bent portion 46c of the circuit board 46.

[0162] An X-ray image of the circuit board 46 is obtained using an endoscopic imaging device 20b. From the cross-sectional image of the circuit board 46, the position of the bending start point of the first bent portion 46c of the circuit board 46 can be determined, as well as the aforementioned bent portion 46e.

[0163] Furthermore, the starting point of the bend is the connection point between the first bend 46c and the circuit board 46 below the imaging element 25. Therefore, by determining the first bend 46c, assuming the circuit board 46 is planar, the aforementioned connection point can be determined.

[0164] For example, in the circuit board 46, the imaging element 25 and the electronic component 30 are arranged in predetermined positions on the surface 46a. The signal line 28a of the signal cable 28 is electrically connected to a connection terminal (not shown) provided on the back side 46b. When the circuit board 46 is unfolded, that is, in its state before bending, the signal cable 28 extends to the side opposite to the side where the imaging element 25 is arranged. According to this structure, the operability of electrically connecting the signal cable 28 to the circuit board 46 by soldering or the like is improved, and the assembly operability is also improved.

[0165] The circuit board 46 has the same structure as the circuit board 26 and is made of a flexible printed circuit board.

[0166] The circuit board 46 is bent in two places, for example, but preferably all the bending directions of the circuit board 46 are in the same direction. As a result, such as the first bend 46c and the second bend 46d, there is no bending area in the Y direction of the endoscope camera device 20b, which can reduce the proportion of the bending area in the internal space of the endoscope camera device 20b.

[0167] In addition, the imaging element 25 and electronic components 30, 30a are disposed on the surface 46a of the circuit board 46, but it is not limited to this. The imaging element 25 and electronic components 30, 30a may also be disposed on different surfaces.

[0168] Furthermore, it is preferable to mount the imaging element 25 and electronic components 30, 30a on a single circuit board 46. By mounting them on a single circuit board 46, the number of components can be reduced.

[0169] Electronic components 30 and 30a are used to drive the imaging element 25 and are not particularly limited; examples include voltage regulators, resistors, and capacitors. A voltage regulator is a device that stabilizes the voltage to the imaging element 25, outputting a constant voltage to the imaging element 25.

[0170] Furthermore, at the other end of the circuit board 46, for example, the back surface 46b of the circuit board 46 can be bonded to the shielding conductor 28c of the signal cable 28 by solder. By bonding the shielding conductor 28c of the signal cable 28 to the back surface 46b, heat generated from the imaging element 25 and electronic components 30 can be discharged from the circuit board 46 to the outside of the endoscope camera device 20b via the signal cable 28, thereby improving the heat dissipation of the endoscope camera device 20b.

[0171] [The 4th case of an endoscopic camera device]

[0172] Figure 12 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a fourth example of an endoscopic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 In China, for the sake of Figure 9 and Figure 11 The endoscopic camera device 20b shown and Figure 10 The same structures as the connecting parts 44 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0173] Figure 12 The endoscopic camera device 20c shown is... Figure 9 The difference between the endoscopic camera device 20b shown is that it has a cover 50, but the rest of the structure is the same. Figure 9 and Figure 11 The endoscopic camera device 20b shown has the same structure.

[0174] Endoscopic camera device 20c is similar to endoscopic camera device 20b, such as Figure 11 As shown, a fixing component 36 is provided on the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28, and a protective tube 37 is also provided. Therefore, in the endoscope camera device 20c, similar to the endoscope camera device 20b, the signal cable 28 has high bonding strength and high bonding reliability.

[0175] Furthermore, the endoscopic imaging device 20c has a cover 50 covering the electronic components 30, 30a. The cover 50 is preferably made of metal, for example. By providing a metal cover 50, heat generated by the electronic components 30, 30a is conducted to the cover 50, thereby enabling the heat generated by the electronic components 30, 30a to be discharged outside the endoscopic imaging device 20c.

[0176] The cover 50 is made of materials such as stainless steel, copper alloy, or graphite.

[0177] Furthermore, it is preferable that the cover 50 is joined to the connecting member 44, or that the cover 50 and the connecting member 44 are integrally formed. As a result, the number of heat conduction components generated by the electronic components 30, 30a increases, which can further reduce the heat that may be conducted to the imaging element 25, and can efficiently dissipate it outside the endoscope imaging device 20c.

[0178] In addition, when the cover 50 and the connecting member 44 are integrated, the cover 50 and the connecting member 44 are configured to contain the same metal.

[0179] Furthermore, the cover 50 and the connecting member 44 can be separate structures. In this case, the cover 50 preferably holds the arm 44b closer to each other on the end 45b side than on the base end 45a side of the arm 44b of the connecting member 44. As a result, the opening 44c of the arm 44b and the protrusion 24c of the retaining member 24 are less likely to fall off, the retaining member 24 is more reliably fixed to the connecting member 44, and as a result, the rigidity of the endoscope imaging device 20c is improved.

[0180] Additionally, in the endoscopic camera device 20c, there is also an endoscope camera device 20 (reference 20). Figure 4 Similarly, it is preferable to place the end 36b on the rear end face 44h side of the connecting member 44 of the fixing member 36 (see reference). Figure 11 ) and the front end face 37a of the protective tube 37 (reference) Figure 11 Set a gap of 39 between them (reference) Figure 11 ). And, as Figure 8 As shown, preferably there is a clearance 41 between the inner surface 37b of the protective tube 37 and the outer sheath 28d of the signal cable 28.

[0181] The present invention is basically constructed as described above. The endoscopic imaging device and endoscope of the present invention have been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. An endoscopic camera device for acquiring images of an object under observation, the endoscopic camera device comprising: The lens barrel contains an imaging lens. An imaging element receives light that has passed through the imaging lens and performs photoelectric conversion; The circuit board is electrically connected to the imaging element; At least one optical component is disposed between the lens barrel and the imaging element; A retaining component connects the optical component to the lens barrel; A signal cable, electrically connected to the imaging element, and having an outer sheath forming the periphery; A fixing component is disposed on the outer sheath of the signal cable; A protective tube that covers the outer sheath of the signal cable; and A connecting component holds the signal cable, on which the fixing component is disposed, relative to the retaining component. The signal cable is fixed to the connecting component. The protective tube is configured such that its front end face is closer to the lens barrel side than the rear end face of the connecting member on the side opposite to the lens barrel, and closer to the rear end face side than the fixing member. The connecting component is provided with a through hole. The through hole provided in the connecting component is located closer to the fixing component than the front end face of the protective tube.

2. The endoscopic imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The signal cable is fixed to the connecting component by adhesive.

3. The endoscopic imaging device according to claim 2, wherein, The protective tube is softer than the adhesive in its cured state.

4. The endoscopic imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The connecting component covers the imaging element, the circuit board, and the optical component.

5. The endoscopic imaging device according to claim 2, wherein, The connecting component covers the imaging element, the circuit board, and the optical component.

6. The endoscopic imaging device according to claim 3, wherein, The connecting component covers the imaging element, the circuit board, and the optical component.

7. The endoscopic imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The diameter of the through hole provided in the connecting component is 0.6 mm or more.

8. The endoscopic imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The endoscopic camera device has the following features: A cover is disposed on the connecting component, covering the imaging element, the circuit board, and the optical components. The cover is configured to contain metal.

9. The endoscopic imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, There is a clearance between the inner surface of the protective tube and the outer sheath of the signal cable.

10. The endoscopic imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The protective tube is configured by providing a gap between the end of the connecting member on the rear end face of the fixing member and the front end face of the protective tube.

11. An endoscope having an endoscope imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

Images