Photoacoustic endoscope and endoscope system

Abstract

The application provides a photoacoustic endoscope and an endoscope system. The photoacoustic endoscope comprises a light guide part, an operation part and an insertion part, a fiber bundle extends from the light guide part to a head end part at the distal end of the insertion part via the operation part, the fiber bundle comprises a main trunk section, a first branch section and a second branch section, the photoacoustic endoscope further comprises a joint assembly, the joint assembly comprises a main trunk joint, a first branch joint and a second branch joint which are independently and detachably connected to the main trunk joint, the proximal end of the main trunk section is optically coupled to a light guide interface on the light guide part, the distal end of the main trunk section is connected to the main trunk joint, the proximal end of the first branch section is connected to the first branch joint, the proximal end of the second branch section is connected to the second branch joint, the distal ends of the first branch section and the second branch section are both fixed to the head end part, and the distal end of the main trunk section is optically coupled to the proximal ends of the first branch section and the second branch section. Such a photoacoustic endoscope can be conveniently disassembled, repaired or replaced when returned for repair, has better maintainability and better user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of medical devices, and more specifically, to a photoacoustic endoscope and an endoscope system. Background Technology

[0002] Endoscopic imaging, as a non-invasive imaging method, can effectively extend the human field of vision and is widely used in imaging diagnosis and image-guided treatment in many fields such as the digestive tract, cardiovascular system, urinary system and respiratory system, greatly improving the accuracy of disease examination.

[0003] In recent years, photoacoustic imaging technology in endoscopic imaging has developed rapidly, and photoacoustic endoscopes are increasingly used in clinical practice. Photoacoustic endoscopes work by introducing photoacoustic excitation light into a biological lumen through an endoscope probe to generate ultrasound waves (photoacoustic signals), and then receiving the generated ultrasound signals through a miniature ultrasound transducer placed inside the endoscope catheter to image tissues.

[0004] Existing photoacoustic endoscopes include an operating section and an insertion section, with a headpiece located at the distal end of the insertion section. Typically, photoacoustic endoscopes use optical fibers to transmit photoacoustic excitation light to the headpiece, and the distal end of the fiber is usually fixedly connected to the headpiece. Furthermore, the optical fiber is usually branched into two strands, each entering the headpiece from one side. Other components, such as lifting clamps and moisture connectors, are located within the headpiece between the two branched optical fibers. If it is necessary to disassemble these other components between the two branched optical fibers, obstruction may occur at the branch points, potentially causing these components to become stuck and unable to be withdrawn. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To at least partially address the problems existing in the prior art, according to one aspect of the present invention, a photoacoustic endoscope is provided. The photoacoustic endoscope includes a light guide, an operating section, and an insertion section. The operating section is connected between the light guide and the insertion section. A head end is provided at the distal end of the insertion section. An optical fiber bundle extends from the light guide, through the operating section, to the head end for transmitting photoacoustic excitation light. The optical fiber bundle includes a trunk section, a first branch section, and a second branch section. The optical fiber bundle can branch into two strands at any position in the light guide, operating section, or insertion section. The proximal end of the optical fiber bundle to the branch point is the trunk section. The endoscope also includes a connector assembly, which includes a main connector, a first branch connector and a second branch connector that are independently and detachably connected to the main connector. The proximal end of the main segment is optically coupled to a light guide interface on a light guide section. The distal end of the main segment is connected to the main connector. The proximal end of the first branch segment is connected to the first branch connector. The proximal end of the second branch segment is connected to the second branch connector. The distal ends of both the first and second branch segments are fixed to the tip end. The distal end of the main segment is optically coupled to the proximal ends of the first and second branch segments when the connectors of the connector assembly are connected together.

[0006] For example, the connector assembly is disposed within the operating section or the light guide section.

[0007] For example, the main connector includes a connector tube, the distal end of the main section is connected to the connector tube, and the connector assembly also includes a connector, the connector tube and the connector being detachably connected to clamp the first branch connector and the second branch connector between the connector tube and the connector.

[0008] For example, the first branch connector includes a first connector portion, the proximal end of the first branch segment is connected to the first connector portion, the second branch connector includes a second connector portion, the proximal end of the second branch segment is connected to the second connector portion, the connector has an optical fiber channel, at least the distal ends of the first connector portion and the second connector portion are inserted side by side into the optical fiber channel and adapted to the optical fiber channel, and a limiting block is provided at the distal end of the optical fiber channel, the limiting block limiting the first connector portion and the second connector portion in a direction toward the distal end when the connector tube is connected to the connector.

[0009] For example, the limiting block includes a first fixed limiting block and a second fixed limiting block disposed opposite to each other on the inner sidewall of the optical fiber channel along a predetermined direction, the predetermined direction being perpendicular to the extension direction of the optical fiber bundle. The first fixed limiting block is located on the side where the first connector is located, and the second fixed limiting block is located on the side where the second connector is located. There is a predetermined distance between the first fixed limiting block and the second fixed limiting block. The predetermined distance is greater than the size of the first connector along the predetermined direction and is also greater than the size of the second connector along the predetermined direction.

[0010] For example, the predetermined spacing is greater than or equal to the sum of the dimension of the first joint portion along the predetermined direction and the outer diameter of the second branch segment.

[0011] For example, the predetermined spacing is greater than or equal to the sum of the dimension of the second joint portion along the predetermined direction and the outer diameter of the first branch segment.

[0012] For example, the cross-section of the fiber optic channel is rectangular or rounded rectangular.

[0013] For example, the first branch connector also includes a first bundle portion extending from the distal end of the first connector portion toward the distal end of the fiber bundle, the first bundle portion extending beyond the connector.

[0014] For example, the second branch connector also includes a second bundle portion extending from the distal end of the second connector portion toward the distal end of the fiber bundle, the second bundle portion extending beyond the connector.

[0015] For example, the limiting block is movable between a limiting position that limits the first connector and the second connector and a releasing position that releases the first connector and the second connector.

[0016] For example, the first branch connector and the second branch connector have the same structure.

[0017] For example, each of the first branch connector and the second branch connector is provided with a cavity with a semi-circular cross-section, and the proximal end of the first branch segment and the proximal end of the second branch segment are respectively fixed to the cavity of the first branch connector and the cavity of the second branch connector.

[0018] For example, the proximal end of the first branch segment is formed with a first rigid segment that is adapted to the cavity of the first branch connector, and the first rigid segment extends beyond the distal end of the first branch connector.

[0019] For example, the proximal end of the second branch segment is formed with a second rigid segment adapted to the cavity of the second branch connector, and the second rigid segment extends beyond the distal end of the second branch connector.

[0020] For example, the connector tube and the fitting are threaded together.

[0021] For example, the connector is connected to the inside of the connector tube.

[0022] For example, a main trunk protective sheath is provided on the main trunk section, and an inner sleeve is coaxially provided on the proximal end of the connector tube. The outer diameter of the inner sleeve is smaller than the outer diameter of the connector tube. The main trunk section passes through the inner sleeve, and the distal end of the main trunk protective sheath is sleeved on the inner sleeve.

[0023] For example, an annular groove is provided on the outer wall of the inner sleeve, and the main protective sheath is fixed to the inner sleeve by a fixing line wound around the annular groove.

[0024] For example, the sum of the numerical apertures of the first branch segment and the second branch segment is greater than or equal to the numerical aperture of the trunk segment.

[0025] For example, the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the first branch segment and the second branch segment is greater than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the main segment.

[0026] For example, the proximal end of the first branch segment is heat-melted or glued to the first branch joint.

[0027] For example, the proximal end of the second branch segment is heat-melted or glued to the second branch joint.

[0028] For example, the distal end of the trunk section is heat-melted or glued to the trunk joint.

[0029] For example, the head end includes a convex array ultrasonic probe, and two photoacoustic excitation windows are provided on the head end. The two photoacoustic excitation windows are located on both sides of the convex array ultrasonic probe, and the distal ends of the first branch segment and the second branch segment are respectively aligned with the two photoacoustic excitation windows.

[0030] For example, the distal ends of the plurality of first optical fibers included in the first branch segment and the distal ends of the plurality of second optical fibers included in the second branch segment are separated from each other and fan-shaped and fixed to the optical fiber fixing member, which is fixed to the inner surface of the two photoacoustic excitation windows.

[0031] According to another aspect of the invention, an endoscope system is also provided, comprising any of the photoacoustic endoscopes described above.

[0032] The photoacoustic endoscope provided in this application divides the fiber optic bundle into three segments: a main segment, a first branch segment, and a second branch segment. A main connector, a first branch connector, and a second branch connector are installed at the junction of the three fiber segments. When these connectors are connected, optical coupling is achieved between the main segment and the first and second branch segments, allowing the photoacoustic excitation light to transmit normally within the endoscope, enabling its normal operation. When it is necessary to disassemble components of the endoscope between the first and second branch segments, the connections of the connector assembly can be released. This allows the main segment to separate from the first and second branch segments, and the first and second branch segments to separate from each other. Therefore, the separation of the first and second branch segments does not obstruct the disassembly of components at the end cap. Furthermore, when the main segment, the first branch segment, or the second branch segment needs to be disassembled, the connections of the connector assembly can also be released, thereby achieving the purpose of repairing or replacing the fiber. Such a photoacoustic endoscope allows for convenient disassembly, repair, or component replacement during repair, resulting in better maintainability and a better user experience.

[0033] A series of simplified concepts are introduced in the description of the invention, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. This description is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0034] The advantages and features of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The following figures are included as part of this invention for understanding its principles. The figures illustrate embodiments of the invention and their descriptions, serving to explain the principles of the invention. In the figures,

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an endoscope system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a photoacoustic endoscope according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3A perspective view of the tip of a photoacoustic endoscope according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A side view of the head end shown;

[0040] Figure 5 for Figure 3 A side sectional view of the head end shown;

[0041] Figure 6 for Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the head end perpendicular to the axial direction of the insertion part;

[0042] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an optical fiber bundle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 8 A perspective view of a connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 9 for Figure 8 An exploded view of the connector assembly shown.

[0045] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the mating of a first branch segment and a first branch connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a photoacoustic endoscope at the connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 12 for Figure 11 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly in its first disassembled state; and

[0048] Figure 13 for Figure 11 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly in its second disassembled state.

[0049] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0050] 10. Photoacoustic endoscope; 12. Insertion section; 121. Insertion tube; 122. Bending section; 13. Head tip; 15. Light guide section; 16. Operating section; 20. Light source device; 21. Processing device; 22. Display; 23. Ultrasonic connector; 30. Endoscope system; 200. Convex array ultrasonic probe; 210. Acoustic window; 300. Photoacoustic excitation window; 310. First photoacoustic excitation window; 320. Second photoacoustic excitation window; 400. Fiber bundle; 410. First branch segment; 4101. Distal end of the first fiber; 411. First rigid segment; 412. First transition segment; 420. Second branch segment; 4201. Distal end of the second fiber; 421. Second rigid segment; 422. Second transition segment; 430 431. Main trunk section; 500. Main trunk protective sheath; 501. Illumination window; 600. Camera; 610. Connector assembly; 611. First branch connector; 612. First connector section; 613. First cavity; 620. Second branch connector; 621. Second connector section; 622. Second connector section; 623. Second cavity; 630. Main trunk connector; 631. Connector tube; 632. Inner sleeve; 633. Annular groove; 640. Connector; 642. Fiber optic channel; 643. Limiting block; 6431. First fixed limiting block; 6432. Second fixed limiting block; 700. First fiber optic fixing component; 710. First through hole; 800. Second fiber optic fixing component; 810. Second through hole. Detailed Implementation

[0051] In the following description, numerous details are provided to enable a thorough understanding of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description merely illustrates preferred embodiments of the invention, and that the invention can be practiced without one or more of these details. Furthermore, to avoid obscuring the invention, some technical features well-known in the art have not been described in detail.

[0052] According to one aspect of the invention, such as Figure 2 As shown, a photoacoustic endoscope 10 is provided. During normal use, the photoacoustic endoscope 10 ensures the normal transmission of photoacoustic excitation light on the endoscope 10, and allows for convenient disassembly and replacement of the fiber optic bundle when disassembly and repair are required.

[0053] According to another aspect of the invention, such as Figure 1As shown, an endoscope system 30 is provided, which may include any of the photoacoustic endoscopes 10 described below. The endoscope system 30 may include a light source device 20, which can be adapted to any of the photoacoustic endoscopes 10 described below, and can be connected to the light guide portion 15 in the photoacoustic endoscope 10. Exemplarily, the endoscope system 30 may also include a processing device 21, a display 22, an ultrasound connector 23, and an ultrasound host (not shown). The photoacoustic excitation light generated by the light source device 20 can be transmitted to the distal end of the photoacoustic endoscope 10 for imaging. The photoacoustic endoscope 10 can transmit ultrasound signals to the ultrasound host through the ultrasound connector 23, and the ultrasound host can process the ultrasound signals, with the processing results displayed on the display 22.

[0054] For ease of description, the distal end mentioned below refers to the end of the photoacoustic endoscope 10 that is closer to the object being observed when the operator uses the photoacoustic endoscope 10; the proximal end mentioned below refers to the end of the photoacoustic endoscope 10 that is closer to the operator when the operator uses the photoacoustic endoscope 10.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the photoacoustic endoscope 10 may include a light guide 15, an operating section 16, and an insertion section 12. The operating section 16 may be connected between the light guide 15 and the insertion section 12. The insertion section 12 can be inserted into the body of the object being observed. The distal end of the insertion section 12 may be provided with a tip 13, which is typically rigid. In addition to the tip 13, the insertion section 12 may also include a graduated insertion tube 121 and a curved section 122 that can swing in different directions.

[0056] In general, see also Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 The fiber bundle 400 extends from the light guide section 15 through the operation section 16 to the head end section 13. The fiber bundle 400 can pass through the light guide section 15, the operation section 16, and the insertion section 12, and extend into the head end section 13. The fiber bundle 400 can be single-mode fiber or multimode fiber. The fiber bundle 400 can conduct photoacoustic excitation light. The fiber bundle 400 can be connected to the light guide section 15. After the photoacoustic excitation light generated by the light source device 20 is transmitted to the light guide section 15, it can continue to be transmitted by the light guide section 15 to the fiber bundle 400, which can transmit the photoacoustic excitation light to the head end section 13. The head end section 13 may include a photoacoustic excitation light window 300.

[0057] The photoacoustic excitation window 300 can have various shapes as needed. It can be mounted on the head end portion 13 through welding, threaded connection, or snap-fit, and can form part of the outer shell of the head end portion 13. Preferably, the photoacoustic excitation window 300 can be completely transparent and made of non-metallic materials; that is, it can be a completely transparent non-metallic material window. Preferably, the outer surface of the photoacoustic excitation window 300 can also be hydrophobic, which reduces the adhesion of food residue, mucus, etc., to the surface of the mucous membrane of the observed object. The photoacoustic excitation window 300 can change the emission path of the photoacoustic excitation light beam to form a better photoacoustic excitation light field, and can serve as an outlet for emitting photoacoustic excitation light from the head end portion 13. Preferably, the photoacoustic excitation window 300 may include a light refraction device, so that the photoacoustic excitation light can be emitted from the photoacoustic excitation window 300 at a preset emission angle. The light refraction device may be a prism (such as a trapezoidal prism). The photoacoustic excitation window 300 may also include a light reflection device, which may be a prism, a plane mirror, a concave mirror, a convex mirror, etc.

[0058] like Figure 3 As shown, a convex array ultrasonic probe 200 can also be provided on the head end 13. The convex array ultrasonic probe 200 can include an ultrasonic transducer, which can emit and receive ultrasonic waves to form an ultrasonic image. The convex array ultrasonic probe 200's ability to receive ultrasonic waves refers to its ability to receive not only the ultrasonic echoes generated by its own emitted ultrasonic waves, but also the ultrasonic echoes generated by photoacoustic excitation light illuminating the observed object. The photoacoustic excitation light can be emitted by the head end 13 through the photoacoustic excitation light window 300. The convex array ultrasonic probe 200 can be connected to an external ultrasonic-photoacoustic host. The received ultrasonic waves can be transmitted to the external ultrasonic-photoacoustic host, and after processing by the host, imaging modes such as ultrasonic imaging, photoacoustic imaging, or ultrasonic-photoacoustic fusion imaging can be realized.

[0059] In some embodiments, the head tip 13 may be provided with an illumination window 500 and a camera 501. The illumination window 500 serves as an outlet for emitting illumination light from the head tip 13, and the illumination window 500, in conjunction with the camera 501, enables optical imaging. In this case, the light source device 20 can also generate illumination light, which can be transmitted to the illumination window 500 of the photoacoustic endoscope 10. The processing device 21 processes the image signal acquired by the camera 501 and displays it on the display 22. Furthermore, the head tip 13 may also include a water / air delivery pipeline and an instrument channel. Thus, the head tip 13 can integrate functions such as optical imaging, water / air delivery, ultrasonic imaging, photoacoustic imaging, and forceps instrument manipulation.

[0060] like Figure 7 As shown, the fiber bundle 400 may include a trunk section 430, a first branch section 410, and a second branch section 420. The proximal end of the trunk section 430 can be optically coupled to a light guide interface on the light guide section 15, and the distal ends of the first branch section 410 and the second branch section 420 can both be fixed to the head end 13. The fiber bundle 400 may branch so that it may include a trunk section 430 whose proximal end is connected to the light guide section 15, and a first branch section 410 and a second branch section 420 whose distal ends extend to the head end 13. The fiber bundle 400 may branch into two strands at any location in the light guide section 15, the operation section 16, or the insertion section 12, with the proximal end of the fiber bundle 400 to the branch point being the trunk section 430. The proximal end of the fiber bundle 400, that is, the proximal end of the trunk section 430, can be connected to the light guide section 15. After the photoacoustic excitation light generated by the light source device 20 is transmitted to the light guide section 15, it can continue to be transmitted by the light guide section 15 to the main section 430. The main section 430 can transmit the photoacoustic excitation light to the first branch section 410 and the second branch section 420.

[0061] The distal ends of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 can extend to the head end segment 13 and can be fixedly connected to the head end segment 13 by various means such as adhesive or heat fusion. The photoacoustic excitation light is emitted from the distal ends of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 and can be irradiated onto the observed object through the photoacoustic excitation light window 300.

[0062] In particular, in embodiments where a first photoacoustic excitation window 310 and a second photoacoustic excitation window 320 are present on the head end portion 13, the distal end of the first branch segment 410 can be aligned with the first photoacoustic excitation window 310, and the distal end of the second branch segment 420 can be aligned with the second photoacoustic excitation window 320. This will be described in detail later.

[0063] The photoacoustic endoscope 10 may further include a connector assembly 600, which may include a main connector 630, a first branch connector 610 and a second branch connector 620 detachably connected to the main connector 630. The first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 are independent of each other. The first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can be separated from each other after being detached from the main connector 630. Exemplarily, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can be connected to the main connector 630 independently, or they can be combined and then connected to the main connector 630. The main connector 630, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can be cylindrical structures or have prismatic shapes, etc. The main connector 630, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can be designed into various shapes as needed; for example, the main connector 630, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can be prismatic or cylindrical. The first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 may have the same shape or different shapes. The connection between the main connector 630, the first branch connector 610, and the second branch connector 620 can be a detachable connection of various forms, such as a threaded connection or a snap-fit ​​connection. The main connector 630, the first branch connector 610, and the second branch connector 620 may be made of metal or insulating materials such as plastic.

[0064] The distal end of the main segment 430 of the fiber optic bundle 400 can be connected to the main connector 630, the proximal end of the first branch segment 410 of the fiber optic bundle 400 can be connected to the first branch connector 610, and the proximal end of the second branch segment 420 of the fiber optic bundle 400 can be connected to the second branch connector 620. The main connector 630 can be connected to the distal end of the main segment 430 by various methods such as adhesive bonding, welding, snap-fit, or threaded connection. Similarly, the first branch connector 610 can be connected to the proximal end of the first branch segment 410 by various methods such as adhesive bonding, welding, snap-fit, or threaded connection; and the second branch connector 620 can be connected to the proximal end of the second branch segment 420 by various methods such as adhesive bonding, welding, snap-fit, or threaded connection.

[0065] When the connectors of the connector assembly 600 are connected together, the distal end of the main trunk 430 can be optically coupled to the proximal ends of the first branch 410 and the second branch 420. Optical coupling means that the photoacoustic excitation light can be transmitted between the main trunk 430 and the first branch 410 and the second branch 420. That is, when the connectors of the connector assembly 600 are connected together, the photoacoustic excitation light can be transmitted on the photoacoustic endoscope 10, and the photoacoustic endoscope 10 can work normally.

[0066] The photoacoustic endoscope 10 provided in this application divides the optical fiber bundle 400 into three segments: a main segment 430, a first branch segment 410, and a second branch segment 420. A main connector 630, a first branch connector 610, and a second branch connector 620 are provided at the connection points of the three optical fiber segments. When the main connector 630, the first branch connector 610, and the second branch connector 620 are connected, the main segment 430 can achieve optical coupling with the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420. In this way, the photoacoustic excitation light can be transmitted normally in the photoacoustic endoscope 10, and the photoacoustic endoscope 10 can work normally. When it is necessary to disassemble the components of the photoacoustic endoscope 10 between the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420, the connections of each connector in the connector assembly 600 can be disconnected. At this time, the main trunk segment 430 can be separated from the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420, and the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 can also be separated from each other. Thus, the separation of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 will not obstruct the disassembly of the components on the head end. In addition, when the main trunk segment 430, the first branch segment 410, or the second branch segment 420 needs to be disassembled, the connections of each connector in the connector assembly 600 can also be disconnected, thereby achieving the purpose of repairing or replacing the optical fiber. Such a photoacoustic endoscope 10 can be easily disassembled, repaired, or have its components replaced during repair and disassembly, resulting in better maintainability and a better user experience.

[0067] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the head end 13 may include a convex array ultrasonic probe 200. (As...) Figure 4 As shown, the convex array ultrasonic probe 200 may have an acoustic window 210 extending about the lateral direction LL, which is perpendicular to the axis PP of the insertion portion 12. The acoustic window 210 may extend about the axis L. The axis L is perpendicular to the axis PP of the insertion portion 12. Figure 4 The middle part is located at point L and perpendicular to the axis PP. The acoustic window 210 can be in the form of an acoustic lens or other acoustic elements capable of converging or diverging sound waves. Preferably, the acoustic window 210 may include a portion made of a non-metallic material; for example, the acoustic window 210 may include a portion made of opaque silicone material, thus preventing the photoacoustic excitation light from being refracted through the acoustic window into the interior of the head end 13. Figure 3As shown, two photoacoustic excitation windows 300 can be provided on the head end 13, located on both sides of the convex array ultrasonic probe 200. That is, along the lateral direction LL, the two photoacoustic excitation windows 300 are located on both sides of the convex array ultrasonic probe 200. The distal ends of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 can be aligned with the two photoacoustic excitation windows 300, respectively. The two photoacoustic excitation windows 300 can be the first photoacoustic excitation window 310 and the second photoacoustic excitation window 320, respectively. The distal end of the first branch segment 410 can be aligned with the first photoacoustic excitation window 310, and the distal end of the second branch segment 420 can be aligned with the second photoacoustic excitation window 320. The first photoacoustic excitation window 310 and the second photoacoustic excitation window 320 can be located on both sides of the convex array ultrasonic probe 200, respectively. The illumination areas formed by the first photoacoustic excitation window 310 and the second photoacoustic excitation window 320 can respectively cover the detection area of ​​the convex array ultrasonic probe 200 from different directions on both sides. In other words, the first photoacoustic excitation window 310 and the second photoacoustic excitation window 320 can form a good photoacoustic excitation light field, such as... Figure 6 As shown.

[0068] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the distal ends 4101 of the plurality of first optical fibers included in the first branch segment 410 and the distal ends 4201 of the plurality of second optical fibers included in the second branch segment 420 can be separated from each other and spread out in a fan shape. The distal ends 4101 of the plurality of first optical fibers included in the first branch segment 410 can be separated from each other and can form a first fan-shaped structure, and the distal ends 4201 of the plurality of second optical fibers included in the second branch segment 420 can be separated from each other and can form a second fan-shaped structure. The distal ends 4101 of the plurality of first optical fibers can have the same shape or different shapes. Preferably, the distal ends 4101 of the plurality of first optical fibers can be in the form of a plurality of thin cylinders. After the distal ends 4101 of the plurality of first optical fibers are separated from each other, the angles formed between them can be uniformly distributed. In the first fan-shaped structure formed by the distal ends 4101 of the plurality of first optical fibers, the outermost positioning angle α, as shown in the figure, can be greater than or equal to the scanning angle of the convex array ultrasonic probe 200. The distal ends 4201 of the multiple second optical fibers can be similar to the distal ends 4101 of the multiple first optical fibers, and will not be described in detail. It is worth noting that the first sector structure formed by the distal ends 4101 of the multiple first optical fibers and the second sector structure formed by the distal ends 4201 of the multiple second optical fibers can be the same or different, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0069] The head end 13 may also include an optical fiber fixing component, to which the distal ends 4101 of the plurality of first optical fibers and the distal ends 4201 of the plurality of second optical fibers can be fixed. Figure 6In the illustrated embodiment, the distal ends 4101 of a plurality of first optical fibers are fixed to a first optical fiber fixing member 700, and the distal ends 4201 of a plurality of second optical fibers are fixed to a second optical fiber fixing member 800. The optical fiber fixing members can have various shapes as needed; preferably, such as… Figure 6 As shown, the first optical fiber fixing member 700 may be provided with a plurality of first through holes 710 corresponding one-to-one with the distal ends 4101 of a plurality of first optical fibers. The axis of the plurality of first through holes 710 passes through the center of the first sector structure. The distal ends 4101 of the plurality of first optical fibers can be fixed in the corresponding first through holes 710 respectively. The second optical fiber fixing member 800 may be provided with a plurality of second through holes 810 corresponding one-to-one with the distal ends 4201 of a plurality of second optical fibers. The axis of the plurality of second through holes 810 may pass through the center of the second sector structure. The distal ends 4201 of the plurality of second optical fibers can be fixed in the corresponding second through holes 810 respectively.

[0070] The first through-hole 710 can match the shape of the distal ends 4101 of the multiple first optical fibers. The distal ends 4101 of the multiple first optical fibers can be fixedly connected to the multiple first through-holes 710 by adhesive. The distal end 4101 of each branched first optical fiber can correspond to one first through-hole 710. The second optical fiber fixing member 800 can be similar to the first optical fiber fixing member 700, and will not be described in detail here.

[0071] The multiple first through holes 710 of the first optical fiber fixing member 700 and the multiple second through holes 810 of the second optical fiber fixing member 800 can respectively fix the distal ends 4101 of multiple first optical fibers and the distal ends 4201 of multiple second optical fibers. This fixing method is not only simple in structure, but also protects the distal ends 4101 of multiple first optical fibers and the distal ends 4201 of multiple second optical fibers by the first optical fiber fixing member 700 and the second optical fiber fixing member 800, making it less likely to change position due to collisions or other external reasons, thus improving the stability of the overall device.

[0072] The fiber optic fastener can be fixed to the inner surface of the two photoacoustic excitation windows 300. For example, as shown... Figure 6 As shown, the first photoacoustic excitation window 310 can be bonded to the outer surface of the first optical fiber fixing member 700, and the second photoacoustic excitation window 320 can be bonded to the outer surface of the second optical fiber fixing member 800. The shape of the first optical fiber fixing member 700 can match the first photoacoustic excitation window 310, and the outer surface of the distal end of the first optical fiber fixing member 700 can be fixedly connected to the first photoacoustic excitation window 310 by various means such as adhesive bonding, threaded connection, or welding. The shape of the second optical fiber fixing member 800 can match the second photoacoustic excitation window 320, and the outer surface of the distal end of the second optical fiber fixing member 800 can be fixedly connected to the second photoacoustic excitation window 320 by various means such as adhesive bonding, threaded connection, or welding.

[0073] For example, the sum of the numerical apertures of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 can be greater than or equal to the numerical aperture of the trunk segment 430. A larger numerical aperture in an optical fiber results in a stronger light-receiving capability. The fact that the sum of the numerical apertures of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 is greater than or equal to the numerical aperture of the trunk segment 430 ensures that the photoacoustic excitation light transmitted through the trunk segment 430 can be received by the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420, and thus the photoacoustic excitation light can continue to be transmitted to the distal end of the head end 13 through the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420.

[0074] For example, the sum of the cross-sectional areas of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 can be greater than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the main segment 430. This arrangement is also to ensure that the photoacoustic excitation light transmitted through the main segment 430 can be received by the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420, and thus the photoacoustic excitation light can continue to be transmitted to the distal end of the head end 13 through the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420.

[0075] For example, the proximal end of the first branch segment 410 can be heat-cured or glued to the first branch connector 610. Using heat-curing or gluing to fix the proximal end of the first branch segment 410 to the first branch connector 610 provides a more stable connection. Similarly, the proximal end of the second branch segment 420 can be heat-cured or glued to the second branch connector 620, and the distal end of the main segment 430 can be heat-cured or glued to the main connector 630; details will not be elaborated further here.

[0076] Exemplarily, the connector assembly 600 can be disposed within the operating section 16 or the light guide section 15. Both the operating section 16 and the light guide section 15 have sufficient space to accommodate the connector assembly 600. Furthermore, during maintenance, the operating section 16 and the light guide section 15 are easier to disassemble, and the connector assembly 600 can be removed more conveniently. Of course, this application does not exclude the possibility of disposing of the connector assembly 600 within the insertion section 12. The insertion tube 121 typically contains many wire bundles. For example, to enable the tip 13 to manipulate forceps instruments, an instrument channel can be provided within the insertion tube 121, and a steel wire rope can be disposed within the instrument channel. The steel wire rope can be used to pull medical instruments. The fiber optic bundle 400 branches into two strands within the insertion section 12. Because there are many wire bundles in the insertion section 12, the wire bundles inside the insertion section 12 will have some movement due to the bending of the bending section 122. If the fiber optic bundle branches within the insertion section 12, the wire bundles inside the insertion section 12 are prone to tangling, affecting the reliability of the endoscope's use.

[0077] For example, such as Figure 8-13As shown, the main connector 630 may include a connector tube 631, and the distal end of the main section 430 may be inserted into the connector tube 631. The connector assembly 600 may also include a connector 640, and the connector tube 631 and the connector 640 may be detachably connected so that the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 may be clamped between the connector tube 631 and the connector 640.

[0078] The connector tube 631 and connector 640 can be designed into various shapes as needed. For example, the connector tube 631 and connector 640 can be cylindrical or prismatic. Furthermore, the connector 640 can also be a sheet-like structure, as long as it can connect to the connector tube 631 to clamp the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620. The connector tube 631 and connector 640 can be made of metal or insulating materials such as plastic. The connector tube 631 can be a metal cylindrical structure. The distal end of the main section 430 can be connected to the connector tube 631. The distal end of the main section 430 can be connected to the connector tube 631 by any suitable method such as adhesive bonding or heat fusion curing. The connector tube 631 can protect the distal end of the main section 430; during disassembly, holding the connector tube 631 prevents damage to the distal end of the main section 430. The connection between the connector tube 631 and connector 640 can be a detachable connection of various forms, such as threaded connection or snap-fit. The connector 640 can hold and limit the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 together, thus providing a positioning effect. Through the clamping action of the connector 640, the movement of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 is restricted after the connector tube 631 is connected to the connector 640. The design of the connector tube 631 and the connector 640 makes the connection of the connector assembly 600 more stable and convenient.

[0079] Optionally, connector 640 can be omitted, and the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can be directly connected to the connector tube 631. For example, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can be directly snapped or threaded to the connector tube 631. To facilitate the connection of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 together to the connector tube 631, before connection to the connector tube 631, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can be provided with a joint, which, for example, restricts the movement of one of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 relative to the other in the axial and / or circumferential directions, before being integrally connected into the connector tube 631. Optionally, the joint on the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can be a groove and a protrusion, respectively, and the groove and protrusion can be provided on opposite sides of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620. After the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 are engaged, the protrusion is inserted into the groove, thereby restricting the movement of one of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 relative to the other.

[0080] For example, such as Figure 11 As shown, the connector tube 631 and the connector 640 can be connected by threads. Connecting the connector tube 631 and the connector 640 by threads makes the overall structure simpler and easier to implement. Moreover, the threaded connection is easy to disassemble, making it more convenient to disassemble and replace the fiber bundle 400 in the whole device.

[0081] For example, connector 640 can be connected to connector tube 631. Further, when connector tube 631 and connector 640 are threaded together, connector tube 631 may have internal threads, and connector 640 may have external threads. The thread distance can be greater than or equal to the movable distance of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620. This ensures that the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 will preferentially abut against the main connector 630, thereby ensuring that the fiber bundle 400 has good photoacoustic excitation light transmission effect when connected to connector assembly 600.

[0082] The connector 640 facilitates the connection of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 to the connector tube 631. Furthermore, with the connector 640 in place, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 are first constrained by the connector 640 before connecting to the connector tube 631, thus allowing for easy rotation of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 relative to the main segment 430. When the connector 640 rotates relative to the connector tube 631, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 also rotate relative to the connector tube 631; that is, the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 can rotate relative to the main segment 430.

[0083] For example, such as Figure 8-13 As shown, the first branch connector 610 may include a first connector portion 611, and the proximal end of the first branch segment 410 may be connected to the first connector portion 611. The first connector portion 611 may accommodate and fix the proximal end of the first branch segment 410, which may be fixedly connected to the first connector portion 611 by means of adhesive bonding or heat fusion curing. A first hard segment 411 may be formed at the proximal end of the first branch segment 410 by means of adhesive bonding or heat fusion curing. The first hard segment 411 is fixed to the first connector portion 611. The second branch connector 620 may include a second connector portion 621, and the proximal end of the second branch segment 420 may be connected to the second connector portion 621. The second connector portion 621 may accommodate and fix the proximal end of the second branch segment 420, which may be fixedly connected to the second connector portion 621 by means of adhesive bonding or heat fusion curing. A second hard segment 421 may be formed at the proximal end of the second branch segment 420 by means of adhesive bonding or heat fusion curing. The second rigid section 42 is fixed to the second joint 621.

[0084] The connector 640 may have an optical fiber channel 642. At least the distal ends of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 can be inserted side-by-side into the optical fiber channel 642, and the portions of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 inserted into the optical fiber channel 642 can be adapted to the optical fiber channel 642. This means that the distal ends of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 can abut together and then be inserted side-by-side into the optical fiber channel 642. The cross-section of the distal ends of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 after they abut together can be regular or irregular. After the distal ends of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 abut together, the proximal ends of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 also abut together. At this time, the optical fiber channel 642 can limit the proximal ends of the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420, making the transmission of photoacoustic excitation light at the connector assembly 600 more stable.

[0085] A limiting block 643 may be provided at the distal end of the fiber optic channel 642. When the connector tube 631 is connected to the connector 640, the limiting block 643 can limit the movement of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 towards the distal end. When the connector tube 631 is connected to the connector 640, the limiting block 643 can restrict the movement of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 towards the distal end. Thus, the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 are clamped between the limiting block 643 and the connector tube 631 in the axial direction.

[0086] For example, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the limiting block 643 may include a first fixed limiting block 6431 and a second fixed limiting block 6432 disposed opposite to each other along a predetermined direction MM on the inner sidewall of the optical fiber channel 642. The predetermined direction MM is perpendicular to the extension direction of the optical fiber bundle 400. The first fixed limiting block 6431 may be located on the side where the first connector 611 is located, and the second fixed limiting block 6432 may be located on the side where the second connector 621 is located. The shape of the first fixed limiting block 6431 may be adapted to the shape of the distal end face of the first connector 611, so that the first fixed limiting block 6431 can restrict the distal movement of the first connector 611. The shape of the second fixed limiting block 6432 may be adapted to the shape of the distal end face of the second connector 621, so that the second fixed limiting block 6432 can restrict the distal movement of the second connector 621. There may be a predetermined distance D between the first fixed limiting block 6431 and the second fixed limiting block 6432. The predetermined distance D may be greater than the dimension d1 of the first joint portion 611 along the predetermined direction MM and may be greater than the dimension d2 of the second joint portion 621 along the predetermined direction MM.

[0087] When disassembling such a connector assembly 600, first disconnect the connector tube 631 and the connector 640, then the first connector portion 611 can be moved a certain distance towards the proximal end. The distal end of the first connector portion 611 is detached from the optical fiber channel 642, and the first branch segment 410 is located within the optical fiber channel 642, wherein the first branch segment 410 is an optical fiber segment with a very small outer diameter. Since the predetermined distance D between the first fixing block 6431 and the second fixing block 6432 in the predetermined direction MM is greater than the dimension d2 of the second connector portion 621 in the predetermined direction MM, the second connector portion 621 can be pulled out from between the first fixing block 6431 and the second fixing block 6432, as shown. Figure 13 As shown, this achieves the purpose of disassembling the main section 430, the first branch section 410, and the second branch section 420.

[0088] Similarly, after disconnecting the connector tube 631 and the connector 640, the second connector 621 can be moved a certain distance towards the proximal end. The distal end of the second connector 621 is detached from the optical fiber channel 642, and the second branch segment 420 is located within the optical fiber channel 642. The second branch segment 420 is an optical fiber segment with a very small outer diameter. Since the predetermined distance D between the first fixed limiting block 6431 and the second fixed limiting block 6432 in the predetermined direction MM is greater than the dimension d1 of the first connector 611 in the predetermined direction MM, the first connector 611 can be pulled out from between the first fixed limiting block 6431 and the second fixed limiting block 6432, thereby achieving the purpose of disassembling the trunk segment 430, the first branch segment 410, and the second branch segment 420. Furthermore, the connector 640 can also be detached from the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420.

[0089] Preferably, the predetermined spacing D can be greater than or equal to the dimension d1 of the first joint portion 611 along the predetermined direction MM and the sum of the outer diameters d4 of the second branch segment 420, such as... Figure 12-13 As shown. In some embodiments, although the outer diameter of the second branch segment 420 is small, it is still not negligible. A predetermined spacing D greater than or equal to the sum of d1 and d4 ensures that the first connector portion 611 can be pulled out from the fiber optic channel 642 when the connector assembly 600 is disassembled.

[0090] Preferably, the predetermined spacing D can be greater than or equal to the sum of the dimension d2 of the second connector portion 621 along the predetermined direction MM and the outer diameter d3 of the first branch segment 410. In some embodiments, although the outer diameter of the first branch segment 410 is small, it is still not negligible. The predetermined spacing D being greater than or equal to the sum of d2 and d3 ensures that the second connector portion 621 can be pulled out from the optical fiber channel 642 when the connector assembly 600 is disassembled.

[0091] For example, the cross-section of the fiber optic channel 642 can be rectangular or rounded rectangular. Such a fiber optic channel 642 can restrict the rotation of the first connector 611 and the second connector 621, ensuring that the first fixing block 6431 can be located on the side where the first connector 611 is located, and the second fixing block 6432 can be located on the side where the second connector 621 is located. This ensures that when the connector assembly is disassembled, the trunk segment 430, the first branch segment 410, and the second branch segment 420 can be separated as described above. Furthermore, this avoids a mismatch between the first fixing block 6431 and the side where the first connector 611 is located, which would result in a poor limiting effect of the first fixing block 6431 on the first connector 611. Similarly, this avoids a mismatch between the second fixing block 6432 and the side where the second connector 621 is located, which would result in a poor limiting effect of the second fixing block 6432 on the second connector 621.

[0092] In the embodiments described above, optionally, in another set of embodiments not shown, the limiting block can be movably connected to the connector 640. Specifically, the connector 640 can be moved between a limiting position of the first connector 611 and the second connector 621 and a releasing position of the first connector 611 and the second connector 621.

[0093] For example, when the limiting block 643 is in the limiting position, it can restrict the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 from moving to the distal end, that is, it restricts the portion of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 that is located inside the connector 640, so that this portion cannot be pulled out of the connector 640 towards the distal end. When the limiting block 643 is in the releasing position, it can release the restriction on the movement of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 to the distal end, that is, when the limiting block 643 is in the releasing position, the portion of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 that is located inside the connector 640 can be pulled out of the connector 640. The limiting block 643 can move between the limiting position and the releasing position electrically or manually. When the connector assembly 600 is in the connected state, the connector tube 631 and the connector 640 are connected, and the limiting block 643 can be in the limiting position. When it is necessary to disassemble the connector assembly 600, the connector tube 631 and the connector 640 separate, the limiting block 643 moves to the releasing position, and the limiting block 643 releases the constraint on the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 to move to the distal end. At this time, the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 can be pulled out from the optical fiber channel 642 respectively. Thus, the purpose of disassembling the connector assembly 600 and disassembling the main section 430, the first branch section 410 and the second branch section 420 can be achieved. Specifically, the limiting block 643 can move between the limiting position and the releasing position, which means that the limiting block 643 can be detached from the optical fiber channel 642.

[0094] For example, the movable limiting block 643 can be a screw threadedly connected to the connector 640. When the limiting block 643 needs to move to the limiting position, the screw can be screwed inward toward the connector 640, causing it to block the distal ends of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621. Alternatively, a groove or through hole can be provided on the outer surface of the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621. The screw can be screwed into the groove or through hole to limit the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621. There can be one or two limiting blocks 643. When there is one limiting block 643, the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 can be limited simultaneously. When there are two limiting blocks 643, the first connector portion 611 and the second connector portion 621 can be limited separately.

[0095] Exemplarily, the first branch connector 610 may further include a first bundle portion 612 extending from the distal end of the first connector portion 611 toward the distal end of the fiber bundle 400. When the connector tube 631 is connected to the connector 640, the proximal end of the first bundle portion 612 may be located within the fiber channel 642, and the first bundle portion 612 may extend beyond the connector 640. When disassembling the connector assembly 600, the movement of the first connector portion 611 can be achieved by holding the first bundle portion 612. The first bundle portion 612 can protect the first branch segment 410. The arrangement of the first bundle portion 612 makes the installation and disassembly of the connector assembly 600 more convenient and also improves the stability of the overall device.

[0096] Similarly, the second branch connector 620 may also include a second bundle portion 622 extending from the distal end of the second connector portion 621 toward the distal end of the fiber bundle 400. When the connector tube 631 is connected to the connector 640, the proximal end of the second bundle portion 622 may be located within the fiber channel 642, and the second bundle portion 622 may extend beyond the connector 640. When disassembling the connector assembly 600, the movement of the second connector portion 621 can be achieved by holding the second bundle portion 622. The second bundle portion 622 can protect the second branch segment 420. The provision of the second bundle portion 622 makes the installation and disassembly of the connector assembly 600 more convenient and also improves the stability of the overall device.

[0097] As described above, during installation, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 merge into a stepped cylinder, with the smaller end 602 passing through the fiber optic channel 642 at the distal end of the connector 640. The limiting step 603 and the retaining flange 641, along with the larger end 601 and the connector 640, provide positioning for the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620. The connector 640 is threaded to the connector tube 631, with the thread distance greater than or equal to the movable distance of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620. This ensures that when the connector 640 is connected to the connector tube 631, the end faces of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 abut against the main connector 630, thereby ensuring good optical coupling between the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 and the main segment.

[0098] For example, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can have the same structure. This allows them to be made into a standard part, without having to make separate molds for the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620.

[0099] For example, each of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 may be provided with a cavity with a semi-circular cross-section. The proximal end of the first branch segment 410 and the proximal end of the second branch segment 420 may be fixed to the first cavity 613 of the first branch connector 610 and the second cavity 623 of the second branch connector 620, respectively. Figure 9 As shown. The proximal end of the first branch segment 410 can be bonded to the sidewall of the first cavity 613, thereby connecting with the first branch connector 610. The proximal end of the second branch segment 420 can be bonded to the sidewall of the second cavity 623, thereby connecting with the second branch connector 620. In this way, the structures of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 are relatively simple, and since the optical fiber bundle generally adopts a circular cross-section structure, this design of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can better fix and connect with the optical fiber bundle.

[0100] For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, the proximal end of the first branch segment 410 may have a first rigid segment 411 adapted to the cavity of the first branch connector 610. The first rigid segment 411 can be fixedly connected to the first branch connector 610 by adhesive bonding or heat-melting curing, and the first rigid segment 411 can also be shaped into a semi-cylindrical form to adapt to the cavity of the first branch connector 610. The first rigid segment 411 can extend beyond the distal end of the first branch connector 610. The first rigid segment 411 is a part of the first branch segment 410, specifically, the part of the first branch segment 410 closest to the main segment 430 at the proximal end. The first branch segment 410 may also include a first transition segment 412, which is located on the first branch segment 410 immediately adjacent to the first rigid segment 411, and the first transition segment 412 is located further distally than the first rigid segment 411. The first rigid section 411 is provided to facilitate the connection between the first branch section 410 and the first branch connector 610. Other parts of the first branch section 410 can be cylindrical and flexible. The shape of the first transition section 412 can gradually change from semi-cylindrical to cylindrical from the near end to the far end. The first transition section 412 provides a transition area between the first rigid section 411 and other parts of the first branch section 410. Optionally, fiber optic protective sheaths can be gradually applied to the first transition section 412 from the near end to the far end, and fiber optic protective sheaths can be applied to all parts of the first branch section 410 except for the first rigid section 411 and the first transition section 412. This allows the fiber optic protective sheaths to protect the flexible parts of the first branch section 410, improving the overall stability of the device.

[0101] For example, the proximal end of the second branch segment 420 may also have a second hard segment 421 adapted to the cavity of the second branch connector 620, and the second hard segment 421 may extend beyond the distal end of the second branch connector 620. The formation of the second hard segment 421 on the second branch segment 420 is similar to the formation of the first hard segment 411 on the first branch segment 410, and will not be described in detail here.

[0102] As described above, during installation of the connector assembly 600, the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 abut against each other, and the first bundle portion 612 and the second bundle portion 622 can extend out through the optical fiber channel 642 at the distal end of the connector 640. The first fixing limit block 6431 can constrain the first connector portion 611, and the second fixing limit block 6432 can constrain the second connector portion 621, thus providing a positioning effect for the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620. The connector 640 and the connector tube 631 are connected by threads, and the thread distance is greater than or equal to the movable distance of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620. This ensures that when the connector 640 is connected to the connector tube 631, the end faces of the first branch connector 610 and the second branch connector 620 can abut against the main connector 630, thereby ensuring good optical coupling between the first branch segment 410 and the second branch segment 420 and the main segment.

[0103] Such a connector assembly 600 can undergo the following process during disassembly: Figure 12 The first disassembly state shown and as follows Figure 13 The second disassembly state is shown. When disassembling the connector assembly 600, first disconnect the threaded connection between the connector tube 631 and the connector 640, that is, unscrew the connector tube 631 or the connector 640. Then push either the first branch connector 610 or the second branch connector 620 proximally, as shown. Figure 12 As shown, taking the first branch connector 610 being pushed proximally as an example, at this time, the first connector portion 611 is disengaged from the connector 640, the first bundle portion 612 is located inside the connector 640, and a portion of the first branch segment 410 is located in the optical fiber channel 642 at the distal end of the connector 640. The predetermined distance between the first fixing limit block 6431 and the second fixing limit block 6432 in the predetermined direction MM is greater than or equal to the sum of the size of the second connector portion 621 along the predetermined direction MM and the outer diameter of the first branch segment 410, thus allowing it to proceed as follows: Figure 13 As shown, the second branch segment 420 is pulled out from the fiber optic channel 642 at the far end of the connector 640, thereby achieving the purpose of disassembling the fiber bundle 400.

[0104] For example, such as Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13As shown, a protective sleeve 431 can be fitted onto the main section 430. The protective sleeve 431 can be made of plastic and can protect the main section 430 and reduce external interference to it. An inner sleeve 632 can be coaxially mounted on the proximal end of the connector tube 631. The outer diameter of the inner sleeve 632 can be smaller than the outer diameter of the connector tube 631. The main section 430 can pass through the inner sleeve 632, and the distal end of the protective sleeve 431 can be fitted onto the inner sleeve 632. As mentioned above, the connector tube 631 can be a metal cylindrical structure, and the inner sleeve 632 can be a cylindrical metal structure coaxial with the connector tube 631. The inner sleeve 632 and the connector tube 631 can be manufactured as a single piece or manufactured separately and then connected. The outer diameter of the inner sleeve 632 can be smaller than the outer diameter of the connector tube 631. The main section 430 can be inserted into the inner sleeve 632, and the distal end of the main protective skin 431 can be fitted onto the inner sleeve 632. The main protective skin 431 can be fixedly connected to the inner sleeve 632 by means of interference fit or other means. The main protective skin 431 can wrap around the proximal end of the inner sleeve 632, thus providing more comprehensive protection for the main section 430 and enhancing the overall stability of the device.

[0105] For example, such as Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, an annular groove 633 can be provided on the outer wall of the inner sleeve 632, and the main protective skin 431 can be fixed to the inner sleeve 632 by a fixing line wrapped around the annular groove 633. Tightening the fixing line can make the main protective skin 431 more stably fixed to the inner sleeve 632, and enhance the stability of the fixed connection between the main protective skin 431 and the inner sleeve 632.

[0106] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front", "rear", "up", "down", "left", "right", "horizontal", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and "bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0107] For ease of description, relative terms such as "above," "over," "on the upper surface of," and "above" are used here to describe the regional positional relationship of one or more components or features shown in the figures to other components or features. It should be understood that relative terms include not only the orientation of the component as depicted in the figure but also different orientations during use or operation. For example, if the components in the figures are inverted as a whole, "above" or "above other components or features" will include cases where the component is "below" or "under" other components or features. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." Furthermore, these components or features may also be positioned at other different angles (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other angles), and this document intends to include all such cases.

[0108] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0109] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

[0110] The present invention has been described through the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention to the scope of the described embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and many more variations and modifications can be made based on the teachings of the present invention, all of which fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A photoacoustic endoscope comprising a light guide portion, an operation portion, and an insertion portion, the operation portion being connected between the light guide portion and the insertion portion, a distal end of the insertion portion being provided with a head portion, a fiber bundle extending from the light guide portion to the head portion via the operation portion for conducting photoacoustic excitation light, characterized in that, The optical fiber bundle comprises a main trunk section, a first branch section and a second branch section, the photoacoustic endoscope further comprises a joint assembly, the joint assembly comprises a main trunk joint, a first branch joint and a second branch joint which are independently and detachably connected to the main trunk joint, a proximal end of the main trunk section is optically coupled to a light guide interface on the light guide part, a distal end of the main trunk section is connected to the main trunk joint, a proximal end of the first branch section is connected to the first branch joint, a proximal end of the second branch section is connected to the second branch joint, distal ends of the first branch section and the second branch section are both fixed to the head end part, the head end part comprises a convex array ultrasonic probe, two photoacoustic excitation light windows are arranged on the head end part, the two photoacoustic excitation light windows are respectively located on two sides of the convex array ultrasonic probe, the distal ends of the first branch section and the second branch section are respectively aligned with the two photoacoustic excitation light windows; The distal end of the main trunk section is optically coupled to the proximal ends of the first branch section and the second branch section when the joints of the joint assembly are connected together, the main trunk joint comprises a joint pipe, the distal end of the main trunk section is connected into the joint pipe, the joint assembly further comprises a connecting piece, the joint pipe and the connecting piece are detachably connected to clamp the first branch joint and the second branch joint between the joint pipe and the connecting piece.

2. The photoacoustic endoscope according to claim 1, characterized by, The joint assembly is arranged in the operation part or the light guide part.

3. The photoacoustic endoscope according to claim 1, characterized by, The first branch joint comprises a first joint part, the proximal end of the first branch section is connected to the first joint part, the second branch joint comprises a second joint part, the proximal end of the second branch section is connected to the second joint part, the connecting piece has an optical fiber channel, at least distal ends of the first joint part and the second joint part are inserted into and fitted with the optical fiber channel in a side-by-side manner, a distal end of the optical fiber channel is provided with a limiting block which limits the first joint part and the second joint part in a direction towards the distal end when the joint pipe and the connecting piece are connected.

4. The photoacoustic endoscope according to claim 3, characterized by The limiting block comprises a first fixed limiting block and a second fixed limiting block which are oppositely arranged on an inner side wall of the optical fiber channel in a predetermined direction, the predetermined direction is perpendicular to an extension direction of the optical fiber bundle, the first fixed limiting block is located on a side where the first joint part is located, the second fixed limiting block is located on a side where the second joint part is located, the first fixed limiting block and the second fixed limiting block have a predetermined interval, the predetermined interval is greater than a size of the first joint part along the predetermined direction and greater than a size of the second joint part along the predetermined direction.

5. The photoacoustic endoscope according to claim 4, wherein the predetermined interval is greater than or equal to a sum of the size of the first joint part along the predetermined direction and an outer diameter of the second branch section; and / or the predetermined interval is greater than or equal to a sum of the size of the second joint part along the predetermined direction and an outer diameter of the first branch section.

6. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 3, wherein A cross section of the optical fiber channel is rectangular or circularly rectangular.

7. The photoacoustic endoscope according to claim 3, wherein The first branch joint further comprises a first bundle section extending from a distal end of the first joint portion towards a distal end of the fiber bundle, the first bundle section extending out of the connection; and / or The second branch joint further comprises a second bundle section extending from a distal end of the second joint portion towards a distal end of the fiber bundle, the second bundle section extending out of the connection.

8. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 3, wherein, The limiting block is movable between a limiting position for limiting the first joint portion and the second joint portion and a releasing position for releasing the first joint portion and the second joint portion.

9. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1, wherein, The first branch joint and the second branch joint have the same structure.

10. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 9, wherein Each of the first branch joint and the second branch joint is provided with a concave cavity with a semicircular cross section, a proximal end of the first branch section and a proximal end of the second branch section being fixed into the concave cavity of the first branch joint and the second branch joint respectively.

11. The photoacoustic endoscope according to claim 10, wherein The proximal end of the first branch section is formed with a first rigid section matching the concave cavity of the first branch joint, the first rigid section extending out of a distal end of the first branch joint; and / or The proximal end of the second branch section is formed with a second rigid section matching the concave cavity of the second branch joint, the second rigid section extending out of a distal end of the second branch joint.

12. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1, wherein, The joint tube and the connection are threadedly connected.

13. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1, wherein, The connection is connected into the joint tube.

14. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1, wherein, A trunk protection sheath is sleeved on the trunk section, a proximal end of the joint tube is coaxially provided with an inner sleeve tube, an outer diameter of the inner sleeve tube is smaller than an outer diameter of the joint tube, the trunk section is sleeved in the inner sleeve tube, and a distal end of the trunk protection sheath is sleeved on the inner sleeve tube.

15. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 14, wherein, An annular groove is provided on an outer sidewall of the inner sleeve tube, and the trunk protection sheath is fixed on the inner sleeve tube by a fixing line wound at the annular groove.

16. The photoacoustic endoscope according to claim 1, wherein A sum of numerical apertures of the first branch section and the second branch section is greater than or equal to a numerical aperture of the trunk section; and / or A sum of cross-sectional areas of the first branch section and the second branch section is greater than or equal to a cross-sectional area of the trunk section.

17. The photoacoustic endoscope according to claim 1, wherein The proximal end of the first branch section is heat-fusion fixed or glued to the first branch joint; and / or The proximal end of the second branch section is heat-fusion fixed or glued to the second branch joint; and / or The distal end of the trunk section is heat-fusion fixed or glued to the trunk joint.

18. The photoacoustic endoscope of claim 1, wherein, Distal ends of a plurality of first optical fibers included in the first branch section and distal ends of a plurality of second optical fibers included in the second branch section are separated from each other, fanned out in a fan shape, and fixed to an optical fiber fixing member, the optical fiber fixing member being fixed to inner surfaces of the two photoacoustic excitation light windows.

19. An endoscope system characterized by comprising: The photoacoustic endoscope according to any one of claims 1-18.

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