Endoscope

Abstract

The present application provides an endoscope, which comprises a self-locking mechanism, an electrical connector and a leak detection device. The self-locking mechanism comprises an elastic member, which can tightly lock the air cannula of the endoscope when the endoscope is connected with an external device, so that the endoscope is fixedly connected with the external device. The electrical connector comprises a plug assembly and a socket assembly, and the plug assembly and the socket assembly are respectively provided with uniformly distributed first electrical connectors and correspondingly arranged second electrical connectors. The leak detection device comprises a connecting seat and a housing, and further comprises an airflow channel which is in communication with the connecting seat and the housing. The airflow channel is provided with a first elastic valve assembly and a second elastic valve assembly. When no leakage is detected, the first elastic valve assembly and the second elastic valve assembly are used to close the airflow channel by their own elastic force, so as to realize the sealing of the leak detection device. The endoscope provided by the present application can better seal and connect the endoscope with the external device, and the safety performance is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical device technology, and more particularly to an endoscope. Background Technology

[0002] In current medical device applications, endoscopes are primarily used by doctors to insert the endoscope probe into the body through natural openings or, when necessary, several small openings. The endoscope probe then performs closed surgeries using surgical instruments or a camera display system. The endoscope probe collects signals from within the body and transmits these analog or digital signals via cable to the digital centralization and analysis modules of the endoscope equipment.

[0003] Most existing endoscope connectors on the market lack self-locking functionality, possessing only positioning structures. The absence of self-locking can easily lead to unstable signal transmission when connecting the endoscope to external devices, resulting in unclear images or other problems. Furthermore, existing electrical connectors are generally stepped boss structures or connect via reinforcing ribs on the endoscope body, using metal contacts. These structures are relatively complex, have poor assembly, and are time-consuming to connect the endoscope to external devices, impacting work efficiency. Additionally, frequent plugging and unplugging operations during use can easily cause poor contact at the metal electrical contacts, abnormal signal transmission, and consequently, affect the normal operation of the endoscope.

[0004] Most existing leak detectors for endoscopes lack a self-locking function, which can easily allow water or other liquids to enter the ventilation pipe, contaminating the components or damaging the instrument. This reduces the lifespan of the leak detector, increases the risk of cross-infection for users, and raises the risk of medical accidents.

[0005] In view of this, it is indeed necessary to provide an endoscope to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an endoscope that includes a self-locking mechanism, an electrical connection mechanism, and a leak detection device. When the endoscope is connected to an external device, the self-locking mechanism automatically locks the endoscope to the external device, the electrical connection mechanism ensures stable signal transmission between the endoscope and the external device, and the leak detection device...

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an endoscope comprising:

[0008] A self-locking mechanism is used to connect and fix the endoscope and external equipment.

[0009] An electrical connector is used to connect to the endoscope and an external light source or imaging device to enable signal transmission;

[0010] The endotracheal tube is connected and fixed to the endoscope and the self-locking mechanism;

[0011] The light guide rod connects to the endoscope and external light source equipment.

[0012] The self-locking mechanism includes a first housing and a second housing. The second housing is sleeved on the outside of the first housing and is movably connected to the first housing. The first housing is provided with a clamping member that abuts against the inner wall of the second housing. The outside of the first housing is also provided with an elastic member that elastically abuts against the second housing. When the clamping member is subjected to external force to squeeze the second housing, the second housing moves relative to the first housing and squeezes the elastic member. When the external force disappears, the second housing returns to its initial state under the elastic force of the elastic member.

[0013] The electrical connector includes a plug assembly and a socket assembly. The plug assembly has a first electrical connector evenly arranged along the circumference of the plug assembly. The socket assembly has a second electrical connector at a position corresponding to the first electrical connector. The inner diameter of the socket assembly is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the plug assembly. The socket assembly is sleeved on the outside of the plug assembly. The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are electrically connected.

[0014] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first housing includes a first cavity and a second cavity, the diameter of the second cavity is larger than that of the first cavity, and an annular wall is formed on the side of the second cavity away from the first cavity in a direction away from the second cavity. The second housing is sleeved on the outside of the second cavity and at least partially encloses the first cavity, and the inner wall of the second housing abuts against the annular wall. A locking hole is provided on the cavity wall of the second cavity, and the clamping member is disposed through the locking hole and movably connected to the locking hole.

[0015] As a further improvement of the present invention, the second housing includes a first connecting end near the annular wall and a second connecting end away from the annular wall. The second housing extends toward the inner wall of the first housing and forms a protrusion in the direction of the first housing. The protrusion is disposed between the first connecting end and the second connecting end, and the side of the protrusion facing the first connecting end is provided with an inclined slope, which abuts against the clamping member.

[0016] As a further improvement of the present invention, the plug assembly further includes a plug housing and a plug annular circuit board. The first electrical connector is uniformly disposed on the outer side of the plug housing and is at least partially exposed outside the plug housing. The plug annular circuit board abuts against the inner wall of the plug housing. The plug annular circuit board further includes a first through hole and a second through hole. The endoscope's air tube and light guide rod pass through the first through hole and the second through hole respectively and are exposed outside the electrical connector to connect with the external device. The outer wall of the plug housing has grooves uniformly distributed circumferentially, and the first electrical connector is disposed in the grooves.

[0017] As a further improvement of the present invention, the plug ring circuit board has a mounting hole, and the end of the plug housing away from the socket assembly is provided with a through hole corresponding to the first electrical connector. One end of the first electrical connector is installed in the mounting hole and electrically connected to the plug ring circuit board, and the other end is folded through the through hole and then folded again to fit tightly against the outer wall of the plug housing and extend axially toward the socket assembly.

[0018] As a further improvement of the present invention, the socket assembly further includes a socket housing and a socket annular circuit board. The diameter of the socket annular circuit board is larger than the diameter of the socket housing. The side of the socket annular circuit board near the endoscope abuts against the end face of the socket housing away from the endoscope, and the other side is connected to the external device. The end of the socket housing away from the endoscope extends inward to form a socket step portion. The socket assembly also includes a clamping housing, which is fitted inside the socket housing. The end of the clamping housing away from the endoscope abuts against the inner wall of the socket step portion, and a connecting cavity is formed between the socket housing and the clamping housing.

[0019] As a further improvement of the present invention, the endoscope further includes a leak detection device, which includes: a connecting seat, which is sealed to the endoscope and connected to it via an air passage; and a housing, which is sealed to the connecting seat and connected to it via an air passage, and is also connected to a gas supply device via an air passage. The leak detection device has an airflow channel connecting the connecting seat and the housing. A first elastic valve assembly and a second elastic valve assembly are provided in the airflow channel. The first elastic valve assembly includes a first elastic element and a valve core. The second elastic valve assembly includes a second elastic element and a push rod. The valve core is sealed to the connecting seat under the elastic force of the first elastic element, and the push rod is sealed to the housing under the elastic force of the second elastic element, thereby sealing and closing the airflow channel. When the gas supply device supplies gas, the push rod moves toward the valve core and pushes the valve core toward the endoscope to open the airflow channel.

[0020] As a further improvement of the present invention, the push rod includes a tail portion toward the valve core and a top portion away from the valve core, the valve core including a first end toward the push rod and a second end away from the push rod, and in a direction perpendicular to the airflow channel, the cross-sectional area of ​​the tail portion is less than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the first end.

[0021] As a further improvement of the present invention, the first elastic valve assembly includes a first housing, the first housing being sealed to the connecting seat, the first housing including a mounting through hole parallel to the direction of the airflow channel, the valve core being disposed in the mounting through hole and sealed to the first housing, the first elastic member being at least partially located in the mounting through hole, and one end of the first elastic member abutting against the valve core, and the other end abutting against the connecting seat.

[0022] As a further improvement of the present invention, a first sealing ring is provided between the valve core and the first housing, the first sealing ring being sleeved on the first end to seal the valve core and the first housing; a third sealing ring is provided between the first housing and the outer shell, the third sealing ring being sleeved on the side of the first housing near the top rod to seal the first housing and the outer shell; the leak detection device further includes a locking pin, the locking pin being inserted into the first housing and extending outward through the connecting seat; the outer shell is provided with a rotating groove corresponding to the locking pin, the rotating groove cooperating with the locking pin to fix the outer shell, the connecting seat and the first elastic valve assembly together.

[0023] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: Compared with the prior art, the endoscope in this invention, through its self-locking mechanism and electrical connection mechanism, locks the endoscope's air tube when connected to external light source or image processing equipment, thus fixing the endoscope to the external device and preventing loosening; the endoscope and the external device are electrically connected through the electrical connection mechanism, utilizing the uniform and sufficient contact between the first and second electrical connectors on the electrical connection mechanism for stable signal transmission; simultaneously, the included leak detection device can provide bidirectional self-locking sealing when no leak detection is performed, preventing water or other liquids from entering the leak detection device and thus contaminating the endoscope, resulting in good safety and convenient and quick use. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an endoscope according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the self-locking mechanism.

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Exploded view of the structure.

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A structural sectional view.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a front view of an endoscope according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the self-locking mechanism and the endoscope in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the electrical connection mechanism.

[0031] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the plug assembly.

[0032] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Exploded view of the structure.

[0033] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the socket assembly.

[0034] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Exploded view of the structure.

[0035] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the electrical connection mechanism and endoscope assembled according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 13 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the leak detection device.

[0037] Figure 14 yes Figure 1 A structural sectional view.

[0038] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A partial structural cross-sectional view.

[0039] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 Another part of the structural cross-sectional view.

[0040] Figure 17 yes Figure 13 Exploded view of the structure.

[0041] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the leak detection device and endoscope in the assembly state according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0043] It should be noted that, in order to avoid obscuring the present invention with unnecessary details, only the structures and / or processing steps closely related to the present invention are shown in the accompanying drawings, while other details that are not closely related to the present invention are omitted.

[0044] Additionally, it should be noted that the terms “comprising,” “including,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0045] Please see Figure 1-18 As shown, an endoscope 400 provided by the present invention includes a self-locking mechanism 100, an electrical connection mechanism 300, and a leak detection device 200.

[0046] Please see Figure 2-6 As shown, the self-locking mechanism 100 of the endoscope 400 provided by the present invention is mainly applied to the endoscope 400. When the endoscope 400 is connected to an external device, the endoscope 400 can be fixed to the external device by locking the air intubation tube 117 of the endoscope 400. One end of the self-locking mechanism 100 is installed on the external device, and the other end is used to engage with the air intubation tube 117 of the endoscope 400.

[0047] The self-locking mechanism 100 includes a first housing 101 and a second housing 102. The second housing 102 is sleeved on the outside of the first housing 101 and is movably connected to the first housing 101. A clamping member 112 is provided on the first housing 101, and the clamping member 112 abuts against the inner wall of the second housing 102. An elastic member 105 is also provided on the outside of the first housing 101, and the elastic member 105 elastically abuts against the second housing 102. When the endoscope 400 is connected to an external device, the clamping member 112 will squeeze the second housing 102 when it is subjected to external force. At this time, the second housing 102 moves relative to the first housing 101 and squeezes the elastic member 105. When the external force on the clamping member 112 disappears, the second housing 102 quickly returns to its initial state under the elastic force of the elastic member 105.

[0048] When the endoscope 400 is connected to an external device, the air intubation tube 117 of the endoscope 400 first enters through one end of the self-locking mechanism 100. The protrusion 118 of the air intubation tube 117 will press against the clamping member 112 in the self-locking mechanism 100. After being subjected to force, the clamping member 112 will press against the second housing 102. After being subjected to force, the second housing 102 will move relative to the first housing 101. At the same time, the movement of the second housing 102 will drive the movement of the elastic member 105. When the highest point of the protrusion 118 of the air intubation tube 117 passes the clamping member 112, the second housing 102 will move back to the initial position under the elastic force of the elastic member 105. The clamping member 112 will also return to the initial position, locking the air intubation tube 117 of the endoscope 400. At this time, the self-locking mechanism 100 and the inserted air intubation tube 117 are in a stable state and will not easily loosen, thus achieving the purpose of locking.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first housing 101 includes a first cavity 106 and a second cavity 108. The diameter of the second cavity 108 is larger than that of the first cavity 106. An annular wall 107 is formed on the side of the second cavity 108 away from the first cavity 106 in a direction away from the second cavity 108. The second housing 102 is sleeved on the outside of the second cavity 108 and at least partially covers the first cavity 106. The inner wall of the second housing 102 abuts against the annular wall 107.

[0050] The diameter of the first cavity 106 is similar to the diameter of the air intubation tube 117 on the endoscope 400, which can stably fix the air intubation tube 117 in it without it wobbling from side to side.

[0051] The design of the annular wall 107 ensures that while the first housing 101 abuts against the second housing 102, a movable cavity 115 is maintained between the inner wall of the second housing 102 and the outer side of the second cavity 108, so that the clamping member 112 can move within this movable cavity 115 after being squeezed when the air intubation tube 117 is inserted.

[0052] In some embodiments, the second housing 102 includes a first connecting end 113 near the annular wall 107 and a second connecting end 114 away from the annular wall 107. The second housing 102 extends toward the inner wall of the first housing 101 and forms a protrusion 109. The protrusion 109 is disposed between the first connecting end 113 and the second connecting end 114, and the side of the protrusion 109 facing the first connecting end 113 is provided with an inclined slope 110, which abuts against the clamping member 112.

[0053] In some embodiments, the inclined surface 110 abuts against the side of the clamping member 112 away from the annular wall 107, and the angle between the inclined surface 110 and the first connecting end 113 is an obtuse angle.

[0054] The inclined ramp 110 provided here provides sufficient space in the movable cavity 115 to accommodate the clamping member 112. The design of the inclined ramp 110 reduces the resistance when the second housing 102 moves the elastic member 105 under the force of the clamping member 112. The resistance is also reduced when the air intubation tube 117 of the endoscope 400 is connected to the external device, making the connection process easier and smoother.

[0055] In some embodiments, a step portion 111 is provided between the protrusion 109 and the second connecting end 114, and the step portion 111 provides a gap 116 between the second connecting end 114 and the first housing 101. One end of the elastic member 105 is disposed in the gap 116 and abuts against the step portion 111.

[0056] The gap 116 here can firmly fix the elastic element 105 between the first housing 101 and the second housing 102, so as to prevent the elastic element 105 from being radially offset during movement.

[0057] In some embodiments, the cavity wall of the second cavity 108 is provided with a locking hole 104, and the clamping member 112 is disposed through the locking hole 104 and is movably connected to the locking hole 104.

[0058] The set hole 104 has a semi-arc structure, which can limit the clamping part 112 to be placed in the set hole 104 and prevent it from easily falling off.

[0059] In this embodiment, the clamping member 112 can be a steel ball. During connection, the rotation of the steel ball drives the downward movement. Compared with other clamping components, the steel ball encounters less resistance when rotating, making it easier to guide the air cannula 117 of the endoscope 400 into the self-locking mechanism 100. In other embodiments, the clamping member 112 can be other parts, such as a cuboid block.

[0060] In this embodiment, a plurality of clamping members 112 are provided, and the plurality of clamping members 112 are spaced apart in the fixing holes 104 along the circumferential direction of the second cavity 108. The circumferential direction refers to the direction around the circumferential axis of the second cavity 108.

[0061] With the circumferentially spaced arrangement of the locking holes 104, when the air intubation tube 117 enters the self-locking mechanism 100, the protrusion portion 118 of the air intubation tube 117 can be fixed in the middle position of the second cavity 108. When the endoscope 400 is connected to an external device, the air intubation tube 117 will not shift in the second cavity 108 after entering the self-locking mechanism 100, and the air intubation tube 117 can be accurately and smoothly guided into the first cavity 106.

[0062] In this embodiment, the self-locking mechanism 100 further includes a third housing 103, which is fixedly connected to the outside of the first housing 101 and disposed relatively away from the second housing 102. One end of the elastic member 105 abuts against the third housing 103, and the other end abuts against the stepped portion 111 of the second housing 102. In other embodiments, the third housing 103 may be integrally formed with the first housing 101.

[0063] An endoscope 400 includes an air intubation tube 117 for connection to an external device and a self-locking mechanism 100 of any of the above. The self-locking mechanism 100 is sleeved on the outside of the air intubation tube 117 and is sealed and self-locked to the air intubation tube 117.

[0064] like Figure 5 As shown, when the endoscope 400 body is self-locking, the air intubation tube 117 has a protrusion 118 in the middle. When the air intubation tube 117 enters the self-locking mechanism 100, the protrusion 118 will first squeeze the clamping member 112. After being subjected to force, the clamping member 112 will move outward and drive the second housing 102 and the elastic member 105 to move. After the protrusion 118 passes the clamping member 112, the elastic member 105 will apply the rebound force to the second housing 102. The second housing 102 will then push the clamping member 112 back to the initial position to lock the protrusion 118 of the air intubation tube 117, thereby locking and fixing the endoscope 400 and the external equipment.

[0065] In summary, when the endoscope 400 is connected to an external device, the two can be locked together by tightening the air intubation tube 117 of the endoscope 400, thus preventing unstable signal transmission due to loosening of the connection during operation and ensuring good stability. This self-locking mechanism 100 has a simple structure, is easy to manufacture and assemble, has low manufacturing costs, and is not prone to damage during later use.

[0066] Please see Figure 7-12 As shown, the electrical connection mechanism 300 of the endoscope 400 provided by this invention is mainly used in the endoscope 400. When using the endoscope 400, it needs to be connected to an external image transmission device and a light source device to facilitate imaging during use and testing. The electrical connection mechanism 300 provided by this invention allows for quick connection between the endoscope 400 and external devices, and is simple in structure, easy to operate, and durable.

[0067] The electrical connection mechanism 300 includes a plug assembly 320 and a socket assembly 310. One end of the plug assembly 320 is connected and fixed to the endoscope 400, and one end of the socket assembly 310 is connected to an external light source device and an image transmission device. The plug assembly 320 has first electrical connectors 321 evenly distributed along its circumference. The socket assembly 310 has second electrical connectors 312 corresponding to the positions of the first electrical connectors 321. The inner diameter of the socket assembly 310 is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the plug assembly 320. During connection, the socket assembly 310 is fitted over the plug assembly 320, and the first electrical connector 321 of the plug assembly 320 and the second electrical connector 312 of the socket assembly 310 are engaged, allowing signal transmission.

[0068] The endoscope 400 is connected and fixed to the external light source and image processing equipment through the cooperation of the plug assembly 320 and the socket assembly 310. The electrical connection mechanism 300 has a simple structure and is easy and quick to operate. Compared with the traditional stepped boss structure and the method of adding reinforcing ribs to the endoscope body, it is more durable. The first electrical connector 321 is evenly distributed along the circumference of the plug assembly 320, and the second electrical connector 312 is also evenly distributed along the circumference of the socket assembly 310. Through the even distribution, the first electrical connector 321 and the second electrical connector 320 are evenly stressed when in contact, and there is no eccentric stress. This avoids poor contact due to uneven stress and prevents unstable signal transmission, thus enhancing the stability of signal transmission and service life.

[0069] In some embodiments, the plug assembly 320 comprises a plug housing 323 and a plug annular circuit board 322. A first electrical connector 321 is uniformly disposed on the outer side of the plug housing 323 and is at least partially exposed thereout. The plug annular circuit board 322 abuts against the inner wall of the plug housing 323. The plug annular circuit board 322 further includes a first through hole 328 and a second through hole 327. The air intubation tube 330 and the light guide rod 340 of the endoscope 400 pass through the first through hole 328 and the second through hole 327 respectively and are exposed in the electrical connection mechanism 300 for connection to the external device. Since the air intubation tube 330 and the light guide rod 340 of the endoscope 400 need to be connected to the external device, the first through hole 328 and the second through hole 327 are provided to avoid changing the positions of the air intubation tube 330 and the light guide rod 340, thus reducing the impact on the overall structure of the endoscope 400.

[0070] In some embodiments, the plug annular circuit board 322 has mounting holes, and the end of the plug housing 323 away from the socket assembly 310 has a through hole corresponding to the first electrical connector 321. One end of the first electrical connector 321 is installed in the mounting hole and electrically connected to the plug annular circuit board 322, while the other end is folded through the through hole and then folded again to extend axially toward the socket assembly 310, closely adhering to the outer wall of the plug housing 323. By fixing one end of the first electrical connector 321 to the plug annular circuit board 322 and having the other end folded through the plug housing 323 and extending axially toward the socket assembly 310, the contact surface of the first electrical connector 321 can be increased, which is more conducive to signal transmission. Furthermore, the first electrical connector 321 is close to the outer wall of the plug housing, making the connection process between the socket assembly 310 and the plug assembly 320 smoother and reducing resistance during the connection process.

[0071] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the plug housing 323 has circumferentially evenly distributed grooves 326, and the first electrical connector 321 is disposed within the grooves 326. If the first electrical connector 321 is directly attached to the outer wall of the plug housing 323, during repeated insertion and connection of the plug assembly 320 and the socket assembly 310, the first electrical connector 321 is prone to lifting up, which can easily damage the components of the electrical connection mechanism 300 and cause poor contact. Now, by providing grooves 326 on the outer wall of the plug housing 323, the first electrical connector 321 can be placed therein. During the connection process, due to the protection of the groove structure 326, it will not touch other parts of the socket assembly 310 before being attached to the second electrical connector 312 in the socket assembly 310, and the position of the first electrical connector 321 will not move, effectively protecting the first electrical connector 321 and improving its service life.

[0072] In some embodiments, the plug housing 323 further includes a snap-fit ​​portion 324, which engages with a corresponding latch on the inner wall of the endoscope 400 housing to fix the plug housing 323 and the endoscope 400 housing in position. To better secure the plug assembly 320 to the endoscope 400, a snap-fit ​​portion 324 corresponding to the latch on the endoscope 400 housing is provided on the plug housing 323. After the snap-fit ​​portion 324 of the plug housing 323 engages with the latch on the endoscope 400, the plug assembly 320 and the endoscope 400 are securely connected, and the plug assembly 320 will not rotate relative to the endoscope 400, thus ensuring stable transmission.

[0073] In some embodiments, the socket assembly 310 comprises a socket housing 313 and a socket annular circuit board 311. The diameter of the socket annular circuit board 311 is larger than the diameter of the socket housing 313. The side of the socket annular circuit board 311 near the endoscope 400 abuts against the end face of the socket housing 313 away from the endoscope 400, and the other side is connected to an external device. The socket assembly 310 is structurally similar to the plug assembly 320, including the outermost socket housing 313 and the socket annular circuit board 311 for connection and fixation to an external light source or image processing device. Through the socket annular circuit board 311, the endoscope 400 is connected to the external device and signal transmission is achieved.

[0074] In some embodiments, the socket housing 313 has a socket step portion extending inward from the endoscope 400. The socket assembly 310 further includes a clamping housing 314, which is fitted inside the socket housing 313. The end of the clamping housing 314 away from the endoscope 400 abuts against the inner wall of the socket step portion. A connecting cavity 315 is formed between the socket housing 313 and the clamping housing 314. By providing the clamping housing 314, a connecting cavity 315 is formed between the socket housing 313 and the clamping housing 314, which can accommodate the second electrical connector 312. During connection, the plug housing 323 is embedded in the connecting cavity 315, thereby tightly connecting the first electrical connector 321 and the second electrical connector 312, ensuring sufficient contact between the first electrical connector 321 and the second electrical connector 312, thus ensuring stable signal transmission.

[0075] In some embodiments, one end of the second electrical connector 312 is electrically connected to the socket annular circuit board 311 and exposed on the socket annular circuit board 311 to form an external terminal 3121. The other end of the second electrical connector 312 is inserted into the socket housing 313 and folded through the socket housing 313, then extends axially against the inner wall of the socket housing 313 in the direction away from the endoscope 400 to form an internal terminal. When the socket assembly 310 is connected to the plug assembly 320, the internal terminal 3122 of the second electrical connector 312 and the first electrical connector 321 are abutted in the connection cavity 315, and the signal is transmitted between the endoscope 400 and the external device through the second electrical connector 312 and the first electrical connector 321.

[0076] In some embodiments, the inner end 3122 is an elastic surface, and when the plug assembly 320 is connected to the socket assembly 310, the inner end 3122 and the first electrical connector 321 are tightly fitted in the connection cavity 315. During the contact process between the second electrical connector 312 and the first electrical connector 321, if neither contact surface is elastic, the fit may be loose. If the fit is too tight, the friction between them will increase during the connection process, which may damage the contact surfaces of the first electrical connector 321 and the second electrical connector 312. Therefore, by setting the inner end 3122 of the second electrical connector 312 as an elastic surface, the first electrical connector 321 will compress the elastic surface of the second electrical connector 312 at the beginning of the connection, so that the fit can be made smoothly. After the fit is in place, the inner end 3122 of the second electrical connector 312 will give a certain elastic force, which will act on the first electrical connector 321, so as to achieve the effect of tightly fitting the first electrical connector 321 and the second electrical connector 312 in the connection cavity 315.

[0077] An endoscope 400 includes the electrical connection mechanism 300 described in the above embodiments. The electrical connection mechanism 300 consists of a plug assembly 320 and a socket assembly 310. The plug assembly 320 includes a plug housing 323, a plug annular circuit board 322, and a first electrical connector 321. The socket assembly 310 includes a socket housing 313, a socket annular circuit board 311, and a second electrical connector 312. One end of the socket assembly 310 is fixedly connected to the endoscope 400, and the other end is fixedly connected to an external device.

[0078] In summary, when connecting the endoscope 400 to an external device, simply engaging the plug assembly 320 and the socket assembly 310, and aligning the first electrical connector 321 on the plug assembly 320 with the second electrical connector 312 on the socket assembly 310, enables signal transmission between the endoscope 400 and the external device. Furthermore, by designing the inner end 3122 of the second electrical connector 312 as an elastic surface and the first electrical connector 321 with a groove 326, the possibility of damage to the components of the electrical connection mechanism 300 during each connection is reduced, improving the reliability and durability of the electrical connection mechanism 300. Moreover, this electrical connection mechanism 300 has a simple structure and is easy to assemble. The connection process is convenient, with a low learning curve and cost, effectively improving the ease of use of the endoscope 400.

[0079] Please participate Figure 13-18 As shown, the leak detection device 200 for the endoscope 400 provided by the present invention is used in the endoscope 400, is set at the leak detection point of the endoscope 400, and is connected to an external air supply device, wherein the air supply device is equipped with a leak meter.

[0080] The leak detection device 200 includes a connecting seat 210 and a housing 240. One end of the connecting seat 210 is sealed to the endoscope 400. One end of the housing 240 is fitted onto the connecting seat 210, and is sealed to the connecting seat 210 and connected to it via an air passage. The other end of the housing 240 is connected to an air supply device, forming an airflow channel in the housing 240 that communicates with the connecting seat 210. A first elastic valve assembly 220 and a second elastic valve assembly 230 are provided in the airflow channel. The first elastic valve assembly 220 consists of a first elastic element 221 and a valve core 223. The second elastic valve assembly 230 consists of a second elastic element 233 and a push rod 231. The first elastic element 221 exerts a force on the valve core 223 in a direction away from the endoscope 400, so that the valve core 223 is sealed to the connecting seat 210. The second elastic element 233 applies a force to the push rod 231 in a direction away from the endoscope 400, causing the push rod 231 to be sealed to the outer casing 240. This configuration allows for bidirectional sealing of the airflow channel, ensuring that the leak detection device 200 is in a sealed state when no leak testing is being performed. External liquids and gases will not enter the leak detection device 200, preventing contamination and damage to its components and avoiding infection of the human body. This improves its service life and safety performance. Furthermore, when leak testing is being performed, there is no need to spend time purging the gas, saving time and improving the efficiency of leak testing.

[0081] During leak testing, the gas supply device delivers gas into the airflow channel. When the pressure of the input gas exceeds the elastic force of the second elastic element 233, the gas pushes the push rod 231 towards the valve core 223 and pushes the valve core 223 towards the endoscope 400 to open the airflow channel and deliver the gas into the endoscope 400 for leak detection. The simple structural design allows the gas to quickly enter the endoscope 400 during leak testing, improving efficiency.

[0082] Furthermore, the push rod 231 is divided into a tail 2311 facing the valve core 223 and a top 2313 away from the valve core 223. The part of the valve core 223 facing the push rod 231 is the first end, and the part away from the push rod 231 is the second end. In the direction perpendicular to the airflow channel, the cross-sectional area of ​​the tail 2311 is less than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the first end. With this design, when performing leak detection, under the push of a small amount of gas, the tail 2311 can more easily push the first end to move towards the endoscope 400, thus speeding up the leak detection process.

[0083] Further, the first elastic valve assembly 220 includes a first housing 222, which abuts against and is sealed to the inner wall of the connecting seat 210. The first housing 222 includes a mounting through hole 212 parallel to the airflow channel direction. The valve core 223 is disposed within the mounting through hole 212, and the valve core 223 is sealed to the first housing 222. Preferably, the first elastic element 221 is at least partially located within the mounting through hole 212. One end of the first elastic element 221 abuts against the valve core 223 within the mounting through hole 212, and the other end abuts against the connecting seat 210. The valve core 223 is small in size and easy to push. The mounting through hole 212 relatively fixes the size and position of the first elastic element 221 and the valve core 223, preventing the first elastic element 221 from shifting radially in the first housing 222 and damaging the leak detection device 200 during the process of the valve core 223 pushing the first elastic element 221 to move towards the endoscope 400.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first elastic member 221 may also be completely placed outside the mounting through hole 212, and the valve core 223 may pass through the mounting through hole 212 and abut against the first elastic member 221.

[0085] Furthermore, the valve core 223 includes a first part and a second part, which are coaxially arranged and have different diameters. The diameter of the first part is smaller than that of the second part. The first part is located near the top rod 231, and the second part is located near the endoscope 400. There is a first inclined connecting surface between the first part and the second part. When no leak is detected, the valve core 223 is sealed against the first inclined connecting surface under the force of the first elastic member 221, closing the airflow channel. External gas or liquid cannot enter the leak detection device 200 and the endoscope 400.

[0086] Furthermore, the second elastic valve assembly 230 includes a second housing 232, which is sleeved on the outside of the push rod 231 and fixedly connected to the push rod 231 and the outer casing 240. The push rod 231 also includes a neck 2312 located between the top 2313 and the tail 2311. A second elastic member 233 is sleeved on the outside of the neck 2312, with one end of the second elastic member 233 abutting against the second housing 232 and the other end of the second elastic member 233 abutting against the top 2313 of the push rod 231. The end of the second housing 232 near the valve core 223 has an outwardly inclined second inclined connecting surface. When no leak is detected, the tail 2311 of the push rod 231 is sealed against the second inclined connecting surface under the force of the second elastic member 233. Without the need to add other switches, the airflow passage can be quickly and automatically closed, resulting in a simple structure.

[0087] Furthermore, the leak detection device 200 also includes a connector 250, one end of which is connected to the housing 240. The connector 250 is at least partially fitted inside the housing 240. The connector 250 includes a first air passage 211 and a first cavity 251. The push rod 231 is at least partially fitted inside the first cavity 251, and the first air passage 211 is connected to the air supply device. During leak detection, the air supply device inputs gas into the leak detection device 200 through the first air passage 211 of the connector 250, pushing the push rod 231 in the first cavity 251 to move towards the valve core 223. By setting the push rod 231 inside the first cavity 251, the position of the push rod 231 is fixed, preventing it from shifting in the radial direction of the airflow channel. At the same time, the input gas is concentrated in the first air passage 211 and the first cavity 251, so only a small amount of gas is needed to push the push rod 231 to move.

[0088] Furthermore, the sealing between the valve core 223 and the first housing 222 is achieved by the first sealing ring 224. The first sealing ring 224 is sleeved on the first end to seal the valve core 223 and the first housing 222. A third sealing ring 270 is provided between the first housing 222 and the outer shell 240. The third sealing ring 270 is sleeved on the side of the first housing 222 near the top rod 231 to seal the first housing 222 and the outer shell 240.

[0089] Furthermore, the sealing between the push rod 231 and the second housing 232 is achieved by the second sealing ring 234, which is sleeved between the tail 2311 and the neck 2312 to seal the push rod 231 and the second housing 232. A fourth sealing ring 280 is provided between the second housing 232 and the outer shell 240, which is sleeved at the end of the second housing 232 near the valve core 223 to seal the second housing 232 and the outer shell 240.

[0090] In the above embodiments, by setting the first sealing ring 224, the second sealing ring 234, the third sealing ring 270 and the fourth sealing ring 280, the first elastic valve assembly 220 and the second elastic valve assembly 230 are completely sealed to the housing 240, which improves the sealing performance and reliability of the leak detection device 200. At the same time, the sealing rings are easy to disassemble, and when the sealing rings are damaged or contaminated, they are easy to clean and replace, which reduces the cost of use and extends the service life of the leak detection device 200.

[0091] Furthermore, the connector 210 has a second air passage 252 and a second cavity 212. The first elastic valve assembly 220 is at least partially fitted inside the second cavity 212, and one end of the second air passage 252 communicates with the mounting through hole 212, while the other end of the second air passage 252 communicates with the endoscope 400. Without the need for additional components, by partially placing the first elastic valve assembly 220 in the second cavity 212, the position of the first elastic valve assembly 220 and the connector 210 can be fixed. During leak testing, gas flows into the endoscope 400 after passing through the mounting through hole 212 and the second air passage 252.

[0092] Furthermore, the leak detection device 200 also includes a locking post 260. The first housing 222 is provided with a locking hole, the connecting seat 210 is provided with a locking hole, and the outer shell 240 is provided with a rotating groove 241 corresponding to the locking post 260. The locking post 260 is inserted into the locking hole of the first housing 222 and passes outward through the locking hole on the connecting seat 210. Finally, it is connected to the outer shell 240 through the rotating groove 241 to fix the outer shell 240, the connecting seat 210 and the first elastic valve assembly 220. The locking post 260 fixes the outer shell 240, the connecting seat 210 and the first elastic valve assembly 220, preventing the components from shifting when moving or performing gas leak detection. At the same time, it is easy to assemble and disassemble. By inserting or removing the locking post 260, the outer shell 240, the connecting seat 210 and the first elastic valve assembly 220 can be quickly assembled or disassembled.

[0093] Furthermore, the connecting seat 210, the housing 240, the first elastic valve assembly 220, and the second elastic valve assembly 230 are all detachable from each other. When cleaning is required, each component can be easily disassembled, and the structure is simple and easy to assemble.

[0094] An endoscope 400 includes the aforementioned leak detection device 200. The connector 210 of the leak detection device 200 is sealed to the corresponding interface on the endoscope 400. When leak detection is performed on the endoscope 400, the leak detection device 200 is connected to the gas supply device. The endoscope 400, the leak detection device 200, and the gas supply device are connected by a gas path. The gas supply device delivers gas, which enters the endoscope 400 through the leak detection device for leak detection.

[0095] Please continue reading. Figure 13-18As shown, the working principle of the leak detection device 200 is as follows: The gas supply device is connected to the first air passage 211 of the connector 250. When the leak detection begins, the gas supply device supplies gas into the first air passage 211. The input gas enters the first cavity 251 after passing through the first air passage 211. When the gas pressure is greater than the elastic force of the second elastic element 233, it pushes the push rod 231 to move towards the valve core 223, pushing open the second sealing ring 234. At the same time, the tail 2311 of the push rod 231 separates from the second inclined surface to form a gap. After the tail 2311 of the rod 231 connects with the first end of the valve core 223, it pushes the valve core 223 to move towards the endoscope 400, pushing open the first sealing ring 224. At the same time, the first end of the valve core 223 separates from the first inclined connecting surface to form a gap. During this process, the gas passes through the second elastic valve assembly 230 and the first elastic valve assembly 220 in sequence, and enters the endoscope 400 after passing through the first air passage 211 of the connecting seat 210. The airtightness of the endoscope 400 is determined by observing whether the pointer reading of the air supply device changes. When the gas supply is stopped, the valve core 223 moves away from the endoscope 400 under the force of the first elastic element 221, and the valve core 223 recloses with the first inclined connecting surface and the first sealing ring 224. The push rod 231 moves away from the endoscope 400 under the force of the second elastic element 233, and the tail 2311 recloses with the second inclined connecting surface and the second sealing ring 234, so that the leak detection device 200 is in a bidirectional sealed self-locking state. The present invention relies on the elasticity of the first elastic valve assembly 220 and the second elastic valve assembly 230 to automatically control the opening and closing of the airflow channel of the leak detection device 200, without the need for additional manual operation, which is efficient and convenient.

[0096] The leak detection device 200 of the present invention has a simple structure. Utilizing the self-elasticity of the first elastic valve assembly 220 and the second elastic valve assembly 230 installed in the leak detection device 200, when the endoscope 400 is not being leak-tested, the end of the first elastic valve assembly 220 near the push rod 231 and the end of the second elastic valve assembly 230 near the valve core 223 are respectively closed to achieve bidirectional self-locking sealing. During leak testing, gas is input through a gas supply device, and the gas pushes the push rod 231 to move towards the endoscope 400. After the push rod 231 moves, it pushes the valve core 223 to move towards the endoscope 400, opening the airflow channel. Furthermore, the elasticity direction of the first elastic valve assembly 220 and the second elastic valve assembly 230 is stable, resulting in good sealing performance. The leak detection device 200 has high leak detection efficiency and good safety performance.

[0097] In summary, the endoscope 400 of this invention, through the self-locking mechanism 100 and the electrical connection mechanism 300, can securely connect the endoscope 400 to the external device and prevent loosening when connected to an external light source or image processing device. The self-locking mechanism 100 locks the air intubation tube 117 of the endoscope 400. The endoscope 400 is electrically connected to the external device through the electrical connection mechanism 300, utilizing the uniform and sufficient contact between the first electrical connector 321 and the second electrical connector 312 on the electrical connection mechanism 300 for stable signal transmission. Simultaneously, the leak detection device 200 can self-lock and seal bidirectionally when no leak detection is performed, preventing water or other liquids from entering the leak detection device 200 and contaminating the endoscope 400. This design offers good safety and convenient and quick operation.

[0098] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention.

Claims

1. An endoscope, characterized in that, include: A self-locking mechanism is used to connect and fix the endoscope and external equipment. An electrical connector is used to connect to the endoscope and an external light source or imaging device to enable signal transmission; The endotracheal tube is connected and fixed to the endoscope and the self-locking mechanism; The light guide rod connects to the endoscope and external light source equipment. Leak detection device; The self-locking mechanism includes a first housing and a second housing. The second housing is sleeved on the outside of the first housing and is movably connected to the first housing. The first housing is provided with a clamping member that abuts against the inner wall of the second housing. The outside of the first housing is also provided with an elastic member that elastically abuts against the second housing. When the clamping member is subjected to external force to squeeze the second housing, the second housing moves relative to the first housing and squeezes the elastic member. When the external force disappears, the second housing returns to its initial state under the elastic force of the elastic member. The electrical connector includes a plug assembly and a socket assembly. The plug assembly has a first electrical connector evenly arranged along the circumference of the plug assembly. The socket assembly has a second electrical connector at a position corresponding to the first electrical connector. The inner diameter of the socket assembly is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the plug assembly. The socket assembly is sleeved on the outside of the plug assembly. The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are electrically connected. The leak detection device includes: The connector is sealed to the endoscope and has an air passage. The outer casing is sealed to the connecting seat and connected to the air passage, and is also connected to the air supply device and connected to the air passage. The leak detection device has an airflow channel connecting the connector and the housing. The airflow channel is provided with a first elastic valve assembly and a second elastic valve assembly. The first elastic valve assembly includes a first elastic element and a valve core. The second elastic valve assembly includes a second elastic element and a push rod. The valve core is sealed to the connector under the elastic force of the first elastic element. The push rod is sealed to the housing under the elastic force of the second elastic element, thereby sealing and closing the airflow channel. When the gas supply device delivers gas, the push rod moves towards the valve core and pushes the valve core to move towards the endoscope, thereby opening the airflow channel.

2. The endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first housing includes a first cavity and a second cavity. The diameter of the second cavity is larger than that of the first cavity, and an annular wall is formed on the side of the second cavity away from the first cavity in a direction away from the second cavity. The second housing is sleeved on the outside of the second cavity and at least partially encloses the first cavity, and the inner wall of the second housing abuts against the annular wall. A locking hole is provided on the cavity wall of the second cavity, and the clamping member is disposed through the locking hole and movably connected to the locking hole.

3. The endoscope according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second housing includes a first connecting end near the annular wall and a second connecting end away from the annular wall. The second housing extends toward the inner wall of the first housing and forms a protrusion in the direction of the first housing. The protrusion is disposed between the first connecting end and the second connecting end, and the side of the protrusion facing the first connecting end is provided with an inclined slope, which abuts against the clamping member.

4. The endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plug assembly further includes a plug housing and a plug annular circuit board. The first electrical connector is uniformly disposed on the outer side of the plug housing and is at least partially exposed outside the plug housing. The plug annular circuit board abuts against the inner wall of the plug housing. The plug annular circuit board also includes a first through hole and a second through hole. The endoscope's air cannula and light guide rod pass through the first through hole and the second through hole respectively and are exposed outside the electrical connector to connect with the external device. The outer wall of the plug housing has grooves uniformly distributed circumferentially, and the first electrical connector is disposed in the grooves.

5. The endoscope according to claim 4, characterized in that, The plug ring circuit board has mounting holes. The end of the plug housing away from the socket assembly has a through hole corresponding to the first electrical connector. One end of the first electrical connector is installed in the mounting hole and electrically connected to the plug ring circuit board. The other end is folded through the through hole and then folded again to fit tightly against the outer wall of the plug housing and extend axially toward the socket assembly.

6. The endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The socket assembly further includes a socket housing and a socket annular circuit board. The diameter of the socket annular circuit board is larger than the diameter of the socket housing. The side of the socket annular circuit board near the endoscope abuts against the end face of the socket housing away from the endoscope, and the other side is connected to the external device. The end of the socket housing away from the endoscope extends inward to form a socket step. The socket assembly also includes a clamping housing, which is fitted inside the socket housing. The end of the clamping housing away from the endoscope abuts against the inner wall of the socket step. A connecting cavity is formed between the socket housing and the clamping housing.

7. The endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The push rod includes a tail portion toward the valve core and a top portion away from the valve core. The valve core includes a first end toward the push rod and a second end away from the push rod. In a direction perpendicular to the airflow channel, the cross-sectional area of ​​the tail portion is less than or equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the first end.

8. The endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first elastic valve assembly includes a first housing, which is sealed to the connecting seat. The first housing includes a mounting through hole parallel to the direction of the airflow channel. The valve core is disposed in the mounting through hole and sealed to the first housing. The first elastic element is at least partially located in the mounting through hole, with one end of the first elastic element abutting against the valve core and the other end abutting against the connecting seat.

9. The endoscope according to claim 7, characterized in that, A first sealing ring is provided between the valve core and the first housing, and the first sealing ring is sleeved on the first end to seal the valve core and the first housing. A third sealing ring is provided between the first housing and the outer shell, and the third sealing ring is sleeved on the side of the first housing near the top rod to seal the first housing and the outer shell. The leak detection device also includes a locking pin, which is inserted into the first housing and extends outward through the connecting seat. The outer shell is provided with a rotating groove corresponding to the locking pin, and the rotating groove cooperates with the locking pin to fix the outer shell, the connecting seat and the first elastic valve assembly.

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