Endoscope

Abstract

The present application provides an endoscope capable of preventing the thickening of an operation section. The endoscope of the present application includes a protective sheath configured as an insertion section; a tubular housing connected to a base end side of the protective sheath; a front end optical system provided at a front end of the protective sheath and defining a front end side of a sealed space inside the protective sheath and the housing; a partition wall provided inside the housing and perpendicular to an insertion axis of the insertion section and defining a base end side of the sealed space; a shaft member inserted into the inside of the protective sheath and relatively rotatable with respect to the protective sheath in a direction around the shaft of the insertion axis; an imaging section provided at a front end of the shaft member and configured to capture light passing through the front end optical system; and a magnetic coupling having a first magnet provided inside the sealed space with the partition wall interposed therebetween and a second magnet provided outside the sealed space, the first magnet being connected to a base end side of the shaft member, the magnetic coupling and the housing being relatively rotatable in the direction around the shaft.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to an endoscope having an insertion portion. BACKGROUND

[0002] As an endoscope for endoscopic surgery and the like, a rigid scope is known. And, as this rigid scope, an oblique view scope is known which takes the oblique front side with respect to the insertion axis (also referred to as the longitudinal axis) of the insertion portion thereof as the field of view direction. The oblique view scope has an insertion portion inserted into the inside of a subject and an operation portion connected to the base end portion of the insertion portion. This insertion portion has, for example, a protective sheath provided with a front end optical system (oblique view optical system) at the front end portion, and an inner tube inserted into the protective sheath and provided with an imaging portion at the front end portion (see Patent Documents 1 and 2). A closed space is formed in the inside of the protective sheath, and the inner tube is disposed in this closed space.

[0003] As shown in Patent Document 2, the operation portion has a cylindrical operation portion main body and a cylindrical operation ring rotatably held against the outer peripheral surface of the front end portion of the operation portion main body. The base end portion of the inner tube is inserted through the inside of the operation portion main body. The base end portion of the protective sheath is connected to the operation ring. Thus, by rotating the operation ring in the direction around the axis of the insertion axis of the insertion portion, the protective sheath and the front end optical system can be rotated in the same direction, and the observation direction (field of view direction) of the oblique view scope can be rotated.

[0004] At this time, if the inner tube (imaging portion) is rotated together with the protective sheath, the observation image observed by the operator is also rotated in the screen of the monitor, so it can be difficult for the operator to perform observation.

[0005] Therefore, in the oblique view scope of Patent Document 2, a magnetic coupling is provided. The magnetic coupling has: an inner magnet, which is a plurality of magnets disposed in a concentric circle shape with the insertion axis of the insertion portion as the center, and more specifically, a plurality of magnets provided on the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube in the circumferential direction thereof; and an outer ring magnet, which is a plurality of magnets provided on the inner peripheral surface of the operation portion main body in the circumferential direction thereof. With this magnetic coupling, torque [static (holding) torque] can be transmitted from the operation portion main body to the inner tube in a non-contact manner. As a result, even in the case where the protective sheath is rotated by the operation ring, the posture of the inner tube in the direction around the axis can be maintained.

[0006] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0007] PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-507497

[0009] Patent Document 2: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0117048 SUMMARY

[0010] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0011] In a case where the magnetic coupling described in Patent Document 2 is provided to the operation section, it is necessary to arrange the inner side magnet and the outer ring magnet in a concentric circular shape with the insertion shaft as the center, that is, it is necessary to provide the inner side magnet to the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube and to provide the outer ring magnet to the inner peripheral surface of the operation section main body. As a result, there is a problem that the operation section is thickened in diameter.

[0012] The present invention has been achieved in view of such circumstances, and has an object to provide an endoscope capable of preventing thickening in diameter of an operation section.

[0013] Means for solving the technical problem

[0014] The endoscope for achieving the object of the present invention includes a protective sheath constituting an insertion section; a tubular housing connected to a base end side of the protective sheath; a front end optical system provided to a front end of the protective sheath, which defines a front end side of a sealed space formed inside the protective sheath and the housing; a partition wall provided inside the housing, which is perpendicular to an insertion shaft of the insertion section and which defines a base end side of the sealed space; a shaft member inserted inside the protective sheath and relatively rotatable with respect to the protective sheath in a direction around the shaft of the insertion shaft; an imaging section provided to a front end of the shaft member, which images light passing through the front end optical system; and a magnetic coupling having a first magnet provided inside the sealed space with the partition wall interposed therebetween and a second magnet provided outside the sealed space, the first magnet being connected to a base end side of the shaft member, the magnetic coupling and the housing being relatively rotatable in the direction around the shaft.

[0015] According to the endoscope, it is possible to use the magnetic coupling acting in the direction of the pushing force of the insertion shaft, to maintain the posture of the shaft member and the imaging section in the direction around the shaft inside the sealed space with respect to the protective sheath and the front end optical system, or to rotate the shaft member and the imaging section in the direction around the shaft.

[0016] In the endoscope according to the other aspect of the present invention, there is a signal line connected to the imaging section, the first magnet and the second magnet are formed in a disc shape perpendicular to the insertion shaft, and there is an insertion hole for the signal line. Thus, it is possible to insert the signal line inside the first magnet and the second magnet.

[0017] In the endoscope according to the other aspect of the present invention, there is a signal line connected to the imaging section, the first magnet and the second magnet include a magnet holding section having an insertion hole for the signal line and formed in a ring shape when viewed from the partition wall, and a plurality of individual magnets provided at intervals from each other in the magnet holding section and having magnetic poles in the axial direction of the insertion shaft, the magnet holding section of the first magnet being connected to the base end side of the shaft member. Thus, in the magnetic coupling, it is possible to achieve both improvement in torque transmission and reduction in sliding amount.

[0018] In the endoscope according to another aspect of the present application, a plurality of individual magnets are provided along a direction around the shaft with respect to the magnet holding portion.

[0019] In the endoscope according to another aspect of the present application, a plurality of individual magnets are provided at equal intervals along a direction around the shaft with respect to the magnet holding portion.

[0020] In the endoscope according to another aspect of the present application, one pole of the individual magnets adjacent to each other along a direction around the shaft is opposite to the other pole.

[0021] In the endoscope according to another aspect of the present application, the plurality of individual magnets are eccentric to the outer circumferential side of the magnet holding portion when viewed from the partition.

[0022] In the endoscope according to another aspect of the present application, the individual magnet has a shape extending along a direction parallel to the insertion shaft.

[0023] In the endoscope according to another aspect of the present application, the signal line includes a first signal line disposed in the sealed space and a second signal line disposed outside the sealed space, and has a gas-tight connector provided to the partition to connect the first signal line and the second signal line. Thus, it is possible to output the imaging signal of the imaging section from inside the sealed space to outside the sealed space.

[0024] In the endoscope according to another aspect of the present application, the shaft member is an inner tube for inserting the signal line, and has a base end optical system provided to the front end of the inner tube to guide light passing through the base end optical system to the imaging section, the imaging section having an imaging element that photographs light incident through the base end optical system and outputs an imaging signal to the signal line, the base end optical system and the base end optical system and the imaging element being relatively rotatable along a direction around the shaft. Thus, it is possible to maintain the posture of the base end optical system and the imaging element in the sealed space along the direction around the shaft with respect to the protective sheath and the front end optical system, or to rotate the base end optical system and the imaging element along the direction around the shaft.

[0025] In the endoscope according to another aspect of the present application, the base end optical system has a base end lens barrel connected to the front end of the inner tube, and an imaging element mounting portion connected to the base end side of the base end lens barrel and having the imaging element mounted thereto. Thus, it is possible to rotate the base end lens barrel and the imaging element integrally along the direction around the shaft.

[0026] In the endoscope according to another aspect of the present application, the front end optical system has a front end portion main body and a front end lens barrel fixed to the front end portion main body.

[0027] In another aspect of the endoscope of the present invention, the shaft component is an inner cylinder and includes: a base optical system disposed at the front end of the inner cylinder, which guides light passing through the front optical system to the imaging unit; the base optical system has a base end tube connected to the front end of the inner cylinder; and the other of the front end tube and the base end tube can be rotatably fitted relative to each other in a direction about the shaft.

[0028] In another aspect of the invention, the endoscope includes: a first bearing receiving member fixed to a first magnet within the sealed space of the housing; and a first bearing fixed to the first bearing receiving member and connected to the housing, via which a magnetic coupling and the housing can rotate relative to each other in a direction about an axis. Thus, the magnetic coupling and the housing can rotate relative to each other in a direction about an axis.

[0029] In another aspect of the endoscope according to the invention, the base end of the shaft component is connected to the first bearing receiving component. This allows the shaft component and the imaging unit to maintain their orientation about the shaft relative to the protective cover and the front optical system within the sealed space, or to rotate the shaft component and the imaging unit along the direction about the shaft.

[0030] In another aspect of the invention, the endoscope includes: an outer tube for inserting a protective sheath; and a light guide disposed in the space between the outer tube and the protective sheath.

[0031] In another aspect of the endoscope according to the present invention, the front optical system is fixed to the front end of the outer tube and includes: an operating part connected to the base end of the outer tube, and a housing. When a rotational force is applied to the operating part in a direction about an axis, the rotational force is transmitted through the outer tube and the front optical system to the protective sleeve and the housing. Thus, the front optical system, the protective sleeve, and the housing can be rotated in a direction about an axis.

[0032] In another aspect of the endoscope according to the present invention, the endoscope includes: a cylindrical portion disposed at the base end of a housing; a second bearing receiving member fixed to a second magnet outside a sealed space; a second bearing fixed to the second bearing receiving member and connected internally to the cylindrical portion; a tubular extension portion disposed at the base end of an operating portion and rotatable relative to the operating portion in a direction about an axis; and an extension portion disposed within the extension portion, connecting the extension portion to the second bearing receiving member. Thus, torque from the extension portion and the extension portion can be transmitted to the shaft member and the imaging portion via a magnetic coupling.

[0033] In another aspect of the endoscope of the present invention, the shaft component is an inner cylinder and includes: a base optical system disposed at the front end of the inner cylinder to guide light passing through the front optical system to an imaging unit; the imaging unit includes: an imaging element to capture light incident through the base optical system; the base optical system includes: a base end tube fixed to the front end of the inner cylinder; a first refractive optical element connected to the imaging element and refracting light incident from the base optical system toward the imaging element; and a bracket to hold the first refractive optical element at the base end side of the base end tube.

[0034] In another aspect of the endoscope according to the present invention, the front optical system includes a second refractive optical element that refracts light incident from a direction inclined relative to the insertion axis parallel to the insertion axis. This allows for observation of the oblique front relative to the insertion axis.

[0035] In another aspect of the invention, the endoscope includes a front optical system comprising a front end body and a front end tube fixed to the front end body, the front end tube accommodating a second refractive optical element.

[0036] Invention Effects

[0037] The present invention can prevent the diameter of the operating part from becoming too large. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of an endoscope system equipped with a squint lens.

[0039] Figure 2 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the front end of the insertion part.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a sectional view of the operating section.

[0041] Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional view of the protective outer casing and shell.

[0042] Figure 5 It is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the shell and cylindrical part.

[0043] Figure 6 This is a front view of the first and second magnets as seen from the side next to it.

[0044] Figure 7 This is a side view of the first and second magnets.

[0045] Figure 8 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the housing and cylindrical part installed inside the operating section of the squint mirror in the second embodiment.

[0046] Figure 9 yes Figure 8Enlarged cross-sectional views of the first and second magnets, and enlarged frontal views of the first and second magnets viewed from the adjacent side.

[0047] Figure 10 These are front views of the first magnet and the second magnet, which are variations of the second embodiment, as observed from the side of the partition.

[0048] Figure 11 These are front views of the first magnet and the second magnet, which are variations of the second embodiment, as viewed from the side of the partition.

[0049] Figure 12 These are front views of the first magnet and the second magnet, which are variations of the second embodiment 3, as viewed from the side of the partition.

[0050] Figure 13 These are front views of the first magnet and the second magnet, which are variations of the second embodiment 4, as observed from the side of the partition.

[0051] Figure 14 These are front views of the first magnet and the second magnet, which are variations of the second embodiment 5, as viewed from the side of the partition. Detailed Implementation

[0052] [Endoscopic System]

[0053] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of an endoscope system 12 equipped with a strabismus mirror 10. (See diagram below.) Figure 1 As shown, the endoscope system 12 includes a squinting mirror 10, a processor device 14, a monitor 16, and a light source device 18, which are equivalent to the first embodiment of the endoscope of the present invention.

[0054] [Strabismus Mirror of the First Embodiment]

[0055] The strabismus mirror 10 is a rigid mirror and includes an insertion part 20 and an operation part 22. The insertion part 20 is formed in a generally tubular shape (generally cylindrical) and is inserted into the patient's body. The insertion part 20 has a front end, a base end, and an insertion axis Ax. A camera unit 24, described later, is provided at the front end of the insertion part 20. Furthermore, a first signal line 26 (signal cable) and a light guide 28 (fiber optic cable) are inserted into the insertion part 20.

[0056] The first signal line 26, together with the second signal line 27 (described later), connects the camera unit 24 (described later) to the processor device 14. The front end of the first signal line 26 is connected to the camera unit 24, and the base end of the first signal line 26 is connected to the second signal line 27 within the operation section 22. Therefore, the first signal line 26 and the second signal line 27 correspond to the signal lines of the present invention. In the light guide 28, its front end (light emitting end face) is provided on the front end face of the insertion section 20, and its base end (light emitting end face) is connected to the light source device 18.

[0057] The operation unit 22 receives the field of view direction (observation direction, reference) of the strabismus mirror 10. Figure 2 The optical axis OA rotates along the direction of the axis surrounding the insertion axis Ax (the circumferential direction of the insertion part 20 and the operation part 22). The operation part 22 will be described in detail later, but it has an airtight space and a non-airtight space inside. The base end of the first signal line 26 is connected to the front end of the second signal line 27 at the boundary between the two spaces (see reference). Figure 3 The base of the second signal line 27 is connected to the processor device 14. Thus, the camera unit 24 is electrically connected to the processor device 14 via the first signal line 26 and the second signal line 27.

[0058] The processor device 14 generates an observation image (moving image) of the patient's body based on the camera signal input from the camera unit 24 via the first signal line 26 and the second signal line 27, and displays the observation image on the monitor 16.

[0059] The light source device 18 supplies illumination light to the light guide 28. As a result, illumination light is emitted from the light emitting end face of the light guide 28, which is provided on the front end face of the insertion part 20.

[0060] Figure 2 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the front end of the insertion part 20. (See attached image.) Figure 2 As shown, the insertion part 20 includes a generally tubular outer tube 30 (also called an outer sleeve) parallel to the insertion axis Ax, a protective sleeve 32, and an inner sleeve 34. The outer tube 30 forms the outer peripheral wall of the insertion part 20. The opening at the front end of the outer tube 30 is inclined from a position perpendicular to the insertion axis Ax. Details of the base end of the outer tube 30 will be described later, but it is similar to the operation part 22 (see reference). Figure 3 )connect.

[0061] The protective sleeve 32 is inserted into the interior of the outer casing 30. The front optical system 40 of the camera unit 24 (described later) is located at the front end of the protective sleeve 32. Details of the base of the protective sleeve 32 will be described later, but it is similar to the housing 74 within the operating section 22 (see reference). Figure 3Furthermore, an insertion passage 31 for the light guide 28 is formed between the inner circumferential surface of the outer casing 30 and the outer circumferential surface of the protective casing 32.

[0062] The inner cylinder 34 corresponds to the shaft component of the present invention and is inserted into the interior of the protective outer sleeve 32. A first signal line 26 is inserted inside the inner cylinder 34. A base optical system 50 and a camera unit 60 constituting the camera unit 24 (described later) are provided at the front end of the inner cylinder 34. Details of the base end of the inner cylinder 34 will be described later, but it is connected to the first connecting member 90 (see reference 90) within the operation unit 22. Figure 3 )connect.

[0063] The camera unit 24 includes a front-end optical system 40, a base-end optical system 50, and an image sensor 60. Additionally, the symbol 0A in the figure represents the optical axis of the camera unit 24's optical system.

[0064] The front optical system 40 is disposed at the front end of the protective jacket 32. The front optical system 40 is a slanting optical system that guides light incident from a direction inclined relative to the insertion axis Ax to a direction parallel to the insertion axis Ax to the base optical system 50. The front optical system 40 includes a front end body 42 and a front lens barrel 44 disposed on the front end body 42.

[0065] The front end body 42 constitutes the front end of the insertion part 20 (protective cover 32) and is a cover (cover) that covers the front end tube 44. The front end body 42 is formed into a generally tubular shape parallel to the insertion axis Ax. Furthermore, a cover glass 46 with an inclined posture corresponding to the tilt angle of the objective lens 48a inside the front end tube 44 is provided at the opening on the front end side of the front end body 42.

[0066] Furthermore, the front end body 42 is fixed to the inner circumferential surface of the outer tube 30. Thus, the outer tube 30, the front optical system 40, and the protective sleeve 32 rotate as a unit along the direction of the axis about the insertion axis Ax (hereinafter referred to as the direction about the axis).

[0067] The front end lens barrel 44 houses the objective lens 48a, prism 48b, and lens 48c. The objective lens 48a is tilted at a position perpendicular to the insertion axis Ax and faces the cover glass 46. The objective lens 48a emits light that has passed through the cover glass 46 toward the prism 48b. The prism 48b, which corresponds to the second refractive optical element of the present invention, refracts the light emitted from the objective lens 48a, i.e., the light emitted from a direction tilted relative to the insertion axis Ax, toward a direction parallel to the insertion axis Ax, and then emits it toward the lens 48c. The lens 48c is positioned perpendicular to the insertion axis Ax and emits light emitted from the prism 48b toward the lens 56 within the base end lens barrel 52 of the base end optical system 50 (described later).

[0068] Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the structure of the optical system within the front end lens barrel 44, as long as it can guide light incident from a direction inclined relative to the insertion axis Ax into the base end lens barrel 52.

[0069] A cylindrical portion 45 extending toward its base end is formed in the front end lens barrel 44. This cylindrical portion 45 is rotatably fitted relative to the front end of the base end lens barrel 52 (described later) in a direction about an axis. Thus, the base end lens barrel 52 of the front end lens barrel 44 can be rotatably fitted relative to the front end lens barrel 44 in a direction about an axis. In this embodiment, the cylindrical portion 45 is integrally formed with the front end lens barrel 44, but it can also be formed separately from the front end lens barrel 44.

[0070] The base-end optical system 50 is located at the front end of the inner cylinder 34 and guides the light incident from the front lens barrel 44 to the imaging unit 60. The base-end optical system 50 includes a base-end lens barrel 52, a bracket 54, and a prism 55.

[0071] The base end lens tube 52 is connected (fixed) to the front end of the inner tube 34 via a bracket 54. Alternatively, the base end of the base end lens tube 52 can be directly connected to the front end of the inner tube 34, and then the bracket 54 can be connected to the base end of the base end lens tube 52 inside the inner tube 34.

[0072] Furthermore, as described above, the front end of the base tube 52 can be rotatably fitted relative to the opening on the base side of the cylindrical portion 45 in a direction about the axis. Thus, relative to either the front tube 44 or the base tube 52, the other can be rotatably fitted relative to the other in a direction about the axis. Alternatively, the base end of the front tube 44 can also be rotatably fitted relative to the front end of the base tube 52 in a direction about the axis.

[0073] Multiple lenses 56 having an optical axis OA parallel to the insertion axis Ax are disposed inside the base end lens barrel 52. Each lens 56 emits light entering from the front end lens barrel 44 toward the prism 55.

[0074] The bracket 54 is formed into a generally tubular shape parallel to the insertion axis Ax and is fixed to the front end of the inner cylinder 34. Furthermore, the bracket 54 is connected and fixed (externally fixed) to the base end of the base end lens barrel 52. Thus, the inner cylinder 34 and the base end lens barrel 52 are connected by the bracket 54, so the inner cylinder 34, the base end lens barrel 52, and the bracket 54 can rotate integrally in the direction about the axis.

[0075] The prism 55 is held in the opening at the base end of the bracket 54, and the imaging unit 60 (described later) is held in turn via the prism 55. Therefore, the imaging unit 60, together with the inner cylinder 34 and the base end lens barrel 52, rotates along the direction about the axis via the bracket 54 and the prism 55.

[0076] Prism 55 corresponds to the first refractive optical element of the present invention, and as described above, it is held at the opening on the base end side of the bracket 54. This prism 55 refracts light incident through the base end lens tube 52 by 90 degrees. Alternatively, a reflector may be used instead of prism 55.

[0077] The camera unit 60 captures images of light reflected by the prism 55 after passing through the front lens barrel 44 and the base lens barrel 52. The camera unit 60 includes an imaging element 64 and a circuit board 66.

[0078] The imaging element 64 is connected (fixed) to the prism 55 while mounted on the circuit board 66, and is then mounted to the bracket 54 via the prism 55. Therefore, the bracket 54 corresponds to the imaging element mounting part of the present invention. Furthermore, the imaging element 64 captures light refracted through the prism 55 and outputs an image signal. As the imaging element 64, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) type image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) type image sensor is used.

[0079] In this embodiment, the imaging element 64 is mounted on the bracket 54 via the prism 55, but the imaging element 64 can also be mounted directly on the opening at the base end of the bracket 54. In this case, the imaging element 64 is held in the bracket 54 in an orientation perpendicular to the insertion axis Ax (optical axis OA) and has a light-receiving surface orthogonal to the optical axis OA.

[0080] Circuit board 66 controls the driving of imaging element 64. Furthermore, the front end of first signal line 26 is connected to circuit board 66 via connector 68. Circuit board 66 also outputs the imaging signal from imaging element 64 to first signal line 26 via connector 68.

[0081] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the operating section 22. (Example) Figure 3 As shown, the operating part 22 is a generally tubular operating ring formed parallel to the insertion axis Ax, which receives rotational operations around the axis performed by the surgeon.

[0082] The base end of the described outer tube 30 is connected to the front end of the operating section 22. Thus, by rotating the operating section 22 in the direction about its axis, the outer tube 30, protective sleeve 32, and front optical system 40 (front end body 42 and front end lens tube 44) rotate in the same direction. This allows the field of view (observation direction) of the oblique mirror 10 to be rotated.

[0083] The base ends of the protective sleeve 32 and the inner cylinder 34 are inserted into the opening at the front end of the operating part 22. Furthermore, an extension part 72 is provided at the opening at the base end of the operating part 22. Additionally, a housing 74 is provided inside the operating part 22.

[0084] The extension section 72 is formed as a generally tubular shape parallel to the insertion shaft Ax and has a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the operating section 22. An O-ring 76 is fitted onto the outer peripheral surface of the front end of the extension section 72. Furthermore, the front end of the extension section 72 is rotatably held on the inner peripheral surface of the base end of the operating section 22 via the O-ring 76. Thus, the extension section 72 can be rotatably held relative to the base end of the operating section 22 in the direction about the axis. As a result, when a rotational force is applied to the operating section 22 in the direction about the axis, the rotational force is not transmitted to the extension section 72.

[0085] Furthermore, an extension portion 78 is inserted inside the extension setting portion 72. The extension portion 78 is formed into a generally tubular shape parallel to the insertion shaft Ax, and the second signal line 27 is inserted inside it. The base end of the extension portion 78 is fixed to the extension setting portion 72 via a fixing member 79. Thus, the extension setting portion 72 and the extension portion 78 are integrated. The front end of the extension portion 78 will be described in detail later, but it is connected to the magnetic coupling 102 via the second connecting member 100 and the second bearing receiving member 96.

[0086] The housing 74 is formed as a generally tubular shape parallel to the insertion shaft Ax and has a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the operating part 22, and is housed inside the operating part 22. The housing 74 is supported within the internal space of the operating part 22 by a protective sleeve 32 and an extension 78, etc. The front end of the housing 74 is connected to the base end of the protective sleeve 32. Thus, the housing 74 and the protective sleeve 32 rotate integrally in the direction about the axis. As a result, when a rotational force is applied to the operating part 22 in the direction about the axis, this rotational force is transmitted to the outer tube 30, the front optical system 40, the protective sleeve 32, and the housing 74, thereby causing them to rotate in the same direction as the operating part 22.

[0087] The base end of the inner cylinder 34 and the base end of the first signal line 26 are disposed inside the housing 74. Furthermore, a partition wall 74a perpendicular to the insertion shaft Ax is provided inside the housing 74, for example, within the opening on the base end side of the housing 74. This partition wall 74a closes the opening on the base end side of the housing 74.

[0088] A cylindrical portion 74b, parallel to the insertion shaft Ax, is provided at the base end of the housing 74. In this embodiment, the cylindrical portion 74b is formed with the same diameter as the housing 74, but it may also be formed with a different diameter. Furthermore, the cylindrical portion 74b may be integrally formed with the housing 74. In this case, the base end of the housing 74 functions as the cylindrical portion 74b. Inside the cylindrical portion 74b, in addition to a part of the connecting portion 84 described later, the front end of the second signal line 27 is also disposed.

[0089] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the protective outer jacket 32 ​​and the housing 74. (See attached image.) Figure 4 As shown, a sealed space 80 (airtight space) is formed inside the protective jacket 32 ​​and the housing 74. The inner cylinder 34, the camera unit 60, and the first signal line 26 are disposed within this sealed space 80. The front end of the sealed space 80 is defined by the front-end optical system 40. Furthermore, the base end of the sealed space 80 is defined by the partition wall 74a. Therefore, the camera unit 24 has improved moisture resistance and can prevent fogging.

[0090] Figure 5 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the shell 74 and the cylindrical portion 74b. (See attached image.) Figure 3 to Figure 5 As shown, the housing 74 and the cylindrical portion 74b are provided with the described partition 74a, airtight connector 82 and connecting portion 84.

[0091] The airtight connector 82 is rotatably mounted relative to the partition wall 74a in a direction about an axis, extending through the inside and outside of the sealed space 80. The airtight connector 82 electrically connects the first signal line 26 inside the housing 74 (inside the sealed space 80) to the second signal line 27 inside the cylindrical portion 74b (outside the sealed space 80). Furthermore, the airtight connector 82 can be fixed to the partition wall 74a if the first signal line 26 and the second signal line 27 can be twisted or deformed in a direction about an axis.

[0092] Regarding the connecting part 84, it is disposed inside the housing 74 and the cylindrical part 74b, and is rotatable relative to the housing 74 and the cylindrical part 74b in a direction about an axis. A first signal line 26 and a second signal line 27 are inserted inside the connecting part 84. With the partition wall 74a sandwiched in the middle, the connecting part 84 magnetically connects (connects) the base end of the inner cylinder 34 inside the housing 74 (within the sealed space 80) to the front end of the extension 78 outside the sealed space 80.

[0093] The connecting part 84 includes a first connecting member 90, a first bearing receiving member 92, a first bearing 94, a second bearing receiving member 96, a second bearing 98, a second connecting member 100, and a magnetic coupling 102.

[0094] The first connecting member 90 and the first bearing receiving member 92 are disposed within the housing 74 (within the sealed space 80) and are formed into a generally tubular shape parallel to the insertion shaft Ax. Furthermore, a first signal line 26 is protruding through the interior of the first connecting member 90 and the first bearing receiving member 92.

[0095] The first connecting member 90 connects the base end of the inner cylinder 34 to the first bearing receiving member 92 within the housing 74 (within the sealed space 80). Thus, the first bearing receiving member 92 is connected to the base end side of the inner cylinder 34 via the first connecting member 90.

[0096] In the first bearing receiving component 92, as described above, its front end is connected to the first connecting component 90, and its base end is fixed to the first magnet 103 of the magnetic coupling 102 (described later). Furthermore, a first bearing 94, which is internally connected to the housing 74, is fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the first bearing receiving component 92. Thus, the first bearing receiving component 92 and the first magnet 103 are rotatably held relative to the housing 74 within the housing 74 in a direction about an axis. Additionally, various known radial bearings, such as ball bearings and roller bearings, are used as the first bearing 94.

[0097] The second bearing receiving component 96 is disposed inside the cylindrical portion 74b (outside the sealed space 80), and the second connecting component 100 is disposed between the second bearing receiving component 96 and the extension portion 78. The second bearing receiving component 96 and the second connecting component 100 are formed into a generally tubular shape parallel to the insertion shaft Ax, and a second signal line 27 is inserted inside each of them.

[0098] In the second bearing receiving component 96, its front end is fixed to the second magnet 104 of the magnetic coupling 102 (described later) within the cylindrical portion 74b, and its base end is connected to the second connecting component 100. Furthermore, a second bearing 98, which is internally connected to the cylindrical portion 74b, is fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the second bearing receiving component 96. Thus, the second bearing receiving component 96 and the second magnet 104 are rotatably held relative to the cylindrical portion 74b within the cylindrical portion 74b in a direction about an axis. Additionally, the second bearing 98 is a known radial bearing, similar to the first bearing 94.

[0099] The second connecting member 100 connects the second bearing receiving member 96 to the front end of the extension 78. Thus, the second bearing receiving member 96 is connected to the front end side of the extension 78 via the second connecting member 100.

[0100] The magnetic coupling 102 consists of a first magnet 103 disposed within the housing 74 (within the sealed space 80) sandwiching the partition wall 74a in the middle, and a second magnet 104 disposed within the cylindrical portion 74b (outside the sealed space 80). This magnetic coupling 102 is a magnetic connection component that magnetically connects the first bearing receiving component 92 (inner cylinder 34) and the second bearing receiving component 96 (extension 78).

[0101] Figure 6 This is a front view of the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 as seen from the side of the adjacent 74a. Figure 7 This is a side view of the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104. (As shown) Figure 6 As shown, the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 have a disk shape (ring-shaped) parallel to the partition wall 74a (perpendicular to the insertion axis Ax). An insertion hole 103a for inserting the first signal line 26 is formed in the center of the first magnet 103, and an insertion hole 104a for inserting the second signal line 27 is formed in the center of the second magnet 104. Furthermore, the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 of this embodiment are of the so-called single-sided multi-pole type, with multiple sets of N poles and S poles formed at equal angular intervals along the direction surrounding the axis on the side facing the partition wall 74a.

[0102] Furthermore, the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 are not limited to a single-sided multi-pole type, but can be a double-sided multi-pole type. Moreover, there is no particular limitation on the number of poles, as long as there are two or more poles. In addition, the shape of the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 is not limited to a disk shape, but can be any shape such as a polygon parallel to the adjacent wall 74a.

[0103] like Figure 7 As shown, the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 are arranged such that the N poles of one of them are opposite the S poles of the other, and the S poles of one of them are opposite the N poles of the other, thus sandwiching the partition wall 74a in the middle. Therefore, with the partition wall 74a sandwiched in the middle, the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 are magnetically connected in the thrust direction of the insertion shaft Ax [a direction parallel to the insertion shaft Ax (axial direction)]. As a result, the inner cylinder 34 and the extension portion 72 are magnetically connected via the magnetic coupling 102.

[0104] The inner cylinder 34 is magnetically connected to the extension section 72 via the magnetic coupling 102, thereby transmitting torque (static torque and rotational torque) from the extension section 72 to the inner cylinder 34. Therefore, when the surgeon rotates the operating section 22, the inner cylinder 34 (including the base optical system 50 and the camera unit 60) and the protective sleeve 32 are prevented from rotating together in the direction around the axis; that is, the magnetic coupling 102 maintains the orientation of the inner cylinder 34 in the direction around the axis. Conversely, when the surgeon rotates the extension section 72, the magnetic coupling 102 allows the inner cylinder 34 to rotate in the direction around the axis. Furthermore, when the operating section 22 or the extension section 72 is rotated, the camera unit 60 and the like are prevented from becoming eccentric relative to the insertion axis Ax, thus preventing blurring of the observed image.

[0105] As described above, in the squint mirror 10 of the first embodiment, by using a magnetic coupling 102 acting in the thrust direction, the coarsening of the operating part 22 can be prevented compared to the case of using a concentric circle-shaped magnetic coupling (conventional example) described in the above-mentioned Patent Document 2.

[0106] Furthermore, the magnetic coupling 102 of the first embodiment can be composed of two first magnets 103 and two magnets 104, which reduces the number of magnets compared to the conventional example that requires multiple magnets to be arranged in concentric circles. As a result, the assembly operation of the operating unit 22 can be prevented from becoming complicated and costs can be reduced.

[0107] [Second Implementation]

[0108] In the magnetic coupling 102 of the first embodiment described above, as already described... Figure 6 As shown, multiple N poles and S poles are alternately formed in the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 along the direction surrounding the axis, thus the magnetic force weakens at the boundary between the N poles and the S poles. As a result, in the magnetic coupling 102 of the first embodiment described above, the torque (static torque, rotational torque) transmitted from one of the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 to the other, i.e., the transmitted torque, may be weakened.

[0109] At this time, reducing the number of poles of each of the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 can increase the transmitted torque. However, if the transmitted torque exceeds the allowable torque when it is transmitted from one of the first magnet 103 to the other, the amount of slippage between the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104 will increase. Conversely, by multiplying the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104, the slippage can be reduced, but the transmitted torque will decrease.

[0110] Therefore, the squint mirror 10 of the second embodiment has a magnetic coupling 200 that is different from the magnetic coupling 102 of the first embodiment (see reference). Figure 8 This is to balance increasing the transmitted torque and reducing the slippage.

[0111] Figure 8 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the housing 74 and the cylindrical portion 74b disposed within the operating section 22 of the strabismus 10 (equivalent to the endoscope of the present invention) in the second embodiment. Furthermore, except that a magnetic coupling 200 is used instead of the magnetic coupling 102, the strabismus 10 of the second embodiment has a structure substantially the same as that of the strabismus 10 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, for cases that are functionally or structurally the same as those in the first embodiment described above, the same reference numerals are used and their descriptions are omitted.

[0112] The magnetic coupling 200 comprises a first magnet 202 disposed within the housing 74 (within the sealed space 80) sandwiching the partition wall 74a in the middle, and a second magnet 204 disposed within the cylindrical portion 74b (outside the sealed space 80). Similar to the first embodiment, this magnetic coupling 200 magnetically connects the first bearing receiving member 92 (inner cylinder 34) and the second bearing receiving member 96 (extension 78).

[0113] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged cross-sectional views of the first magnet 202 and the second magnet 204, and enlarged front views of the first magnet 202 and the second magnet 204 viewed from the side of the partition 74a.

[0114] like Figure 9 and what has already been described Figure 8 As shown, the first magnet 202 has a magnet holding part 206A and eight individual magnets 210. The second magnet 204 has a structure that is basically the same as the first magnet 202, and has a magnet holding part 206B and eight individual magnets 210.

[0115] The magnet holding portions 206A and 206B are annular when viewed from the axial side of the insertion shaft Ax, i.e., when viewed from the side of the partition wall 74a. For example, a non-magnetic material can be used as the material for these magnet holding portions 206A and 206B. The magnet holding portion 206A is fixed to the base end of the first bearing receiving member 92 (inner cylinder 34) and has a through hole 208A in the center for inserting the first signal line 26. The magnet holding portion 206B is fixed to the front end of the second bearing receiving member 96 and has a through hole 208B in the center for inserting the second signal line 27.

[0116] Furthermore, on the opposing surfaces of the magnet holding parts 206A and 206B that are opposite to the partition wall 74a (hereinafter referred to as the partition wall opposing surfaces), there are fitting holes (not shown) formed at equal intervals along the direction around the axis centered on the insertion axis Ax for the eight individual magnets 2]0 to fit into respectively.

[0117] The individual magnet 210 is a needle-shaped magnet or a rod-shaped magnet extending in a direction parallel to the insertion axis Ax. For example, in this second embodiment, the individual magnet 210 is formed in a cylindrical shape (including a generally cylindrical shape), and its length (total length) along the axial direction of the insertion axis Ax is longer than its diameter. Furthermore, the individual magnet 210 has magnetic poles in the axial direction of the insertion axis Ax, that is, it is divided into N poles and S poles in the axial direction of the insertion axis Ax, and the magnetic force is greatest at both end faces of the insertion axis Ax.

[0118] In magnet holding portions 206A and 206B, eight individual magnets 210 are arranged at equal intervals along the direction surrounding their axis. Each individual magnet 210 is arranged in magnet holding portions 206A and 206B such that one magnetic pole of an adjacent individual magnet 210 in the direction surrounding the axis is reversed from the other; that is, the magnetic poles of the individual magnets 210 are alternately reversed in the direction surrounding the axis. Furthermore, the end face of each individual magnet 210 on the partition wall 74a side is exposed to the opposing partition wall surfaces of magnet holding portions 206A and 206B.

[0119] The N-pole end faces of the four individual magnets 210 of the magnet holding part 206A and the S-pole end faces of the four individual magnets 210 of the magnet holding part 206B are arranged opposite each other, sandwiching the partition wall 74a in the middle. Simultaneously, the S-pole end faces of the four individual magnets 210 of the magnet holding part 206A and the N-pole end faces of the four individual magnets 210 of the magnet holding part 206B are also arranged opposite each other, sandwiching the partition wall 74a in the middle. Thus, similar to the first embodiment, with the partition wall 74a sandwiched in the middle, the first magnet 202 and the second magnet 204 are magnetically connected, thereby magnetically connecting the inner cylinder 34 and the extension part 72 via the magnetic coupling 200.

[0120] As described above, in the magnetic coupling 200 of the second embodiment, by arranging multiple individual magnets 210 at intervals along the direction surrounding the axis relative to the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B, the weakening of the magnetic force between the N pole and the S pole exposed on the opposing surfaces of the partition walls is reduced compared to the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the magnetic coupling 200 of the second embodiment, the end face with the strongest magnetic force among each individual magnet 210 can be exposed on the opposing surfaces of the partition walls of the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B. Therefore, in the magnetic coupling 200 of the second embodiment, compared to the case where the N pole and S pole are alternately formed along the direction surrounding the axis in a single magnet (the first magnet 103 and the second magnet 104) as described in the first embodiment, the transmitted torque can be improved.

[0121] At this time, when viewing the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B from the side of partition 74a, each individual magnet 210 is preferably disposed eccentrically towards the outer periphery than the inner periphery of the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B. This further improves the torque transmitted from one of the first magnet 202 and the second magnet 204 to the other.

[0122] Furthermore, in the magnetic coupling 200 of the second embodiment, the transmission torque is improved, and when the surgeon rotates the operating part 22, the inner cylinder 34 (base optical system 50 and camera part 60) and the protective outer sleeve 32 can be reliably prevented from rotating together in the direction around the axis. Conversely, when the surgeon rotates the extension part 72, the inner cylinder 34 (base optical system 50 and camera part 60) can rotate without delay in the direction around the axis.

[0123] Furthermore, in the magnetic coupling 200 of the second embodiment, the transmitted torque can be increased without reducing the number of poles, as in the magnetic coupling 102 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the amount of slippage when transmitting a transmitted torque greater than the allowable torque from one of the first magnet 202 and the second magnet 204 to the other can also be reduced. As a result, in the squint mirror 10 of the second embodiment, both the increase in transmitted torque and the reduction in slippage can be achieved by means of the magnetic coupling 200.

[0124] (Modification 1 and Modification 2 of the first and second magnets in the second embodiment)

[0125] Figure 10 These are front views of the first magnet 202A and the second magnet 204A, which are variations of the second embodiment, as viewed from the side of the partition 74a. Figure 11 These are front views of the first magnet 202B and the second magnet 204B, which are variations of the second embodiment, as viewed from the side of the partition 74a.

[0126] In the second embodiment described above, the first magnet 202 and the second magnet 204 each have eight individual magnets 210, but the number of individual magnets 210 is not particularly limited. For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, the number of individual magnets 210 provided on the first magnet 202A and the second magnet 204A is increased to more than 8, or as... Figure 11 As shown, the number of individual magnets 210 provided on the first magnet 202B and the second magnet 204B is reduced to less than 8.

[0127] (Modifications 3 and 4 of the first and second magnets in the second embodiment)

[0128] Figure 12 These are front views of the first magnet 202C and the second magnet 204C, which are variations of the second embodiment, as viewed from the side of the partition 74a. Figure 13 These are front views of the first magnet 202D and the second magnet 204D, which are variations of the second embodiment 4, as viewed from the side of the partition 74a.

[0129] In the second embodiment described above, the first magnet 202 and the second magnet 204 each have a plurality of cylindrical individual magnets 210, but the shape of the individual magnets 210 is not particularly limited. For example, they can be as follows: Figure 12 As shown, multiple generally trapezoidal columnar individual magnets 210A are provided for the first magnet 202C and the second magnet 204C, or as shown in the figure. Figure 13 As shown, multiple individual magnets 210B in a generally quadrangular prism shape are provided for the first magnet 202D and the second magnet 204D.

[0130] (Example 5 of the modification of the first and second magnets in the second embodiment)

[0131] Figure 14 These are front views of the first magnet 202E and the second magnet 204E, which are variations of the second embodiment 5, as viewed from the side of the partition 74a.

[0132] In the second embodiment described above, the magnetic poles of each individual magnet 210 disposed in the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B alternately reverse in the direction surrounding the axis; however, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, such as Figure 14 As shown, the magnetic poles of a portion of the individual magnets 210 that are adjacent to each other on the opposing surfaces of the partition wall in the direction around the axis may be the same. In addition, in modified example 5, a plurality of (three in this case) individual magnets 210 are used as a magnet group, and each individual magnet 210 is provided in the magnet holding parts 206A and 206B respectively, in such a way that the magnetic poles of the magnet group are alternately reversed in the direction around the axis.

[0133] (Other variations of the second embodiment)

[0134] In the second embodiment described above, each individual magnet 210 is eccentrically disposed toward the outer periphery of the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B. However, it may also be eccentrically disposed toward the inner periphery of the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B, or disposed at the center position between the inner and outer peripheries of the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B.

[0135] In the second embodiment described above, the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B are formed in a ring shape, and a plurality of individual magnets 210 are provided at equal intervals along the direction surrounding their axis relative to the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B. However, the shape of the magnet holding portions 206A and 206B and the arrangement pattern of the individual magnets 210 are not particularly limited and can be appropriately changed.

[0136] [other]

[0137] In the above embodiments, the hollow inner cylinder 34 was described as an example of the shaft component of the present invention, but a solid shaft component may also be inserted into the protective outer sleeve 32.

[0138] In the above embodiments, the inner cylinder 34 is connected to the first bearing receiving component 92 via the first connecting component 90, and the extension 78 is connected to the second bearing receiving component 96 via the second connecting component 100. However, the first bearing receiving component 92 may be directly connected to the inner cylinder 34, and the second bearing receiving component 96 may be directly connected to the extension 78.

[0139] In the above embodiments, the extension setting part 72 is provided at the base end of the operation part 22 so as to be rotatably provided, and the extension part 78 is inserted inside the extension setting part 72. However, the extension setting part 72 and the extension part 78 may also be integrally formed.

[0140] In the above embodiments, a cylindrical portion 74b is provided in the housing 74, but the cylindrical portion 74b can be omitted. In this case, the second bearing receiving member 96 and the second bearing 98 are omitted, and the front end of the extension 78 is connected to the second magnet 104.

[0141] In the above embodiments, a rigid endoscope 10 was used as an example for describing the strabismus endoscope 10, but the present invention can also be applied to flexible endoscopes. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, a strabismus endoscope 10 was used as an example for describing the endoscope of the present invention, but the present invention can be applied to various endoscopes that allow the protective sleeve to rotate relative to the inner cylinder in a direction about an axis according to the rotation operation of the operating part.

[0142] Symbol Explanation

[0143] 10-Oblique sight mirror, 12-Endoscope system, 14-Processor unit, 16-Monitor, 18-Light source unit, 20-Insertion part, 22-Operating part, 24-Camera unit, 26-First signal line, 27-Second signal line, 28-Light guide, 30-Outer tube, 31-Insertion path, 32-Protective jacket, 34-Inner tube, 40-Front-end optical system, 42-Front-end body, 44-Front-end tube, 45-Tube-shaped part, 46-Cover glass, 48a-Objective lens, 48b-Prism, 48c-Lens, 50-Base-end optical system, 52-Base-end tube, 54-Bracket, 55-Prism, 56-Lens, 60-Image-taking unit, 64-Imaging element, 66-Circuit board, 68-Connector, 72-Extension setting part, 74-House, 74a-Divider, 74b - Cylindrical part, 76- O-ring, 78- Extension, 79- Fixing part, 80- Sealed space, 82- Airtight connector, 84- Connecting part, 90- First connecting part, 92- First bearing receiving part, 94- First bearing, 96- Second bearing receiving part, 98- Second bearing, 100- Second connecting part, 102- Magnetic coupling, 103- First magnet, 103a- Through hole, 104- Second magnet, 104a- Through hole, 200- Magnetic coupling, 202, 202A~202E- First magnet, 204, 204A~204E- Second magnet, 206A, 206B- Magnet holding part, 208A, 208B- Through hole, 210, 210A, 210B- Individual magnet, Ax- Insert shaft, 0A- Optical shaft.

Claims

1. An endoscope comprising: The protective outer layer forms the insertion part; A tubular shell is connected to the base end of the protective outer casing; The front-end optical system is located at the front end of the protective jacket, defining the front end of the sealed space formed inside the protective jacket and the housing; A partition wall is disposed inside the housing, perpendicular to the insertion axis of the insertion part, and defines the base end side of the sealed space; A shaft component, inserted into the interior of the protective sleeve and capable of rotating relative to the protective sleeve along an axis about the inserted shaft; A camera unit is disposed at the front end of the shaft component to capture light passing through the front-end optical system; A magnetic coupling having a first magnet sandwiching the partition wall in the middle and disposed within the sealed space, and a second magnet disposed outside the sealed space, wherein the first magnet is connected to the base end side of the shaft component; The outer tube is for inserting the protective outer sheath; An operating section is connected to the base end of the outer tube and accommodates the housing; and A tubular extension is provided at the base end of the operating part, and is rotatable relative to the operating part in a direction about the axis. The magnetic coupling and the housing are capable of rotating relative to each other in a direction about the shaft. The shaft component is magnetically connected to the extension part via the magnetic coupling.

2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein it has a signal line connected to the camera unit. The first magnet and the second magnet are formed in the shape of a disk perpendicular to the insertion axis and have through holes for inserting the signal line.

3. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein it has a signal line connected to the camera unit. The first magnet and the second magnet have: The magnet holding part has a through hole for inserting the signal line and is formed in a ring shape when viewed from the partition wall; and Multiple individual magnets are spaced apart from each other in the magnet holding portion and have magnetic poles along the axial direction of the insertion shaft. The magnet holding portion of the first magnet is connected to the base end side of the shaft component.

4. The endoscope according to claim 3, wherein, A plurality of individual magnets are arranged relative to the magnet holding portion along the direction surrounding the axis.

5. The endoscope according to claim 4, wherein, A plurality of individual magnets are arranged at equal intervals relative to the magnet holding portion along the direction surrounding the axis.

6. The endoscope according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The other magnetic pole is reversed relative to one of the individual magnets that are adjacent to each other along the direction around the axis.

7. The endoscope according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, When the magnet holding part is viewed from the partition, the plurality of individual magnets are eccentric to the outer periphery of the magnet holding part.

8. The endoscope according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, The individual magnet has a shape that extends along a direction parallel to the insertion axis.

9. The endoscope according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The signal lines include a first signal line disposed within the enclosed space and a second signal line disposed outside the enclosed space. The endoscope includes an airtight connector disposed in the partition wall, which connects the first signal line and the second signal line.

10. The endoscope according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The shaft component is an inner cylinder for inserting the signal line. The endoscope includes: a base optical system disposed at the front end of the inner tube, which guides light passing through the front optical system to the imaging unit. The camera unit includes an imaging element that captures light incident through the base optical system and outputs an image signal to the signal line. The front-end optical system, the base-end optical system, and the imaging element are capable of rotating relative to each other along a direction about the axis.

11. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein, The base-end optical system includes: a base-end lens barrel connected to the front end of the inner barrel; and an imaging element mounting part connected to the base-end side of the base-end lens barrel and on which the imaging element is mounted.

12. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The front-end optical system includes a front end body and a front end lens barrel fixed to the front end body.

13. The endoscope according to claim 12, wherein, The shaft component is an inner cylinder. The endoscope includes: a base optical system disposed at the front end of the inner tube, which guides light passing through the front optical system to the imaging unit. The base-end optical system has a base-end lens barrel connected to the front end of the inner cylinder. The other end of the lens can be rotatably fitted relative to one of the front end lens barrel and the base end lens barrel in a direction about the axis.

14. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: The first bearing receiving component is fixed to the first magnet within the sealed space of the housing; and The first bearing is fixed to the first bearing receiving component and is connected inside the housing. The magnetic coupling and the housing are able to rotate relative to each other in a direction about the shaft via the first bearing.

15. The endoscope according to claim 14, wherein, The base end of the shaft component is connected to the first bearing receiving component.

16. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: A light guide is disposed in the space between the outer tube and the protective jacket.

17. The endoscope according to claim 16, wherein, The front-end optical system is fixed to the front end of the outer tube. When a rotational force is applied to the operating part in the direction of rotation about the axis, the rotational force is transmitted to the protective jacket and the housing via the outer tube and the front optical system.

18. The endoscope according to claim 17, wherein, The endoscope has the following features: A cylindrical portion is disposed at the base end of the housing; The second bearing receiving component is fixed to the second magnet outside the sealed space; The second bearing is fixed to the second bearing receiving component and is connected to the inner part of the cylindrical portion; and An extension portion is disposed within the extension setting portion, connecting the extension setting portion to the second bearing receiving component.

19. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The shaft component is an inner cylinder. The endoscope includes: a base optical system disposed at the front end of the inner tube, which guides light passing through the front optical system to the imaging unit. The camera unit includes an imaging element for capturing images of light incident through the base optical system. The base-end optical system comprises: a base-end lens barrel fixed to the front end of the inner barrel; and a first refractive optical element connected to the imaging element and causing light incident from the base-end optical system to refract toward the imaging element. and a bracket, which holds the first refractive optical element at the base end of the base end of the lens barrel.

20. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The front-end optical system includes a second refractive optical element that refracts light incident from a direction inclined relative to the insertion axis parallel to the insertion axis.

21. The endoscope according to claim 20, wherein, The front-end optical system includes a front-end body and a front-end lens barrel fixed to the front-end body. The front end lens barrel houses the second refractive optical element.

Images