Angle position adjustment mechanism of endoscope, assembly method and endoscope

Abstract

This invention relates to an angle limiting adjustment mechanism and assembly method for an endoscope, as well as an endoscope itself. The angle limiting adjustment mechanism includes a traction wire for controlling the bending of the endoscope's curved portion in a corresponding direction, and also includes a blocking member and a limiting assembly. The limiting assembly includes a connecting member and an angle limiting member. The traction wire includes a front traction wire and a rear traction wire, which are connected by the connecting member. The angle limiting member is disposed on the rear traction wire and located distal to the blocking member, and is used to abut against the blocking member. After the traction wire is driven to move, the angle limiting member can be driven by force to move closer to the blocking member until the angle limiting member abuts against the blocking member to stop the movement of the traction wire. This invention simplifies the mechanical structure of angle limiting during endoscope bending control, simplifies the assembly process, improves assembly efficiency, reduces costs, and effectively achieves angle limiting.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical device technology, and more specifically, to an endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism and assembly method, and an endoscope. Background Technology

[0002] Existing endoscopes include an operating section and a slender insertion section, which is inserted into a body cavity to perform related operations. The insertion section has a curved section (such as a snake skeleton), and the operating section is used to control the curvature of the curved section in different directions. For this purpose, the operating section has a handwheel for controlling the curvature of the curved section, which is connected to an angle limit adjustment mechanism located inside the operating section; when the handwheel is driven to rotate forward and backward, the angle limit adjustment mechanism reciprocates the traction wire, thereby controlling the curvature of the curved section.

[0003] To prevent mechanical failure caused by the handwheel's rotation angle exceeding the maximum bending angle designed for the bending section, an angle limit adjustment mechanism is set to restrict the handwheel's rotation angle. However, the existing angle limit adjustment mechanisms mostly have complex mechanical structures involving many structural components. This not only makes the installation process cumbersome and difficult to assemble, but also increases costs. Furthermore, the accumulation of machining and assembly errors can affect the stability and reliability of the angle limit.

[0004] Therefore, for those skilled in the art, designing an angle limit adjustment mechanism that is simple in structure, low in cost, easy to install, and has reliable and stable angle limit is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved.

[0005] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section of this application is intended only to enhance the understanding of the general background of this application, and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that the information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, the purpose of the present invention is to provide an endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism and assembly method, as well as an endoscope, which aims to simplify the mechanical structure of the angle limiting, simplify the assembly process, reduce costs, and ensure the reliability and stability of the angle limiting.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism, including a traction wire for controlling the bending of the curved portion of the endoscope in a corresponding direction, and a blocking member and a limiting assembly. The limiting assembly includes a connector and an angle limiting member. The traction wire includes a front traction wire and a rear traction wire, which are connected by the connector. The angle limiting member is disposed on the rear traction wire and located on the far side of the blocking member, and is used to abut against the blocking member.

[0008] After the traction wire is driven to move, the angle limiting member can be driven by force to move closer to the blocking member until the angle limiting member abuts against the blocking member to stop the traction wire from moving.

[0009] In one embodiment, the angle limiting member is fixed to the rear traction wire so that the angle limiting member moves with the traction wire. The rear traction wire has a fixed position, and the angle limiting member has a connecting position. The fixed position is connected to the connecting position. Alternatively, the angle limiting member has multiple connecting positions arranged sequentially along the movement direction of the traction wire, and the fixed position is connected to one of the multiple connecting positions.

[0010] In one embodiment, the fixing position is provided with a fixing ball, and the connecting position is provided with a fixing groove.

[0011] In one embodiment, the angle limiting member is movably disposed on the rear traction wire. After the traction wire is driven to move, the connecting member can abut against the angle limiting member to drive the angle limiting member to move closer to the blocking member.

[0012] In one embodiment, the angle limiting member has a traction wire channel through which the traction wire passes.

[0013] In one embodiment, the connector is provided with a plurality of mounting slots in sequence along the movement direction of the traction wire. The proximal end of the front traction wire is connected to a corresponding mounting slot on the connector through a first fixing ball, and the distal end of the rear traction wire is connected to another corresponding mounting slot on the connector through a second fixing ball.

[0014] In one embodiment, the device further includes a base plate for fixing within the operating section of the endoscope, a blocking member disposed on the base plate and extending in a direction away from the base plate, the base plate being disposed parallel to the traction wire, the blocking member having a traction wire channel for the traction wire to pass through, a cover plate being provided on the base plate, and the blocking member and the limiting component being located between the cover plate and the base plate.

[0015] In one embodiment, a partition is further provided on the base plate, the partition is arranged parallel to the traction wire, the partition is located between the cover plate and the base plate, and there are multiple traction wires, with one traction wire arranged on each side of the partition.

[0016] In one embodiment, there are multiple traction wires and multiple limiting components. Each traction wire is provided with a corresponding limiting component. The front traction wire and the rear traction wire of each traction wire are connected by a connector of a corresponding limiting component. The rear traction wire of each traction wire is provided with an angle limiting component of a corresponding limiting component.

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides an endoscope, including an operating part, wherein the operating part is provided with an angle limiting adjustment mechanism for the endoscope as described in any one of the claims.

[0018] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides a method for assembling an endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism, for assembling the endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism described in any one of the claims, comprising:

[0019] The angle limiting member is placed on the rear traction wire, and the angle limiting member is located on the far side of the blocking member, and there is a certain distance between them;

[0020] The proximal end of the front traction wire is fixed to the connector, and the distal end of the rear traction wire is fixed to the connector.

[0021] After the traction wire is driven to move, the angle limiting member is driven by force to move closer to the blocking member until the angle limiting member abuts against the blocking member to stop the traction wire from moving.

[0022] In one embodiment, the step of enabling the angle limiting member to be driven by force and move closer to the blocking member specifically includes:

[0023] The angle limiting member is fixed to the rear traction wire so that the angle limiting member moves with the traction wire. Alternatively, the angle limiting member is movably disposed on the rear traction wire so that the connecting member can abut against the angle limiting member when it moves with the traction wire, thereby driving the angle limiting member to move closer to the blocking member.

[0024] In one embodiment, the position of the angle limiting member on the rear traction wire is adjusted by selecting at least one of the following three methods:

[0025] Method 1: Initially fix the angle limiting component to the rear traction wire, and then control the bending of the endoscope. If the maximum bending angle of the endoscope does not meet the requirements after control, then move the angle limiting component.

[0026] Method 2: Set a fixed position on the rear traction wire, and set multiple connecting positions sequentially on the angle limiting member along the movement direction of the traction wire. Connect the fixed position to one of the multiple connecting positions, and then bend the endoscope. If the maximum bending angle of the endoscope does not meet the requirements after bending, connect the fixed position to another connecting position.

[0027] Method 3: Set a fixed position on the rear traction wire and set at least one connecting position on the angle limiting member. Connect the fixed position and the connecting position, and then bend the endoscope. If the maximum bending angle of the endoscope does not meet the requirements after bending, cut off a part of the material of the angle limiting member to change the distance from the proximal end face of the angle limiting member to the blocking member.

[0028] The endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism provided by the present invention includes: a traction wire for controlling the bending of the curved part of the endoscope in a corresponding direction, and a blocking member and a limiting component. The limiting component includes a connector and an angle limiting member. The traction wire includes a front traction wire and a rear traction wire, which are connected by the connector. The angle limiting member is disposed on the rear traction wire and located far from the blocking member. The angle limiting member is used to abut against the blocking member. After the traction wire is driven to move, the angle limiting member can be driven by force to move closer to the blocking member until the angle limiting member abuts against the blocking member to prevent the traction wire from moving.

[0029] With this configuration, when assembling the endoscope's angle limiting adjustment mechanism, only the angle limiting component needs to be installed on the traction wire, and the two parts of the traction wire are connected by a connector. The mechanical structure is simple, installation is very convenient, and assembly efficiency is significantly improved while reducing assembly difficulty. At the same time, the fewer parts reduce the impact of accumulated machining and assembly errors on the angle limiting, ensuring the stability and reliability of the angle limiting, precisely controlling the maximum bending angle of the endoscope, and also significantly reducing costs.

[0030] Since the assembly method of the endoscope and angle limiting adjustment mechanism provided in this application belongs to the same inventive concept as the angle limiting adjustment mechanism of the endoscope provided in this application, the assembly method of the endoscope and angle limiting adjustment mechanism provided in this application has all the advantages of the angle limiting adjustment mechanism of the endoscope provided in this application. Therefore, the beneficial effects of the assembly method of the endoscope and angle limiting adjustment mechanism provided in this application will not be described in detail here. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Those skilled in the art will understand that the accompanying drawings are provided to better understand the invention and do not constitute any limitation on the scope of the invention. Wherein:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the operating part of the endoscope according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the angle limit adjustment mechanism disposed in the operating part according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the base plate disposed in the operating part according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the traction wire, connector, and angle limiting component according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the connector structure according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the angle limit adjustment mechanism disposed in the operating part according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the angle limiting member before it is installed onto the traction wire in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 8a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rear-end traction wire in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 8b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rear traction wire after it has been straightened according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the angle limiting component according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the angle limiting component in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0043] In the attached image:

[0044] 10-Operating section; 1-First direction handwheel; 2-Second direction handwheel; 3-First direction traction wire; 4-Second direction traction wire; 5-Base plate; 51-Blocking plate; 51a, 51c-Two sub-blocking plates; 51b-Traction wire channel of the blocking plate; 52-Clamping plate; 6-Connector; 61-Mounting groove; 62-Traction wire channel of the connector; 7, 13, 14-Angle limiting component; 13a-Fixing groove; 13b, 14a-Traction wire channel of the angle limiting component; A-Proximal end face of the angle limiting component; 8-Front end traction wire; 9-Rear end traction wire; 11-Partition plate; 12-Cover plate; 101-First fixing ball; 102-Second fixing ball; 103-Third fixing ball; 104-Fourth fixing ball. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To make the objectives, advantages, and features of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that the drawings are all in a very simplified form and are not drawn to scale, and are only used to facilitate and clarify the explanation of the embodiments of this invention. Furthermore, the structures shown in the drawings are often part of the actual structures. In particular, different figures may emphasize different aspects and may sometimes use different scales.

[0046] As used in this invention, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural objects; the term “or” is generally used to mean “and / or”; the term “a number” is generally used to mean “at least one”; the term “at least two” is generally used to mean “two or more”; furthermore, the term “proximal” is generally the end closer to the operator; the term “distal” is generally the end closer to the patient; “one end” and “the other end” and “proximal” and “distal” generally refer to two corresponding parts, including not only endpoints; the terms “installed,” “connected,” and “linked” should be interpreted broadly, for example, as a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; or a connection within two elements or an interaction between two elements. Furthermore, as used in this invention, the phrase "one element is disposed on another element" generally only indicates that there is a connection, coupling, cooperation, or transmission relationship between the two elements, and the connection, coupling, cooperation, or transmission between the two elements can be direct or indirect through an intermediate element. It should not be construed as indicating or implying a spatial positional relationship between the two elements, i.e., one element can be located arbitrarily inside, outside, above, below, or to one side of the other element, unless otherwise explicitly stated. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0047] The core idea of ​​this invention is to provide an endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism, its assembly method, and an endoscope, so as to solve the problems of existing endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanisms, such as complex mechanical structure, cumbersome assembly process, easy impact on stability and reliability, and high cost.

[0048] The endoscope provided by this invention includes an operating section and an insertion section connected to the operating section. The insertion section has a controllable bending portion. The insertion section is elongated and is used to enter the body to perform corresponding operations. The operating section is located at the proximal end of the endoscope to manipulate the insertion section. However, those skilled in the art should be able to understand the structure and function of the insertion section based on existing technology, and this application will not provide a more detailed description therein.

[0049] The operating unit includes an angle limit adjustment mechanism, which, driven by a handwheel, controls the bending portion to bend in a corresponding direction. Furthermore, the angle limit adjustment mechanism can also limit the maximum bending angle of the bending portion.

[0050] The angle limiting adjustment mechanism provided by this invention includes a traction wire, a blocking member, and a limiting assembly. The limiting assembly includes a connecting member and an angle limiting member. The traction wire includes a front traction wire and a rear traction wire, which are connected by the connecting member. The angle limiting member is disposed on the rear traction wire and located distal to the blocking member, and is used to abut against the blocking member. After the traction wire is driven to move, the angle limiting member can be driven by force to move closer to the blocking member until the angle limiting member abuts against the blocking member to stop the movement of the traction wire.

[0051] However, it should be understood that the endoscope provided by this invention can be a two-directional bending endoscope, such as an up-and-down bending or a left-and-right bending endoscope, or a four-directional bending endoscope, meaning that both up-and-down and left-and-right bending can be achieved. Each pair of bending directions is controlled by a handwheel; for example, left-and-right bending is controlled by left and right handwheels, and up-and-down bending is controlled by up and down handwheels. Bending in each direction is controlled by a traction wire, and each traction wire is controlled by a limiting component for angle limiting.

[0052] The following description refers to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, a four-directional bending endoscope is used as an example; however, those skilled in the art should recognize that the solution proposed in this invention is also applicable to two-directional bending endoscopes.

[0053] <Example 1>

[0054] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, an operating part 10 of an endoscope is provided. This operating part 10 is equipped with a first direction handwheel 1 and a second direction handwheel 2. The first direction handwheel 1 is used to control the bending portion (not shown) of the endoscope to bend in a first direction. The second direction handwheel 2 is used to control the bending portion to bend in a second direction. One of the first and second directions is left-right, and the other is up-down. Generally, the first direction is left-right, and the second direction is up-down; that is, the first direction handwheel 1 controls the bending portion to bend left-right, and the second direction handwheel 2 controls the bending portion to bend up-down. This will be illustrated below.

[0055] The first direction handwheel 1 and the second direction handwheel 2 are set on the same vertical axis. If... Figure 1 and Figure 2 From the angle shown, the first direction handwheel 1 is located above the second direction handwheel 2. The external dimensions of the first direction handwheel 1 are generally smaller than those of the second direction handwheel 2; external dimensions refer to the diameter of the handwheel.

[0056] Furthermore, the operating unit 10 is equipped with an angle limit adjustment mechanism. This angle limit adjustment mechanism can control the bending part to bend in a first direction under the drive of the first direction handwheel 1, and can also control the bending part to bend in a second direction under the drive of the second direction handwheel 2. Specifically, the angle limit adjustment mechanism includes a traction wire, a blocking member, and a limit assembly.

[0057] Taking four-way bending control as an example, four traction wires are required: two are first-direction traction wires 3, and the other two are second-direction traction wires 4. When the first-direction handwheel 1 is driven to rotate in both directions, it drives the first-direction traction wires 3 to reciprocate, achieving bending control of the bending part in the first direction. At the same time, the blocking component and the limiting component limit the backward distance of the first-direction traction wires 3 to limit the maximum bending angle of the bending part in the first direction. Similarly, when the second-direction handwheel 2 is driven to rotate in both directions, it drives the second-direction traction wires 4 to reciprocate, achieving bending control of the bending part in the second direction. At the same time, the blocking component and the limiting component limit the backward distance of the second-direction traction wires 4 to limit the maximum bending angle of the bending part in the second direction.

[0058] It should be understood that the number of limiting components corresponds to the number of traction wires. For example... Figures 2 to 4As shown, the limiting assembly includes a connector 6 and an angle limiting member 7. The angle limiting member 7 is located on the proximal side (i.e., the proximal side) of the connector 6 and also on the distal side (i.e., the distal side) of the blocking member. The connector 6 is used to connect the two parts of the traction wire, while the angle limiting member 7 is used to limit the backward distance of the traction wire. In this embodiment, the angle limiting member 7 is fixed to the rear end of the traction wire 9 so that the angle limiting member 7 moves with the traction wire. In one example, the blocking member is provided on the base plate 5, and the blocking member extends in a direction away from the base plate 5. The base plate 5 is fixed inside the operating part 10 and is arranged parallel to the traction wire. In this embodiment, a blocking plate 51 is provided on the base plate 5, and the blocking plate 51 extends in a direction away from the base plate 5. In this case, the blocking plate 51 forms the blocking member, but is not limited to this. In other examples, the blocking member can also be provided on the outer shell of the operating part 10, and the blocking member can be directly or indirectly formed by the outer shell of the operating part 10.

[0059] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the traction wire includes a front traction wire 8 and a rear traction wire 9, which are connected by a connector 6. Specifically, the proximal end of the front traction wire 8 and the distal end of the rear traction wire 9 are connected by the connector 6, and an angle limiting member 7 is provided on the rear traction wire 9. Here, by setting the traction wire into two parts, it is convenient to assemble the angle limiting member 7 on the rear traction wire 9, and it is also convenient to adjust the position of the angle limiting member 7 on the rear traction wire 9.

[0060] In this embodiment, the angle limiting member 7 is fixed to the rear traction wire 9 by any suitable method. For example, the angle limiting member 7 is fixed to the rear traction wire 9 by at least one of welding, bonding, and snap-fitting. Since traction wires are mostly made of steel wire rope, it is preferable that the angle limiting member 7 is welded to the rear traction wire 9. The material of the angle limiting member 7 is preferably the same as the material of the traction wire, resulting in a good connection. Of course, the traction wire can also be made of plastic rope, and the angle limiting member 7 accordingly adopts a plastic structure and is bonded to the plastic rope. The position of the angle limiting member 7 on the rear traction wire 9 is set according to the maximum bending angle of the endoscope. During actual assembly, after adjusting the position of the angle limiting member 7, it can be ensured that the angle limiting member 7 stably and reliably limits the maximum bending angle of the endoscope.

[0061] The bending control in the first and second directions, and the blocking plate 51 are illustrated below. After the first-direction traction wire 3 is driven by the first-direction handwheel 1 to move towards the proximal end of the endoscope, the angle limiting member 7 provided on the first-direction traction wire 3 moves along with the first-direction traction wire 3, causing the angle limiting member 7 to move proximally towards the blocking plate 51 until the angle limiting member 7 abuts against the blocking plate 51, thereby preventing the first-direction traction wire 3 from moving further proximally, thus controlling the maximum bending angle of the endoscope in the first direction. Similarly, after the second-direction traction wire 4 is driven by the second-direction handwheel 2 to move towards the proximal end of the endoscope, the angle limiting member 7 on the second-direction traction wire 4 moves along with the second-direction traction wire 4, causing the angle limiting member 7 to move proximally towards the blocking plate 51 until the angle limiting member 7 abuts against the blocking plate 51, thereby preventing the second-direction traction wire 4 from moving further proximally, thus controlling the maximum bending angle of the endoscope in the second direction.

[0062] Understandably, when assembling the angle limit adjustment mechanism, it is only necessary to install the angle limit component 7 on the traction wire and connect the two parts of the traction wire through the connector 6. This structure is simple, easy to install, and can significantly improve assembly efficiency and reduce assembly difficulty. At the same time, the angle limit adjustment mechanism has fewer parts, which can reduce the impact of the accumulation of machining and assembly errors on the angle limit, and can well ensure the stability and reliability of the angle limit, accurately control the maximum bending angle of the endoscope, and at the same time significantly reduce costs.

[0063] Taking the baffle plate 51 on the base plate 5 as an example. When the endoscope is not bent, the angle limiting member 7 is in its initial position. There is a certain distance between the angle limiting member 7 and the baffle plate 51 in the initial position. This distance controls the maximum bending angle of the endoscope. The greater the distance, the greater the maximum bending angle; the smaller the distance, the smaller the maximum bending angle. Therefore, reducing the distance between the angle limiting member 7 and the baffle plate 51 reduces the retraction distance of the traction wire, and the maximum bending angle also decreases accordingly. Conversely, increasing the distance between the angle limiting member 7 and the baffle plate 51 increases the retraction distance of the traction wire, and the maximum bending angle also increases accordingly. Therefore, when assembling the angle limiting member 7 on the rear traction wire 9, the maximum bending angle of the endoscope can be controlled by adjusting the angle limiting member 7 to a suitable position.

[0064] In this embodiment, the angle limiting adjustment mechanism can be assembled in the following manner: First, the angle limiting component 7 is initially fixed to the rear traction wire 9. Then, the endoscope is bent to determine whether the current position of the angle limiting component 7 meets the maximum bending angle requirement. If it does not meet the requirement, the angle limiting component 7 is moved on the rear traction wire 9. After moving to a certain position, the endoscope is bent again. If the requirement is met at this point, the angle limiting component 7 is fixed to the rear traction wire 9 so that the angle limiting component 7 cannot be moved further. Conversely, if the requirement is still not met, the angle limiting component 7 is moved again, and the same operation is repeated until the current position of the angle limiting component 7 meets the requirement. Compared with the traditional assembly method, only the angle limiting component 7 needs to be moved to reach a better position, ensuring the stability and reliability of the angle limiting during endoscope bending. Therefore, the assembly process is relatively simple and the assembly efficiency is high.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, in one example, a baffle plate 51 is provided on the base plate 5, and the baffle plate 51 is arranged perpendicular to the direction of movement of the traction wire. By providing the baffle plate 51 on the base plate 5, the structure is simpler and easier to implement in terms of manufacturing process. Furthermore, the base plate 5 can be modified based on the existing structure, which is beneficial for cost control.

[0066] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in one example, the operating section 10 is provided with a partition 11 arranged parallel to the traction wire, and the partition 11 is mounted on the base plate 5. When there are multiple traction wires, the partition 11 facilitates the division of the space within the operating section 10 into two layers, allowing the multiple traction wires to be arranged in pairs in different spaces. That is, one traction wire is arranged on each side of the same partition 11 parallel to the direction of the traction wire. For example, four traction wires can be separated by two partitions 11, with only one traction wire on each side of each partition 11. Alternatively, two traction wires can be separated by one partition 11, with only one traction wire on each side of each partition 11. Of course, in other embodiments, the partition 11 can be omitted.

[0067] Continue to refer to Figure 3In one embodiment, the blocking plate 51 may form a sub-blocking plate 51a and a sub-blocking plate 51c on each side of the partition 11. One sub-blocking plate 51a is used to restrict the angle limiting member 7 on the two traction wires on the same side of the partition 11, and the other sub-blocking plate 51c is used to restrict the angle limiting member 7 on the two traction wires on the other side of the partition 11. In this way, the sub-blocking plates 51a and 51c at different positions block the angle limiting member 7 at the corresponding positions. Optionally, the blocking plate 51 is provided with a traction wire channel 51b for the traction wire to pass through, so that the blocking plate 51 can restrict the extension direction of the traction wire. Further optionally, the base plate 5 is provided with two opposing clamping plates 52. The clamping plates 52 are disposed on the base plate 5 and extend away from the base plate 5, so that the clamping plates 52 are substantially parallel to the traction wire. The partition 11 can be inserted between the two clamping plates 52 for fixation. Furthermore, the two sub-blocking plates 51a and 51c are connected one-to-one with the two clamping plates 52 to enhance the strength of the sub-blocking plates 51a and 51c, thereby further improving the stability and reliability of the angle limiting. One way to install the partition 11 is to clamp and fix the partition 11 using only the two clamping plates 52. Another way to install the partition 11 is to further bond the partition 11 with adhesive while clamping and fixing the partition 11 with the two clamping plates 52.

[0068] like Figure 1 As shown, in one embodiment, a cover plate 12 is provided on the base plate 5, and the cover plate 12 is preferably detachably installed on the base plate 5. In this case, the blocking plate 51, the connecting member 6, and the angle limiting member 7 are all located between the cover plate 12 and the base plate 5, and are sealed by the cover plate 12. Furthermore, the cover plate 12 is also placed on the partition plate 11, which can further constrain the partition plate 11 and prevent the partition plate 11 from loosening. In addition, the cover plate 12 can also prevent the traction wire from coming out of the corresponding channel, and can also prevent the traction wire from coming out of the connecting member 6 and the angle limiting member 7.

[0069] Reference Figure 4 Optionally, the connector 6 is provided with multiple mounting slots 61 sequentially along the movement direction of the traction wire. The proximal end of the front traction wire 8 is connected to a corresponding mounting slot 61 on the connector 6 via a first fixing ball 101, and the distal end of the rear traction wire 9 is connected to another corresponding mounting slot 61 on the connector 6 via a second fixing ball 102. Simultaneously, the proximal end of the rear traction wire 9 is connected to a traction wheel (not shown) via a third fixing ball 103. Here, the traction wheel is located near the traction wire and is rotatably disposed within the operating part 10 and directly driven by a handwheel. The traction wheel is used to drive the movement of the traction wire. All fixing balls (including 101, 102, and 103) can be fixed to the traction wire by bonding, welding, or other means.

[0070] like Figure 5As shown, in this embodiment, the connector 6 has three mounting slots 61. However, the number of mounting slots 61 can be two or more, preferably no less than three. Both the front traction wire 8 and the rear traction wire 9 can be selectively connected to any one of the mounting slots 61. Preferably, the connector 6 also has a traction wire channel 62 communicating with the mounting slots 61. This traction wire channel 62 is used to thread the traction wire, facilitating connection of the traction wire and restricting its extension direction. Furthermore, the tension of the traction wire can be adjusted by adjusting the positions of the first fixing ball 101 and the second fixing ball 102 on the connector 6.

[0071] It should be noted that the material of the traction wire is not limited; for example, steel wire or plastic rope can be used. In this embodiment, steel wire rope is used as the traction wire. The material of the angle limiting member 7 is metal or plastic, and the metal material includes, but is not limited to, copper. The material of the connector 6 is also the same. In this embodiment, steel wire rope is used as the traction wire, and copper is used as the angle limiting member 7.

[0072] During assembly, the angle limiting component 7 is initially fixed to a certain position on the rear traction wire 9 by welding. After initial fixing, the angle limiting component 7 can be easily moved using a heated soldering iron, changing its position on the rear traction wire 9. Therefore, when the angle limiting component 7 is welded to the rear traction wire 9, it is convenient to move the angle limiting component 7 by heating the welding position during assembly, as the solder melts easily when heated, facilitating the movement of the angle limiting component 7. Furthermore, after the position of the angle limiting component 7 is adjusted, the solder can quickly solidify, thereby fixing the angle limiting component 7 in its current position.

[0073] Furthermore, in conjunction with the preferred embodiments and referring to the illustrated orientation, the angle limiting process in each direction will be further explained.

[0074] First, during use, ensure that the angle limiting component 7 is located on the left side (i.e., the far side) of the blocking plate 51. Then, the bending angle can be controlled and limited in the following ways:

[0075] 1. Upward bending control: When the upward bending traction wire is driven to move to the right (i.e., the proximal direction), the corresponding angle limiting member 7 follows the upward bending traction wire until the corresponding angle limiting member 7 abuts against the left end face of the blocking plate 51, thereby achieving the maximum bending angle limit in the upward direction.

[0076] 2. Downward bending control: When the downward bending traction wire is driven to move to the right, the corresponding angle limiting member 7 moves with the downward bending traction wire until the corresponding angle limiting member 7 abuts against the left end face of the blocking plate 51, thereby achieving the maximum bending angle limit in the downward direction.

[0077] 3. Right-hand bending control: When the traction wire for right-hand bending control is driven to move to the right, the corresponding angle limiting member 7 moves with the traction wire for right-hand bending control until the corresponding angle limiting member 7 abuts against the left end face of the blocking plate 51, thereby achieving the maximum bending angle limit in the right direction.

[0078] IV. Leftward Bending Control: When the traction wire for leftward bending is driven to move to the right, the corresponding angle limiting member 7 moves with the traction wire for leftward bending until the corresponding angle limiting member 7 abuts against the left end face of the blocking plate 51, thereby achieving the maximum bending angle limit in the left direction.

[0079] <Example 2>

[0080] Please refer to Figures 6-7 , Figures 8a-8b as well as Figure 9 The endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention is basically the same as the endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism provided in Embodiment 1. The same parts will not be described again. The following only describes the differences.

[0081] like Figures 6-7 , Figures 8a-8b as well as Figure 9 As shown, unlike Embodiment 1, Embodiment 2 provides an endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism with a different structure for the angle limiting member 13. A fixed position is provided on the rear traction wire 9, and multiple connecting positions are sequentially arranged on the angle limiting member 13 along the movement direction of the traction wire. The fixed position is then connected to one of the multiple connecting positions. This allows adjustment of the position of the angle limiting member 13 on the rear traction wire 9 without further movement of the angle limiting member 13. Alternatively, at least one connecting position is provided on the angle limiting member 13, and the fixed position is connected to the connecting position. In this case, by cutting off a portion of the material of the angle limiting member 13, the distance from the proximal end face A of the angle limiting member 13 to the blocking member (such as the blocking plate 51) can be changed, thereby altering the retraction distance of the traction wire. There are various ways to achieve the docking connection between the fixed position and the connecting position; the following is an illustrative explanation.

[0082] like Figures 8a-8b ,as well as Figure 9As shown, in one example, a fourth fixing ball 104 is provided at the fixing position, and a fixing groove 13a is provided at the connecting position. The fourth fixing ball 104 is already installed on the rear-end traction wire 9 upon arrival. The second fixing ball 102 and the third fixing ball 103 are respectively fixed at both ends of the rear-end traction wire 9, and the additional fourth fixing ball 104 is fixed at a certain position between the two ends of the rear-end traction wire 9. The position between the two ends mentioned herein should not be narrowly interpreted as an absolute midpoint, but should be understood as any position between the proximal and distal ends of the rear-end traction wire 9. In addition, the distance between the second fixing ball 102 and the fourth fixing ball 104 is a, and the distance between the fourth fixing ball 104 and the third fixing ball 103 is b. a and b are fixed values. The specific values ​​of a and b can be set according to the maximum bending angle of the endoscope, which is not required in this application. Before assembly, the rear-end traction wire 9 can be processed during pre-processing, so that the rear-end traction wire 9 with three fixing balls (102, 103 and 104) can be obtained upon arrival.

[0083] To further reduce costs, the rear traction wire 9 can be replaced with plastic rope, such as fishing line or tendon rope. Correspondingly, the three fixing balls can be plastic balls. During pre-processing, the three fixing balls (102, 103, and 104) are fixed at a fixed distance to the plastic rear traction wire 9. The distance between each fixing ball in the rear traction wire 9 is fixed and can be customized with supplied materials.

[0084] like Figure 9 As shown, in one example, the angle limiting member 13 is provided with multiple fixing slots 13a, each fixing slot 13a serving as a connection position. The newly added fourth fixing ball 104 can be selectively installed into any one of the fixing slots 13a. Because the positions of the multiple fixing slots 13a are different, the position of the angle limiting member 13 on the rear traction wire 9 will also be different. Furthermore, the angle limiting member 13 is also provided with a traction wire channel 13b communicating with the fixing slots 13a, which is used for threading the traction wire.

[0085] In one embodiment, there are multiple fixing slots 13a, such as two, three or more. In this embodiment, three fixing slots 13a are provided. At this time, by adjusting the connection position between the fourth fixing ball 104 and the fixing slot 13a, the distance between the proximal end face A of the angle limiting member 13 and the fourth fixing ball 104 can be changed, that is, the distance from the proximal end face A of the angle limiting member 13 to the blocking plate 51 can be changed, thereby adjusting the maximum bending angle of the bending portion in all directions (front, back, left, and right).

[0086] In another embodiment, there is only one fixing groove 13a. In this case, the angle limiting member 13 is made of plastic, which facilitates the removal of some material. When assembling the angle limiting member 13, by removing part of the material of the angle limiting member 13, the length of the angle limiting member 13 is changed, thereby changing the distance between the proximal end face A of the angle limiting member 13 and the fourth fixing ball 104, thereby adjusting the maximum bending angle of the bending portion in all directions. In this case, the length adjustment of the angle limiting member 13 can be completed quickly and easily on the assembly site, without the need to adjust the position of the fourth fixing ball 104 on the angle limiting member 13. Therefore, the assembly process is simpler and the assembly efficiency is relatively higher.

[0087] The two methods of adjusting the angle limiter 13 mentioned above can be used individually or in combination, as long as the position of the angle limiter 13 can be accurately controlled to ensure the reliability and stability of the angle limit.

[0088] Compared to the method in Embodiment 1 where the angle limiting component 7 is welded or bonded to the rear traction wire 9, the angle limiting adjustment mechanism in Embodiment 2 can adjust the position of the angle limiting component 13 more quickly and accurately, resulting in higher assembly efficiency and better angle limiting effect.

[0089] <Example 3>

[0090] Please refer to Figure 10 The endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism provided in Embodiment 3 of the present invention is basically the same as the endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism provided in the above embodiments. The same parts will not be described again. The following only describes the differences.

[0091] like Figure 10 As shown, unlike Embodiment 2, Embodiment 3 provides an endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism with a different structure for the angle limiting member 14. This angle limiting member 14 is movably mounted on the rear traction wire 9. After the corresponding traction wire is driven to move, the connecting member 6 can abut against the angle limiting member 14 to drive the angle limiting member 14 to move proximally towards the blocking member (such as the blocking plate 51) until the angle limiting member 14 abuts against the blocking member. Therefore, initially, the angle limiting member 14 does not follow the traction wire. Only after the connecting member 6 follows the traction wire and abuts against the angle limiting member 14 can the angle limiting member 14 be driven to move towards the blocking member.

[0092] Unlike Embodiment 2, the rear traction wire 9 does not require a fourth fixing ball 104, and the angle limiting member 14 does not require the fixing groove 13a of Embodiment 2. In this case, the angle limiting member 14 only retains the traction wire channel 14a, and the rear traction wire 9 is inserted into the traction wire channel 14a of the angle limiting member 14, as long as the rear traction wire 9 does not easily come out of the traction wire channel 14a of the angle limiting member 14. By controlling the distance between the angle limiting member 14 and the connecting member 6, and the distance from the proximal end face of the angle limiting member 14 to the blocking member, the maximum bending angle of the endoscope can be controlled. There is no need to cut material from the angle limiting member 14, nor to disassemble or reassemble it. This improves assembly efficiency while ensuring the stability and reliability of the angle limiting.

[0093] Finally, it should be noted that in any of the above embodiments, the angle limiting member (such as 7, 13, 14) is preferably provided with a traction wire channel for the traction wire to pass through, so as to facilitate the angle limiting member being sleeved on the rear traction wire 9. However, the angle limiting member 7 in Embodiment 1 and the angle limiting member 13 in Embodiment 2 can move with the traction wire, while the angle limiting member 14 in Embodiment 3 does not move with the traction wire. It should also be understood that the traction wire channel on the angle limiting member in any embodiment passes through the opposite ends of the angle limiting member perpendicular to the direction of movement, and usually also passes through one side of the angle limiting member parallel to the direction of movement, so that the traction wire channel has a lateral opening, which facilitates the angle limiting member being inserted into the rear traction wire 9 from the side.

[0094] Furthermore, based on the above-described endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism, the present invention also provides an assembly method for the endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism, used for assembling the above-described endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism, the assembly method comprising:

[0095] Step S1: Place the angle limiting component (such as angle limiting component 7, 13 or 14) on the rear traction wire 9, and make the angle limiting component located on the far side of the blocking component, and there is a certain distance (i.e. bending control distance) between the angle limiting component and the blocking component.

[0096] Step S2: Fix the proximal end of the front traction wire 8 to the connector 6, and fix the distal end of the rear traction wire 9 to the connector 6. At this time, it can be understood that the proximal end of the rear traction wire 9 is fixed to the traction wheel.

[0097] Step S3: After the corresponding traction wire is driven to move, the angle limiting member is driven by force to move closer to the blocking member until the angle limiting member abuts against the blocking member to stop the traction wire from moving.

[0098] It should be noted that steps S1 and S2 can be executed sequentially or simultaneously, depending on actual needs.

[0099] Optionally, the step S3 above, which involves causing the angle limiting member to be driven by force and move closer to the blocking member, specifically includes:

[0100] Step S31: Fix the angle limiting member 7 or 13 to the rear traction wire 9 so that the angle limiting member 7 or 13 moves with the traction wire.

[0101] Alternatively, the step S3 above, which involves causing the angle limiting member to be driven by force and move closer to the blocking member, specifically includes:

[0102] Step S31': The angle limiting member 14 is movably mounted on the rear traction wire 9 so that the connecting member 6 can abut against the angle limiting member 14 when it moves with the traction wire, thereby driving the angle limiting member 14 to move closer to the blocking member.

[0103] Furthermore, the assembly method of the endoscope's angle limiting adjustment mechanism also includes adjusting the position of the angle limiting component on the rear traction wire 9. It should be noted that there are multiple ways to adjust the position of the angle limiting component on the rear traction wire 9, and at least one of them can be selected. An illustrative description follows.

[0104] One method (Method 1) for adjusting the position of the angle limiting member on the rear traction wire 9 is to initially fix the angle limiting member 7 to the rear traction wire 9, and then control the bending of the endoscope. If the maximum bending angle of the endoscope does not meet the requirements after control, the angle limiting member 7 is moved. In an example, the angle limiting member 7 of Embodiment 1 is initially welded to the rear traction wire 9, and then the endoscope is controlled to bend. It is determined whether the maximum bending angle meets the requirements. If not, the solder at the angle limiting member 7 is heated with a soldering iron to melt the solder, so that the angle limiting member 7 can be moved. After the angle limiting member 7 is moved to a suitable position, the endoscope is controlled to bend again, and the above operation is repeated until the maximum bending angle of the endoscope meets the requirements.

[0105] Another method (Method 2) for adjusting the position of the angle limiting member on the rear traction wire 9 is to set a fixed position on the rear traction wire 9 and to set multiple connecting positions sequentially along the movement direction of the traction wire on the angle limiting member 13. The fixed position is then aligned with one of the multiple connecting positions, and the endoscope is bent. If the maximum bending angle does not meet the requirements after bending, the fixed position is aligned with another connecting position, and the endoscope is bent again. This process is repeated until the maximum bending angle of the endoscope meets the requirements. In one example, a fourth fixing ball 104 is set between the two ends of the rear traction wire 9, and multiple fixing grooves 13a are sequentially set on the angle limiting member 13 along the movement direction of the traction wire. The fourth fixing ball 104 is aligned with one of the multiple fixing grooves 13a, and the endoscope is bent. If the maximum bending angle does not meet the requirements after bending, the fourth fixing ball 104 is aligned with another fixing groove 13a.

[0106] Another method (method three) for adjusting the position of the angle limiting member on the rear traction wire 9 is to set a fixed position on the rear traction wire 9 and set at least one connecting position on the angle limiting member 13 of embodiment two. The fixed position is aligned with the connecting position, and then the endoscope is bent. If the maximum bending angle does not meet the requirements after bending, a portion of the material of the angle limiting member 13 is cut off to change the distance from the proximal end face of the angle limiting member 13 to the blocking member. In one example, a fourth fixing ball 104 is set at a position between the two ends of the rear traction wire 9, and only one fixing groove 13a is set on the angle limiting member 13. The fourth fixing ball 104 is aligned with the fixing groove 13a, and then the endoscope is bent. If the maximum bending angle does not meet the requirements after bending, a portion of the material of the angle limiting member 13 at the proximal position is cut off.

[0107] In summary, it should be noted that when there are multiple traction wires, there can be two, four, or other numbers, which is not limited. Moreover, each traction wire is equipped with a corresponding limiting component. The front traction wire 8 and the rear traction wire 9 of each traction wire are connected by a connector 6 of a corresponding limiting component. The rear traction wire 9 of each traction wire is equipped with an angle limiting component (such as 7, 13, 14) of a corresponding limiting component.

[0108] The above description is only a description of preferred embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Any changes or modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the above disclosure shall fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An angle limiting adjustment mechanism for an endoscope, comprising a traction wire for controlling the bending of the curved portion of the endoscope in a corresponding direction, characterized in that, It also includes a blocking component and a limiting component. The limiting component includes a connecting component and an angle limiting component. The traction wire includes a front traction wire and a rear traction wire. The front traction wire and the rear traction wire are connected by the connecting component. The angle limiting component is movably disposed on the rear traction wire and is located on the far side of the blocking component. The angle limiting component abuts against the blocking component. After the traction wire is driven to move, the connector can abut against the angle limiting member to drive the angle limiting member to move closer to the blocking member until the angle limiting member abuts against the blocking member to stop the traction wire from moving.

2. The endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The angle limiting member is provided with a traction wire channel through which the traction wire passes.

3. The endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector is provided with a plurality of mounting slots in sequence along the movement direction of the traction wire. The proximal end of the front traction wire is connected to a corresponding mounting slot on the connector through a first fixing ball, and the distal end of the rear traction wire is connected to another corresponding mounting slot on the connector through a second fixing ball.

4. The endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a base plate for fixing within the operating section of the endoscope, a blocking member disposed on the base plate, the blocking member extending in a direction away from the base plate, the base plate being disposed parallel to the traction wire, the blocking member having a traction wire channel for the traction wire to pass through, a cover plate also being provided on the base plate, and the blocking member and the limiting assembly being located between the cover plate and the base plate.

5. The endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a partition plate disposed on the base plate, the partition plate being disposed parallel to the traction wire, the partition plate being located between the cover plate and the base plate, and the number of traction wires being multiple, with one traction wire disposed on each side of the partition plate.

6. The endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of traction wires is multiple, and the number of limiting components is also multiple. Each traction wire is provided with a corresponding limiting component. The front traction wire and the rear traction wire of each traction wire are connected by the connector of the corresponding limiting component. The rear traction wire of each traction wire is provided with the angle limiting component of the corresponding limiting component.

7. An endoscope, comprising an operating unit, characterized in that, The operating unit is provided with an endoscope angle limiting adjustment mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-6.

8. A method for assembling an angle limiting adjustment mechanism for an endoscope, used for assembling the angle limiting adjustment mechanism of an endoscope as described in any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, include: The angle limiting member is movably disposed on the rear traction wire, and the angle limiting member is located on the far side of the blocking member, and there is a certain distance between the angle limiting member and the blocking member; The proximal end of the front traction wire is fixed to the connector, and the distal end of the rear traction wire is fixed to the connector. After the traction wire is driven to move, the connector abuts against and pushes the angle limiting member closer to the blocking member until the angle limiting member abuts against the blocking member to stop the traction wire from moving.

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