Endoscope with nozzle element for cleaning lens element

Abstract

The invention relates to an endoscope comprising a distal housing element (10) with a lens element (20) and a nozzle element (30) for cleaning the surface of the lens element. The lens element (20) is a curved lens element, which is curved in a distal direction protruding from the housing element (10). The nozzle element (30) is arranged on a distal side of the distal housing element adjacent to the curved lens element (20). The nozzle element (30) has a distal nozzle opening (31) in the form of an elongated media outlet slit towards the curved lens element (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an endoscope having a nozzle element for cleaning a lens element. More specifically, this invention relates to an endoscope comprising a distal housing element having a lens element and a nozzle element for cleaning the surface of the lens element. Background Technology

[0002] An endoscope is inserted into a patient for examination or surgical intervention. The environment around the endoscope is illuminated by light emitted from it at the target site or while the endoscope is being moved to the target. This illuminated environment can be observed via a camera. The light captured by the camera is incident through a lens element located on the endoscope housing. To prevent contamination of the lens element, it is also cleaned during use via a nozzle element that releases a cleaning medium to clean the lens element surface. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One object of the present invention is to provide an improved endoscope having a nozzle element for cleaning lens elements, which meets high requirements and allows the lens elements to be optimally cleaned therein.

[0004] The present invention relates to an endoscope comprising a distal housing element having a lens element and a nozzle element for cleaning the surface of the lens element, wherein the lens element is a curved lens element that bends and protrudes from the housing element in a distal direction, the nozzle element is arranged on the distal side of the distal housing element adjacent to the curved lens element, and the nozzle element has a distal nozzle opening pointing toward the curved lens element, the distal nozzle opening being in the form of an elongated media outlet slit.

[0005] In this endoscope, even curved lens elements can be advantageously cleaned by releasing cleaning media through a narrow media outlet slit via a nozzle element. By using a narrow media outlet slit at the nozzle element, the jet of released cleaning media is already extended at the nozzle outlet. A laterally expanding flow of cleaning media is generated, which is guided to the curved lens element. In this way, the cleaning jet can be guided to the curved lens element, and it has been laterally widened when it impacts the curved lens element. Therefore, the lens element can be optimally cleaned.

[0006] The elongated media outlet slit can extend perpendicular to the endoscope's extension direction. This media outlet slit provides a laterally widened cleaning jet with a large range perpendicular to the endoscope's extension direction. When this laterally widened cleaning jet impacts the curved lens element on the nozzle element side, a wide area of ​​the curved lens element and its lateral periphery can be submerged by the cleaning jet. This means that the lens element can be cleaned more effectively.

[0007] The curved lens element may have an area Fü to be flowed through formed at least by the entire exposed lens surface, and the nozzle opening area of the distal nozzle opening is Fd, where 30 < Fü / Fd < 40. The exposed lens surface refers to the lens surface protruding from the housing element in which the curved lens element is embedded. The inventors of the present invention have found that a fluid flow generated by a ratio 30 < Fü / Fd < 40 of the area Fü of the lens element to be flowed through to the nozzle opening area Fd of the nozzle element is particularly advantageous for immersing at least the entire exposed lens surface.

[0008] The width of the distal nozzle opening may be smaller than the width bü of the curved lens element at the proximal edge of the curved lens element. The flow of the fluid released from the nozzle element spreads towards the lens element, so the width of the fluid flow becomes wider and can cover at least the entire exposed lens surface. Since the width of the distal nozzle opening can be smaller than the width bü of the curved lens element at the proximal edge of the curved lens element, a narrower nozzle element can be used, which does not have to occupy the entire corresponding width bü of the curved lens element at the proximal edge.

[0009] The distal nozzle opening can be aligned with the curved lens element such that the flow leaving the distal nozzle opening is guided to be substantially tangential to the proximal edge of the curved lens element. This produces a favorable overflow on the exposed lens surface. If the fluid flows through the most distal point (the highest point of the exposed lens surface) of the exposed lens surface of the curved lens element, the flow does not interrupt but continues to move away from the distal nozzle opening on the exposed lens surface. Therefore, even the part of the exposed lens surface located on the distal side of the nozzle element can be well cleaned.

[0010] The flow leaving the distal nozzle opening can be guided at an angle of -10° < Ltgü < +20° with respect to the proximal edge of the curved lens element, where Ltgü is the tangent of the lens surface of the curved lens element at the proximal edge of the curved lens element, the positive angle extends away from the curved lens element at the proximal edge of the curved lens element, and the negative angle extends into the curved lens element at the proximal edge of the curved lens element. The inventors of the present invention have found that -10° < Ltgü < +20° is particularly advantageous for immersing at least the entire exposed lens surface.

[0011] The distal nozzle opening can be arranged close to the proximal edge of the curved lens element. In this way, the fluid flow is released towards the distal side. The nozzle element does not protrude beyond the curved lens element in the distal direction. Therefore, the insertion of the endoscope is not affected by the nozzle element.

[0012] The distal nozzle opening can be arranged at a distance L from the proximal edge of the curved lens element, wherein the distance L is less than or equal to half the width bü of the curved lens element at the proximal edge. At this distance L, a favorable widening of the released fluid jet is achieved, which has already acquired a width (lateral extension) corresponding to the width of the proximal edge of the curved lens element upon impact. After the fluid flow has passed the proximal edge of the curved lens element, it widens further, such that at least the entire exposed lens surface is submerged.

[0013] The lens element can be a curved lens element, with its curvature being spherical or aspherical. Regardless of the shape of the exposed lens surface, the lens element can be effectively rinsed.

[0014] The distal nozzle opening can form a single distal opening for the nozzle element. Multiple openings are not required at the nozzle element. Furthermore, multiple nozzle elements are not necessary. The single distal opening of the nozzle element alone ensures favorable cleaning of the curved lens element.

[0015] The curved lens element may include a flow area Fü formed by the entire exposed lens surface, and the flow area Fü may be greater than one-quarter of the cross-sectional area Fe of the endoscope at the distal housing element. Even at this size, at least the entire exposed lens surface of the curved lens element can be flowed through. "At least the entire exposed lens surface" should be understood as meaning the fluid flow can also be wider and cover the distal edge portion of the distal housing element adjacent to the curved lens element, which abuts against the curved lens element. Thus, even the edge portion of the exposed lens surface abutting against the distal side of the distal housing element is well cleaned.

[0016] The distal nozzle opening, in the form of an elongated media outlet slit, can have a width bd and a height hd, where hd < bd. Therefore, the distal nozzle opening is wider than its height and has a very small height. This allows for the use of only a small nozzle element, which protrudes slightly from the distal side of the distal housing element for advantageous cleaning of the curved lens element.

[0017] In another embodiment, the distal nozzle opening in the form of an elongated media outlet slit may have a width bd and a height hd, wherein hd < 1 mm < bd.

[0018] The aspects of the invention explained above can be appropriately combined. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Brief description of the attached figures

[0020] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of the distal housing element of the present invention, having a lens element and a nozzle element as in the first embodiment, is shown.

[0021] Figure 2 A schematic side view of the distal housing element of the first embodiment is shown.

[0022] Figure 3 A schematic plan view of the housing element from the distal side of the first embodiment is shown.

[0023] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of the distal housing element of the present invention, having a lens element and a nozzle element as in the second embodiment, is shown.

[0024] Figure 5 A schematic plan view of the housing element from the distal side of the second embodiment is shown.

[0025] Figure 6 A schematic side view of the distal housing element of the second embodiment is shown.

[0026] Figure 7 Another schematic plan view is shown, taken from the distal side of the housing element of the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 8 A schematic plan view is shown in the third embodiment, from the distal side to the distal housing element with lens and nozzle elements.

[0028] Figure 9 Another schematic plan view is shown from the distal side of the housing element of the third embodiment.

[0029] Figure 10 A schematic side view of the distal housing element with lens and nozzle elements in the third embodiment is shown.

[0030] Figure 11 Another schematic side view of the distal housing element of the third embodiment is shown.

[0031] Figure 12 Another schematic perspective view of the distal housing element of the third embodiment is shown.

[0032] Figure 13 A schematic side view of the distal housing element of the fourth embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. The illustrations in the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale, but may sometimes be enlarged for clarity.

[0034] First Embodiment

[0035] The following is for reference. Figures 1 to 3The first embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0036] The endoscope has a proximal handle body (not shown), and an insertion tube or insert (not shown) extends distally from the handle body. A distal housing element 10 is formed at the distal end of the insertion tube or insert.

[0037] When the insertion tube or inserter is inserted into the body to be examined, the endoscope is inserted with the distal housing element 10 in front. For example, the distal housing element 10 is formed as a quasi-cylindrical shape. See also Figure 3 The remote housing element 10 can be formed as a cylinder or an elliptical cylinder with a circular cross-section.

[0038] The distal housing element 10 has a distal side 12 that faces distally, i.e., away from the proximal handle body. See also Figure 1 and 2 Preferably, the distal side 12 of the distal housing element 10 rises in the distal direction from the edge of the distal housing element 10 toward the inward side.

[0039] The distal housing element 10 can house an optical system. The optical system may consist of an image acquisition device (camera lens) and an illumination device. The illumination device illuminates the scene surrounding the distal housing element 10. An image of this environment can then be acquired by the image acquisition device.

[0040] In this embodiment, the image acquisition device has a wide-angle lens or a fisheye lens to achieve an exceptionally wide field of view.

[0041] Therefore, the distal end 12 of the lens element 20 is arranged at the distal end of the housing element 10. Preferably, the lens element 20 is arranged at the region furthest in the distal direction of the distal end 12. The lens element 20 is a curved lens element, the curvature of which protrudes from the housing element 10 in the distal direction. In this embodiment, the lens element 20 is a curved lens element with spherical curvature. Therefore, the lens element 20 is such a wide-angle lens or fisheye lens.

[0042] In this embodiment, the lens element 20 is arranged to be spaced apart from the circumferential edge of the distal housing element 10. In other words, the lens element 20 is arranged at the distal side 12 in such a way that the lens body protruding from the distal side 12 in the distal direction is always spaced apart from the circumferential edge of the distal housing element 10 extending in the distal direction.

[0043] During the use of the endoscope, the lens surface of the lens element 20 may become contaminated, for example, by organic materials. To clean the lens surface of the lens element 20, a cleaning nozzle is arranged at the distal housing element 10. The cleaning nozzle supplies cleaning media released by the cleaning nozzle from the proximal end through a media channel (not shown). Water, air, or other suitable compatible cleaning media can be used. The release of the cleaning media can be controlled as needed.

[0044] The cleaning nozzle has a nozzle element 30, which is disposed on the distal side of the distal housing element 10. The nozzle element 30 is arranged adjacent to and spaced apart from the lens element 20. The nozzle element 30 is disposed at the distal side 12.

[0045] The nozzle element 30 has a nozzle opening 31 that points towards the lens element 20. See also Figure 1 The nozzle opening 31 is formed as an elongated media outlet slit. The elongated media outlet slit extends perpendicular to the extending direction of the distal housing element 10 and perpendicular to the extending direction of the endoscope. In other words, the elongated media outlet slit extends perpendicular to the central axis of the distal housing element 10. The media channel extends through the endoscope and opens at the distal side 12 of the nozzle element 30.

[0046] The nozzle element 30 has a sidewall 32 that opens on the side facing the lens element 20. A nozzle opening 31 is formed on the side of the sidewall 32 facing the lens element 20. The sidewall 32 protrudes from the distal side 12 in a distal direction. In other words, the sidewall 32 is positioned on the distal side 12 of the distal housing element 10.

[0047] On the distal side, the sidewall 32 is covered by the nozzle cap 33. The edge of the nozzle cap 33 facing the lens element 20 forms the upper (distal) boundary of the nozzle opening 31. Each lateral side of the nozzle opening 31 is defined by a portion of the sidewall 32. The lower (proximal) boundary of the nozzle opening 31 is formed by the distal side 12 of the distal housing element 10. The upper (distal) boundary of the nozzle opening 31 is straight. The lower (proximal) boundary of the nozzle opening 31 curves toward the distal side, i.e., curves inward toward the nozzle cap 33. Therefore, the lower (proximal) boundary of the nozzle opening 31 is concavely curved. The shape of the distal side 12 produces a concave curve of the lower boundary of the nozzle opening 31, which rises toward the center from the edge of the distal housing element 10 in the distal direction.

[0048] The nozzle opening 31 thus forms a single distal opening of the nozzle element 30 in the form of a slit. The slit is elongated and extends perpendicular to the axis of the distal housing element 10. See also Figure 3The arrow in the diagram indicates that the normal to the nozzle opening surface of nozzle opening 31 points towards lens element 20. When the center of the slit of nozzle opening 31 is connected to the center of the curved lens element 20 by a straight line, this line is perpendicular to the extended surface of the slit of nozzle opening 31. At the outlet of nozzle element 30, nozzle opening 31 is very narrow.

[0049] See Figure 2 In this embodiment, the distal nozzle opening 31 is arranged close to the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20. The proximal edge of the curved lens element 20 refers to the proximal portion of the lens element 20 that protrudes from the distal side 12 in the distal direction. Therefore, when the distal housing element 10 is viewed from the side, the nozzle cap 33, especially the edge of the nozzle cap 33 that defines the nozzle opening 31, is arranged close to the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20.

[0050] Dimensional relationships in the first embodiment

[0051] To better understand the present invention, the detailed relationship between the nozzle element 30 and the lens element 20 is described below.

[0052] The nozzle element 30 is spaced apart from the lens element 20. Specifically, the distance L between the nozzle opening 31 and the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20 is measured. The distance L is measured in the outflow direction Lü of the fluid released from the nozzle element 30, that is, perpendicular to the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle opening 31.

[0053] The lens element 20 has a flow area Fü with a width bü, wherein the width bü is measured at the near edge of the curved lens element 20.

[0054] In order to find an optimized structure with nozzle element 30 and lens element 20, the inventors of this invention have given it careful consideration and conducted simulations.

[0055] The results of these considerations and simulations are reflected in the specific dimensional specifications and relationships listed below. A more detailed result is shown in the second embodiment.

[0056] In the simulation, we assume the effects of releasing a cleaning medium (water is used here) to clean the curved lens element 20 and the effects of releasing air to dry the curved lens element 20.

[0057] The combination of the housing element 10, lens element 20 and nozzle element 30 formed according to the present invention demonstrates that it is conducive to water release even under standard pressure, speed and volumetric flow rate.

[0058] The nearly hemispherical exposed lens surface of the lens element 20 protrudes from the proximal edge of the lens element 20 in the distal direction.

[0059] See Figure 1, the slit of the nozzle opening 31 has a width bd and a height hd. The height hd is measured at the edge of the nozzle opening 31 defined by the side wall 32. The opening area of the nozzle opening 31 is Fd. At the slit of the nozzle opening 31, the width bd has a larger range than the height hd.

[0060] If the direction and angle of the flow leaving the nozzle opening 31 are considered, good results can be obtained when using the nozzle element 30 to rinse the lens surface of the lens element 20.

[0061] Figure 2 The direction and angle of the flow released from the cleaning nozzle are shown in a side view. Ltgü represents the tangent of the lens surface of the curved lens element 20 at the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20.

[0062] If the direction Lü of the outflowing flow covers the following angular range with respect to the tangent Ltgü at the edge of the surface to be flowed over: -10° < Aü < +20°, particularly favorable rinsing results can be obtained.

[0063] See Figure 2 , assuming that the direction Lü of the outflowing flow is the outflow direction of the fluid released from the nozzle element 30, which is perpendicular to the cross-sectional area of the nozzle opening 31 and passes through the geometric center of the cross-sectional area of the nozzle opening 31.

[0064] In other words, the flow leaving the distal nozzle opening 31 is directed towards the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20. The direction of the outflowing flow covers an angle of -10° < Ltgü < +20° with respect to the tangent Ltgü at the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20. The positive angle extends away from the curved lens element 20 at the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20, while the negative angle extends into the curved lens element 20 at the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20. Among them, the angle of the flow leaving the distal nozzle opening with respect to the tangent to the lens surface of the curved lens element 20 at the edge of the curved lens element is determined by the inclination of the nozzle cap 33 with respect to the axis of the distal housing element 10. In other words, it is the inclination of the nozzle cap 33 with respect to the distal side 12 of the distal housing element 10. Advantageously, the nozzle cap 33 is inclined 5° with respect to the distal side 12 of the distal housing element 10. If the nozzle cap 33 is inclined 10° with respect to the distal side 12 of the distal housing element 10, it is particularly favorable. <00001​​​​​​​A cleaning medium is supplied from the proximal side to the cleaning nozzle having nozzle element 30. The pressurized cleaning medium enters the interior of nozzle element 30. The interior of nozzle element 30 is defined laterally by sidewalls 32 and distally by nozzle cap 33. Only an elongated, slit-shaped nozzle opening 31 allows the cleaning medium to escape. Therefore, the cleaning medium inside nozzle element 30 undergoes a reversal towards lens element 20. Due to the slit structure of nozzle opening 31, a wide flow matching the shape of nozzle opening 31 is released from nozzle opening 31, i.e., a flow whose height is limited by dimension hd.

[0068] The distal nozzle opening 31 is arranged at a distance L from the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20. In the region after exiting the nozzle opening 31, the width of the cleaning medium flow released from the nozzle opening 31 increases with the distance from the nozzle opening 31.

[0069] When the cleaning medium flow released from the nozzle opening 31 reaches the proximal edge of the lens element 20 facing the nozzle element 30, assuming the width of the cleaning medium flow is... Figure 3 bü1, the width of which at least includes the entire proximal edge of the lens element 20. As the flow proceeds, the width of the flow widens, reaching a wider extent in the first third of the lens element 20, so that the width bü2, starting from the proximal edge of the lens element 20, covers the first third of the lens element 20.

[0070] As the flow travels further, its width widens further, ensuring that it covers at least the surface b to be flowed over when it reaches the center of the lens element 20. ü Maximum width.

[0071] As it turns out, according to Figure 3 Overflow velocity ΔV Ü The representation is along each width line b ü1 b ü2 b ü3 …b üi Measured overflow velocity difference ΔV Ü =V ümax -V ümin The maximum is 20% of the average overflow velocity. Therefore, the following applies to overflow velocity ΔV. Ü -20% < ΔV ü <+20%.

[0072] Therefore, although the lens element 20 is curved, the cleaning medium can flow uniformly on the lens element 20 or flow over its entire lens surface to clean it.

[0073] Utilizing the surface tension of a liquid, a cleaning medium (such as water) can flow through the lens element 20 at pressure and velocity representative of endoscopes deployed in locations such as hospitals and doctors' clinics. Effective cleaning is even achieved on the lens surface portion of the lens element 20 facing away from the nozzle element 30.

[0074] After removing contaminants by allowing fluid to flow over the lens surface of the lens element 20, the release of the cleaning medium is stopped.

[0075] Air is now blown from the same nozzle element 30 toward the lens element 20 to dry the lens surface of the lens element 20.

[0076] Air is supplied from the proximal side to the cleaning nozzle having nozzle element 30. Pressurized air enters the interior of nozzle element 30. The interior of nozzle element 30 has an elongated, i.e., slit-shaped nozzle opening 31 as the narrowest point (contraction) and allows air to escape. Due to the slit structure of nozzle opening 31, an airflow matching the shape of nozzle opening 31 is released from nozzle opening 31, i.e., a wide flow whose height is limited by dimension hd.

[0077] In the region after exiting the nozzle opening 31, the width of the airflow released from the nozzle opening 31 increases with the increase of the distance from the nozzle opening 31.

[0078] When the tip of the airflow released from the nozzle opening 31 reaches the proximal edge of the lens element 20 facing the nozzle element 30, assuming the width of the airflow is... Figure 3 bü1, the width of which includes at least the entire proximal edge of the lens element 20. As the airflow travels, the width of the airflow further expands, reaching a wider range in the first third of the lens element 20, so that the width bü2, starting from the proximal edge of the lens element 20, covers the first third of the lens element 20.

[0079] As the airflow travels further, its width widens further, ensuring that it covers at least the surface b to be flowed over when it reaches the center of the lens element 20. ü Maximum width.

[0080] As it turns out, according to Figure 3 Overflow velocity ΔV Ü The representation is along each width line b ü1 b ü2 b ü3 …b üi Measured overflow velocity difference ΔV Ü =V ümax -V ümin The maximum is 20% of the average overflow velocity. Therefore, the following applies to overflow velocity ΔV. Ü -20% < ΔVü <+20%.

[0081] Therefore, the lens element 20 is curved in shape, but air can flow evenly over the lens element 20 or over its entire lens surface, thereby drying it.

[0082] Air can flow at high speed over the lens element 20 without the airflow rising from the lens surface.

[0083] Even the lens surface portion of the lens element 20 that is away from the nozzle element 30 is effectively dried.

[0084] This advantageous spillover effect will be explained in more detail in the second embodiment below.

[0085] Second Embodiment

[0086] The following is for reference. Figures 4 to 7 The second embodiment of the present invention is described below.

[0087] Figures 4 to 7 The advantageous flow characteristics of the structure according to the invention are shown.

[0088] This embodiment examines the impact of a specific structural example on a particular structure that produces... Figures 4 to 7 Flow characteristics.

[0089] The difference between this embodiment and the first embodiment is that the working channel 40 is disposed in the remote housing element 10.

[0090] A tubular or channel-shaped working channel element 41 is disposed within the endoscope, such that the working channel extends upward from the proximal side to the distal housing element 10, and opens at the distal end of the distal housing element 10. A working channel 40 is formed within the working channel element 41, through which instruments can be guided. The opening of the working channel element 41 at the distal end of the distal housing element 10 forms a distal working channel opening.

[0091] Alternatively, the working channel element 41 may end at the proximal end of the distal working channel opening and lead to the working channel portion formed in the distal housing element 10.

[0092] The distal working channel opening of the working channel 40 is located on the distal side of the distal housing element 10, near the curved lens element 20 of the first embodiment.

[0093] In the first embodiment, the nozzle element 30 is arranged near the curved lens element 20.

[0094] The nozzle element 30 is arranged on the distal side of the distal housing element 10 such that the distal nozzle opening 31 points towards the center of the lens surface of the distal curved lens element 20. The distance between the distal nozzle opening 31 and the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20 is L.

[0095] produce Figures 4 to 7 The specific structure of the flow characteristics

[0096] Geometric Specifications

[0097] L=3mm

[0098] bü=6.4mm

[0099] hD=0.46mm

[0100] bD=2.7mm

[0101] This endoscope with the above structure allows advantageous fluid to be released from the nozzle element 30 for drying the lens element 20. Figures 4 to 7 The fluid flow is illustrated by fluid flow lines. These lines represent the flow of fluid from the interior of nozzle element 30 until it passes over the exposed lens surface of lens element 20. The direction of the fluid flow lines indicates the direction of fluid flow. Figures 4 to 7 As shown, it can be seen from several wide-spaced gradient lines along the jet that the velocity in the released jet is relatively uniformly distributed in the region of the lens surface exposed by the lens element 20.

[0102] Specifically, fluid is delivered to nozzle element 30 via a pump (not shown). The fluid impacts nozzle cap 33 inside nozzle element 30. At nozzle cap 33, the direction of the fluid changes towards the outlet, i.e., towards the distal nozzle opening 31. Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, fluid contained by the sidewall 32, nozzle cap 33, and the inclined distal surface of the distal side 12 of the housing element 10 exits the nozzle element 30 through the distal nozzle opening 31 and moves along the inclined distal surface of the distal side 12 of the housing element 10 toward the lens element 20, wherein the fluid flow extends slightly laterally. Upon reaching the proximal edge of the lens element 20 facing the nozzle element 30, the fluid flow exhibits a lateral extent that covers the entire proximal edge of the lens element 20 facing the nozzle element 30. The fluid flow then rises at the curved exposed lens surface of the lens element 20 and extends further laterally, flowing over the entire half of the lens element 20 facing the nozzle element 30. See also Figure 6The fluid continues to flow after passing the center of the most prominent exposed lens surface of the lens element 20 in the distal direction, adhering to the exposed lens surface of the lens element 20 due to laminar flow. The fluid flows reliably at least over the exposed lens surface of the lens element 20, and also partially over the edge portion of the distal side 12 of the housing element 10 that abuts against the exposed lens surface of the lens element 20.

[0103] exist Figures 4 to 7 In addition to the fluid flow lines, isovelocity lines of the fluid flow passing through the fluid flow lines are also shown. Therefore, it can be seen that when the fluid reaches the proximal edge of the lens element 20 facing the nozzle element 30, the velocity of the fluid at the edge region of the fluid flow is higher than the velocity at the center of the fluid flow facing the center of the lens surface exposed towards the lens element 20.

[0104] exist Figures 4 to 7 During the simulation, the endoscope was fixed in such a manner that the distal housing element 10 was upright and the lens element 20 was facing upwards. Further studies have shown that similar results can be observed in all other arrangements of the distal housing element 10 in space. Even with the lens element 20 facing downwards, the beneficial effects of cleaning the lens element 20 with a cleaning medium and drying the lens element 20 with air can still be achieved.

[0105] Simulation of the general structure of housing element 10, lens element 20 and nozzle element 30, and the conclusions of the simulation.

[0106] In the following simulations, the conditions under which the optimal overflow results occur in the first and second embodiments were discovered.

[0107] In the following simulation, the same conditions as in the previous embodiments are applied to the connection pressure of the supplied air. This means that the endoscope is connected to a pressurized air source corresponding to a common pressurized air source present in hospitals / doctor's clinics, etc. The endoscope used includes a media channel of typical size with a flow cross-section.

[0108] Lens elements 20 with different widths bü (and corresponding areas Fü) are combined with nozzle elements 30 with different nozzle opening areas Fd (width bD and height hD), and tests are conducted in simulations to determine which combinations provide favorable overflow results.

[0109] In the simulation configuration below, a particularly advantageous overflow result of complete overflow / drying of lens element 20 was obtained, while the flow on the distal side 12 of housing element 10 was uninterrupted.

[0110] In the table below:

[0111] bü = the width of the lens element 20 through which the current flows (unit: mm)

[0112] Fü = Area of ​​the lens element 20 through which the current flows (unit: mm) 2 )

[0113] bD = Nozzle width (unit: mm)

[0114] hD = Nozzle height (unit: mm)

[0115] L = Distance from the outlet surface of nozzle element 30 to the proximal edge of lens element 20 (unit: mm)

[0116]

[0117]

[0118]

[0119] For each lens element 20, when combined with a nozzle element 30 whose width bD and height hD are both higher than the values ​​of width bD and height hD listed above, a poor result of incomplete overflow is obtained.

[0120] For example, the overflow of lens element 20 is incomplete in the following configuration.

[0121]

[0122] Simulation evaluation

[0123] By using a geometry design that satisfies the following conditions, optimal results can be achieved: complete overflow / drying of the lens element 20 without flow interruption on the distal side 12 of the distal housing element 10.

[0124] Bü / bD> 1→bü>bD (1)

[0125] 30 <Fü / Fd<40 (2)

[0126] L<0.5 bü (3)

[0127] bD / hD>1 (4)

[0128] Here, it is assumed that the cross-sectional area Fd of the outlet surface of the nozzle element 30 is approximately bD. hD.

[0129] It has also been found that the above-described combination of the housing element 10, lens element 20, and nozzle element 30 formed according to the invention exhibits favorable results in releasing water and air under normal pressure, velocity, and volumetric flow rate.

[0130] In summary, it can be deduced that the following conditions are crucial for obtaining at least the entire exposed lens surface of the lens element 20 sufficiently overflowed with a cleaning medium and for achieving the desired result of air drying:

[0131] bü / bD> 1→bü>bD (1)

[0132] When bü < bD and bü = bD, the exposed lens surface of lens element 20 becomes more difficult to expel with laminar flow. The result worsens.

[0133] 30 <Fü / FD<40 (2)

[0134] In other words, the surface through which the flow passes must be at least 30 times, and at most 40 times, larger than the nozzle opening area.

[0135] Outside this range, overflow at least on the exposed lens surface of the lens element 20 deteriorates.

[0136] L<0.5 bü (3)

[0137] The distance L between the nozzle and the lens edge is at most half the lens diameter bü.

[0138] At a greater distance L, the overflow of the lens surface exposed by the lens element 20 worsens.

[0139] Possible size range of lenses used in endoscopes:

[0140] 3mm <bü<14mm→L=1.5 … 7mm

[0141] bD / hD>1 (4)

[0142] That is, bD (nozzle opening width) is always greater than hD (nozzle opening height).

[0143] as well as

[0144] The nozzle width must be smaller than the width of the flow path, see (1).

[0145] If the nozzle opening height h D If the cross-section of the nozzle is slightly smaller than the nozzle opening width bD, then the nozzle cross-section can be nearly square, see (4).

[0146] When bD=hD, a degraded but still acceptable overflow result was found.

[0147] When hD is greater than bD, the overflow of the lens surface exposed by the lens element 20 deteriorates.

[0148] A 10% deviation from the above values ​​is tolerable and will not fundamentally worsen the results.

[0149] In addition, simulations have shown that lens elements with an overflow width of 5.0 mm <bü< 9.0 mm have shown particularly good results.

[0150] Embodiments with 5.0 mm >bü result in too low light intensity, while bü> 9.0 mm results in too large structures on the distal housing element 10.

[0151] Therefore, lens elements with 5.0 mm >bü result in an inappropriate field of view, while lens elements with bü> 9.0 mm result in an unfavourable lens diameter relative to the endoscope diameter.

[0152] In addition, it has been recognized that for 1.0 mm >L, complete overflow cannot be ensured, while for L> 3.0 mm, the resulting structure is too large.

[0153] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Each side of the nozzle opening 133 is formed by a portion of the tubular nozzle element 130. The lower (proximal) boundary of the nozzle opening 133 is formed by the distal side 12 of the tubular nozzle element 130. The upper (distal) boundary of the nozzle opening 133 is formed by the proximal side of the nozzle cap 132. Therefore, at the outlet of the nozzle element 130, the nozzle opening 133 is flat.

[0160] The nozzle opening 133 thus forms a single distal opening of the nozzle element 130 in the form of a slit. The slit is elongated and extends perpendicular to the axis of the distal housing element 10. The slit of the nozzle opening 133 points toward the center of the lens element 20. When the center of the slit of the nozzle 133 is connected to the center of the curved lens element 20 by a straight line, the straight line is perpendicular to the extended surface of the slit of the nozzle 133.

[0161] See Figure 11 In this embodiment, the distal nozzle opening 133 is arranged opposite the proximal edge of the curved lens element 20.

[0162] The flow characteristics of the fluid released from nozzle element 130 are only slightly worse than those in the previous embodiment.

[0163] As can be seen from the numerous narrowly spaced gradient lines along the jet, the velocity in the released jet is less uniformly distributed in the region of the lens surface exposed by the lens element 20, compared to the previous embodiment.

[0164] Therefore, the structure of the third embodiment can be applied to endoscopes, but the structures of the first and second embodiments are preferred.

[0165] Fourth embodiment

[0166] Figure 13 A schematic side view of the distal housing element of the fourth embodiment is shown.

[0167] In the first to third embodiments, the lens element 20 is a curved lens element with spherical curvature.

[0168] In this embodiment, the lens element 20 is a curved lens element with aspherical curvature. See also Figure 13 The radius of the lens element 20 at the center of the exposed lens surface facing the distal end is r. The center of the exposed lens surface facing the distal end protrudes a height h from the proximal edge of the exposed lens surface in the distal direction.

[0169] On the proximal side of the center of the exposed lens surface, the radius of the lens element 20 decreases, thus forming a recess. The recess of the lens element 20 is located between the distal center of the exposed lens surface and the proximal edge of the exposed lens surface.

[0170] The aspherical lens element 20 is also advantageously combined with the nozzle according to the first to third embodiments of the present invention.

[0171] Alternative solutions

[0172] In the described embodiment, the nearly hemispherical exposed lens surface of the lens element 20 may have a height of approximately 2 mm in the direction distal to the proximal edge of the lens element 20. In the described embodiment, the surface area of ​​the exposed lens surface of the lens element 20 may be greater than 40 mm². 2 .

[0173] In these embodiments, the lens element 20 is arranged spaced apart from the circumferential edge of the distal housing element 10. The invention is not limited thereto. The lens element 20 is arranged at the circumferential edge of the distal housing element 10. When viewed from the distal side, the lens element 20 can therefore be arranged eccentrically at the distal side 12.

[0174] In addition to a cylinder or elliptical cylinder with a circular cross-section, the distal housing element 10 can also be formed in other shapes. When inserting the endoscope, it should only be considered that the distal housing element 10 will not form an obstruction or cause interference.

[0175] In these embodiments, the sidewalls of the nozzle elements 30 can be designed such that they are close to each other toward the distal nozzle opening 31. This allows for a structure in which the cross-sectional area at the distal nozzle opening 31 forms the smallest cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle elements 30.

[0176] In a more advantageous alternative, the cross-sectional area at the distal nozzle opening 31 is the smallest in the entire fluid supply system formed by the nozzle element 30 and the medium passage leading to the nozzle element 30. Therefore, the flow velocity of the medium at the distal nozzle opening 31, which forms the outlet of the nozzle element 30, will be the greatest.

[0177] The sidewalls of the nozzle elements 30 can be designed such that they all face the distal nozzle opening 31 and are close to each other.

[0178] Endoscopes can be rigid or flexible.

[0179] Further combinations of these embodiments are possible.

[0180] This invention can be advantageously used with any endoscope that uses illumination and acquires images. This invention can also be used to clean any type of nozzle.

[0181] Reference Symbol List

[0182] 10. Remote housing components

[0183] 12. Distal side of housing component

[0184] 20 Lens elements

[0185] 30 Nozzle element

[0186] 31. Distant nozzle opening

[0187] 32 Sidewalls

[0188] 33 Nozzle cap

[0189] 40 work channels

[0190] 41 Working Channel Components

[0191] bd Width of the distal nozzle opening

[0192] bü Width of curved lens element

[0193] height of the distal nozzle opening

[0194] Fd Nozzle opening area

[0195] Fe, the cross-sectional area of ​​the endoscope at the distal housing element.

[0196] Fü The surface of the lens element to be flowed through

[0197] L is the distance between the distal nozzle opening and the proximal edge of the curved lens element.

[0198] Lü outflow direction

[0199] Ltgü is the tangent at the near-end edge of the curved lens element.

Claims

1. An endoscope, characterized in that... Comprising a distal housing element (10) having a lens element (20), and a nozzle element (30) for cleaning the surface of the lens element; wherein the lens element (20) is a curved lens element, which is curved to protrude from the distal housing element (10) in the distal direction, the nozzle element (30) is arranged on the distal side of the distal housing element adjacent to the curved lens element (20), and the nozzle element (30) has a distal nozzle opening (31) pointing to the curved lens element (20), the distal nozzle opening (31) being in the form of an elongated media outlet slit such that the fluid flowing out of the nozzle element flows through the side of the lens surface away from the nozzle element, and the nozzle element is inclined so that the fluid leaves in the distal direction.

2. The endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elongated media outlet slit extends perpendicular to the extension direction of the endoscope.

3. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The curved lens element (20) has an area Fü to be flowed through formed at least by the entire exposed lens surface, and the distal nozzle opening (31) has a nozzle opening area Fd, where 30 < Fü / Fd < 40.

4. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The width bd of the distal nozzle opening (31) is smaller than the width (bü) of the curved lens element (20) at the proximal edge of the curved lens element (20).

5. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The distal nozzle opening (31) is aligned with the curved lens element (20) such that the flow leaving the distal nozzle opening (31) is guided at an angle of -10° < Ltgü < +20° with respect to the proximal edge of the curved lens element (20), where Ltgü is the tangent to the lens surface of the curved lens element (20) at the proximal edge of the curved lens element (20), the positive angle extending away from the curved lens element (20) at the proximal edge of the curved lens element (20), and the negative angle extending into the curved lens element (20) at the proximal edge of the curved lens element (20).

6. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The distal nozzle opening (31) is arranged close to the proximal edge of the curved lens element (20).

7. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The distal nozzle opening (31) is arranged at a distance (L) from the proximal edge of the curved lens element (20), where the distance (L) is less than or equal to half of the width (bü) of the curved lens element (20) at the proximal edge of the curved lens element (20).

8. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The lens element (20) is a curved lens element, which is curved to be spherical or aspherical.

9. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The distal nozzle opening (31) forms the single distal opening of the nozzle element (30).

10. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The curved lens element (20) includes an area Fü to be flowed through formed by the entire exposed lens surface, and the area Fü to be flowed through is greater than a quarter of the cross-sectional area (Fe) of the endoscope at the distal housing element (10).

11. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The distal nozzle opening (31) is in the form of an elongated media outlet slit, having a width bd and a height hd, where hd < bd.

12. The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The distal nozzle opening (31) is in the form of a slender media outlet slit, having a width bd and a height hd, wherein hd < 1 mm. <bd。

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