Endoscope

Abstract

Provided is an endoscope that prevents temperature rise of a light emitting element. The endoscope includes: an observation window fixed to a distal end member (30) disposed at a distal end of an insertion section; a light emitting element (633) that illuminates a field of view direction of the observation window; a power supply line (659) that supplies power to the light emitting element (633); an illumination frame (64) that surrounds a connection portion of the light emitting element (633) and the power supply line (659); a connector section that is connected to an endoscope processor; and a conductor line that connects the illumination frame (64) and the connector section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an endoscope. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 proposes an endoscope with a light-emitting element disposed at the front end of the insertion part.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2013 / 061838 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] When the temperature of the light-emitting element rises due to heat generation, it may cause adverse effects such as reduced brightness, changes in emitted color, and shortened lifespan. One objective of this invention is to provide an endoscope that prevents the temperature of the light-emitting element from rising.

[0008] Solution for solving the problem

[0009] The endoscope includes: an observation window fixed to a front end component disposed at the front end of the insertion section; a light-emitting element illuminating the field of view of the observation window; a power cord supplying power to the light-emitting element; an illumination frame surrounding the connection between the light-emitting element and the power cord; a connector section connected to an endoscope processor; and a conductor wire connecting the illumination frame to the connector section.

[0010] Invention Effects

[0011] On the one hand, the present invention can provide an endoscope that prevents the temperature of the light-emitting element from rising. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is an image of the exterior of an endoscope.

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Enlarged view of Part II.

[0014] Figure 3 This is an enlarged view of the insertion part after removing the endoscope lens cap.

[0015] Figure 4 It is an exploded three-dimensional view of the lighting optical system.

[0016] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the lighting section.

[0017] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the processing of lighting cables.

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view.

[0019] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Enlarged view of section VIII.

[0020] Figure 9 This is the front view of the front-end component.

[0021] Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken from the XX line.

[0022] Figure 11 yes Figure 4 Arrow view of XI.

[0023] Figure 12 yes Figure 5 Arrow view of XII.

[0024] Figure 13 It is a 3D view of the lighting frame.

[0025] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Arrow view of XIV.

[0026] Figure 15 It is along Figure 14 A cross-sectional view taken from the XV-XV line.

[0027] Figure 16 It is a three-dimensional view of the spacer.

[0028] Figure 17 It is a three-dimensional view of the spacer.

[0029] Figure 18 This is a 3D view of a cable retainer.

[0030] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view of a cable holder.

[0031] Figure 20 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the assembly steps of the lighting optical system.

[0032] Figure 21 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the assembly steps of the lighting optical system.

[0033] Figure 22 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating a variation of the process of fixing the lighting frame to the light-emitting element substrate.

[0034] Figure 23This is an exploded view of the lighting assembly in Embodiment 2.

[0035] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the light-emitting element substrate according to Embodiment 2.

[0036] Figure 25 This is a perspective view of the light-emitting element substrate according to Embodiment 2.

[0037] Figure 26 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the structure of the lighting assembly in Embodiment 3.

[0038] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of the lighting frame according to embodiment 3. Detailed Implementation

[0039] [Implementation Method 1]

[0040] Figure 1 This is an external view of the endoscope 10. The endoscope 10 of this embodiment is a flexible endoscope specifically for the duodenum. The endoscope 10 has an insertion part 20, an operation part 40, a universal flexible cable 59, and a connector part 50. The operation part 40 has a bend knob 41 and a channel inlet 42.

[0041] The insertion part 20 is elongated, and one end is connected to the operating part 40 via the anti-bending part 26. Starting from the operating part 40 side, the insertion part 20 has a flexible part 21, a bending part 22, and a front end part 23 in sequence. The bending part 22 bends according to the operation of the bending knob 41.

[0042] A channel extending through the insertion portion 20 is provided from the channel inlet 42 to the front end 23. A forceps bolt 43 is installed at the channel inlet 42, the forceps bolt 43 having an insertion port for inserting treatment tools, etc.

[0043] In the following description, the length direction of the insertion part 20 is referred to as the insertion direction. Similarly, the side closer to the operation part 40 along the insertion direction is referred to as the operation part side, while the side farther away from the operation part 40 is referred to as the front end side.

[0044] The universal flexible cord 59 is elongated, with a first end connected to the operating section 40 and a second end connected to the connector section 50. The connector section 50 has an electrical connector 51. The electrical connector 51 is connected to an endoscope processor (not shown).

[0045] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of Part II. (See attached image.) Figure 2As shown, an illumination window 60 and an observation window 27 are arranged on the side of the front end portion 23. The endoscope 10 of this embodiment is a so-called side-view type, and the field of view direction of the observation window 27 is approximately perpendicular to the insertion direction. A lifter 25 is arranged next to the illumination window 60 and the observation window 27. An endoscope lens cap 24, which can be detached and installed together with the lifter 25, is installed at the front end of the insertion portion 20.

[0046] Figure 3 This is an enlarged view of the insertion part 20 after removing the endoscope lens cap 24. Figure 3 In this diagram, the components that make up the curved section 22 are omitted, and only the main components that make up the front end section 23 are shown.

[0047] The observation window 27 and the illumination window 60 are fixed to the generally cylindrical front end component 30. The illumination window 60 is located on the front end side relative to the observation window 27 in the insertion direction. Figure 3 In this case, the lifter 25, which is located on the upper side of the illumination window 60 and the observation window 27, has been removed from the insertion part 20 along with the endoscope lens cap 24.

[0048] Figure 4 It is an exploded three-dimensional view of the lighting optical system. Figure 4 The diagram omits any components other than the lighting optical system. The lighting optical system includes an illumination assembly 66 and an illumination cover 61. The illumination cover 61 is transparent. The illumination cover 61 is, for example, a thin flat plate with a thickness of approximately 0.7 mm. A cable holder 68 is inserted into the lighting cable 65.

[0049] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the lighting assembly 66. The lighting assembly 66 includes a lighting cable 65, a light-emitting element substrate 63 on which a light-emitting element 633 is mounted, a lighting frame 64, and a second insulating sheet 622.

[0050] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the termination treatment of the lighting cable 65. The lighting cable 65 includes four lighting cable cores 659. Each lighting cable core 659 is covered by an insulating sheath, except for the ends where the insulating sheath is removed. The insulating sheaths are colored differently according to the lighting cable cores 659.

[0051] The four core wires 659 of the lighting cable are wrapped with a press-wrap (not shown) around their perimeter. A shielding wire 655, composed of multiple metal wires, is wound around the outside of the press-wrap. The metal wires constituting the shielding wire 655 are, for example, copper wires. The outer perimeter of the shielding wire 655 is covered by a flexible resin sheath 656.

[0052] At the end of the lighting cable 65, the outer sheath 656 is removed, and the shielding wire 655 and the lighting cable core wire 659 are separated. The separated shielding wire 655 is covered by a second conduit 652. A first conduit 651 covers the end of the outer sheath 656 and the end of the second conduit 652.

[0053] In this embodiment, the first tube 651 and the second tube 652 are heat-shrinkable tubing with insulating properties. Therefore, the shielding wire 655 is insulated from the lighting cable core wire 659 and the surrounding environment at locations other than the end of the lighting cable 65. The four lighting cable core wires 659 are also insulated from the surrounding environment at locations other than the end of the lighting cable 65. Furthermore, in this embodiment, "insulation" refers to a state where no current is transmitted after a continuous application of 500 volts AC voltage for one minute.

[0054] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view. Figure 7 They are shown respectively Figure 3 Sections VIIA-VIIA, VIIB-VIIB, and VIIC-VIIC are shown in the figure. Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Enlarged view of section VIII.

[0055] use Figure 7 and Figure 8 The portion indicated by sections VIIA-VIIA will be described. The illumination cover 61 is fixed to the illumination hole 31 provided on the side of the front end member 30 in a watertight and airtight manner. A light-emitting element substrate 63 on which the light-emitting element 633 is mounted is disposed on the inner side of the illumination cover 61.

[0056] The light-emitting element substrate 63 is a square plate having a first mounting surface 631 and a second mounting surface 632. The light-emitting element substrate 63 has pads such as copper foil patterns for mounting the light-emitting element 633 on the first mounting surface 631, and two pads 635 on the second mounting surface 632 (see...). Figure 12 The pads for mounting the light-emitting element 633 on the first mounting surface 631 and the pads 635 on the second mounting surface 632 are connected inside the light-emitting element substrate 63.

[0057] Two of the four core wires in the lighting cable (wire 659) are twisted together as a group, such as... Figure 5 The wires are bent into a roughly L-shape and mounted on their respective pads 635 by means of soldering or other methods. The core wire 659 of the lighting cable functions as a power supply line for supplying power to the light-emitting element 633. The shield wire 655 is an example of a conductor wire extending along the power supply line.

[0058] The light-emitting element substrate 63 is, for example, a multilayer printed circuit board. The light-emitting element substrate 63 is preferably a high heat dissipation substrate such as a multilayer printed circuit board using a high thermal conductivity resin, an alumina substrate or an aluminum nitride-based ceramic substrate, or a metal substrate.

[0059] A first insulating sheet 621 is attached to the side of the light-emitting element substrate 63. The first insulating sheet 621 is, for example, a polyimide tape. Polyimide has good insulating properties, so sufficient insulation can be ensured with a thickness of approximately tens of micrometers. Furthermore, Figure 8 The first insulating sheet 621 is attached to the left side of the light-emitting element substrate 63, but not to the right side. The first insulating sheet 621 can also be attached to the entire circumference of the side of the light-emitting element substrate 63.

[0060] The side of the light-emitting element substrate 63 is surrounded by a cylindrical illumination frame 64 via a first insulating sheet 621. The illumination frame 64 has a circular through-hole, i.e., a fixture hole 641, on the side of the viewing window 27. One end face of the illumination frame 64 is approximately on the same plane as the upper surface of the light-emitting element 633. That is, the side of the light-emitting element 633 is surrounded by the illumination frame 64. The other end face of the illumination frame 64 faces towards the second mounting surface 632. Figure 8 The lower middle side protrudes.

[0061] The protrusions of the second mounting surface 632 and the lighting frame 64 are formed Figure 8 The box is oriented downwards. The inside of the box is filled with insulating resin, which covers the mounting portion on the second mounting surface 632 where the lighting cable core 659 is mounted.

[0062] An insulating spacer 69 is provided between the end of the lighting frame 64 and the front end component 30. A second insulating sheet 622 is adhered to the outer peripheral surface of the lighting frame 64. The second insulating sheet 622 is, for example, a polyimide tape. Polyimide has good insulation properties, so sufficient insulation can be ensured with a thickness of about tens of micrometers. The second insulating sheet 622 covers the outer perimeter of the lighting frame 64. The second insulating sheet 622 may have multiple layers. The second insulating sheet 622 may be pre-formed into a cylindrical shape.

[0063] Figure 9 This is a front view of the front component 30. Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken from the XX line. In addition to the aforementioned illumination hole 31, the front-end component 30 also has an observation hole 39 on its side. The illumination hole 31 and the observation hole 39 have approximately rectangular cross-sections. The edges of the illumination hole 31 and the illumination cable hole 32 form a stepped shape with a thicker opening.

[0064] The lighting cable hole 32, which connects to the lighting hole 31 from the operating side end face of the front end component 30, and the observation cable hole 38, which connects to the observation hole 39, are configured to be approximately parallel. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the lighting hole 31 tapers via a stepped portion near the connection point with the lighting cable hole 32. The connection point between the lighting hole 31 and the lighting cable hole 32 widens at an angle. The front end component 30 is made of a high-strength metal, such as stainless steel.

[0065] Figure 11 yes Figure 4 Arrow view of XI. Figure 11 The cable holder 68 is omitted from the illustration. The lighting cable 65 has four core wires 659, and its cross-section is approximately circular. Therefore, it prevents internal twisting of the insertion part 20 from placing a load on other built-in components.

[0066] return Figure 7 Let me continue explaining. Regarding... Figure 3 The portion indicated by section VIIB-VIIB will be described below. As previously mentioned, the lighting cable 65 is secured in the lighting cable hole 32 by a cable holder 68. The coarse-diameter portion 682, located at the end of the cable holder 68, is situated outside the lighting cable hole 32 and abuts against the front end member 30. The detailed structure of the cable holder 68 will be described later.

[0067] right Figure 7 and Figure 8 The portion represented by sections VIIC-VIIC will be explained. For example... Figure 4 and Figure 11 As shown, the shielding wire 655 exposed from the front end of the second tube 652 is connected to the surface of the lighting frame 64 in a flat state formed by welding or the like.

[0068] Figure 12 yes Figure 5 Arrow view of XII. As previously mentioned, two pads 635 are disposed on the second mounting surface 632. The upper pad 635 has a shape in which the upper right part is cut off at an angle. The two pads 635 have different shapes, and the pad 635 connected to the positive electrode and the pad 635 connected to the negative electrode of the light-emitting element 633 can be easily identified.

[0069] Furthermore, the number of pads 635 is not limited to two. For example, when two types of light-emitting elements 633, one for white light and one for narrowband light, are mounted on the first mounting surface 631, pads 635 are provided for each of the light-emitting elements 633.

[0070] Figure 13 This is a 3D view of the lighting frame 64. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Arrow view of XIV. Figure 15 It is along Figure 14 A cross-sectional view taken from the XV-XV line. (Using...) Figures 13 to 15 The shape of the lighting frame 64 is described.

[0071] The lighting frame 64 is a cylindrical shape with a roughly quadrilateral cross-section. The outer side of the cross-section is roughly rectangular, and the inner side is roughly square. Figure 14 The left and right walls are thicker than the top and bottom walls. Figure 14 The outer surface of the right side wall of the central lighting frame 64 has a stepped shape, with the upper part recessed compared to the lower part. Therefore, Figure 14 The upper half of the right side wall is a thin-walled portion 642 with a thickness approximately the same as the upper and lower walls. Specifically, the outer surface of the thin-walled portion 642 is a recess formed along the axial direction of the lighting frame 64. A fixture hole 641 is provided in the center of the surface of the thin-walled portion 642. A roughly U-shaped lighting frame groove 643 is provided at the corner where it connects to the thin-walled portion 642.

[0072] Alternatively, the thin-walled portion 642 may not be provided along the entire length of the lighting frame 64. For example, it may be located in... Figure 13 Compared to the front side of the jig hole 641, a thin-walled portion 642 is formed by a continuous recess on the end face, and the lower and upper sides have the same thickness compared to the inner side of the jig hole 641.

[0073] The lighting frame 64 is conductive. The lighting frame 64 is preferably made of metal. More preferably, it is made of copper alloy. Even more preferably, it is made of brass. The lighting frame 64 may also be made of conductive resin or conductive ceramic. The following description uses the case where the lighting frame 64 is made of solderable metal as an example.

[0074] like Figure 14 As shown, the corners of the inner surface are rounded off from the end face where the lighting frame groove 643 is located to the middle. Figure 15 As shown, an abutment portion 645 is provided at the opposite end of the side where the lighting frame groove 643 is located. Figure 14 As shown by the double-dotted line, when the light-emitting element substrate 63 is inserted from the side with the lighting frame groove 643, the edge of the light-emitting element substrate 63 abuts against the abutting part 645.

[0075] like Figure 11 As shown, a shielding wire 655 is connected to the outer side of the thin-walled portion 642, forming a solder connection portion 649. Because of the thin-walled portion 642, the bulge of the solder connection portion 649 can be reduced. Therefore, miniaturization of the front-end component 30 can be achieved. When the shielding wire 655 is connected to the lighting frame 64 by soldering, a surface treatment such as tin plating can be applied to the surface of the lighting frame 64 to improve solderability.

[0076] Before or after soldering, the shielding wire 655 covered by the second tube 652 can also be folded back towards the back side of the light-emitting element substrate 63 through a portion of the lighting frame groove 643. The lighting frame groove 643 can be used for shaping to prevent the remaining portion of the shielding wire 655 from interfering with the lighting hole 31.

[0077] The four lighting cable cores 659 can also be pulled into the inside of the lighting frame 64 through the lighting frame slot 643. Because of the lighting frame slot 643, the lighting frame 64 can be lowered. Therefore, the front-end component 30 can be miniaturized.

[0078] Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is a perspective view of spacer 69. Spacer 69 has: a flange 693, which is generally C-shaped; a first protrusion 691 and a second protrusion 692, which protrude from both sides of the flange 693 in a generally C-shaped manner.

[0079] The inner surfaces of the first protrusion 691, the second protrusion 692, and the shank 693 form smooth, arc-shaped curved surfaces. The first protrusion 691 has flat portions at four points on its outer surface. Figure 8 As shown, the spacer 69 is a shape in which the first protrusion 691 is embedded in the end of the lighting frame 64 and the joint 693 abuts against the end of the lighting frame 64.

[0080] Figure 18 This is a 3D view of the cable retainer 68. Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view of the cable holder 68. The cable holder 68 has: a large-diameter portion 682, which is annular; and four cable holding claws 681 protruding from one side of the large-diameter portion 682. The outer diameter of the large-diameter portion 682 is larger than the inner diameter of the lighting cable hole 32. The cable holding claws 681 each have an outer surface protrusion 685 on their outer surface and an inner surface protrusion 686 on their inner surface. The ends of the inner surface protrusions 686 are obtuse angles.

[0081] In addition, the cable holding claws 681 are not limited to four. The cable holding claws 681 can also be any number of two or more.

[0082] return Figure 7 The section from section VIIB to VIIB will be further explained. Figure 7 (Illustration omitted) The outer surface protrusion 685 is pressed against the inner surface of the lighting cable hole 32, and the four cable retaining claws 681 deform inward. The inner surface protrusion 686 is embedded in the outer sheath 656, firmly holding the lighting cable 65. The front end of the inner surface protrusion 686 is obtuse, so the outer sheath 656 will not break due to the inner surface protrusion 686.

[0083] Figure 20 and Figure 21This diagram illustrates the assembly steps of a lighting optical system. The following explanation uses a scenario where a supervisor assembles the lighting optical system manually. However, each step can be performed by a different supervisor. Some or all of the assembly steps can also be performed using automated assembly devices such as assembly robots.

[0084] The person in charge cuts the lighting cable 65, which is supplied in the form of a reel or similar coil, to a predetermined length (step S501). The predetermined length is, for example, slightly longer than the length from the front end 23 through the operating part 40 and the general-purpose flexible cord 59 to the connector part 50. The predetermined length may also be approximately the length from the front end 23 to the operating part 40.

[0085] The person in charge inserts the cut end of the lighting cable 65 into the cable holder 68 (step S502). The treatment of the end of the lighting cable 65 facing the cable holder claw 681 will be described later.

[0086] The person in charge inserts the end of the lighting cable 65 into the first tube 651 (step S503). The person in charge inserts the end of the lighting cable 65 from the lighting cable hole 32 side of the front end member 30 and makes it protrude from the lighting hole 31 (step S504). As described above, the connection portion between the lighting hole 31 and the lighting cable hole 32 is widened at an angle, so the person in charge can easily make the end of the lighting cable 65 protrude from the lighting hole 31.

[0087] The person in charge removes the outer sheath 656 and the pressed coil (not shown) of a predetermined length, separating the core wire 659 of the lighting cable from the shield wire 655 (step S505). The predetermined length is approximately several centimeters. The person in charge cuts and removes the insertion part (not shown) as close as possible to the end of the outer sheath 656. The person in charge twists the shield wire 655 together into one strand.

[0088] The person in charge removes the sheathing from each of the four lighting cable cores 659 to a predetermined length (step S506). The predetermined length is approximately a few millimeters. The person in charge then twists two of the removed lighting cable cores 659 together. Which lighting cable cores 659 are twisted together depends on the color of the sheathing.

[0089] The person in charge twisted the core wires of the lighting cable 659 as follows Figure 5 The shape shown is roughly L-shaped, pre-covered with solder. The person in charge connects the two sets of lighting cable cores 659 to the pads 635 of the light-emitting element substrate 63 respectively (step S507). Which set is connected to which pad 635 is determined by the color of the cladding layer. Thus, the lighting cable cores 659 are mounted on the pads 635.

[0090] The person in charge attaches the first insulating sheet 621 to the side of the light-emitting element substrate 63 (step S508). Alternatively, the person in charge may cover the light-emitting element substrate 63 with the lighting frame 64, attaching the first insulating sheet 621 only when the gap is large. The person in charge may also repeatedly perform the steps of attaching the first insulating sheet 621 and checking the gap between it and the lighting frame 64 until the light-emitting element substrate 63 is perfectly contained within the lighting frame 64.

[0091] Additionally, when covering the light-emitting element substrate 63 with the lighting frame 64, the person in charge should... Figure 11 The face with the fixture hole 641 is shown facing the pull-out direction of the lighting cable core wire 659.

[0092] When the light-emitting element substrate 63 and the illumination frame 64 can be manufactured with high precision, it is preferable to have the light-emitting element substrate 63 fit perfectly within the illumination frame 64 with the first insulating sheet 621 wound around its side once. If the distance between the side of the light-emitting element substrate 63 and the internal electrodes of the light-emitting element substrate 63 can be sufficiently ensured, it is also possible to have the light-emitting element substrate 63 fit perfectly within the illumination frame 64 without attaching the first insulating sheet 621.

[0093] The person in charge inserts the light-emitting element substrate 63 into the inner side of the lighting frame 64. With the first mounting surface 631 abutting against the contact portion 645, the person in charge pre-fixes the light-emitting element substrate 63 and the lighting frame 64 (step S509). Pre-fixing can be achieved, for example, using a short-curing adhesive such as a cyanoacrylate adhesive. When using a low-tack adhesive for pre-fixing, the person in charge can also drip the adhesive from the fixture hole 641. The dripped adhesive hardens as it spreads between the inner surfaces of the light-emitting element substrate 63 and the lighting frame 64 due to capillary action. Alternatively, in step S509, a strong bond can be achieved using an epoxy adhesive or the like.

[0094] The person in charge inserts the twisted shielding wire 655 into the second tube 652, which has been cut to a predetermined length. The shielding wire 655 protrudes a few millimeters from the front end of the second tube 652. The person in charge then heats the second tube 652 to shrink it, thus fixing the shielding wire 655 to the second tube 652 (step S510).

[0095] The person in charge adjusts the position of the first tube 651 to cover the end of the outer skin 656 and the end of the second tube 652. The person in charge heats the first tube 651 to shrink it, thus fixing the outer skin 656 to the second tube 652 and the first tube 651 (step S511).

[0096] The person in charge flattens the front end of the shielding wire 655 and pre-covers it with solder. The person in charge connects the shielding wire 655 to the thin-walled portion 642 of the lighting frame 64 using solder (step S512). In the following description, the part where the shielding wire 655 is connected to the lighting frame 64 by soldering will be referred to as the solder connection portion 649.

[0097] The solder joint 649 is composed of metal wires forming the shielding wire 655 and solder connecting the metal wires to each other. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the surface of the solder joint 649 is preferably formed into a flat shape. The person in charge may also use, for example, a file to shape the surface of the solder joint 649.

[0098] The person in charge installs the spacer 69 onto the lighting frame 64 (step S513). Specifically, with the opening of the spacer 69 aligned with the orientation of the lighting frame groove 643, the person in charge inserts the first protrusion 691 of the spacer 69 into the inside of the lighting frame 64. The person in charge presses it in until the first protrusion 691 abuts against the end face of the lighting frame 64, thus pre-fixing the spacer 69 to the lighting frame 64. Pre-fixing can be achieved, for example, using a short-curing adhesive such as a cyanoacrylate adhesive.

[0099] The person in charge holds the lighting frame 64 with the spacer 69 on top. The person in charge injects insulating resin into the box formed by the second mounting surface 632 and the light-emitting element substrate 63 and allows it to harden (step S514). The mounting portion of the soldered lighting cable core 659 is protected by the insulating resin. Simultaneously, the light-emitting element substrate 63 is strongly bonded to the lighting frame 64 and the spacer 69 by the insulating resin.

[0100] The person in charge attaches the second insulating sheet 622 to the outer periphery of the lighting frame 64 (step S515). After applying adhesive to the surface of the second insulating sheet 622, the person in charge inserts the lighting frame 64 into the interior of the lighting hole 31 (step S516). After wiping off any remaining adhesive, the person in charge allows the adhesive to harden under predetermined curing conditions.

[0101] The person in charge inserts the cable holder 68 into the lighting cable hole 32 to secure it (step S517). The cable holder 68 is elastically secured inside the lighting cable hole 32. The inner surface of the lighting cable hole 32 may also have recesses for retaining the claws of the cable holder 68. Alternatively, the person in charge may glue the cable holder 68 to the lighting cable hole 32 for secure fixation.

[0102] The person in charge attaches and fixes the lighting cover 61 to the end of the lighting hole 31 (step S518). At this time, the person in charge ensures that the lighting cover 61 and the lighting hole 31 are watertight by allowing the adhesive to flow sufficiently between the edge of the lighting cover 61 and the inner surface of the lighting hole 31. Thus, the lighting optical system fixed to the front end component 30 is completed.

[0103] The other end of the lighting cable 65 is connected to the electrical connector 51 of the connector section 50. Alternatively, the lighting cable 65 can also be connected to the electrical connector 51 via other cables connected inside the operation section 40.

[0104] Almost the entire power path of the light-emitting element 633, such as the core wire 659 of the lighting cable, is covered by the shielding wire 655 and the lighting frame 64, which is connected to the shielding wire 655. The shielding wire 655 is connected to the signal GND (Ground) of the endoscope processor, i.e., the GND of the patient circuit, via the electrical connector 51.

[0105] The front end component 30 is connected to metal components provided on the operation section 40 and the connector section 50 via metal components inside the flexible tube that constitutes the bending mechanism inside the bending section 22 and the flexible section 21. These metal components are connected to the housing, i.e., the frame GND capacitor, of the endoscope processor via capacitors provided inside the connector section 50, etc. The structure for connecting the metal components constituting the endoscope 10 to the frame GND has been used in the past, so detailed description is omitted.

[0106] The shielding wire 655 is insulated from the light-emitting element 633 by the first insulating sheet 621, the insulating resin covering the connection between the lighting cable core wire 659 and the light-emitting element substrate 63, the second tube 652, and the sheathing layer of the lighting cable core wire 659. The shielding wire 655 is insulated from the metal parts constituting the front end component 30 and the endoscope 10 by the second insulating sheet 622, the second tube 652, and the outer sheath 656. The GND side of the power supply circuit of the light-emitting element 633 is connected to the GND potential of the patient circuit via the electrical connector 51.

[0107] The light-emitting element 633 is insulated from the metal components constituting the endoscope 10 by insulating resin covering the connection between the lighting cable core 659 and the light-emitting element substrate 63, spacer 69, and the covering layer of the lighting cable core 659.

[0108] That is, in the endoscope 10 of this embodiment, the light-emitting element 633, the metal parts constituting the endoscope 10, and the shielding wire 655 are mutually insulated from each other, except for the connector portion 50. This insulation structure ensures the electrical safety required for medical electrical equipment.

[0109] The method of using the endoscope 10, which assembles the illumination optical system of this embodiment, will be briefly described. Power is supplied from the endoscope processor to the light-emitting element 633 via the illumination cable 65. The light-emitting element 633 emits light at a brightness corresponding to the supply current, illuminating the field of view of the observation window 27. The brightness of the light-emitting element 633 can be adjusted, for example, by the automatic dimming function of the endoscope processor. The brightness can also be adjusted based on the operation of a user such as a doctor.

[0110] Patients, doctors, or instruments positioned around the tip 23 of the endoscope 10 may become charged due to static electricity, resulting in a discharge between them and the tip 23. If the current generated by the discharge passes through the light-emitting element 633, the light-emitting element 633 may be damaged.

[0111] However, in the endoscope 10 of this embodiment, the light-emitting element 633, except for the light-emitting surface, is surrounded by a conductor, namely the illumination frame 64. The conductive path from the illumination frame 64 to the connector portion 50 via the shielding wire 655 acts as a lightning rod, which can reduce the possibility of the light-emitting element 633 being damaged by the current generated by discharge.

[0112] The heat generated by the light-emitting element 633 is explained. When the first insulating sheet 621 and the second insulating sheet 622 are made of sheets with a thickness of about tens of micrometers, the heat generated by the light-emitting element 633 is conducted through these sheets to the lighting frame 64.

[0113] Therefore, the heat generated by the light-emitting element 633 is conducted to the operating part side via both the lighting cable core wire 659 and the shield wire 655, and diffuses into the interior of the insertion part 20. That is, the shield wire 655 functions as a heat conduction wire.

[0114] That is, in addition to the lighting cable 65 that supplies power to the light-emitting element 633, the lighting frame 64 and the shielding wire 655 also serve as heat dissipation paths for the heat generated by the light-emitting element 633. The temperature rise of the light-emitting element 633 can be reduced through these two heat dissipation paths.

[0115] According to this embodiment, an endoscope 10 that is not easily damaged by static electricity can be provided. According to this embodiment, an endoscope 10 that prevents the temperature of the light-emitting element 633 from rising can be provided.

[0116] The two front ends of the lighting cable core wire 659 are twisted together, so an endoscope 10 can be provided that will not affect the endoscope examination even if one lighting cable core wire 659 breaks.

[0117] By using metals such as stainless steel, even endoscopes 10 with complex structures at their front end 23, such as duodenal endoscopes with forceps lifting function, can achieve a smaller diameter and shorter rigid length at the front end by using the front end component 30.

[0118] The connection method between the shielded wire 655 and the lighting frame 64 is not limited to welding. The shielded wire 655 can also be connected to the lighting frame 64 by, for example, brazing, ultrasonic welding or conductive adhesive.

[0119] Endoscope 10 is not limited to the side-view type. Endoscope 10 can also be a so-called direct-view type, with an observation window 27 and an illumination window 60 on the end face of the anterior end portion 23. Endoscope 10 can also be a so-called oblique-view type, with an observation window 27 and an illumination window 60 in a direction inclined to the insertion direction.

[0120] [Variation Example-1]

[0121] Figure 22 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating a modified example of the process of fixing the lighting frame 64 to the light-emitting element substrate 63. Figure 22 The process shown is using Figure 20 A variation of step S509, which will be explained.

[0122] After applying a small amount of adhesive to the side opposite to the surface of the lighting frame 64 where the fixture hole 641 is located, the person in charge inserts the light-emitting element substrate 63 into the inside of the lighting frame 64. Alternatively, the person in charge may apply a small amount of adhesive to the side of the light-emitting element substrate 63 instead of applying it to the inner surface of the lighting frame 64.

[0123] After the person in charge places the first mounting surface 631 against the abutment part 645, as follows Figure 22 As shown, the cylindrical jig 18 is inserted into the jig hole 641, and the light-emitting element substrate 63 is pressed onto the inner surface of the lighting frame 64. The person in charge continues to press to harden the adhesive.

[0124] The fixture 18 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. The fixture 18 may also include a mechanism for pressing the lighting frame 64. The fixture 18 may also include a mechanism for setting the pressing force to an appropriate intensity.

[0125] According to this modified example, an endoscope 10 can be provided to prevent the illumination light emitted from the light-emitting element 633 from deviating in direction due to the positional relationship between the light-emitting element substrate 63 and the illumination frame 64 during pre-fixation.

[0126] [Variation Example-2]

[0127] This variation relates to an endoscope 10 with an illumination cable 65 that does not have a shielding wire 655. Descriptions of parts common to Embodiment 1 are omitted.

[0128] Lighting cable 65, in addition to use Figure 6 In addition to the four lighting cable cores 659 described above, there is also one conductor wire. The conductor wire is covered by an insulating sheath. The four lighting cable cores 659 and the conductor wire are wound together in a press-wound coil. The press-wound coil is covered by a flexible resin outer sheath 656.

[0129] At the end of the lighting cable 65, the outer sheath 656 is removed, and the conductor wire and the lighting cable core wire 659 are separated. The insulating coating at the front end of the conductor wire is removed and connected to the lighting frame 64. According to this variation, the process of installing the second tube 652 and the first tube 651 can be omitted.

[0130] Alternatively, the conductor wire may not be covered by an insulating sheath. In this case, it is preferable to remove the outer sheath 656 before assembling the second tube 652 and the first tube 651, and then insulate the part connected to the lighting frame 64 from the outside.

[0131] [Implementation Method 2]

[0132] This embodiment relates to an endoscope 10 that does not use the first insulating sheet 621. Descriptions of parts common to Embodiment 1 are omitted. Figure 23 This is an exploded view of the lighting unit group 66 in Embodiment 2. Figure 24 and Figure 25 This is a perspective view of the light-emitting element substrate 63 of Embodiment 2.

[0133] The light-emitting element substrate 63 has connection pins 636 that replace the pads 635 in Embodiment 1, the connection pins 636 protruding from the second mounting surface 632. The number of connection pins 636 can be the same as the lighting cable core wires 659, or it can be two, the same as the pads 635.

[0134] like Figure 24 As shown, the light-emitting element substrate 63 has an illumination frame connection portion 638 on its side. The illumination frame connection portion 638 is a solderable pad, which is insulated from the connection pin 636 by the insulating material constituting the light-emitting element substrate 63. The side without the illumination frame connection portion 638 is also insulated from the wiring inside the light-emitting element substrate 63.

[0135] like Figure 25 As shown, the light-emitting element substrate 63 has an element recess 634, which is recessed into a generally square shape on the first mounting surface 631. The element recess 634 is larger than the light-emitting element 633. A pad for mounting the light-emitting element 633 is disposed at the bottom of the element recess 634. The light-emitting element substrate 63 is supplied with the light-emitting element 633 mounted in the element recess 634. The mounted light-emitting element 633 can be one or more.

[0136] The light-emitting element substrate 63 may also include: a light-emitting element 633, which does not have a phosphor for converting the emission wavelength; and a phosphor that fills the element recess 634 and covers the light-emitting element 633. After mounting the light-emitting element 633 onto the first mounting surface 631, this light-emitting element substrate 63 is manufactured by filling it with a resin including the phosphor and then curing it. Because the light-emitting element substrate 63 is sealed with the resin including the phosphor, a highly durable light-emitting element substrate 63 can be achieved.

[0137] use Figure 20 In step S507, as described above, the person in charge pre-covers the portion of the lighting cable core 659 with solder after removing the sheathing layer, aligns it along the connection pin 636, and then performs soldering. Alternatively, the operator can insert heat shrink tubing into the lighting cable core 659 beforehand and cover the soldered portion with the heat shrink tubing.

[0138] In this embodiment, the first insulating sheet 621 is not used. That is, it is not necessary to use... Figure 20 Step S508 has been explained.

[0139] use Figure 20 In step S509, as described above, the person in charge pre-covers the lighting frame connecting portion 638 with solder. The person in charge inserts the light-emitting element substrate 63 into the inside of the lighting frame 64. With the first mounting surface 631 abutting against the abutment portion 645, the person in charge presses a soldering iron onto the lighting frame 64, melting the solder pre-covered on the lighting frame connecting portion 638. After removing the soldering iron, the pre-fixation of the lighting frame 64 and the light-emitting element substrate 63 is complete.

[0140] According to this embodiment, the first insulating sheet 621 is not used, so tilting between the light-emitting element substrate 63 and the illumination frame 64 due to wrinkles or the like in the first insulating sheet 621 can be prevented. Therefore, an endoscope 10 that prevents directional deviation of the illumination light emitted from the light-emitting element 633 can be provided.

[0141] According to this embodiment, the lighting frame 64 and the light-emitting element substrate 63 can be easily fixed. The operator can separate the lighting frame 64 from the light-emitting element substrate 63 as needed by pressing a soldering iron onto the lighting frame 64.

[0142] According to this embodiment, the lighting frame 64 and the light-emitting element substrate 63 are tightly bonded by solder with high thermal conductivity. Therefore, the heat generated by the light-emitting element 633 is more easily conducted to the lighting frame 64 compared to the case where it is conducted through the first insulating sheet 621. As a result, the temperature rise of the light-emitting element 633 can be reduced compared to Embodiment 1.

[0143] [Implementation Method 3]

[0144] This embodiment relates to an endoscope 10 in which a portion of the wall of an illumination frame 64 is formed by a shielding wire 655. Descriptions of parts common to Embodiment 1 are omitted.

[0145] Figure 26 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the structure of the lighting unit assembly 66 in Embodiment 3. Figure 26 From Figure 11 View the diagram of the lighting unit 66 before pasting the second insulating sheet 622 from the same direction. Figure 26 In, also with Figure 11 The same diagram 68 is omitted, keeping the cable in place.

[0146] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of the lighting frame 64 in embodiment 3. Figure 27 From Figure 13 A stereoscopic image viewed from the same direction, using Figure 14 The abutment portion 645, as described above, is located on the inner side. The lighting frame 64 is provided with a connecting groove 648, which is open on the side where the abutment portion 645 is not located.

[0147] The connecting groove 648 extends through the cylindrical portion of the lighting frame 64 along its thickness direction, and the lighting frame 64 has a roughly U-shaped shape when viewed from the outside. The side of the connecting groove 648 connects the inner surface and the outer surface of the lighting frame 64.

[0148] return Figure 26 Continuing with the explanation, in this embodiment, the front end of the shielding wire 655 is soldered to the lighting frame 64 in a state of being inserted into the connecting groove 648. The surface of the solder connection portion 649 is formed to be substantially the same as the outer surface of the lighting frame 64, and the back surface of the solder connection portion 649 is formed to be substantially the same as the inner surface of the lighting frame 64. That is, the connecting groove 648 is filled by the shielding wire 655 and the solder that fixes the shielding wire 655 integrally forming a wall surface of the lighting frame 64.

[0149] In addition, the outer surface of the solder joint 649 can also be processed after welding, for example by grinding or filing, to form a surface that is approximately the same as the outer surface of the lighting frame 64.

[0150] According to this embodiment, when using lighting cables 65 with a higher number of shielded wires 655, it is also possible to prevent the solder joint 649 from bulging off the lighting frame 64. By using lighting cables 65 with a higher number of shielded wires 655, an endoscope 10 can be provided in which static electricity generated by external noise is less likely to affect the light-emitting element 633.

[0151] The technical features (structural requirements) described in the various embodiments can be combined with each other, and can be combined to form new technical features.

[0152] It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is not as defined above, but as shown by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0153] (Appendix 1)

[0154] An endoscope that has the following features:

[0155] An observation window is fixed to a front end component disposed at the front end of the insertion part;

[0156] An illumination unit that illuminates the viewing window in the direction of its field of view.

[0157] The lighting unit includes:

[0158] Light-emitting elements;

[0159] A power line and a conductor line, wherein the power line supplies power to the light-emitting element and the conductor line extends along the power line;

[0160] An illumination frame, which is conductive, surrounds the connection between the light-emitting element and the power line, is insulated from the power line, and is conductive to the conductor line.

[0161] (Appendix 2)

[0162] As described in Appendix 1, the endoscope, wherein...

[0163] The conductor wire is a shielding wire surrounding the power line.

[0164] (Appendix 3)

[0165] As described in Appendix 2, the endoscope, wherein...

[0166] The portion of the shielded wire removed from the vicinity of the power line is inserted into the insulating tube.

[0167] (Appendix 4)

[0168] Endoscopes as described in Appendix 2 or Appendix 3, wherein...

[0169] The shielding wire surrounds the four power lines, each covered by an insulating sheath.

[0170] (Appendix 5)

[0171] As described in Appendix 4, the endoscope, wherein...

[0172] The two power lines are connected to the positive and negative electrodes of the light-emitting element, respectively.

[0173] (Appendix 6)

[0174] The endoscope as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 5, wherein...

[0175] The front-end component is conductive and is insulated from either the lighting frame or the power cord.

[0176] (Appendix 7)

[0177] The endoscope as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 6, wherein...

[0178] The light-emitting element is mounted on the first mounting surface of the light-emitting element substrate.

[0179] The power cord is installed on the opposite side of the first mounting surface, namely the second mounting surface.

[0180] (Appendix 8)

[0181] The endoscope described in Appendix 7, wherein...

[0182] The lighting frame is a cylindrical shape that surrounds the sides of the light-emitting element substrate.

[0183] The first mounting surface is disposed at the end of the lighting frame.

[0184] The second mounting surface is disposed inside the lighting frame.

[0185] (Appendix 9)

[0186] As described in Appendix 8, the endoscope, wherein...

[0187] The inner side of the box formed by the second mounting surface and the inner surface of the lighting frame is provided with insulating resin covering the connection between the light-emitting element and the power line.

[0188] (Appendix 10)

[0189] Endoscopes as described in Appendix 8 or Appendix 9, wherein...

[0190] A first insulating sheet is disposed between the side surface of the light-emitting element substrate and the inner surface of the lighting frame.

[0191] (Appendix 11)

[0192] The endoscope as described in any one of Appendices 8 to 10, wherein...

[0193] The conductor wire is connected to the outer surface of the lighting frame.

[0194] (Appendix 12)

[0195] The endoscope as described in any one of Appendices 8 to 11, wherein,

[0196] It includes a spacer, which is fixed to the end of the lighting frame on the second mounting surface side.

[0197] (Appendix 13)

[0198] The endoscope described in Appendix 12, wherein...

[0199] The end of the spacer is inserted into the lighting frame.

[0200] (Appendix 14)

[0201] The endoscope as described in any one of Appendices 7 to 13, wherein...

[0202] The front end component has a lighting hole that accommodates the lighting frame.

[0203] A second insulating sheet is disposed between the outer surface of the lighting frame and the inner surface of the lighting hole.

[0204] (Appendix 15)

[0205] The endoscope as described in any one of Appendices 7 to 14, wherein...

[0206] The lighting frame has an abutment portion that protrudes inward from the edge at one end.

[0207] The light-emitting element substrate abuts against the abutting portion from the inside of the lighting frame.

[0208] (Appendix 16)

[0209] The endoscope as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 6, wherein...

[0210] The lighting unit includes a light-emitting element substrate, on which the light-emitting element is mounted on a first mounting surface, and a connection pin connected to the power line protrudes from a second mounting surface.

[0211] (Appendix 17)

[0212] The endoscope described in Appendix 16, wherein...

[0213] The light-emitting element substrate has a recess on the first mounting surface.

[0214] The light-emitting element is disposed inside the recess.

[0215] (Appendix 18)

[0216] The endoscope as described in any one of Annexes 1 to 17, wherein,

[0217] It has a connector section that connects to an endoscope processor.

[0218] When the connector is connected to the endoscope processor, the conductor wire is connected to the GND of the patient circuit of the endoscope processor.

[0219] (Appendix 19)

[0220] The endoscope as described in any one of Annexes 1 to 18, wherein,

[0221] The front-end component has a lighting cable hole, into which the conductor wire and the power wire are inserted.

[0222] It also includes a cable holder, which is ring-shaped and disposed between the outer side of the conductor wire and the inner surface of the lighting cable hole.

[0223] (Appendix 20)

[0224] The endoscope described in Appendix 19, wherein...

[0225] The cable holder includes: a larger diameter portion, which is larger than the inner diameter of the lighting cable hole; and multiple cable holding claws that protrude to one side from the larger diameter portion.

[0226] The cable retaining claw holds the conductor wire and the power wire inside the lighting cable hole.

[0227] (Appendix 21)

[0228] The endoscope as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 20, wherein the endoscope is a side-viewing type.

[0229] (Appendix 22)

[0230] The endoscope as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 20, wherein the endoscope is of the direct-viewing type.

[0231] Symbol Explanation

[0232] 10 Endoscopes

[0233] 18 fixtures

[0234] 20 insertion section

[0235] 21 Flexible section

[0236] 22. Bend

[0237] 23 Front end

[0238] 24 Endoscope Lens Cap

[0239] 25 lifting device

[0240] 26. Bending stop

[0241] 27 Observation Window

[0242] 30 front-end components

[0243] 31 lighting holes

[0244] 32 lighting cable holes

[0245] 38. Observe the cable hole

[0246] 39 observation holes

[0247] 40 Operations Department

[0248] 41 Bend Knob

[0249] Entrance to Channel 42

[0250] 43 Pliers Bolt

[0251] 50 Connector Section

[0252] 51 electrical connector

[0253] 59 General-purpose flexible wire

[0254] 60 lighting windows

[0255] 61 Lighting Cover

[0256] 621 First Insulating Sheet

[0257] 622 Second Insulating Sheet

[0258] 63 Light-emitting element substrate

[0259] 631 First Mounting Surface

[0260] 632 Second mounting surface

[0261] 633 light-emitting element

[0262] 634 element recess (recess)

[0263] 635 pad

[0264] 636 connection pins

[0265] 638 Lighting Frame Connector

[0266] 64 lighting frame

[0267] 641 jig hole

[0268] 642 Thin-walled section

[0269] 643 Lighting Frame Slot

[0270] 645 Contact Department

[0271] 648 connection slot

[0272] 649 Solder Joint

[0273] 65 lighting cable

[0274] 651 First Pipe (Insulating Pipe)

[0275] 652, second tube (insulating tube)

[0276] 655 shielded cable (conductor wire)

[0277] 656 outer skin

[0278] 659 Lighting Cable Core Wire (Power Cord)

[0279] 66 Lighting Department Group

[0280] 68 Cable Holder

[0281] 681 cable retainer

[0282] 682 rough diameter section

[0283] 685 outer surface protrusion

[0284] 69 spacers

[0285] 691 First protrusion

[0286] 692 Second protrusion

[0287] 693 E Department.

Claims

1. An endoscope, comprising: A front-end component, wherein the front-end component is disposed at the front end of the insertion portion; Connector section, the connector section being connected to the endoscope processor; and conductor wire, The front-end component includes: Observation window; and Lighting Department Group The lighting assembly includes: A light-emitting element that illuminates the viewing window in the direction of its field of view; A power cord that supplies power to the light-emitting element; and A conductive lighting frame surrounds the light-emitting element and the connection between the light-emitting element and the power line. The conductor wire connects the lighting frame to the connector section.

2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein, The light-emitting element is mounted on the first mounting surface of the light-emitting element substrate. The power cord is installed on the opposite side of the first mounting surface, namely the second mounting surface.

3. The endoscope according to claim 2, wherein, The lighting frame is a cylindrical shape that surrounds the sides of the light-emitting element substrate. The first mounting surface is disposed at the end of the lighting frame. The second mounting surface is disposed inside the lighting frame.

4. The endoscope according to claim 3, wherein, The lighting frame has a recess on its outer surface, and the recess is continuous on the end face of the side where the second mounting surface is disposed. The conductor wire is connected to the recess.

5. The endoscope according to claim 3, wherein, The lighting frame has a cutout, which opens on the end face of the side where the second mounting surface is located. The conductor wire is positioned inside the cut.

6. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein, The lighting frame is made of metal. The power cord is insulated from the lighting frame.

7. The endoscope according to claim 6, wherein, The lighting frame is made of copper alloy.

8. The endoscope according to claim 6, wherein, The lighting frame is made of brass.

9. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The conductor wire is a shielding wire surrounding the power line.

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