Imaging device and endoscope

Abstract

An image pickup apparatus includes a lens barrel, a lens group, an optical member, an image pickup element, a substrate, and a support portion for supporting the optical member, the support portion being disposed closer to a distal end side of an insertion portion than the lens group, the support portion having a first surface provided parallel to an optical axis of the lens group, the first surface having a first opening; the camera element and the optical part are respectively positioned on two sides of the first surface; the light receiving part of the imaging element receives the light reflected by the optical component through the first opening and performs photoelectric conversion to generate an electric signal, and the opening size of the first opening is not smaller than the size of the light receiving part of the imaging element. The camera element and the optical component are arranged on the two opposite sides of the supporting part in the light emitting direction and do not make contact with each other, so that the camera element is prevented from being stressed by the optical element, and miniaturization of the camera device can be maintained while the imaging quality of the optical system is guaranteed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of medical endoscopes, and in particular to an imaging device and an endoscope. Background Art

[0002] In order to observe the hard-to-observe parts inside a living body or a structure, an endoscope is used which can be introduced from the outside of a living body or a structure into the inside and has an imaging device for taking an optical image. The endoscope device has an imaging module with an imaging element built into the front end of a flexible and elongated insertion part, and can observe the inspected part by inserting the insertion device into a body cavity.

[0003] The camera module has a built-in camera element such as a CCD or CMOS image sensor, which forms an optical image of the subject onto the light receiving area of ​​the camera element through an optical system such as a lens, and captures image data of the subject through photoelectric conversion processing of the camera element.

[0004] The camera device disclosed in the prior art CN105828689A is equipped with a prism between the objective lens and the camera element. The optical axis of the objective lens group is bent by the prism. The prism is fixed inside the frame-shaped component. There is contact between the prism and the camera element. When in use, the camera device may image poorly due to external force, affecting the imaging effect and causing no image to be produced.

[0005] Therefore, in the existing above-mentioned camera devices and endoscope systems, there are concerns about the installation stability of the optical components that can cause the optical path of the lens group to bend, and the camera element may be subjected to force after the optical components are installed, which may affect the imaging quality or even cause the image to fail to appear. At the same time, the surface of the camera element may be contaminated with dust during long-term use, which affects the imaging effect and service life of the camera element. Summary of the invention

[0006] In order to solve the problem that in the prior art, if the prism is directly attached to the light receiving part of the imaging element, the imaging device may have poor imaging or no image due to the force applied during use, an embodiment of the present invention provides an imaging device for use in an endoscope, the imaging device comprising:

[0007] The lens barrel is formed into a hollow, generally cylindrical shape with both ends open;

[0008] A lens group, assembled inside the lens barrel;

[0009] An optical component, which is assembled and connected with the lens barrel to reflect the light converged by the lens group;

[0010] An imaging element is disposed at the front end portion of the insertion portion of the endoscope and has a light receiving portion;

[0011] A substrate, electrically connected to the imaging element, and having electronic components installed therein;

[0012] A support portion is arranged at a position closer to the front end side of the insertion portion than the lens group, the support portion having a first surface arranged parallel to the optical axis of the lens group, the first surface having a first opening;

[0013] The imaging element and the optical part are respectively located on both sides of the first surface;

[0014] The light receiving portion of the imaging element receives the light reflected by the optical component through the first opening and performs photoelectric conversion to generate an electrical signal. The opening size of the first opening is not smaller than the size of the light receiving portion of the imaging element.

[0015] Optionally, a first mounting groove is provided along the inner edge of the first opening, the edge thickness of the optical component in the normal direction along the light emitting side of the lens barrel is not greater than the width of the first mounting groove, and the edge width of the optical component along the light emitting side is not less than the depth of the first mounting groove.

[0016] Optionally, a second mounting groove is arranged along the inner edge of the first opening closer to the imaging element, the edge thickness of the imaging element along the light emitting side of the optical component is not less than the width of the second mounting groove, and the edge width of the imaging element along the normal direction of the light emitting side of the optical component is not less than the depth of the second mounting groove.

[0017] Optionally, at least two layers of supporting steps formed by multiple step surfaces with unequal heights are arranged on the inner side of the first mounting groove or the second mounting groove, and the heights of the multiple layers of supporting steps relative to the second surface or the first surface of the supporting portion may be gradually changed.

[0018] Optionally, the support portion is provided with a second surface intersecting with the first surface along a direction close to the base end side of the insertion portion, the second surface has a second opening that is not smaller than the light incident size of the optical component, and the through space formed by the first opening and the second opening can pass the converged light and be received by the light receiving portion of the imaging element.

[0019] Optionally, the support portion has a receiving recess for receiving the electronic component formed on the first surface on the side close to the imaging element, and the receiving recess has a predetermined depth matching the electronic component.

[0020] Optionally, a geometric center of the first opening substantially coincides with a geometric center of the light receiving portion of the imaging element.

[0021] Optionally, there is a first predetermined gap between the outer wall of the lens barrel and the first surface of the support portion, and the first predetermined gap can be adjusted by the support portion and / or the lens barrel. Preferably, the value of the first predetermined gap is not less than 0.1 mm.

[0022] Optionally, a protective member is provided above the support portion, and the protective member is aligned with the first surface of the support portion close to the imaging element through a bottom opening edge, so that the optical component is placed in a cavity formed between the protective member and the support portion.

[0023] Optionally, the protection component is provided with an embedding portion on the light emitting side close to the lens barrel, the light emitting end of the lens barrel passes through the access cutout of the protection component and is embedded in the embedding portion, and the center line of the embedding portion is perpendicular to the reflective surface of the optical component.

[0024] Optionally, the support portion and the protection component are formed as an integral unit.

[0025] Optionally, there is a second predetermined gap between the outer wall of the lens barrel and the locking portion, and the second predetermined gap can be adjusted by the protection member and / or the lens barrel. Preferably, the value of the second predetermined gap is not less than 0.1 mm, and the second predetermined gap is greater than the first predetermined gap.

[0026] Optionally, the protection component is provided with a connecting portion on a light-emitting side away from the lens barrel, and the connecting portion and a shielding shell on the periphery of the substrate are cooperatively connected to form a closed space surrounding the substrate.

[0027] Optionally, the lens barrel, the lens group assembled in the lens barrel, the optical component, and the support portion are located on the same side as the imaging element on the substrate.

[0028] A second embodiment of the present invention provides an endoscope having an imaging device inserted into a living body and photographing the inside of the living body. The imaging device may be any optional imaging device in the first embodiment.

[0029] By arranging the imaging element and the optical component on opposite sides of the support portion along the light-emitting side, the light can be more evenly reflected from the optical component through the opening of the support portion to the imaging element, which can prevent the imaging element from being subjected to the force of the optical component while there is no contact between the two when the imaging device is assembled, thereby ensuring the imaging quality of the optical system and avoiding optical distortion or scattering caused by surface unevenness or direct contact. At the same time, the sizes of the two opposite surfaces of the support portion match the sizes of the optical component and the imaging element respectively and do not exceed the size of the substrate, which can ensure the imaging quality while maintaining the miniaturization of the entire imaging device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the present invention or the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying creative work.

[0031] Figure 1 A diagram showing the structure of an endoscope device in one embodiment;

[0032] Figure 2 Shown is the Figure 1 A perspective view of the front end of the endoscope device shown;

[0033] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a camera device is shown;

[0034] Figure 4 A structural diagram showing an optical component mounted on a support portion in one embodiment;

[0035] Figure 5 A structural diagram showing an optical component mounted on a support portion in one embodiment;

[0036] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view showing an optical component mounted on a support portion in one embodiment;

[0037] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view showing an optical component directly attached to a support portion in one embodiment;

[0038] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of directly attaching an optical component to a support portion

[0039] Fig. 9 A structural diagram showing an embodiment in which an optical component and an imaging element are disposed relatively to a supporting portion;

[0040] Fig.10 A cross-sectional view showing an embodiment in which an optical component and an imaging element are arranged relative to a support portion;

[0041] Fig.11 A structural diagram showing a step inside the first opening of the support portion in one embodiment;

[0042] Fig.12 A structural diagram showing a supporting portion having a receiving recess in one embodiment is shown;

[0043] Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of a support portion having a receiving recess in one embodiment is shown;

[0044] Fig.14 Another structural diagram showing an embodiment in which the support portion has a receiving recess;

[0045] Fig.15 Another cross-sectional view showing an embodiment in which the support portion has a receiving recess;

[0046] Fig.16 A structural diagram of a protective component in one embodiment is shown;

[0047] Fig.17 A structural diagram of a protective component in one embodiment is shown;

[0048] Fig.18 A structural diagram showing the cooperative connection between a protection component and a shielding shell in an embodiment is shown.

[0049] Description of Reference Numerals

[0050] 101: endoscope; 102: insertion portion; 103: operating portion; 104: hose; 105: bending portion; 106: front end portion; 107: illumination light emitting portion; 108: optical fiber bundle; 121: image display portion; 1: imaging device; 10: imaging element; 11: light receiving portion; 20: substrate; 2: lens barrel; 3: protective component; 4: lens group; 5: optical component; 6: supporting portion; 6a: first surface; 6b: second surface; 21: light emitting end; 31: receiving recess; 32: embedding portion; 33: access incision; 34: snap-fit ​​structure; 35: connecting portion; 7: first opening; 8: second opening; 9: shielding shell; 91: connecting mating portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside" and the like indicate positions or positional relationships based on the positions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the devices or elements referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operate in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first", "second", and the like are used for descriptive purposes only and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0052] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "connection" should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. The specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0053] In the embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the first feature being "above" or "below" the second feature may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, the first feature being "above", "above" and "above" the second feature may mean that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is higher in level than the second feature. The first feature being "below", "below" and "below" the second feature may mean that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is lower in level than the second feature.

[0054] In the description of this specification, the description with reference to the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" etc. means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiment of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described may be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, those skilled in the art may combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of the different embodiments or examples, without contradiction.

[0055] Next, an example of an embodiment of the present invention is described. Figure 1 An example of the structure of the endoscope 101 having the imaging device 1 of the present invention is described. The endoscope 101 of this embodiment has a structure that can be introduced into a subject such as a human body and optically capture a predetermined observation site in the subject. In addition, the subject introduced into the endoscope 101 is not limited to the human body, but may be other living bodies, or may be artificial objects such as machines or buildings.

[0056] The endoscope 101 mainly comprises an insertion section 102 introduced into a subject, an operation section 103 located at the base end of the insertion section 102, and a hose 104 extending from a side of the operation section 103. The endoscope 101 has a cable and an optical fiber bundle inserted through the hose 104, the operation section 103, and the insertion section 102.

[0057] The insertion portion 102 is configured to continuously include a front end portion 106 provided at the front end, a bendable bending portion 105 provided at the base end side of the front end portion 106, and a flexible flexible tube portion provided at the base end side of the bending portion 105 and connected to the front end side of the operation portion 103. In addition, the endoscope 101 may be a so-called rigid endoscope in which the insertion portion does not have a flexible portion.

[0058] The endoscope 101 is provided with an optical fiber bundle (not shown) for transmitting illumination light emitted from a light source device, and an illumination lens is provided at the illumination light emission end of the optical fiber bundle. The illumination lens is provided at the distal end 106 of the insertion portion 4 to irradiate the illumination light toward the subject.

[0059] The image processing unit has a structure that generates an image signal based on the image pickup element output signal output from the image pickup device 1 and outputs it to the image display unit 121. That is, in this embodiment, the optical image obtained by the image pickup device 1 is displayed as an image on the display unit 121. In addition, it can also be configured so that part or all of the image processing unit and the image display unit 121 are arranged in the endoscope 101.

[0060] like Figure 2 As shown, the imaging device 1 and the illumination light emitting section 107 are provided in the front end portion 106 .

[0061] In this embodiment, as an example, the imaging device 1 is arranged along Figure 2 The imaging device 1 is arranged so that the imaging optical axis O passing through the center of the field of view is along the longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 102. In addition, the imaging device 1 may also be arranged so that the imaging optical axis O is at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 102.

[0062] The illumination light emitting unit 107 emits light incident from the optical fiber bundle 108 to illuminate the subject of the imaging device 1. In this embodiment, the illumination light emitting unit 107 emits light from the distal end surface of the distal end portion 106 along the longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 102 toward the distal end.

[0063] The imaging device 1 and the illumination light emitting unit 107 are held by a distal hard portion provided in the distal end portion 106. The imaging device 1 and the illumination light emitting unit 107 are fixed to the through hole of the distal hard portion by adhesive or screw fastening. Furthermore, the optical fiber bundle 108 is inserted into the through hole from the base end side of the insertion portion 102 and fixed.

[0064] In this manual, if Figure 3As shown, the side where the lens group 4 is arranged is referred to as the front side, and the side where the optical component 5 is arranged is referred to as the rear side.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, the camera device 1 has a lens group 4, which is arranged in a hollow, roughly cylindrical lens barrel 2 with openings at both ends. The lens group 4 is composed of one or more lenses that form a subject image on a light receiving portion 11 of an image pickup element 10, and an optical component 5 is assembled and connected to the lens barrel 2. The image pickup element 10 is configured such that the light receiving portion 11 is parallel to the optical axis direction of the lens group 40 and is arranged opposite to the optical component 5. The optical component 5 is arranged between the objective lens 4 and the light receiving portion 11 of the image pickup element 10. The optical component 5 has a reflecting surface 5a. The light receiving portion 11 generates an electrical signal by receiving light reflected by the reflecting surface 5a of the optical component 5 and performing photoelectric conversion. The size of the light receiving portion 11 is not less than the light output diameter of the optical component 5 after reflection by the reflecting surface 5a.

[0066] A circuit board, i.e., a substrate 20, is arranged on the back side 10a of the image pickup element 10, the image pickup element 10 is mounted on the substrate 20, and the electronic component 30 and the image pickup element 10 are mounted on the same side of the substrate 20. The substrate 20 is arranged parallel to the optical axis direction of the lens group 4, extends on the surface of the image pickup element provided with the light receiving portion 11 and on the back side of the reflective surface 5a of the optical component 5, and is electrically connected to the image pickup element 10. In other words, the substrate 20 extends along the exposed portion behind the image pickup element 10 and the optical component 5, and at least a part thereof is arranged at a position closer to the base end side of the insertion portion 102 than the image pickup element 10. The electronic component 30 is mounted on the substrate 20 and in the region extending from the region where the image pickup element 10 is mounted to the lens group 4 side. The substrate 20, the optical component 5, the image pickup element 10, etc. are fixed to the support portion 6 described below.

[0067] The back of the reflective surface 5a of the optical component 5 is optically clear to avoid the reduction of optical performance due to interference of the optical path by electronic components. The support portion 6 can be made of a material with strong optical light absorption, roughened, or provided with a black surface, or one or more other treatment methods to reduce the interference of stray light on the optical system. This can minimize interference with optical performance, such as the introduction of light path obstruction, scattered or reflected noise light, etc.

[0068] The imaging element 10 is a solid-state imaging element such as CCD or CMOS. The type of the electronic component 30 is appropriately determined according to the electronic circuit formed on the substrate 20 and is not particularly limited. For example, the electronic component 30 may be a capacitor.

[0069] The imaging device 1 includes a lens group 4 , an imaging element 10 , an optical component 5 , and a substrate arranged in sequence, and realizes imaging of the endoscope 101 through the injection, reflection, conversion, and processing of light.

[0070] Implementation Method 1

[0071] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, a support portion 6 capable of isolating the two is provided between the imaging element 10 and the optical component 5, and the support portion 6 is at least arranged on the outer periphery of the light emitting side of the optical component 5, and the support portion 6 has a first surface 6a extending along the axial direction of the front end portion 106, and the first surface 6a has a first opening 7, and the size of the first opening 7 is not less than the size of the light receiving portion 11 of the imaging element 10, so that the light beam reflected by the reflecting surface 5a can all be received through the first opening 7.

[0072] The optical component 5 and the imaging element 10 are arranged oppositely on both sides arranged along the light emitting direction of the optical component 5. The length of the first surface 6a of the support portion 6 is not less than the length of the imaging element 10, and the optical component 5 and the imaging element 10 are isolated by the support portion 6 or at least a part of the support portion 6.

[0073] The optical component 5 is bonded to or embedded in the inner edge 7a of the first opening 7 through the first surface 6a, so that the optical component 5 is fixed on the supporting part 6, and the convergent light of the lens group 4 reflected by the reflecting surface 5a of the optical component 5 is emitted through the first opening 7 and received by the light receiving part 11 of the imaging element 10.

[0074] The optical component 5 mentioned in this embodiment can be a right angle prism, having an incident surface 5b and an exit surface 5c that are orthogonal to each other, and a reflecting surface 5a that is at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the incident surface 5b and the exit surface 5c. A reflecting film is formed on the reflecting surface 5a, and the optical axis is bent by reflection in the reflecting surface 5a. Therefore, in the camera device 1, the right angle prism is a reflector that bends the direction of the optical path of the image light passing through the lens group 4 of the lens barrel 2 in one direction, and bends the optical path passing through the lens group 4 at a right angle, so that when the light is emitted along the light receiving part 11, the optical axis is bent to a substantially right angle.

[0075] like Figure 3 As shown, the imaging element 10 is bonded to the substrate 20 by an adhesive. The imaging element 10, the openings of the imaging element 10 and the substrate 20, and the shielding shell 9 are covered. In order to prevent static electricity and external interference noise flowing from the outside from affecting the electronic components on the substrate 20 and the wiring pattern (not shown) on the substrate 20, the shielding shell 9 is set separately from the solid-state imaging element 44 and the substrate 45.

[0076] like Figures 4 to 6As shown, the inner edge 7a of the first opening 7 forms a first mounting groove 71 with a shoulder support shape around the reflecting surface 5a. The groove width W1 of the first mounting groove 71 parallel to the optical axis direction of the lens group 4 is not less than the edge thickness of the incident surface 5b area in the optical component 5, so that the optical component 5 can be firmly embedded in the first mounting groove 71, and the groove depth D1 of the first mounting groove 71 perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the lens group 4 does not exceed the edge width of the right-angle prism edge parallel to the light emitting direction side in the optical component 5, and the reflecting surface 5a of the optical component 5 is exposed above the first opening 5, thereby ensuring that the light will not be blocked by the edge and ensuring that the light path of the reflecting surface 5a is unobstructed.

[0077] Specifically, the incident surface 5b of the optical component 5 close to the lens group 4 is in close contact with the edge of the first mounting groove 71. For the gap that occurs when the optical component 5 is fixed, it is fixed to the optical component 5 by adhesive or double-sided adhesive tape in the positioned state. After the optical component 5 is fixedly installed on the first mounting groove 71, the imaging element 10 can be fixed to the other side of the first surface 6a of the support part 6 by adhesive or double-sided adhesive tape, so that the optical component 5 is isolated from the imaging element 10 and fixed separately on the support part 6. The first mounting groove 71 can be specifically set as a groove with a shoulder support structure, and the bottom edge of the groove forms a closed support or four-corner positioning, so that the optical component 5 is stably aligned in the opening without lateral sliding. And the imaging element 10 is fixed to the outer periphery of the other side of the first surface 6a, so that the light can pass through the reflective surface of the optical component 5 without obstruction to reach the light receiving part 11 of the imaging element 10, and at the same time, the optical component 5 is directly isolated from the imaging element 10.

[0078] Furthermore, the inner wall of the first mounting groove 71 can be slightly retracted inward along the front end side of the endoscope 101, so that the slot width of the first mounting groove 71 is slightly smaller than the bottom width. This design can generate a slight elastic clamping force on the optical component 5 when it is embedded in the first mounting groove 71, so that the optical component 5 is not easy to loosen, and further enhance the reliability of the optical component 5 being fixed on the support part 6.

[0079] Furthermore, one or more elastic clips may be provided at the bottom of the inner wall of the first mounting groove 71. When the optical component 5 is fully inserted, the elastic clips will pop out slightly to lock the optical component 5 in the first mounting groove 71, thereby providing a further fixing effect.

[0080] In order to ensure the imaging quality and reduce image distortion such as image distortion or blurring caused by inconsistent light incident angles, the geometric center of the first opening 7 and the light receiving part 11 of the imaging element 10 roughly coincide, which can ensure that the imaging element 10 can receive the light from the opening to the greatest extent, reduce the deviation and scattering of light, ensure that more light can directly enter the light receiving part, and make the design more compact and reduce unnecessary installation components. During assembly, the area where the support part 6 directly contacts the substrate 20 is fixed and sealed with glue to ensure a firm bond between the support part 6 and the substrate 20 to avoid displacement of components due to external force or vibration; at the same time, it effectively prevents external pollutants such as moisture and dust from entering the interior of the device to keep the internal components clean and stable.

[0081] Implementation Method 2

[0082] The same components as those of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted, and only the different parts are described.

[0083] like Figures 7 and 8 As shown, when the mounting groove is not provided on the inner edge of the first opening 7, the optical component 5 can also be directly adhered to the first surface 6a of the supporting portion 6 near the first opening 7. The first opening 7 enables light to be reflected by the reflective surface 5a of the optical component 5 without obstruction and reach the light receiving portion 11 of the imaging element 10, while avoiding direct contact between the optical component 5 and the imaging element 10.

[0084] Implementation Method 3

[0085] The same components as those of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted, and only the different parts are described.

[0086] Based on the imaging device 1 of any one of the first to second embodiments, in order to better protect the imaging element 10, as Figures 9 and 10 As shown, the support portion 6 further includes a second mounting groove 72 disposed on the inner edge 7b of the first opening 7 closer to the imaging element 10. The second mounting groove 72 is closer to the imaging element 10 than the second mounting groove 71. The imaging element 10 is fixed by the second mounting groove 72 on the inner edge 7b, so that the imaging element 10 is protected inside the support portion 6 to avoid damage. The edge of the second mounting groove 71 has a certain predetermined interval relative to the first mounting groove 71 along the light emitting direction of the optical component 5, so that the light receiving portion of the imaging element 10 can receive the light reflected by the reflective surface 5a of the optical component 5 without damage, while maintaining no contact between the imaging element 10 and the optical component 5.

[0087] Specifically, the edge thickness of the imaging element 10 along the normal direction of the light emitting side of the optical component 5 is not less than the width W2 of the second mounting groove 72, ensuring that the bottom edge of the imaging element 10 can be completely embedded in the second mounting groove 72, and the edge width of the imaging element 10 along the normal direction of the light emitting side of the optical component is not less than the depth D2 of the second mounting groove, ensuring that the imaging element 10 can be embedded in the second mounting groove 72 without affecting the light receiving part 11 from receiving reflected light.

[0088] Specifically, the second mounting groove 72 may be formed with a shoulder support shape around the light receiving portion 11 at the inner edge 7b. The height of the shoulder support structure along the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens group 4 is slightly greater than the thickness of the surface of the imaging element 10, so that the imaging element 10 is stably placed in the shoulder. The depth D2 of the second mounting groove 72 along the direction of the optical axis of the lens group 4 does not exceed the edge width of the imaging element 10 parallel to the light emitting direction, thereby ensuring that the edge of the light receiving portion 11 will not be blocked when receiving the light from the reflective surface 5a. The shoulder support structure of the second mounting groove 72 forms a closed support or four-corner positioning, so that the imaging element 10 is stably aligned in the opening.

[0089] Furthermore, after the second mounting groove 72 is formed, the outer peripheral edge contacts the substrate 20 and is fixed to the substrate 20 by fasteners such as screws, so that the surrounding areas of the support part 6 and 6 are reliably fitted and fixed to the substrate 20. The gap at the edge of the substrate 20 and the gap continuously set therewith are filled with sealing resin and the like to be fixed in a stationary state. The imaging element 10 is accommodated in the second mounting groove 72 of the support part 6, so that the imaging element 10 fixed on the substrate 20 is in a sealed state, thereby preventing the imaging element 10 from being subjected to force and preventing dust from falling in and affecting the performance of the imaging element.

[0090] Specifically, the first mounting groove 71 to which the optical element 5 is fixed and the second mounting groove 72 to which the imaging element 10 is fixed are not in contact with each other through a predetermined interval, so that the imaging element 10 is accommodated in the second mounting groove 72 corresponding to the first surface of the supporting portion 6 to protect the imaging element 10. At the same time, the optical component 5 is supported on the supporting portion 6 to achieve that the two do not contact each other, thereby preventing the imaging element 10 from being damaged.

[0091] Furthermore, the inner wall of the second mounting groove 72 can be slightly contracted inwardly along the rearward direction of the optical axis, so that the slot width of the second mounting groove 72 is slightly smaller than the bottom width. This design can generate a slight elastic clamping force on the imaging element 10 when it is inserted into the second mounting groove 72, so that the imaging element 10 is not easy to loosen, and further enhance the reliability of the imaging element 10 being accommodated and fixed on the support portion 6.

[0092] Furthermore, the bottom of the inner wall of the second mounting groove 72 can be provided with one or more elastic buckles. When the imaging element 10 is fully inserted, the elastic buckle will pop out slightly to lock the imaging element 10 in the second mounting groove 72, thereby providing a further fixing effect.

[0093] In order to ensure the imaging quality and reduce image distortion such as image distortion or blurring caused by inconsistent light incident angles, the geometric centers of the first opening 7 of the light-emitting surface 5c of the optical component and the light-receiving part 11 of the imaging element 10 are roughly overlapped, which can ensure that the imaging element 10 can receive the light from the opening to the greatest extent, reduce the deviation and scattering of the light, ensure that more light can directly enter the light-receiving part, and make the design more compact and reduce unnecessary installation components. During assembly, the overlapping area of ​​the support part 6 and the substrate 20 is fixed and sealed with glue to ensure a firm combination between the support part 6 and the substrate 20 and avoid displacement of components due to external force or vibration; at the same time, it effectively prevents external pollutants such as moisture and dust from entering the interior of the device to keep the internal components clean and stable.

[0094] Implementation Method 4

[0095] The same components as those of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted, and only the different parts are described.

[0096] Based on the imaging device 1 in the first embodiment, Fig.11As shown, the inner side of the inner edge 7a of the first mounting groove 71 may be provided with at least two layers of supporting steps formed by a plurality of step surfaces with different heights. The unequal heights of the step surfaces of different layers can respectively realize the layered installation of the optical element 5 and the imaging element 10 on the corresponding step surfaces, and can keep the optical component 5 and the imaging element 10 in a non-contact state after installation. For example, the inner side of the first mounting groove 71 is provided with a first step 71a and a first step 71b of unequal heights. The first step 71a is provided on the side of the first surface 6a of the support portion 6 close to the exit surface 5a of the optical component 5, and the first step 71b is provided on the side of the first surface 6a of the support portion 6 close to the light receiving portion 11 of the imaging element 10. The optical element 5 can be fixed on the first step 71a, and the imaging element 10 is installed on the first step 71b, and its light receiving portion 11 is aligned with the optical path. The width of the first step 71a is substantially equal to the thickness of the light exit surface 5c of the optical element 5 or slightly larger than the thickness of the reflective surface 5a, so as to fix the optical element 5. The extended length L1 of the first step 71a along the light emitting direction does not exceed the reflection path of the reflection surface 5a of the optical component 5, so that the first step 71a can fit the edge of the prism without interfering with the light path of the reflection surface 5a. The step width of the second step 71b is substantially equal to or slightly larger than the thickness of the imaging element 10, and the length L2 of the second step 71b along the light emitting direction of the lens barrel 2 does not exceed L1, and the length L2 is smaller than the edge length of the imaging element 10, so that the imaging element 10 can be embedded in the mounting groove of the second step 71b and installed firmly, and does not contact the optical component 5, ensuring that the imaging element 10 and the optical component 5 are not in contact, which can prevent the optical path from being offset or the imaging element from being damaged due to contact, and at the same time can ensure that the light receiving part 11 coincides with the reflected light path.

[0097] The first step 71 a and the second step 73 are also arranged in the second installation groove 72 , and the specific structure is similar to that when they are installed in the first installation groove 71 , and will not be described in detail here.

[0098] In this embodiment, a staggered support is formed by a layered step structure with height differences, which is suitable for fixing imaging elements 10 and optical components 5 with different sizes or different installation requirements, wherein the number of layered steps can be 2 or more than 2.

[0099] Implementation Method 5

[0100] The same components as those of the imaging device 1 according to the first to fourth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted, and only different portions are described.

[0101] Based on the camera device 1 of any one of the first to fourth embodiments, the support portion 6 further includes a second surface 6b arranged along a direction intersecting with the first surface 6a, the second surface 6b having a second opening 8 having a light entry size not less than the light entry surface 5b of the optical component 5, and the through space formed by the first opening 7 and the second opening 8 can pass the converged light and be received by the light receiving portion 11 of the camera element 10. The second surface 6b is in close contact with the light entry surface 5b of the optical component 5, which can keep the optical path of the prism clean and prevent external factors (such as moisture, dust, etc.) from entering and affecting the optical performance.

[0102] The support portion 6 has a first surface 6a and a second surface 6b arranged axially along the front end portion 106, and a through space 51 formed by penetrating the first surface 6a and the second surface 6b. The through space 51 can be formed by a first opening 7 and a second opening 8 whose opening surfaces are perpendicular to each other. The first opening 7 is parallel to the optical axis direction of the lens group 4, and the second opening 8 is perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the lens group 4. The opening size of the second opening 8 is larger than the area of ​​the light receiving portion 11 of the imaging element 10, and the opening size of the second opening 8 is smaller than the size of the imaging element 10. The light emitted from the lens group 4 passes through the first opening 7 to the reflective surface 5a of the optical component 5, and then is bent and received by the light receiving portion 11 of the imaging element 10 through the second opening 8.

[0103] Implementation Method 6

[0104] The same components as those of the imaging device 1 according to the first to fifth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted, and only different portions are described.

[0105] Based on the camera device 1 of any one of the first to fifth embodiments, Figures 12 to 15As shown, the support part 6 is formed with a receiving recess 31 for avoiding the electronic component 30 on the first surface 6a near the side of the imaging element 10. The receiving recess 31 is set on the first surface 62 to effectively avoid the electronic component 30 on the substrate 20. Its shape can be set to a regular or irregular groove such as a rectangular groove, a circular groove or a polygonal groove according to the specific type and number of the electronic component 30. The predetermined depth of the groove is not less than the height of any electronic component 30 set on the substrate 20, and the electronic component 30 can be completely accommodated in the receiving recess 31, so that the support part 6 and the substrate 20 are tightly fitted and fixed. Specifically, the predetermined depth D of the receiving recess 31 is slightly greater than the thickness of the electronic component 30, so as to ensure that the electronic component 30 can be completely embedded in the receiving recess 31 formed on the first surface 6a and does not contact the optical component 5. The length L of the receiving recess 31 extends in a horizontal direction parallel to the optical axis direction of the lens group 4 along the first surface 62, and the overall length is not less than the length of the electronic component 30, so as to ensure that the electronic component 30 is completely placed in the receiving recess 31. The width of the receiving recess 31 is matched according to the width of the electronic component 30, and is generally set to be slightly larger than the width of the electronic component 30, so that there is a certain buffer space when the electronic component 30 is installed to avoid assembly inconvenience or damage to the electronic component under pressure, etc. The receiving recess 31 can ensure that the electronic component 30 is effectively avoided when the substrate 20 and the support part 6 are attached and fixed, and the overall support of the support part 6 can be maintained.

[0106] In any embodiment of the present invention, the camera device 1 is formed by assembling various components one by one. During assembly, due to manufacturing and installation errors, the optical axis may deviate from the geometric center of the optical component 5. Before being installed in the front end portion 106 of the endoscope 101 after assembly, it is often necessary to adjust the relative position of the optical component 5 and the lens barrel 2 having the lens group 4 so that the optical axis can be flexibly adjusted to the geometric center of the optical component 5. Figure 3 , a first predetermined gap 2a is provided between the outer wall of the lens barrel 2 and the first surface 6a of the support portion 6 for supporting the optical component 5, providing adjustment space for the correction of the optical axis. Among them, the first predetermined gap 2a can provide radial displacement and angle fine adjustment, etc., and can have a certain extension roughly along the optical axis direction, so that the optical component 5 on the support portion 6 and / or the lens group 4 in the lens barrel 2 can flexibly adjust the position according to the needs, ensuring that the optical axis can coincide with the geometric center of the optical component 5 after correction. Specifically, in order to ensure the flexible design of the adjustment space, the optical system error can be easily corrected after assembly, and the rework or scrap caused by excessive errors can be significantly reduced. The first predetermined gap 2a is generally not less than 0.1mm. After the correction is completed, the first predetermined gap 2a is filled with a high-performance sealant, and solidified to lock the correction result, ensuring that the entire imaging device of the endoscope 101 is dustproof and waterproof, and maintaining a good imaging image.

[0107] Implementation Method 7

[0108] The same components as those of the imaging device 1 according to the first to sixth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted, and only different portions are described.

[0109] Based on the camera device 1 of any one of the first to sixth embodiments, Figure 16 to Figure 17 As shown, a protective member 3 is arranged above the support portion 6. The protective member 3 not only protects the optical component 5 from being damaged by external dust and other pollutants, but also effectively shields the external light source to avoid interference of the external light source on the optical component 5, thereby ensuring the stability and accuracy of imaging. The protective member 3 has an opening through its bottom 3a, and its opening edge is aligned with the first surface 6a of the side of the support portion close to the imaging element 10, so that the optical component 5 is accommodated in the cavity formed between the protective member 3 and the support portion 6. The protective member 3 forms a closed cavity by covering the space around the optical component 5. An embedded portion 32 is arranged on the light-emitting side of the protective member 3 close to the lens barrel 2 where the lens group 4 is arranged. The lens barrel 2 passes through an access cutout 33 in the protective member 3 opposite to the embedded portion 32. The access cutout 33 is along the light-emitting direction of the lens barrel 2 and is provided for the light-emitting end 21 of the lens barrel 2 to pass through so as to be finally embedded and fixed on the embedded portion 32. The center line of the embedded part 32 is arranged perpendicularly to the reflective surface 5a of the optical component 5 to ensure that the optical axis of the lens barrel 2 is aligned with the optical path of the optical component 5 to avoid optical path deviation. At the same time, the protective component 3 is also closely matched with the support part 6 to coordinately fix the position of the lens barrel 2 to ensure that the lens barrel 2 does not deviate during the installation process. The protective component 3 stably protects the optical component 5 through the fixing and alignment structure with the support part 6 and the light output end 21 of the lens barrel 2, which can reduce the impact of vibration or accidental movement on the component.

[0110] Specifically, the size of the access cutout 33 of the protective component 3 facing the embedded portion 32 is larger than the diameter of the lens barrel 2 on the side of the light output end 21. The light from the light output end 21 of the lens barrel 2 enters through the access cutout 33 and is reflected by the reflective surface 5a of the optical element 5.

[0111] like Fig.18 As shown, the protective component 3 is provided with a connecting portion 35 in the light emitting direction away from the lens barrel. The structure of the connecting portion 35 is matched and connected with the connecting matching portion 91 of the shielding shell 9. A snap-fit ​​structure 34 can be provided on the side edge of the bottom 3a of the protective component 3. The connection and locking of the connecting portion 35 and the connecting matching portion 91 are achieved through the snap-fit ​​structure 34, thereby achieving a seamless snap-fit ​​connection between the protective component 3 and the shielding shell, thereby ensuring its stability in the entire structure and the closedness of the shielding shell 9.

[0112] For example, the snap-fit ​​structure 34 can be fixed by snaps, slots, aligned edges or screws to enable the components of the protection component 3 and the shielding shell 9 to be accurately docked, prevent the protection component from loosening during the operation of the device, and form a sealed cavity to surround the substrate 20. The shielding shell 9 maintains the substrate in a closed space so that the endoscope can be used with a high-frequency electric knife and other equipment, and the electromagnetic compatibility is better.

[0113] The protective component 3 provided on the periphery of the optical component 5 can prevent external light from irradiating the optical component 5, thereby avoiding poor imaging such as dirt on the optical component 5 and black spots on the image. The light output end 21 of the lens barrel 2 can be fixed by the protective component 3, and at the same time, the structure of the shielding shell 9 on the periphery of the substrate 20 is coordinated to enclose the substrate in the space formed by the shielding shell 9 and the protective component 3. While ensuring the electromagnetic compatibility of the substrate 20, the miniaturization of the camera device 1 can be maintained.

[0114] During assembly, the substrate 20 on which the imaging element 10 is mounted is assembled inside the lens barrel 2 of the imaging device 1 so that the optical axis of the lens group 4 of the imaging device 1 is orthogonal to the light receiving portion 11 of the imaging element 10. The center of the light incident surface 5b of the optical component 5 and the center of the light receiving portion 11 of the imaging element 10 are located on the same axis so that the reflected light path of the reflecting surface 5a is perpendicular to the light receiving portion 11 of the imaging element 10.

[0115] In the seventh embodiment, the support portion 6 and the protective member 3 can be formed in one piece, which can eliminate the seams and gaps that may exist in the traditional design, thereby enhancing the dustproof effect and reducing the risk of contamination of the optical element 5. The support portion 6 and the protective member 3 are designed to be integrally joined and directly connected to the lens barrel 2 for fixing.

[0116] In the seventh embodiment, the support part 6, the protective member 3 and the lens barrel 2 may also be fixed after being integrally joined. In the above embodiment, the imaging element 10 whose optical axis is bent by the optical element 5 is placed horizontally, and the optical element is isolated from the light receiving part 11 of the imaging element 10 by the support part 6. In addition, the support part 6 is set as a frame structure with at least one opening, but as long as the light reflected by the reflective surface 5a of the optical component 5 can be completely received by the light receiving part of the imaging element fixed on the opposite side by the support part 6, it can be a plate shape or other shapes. Moreover, the object of fixing the lens group 4 can be the main body of the front end 106 in addition to the lens barrel 2.

[0117] In the seventh embodiment, there is a second predetermined gap 2b between the outer wall of the lens barrel 2 and the embedded portion 32, and the second predetermined gap 2b can be used for the optical component 5 in the protective member 3 and / or the lens group 4 in the lens barrel 2 to be adjusted according to actual needs. After assembly, before being installed at the front end portion 106 of the endoscope 101, it is often necessary to adjust the relative position of the optical component 5 and the lens barrel 2 with the lens group 4 so that the optical axis can be flexibly adjusted to the geometric center of the optical component 5. See Figure 3 , a second predetermined gap 2b is provided between the outer wall of the lens barrel 2 and the embedded portion 32 of the protective member 3 of the optical component 5, providing adjustment space for the correction of the optical axis. Among them, the second predetermined gap 2b can provide radial displacement and angle fine-tuning, etc., and can have a certain extension roughly along the optical axis direction, so that the support portion 6 and / or the lens barrel 2 on the optical component 5 can flexibly adjust the position, ensuring that the optical axis can coincide with the geometric center of the optical component 5 after correction. Specifically, in order to ensure the flexible design of the adjustment space, the optical system error can be easily corrected after assembly, and the rework or scrap problems caused by excessive errors are significantly reduced. The second predetermined gap is generally not less than 0.1mm, and the second predetermined gap 2b is often larger than the first predetermined gap 2a. After the correction is completed, a high-performance sealant is used to fill the predetermined gap, and solidified to lock the correction result, so as to ensure that the entire imaging device of the endoscope 101 is dustproof and waterproof, and maintain a good imaging image.

[0118] In any of the above embodiments, the camera device 1 includes a lens barrel 2, a lens group 4 assembled in the lens barrel 2, an optical component 5, and a support portion 6, which are all located on the same side as the camera element 10 mounted on the substrate 20, and the other side is used for fixed connection with other components. Such an arrangement facilitates the installation of the various components of the camera device 1 arranged in sequence along the optical axis direction, while maintaining the miniaturization of the entire camera device 1.

[0119] In any of the above embodiments, the imaging element 10 does not exceed the size of the substrate 20, and the sizes of the second surface 6b and the first surface 6a of the support portion 6 match the sizes of the optical component and the imaging element and do not exceed the size of the substrate. Therefore, the volume of the entire imaging device does not increase after the support portion 6 is provided, and after the optical component 5 and the imaging element 10 are isolated, the imaging device can still be miniaturized.

[0120] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the protective member 3 arranged above the optical element 5 can accommodate the light-emitting end 21 of the lens barrel and cooperate with the shielding shell to protect the entire substrate. The aperture of the opening 63 of the protective member 3 is set according to the diameter of the lens barrel 2 and the optical path matching. At the same time, the overall size of the protective member 3 does not exceed the lens size of the largest size in the lens group 4 in the lens barrel 2. Therefore, the miniaturization of the position camera device can still be achieved. In any of the above-mentioned embodiments, the camera device of the present invention is applied to an endoscope that is inserted into a living body and shoots the inside of the living body.

[0121] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the gist of the invention.

Claims

1. A camera device, applied to an endoscope, characterized in that: The camera device comprises: Lens tube; Lens group; an optical component connected to the lens barrel to reflect the light converged by the lens group; An imaging element is disposed at the front end portion of the insertion portion of the endoscope and has a light receiving portion; A substrate, electrically connected to the imaging element, and having electronic components installed therein; A support portion is arranged at a position closer to the front end side of the insertion portion than the lens group, the support portion has a first surface arranged parallel to the optical axis of the lens group, the imaging element and the optical portion are respectively located on both sides of the first surface; The first surface has a first opening, and the light receiving portion of the imaging element receives light reflected by the optical component through the first opening and performs photoelectric conversion to generate an electrical signal. The opening size of the first opening is not smaller than the size of the light receiving portion of the imaging element.

2. The camera device according to claim 1, characterized in that A first mounting groove is arranged along the inner edge of the first opening, the edge thickness of the optical component along its light emitting side is not greater than the width of the first mounting groove, and the edge width of the optical component along its normal direction along its light emitting side is not less than the depth of the first mounting groove.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: A second mounting groove is arranged along the inner edge of the first opening closer to the imaging element, the edge thickness of the imaging element along the light emitting side of the optical component is not less than the width of the second mounting groove, and the edge width of the imaging element along the normal direction of the light emitting side of the optical component is not less than the depth of the second mounting groove.

4. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: The support portion is provided with a second surface intersecting with the first surface along a direction close to the base end side of the insertion portion, and the second surface has a second opening. The through space formed by the first opening and the second opening can pass the converged light and be received by the light receiving part of the camera element.

5. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: The support portion has a housing recess for housing the electronic component formed on the first surface on the side close to the imaging element, and the housing recess has a predetermined depth matching the electronic component.

6. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: There is a first predetermined gap between the outer wall of the lens barrel and the first surface of the support portion, and the first predetermined gap can be adjusted by the support portion and / or the lens barrel.

7. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein: A protection member is arranged above the support portion, and the protection member is arranged to align with the first surface of the support portion close to the imaging element through the bottom opening edge, so that the optical component is placed in a cavity formed between the protection member and the support portion.

8. The imaging device according to claim 7, wherein: The protection component is provided with an embedding portion on the light-emitting side close to the lens barrel, the light-emitting end of the lens barrel passes through the access incision of the protection component and is embedded in the embedding portion, the center line of the embedding portion is perpendicular to the reflecting surface of the optical component, and there is a second predetermined gap between the outer wall of the lens barrel and the embedding portion, and the second predetermined gap can be adjusted by the protection component and / or the lens barrel.

9. The camera device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The lens barrel, the lens group assembled in the lens barrel, the optical component, and the support portion are located on the same side as the imaging element on the substrate.

10. An endoscope having an imaging device inserted into a living body and capable of imaging the interior of the living body, characterized in that: The imaging device is the imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images