Tip cap and endoscope system
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SHANGHAI AOHUA PHOTOELECTRICITY ENDOSCOPE
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-05
Smart Images
Figure CN119867617B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of endoscopy technology, and more particularly to a tip cap and endoscopy system. Background Technology
[0002] During endoscopic examinations, mucosal tissue in front of the lens, as well as the bends and folds in the lumen, may obstruct the lens, affecting the endoscopic field of view and operating space, and interfering with the movement, examination, and surgical procedures. Furthermore, secretions and intraoperative bleeding can also obstruct the lens's field of view.
[0003] Therefore, in existing technology, doctors install a cylindrical cap at the tip of the endoscope to open up the tissue in front of the lens, providing the endoscope with a field of view and operating space. However, during endoscope movement, especially during retraction, there is a risk that the cap may detach from the endoscope tip. If the cap falls into the body, it is difficult to remove and poses a safety hazard. Furthermore, if the cap is too tightly engaged with the tip, disassembly is difficult and the cap is not easy to remove.
[0004] The prior art US5860913A discloses a reusable tip cap that uses a hook structure at the tip. As the hook passes through the front cover, the elastic sleeve is held by the hook and undergoes elastic deformation, thereby providing a force to the front cover in the opposite direction of the hook insertion. Friction is used to prevent rotation and detachment. However, the contact area is limited and the friction gradually decreases during the disassembly process. Especially after long-term use, the friction decreases further, increasing the risk of the tip cap falling off. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The present invention provides an endoscope, the purpose of which is to improve the installation reliability of the endoscope tip cap and the front end structure, and to improve the ease of disassembly and assembly of the reusable tip cap.
[0006] To solve the above problems, the specific technical solution of the present invention is as follows:
[0007] A first aspect of the present invention provides a tip cap for a front end structure portion of an endoscope insertion portion, the front end structure portion being disposed at the front end side of the insertion portion inserted into the body, the tip cap comprising:
[0008] First subject;
[0009] as well as
[0010] The second body is formed of a rigid structure and is positioned at the base end side of the insertion part, which is closer to the front end of the first body than the first body.
[0011] The covering part is capable of elastic deformation under the action of external force, and encapsulates the first body, the second body and the preset interval therein. All the outer sides of the first body and the second body are surrounded by the covering part.
[0012] The locking part is provided on the side circumferential surface of the second body of the tip cap. The preload of the locking part on the front end structure can be adjusted by the elastic deformation of the cover part, so that the locking part and the front end structure can maintain the locking engagement.
[0013] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic deformation of the cover is used to adjust the relative position of the locking part during installation. The elastic deformation of the cover is adjusted to lock into the front end structure part, and after installation, the pre-tightening force or the pre-tightening force of the tensile deformation of the cover is provided through deformation recovery, so as to achieve stable installation of the tip cap.
[0014] In one possible embodiment of the first aspect, the locking portion has a thin-walled portion that is radially recessed on the side peripheral surface of the second body. The thin-walled portion has an intersecting and through first wall portion and a second wall portion, the first wall portion being parallel to the length axis direction of the insertion portion, and the second wall portion intersecting the length axis direction of the insertion portion.
[0015] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the sidewall of the second wall portion is formed as a rotation stop to restrict the circumferential rotation of the tip cap relative to the front body portion.
[0016] In one possible embodiment of the first aspect, the intersection region of the first wall portion and the second wall portion has a transition portion, and the angle of inclination of the transition portion relative to the length axis of the insertion portion is less than 90 degrees.
[0017] In one possible embodiment of the first aspect, a guide portion is provided on the side peripheral surface of the second body that is closer to the base end of the insertion portion than the locking portion, and the guide surface of the guide portion is in contact with the bottom surface of the thin-walled portion.
[0018] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the locking portion includes a protrusion disposed on the side peripheral surface of the second body.
[0019] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the protrusion is deformable when subjected to an external force in a direction intersecting the length axis of the insertion portion, and enters a first preset deformation state that is flush with the side peripheral surface of the tip cap.
[0020] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the covering is formed of a flexible polymer layer.
[0021] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first body and the second body are configured to be integrally formed with the cover portion.
[0022] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first body, the second body, and the cover are coaxially arranged, and the radial outer periphery of the first body is equal to the inner diameter of the second body.
[0023] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, a limiting groove is provided on the inner top wall of the first body. The limiting groove cooperates with the front end structure to prevent the tip cap from flipping or tilting along its mounting plane.
[0024] A second aspect of the present invention provides an endoscope system in which the front end structure of the endoscope is provided with a tip cap as described in any of the first aspects, and the tip cap is detachably connected to the front end structure.
[0025] In one possible embodiment of the second aspect, the endoscope has a locking portion on the front end structure portion at the front end of the insertion portion, the locking portion engaging with a locking portion on the tip cap to restrict the rotation of the tip cap relative to the front end structure portion.
[0026] In one possible embodiment of the second aspect, the first distance from the distal end face of the second main body near the front end side of the insertion portion to the lower end face of the locking portion near the base end side of the insertion portion is less than the second distance from the top end face of the front end structure near the base end side of the insertion portion to the lower end face of the locking portion near the base end side of the insertion portion.
[0027] In one possible embodiment of the second aspect, a guide portion is provided on the side peripheral surface of the front end structure portion that is closer to the base end of the insertion portion than the locking portion, and the guide surface of the guide portion is in contact with the bottom surface of the locking portion.
[0028] In one possible embodiment of the second aspect, the surface of the front end structure is provided with a position defining portion that is in a pre-installed state when it is engaged with the tip cap. The position defining portion is a second mark formed on the surface of the front end structure and aligned with a first mark on the tip cap.
[0029] The endoscope, employing the aforementioned structure, offers the following advantages:
[0030] The endoscope's tip cap is formed with a rigid main body and an elastic cover. The elastic structure provides a pre-tightening force along the tip cap's axial direction during installation, ensuring a tight fit between the endoscope's front end structure and the tip cap, preventing loosening or slippage after engagement. Simultaneously, the elastic deformation of the cover allows for easy removal of the tip cap from the front end structure. The elastic deformation of the tip cap's cover flexibly adapts to the shape of the front end structure, achieving a seal and preventing liquids, gases, or other substances from entering the tip cap, thus ensuring the cleanliness and functional stability of the equipment. Attached Figure Description
[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of an endoscope system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0033] Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram of the front-end structure in one embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram of the front-end structure in one embodiment of the present invention;
[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the tip cap structure in one embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the main body of the tip cap in one embodiment of the present invention;
[0037] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cap with a thin-walled portion in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;
[0038] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cap with a thin-walled portion in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;
[0039] Figure 7a This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the protrusion provided on the tip cap in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;
[0040] Figure 7b This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of the cap with a protrusion in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;
[0041] Figure 7c This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of the protrusion on the side wall of the cap in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;
[0042] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the tip cap with a protrusion in Embodiment 4 of the present invention;
[0043] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the tip cap and the front body in a pre-installation state according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0044] Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a limiting groove provided on the tip cap in one embodiment of the present invention;
[0045] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in Example 1 of the application of the present invention, showing the fitting and installation of the tip cap and the front end structure.
[0046] Figure 12 This is another structural diagram illustrating the installation of the tip cap and the front end structure in Application Example 1 of the present invention.
[0047] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in Example 2 of the application of the present invention, showing the fitting and installation of the tip cap and the front end structure.
[0048] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in Example 3 of the application of the present invention, showing the fitting and installation of the tip cap and the front end structure.
[0049] Figure 15a and Figure 15b This is a schematic diagram of the structure in Example 4 of the application of the present invention, showing the fitting and installation of the tip cap and the front end structure.
[0050] Figure 16a and Figure 16b This is a schematic diagram of the structure in Example 4 of the application of the present invention, showing the fitting and installation of the tip cap and the front end structure.
[0051] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in Example 5 of the present invention, showing the fitting and installation of the tip cap and the front end structure.
[0052] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in Application Example 6 of the present invention, showing the fitting and installation of the tip cap and the front end structure.
[0053] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures
[0054] 1: Front end structure; 2: Tip cap; 3: Insertion part; 4: Locking part; 11: Locked part; 12: Second mark; 16: Guide part; 21: First body; 22: Second body; 23: Preset interval; 24: Covering part; 25: Opening; 211: Limiting groove; 10: Limiting mating part; 5a, 5b: Thin-walled part; 51a: First wall part; 51b: First wall part; 51c: Transition part; 26: First mark; 27a, 27b: Anti-rotation part; 42a, 42b: Anti-rotation part; 43: Elastic component; 44: Storage part; 1411, 1412, 1413: Stopping part; 14a, 14b, 14c: Recessed part; 141a, 142a, 143a: First groove; 141b, 142b, 143b: Second groove. Specific Implementation
[0055] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They 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 device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0056] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.
[0057] Please see Figure 1 As shown in Figure 2, the endoscopic system includes a front end section 1, a tip cap 2, and an insertion section 3. The front end section 1 is located at the front end of the endoscope, on the front side of the insertion section 3 along its length axis L. It typically has a cylindrical structure and is used to enable the endoscope's observation, imaging, and illumination functions. Through the field of view, illumination support, therapeutic functions, and guiding functions provided by the front end section 1, physicians can perform precise diagnosis, treatment, and procedures to provide optimal clinical outcomes.
[0058] The insertion section 3 is part of the endoscope and is used to insert the endoscope into the body cavity or organ of the object being observed. The insertion section 3 is typically a slender tubular structure that contains a fiber optic bundle, an image sensor, a water / air channel, an instrument channel, etc. The insertion section 3 illuminates, images, and guides the object being observed through the front end structure 1, which is located at the front end of the insertion section 3 inserted into the body.
[0059] A recessed slit, with a side cut, is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the endoscope's front end structure 1. A channel opening is located on one side of this slit. An illumination lens (illumination window) for an illumination optics system and an objective lens (observation window) for an observation optics system are arranged side-by-side next to this channel opening. Furthermore, a nozzle for supplying air or water protrudes from the rear end wall of the slit in the front end structure 1. This nozzle sprays fluids such as water or air onto the outer surface of the objective lens to clean the lens surface. The front end structure 1 is made of, for example, a metal such as stainless steel.
[0060] Additionally, please see Figure 2a The front section of the front end of the front end structure 1 is circular, and the main body along the length axis of the insertion part 3 is cylindrical.
[0061] Additionally, please see Figure 2b The overall shape of the front end structure 1 is a double-sided planar truncated cylinder, the front end section of which is a rounded rectangle, and the section along the length axis of the insertion part 3 is a rectangle.
[0062] Please see Figure 3 The tip cap 2 covers the front end of the anterior segment 1. The distal surface of the tip cap 2 conforms to the anterior side of the anterior segment 1, protecting the functional elements of the cylindrical structure of the anterior segment 1. It protects the delicate functional elements of the anterior segment 1 (such as the camera and illumination components) from damage or contamination during surgery, reduces direct contact between the anterior segment 1 and the mucosa, and lowers the risk of mucosal injury. The tip cap 2 also prevents debris or fluid from accumulating at the tip, thus ensuring the cleanliness of the endoscope.
[0063] During the procedure, the tip cap 2 is placed on the anterior structural part 1 at a specific insertion angle along the length axis L of the insertion part 3. The surgeon then gradually advances the endoscope into the duodenum and other areas of interest by controlling the advancement and rotation of the insertion part 3. When the anterior structural part 1 reaches the desired position, the surgeon can observe the mucosa and lesions through its field of view. The opening of the tip cap 2 ensures ample light, minimizes obstruction, and provides a clear view. During treatment, the surgeon operates using the functional components of the anterior structural part. For example, using a high-frequency electrosurgical unit for cutting and hemostasis, or using biopsy forceps for tissue sampling. When the procedure is completed or when the tip cap 2 needs to be removed, the surgeon can remove it from the anterior structural part 1 and reuse it after disinfection.
[0064] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 4The cap 2 includes a first body 21, a second body 22, and a cover 24. The first body 21 can be formed as a rigid or non-rigid structure, while the second body 22 can be formed as a rigid structure. A preset interval 23 exists between the first body 21 and the second body 22. The second body 22 is positioned at the base end side of the insertion portion 3 of the front end structure 1, closer to the first body 21 than the first body 21. The cover 24 encapsulates the first body 21, the second body 22, and the preset interval 23. All peripheral sides of the first body 21 and the second body 23 are surrounded by the cover 24. The entire cover 24 has the same outline as the cap 2 that matches the front end structure 1. The cap 2 and the front end structure 1 are locked together by a locking part 4. The locking part 4 is provided on the side peripheral surface of the second body 21 of the cap 2. After the tip cap 2 is installed on the front end structure 1, the elastic deformation of the cover 24 allows the locking part 4 of the tip cap 2 to adjust the preload relative to the front end structure 1 and reliably lock onto the front end structure 1.
[0065] The cover portion 24 fills and extends to the outer surface of the first body 21, the second body 22, and the preset interval 23, thereby forming an integral closed structure. The cover portion 24 can undergo controllable elastic deformation during installation or when subjected to external force. The cover portion 24 has a specific way of matching the shape characteristics of the front end structure portion 1 (such as the same contour or fitting edge).
[0066] The elastic deformation of the cover 24 can apply additional force (such as compression or tension) to the locking part 4 of the tip cap 2, reliably maintaining the locking part 4 of the tip cap 2 in the designated position where it engages with the front end structure 1. After installation, the tip cap 2 is locked onto the front end structure 1 and reliably maintained by providing pre-tightening force after the deformation of the cover 24 returns to its original state, or by the pre-tightening force of the cover 24 during tensile deformation.
[0067] The elastic deformation of the cover part 4 enables the tip cap 2 to fit between the tip cap 2 and the front end structure part 1, maintaining the elastic deformation after installation to enhance the locking force between the locking part 4 and the front end structure part 1, and maintaining reliable locking between the tip cap 2 and the front end structure part 1.
[0068] The tip cap 2 also has an opening 25 on its side wall. The size and position of the opening 25 are usually designed according to the position of the functional elements of the front end structure 1 to ensure that the functional elements are not obstructed by the tip cap 2 during use, and to allow instruments intended for diagnostic or treatment procedures (such as high-frequency electrosurgical units, biopsy forceps, etc.) to pass through the instrument channel and be used for treatment through the opening 25 of the tip cap 2. Typically, the opening 25 is positioned opposite to the functional elements (illumination elements, cameras, etc.) on the front end structure 1. On one side of the top of the opening 25, the side wall and top wall of the tip cap 2 also have a notch. The position and size of the notch correspond to the direction in which the instrument extends, so as not to hinder the extension of the instrument during use.
[0069] Specifically, in order to enable the cover 24 to elastically deform and recover during the installation and removal of the tip cap 2, the cover 24 can be formed of a material capable of maintaining the deformation and returning to its original shape, such as a soft polymer layer, for example, rubber or silicone. During installation, the cover 24 formed by the soft polymer layer can elastically deform and, when the tip cap 2 is engaged with the front end structure 1, provide a reliable locking force to prevent the tip cap 2 from falling off. For example, when the cover 24 is made of rubber, its deformation range does not exceed 5 mm, enabling the tip cap 2 to be reliably engaged with the front end structure 1 while maintaining the structural stability of the tip cap 2 during use.
[0070] Specifically, the first body 21 and the second body 22 are integrally formed with the cover portion 24. During the forming process, the cover portion 24 uniformly fills the first body 21, the second body 22, and the preset interval 23, thereby forming a continuous connection. The cover portion 24 not only covers the outer surfaces of the first body 21 and the second body 22, but also forms an elastic filling area in the preset interval 23, so that the entire outer peripheral surface of the tip cap 2 is seamlessly connected into a whole.
[0071] In this process, the cover 24 of the tip cap 2 can be integrally formed with the first body 21 and the second body 22 during manufacturing through injection molding or compression molding, thus achieving a seamless combination of rigid components 21 and 22 and elastic cover 24.
[0072] The first body 21, the second body 22, and the cover 24 are coaxially arranged. The radial outer circumference of the first body 21 is equal to the inner diameter of the second body 22, and their center lines roughly coincide. This allows the preload provided by the elastic deformation of the cover 24 to be more evenly distributed in the circumferential direction when the tip cap 2 is installed, improving the durability of the structure and the balance and stability of the tip cap 2. The wall thicknesses of the first body 21 and the second body 22 can be equal or unequal, and are not limited.
[0073] The inner diameter of the tip cap 2 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the front end structure 1, making it easier to assemble and remove.
[0074] In one embodiment, the first body 21, the second body 22, and the cover 24 can also be connected separately, so that the cover 24 can tightly cover the first body 21 and the second body 22, thereby achieving a physical and firm connection. The cover 24 is fixed to the outside of the first body 21 and the second body 22 by adhesive bonding or a coating process.
[0075] In one embodiment, the first body 21 and the second body 22 are provided with an interlocking structure in the junction area covered by the covering part 24 to prevent them from disengaging due to external force in the junction area with the covering part. The interlocking structure can be designed as a concave-convex fit or a hook structure.
[0076] Please see Figure 3 or Figure 5 or Figure 6 The second body 22 or the cover 24 of the tip cap 2 is provided with a first mark 26 for indicating that the tip cap 2 is aligned with the front body 1. When the tip cap 2 and the front structure 1 are aligned, the tip cap 2 can be installed on the front structure 1 along the alignment position and directly engage after reaching the appropriate position or after rotating the tip cap to engage, so that the tip cap 2 can be reliably and accurately installed on the front structure 1.
[0077] Example 1
[0078] Please see Figure 5 The locking part 4 has a thin-walled part 5a that is radially recessed inward on the side peripheral surface of the second body 22. The thin-walled part 5a has a first wall part 51a and a second wall part 51b that intersect and pass through the length axis of the insertion part. The first wall part 51a and the second wall part 51b cooperate to guide and lock the front end structure part 1 in the locking part 4. Specifically, the first wall part 51a is parallel to the length axis of the insertion part 3, and the second wall part 51b intersects the length axis of the insertion part 3. An anti-rotation portion 27a is provided in the area of the side circumferential surface of the second wall portion 51b along the length axis of the insertion portion 3. The anti-rotation portion 27a is formed on the side wall of the second wall portion 51b along the length direction of the insertion portion 3. The anti-rotation portion 27a restricts the rotation of the tip cap 2 and the front end body portion 1 in the circumferential direction. The elastic deformation of the cover portion 24 allows the second wall portion 52b to be locked with the front end structure portion 1. The pre-tightening force provided in the elastic deformation state can prevent the tip cap 2 from popping out of the front end structure portion 1.
[0079] In this embodiment, when the tip cap 2 is used to match the front structure 1 with a circular front end cross-section, the thin-walled portion 5a formed on the inner circumferential surface 22a of the second body 22 of the tip cap 2 includes a first wall portion 51a and a second wall portion 51b. The first wall portion 51a and the second wall portion 52b form an inverted L-shaped through groove, which allows the front structure 1 to be finally locked in the edge of the through groove. When the locked portion 11 of the front structure 1 enters the first wall portion 51a of the tip cap 2, it moves along the front end side of the insertion portion 3 until the locked portion 11 is restricted to the upper top surface of the first wall portion 51a, that is, the movement of the tip cap 2 along the length axis is restricted. Then, the tip cap 2 is rotated circumferentially along the front structure 1 so that the locked portion 11 enters the second wall portion 51b until the anti-rotation portion 27a on the side of the second wall portion 51b stops, completing the locking of the tip cap 2 and the front structure 1.
[0080] Specifically, the intersection area of the first wall portion 51a and the second wall portion 51b has a transition portion 51c, the transition portion 51c having an inclination angle of less than 90 degrees relative to the length axis of the insertion portion. The transition portion 51c can be designed as a progressively curved surface or inclined surface, and its width can be set to gradually change, gradually widening from the narrow portion in the direction from the first wall portion 51a to the second wall portion 51b, forming a gradually expanding profile to guide the front end structure portion 1 to enter the second wall portion 51b more smoothly and be blocked by the anti-rotation portion 27a.
[0081] When the tip cap 2 is installed and subjected to external force, the preload force causes the cover portion 24 of the tip cap 2 to undergo elastic deformation, changing the shape of the groove corresponding to the second wall portion 51b. This results in a "self-locking" effect between the geometry formed by the second wall portion 51b and the locking portion 11. Even if the external force changes or vibration occurs during use, the preload force provided by the cover portion 24 can maintain a stable and secure connection between the tip cap 2 and the front end structure portion 1.
[0082] Example 2
[0083] Please see Figure 6When the tip cap 2 is used to match the front structure 1 with a rectangular front cross-section, the first wall portion 52a of the thin-walled portion 5b is a clearance groove provided on the outer periphery of the rectangular edge relative to the length axis of the insertion portion 3. The clearance groove can correspond to the position of the rounded corner transition of the front structure 1, ensuring that when the tip cap 2 rotates to the side position of the front structure 1, the groove provided on the side edge can prevent the tip cap 2 from directly contacting the rounded corner transition area of the front structure 1. After passing the first wall portion 52a, the tip cap 2 continues to rotate and enters the second wall portion 52b until it stops at the anti-rotation portion 27b on the side of the second wall portion 52b, restricting the rotation of the tip cap 2 along the front structure 1 in the circumferential direction, thus completing the diagonal locking of the tip cap 2 in the front structure 1.
[0084] Example 3
[0085] Please see Figures 7a to 7c The locking part 4 includes a protrusion 42a with a contraction structure on the side peripheral surface of the cap 2, an elastic component 43, and a receiving part 44. The receiving part 44 may have a groove formed in the inner peripheral surface of the cap to accommodate the elastic component 43 and the protrusion 42a. The protrusion 42a is connected to the elastic component 43 embedded in the inner peripheral surface of the cap 2, and the elastic component 43 is fixed in the receiving part 44 on the inner peripheral surface of the cap 2.
[0086] When the tip cap 2 contacts the outer wall of the front end structure 1, the elastic component 43 is compressed when the protrusion 42a is subjected to external force. The protrusion 42a retracts towards the receiving part 44 and remains in a first preset deformation state flush with the inner circumferential surface of the tip cap 2, allowing the tip cap 2 to move smoothly along the length axis of the insertion part 3. When the external force disappears, the elastic component 43 returns to its original state, causing the protrusion 42a to spring back to the initial position maintaining the same initial protrusion amount. The tip cap 2 is locked in place by the protruding protrusion 42a against the front end structure 1.
[0087] In this embodiment, the elastic component 43 can be fixed in the inner groove or slot within the receiving portion 44. The elastic component 43 can maintain the outer contour of the protrusion 42a flush with the inner circumferential surface of the tip cap 2; at the same time, the elastic component 43 provides a rebound force to ensure that the protrusion 42a returns to its initial protruding position. For example, the elastic component 43 can be a compression spring, tension spring, torsion spring, silicone elastomer, rubber ring, or gas spring, etc., which can provide a certain contraction and rebound reset function.
[0088] Example 4
[0089] Please see Figure 8The locking part 4 includes a protrusion 42b on the inner circumferential surface of the tip cap 2. The protrusion 42b has sufficient clearance during installation. During the locking process, it relies on precise geometric fit and preset gap to fit and lock with a specific position of the front end structure part 1.
[0090] Based on the tip cap 2 provided in any of the aforementioned embodiments one to four, an endoscope is provided that allows the user to select and use an endoscope tip cap 2 appropriate for its intended use. This endoscope has a front end structure 1 that can be adapted to the tip cap 2 involved in at least one of the aforementioned embodiments. The tip cap 2 is locked in place by a locking part 11 provided on the front end structure 1 and a locking part 4 of the tip cap 2, thereby limiting the rotation of the tip cap 2 relative to the front end structure 1. The first body 21 may be provided with a groove or protrusion that moves perpendicular to the plane of the insertion part 3, further improving the reliability of the tip cap 2 after installation. Simultaneously, in the case of elastic deformation of the cover part 24, the tip cap 2 and the front end structure 1 achieve reliable self-locking locking under pre-tightening force. The endoscope supports repeated installation and removal of the tip cap 2.
[0091] Please see Figure 9 In order to facilitate the determination of the pre-installation position of the tip cap 2 on the front end structure 1, a first mark 26 is provided on the side peripheral surface of the tip cap 2, and a position specification part is provided on the side peripheral surface of the front end structure 1 to specify the pre-installation state when it is in contact with the tip cap. The position specification part is a second mark 12 formed on the surface of the front end structure 1.
[0092] When the first mark 26 and the second mark 12 on the tip cap 2 are aligned along the length axis of the insertion part 3, the tip cap 2 can move downward along the base end side of the length axis of the insertion part 3 and rotate in the circumferential direction, so that the tip cap 2 can be installed into the front end structure part 1 and locked in place, thus completing the installation of the tip cap 2.
[0093] Specifically, both the first mark 26 and the second mark 12 can be raised marks, such as small dots, lines, engravings or grooves, or visual identifiers such as arrows, circles, and squares, to achieve positional alignment.
[0094] Please see Figure 10 A limiting groove 211 is provided on the inner top wall 21c of the first body 21 of the tip cap 2. The limiting groove 211 is arranged close to the length axis of the tip cap 2.
[0095] In an embodiment of the endoscopic system of the present invention, please refer to... Figure 11The limiting groove 211 forms a protruding structure with the limiting fitting part 10 provided at the top of the front end structure 1 facing the front end of the insertion part 3 through the radially inward recess. Its shape matches the shape of the recess of the limiting groove 211 of the tip cap, which can counteract the torque of the tip cap 2 flipping around the length axis of the insertion part 3, thereby preventing the tip cap 2 from flipping along the plane of the length axis of the insertion part 3 when subjected to external force.
[0096] In an embodiment of the endoscope system of the present invention, when the limiting groove 211 is designed as any shape such as a snap-fit groove, trapezoidal groove, V-shaped groove, or U-shaped groove, a corresponding limiting engagement part 10 can be designed on the front end structure 1 to achieve precise matching with the limiting groove 211. The limiting groove 211 of the tip cap and the limiting engagement part 10 on the front end structure 1 cooperate to form a mechanical locking point, providing a reliable locking mechanism. This locking structure prevents the tip cap 2 from flipping or tilting within its mounting plane when subjected to an external force in a direction intersecting the length axis of the insertion part 3. After installation, further locking of the tip cap prevents the tip cap body near the front end from flipping or tilting around the mounting plane, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the tip cap 2 on the front end structure 1. For example, other locking and damping mechanisms that cooperate between the tip cap 2 and the front end structure 1 can also prevent flipping, thereby improving clinical performance.
[0097] For example, the limiting groove 211 provided on the tip cap 2 can be set as an arc-shaped groove. The arc-shaped groove can lock with the limiting mating part 10 when the tip cap 2 is rotated and installed on the front end structure part 1. The center of the arc-shaped groove coincides with the center of the tip cap 2.
[0098] In one embodiment of the endoscope system of the present invention, the first distance L1 from the distal end face of the first body 21 of the tip cap 2 near the front end side of the insertion part 3 to the lower end face of the locking part 4 of the tip cap 2 near the base end side of the insertion part 3 is less than the second distance L2 from the top surface of the front end structure 1 near the base end side of the insertion part 3 to the lower end face of the locking part 11 near the base end side of the insertion part 3. After the first mark 26 of the tip cap 2 is aligned with the second mark 12 of the front end structure 1, as the inner circumferential surface of the tip cap 2 moves along the base end side of the front end structure 1, the covering part 24 deforms, causing a certain distance difference ΔL = L2 - L1 between L1 and L2 to continuously increase. This distance difference is converted into a tensile force F along the length axis of the insertion part 3.
[0099] The deformation coefficient of the cover part 24 and the distance difference ΔL can control the magnitude of the pre-tightening tension F in the axial direction of the tip cap 2, so that the tip cap 2 is firmly stuck on the front end structure part 1 under the action of the pre-tightening tension F.
[0100] Specifically, the pre-tightening tension F is proportional to ΔL. The larger ΔL is, the more reliably the deformation of the tip cap 2 maintains its fit with the front structure 1, and the less likely it is to fall off during use. The cover 24 is made of a material with appropriate elasticity and deformation coefficient (such as silicone) so that the cover 24 can deform sufficiently under external force during installation, but can also return to its original shape after the external force is removed. The pre-tightening tension generated by the elastic deformation of the cover 24 between the tip cap 2 and the front structure 1 along the axial direction of the tip cap 2 can prevent the tip cap 2 from loosening or falling off during use and maintain its reliable locking. In order to achieve repeated disassembly and reassembly of the tip cap 2, the pre-tightening tension corresponding to the elastic deformation generated by the cover 24 should be within the elastic deformation range of the polymer soft material and should not exceed the yield strength of the material.
[0101] Application Example 1
[0102] Based on the aforementioned Embodiment 1, for an endoscope system in which a thin-walled portion 5a is provided on the side circumferential surface of the tip cap 2 and is installed with the front end structure 1 through the thin-walled portion 5a, when the tip cap 2 is locked with the locking portion 11 of the front end structure 1 of the endoscope through the thin-walled portion 5a on the inner circumferential surface, the locking portion 11 of the front end structure 1 has a protrusion 42, the protrusion amount P1 of the protrusion 42 does not exceed the depth H1 of the thin wall 5a on the circumferential side of the tip cap 2, and the sum of the outer diameter D1 of the front end structure 1 and the protrusion amount P1 does not exceed the inner diameter D2 of the tip cap 2.
[0103] Please see Figures 12 to 13 The locking part 11 is formed as a protrusion 11a on the side wall of the front end structure 1. During installation, when the first mark 26 of the tip cap 2 is aligned with the second mark 12 of the front end structure 1, the protrusion 11a can engage with the thin wall part 5 of the tip cap 2 and be locked.
[0104] Specifically, when the tip cap 2 is aligned with the front end structure 1, the tip cap 2 is installed along the base end side of the length axis of the insertion part 3. The tip cap 2 moves downward along the base end side of the insertion part 3 until the protrusion 11a on the front end structure 1 enters the first groove formed by the first wall portion 51a on the tip cap 2. The tip cap 2 is pushed further until the protrusion 11a moves into the first groove and is near the upper edge of the insertion part 33 in the front end direction, thus restricting its movement in the length axis direction. Then, the tip cap 2 is rotated circumferentially along the front end structure 1, and the protrusion 11a enters the second groove formed by the second wall portion 51b through the transition portion 51c and abuts against the anti-rotation portion 27a. Then, when the protrusion 11a abuts against the anti-rotation portion 27a, the tip cap 2 is released. Under the elastic deformation of the cover portion 24, the second groove and the protrusion 11a are reliably installed on the front end structure 1 under the action of pre-tightening force, preventing radial or lateral movement of the tip cap 2 and ensuring reliable locking.
[0105] Specifically, the second wall portion 51b can adopt an arc or chamfer design, so that when the tip cap 2 is installed in the end seat 12 of the front end structure portion 1, it can smoothly enter the ear groove and be firmly fixed after installation.
[0106] In this design, any segment of the transition portion 51c ensures that the protrusion moves smoothly during the downward advancement or rotational movement of the tip cap 2 until it is confined to the anti-rotation portion 27, thus making the installation process smoother. The transition portion 51c can be formed as an inclined surface, gradually sloping radially inward relative to the entrance of the second wall portion 41b. The inclination angle can be the angle between the normal direction of a point on the surface of the transition portion 51c and the length axis of the insertion portion 3. The shape of the transition portion 51c is designed to have an inclination angle of less than 90° relative to the length axis of the insertion portion.
[0107] For example, when the transition portion 51c is arc-shaped, its inclination angle can be the angle between the circumferential tangent at the midpoint of the arc surface and the central axis of the insertion portion, and this angle does not exceed 90°. The transition portion 51c, as a guiding structure, is located between the first wall portion 41a and the second wall portion 41b of the thin-walled portion 41. The transition portion 51c is configured as an arc-shaped surface or an inclined channel to guide the protrusion 11a into the second wall portion 41b and maintain the correct orientation and alignment during insertion, avoiding jamming or obstruction during installation. The progressive guidance of the transition portion 51c further improves the reliability of the assembly, and the anti-rotation portion 27 prevents the tip cap 2 from rotating along the front end structure portion 1.
[0108] In this embodiment, the anti-rotation portion 27a and the second wall portion 51b have approximately the same width, and are slightly larger than the protruding width of the locking portion 11 on the front end structure portion 1. This allows for reduced friction and obstruction during operation, while maintaining appropriate tightening force, thus improving the smoothness and efficiency of installation.
[0109] Application Example 2
[0110] Based on the aforementioned embodiment 2, when a thin-walled portion 5b is provided on the side peripheral surface of the tip cap 2, when the tip cap 2 is locked with the locking portion 11 of the front end structure 1 with a rectangular front end cross section by the thin-walled portion 5b on the inner peripheral surface, the locking portion 11 of the front end structure 1 can be configured to include a protrusion 11b.
[0111] Please see Figure 14In this embodiment, the protrusion 11b is configured to retract under the action of an external force by the elastic component 13. Specifically, the protrusion 11b is connected to the elastic component 13 embedded in the outer peripheral surface 1a of the front end structure 1, and the elastic component 13 is fixed in a receiving portion 15 formed on the outer peripheral surface 1a of the front end structure 1. The receiving portion 15 can be a groove formed on the inner peripheral surface of the cap to accommodate the elastic component 13 and the protrusion 11b. When the cap 2 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the front end structure 1, the protrusion 11b is subjected to an external force, the elastic component 13 is compressed, and the protrusion 11b is pressed into the receiving portion 15 and remains flush with the outer peripheral surface 1a of the front end structure 1. When the external force disappears, the elastic component 13 returns to its original state, and the protrusion 11b rebounds to an initial position that maintains the same protrusion as the protrusion of the protrusion 11b, thus achieving locking between the cap 2 and the front end structure 1.
[0112] When the first mark 21 of the tip cap 2 aligns with the second mark 12 of the front end structure 1, the tip cap 2 moves along the base end side of the length axis of the insertion part 3 and contacts the protrusion 11b of the front end structure 1. The protrusion 11b is compressed into the receiving part 15 by the elastic component 13, causing the tip cap 2 to continue moving. When the protrusion 11b contacts the thin-walled part 5b on the tip cap 2 and enters the thin-walled part 5b, it returns to its original shape. Then, when the protrusion 11b abuts against the anti-rotation part 27b, the tip cap 2 is released. Under the elastic deformation of the covering part 24, the thin-walled part 5b and the protrusion 11b are reliably installed on the front end structure 1 under the action of pre-tightening force, preventing radial or lateral movement of the tip cap 2 and ensuring reliable locking.
[0113] Furthermore, after the protrusion 11b enters the thin-walled portion 5b, the tip cap 2 rotates circumferentially along the front end structure portion 1. After the protrusion 11b enters the first wall portion 52a, it can continue to rotate. The tip cap 2 enters the second wall portion 52b until it stops at the anti-rotation portion 27b on the side of the second wall portion 52b.
[0114] Application Example 3
[0115] Based on the aforementioned embodiment 3, when the inner circumferential surface of the tip cap 2 is provided with a protrusion 42a having an elastic contraction function, when the tip cap 2 is engaged with the front end structure 1 of the endoscope, the front end structure 1 is also provided with a recess 14a that can guide and accommodate the protrusion 42a.
[0116] Please see Figure 15a and 15bThe front end structure 1, with a circular cross-section, has a recess 14a on its inner peripheral wall, including a first groove 141a and a second groove 141b, forming an inverted L-shaped through groove. Specifically, the first groove 141a is parallel to the length axis of the insertion part 3, and the second groove 141b intersects the length axis of the insertion part 3. During installation, the protrusion 42a begins to contact the opening of the first groove 141a as the tip cap 2 moves downward along the base end of the insertion part 3. At this time, the elastic component 43 pushes the protrusion 42a into the first groove 141a. After the protrusion 42a is fully inside the first groove 141a, it continues to move along the length axis of the insertion part 3 until it is limited to the upper edge of the first groove 141a near the front end. Then, the protrusion 2 of the tip cap 2 is rotated to gradually transition from the first groove 141a to the second groove 141b, and is finally stopped by the stop 1411 formed by the side of the second groove 141b to limit the rotation of the tip cap 2. At this time, the tip cap 2 is released. The tip cap 2 is kept tightly connected by the pre-tightening force formed by the cover part 24, and the tip cap 2 is reliably fixed on the front end structure part 1.
[0117] When removing the tip cap 2, the elastic component 43 is compressed by rotating or slightly pulling the tip cap 2, and the protrusion 42a gradually disengages from the first groove 141a and / or the second groove 141b. The protrusion 42a is removed from the front end structure 1 while remaining compressed by the elastic component 43.
[0118] Application Example 4
[0119] Based on the aforementioned embodiment 3, when the inner circumferential surface of the tip cap 2 is provided with a protrusion 42a having an elastic contraction function, when the tip cap 2 is engaged with the front end structure 1 of the endoscope, the front end structure 1 is also provided with a recess 14b that can guide and accommodate the protrusion 42a.
[0120] Please see Figure 16a and Figure 16b During installation, push along the base end of the insertion part 3. As the tip cap 2 moves downward, the protrusion 42a begins to contact the groove of the recess 14b. At this time, the elastic component 43 pushes the protrusion 42a into the recess 14b, and the protrusion 42b returns to its initial shape and is restricted by the stop 1412 formed by the side wall of the recess 14b. Then, release the tip cap 2. The tip cap 2 is kept tightly connected by the pre-tightening force formed by the cover part 24, reliably fixing the tip cap 2 to the front end structure part 1.
[0121] Application Example 5
[0122] Based on the aforementioned embodiment 3, when the inner circumferential surface of the tip cap 2 is provided with a protrusion 42a having an elastic contraction function, when the tip cap 2 is engaged with the front end structure 1 of the endoscope, the front end structure 1 is also provided with a recess 14c that can provide guidance / avoidance and accommodate the protrusion 42a.
[0123] Please see Figure 17 The front end structure 1, with a rectangular cross-section, has an inner peripheral wall with a recess 14c forming a receiving groove including a second groove 142b. A guide portion 16 is provided on the base end side of the front end structure 1, closer to the insertion part 3 than the recess 14d. When the first mark 26 of the tip cap 2 is aligned with the second mark 12, the protrusion 42a of the tip cap 2 is compressed by the elastic component 43 to be flush with the inner peripheral surface of the tip cap 2. After the protrusion 42a on the tip cap 2 moves along the base end side of the insertion part 3 and comes into contact with the guide portion 16 of the front end structure 1, the tip cap 2 is rotated so that the protrusion 42a enters the second groove 142b along the guide portion 16 and is stopped by the stop portion 1413 formed on the side of the second groove 142b to restrict the rotation of the tip cap 2. At this time, the tip cap 2 is released, and the tip cap 2 is kept tightly connected by the pre-tightening force formed by the cover portion 24, reliably fixing the tip cap 2 to the front end structure 1.
[0124] The recess 14c may also include a guide clearance groove formed by the first groove 142a, which can prevent the protrusion 42a from being stuck when it rotates along the guide 16 of the front end structure 1, and ensure that the protrusion 42a can enter the receiving groove formed by the second groove 142b.
[0125] When removing the tip cap 2, by rotating the tip cap 2, the protrusion 42a will gradually exit the locking area of the receiving groove formed by the second groove 14c, and the tip cap 2 can move upward along the guide 16 toward the front end of the insertion part 3 and be easily removed.
[0126] Application Example 6
[0127] Based on the aforementioned embodiment four, when the protrusion 42a is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the tip cap 2, when the tip cap 2 is engaged with the front end structure 1 of the endoscope, the front end structure 1 is also provided with a recess 14d that can provide avoidance and accommodate the protrusion 42b.
[0128] Please see Figure 18When the tip cap 2 is used to match the front structure 1 with a rectangular front end cross-section, a protrusion 42b is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the tip cap 2. The inner circumferential wall of the front structure 1 has a recess 14, which includes a first groove 143a and a second groove 143b forming a through groove. A guide portion 16 is provided on the base end side of the front structure 1, which is closer to the insertion part 3 than the recess 14. When the tip cap 2 is installed, when the first mark 26 is aligned with the second mark 12, it moves along the base end side of the insertion part 3. After the protrusion 42b on the tip cap 2 is connected to the guide portion 16, the tip cap 2 is rotated so that the protrusion 42b enters the second groove 143b along the guide portion 16. An anti-rotation portion 1414 is formed on the side of the second groove 143b to limit the circumferential rotation of the tip cap 2. At this time, the tip cap 2 is released, and the tip cap 2 is reliably locked by the pre-tightening force formed by the cover part 24, thereby reliably fixing the tip cap 2 to the front end structure part 1.
[0129] When the protrusion 42b of the tip cap 2 rotates along the guide portion 16 of the front end structure 1, the first groove 143a forms a guided clearance groove, which can prevent the protrusion 42a from getting stuck when rotating along the guide portion 16 of the front end structure 1. The clearance groove formed by the first groove 143a can be a flat arc shape or an angled design to prevent the protrusion 42b from being disturbed during rotation.
[0130] The depth and width of the clearance groove formed by the first groove 143a need to be designed according to the shape of the protrusion 42b to ensure that the protrusion 42b can easily enter the receiving groove formed by the second groove 16f during rotation. The protrusion 42b is preferably designed as a cylinder or hemisphere to reduce friction during the rotation and engagement process.
[0131] In this embodiment, during installation, when the protrusion 42b of the tip cap 2 approaches the front end structure 1, their parallel position causes the protrusion 42b to align with the front end structure 1 along the long side of the rounded rectangle. The engagement position of the protrusion 42b is along the diagonal position of the front end structure 1. The protrusion 42b avoids the rounded transition of the front end structure 1 and finally engages at the diagonal position, providing reliable locking.
[0132] In one embodiment, the locking part 4 and the locked part 11 appear in pairs on the tip cap 2 and the front end structure 1, and can be two or more evenly distributed around the tip cap 2 and the front end structure 1 to ensure uniform locking engagement in all directions.
[0133] In one embodiment, the opening direction of the tip cap 2 matches the structure of the front end structure 1, and can be matched with an endoscope having a side-viewing or direct-viewing camera device. Specifically, the tip cap 2 has a smooth overall surface and rounded edges, and its overall shape is coordinated with the axis of the endoscope, which can improve comfort and safety during clinical operation. In one embodiment, the tip cap 2 of the present invention can match the front end structure 1 with a circular, rectangular, rounded rectangular, or irregularly shaped cross-section, without limitation.
[0134] Specifically, to facilitate installation and disassembly while improving operational comfort and safety, the tip cap 2 is shaped to match the front end structure 1 of the endoscope. The inner diameter of the tip cap 2 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the front end structure 1, ensuring that the tip cap 2 can be smoothly fitted onto the front end structure 1, while leaving a certain gap for easy installation and disassembly. The tip cap 2 can be used repeatedly or disposable depending on actual clinical needs.
[0135] During the installation process of the tip cap 2 and the front structure part 1, the mechanical limiting cooperation of the locking part 4 and the locked part 11, as well as the pre-tightening force provided by the elastic deformation of the tip cap 2, enables reliable installation between the tip cap and the front structure part while maintaining the tip cap 2 in a firmly installed state. Furthermore, during the disassembly process of the tip cap 2, the elastic deformation of its covering part 24 allows for easy disassembly and reuse.
[0136] The endoscope system provided by this invention includes the aforementioned tip cap. Because the endoscope system provided by this invention utilizes the tip cap from the aforementioned embodiment, it also possesses the advantages of the tip cap, which will not be elaborated further here.
[0137] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.
Claims
1. A tip cap, which is installed on the front end structure of the insertion portion of an endoscope, characterized in that, The tip cap includes: First subject; as well as The second body is rigid and is positioned at a predetermined interval closer to the base end of the insertion part than the first body. The covering portion is capable of elastic deformation under external force, covering the first main body, the second main body and the preset interval, and the covering portion forms an elastic filling area within the preset interval; The locking part is disposed on the side peripheral surface of the second main body. The preload of the locking part relative to the front end structure can be adjusted by the elastic deformation of the cover part, so as to maintain the locking part and the front end structure in a locking fit. The locking part of the tip cap is maintained in a designated position where it engages with the front structure part through the elastic deformation of the cover.
2. The tip cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking part has a thin-walled part that is radially recessed on the side circumferential surface of the second body. The thin-walled part has an intersecting and through first wall and a second wall. The first wall is parallel to the length axis of the insertion part, and the second wall intersects the length axis of the insertion part.
3. The tip cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sidewall of the second wall portion is formed as a rotation stop to restrict the circumferential rotation of the tip cap relative to the front end structure portion.
4. The tip cap according to claim 2, characterized in that, The intersection area of the first wall portion and the second wall portion has a transition portion, and the inclination angle of the transition portion relative to the length axis of the insertion portion is less than 90 degrees.
5. The tip cap according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking part includes a protrusion disposed on the side peripheral surface of the second body.
6. The tip cap according to claim 5, characterized in that, The protrusion can deform when subjected to an external force in a direction intersecting the length axis of the insertion portion, and enter a first preset deformation state that is flush with the side circumferential surface of the tip cap.
7. The tip cap according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, A limiting groove is provided on the inner top wall of the first main body. The limiting groove cooperates with the front end structure to prevent the tip cap from flipping along its mounting plane.
8. An endoscope system, characterized in that, The endoscope in the endoscope system is located at the front end of the insertion part and is fitted with a tip cap as described in any one of claims 1 to 7 on its outer side. The tip cap is detachably connected to the endoscope. The surface of the front end structure has a position defining portion that is in a pre-installed state when it is engaged with the tip cap. The position defining portion is a second mark formed on the surface of the front end structure that can be aligned with a first mark on the tip cap. The first distance from the distal end face of the second main body near the front end side of the insertion part to the lower end face of the locking part near the base end side of the insertion part is less than the second distance from the top end face of the front end structure near the base end side of the insertion part to the lower end face of the locking part of the front end structure near the base end side of the insertion part.
9. The endoscope system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The endoscope has a locking portion on the front end structure at the front end of the insertion portion, which engages with the locking portion on the tip cap to restrict the rotation of the tip cap relative to the front end structure.
10. The endoscope system according to claim 8, characterized in that, A guide portion is provided on the side circumferential surface of the front end structure portion that is closer to the base end of the insertion portion than the locking portion, and the guide surface of the guide portion is in contact with the bottom surface of the locking portion of the tip cap.