Operation device for endoscope aid

Abstract

Provided is an operation device for an endoscope aid with high operability. This operation device for an endoscope aid is provided with: a first operation member, one end side of which is connected to an endoscope aid attached to an insertion section of an endoscope; a rotating member connected to the other end side of the first operation member and capable of rotating; an accommodating member accommodating the rotating member; and a second operation member that is provided so as to protrude from the accommodating member and is connected to the rotating member, the protruding end of the second operation member being configured so as to be movable on a part of the circumference of a virtual circle centered on the rotation axis of the rotating member. The housing member has, inside the virtual circle, a region that can be gripped by three or four fingers except for the thumb abutting against the second operation member in a single hand of an operator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology of the present invention relates to an operating device for an endoscope auxiliary instrument. Background Art

[0002] Patent Documents 1 to 6 describe technologies related to endoscopes.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-76672

[0004] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-87489

[0005] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-3851

[0006] Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-106713

[0007] Patent Document 5: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 60-99223

[0008] Patent Document 6: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-2858 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The technology of the present invention provides an operating device for an endoscope auxiliary instrument with high operability.

[0010] An operating device for an endoscope auxiliary instrument according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first operating member, one end of which is connected to the endoscope auxiliary instrument mounted on an insertion portion of an endoscope; a rotating member connected to the other end of the first operating member and capable of rotating; a housing member for housing the rotating member; and a second operating member protruding from the housing member and connected to the rotating member, the protruding end of the second operating member being configured to be movable along a portion of a circumference of a virtual circle centered on a rotation axis of the rotating member, the housing member having a grippable area inside the virtual circle.

[0011] Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to the technology of the present invention, it is possible to provide an operating device for an endoscope auxiliary instrument with high operability. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an endoscope device 100 as one embodiment of the technology of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 Yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the auxiliary device 20 of the endoscope 1 is shown in FIG.

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of the bending body 30 and the vicinity of the support member 50 in the assist device 20 is shown.

[0016] Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing a state in which the bending body 30 and the supporting member 50 are separated.

[0017] Figure 5 It is an exploded perspective view of the bending body 30 .

[0018] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a state in which the bending body 30 is supported by the end portion 10As via the support member 50 .

[0019] Figure 7 Observe in the direction of arrow A Figure 6 A side view of the endoscope 1 and the auxiliary device 20.

[0020] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of the operating device 40 as viewed from the front side.

[0021] Figure 9 It is a perspective view of the operating device 40 as viewed from the back side.

[0022] Figure 10 It is a plan view of the operating device 40.

[0023] Figure 11 It is a front view of the operating device 40.

[0024] Figure 12 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a method of operating the operating device 40 (part 1).

[0025] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram (part 2) showing an example of a method of operating the operating device 40.

[0026] Figure 14 It means in Figure 9 4 is a diagram showing a state in which the back cover member 42B is removed.

[0027] Figure 15 It is a perspective view showing the inner side of the back surface cover member 42B.

[0028] Figure 16 Observed from the front side Figure 12 FIG. 4 is a diagram of the operating device 40 in the state shown.

[0029] Figure 17 Observed from the front side Figure 13 FIG. 4 is a diagram of the operating device 40 in the state shown.

[0030] Explanation of symbols:

[0031] 1-Endoscope, 2-Main body, 4-Light source device, 4A-Connecting part, 5-Processor device, 7-Display device, 10-Insertion part, 10A-Soft part, 10B-Bending part, 10C, 113-Front end part, 10As-End, 11-Endoscope operation part, 11A-Suction button, 12-Angle button, 13-Universal cord, 13A-Connector part, 20-Auxiliary device, 30-Bending body, 30S, 51-Slit, 31-Front end section 32-intermediate node, 33-base node, 34-node, 35-covering part, 40-operating device, 41-rotating part, 41S-front area, 41X-rotating axis, 42-accommodating part, 42A-front covering part, 42B-back covering part, 42X-circular part, 43-second operating part, 43A-protruding end, 44-reinforcement part, 44X-rectangular part, 45-locking part, 46-lock release part, 50- Support component, 52-protrusion, 53-central protrusion, 60-locking component, 70-first operating component, 71-steel wire, 72-guide component, 100-endoscope device, 112-treatment instrument introduction port, 310, 320, 411-protruding piece, 311-engaging protrusion, 321-recess, 322-through hole, 330-hole portion, 410-rotation axis component, 410A-ratchet groove, 412-bending component, 412A, 412B -color area, 420-opening, 421-1st surface, 422-2nd surface, 423-3rd surface, 423A-raised portion, 424-locking part, 424A-locking piece, 425, 426-curved ribs, 425A-column, D1, D2, D3, D4, D5-direction, L1, L2, L4-length, L3-distance, UH-hand, F1-thumb, F2-index finger, F3-middle finger, F4-ring finger, F5-little finger. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Figure 1 This figure schematically illustrates the configuration of an endoscope device 100, which is one embodiment of the present invention. The endoscope device 100 includes an endoscope 1, a main body 2 comprising a light source device 4 and a processor device 5 connected to the endoscope 1, and a display device 7 for displaying images captured by the endoscope 1.

[0033] The endoscope 1 comprises: an insertion portion 10, which is a long strip-shaped instrument extending in one direction and is inserted into a subject; an endoscope operating portion 11, which is arranged on the base end side of the insertion portion 10 and is provided with operating components for performing observation mode switching operations, video recording and storage operations, forceps operations, air and water supply operations, suction operations, or electric scalpel operations; an angle button 12, which is arranged adjacent to the endoscope operating portion 11; and a universal cord 13, which includes a connector portion 13A on the connecting portion 4A of the light source device 4 for freely connecting the endoscope 1 to the endoscope 1.

[0034] The endoscope operation unit 11 is provided with a treatment instrument introduction port 112 for introducing a treatment instrument for collecting living tissues such as cells or polyps. Figure 1 Although not shown in the figure, various channels such as a treatment instrument channel for inserting treatment instruments introduced from the treatment instrument inlet 112, an air and water supply channel, and a suction channel are provided inside the endoscope operation section 11 and the insertion section 10. The endoscope operation section 11 includes a suction button 11A and an air and water supply button 11B.

[0035] The insertion section 10 is composed of a flexible soft section 10A, a curved section 10B provided at the distal end of the soft section 10A, and a distal end section 10C, which is harder than the soft section 10A and provided at the distal end of the curved section 10B. The distal end section 10C incorporates an imaging element and an imaging optical system. The soft section 10A forms the flexible portion of the insertion section 10 between the curved section 10B and the endoscope operating unit 11.

[0036] The bending portion 10B is configured to be bendable by rotating the angle knob 12. The bending portion 10B can be bent in any direction and at any angle depending on the part of the subject to which the endoscope 1 is applied, and the distal end portion 10C can be directed in a desired direction.

[0037] A light guide consisting of a bundle of multiple optical fibers is provided within the endoscope 1, extending from the distal end 10C of the insertion portion 10 to the connector 13A. Light generated by the light source device 4 is guided from the connector 13A into the light guide and further reaches the distal end 10C, where it is irradiated onto the subject through an illumination window provided therein.

[0038] The universal cord 13 includes the aforementioned suction channel. For example, a suction device is provided within the light source device 4 or is externally connected, and the suction device is connected to the suction channel. When the suction button 11A included in the endoscope operating unit 11 is operated, the negative pressure generated by the suction device is applied to the distal end of the endoscope 1, sucking fluid and the like from the distal end of the endoscope 1 into the suction channel and recovering it by the suction device.

[0039] Figure 2 Yes Figure 1A perspective view of the assisting device 20 of the endoscope 1 shown in FIG. The assisting device 20 is detachable from the endoscope 1 and can increase the range of movement of the distal end portion 10C when bending the bending portion 10B compared to when not attached to the endoscope 1. The assisting device 20 constitutes an endoscope auxiliary tool.

[0040] The assisting device 20 includes a cylindrical bending body 30 configured to cover and bend an end portion 10As of the flexible portion 10A on the bending portion 10B side (see FIG. Figure 3 ) and can be attached or detached from the end portion 10As; a support member 50, which is configured to support the end portion on the base end side in the axial direction of the bending body 30 (the end portion on the endoscope operating portion 11 side in a state where the end portion 10As of the flexible portion 10A is mounted on and covers the end portion 10As) on the end portion 10As, and is configured separately from the bending body 30; a first operating member 70, which is connected to the bending body 30 and can perform a bending operation of the bending body 30; an operating device 40, which is connected to the first operating member 70; and at least one locking member 60, which is provided on the first operating member 70 and can be locked to the flexible portion 10A.

[0041] The operating device 40 includes a rotating member 41 rotatably connected to the base end of the first operating member 70 , a housing member 42 housing the rotating member 41 , and a second operating member 43 protruding from the housing member 42 and connected to the rotating member 41 .

[0042] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of the bending body 30 and the vicinity of the support member 50 in the assist device 20 is shown. Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing a state in which the bending body 30 and the supporting member 50 are separated. Figure 5 It is an exploded perspective view of the bending body 30 .

[0043] like Figure 3 The inner diameter of the bending body 30 is larger than the outer diameter of the insertion portion 10 , so that the insertion portion 10 can be inserted into the bending body 30 and moved to any position in the axial direction of the insertion portion 10 .

[0044] The bent body 30 includes a plurality of cylindrical nodes 34 arranged along its axial direction ( Figure 3 In the example of FIG, the distal end node 31 on the distal end side, the proximal end node 33 on the proximal end side and the three intermediate nodes 32 therebetween, a total of five) and a cylindrical covering member 35. The plurality of nodes 34 respectively support adjacent nodes 34 in a rotatable manner.

[0045] like Figure 5As shown, among the five nodes 34, four nodes 34 other than the base node 33 are each provided with a protruding piece 310 protruding from a portion of the base end edge toward the base end side. The protruding piece 310 is provided with a snap-fit ​​protrusion 311 protruding radially in the direction of the node 34. The snap-fit ​​protrusion 311 includes a columnar portion protruding from the protruding piece 310 and an oblong portion connected to the columnar portion. The outer diameter of the columnar portion is less than the length of the oblong portion in the short axis direction. The long axis direction of the oblong portion of the snap-fit ​​protrusion 311 is consistent with the axial direction of the node 34.

[0046] Each of the five nodes 34, excluding the front node 31, has a protruding piece 320 protruding from a portion of its front edge toward the front end. When viewed radially from the node 34, the protruding piece 320 has a generally circular recess 321. The recess 321 has a through-hole 322 extending radially through the node 34. The through-hole 322 is an oblong shape through which the oblong portion of the engaging protrusion 311 can be inserted. The long axis of the through-hole 322 intersects the axial direction of the node 34.

[0047] When focusing on two adjacent nodes 34 among the five nodes 34, one of the engaging protrusions 311 in the two nodes 34 is inserted into the other through hole 322 in the two nodes 34, and the long axis direction of the engaging protrusion 311 is kept in a state intersecting with the long axis direction of the through hole 322, thereby engaging the engaging protrusion 311 with the through hole 322 and the recess 321 in which the through hole 322 is formed. In this state, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a slit 30S is formed as a gap between two adjacent nodes 34. The engaging protrusion 311 has its columnar portion located inside the through hole 322 and its oval portion located in the recess 321, so it can rotate in the recess 321 around an axis extending along the protruding direction of the engaging protrusion 311.

[0048] The recessed portion 321 in the node 34 and the through hole 322 provided in the recessed portion 321 constitute an engaging hole portion that engages with the engaging protrusion 311 of the node 34 adjacent to the node 34. In this way, the two adjacent nodes 34 can support each other in relative rotation through the engagement of the engaging hole portion provided on one and the engaging protrusion provided on the other.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, the first operating member 70 includes a long wire 71 and a guide member 72 for inserting the wire 71. The guide member 72 is composed of, for example, a compression coil spring or a compression coil spring and a covering member covering the compression coil spring.

[0050] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, each of the five nodes 34 in the bending body 30 is provided with a hole 330 through which the wire 71 can be inserted. Figure 3 As shown, the steel wire 71 is inserted through the hole 330 of the base end section 33, the hole 330 of the middle section 32, the hole 330 of the middle section 32, the hole 330 of the middle section 32, and the hole 330 of the front end section 31 in sequence, and the front end is supported on the front end section 31. The base end of the steel wire 71 is connected to the rotating part 41 of the operating device 40. The rotating part 41 rotates, thereby moving the steel wire 71 along its axial direction. Through the movement of the steel wire 71, the two adjacent sections 34 are approached or separated within the width range of the slit 30S. As a result, the bending body 30 can adopt multiple bending forms.

[0051] The covering member 35 covers the connection parts between the nodes 34 to prevent damage to the organs of the subject due to the approach or separation of two adjacent nodes 34, and to prevent the nodes 34 from being blocked from approaching each other. The covering member 35 is preferably made of a flexible material such as rubber so that it can follow the bending movement of the five nodes 34. The nodes 34 are preferably a highly rigid structure such as metal or resin so that the bending force during bending can be effectively transmitted to the end 10As. From the perspective of ease of molding, lightweight and manufacturing cost, it is preferred that the nodes 34 be mainly composed of resin. In this way, the bending body 30 is composed of five nodes 34 connected only by snap-fitting force. Therefore, the bending body 30 can be easily manufactured and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0052] like Figure 2 As shown, the guide member 72 is disposed between the proximal end node 33 and the operating device 40 and is cylindrical in shape, through which the wire 71 is inserted. The distance from the bending body 30 to the operating device 40 is large and approximates the length of the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 1. Therefore, the guide member 72 guides the axial movement of the wire 71 between the bending body 30 and the operating device 40, making it easy to pull the wire 71 at a position away from the bending body 30.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, the first operating member 70 is exposed between the bending body 30 and the operating device 40. Locking members 60 are provided at multiple locations on the exposed portion of the first operating member 70. The locking members 60 are formed of a clip or the like having a C-shaped cross-section that can be locked to the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 1. By locking the locking members 60 at multiple locations along the axis of the insertion portion 10, the first operating member 70 can be maintained along the insertion portion 10 when the auxiliary device 20 is in use.

[0054] As described above, the bending body 30 is movable along the outer circumference of the insertion portion 10 in the axial direction of the insertion portion 10. When using the assistive device 20, it is necessary to maintain the position of the bending body 30 in the axial direction of the insertion portion 10 at a desired position. In this embodiment, the support member 50 is provided to maintain the position of the bending body 30.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, the support member 50 is cylindrical and can cover the outer circumference of the end portion 10As of the insertion portion 10. The outer circumference of the end portion 10As can be in close contact with the inner circumference of the support member 50. The support member 50 is flexible and has a linear slit 51 extending along the axial direction on its outer circumference. By enlarging the slit 51 and covering the outer circumference of the insertion portion 10 from the radial direction of the insertion portion 10, the support member 50 can be easily installed at any position in the axial direction of the insertion portion 10.

[0056] On the outer peripheral surface of the support member 50, a plurality of C-shaped protrusions 52 extending in the circumferential direction are arranged in the axial direction. Figure 4 In the example, there are nine protrusions 52. The central protrusion 53 in the middle of the nine protrusions 52 protrudes higher than the other eight protrusions 52. The outer diameters of the eight protrusions 52 other than the central protrusion 53 are equal to or slightly larger than the inner diameter of the curved body 30. The outer diameter of the central protrusion 53 is larger than the inner diameter of the curved body 30. The central protrusion 53 constitutes the first protrusion, and the protrusions 52 other than the central protrusion 53 constitute the second protrusion.

[0057] The process for attaching the bending body 30 to the end portion 10As is as follows. First, the support member 50 is placed over the outer circumference of the end portion 10As and tightly fitted. Furthermore, the support member 50 is preferably made of a material that provides sufficiently high friction with the outer circumference of the insertion portion 10. This ensures that the support member 50 remains securely in place while being placed over the outer circumference of the end portion 10As.

[0058] Next, the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 1 is inserted into the bending body 30 from the distal end portion 10C, and the bending body 30 is moved along the insertion portion 10 to just in front of the support member 50. The bending body 30 is then further moved proximally, and the support member 50, which is in close contact with the distal end 10As, is inserted through the proximal end knob 33, thereby pressing the bending body 30 proximally. Because the central protrusion 53 of the support member 50 has a large outer diameter, as the bending body 30 is pressed proximally, the proximal end surface of the proximal end knob 33 abuts against the central protrusion 53, thereby limiting further proximal insertion of the bending body 30.

[0059] Through the above steps, the inner circumferential surface of the proximal node 33 of the curved body 30 is in pressure contact with the multiple protrusions 52 of the support member 50. The protrusions 52 extend circumferentially to the inner circumferential surface of the proximal node 33. Therefore, in this state, the friction between the proximal node 33 and the protrusions 52 strongly inhibits rotation of the curved body 30 about its axis. Furthermore, since the multiple protrusions 52 arranged along the axial direction of the curved body 30 on the inner circumferential surface of the proximal node 33 are in pressure contact, the friction between the proximal node 33 and these multiple protrusions 52 strongly inhibits axial movement of the curved body 30. In this way, the axial proximal end of the curved body 30 (specifically, the proximal node 33) is supported by the end portion 10As. As described above, the support member 50 functions to position the curved body 30 in both the axial direction and the circumferential direction of the insertion portion 10.

[0060] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a state in which the bending body 30 is supported by the end portion 10As via the support member 50 . Figure 6 The figure shows the state when viewed from the direction of the rotation axis of the node 34 in the bending body 30. Figure 6 As shown, when the assist device 20 is used, the bending body 30 has both ends in the axial direction positioned closer to the soft portion 10A than the bending portion 10B, and one of the ends, ie, the base end, is supported by the end portion 10As via the support member 50 .

[0061] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated state, when the wire 71 is pulled upward in the figure, the five nodes 34 rotate sequentially from the front end in a counterclockwise direction in the figure. This allows the bending body 30 to bend in the direction D1 in the figure. As the bending body 30 bends in the direction D1, the end portion 10As supporting the bending body 30 follows the bending and bends in the direction D1.

[0062] The bending portion 10B can be turned toward Figure 6 The bending body 30 can also be supported on the end portion 10As in a state where its front end is located at the bending portion 10B. Figure 6 As shown, by positioning both ends of the bending body 30 at the end portion 10As, the bending portion 10B can be bent to the maximum extent possible. Furthermore, when the bending body 30 is bent, not only can the distal end portion 10C be bent by bending the bending portion 10B, but also the distal end portion 10C can be bent by bending the end portion 10As. Thus, by using the assist device 20, the bending state of the distal end portion 10C can be more flexibly changed than when the assist device 20 is not used.

[0063] Figure 6: shows the length L1 of the distal end portion 10C of the insertion portion 10 in the axial direction, the length L2 of the curved portion 10B in the axial direction of the insertion portion 10, the axial length L4 of the bending body 30, and the distance L3 between the distal end of the bending body 30 and the curved portion 10B.

[0064] Considering the actual usage environment and operability of the endoscope 1, the length L4 can be approximately equal to the value obtained by adding the lengths L1, L2, and L3. This allows the distal end portion 10C to be perfectly oriented toward, for example, a deep treatment target site. Furthermore, the orientation of the distal end portion 10C can be easily and stably adjusted. Furthermore, the appropriate length of the curved body 30 can reduce manufacturing costs and improve the ease of attachment to the distal end portion 10As.

[0065] When the length L1 is, for example, 17 mm and the length L2 is, for example, 53 mm, the distance L3 may be, for example, 8 mm and the length L4 may be, for example, 74.2 mm, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0066] The larger the distance L3 is, the more the distal end portion 10C can be bent. However, considering the actual use environment of the endoscope 1, the maximum value of the distance L3 may be set to approximately the length L4.

[0067] The outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 1 is usually marked with scales. The bending body 30 is preferably provided so that the insertion portion 10 can be positioned in the axial direction with reference to the scales.

[0068] For example, the bending body 30 can be installed in an appropriate position by arranging the central protrusion 53 of the support member 50 so that it overlaps with the scale and pressing the bending body 30 into the support member 50. This allows the medical practitioner to easily determine the installation position of the bending body 30, thereby enabling efficient endoscopic examination.

[0069] When assuming the actual use environment of the assist device 20, it is preferable to Figure 6 The direction D1 shown is substantially the same as the direction D2. When the direction D1 is the same as the direction D2, the tip portion 10C can be bent more greatly.

[0070] Figure 7 Observe in the direction of arrow A Figure 6 A side view of the endoscope 1 and the auxiliary device 20. Figure 7As shown, the bending body 30 is preferably provided with a mark Ma that serves as a reference for aligning the direction D1 with the direction D2. Furthermore, the bending body 30 is preferably provided with a mark Mb that serves as a reference for positioning the bending body 30 in the circumferential direction of the insertion portion 10. Furthermore, the end portion 10As of the flexible portion 10A may be provided with a mark Mc that serves as a reference for positioning the bending body 30 in the circumferential direction of the insertion portion 10.

[0071] The mark Ma is set on the outer peripheral surface of the distal end node 31. The mark Mb is set on the outer peripheral surface of the proximal end node 33. Figure 7 In the example of FIG, the mark Ma and the mark Mb are provided on the side surface in the bendable direction of the bending body 30. Furthermore, the mark Mc is provided on the side surface in the bending direction D2 of the bending portion 10B.

[0072] When determining the rotational position of the bending body 30, the orientation of the bending body 30 relative to the flexible portion 10A is adjusted so that the marks Mb and Mc are approximately at the same position in the circumferential direction of the flexible portion 10A.

[0073] After the bending body 30 is pressed into the support member 50, the angle knob 12 is operated to move the bending portion 10B toward the direction D2 ( Figure 7 The bending body 30 is then bent (directly in front of the drawing). The rotational position of the bending body 30 is then adjusted so that the distal end 10C and the mark Ma are aligned. By providing marks on the bending body 30 and the flexible portion 10A in this manner, the bending body 30 can be attached to the flexible portion 10A in the proper orientation.

[0074] Even when the mark Ma and the mark Mb are not provided on the bending body 30, the rotational position of the bending body 30 can be temporarily determined by aligning the front end of the guide member 72 extending from the base end node 33 with the mark Mc. Then, the rotational position of the bending body 30 can be adjusted by bending the bending portion 10B so that the front end portion 10C and the front end of the guide member 72 are aligned in a straight line, thereby making the direction D1 consistent with the direction D2.

[0075] In the description so far, the bendable body 30 is supported at its base end by the end portion 10As via the support member 50 , but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0076] In this case, first, the bending body 30 is placed over the insertion portion 10 from the distal end 10C side and moved toward the proximal end. Next, the support member 50 is attached near the curved portion 10B of the end portion 10As, so as not to overlap with the curved portion 10B. The bending body 30 is then moved toward the distal end and slightly restored, pressing the distal end node 31 into the support member 50. This allows the bending body 30 to be supported at its distal end on the end portion 10As.

[0077] Furthermore, as described above, according to the structure in which the base end of the bending body 30 is supported by the end portion 10As via the support member 50 , the bending body 30 only needs to be moved in one direction, thereby improving the attachability of the bending body 30 .

[0078] When viewed radially, the support member 50 has a line-symmetrical shape with the central protrusion 53 as the boundary line. This allows for the support member 50 to be mounted on the insertion portion 10 without concern for the orientation of the support member 50, regardless of whether the proximal end of the bending body 30 is supported on the end portion 10As or the distal end of the bending body 30 is supported on the end portion 10As. This allows for efficient endoscopic examination.

[0079] Alternatively, a configuration may be adopted in which two supporting members 50 are provided in the assist device 20 , and the bending body 30 is supported at both ends thereof by the end portions 10As via the supporting members 50 .

[0080] The bending body 30 has a structure in which multiple nodes 34 are independently provided and rotatably connected, but the structure is not limited to this. For example, a structure in which multiple nodes 34 are integrally formed can be achieved by laser processing a single tube. This can reduce manufacturing costs.

[0081] Furthermore, as described above, when the plurality of nodes 34 are integrally formed, a slit extending along the axial direction of the bending body 30 may be provided on the outer peripheral surface. This allows the bending body 30 to be attached to the end portion 10As from the radial direction of the flexible portion 10A by opening the slit, thereby facilitating attachment of the bending body 30.

[0082] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of the operating device 40 as viewed from the front side. Figure 9 It is a perspective view of the operating device 40 as viewed from the back side. Figure 10 It is a plan view of the operating device 40. Figure 11 It is a front view of the operating device 40.

[0083] The operating device 40 includes: a rotating member 41 connected to the first operating member 70; a receiving member 42 for receiving the rotating member 41; a second operating member 43 protruding from the receiving member 42; a reinforcing member 44 for reinforcing the base end side of the first operating member 70 located outside the receiving member 42; and a locking portion 45 capable of being locked to the endoscope 1. The operating device 40 is operated by rotating the second operating member 43 (in Figure 11 When viewed from the front, the operation is rotated counterclockwise) to rotate the rotating member 41 connected to the second operating member 43, thereby pulling (pulling toward the base end side) the wire 71 connected to the rotating member 41.

[0084] The storage member 42 and the reinforcement member 44 include a front cover member 42A and a back cover member 42B connected thereto, and are configured by connecting these. Figure 14 It means in Figure 9 4 is a diagram showing a state in which the back cover member 42B is removed. Figure 15 4B is a perspective view showing the inner side of the back cover member 42B. Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, an accommodation space capable of accommodating the rotating member 41 , the first operating member 70 , and the like is formed between the front cover member 42A and the back cover member 42B.

[0085] When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis 41X of the rotating member 41, Figure 11 As shown, the front cover member 42A and the back cover member 42B are respectively composed of a circular portion 42X and a generally rectangular portion 44X extending from the outer periphery of the circular portion 42X in the radial direction of the circular portion 42X. The circular portion 42X of the front cover member 42A and the circular portion 42X of the back cover member 42B are connected to form a generally disc-shaped receiving member 42, and the rectangular portion 44X of the front cover member 42A and the rectangular portion 44X of the back cover member 42B are connected to form a generally elliptical column-shaped reinforcing member 44.

[0086] The accommodating member 42 has a first surface 421 (reference Figure 8 ), the second surface 422 (reference Figure 9 ) and the third surface 423 connecting the first surface 421 and the second surface 422 (reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 ) as its outer surface. The first surface 421 and the second surface 422 are respectively composed of, for example, circular planes perpendicular to the rotation axis 41X. Figure 11As shown, when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis 41X, the first surface 421 is larger than the second surface 422, and the second surface 422 is located approximately in the center of the first surface 421. The third surface 423 is a curved surface that curves from the outer periphery of the first surface 421 toward the outer periphery of the second surface 422.

[0087] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, a locking portion 45 having a C-shaped cross section is provided on the second surface 422. The locking portion 45 is configured to be locked to the front end portion 113 of the endoscope operating portion 11 (see FIG. Figure 1 By locking the locking portion 45 to the front end portion 113, the operation device 40 can be operated stably.

[0088] like Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, an opening 420 is provided on the third surface 423 of the accommodating member 42. A portion of the rotating member 41 (the curved member 412 described later (refer to FIG. Figure 14 )) is exposed from the opening 420. A second operating member 43 is provided on the exposed portion of the rotating member 41. Thus, the second operating member 43 is structured to protrude from the accommodating member 42 through the opening 420 and is movable within the opening 420. The opening 420 is formed from the third surface 423 across the first surface 421. Therefore, as Figure 8 and Figure 11 As shown, the front area 41S on the front side of the exposed portion of the rotating member 41 can be visually recognized from the front side.

[0089] exist Figure 11 FIG. 4 shows a virtual circle VC centered on the rotation axis 41X of the rotating member 41. Figure 11 As shown, the outer periphery of the accommodating member 42 is shaped (preferably circular) along a virtual circle VC when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis 41X. The protruding end 43A of the second operating member 43 is configured to be movable along a portion of the circumference of the virtual circle VC. The double-headed arrow in the figure indicates the range of movement of the second operating member 43.

[0090] like Figure 11 As shown, the second operating member 43 has a curved shape when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis 41X. While the second operating member 43 can also be a simple flat plate, the curved shape improves operability. The second operating member 43 can also be configured to extend radially along the virtual circle VC, but in this embodiment, it extends in a direction intersecting the radial direction of the virtual circle VC. This creates an acute angle at which the second operating member 43 protrudes from the accommodating member 42, thereby improving operability.

[0091] In this embodiment, the opening 420 is provided within approximately one-quarter of the outer periphery of the receiving member 42, and the second operating member 43 is configured to be movable within this range. As will be described later, the second operating member 43 is operated by the thumb. Therefore, as long as the second operating member 43 is within this range, the thumb can easily rotate the second operating member 43.

[0092] On the third surface 423 of the accommodating member 42, the reinforcing member 44 is provided protrudingly on the side opposite to the second operating member 43 across the rotation axis 41X. Figure 11 , a line LC is shown dividing the virtual circle VC into two. If one of the two regions of the virtual circle VC is designated as the first region and the other as the second region, the second operating member 43 and the opening 420 are located in the first region, and the reinforcing member 44 is located in the second region. When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis 41X, the entire accommodating member 42 is located inside the virtual circle VC.

[0093] Figure 12 and Figure 13 Schematic diagram showing an example of an operating method of the operating device 40 . Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the operating device 40 as viewed from the back side. Figure 12 As shown, the operator holds the receiving member 42 with the four fingers (index finger F2, middle finger F3, ring finger F4, and little finger F5) other than the thumb F1, with the thumb F1 of the single hand UH resting against the second operating member 43. In this state, a portion of the palm of the single hand UH may come into contact with the first surface 421 of the receiving member 42, but such contact is not essential.

[0094] By Figure 12 In the state shown, the operator moves the thumb F1 along the outer periphery of the receiving part 42 in the clockwise direction in the figure, as shown in FIG. Figure 13 As shown in FIG. 4 , the second operating member 43 rotates to pull the wire 71. Figure 13 In order to stabilize the grip of the accommodating member 42 during the movement of the second operating member 43, the little finger F5 moves to the position of the reinforcing member 44, but this movement of the finger is arbitrary.

[0095] like Figure 13 As shown, the operator can grip the accommodating member 42 with three fingers (index finger F2, middle finger F3, and ring finger F4) other than the thumb F1 while the thumb F1 of the operator's hand UH is in contact with the second operating member 43. Thus, the accommodating member 42 has an area inside the virtual circle VC that can be gripped by three or four fingers of the operator's hand UH other than the thumb F1 that is in contact with the second operating member 43.

[0096] In order to forcefully rotate the second operating member 43, it is important that the distance between the movable thumb F1 in contact with the second operating member 43 and the three or four fingers gripping the other accommodating members 42 does not increase with the position of the thumb F1. According to this embodiment, the fingers gripping the accommodating members 42 are located within the circle of rotation (in other words, the virtual circle VC) of the thumb F1 during movement. Therefore, the second operating member 43 can be rotated with force.

[0097] Furthermore, according to the operating device 40, since the receiving member 42 is disc-shaped and accommodated within the virtual circle VC, it is easy to hold the receiving member 42 in the hand when the receiving member 42 is grasped, thereby improving operability. Furthermore, since the receiving member 42 is disc-shaped, the gripping state remains the same regardless of the position in which it is grasped. Therefore, each operator can grasp the receiving member 42 in a position that is easiest for the thumb to move relative to the second operating member 43.

[0098] Furthermore, since the center of the receiving member 42 is aligned with the rotation axis 41X, the rotation axis 41X is held in the center of the operator's palm, allowing the thumb to easily reach the second operating member 43. When in this held position, the thumb can be moved widely back and forth with the base of the thumb as a base point, making it easy to rotate the second operating member 43.

[0099] According to the operating device 40, the first surface 421 of the accommodating member 42 is formed of a flat surface, and the third surface 423 extending from the first surface 421 toward the second surface 422 is formed of a curved surface. Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, when the receiving member 42 is gripped with fingers other than the thumb F1, the fingers can fit into the edge of the first surface 421 of the receiving member 42, thereby enabling a stable grip. Furthermore, the third surface 423 is formed as a curved surface, thereby allowing the pads of the fingers to fit into the curved surface, thereby enabling a stable grip.

[0100] According to the operating device 40, in the receiving part 42, a reinforcing part 44 is provided on the side opposite to the second operating part 43 on which the thumb F1 is placed. Figure 13 As shown, the reinforcing member 44 can function as a finger hook for hooking the little finger. Thus, the second operating member 43 can be rotated stably while reinforcing the base end of the first operating member 70.

[0101] like Figure 14As shown, the rotating member 41 is composed of a generally disc-shaped rotating shaft member 410 having a plurality of ratchet grooves 410A formed on its outer circumference, a flat protruding piece 411 protruding radially from the rotating shaft member 410, and a curved member 412 connected to the protruding piece 411 and curved into an arc shape. The second operating member 43 is provided on the curved member 412. The wire 71 of the first operating member 70 is connected to the protruding piece 411.

[0102] A locking member 424 including a locking piece 424A that can engage with the ratchet groove 410A is provided on the inner side of the front cover member 42A. Figure 14 In the case of rotation in the direction D4 (from Figure 12 The state transitions to Figure 13 (In the state of being locked, the locking piece 424A can pass over the ratchet groove 410A and engage with the adjacent ratchet groove 410A. Meanwhile, when the locking piece 424A is engaged with the ratchet groove 410A, the locking piece 424A prevents the rotating shaft member 410 from rotating in the direction D5, which is opposite to the direction D4. Thus, the locking member 424 and the ratchet groove 410A form a locking mechanism that locks the rotational position of the rotating member 41 in multiple stages.

[0103] Connected to the locking member 424 is a lock release member 46, which is partially exposed from the accommodating member 42. The locking mechanism described above releases the engagement between the locking piece 424A and the ratchet groove 410A by operating (pressing) the lock release member 46 toward the interior of the accommodating member 42. Therefore, while the lock release member 46 is pressed, the rotating shaft member 410 can be rotated in the direction D5.

[0104] A curved rib 425 is provided inside the front cover member 42A, closer to the rotation axis 41X than the curved member 412. The curved rib 425 extends along the rotation direction of the rotation member 41. Column portions 425A are provided at both ends of the curved rib 425, projecting toward the back cover member 42B.

[0105] like Figure 15 As shown, a curved rib 426 is provided on the inner side of the back cover member 42B at a position opposite to the curved rib 425 of the front cover member 42A. The curved rib 426 extends along the rotation direction of the rotating member 41. Both ends of the curved rib 426 abut against the column portion 425A of the curved rib 425.

[0106] The protruding piece 411 of the rotating member 41 is disposed between the curved rib 425 and the curved rib 426 and is movable within the space defined by the curved rib 425 and the curved rib 426. The protruding piece 411 is sandwiched between the curved rib 425 and the curved rib 426. The protruding piece 411 is sandwiched between the curved rib 425 and the curved rib 426 to such an extent that a predetermined frictional force is generated between the protruding piece 411 and the curved rib 425 and the curved rib 426.

[0107] When the wire 71 is pulled toward the base end, the second operating member 43 is rotated in direction D4 with a force that exceeds the frictional force between the protruding piece 411 and the curved ribs 425 and 426. This causes the rotating member 41 to rotate in stages, thereby pulling the wire 71 in stages. In this manner, when the lock release member 46 is pressed while the wire 71 is pulled toward the base end, the locking piece 424A disengages from the ratchet groove 410A. At this point, a restoring force acts on the rotating member 41, attempting to return the wire 71 to its original position. The frictional force between the protruding piece 411 and the curved ribs 425 and 426 is set to be greater than this restoring force. Therefore, even when the lock release member 46 is pressed while the wire 71 is pulled toward the base end, the restoring force of the wire 71 prevents the rotating member 41 from rotating in direction D5. Thus, the curved ribs 425 and 426 constitute a movement restraining mechanism that restrains the rotating member 41 from moving to the reference position (a position in a state where the wire 71 is not pulled) when the lock releasing member 46 is operated.

[0108] By providing this movement suppression mechanism, when the bending body 30 of the assist device 20 is bent and the lock release member 46 is simply operated, the bending body 30 does not return to its original straight shape. Since the bending body 30 can be positioned within the body, the safety of the subject can be improved by suppressing any change in the shape of the bending body 30 due to the operation of the lock release member 46.

[0109] When the second operating member 43 is desired to be Figure 13 The status shown is restored to Figure 12 In the state shown, while the lock release member 46 is pressed, the second operating member 43 is moved to Figure 14 The protruding piece 411 connected to the second operating member 43 is held between the curved ribs 425 and 426, but can be moved by applying a force exceeding the frictional force. By rotating the second operating member 43 in the direction D5 while the lock release member 46 is pressed, the curved body 30 can be gradually restored to its original straight shape.

[0110] like Figure 10As shown, the lock-releasing member 46 is housed in the receiving member 42, with a portion thereof exposed through an opening provided in the third surface 423. A raised portion 423A is provided around the third surface 423, which is raised higher than the rest of the area. Since the lock-releasing member 46 is positioned inside the raised portion 423A, the position of the lock-releasing member 46 can be easily determined by the feel of the fingers gripping the receiving member 42. Furthermore, to operate the lock-releasing member 46, the fingers must be positioned above the raised portion 423A, thereby reducing the possibility of accidental operation of the lock-releasing member 46.

[0111] like Figure 10 As shown, the lock releasing member 46 is disposed eccentrically on the side of the second surface 422 in the direction in which the first surface 421 and the second surface 422 are aligned. Meanwhile, the opening 420 is disposed eccentrically on the side of the first surface 421 in the direction in which the first surface 421 and the second surface 422 are aligned. Thus, by arranging the opening 420 and the lock releasing member 46 on opposite sides, erroneous operation of the lock releasing member 46 can be more effectively prevented.

[0112] Preferably, the exposed area of ​​the rotating member 41, i.e., the bending member 412, is pre-colored so that the correspondence between the operating state of the second operating member 43 and the bending state of the bending body 30 can be intuitively recognized, and the color of the exposed area changes according to the movement position of the second operating member 43.

[0113] Figure 16 Observed from the front side Figure 12 A perspective view of the operating device 40 in the illustrated state. Figure 17 Observed from the front side Figure 13 A perspective view of the operating device 40 in the state shown. When the wire 71 is not pulled, a color region 412A given a first color is visible on the end portion of the outer peripheral surface of the bending member 412 opposite to the position where the second operating member 43 is provided.

[0114] like Figure 17 As shown, when the wire 71 is pulled, the color region 412A enters the interior of the housing member 42 and is therefore invisible, while the outer surface of the curved member 412 hidden inside the housing member 42 is exposed. This outer surface becomes a color region 412B given a second color different from the first color.

[0115] In this manner, the presence of color regions 412A and 412B allows the operator to visually understand whether the bending member 30 is in its initial state or in a bent state. The extent of the bending member 30 can also be visually understood based on the exposed area of ​​color region 412B. Color regions 412A and 412B are applied to the front region 41S exposed on the front side of the bending member 412. This expands the visual range of color regions 412A and 412B.

[0116] In the above description, the opening 420 of the accommodating member 42 is formed from the third surface 423 across the first surface 421, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The opening 420 of the accommodating member 42 may also be formed from the third surface 423 across the second surface 422. The opening 420 of the accommodating member 42 may also be formed from the third surface 423 across the first surface 421 and the second surface 422.

[0117] In the above description, the locking portion 45 is provided on the second surface 422, but the locking portion 45 may also be provided on the first surface 421. The reinforcing member 44 is not essential and may be omitted. The accommodating member 42 is disc-shaped, but any shape may be employed as long as it provides an area within the virtual circle VC that can be grasped by three or four fingers of the operator's hand, excluding the thumb that contacts the second operating member 43.

[0118] The structure of the operating device 40 is not limited to a structure for performing bending operations on the bending body 30 attached to the insertion portion 10, and can be applied. For example, the structure of the operating device 40 can also be used to operate an erection stand externally attached to the distal end of an endoscope. In this case, the erection stand constitutes one of the endoscope auxiliary instruments.

[0119] As described above, this specification describes at least the following matters.

[0120] (1) An operating device for an endoscope auxiliary instrument, comprising:

[0121] a first operating member, one end of which is connected to an endoscope auxiliary instrument mounted on the insertion portion of the endoscope;

[0122] a rotating member connected to the other end of the first operating member and capable of rotating;

[0123] a receiving member for receiving the rotating member; and

[0124] The second operating member is protruding from the accommodating member and connected to the rotating member.

[0125] The protruding end of the second operating member is configured to be movable along a portion of a circumference of a virtual circle centered on the rotation axis of the rotating member.

[0126] The receiving member has a grippable area inside the virtual circle.

[0127] (2) The operating device according to (1), wherein

[0128] The area can be grasped by three or four fingers of the operator's hand excluding the thumb that contacts the second operating member.

[0129] (3) The operating device according to (2), wherein

[0130] The accommodating member includes a first surface on one end side in the direction of the rotation axis, a second surface on the other end side in the direction of the rotation axis, and a third surface connecting the first surface and the second surface.

[0131] The second operating member is provided to protrude from the third surface.

[0132] (4) The operating device according to (3), wherein

[0133] The third surface is provided with an opening through which the second operating member is movable.

[0134] (5) The operating device according to (4), wherein

[0135] The opening is provided across at least one of the first surface and the second surface.

[0136] (6) The operating device according to (4) or (5), wherein:

[0137] A portion of the rotating member is exposed from the opening.

[0138] (7) The operating device according to (6), wherein

[0139] Give color to the exposed area of ​​the rotating part,

[0140] The color of the exposed area changes according to the movement position of the second operating member.

[0141] (8) The operating device according to any one of (4) to (7), wherein

[0142] The accommodating member is provided with a locking mechanism for locking the rotational position of the rotating member in multiple stages.

[0143] The opening is eccentrically arranged on the first surface side of the third surface.

[0144] A lock releasing member for releasing the lock by the lock mechanism is provided on the third surface at a position eccentric to the second surface.

[0145] (9) The operating device according to any one of (3) to (8), wherein

[0146] The accommodating member is provided with a locking mechanism for locking the rotational position of the rotating member in multiple stages.

[0147] The third surface is provided with a lock releasing member for releasing the lock by the lock mechanism and a raised portion surrounding the lock releasing member.

[0148] (10) The operating device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein

[0149] The accommodating member includes: a locking mechanism that locks the rotation position of the rotating member in multiple stages; a lock releasing member that releases the lock based on the locking mechanism; and a movement restraining mechanism that restrains the movement of the rotating member to the reference position when the lock releasing member is operated.

[0150] (11) The operating device according to any one of (3) to (9), comprising:

[0151] The locking portion is provided on either the first surface or the second surface and can be locked to the endoscope.

[0152] (12) The operating device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein

[0153] The second operating member has a curved shape when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0154] (13) The operating device according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein

[0155] When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the outer peripheral edge of the accommodating member has a shape along the virtual circle.

[0156] (14) The operating device according to (13), wherein

[0157] The second operating member is configured to be movable within a range of 1 / 4 of the outer periphery of the accommodating member when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0158] (15) The operating device according to any one of (3) to (9), wherein

[0159] A reinforcing member for reinforcing a base end side of the first operating member is protrudingly provided on the third surface on the side opposite to the second operating member across the rotation axis.

[0160] (16) The operating device according to any one of (3) to (9), wherein

[0161] When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the first surface is configured to be larger than the second surface.

[0162] The third surface is formed of a curved surface that curves from the first surface toward the second surface.

[0163] (17) The operating device according to any one of (1) to (16), wherein

[0164] When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the entire accommodating member is located inside the virtual circle.

Claims

1. An operating device for an endoscope auxiliary instrument, comprising: a first operating member, one end of which is connected to an endoscope auxiliary instrument mounted on the insertion portion of the endoscope; a rotating member connected to the other end of the first operating member and capable of rotating; an accommodating component for accommodating the rotating component; and The second operating member is protruding from the accommodating member and connected to the rotating member. The protruding end of the second operating member is configured to be movable along a portion of a circumference of a virtual circle centered on the rotation axis of the rotating member. The receiving member has a grippable area inside the virtual circle.

2. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein The area can be grasped by three or four fingers of the operator's hand excluding the thumb that contacts the second operating member.

3. The operating device according to claim 2, wherein: The accommodating member has a first surface on one end side in the direction of the rotation axis, a second surface on the other end side in the direction of the rotation axis, and a third surface connecting the first surface and the second surface. The second operating member is provided to protrude from the third surface.

4. The operating device according to claim 3, wherein: The third surface is provided with an opening through which the second operating member is movable.

5. The operating device according to claim 4, wherein: The opening is provided across at least one of the first surface and the second surface.

6. The operating device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: A portion of the rotating member is exposed from the opening.

7. The operating device according to claim 6, wherein: imparting color to the exposed areas of the rotating component, The color of the exposed area changes according to the movement position of the second operating member.

8. The operating device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The accommodating member is provided with a locking mechanism for locking the rotational position of the rotating member in multiple stages. The opening is eccentrically provided on the first surface side of the third surface. A lock releasing member for releasing the lock by the lock mechanism is provided on the third surface at a position eccentric to the second surface side.

9. The operating device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The accommodating member is provided with a locking mechanism for locking the rotational position of the rotating member in multiple stages. The third surface is provided with a lock releasing member for releasing the lock by the lock mechanism and a raised portion surrounding the lock releasing member.

10. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The accommodating member includes a locking mechanism that locks the rotational position of the rotating member in multiple stages, a lock releasing member that releases the lock by the locking mechanism, and a movement restraining mechanism that restrains movement of the rotating member toward a reference position when the lock releasing member is operated.

11. The operating device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, comprising: The locking portion is provided on either the first surface or the second surface and can be locked to the endoscope.

12. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The second operating member has a curved shape when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis.

13. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the outer periphery of the accommodating part is shaped along the virtual circle.

14. The operating device according to claim 13, wherein: The second operating member is configured to be movable within a range of ¼ of the outer periphery of the accommodating member when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis.

15. The operating device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: A reinforcing member for reinforcing a base end side of the first operating member is protrudingly provided on the third surface on the side opposite to the second operating member across the rotation axis.

16. The operating device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the first surface is configured to be larger than the second surface. The third surface is formed of a curved surface that curves from the first surface toward the second surface.

17. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the entire accommodating component is located inside the virtual circle.

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