Bending driving assembly of endoscope and endoscope

Abstract

The invention provides a bending driving assembly of an endoscope and the endoscope, and relates to the technical field of endoscopes. The bending driving assembly comprises a traction piece and a stirring piece, and the traction piece comprises a pair of operation wires. The shifting part comprises a winding part and a pair of tensioning parts, the winding part can rotate around the rotating axis, the pair of tensioning parts are arranged on the winding part, each tensioning part is connected with an operation wire, and the tensioning parts can adjust the tensioning force of the operation wires. The bending control precision of the bending section can be improved, and the operation hand feeling is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of endoscope technology, and more particularly to a bending drive assembly for an endoscope and an endoscope. Background Technology

[0002] As a medical diagnostic instrument, the endoscope's insertion tube can be inserted into the body through natural orifices or incisions. Medical personnel control the movement of two traction ropes by controlling the lever on the endoscope handle, thereby adjusting the bending motion of the active bending section located at the distal end of the insertion tube.

[0003] Normally, when the operator rotates the lever, the position of the pointer on the dial indicates the bending angle of the active bending section. However, due to the free travel in the transmission structure between the lever and the traction rope, when the angle corresponding to the dial deviates from the actual bending angle of the active bending section, the operator may be unable to accurately control the bending angle of the active bending section. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a bending drive assembly for an endoscope and an endoscope, which can improve the bending control accuracy of the bending segment and enhance the operating feel.

[0005] This application provides the following technical solution: In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a bending drive assembly for an endoscope, the bending drive assembly comprising: A traction element, the traction element comprising a pair of operating lines; An actuating element includes a winding portion and a pair of tensioning portions. The winding portion is rotatable about a rotation axis, and the pair of tensioning portions are disposed on the winding portion. Each tensioning portion is connected to an operating line, and the tensioning portion is capable of adjusting the tension of the operating line.

[0006] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the winding portion includes a dial body, the axis of the dial body and the rotation axis being collinear; wherein the operating lines are at least partially wound around the wheel surface of the dial body to form a lead-out end; the lead-out ends of the pair of operating lines are respectively located on both sides of the dial body.

[0007] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the tensioning portion includes: Tensioning seat, the tensioning seat being disposed on the winding portion; An adjusting rod is threadedly connected to the tensioning seat and connected to the proximal end of the operating line; wherein the rotational action of the adjusting rod is configured to loosen or tighten the operating line.

[0008] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the tensioning seat has a threaded through hole, the adjusting rod has an axial through hole, and the adjusting rod and the wall of the threaded through hole are threadedly connected; wherein, the proximal end of the operating line passes through the axial through hole, and the proximal end of the operating line has a limiting portion, and the inner wall of the end of the axial through hole opposite to the proximal end of the operating line forms a limiting protrusion to restrict the passage of the limiting portion.

[0009] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the actuating member further includes an actuating portion and a fastening portion, and the winding portion has a first insertion groove; The fastening part includes a plug-in body and a first connecting body. One end of the plug-in body passes through the first plug-in groove. The plug-in body has a limiting end face, which abuts against one end of the winding part. The first connecting body is connected to the other end of the plug-in body, and the first connecting body abuts against the other end of the winding part. The other end of the plug-in body is connected to the actuating part, which is used to actuate the winding part to rotate around the rotation axis. In some embodiments of the first aspect, the fastening portion further includes at least one second connector, one end of which is threadedly connected to the first connector, and the other end of which abuts against the winding portion.

[0010] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the plug body and the first plug groove form an anti-torsion limiting fit.

[0011] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the actuating part has a second insertion groove, the insertion body passes through the second insertion groove, and the insertion body and the second insertion groove form an anti-torsion limiting fit.

[0012] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the bending drive assembly further includes: A support member is rotatably connected to the winding portion, allowing the winding portion to rotate around the rotation axis; wherein the support member also has a guide hole, through which the operation line portion passes, and the guide hole and the corresponding operation line extend in the same direction.

[0013] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the support includes: A support frame, wherein the support frame has a positioning hole, and the positioning hole and the operation line are coaxially arranged; The tube body has an elastic section and a fixed section along its axial direction. The fixed section is connected to the support frame and is coaxially inserted through the positioning hole. The guide hole is the inner hole of the tube body.

[0014] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide an endoscope, the endoscope including an operating handle and a bending drive assembly of the endoscope as described in any of the above embodiments, the bending drive assembly being disposed on the operating handle, the operating handle having a gun-type structure, a first control button being provided on the belly of the operating handle, a second control button being provided on the back of the operating handle, and the toggle part of the bending drive assembly being located on the back of the operating handle.

[0015] The embodiments of this application have the following advantages: This application provides a bending drive assembly for an endoscope. By improving the cooperation structure between the actuating element and the traction element, precise control of the bending angle of the active bending section is achieved. When the operator rotates the winding part of the actuating element around the rotation axis, the winding part synchronously pulls or releases a pair of operating lines (also known as traction ropes) through a pair of tensioning parts, thereby driving the active bending section at the distal end of the insertion tube to bend in a specific direction. The tensioning parts can adjust the tension of the operating lines, eliminating idle travel caused by transmission structure gaps or elastic deformation. For example, when the lever initially rotates, it transmits tension to the bending section, ensuring that the actuating angle is synchronized with the actual bending angle. The rotation angle of the winding part is displayed on a dial, and the adjustment of the tensioning parts reduces play, ensuring that the dial-indicated angle is consistent with the actual bending angle of the active bending section, reducing deviation.

[0016] Therefore, by dynamically compensating for slack or deformation of the operating line through the tensioning section, the impact of idle travel on the bending angle is significantly reduced, ensuring that the scale indication of the lever matches the actual angle of the bending section and improving operational accuracy. The tension adjustment function makes the lever action and bending response more linear, avoiding the "play" feeling caused by idle travel in traditional designs, and enhancing the intuitiveness and smoothness of operation for medical personnel. Furthermore, it can be used with endoscopes of different sizes, and by adjusting the preload of the tensioning section, it can be adapted to operating lines of different lengths, expanding the application scenarios of the component.

[0017] To make the above-mentioned objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, preferred embodiments are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This illustration shows a schematic structural diagram from one perspective of a bending drive assembly provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This illustration shows a structural schematic diagram from another perspective of a bending drive assembly provided by an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a winding portion provided in an embodiment of this application from one perspective; Figure 4 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a toggle unit provided in an embodiment of this application from one perspective; Figure 5 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a connector provided in an embodiment of this application from one perspective; Figure 6 This illustration shows a structural schematic diagram from another perspective of a bending drive assembly provided by an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a tensioning section provided in an embodiment of this application from one perspective; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure at a positioning hole provided in an embodiment of this application is shown from one perspective; Figure 9 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of an endoscope from one perspective, provided by an embodiment of this application.

[0020] Description of main component symbols: 1-Insert tube; 2-Operating handle; 2.1-First control button; 2.2-Second control button; 2.3-Toggle part; 2.3a-Second insertion slot; 2.4-Winding part; 2.41-Adjusting rod body; 2.42-Tensioning seat body; 2.43-Support frame body; 2.44-Turn body; 2.44a-First insertion slot; 2.45-First connector; 2.46-Second connector; 2.47-Insertion body; 2.4a-First insertion end; 2.4b-Second insertion end; 2.5-First operating line; 2.6-Second operating line; 2.7-Positioning hole; 2.8-Elastic section; 2.9-Limiting part; 2.10-Fixing section. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0022] It should be noted that when an element is said to be "fixed" to another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is said to be "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly" on another element, there is no intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.

[0023] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0024] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0025] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein in the template description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0026] In related technologies, endoscopes, as medical diagnostic instruments, have an insertion tube that can enter the body through natural orifices or incisions. Medical personnel control two traction ropes by manipulating a lever on the endoscope handle, thereby adjusting the bending motion of the active bending segment located at the distal end of the insertion tube. Typically, the operator can determine the bending angle of the active bending segment by observing the position of a pointer on a dial when rotating the lever. However, due to the inherent travel in the transmission mechanism between the lever and the traction ropes, a deviation between the angle indicated on the dial and the actual bending angle of the active bending segment can lead to inaccurate control of the bending angle.

[0027] It should be noted that the application scenario of this application is based on the following example: In some types of endoscopic examinations, such as examinations and treatments of the ear, nose, pharynx, and larynx, the patient is mostly in a sitting or standing position, with the patient's ear and nose position roughly level with the doctor's raised arm. However, it is not limited to the above scenario; other applicable scenarios are also applicable.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application provides a bending drive assembly for an endoscope. The bending drive assembly includes a traction member and a toggle member. The traction member includes a pair of operating lines. The toggle member includes a winding portion 2.4 and a pair of tensioning portions. The winding portion 2.4 is rotatable about a rotation axis. The pair of tensioning portions are disposed on the winding portion 2.4, and each tensioning portion is connected to an operating line. The tensioning portions are capable of adjusting the tension of the operating lines.

[0029] In these embodiments, the traction element includes a pair of operating lines, defined as a first operating line 2.5 and a second operating line 2.6. These operating lines correspond to two opposite traction points on the active bending section (not shown) at the distal end of the endoscope insertion tube 1. When one operating line is taut, the active bending section bends in that direction; when the other operating line is taut, the active bending section bends in the opposite direction. The operating lines are typically made of high-strength, low-elongation metal wire (such as stainless steel wire) or synthetic fiber material to ensure effective force transmission.

[0030] The actuating element includes a winding portion 2.4 and a pair of tensioning portions. The winding portion 2.4 is rotatable about a rotation axis. In this embodiment, the winding portion 2.4 is generally cylindrical or drum-shaped, with both ends rotatably mounted on the housing (not shown) of the endoscope's operating handle 2, allowing the winding portion 2.4 to rotate freely relative to the handle housing about an axis. The rotational movement of the winding portion 2.4 is driven by the operator by actuating a lever (i.e., the actuating portion 2.3, which is linked to the winding portion 2.4) on the handle.

[0031] A pair of tensioning portions are disposed on the winding portion 2.4. Specifically, in this embodiment, the tensioning portions are disposed on the side wall of the winding portion 2.4, and each tensioning portion is connected to an operating line.

[0032] The key improvement in this embodiment is that the tensioning section can adjust the tension of the operating line. This adjustment function is mainly achieved through the following methods: During assembly, the operating line is subjected to a certain initial tension when connected to the tensioning section. The winding section 2.4 and the tensioning section ensure that the operating line remains taut during winding and unwinding, and the traction of the two operating lines avoids the idle stroke caused by gear backlash or pulley loosening in traditional structures.

[0033] Since the tensioning part is directly on the rotatable winding part 2.4 and the operating line is directly connected to the tensioning part, when the winding part 2.4 starts to rotate, the force can be directly transmitted to the operating line through the tensioning part with almost no delay, which significantly reduces the gap in the transmission chain and effectively eliminates idle stroke.

[0034] During the tightening or loosening of the control line, the tensioning section helps maintain stable tension in the control line, preventing it from slackening or jumping during movement, thus further improving control precision.

[0035] In other words, by improving the cooperation structure between the actuating element and the traction element, precise control of the bending angle of the active bending section is achieved. When the operator actuates the winding part 2.4 of the actuating element to rotate around the rotation axis, the winding part 2.4 synchronously pulls or releases a pair of operating lines (also known as traction ropes) through a pair of tensioning parts, thereby driving the active bending section at the distal end of the insertion tube to bend in a specific direction. The tensioning parts can adjust the tension of the operating lines to eliminate idle travel caused by transmission structure gaps or elastic deformation. For example, when the lever initially rotates, it transmits tension to the bending section, ensuring that the actuating angle is synchronized with the actual bending angle. The rotation angle of the winding part 2.4 is displayed on a dial, and the adjustment function of the tensioning parts reduces play, ensuring that the dial-indicated angle is consistent with the actual bending angle of the active bending section, reducing deviation.

[0036] Therefore, by dynamically compensating for slack or deformation of the operating line through the tensioning section, the impact of idle travel on the bending angle is significantly reduced, ensuring that the scale indication of the lever matches the actual angle of the bending section and improving operational accuracy. The tension adjustment function makes the lever action and bending response more linear, avoiding the "play" feeling caused by idle travel in traditional designs, and enhancing the intuitiveness and smoothness of operation for medical personnel. Furthermore, it can be used with endoscopes of different sizes, and by adjusting the preload of the tensioning section, it can be adapted to operating lines of different lengths, expanding the application scenarios of the component.

[0037] For example, the shape of the winding portion 2.4 can be cylindrical, drum-shaped, polygonal, or other geometry suitable for winding and unwinding.

[0038] The connection between the operating line and the tensioning part can be a fixed connection (such as welding, riveting, or bonding), a detachable connection (such as snap-fit ​​or threaded connection), or a winding fixation.

[0039] It should be noted that although this embodiment describes a pair of operating lines for achieving bending in two directions, the principle of this application is also applicable to scenarios that only control unidirectional bending or bending with more degrees of freedom.

[0040] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the winding portion 2.4 includes a dial body 2.44, the axis of the dial body 2.44 and the rotation axis are collinear; wherein, the operating line is at least partially wound around the wheel surface of the dial body 2.44 to form a lead end; the lead ends of a pair of operating lines are respectively located on both sides of the dial body 2.44.

[0041] In these embodiments, the operating cables are at least partially wound around the surface of the shifter body 2.44 to form cable exit ends. Specifically, each operating cable partially winds around the surface of the shifter body 2.44 and finally exits from the surface to form a cable exit end. The cable exit ends of a pair of operating cables are located on opposite sides of the shifter body 2.44. For example, when the shifter body 2.44 is placed horizontally, the cable exit end of one operating cable exits from the left side, and the cable exit end of the other operating cable exits from the right side. For example, the pair of operating cables are symmetrically arranged.

[0042] Optionally, the dial body 2.44 is a dial wheel. Of course, it can also be a grooved wheel, etc.

[0043] When the operator actuates the actuating part 2.3, which is linked to the dial body 2.44, the dial body 2.44 rotates about its rotation axis. For example, the dial body 2.44 rotates clockwise. The operating cable located on the lower side is wound more tightly around the wheel surface of the dial body 2.44, and its lead end is wound inward, thereby tightening the operating cable and causing the active bending section to bend in one direction.

[0044] The upper operating cable is released by the wheel surface of the dial body 2.44, and its outlet end is extended outward, making the operating cable relatively slack.

[0045] Conversely, when the dial body 2.44 rotates counterclockwise, bending control in the opposite direction is achieved.

[0046] Clearly, the operating cable is directly wound around the surface of the shifter body 2.44 and initially secured by the tensioner. This structure results in an extremely short and direct force transmission path. When the shifter body 2.44 begins to rotate, the operating cable wound around its surface is immediately subjected to frictional forces, generating tension or being released, with virtually no mechanical backlash (free travel) as found in traditional gear or pulley drives.

[0047] The winding of the control cable on the wheel surface, combined with the limiting function of the tensioner, ensures that the control cable maintains sufficient tension throughout the entire movement, preventing slippage and slack, and guaranteeing the accuracy and linearity of control.

[0048] By eliminating free travel and maintaining stable tension, operators can feel smoother, more direct, and predictable changes in resistance when moving the lever, significantly improving the operating feel.

[0049] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the tensioning part includes a tensioning seat 2.42 and an adjusting rod 2.41, with the tensioning seat 2.42 disposed on the winding part 2.4. The adjusting rod 2.41 and the tensioning seat 2.42 are threadedly connected, and the adjusting rod 2.41 is connected to the proximal end of the operating line; wherein the rotational action of the adjusting rod 2.41 is configured to tighten or loosen the operating line.

[0050] In these embodiments, the tensioning seat 2.42 is disposed on the winding portion 2.4. Exemplarily, the tensioning seat 2.42 is fixedly mounted on the end or side of the dial wheel body 2.44 by welding, bolting, or integral molding.

[0051] The adjusting rod 2.41 is threadedly connected to the tensioning seat 2.42, with one end of the adjusting rod 2.41 connected to the proximal end of the operating line. The adjusting rod 2.41 can rotate, thus achieving forward or backward movement through the interaction between its thread and the tensioning seat 2.42. This structure allows for precise control of the tension of the operating line.

[0052] Specifically, when it is necessary to adjust the tension of the operating line, the operator can rotate the adjusting rod 2.41 manually or by other mechanical means. Due to the threaded engagement between the adjusting rod 2.41 and the tensioning seat 2.42, rotating the adjusting rod 2.41 will cause it to move axially. If the adjusting rod 2.41 is pushed forward, it will tighten the operating line connected to it; conversely, if the adjusting rod 2.41 is pulled back, it will loosen the operating line.

[0053] For example, the axial direction of the adjusting rod 2.41 is tangential to the wheel surface of the dial wheel 2.44. That is, rotating the adjusting rod 2.41 can move the adjusting rod 2.41 in the tangential direction to the wheel surface of the dial wheel 2.44 to tighten or loosen the operating screw.

[0054] This structure not only provides fine-tuning of the operating line tension but also increases the system's flexibility and adaptability. For example, users can easily adjust the tension under different environmental conditions or when the operating line elongates due to prolonged use, ensuring that the ideal tension is always maintained.

[0055] Furthermore, this tensioning mechanism reduces tension fluctuations caused by material fatigue or environmental changes, improving the stability and durability of the entire system. Moreover, since tension adjustment is performed by rotating the adjusting lever 2.41, it can be easily done without disassembling other components, greatly simplifying the maintenance process.

[0056] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the tensioning seat 2.42 has a threaded through hole, the adjusting rod 2.41 has an axial through hole, and the adjusting rod 2.41 and the wall of the threaded through hole are threadedly connected; wherein, the proximal end of the operating line passes through the axial through hole, and the proximal end of the operating line has a limiting part 2.9, and the inner wall of the end of the axial through hole opposite to the proximal end of the operating line forms a limiting protrusion to restrict the passage of the limiting part 2.9.

[0057] In these embodiments, the tensioning seat 2.42 has a threaded through hole. The inner wall of the threaded through hole is provided with internal threads.

[0058] The adjusting rod 2.41 has an axial through hole. The outer circumferential surface of the adjusting rod 2.41 is provided with an external thread that matches the internal thread of the threaded through hole. The adjusting rod 2.41 is threadedly connected to the wall of the threaded through hole via its external thread. This threaded connection allows the adjusting rod 2.41 to move axially relative to the tensioning seat 2.42; when the adjusting rod 2.41 is rotated, it will advance or retract along the threaded through hole.

[0059] Crucially, the proximal end of the operating line passes through the axial through-hole. The proximal end of the operating line has a limiting portion 2.9. This limiting portion 2.9 can be formed by pressing, welding, or bonding a metal ball, metal block, or plastic head with a diameter larger than the inner diameter of the upper limit protrusion at the location of the axial through-hole to the end of the operating line. A limiting protrusion is formed on the inner wall of the end of the axial through-hole opposite to the proximal end of the operating line. This limiting protrusion can be an annular step on the inner wall of the axial through-hole, an inwardly protruding retaining ring, or a deformed internally threaded end. The inner diameter of the limiting protrusion is smaller than the outer diameter of the limiting portion 2.9.

[0060] During assembly, first insert the proximal end of the operating line (without the formed limiting part 2.9) into the axial through hole of the adjusting rod 2.41 at the end opposite to the operating line, and then position the limiting part 2.9 at the proximal end of the operating line. At this time, the limiting part 2.9 is blocked by the limiting protrusion, and the operating line cannot exit from the end opposite to the operating line of the axial through hole. Then, screw the adjusting rod 2.41 with the operating line into the threaded through hole of the tensioning seat 2.42.

[0061] When it is necessary to adjust the tension of the operating line, the operator (or maintenance personnel) only needs to rotate the adjusting lever 2.41: Rotate the adjusting rod 2.41 clockwise to make it rotate inward relative to the tensioning seat 2.42. Since the proximal end of the operating line is fixed inside the adjusting rod 2.41 by the limiting part 2.9, the inward movement of the adjusting rod 2.41 will reduce the tension.

[0062] Rotate the adjusting rod 2.41 in the opposite direction so that it rotates outward relative to the tensioning seat 2.42. The outward movement of the adjusting rod 2.41 increases the tension on the operating line, thereby increasing its tension.

[0063] The precise fit of the threaded pair allows for very fine and repeatable adjustment of the initial tension of the operating line, which is crucial for ensuring performance consistency between different endoscope units and for compensating for creep or elongation of the operating line after long-term use.

[0064] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the actuating member further includes an actuating portion 2.3 and a fastening portion, and the winding portion 2.4 has a first insertion groove 2.44a.

[0065] The fastening part includes a plug body 2.47 and a first connecting body 2.45. One end of the plug body 2.47 passes through the first plug groove 2.44a. For easy distinction, the end of the plug body 2.47 that passes through the first plug groove 2.44a is called the first plug end 2.4a. The plug body 2.47 has a limiting end face, which abuts against one end of the winding part 2.4. The first connecting body 2.45 is connected to the other end of the plug body 2.47 and abuts against the other end of the winding part 2.4. The other end of the plug body 2.47 is connected to the actuating part 2.3, which is used to actuate the winding part 2.4 to rotate around the rotation axis. In these embodiments, the winding portion 2.4 (in this embodiment, the dial body 2.44 is still taken as an example) has a first insertion groove 2.44a. The first insertion groove 2.44a is preferably a blind hole or through hole provided in the central axis of the dial body 2.44. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the first insertion groove 2.44a can be polygonal (such as hexagonal, square) or D-shaped to transmit torque.

[0066] One end of the connector 2.47 passes through the first insertion groove 2.44a. The proximal shape of the connector 2.47 matches the shape of the first insertion groove 2.44a (e.g., both are hexagonal) to ensure torque transmission between them. The connector 2.47 has a limiting end face. When the connector 2.47 is inserted into place, the limiting end face abuts against one end (e.g., the lower end face) of the winding portion 2.4, serving as axial positioning. For example, the connector 2.47 is a rotating shaft, and the limiting end face can be the shoulder of the connector 2.47.

[0067] The first connector 2.45 is connected to the other end of the plug-in body 2.47. For example, the first connector 2.45 can be a nut, screw, or retaining ring, etc. The first connector 2.45 abuts against the other end (e.g., the upper end face) of the winding portion 2.4. Through the abutment and fixation of the first connector 2.45 (e.g., a screw), in conjunction with the limiting end face, the winding portion 2.4 is firmly clamped in the middle axially, preventing axial movement along the rotation axis.

[0068] The other end of the connector 2.47 is connected to the actuating part 2.3. Specifically, the distal end of the connector 2.47 may extend into a first connecting body 2.45, which is fixedly connected to the actuating part 2.3 (e.g., by welding, riveting, or by spline or pin connection). The actuating part 2.3 is used to receive the input force from the operator and to actuate the winding part 2.4 to rotate around the rotation axis. In this embodiment, the actuating part 2.3 is a lever or handle. The operator can drive the connector 2.47, the winding part 2.4, and the connected operating line to rotate synchronously by flicking the lever with their finger, thereby controlling the active bending section.

[0069] During assembly, first insert the connector 2.47 into the first insertion slot 2.44a of the winding portion 2.4, ensuring that the limiting end face abuts against one end of the winding portion 2.4. Then, tighten the first connector 2.45 (such as a screw) onto the end thread of the connector 2.47 until it abuts against the other end of the winding portion 2.4, thereby axially fixing the winding portion 2.4. Finally, securely connect the actuating portion 2.3 to the connector 2.47.

[0070] When the operator moves the actuating part 2.3, the torque is transmitted to the winding part 2.4 through the connector 2.47, driving it to rotate around the rotation axis. This, in turn, controls the bending of the active bending section by winding and unwinding the operating line through the tensioning part. For example, in this embodiment, the axis of the winding part 2.4 and the rotation axis are collinear.

[0071] The fastening structure of this embodiment achieves a reliable connection and axial fixation between the winding part 2.4 and the actuating part 2.3. The shape matching between the plug body 2.47 and the first plug groove 2.44a ensures efficient and slip-free torque transmission from the actuating part 2.3 to the winding part 2.4.

[0072] By utilizing the double contact between the limiting end face and the first connecting body 2.45, the winding part 2.4 is firmly "clamped" in the middle, effectively preventing the axial loosening or falling off of the winding part 2.4 during high-speed or high-load rotation, thus improving the stability and safety of the structure.

[0073] Furthermore, the structure adopts a modular design, and the winding part 2.4, fastening part and actuating part 2.3 can be assembled and disassembled in steps, which facilitates production, maintenance and replacement of parts.

[0074] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the fastening part further includes at least one second connector 2.46, one end of the second connector 2.46 is threadedly connected to the first connector 2.45, and the other end of the second connector 2.46 abuts against the end face of the winding part 2.4.

[0075] In these embodiments, the fastening part further includes at least one second connector 2.46. In this embodiment, one second connector 2.46 will be used as an example for explanation.

[0076] One end of the second connector 2.46 is threadedly connected to the first connector 2.45. Specifically, the outer circumferential surface of the first connector 2.45 is provided with external threads, and the second connector 2.46 has a matching internal threaded hole. The connection between the two is achieved by screwing the second connector 2.46 into the first connector 2.45.

[0077] Crucially, the other end of the second connector 2.46 abuts against the winding portion 2.4. When the second connector 2.46 is tightened, its end face presses tightly against the end face of the winding portion 2.4 (the same end that abuts against the first connector 2.45).

[0078] This structure introduces a second connector 2.46, forming a more precise axial preload and anti-loosening system: The first connector 2.45 initially secures the winding portion 2.4. Then, the second connector 2.46 is tightened, directly applying additional axial pressure to the winding portion 2.4. This step-by-step tightening method allows for more precise control of the total clamping force applied to the winding portion 2.4, ensuring its stability under long-term vibration and dynamic loads, and preventing loosening due to fretting wear.

[0079] After the second connector 2.46 is tightened, the threaded connection between it and the first connector 2.45 can itself play a certain role in preventing loosening (for example, by increasing the reaction force of the tightening torque).

[0080] The additional pressure applied by the second connector 2.46 to the winding portion 2.4 increases the friction of the threaded connection between the first connector 2.45 and the insertion body 2.47, making it more difficult for the connection to come loose due to vibration, thus significantly improving the reliability of the entire fastening structure.

[0081] For example, to ensure that the friction between the contact surfaces of the plug body 2.47 and the winding part 2.4 is sufficient to eliminate the free travel caused by the gap between the two parts, the first connecting body 2.45 is machined with four threaded holes, and the second connecting body 2.46 is set as a locking screw. The locking screw is locked in the screw hole. By the tension of the set screw, the pressure between the plug body 2.47 and the winding part 2.4 is increased, thereby increasing the friction between the two.

[0082] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the plug body 2.47 and the first plug groove 2.44a form an anti-torsion limiting fit.

[0083] In these embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the portion of the connector 2.47 inserted into the first connector slot 2.44a matches the cross-sectional shape of the first connector slot 2.44a and is not circular. In this embodiment, both are designed as flat structures; however, in other embodiments, they can also be set as triangular, quadrilateral, or hexagonal structures, etc. This non-circular shape matching is key to achieving anti-torsion limiting.

[0084] When the operator actuates the actuating part 2.3, the torque is transmitted through the connector 2.47. Since the flat end of the connector 2.47 is tightly fitted to the flat inner wall of the first insertion groove 2.44a, there is no relative rotational freedom between them. Therefore, the torque applied to the connector 2.47 can be directly, without slippage or gap, transmitted to the winding part 2.4, driving it to rotate synchronously around the rotation axis.

[0085] In traditional circular shaft-hole fits, even minute gaps can cause "free travel" or "backlash" when the torque direction changes, leading to inaccurate control. However, the flat anti-torsion limiting fit in this embodiment, through surface-to-surface contact, fundamentally eliminates this gap, ensuring that the motion transmission from the actuating part 2.3 to the winding part 2.4 is instantaneous and precise.

[0086] This mating structure firmly locks the relative angular position between the plug body 2.47 and the winding part 2.4, effectively preventing relative torsion or slippage even under high torque or impact loads, thus ensuring the reliability and safety of the transmission.

[0087] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the actuating part 2.3 has a second insertion groove 2.3a, and the other end of the insertion body 2.47 passes through the second insertion groove 2.3a, forming an anti-torsion limiting fit between the insertion body 2.47 and the second insertion groove 2.3a. For ease of distinction, the end of the insertion body 2.47 that passes through the second insertion groove 2.3a is designated as the second insertion end 2.4b, and the first insertion end 2.4a and the second insertion end 2.4b are arranged opposite to each other.

[0088] In these embodiments, the actuating part 2.3 has a second insertion groove 2.3a. The insertion body 2.47 passes through the second insertion groove 2.3a, and an anti-torsion limiting fit is formed between the insertion body 2.47 and the second insertion groove 2.3a.

[0089] The second insertion slot 2.3a of the actuating part 2.3 is designed with a non-circular cross-sectional shape, preferably the same or similar shape as the first insertion slot 2.44a, such as hexagonal, square, or other polygonal or D-shaped shapes suitable for transmitting torque. This design ensures that the insertion body 2.47 can be effectively prevented from rotating after insertion.

[0090] One end of the connector 2.47 passes through the first insertion groove 2.44a of the winding portion 2.4, while the other end passes through the second insertion groove 2.3a of the actuating portion 2.3. The distal portion of the connector 2.47 also has a cross-sectional shape that matches the second insertion groove 2.3a, thereby achieving anti-torsion limiting fit.

[0091] During assembly: the proximal end of the connector 2.47 is inserted into the first insertion slot 2.44a of the winding portion 2.4; the winding portion 2.4 is axially fixed using the first connector 2.45 and / or the second connector 2.46. Finally, the distal end of the connector 2.47 is inserted into the second insertion slot 2.3a of the actuating portion 2.3 and fixed as needed. Stability can be enhanced by additional locking mechanisms such as pins or screws.

[0092] When the operator actuates the actuating part 2.3, the torque is transmitted to the insert body 2.47 through the second insert groove 2.3a, and then from the insert body 2.47 to the winding part 2.4 through the first insert groove 2.44a, ultimately driving the winding part 2.4 to rotate around the rotation axis. Due to the anti-torsion limiting fit between the insert body 2.47 and the second insert groove 2.3a, the torque applied by the actuating part 2.3 is ensured to be transmitted to the winding part 2.4 without loss.

[0093] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the bending drive assembly further includes a support member, which is rotatably connected to the winding portion 2.4, so that the winding portion 2.4 can rotate about the rotation axis; wherein, the support member also has a guide hole, and the operation line portion passes through the guide hole, and the guide hole and the corresponding operation line extend in the same direction.

[0094] In these embodiments, the support member is rotatably connected to the winding portion 2.4, allowing the winding portion 2.4 to rotate freely relative to the support member about a rotation axis. In this embodiment, the support member is fixedly installed inside the housing (not shown) of the endoscope handle.

[0095] The support has guide holes corresponding to the number of operating lines, i.e., a pair of guide holes. Part of the operating lines pass through the guide holes.

[0096] Crucially, the guide holes and corresponding operating lines extend in the same direction. Specifically, the extension direction (i.e., the direction of its axis) of each guide hole is designed to be substantially consistent with or parallel to the initial extension direction of the exit end of the operating line drawn from the winding section 2.4. For example, if the operating line is drawn from the wheel surface of the dial body 2.44 and its direction is horizontal to the left or right, then the corresponding guide hole is also set in the horizontal direction.

[0097] The support component serves as the mechanical support base for the winding section 2.4, ensuring the stability and concentricity of the winding section 2.4 during rotation, reducing vibration and noise caused by eccentricity or swaying, improving rotational accuracy, and reducing friction.

[0098] The guide hole plays a crucial role in spatial positioning and directional guidance for the passing operation line. It constrains the initial direction of the operation line after leaving the winding section 2.4.

[0099] Because the guide hole extends in the same direction as the operating line, the angle between the axis of the operating line and the axis of the guide hole is extremely small when the operating line passes through the guide hole, almost passing through in a straight line. This minimizes the bending angle and frictional resistance of the operating line at the exit point.

[0100] In traditional structures, the operating line may be drawn directly from the edge of the winding wheel and rub against the fixed structure at a sharp angle, leading to line wear, tension loss, and control lag. The guide hole in this embodiment, through smooth guidance, significantly reduces friction and local stress between the operating line and the support structure, extends the service life of the operating line, and ensures the linearity of tension transmission.

[0101] Due to the reduction in friction and bending resistance, the resistance felt by the operator when actuating the actuating section 2.3 is more uniform and predictable. The relationship between the rotation angle of the winding section 2.4 and the actual winding and unwinding length of the operating line is more precise, thereby further improving the control accuracy of the active bending section and the smoothness of the operating feel.

[0102] like Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the support includes a support frame 2.43 and a tube. The support frame 2.43 has a positioning hole 2.7, which is coaxially arranged with the operating line. The tube has an axially extending elastic section 2.8 and a fixed section 2.10. The fixed section 2.10 is connected to the support frame 2.43 and coaxially passes through the positioning hole 2.7. The guide hole is the inner hole of the tube.

[0103] In these embodiments, the support frame 2.43 is the main structure of the support member, typically made of metal or high-strength engineering plastic, and possesses sufficient rigidity to support the entire winding section 2.4. The support frame 2.43 has positioning holes 2.7. Crucially, the positioning holes 2.7 are coaxially aligned with the corresponding operating line. This means that the central axis of the positioning holes 2.7 coincides with or is highly parallel to the ideal extension axis of the operating line, ensuring precise guidance after subsequent tube installation.

[0104] The tube body is used to form a guide hole through which the actual operating line passes. The tube body has two functional sections in the axial direction: One end of the pipe body is an elastic section 2.8. This elastic section 2.8 can be made of elastic materials (such as spring steel or elastic plastic) or designed with an elastic structure (such as a corrugated pipe section or a spiral slotted pipe). Its main function is to provide a certain degree of axial elasticity and radial compliance.

[0105] The other end of the tube is a fixed section 2.10. The fixed section 2.10 is connected to the support frame 2.43. In this embodiment, the fixed section 2.10 is coaxially inserted into the positioning hole 2.7 of the support frame 2.43. The connection method can be interference fit, adhesive, snap-fit, or threaded connection to ensure that the tube is firmly fixed on the support frame 2.43.

[0106] The guide hole is the inner hole of the tube body. After the operating cable is led out from the winding part 2.4, it passes through the inner hole of the tube body and is then led to the endoscope insertion tube.

[0107] By setting the positioning hole 2.7 of the support frame 2.43 coaxially with the operation line, and inserting the fixed section 2.10 of the tube body coaxially into the positioning hole 2.7, the inner hole of the tube body is precisely aligned with the direction of the operation line, thus achieving high-precision coaxial guidance.

[0108] The presence of the elastic segment 2.8 is an innovation of this embodiment. During actual assembly, or when the endoscope handle is subjected to external force, there may be slight relative positional deviations or dynamic displacements between the winding portion 2.4, the support frame 2.43, and the path leading to the insertion tube.

[0109] The elastic section 2.8 can absorb these minor axial or radial deviations, preventing the operating line from being excessively bent, jammed, or subjected to additional tension that could result from a rigid connection, thus protecting the operating line.

[0110] For example, the tube body includes a spring tube and a sleeve, with the sleeve fitted over the middle of the spring tube and the two connected and fixed. A fixed section 2.10 is formed at the sleeve and is fixed within the positioning hole 2.7. The portions of the spring tube located at both ends of the sleeve are elastic sections 2.8.

[0111] like Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, this application also provides an endoscope, which includes an operating handle 2 and a bending drive assembly as described in any of the above embodiments. The bending drive assembly is disposed on the operating handle 2, which has a gun-type structure. A first control button 2.1 is provided on the belly of the operating handle 2, and a second control button 2.2 is provided on the back of the operating handle 2. The toggle part 2.3 of the bending drive assembly is located on the back of the operating handle 2.

[0112] In these embodiments, the bending drive assembly is located inside the operating handle 2, and the actuating part 2.3 is located outside the operating handle 2. The operating handle 2 has a gun-like structure, and this ergonomic design facilitates the operator's grip and operation, conforming to clinical usage habits.

[0113] The first control button 2.1 is located on the belly of the operating handle 2 (i.e., the area below and in front of the handle corresponding to the palm when holding it). This first control button 2.1 can be used to control other functions of the endoscope, such as image freezing, light source adjustment, water / gas injection, biopsy forceps triggering, etc.

[0114] The second control button 2.2 is located on the back of the operating handle 2 (i.e., the area above and behind the handle corresponding to the back of the fingers when gripping). This second control button 2.2 can be used to control other auxiliary functions, such as image zooming in / out, marking, or as a backup function key.

[0115] The actuating part 2.3 of the bending drive assembly is located on the back of the operating handle 2. Specifically, the actuating part 2.3 (e.g., a lever) extends upward from the upper surface (back area) of the handle housing, and the operator can conveniently move it back and forth with his thumb or forefinger to precisely control the bending direction and angle of the active bending section at the distal end of the endoscope insertion tube.

[0116] By integrating the aforementioned high-precision bending drive component into the gun-type operating handle 2, a fully functional and easy-to-operate endoscope system is formed: The bending control (toggle part 2.3), main function control (first control button 2.1), and auxiliary function control (second control button 2.2) are rationally distributed in different areas of the operating handle 2. Operators can switch between various functions simultaneously or quickly using different fingers (e.g., thumb controls toggle part 2.3 and second control button 2.2, index finger controls first control button 2.1) without changing their grip posture, greatly improving operational efficiency and surgical smoothness.

[0117] Because the bending drive assembly itself has advantages such as eliminating free travel, adjustable tension, precise guidance and reliable transmission (as described in the foregoing embodiments), the bending control performed by the operator through the actuating part 2.3 is extremely precise and sensitive, enabling delicate and safe operation of internal tissues.

[0118] The gun-style design is ergonomic, providing a comfortable and stable grip. The placement of all control elements is optimized for the natural range of finger movement, reducing operator fatigue.

[0119] Furthermore, since the image module of the endoscope described above has the aforementioned technical effects, an endoscope that includes the image module of the endoscope should have the same technical effects, which will not be elaborated here.

[0120] In all examples shown and described herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations; therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0121] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0122] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A bending drive assembly for an endoscope, characterized in that, The bending drive component includes: A traction element, the traction element comprising a pair of operating lines; An actuating element includes a winding portion and a pair of tensioning portions. The winding portion is rotatable about a rotation axis, and the pair of tensioning portions are disposed on the winding portion. Each tensioning portion is connected to an operating line, and the tensioning portion is capable of adjusting the tension of the operating line.

2. The bending drive assembly of the endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The winding section includes a dial body, the axis of which is collinear with the axis of rotation; wherein, the operating line is at least partially wound around the surface of the dial body to form a lead end; the lead ends of the pair of operating lines are respectively located on both sides of the dial body.

3. The bending drive assembly of the endoscope according to claim 2, characterized in that, The tensioning part includes: Tensioning seat, the tensioning seat being disposed on the winding portion; An adjusting rod is threadedly connected to the tensioning seat and connected to the proximal end of the operating line; wherein the rotational action of the adjusting rod is configured to loosen or tighten the operating line.

4. The bending drive assembly of the endoscope according to claim 3, characterized in that, The tensioning seat has a threaded through hole, and the adjusting rod has an axial through hole. The adjusting rod and the wall of the threaded through hole are threaded together. The proximal end of the operating line passes through the axial through hole, and the proximal end of the operating line has a limiting part. The inner wall of the end of the axial through hole opposite to the proximal end of the operating line forms a limiting protrusion to restrict the passage of the limiting part.

5. The bending drive assembly of the endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The actuating component further includes an actuating part and a fastening part, and the winding part has a first insertion groove; The fastening part includes a plug-in body and a first connecting body. One end of the plug-in body passes through the first plug-in groove. The plug-in body has a limiting end face, which abuts against one end of the winding part. The first connecting body is connected to the other end of the plug-in body, and the first connecting body abuts against the other end of the winding part. The other end of the plug-in body is connected to the actuating part, which is used to actuate the winding part to rotate around the rotation axis.

6. The bending drive assembly of the endoscope according to claim 5, characterized in that, The fastening part further includes at least one second connector, one end of which is threadedly connected to the first connector, and the other end of which abuts against the winding part.

7. The bending drive assembly for an endoscope according to claim 5, characterized in that, The connector and the first connector slot form an anti-torsion limiting fit.

8. The bending drive assembly for an endoscope according to claim 7, characterized in that, The actuating part has a second insertion groove, and the insertion body passes through the second insertion groove. The insertion body and the second insertion groove form an anti-torsion limiting fit.

9. The bending drive assembly for an endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bending drive assembly also includes: A support member is rotatably connected to the winding portion, allowing the winding portion to rotate around the rotation axis; wherein the support member also has a guide hole, through which the operation line portion passes, and the guide hole and the corresponding operation line extend in the same direction.

10. The bending drive assembly for an endoscope according to claim 9, characterized in that, The support member includes: A support frame, wherein the support frame has a positioning hole, and the positioning hole and the operation line are coaxially arranged; The tube body has an elastic section and a fixed section along its axial direction. The fixed section is connected to the support frame and is coaxially inserted through the positioning hole. The guide hole is the inner hole of the tube body.

11. An endoscope, characterized in that, The endoscope includes an operating handle and a bending drive assembly of the endoscope as described in any one of claims 1 to 10. The bending drive assembly is disposed on the operating handle, which has a gun-type structure. A first control button is provided on the belly of the operating handle, and a second control button is provided on the back of the operating handle. The actuating part of the bending drive assembly is located on the back of the operating handle.

Images