Connection structure of endoscope instrument tube, assembly method, handle and endoscope

Abstract

This application discloses a connection structure, assembly method, handle, and endoscope for an endoscope instrument tube, relating to the field of medical devices. The connection structure includes: an instrument tube containing an axially penetrating first instrument channel; a rigid adapter containing an axially penetrating second instrument channel; and a tee connector containing an axially penetrating third instrument channel. The tee connector, rigid adapter, and instrument tube are sequentially connected, with the axes of the first, second, and third instrument channels arranged collinearly, and their inner walls flush at the joint. The connection structure in this application completely eliminates the step on the inner wall at the joint between the instrument tube and the tee connector, improving the stability and consistency of the connection structure, and features a simple assembly process and low cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a connection structure, assembly method, handle and endoscope of an endoscope instrument tube. Background Technology

[0002] Endoscopes, as commonly used minimally invasive medical devices, rely on their instrument channels as the core pathway for surgical procedures such as biopsies, cutting, and hemostasis. The connection between the instrument tube and the three-way connector (also known as a T-connector) is a crucial component of this channel. Currently, the assembly of these two components typically employs adhesive bonding: a medical-grade adhesive is applied to the outer periphery of the flexible instrument tube, which is then inserted into the corresponding interface of the three-way connector, and the connection is fixed by the adhesive curing. This assembly method is simple and low-cost, and therefore widely used in the industry.

[0003] However, the aforementioned traditional connection method has a significant technical drawback: due to the difficulty in achieving high-precision alignment between the flexible instrument tube and the T-connector during assembly, a noticeable step structure easily forms at the connection point, meaning the port of the instrument tube and the interface port of the T-connector cannot remain flush. This step structure can severely interfere with surgical operations: when surgical instruments (such as biopsy forceps or high-frequency electrosurgical units) are inserted along the channel, the instrument tip is prone to jamming with the step; especially in scenarios where guidewires need to be inserted in reverse, the end of the flexible guidewire is more likely to be blocked by the step, which may not only damage the instrument or guidewire, but in severe cases may even interrupt the surgical process, affecting surgical safety and efficiency.

[0004] To address this issue, the industry typically relies on operators' assembly experience to improve alignment accuracy or eliminates steps through subsequent grinding. However, the former struggles to guarantee consistency, while the latter increases process costs and introduces new safety hazards. Therefore, designing a connection structure that effectively eliminates steps at the junction of the instrument tube and the tee connector, ensuring a smooth transition of the channel's inner wall, has become a pressing technical problem in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application discloses a connection structure, assembly method, handle, and endoscope for an endoscope instrument tube, in order to solve the aforementioned technical problems in the related art.

[0006] To solve the above problems, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a connection structure for an endoscopic instrument tube, comprising:

[0008] Instrument tube, comprising an axially penetrating first instrument channel;

[0009] Rigid adapter, including an axially penetrating second instrument channel;

[0010] A tee connector, comprising an axially penetrating third instrument channel;

[0011] The three-way connector, rigid adapter, and instrument tube are connected in sequence. The axes of the first instrument channel, the second instrument channel, and the third instrument channel are arranged collinearly, and the inner walls of the three are flush at the joint.

[0012] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an assembly method for an endoscope instrument tube, used to assemble the aforementioned connection structure of the endoscope instrument tube, comprising the following steps:

[0013] A mandrel is inserted at the junction of the rigid adapter and the instrument tube;

[0014] The guiding action of the mandrel keeps the inner wall of the first instrument channel of the instrument tube continuously flush with the inner wall of the second instrument channel of the rigid adapter, thus completing the connection between the rigid adapter and the instrument tube.

[0015] Remove the core rod;

[0016] Connect the rigid adapter and instrument tube to the tee connector, and ensure that the inner walls of the third instrument channel of the tee connector and the second instrument channel of the rigid adapter are flush.

[0017] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a handle for an endoscope, including the connection structure of the endoscope instrument tube described above; or, including the endoscope instrument tube and tee connector assembled by the assembly method described above.

[0018] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide an endoscope including the aforementioned handle.

[0019] The technical solutions adopted in the embodiments of this application can achieve at least the following beneficial effects:

[0020] (1) The connection structure of the endoscope instrument tube provided in this application transforms the direct connection between the soft instrument tube and the rigid three-way connector into a connection between the soft instrument tube and the rigid adapter, and the rigid adapter and the rigid three-way connector, through a three-section connection structure of a three-way connector, a rigid adapter, and an instrument tube. Since both the rigid adapter and the three-way connector are made of rigid materials, their inner walls can be made flush through high-precision machining when they are connected. At the same time, during assembly, a mandrel-guided assembly process can be used to first insert a mandrel at the joint between the rigid adapter and the instrument tube. Through the guiding effect of the mandrel, the inner wall of the first instrument channel of the instrument tube and the inner wall of the second instrument channel of the rigid adapter are kept continuously flush. After the connection between the rigid adapter and the instrument tube is completed, the mandrel is removed. Then, the rigid adapter and the three-way connector are connected, and the inner wall joint of the third instrument channel of the three-way connector and the second instrument channel of the rigid adapter is controlled to be flush. This allows for precise control of the inner walls of the soft instrument tube and the rigid adapter to remain continuously flush at the joint, ultimately forming a complete and smooth passage between the inner walls of the first, second, and third instrument channels. This completely eliminates the steps caused by insufficient alignment precision in traditional connection methods, effectively preventing surgical instruments and guidewires from getting stuck during insertion or reverse movement, ensuring smooth surgical procedures, and reducing the risk of instrument damage and surgical interruption.

[0021] (2) The connection structure of the endoscope instrument tube provided in this application transforms the connection between soft and rigid components into two controllable connections: "soft-rigid" and "rigid-rigid". Among them, the "rigid-rigid" connection can achieve standardized assembly by relying on the precision of machining, while the "soft-rigid" connection forms a unified assembly benchmark by guiding the mandrel, eliminating the dependence on manual experience and ensuring that the inner wall flatness of each connection structure remains highly consistent, which significantly improves the stability of product quality.

[0022] (3) The connection structure of the endoscope instrument tube provided in this application can ensure that the inner wall is flush during the assembly process through the assembly steps guided by the mandrel, without the need for subsequent grinding, which simplifies the production process and reduces the process cost.

[0023] (4) The connection structure of the endoscopic instrument tube provided in this application can form a smooth instrument channel that is fully compatible with the insertion, movement and reverse operation requirements of various existing surgical instruments (such as biopsy forceps, high-frequency electrosurgical units) and guidewires. The smooth operation of the instruments in the channel can reduce operating resistance, improve the doctor's operating accuracy, and avoid surgical delays caused by instrument jamming or damage. It provides guarantees for minimally invasive surgery in terms of both operational safety and process efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of the three-way connector and instrument tube after assembly in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of the rigid adapter in the embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a front view of the rigid adapter in the embodiments of this application;

[0028] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Sectional view of AA;

[0029] Figure 5 This is an assembly illustration of an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0030] Figure 6 This is an assembly illustration of an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 ;

[0031] Figure 7 This is an assembly illustration of an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 ;

[0032] Figure 8 This is an assembly illustration of an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 ;

[0033] Figure 9 This is an assembly illustration of an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 ;

[0034] Figure 10 This is an assembly illustration of an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 ;

[0035] Figure 11 This is an assembly illustration of an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 ;

[0036] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the rigid adapter in this application.

[0037] Figure 13 This is a front view of another embodiment of the rigid adapter in this application;

[0038] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Sectional view of BB;

[0039] Figure 15 This is an assembly diagram of another embodiment of the rigid adapter in this application. Figure 1 ;

[0040] Figure 16 This is an assembly diagram of another embodiment of the rigid adapter in this application. Figure 2 ;

[0041] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the three-way connector and the instrument tube in an embodiment of this application.

[0042] In the diagram: 10, instrument tube; 101, first instrument channel; 1011, first mating face; 20, rigid adapter; 201, second instrument channel; 2011, second mating face; 2012, third mating face; 2013, first-stage hole segment; 30, tee connector; 301, third instrument channel; 3011, instrument inlet; 3012, fourth mating face; 3013, second-stage hole segment; 40, suction tube; 50, mandrel; 501, position marker; 60, housing; 70, instrument nozzle. Detailed Implementation

[0043] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the technical solutions of this application will be described in detail below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other implementation methods obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0044] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and the number of objects is not limited; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0045] In the various embodiments of this application, "near end" and "far end" refer to the distance of each component from the user in the usage environment. The end closer to the user is designated as the "near end", and the end farther from the user is designated as the "far end".

[0046] In related technologies, the endoscope's three-way connector 30 has a three-way structure and is used to assemble the instrument tube 10, suction tube 40, and instrument tip 70. After the instrument tube 10 and the three-way connector 30 are assembled, there is often a noticeable step at their connection point. To solve this step problem, a mandrel 50 can be used. However, there are two scenarios for using the mandrel 50: one is to insert it from the instrument inlet 3011 at the proximal end of the three-way connector 30, extending it into the instrument tube 10; the other is to insert it from the distal end of the instrument tube 10, extending it into the three-way connector 30. In the former scenario, the mandrel 50 must be inserted into the instrument tube 10 through the instrument inlet 3011 of the three-way connector 30. During this process, the mandrel 50 is blindly inserted, which can easily damage the instrument tube 10. In the latter scenario, an exceptionally long mandrel 50 is required. Since it must traverse a long path through the instrument tube 10, this increases the risk of damaging the instrument tube 10. Therefore, both methods of using the mandrel 50 carry a significant possibility of damaging the instrument tube 10. Therefore, this application proposes a connection structure, assembly method, handle, and endoscope for an endoscope instrument tube.

[0047] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 1 to 17 This application provides a detailed description of the connection structure, assembly method, handle, and endoscope of an endoscope instrument tube through specific embodiments and application scenarios.

[0048] Example 1:

[0049] This application provides a connection structure for an endoscopic instrument tube, including:

[0050] The instrument tube 10 includes an axially penetrating first instrument channel 101;

[0051] Rigid adapter 20 includes an axially penetrating second instrument channel 201;

[0052] The tee connector 30 includes an axially penetrating third instrument channel 301;

[0053] The three-way connector 30, the rigid adapter 20 and the instrument tube 10 are connected in sequence. The axes of the first instrument channel 101, the second instrument channel 201 and the third instrument channel 301 are arranged collinearly, and the inner walls of the three are flush at the joint.

[0054] In some embodiments, the instrument tube 10 is provided with a first mating end face 1011 at the proximal end of the first instrument channel 101;

[0055] The rigid adapter 20 has a second docking end face 2011 at the proximal end and a third docking end face 2012 adapted to the first docking end face 1011 at the distal end of the second instrument channel 201.

[0056] The three-way connector 30 has a fourth mating end face 3012 at the far end of the third instrument channel 301 that is adapted to the second mating end face 2011.

[0057] In some embodiments, the third instrument channel 301 of the tee connector 30 includes:

[0058] The instrument inlet 3011 formed at the proximal end has an inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of the main body of the third instrument channel 301;

[0059] The distal end is provided with a second assembly step hole, which includes a second step surface and a second-stage hole segment 3013 adapted to the outer diameter of the rigid adapter 20. The second step surface serves as a fourth mating end face 3012 adapted to the second mating end face 2011. It can be understood that the second-stage hole segment 3013, adapted to the outer diameter of the rigid adapter 20, provides radial guidance and positioning for the rigid adapter 20, ensuring that their axes are collinear. The second step surface, as the fourth mating end face 3012, precisely limits the insertion depth of the rigid adapter 20, ensuring precise contact between the second mating end face 2011 and the fourth mating end face 3012. This structure allows for rapid flush mating of the channel's inner walls, improving assembly efficiency and consistency.

[0060] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 In some embodiments, the rigid adapter 20 has a first tubular structure, with its proximal end face forming a second mating end face 2011 and its distal end face forming a third mating end face 2012. It is understood that designing the rigid adapter 20 as a tubular structure, with both end faces directly serving as mating end faces, results in a simple structure and low processing difficulty. This design allows the two ends of the rigid adapter 20 to directly mate with the tee connector 30 and the instrument tube 10 via their end faces. Utilizing the high-precision processing characteristics of the rigid material, precise fit with the end faces of the tee connector 30 and the instrument tube 10 is easily achieved, ensuring a smooth transition within the channel wall, while simultaneously simplifying the structural design and manufacturing process of the rigid adapter 20.

[0061] In some embodiments, when the rigid adapter 20 adopts a first tubular structure, the depth of the second-stage hole 3013 is greater than the length of the rigid adapter 20. When connecting the rigid adapter 20 and the instrument tube 10, adhesive is applied to the first mating end face 1011 and / or the third mating end face 2012, and the rigid adapter 20 and the instrument tube 10 are first bonded together at the mating end faces using adhesive. Then, when connecting to the tee connector 30, adhesive is applied to the second mating end face 2011 and the proximal outer wall of the rigid adapter 20, and adhesive is simultaneously applied to the proximal outer wall of the instrument tube 10 before the insertion operation is performed, thereby firmly combining the instrument tube 10, the rigid adapter 20, and the second-stage hole 3013 of the tee connector 30 into a whole.

[0062] Please see Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 In some embodiments, the rigid adapter 20 has a second tubular structure, with its proximal end face forming a second mating end face 2011 and its distal end having an axially extending first mounting step hole. The first mounting step hole includes a first step surface and a first-stage hole segment 2013 adapted to the outer diameter of the instrument tube 10. The first step surface serves as a third mating end face 2012. It is understood that by providing a first mounting step hole with a first step surface at the distal end of the rigid adapter 20, and by having the first-stage hole segment 2013 adapted to the outer diameter of the instrument tube 10, the rigid adapter 20 can provide radial positioning for the insertion of the instrument tube 10. The first step surface, as the third mating end face 2012, can precisely limit the axial insertion depth of the instrument tube 10. This dual positioning structure allows the instrument tube 10 to be connected to the rigid adapter 20 without relying on manual alignment, quickly achieving flush alignment between the inner walls of the first instrument channel 101 and the second instrument channel 201, thus improving assembly efficiency and connection consistency.

[0063] In some embodiments, when the rigid adapter 20 adopts a second tubular structure, the depth of the second-stage bore 3013 is less than or equal to the length of the rigid adapter 20. When connecting the rigid adapter 20 and the instrument tube 10, adhesive can be applied to both the first mating end face 1011 and the proximal outer wall of the instrument tube 10, thereby firmly bonding the instrument tube 10 to the first-stage bore 2013 of the rigid adapter 20 into a single unit. Subsequently, when connecting to the tee connector 30, adhesive can be applied to both the second mating end face 2011 and the proximal outer wall of the rigid adapter 20, thereby firmly bonding the rigid adapter 20 (along with the instrument tube 10) to the second-stage bore 3013 of the tee connector 30 into a single unit.

[0064] In some embodiments, the rigid adapter 20 has an external thread on its proximal outer side, and the corresponding position on the distal end of the tee connector 30 has an internal thread adapted to the external thread. It is understood that the connection between the rigid adapter 20 and the tee connector 30 is achieved through the cooperation of the external and internal threads. The threaded connection has precise axial positioning capability, and the tightening process ensures that the mating surfaces of the two are tightly fitted, ensuring that the inner walls of the second instrument channel 201 and the third instrument channel 301 are aligned and flush. Therefore, during assembly, after connecting the instrument tube 10 to the rigid adapter 20, and then connecting it to the tee connector 30, the use of the mandrel 50 can be omitted. Simultaneously, the self-locking characteristic of the threaded connection maintains the stability of the connection state, preventing loosening of the connection due to vibration or other factors during surgery, thus ensuring the smoothness of the channel and improving the reliability of the connection structure.

[0065] In some embodiments, the rigid adapter 20 is made of medical-grade stainless steel, medical-grade titanium alloy, or medical-grade engineering plastics, such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK) or polysulfone (PSU). The rigid adapter 20 can be made of the same material as the tee connector 30, or it can be made of a different material.

[0066] Example 2:

[0067] This application provides a method for assembling an endoscopic instrument tube, used to assemble the connection structure of the endoscopic instrument tube in Embodiment 1, comprising the following steps:

[0068] A mandrel 50 is inserted at the junction of the rigid adapter 20 and the instrument tube 10;

[0069] The guiding action of the mandrel 50 ensures that the inner wall of the first instrument channel 101 of the instrument tube 10 and the inner wall of the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20 remain continuously flush, thus completing the connection between the rigid adapter 20 and the instrument tube 10.

[0070] Remove the core rod 50;

[0071] Connect the rigid adapter 20 and instrument tube 10 to the tee connector 30, and control the inner wall joint of the third instrument channel 301 of the tee connector 30 and the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20 to be flush.

[0072] Understandably, this assembly method simultaneously ensures the smoothness of the instrument channel, the reliability of component connections, and the precision of the assembly process from a technological perspective. During the connection stage between the rigid adapter 20 and the instrument tube 10, a mandrel 50 is inserted at their joint. The rigid support of the mandrel 50 ensures that the inner walls of the first instrument channel 101 of the instrument tube 10 and the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20 remain continuously flush. This method directly avoids the channel misalignment problem that easily occurs with manual alignment in traditional assembly, laying a precise structural foundation for subsequent stable connections. The mandrel 50 is removed after the connection is complete, which neither damages the aligned channel structure nor removes any foreign objects from the channel, ensuring smooth passage of subsequent endoscopic instruments. The entire assembly process is completed in two steps: first, connecting the instrument tube 10 to the rigid adapter 20, and then connecting the connected instrument tube 10 and rigid adapter 20 to the tee connector 30. Each step revolves around the requirement of "flush inner walls of the channels." The previous step ensures channel continuity using the mandrel 50 and the applied adhesive. The next step uses the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20 as a reference to ensure the third instrument channel 301 of the tee connector 30 is flush with its inner wall. This step-by-step approach eliminates reliance on manual experience and directly ensures a smooth transition between the inner walls of the instrument tube 10, the rigid adapter 20, and the tee connector 30, fundamentally solving the step-like problems that easily occur during component connections.

[0073] In some embodiments, the rigid adapter 20 and the tee connector 30 are connected, specifically including:

[0074] After applying adhesive to the proximal end of the rigid adapter 20, insert it into the distal end of the tee connector 30 until the second instrument channel 201 and the third instrument channel 301 are connected.

[0075] Insert the mandrel 50 into the third instrument channel 301 from the instrument inlet 3011 near the end of the tee connector 30, and extend the mandrel 50 into the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20 to complete the connection between the rigid adapter 20 and the tee connector 30.

[0076] Remove the mandrel 50. It is understood that this connection step, by inserting the mandrel 50 into the third instrument channel 301 of the tee connector 30 and extending it into the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20, ensures that the inner walls of the third instrument channel 301 of the tee connector 30 and the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20 are flush. Simultaneously, the mandrel 50 can support and position the rigid adapter 20 during the adhesive curing process, preventing it from shifting before the adhesive cures. Removing the mandrel 50 after connection is complete avoids damaging the connection structure and ensures the unobstructed flow of the instrument channels after docking.

[0077] Please see Figures 5-11 When the rigid adapter 20 adopts a first tubular structure, the depth of the second-stage hole section 3013 of the tee connector 30 is greater than the length of the rigid adapter 20; the specific assembly process is as follows:

[0078] S10. Insert the mandrel 50 into the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20, apply adhesive to the first mating end face 1011 of the instrument tube 10 and / or the third mating end face 2012 of the rigid adapter 20, and insert the instrument tube 10 along... Figure 5 The direction of the middle arrow a is to move closer to the mandrel 50 and insert the mandrel 50 into the first instrument channel 101 of the instrument tube 10, or in the opposite direction of the arrow a, move the mandrel 50 closer to the instrument tube 10 and insert the mandrel 50 into the first instrument channel 101 of the instrument tube 10.

[0079] S20, such as Figure 6 As shown, the mandrel 50 is inserted into the first instrument channel 101 of the instrument tube 10, ensuring that the mandrel 50 is inserted at the joint between the rigid adapter 20 and the instrument tube 10. The mandrel 50 guides the inner wall of the first instrument channel 101 of the instrument tube 10 to remain continuously flush with the inner wall of the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20. The instrument tube 10 and the rigid adapter 20 are bonded and fixed through the first mating end face 1011 and the third mating end face 2012 until the adhesive cures.

[0080] S30, Remove the mandrel 50, as follows Figure 7 As shown;

[0081] S40, such as Figure 8 As shown, adhesive is applied to the second mating end face 2011 and the proximal outer wall of the rigid adapter 20, and simultaneously to the proximal outer wall of the instrument tube 10. Then, the rigid adapter 20, together with the proximal end of the instrument tube 10, is joined along... Figure 8 Insert the middle arrow (b) into the second mounting step hole of the tee connector 30 until the second instrument channel 201 connects with the third instrument channel 301, as shown. Figure 9 As shown;

[0082] S50, such as Figure 10 As shown, insert the mandrel 50 into the third instrument channel 301 from the instrument inlet 3011 near the end of the tee connector 30, and extend the mandrel 50 into the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20, ensuring that the inner wall joint of the third instrument channel 301 of the tee connector 30 and the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20 is flush, until the adhesive cures.

[0083] S60, Remove the mandrel 50, as follows Figure 11 As shown.

[0084] Please see Figures 15-16 When the rigid adapter 20 adopts a second tubular structure, the depth of the second-stage hole section 3013 of the tee connector 30 is less than or equal to the length of the rigid adapter 20; the specific assembly process is as follows:

[0085] S10. Insert the mandrel 50 into the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20. After applying adhesive to the first mating end face 1011 and the outer wall of the proximal end of the instrument tube 10, insert the instrument tube 10 into the first assembly step hole of the rigid adapter 20.

[0086] S20. Insert the mandrel 50 into the first instrument channel 101 of the instrument tube 10, ensuring that the mandrel 50 is inserted at the joint between the rigid adapter 20 and the instrument tube 10. Through the guiding effect of the mandrel 50, keep the inner wall of the first instrument channel 101 of the instrument tube 10 and the inner wall of the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20 continuously flush. Bond and fix the instrument tube 10 and the rigid adapter 20 through the first mating end face 1011 and the third mating end face 2012 until the adhesive cures.

[0087] S30, Remove the mandrel 50, as follows Figure 5 As shown;

[0088] S40. After applying adhesive to the second mating end face 2011 and the outer wall of the proximal end of the rigid adapter 20, insert the rigid adapter 20 together with the proximal end of the instrument tube 10 into the second assembly step hole of the tee connector 30 until the second instrument channel 201 and the third instrument channel 301 are connected.

[0089] S50. Insert the mandrel 50 into the third instrument channel 301 from the instrument inlet 3011 near the end of the tee connector 30, and extend the mandrel 50 into the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20, ensuring that the inner wall joint of the third instrument channel 301 of the tee connector 30 and the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20 is flush, until the adhesive cures.

[0090] S60, Remove the mandrel 50, as follows Figure 16 As shown.

[0091] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the mandrel 50 is provided with axial dimension markings or position markings 501;

[0092] When position mark 501 is set, and this position mark 501 is aligned with the proximal end face of the third instrument channel 301 of the tee connector 30, it indicates that the distal end of the mandrel 50 has reached the predetermined mating depth of the second instrument channel 201 of the rigid adapter 20. It is understandable that the core function of setting axial dimension marks or position marks 501 on the outer wall of the mandrel 50 is to provide a direct basis for judging the insertion depth of the mandrel 50, avoiding operators from estimating the insertion position based on experience. Both dimension marks and position marks 501 allow operators to quickly grasp the insertion status of the mandrel 50 during assembly, ensuring that the mandrel 50 accurately reaches the predetermined position. This prevents insufficient guidance and support for the instrument channel due to shallow insertion, and avoids damage to the instrument tube 10 due to excessive insertion, further improving the accuracy and reliability of the mandrel 50 during use, ensuring consistency in each assembly, and improving product quality stability.

[0093] In some embodiments, the position mark 501 is an annular groove, an annular protrusion, a laser-etched line, or a color mark strip, with its width direction perpendicular to the axis of the mandrel 50. It is understood that annular grooves and protrusions can be identified through tactile feedback, while laser-etched lines and color marks offer clear visual recognition. Different types of marks can adapt to different assembly environments and operating habits. The design, with its width direction perpendicular to the axis, makes the alignment reference of the mark clearer, avoiding alignment deviations caused by mark tilt, and ensuring that the position mark 501 accurately indicates the depth of the mandrel 50.

[0094] In some embodiments, the dimension markings are represented by equally spaced graduations. It is understood that equally spaced graduations allow operators not only to determine whether the mandrel 50 has reached the predetermined depth, but also to visually understand the specific insertion dimension, facilitating flexible adjustment of the mandrel 50 depth in different assembly scenarios. This design is particularly suitable for situations with varying requirements for the insertion depth of the mandrel 50, further enhancing the flexibility and adaptability of the mandrel 50 and meeting diverse assembly needs.

[0095] In some embodiments, the predetermined mating depth satisfies the following conditions: the distal end of the mandrel 50 is located within the second instrument channel 201, and the length of the distal end of the mandrel 50 from the distal end face of the second instrument channel 201 is ≥1.0 mm. It is understood that the position of the distal end of the mandrel 50 is required to ensure that it can provide sufficient support and guidance within the second instrument channel 201, while avoiding exceeding the second instrument channel 201 and damaging the instrument tube 10; ensuring that the mandrel 50 is in the optimal working position, providing a guarantee for the flush and smooth operation of the instrument channel.

[0096] Example 3:

[0097] This application provides a handle for an endoscope, the handle including a housing 60, wherein the endoscope instrument tube 10 and the three-way connector 30 assembled by the assembly method in Embodiment 2 are installed in the housing 60.

[0098] Example 4:

[0099] This application provides an endoscope including the handle of embodiment 3.

[0100] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A connection structure for an endoscopic instrument tube, characterized in that, include: Instrument tube, comprising an axially penetrating first instrument channel; Rigid adapter, including an axially penetrating second instrument channel; A tee connector, comprising an axially penetrating third instrument channel; The three-way connector, rigid adapter, and instrument tube are connected in sequence. The axes of the first instrument channel, the second instrument channel, and the third instrument channel are arranged collinearly, and the inner walls of the three are flush at the joint. When assembling the endoscope instrument tube, the rigid adapter is first connected to the instrument tube, and then the connected rigid adapter and instrument tube are connected to the three-way connector.

2. The connection structure of the endoscopic instrument tube according to claim 1, characterized in that, The instrument tube is provided with a first mating end face at the proximal end of the first instrument channel; The rigid adapter is provided with a second mating end face and a third mating end face adapted to the first mating end face at the proximal and distal ends of the second instrument channel, respectively. The three-way connector has a fourth mating end face at the far end of the third instrument channel that is adapted to the second mating end face.

3. The connection structure of the endoscopic instrument tube according to claim 2, characterized in that, The rigid adapter adopts any one of the following structures (a) and (b): (a) The rigid adapter has a first tubular structure, the proximal end face of which constitutes a second mating end face, and the distal end face of which constitutes a third mating end face; (b) The rigid adapter has a second tubular structure, the proximal end face of which constitutes a second mating end face, and the distal end of which is provided with an axially extending first mounting step hole, the first mounting step hole including a first step surface and a first-stage hole segment adapted to the outer diameter of the instrument tube, the first step surface serving as the third mating end face; And / or, the third instrument channel of the tee connector includes: The inner diameter of the instrument inlet formed proximally is larger than the inner diameter of the main body of the third instrument channel; The distal end is provided with a second mounting step hole, which includes a second step surface and a second-stage hole section adapted to the outer diameter of the rigid adapter. The second step surface serves as the fourth mating end face.

4. The connection structure of the endoscopic instrument tube according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rigid adapter has an external thread on the outer side of its proximal end, and the tee connector has an internal thread at the corresponding position of its distal end that is adapted to the external thread. And / or, when the rigid adapter adopts a first tubular structure, the depth of the second-stage hole section is greater than the length of the rigid adapter; And / or, when the rigid adapter adopts a second tubular structure, the depth of the second-stage hole segment is less than or equal to the length of the rigid adapter.

5. A method for assembling an endoscopic instrument tube, used to assemble the connecting structure of the endoscopic instrument tube according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: A mandrel is inserted at the junction of the rigid adapter and the instrument tube; The guiding action of the mandrel keeps the inner wall of the first instrument channel of the instrument tube continuously flush with the inner wall of the second instrument channel of the rigid adapter, thus completing the connection between the rigid adapter and the instrument tube. Remove the core rod; Connect the rigid adapter and instrument tube to the tee connector, and ensure that the inner walls of the third instrument channel of the tee connector and the second instrument channel of the rigid adapter are flush.

6. The assembly method of the endoscopic instrument tube according to claim 5, characterized in that, The specific steps for connecting the rigid adapter and the tee connector include: After applying adhesive to the proximal end of the rigid adapter, insert it from the distal end of the tee connector until the second instrument channel connects with the third instrument channel. Insert the mandrel into the third instrument channel from the instrument inlet near the tee connector, and extend the mandrel into the second instrument channel of the rigid adapter to complete the connection between the rigid adapter and the tee connector. Remove the core rod.

7. The assembly method of the endoscopic instrument tube according to claim 6, characterized in that, The instrument tube is provided with a first mating end face at the proximal end of the first instrument channel; The rigid adapter is provided with a second mating end face and a third mating end face adapted to the first mating end face at the proximal and distal ends of the second instrument channel, respectively. When the rigid adapter adopts a first tubular structure, the depth of the second-stage hole section of the tee connector is greater than the length of the rigid adapter; the connection steps between the rigid adapter and the instrument tube include: Apply adhesive to the first mating end face and / or the third mating end face, and bond and fix the instrument tube to the rigid adapter through the first mating end face and the third mating end face; the connection steps for connecting with the tee connector include: applying adhesive to the second mating end face and the outer wall of the proximal end of the rigid adapter, and after applying adhesive to the outer wall of the proximal end of the instrument tube, performing the insertion operation; Alternatively, when the rigid adapter adopts a second tubular structure, the depth of the second-stage hole section of the tee connector is less than or equal to the length of the rigid adapter; the connection steps between the rigid adapter and the instrument tube include: applying adhesive to the first mating end face and the proximal end outer wall of the instrument tube, and then performing an insertion operation; the connection steps with the tee connector include: applying adhesive to the second mating end face and the proximal end outer wall of the rigid connector, and then performing an insertion operation.

8. The assembly method of the endoscopic instrument tube according to claim 5, characterized in that, The outer wall of the mandrel is provided with axial dimension markings or position markings; When the position mark is set, if the position mark is aligned with the proximal end face of the third instrument channel of the tee connector, it indicates that the distal end of the mandrel has reached the predetermined mating depth of the second instrument channel of the rigid adapter.

9. A handle for an endoscope, characterized in that, Includes the connection structure of the endoscopic instrument tube as described in any one of claims 1-4; Alternatively, it may include the endoscope instrument tube and tee connector assembled by the assembly method of any one of claims 5-8.

10. An endoscope, characterized in that, Includes the handle as described in claim 9.

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