Ultrasonic endoscope and system

Abstract

This invention realizes an ultrasonic endoscope and system. The ultrasonic endoscope includes: a transducer array, which is composed of a plurality of transducers extending in a first direction intersecting the axis of the insertion part in a curved arrangement; an observation window, which is disposed on the base end side of the insertion part closer to the transducer array; a camera module, which includes a camera optical system including the observation window and a camera unit that takes pictures through the camera optical system; and a support member that supports the camera optical system and the camera unit. When viewed in the first direction, the opening angle of the transducer array is 90 degrees or more and less than 180 degrees. When viewed in the first direction, one end edge of the transducer array in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the insertion part enters the observation field of view of the observation window. The angle of the observation field of view is less than or equal to the opening angle. The support member includes a hole for the camera optical system to pass through and a side surface surrounding the camera unit, and a gap is formed between the side surface and the camera unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasonic endoscope and system. Background Technology

[0002] Convex ultrasonic endoscopes are described in Patent Documents 1 to 3.

[0003] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2021 / 161497

[0004] Patent Document 2: International Publication No. 2018 / 079792

[0005] Patent Document 3: International Publication No. 2021 / 166985 Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an ultrasonic endoscope with a miniaturized front end and a system equipped with the ultrasonic endoscope.

[0007] An ultrasonic endoscope according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a transducer array, which is formed by arranging a plurality of transducers extending in a curved manner along a first direction intersecting the axis of the insertion portion; an observation window disposed on the base end side of the insertion portion closer to the transducer array; a camera module, including a camera optical system including the observation window and a camera unit for taking pictures through the camera optical system; and a support member supporting the camera optical system and the camera unit, wherein the opening angle of the transducer array when viewed in the first direction is 90 degrees or more and less than 180 degrees, and when viewed in the first direction, one end edge of the transducer array in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the insertion portion enters the observation field of view of the observation window, the angle of the observation field of view being less than or equal to the opening angle, and the support member including a hole for the camera optical system to pass through and a side surface surrounding the camera unit, wherein a gap is formed between the side surface and the camera unit.

[0008] Utility Model Effect

[0009] According to the technology of this utility model, it is possible to provide an ultrasonic endoscope with miniaturized front end and a system equipped with the ultrasonic endoscope. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of an example of an ultrasonic examination system 10 using an ultrasonic endoscope 12 as an embodiment of the technology of this utility model.

[0011] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partially enlarged top view of the front end 40 shown.

[0012] Figure 3 Viewed from the front end Figure 2 The front view of the front end 40 is shown.

[0013] Figure 4 Viewed from the right side Figure 2 The side view of the front end 40 shown.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a schematic 3D view showing the camera module 60 and the signal cable 80.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the second drive control of the oscillator array 50.

[0016] Figure 7 This indicates that all oscillator groups 51G set in the oscillator array 50 are being processed. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an example of an ultrasonic image based on received data group 50R obtained under the second drive control shown.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the first drive control of the oscillator array 50.

[0018] Figure 9 This indicates that the oscillator group 51G located at one end edge E1 of the oscillator array 50 is subjected to... Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of an example of an ultrasonic image 501 based on received data group 50R obtained under the second drive control shown.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state of the ultrasonic beam when the first drive control is performed on the transducer group 51G located at the base end of the transducer array 50 and the second drive control is performed on the other transducer groups 51G.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the second outer casing 412 as viewed from the base end side.

[0021] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 An exploded perspective view of the second outer casing 412 shown.

[0022] Figure 13 It is Figure 11 A magnified view of a 3D image.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the size of the aperture 420 and the lens barrel 62.

[0024] Symbol Explanation

[0025] 10-Ultrasonic inspection system, 12-Ultrasonic endoscope, 14-Ultrasonic processor, 16-Endoscope processor, 18-Light source device, 20-Display, 21a-Water supply tank, 21b-Suction pump, 22-Insertion part, 24-Operating part, 2G-Universal plug rope, 28a-Air and water supply buttons, 28b-Suction button, 29-Angle button, 30-Insertion port for treatment instruments, 32a, 32b, 32c-Connectors, 34a - Gas and water supply hose, 34b - Suction hose, 36 - Ultrasonic observation section, 38 - Optical observation section, 40 - Front end, 40X - Axis, 42 - Bending section, 43 - Flexible section, 50 - Vibrator array, 50A - Angle, 50C - Center, 50F - Transmitting focus, 50L - Straight line, 50R - Receive data group, 50T - Ultrasonic beam, 50U - Upper edge, 50r - Receive data, 51 - Vibrator, 51G - Vibrator group, 52 - Bending section Center of observation, 52A - Intersection point, 60 - Camera module, 61 - Observation window, 61A - Upper limit of observation range, 61B - Lower limit of observation range, 61C - Optical axis, 62 - Lens barrel, 63 - Prism, 64 - Imaging element, 65 - Bracket, 66 - Cable support, 70 - Illumination window, 70C - Center line, 80 - Signal cable, 90 - Lifting platform, 91 - Device insertion path, 91A - Outlet, 411 - First outer casing, 412 - Second outer casing Outer body, 412A-front end face, 412B-recess, 412D-lower side component, 412U-upper side component, 420-hole, 421-accommodating space, 500, 501-ultrasonic images, 500A, 501A-field of view, 500Rr, 500Fr, 501Rr, 501Fr-image lines, 610-observation field of view, D1-distance, L1, L2, L3, L4-straight lines, E1-one end edge, E2-the other end edge. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating an example of an ultrasonic examination system 10 using an ultrasonic endoscope 12 as an embodiment of the technology of this utility model. The ultrasonic examination system 10 comprises: an ultrasonic endoscope 12; an ultrasonic processor 14 for generating ultrasonic images; an endoscope processor 16 for generating endoscopic images; a light source 18 for supplying illumination light to the ultrasonic endoscope 12 to illuminate the body cavity; a display 20 for displaying ultrasonic and endoscopic images; a water tank 21a for storing cleaning water, etc.; and a suction pump 21b for suctioning material from the body cavity.

[0027] The ultrasonic endoscope 12 has: an insertion part 22, which is inserted into the body cavity of the subject; an operation part 24, which is connected to the base of the insertion part 22 and is operated by the surgeon; and a universal lanyard 26, one end of which is connected to the operation part 24.

[0028] The following mechanisms are arranged side by side on the operating unit 24: an air and water supply button 28a, which opens and closes the air and water supply lines from the water supply tank 21a (not shown); and a suction button 28b, which opens and closes the suction line from the suction pump 21b (not shown). A pair of angle knobs 29 and a device insertion port 30 are provided on the operating unit 24.

[0029] The following mechanisms are provided on the other end of the universal plug rope 26: an ultrasonic connector 32a, connected to the ultrasonic processor device 14; an endoscope connector 32b, connected to the endoscope processor device 16; and a light source connector 32c, connected to the light source device 18. The ultrasonic endoscope 12 is detachably connected to the ultrasonic processor device 14, the endoscope processor device 16, and the light source device 18 via these connectors 32a, 32b, and 32c, respectively. Connector 32c includes: an air / water supply hose 34a, connected to the water tank 21a; and a suction hose 34b, connected to the suction pump 21b.

[0030] The insertion part 22 has, in sequence from the front end side: a front end part 40 having an ultrasonic observation part 36 and an optical observation part 38; a bending part 42 connected to the base end side of the front end part 40; and a flexible part 43 connecting the base end side of the bending part 42 and the front end side of the operation part 24.

[0031] The bending section 42 is bent remotely by rotating a pair of bend knobs 29 provided on the operating section 24. This allows the front end 40 to be oriented in the desired direction.

[0032] The ultrasonic processor device 14 includes various processors that perform the following processing: generating an ultrasonic image based on the output signal of the transducer array 50 (the echo signal reflected from the observation object that emitted ultrasonic waves) obtained by controlling the transducer array 50 of the ultrasonic observation unit 36.

[0033] Processors come in various forms, including general-purpose processors that execute programs for various processes, such as CPUs (Central Processing Units); programmable logic devices (PLDs) whose circuit structure can be modified after manufacturing FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays); and dedicated circuits, such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), which have circuit structures specifically designed to perform specific processes. More specifically, the structure of these various processors is a circuit composed of circuit elements such as semiconductor components.

[0034] The ultrasonic processor device 14 can be composed of one of various processors, or it can be composed of a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (e.g., a combination of multiple FPGAs or a combination of CPU and FPGA).

[0035] The endoscope processor device 16 receives and acquires a camera image signal from the observation object part illuminated by illumination light from the light source device 18 in the optical observation unit 38, and performs various processing on the acquired camera image signal to generate an endoscope image displayed on the display 20.

[0036] exist Figure 1 In the example, the ultrasonic processor device 14 and the endoscope processor device 16 are composed of two separate devices (computers). However, it is not limited to this; both the ultrasonic processor device 14 and the endoscope processor device 16 can be composed of a single device.

[0037] In order to acquire an image signal by using the optical observation section 38 to photograph the observed part inside the body cavity, the light source device 18 generates illumination light including white light or light of a specific wavelength, which includes the three primary colors of light such as red light, green light and blue light. The light propagates through the light guide (not shown) and the like inside the ultrasonic endoscope 12 and exits through the illumination window 70 (reference) of the optical observation section 38. Figure 2 and Figure 3 It is emitted, thereby illuminating the part of the body cavity being observed.

[0038] The display 20 receives video signals generated by the ultrasound processor 14 and the endoscope processor 16, and displays ultrasound images and endoscope images. Regarding the display of these ultrasound and endoscope images, it is also possible to appropriately switch to displaying only one image on the display 20, or to display both images simultaneously.

[0039] In this embodiment, ultrasound images and endoscopic images are displayed on a single display 20, but separate displays for displaying ultrasound images and endoscopic images may also be provided. Furthermore, display methods other than display 20 may include displaying ultrasound images and endoscopic images on a display of a terminal carried by the surgeon.

[0040] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partially enlarged top view of the front end portion 40 shown. Figure 2 In this diagram, the axial direction of the insertion part 22 is shown as the direction from the base end side to the front end side (hereinafter referred to as the front end direction Fr) and the direction from the front end side to the base end side (hereinafter referred to as the base end direction Rr). The front end direction Fr and the base end direction Rr are collectively referred to as the axial direction. Furthermore, the right direction R and the left direction L, which are directions orthogonal to the axial direction, are shown. The right direction R and the left direction L are collectively referred to as the left-right direction. The left-right direction constitutes a first direction intersecting the axial direction. Hereinafter, the side of the direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the left-right direction from which the ultrasonic wave is emitted is referred to as the upward direction U, and the other side of that direction is referred to as the downward direction D. The upward direction U and the downward direction D are collectively referred to as the up-down direction. Figure 3 Viewed from the front end Figure 2 The front view of the front end 40 is shown. Figure 4 Viewed from the left side Figure 2 The side view of the front end 40 shown.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, at the front end portion 40, an ultrasonic observation section 36 for acquiring ultrasonic images, an optical observation section 38 for acquiring endoscopic images, and an outlet 91A for a treatment instrument such as a puncture needle are arranged sequentially from the front end side. The outer body of the front end portion 40 includes a first outer body 411 and a second outer body 412 provided at the base end side of the first outer body 411. The ultrasonic observation section 36 is provided in the first outer body 411. The second outer body 412 is provided with the optical observation section 38, a lifting platform 90 for the treatment instrument, and an outlet 91A that serves as the outlet of a treatment instrument insertion passage 91 extending from the treatment instrument insertion port 30 into the interior of the insertion portion 22.

[0042] The optical observation unit 38 includes: a camera module 60, including an observation window 61; an illumination window 70, which illuminates light from a light guide and is made of transparent resin or glass; and a signal cable 80 (see reference). Figure 5 )wait.

[0043] Figure 5This is a schematic perspective view of the camera module 60 and the signal cable 80. The camera module 60 includes: a cylindrical lens barrel 62 supporting a lens group including an objective lens constituting an observation window 61; a prism 63 bending the direction of the subject light passing through the lens group of the lens barrel 62 at a right angle; an imaging element 64 disposed opposite to the light emitting surface of the prism 63; a mounting base (not shown) for the imaging element 64 disposed on the back of the imaging element 64; a bracket 65 integrally supporting the lens barrel 62, prism 63, imaging element 64, and mounting base; and a cable support 66 fixed to the bracket 65. The cable support 66 supports the signal cable 80, which is electrically connected to the various substrates included in the camera module 60. The signal cable 80 extends to a connector 32b and connects to the endoscope processor device 16.

[0044] The imaging optical system consists of the lens barrel 62 and the lens group inside it. The imaging unit that takes pictures through the imaging optical system consists of the prism 63, the imaging element 64, and the mounting plate of the imaging element 64. In addition, the prism 63 is used here due to the arrangement of the imaging element 64, but the prism 63 is not necessary and can be omitted.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, the front end face 412A of the upper end of the second outer body 412 is an inclined surface that is inclined towards the base end side relative to the axis 40X of the insertion part 22. Figure 2 As shown, an observation window 61 and an illumination window 70 are provided on the front end face 412A. The observation window 61 is located in the hole portion 420 provided on the front end face 412A (see reference). Figure 12 Inside, the main plane of the observation window 61 is approximately parallel to the front end face 412A. Thus, the observation window 61 is a structure that is inclined towards the base end relative to the axis 40X.

[0046] exist Figure 3 The diagram shows a dividing line S that passes through axis 40X and extends in the vertical direction. (See diagram for example.) Figure 3 As shown, when viewing the front end portion 40 from the front side, with the front end portion 40 divided into left and right regions by the dividing line S, both the observation window 61 and the illumination window 70 are positioned in the left-side divided region. In other words, in Figure 3 In frontal observation, the observation window 61 is set off to the left in an eccentric direction L, and the illumination window 70 is set off to the same left in an eccentric direction L as the observation window 61.

[0047] like Figure 2As shown, a rectangular recess 412B is provided on the upper surface of the second outer casing 412, closer to the base end than the observation window 61. An outlet 91A is provided on the side of the recess 412B at its base end. A lifting platform 90 is supported inside the recess 412B. The lifting platform 90 is supported at its base end as a fulcrum, allowing it to be lifted upwards in a U-direction. However, the lifting platform 90 is not essential and can be omitted.

[0048] The ultrasonic observation unit 36 ​​has an array 50 composed of multiple rectangular prism-shaped transducers 51 arranged in a curved manner along the left-right direction. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the oscillator array 50 is arranged in a convex arc shape facing outwards. Figure 4 The diagram shows a curvature center 52 that is equidistant from each of the oscillators 51 contained in the oscillator array 50. The oscillators 51 contained in the oscillator array 50 are arranged on an arc of a circle centered at the curvature center 52 and with the aforementioned shortest distance as its radius.

[0049] exist Figure 4 In the side view, one end edge E1 of the convex arc-shaped oscillator array 50 is located closer to the base end than the center of curvature 52, and the other end edge E2 is located closer to the front end than the center of curvature 52. In this specification, the angle formed by the line segment connecting the center of curvature 52 and one end edge E1 and the line segment connecting the center of curvature 52 and the other end edge E2 is defined as the opening angle 50A of the oscillator array 50.

[0050] The opening angle 50A is 90 degrees or more and less than 180 degrees. By making the opening angle 50A 90 degrees or more and less than 180 degrees, the ultrasonic beam can be scanned over a sufficiently wide range, and the size of the first outer casing 411 (e.g., the length in the axial direction) can be reduced. If the size of the first outer casing 411 is reduced, even when the front end 40 is brought close to the part of the subject being observed through the observation window 61, it is possible to prevent the transducer array 50 from contacting that part. Moreover, by shortening the length of the front end, operability is improved and the burden on the test subject during operation is reduced. Considering both the size of the ultrasonic beam scanning range required for ultrasonic imaging and the miniaturization of the front end 40, the opening angle 50A is preferably set to 140 degrees or more and 160 degrees or less.

[0051] Regarding the number of transducers 51 (number of channels) included in the transducer array 50, it is preferably set to 96 or more to obtain sufficient resolution of the ultrasonic image, and preferably to 128 or less to minimize the size of the front end 40. Compared to an ultrasonic endoscope with a transducer array having an opening angle 50A of 180 degrees and a channel number of 96 or more and 128 or less, according to this method, as the opening angle 50A decreases, the density of transducers 51 in the transducer array 50 can be increased, thereby improving the image quality of the ultrasonic image.

[0052] exist Figure 4 The tilt angle α of the front end face 412A relative to the axis 40X is shown. The tilt angle α constitutes a second angle. Furthermore, in Figure 4 The diagram shows the angle θ1 formed by the straight line connecting the center 50C of the arrangement direction of the oscillators 51 in the oscillator array 50 and the axis 40X with the center of curvature 52. Angle θ1 constitutes the fourth angle. Considering the actual use environment of the ultrasonic endoscope, the angle θ1 (the fourth angle) is preferably set to 45 degrees or more and 55 degrees or less, and the tilt angle α (the second angle) is preferably set to 35 degrees or more and 50 degrees or less.

[0053] exist Figure 4 The image shows the field of view 610 of the observation window 61. The field of view 610 is the range of the subject that can be captured by the camera module 60 with appropriate image quality. The field of view 610 is defined within the range surrounded by an upper limit 61A and a lower limit 61B, where the upper limit 61A defines an end further to one side than the optical axis 61C of the observation window 61, and the lower limit 61B defines an end further to the other side than the optical axis 61C of the observation window 61. The optical axis 61C corresponds to the center of the field of view 610. The angle of the field of view 610 (corresponding to the viewing angle of the camera module 60) is preferably 50° or less, and more preferably 120° or more and 140° or less.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, one end edge E2 of the oscillator array 50 is positioned lower than the axis 40X, and one end edge E1 of the oscillator array 50 is positioned higher than the axis 40X. Figure 4 The image shows the upper edge 50U of the oscillator array 50. The upper edge 50U constitutes one end edge of the oscillator array 50 in the vertical direction. Figure 4 In the example, one edge E1 is located closer to the base end than the upper edge 50U, the other edge E2 is located closer to the front end than the upper edge 50U, and the center 50C is located closer to the front end than the upper edge 50U.

[0055] The upper edge 50U preferably enters the observation field 610. In other words, the lower limit 61B of the observation range of the observation field 610 is preferably located lower than the upper edge 50U, and the upper limit 61A of the observation range of the observation field 610 is located higher than the upper edge 50U. In this way, even if the length of the first outer casing 411 in the axial direction is reduced, the camera module 60 can still capture images of the vicinity of the upper edge 50U of the transducer array 50 together with the subject, thereby confirming the position of the transducer array 50 while observing the subject area.

[0056] And, as Figure 4As shown, the center 50C of the oscillator array 50 is preferably located between the upper limit 61A and the lower limit 61B of the observation range. The upper limit 61A and the lower limit 61B of the observation range can also be considered as the light rays constituting the two ends of the observation field of view 610. Figure 4 In the example, the structure becomes the lower limit of the observation range 61B located below the center 50C. Thus, even if the field of view 610 changes due to assembly errors of the camera module 60 in the ultrasonic endoscope 12, the vicinity of the upper edge 50U of the transducer array 50 can be positioned appropriately in the image.

[0057] And, as Figure 4 As shown, the optical axis 61C of the observation window 61 is preferably located higher than the upper edge 50U. This makes it easier to place the subject portion opposite the center 50C in the center of the image, improving the operability of the transducer array 50.

[0058] exist Figure 4 The distance D1 between one end edge E1 and the observation window 61 in the front-rear direction is shown. In order to shorten the length of the front end 40, the distance D1 is preferably set to less than 10 mm.

[0059] The center line 70C of the illumination window 70 is preferably located higher than one end edge E1. In this way, when photographing the upper end edge 50U of the transducer array 50 and the subject area in front of it, the subject area can be sufficiently illuminated, and the brightness of the photographed image can be ensured.

[0060] The ultrasonic processor device 14 performs first and second drive control as drive control for the transducer array 50. The first and second drive control will be described below.

[0061] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the second drive control of the oscillator array 50. Figure 6 The image shows the state of the curved oscillator array 50 as viewed from the left and right sides.

[0062] The ultrasonic processor device 14 will process multiple consecutively arranged (in) Figure 6 In this example, five oscillators 51 are designated as oscillator group 51G, and the oscillators 51 belonging to this oscillator group 51G are excited with a predetermined delay relationship, thereby forming an ultrasonic beam 50T. The ultrasonic beam 50T has a transmission focus 50F formed at a predetermined depth. Figure 6In the second drive control shown, an ultrasonic beam 50T is formed such that the transmission focus 50F is located on the extension line of the straight line 50L connecting the center 51 of the plurality of oscillators 51 included in the oscillator group 51G and the center of curvature 52. Within the ultrasonic beam 50T, it gradually diffuses towards a shallower (upper) and a deeper (lower) side relative to the transmission focus 50F. Furthermore, in Figure 6 The image schematically depicts a 50T ultrasonic beam.

[0063] If the reflected wave of the ultrasonic beam 50T is received by the transducer group 51G, a received signal group is obtained from the transducer group 51G. The ultrasonic processor device 14 processes the received signal group to obtain a received data group 50R. The received data group 50R contains multiple received data (echo data) 50r corresponding to multiple receiving points (sample points) arranged on the extension line of the straight line 50L. Thus, a received data group 50R is obtained from one transducer group 51G. By staggering the positions of the transducers 51 that constitute the center of the transducer group 51G one by one while performing the same drive control, multiple received data groups 50R equivalent to one scan area, i.e., one frame, can be obtained.

[0064] In this specification, the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam 50T that receives the data set 50R is defined as the direction in which multiple receiving points corresponding to the data set 50R are arranged. Figure 6 In the second drive control shown, the ultrasonic processor device 14 drives and controls the transducer group 51G in such a way that the direction connecting the central transducer 51 and the curvature center 52 of the plurality of transducers 51 contained in the transducer group 51G (which constitutes the third direction) is consistent with the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam 50T (the arrangement direction of the received data 50r).

[0065] Figure 7 This indicates that all oscillator groups 51G set in the oscillator array 50 are being processed. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an example of an ultrasonic image based on received data group 50R obtained under the second drive control shown.

[0066] The ultrasonic image 500 includes: an image line 500Rr, corresponding to the received data group 50R of the ultrasonic beam 50T generated by the transducer group 51G closest to one end edge E1 of the transducer array 50; and an image line 500Fr, corresponding to the received data group 50R of the ultrasonic beam 50T generated by the transducer group 51G closest to the other end edge E2 of the transducer array 50. Between these, there exists an image line corresponding to the received data group 50R of the ultrasonic beam 50T generated by other transducer groups 51G. In this specification, the angle formed by the image line 500Rr and the image line 500Fr is defined as the field of view 500A of the ultrasonic image 500. When the second drive control is performed on all transducer groups 51G set in the transducer array 50, the field of view 500A becomes an angle slightly smaller than the opening angle 50A.

[0067] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the first drive control of the oscillator array 50. Figure 8 In the first drive control shown, by controlling the excitation timing of the multiple vibrators 51 included in the vibrator group 51G, an ultrasonic beam 50T is formed such that the transmission focus 50F is located at a position offset from the extension line of the straight line 50L towards the arrangement direction of the vibrators 51. Therefore, in Figure 8 In the first drive control shown, the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam 50T is such that it intersects the direction of the central vibrator 51 and the curvature center 52 among the multiple vibrators 51 contained in the connecting vibrator group 51G (the third direction constitutes the second direction). Figure 8 In the example, the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam 50T is towards one end edge E1 relative to the direction in which the straight line 50L extends (the third direction). However, it is also possible to make the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam 50T towards the other end edge E2 relative to the direction in which the straight line 50L extends (the third direction).

[0068] For example, by performing a first drive control on the transducer group 51G located at the base end of the transducer array 50 (controlling the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam 50T toward one end edge E1 relative to the direction of extension of the straight line 50L), and performing a second drive control on the other transducer groups 51G, the scanning range of the ultrasonic waves can be extended to the base end side compared to the case where the second drive control is performed on all transducer groups 51G.

[0069] Furthermore, by performing a first drive control on the transducer group 51G located at the front end of the transducer array 50 (controlling the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam 50T toward the other end edge E2 relative to the direction of extension of the straight line 50L), and performing a second drive control on the other transducer groups 51G, the scanning range of the ultrasonic waves can be extended to the front end compared to the case where the second drive control is performed on all transducer groups 51G.

[0070] Furthermore, by performing a first drive control on the transducer groups 51G located at both ends of the transducer array 50, and a second drive control on the transducer groups 51G located at the center (e.g., within a range of ±45 degrees from the center of the transducer array 50), compared to performing a second drive control on all transducer groups 51G, the scanning range of the ultrasound can be expanded to the base end side and the front end side.

[0071] It is also possible to perform first drive control on all the transducer groups 51G set in the transducer array 50. In this case, compared with the case of performing second drive control on all the transducer groups 51G, it is possible to extend the scanning range of the ultrasound to at least one of the base side and the front side, or to stagger the scanning range.

[0072] Figure 9 This indicates that the oscillator group 51G located at one end edge E1 of the oscillator array 50 is subjected to... Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of an example of an ultrasonic image 501 based on received data group 50R obtained under the second drive control shown.

[0073] The ultrasonic image 501 includes: an image line 501Rr, corresponding to the received data group 50R obtained from the transducer group 51G closest to one end edge E1 of the transducer array 50; and an image line 501Fr, corresponding to the received data group 50R obtained from the transducer group 51G closest to the other end edge E2 of the transducer array 50, with an image line between them corresponding to the received data group 50R obtained from the other transducer groups 51G. The angle formed by the image line 501Rr and the image line 501Fr is the field of view angle 501A of the ultrasonic image 501. Regarding the ultrasonic image 501, the base-side image is extended by an amount equivalent to the image line corresponding to the portion of the transducer array 50 where the first drive control was performed (the region of the transducer array 50 that generates the ultrasonic image exceeding the opening angle 50A).

[0074] The field of view 501A is greater than the field of view 500A. This allows the field of view 501A to be greater than the opening angle 50A. Regarding the opening angle 50A, it is preferably set to 140 degrees or more and 160 degrees or less to minimize the size of the front end 40 and ensure the scanning range of the ultrasound. However, even when the opening angle 50A is set within this range, as long as an ultrasound image with a field of view of approximately 180 degrees can be generated, the same user experience as an ultrasound endoscope with an opening angle of 180 degrees can be obtained. From this perspective, the field of view 501A is preferably 15 degrees or more larger than the opening angle 50A, and preferably set to 180 degrees or less.

[0075] Thus, the ultrasonic processor device 14 generates a first field of view larger than the opening angle of 50 Å. Figure 9The example shows the first control of the ultrasound image with a field of view of 50° (A) and the generation of a second field of view smaller than the first field of view. Figure 7 The second control of the ultrasonic image (field of view 500 Å in the example). In the first control, the ultrasonic processor device 14 performs at least the first drive control of the transducer array 50, which is either a first drive control or a second drive control. In the second control, the ultrasonic processor device 14 performs the second drive control of the transducer array 50 as a whole. The first control can also be described as controlling at least a portion of the transducer array 50 to perform a fan-shaped scan that causes the phases of the transmission pulses applied to the plurality of transducers 51 included in the transducer group 51G to be staggered. In the first control, preferably, the closer to the edge of the transducer array 50, the greater the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam 50T generated from the transducer group 51G. Figure 8 The angle formed by the straight line extending from the receiving data group 50R and the straight line 50L. In the case of performing the second drive control on the entire oscillator array 50 in the second control, the second control can be said to be the control of convex scanning that observes a field of view that is approximately the same as the opening angle 50A.

[0076] These first and second controls are preferably switched via buttons or the like on the operation unit 24. Preferably, the ultrasonic processor 14 displays either the ultrasonic image obtained through the first control or the ultrasonic image obtained through the second control on the display 20, and further displays information indicating which control was used to obtain the ultrasonic image on the display 20. After the ultrasonic processor 14 changes from the first control to the second control via the operation unit 24, it can also return to the first control after a certain period of time without accepting further operation from the operation unit 24. Conversely, after the ultrasonic processor 14 changes from the second control to the first control via the operation unit 24, it can also return to the second control after a certain period of time without accepting further operation from the operation unit 24.

[0077] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state of the ultrasonic beam when the first drive control is performed on the transducer group 51G located at the base end of the transducer array 50 and the second drive control is performed on the other transducer groups 51G.

[0078] Figure 10 The straight line L2 shown represents the extension of the straight line connecting the center of the transducer group 51G closest to one end edge E1 of the transducer array 50 and the transmission focus 50F of the ultrasonic beam 50T generated from the transducer group 51G. Figure 10 The straight line L3 shown represents the extension of the straight line connecting the center of the transducer group 51G closest to the other edge E2 of the transducer array 50 and the transmission focus 50F of the ultrasonic beam 50T generated from the transducer group 51G. Figure 10 The straight line L1 shown represents the extension of the straight line L2 when the second drive control is performed on the oscillator group 51G closest to the end edge E1 of the oscillator array 50.

[0079] The intersection of lines L1 and L3 coincides with the center of curvature 52. The intersection 52A of lines L2 and L3 is offset to a position closer to the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam than the center of curvature 52. Thus, the positions of the intersection points of lines L1 and L3 corresponding to the two ends of the ultrasonic image during the second control are different from the positions of the intersection points of lines L2 and L3 corresponding to the two ends of the ultrasonic image during the first control.

[0080] exist Figure 4 The diagram shows the angle β1 formed by the line segment connecting one end edge E1 and the center of curvature 52 and the axis 40X. Angle β1 constitutes a first angle. This angle β1 is preferably an inclination angle α (a second angle) or greater. In this way, the observation window 61 and the lifting stage 90 can be positioned close to one end edge E1 of the oscillator array 50, enabling efficient processing using the processing equipment.

[0081] Furthermore, in Figure 4 The diagram shows the straight line L4 representing the propagation direction of the ultrasonic beam (hereinafter referred to as the first ultrasonic beam) emitted from the transducer group 51G when the first drive control is performed on the transducer group 51G closest to the edge E1, and the angle β2 formed by the straight line L4 and the axis 40X. Angle β2 constitutes a third angle. The tilt angle α (second angle) is preferably greater than or equal to angle β2 (third angle). With this configuration, the blind spots of the observation window 61 can be reduced. Furthermore, angle β2 (third angle) is preferably set to an angle at which the straight line L4 does not intersect with the observation window 61. In this way, the first ultrasonic beam can be prevented from being blocked by the observation window 61, and the field of view of the ultrasonic image can be greatly expanded.

[0082] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the second outer casing 412 as viewed from the base end side. Figure 12 yes Figure 11 An exploded perspective view of the second outer casing 412 shown. Figure 13 It is Figure 11 A magnified view of a 3D image. Figures 11 to 13 In the middle, the following was omitted. Figure 5 The diagram shows the signal cable 80.

[0083] The second outer casing 412 is constructed by connecting the upper component 412U and the lower component 412D. The bracket 65 and cable support 66 of the camera module 60 are housed in a generally cuboid-shaped receiving space 421 formed between the upper component 412U and the lower component 412D. The lens barrel 62 of the camera module 60 is inserted into a cylindrical hole 420, which penetrates the front end side and upper wall of the receiving space 421 in the upper component 412U. The position of the lens barrel 62 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the viewing window 61 (i.e., the radial position) is positioned by the hole 420. With the lens barrel 62 inserted into the hole 420, it is fixed to the hole 420 using adhesive or the like. Thus, the camera module 60 is supported by the second outer casing 412. The second outer casing 412 constitutes a support member for supporting the camera module 60.

[0084] Before the lens barrel 62 is inserted into and fixed in the aperture 420, it can rotate within the aperture 420 about the optical axis of the observation window 61. In this state, the lens barrel 62 is configured such that it cannot move radially within the aperture 420. By rotating the lens barrel 62 within the aperture 420, the position of the imaging element integrated with the lens barrel 62 can be changed. By rotating the lens barrel 62 within the aperture 420, the projection position of the transducer array 50 in the photographic image captured by the imaging element can be adjusted.

[0085] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the size of the aperture 420 and the lens barrel 62. Figure 14 The diagram shows a view of the area near the hole 420 of the second outer casing 412 from the front side and a view of the camera module 60 from the optical axis direction of the viewing window 61.

[0086] The inner diameter φ1 of the aperture 420 is greater than the outer diameter φ2 of the lens barrel 62. The value obtained by subtracting the outer diameter φ2 from the inner diameter φ1, i.e., the distance between the inner circumferential surface of the aperture 420 and the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 62, is recorded as the second distance. As described above, this second distance is small enough that the lens barrel 62, although unable to move radially, can rotate circumferentially.

[0087] If the lens barrel 62 rotates within the hole 420 before it is inserted into and fixed in the hole 420, the bracket 65 and the cable support 66 will also move in conjunction. Therefore, a space is needed in the accommodating space 421 for the bracket 65 and the cable support 66 to move.

[0088] like Figure 13As shown, a gap CL is formed between the left wall surface WL and the right wall surface WR that form the accommodating space 421 and the bracket 65 and cable support 66. The distance of the gap CL (the first distance) is greater than the second distance mentioned above. The left wall surface WL and the right wall surface WR respectively constitute the sides surrounding the camera unit. Figure 11 As shown, the gap CL is preferably provided on the left and right sides of the cable support 66. With this configuration, the lens barrel 62 can be rotated by the same amount in either direction of its circumference.

[0089] As explained above, at least the following items are described in this instruction manual. (1)

[0091] An ultrasonic endoscope, comprising:

[0092] The oscillator array is composed of multiple oscillators extending along a first direction that intersects the axis of the insertion part in a curved arrangement;

[0093] The observation window is located on the base end side of the insertion part, which is further away from the above-mentioned oscillator array;

[0094] The camera module includes a camera optical system comprising the aforementioned viewing window and a camera unit that captures images via the aforementioned camera optical system; and

[0095] Supporting components support the aforementioned camera optical system and camera unit.

[0096] When viewed in the first direction mentioned above, the opening angle of the aforementioned oscillator array is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

[0097] When viewed in the first direction, one end edge of the oscillator array in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the insertion part enters the field of view of the observation window.

[0098] The angle of the observation field mentioned above is below the aforementioned opening angle.

[0099] The aforementioned support component includes a hole for the aforementioned camera optical system to pass through and a side surface surrounding the aforementioned camera unit.

[0100] A gap is formed between the aforementioned side and the aforementioned camera unit. (2)

[0102] According to the ultrasonic endoscope described in (1), wherein,

[0103] The opening angle mentioned above is 140 degrees or more and 160 degrees or less. (3)

[0105] According to the ultrasonic endoscope described in (1) or (2), wherein,

[0106] The angle of the above observation field is above 120 degrees and below 140 degrees. (4)

[0108] According to any one of (1) to (3) of the ultrasonic endoscope, wherein,

[0109] When viewed in the first direction, the center of the oscillator array enters between the light rays at both ends of the field of view constituting the observation window. (5)

[0111] According to any one of (1) to (4) of the ultrasonic endoscope, wherein,

[0112] When viewed in the first direction, the center of the field of view is located on the side opposite to the axis, which is closer to the end edge than the first edge. (6)

[0114] According to the ultrasonic endoscope described in (5), wherein,

[0115] The distance between the base edge of the insertion part in the above-mentioned oscillator array and the axial direction of the above-mentioned observation window is 10 mm or less. (7)

[0117] According to any one of (1) to (6) of the ultrasonic endoscope, wherein,

[0118] The first distance of the aforementioned gap is greater than the second distance between the inner circumferential surface of the aforementioned hole and the outer circumferential surface of the aforementioned camera optical system. (8)

[0120] According to the ultrasonic endoscope described in (7), wherein,

[0121] The position of the aforementioned camera optical system in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis is determined by the aforementioned aperture. (9)

[0123] The ultrasonic endoscope according to any one of (1) to (8) has an illumination window disposed on the base end side of the transducer array described above.

[0124] When viewed in the first direction, the center line of the illumination window is located on the side opposite to the axis, which is closer to the end edge than the one mentioned above. (10)

[0126] According to the ultrasonic endoscope described in (9), wherein,

[0127] When viewed along the aforementioned axial direction, the aforementioned observation window and the aforementioned illumination window are eccentrically positioned in the same direction. (11)

[0129] According to the ultrasonic endoscope described in (9) or (10), it has an outlet for the treatment device, and when viewed in the first direction, the above-mentioned transducer array, the above-mentioned observation window, and the above-mentioned outlet are arranged sequentially from the front end side. (12)

[0131] A system that possesses:

[0132] The ultrasonic endoscope described in any one of (1) to (11); and

[0133] The processor performs processing to generate an ultrasonic image based on the output signal of the aforementioned transducer array obtained by controlling the transducer array.

[0134] The processor performs the following first control: generating the ultrasonic image with a first field of view that is larger than the opening angle. (13)

[0136] According to the system described in (12), wherein,

[0137] The processor also performs the following second control: generating the ultrasonic image with a second field of view smaller than the first field of view. (14)

[0139] According to the system described in (13), wherein,

[0140] In the second control case described above, compared to the first control case described above, the ultrasonic beam generated by the transducer group that generates the ultrasonic beam corresponding to the edge of the ultrasonic image is propagated to the center side of the transducer array.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic endoscope characterized by comprising: have: The oscillator array is composed of multiple oscillators extending along a first direction that intersects the axis of the insertion part in a curved arrangement; The observation window is located on the base end side of the insertion part, which is closer to the oscillator array than the oscillator array. The camera module includes a camera optical system containing the viewing window and a camera unit that captures images through the camera optical system; and Supporting components support the camera optical system and the camera unit. When viewed in the first direction, the opening angle of the oscillator array is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees. When viewed in the first direction, one end edge of the oscillator array in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the insertion part enters the field of view of the observation window. The angle of the observation field of view is below the opening angle. The support component includes a hole for the camera optical system to pass through and a side surface surrounding the camera unit. A gap is formed between the side surface and the camera unit.

2. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 1, wherein, The opening angle is greater than 140 degrees and less than 160 degrees.

3. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 2, wherein, The angle of the observation field is above 120 degrees and below 140 degrees.

4. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 3, wherein, When viewed in the first direction, the center of the oscillator array enters between the light rays at both ends of the viewing field of view that constitutes the viewing window.

5. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 4, wherein, When viewed in the first direction, the center of the field of view is located on the side opposite to the axis, which is further away from the edge of the first view.

6. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 5, wherein, The distance between the base edge of the insertion part in the oscillator array and the axial direction of the observation window is less than 10 mm.

7. The ultrasonic endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The first distance of the gap is greater than the second distance between the inner circumferential surface of the hole and the outer circumferential surface of the camera optical system.

8. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 7, wherein, The position of the camera optical system in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis is determined by the aperture.

9. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 8, wherein an illumination window is disposed on the base side of the transducer array. When viewed in the first direction, the centerline of the illumination window is located on the side opposite to the axis, further away from the one-end edge.

10. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 9, wherein, When viewed along the axial direction, the observation window and the illumination window are eccentrically positioned in the same direction.

11. The ultrasonic endoscope according to claim 10, having an outlet for a treatment device, wherein when observed in the first direction, the transducer array, the observation window, and the outlet are sequentially arranged from the front end side.

12. A system, characterized by have: The ultrasonic endoscope of claim 11; and The processor performs processing to generate an ultrasonic image based on the output signal of the transducer array obtained by controlling the transducer array. The processor performs the following first control: generating the ultrasonic image with a first field of view larger than the opening angle.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein, The processor also performs the following second control: generating the ultrasonic image with a second field of view smaller than the first field of view.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein, In the second control case, compared to the first control case, the ultrasonic beam generated by the transducer group that generates the ultrasonic beam corresponding to the edge of the ultrasonic image is propagated to the center side of the transducer array.

Images