TUBE ELEMENT FOR AN ENDOSCOPE, ENDOSCOPE WITH THIS AND MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR AN ENDOSCOPE

Abstract

Working channel element or catheter tube for an endoscope, wherein the working channel element or catheter tube (1) has at least one electrical conductor (2; 21, 22, 23) between its outer wall (12) and its inner wall (11), which is embedded in the material of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) and is completely surrounded radially by it, wherein the material of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) forms a dielectric between a ground conductor (22, 23) and a signal conductor (21) of the at least one electrical conductor, and wherein the material of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) forms the inside of the inner wall (11) along which the working channel or catheter tube interior runs.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a working channel element or catheter tube for an endoscope and to an endoscope comprising such a working channel element or catheter tube. Furthermore, the invention relates to a manufacturing method for a working channel element or catheter tube of an endoscope.

[0002] An endoscope head is an instrument that is inserted into an area to be examined, sometimes difficult to access and usually unlit, e.g., a tunnel-shaped lumen (intestine, esophagus, or even a sewer shaft, etc.), in order to obtain an overview of the area to be examined. For this purpose, the area to be examined is illuminated using light sources built into the endoscope head, such as LEDs, and the illuminated scene is recorded using a camera built into the endoscope head. The camera is powered via a power supply cable, and the acquired image information is transmitted from the camera to an evaluation unit via a signal line.

[0003] This allows for the evaluation of the images taken by the camera to take appropriate measures for the area to be examined (e.g. surgery on the intestine, esophagus or repair of the sewer shaft, etc.).

[0004] Endoscopes can be divided into rigid endoscopes and endoscopes with a movable endoscope head. Endoscopes with a movable endoscope head have a pivoting end section, a so-called deflecting section, at the distal end of which the endoscope head is located. The camera itself, as explained above, is housed in the endoscope head. In a rigid endoscope, the endoscope head does not change its position relative to the endoscope rod, whereas in an endoscope with a movable endoscope head, the endoscope head can be pivoted relative to the endoscope tube. In both cases, the camera's power supply cable and signal line must be installed in such a way that the camera can be operated without problems. The power supply cable and signal line are usually routed along a tubular element (endoscope tube or working channel element) in the endoscope from the control unit to the camera.

[0005] DE 10 2008 047 776 A1 discloses an endoscope instrument. More specifically, an endoscope head is disclosed whose outer wall has an embedded electrical conductor. The endoscope head also has a working channel. The working channel element forming the working channel is a thin-walled tube that is held at least by the end wall at the endoscope tip. A shaft with a proximal shaft section is arranged between a handle and the endoscope head.

[0006] US 2008 / 0 051 634 A1 discloses an endoscope. The endoscope has a working channel element with a layered structure consisting of a plastic tube base layer, an intermediate layer arranged thereon, and a plastic layer arranged thereon. The intermediate layer can be an electrically conductive network wiring or a metal layer.

[0007] US Pat. No. 5,482,029 discloses a flexible endoscope system. The endoscope system has a flexible tube consisting of a metal inner tube and an elastomer outer tube. The elastomer outer tube has a shape-memory alloy wire connected to a power source. The elastomer material surrounds the shape-memory alloy wire.

[0008] WO 2010 / 0 595 542 A1 discloses a similar system with a tube consisting of an inner tube and an outer tube. A flat wire coil is spirally wound around the outer circumference of the inner tube.

[0009] DE 38 17 915 A1 discloses a flexible endoscope. The endoscope has a braid of electrical conductors. The braid is arranged under a protective sheath and on a supporting spiral tube. A free lumen is located inside the supporting spiral tube. Thus, a braid of electrical conductors is arranged on the outer circumference of a working channel element and on the inner circumference of a protective sheath.

[0010] DE 38 16 982 A1 discloses an ultrasound examination device. The ultrasound examination device has a multi-layered, flexible hollow shaft made of several wire layers. An intermediate layer, such as rubber, can be arranged between the wire layers.

[0011] DE 37 12 643 A1 discloses an endoscope. The endoscope has a bundle of coaxial cables arranged in a spiral groove of the outer wall of a tube under a synthetic resin sleeve, with a working channel element arranged in the tube. TASK TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0012] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an improved working channel element or catheter tube for an endoscope, an improved endoscope and an improved manufacturing method for a working channel element or catheter tube in order to ensure advantageous and problem-free operation of the camera. SOLUTION TO THE TASK

[0013] With regard to the working channel element or the catheter tube, this object is achieved according to the invention by a working channel element or catheter tube having the features of claim 1.

[0014] A manufacturing method is defined in claims 15, 16 and 17, respectively.

[0015] An endoscope is disclosed in claim 19.

[0016] Advantageous further training is the subject of dependent claims.

[0017] The invention thus relates to a working channel element or catheter tube for an endoscope, wherein the working channel element or catheter tube has at least one electrical conductor between its outer wall and its inner wall. The electrical conductor is thus incorporated in the working channel element or catheter tube and contained therein. As a result, the at least one electrical conductor supports the working channel element or catheter tube and gives it greater stability. On the other hand, the working channel element or catheter tube protects the electrical conductor from, for example, corrosion and from contact with other elements, and thus also from short circuits. One electrical conductor can be a power supply cable or ground conductor, and another electrical conductor can be a signal line. Two or more signal lines can also be used. Two or more ground conductors can also be used.The working channel element or catheter tube can therefore provide insulation, i.e., a dielectric, for the at least one electrical conductor. This enables a secure and less susceptible to failure arrangement of the power supply cable and signal line in the endoscope.

[0018] The working channel element or the catheter tube forms a tubular element. In this tubular element, several electrical conductors can be arranged as the at least one electrical conductor, forming a wire mesh. The power supply cable and the at least one or two signal lines as electrical conductors can be braided and form the wire mesh. Within the wire mesh, one cable can be insulated and the other cable(s) can be uninsulated. Each signal line can be assigned one or more ground conductors. Several signal lines and their assigned one or more ground conductors can also be braided within the wire mesh. The wire mesh can be a wire mesh mat made up of a first signal line, one or more first ground conductors, a second signal line, one or more ground conductors, etc., which are braided together.Alternatively, several electrical conductors can be arranged in the tubular element as the at least one electrical conductor, forming a band composed of at least one signal line and at least one ground conductor. In the band, the at least one signal line and the at least one ground conductor can be interwoven or extend alongside one another without being interwoven.

[0019] In the tubular element, the at least one electrical conductor can comprise a wire with a circular or square cross-section. Even wire cross-sections other than circular or square can be used. If a wire mesh is used, wires—i.e., electrical conductors—of the same or different cross-sections can be combined.

[0020] In the tubular element, at least one electrical conductor can extend coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the tubular element. The electrical conductor(s) runs virtually parallel to the axis of the tubular element. In this case, the electrical conductors can also run parallel to each other. If the electrical conductors form a wire mesh, the wire mesh runs parallel to the working channel. The distance between the conductors running parallel to the axis of the tubular element remains unchanged within the tubular element.

[0021] In the tubular element, at least one electrical conductor can extend spirally around the longitudinal axis of the tubular element. The electrical conductor(s) are essentially wound around the working channel inside the tubular element. The distance between windings, or in other words, the pitch, can be chosen arbitrarily.

[0022] In the tubular element, the at least one electrical conductor can be wound around the longitudinal axis of the tubular element such that a predefined distance is formed between a ground conductor and a signal conductor of the at least one electrical conductor. The predefined distance between the individual windings is preferably the same over the entire length of the tubular element. This creates a dielectric with a uniform geometry along the extension of the electrical conductors.

[0023] Within the tubular element, several electrical conductors can be wound around the longitudinal axis of the tubular element so that they are in contact with each other. At least the signal line(s) and / or the ground conductor(s) are electrically insulated by a sheath. This allows the dielectric to maintain a consistent geometry along the length of the electrical conductors, regardless of the arrangement of the electrical conductors, and the system of electrical conductors has a defined characteristic impedance.

[0024] In the tubular element, the at least one conductor can form a closed wire mesh in the circumferential direction of the tubular element between its outer and inner walls. In other words, the working channel is surrounded along its entire outer circumference by the at least one conductor arranged inside the tubular element. The at least one electrical conductor thus forms a wire mesh in the circumferential direction of the tubular element between its outer and inner walls, which extends continuously around the axis of the tubular element.

[0025] In the tubular element, the at least one electrical conductor can be arranged centrally between its outer and inner walls such that the distance between the electrical conductor and the outer wall and the inner wall of the tubular element is the same. Thus, the at least one electrical conductor is arranged centrally between the outer and inner walls of the tubular element. Alternatively, the at least one electrical conductor can also be arranged off-center in the tubular element.

[0026] An alternative manufacturing method for a tubular element according to the invention comprises the following steps: extruding a first layer of a material to form the tubular element; arranging at least one electrical conductor on the first layer of material to form the tubular element; and extruding a second layer of the material to form the tubular element such that the at least one electrical conductor is surrounded by the material to form the tubular element. In this way, the tubular element body is created layer by layer, starting, for example, from its inner circumferential wall, and the electrical conductors are arranged on each layer of the tubular element material, which in turn are covered by the next layer of the tubular element material. The electrical conductors can be wound spirally or laid straight in the longitudinal direction parallel to the axis of the tubular element body.

[0027] More than two layers of the material for forming the tubular element can also be extruded one after the other, so that several layers of electrical conductors can be arranged one above the other between layers of the tubular element material.

[0028] An alternative manufacturing method for a tubular element according to the invention comprises the following steps: holding the at least one electrical conductor in a cylindrical tube-like mold casting space such that the at least one electrical conductor is in contact with neither the outer wall nor the inner wall of the mold casting space; filling the mold casting space with a hardenable material to form the tubular element; and hardening the material to form the tubular element. This creates a cylindrical tube-like mold casting space that has the counter-shape of the future tubular element. The electrical conductor is arranged in this mold casting space in the interior of the cylindrical tube mold. The hardenable material is introduced into the mold casting space. The hardenable material can be, for example, a plastic material, rubber, or another suitable material.After the curing of the hardenable material, a pipe element with an integrated electrical wiring system is formed, which has at least one electrical conductor.

[0029] In a further alternative manufacturing method for a tubular element according to the invention for an endoscope, the at least one electrical conductor is arranged on the outer circumference of a tubular element blank formed from a meltable material; the at least one electrical conductor and / or the tubular element blank is heated; and the at least one electrical conductor sinks into the tubular element blank.

[0030] In the manufacturing process, an end section of at least one electrical conductor can be drawn straight in order to contact the electrical conductors.

[0031] Alternatively, the invention could be applied to a tubular element (not claimed) for an endoscope, wherein a flexible electrical cable system is fixedly arranged on the outer circumference of the tubular element, wherein the flexible electrical cable system has a defined characteristic impedance. The electrical conductors of the flexible electrical cable system have a characteristic impedance determined by the geometry of the dielectric cable border. The flexible electrical cable system with a defined characteristic impedance is constructed, for example, as a coaxial cable or a cable system of the so-called twisted-pair type, which is also referred to as a cable with twisted wire pairs.

[0032] The flexible electrical wiring system can be tightly wound spirally around the outer circumference of the tubular element, and at least one ground wire and one signal wire can be arranged adjacent to each other within the flexible electrical wiring system, with a dielectric between them. The dielectric can be an insulating element separate from the tubular element. Alternatively, the dielectric can also be formed by the tubular element itself, through corresponding elevations on the outer circumferential wall of the tubular element.

[0033] The flexible electrical conduit system can have at least one ground wire and one signal wire insulated with a dielectric, which are braided around each other. Alternatively, the at least one ground wire can be insulated and the signal wire can remain uninsulated. Furthermore, both the signal wire and the ground wire can be insulated. However, the insulation can also be formed solely by the material of the tubular element.

[0034] The width of the dielectric, which ensures the distance between the ground wire and the signal wire, can be constant over the entire length of the electrical wiring system.

[0035] The flexible electrical cable system can be wound spirally around the outer circumference of the tubular element such that a predefined distance is formed between the individual spiral windings of the electrical cable system.

[0036] The flexible electrical wiring system can be spirally wound around the outer circumference of the tubular element such that there is no gap between the individual spiral windings of a ground wire and a signal wire of the electrical wiring system. If the ground wire and signal wire are wound without any gap between them, insulation is provided by sheathing the ground wire and / or signal wire.

[0037] For contacting purposes, an end section of the at least one electrical conductor / ground wire and / or signal wire can be drawn straight.

[0038] An endoscope according to the invention has a tubular element as discussed above. The tubular element can form a working channel element for defining a working channel or a tube element (catheter tube) of the endoscope.

[0039] The endoscope may include a camera connected to the distal end of the electrical conductor / conducting system. The camera may be located in a region at the distal end of the tubular element or in a region that is laterally, or in other words radially, along the longitudinal extension of the tubular element. Alternatively or additionally, the endoscope may include another electrical device that is powered by a ground conductor and / or requires a signal conductor for signal transmission, such as an ultrasound transducer.

[0040] The features of the invention can be suitably combined.

[0041] The invention is explained in detail below using examples. Brief description of the drawings Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a working channel element as a pipe element according to the invention, wherein Fig. 1A is a schematic plan view of the interior of the working channel element and Fig. 1B shows a schematic sectional view through the wall of the working channel element. Fig. 2 shows a modification of the first embodiment, wherein Fig. 2 shows a schematic side sectional view of the working channel element. Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of a working channel element according to the invention, wherein Fig. 3 shows a schematic side sectional view of the working channel element. Fig. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a third embodiment of a working channel element according to the invention, wherein Fig. 4A is a schematic sectional view of the working channel element and Fig. 4B shows a schematic side view of the working channel element. Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a working channel element according to the invention, wherein Fig. 5A is a schematic sectional view of the working channel element and Fig. 5B shows a schematic side view of the working channel element. Fig. 6 shows a schematic sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a working channel element. Fig. 7 shows a schematic sectional view of a not claimed sixth embodiment of a working channel element. Fig. Figure 8 shows a seventh embodiment of a working channel element, not claimed, wherein Fig. 8A is a schematic sectional view of the working channel element and Fig. 8B shows a schematic side view of the working channel element. Fig. 9 shows an unclaimed eighth embodiment of a working channel element, wherein Fig. 9A is a schematic sectional view of the working channel element and Fig. 9B shows a schematic side view of the working channel element.

[0042] Embodiments of the present invention are described below. First embodiment

[0043] First of all, with reference to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 explains a first embodiment.

[0044] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a working channel element according to the invention, wherein Fig. 1A schematic plan view of the interior of the working channel element and Fig. 1B shows a schematic sectional view through the wall of the working channel element.

[0045] A working channel element 1 as a pipe element according to the invention is shown in Fig. 1. The working channel element 1 connects an endoscope head (not shown) and an endoscope control element (not shown), optionally with the interposition of further elements such as spacers, etc. In particular, the distal end of the working channel element 1 can be integrated into the endoscope head in such a way that it penetrates the endoscope head and has a distal working channel opening at the distal end of the endoscope head, or opens into a separate endoscope head working channel element formed in the endoscope head. This endoscope head working channel element then forms an extension of the working channel element 1.

[0046] The working channel element 1 is tubular and has an inner peripheral wall 11 and an outer peripheral wall 12. The inner peripheral wall 11 and the outer peripheral wall 12 extend coaxially to each other and share the same central axis. The working channel, for example, microtools, thus runs along the inner side of the inner peripheral wall 11.

[0047] In the first exemplary embodiment, an electrical conduction system 2 is provided in the working channel element 1 between the inner peripheral wall 11 and the outer peripheral wall 12. In the present exemplary embodiment, the electrical conduction system 2 consists of a plurality of electrical conductors. More precisely, in the present exemplary embodiment, the electrical conduction system 2 consists of a first electrical conductor 21 and a second electrical conductor 22 and a third electrical conductor 23. The diameter of the second and third electrical conductors 22, 23 can be smaller than the diameter of the first electrical conductor 21. Alternatively, the diameters of the first, second and third electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are equal to one another. In a further alternative, the diameter of the second and third electrical conductors 22, 23 is larger than the diameter of the first electrical conductor 21. The selection of diameters explained above applies to all exemplary embodiments.

[0048] The first electrical conductor 21 is an insulated signal conductor and is in Fig. 1A are shown hatched. The second and third electrical conductors 22, 23 are ground conductors and are in Fig. 1A not shown hatched.

[0049] The ground conductor(s) can be used, for example, to supply power to an electrical light source, such as an LED, built into the endoscope head. The signal conductor can be used, for example, to transmit signals from an image sensor, such as a camera, built into the endoscope head. The signal conductor can conduct the image signals detected by the image sensor via a control device on the proximal side of the endoscope or directly to an evaluation unit or a screen. The ground conductor(s) can also be used, or alternatively, to supply power to the image sensor.

[0050] The first, second and third electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are interwoven into a mesh, as shown in Fig. 1A. The braid is formed as a braided mat that can be produced by a braiding machine and serves as an electrical conduction system of the present invention and extends around the central axis of the working channel element 1.

[0051] As this is Fig. 1B, the braid comprising the first, second and third electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is located in the middle of the wall thickness of the working channel element 1. In other words, the distance of the center line between the radial outer surface and the radial inner surface of the braid (“radial” when viewed from the center axis of the working channel element 1) to the inner circumferential wall 11 is approximately the same as the distance of the center line of the braid to the outer circumferential wall 12. The braid is thus embedded in the material of the working channel element 1 and radially completely surrounded by it.

[0052] In the present embodiment, the braid in the working channel element 1 extends around the inner circumferential wall 11 and extends in the circumferential direction and in the axial direction of the working channel element 1 without interruption from a connecting section 21A, 22A, 23A at the proximal end of the working channel element 1 and a connecting section at the distal end of the working channel element 1.

[0053] In the present embodiment, a first electrical conductor 21, i.e., the signal conductor, is surrounded in the circumferential direction of the working channel element 1 by the second and third electrical conductors 22, 23, i.e., the ground conductor. In other words, the first electrical conductor 21 is arranged in a sandwich-like manner between the second and third electrical conductors 22, 23.

[0054] In the braid of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, each of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is wound spirally along the circumference of the working channel element 1 at an angle of approximately 45° to the direction of extension of the working channel element, as shown in Fig. 1A is indicated.

[0055] Each electrical conductor 21, 22, 23 has a connection section 21A, 22A, 23A at the proximal end of the working channel element 1 and a connection section at the distal end of the working channel element 1. Thus, Fig. 1A, a proximal connection section 21A of the first electrical conductor 21, a proximal connection section 22A of the second electrical conductor 22, and a proximal connection section 23A of the third electrical conductor 23. The respective distal connection sections can have the same structure as the connection sections 21A, 22A, 23A. The connection sections are unbraided and are straight. The connection sections can protrude from the respective (proximal or distal) end surface of the working channel element 1 in the axial direction of the working channel element 1.

[0056] The working channel element 1 is made of a thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic or rubber. These specifications are merely examples; other suitable materials can be used for the working channel element 1.

[0057] The material of the working channel element 1 has an electrically insulating effect and is thus used as a dielectric for the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23. The material of the working channel element 1 is always located between adjacent ground conductors and signal conductors of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, so that the ground conductors and signal conductors are not in electrical contact with one another. This prevents a short circuit between the ground conductor and signal conductor of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23. If the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 in the working channel element 1 are arranged such that they are in close contact with one another, at least the signal wire (i.e. the first electrical conductor 21) and / or the ground wire (i.e. the second electrical conductor 22) and the third electrical conductor 23) are provided with a suitable electrically insulating sheath. This makes it possible to achieve a very tight winding of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23.In addition, the number of the respective electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be increased. Effect of the first embodiment

[0058] The distance between the respective electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 in the working channel element 1 is the same from the proximal side to the distal side of the working channel element 1. The respective electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are embedded in the electrically insulating material of the working channel element 1. This results in a dielectric for the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 from the proximal side to the distal side of the working channel element 1, with which a defined characteristic impedance of the system of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is created. The dielectric is formed from the electrically insulating material of the working channel element 1 and / or a sheath of the signal wire, i.e., the first electrical conductor 21.

[0059] The size of the distance between the ground conductor and the signal conductor of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 and thus of the dielectric can be freely selected, but is approximately the same in the respective electrical cable system as a whole.

[0060] The first electrical conductor 21 is used as a signal conductor. The second and third electrical conductors 22, 23 are used as ground conductors and have a high-frequency ground reference.

[0061] The electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 of the braid (and particularly due to the specific spacing between the conductors) and the surrounding dielectric form a type of coaxial cable, in which a defined characteristic impedance is established. This enables reflection-free high-frequency signal transmission through a matched electrical termination at both ends of the working channel. In other words, the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 form a shielding braid as an RF conductor. Production

[0062] The working channel element for the endoscope described above can be manufactured as follows.

[0063] The electrical cable system 2 comprising the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be manufactured using a winding machine that automatically winds the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 from, for example, round wire or flat wire. Using a special winding machine, it is possible to realize almost any number of design variants regarding the winding angle, number of electrical conductors, or spacing between the electrical conductors.

[0064] The winding machine is combined with a plastic extruder that extrudes the material of the working channel element 1. The plastic extruder is configured to extrude the material of the working channel element 1 in stages, in sections that run parallel to the inner circumference of the working channel element 1. In other words, the extruder extrudes the material of the working channel element 1 layer by layer, extending longitudinally and over the entire circumference of the future working channel element 1.

[0065] This enables a wide variety of designs. For example, the extruder first extrudes a first layer of the material of the working channel element 1 to create the inner peripheral layer of the working channel element 1. On this inner peripheral layer, the winding machine successively winds or lays the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, which do not need to be insulated, as a first winding layer, at equal spacing from one another. The extruder then extrudes a second layer of the material of the working channel element 1 to create the middle layer of the working channel element 1. On this middle layer, the winding machine successively winds or lays electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, which are different from electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 and do not need to be insulated, as a second winding layer, at equal spacing from one another.Then, the extruder extrudes a third layer of the material of the working channel element 1 to create the outer peripheral layer of the working channel element 1.

[0066] The winding direction of the second winding of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be the same as the winding direction of the first winding of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, but it can also differ. For example, the winding direction of the second winding of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be opposite to the winding direction of the first winding of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, i.e., the winding direction of the first winding can be, for example, 45° and the winding direction of the second winding can be, for example, -45°. The winding angle is not limited and can even be such that the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 run parallel to the axis of the working channel element 1.

[0067] The number of layers and windings is not limited. Two layers of material of the working channel element 1 and one layer of windings of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be used, so that the structure according to Fig. 1A. It is also possible to use more than three layers of material of the working channel element 1 and more than two windings of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23.

[0068] During winding, care is taken in each winding layer to ensure that the distance between the electrical conductor 21 and the electrical conductors 22, 23 is maintained.

[0069] Alternatively, in this manufacturing method, the signal wire, i.e., the first electrical conductor 21, can be surrounded by an electrically insulating sheath. Then, the winding machine can even wind the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 without any gap between them. The sheath of the first electrical conductor 21 has the same thickness along its longitudinal extent and ensures an equal distance between the electrical conductor 21 and the electrical conductors 22, 23.

[0070] The working channel element for the endoscope described above can also be manufactured as follows.

[0071] The braid 2 of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be prefabricated by a braiding machine that automatically braids the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23. In the braid 2, the signal wire, ie, the first electrical conductor 21, is surrounded by an electrically insulating sheath.

[0072] Due to the electrically insulating sheathing of the first electrical conductor 21, the distance between the electrical conductor 21 and the electrical conductors 22, 23 is maintained in the braid even before the braid is surrounded by the dielectric of the working channel element material.

[0073] The ground wires, ie the second and third electrical conductors 22, 23, may but do not have to be electrically insulated.

[0074] The working channel element can be manufactured as a blank not yet provided with the braid 2 by an extruder, an injection molding machine or a press from suitable plastic.

[0075] The prefabricated mat of electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, in which the signal wire (i.e., the first electrical conductor 21) is surrounded by an electrically insulating sheath, is arranged in a cylindrical tube-like molding chamber in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical tube-like molding chamber. The electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are neither in contact with the outer wall nor with the inner wall of the molding chamber. The electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be positioned midway between the outer and inner walls of the molding chamber.

[0076] A hardenable material, which will later form the working channel element, is poured into the cylindrical tube-like mold cavity and completely fills the cylindrical tube-like mold cavity. The spaces between the electrical conductors 21, 22, and 23 are filled with the poured material.

[0077] The cast-in hardenable material is cured actively or passively. With active curing, the curing process is accelerated by heating or cooling, depending on the material type, or by other suitable means. With passive curing, the hardenable material hardens on its own.

[0078] Alternatively, the working channel element can be manufactured as follows.

[0079] The prefabricated mat made of electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, in which the signal wire, i.e. the first electrical conductor 21, is surrounded by an electrically insulating sheath, is placed around the outer circumference of a working channel element blank made of a fusible material. The prefabricated mat can be pulled onto the outer circumference of the working channel element blank as a type of cylindrical tube-like stocking. Before being pulled onto the working channel element blank, the prefabricated mat has an inner wall diameter that is larger than the inner wall diameter of the working channel element blank and an outer wall diameter that is smaller than the outer wall diameter of the working channel element blank. When pulled on, the prefabricated mat is stretched due to its elasticity and lies under tension on the outer circumference of the working channel element blank.

[0080] The prefabricated mat can also be wrapped around the outer circumference of the working channel element blank. The prefabricated mat is wound so tightly that, due to its elasticity, it is stretched in the wound state and lies under tension on the outer circumference of the working channel element blank.

[0081] In the next step, the prefabricated mat and / or the working channel element blank are heated. This softens the material of the working channel element blank, and the prefabricated mat, which is under tension on the outer circumference of the working channel element blank, sinks into the working channel element blank. The dimensions of the prefabricated mat and the working channel element blank, as well as the pretension during winding, are selected so that the prefabricated mat sinks into the working channel element blank, reaching the center between the inner and outer circumferences of the working channel element blank.

[0082] The working channel element blank is then cooled actively or passively.

[0083] In both manufacturing processes, one end section or both end sections of one or more electrical conductors can be drawn straight for contacting before pouring in the curable material or before heating the prefabricated mat and / or the working channel element blank, so that connecting end sections of the electrical conductors extending in the axial direction are obtained.

[0084] Should a hose element be used as the pipe element according to the invention, the manufacturing methods explained above can also be used. Modification of the first embodiment

[0085] Fig. 2 shows a modification of the first embodiment, wherein Fig. 2 shows a schematic side sectional view of the working channel element.

[0086] In Fig. 2 and the following drawings are shown in Fig. The electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 shown in Figure 1A are shown only schematically and not to scale.

[0087] A first electrical conductor 21, a second electrical conductor 22 and a third electrical conductor 23 are each combined such that the second electrical conductor 22 is arranged as a ground conductor between the first electrical conductor 21 as a signal conductor and the third electrical conductor 23 as another ground conductor.

[0088] As in Fig. 2, the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are wound spirally in the wall of the working channel element 1 such that they have a slight gradient from the proximal side of the working channel element 1 to the distal side of the working channel element 1.

[0089] While in Fig. 1 the electrical line system 2 is formed by a braid of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, which extends in the working channel element 1 around the inner circumferential wall 11 and in the circumferential direction and in the axial direction of the working channel element 1 endlessly, ie in the manner of a stocking, the arrangement in Fig. 2 modified. In Fig. 2, the electrical conduction system 2 comprising the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 in the working channel element 1 extends around the inner circumferential wall 11, namely only endlessly in the circumferential direction (i.e., without interruption) and not endlessly in the axial direction of the working channel element 1. An isolated group of one electrical conductor 21, 22, 23 each is formed, which are lined up parallel to one another. The electrical conduction system 2 is thus wound spirally around the inner circumferential wall 11 as a band of electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 in the working channel element 1. Within the band, the distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 22, and the distance between the electrical conductors 22 and 23, is the same from the proximal end to the distal end of the working channel element 1. The distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 22 is preferably the same as the distance between the electrical conductors 22 and 23.In an alternative, the distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 22 may differ from the distance between the electrical conductors 22 and 23.

[0090] Fig. Figure 2 schematically shows the pitch of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 in the working channel element 1. The pitch of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 in the working channel element 1 is the same from the proximal end to the distal end of the working channel element 1. The exact design of the stiffening of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 in the working channel element 1 can be selected as required and can even be of a magnitude that corresponds only to the distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 22, or the distance between the electrical conductors 22 and 23 in the band.

[0091] In an alternative, a plurality of first electrical conductors 21 with their respective electrical conductors 22, 23 arranged in series next to them can be provided spirally wound in the working channel element 1. Second embodiment

[0092] A second embodiment is described below with reference to Fig. 3 explained.

[0093] Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the working channel element according to the invention, wherein Fig. 3 shows a schematic side sectional view of the working channel element.

[0094] In this embodiment, the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are also arranged in the working channel element 1.

[0095] In the first embodiment, the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are braided together. In the present second embodiment, no braided mat is used as in the first embodiment; instead, the first electrical conductor 21 is used as a single-strand signal conductor. Furthermore, the second and third electrical conductors 22, 23 are braided together, i.e., twisted together to form a pair. The second and third electrical conductors 22, 23 are thus designed as a so-called twisted-pair conductor.

[0096] As in Fig. 3, the interwoven electrical conductors 22, 23 are located radially adjacent to the outside of the first electrical conductor 21 or are evenly spaced from it. If the electrical conductors 22, 23 are adjacent to the first electrical conductor 21, the first electrical conductor 21 and / or the electrical conductors 22, 23 are electrically insulated by a sheath. If the electrical conductors 22, 23 are spaced from the first electrical conductor 21, no electrically insulating sheath needs to be provided. Alternatively, the interwoven electrical conductors 22, 23 can be located radially on the inside of the first electrical conductor 21. Thus, in the second exemplary embodiment, the electrical line system 2 is formed from a first electrical conductor 21 and the interwoven electrical conductors 22, 23.

[0097] Thus, due to this arrangement in the second embodiment, the distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 22, the distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 23 and the distance between the electrical conductors 22 and 23 remain the same from the proximal end to the distal end of the working channel element 1.

[0098] In an alternative, a plurality of first electrical conductors 21 with their respective twisted electrical conductors 22, 23 can be provided spirally wound in the working channel element 1.

[0099] In a further alternative, the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be interwoven, i.e., twisted, in the working channel element 1. Thus, the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be formed as a braided band of three wires, wherein the braided band is wound spirally in the working channel element 1. In this braided band, the first electrical conductor 21 and / or the electrical conductors 22, 23 are electrically insulated by a sheath.

[0100] The same advantageous effects as in the first embodiment and its modification are achieved by the present embodiment. Third embodiment

[0101] A third embodiment is described below with reference to Fig. 4 explained.

[0102] Fig. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of the third embodiment of a working channel element according to the invention, wherein Fig. 4A is a schematic sectional view of the working channel element and Fig. 4B shows a schematic side view of the working channel element.

[0103] In the first and second embodiments, the electrical line system 2 is wound spirally from the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 in the working channel element 1.

[0104] In the third embodiment, the electrical line system 2 is formed from the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 as a parallel running band that extends in the wall in the working channel element 1 parallel to the central axis of the working channel element 1.

[0105] The ground conductor, ie the first electrical conductor 21, is sandwiched between the second and third electrical conductors 22, 23.

[0106] In the band, the distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 22 and the distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 23 are the same from the proximal end to the distal end of the working channel element 1.

[0107] In the third embodiment, a strip of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is arranged within the wall in the working channel element 1. Alternatively, several strips of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be arranged within the wall in the working channel element 1, wherein the distance between the respective strips is the same.

[0108] In the third embodiment, the band of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is arranged within the wall in the working channel element 1 such that, when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the working channel element 1 (see arrow 4B), the respective location of the entry of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 into the working channel element 1 on the proximal side of the working channel element 1 overlaps with the respective location of the exit of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 from the working channel element 1 on the distal side of the working channel element 1. Alternatively, the respective location of the entry of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 into the working channel element 1 on the proximal side of the working channel element 1 can be offset from the respective location of the exit of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 from the working channel element 1 on the distal side of the working channel element 1 in the circumferential direction of the wall of the working channel element 1.

[0109] The distance between the inner wall surface of the inner peripheral wall 11 and the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is equal to the distance between the outer wall surface of the outer peripheral wall 12 and the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23. Alternatively, the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be arranged closer to the inner peripheral wall 11 or closer to the outer peripheral wall 12. Alternatively, the respective location of the entry of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 into the working channel element 1 on the proximal side of the working channel element 1 can be offset from the respective location of the exit of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 from the working channel element 1 on the distal side of the working channel element 1 in the radial direction with respect to the axis of the working channel element 1.

[0110] In the third embodiment, the same advantageous effects as in the first embodiment can be achieved. Fourth embodiment

[0111] A fourth embodiment is described below with reference to Fig. 5 explained.

[0112] Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of the fourth embodiment of a working channel element according to the invention, wherein Fig. 5A is a schematic sectional view of the working channel element and Fig. 5B shows a schematic side view of the working channel element.

[0113] In the present fourth embodiment, similar to the third embodiment, the electrical line system 2 is formed from the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 as a band running parallel to the axis of the working channel element 1.

[0114] In the third embodiment, the band of the electrical conduction system 2 is formed from the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 such that they are arranged one behind the other in a row in the circumferential direction of the working channel element 1. The distance between the inner wall surface of the inner circumferential wall 11 and the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is equal to the distance between the outer wall surface of the outer circumferential wall 12 and the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23.

[0115] In the fourth embodiment, as shown in Fig. 5B, the electrical conductors 22, 23 are arranged radially on the outside of the first electrical conductor 21 at a uniform distance from it or adjacent to it. If the electrical conductors 22, 23 are adjacent to the first electrical conductor 21, the first electrical conductor 21 and / or the electrical conductors 22, 23 are electrically insulated by a sheath. If the electrical conductors 22, 23 are spaced from the first electrical conductor 21, no electrically insulating sheathing needs to be provided.

[0116] As in the third embodiment, the band of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is arranged in the wall in the working channel element 1 such that, when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the working channel element 1 (see arrow 5B), the entry point of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 on the proximal side of the working channel element 1 overlaps with the entry point on the distal side of the working channel element 1 or is offset in the circumferential direction and / or radial direction of the working channel element 1.

[0117] Alternatively, the second and third electrical conductors 22, 23 can be braided together, i.e., twisted into a pair, or all three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be braided together. Thus, the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can be formed as a braided band of three wires, wherein the braided band extends in the wall of the working channel element 1 parallel to the axis of the working channel element 1.

[0118] Thus, with this arrangement, the distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 22 and the distance between the electrical conductors 21 and 23 remain the same from the proximal end to the distal end of the working channel element 1. Unclaimed Fifth Embodiment

[0119] A fifth embodiment is described below with reference to Fig. 6 explained.

[0120] Fig. 6 shows a schematic sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a working channel element.

[0121] In the first to fourth embodiments, the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are arranged in the wall of the working channel element 1 between the inner peripheral wall 11 and the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1.

[0122] In the fifth embodiment, the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are arranged on the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1, as shown in Fig. 6 is shown.

[0123] Otherwise, the structure of the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is similar to that in the second embodiment of Fig. 3.

[0124] The first electrical conductor 21 is wound spirally around the working channel element 1 along the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1, adjacent to the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 12. On the radially outer side of the first electrical conductor 21, the two electrical conductors 22, 23 are arranged adjacent to the first electrical conductor 21. The two electrical conductors 22, 23 are interwoven. At least one of the first electrical conductor 21 and / or both electrical conductors 22, 23 are electrically insulated by a suitable sheath.

[0125] Furthermore, in a modification of the fifth embodiment, the alternatives discussed in the second embodiment can also be applied analogously. Unclaimed Sixth Embodiment

[0126] A sixth embodiment is described below with reference to Fig. 7 explained.

[0127] Fig. 7 shows a schematic sectional view of a sixth embodiment of a working channel element.

[0128] In the sixth embodiment, similar to the fifth embodiment, the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are arranged on the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1, as shown in Fig. 7. In contrast to the fifth embodiment, in the sixth embodiment the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are arranged next to one another on the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1.

[0129] The three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are wound spirally around the working channel element 1, adjacent to one another, forming a band along the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1.

[0130] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, the modifications of the first embodiment with reference to Fig. 2 discussed alternatives can be applied analogously.

[0131] Unclaimed Seventh Embodiment

[0132] A seventh embodiment is described below with reference to Fig. 8 explained.

[0133] Fig. Figure 8 shows a seventh embodiment of a working channel element, wherein Fig. 8A is a schematic sectional view of the working channel element and Fig. 8B shows a schematic side view of the working channel element.

[0134] In the seventh embodiment, similar to the sixth embodiment, the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are arranged on the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1.

[0135] In contrast to the sixth embodiment, however, in the seventh embodiment the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 extend on the outer surface of the outer circumferential wall 12 of the working channel element 1 in the axial direction of the working channel element 1, as shown in Fig. 8 is shown.

[0136] Furthermore, the alternatives discussed in the third embodiment can also be applied analogously in the seventh embodiment. Unclaimed Eighth Embodiment

[0137] An eighth embodiment is shown below with reference to Fig. 9 explained.

[0138] Fig. 9 shows an eighth embodiment of a working channel element, wherein Fig. 9A is a schematic sectional view of the working channel element and Fig. 9B shows a schematic side view of the working channel element.

[0139] In the eighth embodiment, similar to the seventh embodiment, the three electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 are arranged on the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1 in the axial direction of the working channel element 1.

[0140] Similar to the second and fifth embodiments, the first electrical conductor 21 is arranged along the outer surface of the outer circumferential wall 12 of the working channel element 1, adjacent to the outer surface of the outer circumferential wall 12, but extends in the axial direction of the working channel element 1. On the radially outer side of the first electrical conductor 21, the two electrical conductors 22, 23 are arranged adjacent to the first electrical conductor 21. The two electrical conductors 22, 23 are interwoven. At least one of the first electrical conductor 21 and / or both electrical conductors 22, 23 are electrically insulated by a suitable sheath.

[0141] Furthermore, the alternatives discussed in the second and fifth embodiments can also be applied analogously in the eighth embodiment.

[0142] It is expressly pointed out that the exemplary embodiments explained above can be combined, where appropriate. For example, a combination of an electrical conduit system arranged in the wall of the working channel element 1 with an electrical conduit system arranged on the outer surface of the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1 is conceivable. This allows the number of electrical conduit systems used to be increased even further. Effects of the invention

[0143] The invention enables a very space-saving arrangement of signal cables around and / or within a working channel or tube. Contacting the cable ends is also significantly simpler and more cost-effective than with the same number of miniaturized coaxial cables. Other alternatives

[0144] In the exemplary embodiments, the electrical line system 2 is arranged on or in a tubular working channel element 1. The working channel element 1 does not have to be tubular in the sense of a cylindrical tube, but can alternatively have any profile shape that allows, for example, micro-tools to be passed through its internal working channel. The invention explained by way of example in the exemplary embodiments is not limited thereto. The electrical line system 2 can also be arranged on or in a hollow catheter tube element in a manner similar to the exemplary embodiments.

[0145] In some embodiments, the signal conductor, ie, the first electrical conductor 21, is insulated. Alternatively, the ground conductors may be insulated, and the signal conductor may remain uninsulated. All conductors may also be insulated. If the signal conductor is insulated, only a portion of the ground conductors (a specific number or a specific section) may remain uninsulated.

[0146] At least one of the two conductor types, i.e., the signal conductor and / or the ground conductor, must be insulated. The insulation can be formed as a sheathing of the respective conductor(s). Alternatively or additionally, in cases where the conductors are arranged in the wall of the working channel element 1, the material of the working channel element 1 can form the insulation. This also allows the desired defined characteristic impedance to be achieved.

[0147] The working channel element 1 can be transparent.

[0148] In the exemplary embodiments, two ground conductors, namely the second and third electrical conductors 22, 23, and one signal conductor, namely the first electrical conductor 21, form the electrical line system 2. Alternatively, only a single ground conductor can be combined with the signal conductor.

[0149] In the first embodiment, the braided mat is endless in the circumferential direction of the working channel element 1, shaped like a stocking. In the first embodiment and in all other embodiments, a braided mat with predefined outer edges that is not endless in the circumferential direction of the working channel element 1 can be used as an alternative. This braided mat, which is not endless in the circumferential direction of the working channel element 1, can extend in the form of a band in the axial direction of the working channel element 1 parallel to the center line of the working channel element 1 or can be wound spirally along the circumference of the working channel element 1. Another alternative is just a single signal conductor with associated ground conductor(s).

[0150] In all embodiments, the winding angle (winding angle relative to the center line of the working channel element 1) of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 is not limited and can range from an axial extension along the axial direction of the working channel element 1 parallel to the center line of the working channel element 1 (i.e. a winding angle of 0°) via a very small winding angle, in which the respective conductor is only slightly offset from the proximal end surface of the working channel element 1 to the distal end surface of the working channel element 1, to a very large winding angle in which a large number of windings with a small pitch are formed.

[0151] The winding angle should be the same for each working channel element.

[0152] In a spiral winding of the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23, the winding pitch should be the same along the axial direction of the working channel element 1.

[0153] In the exemplary embodiments, each electrical conductor 21, 22, 23 has a connection section 21A, 22A, 23A at the proximal end of the working channel element 1 and a connection section at the distal end of the working channel element 1. Alternatively, the proximal and / or distal connection sections can be spaced from the respective ends of the working channel element 1. The connection sections do not have to extend parallel to the axial direction of the working channel element 1 and can be directed radially outward perpendicularly from the working channel element 1. For example, a structure can then be used in which a working channel element 1 is installed on an endoscope head such that the distal end of the working channel element 1 is on the distal side of a camera that is connected to one or more electrical conductors of the working channel element 1 according to the invention.Preferably, the connecting sections are straight (i.e. not bent), but can alternatively be curved.

[0154] The electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 wound spirally or otherwise with a pitch around the working channel element 1 can also be guided at the proximal end and / or distal end of the working channel element 1 for a predetermined distance parallel to the central axis of the working channel in order to enable easier contact.

[0155] In the exemplary embodiments, two ground conductors are combined with the signal conductor. Alternatively, three or more ground conductors can be combined with the signal conductor. It is also possible to combine only one ground conductor with the signal conductor. If only one ground conductor is combined with the signal conductor, these can be designed as a twisted-pair conductor or as a coaxial cable. The invention is even applicable to the case in which only one signal conductor or only one ground conductor is routed in the working channel element 1 between the outer wall and inner wall of the working channel element 1.

[0156] Multiple braided layers / strips of electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 can also be stacked on top of each other, either insulated or spaced apart by the material of the working channel element 1, to increase the number of signal lines. The order of the line types is freely selectable. The signal lines, ie, the respective first electrical conductors 21, can also cross each other.

[0157] The electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 may have a circular or square cross-section or any other freely selected cross-section.

[0158] In the exemplary embodiments, working channel elements 1 are shown which have a flat outer peripheral wall 12. Alternatively, the outer peripheral wall 12 can have groove-shaped recesses into which the electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 of the fifth to eighth exemplary embodiments are inserted. Radial elevations formed between the recesses on the outer peripheral wall 12 electrically insulate between adjacent electrical conductors 21, 22, 23 and form a dielectric. The groove-shaped recesses can extend in the axial direction of the working channel element 1 (seventh and eighth exemplary embodiments) or they can run spirally along the outer peripheral wall 12 of the working channel element 1 (fifth and sixth exemplary embodiments).

[0159] If several ground conductors 22, 23 are used, they can also be in contact with each other without insulation.

[0160] The manufacturing methods explained in the first embodiment can also be applied in a similar form to the other embodiments. List of reference symbols 1 working channel element; pipe element 2 electrical cable system; braid; tape 11 Inner peripheral wall of the working channel element 12 Outer peripheral wall of the working channel element 21 first electrical conductor; signal conductor 22 second electrical conductor; ground conductor 23 third electrical conductor; ground conductor 21A proximal connection section of the first electrical conductor 22A proximal connection section of the second electrical conductor 23A proximal connection section of the third electrical conductor

Claims

[1] Working channel element or catheter tube for an endoscope, wherein the working channel element or the catheter tube (1) has at least one electrical conductor (2; 21, 22, 23) between its outer wall (12) and its inner wall (11), which is embedded in the material of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) and is completely surrounded radially by it, wherein the material of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) forms a dielectric between a ground conductor (22, 23) and a signal conductor (21) of the at least one electrical conductor, and wherein the material of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) forms the inside of the inner wall (11) along which the working channel or the catheter tube interior runs. [2] Working channel element or catheter tube according to claim 1, wherein the at least one electrical conductor forms a wire mesh (2) of several electrical conductors (21, 22, 23). [3] Working channel element or catheter tube according to claim 1, wherein the at least one electrical conductor comprises a wire (21, 22, 23) with a circular or quadrangular cross-section. [4] Working channel element or catheter tube according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) extends coaxially to the longitudinal axis of the working channel element or catheter tube (1). [5] Working channel element or catheter tube according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ground conductor (22, 23) and the signal conductor (21) form a flexible electrical line system (2) which extends spirally around the longitudinal axis of the working channel element or catheter tube (1). [6] Working channel element or catheter tube according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) is wound around the longitudinal axis of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) such that a predefined distance is formed between a ground conductor (22, 23) and a signal conductor (21) of the at least one electrical conductor. [7] Working channel element or catheter tube according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a plurality of electrical conductors (21, 22, 23) are wound around the longitudinal axis of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) so that they are in contact with each other. [8] Working channel element or catheter tube according to claim 2, wherein the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) forms a wire mesh (2) in the circumferential direction of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) between its outer wall (12) and its inner wall (11), which wire mesh extends around the axis of the working channel element or catheter tube (1). [9] Working channel element or catheter tube according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one electrical conductor (2; 21, 22, 23) is arranged centrally in the working channel element or catheter tube (1) between its outer wall (12) and its inner wall (11) such that the distance between the electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) to the outer wall (12) and the inner wall (11) of the working channel element or catheter tube (1) is the same. [10] Working channel element or catheter tube according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the ground conductor (22, 23) and the signal conductor (21) form a flexible electrical line system (2) which has a defined characteristic impedance. [11] Working channel element or catheter tube according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the width of the dielectric, which ensures the distance between the ground wire (22, 23) and the signal wire (21), is constant over the entire length of the electrical conductor (2). [12] Working channel element or catheter tube according to claim 5, wherein the flexible electrical line system (2) is wound spirally such that a predefined distance is formed between the individual spiral windings of the ground wire (22, 23) and the signal wire (21). [13] Working channel element or catheter tube according to claim 5, wherein the flexible electrical line system (2) is wound spirally such that no distance is formed between the individual spiral windings of the electrical line system (2). [14] Working channel element or catheter tube according to claim one of claims 1 to 13, wherein an end section (21A, 22A, 23A) of the at least one electrical conductor / ground wire (22, 23) and / or signal wire (21) is drawn straight for contacting. [15] Manufacturing method for a working channel element or catheter tube for an endoscope according to one of claims 1 to 14, comprising the following steps: Extruding a first layer of a material to form the working channel element or catheter tube (1); Arranging at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) on the first layer of the material to form the working channel element or catheter tube (1); and Extruding a second layer of the material for forming the tubular element (1) such that the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) is surrounded by the material for forming the working channel element or catheter tube (1). [16] Manufacturing method for a working channel element or catheter tube for an endoscope according to one of claims 1 to 14, comprising the following steps: Holding the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) in a cylindrical tube-like mold casting space such that the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) is in contact neither with the outer wall (12) nor with the inner wall (11) of the mold casting space; Filling a hardenable material for forming the working channel element or catheter tube (1) into the molding chamber; and Curing of the material to form the working channel element or catheter tube (1). [17] A manufacturing method for a working channel element or catheter tube for an endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) is arranged on the outer circumference of a working channel element or catheter tube blank formed from a meltable material; the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) and / or the working channel element or catheter tube blank is heated; and the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) sinks into the working channel element or catheter tube blank. [18] Manufacturing method for a working channel element or catheter tube according to claim 15, 16 or 17, wherein an end portion (21A, 22A, 23A) of the at least one electrical conductor (21, 22, 23) is pulled straight for contacting. [19] Endoscope with a working channel element or catheter tube (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14. [20] Endoscope according to claim 19, wherein the endoscope comprises a camera connected to the distal end of the electrical conductor / conduit system (2).

Images