Endoscope

Abstract

An endoscope comprises a cylinder, a first movable element, a second movable element, and an opening / closing mechanism. The cylinder has an interior space, which is formed along a first axis extending from a distal end to a proximal end. The first movable element moves within the interior space along the first axis and has a first connecting element. The first connecting element has at least two projections that engage and retain the second movable element. The second movable element moves within the interior space along the first axis and has a second connecting element. The second connecting element has a head section designed to be retained by the first connecting element and a neck section provided at a distal end of the head section and designed to be narrower than the head section.The opening / closing mechanism changes the state of the first connecting element between a state in which the first connecting element is opened to release the second connecting element, and a state in which the first connecting element is closed to hold the second connecting element.

Description

field of technology

[0001] The present invention relates to an endoscope which has a treatment instrument lifting base at a distal end section of an insertion part, wherein the endoscope further comprises a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism for attaching and removing a treatment instrument lifting wire, and wherein the treatment instrument lifting wire is designed to assist in a lifting and lowering process of the treatment instrument lifting base. State of the art

[0002] Traditionally, endoscopes are widely used in medical and industrial fields. Medical endoscopes used in medical settings consist of an insertion tube and a control unit. The insertion tube is elongated and tubular, and features an image acquisition unit, etc., at its distal end. The control unit extends into the proximal end of the insertion tube and has various operating elements, etc., on its outer surface.

[0003] Conventional endoscopes of this type have functions for capturing an image inside an organ or similar structure by inserting the insertion tube into a living body (patient), as well as for displaying and recording the captured image. A user then performs the observation and examination of a lesion, or similar condition, within the organ based on the image captured and displayed by the endoscope.

[0004] Furthermore, some conventional endoscopes of this type have a configuration in which the introducer has a tube (a so-called instrument introducer tube) through which a treatment instrument or the like is inserted, and the treatment instrument is used by causing a distal end of the instrument inserted through the tube to protrude outwards from the distal end of the tube. Additionally, some endoscopes with this configuration have an instrument lifting base at the distal end of their introducer to change the direction in which the instrument protrudes.

[0005] The treatment instrument is an instrument that has forceps or the like at its distal end and is used to perform various types of treatment, such as a biopsy to remove a piece of tissue from a body, an incision of a lesion site in the body, etc.

[0006] Furthermore, the instrument lifting base is driven in response to the actuation of operating elements (an operating lever and the like) provided on the control unit and is designed to perform a lifting or lowering operation of the instrument. The instrument lifting base is located at the distal end of the endoscope's insertion part. A distal end of the instrument lifting wire is connected to the instrument lifting base. A proximal end of the instrument lifting wire is connected to the operating lever provided on the control unit. The instrument lifting wire is a flexible, elongated, linear element, arranged to be inserted through the interior of the insertion part and designed to be displaceable along the longitudinal axis of the insertion part.

[0007] Such a configuration achieves a configuration of the treatment instrument lifting base to perform a predetermined lifting or lowering operation in response to a predetermined actuation on the operating lever.

[0008] For the conventional endoscope, which has such a treatment instrument lifting base, for example, the disclosed Japanese patent application No. 2022-38181 proposes various devices for fixing an end section of the treatment instrument lifting wire.

[0009] Furthermore, various types of endoscopes equipped with a surgical instrument lifting base have been proposed in recent years. For example, European Patent No. EP1759626 B1 et al. proposes an endoscope in which a surgical instrument lifting wire is designed to be attachable and detachable. To achieve such a configuration, conventional endoscopes of this type are provided with various mechanisms to fix or detach an end section of the surgical instrument lifting wire to a predetermined element in an attachable / detachable manner.

[0010] In conventional endoscopes disclosed in the aforementioned Japanese patent application No. 2022-38181 and European patent No. EP1759626 B1, the mechanism for attaching and detaching the end section of the instrument's lifting wire to and from the predetermined element is designed using multiple components. Such a configuration presents a problem, for example, because it complicates the process of attaching and detaching the instrument's lifting wire.

[0011] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide an endoscope that has a treatment instrument lifting base and that has a connection mechanism that allows easy attachment and removal of a treatment instrument lifting wire using a simple mechanism. Disclosure of the invention: Means of solving the problem

[0012] To achieve the objective described above, an endoscope according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a cylinder, a first movable element, a second movable element, and an opening / closing mechanism. The cylinder has an interior space. The interior space is formed along a first axis extending from a distal end to a proximal end. The first movable element is designed to be movable within the interior space along the first axis and has a first connecting element. The first connecting element has at least two projections designed to engage and retain the second movable element. The second movable element is designed to be movable within the interior space along the first axis and has a second connecting element. The second connecting element is retained by the first connecting element.The second connecting element has a head section designed to be held by the first connecting element, and a neck section located at the distal end of the head section, which is narrower than the head section. The opening / closing mechanism changes the state of the first connecting element between a state in which the first connecting element is open to release the second connecting element and a state in which the first connecting element is closed to hold the second connecting element.

[0013] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an endoscope equipped with a treatment instrument lifting base and having a connection mechanism that allows for easy attachment and removal of a treatment instrument lifting wire by means of a simple mechanism. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is an external view showing a schematic configuration of the endoscope in a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an operating element of the endoscope, cut through a surface along a virtual surface defined by an arrow reference sign [2] in Fig. 1 is shown. Fig. 3 is an external perspective view, which, by removing only one treatment instrument operating lever in the endoscope, reveals the endoscope's position. Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 4 is an exploded view of a main part, which, by removing the treatment instrument operating lever, reveals the treatment instrument operating lever in Fig. 3 and shows some components (a frame shaft, a connecting main body) in a drive mechanism of the treatment instrument actuating lever. Fig. Figure 5 shows the operation of the treatment instrument operating lever in the endoscope according to in Fig. 1, where a first state of the treatment instrument actuating lever is shown. Fig. Figure 6 shows the operation of the treatment instrument operating lever in the endoscope according to in Fig. 1, where a second state of the treatment instrument actuating lever is shown. Fig. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part, showing a Fig. 2 shows the area marked with reference numeral [7] enlarged. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the respective components in a state in which a Fig. The treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism shown in Figure 7 is disassembled. Fig. Figure 9 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the in Fig. Figure 7 shows the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism, which is partially enlarged and viewed from an oblique direction. Fig. Figure 10 is an enlarged perspective view of a main part showing a first connecting element and a second connecting element in the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in Fig. 7 shows (a state in which the first connecting element is closed). Fig. Figure 11 is an enlarged perspective view of the main part, showing the first connecting element and the second connecting element in the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in Fig. 7 (shows a state in which the first connecting element is open). Fig. Figure 12 is a view showing the functioning of the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in the endoscope in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in an endoscope in a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in an endoscope in a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a main part showing a first connecting element and a second connecting element in a treatment instrument lifting wire connecting mechanism in an endoscope in a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in an endoscope in a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. Best mode for executing the invention

[0014] The present disclosure is described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments. The drawings used in the following description are schematic, and in order to show each component at a size that allows it to be recognized in the drawings, the respective elements may be depicted in such a way that their size ratios, scales, etc., differ between the respective components. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited exclusively to the forms shown with regard to the number of the respective components, the shapes of the respective components, the size ratio of the respective components, the relative positional relationship of the respective components, etc., as described in the respective drawings.

[0015] First, with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 a schematic configuration of an endoscope in a first embodiment according to the present disclosure is described. Fig. Figure 1 is an external view showing the schematic configuration of the endoscope in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a schematic view showing a control unit of the endoscope in Fig. Figure 1 shows the intended treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism. It should be noted that the Fig. 2 conceptually shows a cross-section of the endoscope's control unit, cut through a surface along a virtual surface defined by an arrow reference sign [2] in Fig. 1 is shown.

[0016] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, an endoscope 1 comprises an insertion part 2, a control part 3, a universal cable 4 and the like.

[0017] The insertion part 2 is a long element designed in an elongated, tubular shape and configured to be inserted into a lumen (inside an organ, etc.) of a patient, for example, an organism. The insertion part 2 comprises a distal end section 5, a bending section 6, and a flexible tube section 7.

[0018] It should be noted that in the description below, the side where the distal end section 5 of the insertion part 2 is located is referred to as the distal end of the endoscope 1. Furthermore, the side where the control part 3 is located is referred to as the proximal end of the endoscope 1.

[0019] The distal end section 5 is located at the distal end of the insertion part 2. It should be noted that the distal end section 5, although not shown, includes an image acquisition unit comprising an optical image acquisition system, an image sensor, etc., an illumination unit comprising an optical observation system, etc., a gas / liquid supply nozzle, and a gas / liquid supply line, etc. In addition to the above, the distal end section 5 is equipped with a treatment instrument lifting base (forceps lifter) 50.

[0020] The treatment instrument lifting base 50 is a component unit for changing the extension direction of a treatment instrument (not shown) which is inserted into a treatment instrument insertion tube (not shown) and subsequently extended to the outside from the distal end section 5, wherein the treatment instrument insertion tube is inserted into and arranged in the insertion part 2.

[0021] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the treatment instrument lifting base 50 is connected to a treatment instrument actuating lever 10 via various component units, such as a treatment instrument lifting wire 27, a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20, and a drive mechanism 30 (described in detail later). In this configuration, the treatment instrument lifting base 50 is rotated in a predetermined direction in response to an actuating input via the treatment instrument actuating lever 10.

[0022] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 and the drive mechanism 30 are arranged in the control unit 3. Furthermore, the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 is guided by a treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33 (in Fig. 1 not shown; see Fig. 3 etc.) introduced, which is arranged so that it can be inserted through the insertion part 2 and the operating part 3.

[0023] The bending section 6 is designed such that its distal end transitions into the proximal end of the distal end section 5. The bending section 6 is a tubular element designed to be actively bent in response to an actuation input via a bending actuation button 9, which will be described later.

[0024] The flexible hose section 7 is designed such that its distal end transitions into the proximal end of the bending section 6, and its proximal end transitions into the distal end of the control unit 3. The flexible hose section 7 consists of a soft, flexible hose.

[0025] The control element 3 is designed to transition into the proximal end of the insertion element 2. In other words, the insertion element 2 is located at the distal end of the control element 3. The control element 3 comprises a treatment instrument insertion opening 8, the bending actuation button 9, the treatment instrument actuation lever 10, a bending locking lever 11, a plurality of operating elements 12, etc.

[0026] The instrument insertion opening 8 is an opening area connected to the instrument insertion tube (not shown), which is inserted into and positioned in the insertion part 2. The instrument insertion opening 8 is equipped with a clamp connector 8a.

[0027] The bending actuation knob 9 is a control element for performing a bending movement on the bending section 6. The bending actuation knob 9 consists of two actuating elements: one for an upward / downward bending movement and one for a left / right bending movement. The two actuating elements of the bending actuation knob 9 are arranged one above the other on the outer surface of the control element 3. In this case, the two actuating elements of the bending actuation knob 9 are rotatably arranged about a rotation axis Ax, which is the common central axis of the two actuating elements. Note that the bending actuating knob is also referred to as an angle knob.

[0028] The treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is an actuating element with which an actuating force is applied. This actuating force serves to perform a lifting and a lowering movement of the treatment instrument lifting base 50 provided at the distal end section 5. The treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is designed to perform a rotary movement within a predetermined range with its center of rotation Ax, which is identical to the center of rotation of the bending actuating knob 9.

[0029] The treatment instrument operating lever 10 is connected via the drive mechanism 30 (in Fig. 1 not shown; see Fig. 2, Fig. 3 etc., which will be described later), which is arranged in the control unit 3, and the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 (not in Fig. 1 shown; see Fig. 2, Fig. 3 etc., which will be described later), which is inserted through the insertion part 2, is connected to the treatment instrument lifting base 50.

[0030] Such a configuration allows the actuation input via the treatment instrument actuation lever 10 to be transmitted to the treatment instrument lifting base 50. Thus, the treatment instrument lifting base 50 has a configuration capable of changing the extension direction of the distal end of the treatment instrument (not shown) inserted into and positioned in the treatment instrument insertion tube (not shown).

[0031] It should be noted that, as described above, the treatment instrument operating lever 10 is designed to perform a rotary movement within the predetermined range with the axis of rotation Ax, which is identical to the axis of rotation of the bending operating knob 9, as its center of rotation. In this case, the treatment instrument operating lever 10 has a mechanism for switching between a number of rotary movement range settings, such as a normal operating range setting, which can be adapted to normal use of the endoscope, and a maintenance operating range setting, which allows operation beyond the normal operating range in the maintenance operating range.

[0032] In the present embodiment, the normal operating range setting of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 allows rotational movement within a predetermined normal operating range and restricts rotational movement beyond this range. The maintenance operating range setting of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10, on the other hand, allows rotational movement beyond this predetermined normal operating range. The maintenance operating range setting is used when performing a specific task, such as replacing the treatment instrument lifting wire 27. A switching mechanism for adjusting the operating range of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 will be described later.

[0033] The bending locking lever 11 is an operating element that acts on the bending actuating knob 9 to fix the bending state of the bending section 6 at a desired position. The bending locking lever 11 is configured to perform a rotational movement within a predetermined range with the axis of rotation Ax, which is identical to that of the bending actuating knob 9, as its pivot point.

[0034] It should be noted that a bending-fixing mechanism of the bending section 6 by the bending-fixing lever 11 is not directly related to the present disclosure. Therefore, the detailed configuration and the illustration of the configurations of the bending-fixing lever 11 and the bending-fixing mechanism are omitted, as they are assumed to have the same configurations as those used in conventional endoscopes.

[0035] The majority of the operating elements 12 include, for example, control switches to perform, if necessary, predetermined operations on image data acquired by the endoscope 1. These predetermined operations on the image data include, for example, a switching display operation between a moving image and a still image, an image magnification display operation, an image recording operation, image processing, and the like.

[0036] Furthermore, the majority of the operating elements 12 include, for example, operating elements for executing a gas / liquid supply process, a suction process, etc. In this case, the operating element for executing the gas / liquid supply process controls a supply process of a fluid from a fluid supply area (not shown) provided at the distal end section 5. The operating element for executing the suction process controls the pressure inside the treatment instrument insertion line (not shown) to a negative pressure. Such a suction process is executed, thus allowing, for example, mucus, etc., adhering to the distal end section 5 to be suctioned out and removed from the opening area (not shown) of the treatment instrument insertion line provided at the distal end section 5.

[0037] The universal cable 4 is a composite cable extending from a side surface of the control unit 3. The universal cable 4 has an endoscope connector 14 at its distal end. The endoscope connector 14 is a connection element that is linked to a video processor (not shown), which is an external device comprising a light source. In addition to an electrical contact, the endoscope connector 14 also includes a fiber optic connector 13, etc.

[0038] A fiber optic bundle 15, various signal lines 16, and the like are inserted through the part from the endoscope connector 14, the universal cable 4, and the control unit 3 to the distal end section 5 of the insertion part 2. The fiber optic bundle 15 is a component that transmits a luminous flux emitted by the light source device contained in the video processor (not shown) to the distal end section 5 of the insertion part 2. The luminous flux transmitted by the fiber optic bundle 15 to the distal end section 5 is emitted as illumination light by the illumination unit (not shown) provided in the distal end section 5, which illuminates a target for observation.

[0039] Furthermore, the various signal lines 16 include, for example, an image acquisition cable that transmits an image signal (image data) acquired by the image acquisition unit (not shown) located in the distal end section 5 to the video processor (not shown), and a control signal cable that transmits a control signal output by the video processor to the component unit, such as the image acquisition unit. The schematic configuration of the endoscope 1 is as described above.

[0040] Now, with reference to Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6, a configuration of the switching mechanism of the operating range settings of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is described. Fig. 3 is an external perspective view, which, by removing only the treatment instrument operating lever in the endoscope, shows the endoscope in Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 4 is an exploded view of a main part, which, by removing the treatment instrument operating lever, reveals the treatment instrument operating lever in Fig. 3 and shows some components (a frame shaft, a connecting main body) in a drive mechanism of the treatment instrument actuating lever. Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 each shows a functional process of the treatment instrument actuation lever in the endoscope according to the present embodiment. Of these figures, [Figure 6] shows [Figure 6]. Fig. 5 a first state of the treatment instrument operating lever.

[0041] Fig. Figure 6 shows a second state of the treatment instrument operating lever.

[0042] The treatment instrument actuation lever 10 in the endoscope 1 of the present embodiment is an operating element that receives an actuation input from a user and transmits the received actuation input to the drive mechanism 30 provided in the control unit 3. The treatment instrument actuation lever 10 is rotatable about the axis of rotation Ax, which is a central axis of an inner mounting element (not shown) of the control unit 3. The treatment instrument actuation lever 10 consists of a lever element 51 and a finger contact element (not shown).

[0043] It should be noted that in the Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6. The illustration of the finger contact element has been omitted to avoid complicating the drawings. The configuration of the finger contact element of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 in the present embodiment is essentially the same as that of the same element in conventional endoscopes.

[0044] The lever element 51 is manufactured, for example, by performing a bending operation on a thin metal plate element. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the lever element 51 comprises a main body area 51a, an actuating arm section 51b, a shaft insertion opening 51c and two through-bolt grooves 51d.

[0045] The main body area 51a is formed incorporating the shaft insertion opening 51c, and is a part that is attached to a connecting main body 35 to be described later (see Fig. 4) is fixed.

[0046] The actuating arm section 51b is a part that projects radially outward from a portion of an outer circumferential edge region of the main body region 51a and is formed in the shape of an arm. Near the distal end of the actuating arm section 51b, a stepped section 51f is provided by means of a bending process. The stepped section 51f includes, at its distal end face, a cover attachment area 51g, which has a surface parallel to a plane of the main body region 51a and a plane of the actuating arm section 51b. It should be noted that the stepped section 51f is not necessarily an essential component.

[0047] The shaft insertion opening 51c is an opening formed in a substantially central region of the main body region 51a. The shaft insertion opening 51c is formed by connecting a first opening O1 and a second opening O2 to create substantially arc-shaped forms. The shaft insertion opening 51c is a part into which a frame shaft 36 is inserted and which acts as a bearing that supports the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 so that it is rotatable about the axis of rotation Ax.

[0048] It should be noted that the reference symbol Z1 in Fig. 3 marks the central axis of the first opening. The reference symbol Z2 in Fig. 3 designates the central axis of the second opening O2. Additionally, the reference numeral 21x indicates... Fig. 3 connecting arc sections that connect the first opening O1 and the second opening O2.

[0049] The two through-bolt grooves 51d are each formed on the outer edge sections of the two connecting arc sections 51x of the shaft insertion opening 51c. The through-bolt grooves 51d are each formed in an arc shape along each of the connecting arc sections 51x. The through-bolt grooves 51d are groove bores into which (not shown) fastening screws are inserted. The fastening screws serve to fasten the lever element 51 to the connecting main body 35, which will be described later. In addition, the through-bolt grooves 51d each function as a guide groove when the lever element 51 moves, as described later.

[0050] The treatment instrument actuation lever 10, designed in this way, is arranged on an outer surface of the control unit 3, as shown in Fig. 1, Fig. 2 etc. shown.

[0051] In this case, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is in its first state (normal operating state) at a position where the central axis Z1 of the first opening O1 of the lever element 51 coincides with the axis of rotation Ax. At this point, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is held on the central axis Z1 of the first opening O1 of the lever element 51 such that it is rotatable about the axis of rotation Ax.

[0052] Furthermore, in the second state (adaptive maintenance state), the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is positioned at a location where the central axis Z2 of the second opening O2 of the lever element 51 coincides with the axis of rotation Ax. At this point, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is held on the central axis Z2 of the second opening O2 of the lever element 51 such that it is rotatable about the axis of rotation Ax.

[0053] When the treatment instrument actuation lever 10 receives the actuation input from the user, the treatment instrument actuation lever 10 moves in each of the states in one direction along the arrow R in Fig. 4. When the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 performs a rotary movement, the operating process of the drive mechanism 30 and the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 causes a movable element (treatment instrument lifting base 50) provided at the distal end section 5 to move in a predetermined direction.

[0054] It should be noted that the rotational movement range of the treatment instrument operating lever 10 in the direction of arrow R is defined by the fact that a part of the finger contact element (not shown) of the treatment instrument operating lever 10 comes into contact with a predetermined wall surface of the control unit 3. In this case, the wall surface of the control unit 3 serves as a stop that defines the normal operating range (rotational movement range) of the treatment instrument operating lever 10.

[0055] Next, with reference to Fig. 4, the configuration of the drive mechanism 30 of the treatment instrument lifting base 50 is briefly described below.

[0056] The drive mechanism 30 in the endoscope 1 of the present embodiment is a connecting mechanism that receives the actuation input via the treatment instrument actuation lever 10 in order to convert the received actuation input into a force for moving the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 forwards and backwards in a longitudinal axis direction of the insertion part 2. The treatment instrument lifting wire 27, moved forwards and backwards by the drive mechanism 30, causes the treatment instrument lifting base 50 to perform a rotational movement in a predetermined direction in order to lift the treatment instrument lifting base 50.

[0057] The drive mechanism 30 is a component unit that is attached to and fixed on the inner mounting part (frame; not shown) of the control unit 3. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the drive mechanism 30 comprises the frame shaft 36, the main connecting body 35 and other components (a lever connecting element 31, a connecting rod 32, etc.; see Figure 4). Fig. 7).

[0058] The frame shaft 36 is a wave-like element that is essentially upright with respect to a frame plane of the operating unit 3. The frame shaft 36 is fixed to the frame plane, for example, by a screw fastening. The frame shaft 36 is arranged here such that its central axis coincides with the axis of rotation Ax, which forms the pivot point of the treatment instrument operating lever 10.

[0059] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. Figure 4 shows that the frame shaft 36 has a cutout 36a on part of its outer circumferential surface. The frame shaft 36 is designed such that the cross-section of the part on which the cutout 36a is arranged, which is essentially orthogonal to the axis of rotation Ax, is essentially D-shaped.

[0060] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the main connecting body 35 is an element that is essentially ring-shaped overall and arranged so that it surrounds the frame shaft 36 (direction of the arrow R in Fig. 4) is rotatable. For this purpose, the main connecting body 35 is designed such that it has a through-opening 35a in its central region which fits onto the frame shaft 36.

[0061] Furthermore, the main connecting body 35 has a connecting area 35b on part of its outer circumferential edge region, which is designed to project outwards. The connecting area 35b forms the proximal end of the Fig. 7 connected to the connecting rod 32 shown.

[0062] Furthermore, the main connecting body 35 has a plurality of screw holes 35c in its annular area. These screw holes 35c are the parts to which the guide stepped screws 38a1 and 38a2 are attached. These guide stepped screws 38a1 and 38a2 are a plurality of fastening screws for fixing the lever element 51 of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10.

[0063] The operation of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 designed in this way is described as follows.

[0064] Initially, in normal use, the treatment instrument operating lever 10 is mounted on the control unit 3, as shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 shown.

[0065] In the normal operating state (first state), the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 (lever element 51) is mounted on the connecting main body 35 and the frame shaft 36 such that the central axis Z1 of the first opening O1 coincides with the axis of rotation Ax, as shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 shown.

[0066] In such a configuration, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 (lever element 51) is held on the central axis Z1 so that it rotates around the axis of rotation Ax (direction of the arrow R in Fig. 4) is rotatable. At this point, the lever element 51 is screwed to the respective end sections of the two through-bolt grooves 51d with the screw holes 35c of the connecting main body 35 using the guide stepped screws 38a1 and 38a2.

[0067] In other words, the lever element 51 and the connecting main body 35 are fastened with clearance at the two through-bolt grooves 51d, each using the guide stepped screws 38a1 and 38a2. With such a configuration, the lever element 51 is designed to always move in the direction of arrow R relative to the connecting main body 35. Fig. 4 and in the directions of arrow M in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 (directions M1 and M2) is movable.

[0068] Here, the screw designated with reference numeral 38a1 penetrates the through-screw groove 51d, which is located on the inside of the lever element 51. Additionally, the screw designated with reference numeral 38a2 penetrates the through-screw groove 51d, which is located on the outside of the lever element 51.

[0069] At this point, it takes effect when the lever element 51 receives the actuation input and moves in the direction of the Fig. As the arrow R1 shown in 5 rotates, the guide stepped screw 38a1 engages one end section of the through screw groove 51d located on the inside, causing the lever element 51 to rotate the main connecting body 35.

[0070] On the other hand, in the state described above (the state in Fig. 4), when the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 (lever element 51) is in the direction of arrow M1 in Fig. When lever 5 is pulled, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 (lever element 51) is brought into the state (second state) in which the central axis Z2 of the second opening O2 coincides with the axis of rotation Ax, as shown in Fig. 6 shown.

[0071] At this point, it takes effect when the lever element 51 receives the actuation input and moves in the direction of arrow R1. Fig. 6 turns the guide stepped screw 38a2 onto the other end section of the through screw groove 51d located on the outside, and thereby causes the lever element 51 to rotate the main connecting body 35.

[0072] It should be noted that instead of the configuration which uses the guide step screws, the lever element 51 and the connecting main body 35 can also be fastened together with slightly loosened screws.

[0073] As another alternative configuration, for example, instead of the guide stepped screws, a normal type of fastening screw is used to fasten the lever element 51 and the connecting main body 35 together. In this case, the fastening screws can be loosened each time the lever element 51 is moved in the direction of the Fig. 5 and Fig. The arrow M shown in section 6 is moved.

[0074] In such a configuration, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 (lever element 51) is held on the central axis Z2 so that it is rotatable about the axis of rotation Ax. At this point, the lever element 51 is screwed to the connecting main body 35 at the two other end sections of the two through-screw grooves 51d.

[0075] In the configuration as described above, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is designed to be able to switch between the state (first state) in which the central axis Z1 of the first opening O1 coincides with the axis of rotation Ax, and the state (second state) in which the central axis Z2 of the second opening O2 coincides with the axis of rotation Ax.

[0076] The treatment instrument operating lever 10 is designed such that, during a rotational movement in the second state, the finger contact element (not shown) does not come into contact with the wall surface of the control unit 3. This configuration allows the treatment instrument operating lever 10 to perform a rotational movement in the second state within the maintenance operating range, which represents the range of rotational movement that extends beyond the normal operating range.

[0077] Then, if the treatment instrument operating lever 10 is in the first state (the state in Fig. 5; normal operating range), a first connecting element (a clamping device 24) is positioned in a first part (section 21b with small diameter). Furthermore, when the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is in the second state and in the maintenance operating range, the first connecting element (clamping device 24) is positioned in a second part (section 21c with large diameter).

[0078] Next, with reference to the Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10 to Fig. 11, a detailed configuration of the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 in the endoscope 1 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure is described. Fig. Figure 7 shows the configuration of the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism in the endoscope in Fig. 1. Fig. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part, showing a Fig. 2 shows the area marked with reference numeral [7] enlarged. Fig. Figure 8 shows cross-sections of the respective components in a state in which the in Fig. The treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism shown in section 7 is disassembled. Fig. Figure 9 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the in Fig. Figure 7 shows the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism, which is partially enlarged and viewed from an oblique angle. It should be noted that in Fig. 9 some of the components (part of a cylinder etc.) are omitted from the respective components of the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism. Fig. 10 and Fig. Figure 11 each shows an enlarged perspective view of a main part, the first connecting element and the second connecting element in the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism in Fig. 7 shows. Of these figures, the Fig. 10 a state in which the first connecting element is closed. Furthermore, the Fig. 11 a state in which the first connecting element is open.

[0079] The treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 in the endoscope of the present embodiment is provided between the drive mechanism 30, which includes the treatment instrument actuating lever 10, and the treatment instrument lifting base 50 and is a mechanism for performing a connection and a separation of the two (30, 50) in a suitable manner and at a desired time.

[0080] Since the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 is provided, the drive mechanism 30 and the treatment instrument lifting base 50 can be securely connected when the endoscope is in use. Therefore, in this state, the lifting and lowering operations, etc., of the treatment instrument lifting base 50 can be safely performed by using the treatment instrument operating lever 10.

[0081] However, when the endoscope is not in use, for example during maintenance or cleaning, the instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 allows for easy separation between the drive mechanism 30 and the instrument lifting base 50 through a simple process. Therefore, in this case, predetermined tasks, such as replacing the instrument lifting wire 27, can be easily performed.

[0082] For this purpose, the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20 is provided in the endoscope 1 in the present embodiment in the control unit 3, as shown in Fig. 7, Fig. 8 etc. The treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 comprises a cylinder 21, a first movable element 22 and a second movable element 25, as well as an opening / closing mechanism.

[0083] The cylinder 21 comprises a first cylinder 21P and a second cylinder 21T. The first cylinder 21P and the second cylinder 21T are each formed in an essentially hollow cylindrical shape.

[0084] The first cylinder 21P is an element designed such that a part of the first movable element 22 and a part of the second movable element 25 are inserted and arranged within it in order to guide the movement of the first movable element 22 and the second movable element 25 in a predetermined direction. For this purpose, the first cylinder 21P has a first interior space 21m.

[0085] The second cylinder 21T is an element designed such that a portion of the second movable element 25 is inserted and arranged within it, thereby guiding the movement of the second movable element 25 in the predetermined direction. Furthermore, the second cylinder 21T is designed such that a portion of the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion line 33 (see Fig. 7 etc.) is inserted therein to fix and hold the proximal end of the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33. For this purpose, the second cylinder 21T has a second interior 21n.

[0086] The first cylinder 21P and the second cylinder 21T are integrally connected. Furthermore, when the first cylinder 21P and the second cylinder 21T are connected to form a single unit, the second cylinder 21T is fixed to a mounting section 34 in the control unit 3.

[0087] Therefore, the first cylinder 21P has a screw section 21e on its inner circumferential surface at its distal end. The second cylinder 21T has a screw section 21f on its outer circumferential surface on the side closer to its proximal end, which is configured to correspond to screw section 21e. Screw section 21e and screw section 21f are then screwed together, thus integrally connecting the first cylinder 21P and the second cylinder 21T.

[0088] Furthermore, the second cylinder 21T is screwed to the mounting section 34 in the control unit 3. For this purpose, a first adjusting screw section 21g is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the second cylinder 21T such that it is located in a position in the center of the second cylinder 21T. The mounting section 34 has a screw section 34a which is designed to correspond to the first adjusting screw section 21g. The first adjusting screw section 21g and the screw section 34a are then screwed together, thereby fixing the second cylinder 21T to the mounting section 34 of the control unit 3.

[0089] In this case, the screw tension between the first adjusting screw section 21g and the screw section 34a is regulated in order to adjust the relative position of the second cylinder 21T with respect to the mounting section 34. In this way, the position adjustment of the cylinder 21 in the control unit 3 can be carried out.

[0090] It should be noted that on a part that is closer to the distal end of the second cylinder 21T, there is a circumferential groove 21h (see Fig. 8 and Fig. 9) is formed along the outer circumferential surface of the second cylinder 21T. The circumferential groove 21h contains an O-ring 29. The O-ring 29 serves to seal between the inner circumferential surface of the first cylinder 21P and the outer circumferential surface of the second cylinder 21T.

[0091] When the first cylinder 21P and the second cylinder 21T are joined to form a unit, the cylinder 21 comprises an interior space 21a in which the first interior space 21m and the second interior space 21n are interconnected. The interior space 21a is formed along a first axis Ax1, which extends from the distal end to the proximal end. Furthermore, the interior space 21a penetrates the cylinder 21 in a direction along the first axis Ax1.

[0092] As described above, part of the first movable element 22 and part of the second movable element 25 are inserted into and positioned in the interior space 21a. At this point, the first movable element 22 and the second movable element 25 are positioned such that they point in the interior space 21a in the direction of arrow X. Fig. 7 etc. are movable along the first axis Ax1.

[0093] The first movable element 22 comprises a piston rod 23 and the clamping device 24 as the first connecting element. The piston rod 23 is a rod element that has an overall columnar shape. The proximal end of the piston rod 23 is fixed to the drive mechanism 30. Therefore, the piston rod 23 has a second adjusting screw section 23a on its outer circumferential surface at its proximal end. The lever connecting element 31 (which will be described later) of the drive mechanism 30 has a screw section 31b that is designed to correspond to the second adjusting screw section 23a. The second adjusting screw section 23a and the screw section 31b are then screwed together, thereby fixing the piston rod 23 to the drive mechanism 30.In this case, the screw condition between the second adjusting screw section 23a and the screw section 31b is regulated in order to be able to adjust the relative position between the piston rod 23 and the drive mechanism 30.

[0094] The piston rod 23 has the clamping device 24 at its distal end. Therefore, the piston rod 23 has a flange-shaped engagement section 23b at its distal end (see Fig. 8 and Fig. 9) The engagement section 23b, as will be described later, is a part that is engaged by an engagement section 24d of the clamping device 24. The engagement section 23b is then brought into engagement with the engagement section 24d of the clamping device 24, thereby connecting the piston rod 23 and the clamping device 24 to form a unit.

[0095] It should be noted that a circumferential groove 23c is formed along the outer circumferential surface of the piston rod 23 on a portion located closer to its distal end. The circumferential groove 23c contains an O-ring 28. The O-ring 28 serves to seal between the inner circumferential surface of the interior 21a of the cylinder 21 and the outer circumferential surface of the piston rod 23.

[0096] As in Fig. 10, Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the clamping device 24 is generally cylindrical and represents the first connecting element, comprising a conical section 24a located at the distal end, claw sections 24b, a cutout area 24c, the engagement section 24d, a holding area 24e, and a through-opening 24f. It should be noted that the clamping device 24 is made of a material such as metal.

[0097] The clamping device 24 shown in the present embodiment is designed to have two bodies by dividing a substantially cylindrical element into two parts along a plane containing the first axis Ax1.

[0098] The in Fig. Figure 10 shows a state in which the two elements, which are designed as the two bodies of the clamping device 24, are joined together at a seam along the first axis Ax1. The state shown in Fig. The state shown in Figure 10 is referred to as the closed state of the clamping device 24.

[0099] Furthermore, the in Fig. The state shown in Figure 11 is a state in which the two elements, designed as the two bodies of the clamping device 24, are separated from each other at the seam along the first axis Ax1. The state shown in Figure 11 is a state in which the two elements designed as the two bodies of the clamping device 24 are separated from each other at the seam along the first axis Ax1. Fig. The state shown in Figure 11 is referred to as the open state of the clamping device 24.

[0100] The conical section 24a located at the distal end is formed at the distal end of the clamping device 24. The conical section 24a located at the distal end is formed in a conical shape such that its inner surface widens towards the distal end. The conical section 24a located at the distal end is designed such that, when the clamping device 24 is in the closed state (see Fig. 9 and Fig. 10), the through-opening 24f is formed in the central region of the proximal end part of the conical section 24a located at the distal end along the first axis Ax1. When the clamping device 24 is in the closed state, a neck section 26b of a second connecting element 26, to be described later, engages in the through-opening 24f.

[0101] The claw sections 24b are each a part formed at the proximal end region of the conical section 24a located at the distal end and have a cross-section with a shape that projects in the radial direction of the first axis Ax1. The claw sections 24b are designed to engage and hold a part of the second movable element 25 (a head section 26a of the second connecting element 26; to be described later) when the clamping device 24 is in the closed state. In the present embodiment, since the clamping device 24 is formed from two elements, the clamping device 24 comprises at least two claw sections 24b.

[0102] When the clamping device 24 is in the closed state and the claw sections 24b grasp and hold one part (head section 26a; to be described later) of the second movable element 25, the holding area 24e has space to receive one part (head section 26a) of the second movable element 25. The holding area 24e is a part that is opposite the claw sections 24b of the clamping device 24 and is formed in a position that is closer to the proximal end than the claw sections 24b.

[0103] The engagement section 24d is a part with which the engagement section 23b of the piston rod 23 engages, thereby enabling the clamping device 24 to be arranged so that it forms a unit with the distal end of the piston rod 23. The engagement section 24d is a part adjacent to the holding area 24e and is formed on a part that is closer to the proximal end than the holding area 24e.

[0104] The cutout area 24c is formed at the proximal end of the clamping device 24. When the two elements of the clamping device 24, which are designed as the two bodies, are in the open state (which is in Fig. (State 11 shown), the two elements of the clamping device 24 separate from each other in such a way that each of the two elements is connected to the Fig. 11 the part marked by reference numeral P as center of rotation along reference numeral O in Fig. 11 performs a rotational movement (becomes the open state). The cutout area 24c is designed to allow the rotational movement of the clamping device 24.

[0105] It should be noted that, as can also be seen from the description above, the clamping device 24 is positioned as the first connecting element on a side that is closer to the distal end than the bending actuation button 9 (angle button) and the drive mechanism 30.

[0106] The second movable element 25 comprises the second connecting element 26 and the treatment instrument lifting wire 27.

[0107] The second connecting element 26 is an element provided for connecting the first movable element 22 and the second movable element 25 by means of a part (head section 26a) on the proximal end side of the second connecting element 26, which is held by the holding area 24e of the clamping device 24 (first connecting element).

[0108] The second connecting element 26 comprises the head section 26a and the neck section 26b. When the clamping device 24 is in the closed position, the head section 26a is received in the holding area 24e of the clamping device 24. At this point, the two claw sections 24b grip the head section 26a and hold it securely.

[0109] The neck section 26b is connected to the distal end of the head section 26a and is designed to be narrower than the head section 26a. When the clamping device 24 is brought into the closed position, in which the head section 26a is held by the retaining area 24e of the clamping device 24, the neck section 26b engages in the through-opening 24f at the proximal end of the conical section 24a located at its distal end. With this configuration, the head section 26a is brought into a state that does not readily permit its removal from the retaining area 24e. Therefore, in this state, the head section 26a is securely held by the two claw sections 24b and the retaining area 24e.

[0110] The treatment instrument lifting wire 27 comprises a wire 27a and a cover tube 27b. The wire 27a is fixed to the distal end of the second connecting element 26. The wire 27a consists of a flexible, elongated, linear element, for example, made of metal. The outer circumferential side of the wire 27a is covered by the cover tube 27b. The cover tube 27b consists, for example, of a heat-shrinkable tube, a spiral, or the like.

[0111] The reason why the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 is designed such that the wire 27a is covered by the cover tube 27b is described below.

[0112] For example, if only the wire 27a is inserted into the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33, a gap generally forms between the inner surface of the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33 and the outer surface of the wire 27a. If such a gap exists in the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33, meandering and the like may occur in the wire 27a as it moves forward or backward within the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33. If such meandering and the like occurs, the lifting and lowering action of the treatment instrument lifting base 50, which occurs in accordance with the forward and backward movement of the wire 27a, may be hindered by the meandering and the like.

[0113] In light of this, the present embodiment uses the treatment instrument lifting wire 27, which is designed such that the wire 27a is covered by the cover tube 27b. With such a configuration, the gap between the inner surface of the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33 and the outer surface of the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 can be filled when the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 is inserted into the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33. Therefore, with such a configuration, no meandering or similar distortion occurs in the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 within the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33, and a safe operating procedure for forward and backward movement can be ensured.

[0114] As described above, the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 is inserted into the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33 (see Fig. 7 etc.) is inserted into the insertion part 2 and the operating part 3 and is positioned there, and can be moved back and forth in the direction (direction of arrow X) along the longitudinal axis (first axis Ax1) of the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion line 33.

[0115] The opening / closing mechanism is designed to change the state of the clamping device 24 between the state in which the clamping device 24 is closed to hold the second connecting element 26 (see Fig. 10), and the state in which the clamping device 24 is open to release the second connecting element 26 (see Fig. 11).

[0116] The opening / closing mechanism of the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20 shown in the present embodiment is formed in at least one part of the cylinder 21. In other words, the opening / closing mechanism is formed, for example, in part of the interior 21a of the cylinder 21 and in part of the first interior 21m of the first cylinder 21P.

[0117] In detail, as in Fig. 7 etc. shown, in the first interior space 21m of the first cylinder 21P the section 21b with small diameter, which is the first part, and the section 21c with large diameter, which is the second part, as well as a tapered section 21d, which is a third part, is formed.

[0118] Section 21b, with its small diameter, has a first cross-sectional area. This first cross-sectional area can be calculated, for example, based on a diameter designated by the reference numeral D1 in... Fig. 8 is indicated if the cross-sectional shape of the small-diameter section 21b of the first interior space 21m is circular. The first cross-sectional area of ​​the small-diameter section 21b is dimensioned to a size that prevents the clamping device 24 from releasing the second connecting element 26.

[0119] Therefore, if the clamping device 24, which is in the closed state, with the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26 held by the retaining area 24e of the clamping device 24, is arranged in the small-diameter section 21b, the clamping device 24 does not allow the second connecting element 26 to be released. In other words, when the clamping device 24 is in this state, the opening / closing mechanism prevents the clamping device 24 from being in the open state.

[0120] The large-diameter section 21c is located at the distal end of the small-diameter section 21b. The large-diameter section 21c has a second cross-sectional area that is larger than the first. The second cross-sectional area can be calculated, for example, based on a diameter denoted by the reference numeral D2 in Fig. 8 is characterized when the cross-sectional shape of the large-diameter section 21c of the first interior space 21m is circular. The second cross-sectional area of ​​the large-diameter section 21c is dimensioned to a size that allows the clamping device 24 to release the second connecting element 26.

[0121] Therefore, if the clamping device 24, which is in the closed state, with the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26 held by the holding area 24e of the clamping device 24, is arranged in the large-diameter section 21c, the clamping device 24 allows the second connecting element 26 to be released. In other words, the clamping device 24 can be in the open state at this time.

[0122] The tapered section 21d is a part that connects the small-diameter section 21b and the large-diameter section 21c. The tapered section 21d is formed in a tapered shape that widens from the distal end of the small-diameter section 21b towards the distal end face, that is, the side on which the large-diameter section 21c is located.

[0123] In such a configuration, the clamping device 24, in its open state, moves from the large-diameter section 21c to the small-diameter section 21b in the direction along the first axis Ax1, as the conical section 24a located at the distal end of the clamping device 24 moves through the tapered section 21d of the first cylinder 21A, such that the outer surface of the conical section 24a located at the distal end is in contact with the inner surface of the tapered section 21d. This movement enables the clamping device 24 to close smoothly.

[0124] Cylinder 21 further comprises a fourth part. More precisely, the fourth part is a receiving section 21k, which is provided at the proximal end of the second cylinder 21T. The receiving section 21k is arranged within the large-diameter section 21c. The receiving section 21k has a tapered shape that widens towards the distal end.

[0125] In such a configuration, when the clamping device 24 moves from the small-diameter section 21b to the large-diameter section 21c in the direction along the first axis Ax1, the inner surface of the conical section 24a located at the distal end of the clamping device 24 is in contact with the receiving section 21k. This movement allows the clamping device 24 to open smoothly.

[0126] The drive mechanism 30, however, is a component unit designed to transmit an actuating force of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 via the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 to the treatment instrument lifting base 50.

[0127] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the drive mechanism 30 comprises the lever connecting element 31, the connecting mechanism (not shown) which has the connecting rod 32, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 (in Fig. 7 not shown; see Fig. 1 etc.) and the like.

[0128] For example, the distal end of the connecting rod 32 is connected to a connecting coupling shaft 31a of the drive mechanism 30. The proximal end of the connecting rod 32 is connected to a predetermined connecting mechanism (not shown). The connecting mechanism is connected to the treatment instrument actuating lever 10.

[0129] Furthermore, as described above, the proximal end (second adjusting screw section 23a) of the piston rod 23 is connected to the distal end (screw section 31) of the lever connecting element 31.

[0130] In this configuration, when the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is actuated to perform a rotary movement in a predetermined direction, the lever connecting element 31 and the piston rod 23 move in the direction of the first axis Ax1 (direction of arrow X). As the piston rod 23 (first moving element 22) moves in the direction of arrow X, the second moving element 25 also moves in the same direction. This causes the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 to raise or lower the treatment instrument lifting base 50.

[0131] It should be noted that the configurations of the treatment instrument lifting base 50, the drive mechanism 30, the treatment instrument actuation lever 10, and the like are essentially identical to the corresponding configurations in conventional endoscopes. Therefore, the illustration and description of the detailed configurations are omitted.

[0132] The functioning of the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20 in the endoscope 1 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, which is designed as described above, is described with reference to Fig. 12 described. Fig. Figure 12 shows the functioning of the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 in the endoscope in the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] Initially, it is assumed that the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20 is located in the Fig. 12 is in the state designated by reference numeral [12A]. In this state, the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26 is held by the holding area 24e of the clamping device 24, and the clamping device 24 is closed. In other words, in this state, the first movable element 22 (clamping device 24) and the second movable element 25 (second connecting element 26) are connected to each other.

[0134] Furthermore, in this state, the part located at the proximal end, which at least comprises the holding area 24e, of the clamping device 24 is arranged in the section 21b with a small diameter of the first interior space 21m. This prevents the clamping device 24 from being in the open state.

[0135] In this state, the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 securely connects the first movable element 22 and the second movable element 25. In other words, in this state, the actuating force of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 can be transmitted via the drive mechanism 30, the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20, and the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 to the treatment instrument lifting base 50.

[0136] Accordingly, if the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20 is located in the Fig. 12 in the connected state indicated by reference numeral [12A], the lifting and lowering movement of the treatment instrument lifting base 50 is performed when the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is intentionally actuated within a predetermined normal operating range. In other words, when the endoscope 1 is in use, the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 is in the connected state indicated by reference numeral [12A]. Fig. 12 marked condition.

[0137] Thus, if the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20 is located in the area indicated by reference numeral [12A] in Fig. In the connected state indicated in section 12, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is normally set to operate within its normal operating range. For example, when maintenance work is performed on the endoscope 1, such as replacing the treatment instrument lifting wire 27, a predetermined operating action is performed on the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 to move it into the maintenance operating range setting, allowing the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 to move into the maintenance operating range.

[0138] In this state, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is actuated in a predetermined direction. Furthermore, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is moved by a rotary motion into the maintenance operating range, which extends beyond the normal operating range. In this state, the actuating force of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 then acts via the drive mechanism 30 on the first movable element 22 of the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20.

[0139] This assumes that the first movable element 22, for example, moves in the direction of the first axis Ax1 in the direction of arrow X1 in Fig. 12 has moved a predetermined distance L. As in Fig. As shown in 12, the predetermined distance L indicates the distance in the case where the distal end face of the piston rod 23 is located away from the end face indicated by the reference numeral [12A] in Fig. 12 position marked with reference numeral [12B] in Fig. has moved to the marked position 12.

[0140] In this case, the clamping device 24 also moves by the same distance in the direction of arrow X1. Such a movement of the clamping device 24 causes the conical section 24a located at the distal end, which in the state of reference numeral [12A] in Fig. 12 was arranged in the small diameter section 21b, moved into a position in which the conical section 24a located at the distal end is arranged in the large diameter section 21c.

[0141] As the clamping device 24 moves in the direction of arrow X1, the distal end of the receiving section 21k comes into contact with the inner surface of the conical section 24a located at the distal end of the clamping device 24. If, in this state, the clamping device 24 continues to move in the direction of arrow X1, the inner surface of the conical section 24a located at the distal end is pressed against the receiving section 21k, causing the conical section 24a located at the distal end to open. Simultaneously, the retaining area 24e moves, with its outer surface coming into contact with the inner surface of the tapered section 21d. This causes the conical section 24a located at the distal end of the clamping device 24 to gradually change into the open state.

[0142] Thus, when the clamping device 24 is in the state (that indicated by reference numeral [12B] in Fig. 12 (the state marked) is brought into position in which the clamping device 24 is arranged in the large-diameter section 21c, and simultaneously the clamping device 24 is brought into the open position by the receiving section 21k. Then the clamping device 24 is brought into the state that allows the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26 to be released.

[0143] For example, if the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 is pulled towards the distal end (in the direction along arrow X1), the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26 is removed from the retaining area 24e, thereby releasing the connection between the first movable element 22 and the second movable element 25. This places the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 in a state where it can be removed.

[0144] After the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 has been withdrawn (in the direction along arrow X1), cleaning of the endoscope 1 is performed, for example. Then a new treatment instrument lifting wire 27 (second movable element 25), at the proximal end of which the second connecting element 26 is attached, is inserted into the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33.

[0145] After the second movable element 25, inserted into the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33, reaches the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20, the head section 26a of the second connection element 26 moves when the second movable element 25 is pushed further (in the direction along arrow X2), coming into contact with the inner surface of the conical section 24a located at the distal end of the clamping device 24. The head section 26a then opens the conical section 24a located at the distal end and subsequently moves through the through-opening 24f to enter the holding area 24e.

[0146] In this state, the actuating force of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10, when the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is actuated in the predetermined direction, causes the first movable element 22 to move in the direction of arrow X2. Fig. 12 moves. This causes the clamping device 24 to move along the tapered section 21d from the large-diameter section 21c to the small-diameter section 21b. At this point, the clamping device 24 moves with the outer surface of the holding area 24e in contact with the inner surface of the tapered section 21d. This causes the clamping device 24 to smoothly transition into the closed state.

[0147] If the clamping device 24 is arranged in the small-diameter section 21b to be inserted into the Fig. To be brought into the state marked with reference numeral [12A], the clamping device 24 is prevented from being in the open state.

[0148] Meanwhile, at the time of the manufacture of the endoscope 1, the procedure for attaching the treatment instrument lifting wire is carried out essentially as described below.

[0149] First, a state is assumed that is the state described above, which is in Fig. 12 is marked with the reference numeral [12A] or [12B], and in which the second movable element 25 (the second connecting element 26 and the treatment instrument lifting wire 27) is not attached to the inside of the endoscope 1.

[0150] In this state, a predetermined operating procedure is performed on the treatment instrument operating lever 10 to cause the first movable element 22 to move in the direction that is the direction along the first axis Ax1 and that is the direction of the arrow X1 in Fig. 12. Simultaneously, the clamping device 24 moves from section 21b with a small diameter to section 21c with a large diameter. When the clamping device 24 is located in section 21c with a large diameter, it is possible for the clamping device 24 to be in the open position.

[0151] If the clamping device 24 is subsequently moved in the direction of arrow X1, the conical section 24a located at the distal end of the clamping device 24 comes into contact with the receiving section 21k of the second cylinder 21T. In this state, if the clamping device continues to move in the direction of arrow X1, the conical section 24a located at the distal end is pressed against the receiving section 21k, causing the clamping device 24 to open.

[0152] The second movable element 25 is inserted into the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33. In this case, the second movable element 25 is advanced from the side of the distal end section 5 in the direction that is the direction along the first axis Ax1 and the direction of arrow X2.

[0153] The head section 26a of the second connecting element 26 of the second movable element 25 reaches the treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20. The head section 26a then comes into contact with the conical section 24a of the clamping device 24 located at its distal end. If the second movable element 25 is advanced from this position in the same direction (direction of arrow X2), the head section 26a moves from the conical section 24a located at its distal end through the passage opening 24f and enters the holding area 24e.

[0154] If the second movable element 25 is advanced further from this state in the same direction (direction of arrow X2), the head section 26a comes into contact with the distal end of the engagement section 23b of the piston rod 23 in order to push the piston rod 23 in the same direction (direction of arrow X2). At the same time, the clamping device 24 moves in the same direction (in the direction of arrow X2).

[0155] When the clamping device 24 moves in the direction of arrow X2, the outer surface of the holding area 24e is in contact with the inner surface of the tapered section 21d of the first cylinder 21A and moves in the same direction (direction of arrow X2) along the inner surface. This gradually brings the clamping device 24 into the closed position. Then the head section 26a is received in the holding area 24e. In addition, part of the head section 26a is brought into the position in which it is gripped by the two claw sections 24b.

[0156] The first movable element 22 is pushed by the head section 26a to cause the holding area 24e of the clamping device 24 to be positioned in the small-diameter section 21b. This results in the clamping device 24 being in the closed state. The first connecting element (clamping device 24) and the second connecting element 26 are then connected.

[0157] As described above, according to the first embodiment, in the endoscope 1, which is provided with the treatment instrument lifting base 50, the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20, which includes the treatment instrument lifting wire 27, is provided between the drive mechanism 30, which includes the treatment instrument actuating lever 10, and the treatment instrument lifting base 50. In this case, the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20 comprises the cylinder 21, the first movable element 22, the second movable element 25, and the opening / closing mechanism.

[0158] The cylinder 21 has an interior space 21a, which is formed along the first axis Ax1, extending from the distal end to the proximal end. The first movable element 22 and the second movable element 25 are movable within the interior space 21a along the first axis Ax1.

[0159] The first movable element 22 comprises the first connecting element (clamping device 24) with at least two claw sections 24b designed to grasp and hold a part (the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26) of the second movable element 25.

[0160] The second movable element 25 comprises the head section 26a, which is designed to be held by the first connecting element (clamping device 24), and the second connecting element 26, which has the neck section 26b, which is provided at the distal end side of the head section 26a and is designed to be narrower than the head section 26a.

[0161] The opening / closing mechanism is designed to change the state of the first connecting element (the clamping device 24) between the state in which the first connecting element (the clamping device 24) is open to release (the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26) the second connecting element 26, and the state in which the first connecting element (the clamping device 24) is closed to hold (the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26) the second connecting element 26.

[0162] The opening / closing mechanism is formed in at least one part of the interior 21a of the cylinder 21. In other words, the interior 21a comprises the first part (small-diameter section 21b), which has the first cross-sectional area, and the second part (large-diameter section 21c), which has the second cross-sectional area that is larger than the first cross-sectional area. The second part (large-diameter section 21c) is located at the distal end of the first part (small-diameter section 21b).

[0163] The first cross-sectional area is dimensioned to a size that prevents the first connecting element (the clamping device 24) from exposing the second connecting element 26 (the head section 26a of the second connecting element). The second cross-sectional area is dimensioned to a size that allows the first connecting element (the clamping device 24) to exposing the second connecting element 26 (the head section 26a of the second connecting element).

[0164] Furthermore, when the interior space 21a is formed by a further inclusion of the third part (tapering section 21d), the third part (tapering section 21d) forms a tapered section designed to connect the first part (small-diameter section 21b) and the second part (large-diameter section 21c). The tapered section contacts the first connecting element (clamping device 24) to close the first connecting element (clamping device 24).

[0165] The cylinder 21 comprises the fourth part (receiving section 21k). The fourth part (receiving section 21k) includes a receiving section provided in the second part (large-diameter section 21c) and has a shape that widens towards the distal end. The receiving section 21k contacts the conical section 24a located at the distal end of the first connecting element (clamping device 24) to open the first connecting element (clamping device 24).

[0166] The treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20, as designed, is able to reliably maintain the connection between the first movable element 22 and the second movable element 25 when the endoscope is in use, despite its simple configuration with a reduced number of components. Conversely, during maintenance of the endoscope, the connection between the first movable element 22 and the second movable element 25 can be easily released, thus simplifying, for example, the process of attaching / removing the treatment instrument lifting wire 27.

[0167] It should be noted that the first embodiment described above depicts a configuration in which the first part (small-diameter section 21b), the second part (large-diameter section 21c), the third part (tapering section 21d), and the fourth part (receiving section 21k) are all included as components of the opening / closing mechanism. However, the configuration is not limited to the one described above.

[0168] For example, the opening / closing mechanism can be designed such that the third and fourth parts are excluded from the embodiment described above. In this case, a step is formed on the connecting piece between the first and second parts. Therefore, when the clamping device 24 moves from the second part to the first part within the interior 21a, the clamping device 24 is suddenly opened or closed at the step of the connecting piece between the first and second parts.

[0169] In contrast, if the opening / closing mechanism is designed to include the third part, the clamping device 24 moves along the third part when it moves from the second part to the first part. This allows the clamping device 24 to close smoothly.

[0170] Furthermore, if the opening / closing mechanism is designed to include the fourth part, the inner surface of the conical section 24a located at the distal end of the clamping device 24 contacts the receiving section 21k when the clamping device 24 moves from the first part to the second part and is pressed against the receiving section 21k. This allows the clamping device 24 to be gently moved into the open position.

[0171] In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which the clamping device 24 is provided on the side of the first movable element 22 (piston). However, the configuration is not limited to this example. For instance, the clamping device 24 can be provided on the side of the second movable element 25.

[0172] Next, a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig. Figure 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part, showing in enlarged detail a main part (connecting part between a first connecting element and a second connecting element) of a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in an endoscope in the second embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be noted that the Fig. 13 shows a state in which the first connecting element and the second connecting element are connected to each other.

[0173] In principle, the configurations of the present embodiment are essentially the same as those of the first embodiment described above. A treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20A in the present embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment described above with respect to the configuration of a second connecting element 26A and the configuration of a receiving section 21kA, which is provided at a proximal end of a second cylinder 21TA within a cylinder 21A. Other configurations are similar to those in the first embodiment described above. Therefore, among the configurations of the present embodiment, configurations identical to those in the first embodiment described above have the same reference numerals, their descriptions being omitted and only the different parts being described in detail below.

[0174] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20A in the endoscope in the present embodiment comprises the cylinder 21A, a first movable element 22, a second movable element 25A and an opening / closing mechanism.

[0175] Among these, cylinder 21A comprises a first cylinder 21P and a second cylinder 21TA. The second cylinder 21TA differs from the one in the first embodiment described above with respect to the shape of the proximal end of the receiving section 21kA, which is provided at the proximal end of the second cylinder 21TA. In the present embodiment, the shape of the proximal end of the receiving section 21kA is not tapered. In other words, the shape of the proximal end of the receiving section 21kA is, for example, cylindrical.

[0176] The second movable element 25A comprises the second connecting element 26A and a treatment instrument lifting wire 27. The second connecting element 26A comprises a head section 26Aa and a neck section 26b. The distal end of the head section 26Aa is connected to the neck section 26b.

[0177] The head section 26Aa comprises a first inclined section 26aa and a second inclined section 26ab. The first inclined section 26aa is an inclined section formed in a shape that narrows towards the neck section 26b. The second inclined section 26ab is an inclined section formed in a shape that widens from the proximal end face relative to the first inclined section 26aa towards the distal end face. The remaining configurations are identical to those of the first embodiment described above.

[0178] The following briefly describes the functioning of the second embodiment of the present disclosure, which is designed as described above. First, as in Fig. Figure 13 shows the clamping device 24 in the state in which the first connecting element 22 and the second connecting element 25A are connected to each other, such that a section at its proximal end face, which includes a holding area 24e, is located in a small-diameter section 21b of a first interior space 21m. At this point, the clamping device 24 is prevented from being in the open state.

[0179] It is assumed here that the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 has been switched to the setting for operation in the maintenance operating range. When the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is actuated in a predetermined direction, the actuating force of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 acts via the drive mechanism 30 on the first movable element 22 of the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20.

[0180] This causes the first movable element 22 to move a predetermined distance along the first axis Ax1 in the direction of arrow X1. Fig. 13 moves. Simultaneously, the clamping device 24 also moves by the same distance in the same direction. Then the holding area 24e of the clamping device 24 moves through the tapered section 21d and is thus positioned in the large-diameter section 21c. The clamping device 24 is thus brought into a state that allows the head section 26Aa of the second connecting element 26A to be released.

[0181] If, in this state, the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 is pulled, for example, towards the distal end (in the direction along arrow X1), the second connecting element 26A moves together with the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 in the same direction.

[0182] At this point, the first inclined section 26aa of the head section 26Aa of the second connecting element 26A contacts the two claw sections 24b. Then, with the movement of the head section 26Aa in the direction of arrow X1, the first inclined section 26aa opens the clamping device 24 to widen the through-hole 24f. This allows the head section 26Aa to be removed from the holding area 24e. Consequently, the connection between the first movable element 22 and the second movable element 25A is released.

[0183] On the other hand, the work process at the time of connecting the first connecting element 22 and the second connecting element 25A proceeds as described below.

[0184] The second connecting element 26A, which is attached to the proximal end of the treatment instrument lifting wire 27, is inserted in the direction along arrow X2 in Fig. 13 is inserted into the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion tube 33. When the proximal end of the second connecting element 26A reaches the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20A, the second inclined section 26ab of the head section 26Aa of the second connecting element 26A comes into contact with the inner surface of the conical section 24a located at the distal end of the clamping device 24, thus opening the clamping device 24. This causes the head section 26Aa to enter the holding area 24e from the side of the through-opening 24f. Because of the second inclined section 26ab, the head section 26Aa moves smoothly into the holding area 24e.

[0185] In this state, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is actuated in the predetermined direction to cause the first movable element 22 to move in the direction of arrow X2. Fig. 13 moves. Then the clamping device 24 is moved from the large-diameter section 21c, through the tapered section 21d, to the small-diameter section 21b. This causes the clamping device 24 to switch to the closed state. Thus, when the clamping device 24 is located in the small-diameter section 21b, it is prevented from being in the open state.

[0186] As described above, the second embodiment is also capable of achieving the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0187] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the opening / closing mechanism is designed to additionally incorporate at least a portion of the head section 26Aa. In the present embodiment, the head section 26Aa comprises the first inclined section 26aa and the second inclined section 26ab. The first inclined section 26aa is formed in a shape that tapers towards the neck section. The second inclined section 26ab is formed in a shape that widens from the proximal end relative to the first inclined section 26aa towards the distal end.

[0188] The two claw sections 24b of the first connecting element (clamping device 24) contact the first inclined section 26aa to open the first connecting element (clamping device 24). Additionally, the conical section 24a of the first connecting element (clamping device 24) located at its distal end contacts the second inclined section 26ab to open the first connecting element.

[0189] Such a configuration allows the clamping device 24 to open smoothly without the need for the fourth part (receiving section 21k) of the cylinder 21, and also allows the second connecting element 26A to be inserted into and removed from the clamping device 24 smoothly.

[0190] Next, a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig. Figure 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part, showing in enlarged detail a main part (connecting part between a first connecting element and a second connecting element) of a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in an endoscope in the third embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be noted that the Fig. 14 shows a state in which the first connecting element and the second connecting element are connected to each other.

[0191] In principle, the configurations of the present embodiment are essentially the same as those of the first and second embodiments described above. A treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20B in the present embodiment differs from that in the first and second embodiments described above with respect to the configuration of a first movable element 22B.

[0192] One configuration of a second connecting element 26 is identical to that in the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, one configuration of a receiving section 21kA, provided at a proximal end of a second cylinder 21TA within a cylinder 21A, is identical to that in the second embodiment described above. Other configurations are identical to those in the first embodiment described above. Therefore, among the configurations of the present embodiment, configurations identical to those in the first and second embodiments described above have the same reference numerals, their descriptions being omitted and only the different parts being described in detail below.

[0193] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20B in the endoscope of the present embodiment comprises the cylinder 21A, a first movable element 22B, a second movable element 25 and an opening / closing mechanism.

[0194] The first movable element 22B comprises a piston rod 23B, a clamping device 24, and an elastic element 41. Of these, the elastic element 41 functions as part of the opening / closing mechanism. The present embodiment shows an example in which the elastic element 41 is contained within the first movable rod 22B.

[0195] The piston rod 23B is identical to those in the first and second embodiments described above insofar as the clamping device 24, which constitutes the first connecting element, is arranged at the distal end of the piston rod. Therefore, the piston rod 23B has a flange-shaped engagement section 23b at its distal end. The engagement section 23b engages with an engagement section 24d of the clamping device 24. This engagement between the engagement section 23b and the engagement section 24d causes the piston rod 23B and the clamping device 24B to be connected as a single unit.

[0196] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the elastic element 41 is attached to the engagement section 23b in the engagement section 24d.

[0197] The elastic element 41 is designed, for example, as a helical spring exhibiting a flexible spring force. The spring force of the elastic element 41 acts in one direction to keep a conical section 24a of the clamping device 24, located at its distal end, permanently open as the first connecting element 22B.

[0198] For this purpose, the elastic element 41 in the engagement section 24d is arranged such that it stretches in a direction that is essentially perpendicular to the first axis Ax1 (direction of the arrow S in Fig. 14). Thus, the spring force of the elastic element 41 acts in the direction that is essentially perpendicular to the first axis Ax1 (direction of the arrow S in Fig. 14) Accordingly, the spring force is exerted on the clamping device 24 in the direction in which the clamping device 24 is held permanently open. Other configurations are identical to those in the first embodiment described above.

[0199] The following briefly describes the functioning of the third embodiment of the present disclosure, which is designed as described above. First, as in Fig. Figure 14 shows the clamping device 24 in the state in which the first connecting element 22B and the second connecting element 25 are connected to each other, such that a section at its proximal end face, which includes a holding area 24e, is located in a small-diameter section 21b of a first interior space 21m. At this point, the clamping device 24 is prevented from being in the open state. In addition, the elastic element 41 is in a contracted state in the engagement section 24d.

[0200] It is assumed here that the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 has been switched to the setting for operation in the maintenance operating range. When the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is actuated in a predetermined direction, the actuating force of the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 acts via the drive mechanism 30 on the first movable element 22B of the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20.

[0201] This causes the first movable element 22B to move a predetermined distance along the first axis Ax1 in the direction of arrow X1. Fig. 14 moves. Simultaneously, the clamping device 24 also moves by the same distance in the same direction. Then the engagement section 24d of the clamping device 24 moves through a tapered section 21d and is thus positioned in a section 21c with a large diameter.

[0202] When the engagement section 24d of the clamping device 24 is located in the large diameter section 21c, the clamping device 24 is subjected to the spring force of the elastic element 41 in order to open and be in a state that allows a head section 26a of the second connecting element 26 to be released.

[0203] For example, if the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 is pulled towards the distal end (in the direction along arrow X1), the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26 is removed from the holding area 24e, thereby releasing the connection between the first movable element 22B and the second movable element 25.

[0204] If the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 is thus pulled in the direction along arrow X1, the second connecting element 26 moves together with the treatment instrument lifting wire 27 in the same direction. This makes it possible to remove the head section 26a from the holding area 24e.

[0205] On the other hand, the work process at the time of connecting the first connecting element 22B and the second connecting element 25 proceeds as described below.

[0206] The second connecting element 26, which is attached to the proximal end of the treatment instrument lifting wire 27, is inserted in the direction along arrow X2 in Fig. 14 is inserted into the treatment instrument lifting wire insertion line 33. When the proximal end of the second connecting element 26 reaches the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20B, the head section 26a of the second connecting element 26 enters the holding area 24e of the clamping device 24 in the open state.

[0207] In this state, the treatment instrument actuating lever 10 is actuated in the predetermined direction to cause the first movable element 22B to move in the direction of arrow X2. Fig. 14 moves. This causes the clamping device 24 to move from the large-diameter section 21c, through the tapered section 21d, to the small-diameter section 21b. This forces the clamping device 24 into the closed position against the spring force of the elastic element 41. Thus, when the clamping device 24 is located in the small-diameter section 21b, it is prevented from being in the open position.

[0208] As described above, the third embodiment is able to achieve the same effects as those in the first and second embodiments described above.

[0209] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the opening / closing mechanism includes the elastic element 41. In this case, the elastic element 41 is contained within the first movable element 22B. The elastic element 41 exerts a spring force that acts in the opening direction of the first connecting element 22B. The elastic element 41 is located at the proximal end face of the two claw sections 24b.

[0210] In such a configuration, where the elastic element 41 is included in the opening / closing mechanism, the clamping device 24, as it moves from the small-diameter section 21b to the large-diameter section 21c, is subjected to the spring force of the elastic element 41 and thus automatically moves into the open state. Accordingly, the connection between the clamping device 24 and the second connecting element 26 can be more easily released. Furthermore, the connection state can be securely maintained in the state in which the clamping device 24C and the second connecting element 26 are connected.

[0211] Next, a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig. Figure 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a main part showing a first connecting element and a second connecting element in a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in an endoscope in the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be noted that the Fig. 15 shows a state in which the first connecting element and the second connecting element are connected to each other.

[0212] In principle, the configurations of the present embodiment are essentially the same as those of the respective embodiments described above. A treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20C in the present embodiment differs from those in the respective embodiments described above with respect to a configuration of the first connecting element (clamping device 24C) in a first movable element 22C. Other configurations are identical to those of the respective embodiments described above. Therefore, among the configurations of the present embodiment, configurations that are identical to those in the respective embodiments described above have the same reference numerals, their descriptions being omitted and only the different parts being described in detail below.

[0213] As in Fig. Figure 15 shows that in the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20C in the endoscope in the present embodiment, the first movable element 22C comprises a piston rod 23 and a clamping device 24C.

[0214] The clamping device 24C incorporates magnets 42. Each magnet 42 generates a magnetic force that causes the clamping device 24 to remain open. For this purpose, each magnet 42 is arranged on a predetermined part of each of the two elements that form the two bodies of the clamping device 24C.

[0215] In other words, when the two elements of the chuck 24C, which are designed as the two bodies, are in the closed state, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the magnets 42 are arranged between the proximal end and the distal end along a seam where the two elements are opposite each other (see reference numeral D in Figure 15). Fig. 15).

[0216] In this case, the magnets 42, each provided on one of the two elements of the clamping device 24C, have the same polarity. Since a repulsive force of the magnets 42 thus acts between the two elements of the clamping device 24, a force acts between the two elements, resulting in them constantly being held apart from each other. Other configurations are identical to those in the first embodiment described above.

[0217] It should be noted that the magnets 42 are elements that function as part of the opening / closing mechanism. The present embodiment shows an example in which the magnets 42 are contained in the first movable element 22C.

[0218] The functioning of the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, which is designed as described above, is essentially the same as that of the third embodiment.

[0219] As described above, the fourth embodiment is also capable of achieving the same effects as the respective embodiments described above.

[0220] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the opening / closing mechanism comprises the magnets 42. The magnets 42 are provided on the clamping device 24C, which constitutes the first connecting element of the first movable element 22C. The magnets 42 generate the magnetic force that causes the clamping device 24C to open continuously due to the repulsive force.

[0221] Furthermore, the magnets 42 comprise at least two magnets arranged at opposite positions of the two elements of the clamping device 24. The repulsive force of the magnets 42 acts in the direction of keeping the clamping device 24 permanently open.

[0222] In such a configuration, when the first movable element 22C moves from a small-diameter section 21b to a large-diameter section 21c, the clamping device 24C is automatically moved into the open position due to the magnetic force of the magnets 42. Thus, the connection between the clamping device 24C and the second connecting element 26 can be easily released. Furthermore, the connection state can be securely maintained in the connected position of the clamping device 24C and the second connecting element 26.

[0223] Next, a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Fig. Figure 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part, showing a main part (connecting part between a first connecting element and a second connecting element) of a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism in an endoscope in the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be noted that the Fig. 16 shows a state in which the first connecting element and the second connecting element are connected to each other.

[0224] In principle, the configurations of the present embodiment are essentially the same as those of the respective embodiments described above. A treatment instrument-lifting wire connection mechanism 20D in the present embodiment differs from those in the respective embodiments described above with respect to a cylinder 21D configuration. Other configurations are identical to those of the respective embodiments described above. Therefore, among the configurations of the present embodiment, configurations that are identical to those in the respective embodiments described above have the same reference numerals, their descriptions being omitted and only the different parts being described in detail below.

[0225] As in Fig.Figure 15 shows that in the treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism 20D in the endoscope of the present embodiment, the cylinder 21D comprises a first cylinder 21PD and a second cylinder 21TA.

[0226] Of these, the first cylinder 21PD comprises magnets 43. The magnets 43 are provided on at least one of a second part (large-diameter section 21c) or a third part (tapering section 21d). In this case, the magnets 43 are each provided at positions opposite each other across a first interior space 21m (21a) in the first cylinder 21PD. Furthermore, the respective magnets 43 are each provided on the two elements of the clamping device 24 at opposite positions.

[0227] As described above, the clamping device 24 is made of a material, such as metal. Therefore, a force acts on the clamping device 24, which, due to the magnetic force of the magnets 43, acts in a direction that keeps the clamping device 24 permanently open.

[0228] Meanwhile, similar to the second, third, and fourth embodiments described above, a second cylinder 21TA is configured such that the shape of the proximal end of a receiving section 21kA, for example, has a cylindrical shape and not a tapered shape. Other configurations are identical to those in the first embodiment described above.

[0229] It should be noted that the magnets 43 are elements that function as part of an opening / closing mechanism. The present embodiment shows an example in which the magnets 43 are contained in the first cylinder PD of the cylinder 21D.

[0230] The functioning of the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, which is designed as described above, is essentially the same as that of the third and fourth embodiments described above.

[0231] As described above, the fifth embodiment is also capable of achieving the same effects as the respective embodiments described above.

[0232] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the opening / closing mechanism comprises the magnets 43. The magnets 43 are provided on at least one of a second part (section 21c with a large diameter) or a third part (tapering section 21d). An attractive force of the magnets 43 causes the clamping device 24 to open.

[0233] In such a configuration, when the first movable element 22C moves from the small-diameter section 21b to the large-diameter section 21c, the clamping device 24 is automatically moved into the open position due to the magnetic force of the magnets 42. Thus, the connection between the clamping device 24D and the second connecting element 26 can be easily released. Furthermore, the connection state can be securely maintained in the connected state between the clamping device 24D and the second connecting element 26.

[0234] It should be noted that the embodiments described above each show an example in which the clamping device 24, which represents the first connecting element, consists of the two elements configured as the two bodies. However, the configuration of the clamping device is not limited to that shown in the example. The clamping device can, for instance, consist of several elements configured as multiple bodies.

[0235] Incidentally, in each of the embodiments described above, the endoscope provides a treatment instrument lifting wire connection mechanism between the treatment instrument actuating lever and the treatment instrument lifting base, in order to achieve a mechanism that allows for easy attachment and removal of the treatment instrument lifting wire.

[0236] This results in a configuration that, for example, allows the instrument lifting base and instrument lifting wire to be easily exchanged within the endoscope through a simple process. Such a configuration facilitates the implementation of a configuration in which the instrument lifting base and instrument lifting wire are replaced with each use of the endoscope. The endoscope depicted in each of the respective embodiments is intended to be the endoscope with such a configuration.

[0237] However, the present disclosure is not limited to the configurations shown in each of the embodiments described above. For example, the present disclosure can similarly be applied to an endoscope designed such that only the instrument lifting wire is replaced each time the endoscope is used.

[0238] Furthermore, the present disclosure can similarly be applied to an endoscope designed such that the distal end section containing the instrument lifting base and the instrument lifting wire are replaced with each use of the endoscope. Moreover, the present disclosure can similarly be applied even to an endoscope designed such that the entire insertion part is replaced with each use of the endoscope.

[0239] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and it is understood that various modifications and applications can be implemented within a given scope without deviating from the subject matter of the disclosure. Furthermore, the embodiments described above include disclosures at various stages, and different disclosures can be developed by suitable combinations of a multitude of disclosed components. For example, even if some of the components are removed from all the components depicted in the embodiment described above, a configuration from which the components are removed can be developed as a disclosure, provided that the configuration can solve the problem to be solved by the disclosure and achieve the effects of the disclosure. In addition, components from different embodiments can be combined as needed.The disclosure is not limited by the specific embodiments, except for the limitation imposed by the attached claims.

[0240] The present application claims priority over US application no. 63 / 536,782, filed in the United States on September 6, 2023. The content disclosed in the basic application described above is incorporated by reference into the description, claims, and drawings of the present application. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 1759626 B1 [0009, 0010] JP 2022-38181

[0010] US 63 / 536,782

[0240]

Claims

[1] Endoscope with a cylinder; a first movable element; a second movable element; and an opening / closing mechanism, wherein: the cylinder has an interior space, and the interior space is formed along a first axis extending from a distal end to a proximal end; the first movable element is designed to be movable in the interior along the first axis and has a first connecting element, wherein the first connecting element has at least two projections designed to engage and hold the second movable element; the second movable element is designed to be movable in the interior along the first axis and has a second connecting element, the second connecting element being held by the first connecting element; the second connecting element has a head section designed to be held by the first connecting element, and a neck section provided at the distal end of the head section and designed to be narrower than the head section; and The opening / closing mechanism changes the state of the first connecting element between a state in which the first connecting element is open to release the second connecting element and a state in which the first connecting element is closed to hold the second connecting element. [2] Endoscope according to claim 1, wherein: the opening / closing mechanism is at least part of the cylinder; the interior comprises a first part and a second part; the first part has a first cross-sectional area; the first cross-sectional area has a size that does not allow the first connecting element to release the second connecting element; a second part is provided at a distal end face of the first part and has a second cross-sectional area that is larger than the first cross-sectional area; and the second cross-sectional area has a size that allows the first connecting element to release the second connecting element. [3] Endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the interior also includes a third part, the third part is a tapering section that connects the first part and the second part, and the tapered section contacts the first connecting element to close the first connecting element. [4] Endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the cylinder further comprises a fourth part, wherein the fourth part comprises a receiving section provided in the second part and has a shape that widens towards the distal end, and The recording section contacts the first connecting element in order to open the first connecting element. [5] Endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the opening / closing mechanism furthermore comprises at least part of the head section, the head section includes an inclined section which is shaped in a form that narrows towards the neck section, and the first connecting element contacts the inclined section, and the first connecting element is opened. [6] Endoscope according to claim 5, wherein the head section further comprises a second inclined section, the second inclined section is formed in a shape that widens from a proximal end side relative to the inclined section towards the distal end side, and the first connecting element contacts the second inclined section, and the first connecting element is opened. [7] Endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the opening / closing mechanism further includes an elastic element, and the elastic element is provided in the first movable element and has a spring force that acts in a direction to open the first connecting element. [8] Endoscope according to claim 7, wherein the elastic element is arranged at a proximal end side of the two projections. [9] Endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the opening / closing mechanism also includes magnets, and The magnets are provided on the first movable element and generate a magnetic force to open the first connecting element. [10] Endoscope according to claim 9, wherein the magnets comprise at least two magnets which are provided on the first connecting element such that opposing components of the magnets face each other, and wherein the first connecting element is opened by a repulsive force of the magnets. [11] Endoscope according to claim 3, wherein the opening / closing mechanism also includes magnets, and the magnets are provided on at least one of the second part or the third part, and the first connecting element is opened by the attraction of the magnets. [12] Endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the endoscope comprises a control unit and an insertion part, the insertion part is provided at a distal end of the operating part, and the insertion part comprises the cylinder, the first movable element, the second movable element and the opening / closing mechanism. [13] Endoscope according to claim 12, wherein the insertion part has a bending section, the control panel has an angled knob the bending section actively bends when the angle knob is actuated, and the first connecting element is located at the distal end side in relation to the angle knob. [14] Endoscope according to claim 12, wherein the first movable element has a lever at a proximal end side of the first connecting element, and the lever is rotated to cause the first connecting element to move inside the interior. [15] Endoscope according to claim 14, wherein the second movable element has a wire and a lifting base, the wire being provided at a distal end of the neck section, the lifting base is provided at a distal end of the wire, and the lifting base rotates when the lever performs a rotary motion. [16] Endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the first movable element has a lever at a proximal end face of the first connecting element, the lever is rotated to cause the first connecting element to move inside the interior, the lever has a switching mechanism designed to toggle a range in which the lever performs a rotary movement between a normal operating range and a maintenance operating range that extends beyond the normal operating range, wherein, when the lever is in the normal operating range, the first connecting element is positioned in the first part, and, when the lever is in the maintenance operating area, the first connecting element is positioned in the second part.

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