Medical imaging instrument, connector, system and method for operating a medical imaging instrument

Abstract

The present invention relates to a medical imaging instrument (10), in particular to an endoscope, comprising: a handle (12) having at least one electronic base unit (14); an exchangeable shaft (16) which can be releasably connected to the handle (12) and has at least one camera (18) which is designed to generate image data; and a connection unit (20) which is designed to connect the camera (18) to the electronic base unit (14) and to transfer image data from the camera (18) to the electronic base unit (14).

Description

[0001] Medical imaging instrument, connector, system and method for operating a medical imaging instrument

[0002] The present invention relates to a medical imaging instrument, in particular an endoscope, a connector for a medical imaging instrument, a system, in particular a medical system, and a method for operating a medical imaging instrument.

[0003] An endoscope is often used to perform a diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedure on a hard-to-reach part of a patient's body. Hard-to-reach parts of the body are particularly hollow spaces such as a body cavity and / or a hollow organ. The endoscope is designed in such a way that it can be partially guided into the patient's cavity to perform the diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedure. To visualize anatomical structures or to better monitor the diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedure, the endoscope is usually configured to shine light into the patient's cavity.

[0004] Endoscopes consist of an elongated shaft that is partially inserted into the patient's cavity. To examine an anatomical structure, the distal end of the shaft is aligned so that it points directly toward the anatomical structure. This allows the anatomical structure to be specifically illuminated. The light reflected from the anatomical structure can then be captured by the distal end of the shaft for imaging. After imaging, the anatomical structure can be displayed to a user.

[0005] Some endoscopes have an image sensor in the distal end of the shaft. This eliminates the need to guide the captured light to a proximal end of the shaft using optical elements such as glass fibers, light guides, rod lenses, or the like. In particular, imaging errors that can occur when light is guided along the shaft can be avoided. Furthermore, small shaft diameters can be achieved because the shaft only needs to contain electrical cables and no optical components. Such endoscopes often also have light-generating elements such as LEDs in the distal end of the shaft. The placement of the light source and camera in the distal end section also allows the endoscope to be equipped with a flexible shaft. Furthermore, endoscopes can define different main viewing directions.For example, the shape of the distal end and a specific arrangement of optical elements and the image sensor may define a main viewing direction of 30°. Another endoscope, however, may define a different main viewing direction, for example 0°. This can refer to an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the endoscope shaft. During diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures, it may be necessary to view an anatomical structure from different angles and / or to observe different anatomical structures. This may mean that the entire endoscope must be replaced during diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedures in order to view a body cavity from different angles.

[0006] When using medical imaging instruments, especially endoscopes, it is important to ensure that they are sterile and can be sterilized as easily and reliably as possible.

[0007] Based on the prior art, it is an object of the present invention to improve the flexibility, efficiency and / or reliability of a medical imaging device.

[0008] The object is achieved according to the invention by a medical imaging instrument, a connector, a system and a method for operating a medical imaging instrument as described herein and defined in the claims.

[0009] The present invention provides a medical imaging instrument, in particular an endoscope. The medical imaging instrument comprises a handle that includes at least one base electronics unit, an interchangeable shaft that is detachably connectable to the handle and that includes at least one camera configured to generate image data, and a connection unit configured to connect the camera to the base electronics unit and to transmit image data from the camera to the base electronics unit.

[0010] The medical imaging instrument according to the invention exhibits a high degree of flexibility, particularly during the performance of a diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedure. Furthermore, the imaging instrument according to the invention is efficient and reliable. A user of the imaging instrument saves considerable time when performing the diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedure, and operation is also cost-effective. Even in time-critical situations, the imaging instrument enables a flexible and efficient response to an event, particularly during the performance of a diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedure. Furthermore, it can be advantageous to use the handle for performing multiple procedures. In such a case, it is possible to simply replace the interchangeable shaft. This increases the cost-effectiveness of the imaging instrument's operation.Furthermore, resource savings are advantageously achieved, as fewer actions are required overall to carry out multiple actions, for example, within a day, a week, and / or over a longer period. This is particularly true with regard to the requirement for medical

[0011] Imaging instruments must be sterile and / or easily sterilizable to be suitable for use on a patient. The features of the invention allow separate cleaning, sterilization, and / or autoclaving ±A quick change of the interchangeable shaft, for example, to accommodate a different camera type, enables a broader range of applications for the imaging instrument and increases user-friendliness. This is particularly beneficial for the quality of the patient experience, as the user does not have to get used to a new handling after changing the shaft. This increases the user's focus, as they do not have to focus on a changed handling, and the use of the imaging instrument is more intuitive.

[0012] The imaging instrument can be an endoscope and / or an exoscope. The handle essentially provides an interface for mechanical manipulation of the imaging instrument. For example, the handle can be grasped by a user, and the imaging instrument can be moved in space. Furthermore, the imaging instrument can be attachable to a robot, in particular a medical robot, by means of the handle, and / or can be grasped and / or held by the robot. The robot can be configured to perform an action, in particular a diagnostic action and / or an intervention. Furthermore, the imaging instrument can be attachable to a holding arm by means of the handle. The holding arm can be configured to hold the imaging instrument, in particular to assist the user in performing the action. Furthermore, the handle can have an ergonomic shape with regard to use by the user.This can mean, in particular, that the handle has a preferred orientation with respect to a user's grip. Furthermore, the handle can comprise at least one control element, such as one or more knobs, buttons, switches and / or rotary controls. These can be arranged in such a way that operability is simplified. The handle can have a preferred rotation position. This can mean that the at least one control element is arranged on a lateral side of the handle. A rotation of the handle, in particular a rotation of approximately 180° relative to the preferred rotation position, about a longitudinal axis of the imaging instrument, can result in operability being made more difficult, for example because the control elements are now arranged on a side that is difficult for the user to reach.

[0013] The base electronics can be configured to power and / or control the camera. Furthermore, the base electronics can be configured to communicate with a display unit, in particular to forward information such as image data to the display unit. Furthermore, the base electronics can comprise an interface configured for communication with the user. The interface can comprise at least one control element. The base unit can comprise a computing unit, for example a processor, a memory unit, a communication unit, and / or controllable power electronics.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the interchangeable shaft can comprise at least one luminous element, such as a light-emitting element, for example an LED and / or a laser diode. At least one of the luminous elements can be a white-light luminous element, in particular a white-light LED. The base electronics can be configured to supply the luminous element with application-specific and / or operating-state-specific electrical energy. Application-specific / operating-state-specific can mean, in particular, that a luminous intensity and / or an emission spectrum of the luminous element can be adjusted with respect to an application / operating state. In some cases, this can be achieved by mixing light from different luminous elements and / or by selectively activating and / or deactivating certain luminous elements for different applications / operating states. The luminous intensity can be adjustable automatically and / or by the user.The interchangeable shaft can comprise lines for conducting electrical energy and / or digital and / or analog signals and a heat pipe for dissipating waste heat from the camera and / or the lighting element. Furthermore, the interchangeable shaft can comprise a distal end. Preferably, the camera and / or the lighting element is arranged in the distal end of the interchangeable shaft. Furthermore, the interchangeable shaft can comprise a shaft that is elongated along the longitudinal axis. In particular, the shaft can be a rigid shaft. This can mean that the shaft is designed not to deform or to deform only slightly during use. The length of the shaft can be, for example, 5 cm to 200 cm, in particular 20 cm to 100 cm. In other embodiments, the interchangeable shaft can be flexible and / or comprise a flexible shaft.

[0015] "Releasably connectable" can mean, in particular, that the interchangeable shaft can be connected to the handle quickly, easily, and / or reversibly. In particular, the interchangeable shaft can be repeatedly connected to and detached from the handle without damage. For example, the interchangeable shaft can be connected and / or detached within 30 seconds, in particular within 20 seconds. "Simple" can preferably mean that the interchangeable shaft can be connected and / or detached by only one user. The interchangeable shaft can be vapor-tight and / or autoclavable in a released state.

[0016] The camera may include an image sensor and optics. The image sensor may, for example, be a CCD chip or a CMOS chip. According to some embodiments, the camera may include more than one image sensor. For example, the camera may be a stereo camera and / or include two image sensors. In some embodiments, the camera may be configured to generate digital image data. Alternatively or additionally, the camera may be configured to generate analog image data. In particular, the camera may include a computing unit configured to generate digital image data from analog image data.

[0017] The medical instrument, in particular the interchangeable shaft and / or the camera, can define a main viewing direction. The main viewing direction can be a central axis of an optical path of light captured by the camera. The main viewing direction can be oriented parallel to and / or coincide with an optical axis of the camera's optics. In particular, the light can include light reflected and / or emitted by an examination object. According to some embodiments, the main viewing direction can enclose an angle with the longitudinal axis of the interchangeable shaft. The included angle can be the reference measure for an angular specification of the main viewing direction. This can mean that if the main viewing direction is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the interchangeable shaft, the main viewing direction is 0°. The main viewing direction can generally be 0° to 90°. Preferred main viewing directions are at least 0°, 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°.The main viewing direction can be oriented within an angular range of + / - 5° from one of these values. The image sensor can be arranged orthogonally to the main viewing direction. According to further embodiments, the image sensor can be arranged such that the longitudinal axis of the interchangeable shaft extends partially along the image sensor. The camera can generally be configured to generate image data at a repetition frequency. The repetition frequency can be adjustable as needed. In particular, the repetition frequency can be at least 25 Hz, in particular 30 Hz, and / or the camera can be configured to generate video image data.

[0018] The connection unit can in particular be configured to transmit the generated image data, when the interchangeable shaft is connected, to the base electronics at least substantially in real time. In particular, the connection unit can be configured to connect the camera to the base electronics in such a way that the full functionality and / or controllability of the camera is ensured. In particular, when the interchangeable shaft is connected, no difference can be detected with regard to the functionality of the camera compared to conventional endoscopes with a camera in the shaft. In this context, connecting can mean that signals, in particular image data, can be transmitted from the camera to the base electronics in a connected state, and / or signals, control commands and / or power can be transmitted from the base electronics to the camera in a connected state. It is understood that image data can be transmitted in analog and / or digital form.Furthermore, the connection unit can be configured to connect further electrical consumers and / or elements, for example the lighting element, further lighting elements, a motor, a battery and / or a signal transmission unit, to the base electronics.

[0019] Furthermore, the connection unit can be configured to transmit electrical energy from the base electronics to the camera. Furthermore, the connection unit can be configured to transmit electrical energy to the additional electrical loads and / or elements. Advantageously, no separate connection to a power supply is required and / or no energy storage device is necessary within the interchangeable shaft. In other words, the interchangeable shaft can be powered and / or controlled exclusively via the connection unit. The full functionality of the camera and / or the additional electrical loads can be ensured when the interchangeable shaft is connected, in particular without any further action by the user being necessary.

[0020] Furthermore, the connecting unit can comprise a connector that is formed separately from the handle and / or the interchangeable shaft. A separately formed connector can be damage-free and / or completely detachable from both the handle and the interchangeable shaft. The connector can be required to establish an electrical and / or electronic connection between the handle and the interchangeable shaft. The handle, the interchangeable shaft, and the connector can be three different and separate and / or separable components of the imaging instrument. The connector can be configured to be arranged between the interchangeable shaft and the handle. In particular, it can be provided that the connector is configured to connect the camera and / or the other electrical loads and / or elements to the base electronics.

[0021] Advantageously, this can simplify the mechanical design. In particular, the design of the interchangeable shaft and / or handle can be relatively inexpensive and simple.

[0022] Furthermore, the connector can be intended for single use. The connector can be individually sterile packaged. For example, the connector can be manufactured from inexpensive materials and / or mass-produced parts. In particular, this can mean that inexpensive, conventional components can be used to provide the connector. Advantageously, the connector does not need to be excessively durable and / or long-lasting and / or designed to reliably withstand frequent connection of the interchangeable shaft without its function being impaired.

[0023] In particular, the connector can be separately autoclavable and / or sterilizable. The connector can advantageously be provided in sterile packaging. This enables, for example, a quick and reliable exchange of the interchangeable shaft, particularly without the user having to worry about the connector's sterilization status. The connector can be always available and quickly prepared for use.

[0024] Furthermore, the connecting unit can comprise a first immovable electrical contact, which is part of the handle and is connected to the base electronics, and the connector can comprise a first movable electrical contact. When the interchangeable shaft is connected, the first movable electrical contact applies a force to the first immovable electrical contact. This can mean, in particular, that no movable and / or spring-loaded components are provided on the handle for connecting the camera to the base electronics. The first immovable electrical contact can be rigid.

[0025] In addition, the connecting unit can comprise a second immovable electrical contact, which is part of the interchangeable shaft and is connected to the camera, and the connector can comprise a second movable electrical contact. When the interchangeable shaft is connected, the second movable electrical contact applies a force to the second immovable electrical contact. This can mean, in particular, that no movable and / or spring-loaded components are provided on the interchangeable shaft for connecting the camera to the base electronics. The second immovable electrical contact can be rigid.

[0026] Consequently, all movable and / or spring-loaded components for connecting the camera to the base electronics can be located on the connector. This ensures that the handle and / or the interchangeable shaft have high wear resistance. Furthermore, it can be easier to make the interchangeable shaft and / or the handle gas-tight and / or fluid-tight. The critical parts of the connection unit in this regard can be enclosed by the connector. The application of force can ensure that contact is maintained during operation.

[0027] Furthermore, the first immovable electrical contact and / or the second immovable electrical contact can be designed as a flat surface. This further simplifies the design of the connecting unit and / or in particular of the interchangeable shaft and / or the handle. Furthermore, the interchangeable shaft and / or the handle can be easier to clean. In particular, the risk of liquid, dirt, and / or the like accumulating in the immovable electrical contacts can be reduced. The first immovable electrical contact and / or the second immovable electrical contact can be designed as a rigid, flat contact pad.

[0028] Furthermore, the handle can have an at least substantially flat distal end surface into which the first immovable electrical contact is integrated, and the interchangeable shaft can have an at least substantially flat proximal end surface into which the second immovable electrical contact is integrated. Advantageously, cleanability, wear resistance, and / or reliability can be increased. The distal end surfaces, including the immovable electrical contacts, can be substantially flat.

[0029] Furthermore, in the connected state of the interchangeable shaft, the distal end surface of the handle and the proximal end surface of the interchangeable shaft can be arranged at least substantially parallel to one another. The connector can generally comprise a base body that can comprise sides aligned substantially parallel to one another. The parallel sides of the base body can be arranged parallel to the distal end surface and the proximal end surface in a connected state. The design can advantageously be kept simple and cost-effective.

[0030] In addition, the first movable electrical contact and the second movable electrical contact can be electrically connected to one another, at least in the connected state of the interchangeable shaft. Furthermore, it can be provided that the first movable electrical contact and the second movable electrical contact are not electrically connected to one another in a released state of the interchangeable shaft. For example, the movable electrical contacts can be movable in such a way that electrical contact can be established with one another. The reliability of the connector can thereby be increased.

[0031] Furthermore, the first movable electrical contact and the second movable electrical contact can be arranged offset from one another with respect to a longitudinal axis of the interchangeable shaft. Alternatively or additionally, the stationary contacts can be arranged offset from one another. For example, different interchangeable shafts and / or handles can have a specific arrangement of the stationary electrical contact. For example, the connector can be configured to make the different interchangeable shafts and / or handles compatible with one another. For example, the connector can be designed to be specific to the interchangeable shaft, the handle, and / or a combination of an interchangeable shaft and a handle. The flexibility of imaging devices can thereby be increased.

[0032] Furthermore, the first movable electrical contact can protrude from a first side of the connector, in particular the base body, and the second movable electrical contact can protrude from a second side of the connector, in particular the base body, opposite the first side of the connector. In particular, the first side and the second side can be the sides aligned parallel to each other. Advantageously, a simple and cost-effective design of the connector, which can also be characterized by high reliability, can be achieved.

[0033] In addition, the first movable electrical contact and / or the second movable electrical contact can comprise a spring contact pin. There is a wealth of experience in handling spring contact pins. In addition, they are cost-effective and reliable. Furthermore, only a small installation space is required. A longitudinal axis of the spring contact pin can be oriented perpendicular to the first side of the connector and / or the second side of the connector and / or the parallel sides of the base body. The spring contact pin can comprise at least one pin sleeve attached to the base body and at least one pin element that is spring-mounted relative to the pin sleeve and received in the pin sleeve. The spring contact pin can comprise at least one spring that applies a spring force to the pin element. The pin element can be insertable into the pin sleeve against a spring force.In the connected state of the interchangeable shaft, the spring pin can apply a contact force to a corresponding one of the immovable electrical contacts, in particular by the pin element being pressed against the immovable electrical contact by the spring element.

[0034] In addition, the handle and the interchangeable shaft can each comprise a plurality of electrical contacts, and the connector can comprise a plurality of first movable electrical contacts and a plurality of second movable electrical contacts arranged in pairs to form contact pairs, wherein each contact pair connects one of the contacts of the handle to one of the contacts of the interchangeable shaft when the interchangeable shaft is connected. Advantageously, several poles of the camera and / or the other electrical consumers can be connected to the base electronics. Furthermore, an electrical reference point for the camera and / or the other electrical consumers can be defined. The connector can, for example, comprise 1 to 50, in particular 2 to 40, preferably 6 to 30, and particularly preferably 12 to 24 contact pairs.

[0035] In addition, the connecting unit can comprise a receiving pocket, and the connector can be received in the receiving pocket when the interchangeable shaft is connected. The manageability of the connector can be increased. Further advantages can relate to operational safety and reliability. In some embodiments, the handle can form the receiving pocket. Alternatively or additionally, the interchangeable shaft can form the receiving pocket. Furthermore, it can be provided that the handle and the interchangeable shaft jointly form the receiving pocket. The receiving pocket can comprise a base and / or at least one side wall. In some embodiments, the base can be formed by the distal end surface of the handle or by the proximal end surface of the interchangeable shaft. The side wall can be designed as a housing part that projects beyond the respective end surface and surrounds the respective end surface at least in sections.The receiving pocket can have a depth that corresponds to at least 30%, at least 50%, and preferably more than 50% of the height of the connector. In particular, the depth of the receiving pocket can be selected such that, when the connector is inserted into the receiving pocket, the base body of the connector is at least partially held by the side wall.

[0036] Furthermore, the connecting unit and in particular the receiving pocket can comprise at least one positioning aid designed to predetermine a preferred rotational position for the connector, in particular in the receiving pocket. The risk of incorrectly positioning the connector can be reduced. Incorrect can mean that the desired number of immobile electrical contacts are not contacted by movable electrical contacts. Operational safety and / or reliability can be increased. Furthermore, for example, an unwanted relative rotational movement of the connector to the handle and / or the interchangeable shaft can be prevented. The positioning aid can comprise a recess and / or a projection. The connecting unit can comprise at least one positioning element formed by and / or encompassed by the receiving pocket.Alternatively or additionally, the connecting unit can comprise at least one positioning element that is formed and / or encompassed by the connector, in particular by its base body. The positioning element of the receiving pocket and / or the positioning element of the connector can be designed as a projection and / or as a recess. In particular, the receiving pocket can form and / or encompass at least one first positioning element and the connector, in particular the base body, can form and / or encompass a second positioning element, wherein the first positioning element and the second positioning element are designed to correspond to one another. The first positioning element and the second positioning element can be arranged and designed to correspond to one another in such a way that they define the preferred rotation position and in particular a single preferred rotation position.

[0037] Furthermore, the interchangeable shaft and the handle can be configured to be autoclaved and / or sterilized separately from one another. Furthermore, the interchangeable shaft and / or the handle can be configured to be gas-tight and / or fluid-tight. It is particularly advantageous that the interchangeable shaft and / or the handle can be sterilized and / or autoclavable despite the provision of the connecting unit, in particular the electrical contacts. This can mean that the user can, for example, have various sterile interchangeable shafts available during treatment of a patient. These can be connected to the handle as needed. However, the user does not require multiple handles, which can reduce the costs of the treatment. After a treatment has been completed, the related handle and the related interchangeable shafts can be autoclaved and / or sterilized separately.This allows them to be ready for use in subsequent treatments. The practitioner has more flexibility in choosing the camera, especially the primary viewing direction, and doesn't have to get used to a new, especially differently shaped, handle.

[0038] Furthermore, the interchangeable shaft can comprise a proximal section configured as a connecting section for the handle, the handle can comprise a distal section configured as an interchangeable shaft connecting section, and the connecting section and the interchangeable shaft connecting section form a fluid-tight and / or gas-tight connection when the interchangeable shaft is connected. Advantageously, a secure and reliable mechanical connection between the interchangeable shaft and the handle can be ensured. Operational reliability can be increased, and the susceptibility to failure can be reduced. Furthermore, it can be prevented that a liquid and / or a gas comes into unintentional contact with one of the electrical contacts. For example, it can be prevented that a short circuit and / or the like occurs.For example, the connecting portion and the interchangeable shaft connecting portion may be formed together as a bayonet closure and / or screw closure.

[0039] Furthermore, the connection unit can be configured to wirelessly transmit power and / or image data between the camera and the base electronics. This can be understood as an alternative to or in addition to the provision of the connector. For example, the connection unit can be configured to transmit power and / or image data exclusively wirelessly between the camera and the base electronics. This can advantageously reduce the number of contact pairs required for the operation of an interchangeable shaft and / or simplify the design.

[0040] Furthermore, the interchangeable shaft can be connected and released without tools. Operation can be simple. Tool-free can specifically mean that the user does not need any additional items to connect and / or release the interchangeable shaft to / from the handle.

[0041] According to the invention, the connector for the medical imaging instrument is also provided. The connector can be an imaging instrument connector and / or an interchangeable shaft connector.

[0042] Furthermore, the invention provides a system, in particular a medical system. The system comprises the medical imaging instrument, a first interchangeable shaft, and a second interchangeable shaft, wherein the interchangeable shafts are of different configurations. The user can advantageously switch between the differently configured interchangeable shafts at will during operation. In particular, only one handle is required in this regard.

[0043] Furthermore, a camera of the first interchangeable shaft can define a first main viewing direction, a camera of the second interchangeable shaft can define a second main viewing direction, and the first main viewing direction can be different from the second main viewing direction. The first main viewing direction can, for example, be 0° and the second main viewing direction can be 30°. The different main viewing directions can, for example, be suitable for viewing different anatomical structures using the same access. Advantageously, the user can react flexibly to the anatomical structures by changing the interchangeable shaft from the first interchangeable shaft to the second interchangeable shaft. Flexibility and user-friendliness can be increased.

[0044] The invention further provides a method for operating an imaging instrument according to the invention, which has a connector formed separately from the handle and / or the interchangeable shaft. The method comprises the steps of connecting the interchangeable shaft to the handle using a first connector, detaching the interchangeable shaft from the handle, and connecting the interchangeable shaft to the handle using a second connector. Advantageously, the interchangeable shaft can be quickly and reliably detachable and replaceable.

[0045] Furthermore, the method may include the step of removing the first connector and / or the second connector from a sterile package prior to use for connecting the interchangeable shaft to the handle. Advantageously, the connector is ready for use at least almost immediately.

[0046] Furthermore, the method can include the step of disposing of the first connector after detaching the interchangeable shaft from the handle. The connector can, in particular, be designed as a cost-effective disposable item. Operation of a medical instrument can therefore be made more cost-effective. By using differently designed interchangeable shafts, the use of entire, differently designed medical instruments can be avoided, and instead, only one handle can be used. Autocavation and / or sterilization of the medical devices can be cheaper and / or more efficient overall, since the overall volume of the devices can be reduced.

[0047] The devices and systems according to the invention, as well as the methods according to the invention, are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, to fulfill a functionality described herein, they may comprise a number of individual elements, components, units, and method steps that differs from the number stated herein. Furthermore, in the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values ​​within the stated limits are also to be considered disclosed and can be used arbitrarily.

[0048] It is particularly noted that all features and properties described with reference to a device, as well as procedures, are transferable to methods and applicable within the meaning of the invention and are considered to be included in the disclosure. The same applies in reverse. This means that structural features mentioned with reference to methods, i.e., features related to the device, can also be considered, claimed, and included in the disclosure within the scope of the device claims.

[0049] The invention is explained below using exemplary figures. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and use them in meaningful combination within the scope of the claims.

[0050] If there is more than one instance of a particular object, only one of them may be provided with a reference symbol in the figures and in the description. The description of this instance can be transferred accordingly to the other instances of the object. If objects are named using numerical terms, such as first, second, third object, etc., these serve to name and / or assign objects. Accordingly, for example, a first object and a third object, but not a second object, may be included. However, a number and / or sequence of objects could also be derived using numerical terms.

[0051] They show:

[0052] Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a system;

[0053] Fig. 2 is a side view of a medical instrument in a released state;

[0054] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a connector;

[0055] Fig. 4 is a schematic plan view of a distal end surface of a connecting unit;

[0056] Fig. 5 is a schematic plan view of a proximal end face of a connecting unit;

[0057] Fig. 6 is a schematic side view of a distal end of a removable shaft; Fig. 7 is a schematic side view of another embodiment of a connector;

[0058] Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view of a distal end surface of a connecting unit;

[0059] Fig. 9 is a schematic plan view of a distal end surface of another embodiment of a connecting unit;

[0060] Fig. 10 is a schematic sectional view of part of an alternative connecting unit; and

[0061] Fig. 11 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for operating a medical instrument.

[0062] Fig. 1 shows a system 60, in particular a medical system, comprising a supply unit 78, a display unit 80, a medical instrument 10, in particular an endoscope, and a sterile packaging 76. The medical instrument 10 comprises a handle 12, an interchangeable shaft 16 and a connection unit 20. The handle 12 comprises basic electronics 14. In addition, the handle comprises operating elements 84. The handle 12 is connected to the supply unit 78 by means of a cable 82.

[0063] The interchangeable shaft 16 is shown in a connected, in particular detachably connected, state to the handle 12 and comprises a camera 18 configured to generate image data. The camera 18 is connected to the base electronics 14 via the connection unit 20, and image data generated by the camera 18 is transmitted to the base electronics 14 via the connection unit 20. The image data can be transmitted from the handle 12 to the supply unit 78 via the cable 82. Furthermore, the handle 12 can be supplied with electrical energy, for example, from the supply unit 78 via the cable 82 and can receive signals, in particular control signals. The image data can be processed by the supply unit 78 and / or transmitted to the display unit 80. The display unit 80 is configured to display the image data to a user.The interchangeable shaft 16 comprises a shaft 86, which includes a heat pipe (not shown) and supply lines (not shown). The interchangeable shaft 16, in particular the shaft 86, extends along a longitudinal axis 36. According to this embodiment, the length of the interchangeable shaft is 40 cm. The camera 18 is arranged in a distal end 88 of the interchangeable shaft 16. The interchangeable shaft 16, in particular the camera 18, defines a main viewing direction 66, which extends at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 36 and is in particular 0°. Furthermore, the interchangeable shaft comprises a lighting element 90, in particular in its distal end 88.

[0064] A function of the camera 18, such as focus, recording start, and / or recording end, can be controlled by the control elements 84. Furthermore, a function, in particular brightness, of the lighting element 90 can be controlled.

[0065] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the interchangeable shaft 16 is a first interchangeable shaft 62 and the main viewing direction 66 of the interchangeable shaft 16 is a first main viewing direction 68.

[0066] Furthermore, a second interchangeable shaft 64 is provided. The second interchangeable shaft 64 has essentially the same features as the first interchangeable shaft 62. With respect to some features, the second interchangeable shaft 64 is designed differently. For example, the second interchangeable shaft 64 is 25 cm long. Furthermore, the second interchangeable shaft 64, in particular its camera, defines a second main viewing direction 70, wherein the second main viewing direction 70 is different from the first main viewing direction 68. According to this example, the second main viewing direction 70 is 45°.

[0067] The user can use the medical instrument 10 for a diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedure. For example, they can guide the shaft 36 into a patient's body cavity to view an anatomical structure 94. The anatomical structure 94 is displayed to the user by the display unit 80. It may occur that the user is restricted in performing the diagnostic and / or therapeutic procedure by the first main viewing direction 68 of the first interchangeable shaft 62. Consequently, the user can provide the second interchangeable shaft 64 according to the invention and connect it to the handle 12. The user can detach the first interchangeable shaft 62 from the handle 12 and remove and dispose of a connector (not shown). Furthermore, the user can remove a connector 22, in particular a second connector 74, from the sterile packaging 76.In order to connect the second interchangeable shaft 64 to the handle 12, the user can insert the second connector 74 into a receiving pocket, which is described in more detail in the following figures, of the handle 12 and connect the second interchangeable shaft 64 to the handle 12, in particular without tools.

[0068] Fig. 2 shows the medical instrument 10 of Fig. 1, comprising the handle 12, the connecting unit 20 and the interchangeable shaft 16, in particular the second interchangeable shaft 64, in a detached state. In addition, the medical instrument 10, in particular the connecting unit 20, comprises the connector 22. The handle 12 and the interchangeable shaft 16 are designed to be autoclaved and / or sterilized separately from one another. The interchangeable shaft 16 comprises a proximal section 52, which is designed as a connecting section 54 for the handle 12. The handle comprises a distal section 56, which is designed as an interchangeable shaft connecting section 58. The connecting section 54 and the interchangeable shaft connecting section 58 form a fluid-tight and / or gas-tight connection in the connected state (see Fig. 1) of the interchangeable shaft 16.The connecting section 54 is designed to at least partially accommodate the interchangeable shaft connecting section 58, in particular to form the connected state of the interchangeable shaft 16. The interchangeable shaft connecting section 58 comprises at least one projection 98, which is formed by a locking element (not shown) that is designed to engage behind the projection 98 in the connected state of the interchangeable shaft 16. The connecting section 54 is at least partially rotatably mounted and can comprise an operating element 96. The rotatably mounted part of the connecting section 54 can be rotatable by the operating element 96, in particular by a user, and can be configured to move the locking element (not shown) to a position where it engages behind the projection 98. In particular, this mechanical connection can be produced without tools.

[0069] The connection unit 20 further comprises a receiving pocket 48. The connector 22 is received in the receiving pocket 48 when the interchangeable shaft 16 is connected. The connector 22 is described in more detail with reference to Fig. 3. The connector 22 is formed separately from the handle 12 and / or the interchangeable shaft 16 and / or is intended for single use. The connection unit 20, in particular the connector 22, is designed to transmit electrical energy from the base electronics 14 to the camera 18. The connector 22 comprises a base body 100. The base body 100 has two opposite sides, the first side 38 and the second side 40. The first side 38 faces the handle 12 and the second side 40 faces the interchangeable shaft 16. The connector 22 comprises a first movable electrical contact 26 that protrudes from the first side 38.The connector also includes a second movable electrical contact 30 projecting from the second side 40. The first movable electrical contact 26 and the second movable electrical contact 30 include a spring contact pin 42. It should be noted that multiple spring contact pins 42 share a reference numeral.

[0070] The first movable electrical contact 26 and the second movable electrical contact 30 are arranged in pairs and / or together form a contact pair 46. The first movable electrical contact 26 and the second movable electrical contact 30 are electrically connected to one another. The connector 22 also comprises further first and second movable contacts 26, 30, which comprise spring contact pins 42, are arranged in pairs and / or form contact pairs. For reasons of clarity, these are not all provided with reference numerals. The connector 22 also comprises a positioning aid 50. The positioning aid 50 is designed as an elevation on a third side 102, which is different from the first side 38 in the second side 40. The receiving pocket 48 also comprises a positioning aid 104, which interacts with the positioning aid 50.The positioning aid 50, 104 is designed to specify a preferred rotation position for the connector 22, in particular in the receiving pocket 48.

[0071] Referring to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, one can see a part of the connecting unit 20 assigned to the handle 12 (Fig. 4) and a part of the connecting unit 20 assigned to the interchangeable shaft 16 (Fig. 5). A first immovable electrical contact 24, which is flat, is integrated into an at least substantially flat distal end surface 32 of the handle 12. A second immovable electrical contact 28, which is flat, is integrated into an at least substantially flat proximal end surface 34 of the interchangeable shaft 16. In the connected state of the interchangeable shaft 16, the distal end surface 32 and the proximal end surface 34 are arranged at least substantially parallel to one another. The first immovable electrical contact 24 is connected to the base electronics 14, and the second immovable electrical contact 28 is connected to the camera.The handle 12 and the interchangeable shaft 16 each comprise a plurality of electrical contacts 44, which are flat and integrated into one of the end surfaces 32, 34. When the interchangeable shaft 16 is connected, a contact pair 46 of the connector 22 connects one of the contacts 44 of the handle 12 to one of the contacts 44 of the interchangeable shaft 16. In particular, the contacts 44 are subjected to a force. The contacts 44 of the interchangeable shaft 16 can also be connected to other electrical loads, such as the lighting element 90 and / or a computing unit. This is particularly interchangeable shaft-specific. The distal end 88 of an interchangeable shaft 16 is shown by way of example in the schematic overview of Fig. 6.

[0072] Referring particularly to Fig. 4, it can be seen that the connecting unit 20 comprises a first wall 106 on the handle side, which forms the receiving pocket 48. Furthermore, it can be seen that the connecting unit 20 comprises the positioning aid 104. The positioning aid 104 is formed as a recess in the first wall 106. The positioning aid 50 of the connector 22 and the positioning aid 104 can form a positive connection, in particular to specify a preferred rotational position.

[0073] Referring to Fig. 5, it can be seen that the connecting unit 20 comprises a second wall 108 on the interchangeable shaft side. In the connected state of the interchangeable shaft 16, the second wall 108 can at least partially accommodate the first wall 106.

[0074] Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of the distal end 88 of the interchangeable shaft 16 in a side view. The camera 18 defines, as already described in connection with Figs. 1 and 2, the main viewing direction 66 of 45°. The camera 18 comprises an optics 110 and an image sensor 112. The optics 110 can be an active optics. This can mean that focusing can be carried out using the optics 110. The camera 18, in particular the image sensor 112, is at least partially connected to the electrical contacts 44 on the interchangeable shaft side. When the interchangeable shaft 16 is connected, the camera 18 is connected to the base electronics 14. The interchangeable shaft 16 also comprises further electronic loads 92. These are likewise connected to electrical contacts 44 on the interchangeable shaft side. In particular, the interchangeable shaft 16 comprises the lighting element 90, which is likewise connected to electrical contacts 44 on the interchangeable shaft side.

[0075] Fig. 7 shows a further embodiment of a connector 22'. The connector 22' comprises at least one first movable electrical contact 26' and at least one second movable electrical contact 30', which are arranged offset from one another with respect to a longitudinal axis 36'. Due to the offset arrangement, a section of the contacts, for example a base of a spring contact pin, can be arranged in a base body 50' of the connector 22' and / or fastened to the respective rear side. This allows the use of commercially available single-sided spring contact pins, whereby the overall length of the connector 22' can still be small. The two electrical contacts 26', 30' are electrically connected to one another and / or form a contact pair 46'. The connector 22' comprises further contact pairs 46', whose electrical contacts can also be arranged offset from one another. The connector 22' can also have at least one contact pair 1whose electrical contacts are arranged concentrically to each other.

[0076] Fig. 8 shows a further embodiment of a handle-side part of a connecting unit 20". This embodiment is very similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 4 and can be provided as an alternative to it. In addition, the connecting unit 20" comprises a further positioning aid 104", which is designed at least substantially the same as the positioning aid 104. This is arranged opposite the positioning aid 104, 104". According to this embodiment, the connector 22 can be provided in two preferred rotational positions, in particular in the receiving pocket 48, 48'. For example, according to this embodiment, the interchangeable shaft 16 can be detachable from the handle 12, rotatable by 180° about the longitudinal axis 36 and, in particular, reconnectable to the handle 12 without tools.

[0077] In some embodiments, one or more positioning aids can be designed asymmetrically such that the connector can only be used in a specific rotational position and, additionally, only in a specific orientation. This can be advantageous if the connector is designed such that it can only establish a connection in one orientation. In principle, a positioning aid can be provided that is designed according to the Poka Yoka principle. Fig. 9 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a connecting unit 20'". The connecting unit 20'" comprises a handle-side part and a change-shaft-side part. Each part comprises a signal transmission unit 114 and a power transmission unit 116.The connecting unit 20'" is configured to transmit image data from the interchangeable shaft 16'" to the handle 12'", in particular wirelessly, and / or to transmit electrical energy from the handle 12'" to the interchangeable shaft 16'", in particular wirelessly. The signal transmission units 114 can operate according to at least one arbitrary wireless signal transmission protocol. In some embodiments, the signal transmission units 114 can also be configured for optical signal transmission. The connecting unit 20'" can comprise suitable windows and / or optical ports on each of the parts for this purpose. The energy transmission units 116 can operate inductively. In particular, they can comprise at least one transmitter coil and / or at least one receiver coil. The interchangeable shaft-side part comprises a wall 118, which is configured to at least partially accommodate the handle-side part, although this is to be understood purely as an example.

[0078] Fig. 10 shows a schematic sectional view of an alternative connection unit 20". This is basically designed like the connection units described above. The connection unit 20"" comprises a connector 20"" with a base body 50"". The connector 20"" comprises a spring contact pin 42"", which is designed as a double-sided spring pin. The spring contact pin 42"" comprises a pin sleeve 130"" and two pin elements 132"", 134"" spring-loaded in the pin sleeve 130"". The two pin elements 132"", 134"" are spring-loaded by a common spring element 130"" which is arranged in the pin sleeve 130"". The spring contact pin 42"" thus contacts two electrical contacts to be connected to one another in a connected state.

[0079] In the present case, the connecting unit 20"" further comprises at least one immovable electrical contact 24"", which can be formed, for example, on a handle or on a removable shaft. The immovable electrical contact 24"" is concave and / or hollow-shaped and / or hemispherical. As a result, a correspondingly shaped tip of the spring contact pin 42"" can be received in the contact 24"" and / or centered by it. In the present case, all contacts of the handle and / or the removable shaft that are to be contacted by the connector can be designed in this way. It is understood that this type of contact design and the use of double-sided spring contact pins do not necessarily have to be used in combination. Thus, double-sided spring contact pins can also be combined with differently designed contacts and / or concave contacts can also be combined with differently designed connectors.

[0080] Regardless of the specific design of the connecting unit, in some embodiments the respective interchangeable shaft can also comprise an energy storage device, such as a battery. The energy storage device can be configured to supply a power component of the interchangeable shaft, such as a camera or a lighting element, with electrical energy in at least one operating state. The energy storage device can be rechargeable via the connecting unit. Alternatively, the energy storage device can be rechargeable and / or replaceable in another way. The connecting unit can then be configured to transmit only image data but not electrical energy to supply power components of the interchangeable shaft.

[0081] It is understood that the embodiments of the connecting unit 20 described herein are not limiting. In particular, it is understood that the described handle-side part can be provided on the alternate shaft side, and the alternate shaft-side part can be provided on the handle side.

[0082] Fig. 11 shows a method for operating a medical imaging instrument 10. For a detailed description, reference is made to the description in connection with Fig. 1. The method described below can be carried out in any reasonable order and / or individual steps can be omitted. The method comprises a step 120 of connecting an interchangeable shaft 16 to a handle 12 by means of a first connector 72, a step 122 of detaching the interchangeable shaft 16 from the handle 12, a step 124 of connecting the interchangeable shaft 16 to the handle 12 by means of a second connector 74, a step 126 of removing the first connector 72 and / or the second connector 74 from a sterile package 76 prior to its use for connecting the interchangeable shaft 16 to the handle 12, and a step 128 of disposing of the first connector 72 after detaching the interchangeable shaft 16 from the handle 12.List of reference symbols.

[0083] 10 medical imaging instrument;

[0084] 12 handle;

[0085] 14 basic electronics;

[0086] 16 Exchangeable shaft;

[0087] 18 camera;

[0088] 20 connection unit;

[0089] 22 connectors;

[0090] 24 first stationary electrical contact;

[0091] 26 first movable electrical contact;

[0092] 28 second immovable electrical contact;

[0093] 30 second movable electrical contact;

[0094] 32 distal end surface;

[0095] 34 proximal end face;

[0096] 36 Longitudinal axis;

[0097] 38 first page;

[0098] 40 second page;

[0099] 42 spring contact pin;

[0100] 44 electrical contact;

[0101] 46 contact pairs;

[0102] 48 receiving pocket;

[0103] 50 positioning aid;

[0104] 52 proximal section;

[0105] 54 connecting section;

[0106] 56 distal section;

[0107] 58 interchangeable shaft connection section;

[0108] 60 systems;

[0109] 62 first bill of exchange;

[0110] 64 second change shaft;

[0111] 66 Main direction of view;

[0112] 68 first main viewing direction;

[0113] 70 second main viewing direction;

[0114] 72 first connector;

[0115] 74 second connector;

[0116] 76 sterile packaging;

[0117] 78 supply unit; 80 display unit;

[0118] 82 cables;

[0119] 84 controls;

[0120] 86 shaft;

[0121] 88 distal end;

[0122] 90 light elements;

[0123] 92 additional electrical consumers;

[0124] 94 anatomical structure;

[0125] 96 control element;

[0126] 98 lead;

[0127] 100 basic bodies;

[0128] 102 third page;

[0129] 104 Positioning aid;

[0130] 106 first wall;

[0131] 108 second wall;

[0132] 110 Optics;

[0133] 112 image sensor;

[0134] 114 Signal transmission unit;

[0135] 116 Energy transfer unit;

[0136] 118 wall;

[0137] 120 process steps;

[0138] 122 process step;

[0139] 124 process step;

[0140] 126 process step;

[0141] 128 process steps;

[0142] 130 pen sleeve

[0143] 132 pin element

[0144] 134 pin element

Claims

Claims 1. A medical imaging instrument (10), in particular an endoscope, comprising: a handle (12) comprising at least one base electronics unit (14); an interchangeable shaft (16) detachably connectable to the handle (12) and comprising at least one camera (18) configured to generate image data; and a connection unit (20) configured to connect the camera (18) to the base electronics unit (14) and to transmit image data from the camera (18) to the base electronics unit (14).

2. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to claim 1, wherein the connection unit (20) is configured to transmit electrical energy from the base electronics (14) to the camera (18).

3. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting unit (20) comprises a connector (22) which is formed separately from the handle (12) and / or the interchangeable shaft (16).

4. The medical imaging instrument (10) of claim 3, wherein the connector (22) is intended for single use.

5. The medical imaging instrument (10) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the connection unit (20) comprises a first immovable electrical contact (24) which is part of the handle (12) and which is connected to the base electronics (14), and wherein the connector (22) comprises a first movable electrical contact (26), wherein in a connected state of the exchangeable shaft (16) the first movable electrical contact (26) applies a force to the first immovable electrical contact (24).

6. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the connecting unit (20) comprises a second immovable electrical contact (28) which is part of the interchangeable shaft (16) and which is connected to the camera (18), and wherein the connector (22) comprises a second movable electrical contact (30), wherein in a connected state of the exchangeable shaft (16) the second movable electrical contact (30) applies a force to the second immovable electrical contact (28).

7. The medical imaging instrument (10) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the first immovable electrical contact (24) and / or the second immovable electrical contact (28) is flat.

8. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the handle (12) has an at least substantially planar distal End surface (32) into which the first immovable electrical contact (24) is integrated, and wherein the interchangeable shaft (16) has an at least substantially planar proximal end surface (34) into which the second immovable electrical contact (28) is integrated.

9. The medical imaging instrument (10) according to claim 8, wherein, in the connected state of the interchangeable shaft (16), the distal end surface (32) of the handle (12) and the proximal end surface (34) of the interchangeable shaft (16) are arranged at least substantially parallel to one another.

10. Medical imaging instrument (10) at least according to claim 5 and 6, wherein the first movable electrical contact (26) and the second movable electrical contact (30) are electrically connected to one another at least in the connected state of the interchangeable shaft (16).

11. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to at least claims 5 and 6, wherein the first movable electrical contact (26) and the second movable electrical contact (30) are arranged offset from one another with respect to a longitudinal axis (36) of the interchangeable shaft (16).

12. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to at least claim 5 and 6, wherein the first movable electrical contact (26) protrudes from a first side (38) of the connector (22) and wherein the second movable electrical contact (30) protrudes from a second side (40) of the connector (22) opposite the first side (38) of the connector (22).

13. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of claims 5 to 12, wherein the first movable electrical contact (26) and / or the second movable electrical contact (30) comprises a spring contact pin (42).

14. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to at least claims 5 and 6, wherein the handle (12) and the interchangeable shaft (16) each comprise a plurality of electrical contacts (44), and wherein the connector (22) comprises a plurality of first movable electrical contacts (26) and a plurality of second movable electrical contacts (30) arranged in pairs to form contact pairs (46), wherein each contact pair (46) in the connected state of the interchangeable shaft (16) connects one of the contacts (44) of the handle (12) to one of the contacts (44) of the interchangeable shaft (16).

15. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of claims 3 to 13, wherein the connecting unit (20) comprises a receiving pocket (48), and wherein the connector (22) is received by the receiving pocket (48) in a connected state of the interchangeable shaft (16).

16. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting unit (20) and in particular the receiving pocket (48) comprises at least one positioning aid (50, 104) which is designed to predetermine a preferred rotational position for the connector (22), in particular in the receiving pocket (48).

17. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the interchangeable shaft (16) and the handle (12) are adapted to be autoclaved and / or sterilized separately from one another.

18. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the interchangeable shaft (16) comprises a proximal portion (52) which is designed as a connecting portion (54) for the handle (12), wherein the handle (12) comprises a distal portion (56) which is designed as an interchangeable shaft connecting portion (58), and wherein the connecting portion (54) and the interchangeable shaft connecting portion (58) form a fluid-tight and / or gas-tight connection in a connected state of the interchangeable shaft (16).

19. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection unit (20) is configured to transmit energy and / or image data wirelessly between the camera (18) and the base electronics (14).

20. Medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a connected state of the interchangeable shaft (16) can be produced and released without tools.

21. A connector (22) for a medical imaging instrument (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. A system (60), in particular a medical system, comprising: a medical imaging instrument (10) according to one of claims 1 to 20, a first interchangeable shaft (62); and a second interchangeable shaft (64); wherein the interchangeable shafts (62, 64) are differently configured.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein a camera (18) of the first interchangeable shaft (62) defines a first main viewing direction (68), wherein a camera (18) of the second interchangeable shaft (16) defines a second main viewing direction (70), and wherein the first main viewing direction (68) is different from the second main viewing direction (70).

24. A method for operating a medical imaging instrument (10) at least according to claim 3, comprising: Connecting the interchangeable shaft (16) to the handle (12) by means of a first connector (72); Detaching the interchangeable shaft (16) from the handle (12); and Connecting the interchangeable shaft (16) to the handle (12) by means of a second connector (74).

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising: removing the first connector (72) and / or the second connector (74) from a sterile package (76) prior to use thereof for connecting the interchangeable shaft (16) to the handle (12).

26. The method of claim 24 or 25, further comprising: disposing of the first connector (72) after releasing the interchangeable shaft (16) from the handle (12). MNJW

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