Endoscope

Abstract

To provide an endoscope which can set an appropriate operation range of an operation lever during normal use, and which can easily maintain a wider movable range of the operation lever during a teardown repair with a simple configuration.SOLUTION: The present invention includes: an insertion part 2 having a movable member 54; and an operation part 3 having a lever 10 and a stopper 3xd, 3xu and provided to a base end side of the insertion part. The movable member is configured to be movable in a first direction. The lever is configured to be held rotationally about a first rotational shaft Ax and to rotate to move the movable member. The stopper abuts against the lever when the lever is at the first position. The lever deforms between a first state where the lever abuts against the stopper at the first position, and a second state where the lever does not abut against the stopper at the first position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an endoscope having, in an operating section, a control lever as an operating member for operating a movable member provided at the tip section.

[0002] Conventionally, endoscopes have been widely used in, for example, the medical field, the industrial field, etc. Medical endoscopes used in the medical field are configured to have an insertion section formed in a long and thin tube shape and equipped with an imaging unit and the like at the tip, and an operation section connected to the base end side of the insertion section and equipped with various operation members and the like on the outer surface.

[0003] Conventional endoscopes of this type have a function of inserting an insertion portion into a body cavity of a living body to obtain, display, and record images of the inside of an organ, etc. A user observes or examines diseased areas of the organ, etc. based on the images obtained and displayed by the endoscope.

[0004] Furthermore, some of this type of conventional endoscopes are configured with a channel (so-called treatment tool insertion channel) through which a treatment tool or the like is inserted into the insertion section, and a forceps raising base or the like that changes the protruding direction of the treatment tool when it is inserted into the channel and protrudes outward from the tip of the insertion section. Here, the treatment tool is an instrument that has forceps or the like at its tip and is used for various treatments such as biopsy to collect a part of biological tissue in a body cavity and resection of a lesion in a body cavity. The forceps raising base is configured to be driven in response to the operation of a forceps lever, which is a predetermined operating member and operating lever provided in the operating section.

[0005] For example, endoscopes disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-89598 and Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-136193 have a configuration in which a forceps raising stand is provided at the tip of the insertion part of the endoscope. In the endoscope, an operation lever, which is an operation member for operating the forceps raising stand, is provided in the operation part. In addition, a drive mechanism including a traction wire for driving the forceps raising stand in response to the operation of the operation lever is provided between the forceps raising stand and the operation lever.

[0006] On the other hand, some conventional endoscopes are provided with a bending section that is a part of the insertion section that is configured to be freely bent in the insertion axis direction. The bending section in this type of conventional endoscope is configured to be bent in response to the operation of an operating lever, which is a predetermined operating member provided in the operating section.

[0007] For example, an endoscope disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-13320 and the like is provided with a bending section in which a partial region near the tip of an insertion section is configured to be freely bent. Also, an operating lever, which is an operating member for operating the bending section, is provided in the operating section. And, a drive mechanism including a traction wire for driving the bending section to bend in response to the operation of the operating lever is provided between the bending section and the operating lever.

[0008] On the other hand, some conventional endoscopes are configured to freely change the imaging field of view and imaging magnification within a predetermined range by moving some optical members of an imaging optical system included in an imaging unit provided at the tip of an insertion section in the optical axis direction. The imaging optical system in this type of conventional endoscope has a configuration in which some optical members move in the optical axis direction in response to the operation of an operating lever, which is a predetermined operating member provided in an operating section. In this case, a drive mechanism including a traction wire for moving some optical members of the imaging optical system forward and backward in response to the operation of the operating lever is provided between the imaging unit and the operating lever.

[0009] Thus, in conventional endoscopes, various endoscopes have been put into practical use that are configured to drive and operate various movable members (such as a forceps raising base, a bending portion, part of the imaging optical system, etc.) that are provided at the tip of the insertion portion or at a portion near the tip of the insertion portion in response to operation of an operating lever, which is a specific operating member provided in the operating portion.

[0010] Conventional endoscopes of this kind are generally provided with a structure for restricting the operating range of an operating lever, which is an operating member, within a predetermined range.

[0011] For example, the endoscope disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-89598 and the like is configured to include a transmission member, a moving member, and a stopping member. The transmission member transmits the operation input of the operating lever to the moving member. The moving member moves in a predetermined action direction according to the force transmitted through the transmission member (i.e., according to the operation input of the operating lever). Here, one end of the moving member is connected to the traction wire, and the other end is connected to the transmission member. The stopping member is fixed to the operating unit. And, the endoscope has a structure in which the movement of the moving member is restricted by abutting a part (abutment surface) of the moving member against a part (opposite surface of the abutment surface) of the stopping member.

[0012] The endoscope disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-136193 and the like is configured to have an operating lever and a stopper member that restricts the operating range of the forceps raising stand, and the endoscope disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-13320 and the like is configured to have an operating lever and a stopper member that restricts the bending operating range of the bending section.

[0013] Furthermore, in the endoscopes disclosed in the aforementioned Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-136193 and the aforementioned Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-13320, the stopper member is configured to have a rotation range adjustment mechanism that adjusts the rotation range of the operating lever in multiple stages. With such a configuration including a rotation range adjustment mechanism, it is possible to selectively set a first state in which the operation of the operating lever is stopped midway, and a second state in which the operation of the operating lever is stopped at a position where the entire operation range of the operating lever is permitted. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0014] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-89598 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-136193 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-13320 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0015] However, in the configuration of the conventional endoscope disclosed in the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-136193 and Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-13320, when it is desired to set the stepwise operation range to a wider operation range, there is a possibility that interference occurs between the operation lever and other components. Therefore, in such a configuration, there is a problem that there is a limit to the operation range that can be set for the operation lever.

[0016] Furthermore, for example, when performing work involving disassembly, such as repair work on an endoscope, there is a demand for a wider range of motion of the operating lever in order to ensure efficient workability.

[0017] The object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope which allows the operating lever to be set to an appropriate operating range during normal use, and which, when performing disassembly and repair work, can easily ensure a wider range of motion of the operating lever with a simple configuration. [Means for solving the problem]

[0018] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, an endoscope of one embodiment of the present invention comprises an insertion section having a movable member, and an operating section having a lever and a stopper and provided on the base end side of the insertion section, wherein the movable member is configured to be freely movable in a first direction, the lever is held to be freely rotatable around a first rotation axis and is configured so that the lever rotates to move the movable member, the stopper abuts against the lever when the lever is in a first position, and further, the lever deforms between a first state and a second state, the first state being a state in which the lever abuts against the stopper at the first position, and the second state being a state in which the lever does not abut against the stopper at the first position. Effect of the Invention

[0019] According to the present invention, an endoscope can be provided in which an appropriate operating range of the operating lever can be set during normal use, and when performing disassembly and repair work, a wider moving range of the operating lever can be easily secured with a simple configuration. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an external view showing a schematic configuration of an endoscope according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a part of an operation unit of an endoscope as viewed from the direction indicated by the arrow [2] in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing only the forceps lever of the endoscope shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 4] Plan view from the direction indicated by arrow [4] in Figure 3. [Diagram 5] Cross-sectional view along line [5]-[5] in Figure 4 [Figure 6] Cross-sectional view along line [6]-[6] in Figure 5 [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an external perspective view showing only the finger rest member of the forceps lever of FIG. 3; [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view along the plane indicated by the symbol [8] in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] A cross-section of FIG. 8 as seen from the direction indicated by the arrow [9]. [Figure 10] A diagram showing the rotation range of the forceps lever in Figure 3 during normal use. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration including a forceps raising stand which is a movable member provided at the distal end of an insertion section of an endoscope according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of a drive mechanism for a forceps lever in the internal configuration of the operation unit in the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention (when the forceps raising stand is in the maximum inverted state); [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of a drive mechanism for a forceps lever in the internal configuration of the operation unit in the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention (when the forceps raising stand is in the maximum raised state); [Figure 14]FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view showing some components (frame shaft, link body) of the forceps lever drive mechanism shown in FIG. 12; [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is an enlarged perspective view of a main part of the forceps lever drive mechanism shown in FIG. 12, showing only a part of the component (connecting member) of the drive mechanism; [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a part of the driving mechanism of the forceps lever in FIG. 12 (the area near the state where the connecting member is in contact with the locking plate); [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration of a forceps lever and a finger rest member detachment jig in an endoscope according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 18] A partial cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by the reference numeral

[18] in FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing an action when removing the finger rest member from the forceps lever in the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention (in a state where a jig is inserted into the jig insertion groove of the finger rest portion); [Figure 20] A partial cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by the reference symbol

[20] in FIG. 19 (in a state in which the lever locking portion is locked in the locking hole) [Figure 21] FIG. 20 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by the reference numeral

[20] in FIG. 19 (in a state in which the lever locking portion is released from the locking hole); [Figure 22] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view showing an action when removing a finger rest member from a forceps lever in the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention (in a state after the finger rest portion has been removed by a jig); [Diagram 23] A partial cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by the reference numeral

[23] in FIG. 22. [Figure 24] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the action of the forceps lever when the finger rest member is removed in the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 25] A diagram showing the action of attaching the removal tool to the lever member after removing the finger rest from the forceps lever (before attachment) [Figure 26] A diagram showing the action of attaching the removal jig to the lever member after removing the finger rest from the forceps lever (attachment completed state) [Figure 27]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a first modified example of the forceps lever in the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 shows an operating section to which the forceps lever of FIG. 27 is applied. [Figure 29] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second modified example of the forceps lever in the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a third modified example of the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 31] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing only a lever member of a forceps lever in an endoscope according to a second embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 32] 32 is an exploded perspective view of the forceps lever (lever member) of FIG. 31 and some components (frame shaft, link body) of the drive mechanism thereof; [Diagram 33] FIG. 32 shows the action of the forceps lever in FIG. 31 (first state) [Diagram 34] FIG. 32 shows the action of the forceps lever of FIG. 31 (second state) [Diagram 35] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing only the lever member of the forceps lever according to a modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 36] FIG. 36 is an exploded perspective view of the forceps lever of FIG. 35 and some of the components (frame shaft, link body) of the drive mechanism thereof; [Figure 37] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the action of the forceps lever in the modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention, showing the first state of the forceps lever. [Figure 38] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the action of the forceps lever in the modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention, showing the second state of the forceps lever. [Figure 39] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a second modified example of the forceps lever in the endoscope according to the second embodiment of the present invention, in which only the lever member is shown. [Diagram 40] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing only the lever member of a third modified example of the forceps lever in the endoscope according to the second embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 41] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a modified example of a movable member disposed at the tip portion of the endoscope of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] The present invention will be described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments. The drawings used in the following description are schematic, and the dimensional relationship and scale of each component may be different for each component in order to show each component at a size that can be recognized on the drawing. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated form with respect to the quantity of each component, the shape of each component, the size ratio of each component, the relative positional relationship of each component, etc. shown in each drawing.

[0022] First, the schematic configuration of an endoscope according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is an external view showing the schematic configuration of an endoscope according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is an external perspective view showing a part of an operation unit of the endoscope as viewed from the direction indicated by the arrow symbol [2] in Figure 1.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, an endoscope 1 includes an insertion section 2, an operation section 3, a universal cable 4, and the like.

[0024] The insertion section 2 is a long member having a thin and long tubular shape that can be inserted into a lumen (inside an organ, etc.) of a subject such as a living body. The insertion section 2 is configured to have a tip section 5, a bending section 6, and a flexible tubular section 7.

[0025] The tip portion 5 is disposed at the tip of the insertion portion 2. Although not shown, the tip portion 5 is provided with an imaging unit including an imaging optical system and an image sensor, an illumination unit including an observation optical system, an air and water supply nozzle, an air and water supply pipeline, and a forceps raising stand (not shown in FIG. 1; see reference numeral 54 in FIG. 11 described later) which is a movable member.

[0026] Here, the forceps raising base is a structural unit provided for changing the protruding direction of a treatment tool (not shown) in a state where the treatment tool is inserted through a treatment tool insertion channel (not shown) arranged to be inserted through the insertion portion 2 and protrudes outward from the tip portion 5. The forceps raising base is connected to the forceps lever 10 (described later) through a traction wire 31 arranged to be inserted through between the insertion portion 2 and the operation portion 3 and a drive mechanism 30 (neither of which is shown in FIG. 1; see FIG. 12 and the like to be described later) arranged inside the operation portion 3. With this configuration, the forceps raising base functions as a movable member that moves in a predetermined direction in response to an operation input of the forceps lever 10 (described in detail later).

[0027] The bending section 6 has a tip connected to the base end of the tip section 5. The bending section 6 is a tubular member configured to be actively bendable in response to an operation input of a bending operation knob 9, which will be described later. The flexible tube section 7 has a tip connected to the base end of the bending section 6. The flexible tube section 7 has a base end connected to the tip of the operation section 3. The flexible tube section 7 is formed of a flexible soft tube.

[0028] The operation section 3 is connected to the base end of the insertion section 2. The operation section 3 is configured to have a treatment tool insertion port 8, a bending operation knob 9, a forceps lever 10, a bending fixing lever 11, a plurality of operation members 12, etc.

[0029] The treatment tool insertion port 8 is an opening communicating with a treatment tool insertion channel (not shown) that is inserted through the insertion portion 2. The treatment tool insertion port 8 is provided with a forceps plug 8a that is a forceps mouthpiece.

[0030] The bending operation knob 9 is an operation member for performing bending operation on the bending portion 6. The bending operation knob 9 is composed of two operation members, one for up-down bending operation and the other for left-right bending operation. The two operation members of the bending operation knob 9 are arranged in a superimposed form on the outer surface of the operation section 3. In this case, the two operation members of the bending operation knob 9 are arranged rotatably on the first rotation axis Ax, which is the same central axis.

[0031] The forceps lever 10 is an operating member for inputting an operating force for operating to raise a forceps raising stand (not shown), which is a movable member provided at the tip portion 5. The forceps lever 10 is configured to be rotatable within a predetermined range around the same first rotation axis Ax as the bending operation knob 9. The forceps lever 10 is connected to the forceps raising stand through a drive mechanism 30 (not shown in FIG. 1; see FIG. 12 described later) disposed inside the operation portion 3 and a traction wire 31 (see FIG. 12 described later) that passes through the insertion portion 2 (described in detail later).

[0032] With this configuration, the operation input of the forceps lever 10 is transmitted to the forceps raising base. As a result, the forceps raising base can change the protruding direction of the treatment tool (not shown) that is inserted through the treatment tool insertion channel (not shown) and protrudes outward from the distal end 5.

[0033] As described above, the forceps lever 10 is configured to be rotatable within a predetermined range with the same first rotation axis Ax as the bending operation knob 9 as the rotation center. In this case, the forceps lever 10 rotates within a predetermined range in the direction of the arrow R as shown in FIG. 2. Here, the predetermined rotation range is determined when the forceps lever 10 rotates in the direction of the arrow R and a part (side part) of the protrusion 22b of the forceps lever 10 abuts against a part of the exterior wall surface of the operation unit 3 (see symbols 3xd and 3xu in FIG. 2). The detailed configuration of the forceps lever 10 will be described later (see FIG. 3 and subsequent figures).

[0034] The bending fixing lever 11 is an operating member that acts on the bending operation knob 9 to fix the bending state of the bending portion 6 at a desired position. The bending fixing lever 11 is configured to be rotatable within a predetermined range with the same first rotation axis Ax as the bending operation knob 9 as the rotation center. Note that the bending fixing mechanism of the bending portion 6 by the bending fixing lever 11 is not directly related to the present invention. Therefore, the configurations of the bending fixing lever 11 and the bending fixing mechanism are assumed to be similar to those applied in conventional endoscopes, and detailed configurations and illustrations thereof will be omitted.

[0035] The multiple operation members 12 include, for example, operation switches for appropriately performing predetermined operations on image data acquired by the endoscope 1. The predetermined operations on image data include, for example, switching between moving images and still images, enlarging an image, recording an image, editing an image, and the like.

[0036] The multiple operating members 12 include operating members for performing, for example, an air / water supply operation and a suction operation. Here, the air / water supply operation is an operating member that controls the operation of sending out a fluid from a fluid delivery section (not shown) provided at the distal end portion 5. Also, the suction operation is an operating member that controls the inside of a treatment tool insertion conduit (not shown) to a negative pressure. By performing this suction operation, for example, mucus or the like attached to the distal end portion 5 can be sucked and removed through an opening (not shown) of the treatment tool insertion conduit provided at the distal end portion 5.

[0037] The universal cable 4 is a composite cable extending from one side of the operation unit 3. A scope connector 14 is provided at the tip of the universal cable 4. This scope connector 14 is a connector member that is connected to a video processor (not shown), which is an external device including a light source device. The scope connector 14 is configured to have a light guide connector 13 and the like in addition to electrical contacts and the like.

[0038] A light guide bundle 15 and various signal lines 16 are inserted and arranged between the scope connector 14, the universal cable 4, the operation unit 3, and the tip 5 of the insertion unit 2. The light guide bundle 15 is a component that transmits a light beam emitted from a light source device included in a video processor (not shown) to the tip 5 of the insertion unit 2. The light beam transmitted by the light guide bundle 15 to the tip 5 is emitted from an illumination unit (not shown) provided at the tip 5 as illumination light that illuminates an object to be observed.

[0039] The various signal lines 16 include, for example, an imaging cable that transmits an image signal (image data) acquired by an imaging unit (not shown) provided in the tip portion 5 to a video processor (not shown), and a control signal cable that transmits a control signal issued from the video processor to a component unit such as the imaging unit. The schematic configuration of the endoscope 1 is as described above.

[0040] Next, a detailed configuration of the forceps lever 10 in the endoscope 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figs. 3 to 10. Fig. 3 is an external perspective view showing only the forceps lever in the endoscope in Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is a plan view seen from the direction indicated by the arrow symbol [4] in Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line [5]-[5] in Fig. 4. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line [6]-[6] in Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is an external perspective view showing only the finger rest member in the forceps lever in Fig. 3. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by the symbol [8] in Fig. 7. Fig. 9 is a view of the cross section in Fig. 8 seen from the direction indicated by the arrow symbol [9]. Fig. 10 is a view showing the rotation range of the forceps lever in Fig. 3 during normal use.

[0041] The forceps lever 10 in the endoscope 1 of the first embodiment of the present invention is an operating member that receives an operating force input (operated) by a user and transmits the input to a drive mechanism 30 (described in detail later; see FIG. 12, etc.) provided inside the operation unit 3. The forceps lever 10 is the central axis of an internal fixed member (a frame axis 36 described later; see FIGS. 12 to 14, etc.) of the operation unit 3, and is provided rotatably around a first rotation axis Ax. The forceps lever 10 is composed of a lever member 21 and a finger rest member 22.

[0042] Lever member 21 is formed, for example, by bending a thin metal plate member, etc. Lever member 21 is formed to have a main body portion 21a, an operating arm portion 21b, a shaft insertion hole 21c, a plurality of screw holes 21d, and an engaged hole 21e.

[0043] The main body portion 21a is formed in a substantially circular ring shape, and is a portion that is fixed to a link main body 35 (see FIG. 12, etc.) described later.

[0044] The operating arm 21b is an arm-shaped portion that protrudes radially outward from a portion of the outer circumferential edge of the main body 21a. A step 21f is provided near the tip of the operating arm 21b by bending. A cover attachment portion 21g having a surface parallel to the planes of the main body 21a and the operating arm 21b is formed on the tip side of the step 21f. Here, the step 21f is not necessarily an essential component.

[0045] The shaft insertion hole 21c is a hole formed in a substantially central region of the main body portion 21a, and is a hole through which a frame shaft 36 (see FIG. 14, etc.) described later is inserted and disposed.

[0046] The plurality of screw holes 21d are small-diameter through holes formed in the main body 21a in the outer peripheral region of the shaft insertion hole 21c. The plurality of screw holes 21d are holes through which fastening screws (not shown) for fixing the lever member 21 to a link body 35 described later are inserted.

[0047] The locking hole 21e is a hole for locking a lever locking portion 22e (described later; see FIG. 5, etc.) when the finger contact member 22 is attached to the lever member 21. The lever locking portion 22e is locked in the locking hole 21e, so that the finger contact member 22 is maintained in an attached state to the lever member 21. Note that a through groove 21ee is formed in the locking hole 21e, extending in a direction along the cover attachment portion 21g to the tip edge of the cover attachment portion 21g.

[0048] The finger rest member 22 is a cover member against which the user places his / her fingers when operating the forceps lever 10. The finger rest member 22 is formed of, for example, a resin member. The finger rest member 22 is configured to have a main body portion 22a, a protrusion 22b, a tool insertion groove 22c, a lever insertion opening 22d, a lever locking portion 22e (not shown in FIG. 3; see FIG. 5, etc.), and the like.

[0049] The main body 22a has a substantially semicircular plane and is made of a housing having an internal space. The main body 22a is formed so as to cover the cover attachment portion 21g when attached to the lever member 21. Here, when the finger rest member 22 is in an attached state in which it is attached to the lever member 21, the substantially semicircular plane of the main body 22a is disposed in a plane perpendicular to the first rotation axis Ax.

[0050] The protrusion 22b is a portion formed in a thin plate shape protruding from the vicinity of the outer peripheral edge portion on the tip side of the main body portion 22a along a second direction parallel to the direction along the first rotation axis Ax. Here, the protrusion 22b is formed integrally with the main body portion 22a.

[0051] The jig insertion groove 22c is a portion formed for inserting a part of a predetermined jig (a removal jig 40 shown in FIG. 17 etc. described later) used when removing the finger rest member 22 attached to the lever member 21. The jig insertion groove 22c is a groove that is inserted from an opening formed on the outer surface of the main body portion 22a toward the internal space of the main body portion 22a in a direction parallel to the substantially semicircular plane of the main body portion 22a. The internal space of the main body portion 22a communicates with the outside through the jig insertion groove 22c.

[0052] The lever insertion opening 22d is an opening into which the cover attachment portion 21g is inserted when the finger rest member 22 is attached to the lever member 21. The lever insertion opening 22d opens on the outer surface of the main body portion 22a and communicates with the internal space of the main body portion 22a.

[0053] The lever locking portion 22e is a hole formed to fit into the locked hole 21e of the cover mounting portion 21g in a state in which the finger rest member 22 is attached to the lever member 21, and to maintain the attached state of the finger rest member 22. For this reason, the lever locking portion 22e is disposed so as to protrude inward from the floor surface of the internal space of the main body portion 22a in a normal state.

[0054] More specifically, the lever locking portion 22e is formed in a cantilever shape as shown in Figures 5, 8, 9, etc. Here, the lever locking portion 22e is formed so as to be able to swing in the direction of the arrow C1 shown in Figure 5. In the normal state, the lever locking portion 22e is arranged so that the free end vicinity region 22ea protrudes toward the internal space of the main body portion 22a as shown in Figure 8, etc.

[0055] On the other hand, when the cover mounting portion 21g is inserted from the lever insertion opening 22d, the lever locking portion 22e can bend in the direction of the arrow C1 to allow the cover mounting portion 21g to pass through. Then, when the cover mounting portion 21g advances to a position where the free end vicinity region 22ea coincides with the locked hole 21e, the lever locking portion 22e returns to its normal state and the bending is eliminated. Then, the free end vicinity region 22ea is locked in the locked hole 21e. As a result, the finger rest member 22 is maintained in a state attached to the lever member 21 and cannot be easily removed.

[0056] On the other hand, as will be described in detail later, when a removal jig 40 (see Figure 17, etc.) is inserted through the jig insertion groove 22c, the lever locking portion 22e similarly bends in the direction of arrow C1, and the locked state between the free end vicinity region 22ea and the locked hole 21e is released (as will be described in detail later; see Figures 19 to 21, etc.).

[0057] 2, 10, etc., the forceps lever 10 configured in this manner is disposed on the exterior surface of the operation unit 3. In this case, the forceps lever 10 is disposed so as to be rotatable within a predetermined range in the direction of arrow R about the first rotation axis Ax as the rotation center.

[0058] In other words, the forceps lever 10 is held rotatably around the first rotation axis Ax. When the forceps lever 10 receives an operational input from a user, the forceps lever 10 rotates in a direction along the arrow R in Fig. 10. When the forceps lever 10 rotates in this manner, a forceps raising base (not shown), which is a movable member provided at the distal end 5, is moved in a predetermined direction by the action of a drive mechanism 30 and a pulling wire 31, which will be described later (details will be described later).

[0059] The rotation range of the forceps lever 10 in the direction of the arrow R is determined by the contact of the protrusion 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 with the predetermined wall surfaces (3xd, 3xu) of the operation unit 3. In this case, the wall surfaces (3xd, 3xu) of the operation unit 3 serve as stoppers that determine the rotation range of the forceps lever 10.

[0060] Specifically, when the forceps lever 10 is in the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 10, if a predetermined operational input is received and the forceps lever 10 rotates in the direction of the arrow Ru in Fig. 10, one side portion of the projection 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 eventually comes into contact with the first wall surface 3xu. When the forceps lever 10 reaches the position shown by the dotted line in Fig. 10 in this manner, the rotation of the forceps lever 10 is restricted. In other words, at this time, the first wall surface 3xu functions as a stopper that restricts the rotation of the forceps lever 10.

[0061] Similarly, when the forceps lever 10 is in the position shown by the dotted line in Fig. 10, if a predetermined operational input is received and the forceps lever 10 rotates in the direction of the arrow Rd in Fig. 10, the other side of the projection 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 eventually comes into contact with the first wall surface 3xd. When the forceps lever 10 reaches the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 10 in this manner, the rotation of the forceps lever 10 is restricted. In other words, at this time, the first wall surface 3xd functions as a stopper that restricts the rotation of the forceps lever 10.

[0062] Thus, in the endoscope 1 of this embodiment, the operation section 3 provided on the base end side of the insertion section 2 is configured to include a forceps lever 10 and a stopper (first wall surfaces 3xd, 3xu which are part of the exterior wall surface).

[0063] The position of the forceps lever 10 when the projection 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 is in contact with the first wall surface (3xd, 3xu) is referred to as the first position. When the forceps lever 10 is in the first position and the projection 22b is in contact with the first wall surface 3xd, the forceps raising base, which is a movable member, is restricted from moving in the direction of inverting. When the forceps lever 10 is in the first position and the projection 22b is in contact with the first wall surface 3xu, the forceps raising base, which is a movable member, is restricted from moving in the direction of raising.

[0064] When the forceps lever 10 is disposed at the position shown by the solid line in Fig. 10, the endoscope 1 of this embodiment is in an unloaded state. Therefore, in the following description, this state will be referred to as the normal state.

[0065] In this manner, when the forceps lever is in the first position and the endoscope 1 is in a normal state, the first wall surface 3xd serving as a stopper abuts against the projection 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever .

[0066] When the forceps lever 10 is in the first position, i.e., when the protrusion 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 is in contact with either of the first wall surfaces 3xd, 3xu, which serve as the stoppers, the forceps raising stand (not shown; described in detail below) is positioned in a normal inverted position or a predetermined maximum raised position.

[0067] Here, the schematic configuration of the forceps raising stand, which is a movable member, will be described below with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration including the forceps raising stand, which is a movable member provided at the tip of the insertion section of the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] In the endoscope 1 of this embodiment, the forceps raising base 54 is disposed inside the tip portion 5 of the insertion section 2, as shown in Fig. 11. In this case, the forceps raising base 54 is a movable member configured to be movable in a predetermined first direction. Here, the first direction is a circumferential direction about the second rotation axis Ax2 shown in Fig. 11 as the central axis. The forceps raising base 54 is configured to be rotatable within a predetermined rotation range around the second rotation axis Ax2 (see arrow symbol T in Fig. 11).

[0069] The tip portion 5 is composed of a main body 50 and a tip cover (not shown). The main body 50 is provided with an illumination unit 51, an imaging unit 52, an air / water supply nozzle 53, a forceps raising base 54, a part of the traction wire 31, and the like.

[0070] The illumination unit 51 is configured to include an illumination optical member and the like made of optical elements and the like that are provided to receive illumination light transmitted from a light source device (not shown) through the light guide bundle 15 and irradiate the illumination light in a predetermined range in a predetermined direction outside the distal end portion 5. Here, the optical element that is located at the most distal end side of the illumination optical member and is exposed on the outer surface of the distal end portion 5 is particularly referred to as an illumination window. The configuration of the illumination unit 51 itself is similar to that of one mounted on a conventional endoscope. Therefore, a detailed description of the illumination unit 51 will be omitted.

[0071] The imaging unit 52 is a component member that is configured by an imaging optical system, an imaging element, an imaging element driving circuit, etc. The imaging optical system is made up of optical lenses that form an optical image of an object to be observed, etc. The optical element that is located at the most distal end of the imaging optical system and is exposed on the outer surface of the distal end portion 5 is specifically referred to as an observation window.

[0072] The imaging element is an electronic component that receives an optical image formed by the imaging optical system and performs photoelectric conversion. The imaging element is driven by an imaging element drive circuit. The imaging element drive circuit drives the imaging element upon receiving an instruction signal from a video processor (not shown). Image data photoelectrically converted by the imaging element is transmitted to the video processor via the imaging element drive circuit. The video processor receives the received image data and performs predetermined image data processing. The configuration of the imaging unit 52 itself is similar to that installed in a conventional endoscope. Therefore, a detailed description of the imaging unit 52 is omitted.

[0073] The air and water nozzle 53 is a component that ejects liquid or gas when ejecting water or air outward from the tip 5. For example, when a predetermined water ejection operation is performed by operating a predetermined operating member out of the multiple operating members 12 provided in the operation unit 3, liquid for cleaning the outer surfaces of the observation window of the imaging unit 52, the illumination window of the illumination unit 51, etc. is ejected from the air and water nozzle 53. The configuration of the air and water mechanism including the air and water nozzle 53 is the same as that mounted on a conventional endoscope. Therefore, a detailed description of the air and water mechanism will be omitted.

[0074] A distal end opening 50a is formed in the main body 50. A treatment tool insertion conduit (not shown) that is inserted and disposed inside the insertion section 2 is connected to this distal end opening 50a. As a result, a treatment tool (not shown) inserted from the treatment tool insertion port 8 passes through the treatment tool insertion conduit, and the distal end of the treatment tool protrudes from the distal end opening 50a to the outside. At this time, by performing a predetermined raising operation on the forceps raising base 54, the protruding direction of the distal end of the treatment tool can be changed.

[0075] The forceps raising base 54 is disposed rotatably around a second rotation axis Ax2 shown in FIG. 11 with respect to the tip portion 5. The second rotation axis Ax2 is a rotation axis that is substantially perpendicular to the insertion axis F (see FIG. 11) of the tip portion 5. Here, an arrow T in FIG. 11 indicates the rotation direction of the forceps raising base 54 around the second rotation axis Ax2. Among them, an arrow T1 in FIG. 11 indicates the direction in which the forceps raising base 54 is raised (hereinafter, referred to as the raising direction). Also, an arrow T2 in FIG. 11 indicates the direction in which the forceps raising base 54 is inverted (hereinafter, referred to as the inverting direction). In this case, the rotation of the forceps raising base 54 is restricted to be within a predetermined range by restricting the rotation of the forceps lever 10 as described above.

[0076] The tip of the traction wire 31 extending from the tip opening 50b provided in the main body 50 of the tip portion 5 is connected to the forceps raising base 54. The traction wire 31 is inserted through the inside of the insertion portion 2 and the operation portion 3, and the base end is connected to the drive mechanism 30 in the operation portion 3.

[0077] Next, the configuration of the drive mechanism 30 of the forceps raiser 54 will be described below with reference to Figs. 12 to 16. Figs. 12 and 13 are plan views showing a schematic configuration of the drive mechanism of the forceps lever in the internal configuration of the operation section of the endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Of these, Fig. 12 is a view showing the forceps lever and its drive mechanism when the forceps raiser is in the maximum inverted state. Fig. 13 is a view showing the forceps lever and its drive mechanism when the forceps raiser is in the maximum raised state. In Figs. 12 and 13, the outer shape of the forceps lever 10 is only shown by dotted lines to avoid complication of the drawings.

[0078] Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the main components (frame shaft, link body) of the drive mechanism of the forceps lever in Fig. 12. Note that the forceps lever 10 is shown by a dotted line in Fig. 14. At the same time, in the same figure, only the lever member 21 of the forceps lever 10 is shown, and the finger rest member 22 is omitted.

[0079] Fig. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a main part, showing only a part of a component (connecting member) of the drive mechanism of the forceps lever in Fig. 12. Fig. 16 is an enlarged view of a main part, showing a partial region (the region near the state where the connecting member is in contact with the locking plate) of the drive mechanism of the forceps lever in Fig. 12.

[0080] The drive mechanism 30 in the endoscope 1 of this embodiment is a link mechanism that receives an operational input of the forceps lever 10 and converts the pulling wire 31 into a force for moving the forceps 31 forward and backward in the longitudinal direction of the insertion section 2. The pulling wire 31 that is moved forward and backward through the drive mechanism 30 rotates the forceps raising base 54 around the second rotation axis Ax2.

[0081] 12 and other figures, the drive mechanism 30 is a structural unit that is attached and fixed to a frame 3f that is an internal fixed member of the operation unit 3. The drive mechanism 30 is composed of a frame shaft 36, a link body 35, a rod body 34, a locking plate 33, a connecting member 32, a connecting member guide 37, and the like.

[0082] The frame shaft 36 is a shaft-like member that stands approximately upright with respect to the plane of the frame 3f of the operation unit 3. The frame shaft 36 is fixed onto the plane of the frame 3f by, for example, screws. Here, the frame shaft 36 is disposed such that its central axis coincides with the first rotation axis Ax that is the rotation center of the forceps lever 10.

[0083] 14, a notch 36a is formed in a part of the outer circumferential surface of the frame shaft 36. Here, the frame shaft 36 has a surface including the portion where the notch 36a is arranged, and a cross section of a plane approximately perpendicular to a second direction parallel to the direction along the first rotation axis Ax is formed into an approximately D-shape.

[0084] 14, the link body 35 is generally annular in shape and is disposed rotatably around the frame shaft 36 (in the direction of arrow R in FIG. 14). To this end, the link body 35 is formed with a through hole 35a in a substantially central region thereof, which fits onto the frame shaft 36.

[0085] A link portion 35b is formed on a part of the outer circumferential edge of the link body 35 so as to protrude outward. As shown in FIG. 12 and other figures, a first end 34a on the base end side of a rod body 34 (described later) is connected to the link portion 35b.

[0086] Furthermore, a plurality of screw holes 35c are formed on the annular region of the link body 35. These screw holes 35c are portions into which a plurality of fastening screws (not shown) for fixing the lever member 21 of the forceps lever 10 are fastened.

[0087] The rod body 34 is a link member that converts the rotational motion of the link body 35 into linear motion. As described above, the rod body 34 has a link part 35b connected to a first end 34a on the base end side. Also, as shown in FIG. 12 etc., a second end 34b on the tip side of the rod body 34 is connected to a connecting member 32 described later.

[0088] The connecting member 32 is a component member that connects the drive mechanism 30 and the pulling wire 31. As described above, the second end 34b on the tip side of the rod body 34 and the base end of the pulling wire 31 are connected to the connecting member 32. The connecting member 32 is arranged movably in a predetermined direction (the direction along the long axis of the insertion portion 2, that is, the direction of the arrow P in Figures 12 and 13) in a connecting member guide 37 described later.

[0089] 15 and 16, a protrusion 32a is formed on the bottom surface of the connecting member 32. This protrusion 32a has a function of blocking movement of the connecting member 32 in one direction of arrow P2 in the directions of arrow P at a predetermined position. That is, when the connecting member 32 moves in the direction of arrow P2, an end face close to the tip of the protrusion 32a abuts against a base end side end face 33a of a locking plate 33 described later, thereby blocking the movement (see FIG. 16).

[0090] The connecting member guide 37 is a component that guides the movement of the connecting member 32 in a predetermined direction (the direction of the arrow P). The connecting member guide 37 is fixed on the plane of the frame 3f of the operation unit 3. In this case, the connecting member guide 37 is formed so as to extend in a direction parallel to the plane of the frame 3f and along the longitudinal direction of the operation unit 3. As described above, the connecting member 32 is housed in this connecting member guide 37 so as to be freely movable. At the same time, the locking plate 33 is fixed inside the connecting member guide 37.

[0091] The locking plate 33 is a component for preventing the movement of the connecting member 32 in a predetermined direction at a predetermined position inside the connecting member guide 37. The locking plate 33 is fixed to a predetermined portion inside the connecting member guide 37.

[0092] With this configuration, when the link body 35 rotates around the first rotation axis Ax (the direction of arrow R in FIG. 12, etc.) in response to an operational input of the forceps lever 10, the rod body 34 moves in the direction of arrow S in FIG. 12, etc. Then, at this time, the connecting member 32 slides inside the connecting member guide 37 and advances and retreats in the longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 2 (the direction of arrow P in FIG. 12, etc.).

[0093] Here, for example, the drive mechanism 30 in a state where the forceps lever 10 is removed operates as follows. For example, Suppose that the link body 35 rotates in the direction of the arrow Rd in the state shown in Fig. 13. Then, the rod body 34 moves in the direction of the arrow S2 in Fig. 13, and the connecting member 32 moves in the direction of the arrow P2 in Fig. 13. Then, the driving mechanism 30 eventually reaches the state shown in Fig. 12.

[0094] At this time, the tip surface of the protruding portion 32a (see Figs. 15 and 16) of the connecting member 32 comes into contact with the base end surface 33a of the locking plate 33 as shown in Fig. 16. This prevents the connecting member 32 from moving in the same direction (the direction of the arrow P2). At this time, the connecting member 32 is disposed in the connecting member guide 37 at a position closest to the tip to which it can move.

[0095] In this case, the locking plate 33 prevents the connection member 32 (and the pulling wire 31) from moving toward the tip (movement in the direction of arrow P2) in the longitudinal direction (direction of arrow P) of the insertion part 2. In other words, the locking plate 33 serves to define one end of the entire range of movement of the connection member 32 (and the pulling wire 31) by the drive mechanism 30 in the longitudinal direction.

[0096] Also, for example, suppose that the link body 35 rotates in the direction of the arrow Ru in the state shown in Fig. 12. Then, the rod body 34 moves in the direction of the arrow S1 in Fig. 12, and the connecting member 32 moves in the direction of the arrow P1 in Fig. 12. Then, the driving mechanism 30 eventually reaches the state shown in Fig. 13.

[0097] At this time, in the driving mechanism 30, the middle portion of the rod body 34 abuts against the end face of the notch 36a of the frame shaft 36. This prevents the rod body 34 from moving in the direction of the arrow S1. At the same time, the connecting member 32 is prevented from moving in the direction of the arrow P1. This prevents the link body 35 from rotating in the direction of the arrow Ru. At this time, the connecting member 32 is disposed in the connecting member guide 37 at a position closest to the base end to which it can move. In this case, the notch 36a serves to define the other end of the entire range of movement of the connecting member 32 (pulling wire 31) in the longitudinal direction by the driving mechanism 30.

[0098] On the other hand, when the forceps lever 10 is attached to the link body 35 of the drive mechanism 30, the drive mechanism 30 acts as follows. That is, in the state shown in Fig. 13, it is assumed that the forceps lever 10 rotates in the direction of the arrow Rd and the link body 35 rotates in the same direction. Then, the rod body 34 moves in the direction of the arrow S2 in Fig. 13, and the connecting member 32 moves in the direction of the arrow P2 in Fig. 13. Eventually, the protrusion 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 abuts against the first wall surface 3xd (stopper). This restricts the forceps lever 10 from rotating in the direction of the arrow Rd. Therefore, the connecting member 32 is prevented from moving in the direction of the arrow P2.

[0099] In this state, the protruding portion 32a of the connecting member 32 is in a state before it abuts against the base end surface 33a of the locking plate 33. In other words, a predetermined gap exists between the tip surface of the protruding portion 32a and the base end surface 33a. This means that the connecting member 32 has not yet reached one end of the entire range of movement in the longitudinal direction by the driving mechanism 30.

[0100] Also, in the state shown in Fig. 12, suppose that the forceps lever 10 rotates in the direction of the arrow Ru, and the link body 35 rotates in the same direction. Then, the rod body 34 moves in the direction of the arrow S1 in Fig. 12, and the connecting member 32 moves in the direction of the arrow P1 in Fig. 12. Eventually, the protrusion 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 abuts against the first wall surface 3xu (stopper). This restricts the forceps lever 10 from rotating in the direction of the arrow Ru. Therefore, the connecting member 32 is prevented from moving in the direction of the arrow P1.

[0101] In this state, the rod body 34 is in a state before it abuts on the end face of the notch 36a of the frame shaft 36. In other words, there is a predetermined gap between the rod body 34 and the end face of the notch 36a of the frame shaft 36. This means that the link body 35 has not reached the other end of the rotation range around the first rotation axis Ax by the drive mechanism 30. In other words, at this time, the connecting member 32 has not reached the other end of the entire movement range in the axial direction by the drive mechanism 30.

[0102] In the endoscope 1 of this embodiment, the state of the forceps lever 10 when the forceps lever 10 is attached to the drive mechanism 30 is referred to as a first state. Also, the state of the forceps lever 10 when it is detached from the drive mechanism 30 is referred to as a second state.

[0103] In the first state, the projection 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 abuts against the first wall surface (3xu, 3xd) serving as a stopper, thereby restricting the rotation of the forceps lever 10 (and the link body 35), and restricting the movement range of the pulling wire 31. In the second state, the movement range of the pulling wire 31 is restricted only based on the structure inherent to the drive mechanism 30. That is, in the second state, the rotation of the link body 35 is restricted by the abutment between the projection 32a of the connecting member 32 and the base end side end surface 33a of the locking plate 33, and by the abutment between the rod body 34 and the notch 36a of the frame shaft 36, and the movement range of the pulling wire 31 is restricted.

[0104] However, when the endoscope 1 is assembled, it is considered difficult to easily cause the forceps lever 10 to appear in the second state (i.e., the state in which the forceps lever 10 is not attached) because this would involve work such as disassembling the operating unit 3.

[0105] Therefore, in the endoscope 1 of the present embodiment, the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 is configured to be detachable from the lever member 21, thereby making it possible to easily realize the second state. In other words, the second state of the forceps lever 10 can be realized by removing the finger rest member 22 from the lever member 21 of the forceps lever 10.

[0106] Here, in the endoscope 1 of this embodiment, the configuration and operation of making the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 detachable from the lever member 21 will be described in detail below with reference to Figs. 17 to 26.

[0107] Fig. 17 is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the forceps lever and the finger rest member removal jig in the endoscope of this embodiment. Fig. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view along the plane indicated by the reference symbol

[18] in Fig. 17. Figs. 19 to 23 are views showing the action when removing the finger rest member from the forceps lever in the endoscope of this embodiment. Of these, Fig. 19 is a schematic perspective view showing the process when the finger rest member is removed from the forceps lever, and shows the state in which the jig is inserted into the jig insertion groove of the finger rest portion.

[0108] Figures 20 and 21 are partial cross-sectional views taken along the plane indicated by the reference numeral

[20] in Figure 19. Figure 20 shows the lever locking portion locked in the locking hole, while Figure 21 shows the lever locking portion released from the locking hole.

[0109] Fig. 22 is a schematic perspective view showing the process of removing the finger rest member from the forceps lever, and shows the state in which the finger rest portion is removed by a jig after the state in Fig. 19. Fig. 23 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the plane indicated by the reference symbol

[23] in Fig. 22.

[0110] The detailed configuration of the forceps lever 10 in the endoscope 1 of this embodiment is as described above with reference to FIGS.

[0111] The structure of the removal jig 40, which is a jig for removing the finger rest member, will be briefly described below. The removal jig 40 is a dedicated jig used when attaching and detaching the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10. As shown in FIG. 17 etc., the removal jig 40 is composed of a jig main body part 41, a needle part 42, and a mount part 43.

[0112] The jig body 41 is formed of a substantially rectangular flat plate. A plurality of needles 42 are disposed at one end of the jig body 41. A mount 43 is formed at the other end of the jig body 41.

[0113] The needle portion 42 has a long and thin rod shape formed to protrude outward in the longitudinal direction of the jig body portion 41 from one end of the jig body portion 41. In this embodiment, an example in which a plurality of (two) needle portions 42 are provided is shown.

[0114] The needle portion 42 acts on the lever locking portion 22e by being inserted into the jig insertion groove 22c of the finger rest member 22. For that purpose, the needle portion 42 is formed with a shape and a thickness that allows it to be inserted into the jig insertion groove 22c of the finger rest member 22. In addition, the needle portion 42 is formed with a length that allows its tip to reach the lever locking portion 22e when it is inserted into the jig insertion groove 22c from the opening of the jig insertion groove 22c.

[0115] The needle portion 42 is formed with a tip inclined surface 42a (see FIG. 18) in the tip region. In this case, the tip inclined surface 42a is formed facing downward when the removal jig 40 is in the posture for use (the state shown in FIG. 17). As a result, when the needle portion 42 is inserted into the jig insertion groove 22c, the tip inclined surface 42a acts on the lever locking portion 22e to bend the lever locking portion 22e in the direction of disengaging from the locked hole 21e.

[0116] The mount portion 43 has a configuration for attaching the removal jig 40 to the cover attachment portion 21g of the lever member 21 after the finger rest member 22 has been removed from the forceps lever 10.

[0117] For that reason, the mount portion 43 is formed so as to cover the outer periphery of the cover attachment portion 21g of the lever member 21. Specifically, for example, the mount portion 43 is formed with a groove portion having a channel-shaped cross section along both side surfaces in the longitudinal direction of the jig body portion 41. The mount portion 43 is formed at the other end of the jig body portion 41 opposite to the end where the needle portion 42 is provided.

[0118] The removal jig 40 thus configured has a function of removing the finger rest member 22 from the forceps lever 10. At the same time, the removal jig 40 has a function of extending the operating arm portion 21b of the lever member 21 by being attached to the cover attachment portion 21g through the mount portion 43 after the finger rest member 22 has been removed.

[0119] The operation of removing the finger rest member 22, which is a cover member, from the lever member 21 of the forceps lever 10 using this removal jig 40 will be briefly described below.

[0120] When the finger rest member 22 is removed from the lever member 21 of the forceps lever 10, it is usually assumed that the forceps lever 10 is attached to a predetermined portion of the operation section 3 of the endoscope 1. However, in order to avoid complicating the drawings, illustrations of components surrounding the forceps lever 10 are omitted in Fig. 17 to Fig. 23, and only the target forceps lever 10 is illustrated as a single unit.

[0121] First, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, the removal jig 40 is placed at a predetermined position with respect to the forceps lever 10. Here, the predetermined position of the removal jig 40 is a position where the tip of the needle portion 42 of the removal jig 40 faces the opening of the jig insertion groove 22c of the finger rest member 22. At this time, the removal jig 40 is in a position where the tip inclined surface 42a of the needle portion 42 faces downward.

[0122] From this state, the removal jig 40 is advanced in the direction of the arrow J1 in Figures 17 and 18. Then, the two needles 42 are inserted into the two jig insertion grooves 22c. This results in the state shown in Figures 19 and 20.

[0123] From this state, the removal jig 40 is advanced in the direction of the arrow J1. Eventually, the tip inclined surface 42a of the needle portion 42 comes into contact with the outer edge of the lever locking portion 22e. Until this state is reached, the lever locking portion 22e of the finger rest member 22 is engaged with the locked hole 21e of the lever member 21.

[0124] From this state, the removal jig 40 is further advanced in the direction of arrow J1. Then, the tip inclined surface 42a eventually acts on the outer edge of the lever locking portion 22e, bending the lever locking portion 22e in the direction of arrow C1 in Fig. 20. At this time, when the tip inclined surface 42a of the needle portion 42 presses the lever locking portion 22e in the direction of arrow J1, the lever locking portion 22e moves along the tip inclined surface 42a and bends smoothly in the direction of arrow C1. Then, the lever locking portion 22e reaches the state shown in Fig. 21.

[0125] 21, the lever locking portion 22e is released from engagement with the locked hole 21e. If the needle portion 42 is advanced in this state in the direction of arrow J1, the needle portion 42 moves to a position where it blocks the locked hole 21e while keeping the lever locking portion 22e in a bent state. At this time, a force acts on the lever locking portion 22e in the direction of arrow C2 due to its own elastic restoring force. This force of the lever locking portion 22e in the direction of arrow C2 is a force that presses the lever locking portion 22e toward the needle portion 42.

[0126] 21, when the removal jig 40 is moved in the direction of the arrow J2 in FIG. 21, the finger rest member 22 is detached and pulled out together with the removal jig 40 from the cover attachment portion 21g. As a result, the finger rest member 22 is removed from the lever member 21 as shown in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23. At this time, the finger rest member 22 is attached to the removal jig 40. However, at this time, the finger rest member 22 is in a state where it can be easily removed from the removal jig 40 by the user pulling it out.

[0127] When the finger rest member 22 is removed from the forceps lever 10 in this manner, the lever member 21 of the forceps lever 10 is left in a predetermined position in the operation unit 3, as shown in Fig. 24. Fig. 24 shows a schematic configuration of the operation unit after the finger rest member has been removed from the forceps lever using a removal jig by the above-mentioned removal action.

[0128] Next, the action of the forceps lever (lever member) in a state where the finger rest member is removed will be described with reference to Fig. 24. In Fig. 24, the range indicated by the arrow G shown by the dashed dotted line indicates the movable range of the lever member 21 when the forceps lever 10 is in the first state (a state where the finger rest member 22 is attached). Also, in Fig. 24, the range indicated by the arrows Ga and Gb shown by the dashed dotted line indicates the movable range of the lever member 21 added when the forceps lever 10 is in the second state (a state where the finger rest member 22 is removed).

[0129] In the endoscope 1 of the present embodiment, by removing the finger rest member 22 from the forceps lever 10 to set it in the second state, the movable range of the forceps lever 10 (lever member 21) can be easily expanded.

[0130] This will be described below using a specific example. For example, in the first state (see FIG. 10) in which the finger rest member 22 is attached to the forceps lever 10, the forceps lever 10 rotates within the range indicated by the arrow G in FIG.

[0131] That is, as described above, in the first state, when the forceps lever 10 is in the first position, the protrusion 22b abuts against the first wall surface (3xu, 3xd) which serves as a stopper, thereby restricting the rotational range of the forceps lever 10.

[0132] On the other hand, for example, in a second state (see FIG. 24) in which the finger rest member 22 is removed from the forceps lever 10, the forceps lever 10 rotates within a range that includes the ranges of arrows Ga and Gb in addition to the range indicated by arrow G in FIG. 24.

[0133] 12, the range indicated by the arrow Ga is the range regulated by the abutment between the protrusion 32a of the connecting member 32 and the base end face 33a of the locking plate 33 in the drive mechanism 30. The range indicated by the arrow Gb is the range regulated by the abutment between the rod body 34 and the notch 36a of the frame shaft 36.

[0134] That is, as described above, in the second state, finger rest member 22 is removed, so that when lever member 21 of forceps lever 10 is in a position corresponding to the first position, protrusion 22b does not come into contact with first wall surface (3xu, 3xd) which is a stopper. Therefore, lever member 21 of forceps lever 10 can be further rotated.

[0135] 25 and 26 show the action of attaching the mount portion 43 of the removal jig 40 to the cover attachment portion 21g of the lever member 21 from which the finger rest member 22 has been removed from the forceps lever 10.

[0136] When the forceps lever 10 is in the second state (a state in which the finger rest member 22 is removed) as shown in FIG. 24, the mount portion 43 of the removal jig 40 is moved in the direction of the arrow J1 and attached to the cover attachment portion 21g of the lever member 21 as shown in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26. When the forceps lever 10 is in the state shown in FIG. 26, the operation arm portion 21b of the lever member 21 can be extended by the length of the removal jig 40. This allows the forceps lever 10 (lever member 21) after the finger rest member 22 is removed to rotate without interfering with other components on the operation unit 3. This allows the operability of the lever member 21 to be improved even when the finger rest member 22 is removed.

[0137] As described above, according to the first embodiment, among the operating members provided in the operating section 3 of the endoscope 1, the forceps lever 10 for operating the forceps raising stand, which is a movable member provided at the tip portion 5, is configured so that the finger support member 22 can be easily removed by using the removal jig 40.

[0138] With this configuration, in this embodiment, the forceps lever 10 can be easily transformed between a first state in which the finger rest member 22 is attached and a second state in which the finger rest member 22 is removed.

[0139] During normal use of the endoscope 1, the forceps lever 10 can be set to an appropriate movable range corresponding to normal use by setting the forceps lever 10 to the first state. On the other hand, when repair work or the like is performed on the endoscope 1, a wider movable range of the forceps lever 10 (lever member 21) can be easily ensured by setting the forceps lever 10 to the second state without performing complicated work such as disassembling the operation unit 3.

[0140] Furthermore, when the forceps lever 10 is in the second state, the removal jig 40 is attached to the lever member 21, so that the operability of the forceps lever 10 (lever member 21) in the state where the finger rest member 22 is removed can be easily improved. Therefore, more efficient operability can be ensured.

[0141] Next, modified examples of the first embodiment of the present invention will be illustrated. First, the first modified example will be described below. Figures 27 and 28 are diagrams showing a first modified example of the endoscope of this embodiment. Note that the first modified example differs from the configuration of the first embodiment described above only in the configuration of the forceps lever.

[0142] A forceps lever 10A shown in the first modified example is similar to that of the above-described first embodiment in that it is provided in the operation portion 3 so as to be rotatable about a first rotation axis Ax.

[0143] 27, the forceps lever 10A is composed of a lever member 21 and a finger rest member 22A. Of these, the lever member 21 has a structure substantially similar to that of the first embodiment described above, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0144] The finger rest member 22A is configured to have a main body portion 22a, a protrusion 22Ab, etc. The main body portion 22a is a portion that is fixed to the cover attachment portion 21g of the lever member 21. The configuration of the main body portion 22a is the same as that of the first embodiment described above.

[0145] The protrusion 22Ab is formed in a thin plate shape protruding from the vicinity of the outer peripheral edge of the tip side of the main body 22a along a second direction parallel to the direction along the first rotation axis Ax. Here, the protrusion 22Ab is connected to the main body 22a through a hinge 22Af that holds the protrusion 22Ab and the main body 22a so that they can be opened and closed. As a result, the protrusion 22Ab is configured to be able to rotate and move in the direction of the arrow H shown in Figures 27 and 28 by the action of the hinge 22Af.

[0146] In this case, the hinge 22Af has a function of moving the protrusion 22Ab between a normal position and an open position. Here, the normal position of the protrusion 22Ab is a position in which the protrusion 22Ab protrudes along a second direction parallel to the direction along the first rotation axis Ax. The open position of the protrusion 22Ab is a position in which the protrusion protrudes in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction along the first rotation axis Ax. The hinge 22Af includes a click stop mechanism for maintaining the open position (open state) of the protrusion 22Ab. Although not shown in the figure, the click stop mechanism in this case is a conventionally known mechanism.

[0147] With this configuration, the protrusion 22Ab of the finger rest member 22A of the forceps lever 10A in the first modification is disposed so as to be freely opened and closed through the hinge 22Af with respect to the main body 22a. Here, the state of the protrusion 22Ab shown by the solid lines in Figs. 27 and 28 corresponds to the first state. At this time, the protrusion 22Ab is in the normal position. In this first state, the protrusion 22Ab abuts against the first wall surface (3xu, 3xd) which is a stopper of the operation unit 3. This restricts the rotation of the forceps lever 10A.

[0148] As for the protrusion 22Ab, the state shown by the dotted lines in Figs. 27 and 28 corresponds to the second state. At this time, the protrusion 22Ab is in a state in which it has moved to the open position with respect to the main body 22a by the action of the hinge 22Af. At this time, the protrusion 22Ab does not abut against the first wall surface (3xu, 3xd) which is a stopper of the operation unit 3. Therefore, the rotation range of the forceps lever 10A is expanded. The other configurations are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

[0149] As described above, according to the forceps lever 10A of the first modified example, the projection 22Ab of the finger rest member 22 is configured to be openable and closable via the hinge 22Af, so that it can be easily transformed between the first state and the second state.

[0150] Next, the second modified example will be described below. Fig. 29 is a diagram showing a second modified example of the endoscope of this embodiment. Note that the second modified example is also different from the configuration of the first embodiment described above only in terms of the configuration of the forceps lever.

[0151] The forceps lever 10B shown in the second modified example is similar to that of the above-described first embodiment in that it is provided in the operation portion 3 so as to be rotatable about a first rotation axis Ax.

[0152] As shown in Fig. 29, the forceps lever 10B is composed of a lever member 21 and a finger rest member 22B. Of these, the lever member 21 has a structure substantially similar to that of the first embodiment described above, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0153] The finger rest member 22B is configured to have a main body portion 22a, a protrusion 22Bb, etc. The main body portion 22a is a portion that is fixed to the cover attachment portion 21g of the lever member 21. The configuration of the main body portion 22a is similar to that of the first embodiment described above.

[0154] The protrusion 22Bb is formed in a thin plate shape protruding from the vicinity of the outer peripheral edge of the tip side of the main body 22a along a second direction parallel to the direction along the first rotation axis Ax. Here, the protrusion 22Bb is formed by two protrusion members (22Bx, 22By) formed side by side along the outer peripheral edge of the main body 22a. One of the two protrusion members (22Bx, 22By) is configured to be detachable from the main body 22a.

[0155] In the example shown in Fig. 29, the member indicated by the symbol 22By is detachable. In this case, the protrusion 22Bb corresponds to a first state in which the two protrusion members (22Bx, 22By) are attached to the main body portion 22a. The state of the protrusion 22Bb at this time is a normal state. At this time, the protrusion 22Bb restricts the rotation of the forceps lever 10B by the member 22By abutting against the first wall surface (3xu, 3xd) which is a stopper of the operation portion 3.

[0156] On the other hand, the protrusion 22Bb corresponds to a second state when one of the two protrusion members (22Bx, 22By) 22By is removed (the state shown in FIG. 29). At this time, when the forceps lever 10B rotates toward the first wall surface 3xd, it rotates until one of the protrusion members 22Bx of the protrusion 22Bb abuts against the first wall surface 3xd. Therefore, the rotation range of the forceps lever 10B is expanded by the range corresponding to the removed member 22By. The other configurations are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

[0157] As described above, the forceps lever 10B can also be easily transformed between the first state and the second state in the second modified example.

[0158] In the second modified example, only the member 22By of the projection 22Bb is configured to be detachable, but this is not limiting and other configurations are possible. For example, one of the two projection members (22Bx, 22By) of the projection 22Bb, the projection member 22Bx, may be configured to be detachable. Also, each of the two projection members (22Bx, 22By) may be configured to be detachable. As a configuration for making it detachable, the member By may be formed with projections and recesses so that it can be inserted into the main body 22a or the member Bx, or may be formed into a shape that engages with each other. Also, electromagnetic force such as a magnet may be used.

[0159] Furthermore, instead of the configuration of the above-mentioned second modified example (i.e., a configuration in which one of the two protruding members (22Bx, 22By) of the protrusion 22Bb is detachable from the main body 22a), at least one (or both) of the two protruding members (22Bx, 22By) may be configured to have an opening and closing structure using a hinge or the like similar to the above-mentioned first modified example. Even with such a configuration, the same effect as the second modified example can be obtained.

[0160] Next, a third modified example will be described below. Fig. 30 is a diagram showing a third modified example of the endoscope of this embodiment. In this third modified example, the configuration of the stopper provided in the operation unit is slightly different from the configuration of the first embodiment described above.

[0161] The forceps lever 10 shown in the third modified example is similar to that in the above-described first embodiment in that it is provided in the operation portion 3 so as to be rotatable about a first rotation axis Ax.

[0162] The basic configuration of the operation unit 3 is also similar to that of the first embodiment described above. The difference is that the operation unit 3 shown in the third modified example is provided with stopper blocks (3Bxd, 3Bxu) serving as second stoppers that are detachably attached to predetermined positions of the first wall surfaces (3xd, 3xu) as shown in FIG.

[0163] Here, the predetermined position on the first wall surface (3xd, 3xu) corresponds to a position where the projection 22b of the finger rest member 22 abuts when the forceps lever 10 rotates around the first rotation axis Ax. In this case, there are two predetermined positions: a position on the first wall surface 3xd and a position on the first wall surface 3xu. Stopper blocks (3Bxd, 3Bxu) are detachably provided at each of the predetermined positions. The other configurations are substantially similar to those of the first embodiment described above.

[0164] With this configuration, for example, when the stopper block 3Bxd is attached to the first wall surface 3xd, the protrusion 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 abuts against the stopper block 3Bxd to restrict the rotation of the forceps lever 10. This state corresponds to the first state.

[0165] On the other hand, when the stopper block 3Bxd on the first wall surface 3xd is removed, the protrusion 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 abuts against the first wall surface 3xd to restrict the rotation of the forceps lever 10. This state corresponds to the second state.

[0166] Therefore, when the stopper block 3Bxd is removed, the rotation range of the forceps lever 10 is expanded compared to when the stopper block 3Bxd is attached. To make the stopper block 3Bxd detachable, the stopper block 3Bxd may be formed with a projection or recess so that it can be inserted into the first wall surface 3xd, or may be formed into a shape that engages with the first wall surface 3xd. Electromagnetic force such as a magnet may also be used.

[0167] Similarly, for example, when the stopper block 3Bxu is attached to the first wall surface 3xu, the protrusion 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 abuts against the stopper block 3Bxu to restrict the rotation of the forceps lever 10. This state corresponds to the first state.

[0168] On the other hand, when the stopper block 3Bxu on the first wall surface 3xu is removed, the protrusion 22b of the finger rest member 22 of the forceps lever 10 abuts against the first wall surface 3xu, restricting the rotation of the forceps lever 10. This state corresponds to the second state. Therefore, compared to the state in which the stopper block 3Bxu is attached, the rotation range of the forceps lever 10 is expanded when the stopper block 3Bxu is removed.

[0169] As described above, the third modified example also makes it possible to easily change the rotation range of the forceps lever 10.

[0170] In the third modified example, a configuration example in which two stopper blocks (3Bxd, 3Bxu) are provided as second stoppers is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. As another configuration, for example, a configuration in which either one of the two stopper blocks (3Bxd, 3Bxu) is provided may be used.

[0171] Furthermore, in the configuration of the above-mentioned third modified example (i.e., a configuration in which the stopper blocks (3Bxd, 3Bxu) are detachably attached to the first wall surface (3xd, 3xu) of the operating unit 3), a configuration may be further adopted in which recesses are formed at the respective predetermined positions on the first wall surface (3xd, 3xu) of the operating unit 3 to prevent the protrusions 22b from coming into contact with the respective recesses. In this case, the stopper blocks (3Bxd, 3Bxu) that cover the respective recesses may be configured to be detachably attached to the respective recesses. Even with such a configuration, the same effect as the third modified example can be obtained.

[0172] Next, an endoscope according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figs. 31 to 34. The basic configuration of the endoscope according to this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment described above. In this embodiment, only the configuration of the forceps lever is different. Therefore, in the following description, the same components as those in the first embodiment described above are given the same reference numerals, and their description is omitted, and only the different parts are described in detail.

[0173] Fig. 31 is a perspective view showing only the lever member of the forceps lever in an endoscope according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 32 is an exploded perspective view showing the forceps lever in Fig. 31 and some of the components (frame shaft, link body) in its drive mechanism. Note that Fig. 32 corresponds to Fig. 14 in the above-mentioned first embodiment. Figs. 33 and 34 are views showing the action of the forceps lever in the endoscope according to this embodiment. Of these, Fig. 33 shows a first state of the forceps lever. Fig. 34 shows a second state of the forceps lever.

[0174] The forceps lever 10C in this embodiment is composed of a lever member 21C and a finger rest member. In Fig. 31 to Fig. 34, the finger rest member is omitted from illustration to avoid complication of the drawings. The configuration of the finger rest member of the forceps lever 10C in this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above.

[0175] 31, the lever member 21C of the forceps lever 10C in this embodiment has a shaft through hole 21Cc formed by connecting a first hole O1 (which is a virtual hole) and a second hole O2 (which is also a virtual hole) in a substantially arc shape. This shaft through hole 21Cc corresponds to the shaft insertion hole 21c of the forceps lever 10 in the above-mentioned first embodiment. In other words, the shaft through hole 21Cc is a portion through which the frame shaft 36 is inserted and which functions as a bearing that holds the forceps lever 10C rotatably around the first rotation axis Ax.

[0176] In addition, the reference symbol Z1 in Fig. 31 indicates the central axis of the first hole O1. The reference symbol Z2 in Fig. 31 indicates the central axis of the second hole O2. Furthermore, the reference symbol 21Cx in Fig. 31 indicates a connecting arc portion connecting the first hole O1 and the second hole O2.

[0177] Furthermore, the lever member 21C has a through screw groove 21Cd on each outer edge of the two connecting arc portions 21Cx of the shaft through hole 21Cc. The through screw groove 21Cd is formed in an arc shape along each connecting arc portion 21Cx. This through screw groove 21Cd corresponds to the multiple screw holes 21d of the forceps lever 10 in the above-mentioned first embodiment. At the same time, the through screw groove 21Cd functions as a guide groove when the lever member 21C moves, as described later. The other configurations of the lever member 21C are the same as those of the above-mentioned first embodiment. Also, in FIG. 32, the configurations of the link body 35 and the frame shaft 36 are the same as those of the above-mentioned first embodiment.

[0178] The forceps lever 10C in this embodiment configured as above functions as follows: First, in a normal use state, the forceps lever 10C is assembled into the operation portion 3 as shown in Figs.

[0179] That is, in a normal use state (first state), the forceps lever 10C (lever member 21C) is assembled to the link body 35 and the frame shaft 36 with the central axis Z1 of the first hole O1 coinciding with the first rotation axis Ax as shown in Fig. 32 and Fig. 33. This allows the forceps lever 10C (lever member 21C) to be held rotatable about the first rotation axis Ax (in the direction of arrow R in Fig. 32) on the central axis Z1. At this time, the lever member 21C is screwed to the screw holes 35c of the link body 35 by guide stepped screws 38a1, 38a2 at one end of each of the two through screw grooves 21Cd.

[0180] That is, the lever member 21C and the link body 35 are fastened with a clearance by using two guide stepped screws 38 at the two through screw grooves 21Cd. This allows the lever member 21C to be constantly movable relative to the link body 35 in the direction of arrow R shown in Fig. 32 and the direction of arrow M (M1 and M2 directions) shown in Figs. 33 and 34.

[0181] Here, the screw denoted by reference numeral 38a1 passes through a through-screw groove 21Cd provided on the inside of the lever member 21C, and the screw denoted by reference numeral 38a2 passes through a through-screw groove 21Cd provided on the outside of the lever member 21C.

[0182] At this time, when the lever member 21C receives an operational input and rotates in the direction of arrow R1 shown in Figure 33, the guide stepped screw 38a1 of the lever member 21C acts on one end of the inner through-screw groove 21Cd, causing the link body 35 to rotate.

[0183] On the other hand, in the above-mentioned state (the state in FIG. 32), the forceps lever 10C (lever member 21C) is pulled in the direction of the arrow M1 in FIG. 33. Then, the forceps lever 10C (lever member 21C) enters a state in which the central axis Z2 of the second hole O2 coincides with the first rotation axis Ax (second state) as shown in FIG.

[0184] At this time, when the lever member 21C receives an operational input and rotates in the direction of arrow R1 shown in Figure 34, the guide stepped screw 38a2 of the lever member 21C acts on the other end of the outer through-screw groove 21Cd, causing the link body 35 to rotate.

[0185] In addition to the configuration using the guide stepped screw, lever member 21C and link body 35 may be fastened with a slightly loosened screw. As a further different configuration, for example, lever member 21C and link body 35 may be fastened with a normal fastening screw instead of the guide stepped screw. Then, the fastening screw may be loosened each time lever member 21C is moved in the direction of arrow M shown in Figures 33 and 34.

[0186] As a result, the forceps lever 10C (lever member 21C) is held rotatably about the first rotation axis Ax on the central axis Z2. At this time, the lever member 21C is fixed to the link body 35 with screws at the other ends of the two through-hole screw grooves 21Cd.

[0187] As described above, according to the second embodiment, the forceps lever 10C is configured to be displaced between a state (first state) in which the central axis Z1 of the first hole O1 coincides with the first rotation axis Ax and a state (second state) in which the central axis Z2 of the second hole O2 coincides with the first rotation axis Ax.

[0188] As a result, the forceps lever 10C can be easily switched between two states: a first state in which the finger rest member (not shown) abuts against the stopper of the operating unit 3, and a second state in which the finger rest member (not shown) can be further rotated without abutting against the stopper of the operating unit 3.

[0189] Furthermore, when in the second state (state of FIG. 34), the tip position (position of the finger rest member) of lever member 21C is set at a longer distance from first rotation axis Ax than the tip position (position of the finger rest member) of lever member 21C when in the first state (state of FIG. 33). Therefore, when in the second state, this can contribute to improving operability when rotating forceps lever 10C (lever member 21C).

[0190] Next, a modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 35 to 38. The basic configuration of this modified example is substantially the same as that of the above-mentioned second embodiment. In this modified example, the attachment structure between the lever member of the forceps lever and the link body is slightly different. Therefore, in the following description, the same components as those in the above-mentioned second embodiment are given the same reference numerals and their description is omitted, and only the different parts are described in detail below.

[0191] Fig. 35 is a perspective view showing only the lever member of the forceps lever in a modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 36 is an exploded perspective view showing the forceps lever in Fig. 35 and some of the components (frame shaft, link body) in its drive mechanism. Figs. 37 and 38 are views showing the action of the forceps lever in this modified example. Of these, Fig. 37 shows the first state of the forceps lever. Fig. 38 shows the second state of the forceps lever.

[0192] The forceps lever 10D in this modification is composed of a lever member 21D and a finger rest member. In Fig. 35 to Fig. 38, the finger rest member is omitted from illustration to avoid complication of the drawings. The configuration of the finger rest member of the forceps lever 10D in this modification is the same as that of the first embodiment described above.

[0193] A lever member 21D of a forceps lever 10D in this modification is similar to that of the second embodiment described above in that it has a shaft through hole 21Cc formed by connecting a first hole O1 and a second hole O2 in a substantially arc shape, as shown in Fig. 35. This shaft through hole 21Cc functions as a bearing for inserting a frame shaft 36 therethrough and holding the forceps lever 10D rotatably about a first rotation axis Ax.

[0194] Lever member 21D is fixed to link body 35 using a plurality of stepped screws (guide stepped screws 38a1, 38a2 and second stepped screws 38b1, 38b2) so as to be freely movable in the direction along arrow M in Figures 37 and 38. At the same time, lever member 21D and link body 35 are configured to be freely rotatable in the direction of arrow R in Figure 36 relative to frame shaft 36.

[0195] More specifically, the lever member 21D has two through screw grooves 21Cd of the same form as the second embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 36, guide stepped screws 38a1 and 38a2 are inserted into the two through screw grooves 21Cd, respectively. These guide stepped screws 38a1 and 38a2 are screwed into the corresponding screw holes 35c of the link body 35. This fixes the lever member 21D to a predetermined position of the link body 35. In this case, the guide stepped screws 38a1 and 38a2 function as guide shafts when the lever member 21D moves between the first state and the second state.

[0196] The lever member 21D further has two second through screw grooves 21Da. These two second through screw grooves 21Da are formed by cutting out a part (two places) of the inner periphery of the shaft through hole 21Cc at a predetermined position. Here, the predetermined position of the inner periphery of the shaft through hole 21Cc is a region different from the region where the two through screw grooves 21Cd are provided.

[0197] Specifically, one of the two second through screw grooves 21Da is formed at a position where the second stepped screw 38b1 is disposed when the lever member 21D is in the first state (see FIG. 37). The other of the two second through screw grooves 21Da is formed at a position where the second stepped screw 38b2 is disposed when the lever member 21D is in the second state (see FIG. 38). The other configurations of the lever member 21D are the same as those of the second embodiment described above. Also, in FIG. 36, the configurations of the link body 35 and the frame shaft 36 are the same as those of the second embodiment described above.

[0198] The forceps lever 10D of this modified example configured as above functions as follows: First, in a normal use state, the forceps lever 10D is assembled into the operation portion 3 as shown in FIGS.

[0199] That is, in a normal use state (first state), the forceps lever 10D (lever member 21D) is assembled to the link body 35 and the frame shaft 36 with the central axis Z1 of the first hole O1 coinciding with the first rotation axis Ax, as shown in Figures 36 and 37. This allows the forceps lever 10D (lever member 21D) to be held rotatably about the first rotation axis Ax (in the direction of arrow R in Figure 36) on the central axis Z1.

[0200] At this time, the lever member 21D is screwed to the link body 35 by guide stepped screws 38a1, 38a2 at one end of each of the two through-screw grooves 21Cd. At the same time, one of the two second through-screw grooves 21Da is screwed to the link body 35 by a second stepped screw 38b1.

[0201] That is, at this time, the lever member 21D and the link body 35 are fastened with a clearance at three points, the two through screw grooves 21Cd and the one second through screw groove 21Da, using the guide stepped screws 38a1, 38a2 and the second stepped screw 38b1. This allows the lever member 21D to be constantly movable relative to the link body 35 in the direction of arrow R shown in Fig. 36 and the direction of arrow M (M1, M2 directions) shown in Figs. 37 and 38.

[0202] When the lever member 21D is in the first state shown in FIG. 37, when it receives an operational input and rotates in the direction of arrow R1 shown in FIG. 37, the guide stepped screw 38a1 acts on one end of the inner through-screw groove 21Cd, and at the same time, the second stepped screw 38b1 acts on one of the second through-screw grooves 21Da, causing the link body 35 to rotate.

[0203] Meanwhile, in the above-mentioned state (first state in FIG. 37), the forceps lever 10D (lever member 21D) is pulled in the direction of the arrow M1 in FIG. 37. Then, the forceps lever 10D (lever member 21D) becomes a state in which the central axis Z2 of the second hole O2 coincides with the first rotation axis Ax (second state) as shown in FIG.

[0204] At this time, when the lever member 21D receives an operational input and rotates in the direction of arrow R1 shown in Figure 38, the guide stepped screw 38a2 acts on the other end of the outer through-screw groove 21Cd, and at the same time, the second stepped screw 38b2 acts on another second through-screw groove 21Da, causing the link body 35 to rotate.

[0205] As described above, according to the modified example of the second embodiment, when fixing lever member 21D to link body 35, in addition to the two through screw grooves 21Cd, a second through screw groove 21Da is provided, and the lever member 21D is fixed so as to be freely movable in a predetermined direction by guide stepped screws 38a1, 38a2 and second stepped screws 38b1, 38b2.

[0206] This configuration allows the lever member 21D to be movable between the first state (FIG. 37) and the second state (FIG. 38), and the rotation of the lever member 21 in the direction of the arrow R in each of the first and second states can be performed more stably. That is, when the lever member 21D is rotated in the first state, it can be supported at two points, the guide stepped screw 38a1 or 38a2 and the second stepped screw 38b1. When the lever member 21D is rotated in the second state, it can be supported at two points, the guide stepped screw 38a1 or 38a2 and the second stepped screw 38b2. Therefore, it is possible to ensure more stable rotation of the lever member 21D compared to the configuration of the second embodiment.

[0207] In the second embodiment, the configuration of the finger rest member of the forceps lever 10C is the same as that of the first embodiment. However, the configuration of the finger rest member may be different from that of the first embodiment. For example, the finger rest member may be fixed to the forceps lever 10C, unlike the configuration in which the finger rest member is detachable from the forceps lever 10C.

[0208] In the above-described second embodiment and its modified example, a preferred configuration is illustrated in which the axial through hole 21Cc in the lever member 21C of the forceps lever 10C is formed by connecting two imaginary holes (the first hole O1 and the second hole O2) in an arc shape.

[0209] However, the shape of the shaft through hole of the lever member is not limited to the above example. As for the shape of the shaft through hole, the two holes (first hole O1 and second hole O2) which are virtual holes may be formed by connecting them with a straight line (see the second modified example in FIG. 39), or the two holes (O1, O2) may be connected with a stepped structure in which a step is provided midway along the straight line connecting the two holes (O1, O2) (see the third modified example in FIG. 40).

[0210] Here, a second modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Fig. 39. Fig. 39 shows a second modified example of the forceps lever in the endoscope according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and is a perspective view showing only the lever member.

[0211] The basic configuration of the second modified example is substantially the same as that of the second embodiment. In the second modified example, the shape of the shaft through hole in the lever member of the forceps lever is slightly different. Therefore, in the following description, the same components as those in the second embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted, and only the different parts are described in detail below.

[0212] The forceps lever 10E in the second modified example is composed of a lever member 21E and a finger rest member (not shown).

[0213] 39, the lever member 21E has a shaft through hole 21Ec formed by connecting the first hole O1 and the second hole O2 (virtual hole) in a substantially straight line. The shaft through hole 21Ec functions as a bearing for inserting the frame shaft 36 and holding the forceps lever 10E rotatably around the first rotation axis Ax.

[0214] The lever member 21E has two through screw grooves 21Ed that run along the straight portions of the shaft through hole 21Ec. Guide stepped screws (not shown) are inserted into these two through screw grooves 21Ed. This allows the lever member 21E to be fixed to a predetermined position on the link body 35, and the lever member 21E to move along the through screw grooves 21Ed between the first and second states.

[0215] The action of the forceps lever 10E of this modified example configured in this manner is substantially the same as that of the second embodiment described above.

[0216] According to the second modified example configured in this manner, it is possible to obtain substantially the same effects as those of the second embodiment and its modified examples described above. In addition, according to the second modified example, the shape of the shaft through hole 21Ec can be further simplified, which contributes to simplification of parts processing.

[0217] Next, a third modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Fig. 40. Fig. 40 shows a third modified example of the forceps lever in the endoscope according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and is a perspective view showing only the lever member.

[0218] The basic configuration of the third modified example is substantially the same as that of the second embodiment and the second modified example. In the third modified example, the shape of the shaft through hole in the lever member of the forceps lever is slightly different. Therefore, in the following description, the same components as those in the second embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted, and only the different parts are described in detail below.

[0219] A forceps lever 10F in the third modified example is composed of a lever member 21F and a finger rest member (not shown).

[0220] 40, the lever member 21F has a shaft through hole 21Fc formed by connecting the first hole O1 and the second hole O2 (virtual hole) in a substantially straight line and further forming a step halfway along the straight line, that is, a stepped structure. The frame shaft 36 is inserted through the shaft through hole 21Fc, and the shaft through hole 21Fc functions as a bearing that holds the forceps lever 10F rotatably around the first rotation axis Ax.

[0221] The lever member 21F has two through screw grooves 21Fd formed along a straight line having a step in the middle of the shaft through hole 21Fc. Guide stepped screws (not shown) are inserted into these two through screw grooves 21Fd. As a result, the lever member 21F is fixed to a predetermined position of the link body 35, and the lever member 21F moves along the through screw grooves 21Fd between the first state and the second state.

[0222] The action of the forceps lever 10F of this modified example configured in this manner is substantially the same as that of the second embodiment described above.

[0223] According to the third modified example configured in this manner, substantially the same effects as those of the second embodiment and its modified examples can be obtained. In addition, according to the third modified example, by providing a step in the middle of the shaft through hole 21Fc, even if an erroneous operation occurs, for example, it is possible to prevent the shaft from easily moving to the hole on the opposite side. Therefore, the operation can be performed reliably without moving between the first state and the second state against the operator's intention. This contributes to improving the switching operability.

[0224] Incidentally, in the above-mentioned first and second embodiments, a configuration example including the forceps raising stand 54 is exemplified as the movable member disposed at the tip 5 of the insertion section 2 of the endoscope 1. However, the movable member is not limited to this example. The movable member disposed at the tip 5 may be any structural unit that is movable by receiving the operating force of an operating lever provided in the operation section 3. As a different configuration example of the movable member, for example, an imaging device equipped with a mechanism for moving a part of the imaging optical system in a direction along the optical axis, that is, in a direction along the insertion axis, may be applied.

[0225] Fig. 41 is a diagram showing a modified example of a movable member disposed at the tip of an endoscope according to the present invention. In this modified example, an imaging device is shown as the movable member. Fig. 41 is a diagram showing a cross section of the configuration of the imaging device.

[0226] 41, the imaging device 60 is made up of an imaging optical system 61 and an imaging unit 62. The configuration of the imaging device 60 itself is substantially similar to that of a conventional imaging device having a general configuration.

[0227] That is, the imaging optical system 61 is a structural unit including at least one optical element to which light from a subject is incident. For example, as shown in Fig. 41, the imaging optical system 61 is configured by a plurality of optical elements and a plurality of holding members that respectively hold these optical elements.

[0228] The imaging unit 62 is made up of an imaging element, a drive circuit for driving the imaging element, and an electronic circuit for receiving an output signal from the imaging element and performing predetermined signal processing.

[0229] In the imaging device 60 configured as above, a holding member 61a that holds some of the optical elements among the multiple optical elements that constitute the imaging optical system 61 is configured to be freely movable forward and backward along a direction (see arrow X in FIG. 41) parallel to the direction along the optical axis O of the imaging optical system 61. For this purpose, the holding member 61a is integrally connected to a connecting member 31a to which the tip of the traction wire 31 is connected.

[0230] Here, the traction wire 31 is inserted into the insertion section and the operation section, and the base end is connected to the drive mechanism in the operation section. In this case, the configurations of the insertion section, the operation section, the drive mechanism, etc. are the same as those of the first and second embodiments described above (see Figs. 1, 2, 12, etc.).

[0231] With this configuration, the traction wire 31 advances and retreats in the longitudinal direction of the insertion section in response to an operation input of an operation lever provided in the operation section. In this case, the operation lever corresponds to the forceps lever in the first and second embodiments described above. The configuration of the operation lever is the same as that of the forceps lever in the first and second embodiments described above.

[0232] Therefore, in a configuration example in which the imaging device 60 is used as the movable member, the long axis direction of the insertion part corresponds to the first direction. In addition, in a configuration example in which the imaging device 60 is used as the movable member, the finger restraining member of the operation lever abuts against the stopper (first wall surface 3xd, 3xu) of the operation part, thereby preventing the holding member 61a from moving to either the base end side or the tip end side. The position of the operation lever at this time corresponds to the first position.

[0233] In this way, even in the configuration example in which the imaging device 60 is used as the movable member, it is possible to obtain the same effects and advantages as those of the first and second embodiments and the modified examples described above.

[0234] The configuration of the present invention can be applied to a so-called single-use endoscope in which at least some of the components of the endoscope (e.g., the traction wire 31, etc.) are used as single-use components and are replaced after each use. In addition, the present invention can be applied not only to single-use endoscopes, but also to so-called reusable endoscopes in which the endoscope is reused after being subjected to, for example, sterilization or disinfection treatment every time it is used.

[0235] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and various modifications and applications can be implemented within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the above-mentioned embodiments include inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriate combinations of the disclosed components. For example, even if some components are deleted from all the components shown in one of the above-mentioned embodiments, if the problem to be solved by the invention can be solved and the effect of the invention can be obtained, the configuration from which the components are deleted can be extracted as the invention. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The present invention is not restricted by its specific embodiments except as limited by the attached claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0236] 1. Endoscope 2…Insertion section 3...Operation unit 3Bxd, 3Bxu...Stopper block 3f…Frame 3xd, 3xu…Stopper (first wall) 4…Universal cable 5...Tip 6…Bend 7...Flexible tube section 8...Treatment tool insertion port 8a…Forceps plug 9...Angle control knob 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F... Forceps lever 11...Bend fixing lever 12...Operation member 13…Light guide connector 14…Scope connector 15…Light guide bundle 16...Signal line 21, 21C, 21D, 21E, 21F... Lever members 21a…Main body 21b...Operation arm 21c...Shaft insertion hole 21d...Screw hole 21e…Locked hole 21ee…through groove 21f…Step 21g…Cover mounting part 21Cc, 21Ec, 21Fc…Shaft through hole 21Cd, 21Ed, 21Fd...Through screw groove 21Cx…Connecting arc section 22, 22A, 22B...Finger rest members 22a…Main body 22b,22Ab,22Bb…protrusion 22c…Jig insertion groove 22d…Lever insertion hole 22e...Lever locking part 22ea…Area near the free end 22Af…hinge 22Bx, 22By…Protruding parts 30...Drive mechanism 31...Traction wire 31a...Connecting member 32...Connecting member 32a...Protrusion 33…Lock plate 33a...Proximal end surface 34…Rod 35…Link body 35a...Through hole 35b…Link section 35c...Screw hole 36…Frame axis 36a…notch 37...Connecting member guide 38...Step screw 38a1, 38a2...Step screws 40…Removal jig 41...Jig body 42…Needle section 42a...Tip inclined surface 43…Mounting section 50…Main body 50a, 50b...Tip opening 51…Lighting unit 52...imaging unit 53...Air and water supply nozzle 54...forceps lifting platform 60...Imaging device 61...Imaging optical system 61a...holding member 62...Imaging unit Ax: First rotation axis Ax2: Second rotation axis F…Insertion shaft O…Optical axis O1: First hole O2: Second hole Z1,Z2…center axis

Claims

1. An insertion section having a movable member; an operation unit having a lever and a stopper and provided on a base end side of the insertion unit; Equipped with The movable member is configured to be movable in a first direction, the lever is held rotatably around a first rotation axis, and the lever is configured to rotate to move the movable member; the stopper abuts against the lever when the lever is in a first position; moreover, The lever is deformed between a first state and a second state, the first state is a state in which the stopper is abutted against the first position, The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the second state is a state in which the stopper is not abutted at the first position.

2. the lever includes a protrusion formed along a second direction parallel to an extension direction of the first rotation shaft, the first state is a state in which the protrusion abuts against the stopper, 2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the second state is a state in which the protrusion does not abut against the stopper.

3. The protrusion is a part of a cover against which an operator's finger rests, 3. The endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the second state is a state in which the cover is removed.

4. the cover has a main body portion fixed to the lever, a protrusion protruding in the second direction, and a hinge that holds the main body portion and the protrusion so as to be openable and closable relative to each other, 3. The endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the second state is a state in which the protrusion is in an open state by the hinge.

5. The lever has a bearing formed by connecting a first hole and a second hole, the first state is a state in which the first rotation shaft is rotatably held by the first hole, 2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the second state is a state in which the first rotating shaft is rotatably held by the second hole.

6. 6. The endoscope according to claim 5, wherein the bearing is formed by connecting the first hole and the second hole in an arc shape.

7. 2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the operation portion further comprises a detachable second stopper.

8. The endoscope according to claim 1 , wherein the stopper is an exterior of the operation portion.

9. The endoscope according to claim 1 , wherein the first direction is a circumferential direction of a second rotation axis.

10. 10. The endoscope according to claim 9, wherein the movable member is a lifting stand provided in the insertion section, and the second rotation axis is a rotation axis of the lifting stand.

11. The endoscope according to claim 1 , wherein the first direction is a longitudinal direction of the insertion portion.

12. 12. The endoscope according to claim 11, wherein the movable member is at least one optical element onto which light from a subject is incident.

13. 2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the first position is a position that prevents the movable member from moving toward the proximal end.

14. 2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the first position is a position that prevents the movable member from moving toward the tip end.

15. 2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the movable member and the lever are at least partially connected by a single-use member.

16. the operation unit includes a link mechanism including a link body, a rod body, a connecting member, and a connecting member guide; A first end of the rod body is connected to the link body, and a second end of the rod body is connected to the connecting member. The connecting member is accommodated in the connecting member guide, The endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the link body rotates around the first rotation axis, the interlocking member slides inside the connecting member guide and advances and retreats in the longitudinal direction of the insertion portion.

17. 17. The endoscope according to claim 16, wherein a portion of the first rotation shaft has a D-shaped cross section in a plane perpendicular to the second direction.

Images