Ultrasonic probe

Abstract

To decrease a size of an ultrasonic probe.SOLUTION: An ultrasonic probe includes: an end part; a guiding unit; an operation unit; a bending part; a fixed ring; and a plurality of wires. The end part transmits ultrasonic waves. The guiding unit guides the end part into a subject body. The operation unit receives operation from the operator. The bending part is provided between the end part and the guiding unit, and changes directions of the end part by bending as the operation unit is operated. The fixed ring is fixed to the end part or inside the bending part. The plurality of wires transmit operation of the operation unit to the bending part. The plurality of wires are flattened in a concentric direction of the fixed ring on the end part side, and bonded to the fixed ring respectively.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE The embodiments disclosed herein relate to an ultrasound probe. [Background technology]

[0002] Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a method of diagnosing the heart by inserting an ultrasound probe into the esophagus and through the esophageal and stomach walls. The ultrasound probe used in this examination is composed of a tip that transmits and receives ultrasound, a guide tube for insertion into the esophagus, a bending part that connects the guide tube and the tip and whose bending angle can be adjusted, an operating part that adjusts the bending angle of the bending part, and a connector part for connecting to the ultrasound diagnostic device body.

[0003] The bending section has a metallic bending mechanism connected in multiple links by a link mechanism, as in a digestive endoscope, and bends according to the movement of a wire associated with the link mechanism. One end of the wire is connected to the tip section via a guide tube, and the other end is connected to the rotating knob of the operation section. Here, the bending direction of the bending section is four directions, front-rear and left-right, by configuring the rotating knob in two stages and connecting the wire to each rotating knob. For example, when the rotating knob is rotated to bend the wire forward, the wire on the rear side moves in response to the push, and the bending section is bent forward. On the other hand, when the rotating knob is rotated in the opposite direction, the bending section is bent backward. Similarly, the bending section is bent leftward or rightward by operating the rotating knob to bend leftward or rightward.

[0004] The above-mentioned ultrasonic probe is swallowed when inserted into the esophagus, which places a heavy burden on the subject, and therefore there is a strong demand for a thinner tip and a thinner guide tube. In addition, there is a demand for a smaller operating section to improve the operability of the rotary knob of the operating section. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-55901 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification are intended to solve is to reduce the size of an ultrasonic probe. However, the problems solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be considered as other problems solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The ultrasonic probe of the embodiment includes a tip portion, a guiding portion, an operation portion, a bending portion, a fixing ring, and a plurality of wires. The tip portion transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. The guiding portion guides the tip portion into a subject. The operation portion accepts operations from an operator. The bending portion is provided between the tip portion and the guiding portion, and changes the orientation of the tip portion by bending in response to an operation on the operation portion. The fixing ring is fixed to the tip portion or inside the bending portion. The plurality of wires transmit the operation on the operation portion to the bending portion. The plurality of wires are flattened on the tip portion side in a concentric direction of the fixing ring, and are each joined to the fixing ring. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of an ultrasonic probe according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ultrasound probe according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating an example of a wire driving mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating an example of a wire driving mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a fixing structure of a wire to a fixing ring according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a method of forming a flat portion and joining a terminal component to the flat portion according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a fixing structure of a wire to a pulley according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating an example of a structure of a connecting component according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a diagram showing an example of a wire coupling structure according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a fixing structure for a wire to a fixing ring according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an ultrasonic probe according to the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the ultrasonic probe according to the present application is not limited to the embodiment shown below. In addition, in the following description, similar components are given common reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions are omitted.

[0010] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of an ultrasonic probe 1 according to a first embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the ultrasonic probe 1 includes a tip portion 2, a bending portion 3, a guide portion 4, an operation portion 5, a cable 6, and a connector portion 7. Note that in Fig. 1, the guide portion 4 and the cable 6 are partially omitted from the illustration.

[0011] The tip section 2 transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. For example, the tip section 2 includes a tip exterior member, a plurality of piezoelectric transducers, a matching layer provided on the piezoelectric transducers, and a backing material that prevents ultrasonic waves from propagating backward from the piezoelectric transducers. The tip exterior member is a housing that houses an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), the plurality of piezoelectric transducers, the matching layer, the backing material, and the like. The ultrasonic waves generated from the plurality of piezoelectric transducers under the control of the ASIC are radiated from an acoustic radiator provided in the tip section 2.

[0012] The bending portion 3 is provided between the tip portion 2 and the guiding portion 4, and changes the orientation of the tip portion 2 by bending in response to an operation on the operating portion 5. For example, the bending portion 3 includes an exterior member and a bending mechanism described later. The exterior member is a cylindrical member that houses the bending mechanism and a signal line for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves. One end of the exterior member of the bending portion 3 is connected to a tip exterior member of the tip portion 2. The other end of the exterior member of the bending portion 3 is connected to an exterior member of the guiding portion 4 described later.

[0013] One end of a signal line for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves is connected to the ASIC provided at the tip portion 2, and the other end is connected to the connector portion 7. The signal line transmits signals exchanged between the ultrasonic diagnostic device main body and the ASIC.

[0014] The guiding unit 4 guides the tip into the subject. Specifically, the guiding unit 4 is inserted into the body cavity of the subject when taking an ultrasound image of the subject. For example, the guiding unit 4 includes an exterior member. The exterior member is a cylindrical member that houses a plurality of wires that transmit operations on the operation unit 5 to the bending unit 3, and signal lines for transmitting and receiving ultrasound. One end of the exterior member of the guiding unit 4 is connected to the exterior member of the bending unit 3. The other end of the exterior member of the guiding unit 4 is connected to the exterior member 51 of the operation unit 5, which will be described later.

[0015] The operation unit 5 receives an operation from an operator. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the operation unit 5 includes an exterior member 51, a first rotary knob 52, and a second rotary knob 53. The exterior member 51 is a cylindrical member to which the first rotary knob 52 and the second rotary knob 53 are attached, and is connected to the exterior member of the guiding unit 4.

[0016] The first rotating knob 52 is operated by an operator when bending the bending portion 3 in the front-rear direction (Z direction). The first rotating knob 52 is connected to a member constituting a wire driving mechanism described below. Two wires (a wire for bending forward and a wire for bending backward) for bending the bending portion 3 in the front-rear direction are fixed to the member constituting the wire driving mechanism. When the operator operates the first rotating knob 52, one of the two wires is pulled and the other is pushed out. This causes the bending portion 3 to bend in the front-rear direction.

[0017] The second rotating knob 53 is operated by an operator when bending the bending portion 3 in the left-right direction (Y direction). The second rotating knob 53 is connected to a member constituting a wire driving mechanism described below. Two wires (a wire for bending to the right and a wire for bending to the left) for bending the bending portion 3 in the left-right direction are fixed to the member constituting the wire driving mechanism. When the operator operates the second rotating knob 53, one of the two wires is pulled and the other is pushed out. This causes the bending portion 3 to bend in the left-right direction.

[0018] The cable 6 transmits signals exchanged between the ultrasonic diagnostic device main body and the distal end unit 2 and the operation unit 5. For example, the cable 6 includes a signal line for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, a signal line for transmitting signals exchanged between the ultrasonic diagnostic device main body and the operation unit 5, and the like.

[0019] The connector unit 7 electrically connects the ultrasonic probe 1 and the ultrasonic diagnostic device main body. In addition to the signal lines for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, one end of a signal line for transmitting a signal exchanged between the ultrasonic diagnostic device main body and the operation unit 5 is connected to the connector unit 7. The connector unit 7 also has terminals for electrically connecting these signal lines to the ultrasonic diagnostic device main body.

[0020] Next, the details of the bending operation of the bending portion 3 by the wire will be described with reference to Figs. 2, 3A, and 3B. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ultrasonic probe 1 according to the first embodiment. Here, Fig. 2 shows a diagram in which the bending portion 3 is cut by a plane parallel to the XZ plane, including the wire 11a and the wire 12a for bending the bending portion 3 in the front-rear direction, and the tip portion 2, the bending portion 3, and the guiding portion 4 are viewed from the -Y direction. Also, in Fig. 2, some of the members stored inside the guiding portion 4 are shown by dotted lines. Also, Figs. 3A and 3B are diagrams showing an example of a wire driving mechanism according to the first embodiment.

[0021] 2, the bending portion 3 includes an exterior member 31 and a bending mechanism 32. The exterior member 31 houses the bending mechanism 32, a signal line (not shown) for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, and the like. One end of the exterior member 31 is connected to a tip exterior member of the tip portion 2 having the acoustic radiating portion 21, and the other end is connected to an exterior member of the conductive portion 4.

[0022] The bending mechanism 32 includes a bending piece 321, a wire 11a, a wire 12a, and a fixed ring 15. Note that since Fig. 2 shows a diagram in which the bending portion 3 is cut along a plane that includes the wires 11a and 12a and is parallel to the XZ plane, the bending mechanism 32 also includes a wire 13a and a wire 14a, although these are not shown. In addition, a signal line (not shown) passes through the bending mechanism 32.

[0023] The fixing ring 15 is fixed inside the tip portion 2 or the bending portion 3, and is connected to the bending piece 321 via a pin. The fixing ring 15 has a fixing point for fixing one end of the wire 11a, a fixing point for fixing one end of the wire 12a, a fixing point for fixing one end of the wire 13a, and a fixing point for fixing the wire 14a. The fixing point for fixing one end of the wire 11a and the fixing point for fixing one end of the wire 12a are provided at two opposing points on the outer circumferential surface of the fixing ring 15. The fixing point for fixing one end of the wire 13a and the fixing point for fixing one end of the wire 14a are provided at two opposing points on the outer circumferential surface of the fixing ring 15.

[0024] The bending piece 321 is connected to the adjacent fixing ring or bending piece 321 via a pin. Each bending piece 321 is provided with a first support portion for passing the wire 11a, a second support portion for passing the wire 12a, a third support portion for passing the wire 13a, and a fourth support portion for passing the wire 14a. That is, the wire 11a passes through the first support portion of each bending piece 321 and is fixed at one end to a fixing point of the fixing ring. The wire 12a passes through the second support portion of each bending piece 321 and is fixed at one end to a fixing point of the fixing ring. The wire 13a passes through the third support portion of each bending piece 321 and is fixed at one end to a fixing point of the fixing ring. The wire 14a passes through the fourth support portion of each bending piece 321 and is fixed at one end to a fixing point of the fixing ring.

[0025] The conductive portion 4 includes a plurality of connecting parts 16 for connecting the wires. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the connecting parts 16 connect the wires 11a and 11b by fixing the end of the wire 11a on the conductive portion 4 side and the end of the wire 11b on the tip portion 2 side, respectively. That is, the wires 11a and 11b function as a single wire by being connected by the connecting parts 16. Similarly, the connecting parts 16 connect the wires 12a and 12b by fixing the end of the wire 12a on the conductive portion 4 side and the end of the wire 12b on the tip portion 2 side, respectively.

[0026] Although not shown, wire 13a is connected to wire 13b by connecting part 16. Wire 14a is connected to wire 14b by connecting part 16. Although Fig. 2 shows a case where connecting part 16 is provided in guiding unit 4, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and for example, it may be provided in operating unit 5.

[0027] Thus, in this embodiment, the multiple wires that transmit operations on the operating section 5 to the bending section 3 are composed of first wires (wires 11a to 14a) on the tip section 2 side and second wires (wires 11b to 14b) on the operating section 5 side.

[0028] The wires 11b, 12b, 13b, and 14b are each connected to a wire driving mechanism at their ends opposite to the connecting part 16 side. Here, the wire driving mechanism is, for example, a pulley mechanism built into the first rotating knob 52 and the second rotating knob 53. For example, the pulley 54 shown in FIG. 3A is connected to the first rotating knob 52 and rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the first rotating knob 52. The pulley 54 also has a fixed point for fixing the wire 11b and a fixed point for fixing the wire 12b. As shown in FIG. 3A, the wires 11b and 12b are each fixed to the pulley 54 at their ends opposite to the connecting part 16 side. As a result, when the operator rotates the first rotating knob 52 clockwise, the pulley 54 rotates clockwise, the wire 11b is pulled back, and the wire 12b is pushed out. On the other hand, when the operator rotates the first rotary knob 52 counterclockwise, the pulley 54 rotates counterclockwise, so that the wire 12b is pulled back and the wire 11b is pushed out.

[0029] Also, for example, the pulley 55 shown in FIG. 3B is connected to the second rotating knob 53 and rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the second rotating knob 53. The pulley 55 has a fixed point to which the wire 13b is fixed and a fixed point to which the wire 14b is fixed. As shown in FIG. 3B, the ends of the wires 13b and 14b opposite to the connecting part 16 are fixed to the pulley 55. As a result, when the operator rotates the second rotating knob 53 clockwise, the pulley 55 rotates clockwise, the wire 13b is pulled back, and the wire 14b is pushed out. On the other hand, when the operator rotates the second rotating knob 53 counterclockwise, the pulley 55 rotates counterclockwise, the wire 14b is pulled back, and the wire 13b is pushed out.

[0030] As described above, one of the pair of wires fixed to each pulley is pulled back and the other is pushed out by operating the first rotary knob 52 and the second rotary knob 53. Since the wires of the bending section 3 are respectively connected to the pair of wires fixed to each pulley via the connecting parts 16, the bending section 3 can be bent by operating the first rotary knob 52 and the second rotary knob 53.

[0031] For example, when the first rotating knob 52 is rotated clockwise, the wire 11b is pulled back and the wire 12b is pushed out, so that the wire 11a connected to the wire 11b is pulled back in the direction of the arrow A2 in Fig. 2, and the wire 12a connected to the wire 12b is pushed out in the direction of the arrow A1 in Fig. 2. As a result, the bending portion 3 is bent to the +Z side (forward side) in the XZ plane including the central axis Xr of the guiding portion 4, as shown in Fig. 2. On the other hand, when the first rotating knob 52 is rotated counterclockwise, the wire 11a is pushed out and the wire 12b is pulled back, so that the bending portion 3 is bent to the -Z side (rear side) in the XZ plane including the central axis Xr of the guiding portion 4.

[0032] Similarly, when the second rotary knob 53 is rotated clockwise, the wire 13b is pulled back and the wire 14b is pushed out, so that the wire 13a connected to the wire 13b is pulled back and the wire 14a connected to the wire 14b is pushed out. As a result, the bending portion 3 is bent to the +Y side (rightward) in the XY plane including the central axis Xr of the guiding portion 4. On the other hand, when the second rotary knob 53 is rotated counterclockwise, the wire 13a is pushed out and the wire 14b is pulled back, so that the bending portion 3 is bent to the -Y side (leftward) in the XY plane including the central axis Xr of the guiding portion 4.

[0033] When the first rotating knob 52 and the second rotating knob 53 are not operated (not rotated), the bending portion 3 is straight, and the central axis Xr of the guiding portion 4 and the central axis Tc of the tip portion 2 are parallel to each other.

[0034] Here, the above-mentioned ultrasonic probe 1 is configured so that the size of the probe can be reduced. Specifically, the ultrasonic probe 1 is configured so that the diameter of the tip portion 2 side and the diameter of the guide portion 4 are reduced, and the operating portion 5 can be made smaller. This point will be described below.

[0035] (Thinner diameter at the tip) As described above, the wires 11a to 14a for bending the bending portion 3 have their ends on the tip portion 2 side fixed to the fixing ring 15. Here, in a general fixing method, a fixing method is known in which members are joined by welding, soldering, or brazing, and then a secondary process is performed to thin the joint (removal process). However, when the joint is removed, there is a risk that the strength of the wires will be insufficient, and there are limitations to how thin the joint can be. Therefore, in the ultrasonic probe 1 according to this embodiment, flat parts are provided at the ends of the wires 11a to 14a, and the flat parts are joined to the fixing ring, thereby making it possible to thin the tip portion 2 side without causing a shortage of wire strength.

[0036] 4 is a diagram showing an example of a structure for fixing wires to the fixing ring 15 according to the first embodiment. Although not shown, a signal line passes inside the fixing ring 15. As shown in FIG. 4, the wires 11a to 14a are flattened in the concentric direction of the fixing ring 15 on the tip end 2 side and are respectively joined to the fixing ring 15. Specifically, the wires 11a to 14a are each formed with flattened portions 111a to 141a at their ends and are fixed to the fixing ring 15 so that the flattened direction coincides with the concentric direction of the fixing ring 15.

[0037] In this embodiment, in fixing the wires to the fixing ring 15, a terminating part 17 is used to join the wires to the fixing ring 15. That is, each of the multiple wires 11a to 14a is joined to the fixing ring 15 via the terminating part 17. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 4, the terminating part 17 is formed in a thin plate shape, with one surface joined to the fixing ring 15 and the other surface joined to the wires.

[0038] For example, the wire 11a has a flat portion 111a formed at an end portion on the tip portion 2 side. Then, a terminal component 17 is joined to one of the faces facing in the short direction of the diameter of the flat portion 111a, and the terminal component 17 is joined to a fixed point of the fixing ring 15. Similarly, the wires 12a, 13a, and 14a have flat portions 121a to 141a formed at ends on the tip portion 2 side, and the terminal component 17 is joined to the fixed point of the fixing ring 15.

[0039] Here, the formation of the flat part in each wire and the joining of the end part 17 to the flat part will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the formation of the flat part in the first embodiment and the joining method of the end part 17 to the flat part. FIG. 5 shows the formation of the flat part 111a in the wire 11a and the joining of the end part 17 to the flat part 111a. For example, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the formation of the flat part and the joining of the end part 17 to the flat part are performed by spot welding. That is, the wire 11a and the end part 17 are inserted between the first electrode and the second electrode of the spot welding, and the members are melted by applying electricity and pressure, so that the formation of the flat part 111a and the joining of the end part 17 to the flat part 111a are performed.

[0040] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, after the flat portion 111a is formed and the end part 17 is joined by spot welding, the electrode is moved to further perform spot welding to further form the flat portion 111a. Here, the wire 11a is formed in a fine-wire knitted structure, and electricity and pressure are applied so that the ratio of the short-side diameter of the flat portion 111a to the diameter of the wire 11a is 0.6 to 0.8. This makes it possible to obtain a strong joint strength between the flat portion 111a and the end part 17. Note that, if the ratio of the short-side diameter of the flat portion 111a to the diameter of the wire 11a is 0.8 or more, it is difficult to obtain a sufficient joint strength. Also, if the ratio of the short-side diameter of the flat portion 111a to the diameter of the wire 11a is 0.6 or less, it is difficult to obtain a stable joint strength because a cavity is generated in the molten part or the joint material is scattered.

[0041] Similarly, flat portions 121a to 141a are formed at the end portions of the wires 12a, 13a, and 14a on the tip portion 2 side by spot welding, and the end component 17 is joined thereto.

[0042] As described above, flat portions are formed on the ends of the wires 11a-14a, and the end parts 17 are joined to the wires 11a-14a, and then the wires 11a-14a to which the end parts 17 are joined are respectively joined to fixed points of the fixing ring 15. That is, the end parts 17 are respectively joined to the fixing ring 15. The wires 11a-14a and the fixing ring 15 are joined to each other by, for example, welding (laser welding, arc welding), soldering, brazing, or the like.

[0043] In this embodiment, by forming flat portions at the ends of the wires 11a to 14a and joining them to the fixing ring 15, the diameter of the tip side can be made thinner by the amount of the flat portions formed. For example, if the wire diameter is 0.5 mm, the thickness of the terminating part 17 is 0.5 mm, and two wires are fixed to opposing positions on the fixing ring 15, the wires and the terminating part will occupy 2 mm of the total diameter. In contrast, by forming the flat portions as described above, the 2 mm can be reduced to 1.6 to 1.8 mm, and the diameter of the tip side can be made thinner, reducing the burden on the subject.

[0044] Here, a recess for embedding the terminal part 17 may be formed at the fixing point of the fixing ring 15. That is, a recess may be formed so that the terminal part 17 fits with the fixing point of the fixing ring 15, and the terminal part 17 as a protrusion may be joined in a state of fitting into the recess. Also, if the thickness of the ring part of the fixing ring 15 is sufficient, a recess for embedding the terminal part 17 and the flat part may be formed at the fixing point of the fixing ring 15. That is, the wire and the fixing ring 15 may be joined in a state in which the terminal part 17 as a protrusion and the flat part are fitted into the recess of the fixing ring 15. This allows the diameter on the tip side to be made thinner.

[0045] (Miniaturization of the control unit) As described above, the ends of the wires 11b to 14b on the operation unit 5 side are fixed to the wire drive mechanism (pulleys 54 and 55) built into the operation unit. Here, in joining the wires to the pulleys, the wires are assembled in the grooves of the pulleys, so if the groove width and the wire diameter are made equal, there is a problem that the wire attachment work requires precision and is difficult to perform. In addition, in order to facilitate the attachment work, it is necessary to select between increasing the groove width or decreasing the wire diameter, and the former will cause the wire to rattle during rotation, while the latter may cause the wire to break due to insufficient strength. In addition, for example, when a doctor operates the ultrasound probe 1, the operation unit 5 is operated with one hand, so it is desirable that the operation unit 5 is as small as possible. Therefore, in the ultrasound probe 1 according to this embodiment, flat parts are provided at the ends of the wires 11b to 14b, and the flat parts are joined to the pulleys, thereby facilitating the attachment work and miniaturizing the operation unit 5.

[0046] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a fixing structure of a wire to a pulley according to the first embodiment. Fig. 6 shows a case where the wire 13b and the wire 14b are joined to the pulley 55. As shown in Fig. 6, the wire 13b and the wire 14b are flattened parallel to the concentric plane of the pulley 55 on the operation unit 5 side and joined to the pulley 55. Specifically, the wires 13b to 14b are fixed to the pulley 55 such that flat parts 132b and 142b are formed at the ends thereof and the faces of the flat parts 132b and 142b facing in the short direction of the diameter are parallel to the concentric plane of the pulley 55.

[0047] Here, in this embodiment, the wires are fixed to the pulleys using the end part 17 for joining the wires to the pulleys. That is, the wires 13b and 14b are each joined to the pulley 55 via the end part 17. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 6, the end part 17 is formed in a thin plate shape, one surface of which is joined to the pulley 55, and the other surface of which is joined to the wires.

[0048] For example, the wire 13b has a flat portion 132b formed at the end on the operating unit 5 side. The end part 17 is joined to one of the faces of the flat portion 132b facing in the short direction of the diameter, and the end part 17 is joined to a fixed point of the pulley 55. Similarly, the wire 14b has a flat portion 142b formed at the end on the operating unit 5 side, and the end part 17 is joined to the fixed point of the pulley 55. The formation of the flat portion in each wire and the joining of the end part 17 to the flat portion are performed by spot welding in the same manner as described in the above-mentioned narrowing of the tip end side.

[0049] As described above, flat portions are formed on the ends of the wires 13b and 14a, and the end parts 17 are joined, and then the wires 13b and 14a to which the end parts 17 are joined are respectively joined to fixed points in the grooves of the pulley 55. That is, each end part 17 is respectively joined to a fixed point in the groove of the pulley 55. The wires 13b and 14a are joined to the pulley 55 by, for example, welding (laser welding, arc welding), soldering, brazing, etc. As a result, the wires 13b and 14b are driven in response to the rotation of the pulley 55, as shown by arrows A and B in FIG. 6.

[0050] Like the wire 13b and wire 14b described above, the wires 11b and 12b are flattened at the end on the operation unit 5 side in parallel to the concentric plane of the pulley 54 and are respectively joined to the pulley 54. That is, the wires 11b and 12b have flat portions 112b and 122b formed at the end on the operation unit 5 side. Then, the flat portions 112b and 122b are respectively joined to the end parts 17, and each end part 17 is respectively joined to a fixed point in the groove of the pulley 54.

[0051] In this embodiment, by forming flat parts at the ends of the wires 11b to 14b and joining them to the pulleys, the flat parts ensure clearance for the installation work and narrow the groove width of the pulleys, facilitating the installation work and making the operation unit 5 smaller. Here, a recess for embedding the end part 17 may be formed at the fixing point of each pulley. That is, a recess may be formed so that the end part 17 fits into the fixing point of each pulley, and the end part 17 as a protrusion may be joined in a state of fitting into the recess. This allows the groove width of the pulleys to be narrowed, facilitating the installation work and making the operation unit 5 smaller.

[0052] (Thinner diameter of the guide hole) As described above, the wire for bending the bending portion 3 is connected by the connecting part 16. Here, in normal wire connection using a connecting part, a connecting part that is thicker than the wire diameter is used, so the overall diameter becomes thick. Therefore, in the ultrasonic probe 1 according to this embodiment, a flat part is provided at the end of the wire connected by the connecting part 16, and the flat part is joined to the connecting part, thereby making the conductive part 4 thinner in diameter.

[0053] In this embodiment, the case where the wire is connected by the connecting part 16 inside the guiding part 4 will be described, but the wire may be connected by the connecting part 16 inside the operating part 5. In such a case, the operating part 5 can be made smaller in size by connecting the wire as described below.

[0054] Fig. 7A is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the connecting part 16 according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 7A, the connecting part 16 has a first groove 16a formed in the center in the longitudinal direction. Also, as shown in Fig. 7A, the connecting part 16 has second grooves 16b formed at both ends in the longitudinal direction.

[0055] Here, the first groove portion 16a is formed so that the length in the longitudinal direction of the connecting component 16 is equal to or greater than twice the length in the lateral direction of the terminating component 17. The first groove portion 16a is formed so that the length in the lateral direction of the connecting component 16 is equal to or less than the length in the longitudinal direction of the terminating component 17. The second groove portion 16b is formed so that the length in the lateral direction of the connecting component 16 is equal to or greater than the width of the flat portion of the wire. The second groove portion 16b is formed so that its depth is shallower than the depth of the first groove portion 16a.

[0056] FIG. 7B is a diagram showing an example of a wire connection structure according to the first embodiment. Here, FIG. 7B shows the connection of wire 11a and wire 11b. When wire 11a and wire 11b are connected, a flat portion is formed at the end of the connecting side, and end part 17 is joined. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, wire 11a has flat portion 112a formed at the end of connecting part 16 side (operation unit 5 side) and end part 17 is joined. Also, wire 11b has flat portion 111b formed at the end of connecting part 16 side (tip part 2 side) and end part 17 is joined. The formation of flat portions in each wire and the joining of end part 17 to the flat portions are performed by spot welding in the same manner as described in the above-mentioned tip part side diameter reduction.

[0057] The connecting part 16 connects two wires by fitting each wire to which the end part 17 is joined along the longitudinal direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, the end part 17 of each wire is fitted and fixed in the first groove 16a, and the flat part of each wire is fitted and fixed in each of the second grooves 16b. Here, the wires 11a and 11b are flattened in the same direction relative to the connecting part 16 and joined to the connecting part 16. That is, the flattening directions of the two wires fitted into the connecting part 16 are made to match. As a result, the connecting part 16 can be formed with a size equivalent to the wire diameter in the depth direction of each groove, and the conductive part 4 can be made thinner.

[0058] In the ultrasonic probe 1, the wires 12a and 12b, the wires 13a and 13b, and the wires 14a and 14b are connected by the connecting parts 16, respectively, in the same manner as the connection between the wires 11a and 11b described above. The wires and the connecting parts 16 may be joined by welding, soldering, brazing, or the like. That is, one surface of each of the multiple terminal parts 17 may be joined to the connecting parts 16, and the other surface may be joined to each wire.

[0059] 7A, the depth direction of each groove (the height direction of the connecting part 16 in the figure) can be made the same size as the wire diameter, but the size in the direction perpendicular to the depth direction (the width direction of the connecting part 16 in the figure) is larger than the wire diameter. Therefore, by changing the direction of the flat part formed on each wire according to the arrangement of the connecting part 16 inside the conductive part 4, the conductive part 4 can be more appropriately thinned.

[0060] It should be noted that the connecting part 16 shown in Figs. 7A and 7B is merely an example, and any shape may be used as long as the flat directions of the flat parts formed on the wires can be aligned for connection.

[0061] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the tip portion 2 transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. The guiding section 4 guides the tip portion 2 into the subject. The operating section 5 accepts an operation from an operator. The bending section 3 is provided between the tip portion 2 and the guiding section 4, and changes the direction of the tip portion 2 by bending in response to an operation on the operating section 5. The fixing ring 15 is fixed inside the tip portion 2 or the bending section 3. The multiple wires transmit the operation on the operating section 5 to the bending section 3. The multiple wires are flattened on the tip portion 2 side in the concentric direction of the fixing ring 15, and are each joined to the fixing ring 15. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 1 according to the first embodiment can reduce the diameter of the tip portion 2 side by the amount of flattening of the wires, making it possible to reduce the size.

[0062] Moreover, according to the first embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 1 further includes a plurality of terminating parts 17 that respectively join the plurality of wires to the fixing ring 15. Each of the plurality of terminating parts 17 has one surface joined to the fixing ring 15 and the other surface joined to each wire. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to easily join the wires to the fixing ring 15.

[0063] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the pulley transmits the operation of the operation unit 5 to a plurality of wires. The plurality of wires are flattened in parallel to the concentric plane of the pulley on the operation unit 5 side, and are joined to the pulleys, respectively. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 1 according to the first embodiment can reduce the size of the operation unit 5 by an amount corresponding to the flattening of the wires, thereby making it possible to reduce the size.

[0064] Moreover, according to the first embodiment, the wire harness further includes a plurality of end pieces 17 for respectively joining the plurality of wires to the pulleys. Each of the plurality of end pieces 17 has one surface joined to the pulley and the other surface joined to each of the wires. This makes it possible to easily join the wires to the pulleys.

[0065] Moreover, according to the first embodiment, each of the multiple wires is composed of a first wire on the tip portion 2 side and a second wire on the operation portion side. The first wire and the second wire are flattened in the same direction with respect to the connecting part 16 that connects the first wire and the second wire, and are each joined to the connecting part 16. Therefore, in the ultrasonic probe 1 according to the first embodiment, the diameter of the connecting part of the wires can be made thinner by the amount of the flattening of the wires, making it possible to reduce the size.

[0066] Moreover, according to the first embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 1 further includes a plurality of terminating parts 17 for respectively joining the first wire and the second wire to the connecting part 16. Each of the plurality of terminating parts 17 has one surface joined to the connecting part 16 and the other surface joined to each wire. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to easily join the wires to the connecting part 16.

[0067] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the wires are flattened to have a wire diameter ratio of 0.6 to 0.8. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to obtain an appropriate bonding strength.

[0068] Moreover, according to the first embodiment, the wires are flattened by spot welding, and therefore the ultrasonic probe 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to appropriately flatten the wires.

[0069] (Modification) In the above-described first embodiment, an example in which the terminating part 17 is used to join the wire has been described. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the terminating part 17 may not be used to join the wire. That is, the terminating part 17 may not be used to join the wire to the fixing ring 15, the wire to the pulley, and the wire to the connecting part 16.

[0070] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a fixing structure of a wire to a fixing ring according to a modified example. Although not shown, a signal line passes inside the fixing ring 15. As shown in Fig. 8, the wires 11a to 14a are flattened in the concentric direction of the fixing ring 15 on the tip end 2 side and are respectively joined to the fixing ring 15. Specifically, the wires 11a to 14a are each formed with flattened portions 111a to 141a at the end, and are fixed to the fixing ring 15 so that the flattened direction coincides with the concentric direction of the fixing ring 15.

[0071] 8, in this modification, the multiple wires 11a to 14a are directly joined to the fixing ring 15. The wires can be joined to the fixing ring 15 by, for example, welding (spot welding, laser welding, arc welding), soldering, brazing, etc. The flat portion of each wire can be formed by, for example, the above-mentioned spot welding.

[0072] 8 shows an example in which a plurality of wires 11a to 14a are joined to the outer periphery of the fixing ring 15, but the embodiment is not limited thereto, and a plurality of wires 11a to 14a may be embedded in the fixing ring 15. In such a case, a recess for fitting the flat portion of each wire is formed at each fixing point in the fixing ring 15, and the fixing ring 15 and each wire are joined in a state in which the flat portion of each wire is fitted in the recess. This makes it possible to suppress the protrusion of the wire from the fixing ring 15, and to make the diameter thinner.

[0073] As described above, according to the modified example, the ultrasonic probe 1 can join the wire to the fixing ring 15, the wire to the pulley, and the wire to the connecting part 16 without using the terminal part 17. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 1 according to the modified example can reduce the size of each part by the amount that the terminal part 17 is not used.

[0074] (Other embodiments) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which a flat portion is formed at the end of the wire in all of the joining of the wire to the fixing ring 15, the joining of the wire to the pulley, and the joining of the wire to the connecting part 16. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and a flat portion may be formed at the end of the wire and joined in at least one of the joining of the wire to the fixing ring 15, the joining of the wire to the pulley, and the joining of the wire to the connecting part 16. In other words, even if a flat portion is formed at the end of the wire and joined in at least one of the above three joinings, the size of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be reduced.

[0075] In the above embodiment, the wire connecting the fixed ring 15 and the wire drive mechanism (pulley mechanism) is configured by a plurality of wires connected by the connecting part 16. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and one end of a single wire may be joined to the fixed ring 15 and the other end to the pulley.

[0076] Note that the components of each device illustrated in the above description of the embodiment are conceptual and functional, and are not necessarily physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that illustrated, and all or part of the devices can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0077] As described above, according to the embodiment, it is possible to reduce the size of the ultrasound probe.

[0078] Although some embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1 Ultrasound probe 2 Tip 3 Bend 4. Guidance Center 5 Control section 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b, 13a, 13b, 14a, 14b Wires 15 Fixing ring 16 Connecting parts 17 End Components 54, 55 Pulleys

Claims

1. A tip portion for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves; a guide portion for guiding the tip portion into a subject; an operation unit that receives operations from an operator; a bending portion provided between the tip portion and the guide portion, the bending portion bending in response to an operation on the operation portion to change a direction of the tip portion; A fixing ring fixed to the tip portion or the inside of the bent portion; A plurality of wires for transmitting an operation to the operating portion to the bending portion; Equipped with An ultrasonic probe, wherein the plurality of wires are flattened at the tip end side in a concentric direction of the fixing ring and each is joined to the fixing ring.

2. a plurality of termination pieces for respectively joining the plurality of wires to the retaining ring; The ultrasonic probe of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of termination pieces has one surface bonded to the fixing ring and another surface bonded to a respective wire.

3. A pulley is further provided to transmit an operation of the operation unit to the plurality of wires, The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of wires are flattened in parallel to a concentric surface of the pulley on the operation section side and are joined to the pulley.

4. a plurality of termination pieces for respectively joining the plurality of wires to the pulleys; The ultrasonic probe of claim 3 , wherein each of the plurality of end pieces has one surface bonded to the pulley and another surface bonded to each of the wires.

5. Each of the plurality of wires includes a first wire on the distal end portion side and a second wire on the operation portion side, A connecting part that connects the first wire and the second wire is further provided, 5. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the first wire and the second wire are flattened in the same direction relative to the connecting part and are each joined to the connecting part.

6. a plurality of termination pieces for respectively joining the first wire and the second wire to the connecting piece; The ultrasonic probe of claim 5 , wherein each of the plurality of termination pieces has one surface bonded to the connecting piece and another surface bonded to each of the wires.

7. 2. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of wires are flattened to have a wire diameter ratio of 0.6 to 0.

8.

8. The ultrasonic probe of claim 1 , wherein the wires are flattened by spot welding.

9. A tip portion for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves; a guide portion for guiding the tip portion into a subject; an operation unit that receives operations from an operator; a bending portion provided between the tip portion and the guide portion, the bending portion bending in response to an operation on the operation portion to change a direction of the tip portion; A plurality of wires for transmitting an operation to the operating portion to the bending portion; A pulley for transmitting an operation of the operation unit to the plurality of wires; Equipped with The ultrasonic probe, wherein the plurality of wires are flattened on the operation unit side so as to be parallel to a concentric surface of the pulley and are each joined to the pulley.

10. A tip portion for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves; a guide portion for guiding the tip portion into a subject; an operation unit that receives operations from an operator; a bending portion provided between the tip portion and the guide portion, the bending portion bending in response to an operation on the operation portion to change a direction of the tip portion; A plurality of wires, each of which is composed of a first wire on the distal end portion side and a second wire on the operation portion side, for transmitting an operation of the operation portion to the bending portion; a connecting part that connects the first wire and the second wire; Equipped with The ultrasonic probe, wherein the first wire and the second wire are flattened in the same direction relative to the connecting part and are each joined to the connecting part.

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