Endoscope system

Abstract

To provide an endoscope system in which an operation of bending a bending section of an insertion part is motorized, and thus convenience in a surgeon's manipulation is ensured.SOLUTION: An endoscope system may comprise a mechanical string. The mechanical string has one side connected to the bending section 220 and the other side connected to the power source of the external device to transfer power generated by the power source to the bending section 220 in order to bend the bending section 220.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One aspect of the present invention relates to an endoscope system that can be inserted into a subject to inspect or treat tissues and the like. More specifically, the present invention relates to an endoscope system in which the bending operation of the bending portion in the insertion portion is automated, ensuring the convenience of the operator's operation.

Background Art

[0002] The content described here merely provides background information related to embodiments of the present invention and does not constitute the prior art.

[0003] An endoscope generally refers to a medical device for observing the inside of the body for medical purposes. Depending on the site to be examined, it is called a "bronchoscope", "gastroscope", "laparoscope", "colonoscope", etc. Different from most other medical imaging devices, an endoscope is directly inserted into the body.

[0004] Endoscopes have been supported by the development of optical technology, the development of optical fibers, and the rapid development of electronics, and have reached the current electronic endoscopes, which have greatly contributed to the development of the field of gastroenterology. With the development of electronic endoscopes, not only in the diagnostic field of directly observing the inside of the subject and performing histological examinations, but also due to the rapid development of various therapeutic endoscopes, it has become possible to replace open surgery.

[0005] The structure of an endoscope generally includes a tip portion provided with a biopsy channel, an illumination lens, an air / water supply nozzle, a camera, etc., a bending portion that can be bent in a desired direction, an insertion portion (Insertion Tube) that protects the optical fiber inside from being twisted or deformed, and an operation portion where various switches for operating suction, air / water supply, etc. and capturing and storing images are arranged.

[0006] On the one hand, the bending operation of the bending part is controlled by pulling a plurality of wires respectively. For this purpose, various mechanical structures for controlling the bending of the bending part, such as a chain, are arranged in the operation part, and a direction adjustment knob for operating this mechanical structure is provided so that the operator can manually control the bending operation.

[0007] However, such a structure has problems such as reducing the intuitiveness and increasing the fatigue when the operator operates the endoscope, and it is also difficult to apply artificial intelligence.

[0008] The background art described above is technical information that the inventor possessed in order to derive the embodiments of the present invention or acquired during the derivation process, and it cannot necessarily be said to be publicly known technology that was disclosed to the general public before filing the embodiments of the present invention.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0009] Therefore, one aspect according to the present invention is proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope system in which the bending operation is automated so that the operator can comfortably use the endoscope.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is that artificial intelligence can be applied by automating the bending operation, and the bending part can automatically perform a bending operation just by the operator inserting the insertion part, position itself inside the bent organ and advance to the desired site, and further, to provide a smart endoscope system that can automatically perform the processes required in an endoscopy examination.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope system that is structured to be easily cleaned after use of the endoscope, is hygienic, and has improved durability.

[0012] The technical problems to be achieved by the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned technical problems, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the following description.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0013] In order to achieve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention includes a tip having an imaging means and an illumination means, a bending portion to which the tip is connected and which is bent in a direction set so as to be able to observe a desired part of a subject, and a flexible portion to which the bending portion is connected and which moves flexibly so as to be smoothly inserted into the subject.

[0014] A universal cord connected to an air supply source, a water supply source, or a suction source and providing air, water, or suction to the insertion portion.

[0015] A control means for connecting the insertion portion and the universal cord and controlling the bending angle of the bending portion, and an operation portion having at least one of an air supply valve for adjusting the air supply, a water supply valve for controlling the water supply, and a suction valve for controlling the suction; and an external device to which the universal cord is connected and which is provided with a power source for bending the bending portion. It is possible to provide an endoscope system including at least one or more of them.

[0016] According to an embodiment, it may be an image processing device that receives and processes the image information collected by the imaging means of the external device. Another embodiment of the external device may be a light source device that provides a light source to the illumination means.

[0017] According to an embodiment, in order to bend the bending portion, it may include a mechanical string having one end connected to the bending portion and the other end connected to the power source of the external device, and transmitting the power generated by the power source to the bending portion.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the external device has a first connector connected to the power source, the universal code has a second connector connected to the mechanical string, and when the universal code is fitted to the external device, the first connector and the second connector interact to transmit the power generated by the power source to the mechanical string.

[0019] According to an embodiment, inside the operation unit, a compensator may be provided that executes a compensation function so that when unexpected abnormal tension occurs due to torsion or breakage of the universal code, the abnormal tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved portion.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the mechanical string has a first string interposed in the insertion portion and a second string coupled to the first string and interposed in the universal code.

[0021] When the universal code is twisted or broken and unexpected abnormal tension occurs, the mechanical string may be decoupled inside the operation unit so that the abnormal tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved portion.

[0022] Further, another aspect of the present invention is an insertion portion that is inserted into a subject, illuminates with light, collects image information, and has a curved portion that is curved in a set direction;

[0023] An operation unit connected to the insertion unit and controlling the bending of the curved portion; and an endoscope system including an external device having a light source for the illumination, processing the image information, and providing power to the curved portion can be provided.

[0024] Another aspect of the present invention is a distal end having imaging means and illumination means, a bending portion to which the distal end is connected and which is bent in a direction set so as to be able to observe a desired part of a subject, and a flexible portion connected to the bending portion and moving flexibly so as to be smoothly inserted into the subject;

[0025] a control means having a control means for controlling the bending angle of the bending portion and connected to the distal end of the insertion portion, and formed with dimensions so that it can be easily grasped by a user; and

[0026] an external device connected to the operation portion and provided with a power source for bending the bending portion; An endoscope system can be provided.

[0027] Here, the external device may include an image processing device that receives and processes the image information collected by the imaging means, or a light source device that provides a light source to the illumination means.

[0028] According to an embodiment, in order to bend the bending portion, a mechanical string that is connected to the bending portion on one hand and to the power source of the external device on the other hand and transmits the power generated by the power source to the bending portion may be included.

[0029] In that case, the external device has a first connector connected to the power source, the operation portion has a second connector connected to the mechanical string, and when the operation portion is connected to the external device, the first connector and the second connector interact to transmit the power generated by the power source to the mechanical string.

[0030] Also, according to an embodiment, it may be configured to include a universal cord that connects the operation portion and the external device and separates the operation portion from the external device so that the operation portion can be easily operated while the user is gripping the operation portion.

[0031] In that case, in order to bend the curved portion, one end is connected to the curved portion, the other end is connected to the power source of the external device, and it includes a mechanical string that transmits the power generated by the power source to the curved portion, and the mechanical string is provided inside the universal cord.

[0032] In that case, the external device has a first connector connected to the power source, the universal cord has a second connector connected to the mechanical string, and when the universal cord is connected to the external device, the first connector and the second connector interact to transmit the power generated by the power source to the mechanical string.

[0033] Still another aspect of the present invention includes a tip portion having an imaging means and an illumination means, a curved portion to which the tip portion is connected and which is curved in a direction set so as to be able to observe a desired part of a subject, and a flexible portion connected to the curved portion and moving flexibly so as to be smoothly inserted into the subject;

[0034] a control means connected to the insertion portion and having a function of controlling the bending angle of the curved portion, and an operation portion sized and formed so as to be easily grasped by a user; an endoscope module including; and

[0035] an external device connected to the operation portion and provided with a power source for bending the curved portion; an endoscope system including can be provided.

[0036] Another aspect of the present invention can provide an endoscope system including a light source device having a power source; and an endoscope module connected to the light source device to provide a light source, transmitting the power generated by the power source, and having a curved portion curved by the power.

Advantages of the Invention

[0037] As described above, one embodiment of the present invention provides an endoscope system that automates the bending operation so that an operator can easily use the endoscope.

[0038] In addition, another embodiment of the present invention enables the application of artificial intelligence by automating the bending operation. With just the operator inserting the insertion portion, the bending portion automatically performs a bending operation, positions itself in the bent body, and can proceed to a desired site. Furthermore, it provides a smart endoscope system that can automatically perform the processes required in an endoscopy examination.

[0039] Furthermore, another object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope system that is structured to facilitate cleaning after use of the endoscope, is hygienic, and has improved durability.

[0040] In addition, according to the embodiments, the effects of the present invention include various effects such as excellent versatility, and such effects can be clearly confirmed from the description of the embodiments described later.

[0041] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate one embodiment of the present invention and are for easier understanding of the technical idea of the present invention together with the above-mentioned summary of the invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as being limited only to the matters described in the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0042]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0043] The advantages, features, and the method of achieving them of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the embodiments described in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented below, and can be embodied in various different forms, and should be understood to include all conversions, equivalents, or alternatives included in the idea and technical scope of the present invention. The embodiments presented below are provided to complete the disclosure of the present invention and to fully inform those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains of the scope of the invention. In the description of the present invention, if a specific description of related known technology is determined to obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0044] FIG. 1 shows an endoscope module constituting an endoscope system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] And FIG. 2 shows a state in which a universal code is fitted to an external device and a first connector and a second connector are connected according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2(a) shows a state in which the universal code is fitted to the external device, and FIG. 2(b) shows a separated state.

[0046] An endoscope system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a tip portion 210 having an imaging means and an illumination means, a bending portion 220 to which the tip portion 210 is connected and is bent in a direction set so as to be able to observe a desired part of a subject, and a flexible portion 230 to which the bending portion 220 is connected and moves flexibly so as to be smoothly inserted into the subject, an insertion portion (Insertion Tube) 200;

[0047] A universal code (Universal Code) 400 connected to an air supply source, a water supply source, or a suction source and providing air, water, or suction to the insertion portion 200;

[0048] Control means 310 for connecting the insertion part 200 and the universal code 400 and controlling the bending angle of the bending part 220, an air supply valve for adjusting the air supply, a water supply valve for controlling the water supply, and an operation part (Control Body) 300 having at least one of a suction valve for controlling the suction; and

[0049] It may be configured to include an external device (External Device) 500 to which the universal code 400 is connected and a power source 510 for bending the bending part 220 is provided.

[0050] The insertion part 200 may be configured to include a tip part (Tube-Tip) 210, a bending part (Bending Section) 220, and a flexible part (Flexible Portion) 230 as being inserted into the subject during an endoscopic examination by an operator.

[0051] According to an embodiment, the tip part 210 may be configured to be formed at the tip of the bending part 220, or the bending part and the flexible part 230 may be configured to be connected by one tube.

[0052] The tip part 210 is located at the tip of the bending part 220 of the insertion part 200 so as to be inserted into the subject and observe various structures, and includes at least one of an opening through which suction and accessory instruments pass, illumination means for transmitting light from a light source through an optical fiber to illuminate so as to secure the operator's field of view, and imaging means for imaging internal tissues and the like to collect and transmit image information.

[0053] According to an embodiment, the bending part 220 may be configured such that a wire made of a metal material is woven to maintain a mesh shape, and a mechanical string (Mechanical String) 420 is interposed inside the mesh shape, and the bending operation of the bending part 220 can be realized.

[0054] The bending section 220 can bend in all directions, up, down, left, and right, at a set angle, and by combining these, it is possible to observe all directions within the subject being examined.

[0055] Also, during the process of the operator inserting the insertion section 200 into the subject being examined to observe inside the subject, the bending section 220 is bent at the set angle, and it can guide the movement of the distal end 210 so that the distal end 210 can smoothly move to the desired site to be observed.

[0056] The universal cord 400 is connected to an air supply source, a water supply source, or a suction source to provide air, water, or suction, and can send the provided air, water, or suction to the distal end 210. For this purpose, a flow path through which air or water can move may be formed inside the universal cord 400, and this flow path may also be formed inside the operation section and the insertion section 200 in the same way.

[0057] The operator can operate the air supply valve, water supply valve, and suction valve provided in the operation section 300 to inject air or water from the tip of the insertion section 200 or activate suction.

[0058] The operation section 300 may be provided with control means 310 and function switches. The operator can use the control means 310 of the operation section 300 to control the bending operation, and can use the function switches to select the air injection function or the water injection function and perform suction. Here, the control means 310 includes, for example, a bending angle adjustment knob or a joystick.

[0059] The control means 310 can communicate with a power source 510 provided in an external device 500, either wired or wirelessly. The operator can operate the control means 310 to transmit a control command to the power source 510 provided in the external device 500, drive the power source 510 according to the control command, and execute a bending operation on the bending section 220.

[0060] According to an embodiment, the control means 310 may be configured to include a communication module that receives an artificial intelligence and a control command for the artificial intelligence and transmits the same to the power source 510. The artificial intelligence can set the bending operation of the bending portion 220 that guides the progress to a desired site based on the pre-programmed content, and can transmit a control command to execute the same.

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present specification, an assembly in which the insertion portion 200 and the operation portion 300 are coupled is referred to as an "endoscope module 100".

[0062] According to an embodiment of the present specification, an assembly in which the insertion portion 200, the operation portion 300, and the universal code 400 are coupled is also referred to as an "endoscope module 100".

[0063] That is, according to an embodiment, the endoscope module 100 may include an assembly in which the insertion portion 200 and the operation portion 300 are coupled, and an assembly in which the insertion portion 200, the operation portion 300, and the universal code 400 are coupled.

[0064] In addition, in the present specification, the "external device 500" means a device that is "external" to the endoscope module 100, and may mean a device that exists as a separate product different from the endoscope module 100. An operator can use the endoscope module 100 only after coupling the universal code 400 of the endoscope module 100 to the external device 500. The universal code 400 may be configured to include a flexible cord portion and a connection portion that is directly connected to the external device 500.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the external device 500 may include an image processing device that receives and processes the image information collected by the imaging means, or a light source device that provides a light source to the lighting means. According to an embodiment, the external device 500 may include a device having both an image processing function and a light source function.

[0066] When performing a biopsy using an endoscope, the operator can fit the endoscope module 100 into an external device 500, such as a light source device, and illuminate the body part to be observed by receiving light from the light source device. Also, the operator can fit the endoscope module 100 into an image processing device, transmit the image information of the subject body captured and collected by the camera to the image processing device, and process and save the image for confirmation and analysis.

[0067] On the other hand, the external device 500 may be provided with a power source 510 for bending the bending portion 220. Here, according to the embodiment, the power source 510 may be a motor, but is not limited thereto.

[0068] According to an embodiment, the endoscope system may include a mechanical string 420. One end of the mechanical string is connected to the bending portion 220 and the other end is connected to the power source 510 of the external device 500, and the power generated by the power source 510 can be transmitted to the bending portion 220 in order to bend the bending portion 220.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the external device 500 may have a first connector 520 connected to the power source 510, and the universal cord 400 of the endoscope module 100 may have a second connector 410 connected to the mechanical string 420. When the universal cord 400 is provided in the external device 500, the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 can be coupled to transmit the power generated by the power source 510 to the mechanical string 420 through their interaction.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the first connector 520 may be provided in a form exposed to the outside on a connection portion of the external device 500 connected to the universal cord. Also, the second connector 410 may be provided in a form exposed to the outside on a connection portion of the universal cord 400 (here, the connection portion includes a part directly connected to the external device 500), and may be provided at a position corresponding to the position where the first connector 520 of the external device 500 is provided.

[0071] With such a configuration, when the user fits the connection part of the universal code to the external device, the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 can be coupled.

[0072] Therefore, when the user connects the endoscope module 100 to the external device 500, the exposed part of the first connector 520 and the exposed part of the second connector 410 are electrically or mechanically coupled and interact with each other, so that the power generated by the power source 510 provided in the external device 500 can be transmitted to the mechanical string 420. And when the user removes the endoscope module 100 from the external device 500 to clean the endoscope module 100, the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 are separated.

[0073] In this embodiment, the process in which the power source 510 provided in the external device 500 curves the bending part 220 via the mechanical string 420 will be described in detail. Also, the external device 500 is replaced with a light source device, and the power source 510 is replaced with a motor for description.

[0074] One end of the mechanical string 420 may be connected to the bending part 220 of the insertion part 200, and the other end may be connected to the second connector 410 provided at the tip of the universal code 400. In this case, the mechanical string 420 may be provided passing through the inside of the universal code 400, the operation part 300, and the insertion part 200.

[0075] On the other hand, the first connector 520 may be connected to the motor provided inside the light source device. According to the embodiment, the motor may further be provided with a speed reducer, whereby the power of the motor can be decelerated and output.

[0076] When the universal code 400 of the endoscope module 100 is connected to the light source device, the optical fiber that performs the optical guiding function and is provided inside the endoscope module 100 is connected to the light source so that the illumination means functions, and the power supply unit that supplies various power sources arranged inside the light source device is connected to the endoscope module 100 to supply power to the endoscope module 100. The first connector 520 and the second connector 410 are coupled, and the power of the motor pulls or relaxes the mechanical string 420 so that the bending portion 220 performs a bending operation.

[0077] The bending portion 220 can perform a bending operation in the vertical and horizontal directions. That is, it can perform a yawing operation and a pitching operation.

[0078] Although only a pair of mechanical strings 420 are shown in the drawing, a pair of mechanical strings 420 for performing a bending operation in the vertical direction and a pair of mechanical strings 420 for performing a bending operation in the horizontal direction are provided, and at least a total of four mechanical strings 420 may be provided.

[0079] There may be a plurality of motors, and those for the bending operation in the vertical direction and those for the bending operation in the horizontal direction may be provided separately. The pair of mechanical strings 420 may be driven by being mapped one-to-one by, for example, a configuration in which a chain and a gear mesh, or a configuration in which a pulley and a belt mesh. For example, the pair of mechanical strings 420 may be driven in such a way that when one is pulled by 1, the other is relaxed by -1.

[0080] In an embodiment according to the present invention, the bending portion 220 is connected to the power source 510 of the external device 500 and the mechanical string 420 to transmit power and control bending. However, the structure in which the bending portion 220 is connected to the power source 510 of the external device 500 and transmits power is distinguished from the conventional technology that manually operates the bending portion 220.

[0081] The insertion part 200 according to the conventional technology is provided with a mechanical string 420 for bending the bending part 220, and a mechanical device capable of pulling or relaxing the mechanical string 420 is arranged in the operation part 300, and the operation part 300 is provided with a bending angle adjustment knob that can be manually operated. And the universal code 400 is provided with an air supply / water supply tube, an electrical connection line of a suction tube, etc., and does not have a power transmission configuration such as a mechanical string 420.

[0082] In the use of the endoscope according to the conventional technology, the operator can hold the operation part 300 with one hand and turn the knob to pull the mechanical string 420, thereby controlling the bending operation of the bending part 220.

[0083] In this case, for example, during a gastroscopy, when the operator inserts the insertion part 200 into the subject's body orally, the tip part 210 moves from the mouth into the body and reaches the point where the esophagus and the airway diverge. At such a site, even an experienced operator takes a lot of time to manually operate the knob to control the bending operation of the bending part 220.

[0084] In the structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which the bending part 220 is connected to a power source and power is transmitted, only a short time is required until the desired part in the body is reached in order to minimize the manual operation of the operator for controlling the bending operation, and labor can be saved.

[0085] Also, in the case of an inexperienced operator, there is a possibility of losing the way to the desired part in the dark body, but by automating the bending operation, artificial intelligence can be applied and the desired part can be advanced automatically, so this problem can be solved.

[0086] According to this embodiment, if the current advancing direction is detected from the image of the endoscope and the control value of the power source 510 is input based on the advancing direction detected by the artificial intelligence, the operator only needs to insert the insertion part 200, and the artificial intelligence will control the bending operation of the bending part 220, so that the insertion part 200 can appropriately control its posture and accurately advance along the inside of the subject.

[0087] When the insertion part 200 is inserted into the subject, the artificial intelligence automatically determines the bent part of the organ and can bend itself. Therefore, the operator does not need to press a button or take an awkward posture. That is, since the artificial intelligence automatically determines whether it is the esophagus or the airway and controls the bending in advance, the operator only needs to insert the insertion part 200 into the subject from the mouth or the like.

[0088] For example, during a gastroscopy, in the case of the pylorus, the difference between the posture when the insertion part 200 is inside the body and the posture that the operator is actually looking at is approximately 180 degrees. In order for the operator to maintain this state while manually operating, a considerable amount of force is required on the fingers. In particular, when the operator takes an image in such a state, since the tip 210 will become blurry as soon as it shakes a little, more force is required on the fingers. Such an operation gives the doctor a very great sense of fatigue.

[0089] However, for example, if there are 8 locations that need to be imaged during the inspection of the pylorus, and the artificial intelligence can grasp this in advance and automatically image, it is very convenient for the operator who has difficulty maintaining the posture. The structure in which the bending part 220 according to the present embodiment is connected to the power source 510 and power is transmitted enables the adjustment of the bending angle to be automated and enables the application of artificial intelligence. Therefore, various functions can be realized, and the convenience of the operator using the endoscope can be ensured in the above-mentioned situation.

[0090] Furthermore, since the endoscope system according to the present invention has a structure in which the power source 510 is provided in the external device 500, the maintenance of the endoscope module 100 is easy.

[0091] Since the endoscope module 100 is inserted into the subject, hygiene is important. Therefore, the cleaning of the endoscope module is very important. After the operator uses the endoscope module for a biopsy, it is necessary to clean the module thoroughly.

[0092] To clean the endoscope module, it is necessary to use a cleaning agent containing a chemical diluted with water. However, since the motor, which is the power source, is vulnerable to moisture, if the motor is exposed to moisture, it is fatal to the lifespan of the endoscope module.

[0093] Since the endoscope module is very expensive, when the motor, which is the power source 510, is provided inside the operation unit 300, the user must be careful not to let water enter inside when cleaning the endoscope module, which makes the cleaning of the endoscope module troublesome. Worried that moisture may flow into the motor inside the endoscope module and cause a failure, and being unable to clean the endoscope module correctly will lead to a fatal problem in hygiene. Since the endoscope module is expensive, if the entire product has to be replaced due to a failure of internal components such as the motor, it is very uneconomical for the user.

[0094] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the endoscope system, since the motor is attached to an external device 500 configured as a product separate from the endoscope module 100 instead of the endoscope module 100, the above problem can be fundamentally solved. That is, after using the endoscope module, the operator can simply remove the endoscope module from the external device 500 and clean it. Since the endoscope module is not provided with a power source 510 such as a motor and there is no risk of water entering the motor, the endoscope module can be easily cleaned.

[0095] FIG. 3 shows an example of a compensator provided in the operation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. [[ID=I4]]

[0096] The endoscope system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a compensator 600 that adjusts the movement of the mechanical string 420.

[0097] Here, the compensator 600 can execute a compensation function of adjusting the movement of the mechanical string 420 in order to prevent the bending angle of the bending portion 220 from changing due to an unexpected external force.

[0098] For example, when an unexpected tension occurs in the mechanical string 420 due to torsion or breakage of the universal code 400, the compensator 600 can execute a compensation function so that the unexpected tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved portion 220 (here, the posture maintenance includes the maintenance of the bending angle).

[0099] According to an embodiment, the compensator 600 may be provided inside the operation unit 300 or the universal code 400. According to an embodiment, the compensator 600 may be provided in the external device 500.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 3, an embodiment of the compensator 600 employs an idler pulley 620. In this case, in one embodiment of the compensator 600, one of the pair of mechanical strings 420 inside the operation unit 300 is connected to a pair of main pulleys 610 and the idler pulley 620, and the other is similarly connected to the pair of main pulleys 610 and the idler pulley 620. Since two sets of mechanical strings 420 are provided, one set for bending in the vertical direction and one set for bending in the horizontal direction, the compensator 600 is also required for each of them.

[0101] When an unexpected tension occurs when the operator steps on the universal code 400 during operation, the idler pulley 620 operates to eliminate the unexpected tension, prevent a change in the tension of the mechanical string 420 on the insertion unit 200 side, and maintain the posture of the curved portion (220).

[0102] FIG. 4 shows an example of a compensator provided in an operation unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] According to another embodiment capable of performing compensation, the mechanical string 420 has a first string 710 interposed in the insertion unit 200 and a second string 720 coupled to the first string 710 and interposed in the universal code 400.

[0104] When the universal code 400 is twisted or bent, resulting in an unexpected abnormal tension, the first string 710 and the second string 720 may be decoupled inside the operation unit so that the abnormal tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved portion.

[0105] According to the structure of the compensator 600 in this embodiment, in the operation unit 300, a connecting pulley assembly 700 composed of a plurality of pulleys 750 connected to a relatively rotatable compensation shaft 740 is arranged. Each pulley 750 is coupled with a first string 710 drawn out to the insertion unit 200 side and connected to the curved portion 220, and a second string 720 drawn out to the universal code 400 side and connected to the second connector 410. A structure may be provided with a tension sensor for sensing the tension of each of the first string 710 and the second string 720.

[0106] Normally, when the second string 720 of the universal code 400 is driven by a power source 510 interposed in the external device 500, the first string 710, which is coupled to the second string 720 one-to-one by the connecting pulley assembly 700, is driven, and the bending angle is adjusted.

[0107] However, when the universal code 400 is twisted or bent and an abnormal tension is sensed in the second string 720, the two pulleys of the connecting pulley assembly 700 immediately decouple, and no abnormal tension is applied to the first string 710, so that the curved portion 220 can maintain the bending angle.

[0108] According to the embodiment, whether an abnormal tension is applied to the second string 720 can be determined by comparing the sensing values between a pair of tension sensors that sense the tension of each of the first and second strings 720.

[0109] When an abnormal tension is detected, before decoupling is performed to compensate for it, since the first string 710 is coupled to the second string 720, if the first string 710 is twisted, the second string 720 will also be affected by the abnormal tension and twisted. Therefore, the posture of the bending part 220 is also affected. In this case, it is necessary to perform compensation to return the first string 710 to its original state so that the bending part 220 can maintain the correct posture. A third string 730, which is separately connected to the power source 510, may be coupled to the pulley 750 to which the first string 710 is coupled. When an abnormal tension is detected, the compensation of the third string 730 can be performed together with decoupling, and the first string 710 and the bending part 220 can be restored to their original correct postures.

[0110] For example, since tension sensors are respectively arranged on the universal code 400 side and the insertion part 200 side, when the universal code 400 is twisted or broken and an abnormal tension occurs in the second string 720, a corresponding reverse force may be provided. If the universal code (400) twists where a force of 0 should be input to the tension sensor on the universal code (400) side and a force of 1 is input, the posture of the bending part (220) can be maintained by applying a force of -1 to the tension sensor on the insertion part (200) side.

[0111] Therefore, the third string 730 can be adjusted to control the tension sensor on the insertion part 200 side to be subjected to a force of -1.

[0112] On the other hand, another compensation method is to collect the sensing value of the tension sensor. When an abnormal tension is detected, a control command is immediately sent to the power source 510, for example, a motor, and a control unit is provided that can return to the original state by the motor directly providing power. Here, according to the embodiment, the control unit may be provided in the operation unit 300 or the external device 500.

[0113] When using the endoscope module, the operator holds the operation unit 300 with one hand and operates the switch and the control means 310. In this case, the insertion unit 200 is inserted into the subject and moves toward the desired site, while the universal cord 400 is in an exposed state outside. Therefore, the universal cord 400 may be stepped on by the foot or bent or twisted by other unexpected external forces.

[0114] Unlike the prior art, the endoscope module according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with a mechanical string 420 also on the universal cord 400, and there is a possibility that an abnormal tension is applied to the mechanical string 420 due to twisting or breaking of the universal cord 400. Since the prior art does not have the mechanical string 420 on the universal cord 400, such a problem does not occur.

[0115] When an abnormal tension is applied to the mechanical string 420, it affects the posture maintenance of the bending part 220 that plays a role inside the subject, causing problems. For example, when the bending part 220 has to maintain a specific posture in order to image a specific desired site, if the posture collapses due to the abnormal tension, it cannot perform its role, which becomes a problem.

[0116] By applying the compensator 600 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the above problems can be solved, and abnormal tensions due to unexpected situations, external forces, etc. can be eliminated. On the other hand, yet another aspect of the present invention is an insertion unit 200 having a distal end portion having imaging means and illumination means, a bending portion 220 connected to the distal end portion and bent in a direction set so as to be able to observe a desired site of a subject, and a flexible portion connected to the bending portion 220 and moving flexibly so as to be smoothly inserted into the subject;

[0117] A control means 310 connected to the distal end of the insertion unit 200 and having the function of controlling the bending angle of the bending portion 220, and an operation unit 300 sized and formed so as to be easily grasped by a user; and

[0118] An endoscopic system can be provided that includes an external device 500 connected to the operation unit 300 and provided with a power source 510 for bending the bending unit 220.

[0119] Here, the user may include a doctor who uses the endoscopic system.

[0120] Here, according to an embodiment, the external device 500 may include an image processing device that receives and processes the image information collected by the imaging means, or a light source device that provides a light source to the illumination means.

[0121] According to an embodiment, in order to bend the bending unit 220, one end is connected to the bending unit 220 and the other end is connected to the power source 510 of the external device 500, and it may include a mechanical string 420 that transmits the power generated by the power source 510 to the bending unit 220.

[0122] That is, here, the mechanical string 420 may be configured to penetrate the insertion unit 200 and the operation unit 300 and be connected to the power source 510 provided in the external device 500. Thereby, the power generated by the power source 510 provided inside the external device 500 can be transmitted to the bending unit 220.

[0123] In this case, the external device 500 has a first connector 520 connected to the power source 510, the operation unit 300 has a second connector 410 connected to the mechanical string 420, and when the operation unit 300 is connected to the external device 500, the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 interact to transmit the power generated by the power source 510 to the mechanical string 420.

[0124] When the connection between the operation unit 300 and the external device 500 is released, the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 also interrupt their interaction, and the user can wash the assembly of the operation unit 300 and the insertion unit 200 with water. Since the power source 510 is provided in the external device 500 rather than in the operation unit 300 or the insertion unit 200 even when washed with water, there is no risk of the power source 510 coming into contact with the washing water and malfunctioning.

[0125] On the other hand, according to another embodiment, the endoscope system may include a universal cord 400 that connects the operation unit and the external device 500 and separates the operation unit from the external device 500 so that the user can easily operate the operation unit while gripping it.

[0126] In this case, in order to bend the bending portion 220, one end is connected to the bending portion 220 and the other end is connected to the power source 510 of the external device 500, and a mechanical string 420 that transmits the power generated by the power source 510 to the bending portion 220 is included, and the mechanical string 420 may be provided inside the universal cord 400.

[0127] That is, the mechanical string 420 may be provided to penetrate the universal cord 400, the operation unit 300, and the insertion unit 200.

[0128] Here, the external device 500 has a first connector 520 connected to the power source 510, and the universal cord 400 has a second connector 410 connected to the mechanical string 420. When the universal cord 400 is connected to the external device 500, the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 interact to transmit the power generated by the power source 510 to the mechanical string (420). Also, when the universal cord 400 is disconnected from the external device 500, the interaction between the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 ends.

[0129] In this case, since the power source 510 is provided in the external device 500 and not in the endoscope module which is an assembly of the universal code 400, the operation unit 300, and the insertion unit 200, even if the user cleans the endoscope module with a cleaning liquid such as water, the power source 510 will not get wet with water and malfunction.

[0130] According to an embodiment, inside the operation unit 300, a compensator 600 that executes a compensation function may be provided so that when unexpected abnormal tension occurs due to torsion, breakage, etc. of the universal code 400, the abnormal tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the bending part 220. Since this compensator 600 may have substantially the same configuration as the compensator 600 described in the above-described embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0131] According to an embodiment, the mechanical string 420 has a first string 710 interposed in the insertion unit 200 and a second string 720 coupled to the first string 710 and interposed in the universal code 400.

[0132] When the universal code 400 is twisted or broken and unexpected abnormal tension occurs, the mechanical string 420 may be decoupled, that is, separated, inside the operation unit 300 so that the abnormal tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the bending part 220. Since this structure may have substantially the same configuration as the decoupling structure having the pulley 750, the compensation shaft 740, and the third string 730 described in the above-described embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0133] Another embodiment of the present invention can provide an endoscope system including a light source device having a power source 510; and an endoscope module connected to the light source device to provide a light source, transmitting the power generated by the power source 510, and having a bending part 220 bent by the power.

[0134] Here, the light source device is, for example, a device including a light source such as an LED, and may include a device that provides a light source to the endoscope module. For example, it can also mean the external device 500 described in the above-described embodiment, that is, the light source device or the image processing device.

[0135] Here, the power source 510 may include the motor configuration described in the above-described embodiment.

[0136] Here, the bending portion 220 may mean a configuration having substantially the same function as the bending portion 220 included in the endoscope module 100 described in the above-described embodiment.

[0137] Here, the endoscope module 100 may include a compensator configuration that executes a compensation function to prevent the bending angle of the bending portion 220 from arbitrarily changing due to an unexpected external force.

[0138] Since the compensator configuration has already been described in the above-described embodiment, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0139] In the specification of the present invention (particularly the claims), the term "the foregoing" and similar indicators may apply to both singular and plural. Also, in the present invention, when a range is described, it includes inventions to which individual values belonging to the range are applied (unless otherwise stated), and is the same as if each individual value constituting the range was described in the summary of the invention.

[0140] In the steps constituting the method according to the present invention, unless the order is clearly described or there is a description to the contrary, the steps are performed in an appropriate order. The present invention is not necessarily limited to the order described for the steps. The use of all examples or exemplary terms (such as "for example", "etc.") in the present invention is merely for explaining the present invention in detail, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the examples or exemplary terms unless limited by the claims. Also, those skilled in the art will be able to understand that it can be configured according to design conditions and factors within the scope of the claims or their equivalents with various modifications, combinations, and changes taken into account.

[0141] Therefore, the idea of the present invention should not be limited to the above-described embodiments, and it can be said that not only the following claims but also all ranges equivalent to or equivalently modified from the claims belong to the scope of the idea of the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0142] 100: Endoscope system 200: Insertion portion 210: Tip portion 220: Bending portion 230: Flexible portion 300: Operation portion 310: Control means 400: Universal cord 410: Second connector 420: Mechanical string 500: External device 510: Power source 520: First connector 600: Compensator 610: Main pulley 620: Idler pulley 700: Connecting pulley assembly 710: First string 720: Second string 730: Third string 740: Compensation shaft 750: Pulley

Claims

1. An insertion part having a curved part curved in a direction set so as to be able to observe a target part of a subject, and a flexible part that is connected to the curved part and moves flexibly so as to be smoothly inserted into the subject; An operation part having control means for controlling the bending angle of the bending part and formed with dimensions so that a user can easily grip it; An external device in which a power source for bending the bending part is installed; and A universal cord connecting the operation part and the external device; and, Including at least a pair of mechanical strings that transmit the power generated by the power source to the bending part, The mechanical string is installed through the inside of the universal cord, the operation part, and the insertion part, an endoscope system.

2. The external device includes at least one of an image processing device that receives and processes image information collected by an imaging means or a light source device that provides a light source to an illumination means, the endoscope system according to claim 1.

3. One side of the mechanical string is connected to the bending part, and the other side is connected to the power source of the external device, and the power generated by the power source is transmitted to the bending part, the endoscope system according to claim 1.

4. The external device has a first connector connected to the power source, the universal cord has a second connector connected to the mechanical string, and the first connector and the second connector interact to generate the power generated by the power source. The endoscope system according to claim 1, which transmits to the mechanical string.

5. When an abnormal tension occurs in the universal cord, it includes a compensator that corrects the abnormal tension so as not to affect the posture maintenance of the bending part, the endoscope system according to claim 1.

6. The mechanical string is composed of two sets, one set for bending in the vertical direction and one set for bending in the horizontal direction, and the compensator is provided in each set, the endoscope system according to claim 5.

7. An insertion part inserted into a subject, illuminating, collecting video information, and having a curved part curved in a set direction; An operation part connected to the insertion part and controlling the bending of the bending part; An external device having a power source that provides power to the bending part; and A universal cord for connecting the operation unit and the external device; comprising, at least a pair of mechanical strings for transmitting the power generated by the power source to the curved portion, wherein the mechanical string is installed through the inside of the universal cord, the operation unit, and the insertion unit. An endoscope system characterized by this.

8. When abnormal tension occurs in the universal cord, a compensator is included to correct the abnormal tension so as not to affect the posture maintenance of the curved portion. The endoscope system according to claim 7, characterized by this.

9. The mechanical string is composed of two sets, one pair for bending in the vertical direction and one pair for bending in the horizontal direction, and the compensator is provided in each set. The endoscope system according to claim 8, characterized by this.

10. An external device having a power source; and An endoscope module having a universal cord connected to the external device, connected to a light source device to receive the provision of light, receiving the transmission of the power generated by the power source, and having a curved portion curved by the power. comprising, the endoscope module includes a mechanical string for transmitting the power generated by the power source to the curved portion, wherein the mechanical string is installed through the universal cord, a first connector is connected to the power source installed inside the external device, the universal cord has a second connector, When the universal cord is connected to the external device, the first connector and the second connector are coupled, and the power pushes or pulls the mechanical string so that the curved portion performs a bending operation. An endoscope system.

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