Attachment for endoscope button, and endoscope cleaning device

Abstract

To provide an attachment for an endoscope button that allows the endoscope button to be adequately reprocessed without damaging a valve.SOLUTION: A protective cover 90 comprises: a frame 91 having an internal space, and covering a check valve 44 in a non-contact state with a second seal ring 43 and the check valve 44; a tip part 95 of the frame 91 having a first communication hole 95a which makes an external space and the internal space of the frame 91 communicate with each other and into which a shaft member 67 can be inserted; a base end part 96 of the frame 91 having a second communication hole 96a which makes the external space and the internal space of the frame 91 communicate with each other and into which the shaft member 67 can be inserted; and an intermediate part 97 of the frame 91 having a plurality of third communication holes 97a which make the external space and the internal space of the frame 91 communicate with each other between the tip part 95 and the base end part 96.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an attachment for an endoscope button when reprocessing the endoscope button. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, endoscopes have been widely used in the medical field. Endoscopes equipped with functions such as air and water supply functions for intraluminal passages have endoscope buttons, such as an air and water supply button, on the operation section. For example, the air and water supply button generally has a check valve and multiple seal rings on the outer periphery of the shaft member. The air and water supply button performs the air and water supply function when pressed by a user or the like. In addition, the check valve of the air and water supply button has a function to prevent fluids, etc., in the lumen of the subject from flowing back into the insertion section when the pressure in the lumen increases.

[0003] In the medical field, reusable endoscopes (hereinafter simply referred to as endoscopes) are generally reprocessed after use, including cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization. As disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example, various accessories such as the air and water supply button, suction button, and forceps valve are removed from the endoscope in order to efficiently reprocess the endoscope using an automatic washer (endoscope washer). The various removed accessories are placed together in a small item basket in the endoscope washer and reprocessed together with the endoscope. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6088394 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, with the technology of Patent Document 1, there is a risk that the flow of liquid, such as cleaning fluid, supplied from the endoscope cleaning device may cause the air / water supply button placed in the accessory basket to collide with other accessories, damaging the check valve. Even minor damage to the valve may cause the endoscope to lose its backflow prevention function.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has as its object to provide an attachment for an endoscope button that can accurately reprocess an endoscope button without damaging the valve. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An endoscopic button attachment according to one aspect of the present invention is an attachment for an endoscopic button having an axial member with an elastic member having a valve arranged on its outer periphery, and comprises: a frame having an internal space and covering the valve without contacting the elastic member; a tip portion of the frame having a first communication hole that connects the external space of the frame with the internal space and through which the axial member can be inserted; a base portion of the frame having a second communication hole that connects the external space of the frame with the internal space and through which the axial member can be inserted; and an intermediate portion of the frame having one or more third communication holes that connect the external space of the frame with the internal space between the tip portion and the base end.

[0008] An endoscope cleaning device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an attachment for the endoscope button. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the attachment for an endoscope button of the present invention, the endoscope button can be reprocessed accurately without damaging the valve. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram of an endoscope [Figure 2]Cross-sectional view of the main parts of the air and water supply button and the air and water supply cylinder [Figure 3] Cross-sectional view of the main part of the air and water supply button [Figure 4] Cross-sectional view of the main parts of the air and water supply button and the air and water supply cylinder when the leak hole is blocked [Figure 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view of the main parts of the air and water supply button and the air and water supply cylinder in a first pressed state; [Figure 6] 10 is a cross-sectional view of the main parts of the air and water supply button and the air and water supply cylinder in the second pressed state. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an endoscope cleaning device; [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view of the accessory case [Figure 9] An exploded perspective view of the air and water supply button and protective cover [Figure 10] A perspective view showing the air / water supply button with a protective cover attached. [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view of the main part showing the air and water supply button with the protective cover attached [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing accessories housed in an accessory case; [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the air / water supply button and the protective cover according to a first modified example. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the air / water supply button with a protective cover attached according to a first modified example. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the air / water supply button with a protective cover attached according to a first modified example. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the air / water supply button and the protective cover according to a second modified example. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the air and water supply button with a protective cover attached according to a second modified example. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the air / water supply button with a protective cover attached according to a second modified example. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the air / water supply button and the protective cover according to a third modified example. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the air / water supply button with a protective cover attached according to a third modified example. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the air / water supply button with a protective cover attached according to a third modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Before describing the configuration of the endoscope accessory button quality determination device of this embodiment, we will explain an example of the configuration of an endoscope 1 that uses an air / water supply button 11. The air / water supply button 11 corresponds to a specific example of an endoscope accessory button.

[0013] 1 is, for example, an ultrasonic endoscope. The endoscope 1 includes an insertion section 2, an operation section 3, and a universal cable 4.

[0014] The distal end 6 of the insertion section 2 is provided with an air / water supply nozzle 7, a channel opening 8a, and a balloon 9.

[0015] The air and water nozzle 7 is a nozzle for supplying air and water to an objective optical system (not shown). A nozzle air and water supply conduit is connected to the air and water supply nozzle 7. The nozzle air and water supply conduit is branched into a nozzle air supply conduit 7a and a nozzle water supply conduit 7w, for example, inside the operation unit 3.

[0016] The channel opening 8a is formed at the tip of the treatment instrument channel 8. The base end side of the treatment instrument channel 8 is connected to a treatment instrument insertion port 8b in the operation unit 3. Furthermore, inside the operation unit 3, a channel suction conduit 8v branches off from the treatment instrument channel 8.

[0017] Here, a forceps plug 18 can be detachably attached to the treatment tool insertion port 8b. The forceps plug 18 is capable of opening and closing the treatment tool insertion port 8b.

[0018] The balloon 9 is used during ultrasonic diagnosis. The tip of a balloon conduit 9a is connected to the inside of the balloon 9. The balloon conduit 9a branches into a balloon water supply conduit 9w and a balloon suction conduit 9v, for example, inside the operation unit 3.

[0019] The operation unit 3 is provided with an air / water supply button 11 and a suction button 12.

[0020] The air / water supply button 11 is a button for supplying air and water at the distal end portion 6 in response to an operation by a user or the like. The air / water supply button 11 is detachably attached to the air / water supply cylinder 13.

[0021] The nozzle air supply pipe 7a, the nozzle water supply pipe 7w, and the balloon water supply pipe 9w are connected to the air and water supply cylinder 13. Furthermore, the air and water supply cylinder 13 is connected to the air supply pipe 10a and the water supply pipe 10w.

[0022] The suction button 12 is a button for performing suction in the distal end portion 6 in response to an operation by a user or the like. The suction button 12 is detachably attached to the suction cylinder .

[0023] A channel suction pipe line 8v and a balloon suction pipe line 9v are connected to the suction cylinder 14. Furthermore, a suction pipe line 10v is connected to the suction cylinder 14.

[0024] An air supply pipe 10a, a water supply pipe 10w, and a suction pipe 10v are inserted through the universal cable 4. Furthermore, various signal lines, light guides, etc. (none of which are shown) are inserted through the universal cable.

[0025] An endoscope connector 15 is provided at the extending end of the universal cable 4. The endoscope connector 15 has a light guide connector 15a and a video connector 15b. The light guide connector 15a can connect the light guide to a light source device (not shown). The video connector 15b can connect various signal lines to an image processing device (not shown).

[0026] Inside the endoscope connector 15, the air supply conduit 10a branches into a first branch conduit 10a1 and a second branch conduit 10a2. The first branch conduit 10a1 is connected to an air supply nozzle 15c. The air supply nozzle 15c is capable of connecting the first branch conduit 10a1 to, for example, an air supply pump 16 built into the light source device. The second branch conduit 10a2 is connected to a water supply nozzle 15d. The water supply nozzle 15d is connectable to the upper part (gas layer) of a water supply tank 19 via an air supply tube 19a. Furthermore, a water supply conduit 10w is connected to the water supply nozzle 15d. The water supply nozzle 15d is connectable to the lower part of the water supply tank 19 via a water supply tube 19b. Note that physiological saline is stored in the lower part of the water supply tank 19. Furthermore, the suction conduit 10v is connected to a suction nozzle 15e. The suction mouthpiece 15e can be connected to a suction pump 17 via a suction tube 17a.

[0027] Next, the configurations of the air / water supply cylinder 13 and the air / water supply button 11 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0028] 2, the air / water supply cylinder 13 is cylindrical with a bottom. In the following description, in the direction along the central axis (longitudinal axis) Ax of the air / water supply cylinder 13 and the air / water supply button 11, the bottom side of the air / water supply cylinder 13 is defined as the tip side, and the opening side of the air / water supply cylinder 13 is defined as the base side.

[0029] The air / water supply cylinder 13 has, in order from the tip along the central axis Ax, a first cylinder portion 13a, a second cylinder portion 13b, a third cylinder portion 13c, and a fourth cylinder portion 13d.

[0030] The first to fourth cylinder portions 13a to 13d have different inner diameters. That is, the inner diameter of the second cylinder portion 13b is set smaller than the inner diameter of the first cylinder portion 13a. The inner diameter of the third cylinder portion 13c is set larger than the inner diameter of the second cylinder portion 13b. The inner diameter of the fourth cylinder portion 13d is set larger than the inner diameter of the third cylinder portion 13c.

[0031] The first cylinder 13a is provided with a through-hole 35a. The through-hole 35a penetrates, for example, a side wall of the first cylinder 13a in a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax. The upstream end of the nozzle water supply pipe 7w is connected to the through-hole 35a.

[0032] The second cylinder portion 13b is provided with a through hole 35b and a through hole 35c. The through hole 35b and the through hole 35c penetrate, for example, the side wall portion of the second cylinder portion 13b in a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax. The through hole 35b is located on the distal end side of the second cylinder portion 13b. The downstream end of the water supply pipe 10w is connected to this through hole 35b. The through hole 35c is located closer to the proximal end than the through hole 35b. The upstream end of the balloon water supply pipe 9w is connected to this through hole 35c.

[0033] The third cylinder 13c is provided with a through-hole 35d. The through-hole 35d penetrates, for example, a side wall of the third cylinder 13c in a direction inclined with respect to the central axis Ax. The upstream end of the nozzle air supply conduit 7a is connected to the through-hole 35d.

[0034] The inner circumferential surface of the third cylinder portion 13c is provided with a first tapered surface 36a and a second tapered surface 36b. The first tapered surface 36a is provided at the boundary between the second cylinder portion 13b and the third cylinder portion 13c, closer to the tip side than the through hole 35d. The second tapered surface 36b is provided at the boundary between the third cylinder portion 13c and the fourth cylinder portion 13d, closer to the base side than the through hole 35d.

[0035] Furthermore, a through-hole 35e is provided in the third cylinder portion 13c. The through-hole 35e penetrates, for example, an L-shaped portion of the side wall of the third cylinder portion 13c. As a result, one end of the through-hole 35e opens to the outer circumferential surface of the third cylinder portion 13c. The other end of the through-hole 35e opens to the bottom surface of the fourth cylinder portion 13d. The downstream end of the air supply pipe 10a is connected to one end of the through-hole 35e.

[0036] Here, a mouthpiece 37 is provided on the outer periphery of the fourth cylinder portion 13d. This mouthpiece 37 is a member for detachably connecting the air / water supply button 11 to the air / water supply cylinder 13. For this reason, an engagement protrusion 37a is provided on the outer periphery of the mouthpiece 37.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the air / water supply button 11 has a base 31, a spring receiving tube 32, and an air / water supply shaft 33.

[0038] The base 31 is a member for connecting the air / water supply button 11 to the air / water supply cylinder 13. In this embodiment, the base 31 corresponds to a specific example of a shaft member. The base 31 has, in order from the tip along the central axis Ax, a first base portion 31a, a second base portion 31b, and a third base portion 31c. Each of the first to third base portions 31a to 31c has a substantially cylindrical shape. Furthermore, the first to third base portions 31a to 31c have different outer diameters and inner diameters. As a result, the base 31 has a multi-stage, substantially cylindrical shape.

[0039] The outer diameter of the first base portion 31a is set smaller than the inner diameter of the third cylinder portion 13c of the air / water supply cylinder 13. This allows the first base portion 31a to be inserted into the third cylinder portion 13c.

[0040] A plurality of through holes 42a are provided in the middle of the first base portion 31a. Each through hole 42a penetrates, for example, a side wall portion of the first base portion 31a in a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax. As a result, each through hole 42a communicates between the inner space and the outer space of the first base portion 31a.

[0041] A first seal ring 43a serving as a first elastic member is provided on the outer periphery of the tip end of the first base portion 31a. When the first base portion 31a is inserted into the third cylinder portion 13c, the first seal ring 43a elastically deforms and abuts against the first tapered surface 36a. This allows the first seal ring 43a to airtightly seal the tip end of the first base portion 31a and the tip end of the third cylinder portion 13c.

[0042] A second seal ring 43b serving as a second elastic member is provided on the outer periphery of the base end side of the first base portion 31a. When the first base portion 31a is inserted into the third cylinder portion 13c, the second seal ring 43b elastically deforms and abuts against the second tapered surface 36b. This allows the second seal ring 43b to airtightly seal the base end of the first base portion 31a and the base end of the third cylinder portion 13c.

[0043] Furthermore, a check valve 44 is integrally formed with the second seal ring 43b. The check valve 44 has, for example, a cylindrical shape. When the second seal ring 43b is attached to the first base portion 31a, the check valve 44 comes into close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the first base portion 31a. This allows the check valve 44 to airtightly close each of the through holes 42a. The check valve 44 elastically deforms in the radial direction when the air pressure inside the first base portion 31a is higher than the air pressure outside the first base portion 31a by a predetermined amount or more. This allows the check valve 44 to open each of the through holes 42a. On the other hand, when the air pressure inside the first base portion 31a is lower than the air pressure outside the first base portion 31a, the check valve 44 maintains the closed state of each of the through holes 42a.

[0044] In this way, the first seal ring 43a, the second seal ring 43b, and the check valve 44 form a closed space inside the first base portion 31a, which prevents the fluid in the lumen from flowing back into the nozzle air supply conduit 7a even when the pressure inside the lumen into which the endoscope 1 is inserted increases.

[0045] The outer diameter of the second base portion 31b is set smaller than the inner diameter of the fourth cylinder portion 13d of the air / water supply cylinder 13. This allows the second base portion 31b to be inserted into the fourth cylinder portion 13d.

[0046] The inner diameter of the second base portion 31b is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the first base portion 31a.

[0047] A seal ring 45 is provided on the outer periphery of the second base portion 31b. When the second base portion 31b is inserted into the fourth cylinder portion 13d, the seal ring 45 comes into contact with the inner periphery of the fourth cylinder portion 13d. As a result, the seal ring 45 airtightly seals the outer periphery of the second base portion 31b and the inner periphery of the fourth cylinder portion 13d.

[0048] The second base portion 31b has a sidewall formed with a plurality of through holes 42b. Each through hole 42b extends along the central axis Ax. As a result, each through hole 42b communicates the through hole 35e (air supply conduit 10a) with the interior of the third base portion 31c.

[0049] The outer diameter of the third base portion 31c is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the fourth cylinder portion 13d, and the inner diameter of the third base portion 31c is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the second base portion 31b.

[0050] An outer tubular member 46 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the third base portion 31c. An engaging recess 46a is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the distal end of this outer tubular member 46. This engaging recess 46a is engageable with the engaging protrusion 37a. The engagement between this engaging recess 46a and the engaging protrusion 37a secures the base 31 to the air / water supply cylinder 13.

[0051] Furthermore, a female thread portion 47 is provided on the base end side of the inner circumferential surface of the third base portion 31c.

[0052] The spring receiving cylinder 32 has a cylinder body 32a having a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0053] An outward flange 32b is provided at the tip of the cylindrical main body 32a. The outward flange 32b has an annular shape. The outer diameter of the outward flange 32b is set to be approximately the same as the inner diameter of the third base portion 31c. This allows the outward flange 32b to slide along the inner circumferential surface of the third base portion 31c.

[0054] An inward flange 32c is provided at the base end of the cylindrical body 32a. The inward flange 32c has an annular shape.

[0055] The spring receiving cylinder 32 forms an air chamber Ca inside the base portion 31. The air chamber Ca is in communication with each of the through holes 42b, which allows compressed air supplied from the air supply conduit 10a to be introduced into the air chamber Ca.

[0056] Sheet-like sealing members 49 are provided on the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical main body 32a, the tip surface of the outward flange 32b, and the tip surface of the inward flange 32c. The sealing member 49 provided on the outward flange 32b can abut against the bottom surface of the third base portion 31c. This allows the sealing members 49 on the outward flange 32b to close each of the through holes 42b.

[0057] A stopper ring 50 is attached by screwing to the female thread portion 47 of the third base portion 31c. This stopper ring 50 restricts movement of the outward flange 32b toward the base end. This prevents the spring receiving tube 32 from falling off the third base portion 31c. Furthermore, a seal ring 51 is attached to the stopper ring 50. The seal ring 51 is able to abut against the base end surface of the outward flange 32b. When the seal ring 51 abuts against the outward flange 32b, the seal ring 51 provides an airtight seal between the outer peripheral surface of the outward flange 32b and the inner peripheral surface of the third base portion 31c.

[0058] The air / water supply shaft 33 has a shaft body 55. In this embodiment, the shaft body 55 corresponds to a specific example of a shaft member. The shaft body 55 has an outer diameter that allows it to be inserted into the air / water supply cylinder 13, the base 31, and the spring receiving tube 32. This allows the shaft body 55 to move back and forth in the direction of the central axis Ax.

[0059] A head 56 is provided at the base end of the shaft body 55. The head 56 is capable of abutting against the inward flange 32c outside the spring receiving cylinder 32.

[0060] An outward flange 55a is provided on the base end side of the shaft body 55. The outward flange 55a is provided at a position spaced a predetermined distance from the head 56. This outward flange 55a is capable of abutting against the inward flange 32c inside the spring receiving cylinder 32 via the seal member 49.

[0061] As a result, the shaft body 55 is held by the spring receiving cylinder 32 in a state in which it is allowed to move back and forth in the direction of the central axis Ax.

[0062] A first return spring 57a is provided between the outward flange 32b of the spring receiving cylinder 32 and the head 56. The first return spring 57a biases the shaft body 55 toward the base end in the direction of the central axis Ax.

[0063] In addition, a second return spring 57b is provided between the bottom surface of the second base portion 31b and the outward flange 55a of the shaft main body 55. The second return spring 57b biases the shaft main body 55 and the spring receiving cylinder 32 toward the base end side in the direction of the central axis Ax.

[0064] The biasing force of the second return spring 57b is set to be weaker than the biasing force of the first return spring 57a. Therefore, when the user or the like presses the head 56, only the second return spring 57b is compressed first. As a result, the spring receiving tube 32 and the shaft body 55 move integrally toward the tip side in the direction of the central axis Ax. The spring receiving tube 32 and the shaft body 55 move to a position where the outward flange 32b abuts against the bottom surface of the third base portion 31c via the seal member 49. In the following description, this pressed state is referred to as the "first pressed state." When the user or the like further presses the head 56, the first return spring 57a is compressed. As a result, the shaft body 55 moves toward the tip side in the direction of the central axis Ax. The shaft body 55 moves to a position where the head 56 abuts against the inward flange 32c. In the following description, this pressed state is referred to as the "second pressed state."

[0065] A series of leak holes 60 are provided on the base end side of the head 56 and the shaft body 55. The leak holes 60 are bottomed holes that extend along the central axis Ax. The depth of the leak holes 60 is set to a depth that positions the tips (bottoms) of the leak holes 60 further distally than the through-holes 42a of the base 31 when the head 56 is not pressed by a user or the like.

[0066] The shaft body 55 is provided with a through hole 58a, a through hole 58b, and a through hole 58c in this order from the tip side. Each of the through holes 58a to 58c penetrates the shaft body 55, for example, in a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax. As a result, each of the through holes 58a to 58c communicates with the inside and outside of the leak hole 60. When the head 56 is not pressed, the through hole 58a is located at a position corresponding to the through hole 42a of the base 31. When the head 56 is not pressed, the through holes 58b and 58c are located at positions that are disposed within the air chamber Ca. When the head 56 is in the second pressed state, the through hole 58b is located at a position corresponding to the through hole 42a of the base 31.

[0067] On the distal end side of the leak hole 60, a seal ring 65a, a seal ring 65b, and a seal ring 65c are provided on the outer periphery of the shaft body 55, in that order from the distal end. Each of the seal rings 65a to 65c is slidable along the inner circumferential surface of the second cylinder portion 13b. Each of the seal rings 65a to 65c is spaced apart from one another by a predetermined distance in the direction of the central axis Ax. As a result, the seal rings 65a and 65b form a first liquid chamber Aw1 inside the second cylinder portion 13b. The seal rings 65b and 65c form a second liquid chamber Aw2 inside the second cylinder portion 13b. Furthermore, the seal ring 65a forms a third liquid chamber Aw3 inside the first cylinder portion 13a.

[0068] When the head 56 is not pressed, the first liquid chamber Aw1 communicates with the water supply conduit 10w. Furthermore, when the head 56 is not pressed, the second liquid chamber Aw2 communicates with the balloon water supply conduit 9w. Furthermore, when the head 56 is not pressed, the third liquid chamber Aw3 communicates with the nozzle water supply conduit 7w. Thus, when the head 56 is not pressed, the water supply conduit 10w, the balloon water supply conduit 9w, and the nozzle water supply conduit 7w each communicate with an independent closed space. This prevents fluid in the lumen from flowing back into the balloon water supply conduit 9w and the nozzle water supply conduit 7w even if the pressure in the lumen into which the endoscope 1 is inserted increases.

[0069] Furthermore, when the head 56 is in the first pressed state, the first liquid chamber Aw1 is opened to the inside of the third liquid chamber Aw3, thereby connecting the water supply conduit 10w to the nozzle water supply conduit 7w.

[0070] When the head 56 is in the second pressed state, the second liquid chamber Aw2 communicates with the water supply conduit 10w and the balloon water supply conduit 9w.

[0071] A guide member 66 is provided between the seal ring 65b and the seal ring 65c of the shaft body 55. The guide member 66 prevents the shaft body 55 from tilting relative to the air / water supply cylinder 13. In this way, the guide member 66 guides the shaft body 55 to move back and forth along the central axis Ax.

[0072] In this configuration, compressed air supplied from the air pump 16 is introduced into the air chamber Ca through the air supply conduit 10a and the through-hole 42b. The compressed air is then introduced into the leak hole 60 through the through-holes 58b and 58c of the shaft body 55.

[0073] When the head 56 of the air / water supply button 11 is not operated by a user or the like, the leak hole 60 is open, and compressed air is thereby released into the atmosphere from the leak hole 60. At this time, the check valve 44 closes the through-hole 42a (see FIG. 2).

[0074] On the other hand, when the user's finger touches the head 56 of the air / water supply button 11, the leak hole 60 is closed, thereby preventing the compressed air from being released into the atmosphere. At this time, the compressed air in the air chamber Ca causes the check valve 44 to open the through-hole 42a (see FIG. 4). As a result, the compressed air is supplied to the nozzle air supply conduit 7a.

[0075] Furthermore, when the head 56 is in the first pressing state, the through-hole 42b is closed by the sealing member 49. This blocks the supply of compressed air to the air chamber Ca. When the supply of compressed air to the air chamber Ca is blocked, the check valve 44 closes the through-hole 42a.

[0076] Furthermore, when the through-hole 42b is closed, the compressed air supplied from the air supply pump 16 is supplied to the water supply tank 19 via the air supply tube 19a. When the internal pressure of the water supply tank 19 is increased by the compressed air, the saline solution in the water supply tank 19 is supplied to the water supply conduit 10w. As described above, when the head 56 is in the first pressed state, the water supply conduit 10w is connected to the nozzle water supply conduit 7w inside the air and water supply cylinder 13 (see FIG. 5). Therefore, the saline solution is supplied from the water supply conduit 10w to the nozzle water supply conduit 7w.

[0077] Furthermore, when the head 56 is in the second pressing state, the water supply conduit 10w is connected to the balloon water supply conduit 9w inside the air / water supply cylinder 13 (see FIG. 6). Therefore, saline is supplied from the water supply conduit 10w to the balloon water supply conduit 9w.

[0078] After use of such an endoscope 1, reprocessing is performed on the endoscope 1. In this case, reprocessing of various endoscope accessories such as the air / water supply button 11 is performed in a state where they are detached from the endoscope 1.

[0079] As shown in Figure 7, the endoscope cleaning device 70 is a device that performs a regeneration process on a contaminated endoscope 1 and its parts or attachments (hereinafter simply referred to as "accessories"). The regeneration process referred to here is not particularly limited, and may include rinsing with water, cleaning to remove organic matter and other contaminants, disinfection to neutralize specific microorganisms, sterilization to eliminate or kill all microorganisms, or a combination of these. Examples of accessories include the air / water supply button 11, the suction button 12, and the forceps valve 18.

[0080] The endoscope cleaning device 70 is composed of a top cover 71 and a device main body 72. The device main body 72 has an operation unit 73 on the front surface. The operation unit 73 allows input of various instructions related to processes such as cleaning and disinfecting the endoscope 1. The device main body 72 has a water supply hose connection unit 74. The water suction hose connection unit 74 is connected to an external water supply means (not shown).

[0081] The top cover 71 is provided so as to be able to be opened and closed relative to the treatment tank 75 so as to cover the treatment tank 75. When the top cover 71 is opened, the inside of the treatment tank 75 is exposed to the outside.

[0082] The treatment tank 75 is formed in a tub shape so that the endoscope 1 can be placed therein. The treatment tank 75 has a water leak detection port 76, a water level sensor 77, a detergent nozzle 78, a chemical solution inlet 79, a drainage port 80, a circulation port 81, a connector 82, a circulation nozzle 83, and a case 84. The chemical solution inlet 79 is connected to a chemical solution introduction section (not shown). The circulation port 81 and the circulation nozzle 83 are connected to a fluid delivery section (not shown).

[0083] The endoscope cleaning device 70 is connected to the endoscope 1 via connection tubes T. In FIG. 7, the endoscope cleaning device 70 and the endoscope 1 are connected by four connection tubes T.

[0084] After being connected to the endoscope cleaning device 70, the endoscope 1 is placed in the treatment tank 24. At this time, accessories such as the air / water supply button 11, the suction button 13, and the forceps plug 18 are removed from the endoscope 1.

[0085] 8, the case 84 is configured to accommodate accessories. The case 84 is attached to a base 86 provided in the center of the treatment tank 75. The case 84 has a cup 87, a nozzle 88, and a lid 89.

[0086] The cup 87 is formed in a bowl shape so that a plurality of accessories can be stored therein. The cup 87 is made of, for example, metal or resin.

[0087] The nozzle 88 is disposed at the bottom of the cup 87. The nozzle 88 is configured to be able to introduce a fluid into the cup 87. The nozzle 88 has a bottom opening 88a, a fluid inlet 88b, and a fluid flow path 88c.

[0088] One or more fluid inlets 88b are arranged on the bottom of the case 84. Each fluid inlet 88b opens into the cup 87. Each fluid inlet 88b is capable of introducing fluid into the cup 87.

[0089] The fluid flow path 88c communicates with the bottom opening 88a and the fluid inlet 88b.

[0090] The lid 89 can be removably attached to the cup 87 so as to cover the upper opening of the cup 87. The lid 89 is made of, for example, metal or resin. The lid 89 may be provided with an outlet 89b so that the fluid inside the cup 87 can be discharged to the outside of the cup 87. The number of outlets 89b may be one or more. The lid 89 may be provided with a knob 89a that can be gripped with fingers.

[0091] The cup 87 of the case 84 accommodates accessories that have been removed from the endoscope 1. This allows the accessories to be cleaned at the same time that the endoscope 1 is cleaned.

[0092] Here, the endoscope cleaning device 70 has a protective cover 90 as an attachment. The protective cover 90 is housed in the cup 87 in a state where it is attached to the air / water supply button 11.

[0093] 9 to 11, the detailed configuration of the protective cover 90 will be described. The protective cover 90 is detachably attached to the shaft member 67 of the air / water supply button 11.

[0094] In this embodiment, the shaft member 67 of the air / water supply button 11 refers to the shaft portion of the air / water supply shaft 33 that protrudes further toward the tip than the outer cylindrical member 46. This shaft member 67 includes the shaft main body 55 and the base 31. In this embodiment, the seal rings 43a, 43b, and 65a-65c of the air / water supply button 11 and the guide member 66 each correspond to a specific example of a protrusion provided on the shaft member 67. Of these protrusions, the seal rings 43a, 43b, and 65a-65c are made of, for example, a rubber material. The guide member 66 is made of, for example, a resin material or a metal material that is harder than a rubber material.

[0095] The protective cover 90 has a frame 91 having a hollow, generally cylindrical shape. The protective cover 90 is made of, for example, a resin member, a rubber member, or a metal member (stainless steel, etc.). As a result, the protective cover 90 is made of a member that is harder than at least the seal ring 65a. More specifically, the protective cover 90 of this embodiment is made of a member that is harder than each of the seal rings 43a, 43b, 65a to 65c, which are made of, for example, a rubber member (silicone rubber, fluororubber, etc.). When the protective cover 90 is made of a resin or rubber material, materials such as ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), PC (polycarbonate), POM (polyacetal), PA6PA66 (polyamide), PEEK (polyether ether ketone), PUS (polysulfone), PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), PPSU (polyphenylsulfone), PSU (polysulfone), nylon, RENY (glass fiber reinforced polyamide MXD6), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), PP (polypropylene), PI (polyimide), PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene resin), PFA (perfluoroalkoxyalkane), PVFD (vinylidene fluoride resin), CERAMIC (ceramic), and polyslider can be suitably used. As shown in Figure 9, the length L1 of the frame 91 in the direction of the central axis Ax1 is set to be, for example, a predetermined length (for example, a few mm) shorter than the length L2 from the seal ring 65a of the air / water supply button 11 to the base end of the shaft member 67.

[0096] 11 , the frame 91 has a distal end portion 95, a proximal end portion 96, and an intermediate portion 97. Here, the intermediate portion 97 is a portion formed between the distal end portion 95 and the proximal end portion 96 of the frame 91.

[0097] The outer diameter of a tip portion 95 of the frame 91 is smaller than the outer diameter of the intermediate portion 97. This tip portion 95 is continuous with a taper 97b formed near the tip of the intermediate portion 97. A first communication hole 95a is provided in the tip portion 95. The first communication hole 95a passes through the tip portion 95 along the central axis Ax1. As a result, the first communication hole 95a communicates between the external space and the internal space of the frame 91.

[0098] The inner diameter of the first communication hole 95a is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the shaft member 67. This allows the shaft member 67 to be inserted into the first communication hole 95a.

[0099] Furthermore, the inner diameter of the first communication hole 95a is set smaller than the outer diameter of the seal ring 65a. As a result, when the shaft member 67 is inserted into the first communication hole 95a, the tip surface 95b of the tip portion 95 can be hooked onto the seal ring 65a. That is, in this embodiment, the tip surface 95b of the tip portion 95 is formed as a hook portion that can be hooked onto the seal ring 65a. Note that the location where such a hook portion is formed is the location where the inner diameter of the substantially cylindrical frame 91 is smallest.

[0100] A second communication hole 96a is provided in the base end portion 96 of the frame 91. The second communication hole 96a penetrates the base end portion 96 along the central axis Ax1. As a result, the second communication hole 96a communicates between the external space and the internal space of the frame 91.

[0101] Here, the inner diameter of the second communication hole 96a is set to be sufficiently larger than the outer diameter of each of the multiple protrusions provided on the shaft member 67. This allows the shaft member 67 to be inserted into the second communication hole 96a without contacting the protrusions.

[0102] The intermediate portion 97 of the frame 91 forms an internal space of the frame 91. The inner diameter of the intermediate portion 97 is set to be sufficiently larger than the outer diameter of the multiple protrusions provided on the shaft member 67. More specifically, in this embodiment, the inner diameter of the intermediate portion 97 is set to be the same as the inner diameter of the second communication hole 96a. This allows the shaft member 67 to be inserted into the internal space of the intermediate portion 97 (internal space of the frame 91) without contacting the protrusions.

[0103] A plurality of third communication holes 97a are provided in the intermediate portion 97. Each of the third communication holes 97a penetrates the frame 91 in a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax1. As a result, each of the third communication holes 97a communicates with the external space and the internal space of the frame 91 at a side portion of the frame 91.

[0104] In this embodiment, the planar shape of each third communication hole 97a is, for example, an elongated rectangular shape extending in the direction of the central axis Ax1. Furthermore, each third communication hole Ax1 is, for example, arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction of the frame 91. Here, it is preferable that the width of each third communication hole Ax1 is set smaller than the width of a protrusion or the like protruding from other accessories (such as the suction button 13 and the forceps plug 18). An example of a protrusion or the like protruding from another accessory is a suction tube or the like protruding from the suction button 13.

[0105] 9 and 10 , the shaft member 67 of the air / water supply button 11 is inserted through the first communication hole 95a and the second communication hole 96a of the protective cover 90 configured in this manner. The shaft member 67 is inserted from the second communication hole 96a side toward the first communication hole 95a. The shaft member 67 is inserted until, for example, the outer tube member 46 of the air / water supply button 11 abuts against the base end surface of the protective cover 90.

[0106] When the shaft member 67 is inserted, the seal ring 65a passes through the first communication hole 95a while elastically deforming. After passing through the first communication hole 95a, the seal ring 65a returns to its original shape. When the seal ring 65a returns to its original shape, the tip surface 95b of the protective cover 90 is latched onto the seal ring 65a. This latching prevents the protective cover 90 from falling off the shaft member 67 of the air / water supply button 11. In other words, the protective cover 90 is attached to the air / water supply button 11 while covering the outer periphery of the check valve 44.

[0107] The air / water supply button 11 with the protective cover 90 attached is housed in a cup 87 of a case 84 together with the suction button 13, the forceps valve 18, etc. Then, cleaning or the like is performed on the air / water supply button 11 and other accessories. During this cleaning or the like, a fluid such as a cleaning liquid is sprayed into the cup 87 from a fluid inlet 88b. This spray of fluid causes the accessories to move randomly inside the cup 87.

[0108] Even in this state, the protective cover 90 protects the check valve 44 and other components of the air / water supply button 11 from being hit by other accessories. That is, by covering the check valve 44 and other components, the protective cover 90 prevents the check valve 44 and other components from being hit by other accessories (see FIG. 12). In this way, the protective cover 90 prevents damage to the check valve 44 and other components during cleaning, etc.

[0109] Here, the inner diameters of the intermediate portion 97 and the base end portion 96 of the protective cover 90 are set larger than the outer diameters of the protrusions. Therefore, the seal rings 43a, 43b, 65b, 65c, the guide member 66, the check valve 44, etc. are housed in the internal space of the protective cover 90 without contacting the protective cover 90.

[0110] Furthermore, the middle portion 97 of the frame 91 has a plurality of third communication holes 97a. Therefore, cleaning liquid and the like flows into the internal space of the protective cover 90 via the plurality of third communication holes 97a.

[0111] With this configuration, even when the protective cover 90 is attached to the air / water supply button 11, the seal rings 43a, 43b, 65b, 65c, the guide member 66, etc. are exposed to cleaning liquid, etc. Therefore, the seal rings 43a, 43b, 65b, 65c, the guide member 66, etc. are properly cleaned.

[0112] Furthermore, the length L1 of the frame 91 (protective cover 90) along the central axis Ax1 is slightly shorter than the length L2 from the seal ring 65a of the air / water supply button 11 to the base end of the shaft member 67. Therefore, the protective cover 90 is movable along the central axis Ax1 within a range that does not expose the check valve 44 to the outside. When the protective cover 90 moves toward the base end along the central axis Ax1, the tip surface 95b moves away from the seal ring 65a, forming a gap between the seal ring 65a and the tip surface 95b. By forming such a gap, the seal ring 65a is also exposed to cleaning fluid and the like as appropriate. Therefore, the seal ring 65a is also properly cleaned.

[0113] According to this embodiment, the protective cover 90 includes a frame 91 having an internal space and covering the check valve 44 without contacting the second seal ring 43 and the check valve 44, a tip end 95 of the frame 91 having a first communication hole 95a that connects the external space of the frame 91 with the internal space and allows the shaft member 67 to be inserted therethrough, a base end 96 of the frame 91 having a second communication hole 96a that connects the external space of the frame 91 with the internal space and allows the shaft member 67 to be inserted therethrough, and a middle portion 97 of the frame 91 having a plurality of third communication holes 97a that connect the external space of the frame 91 with the internal space between the tip end 95 and the base end 96. This allows the air / water supply button 11 to be reprocessed accurately without damaging the check valve 44.

[0114] Here, the protrusion that can engage the distal end surface 95b, which is the engaging portion of the protective cover 90, is not limited to the seal ring 65a. For example, as shown in Figures 13 to 15, the protective cover 90 can be configured so that the distal end surface 95b can be engaged with the seal ring 65b. In this case, the length L1 of the frame 91 in the direction of the central axis Ax1 is set to be shorter by a predetermined length (for example, several mm) than the length L2 from the seal ring 65b of the air / water supply button 11 to the base end of the shaft member 67.

[0115] Furthermore, the protrusions on which the distal end surface 95b, which is the latching portion of the protective cover 90, can be latched are not limited to the seal rings. For example, as shown in FIGS. 16 to 18, the protective cover 90 can be configured so that the distal end surface 95b can be latched on the guide member 66. In this case, the length L1 of the frame 91 in the direction of the central axis Ax1 is set to be shorter by a predetermined length (e.g., several millimeters) than the length L2 from the guide member 66 to the base end of the shaft member 67 of the air / water supply button 11. Note that when the guide member 66 is made of a hard metal member or a resin member, it is preferable to make the protective cover 90 of a rubber member or a resin member that is softer than the guide member 66.

[0116] Alternatively, the hooking portion of the protective cover 90 may be provided on the base end 96 of the frame 91. In this case, for example, as shown in FIGS. 19 to 21, a distal end surface 96b of the base end 96 functions as a hooking portion that can be hooked onto a protrusion. The protrusion that can hook the distal end surface 96b as a hooking portion is a protrusion provided on the shaft member 67 closer to the base end than the check valve 44. In the example shown in FIGS. 19 to 21, the distal end surface 96b is configured to be hooked onto the second seal ring 43b. For the base end of the protective cover 90 to move closer to the base end than the second seal ring 43b, for example, the base end of the protective cover 90 needs to elastically deform and overcome the seal rings 43a, 43b, 65a to 65c and the guide member 66. Therefore, the protective cover 90 of this modified example is preferably made of a rubber material that is softer than the seal rings 43a, 43b, 65a to 65c.

[0117] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and variations are possible, and these are also within the technical scope of the present invention. For example, the configurations of the above-described embodiment and each modification can be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 1. Endoscope 2 ... Insertion section 3...Operation unit 4...Universal cable 6 … Tip 7...Air and water supply nozzle 7a ... Nozzle air supply line 7b ... Nozzle water supply pipe 7w... Water supply pipe for nozzle 8...Treatment tool channel 8a … Channel opening 8b ... Treatment tool insertion port 8v... Channel suction line 9... Balloon 9a ... Balloon duct 9v ... Balloon suction line 9w... Water supply line for balloon 11...Air and water supply button 10a … Air supply pipe line 10a1 ... First branch pipe 10a2 ... Second branch line 10v … Suction line 10w … Water pipeline 12 ... Suction button 13...Air and water supply cylinder 13a ... First cylinder section 13b ... second cylinder section 13b ... Third cylinder section 13c ... Third cylinder section 13d ... Fourth cylinder section 14...Suction cylinder 15...Endoscope connector 15a ... Light guide connector 15b ... Video connector 15c ... Air supply nozzle 15d... Water supply nozzle 15e ... Suction nozzle 16...Air pump 17...Suction pump 17a ... Suction tube 18... Forceps plug 19... Water tank 19a...Air supply tube 19b... Water supply tube 31... Bass 31a ... First base part 31b ... Second base part 31c ... Third base 32 ... Spring holder 32a … Cylinder body 32b ... Outward flange 32c...inward flange 33...Air and water supply shaft 35a … Through hole 35b … Through hole 35c … Through hole 35d … Through hole 35e … Through hole 36a ... First tapered surface 36b ... Second tapered surface 37 ... nozzle 37a... Engagement protrusion 42a … Through hole 42b … Through hole 43a ... First seal ring 43b ... Second seal ring 44...Check valve 45 ... Seal ring 46 ... Outer cylinder member 46a ... Engagement recess 47 ... Threaded section 49 ... Sealing material 50...Stopper ring 51 ... Seal ring 55... Shaft body 55a ... Outward flange 56... Head 57a ... 1st return spring 57b ... Second return spring 58a ... through hole 58b … Through hole 58c … Through hole 60...Leak hole 65a ... Seal ring 65b ... Seal ring 65c ... Seal ring 66 ... Guide member 67 … Shaft member 70... Endoscope cleaning device 71 ... Top cover 72 ... Device body 73 … Operation section 75... Treatment tank 84 … Case 86 ... Pedestal 87...cups 88... nozzle 88a … Bottom opening 88b ... fluid inlet 88c ... fluid flow path 89 … Lid 89a ... Picking 89b … Outlet 90...protective cover 91...frame 91 ... Internal space (frame 95 … Tip 95b … Tip surface 96 … Proximal end 96b … Tip surface 97...Middle section 97b ... Tapered Ax … center axis Ax1…Center axis

Claims

1. An attachment for an endoscope button having a shaft member on the outer periphery of which is arranged an elastic member having a valve, a frame having an internal space and covering the valve without contacting the elastic member; a tip end portion of the frame having a first communication hole that communicates an external space with the internal space of the frame and through which the shaft member can be inserted; a base end portion of the frame having a second communication hole that communicates the external space with the internal space of the frame and into which the shaft member can be inserted; an intermediate portion of the frame having one or more third communication holes that connect the external space and the internal space of the frame between the tip end and the base end,

2. 2. An attachment for an endoscope button according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the tip end and the base end has a hook portion configured to hook onto a protrusion provided on the shaft member when the shaft member is inserted through the first communicating hole and the second communicating hole.

3. 3. The attachment for a button for an endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the hook portion is formed of a material harder than the protrusion portion.

4. 4. The attachment for a button for an endoscope according to claim 3, wherein the protrusion is made of a resin material or a rubber material.

5. 3. The attachment for a button for an endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the hook portion is formed of a material that is softer than the protrusion portion.

6. 6. The attachment for a button for an endoscope according to claim 5, wherein the protrusion is made of a metal material or a resin material.

7. 3. The attachment for a button for an endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the protrusion and the hook are made of a resin material or a rubber material.

8. 3. The attachment for a button for an endoscope according to claim 2, wherein a predetermined gap can be formed between the hook portion and the convex portion when the hook portion is hooked onto the convex portion.

9. the hook portion is provided at the tip portion of the frame, 9. The button attachment for an endoscope according to claim 8, wherein the length from the tip to the base end of the frame is shorter than the length from the convex portion of the shaft member to the base end of the shaft member.

10. the hook portion is provided at the tip portion of the frame, The inner diameter of the hook portion is smaller than the outer diameter of the protrusion, 3. The attachment to a button for an endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the inner diameter of the frame is smallest at the hook portion.

11. An endoscope cleaning device comprising the endoscope button attachment according to claim 1.

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