Endoscope with attached pull cable

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an endoscope having a proximal endoscope housing (10) and a pull cable drive (16) disposed within the proximal endoscope housing (10), with a pull cable (60) secured to the cable drive (16) and extending through the endoscope to a distal side of the endoscope to enable movement of the pull cable at the distal side of the endoscope. The pull cable drive (16) comprises an assembly of a pull cable fixation element (30) and a Bowden cable fixation element (20). A Bowden cable (50) extending to the distal side of the endoscope and through which the pull cable (60) is threaded is secured to the Bowden cable fixation element (20). The pull cable (60) is glued to the pull cable fixation element (30).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an endoscope having a pull cable drive.

[0002] More precisely, the present disclosure relates to an endoscope comprising a proximal endoscope housing and a pull cable drive disposed within the proximal endoscope housing, with a pull cable secured to the cable drive and extending within the endoscope to a distal side of the endoscope such that movement of the pull cable can be utilized at the distal side of the endoscope. [Background technology]

[0003] This cable is constructed in a similar manner to a Bowden cable, with a pull wire (the actual pull cable) surrounded by a flexible, yet relatively resistant sleeve to compression in the pulling direction. The sleeve serves as a counter support to guide the pulling motion of the pull wire and to support (reinforce) the transmission of the pulling force (tension). In this way, the Bowden cable is able to transmit pulling forces well through curved paths within the endoscope.

[0004] The sleeve is supported at the distal and proximal ends, with the pull wires protruding from the ends of the sleeve.

[0005] In one design, the end of the pull wire protruding from the proximal end of the sleeve is soldered to a metal nipple at the proximal end. The metal nipple is inserted into a nipple groove in an angle wheel. The proximal end of the sleeve is clamped to a sleeve groove portion spaced apart from the nipple groove. By rotating the angle wheel, the end of the pull wire fixed to the angle wheel is displaced relative to the sleeve, thus applying or releasing tension.

[0006] This design uses many individual parts and many sequential assembly steps and therefore carries a corresponding cost. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The object of the present disclosure is to find a cost-effective solution for the proximal fixation of the pull cable. In particular, it is an object of the present disclosure to find an endoscope with an expedient proximal fixation of the pull cable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] This object is achieved by an endoscope according to claim 1. Embodiments thereof are detailed in the dependent claims.

[0009] The present disclosure relates to an endoscope. The endoscope includes a proximal endoscope housing and a pull cable drive disposed within the proximal endoscope housing. A pull cable is secured to the pull cable drive and the pull cable extends through the endoscope to a distal side of the endoscope such that movement of the pull cable is available at the distal side of the endoscope. The pull cable drive includes an assembly of a pull cable fixation element and a Bowden cable fixation element. A Bowden cable extends to the distal side of the endoscope and through which the pull cable is routed (guided) and is secured to the Bowden cable fixation element. The pull cable is glued to the pull cable fixation element.

[0010] In this endoscope, the pulling cable can be glued to the pulling cable fixing element. The complex and expensive operation of attaching and fixing a metal nipple to the end of the pulling cable is no longer necessary. The gluing spot can take up only a very small space in the joining / gluing of the pulling cable, so that the installation space for the fixing of the pulling cable is also smaller than if a metal nipple were placed at the end of the pulling cable. By gluing the pulling cable, a low-cost mass production is also possible. The manufacturing costs of the endoscope are reduced.

[0011] The Bowden cable fixation element may have (include) a groove along which a proximal end portion of the Bowden cable is immovably fixed relative to the Bowden cable fixation element.

[0012] The proximal end portion of the Bowden cable is fixed in a simple manner by placing it in a groove. This solution supports cost-effective mass production. The technical efforts for fixing the Bowden cable are low and at the same time a high level of reliability is provided.

[0013] The proximal end portion of the Bowden cable can be glued into the Bowden cable fixation element. Alternatively, or in addition, the proximal end portion of the Bowden cable can be clamped or held in a mating manner in the Bowden cable fixation element.

[0014] The pull cable fixation element can be rotatably mounted within the endoscope housing and the Bowden cable fixation element can be non-rotatably mounted within the endoscope housing distally from the pull cable fixation element such that the pull cable can be tensioned / released by rotating the pull cable fixation element relative to the Bowden cable fixation element.

[0015] The assembly including the tension cable fixation element and the Bowden cable fixation element can be made of plastic and can be removable from the endoscope housing. This provides a cost-effective assembly of the tension cable fixation element and the Bowden cable fixation element. Any suitable form can be chosen for the assembly of the tension cable fixation element and the Bowden cable fixation element, including more complex forms. The assembly including the tension cable fixation element and the Bowden cable fixation element is easy to install in the endoscope housing.

[0016] The tension cable fixation element may include a lever element configured to be inserted from outside the endoscope housing, and the tension cable fixation element is configured to be rotated relative to the endoscope housing and the Bowden cable fixation element by operating the lever element. Thus, the operation for rotating the tension cable fixation element relative to the Bowden cable fixation element is simple and easy for the user to understand. The assembly of the tension cable fixation element and Bowden cable fixation element assembly with the lever element is also simple. The lever element may be configured to be snapped into place within the tension cable fixation element. Here, the lever element may be snapped into place within the tension cable fixation element in such a way that once snapped into place, the user can no longer separate the lever element from the tension cable fixation element without destroying the endoscope housing. Such an endoscope is safe against misuse.

[0017] On the other hand, it is also possible to choose a design in which the lever element is snapped into place in a removable manner in the tension cable fastening element, thereby ensuring versatility in component selection and easy repair possibilities.

[0018] Two Bowden cables extending to the distal side of the endoscope can be fixed in the Bowden cable fixation element, through each of which a pull cable is led, which is fixed to a bonding spot in the pull cable fixation element. One end of one pull cable is led distally in one Bowden cable, and one end of the other pull cable is led distally in the other Bowden cable. The other opposite ends, i.e. the proximal ends, of the two pull cables are then fixed in the pull cable fixation element. The proximal ends of the two pull cables can be mechanically connected, for example by splicing, fusing, knotting, etc., prior to bonding. Alternatively, the proximal ends of the two pull cables can simply be bonded without being mechanically connected.

[0019] Alternatively, two Bowden cables extending distally of the endoscope can be secured within the Bowden cable securement element, with a single pull cable routed through the two Bowden cables and a proximal turn point of the single pull cable secured to a bond spot within the pull cable securement element, with one end of the single pull cable routed distally within one Bowden cable and the other end of the single pull cable routed distally within the other Bowden cable.

[0020] The pulling cable can be glued to the pulling cable fixing element at at least two adhesive spots spaced apart from one another. This means that the pulling cable is held even more securely on the pulling cable fixing element. Even if the pulling cable is only glued to the pulling cable fixing element without being mechanically fixed, a secure holding of the pulling cable is guaranteed.

[0021] The two bond spots can include a proximal end bond spot as a primary bond spot and a secondary bond spot located distally from the end bond spot, with the tension cable being brought from the distal side and bonded at the secondary bond spot on the tension cable fixation element, and further bonded along the proximal direction at the end bond spot on the tension cable fixation element.

[0022] At the secondary gluing spot, an adhesive wipe wall (glue wipe wall) can be formed on the tension cable fastening element. The adhesive (glue) can be easily applied and wiped off at the adhesive wipe wall. After the adhesive is wiped off, the adhesive is already in the desired gluing position. Thus, gluing of the tension cable becomes even easier and more cost-effective.

[0023] At the secondary bonding spot, a further wall facing the adhesive wiping wall (opposite the adhesive wiping wall) can be formed on the pulling cable fixing element, and at the secondary bonding spot, an adhesive deposition area (glue deposition area) can be formed on the pulling cable fixing element between the adhesive wiping wall and the other opposing wall, and the pulling cable is glued to the pulling cable fixing element in the adhesive deposition area. The pulling cable passes through the adhesive deposition area at the secondary bonding spot. The adhesive wiping wall and the other wall facing the adhesive wiping wall can form a kind of depression or valley in the adhesive deposition area that can hold a predetermined amount of adhesive (glue) in the adhesive deposition area. This makes it easier to meter the adhesive. Thus, gluing of the pulling cable becomes even simpler and more cost-effective.

[0024] A protrusion rising from the tension cable fixing element adjacent to the end bond spot can be provided on the tension cable fixing element, and the tension cable that is bonded at the end bond spot is wrapped around the protrusion. If the tension cable is wrapped around the protrusion close to the end bond spot, the pulling force / tension applied to the tension cable can be absorbed by the protrusion. Thus, the tension cable is held even more securely at the end bond spot. In some cases, even tensions that arise in the tension cable during the curing of the adhesive can be tolerated.

[0025] Two protrusions can be provided on the tension cable fixing element adjacent to the end bond spot, rising from the tension cable fixing element, and the tension cable to be bonded at the end bond spot is wrapped around both protrusions, with the end bond spot being located between the protrusions, making the connection even easier and more secure.

[0026] The above-described aspects of the present disclosure can be combined as appropriate. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a perspective schematic view of an example endoscope control body housing with pull cable drive; [Diagram 2] 2 shows a perspective schematic view of a proximal portion of the control body housing of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 1 shows a schematic perspective view of the control body housing without the pull cable drive. [Figure 4] 4 shows a perspective schematic view of a proximal portion of the control body housing of FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 shows a schematic top perspective view of a tension cable drive. [Figure 6] 1 shows a schematic perspective view from below of a tension cable fixing element of the tension cable drive. [Figure 7] 1 shows a perspective top schematic view of a portion of a pull cable fixation element showing the primary bond spots. [Figure 8] 13 shows a further perspective plan schematic view of a portion of a tension cable fixation element; [Figure 9] 13 shows a further perspective plan schematic view of a portion of a pull cable fixation element showing secondary bond spots. [Figure 10] 1 shows a perspective plan schematic view of a tension cable fixation element. [Figure 11] 1 shows a schematic perspective plan view of a detail of a tension cable fixation element. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 shows a schematic bottom perspective view of a tension cable drive; [Figure 13] FIG. 2 shows a perspective top schematic view of a Bowden cable fixing element of a tension cable drive. [Figure 14] 13 shows a further perspective plan view schematic of a Bowden cable fixation element; [Figure 15] 1 shows a schematic perspective view from below of a Bowden cable fixing element. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 shows a perspective plan schematic view of a lever element of a tension cable drive; [Figure 17] 1 shows a schematic perspective side view of a lever element; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] The present disclosure will now be described in detail on the basis of examples with reference to the drawings, in which the figures are not necessarily to scale, but rather may be shown exaggerated for greater clarity.

[0029] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0030] structure 1 shows a perspective top schematic view of a control body housing 10 of an endoscope 1 including a pull cable drive 16. The control body housing 10 forms the proximal endoscope housing of the present disclosure.

[0031] The control unit main body housing 10 is held by the user in the hand and therefore has a suitable ergonomic design. At the distal side of the control unit main body housing 10, an insertion tube 11 extends in the distal direction. The insertion tube 11 is inserted into a patient or object to be examined. At the distal side, the insertion tube 11 has an endoscope head (not shown). The insertion tube 11 is flexible.

[0032] More precisely, Fig. 1 shows one half of the control body housing 10. The other half of the control body housing 10 (not shown) is placed onto the half of the control body housing 10 shown in Fig. 1 to complete the control body housing 10.

[0033] Thus, the control body housing 10 has a number of fastening connectors 12 at various suitable locations for connection to the other half of the control body housing 10 by suitable fastening means, such as screws, in a known manner.

[0034] Additionally, a suction channel 14 with a proximal suction connector 13 and an instrument inlet portion 15 as a proximal access for the working channel are disposed within the control body housing 10. Both the suction channel 14 and the working channel lead distally to the endoscope head.

[0035] Mounted within the control body housing 10 is a pull cable drive 16 according to the present disclosure.

[0036] The pull cable drive 16 is constructed to provide tensioning / relief of the pull cable 60 .

[0037] A pull cable 60 extends from a pull cable drive 16 disposed proximally within the endoscope to the distal end of the endoscope.

[0038] The tension cable drive 16 is formed as an assembly and includes a Bowden cable fixation element 20 and a tension cable fixation element 30. A lever element 40 is inserted into the tension cable fixation element 30 to rotate the tension cable fixation element 30. The Bowden cable fixation element 20, the tension cable fixation element 30, and the lever element 40 are made of plastic. Other suitable materials may be used.

[0039] Figures 1 and 2 show the control body housing 10 with the pull cable drive 16. Figures 3 and 4 show the control body housing 10 without the pull cable drive 16.

[0040] 5 and 12 show the tension cable drive 16 as a fully assembled assembly with the lever element 40.

[0041] Two Bowden cables 50 (50a, 50b) are fixed to the Bowden cable fixing element 20. Each Bowden cable 50 guides a tension cable 60. This means that two tension cables 60 (60a, 60b) are fixed to the tension cable fixing element 30. The Bowden cable fixing element 20 is inserted immovably in the control body housing 10.

[0042] The pulling cable fixing element 30 is rotatably arranged in the control body housing 10. The pulling cable fixing element 30 can be rotated with respect to both the control body housing 10 and the Bowden cable fixing element 20 by the lever element 40. The lever element 40 can be operated from the outside of the control body housing 10. When the pulling cable fixing element 30 is rotated, one pulling cable 60a is pulled and the other pulling cable 60b is released (see FIG. 5). This means that the pulling cable 60a can be pulled out from the Bowden cable 50a to cause, for example, a pivoting movement in one direction at the endoscope head. Furthermore, the pulling cable 60b can be pulled out from the Bowden cable 50b to cause, for example, a pivoting movement in the other direction at the endoscope head. The pulling cables 60a and 60b are operably connected at the proximal and distal ends. Thus, as pull cable 60a is withdrawn proximally from Bowden cable 50a, pull cable 60b is withdrawn distally into Bowden cable 50b. Similarly, as pull cable 60b is withdrawn proximally from Bowden cable 50b, pull cable 60a is withdrawn distally into Bowden cable 50a.

[0043] The pull cable drive 16 is described in detail below.

[0044] 6-11 show the pull cable fixation element 30. FIG.

[0045] Pull cable fixation element 30 is rotatably mounted within control body housing 10. Pull cable fixation element 30 is configured to be rotated by a user from outside endoscope 1 by rotating a lever, such as lever element 40 described below. Pull cable 60 is fixed to pull cable fixation element 30. Thus, by rotating pull cable fixation element 30, pull cable 60 is tensioned or released.

[0046] An example of a pull cable fixation element 30 is described in detail below.

[0047] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the tension cable fixation element 30 has a distal side that faces in the distal direction of the endoscope 1 and a proximal side that faces in the proximal direction. In Figures 1 and 2, the distal direction points to the left and the proximal direction points to the right. Additionally, the tension cable fixation element 30 has an upper side that faces towards the viewer of Figures 1 and 2 and a lower side that faces away from the viewer of Figures 1 and 2.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 10, the tension cable fixing element 30 has a base plate 31. The base plate 31 is formed as a flat plate. The base plate 31 has a riser / protrusion 33 that protrudes from the base plate 31 toward a support element provided on the control body housing 10 formed by a support base 150 described below. In FIG. 6, the riser 33 protrudes downward from the base plate 31. The riser 33 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The riser 33 can be formed as a hollow cylinder. In this example, the riser 33 has an inner hole 331 extending along the longitudinal direction of the riser 33. The inner hole 331 forms a through hole that extends through the tension cable fixing element 30.

[0049] A first hole 317 for a fixation pin (not shown) is provided on the base plate 31 distal to the inner hole 331 (see FIG. 10 ). This fixation pin is used to adjust the zero position between the tension cable fixation element 30 and the Bowden cable fixation element 20, as will be described in more detail below.

[0050] The hole 317 extends parallel to the inner hole 331. The hole 317 is located on an imaginary central axis of the base plate 31 extending in the proximal-distal direction. This central axis of the base plate 31 connects the center of the hole 317 and the center of the inner hole 331. The tension cable fixation element 30 has this central axis of the base plate 31 as a line of symmetry. The left and right parts of the central axis of the base plate 31 are formed symmetrically to each other.

[0051] At the end side opposite the base plate 31, the riser 33 has an end 334. The end 334 can be formed as a bearing element. The bearing element can be rotatably mounted on the support base 150 in the control body housing 10. Any suitable design can be selected for rotatably mounting the tension cable fixing element 30 in the control body housing 10.

[0052] The outer diameter of the riser 33 may taper from the base plate 31 to the end 334. The outer diameter of the end 334 is dimensioned such that the end 334 can be inserted into the receiving opening 152 of the support base 150 and is configured to rotate in the receiving opening 152 of the support base 150.

[0053] The base plate 31 has a base 32 on the opposite side to the rising portion 33. The base 32 rises from the base plate 31 in the opposite direction to the rising portion 33. The base 32 has a base proximal side 322 on the proximal side that functions as a pull cable placement surface. In this example, the base proximal side 322 is curved toward the proximal side (see Figures 7 and 8). The area of ​​the base proximal side 322 that protrudes furthest proximally is located in the center of the base proximal side 322. The base 32 has side edges 323 on each of the left and right edges.

[0054] Adjacent to the base 32, two protrusions 714 protrude from the base plate 31. The protrusions 714 extend in the opposite direction to the rising portion 33. The protrusions 714 are formed in a columnar shape. The protrusions 714 are spaced apart from each other. In the center between the two protrusions 714, a bonding spot formed as an end bonding spot 71 is provided on the surface of the base plate 31. The pull cable 60 is bonded to the end bonding spot 71, as will be described later. The center between the two protrusions 714, and therefore the center point of the end bonding spot 71, is located on the central axis of the base plate 31 described above. The center point of the inner hole 331 is located on the central axis of the base plate 31 described above, between the center of the end bonding spot 71 and the center of the hole 317.

[0055] In the lateral portions (top and bottom in FIG. 10), respective secondary bond spots 72 are formed on the base proximal side 322 of the base 32. Thus, there are two secondary bond spots 72 on the base proximal side 322 of the base 32: a right secondary bond spot 72 (bottom in FIG. 10) and a left secondary bond spot 72 (top in FIG. 10).

[0056] At each secondary adhesive spot 72, an inward bulge is formed on the base proximal side 322 of the base 32 as an adhesive wipe wall 75. A wall 73 is raised on the base plate 31 at a position opposite the adhesive wipe wall 75. An adhesive deposition area 74 is formed between the wall 73 and the adhesive wipe wall 75. The adhesive deposition area 74 is formed in a canyon between the adhesive wipe wall 75 and the wall 73. At each side end of the canyon formed as the adhesive deposition area 74, a side opening 76 is formed (see FIG. 9). A tension cable 60 is led through the adhesive deposition area 74. The tension cable 60 is glued to the adhesive deposition area 74.

[0057] 8 and 9 show adhesive deposit area 74 filled with adhesive (glue).

[0058] The bonding of the pull cable 60 in the pull cable fastening element 30 is explained in detail below. The bonding of the pull cable 60 is explained using the example of a pull cable 60a (see FIG. 5).

[0059] Coming from the distal side, the pull cable 60 is guided within the Bowden cable 50 (see FIG. 5). The pull cable 60 extends proximally from the Bowden cable 50 uncovered. The pull cable 60 extends proximally from the Bowden cable 50 and is guided to the side edge 323 of the base 32. From the side edge 323 of the base 32, the pull cable 60 is guided to the base proximal side 322 of the base 32, where it is further guided along the base proximal side 322 towards the two protrusions 714. Here, the pull cable 60 passes through the secondary bond spot 72. More precisely, the pulling cable 60 passes through a first side opening 76 (lower side opening 76 in FIG. 9) of the canyon formed as adhesive deposition area 74, passes through the canyon formed as adhesive deposition area 74, and passes through a second side opening 76 (lower side opening 76 in FIG. 9) of the canyon formed as adhesive deposition area 74. The first side opening 76 forms an entrance opening for the pulling cable 60 to enter the canyon. The second side opening 76 forms an exit opening for the pulling cable 60 to exit the canyon. An adhesive (glue) is applied to the adhesive deposition area 74.

[0060] The pulling cable 60 is further led at the base proximal side 322 to the second protrusion 714 (upper protrusion 714 in FIG. 7 ) as viewed from the adhesive deposition area 74. Thus, the pulling cable 60 is led along the base proximal side 322 past the first protrusion 714 (lower protrusion 714 in FIG. 7 ) to the second protrusion 714. The pulling cable 60 is wrapped around the second protrusion 714. More precisely, the pulling cable 60 is led between the base proximal side 322 and the second protrusion 714 and wrapped once around the second protrusion 714. The pulling cable 60 is then led between the base proximal side 322 and the first protrusion 714 and wrapped once around the first protrusion 714 (see FIG. 8 ). Between the first protrusion 714 and the second protrusion 714 , adhesive (glue) is applied at the end bond spot 71 .

[0061] This means that the pull cable 60 is bonded at end bond spots 71 forming primary bond spots and secondary bond spots 72 within adhesive deposition area 74 .

[0062] More precisely, pull cable 60a is bonded at end bond spot 71 and secondary bond spot 72 in the manner described above.

[0063] The other pull cable 60b is bonded at end bond spot 71 and secondary bond spot 72 in the same manner.

[0064] The two pull cables 60a and 60b may be knotted, spliced, fused, or otherwise connected at end bond spot 71. The connection points of the two pull cables 60a and 60b are then covered with adhesive at end bond spot 71.

[0065] The tension cable fixing element 30 has a plurality of (four in this example) protrusions 333 on the outer periphery of the riser 33 between the base plate 31 and the end 334 (see FIG. 6). The plurality of protrusions 333 include a distal protrusion 333, two lateral protrusions 333, and a proximal protrusion 333A. The proximal protrusion 333A protrudes in the proximal direction from the riser 33.

[0066] The proximal protrusion 333A is provided below the base plate 31. The proximal protrusion 333A is disposed lower than the other protrusions 333. The proximal protrusion 333A is located closer to the base plate 31 than the end 334. The proximal protrusion 333A is used to determine the allowable rotation angle of the tension cable fixing element 30.

[0067] At the upper side of the tension cable fixing element 30 opposite to the rising portion 33, the inner hole 331 opens and forms an upper opening (see FIG. 10). A guide 332 is provided on the inner circumference of the upper opening of the inner hole 331 (see FIG. 11). The guide 332 is formed as a recess on the inner circumferential surface of the upper opening of the inner hole 331. The guide 332 extends in the longitudinal direction of the inner hole 331. The upper opening of the inner hole 331 receives the lever element 40 described below. The lever element 40 is inserted into the guide 332. The guide 332 is used to transmit a rotational force from the lever element 40 to the tension cable fixing element 30. The guide 332 has side surfaces that are opposed to each other and are not parallel to each other. The side surfaces of the guide 332 taper (approach each other) downward (in the insertion direction of the lever element 40).

[0068] In the inner hole 331, a rib 340 protrudes in a direction (upward) away from the base plate 31. The rib 340 protrudes beyond the edge of the inner hole 331 in a direction away from the base plate 31. In the direction away from the base plate 31, the rib 340 has a contact surface 341. The contact surface 341 faces away from the base plate 31. The contact surface 341 may be parallel to the base plate 31. Alternatively, the contact surface 341 may be (slightly) inclined with respect to the base plate 31.

[0069] The individual components of tension cable fixation element 30 (base plate 31, base 32, riser 33, wall 73, protrusion 333, end 334, protrusion 714) can be integrally formed to form tension cable fixation element 30. Alternatively, any of the individual components of tension cable fixation element 30 can be formed separately and attached to one another. For example, they can be glued together.

[0070] 13 to 15 show the Bowden cable fixation element 20. The Bowden cable fixation element 20 is used to fix a Bowden cable 50. More specifically, a proximal end portion 51 of the Bowden cable 50 is fixed to the Bowden cable fixation element 20.

[0071] The Bowden cable fixing element 20 has a Bowden cable fixing part 22 in the form of a plate. For example, the Bowden cable fixing part 22 is formed as a trapezoidal plate (see FIG. 13). The wider side of the trapezoid forms the proximal side of the Bowden cable fixing part 22. The plate of the Bowden cable fixing part 22 has grooves 25 formed therein. More precisely, two grooves 25 are formed on the upper side of the plate of the Bowden cable fixing part 22. Each of the grooves 25 is used to receive a Bowden cable 50. The Bowden cable fixing part 22 therefore has a left groove 25 (top of FIG. 13) and a right groove 25 (bottom of FIG. 13).

[0072] In this example, each groove 25 of the Bowden cable fixing portion 22 is oriented so that it faces proximally toward a respective side edge 323 of the base 32. The left groove 25 faces toward the left side edge 323 of the base 32. The right groove 25 faces toward the right side edge 323 of the base 32. Each groove 25 extends uniformly and longitudinally in the Bowden cable fixing portion 22.

[0073] Along the extent of the groove 25, as viewed distally, the groove 25 has a first narrow portion 27, a wider portion as the groove expansion 26, and a second narrow portion 27. The first narrow portion 27 and the second narrow portion 27 are smaller in width than the slot expansion 26. The proximal end portion 51 of the Bowden cable 50 is secured within the groove expansion 26. The proximal end portion 51 of the Bowden cable 50 may be press-fit, glued, or otherwise attached within the groove expansion 26. This attachment (securing) secures the proximal end portion 51 of the Bowden cable 50 within the groove expansion 26 against any longitudinal movement of the Bowden cable 50.

[0074] An opening 29 is formed in the center of the Bowden cable fixing part 22, penetrating the Bowden cable fixing part 22 from bottom to top.

[0075] Below the Bowden cable fixing portion 22, the base structure 21 is formed on the Bowden cable fixing portion 22. The base structure 21 is formed in a box shape. The base structure 21 is elongated and extends in the distal to proximal direction in the assembled state.

[0076] In this example, the foundation structure 21 is formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. The foundation structure 21 has side walls 201 and is closed at the top by the Bowden cable fixing part 22 and the roof part 202 (see FIG. 13). At the bottom side opposite the Bowden cable fixing part 22 and the roof part 202, the foundation structure 21 is open. The insides of the side walls 201 each form an inner wall 211 (see FIG. 15).

[0077] A second hole 217 for a fixing pin (not shown) is provided in the region proximal to the Bowden cable fixing part 22. The hole 217 is provided in the center of the base structure 21 when viewed in the width (lateral) direction. The hole 217 extends perpendicular to the surface of the roof part 202. The hole 217 extends parallel to the opening 29.

[0078] In order to create the correct alignment between the pull cable fixation element 30 and the Bowden cable fixation element 20, the aforementioned fixation pin (not shown) is placed in the holes 217 and 317 before the pull cable 60 is fixed. This creates a zero position between the pull cable fixation element 30 and the Bowden cable fixation element 20. In this zero position between the pull cable fixation element 30 and the Bowden cable fixation element 20, the pull cable fixation element 30 and the Bowden cable fixation element 20 are correctly aligned with each other in the proximal-distal direction. In the zero position, the pull cable 60 is fixed and glued as described below. After the adhesive has hardened, the fixation pin is removed again. The fixation pin is not present during operation. Therefore, the fixation pin is not shown in the drawings.

[0079] A cross member 213 is formed in the base structure 21 between two inner walls 211 extending in the longitudinal direction of the base structure 21. The cross member 213 connects the two inner walls 211. The cross member 213 has a central opening 214. The opening 214 forms a lower opening of the hole 217. The cross member 213 forms a support rib for the hole 217.

[0080] On the proximal side, the rotation support part 23 is formed on the base structure 21 (see Figs. 13 to 15). The rotation support part 23 is formed as a hollow cylinder. The axis of the hollow cylinder of the rotation support part 23 extends in the up-down direction. Thus, inside the hollow cylinder of the rotation support part 23, a through hole 231 extends in the up-down direction. The hollow cylinder of the rotation support part 23 has a peripheral wall 233. On the distal side of the rotation support part 23, the peripheral wall 233 is formed on the base structure 21. In the Bowden cable fixing element 20, the opening 29, the hole 217, and the through hole 231 are located in this specific order on an imaginary central axis of the Bowden cable fixing element 20 extending in the proximal-distal direction. The Bowden cable fixing element 20 has this central axis as a line of symmetry. The left and right parts of the central axis of the Bowden cable fixing element 20 are formed symmetrically to each other.

[0081] In the direction of extension of the through hole 231, a number of (three in this example) inner protrusions 237 are formed on the inner wall of the through hole 231. The inner protrusions 237 protrude inward from the inner wall of the through hole 231. The rising portion 33 of the tension cable fixing element 30 is inserted into the through hole 231. When the rising portion 33 is placed in the through hole 231, the inward surface of the inner protrusion 237 contacts the outer periphery of the rising portion 33. The inner protrusions 237 are used to reduce the coefficient of friction when the rising portion 33 rotates in the through hole 231. Furthermore, the inner protrusions 237 are also used to center the end 334 of the base plate 31, which is formed as a bearing element.

[0082] At the proximal side, a recess 234 is formed in the upper side of the rotation support part 23 (see Figs. 13 and 14). The recess 234 forms a cut in the peripheral wall 233. The recess 234 has an upwardly facing flat horizontal surface 235 and two vertical side surfaces 236. The vertical side surfaces 236 extend upward from the lateral ends of the horizontal surface 235.

[0083] The proximal protrusion 333A is movably guided in the recess 234. When the rising portion 33 is disposed in the through hole 231, the lower surface of the proximal protrusion 333A contacts the horizontal surface 235. Alternatively, the lower surface of the proximal protrusion 333A is slightly spaced apart from the horizontal surface 235. The rising portion 33 is rotatable in the through hole 231 from an end position where the proximal protrusion 333A abuts against the vertical side surface 236 to another end position where the proximal protrusion 333A abuts against the other vertical side surface 236.

[0084] An upper end surface 238 is formed on the upper side of the rotation support part 23. The upper end surface 238 forms an annular surface interrupted by a recess 234 on the upper end surface of the hollow cylinder of the rotation support part 23. When the rising part 33 is disposed in the through hole 231, the lower surfaces of the protrusions 333, except for the proximal protrusion 333A, contact the upper end surface 238. Alternatively, the lower surfaces of the protrusions 333 contact the upper end surface 238, and the lower surface of the proximal protrusion 333A is slightly spaced from the horizontal plane 235. In another alternative, the lower surface of the protrusions 333 is slightly spaced from the upper end surface 238, and the lower surface of the proximal protrusion 333A contacts the horizontal plane 235.

[0085] In this way, the Bowden cable fixation element 20 also serves to stabilize the rotational movement of the tension cable fixation element 30 (of the raised portion 33).

[0086] Additionally, the Bowden cable fixation element 20 is used to define the range of rotation of the tension cable fixation element 30 and thus the lever element 40 described below.

[0087] 16 and 17 show the lever element 40. The lever element 40 is formed as a single-arm lever. The lever element 40 has a lever arm 41. The lever arm 41 is composed of a base portion 42 and an end portion 43. The base portion 42 forms a base body of the lever element 40. The base portion 42 is an elongated body. The end portion 43 protrudes from the base portion 42. The end portion 43 is perpendicular to the base portion 42. In other words, the end portion 43 extends perpendicular to the base portion 42. The end portion 43 forms an operating portion of the lever element 40.

[0088] At the end side of the base portion 42 opposite to the end portion 43, the fixing protrusion 45 protrudes from the base portion 42. The fixing protrusion 45 extends in the same direction as the end portion 43. The fixing protrusion 45 and the end portion 43 may be parallel to each other, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0089] The fixing protrusion 45 is cylindrical. The fixing protrusion 45 includes a base 451. One side of the base 451 is connected to the base portion 42. The base 451 of the fixing protrusion 45 extends from the base portion 42. On the side of the base 451 opposite the base portion 42, two fixing extensions 452 extend from the base 451. The fixing extensions 452 protrude from the base 451 in a direction away from the base portion 42. A slot-like cavity 455 is formed between the two fixing extensions 452.

[0090] An end 454 of each fixing extension 452 is formed on the end side facing away from the base part 42. Due to their elasticity, the fixing extensions 452 are able to bend into the cavity 455. Thus, the ends 454 of the two fixing extensions 452 are configured to be bent towards each other.

[0091] Each fixing extension 452 has a constriction 453 formed between the base 451 and the end 454. The constriction 453 is formed as a groove in the side of the respective fixing extension 452 facing outward from the cavity 455. A snap-fit ​​element (snap-fit ​​protrusion) of the control body housing 10 can snap into the constriction 453 to lock the lever element 40.

[0092] On the side opposite the fixing projection 45, the base part 42 has a surface provided with markings 421, 422. The markings 421, 422 indicate the pivoting (rotational) directions of the lever element 40. In this example, a marking 421 is shown for a pivoting downwards and another marking 422 is shown for a pivoting upwards. This allows the operator to understand that a rotation of the lever element 40 in the direction indicated by the marking 421 is transmitted by the pulling cable 60 to cause a pivoting movement downwards at the distal side of the endoscope. Thus, a rotation of the lever element 40 in the direction indicated by the marking 422 is transmitted by the pulling cable 60 to cause a pivoting movement upwards at the distal side of the endoscope.

[0093] On the side of the base part 42 where the fixing lug 45 is provided, an insertion rail 48 protrudes from the fixing lug 45. The insertion rail 48 may extend parallel to the fixing lug 45. The insertion rail 48 is configured to be inserted into the guide 332 of the pulling cable fixing element 30 for transmitting a rotational force from the lever element 40 to the pulling cable fixing element 30. The insertion rail 48 has parallel sides.

[0094] On the side of the base part 42 where the fixing protrusion 45 is provided, a lever support protrusion 46 protrudes adjacent to the fixing protrusion 45. The lever support protrusion 46 is located on an insertion rail 48. Furthermore, the lever support protrusion 46 can extend parallel to the fixing protrusion 45. The lever support protrusion 46 has a lever support surface 47 facing away from the base part 42 at its end facing away from the base part 42.

[0095] The tension cable fixation element 30 and the lever element 40 together form a rotating assembly that can rotate relative to the Bowden cable fixation element 20 .

[0096] Figure 4 shows details of the control unit main body housing 10. The control unit main body housing 10 in this example is formed from two control unit main body halves, only the lower half of which is shown as the control unit main body housing 10 in Figures 1 to 4.

[0097] The control body housing 10 has a support base 120 for the Bowden cable fixing element 20. The support base 120 protrudes vertically from the control body housing 10 in the shape of a tower. The support base 120 has a central inner opening 122. The inner opening 122 extends along the axis of the support base 120.

[0098] Additionally, the control unit main body housing 10 has a support wall 130 that protrudes perpendicularly from the control unit main body housing 10. The support wall 130 is formed by a vertical wall 132 and a horizontal wall 134. The support wall 130 is formed in a T-shape in plan view, where the vertical wall 132 forms the vertical leg of the T-shape and the horizontal wall 134 forms the horizontal leg, with the "T" formed by the vertical wall 132 and the horizontal wall 134 being oriented as shown in FIG.

[0099] Furthermore, the control body housing 10 has a support base 150 for the rotation assembly formed by the tension cable fixing element 30 and the lever element 40. The support base 150 projects vertically from the control body housing 10 in a tower-like manner. The support base 150 has a central receiving opening 152. The receiving opening 152 extends along the axis of the support base 150.

[0100] Support base 120, support wall 130, and support base 150 are positioned relative to one another such that support wall 130 is located between support base 120 and support base 150. Support base 120, support wall 130, and support base 150 are positioned generally along a straight line in this arrangement (see FIG. 4).

[0101] The support base 150 has a snap-fit ​​element (e.g., formed as a snap-fit ​​protrusion) not shown in the receiving opening 152 that snaps into place in the waist 453 of the lever element 40. This means that the entire pull cable drive 16 is secured to the control body housing 10 via the lever element 40 (by a snap-fit).

[0102] The snap-fit ​​element that snaps into place within the constriction 453 of the lever element 40 can be embodied as a one-time snap-fit ​​element that locks after snapping into place at the constriction 453 and cannot be released by the user without damaging or destroying the control body housing 10.

[0103] Alternatively, the snap-fit ​​element which snaps into place in the waist 453 of the lever element 40 may be embodied as a releasable snap-fit ​​element, in which case the user can remove the lever element 40 again.

[0104] Assembling the Pull Cable Drive

[0105] The assembly of the tension cable drive 16 is described below. The tension cable drive 16 is formed from the Bowden cable fixation element 20, the tension cable fixation element 30 and the lever element 40. When assembling the tension cable drive 16, the Bowden cable fixation element 20 and the tension cable fixation element 30 are assembled first. To do this, the Bowden cable fixation element 20 is held so that the upper side of the Bowden cable fixation element 20 faces upwards. The tension cable fixation element 30 is held so that the raised part 33 faces downwards. The tension cable fixation element 30 is held so that the protrusion 333A is located above the recess 234. The raised part 33 of the tension cable fixation element 30 is then inserted into the through hole 231 of the rotation support part 23 of the Bowden cable fixation element 20 until the lower surface of the protrusion 333 abuts against the upper end surface 238 of the rotation support part of the Bowden cable fixation element 20. This assembled state is shown in FIG. 12. The lever element 40 is then inserted. To do this, the fixing lug 45 is provisionally inserted into the upper opening of the bore 331. The lever element 40 is rotated so that the insertion rail 48 is aligned with the guide 332 of the tension cable fixing element 30. The lever element 40 is then fully pressed into the tension cable fixing element 30 by pressing the insertion rail 48 into the guide 332 until the lever support surface 47 of the lever support lug 46 abuts, i.e. contacts, the contact surface 341 of the rib 340. In this situation, the parallel sides of the insertion rail 48 abut against the sides of the guide 332 which taper as they move deeper.

[0106] The assembly of the tension cable drive 16 thus prepared is now inserted into the control body housing 10. To do this, the Bowden cable fixation element 20 is placed on the support base 120 and the support wall 130, and the rotation assembly is placed on the support base 150. More precisely, the Bowden cable fixation element 20 is placed on the support base 120 and the support wall 130 in such a way that the part of the cross member 213 with the opening 214 abuts the upper edge of the vertical wall 132. In this situation, the part of the cross member 213 with the opening 214 is located distally from the connection point of the legs of the "T" formed by the vertical wall 132 and the horizontal wall 134. The side of the vertical wall 132 facing away from the connection point of the vertical wall 132 and the horizontal wall 134 thus abuts against the inner wall 211 of the base structure 21. In this way, the Bowden cable fixation element 20 is fixed to the control body housing 10.

[0107] In this situation, base structure 21 is placed on support base 120 such that opening 29 is centered in inner opening 122. At the same time, end 334 is placed in receiving opening 152 and fixing extension 452 is pushed through end 334 and locked in receiving opening 152 by a snap-fit ​​element that protrudes from end 334 and locks into place in waist 453 of lever element 40. This means that the entire pull cable drive 16 is fixed (by snap-fit) to control body housing 10 via lever element 40.

[0108] A suitable connecting element, not shown, can then be inserted through opening 29 and inner opening 122 to securely fasten Bowden cable securing element 20 to control body housing 10 .

[0109] Finally, the control body housing 10 is closed by connecting both halves of the control body housing 10 together.

[0110] Function of integrated tension cable drive Once the pull cable drive 16 is assembled into the control body housing 10, it is possible to tension or release the pull cable 60 simply by rotating the lever element 40 in the desired direction. This means that by rotating the lever element 40, the pull cable fixation element 30 rotates relative to the Bowden cable fixation element 20. As a result, the pull cable 60 is pulled out (tensioned) from the proximal end portion 51 of the Bowden cable 50 or pushed into (released, or more precisely, the pull cable 60 is pulled into) the proximal end portion 51 of the Bowden cable 50.

[0111] This results in a desired pull cable movement at the distal side of the endoscope. For example, when a user pivots lever element 40 in direction D (downward), as indicated by marking 421, an element (not shown) disposed at the distal end of pull cable 60 moves downward. On the other hand, when a user pivots lever element 40 in direction U (upward), as indicated by marking 422, an element (not shown) disposed at the distal end of pull cable 60 moves upward.

[0112] Benefits and Effects The pull cable 60 is bonded at a proximal end bond spot (primary bond spot) 71 and at a secondary bond spot 72 located distally from the end bond spot 71. In this manner, the attachment of the pull cable to the pull cable fixation element 30 is highly secure, since the pull cable 60 is bonded at two locations along the pull cable by respective separate bond spots. Also, the attachment of the pull cable 60 to the pull cable fixation element 30 is even more secure, since the protrusions 714 can absorb the pulling / straining forces acting on the pull cable 60.

[0113] The attachment of the tension cable to the tension cable fixation element 30 is simple. The proximal end portion 51 of the Bowden cable 50 only needs to be fixed in the groove 25 on the Bowden cable fixation element 20, and the tension cable 60 protruding from the Bowden cable 50 has to be routed to and wrapped around the projection 714 provided along the base proximal side 322. The gluing can then be performed. The above operations and process steps are simple and can be performed quickly. The manufacturing can even be done in mass production, which makes the manufacturing cost-effective.

[0114] Proximal end adhesive spot (primary adhesive spot) 71 and secondary adhesive spot 72 require very little space. Thus, the attachment of pull cable 60 at pull cable fixation element 30 requires very little space. These space savings are highly advantageous in the context of the development of the smallest possible endoscopes.

[0115] Alternatives In this embodiment, a lever element 40 is used on the pull cable fixation element 30 to rotate the pull cable fixation element 30. Alternatively, the pull cable fixation element and the lever element can be formed as a single piece.

[0116] In this embodiment, two Bowden cables 50 are fixed to the Bowden cable fixation element 20 and two tension cables 60 are fixed to the tension cable fixation element 30. Alternatively, only one Bowden cable 50 can be fixed to the Bowden cable fixation element 20 and only one tension cable 60 can be fixed to the tension cable fixation element 30. One tension cable 60 is guided within one Bowden cable 50.

[0117] In this embodiment, a first pull cable 60a and a second pull cable 60b are applied such that their respective pull cable ends are glued to end bond spots 71 of the pull cable fixation element 30. Alternatively, it is possible to use just one pull cable which is routed distally via one Bowden cable 50 to end bond spot 71 and from there distally again via the other Bowden cable 50. At end bond spot 71, this one pull cable is glued to the pull cable fixation element 30.

[0118] In this embodiment, the tension cable fixation element 30 has a number of projections 333 on the outer periphery of the riser 33 between the base plate 31 and the end 334. Alternatively, it is possible to provide only one projection 333, namely projection 333A located below projection 714. In other words, only projection 333A can be provided on the proximal side of the riser 33.

[0119] Any number of internal projections 237 may be provided.

[0120] In an alternative design, receiving opening 152 may be omitted because raised portion 33 of tension cable fixation element 30 may be positioned on rotational support portion 23 of Bowden cable fixation element 20, allowing Bowden cable fixation element 20 to be firmly supported on endoscope housing 10. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 1 Endoscope 10 Endoscope housing 11 Insertion tube 12 Fastening connector 13 Suction connector 14 Suction Channel 15 Instrument entrance part 16 Pulling cable drive unit 20 Bowden cable fixing element 21 Basic structure 22 Bowden cable fixing part 23 Rotational support part 25 groove 26 Groove expansion section 27 Narrow part 29 Opening 30 Tension cable fixing element 31 Base Plate 32 Base 33 Rising part 40 Lever element 41 Lever Arm 42 Base 43 End 45 Fixing protrusion 46 Lever support protrusion 47 Lever support surface 48 Insert Rail 50 Bowden Cable 51 Proximal end of Bowden cable 60 Pull Cable 71 Edge Glue Spot 72 Secondary Glue Spot 73 Wall 74 Adhesive Deposition Area 75 Adhesive Wipe Wall 76 Side opening 120 Support base for Bowden cable fixing elements 122 Inner opening 130 Supporting wall 132 Vertical Wall 134 Side Wall 150 Support base for rotating assembly 152 Receiving opening 201 Side wall 202 Roof 211 Interior wall 213 Cross members 214 Opening 217 Hole for centering pin 231 Passing hole 233 Peripheral wall 234 Recess 235 horizontal plane 236 Vertical Side 237 Inner protrusion 238 Upper end surface 317 Hole for centering pin 322 Base proximal side 323 Side edge of base 331 Inner Hole 332 Guide 333 Protrusion 333A Proximal protrusion 334 End 340 Rib 341 Contact surface 421 Marking 422 Marking 451 Base 452 Fixation extension 453 Waist 454 End 455 Cavity 714 Protrusion

Claims

1. An endoscope comprising: A proximal endoscope housing (10); a pull cable drive (16) disposed within the proximal endoscope housing (10) and having a pull cable (60) secured thereto, the pull cable (60) extending through the endoscope to the distal side of the endoscope such that movement of the pull cable (60) can be effected at the distal side of the endoscope; Equipped with The tension cable drive (16) comprises an assembly of a tension cable fixation element (30) and a Bowden cable fixation element (20), The tension cable fixing element (30) comprises a flat base plate (31), a plate-shaped base (32) arranged on one side of the base plate (31) and forming a stepped plate shape together with the base plate (31), two protrusions (714) protruding from the base plate (31) in the same direction as the base (32) on the proximal side of the base (32), and an end bonding spot (71) arranged between the two protrusions; The base (32) has a base proximal side (322) which is a side surface on the proximal side, and side edge portions (323) which are side surfaces at both ends of the base proximal side (322), The pull cable fixation element (30) is rotatably mounted within the proximal endoscope housing (10); the Bowden cable fixation element (20) is non-rotatably mounted within the proximal endoscope housing (10) distally from the pull cable fixation element (30); a Bowden cable (50) extending to the distal side of the endoscope and through which the tension cable (60) is passed is fixed to the Bowden cable fixation element (20); The pull cable (60) is wound around the protrusion (714) and then glued to the base plate (31) at the end glue spots (71). Endoscope.

2. the Bowden cable fixation element (20) comprises a groove (25) along which a proximal end portion (51) of the Bowden cable (50) is immovably fixed relative to the Bowden cable fixation element (20); The endoscope according to claim 1 .

3. The proximal end portion (51) of the Bowden cable (50) is glued into the Bowden cable fixation element (20). The endoscope according to claim 2.

4. The assembly of the pull cable fixation element (30) and the Bowden cable fixation element (20) is made of plastic and is removable from the proximal endoscope housing (10). The endoscope according to claim 1 .

5. the pull cable fixation element (30) comprises a lever element (40) configured to be inserted from outside the proximal endoscope housing (10), and the pull cable fixation element (30) is rotatable relative to the proximal endoscope housing (10) and the Bowden cable fixation element (20) by manipulating the lever element (40); The endoscope according to claim 1 .

6. Two Bowden cables (50) extending to the distal side of the endoscope are fixed in the Bowden cable fixation element (20), a first of the tension cables (60) fixed to the end bond spot (71) is led to one of the two Bowden cables (50), and a second of the tension cables (60) fixed to the end bond spot (71) is led to the other of the two Bowden cables (50); The endoscope according to claim 1 .

7. Two Bowden cables (50) extending to the distal side of the endoscope are secured within the Bowden cable securing element (20), and a single tension cable (60) is guided through the two Bowden cables (50), and the single tension cable (60) is secured to the end bond spots (71) within the tension cable securing element (30); The endoscope according to claim 1 .

8. the pull cable (60) is attached to the pull cable fixation element (30) at the end bond spot (71) and at a secondary bond spot (72) located distally from the end bond spot (71); The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. an adhesive wiping wall (75) is formed at the secondary adhesive spot (72) on the tension cable fixation element (30); The endoscope according to claim 8.

10. At the secondary adhesive spot (72) on the tension cable fixation element (30), a further wall (73) is formed opposite the adhesive wiping wall (75), and at the secondary adhesive spot (72) on the tension cable fixation element (30), an adhesive deposition area (74) is formed between the adhesive wiping wall (75) and the further wall (73) for adhering the tension cable (60) at the tension cable fixation element (30). The endoscope according to claim 9.

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