Device for determining the depth of insertion of a tubular or rod-shaped slide part into a housing part and a medical handpiece equipped with such a device

Abstract

To provide a device regulating an intrusion depth of a slide part in a storage part.SOLUTION: A device 2 is provided with a grip member 8 encircling a slide part 4. The grip member is configured to slide along a longitudinal direction axial line L of the slide part. The grip member has a clamp device provided with an adjustment element 10 and a locker element 12. By the clamp device, the grip member can rotate each locker element to a lock state against the slide part when the adjustment element rotates in a block direction horizontally relative to the longitudinal direction axial line. In a lock state, sliding of the grip member is blocked. In order to additionally fix a block, the grip member has a fixing device 16. The fixing device has two fixing elements 16a, 16b. At a block position, the first and second fixing elements add a holding force H for fixing the adjustment element against horizontal rotation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for determining the penetration depth of a tubular or rod-shaped slide in a housing, in particular of a medical aspiration needle support. The slide is therefore adjustable or movable, in particular, for example slidable, within the housing along its longitudinal axis. The present invention also relates to a medical handpiece for a medical instrument, comprising a first device and a second device of the above-described type. The handpiece may be included in a medical instrument, for example, and is used for endoscopic or interventional procedures in surgical procedures.

[0002] A device and medical handpiece of the above type is known from EP 2531122. The device described therein is designated "Twistlock" and uses a clamping device to position and block the sliding part at a desired position along the longitudinal axis relative to the receiving part.

[0003] The described device includes a gripping member surrounding the sliding portion. The gripping member is configured to slide relative to the sliding portion and / or the housing portion along the longitudinal axis of the sliding portion. That is, the gripping member and the sliding portion or housing portion can move translationally relative to each other. To enable sliding, the housing portion and the gripping member can have a housing or opening that houses the sliding portion, through which the sliding portion can slide.

[0004] The gripping member may, for example, be attached to or fixed to the housing portion, so that when the gripping member slides along the longitudinal axis, the housing portion together with the gripping member can slide relative to the sliding portion. Alternatively, the gripping member may be formed as a separate element from the housing portion, so that when the sliding portion slides along the longitudinal axis, the gripping member can also slide relative to the housing portion.

[0005] The gripping member has an adjusting element configured to pivot transversely relative to the longitudinal axis of the sliding portion. That is, the adjusting element can move about the longitudinal axis, i.e., rotate. The gripping member also has a rocker element disposed between the adjusting element and the sliding portion. The rocker element can slide along the longitudinal axis together with the adjusting element. However, unlike the adjusting element, the rocker element is not rotatable. Instead, the rocker element is rotationally fixedly or non-rotatably connected to the sliding portion. The rocker element and the adjusting element together constitute the clamping device described above.

[0006] In this case, the adjusting element is configured to pivot each rocker element relative to the sliding part into a locked state by pivoting in a blocking direction transverse to the longitudinal axis to a blocking position, in which sliding of the gripping member along the longitudinal axis is blocked. To release the block, the adjusting element is further configured to pivot each rocker element relative to the sliding part into a released state by pivoting in an adjustment direction transverse to the longitudinal axis that is different from the blocking direction to an adjustment position that is different from the blocking position, in which sliding of the gripping member along the longitudinal axis is freed.

[0007] Thus, by rotating the adjusting element, it is possible to determine how deep or how far the sliding part can penetrate into the receiving part. This makes it possible to adjust or define the penetration depth particularly easily. If the device is used, for example, as an aspiration needle support, the penetration depth can set the protrusion of the aspiration needle from the tube guided in the sliding part. That is, the penetration depth can determine how far the aspiration needle protrudes from the tube.

[0008] This device allows for one-handed operation of the handpiece and therefore for easy handling, particularly for medical personnel. Furthermore, after positioning of the sliding part relative to the receiving part, the risk of undesired sliding can be at least substantially avoided.

[0009] Twist locks known from the prior art can cause the block to be released unintentionally in certain situations, for example when the device is to be adjusted between several different penetration depths for a medical intervention, in which case the gripping member can slip off during the intervention, which can lead to, for example, undesired protrusion of the aspiration needle from the tube.

[0010] The object of the present invention is to improve the handling of devices known from the prior art.

[0011] The solution to the problem is set out in the independent claims. Further configuration possibilities with additional advantages are set out in the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0012] The present invention is based on the recognition that in order to improve the handling of known twist locks such as those mentioned above, they can be supplemented with additional latching or locking mechanisms, i.e. where it is important to ensure a lock or block, this can be achieved by an additional securing, securing or locking mechanism of the existing twist lock.

[0013] To achieve additional fixation, the gripping member has at least one locking device, as described above. That is, one or more locking devices may be provided. Each locking device has a first locking element that can be pivoted relative to the slide part transversely to the longitudinal axis by the adjusting element. Furthermore, each locking device has a second locking element that is fixed or non-rotatable relative to the slide part transversely to the longitudinal axis. In the blocking position of the adjusting element, i.e., particularly when sliding along the longitudinal axis is blocked by the rocker element, each of the first and second locking elements is configured to apply a holding force that secures the adjusting element against rotation transversely to the longitudinal axis.

[0014] In other words, the first and second fixing elements may be adjusted relative to one another so that a desired holding force is or can be applied when or after the adjustment element is rotated. For example, a holding force can be applied to the adjustment element, thereby holding the adjustment element in a blocking position. This holding force preferably requires additional force to move the adjustment element out of the blocking position, for example, into an adjustment position or another position. Thus, the holding force can block rotation, particularly in the adjustment or blocking direction.

[0015] Preferably, the holding force necessary or sufficient for fixation is predetermined. That is, the holding force can have a predetermined value or value range. The value range can be determined, for example, by testing. In particular, the holding force is selected so that one-handed operation of the device remains possible.

[0016] This provides the device with the advantage that it is guaranteed that no undesired release of the block occurs, and therefore undesired sliding of the gripping member can be prevented even more effectively after positioning of the gripping member relative to the sliding part and / or the receiving part has taken place.

[0017] The adjusting element may have at least two different positions or states. One position may be the above-mentioned adjustment position. In the adjustment position, the gripping member may be located in an initial position. In this case, the gripping member is translationally slidable. The gripping member is particularly not blocked or locked, and is not stopped or fixed. At least one other position may be the above-mentioned blocking position. In the blocking position, the gripping member may be located in a zero position. In the blocking position, the gripping member is blocked and fixed against axial or translational sliding. The gripping member is particularly not translationally slidable.

[0018] The fixing is performed by the fixing elements as described above. The fixing elements can, for example, constitute complementary fixing structures. That is, the fixing elements can form a positive and / or frictional connection, for example, to hold the blocking position. For example, the connection can be, for example, a latching connection or a magnetic connection. The fixing elements thus cooperate to provide a holding force. The first fixing element can, for example, be included in the adjustment element. The second fixing element can, for example, be included in the sliding part and / or the rocker element.

[0019] To release the locking and / or blocking, this holding force must be overcome, i.e., an additional operating force must be used when operating the adjusting element in order to remove the locking and in particular also the blocking, thereby making the gripping member, for example, slidable in translation again.

[0020] The device, in particular the gripping member, may have further features or characteristics already known from the prior art mentioned at the outset, in particular from EP 2531122. For example, the rocker element or the sliding part may each have an assigned abutment surface comprising a friction lining or brake pad. This allows for blocking or the use of friction between the rocker element and the sliding part. Alternatively, the rocker element and the sliding part may each comprise a toothing device, by means of which, in the locked position, each toothing element engages in a correspondingly arranged toothing element receptacle.

[0021] Each rocker element may be arranged in a support groove in the slide part, which extends along the longitudinal axis, for example by a support pin, so that each rocker element can be guided so as not to rotate relative to each other (stationary).

[0022] The adjustment element may have an opening area that is shaped, for example, as a symmetrical oval or sickle shape. The opening area may be an internal area of ​​the adjustment element that accommodates the rocker element, thereby allowing the rocker element to pivot.

[0023] Furthermore, the sliding parts may be formed, for example, as scale pistons, i.e. each sliding part may include one or more markings (gradations) or scale pitches.

[0024] The following describes embodiments of the present invention that provide further advantages.

[0025] The following embodiments will first be described with respect to how the locking, i.e., locking mechanism, can be realized: For example, the locking device may be configured with an active locking mechanism, a passive locking mechanism, or a combination of active and passive locking mechanisms.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the invention, an active locking device can be realized, for example, by the first locking element forming a blocking body and the second locking element forming a recess or notch for receiving the blocking body. The blocking body is configured to be moved or adjusted by an operating action of an operator in the blocking position of the adjustment element to a locked state, in which the holding force is at a maximum.

[0027] To release the locking, i.e., to unlock, the blocking body is likewise configured to be moved or adjusted from the locked state by an operating action of an operator to an unlocked state, in which the holding force is minimal, in particular reduced, preferably equal to zero (zeroed).

[0028] That is, an additional manual operation of rotating the adjustment element is required to lock or unlock the first locking element. This operation action allows the first locking element to be adjusted or moved between at least two states: one state is a locked state; and another state is an unlocked state.

[0029] In the fixed position, the decoupling body can be connected to the recess in a form-locking manner, for example by means of a latching connection or a plug-in connection, i.e. the decoupling body is received in the recess or is plugged into the recess.

[0030] The blocking body may be formed, for example, as a button or a pin. Additionally, the blocking body may have one or more spring elements to allow easier release of the locking.

[0031] In a specific configuration, the twist lock rotation mechanism (adjusting element) can incorporate a pin or button (insertion element) that can be manually activated. This insulator can, for example, have an internal coil spring. To lock, the twist lock rotation mechanism is rotated as described above. To ensure locking, the pin or button is pressed downwards by an additional manual operation. The inner contour of the pin or button engages with a recess (recess) provided for this purpose, which can, for example, be machined into the slide part. Therefore, to release the locking and unlocking, the pin or button must be pushed or pulled again (push-push or push-pull operation) to remove it from the recess before rotating the twist lock. Only then is the rotational possibility, i.e., the rotation of the twist lock, released again. This results in an overall active locking.

[0032] Examples of realizing the above-mentioned passive fixation are described in the following embodiments.

[0033] According to one embodiment, passive locking can be achieved in that the adjustment element is configured such that, upon pivoting transversely to the longitudinal axis into a blocking position, the first locking element is moved relative to the second locking element into a locking state in which the holding force is maximized. Thus, locking occurs automatically upon pivoting of the adjustment element. Locking is thus an additional effect that can be achieved during blocking.

[0034] For releasing the locking, i.e. unlocking, a corresponding passive unlocking can likewise be envisaged, i.e. the adjusting element is configured such that by pivoting transversely to the longitudinal axis, for example into an adjusting position or into a position different from the blocking position, the first locking element is moved relative to the second locking element into an unlocked state in which the holding force is minimal or zero.

[0035] That is, by rotating the adjustment element, the fixing element can be adjusted between at least two of the above-mentioned states, namely between a fixed state and an unlocked state.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the first and second locking elements may comprise magnetic materials and may generate magnetic fields of opposite polarity. Locking can thus be achieved by a frictional, in particular magnetic, connection of the locking elements. In the locked state, the attractive or magnetic forces of the locking elements may be such that they attract each other. In contrast, in the unlocked state, no attraction occurs. The locking elements may comprise magnets, in particular permanent magnets.

[0037] Specifically, magnetic locking can be achieved, for example, by a magnet included in the adjustment element and a magnet of opposite polarity included in the scale piston or rocker element. In particular, the slide part can be provided with a magnet rail, for example, extending along the longitudinal axis over the entire length of the slide part. The magnet rail can be, for example, assembled or fixed within the volume or surface of the scale piston. Similarly, a magnet of opposite polarity can be integrated, i.e., mounted on the surface or within the volume, by the twist lock rotation mechanism. Structurally, i.e., with regard to position, the magnet associated with the twist lock is, in the open state (adjustment position), positioned at a large distance, especially in the direction of rotation, from the magnet rail on the scale piston. Rotating the twist lock to the blocking position manipulates the position of the magnet so that it is flush with the magnet rail of the scale piston. Thus, maximum magnetic force can be generated. This assists in mechanically blocking the twist lock and prevents undesired release of the twist lock.

[0038] According to another embodiment, passive locking is achieved by the fact that the fixing element is configured as a rolling bearing with at least one rolling element, and the second fixing element is configured as a recess for receiving the rolling element in the fixed state. Thus, in the fixed state, the rolling element can be arranged or attached in the recess. A form-locking connection can be achieved.

[0039] The rolling bearing may be, for example, a ball bearing known per se. Correspondingly, the rolling elements may be, for example, balls. The rolling elements can move, preferably substantially frictionlessly, along the surface of the sliding part when the adjusting element is rotated. The rolling elements can be, for example, spring-loaded to move into the recesses. The recesses or notches may be recesses in the sliding part that are designed to complement the rolling elements and into which the rolling elements can slip, latch, or slide.

[0040] In a specific implementation, the twist lock may have one or more ball bearings, particularly made of metal, that sink into geometric pockets (recesses) in the scale piston, thereby requiring additional force to unlock the twist lock rotation mechanism. For this purpose, for example, one or more ball bearings may be integrated or inserted into the inner surface of the adjusting element facing the scale piston. In the unlocked state (adjusted position) of the twist lock rotation mechanism, each ball bearing can rest on the closing surface of the scale piston. When the twist lock is rotated, the balls of the ball bearing can roll or rotate along the surface, preferably without friction. In the blocking position, i.e., when the twist lock is locked by rotation, the balls of the ball bearing can drop or engage into corresponding pockets or recesses on the surface of the scale piston. This provides additional locking. An additional unlocking mechanism, i.e., an additional act of manipulation, is not required to unlock the lock. For example, it may be sufficient to apply a greater force to rotate the adjusting element in order to overcome the positive lock. For this purpose, each recess can be adapted, for example, in this case, to the geometry of the respective rolling element, ie, for example, to the geometry of a ball.

[0041] As mentioned above, the gripping member may have one or more locking devices, for example of the type described above. For example, the gripping member may have multiple, i.e., two or more, locking devices of the same type. By same type, it is meant that the locking devices have the same locking elements as described above and thus realize the same locking mechanism. Alternatively, the gripping member may have multiple, i.e., two or more, locking devices of different types. Thus, the locking devices may have different locking elements and realize a different locking mechanism than described above.

[0042] For example, a combination of passive and active locking may be realized. For example, it may be envisaged that locking is performed passively, while unlocking is performed actively. Thus, the locking element can be automatically moved to the locked state, as described for passive locking, by rotating the adjusting element transversely to the longitudinal axis into a blocking position. In contrast, to unlock, an additional act of manipulation, as described for active locking, is required in the blocking position of the adjusting element, thereby moving the locking element from the locked state to the unlocked state. Specifically, for example, when locking, the locking body, i.e., the above-mentioned rolling body, falls into a pocket (recess) provided in the scale piston, and to unlock, the lock must be actively released. That is, the locking body must be intentionally pulled up, slid, or pushed, for example.

[0043] According to a further embodiment, the adjusting element and the rocker element form a guide structure relative to each other, in particular relative to each other, which defines a guide extension for the pivoting of the adjusting element relative to the rocker element at least transversely to the longitudinal axis, and the adjusting element is adjustable along the guide extension to positions, i.e., for example, to a predetermined adjusting position and a blocking position, or to further positions, which will be described in more detail below.

[0044] The guide extension or guide structure thus defines a direction of movement or a trajectory curve for the adjustment element, which individual guide extension can allow for particularly simple operation by the operator.

[0045] The guide structure may be formed, for example, by two guide bodies. The guide bodies may be connected to one another, in particular connected to one another in a form-locking manner. The first guide body may be, for example, a button, a pin, or a plug. The second guide body may be, for example, a guide groove or a guide track. The first guide body may be engaged with the second guide body. The second guide body may define a guide extension. The guide bodies may be movable relative to one another. The first guide body may be, for example, non-rotatable relative to the sliding part. For example, the first guide body may be included in the sliding part or in each rocker element. The second guide body may be rotatable relative to the sliding part. For example, the second guide body may be included in the adjusting element.

[0046] In this connection, in another embodiment, it is envisaged that the guide structure has a guide extension section extending along the longitudinal axis and arranged in correspondence with the blocking position, along which the adjusting element is slidable relative to the respective rocker element for locking or unblocking.

[0047] The guide extension thus provides the possibility of a particularly secure locking of the gripping element. In this case, an additional operating movement is required to unlock the gripping element, in particular a sliding of the adjusting element to unlock the gripping element. In particular, unlocking can be achieved by sliding the adjusting element from the blocking position along the longitudinal axis. The sliding movement must be performed intentionally, thereby providing an indication and a warning function for the operator.

[0048] For this purpose, the guide extension is configured in the blocking position to be offset along the longitudinal axis transversely to the blocking direction, thus resulting in a stepped or stepped extension profile of the guide structure, in particular of the second guide body.

[0049] Alternatively, a particularly simple unlocking mechanism can be realized by the adjusting element being configured to be pivoted, for example, out of the blocking position in the adjustment direction for unlocking. That is, the adjusting element can be brought or moved directly from the blocking position into the adjustment position by pivoting in the adjustment direction. For this purpose, the guide structure can, for example, define a linear guide extension.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, the guide structure may be provided with a further unlocking mechanism which provides a particularly secure locking and a particularly deliberate unlocking.

[0051] For this purpose, according to another embodiment, the adjusting element is configured to assume an unlocked position different from the blocking position and the adjusting position by pivoting from the blocking position to the blocking direction in order to release the locking, thereby moving the first and second locking elements to a predefined unlocked state in which the holding force is reduced, preferably minimal, compared to the locked state, but each rocker element remains locked in the unlocked position of the adjusting element.

[0052] That is, in the unlocked position, the gripping member is still blocked against sliding along the longitudinal axis and is therefore not adjustable. However, the gripping member is no longer locked or fixed, i.e., rotation of the adjustment element is again possible without the application of additional force.

[0053] For unlocking, the adjusting element is therefore further rotated in the same direction as the rotation for blocking, i.e. in the blocking direction, but not in the adjusting direction, so that an additional deliberate act of manipulation is required to release the locking and subsequently the locking, resulting in a particularly secure blocking and locking of the gripping element against sliding.

[0054] In this connection, according to a further embodiment, it is provided that the gripping member has an unlocking device arranged between the sliding part and the adjusting element, which is configured to hold the respective fixing element in an unlocked state upon or during a pivoting of the adjusting element transversely to the longitudinal axis.

[0055] Preferably, the unlocking device can always hold each locking element in an unlocked state only when the adjusting element is positioned outside the blocking position, thus preventing locking outside the blocking position. For this purpose, the locking elements can be held or arranged at a predetermined distance from each other, for example, axially (along the longitudinal axis) by the unlocking device.

[0056] In the following embodiments, more details will be given on how the unlocking device can be specifically realized.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the unlocking device has a first unlocking element that is fixedly arranged so as not to rotate relative to the slide part transversely to the longitudinal axis, and the adjusting element may therefore be rotatable so as to rotate relative to the first unlocking element.

[0058] The adjusting element and the first unlocking element form a spacer structure that is configured to hold the adjusting element and the first unlocking element at a predetermined distance relative to each other along the longitudinal axis when the adjusting element is rotated transversely to the longitudinal axis, i.e., in particular outside the blocking position, so that the unlocked state of the fixing element is achieved, i.e., this distance can be transmitted to the fixing element.

[0059] Furthermore, the spacer structure has a connection mechanism that connects the first unlocking element and the adjusting element in a form-locking manner in the blocking position, thereby reducing the predetermined distance. The form-locking connection ensures the fixed state of the fixing element.

[0060] The adjusting element and the first unlocking element may therefore be able to slide translationally relative to one another. Spacing here means that the adjusting element and the first unlocking element are held offset relative to one another along the longitudinal axis, particularly apart from one another, outside the blocking position. In other words, locking and unlocking can be achieved by the adjusting element and the first unlocking element being offset relative to one another along the longitudinal axis, particularly apart from one another. In this case, the first unlocking element can be moved in the overlapping region with the adjusting element, further towards the edge of the overlapping region, or at least in a certain region, out of the overlapping region. Therefore, no visible gap is required between the adjusting element and the first unlocking element. By sliding, the locking elements can be pulled apart (unlocked state) or connected (locked state).

[0061] The spacer structure can be formed from two complementary spacer bodies, one of which is included in the adjustment element and the other in the first unlocking element. For example, a support portion and a retaining portion form the spacer body. Outside the blocking position, they can support each other. In the blocking position, the support portion can engage with the retaining portion, thereby forming a positive lock. The support portion can be formed, for example, as a pin or a protrusion or projection. The retaining portion can form a mounting surface for the support portion that extends transversely to the longitudinal axis. During rotation, the retaining portion can slide along the mounting surface. The mounting surface can have a groove or a receptacle corresponding to the blocking position, into which the retaining portion can fit. This allows for a connection mechanism. The connection mechanism can enable additional fixation to the fixing element.

[0062] The geometry of the pin and groove can be selected such that rotation is blocked, and therefore an additional act of manipulation, such as pulling them apart, can be required to release the positive connection. A corresponding movement path can be defined, for example, by a guide extension section of the guide structure that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0063] According to a further embodiment, the unlocking device has a signaling element which, upon sliding of the adjusting element and the first unlocking element, protrudes beyond the adjusting element along the longitudinal axis only in the blocking position, at least in a predetermined area, to signal blocking and fixation.

[0064] The signaling element is therefore only visible in particular in the blocking position, outside of which the signaling element is preferably completely covered or overlapped by the adjusting element and / or the first unlocking element.

[0065] For this purpose, the signaling element may be arranged in a fixed position relative to the slide part in a rotatable and translatable manner in the blocking state of the gripping member. The signaling element may, for example, have a signal color, for example red. Thus, blocking and / or locking can be indicated particularly unambiguously. The signaling element may, for example, form a stop, i.e., an abutment area, for the receiving part.

[0066] According to a further embodiment, the unlocking device has a second unlocking element. The second unlocking element is arranged in a fixed position so as not to slide relative to the adjusting element along the longitudinal axis, i.e., the second unlocking element is slidable only together with the adjusting element. The first and second unlocking elements form a sliding structure. The sliding structure is configured to slide the adjusting element and the first unlocking element relative to each other along the longitudinal axis at a predetermined distance from each other when the adjusting element is rotated from the blocking position to the unlocked position transversely to the longitudinal axis.

[0067] That is to say, the second unlocking element can be used to release the form-lock of the connection mechanism of the spacer structure consisting of the adjustment element and the first unlocking element.

[0068] The sliding structure can be formed from two complementary sliding bodies, one of which is included in the first unlocking element and the other in the second unlocking element. For example, a support part and a retaining part can form the sliding body, similar to the spacer body described above. Outside the blocking position, they can support each other. In the blocking position, the support part can engage with the retaining part, thereby forming a positive connection. The support part can be formed, for example, as a pin or a protrusion or projection. The retaining part can form a mounting surface for the support part, extending transversely to the longitudinal axis. During rotation, the retaining part can slide along the mounting surface. The mounting surface can have a groove or a recess corresponding to the blocking position, into which the retaining part can fit.

[0069] Preferably, the geometry of the pin and groove is selected so that sliding occurs automatically when the adjusting element is rotated, preferably only in the blocking direction. For this purpose, the sliding bodies may have respective abutment surfaces oriented obliquely transversely to the longitudinal axis, and the sliding bodies abut against each other at these abutment surfaces in the blocking position. This results in an inclined plane or slope. This allows the sliding bodies to slide particularly easily along each other when the adjusting element is rotated. This moves the adjusting element and the first unlocking element apart until the desired distance is reached.

[0070] According to a further embodiment, the adjustment element and the second unlocking element have a connecting structure for entraining the second unlocking element at least in a predetermined section when the adjustment element is rotated transversely to the longitudinal axis, wherein the connecting structure is configured to offset the spacer structure and the sliding structure when the adjustment element slides transversely to the longitudinal axis from the unlocked position to the adjustment position, thereby maintaining the predetermined distance when rotating in the adjustment direction.

[0071] The offset in the rotational direction can prevent the coupling mechanism of the adjusting element and the respective unlocking device from engaging when the adjusting element is rotated to the initial position, i.e., the adjusted position.

[0072] Thus, by means of the coupling structure, the second unlocking element is configured to be pivoted in the coupled state by rotation of the adjusting element relative to the sliding part in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. The adjusting element entrains the second unlocking element. In contrast, in the uncoupled state, the second unlocking element is not entrained. The second unlocking element remains immobile relative to the sliding part.

[0073] The coupling structure may include, for example, a driven body and a driving body, one of which is arranged on the second unlocking element and the other on the adjusting element. In the coupled position, i.e., in the coupled state, the driving body and the driven body abut or engage with each other. In this case, the driving body can apply a force or impact to the driven body, which causes it to rotate about its longitudinal axis.

[0074] Therefore, the unlocking device can realize not only the unlocking function (enabling the unlocked state) but also the locking function (enabling and / or maintaining the fixed state). Therefore, the unlocking device can also be called a locking device. Similarly, the unlocking element can also be called a locking element.

[0075] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a medical handpiece for a medical instrument. The handpiece may be, for example, included in or assigned to the medical instrument. The medical handpiece comprises first and second devices of the above-described type. The first device is configured to determine the penetration depth of the first tubular slide portion in the first housing portion, while the second device is configured to determine the penetration depth of the second tubular slide portion in the second housing portion. The first and second devices are arranged one behind the other such that the first slide portion of the first device is at least partially configured as a second housing portion for the second slide portion of the second device. The first housing portion and the second slide portion further comprise respective connection interfaces for connecting elements of the medical instrument.

[0076] This makes it possible to provide a handpiece for a medical instrument that can be handled particularly easily and reliably. Both devices allow the handpiece to be held particularly reliably in each adjustment position, i.e., at the desired penetration depth, so that the operator does not have to worry about the series of adjustment steps.

[0077] The second housing part of the handpiece may preferably be connected to a gripping member of a second device. Correspondingly, both the second housing part and the gripping member may be translationally movable along the longitudinal axis. This has the advantage that the length of the handpiece can be adapted to various types of medical instruments, in particular endoscopes. The handpiece is therefore versatility-free.

[0078] In contrast, the first housing part may be formed separately from, for example, the handpiece of the first device. Therefore, the gripping member can be moved translationally relative to the first housing part and the first slide part, i.e., longitudinally along the longitudinal axis. Therefore, the gripping member can be used as a stop for the first housing part.

[0079] The handpiece may have other aspects and features as already described in the prior art, in particular in EP 2531122.

[0080] For example, the first housing portion may have a connecting element for coupling or connecting a hollow medical needle or aspiration needle. In this case, the hollow needle or aspiration needle may be surrounded by the medical handpiece in a connected state. That is, the needle may extend through the first housing portion, the first slide portion, and the second housing portion connected to the first slide portion. In particular, in this case, the first housing portion may be configured to define the protrusion of the aspiration needle from the tube by sliding along its longitudinal axis. For this purpose, the first housing portion may be formed separately from the gripping member of the second device, for example, for translational sliding.

[0081] The second sliding part may, for example, likewise have a connecting element at its distal end for coupling, connecting or coupling to a connecting element of a further medical device, in particular a working channel of an endoscope. The first receiving part may likewise have a connecting element arranged in the proximal end region, via which, for example, another medical device, for example, a syringe, a suction device or a flushing device, can be connected.

[0082] The receiving part may preferably be in a default position as the gripping part, which allows for easy handling of the gripping member when adjusting both slide parts.

[0083] The present invention also includes combinations of the described embodiments. Furthermore, the present invention also includes developments of the handpiece according to the present invention, which have the features already described in connection with the developments of the device according to the present invention. For this reason, the corresponding developments of the handpiece according to the present invention will not be described again here.

[0084] Examples of the present invention will be described below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0085] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a device for defining the penetration depth of a tubular or rod-shaped sliding portion into a receiving portion, according to an example embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic view showing the device with the gripping member in an initial state; FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the device with the gripping members in a zero state. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a device with a gripping member in a first state during bringing the gripping member from a null state to an unlocked state; [Figure 5] 10 is a schematic diagram showing the device with the gripping member in a second state during bringing the gripping member from a null state to an unlocked state. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the device with the gripping members in an unlocked state. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a device with a gripping member in a first state during bringing the gripping member from an unlocked state to an initial state. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic view showing the device with the gripping members again in the initial position;

[0086] The examples described in detail below can be considered as preferred embodiments of the present invention. Each component of the embodiments described in the examples constitutes an individual feature of the present invention that should be considered independently of each other. These features also form the present invention independently of each other. Therefore, these features should be considered as components of the present invention, either alone or in combinations different from those shown. Furthermore, other features of the present invention already mentioned above can supplement the described embodiments.

[0087] In the drawings, functionally identical elements are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0088] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a device 2. This device is used to define the insertion depth of a tubular or rod-shaped slide part 4 into a receiving part 6. To this end, the device 2 comprises, in addition to the slide part 4 and the receiving part 6, a gripping member 8 surrounding the slide part 4. The gripping member 8 is formed along the longitudinal axis L of the slide part 4 relative to the slide part 4 and / or the receiving part 6. This means that the gripping member 8 can be slid or moved translationally along the slide part in a sliding direction T. To enable the sliding movement, the receiving part 6 and the gripping member 8 have openings (not shown in detail) for receiving and guiding the slide part 6 along the sliding direction T.

[0089] To quantify the penetration or introduction depth, the sliding part 4 is formed in this case as a scale piston, i.e., the sliding part 4 is provided with a scale 4b containing a measurement or value indicating the penetration depth. In the present example, the scale 4b represents values ​​up to, for example, 4 centimeters and is divided into millimeter increments. The penetration depth can therefore be adjusted particularly precisely.

[0090] To define the penetration depth, the gripping member 8 has a blocking mechanism by which the gripping member 8 can be blocked against sliding along the sliding direction at a desired position along the longitudinal axis L. In this position, the gripping member 8 forms a stop for the sliding part 4 and / or the receiving part 6, in particular for the head of the sliding part 4, which is not shown in detail, and thereby limits the penetration depth.

[0091] The blocking mechanism used for blocking is known from the prior art, in particular from EP 2 531 122. In the following, the blocking mechanism will be explained in detail with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, it is of course also possible to use other known types of blocking mechanism. In order to explain the blocking mechanism of the gripping member 8, the gripping member 8 is shown in an exploded view in Figure 1.

[0092] To achieve the lock, the gripping member 8 has an adjusting element 10, also referred to below as a twist lock. The adjusting element 10 is configured to pivot transversely relative to the longitudinal axis L of the sliding part 4. That is, the adjusting element can move or pivot around the sliding part in the illustrated pivot direction R, i.e., rotationally. As shown in FIG. 1, the adjusting element 10 is formed, for example, from two parts in this case. The two parts of the adjusting element 10 can be connected to each other in a form-locking manner via a connecting element. The two-part design offers the advantage that the adjusting element can be assembled or installed particularly easily.

[0093] Furthermore, the gripping member 8 has at least one, in this case for example two, rocker elements 12. The rocker elements 12 are arranged on opposite sides of the sliding part 2 along the longitudinal axis L, between the adjusting element 10 and the sliding part 4. The rocker elements are indeed slidable along the longitudinal axis together with the adjusting element 10. However, unlike the adjusting element 10, the rocker elements are connected to the sliding part 4 in a radially or rotationally fixed manner, i.e., non-rotatably or non-rotatably.

[0094] For this purpose, the slide parts 4 each have a support groove 4c along the longitudinal axis L, and the rocker elements each have a support pin 12c. By means of the support pin 12c, each rocker element 12 is attached to or supported in the correspondingly arranged support groove 4c. The gripping members 8 are thereby coupled or connected to the slide part via the rocker elements 12. Each support groove 4c defines a sliding direction T for the gripping members 8.

[0095] The adjusting element 10, together with the respective rocker elements 12, forms a clamping device known per se. The adjusting element 10 is configured to pivot the respective rocker element 12 into a locked state relative to the sliding part 4 by rotating it (in this case, clockwise) in a blocking direction B extending transversely to the longitudinal axis to a blocking position. In the locked state, the sliding of the gripping member 8 along the longitudinal axis is blocked. The gripping member 8 is therefore locked and located in a zero state. Figure 3 shows the gripping member in the zero state by way of example.

[0096] In contrast, the adjusting element 10 is further configured to pivot each rocker element 12 into a release state relative to the sliding part 4 by rotation (in this case, left rotation) in an adjustment direction V transverse to the longitudinal axis L and different from the blocking direction B to an adjustment position different from the blocking position. In the release state, the sliding of the gripping member 8 along the longitudinal axis L is released, i.e. is no longer blocked. The gripping member is in a starting position, for example as shown in FIG. 2.

[0097] It is known per se how each rocker element 12 and adjusting element 10 is configured to enable blocking or locking. In the following example, each rocker element has a toothed arrangement 12a on its inner surface or mounting surface facing the sliding part 4. The sliding part 6 likewise has a corresponding toothed arrangement 4a on its outer surface or mounting surface facing each rocker element 12.

[0098] When the adjusting element 10 is rotated to the blocking position, the adjusting element 10 tilts or pivots each rocker element 12 along the axis formed by each support pin 12c or each support groove 4c, thereby bringing the toothing devices 4a, 12a into contact or connection with each other. Therefore, in the locked state, the toothing devices 4a, 12a abut each other. In this case, the toothing elements engage in the toothing element receiving portions of the toothing devices 4a, 12a. This creates a positive lock.

[0099] On the other hand, when the adjusting element 10 is rotated to the adjusted position, each rocker element 12 is pivoted or tilted so that the contact between the toothing devices 4a, 12a is released. Each rocker element 12 is in a released state. The block is released.

[0100] Instead of the toothing devices 4a, 12a, the blocking mechanism can also be realized by means of brake pads, for example, so that in the locked state, each bearing surface of the rocker element 12 can act like a brake wedge.

[0101] The described device 2 has the advantage of being particularly easy to operate with one hand. Therefore, the device 2 is suitable for use in, for example, a medical handpiece, as is known per se. A corresponding medical handpiece can be used, for example, for endoscopic intervention. In this case, one or more, in particular two, of the described devices are integrated or assembled together in a known manner. The resulting handpiece can be connected via the provided interfaces to one or more medical devices, such as an endoscope and / or an aspiration device and / or an aspiration needle. This handpiece allows the penetration depth of each device during endoscopic intervention to be adjusted, for example, by defining the protrusion of the aspiration needle portion of the aspiration needle from a tube guided through the medical handpiece. Thus, the penetration depth, for example, of a tumor or other tissue fragment, can be adjusted particularly precisely. Medical handpieces of the above type are known per se from the prior art and will not be described in detail below.

[0102] To define the respective directions of movement for the adjusting element 10, the gripping member 8 has at least one, in this case, for example, two, guide structures 15. Each guide structure 15 has a first guide body and a second guide body. The first guide body is, in this case, for example, formed as a guide element 14. Each guide element 14 is, in this case, for example, attached or fixed to the inner surface of the adjusting element 10 facing the respective rocker element 12. Each of the guide elements 14 has a guide channel 14b or guide groove that defines an individual guide extension for the adjusting element 10. In this embodiment, the guide track 14b is, for example, formed as a recess or cutout in the guide element 14.

[0103] Each second guide body is in this case formed, for example, as a guide pin 12b, which is included in each rocker element 12. The guide pin 12b is attached to the outer surface of each rocker element 12 facing the adjusting element 10. In this case, the guide pin 12b forms a ridge or protrusion extending radially, i.e. perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis L, in the direction of the guide element 14.

[0104] The guide pin 12b and the guide channel 14b can be connected in a form-locking manner. For this purpose, the guide pin 12b can engage in the guide track 14b, i.e., the guide pin 12b can be positioned in the guide track 14b. In the positioned state, the guide pin 12b and the guide element 14 are movable relative to one another, in particular in the rotation direction R and / or the sliding direction T. The direction of movement is determined by the extension of the guide channel 14b. Therefore, due to the rigid connection of the adjusting element 10 to the guide element 14, the adjusting element 10, in the positioned state, can also be moved relative to the rocker element 12 only along the guide extension determined by the guide track 14b.

[0105] The guide extension has a stepped or Z-shape in this embodiment (see FIG. 2 or 3), i.e., it has three connected guide extension sections. Two of the sections extend along the rotation direction R and are connected by a section extending in the sliding direction T. In this case, an offset of the guide extension occurs in the longitudinal direction L, in this case relative to the blocking direction B, for example downwards. This offset is present in the blocking position of the adjusting element 10, i.e., the section parallel to the rotation direction R ends or starts in the blocking position.

[0106] The blocking for determining the penetration depth can be undesirably released in certain situations. To prevent such undesired release, a locking mechanism is provided in addition to the blocking mechanism. The locking mechanism can lock or lock the blocking. In this case, for example, additional force must be applied to be able to release the blocking. Release in this case particularly means that the adjusting element moves from the blocking position to the adjusting position, and thus each rocker element 12 moves from the locked state to the released state.

[0107] To realize the locking mechanism, the gripping member 8 has locking devices 16. In this case, for example, a plurality of such locking devices 16, in particular four such locking devices 16, are provided. Each locking device 16 has a first locking element 16a. Each first locking element 16a can be rotated relative to the sliding part 4 transversely to the longitudinal axis L, i.e. in the rotation direction R, by means of the adjusting element 10. In this embodiment, each first locking element 16a is included in the adjusting element 10 for this purpose.

[0108] The four first fixing elements 16a are attached to the adjusting element 10, evenly distributed in the rotation direction R, except that two of the fixing elements 16a are arranged offset upwards in the sliding direction T, i.e., towards the sliding part 4, and the other two fixing elements 16a are arranged offset downwards, i.e., towards the receiving part 6.

[0109] Furthermore, each locking device 16 has a second locking element 16b that is fixed or non-rotatably arranged with respect to the sliding part 4. For this purpose, each second locking element 16b may, for example, be integral with the sliding part 4 itself. Alternatively, each second locking element 16 may, as shown in this embodiment, be integrated into a component of the gripping member 8 that is non-rotatable with respect to the sliding part 6. In this case, two of the second locking elements 16b are, for example, respectively included in one of the rocker elements 12. The other two locking elements 16b are, for example, integrated into or arranged on an unlocking element 20 of the unlocking device 18, which will be described in more detail below. Like the first locking elements 16a, the second locking elements 16b are arranged offset with respect to the rotation direction R and the sliding direction T.

[0110] In the blocking position of the adjusting element 10, each of the first and second fixing elements 16a, 16b is configured to apply a holding force H to fix the adjusting element against rotation transverse to the longitudinal axis L. That is, in the blocking position, the gripping member 8 is blocked and additionally fixed or locked. Therefore, the holding force prevents the adjusting element 10 from being rotated further in the rotation direction R. To enable rotation, the holding force H must first be overcome. To overcome the holding force H, a force greater than that required for the unblocking itself is preferably required.

[0111] 1, each fixing device 16 is realized as a passive fixing or locking, i.e., each first fixing element 16a can be moved by the adjusting element 10 relative to the second fixing element 16b by pivoting it transversely to the longitudinal axis into a blocking position, in which the holding force H is at a maximum. Thus, the fixing is achieved automatically by pivoting the adjusting element.

[0112] The first and second fixing elements 16a, 16b are formed as permanent magnets in this case. In this case, each of the first and second fixing elements 16a, 16b has a magnetic material with a magnetic field of opposite polarity. Thus, the holding force H is provided by the magnetic force that attracts the permanent magnets.

[0113] In this case, the permanent magnets have a cylindrical shape. The magnet structure is selected so that their magnetic force acts in the sliding direction T. That is, the holding force H is maximized when each first fixing element 16a is aligned linearly parallel to the corresponding second fixing element 16b (see, for example, FIG. 3). The offset of the fixing elements 16a, 16b in the rotation direction R is thus selected so that the cylindrical magnets of the first fixing element 16a and the corresponding second fixing element 16b abut each other with their opposite polarity ends, preferably in direct contact with each other, in the blocking position. The above-described locking state results. Outside the blocking position, in particular in the adjusting position, the associated fixing elements 16a, 16b are offset or spaced apart from each other in the sliding direction T on the one hand and the adjusting direction R on the other hand. This state of the fixing elements 16a, 16b is also referred to below as the unlocked state.

[0114] 1, the fixing elements 16a, 16b can also be configured as rolling bearings, for example, with at least one rolling element and a recess for receiving the rolling element in a fixed state. Alternatively, for example, active fixing is also conceivable. In this case, the fixing elements 16a, 16b can also be configured as, for example, a blocking element and a recess for receiving the blocking element. To move into the fixed state, an additional act of manipulation by the operator is required in addition to the rotation.

[0115] Similar to the locking, active or passive unlocking, i.e., passive or active release of the locking, may also be envisaged. Passive unlocking can be achieved, for example, by rotating the adjusting element 10 out of the blocked state in the adjustment direction V. When the rotation is performed with a sufficient force, the holding force H of the locking device 16 can be released. In this case, the locking elements 16a, 16b can be moved into an unlocked state in which the holding force H is at least reduced, in particular minimized or zero. However, in addition, the rotation in the adjustment direction moves each rocker element 12 from the locked state to the released state, and therefore also unblocks each rocker element 12.

[0116] To further ensure the fixation and to make the unlocking more deliberate, an active unlocking may be envisaged. For this purpose, the gripping member 8 comprises an unlocking mechanism, which will be explained in more detail below. In this example, the unlocking mechanism is realized by an unlocking device 18 of the gripping member 8 and a stepped guide extension of the guide structure 15.

[0117] 4, to unlock, the adjusting element 10 is first slid or pulled along the longitudinal axis L, in particular upwards, to release the magnetic force of the fixing elements 16a, 16b. The direction of movement and the movement play are determined by the section of the guide track 14b that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

[0118] Then, to perform the unlocking (see Figures 5 and 6), the adjusting element 10 is further rotated in the blocking direction B. Correspondingly, according to the unlocking mechanism, the adjusting element 10 may be configured to assume an unlocked position, which is different from the blocking position and the adjusting position, by rotating it from the blocking position in the blocking direction B in order to release the locking. Figure 6 shows the gripping member 8 in an unlocked state, in which the adjusting element 10 is located in the unlocked position.

[0119] In the unlocked position, the first and second locking elements 16a, 16b are moved to the unlocked state described above, with each locker element 12 remaining in the locked position in this case in the unlocked position of the adjusting element 10. That is to say, in the unlocked position, the gripping member 8 is blocked but is no longer fixed or locked.

[0120] To keep the fixing elements 16a, 16b unlocked when they are rotated to the unlocked position or returned to the adjusting position, an unlocking device 18 is provided. The unlocking device 18 is, for example, made of three parts and is arranged between the sliding part 4 and the adjusting element 10. In this embodiment, the unlocking device is arranged below each rocker element 12 along the longitudinal axis.

[0121] The unlocking device 18 has a first adjusting element 20, a second adjusting element 22, and a signaling element 24. The first unlocking element 20 is arranged between the adjusting element 10 and the sliding part 6. The second adjusting element 22 is overlapped or surrounded by the first unlocking element 20 in at least a predetermined region or section along the sliding direction T, and is arranged between the sliding part 4 and the adjusting element 10. The signaling element 24 is arranged between the sliding part 6 and the first and second unlocking elements 20, 22.

[0122] The first adjusting element 20 is arranged non-rotatably relative to the sliding part 6. However, the adjusting element 10 is slidable along the longitudinal axis L relative to the first unlocking element 20. The second unlocking element 22 is fixed relative to the adjusting element 10 so as not to be able to slide along the longitudinal axis L. However, the second unlocking element 22 is rotatable, in particular at least to a certain extent, in the rotation direction R relative to the adjusting element 10. In contrast, the signaling element 24 is configured completely stationary or non-rotatable relative to the adjusting element 10. The first adjusting element 20 is preferably slidable along the longitudinal axis L relative to the signaling element 24.

[0123] The first unlocking element 21 and the adjusting element 10 together form at least one, in this case, for example two, spacer structures 11. When the adjusting element 10 is rotated transversely to the longitudinal axis outside the blocking position, the adjusting element 10 and the first unlocking element 21 are held at a predetermined distance relative to each other by the respective spacer structures 11. In other words, the first unlocking element 20 and the adjusting element 10 are supported by each other outside the blocking position. This allows the unlocked position of the fixing elements 16a, 16b to be achieved (see Figures 5 and 6).

[0124] Each spacer structure 11 is formed in this case by a support part 20a and a holding part 10a as a spacer body. The support part 20a extends as a protrusion or projection from the first unlocking element 20 along the longitudinal axis L. The holding part 10a is included in the adjusting element 10 and is formed by a mounting or support surface. The mounting surface extends axially along the inner surface of the adjusting element 10 facing the sliding part 4 in the rotation direction R. To achieve the unlocked state, the support part 20a rests on the mounting surface of the holding part 10a. Thus, during rotation, the projection slides along the mounting surface.

[0125] To further improve the fixation, the spacer structure 11 has a locking mechanism, which allows the first unlocking element 20 and the adjusting element 10 to be connected in a form-locking manner in the blocking position, thereby reducing the predetermined distance and bringing the fixing elements 16a, 16b into a fixed state. In this case, the holding part 10a described has a recess or notch corresponding to the protrusion of the support part 20a. This recess extends along the sliding direction T corresponding to the support part 20a. In the blocking position, a recess is formed for receiving the protrusion of the support part 20a. The protrusion can be hooked or engaged in the recess. This reduces the distance defined by the protrusion and brings the fixing elements 16a, 16b into a fixed state.

[0126] The first unlocking element 20 is coupled or connected to a guide groove 24c of the signaling element 24 via a guide pin 20c. The guide groove 24c extends along the signaling element 24 in a sliding direction T. Thus, the first unlocking element 20 is slidable along the longitudinal axis L relative to the signaling element 24.

[0127] In the accommodated state, the guide groove 24c limits the movement of the first unlocking element 20, in this case upwards. This allows the projection to be moved out of the accommodation at least in a certain area, preferably completely, by pulling the adjusting element 10 to release the locking (see FIG. 4). In this case, the holding force of the locking elements 16a, 16b is released, at least to the extent that the magnetic force is no longer strong enough to hold the first unlocking element 20. This causes the first unlocking element 20 to fall in the direction of gravity, in this case downwards, towards the accommodation part 6.

[0128] In the direction of the receiving part 6 of the device 2, the signaling element 24 has at least one, in this case for example two, in particular for example three or more, stops 24a. Each stop 24a supports the first unlocking element 20 from one side at least in the unlocked position, i.e. outside the blocking position. On the opposite side, for example, the receiving part 6 may be supported by the stops 24a against the grip part 8.

[0129] The signaling element 24 is formed stationary relative to the adjusting element 10 and the first unlocking element 20, so that in the blocking position the signaling element 24 can protrude beyond the adjusting element 10 along the longitudinal axis L (in this case, for example downwards). The signaling element 24 is exposed in a certain area and is therefore visible to the operator. This allows the blocking, in particular the locking, of the gripping part 8 to also be signaled by the signaling element 24 (see FIG. 3). In particular, the signaling element 24 may be colored, for example, in a signal color, for example red.

[0130] The second unlocking element 22, together with the first unlocking element 20, forms at least one, in this case, for example two, sliding structures 21. Each sliding structure 21 allows the adjusting element 10 and the first unlocking element 20 to slide at a predetermined distance relative to each other along the longitudinal axis L. That is, the unlocking structure 21 is used to automatically achieve unlocking by rotating the adjusting element 10 to the unlocked position. Preferably, the sliding structure 21 can also be used to maintain the predetermined distance, similar to the spacer structure 11.

[0131] Each sliding structure 21 is formed in this case, for example, by two sliding bodies, namely, a first sliding body 20b and a second sliding body 22b. The first sliding body 20b is arranged on the inner surface of the first unlocking element 20 facing the second unlocking element 22. The first sliding body 20b is formed, for example, as a convex or protruding part extending along the longitudinal axis L (in this case, for example, upward) toward the second unlocking element 22. The first sliding body 20b has a mounting surface (in this case, the upper surface) that can support the first sliding body 20b against the second sliding body 22b.

[0132] The second slide 22b is included in the second unlocking element 22. The second slide 22b has a resting or support surface for the resting surface of the first slide 20b. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the resting surface of the second slide 22b is formed by the lower edge region of the second unlocking element 22.

[0133] The second sliding body 22b has a receiving portion or recess that corresponds to the protrusion of the first sliding body 20b. This receiving portion or recess can receive the first sliding body 20b in the blocking position, as shown in FIG. 3. This allows the first sliding body 20b and the second sliding body 22b to form a positive lock. As shown in FIG. 1, the notch and the protrusion have a rectangular shape with one side extending obliquely relative to the sliding direction T. That is, a slope is formed. This slope allows the adjusting element 10 to slide particularly easily along the recess when it rotates from the blocking position toward the blocking direction of the protrusion, thereby allowing the second unlocking element 22, and in particular the adjusting element 10 connected thereto, and the first unlocking element 20 to be spaced apart from one another at a predetermined distance (see FIGS. 6 and 7). As shown in FIG. 1, the unlocking device may have multiple, for example two, of the spacer structures and sliding structures described above.

[0134] Finally, the second unlocking element 22 and the adjusting element 10 form together at least one, in this case for example two, connecting structures 13. By means of each connecting structure 13, the second unlocking element 22 can be entrained at least to a predetermined extent when the adjusting element 10 is rotated transversely to the longitudinal axis L. In particular, the second adjusting element 22 is entrained at least to a predetermined extent only when the adjusting element 10 is rotated from the unlocked position to the adjusting position, and only when the adjusting element 10 is rotated from the unlocked position to the adjusting position.

[0135] Each connecting structure 13 is formed in this case, for example, by two driving bodies 11c and a respective driven body 22c. Each driving body 11c is formed as a protrusion or block projecting in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis L on an inner surface of the adjusting element 10 facing the second unlocking element 22. Each driven body 22c is formed as an outer surface of the second unlocking element 22 projecting in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis L in the direction of the adjusting element 10. In the connected state, each driving body 11c applies a force generated by its rotation to the driven body 22c, which force causes the driven body 22c to rotate together with the driving body 11c.

[0136] The two followers 11c are arranged offset in the rotation direction R. The follower 22c is arranged between the two followers 11c. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the axial arrangement of the followers 11c is selected so that one of the followers 11c is connected to the follower 22c in the blocking position. When the adjusting element 10 is rotated in the blocking direction, the second unlocking element 22 is rotated with it. This activates the sliding structure 21.

[0137] 7 and 8 show the return guidance of the adjusting element 10 from the unlocked position back to the starting position. For this purpose, Fig. 7 shows the gripping member 8 with the adjusting element 10 rotated approximately two-thirds of the way from the unlocked position back to the adjusted position. For clarity, only the second adjusting element 22 of the unlocking device 18 is shown, so that the function of the connecting structure 13 can be clearly seen.

[0138] In FIG. 7, the other of the driving bodies 11c and the driven body 22c are not yet coupled. However, coupling occurs before the adjustment position is reached. Therefore, the second unlocking element 22 is only entrained in the last section of the guide track 14b when pivoting in the adjustment direction V. Thus, as shown in FIG. 6, the sliding structure 21 provides a distance between the first unlocking element 20 and the adjusting element 10 without the support part 20a and the recess of the holding part 10a engaging with each other when pivoting and sliding back to the adjusted position. Only when the support body is again displaced relative to the receiving part is the second adjusting element 22 entrained by the connecting structure 13 until the adjusting element 10 is again in the starting position, i.e., in the adjusted position.

[0139] Overall, these embodiments show how a lockable twist lock, i.e. a lockable adjusting element 10 for a gripping member 8 of, for example, a medical handpiece, can be realized. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 2 equipment 4 Slide section 4a Dental alignment device 4b scale 4c Support groove 6. Storage area 8. Gripping member 10 Regulatory Elements 10a Holding part 10c Group 11 Spacer structure 12 Rocker element 12a Dental appliance 12b Guide pin 12c Support pin 13 Connected structure 14 Guide element 14b Guide track 15 Guide structure 16 Fixation device 16a First fixing element 16b Second fixing element 18 Unlocking device 20 First unlocking element 20a Support part 20b sliding body 20c guide pin 21 Sliding structure 22 Second unlocking element 22b Second sliding body 22c Detainee 24 Signaling Elements 24a Stopper 24c guide groove B Block direction L Longitudinal axis R Rotation direction T Sliding direction

Claims

1. A device (2) for determining the penetration depth of a tubular or rod-shaped slide part (4) of an aspiration needle support part in a housing part (6), comprising a gripping member (8) surrounding said slide part (4), said gripping member (8) being configured to slide relative to said slide part (4) along a longitudinal axis (L) of said slide part (4), said gripping member (8) comprising: an adjustment element (10) configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis (L) of the sliding part (4); and at least one rocker element (12) arranged between the adjusting element (10) and the sliding part (4), the adjusting element (10) is configured to pivot each rocker element (12) relative to the slide part (4) into a locked state by pivoting in a transverse blocking direction (B) about the longitudinal axis (L) to a blocking position, in which sliding of the gripping member (8) along the longitudinal axis (L) is blocked; and The adjusting element (10) is configured to pivot each rocker element (12) relative to the slide part (4) to a release state by pivoting laterally about the longitudinal axis (L) in an adjustment direction (V) different from the blocking direction (B) to an adjustment position different from the blocking position, in which the gripping member (8) is released from sliding along the longitudinal axis (L), at least one fixing device (16) is provided, said fixing device comprising a first fixing element (16a) which is rotatable relative to said sliding part (4) laterally about said longitudinal axis (L) by means of said adjustment element (10) and a second fixing element (16b) which is fixed so as not to be rotatable relative to said sliding part (4) laterally about said longitudinal axis (L); the first and second fixing elements (16a, 16b) are configured to apply a holding force (H) to fix the adjustment element (10) in the blocking position against forces tending to rotate the adjustment element (10) laterally about the longitudinal axis (L); The device (2) is characterized in that the first fixing element (16a) forms a blocking body, the second fixing element (16b) forms a recess for accommodating the blocking body, and the blocking body is configured to be moved by an operating action of an operator in the blocking position of the adjustment element (10) to a fixed state in which the holding force (H) is maximum.

2. A device (2) for determining the penetration depth of a tubular or rod-shaped slide portion (4) of a suction needle support portion in a storage portion (6), comprising a gripping member (8) surrounding said slide portion (4), said gripping member (8) configured to slide along a longitudinal axis (L) of said slide portion (4) relative to said slide portion (4), said gripping member (8) being: an adjustment element (10) configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis (L) of the sliding part (4); and at least one rocker element (12) arranged between the adjusting element (10) and the sliding part (4), the adjusting element (10) is configured to pivot each rocker element (12) relative to the slide part (4) into a locked state by pivoting in a transverse blocking direction (B) about the longitudinal axis (L) to a blocking position, in which sliding of the gripping member (8) along the longitudinal axis (L) is blocked; and The adjusting element (10) is configured to pivot each rocker element (12) relative to the slide part (4) to a release state by pivoting laterally about the longitudinal axis (L) in an adjustment direction (V) different from the blocking direction (B) to an adjustment position different from the blocking position, in which the gripping member (8) is released from sliding along the longitudinal axis (L), at least one fixing device (16) is provided, said fixing device comprising a first fixing element (16a) which is rotatable relative to said sliding part (4) laterally about said longitudinal axis (L) by means of said adjustment element (10) and a second fixing element (16b) which is fixed so as not to be rotatable relative to said sliding part (4) laterally about said longitudinal axis (L); the first and second fixing elements (16a, 16b) are configured to apply a holding force (H) to fix the adjustment element (10) in the blocking position against forces tending to rotate the adjustment element (10) laterally about the longitudinal axis (L); the adjustment element (10) is configured such that a lateral rotation about the longitudinal axis (L) to the blocking position moves the first locking element (16a) relative to the second locking element (16b) to a locking state in which the holding force (H) is at a maximum; The device, wherein the first and second fixed elements (16a, 16b) comprise magnetic materials and generate magnetic fields of opposite polarity.

3. A device (2) for determining the penetration depth of a tubular or rod-shaped slide portion (4) of a suction needle support portion in a storage portion (6), comprising a gripping member (8) surrounding said slide portion (4), said gripping member (8) configured to slide along a longitudinal axis (L) of said slide portion (4) relative to said slide portion (4), said gripping member (8) being: an adjustment element (10) configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis (L) of the sliding part (4); and at least one rocker element (12) arranged between the adjusting element (10) and the sliding part (4), the adjusting element (10) is configured to pivot each rocker element (12) relative to the slide part (4) into a locked state by pivoting in a transverse blocking direction (B) about the longitudinal axis (L) to a blocking position, in which sliding of the gripping member (8) along the longitudinal axis (L) is blocked; and The adjusting element (10) is configured to pivot each rocker element (12) relative to the slide part (4) to a release state by pivoting laterally about the longitudinal axis (L) in an adjustment direction (V) different from the blocking direction (B) to an adjustment position different from the blocking position, in which the gripping member (8) is released from sliding along the longitudinal axis (L), at least one fixing device (16) is provided, said fixing device comprising a first fixing element (16a) which is rotatable relative to said sliding part (4) laterally about said longitudinal axis (L) by means of said adjustment element (10) and a second fixing element (16b) which is fixed so as not to be rotatable relative to said sliding part (4) laterally about said longitudinal axis (L); the first and second fixing elements (16a, 16b) are configured to apply a holding force (H) to fix the adjustment element (10) in the blocking position against forces tending to rotate the adjustment element (10) laterally about the longitudinal axis (L); the adjustment element (10) is configured such that a lateral rotation about the longitudinal axis (L) to the blocking position moves the first locking element (16a) relative to the second locking element (16b) to a locking state in which the holding force (H) is at a maximum; The device, wherein the first fixing element (16a) is formed as a rolling bearing with at least one rolling element, and the second fixing element (16b) forms a recess for accommodating the rolling element in the fixed state.

4. A device (2) for determining the penetration depth of a tubular or rod-shaped slide portion (4) of a suction needle support portion in a storage portion (6), comprising a gripping member (8) surrounding said slide portion (4), said gripping member (8) configured to slide along a longitudinal axis (L) of said slide portion (4) relative to said slide portion (4), said gripping member (8) being: an adjustment element (10) configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis (L) of the sliding part (4); and at least one rocker element (12) arranged between the adjusting element (10) and the sliding part (4), the adjusting element (10) is configured to pivot each rocker element (12) relative to the slide part (4) into a locked state by pivoting in a transverse blocking direction (B) about the longitudinal axis (L) to a blocking position, in which sliding of the gripping member (8) along the longitudinal axis (L) is blocked; and The adjusting element (10) is configured to pivot each rocker element (12) relative to the slide part (4) to a release state by pivoting laterally about the longitudinal axis (L) in an adjustment direction (V) different from the blocking direction (B) to an adjustment position different from the blocking position, in which the gripping member (8) is released from sliding along the longitudinal axis (L), at least one fixing device (16) is provided, said fixing device comprising a first fixing element (16a) which is rotatable relative to said sliding part (4) laterally about said longitudinal axis (L) by means of said adjustment element (10) and a second fixing element (16b) which is fixed so as not to be rotatable relative to said sliding part (4) laterally about said longitudinal axis (L); the first and second fixing elements (16a, 16b) are configured to apply a holding force (H) to fix the adjustment element (10) in the blocking position against forces tending to rotate the adjustment element (10) laterally about the longitudinal axis (L); The device (2) further comprises a guide structure (15) defining a guide extension for rotation of the adjustment element (10) laterally about the longitudinal axis (L) relative to at least each of the rocker elements (12), the adjustment element (10) being adjustable along the guide extension to each of the blocking position and the adjustment position.

5. 5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the guide structure (15) includes a guide extension section extending along the longitudinal axis (L) and arranged corresponding to the blocking position, and the adjustment element (10) is slidable along the guide extension section relative to each of the rocker elements (12) to release the locking.

6. 3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the adjusting element (10) is configured to assume an unlocked position different from the blocking position and the adjusting position by pivoting from the blocking position in the blocking direction (B) to release the locking, thereby moving the first and second locking elements (16a, 16b) to an unlocked state in which the holding force (H) is reduced compared to the locked state, and each of the rocker elements (12) maintains the locked state in the unlocked position of the adjusting element (10).

7. 7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the gripping member (8) has an unlocking device (18) arranged between the sliding part (4) and the adjusting element (10), the unlocking device being configured to hold each of the fixing elements (16a, 16b) in the unlocked state during a rotation of the adjusting element (10) laterally about the longitudinal axis.

8. the unlocking device (18) has a first unlocking element (20) arranged in a fixed position so as not to rotate laterally relative to the sliding part (4) about the longitudinal axis, a spacer structure (11) configured to hold the adjusting element (10) and the first unlocking element (20) at a predetermined distance relative to each other along the longitudinal axis (L) when the adjusting element (10) rotates laterally about the longitudinal axis (L), thereby realizing the unlocked state of the fixing elements (16a, 16b); 8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the spacer structure (11) has a connection mechanism by which the first unlocking element (20) and the adjusting element (10) are connected in a form-locking manner in the blocking position and the predetermined distance is reduced.

9. 9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the unlocking device (18) comprises a signaling element (24) which projects beyond the adjusting element (10) along the longitudinal axis (L) in at least a predetermined area only in the blocking position upon rotation of the first unlocking element (20) to signal the rotation of the first unlocking element (20) to the blocking position.

10. 10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the unlocking device (18) comprises a second unlocking element (22) arranged in a fixed position so as not to slide relative to the adjusting element (10) along the longitudinal axis (L), the first and second unlocking elements (20, 22) forming a sliding structure (21) configured to cause the adjusting element (10) and the first unlocking element (20) to slide relative to each other along the longitudinal axis (L) at the predetermined distance from each other when the adjusting element (10) rotates laterally about the longitudinal axis (L) from the blocking position to the unlocked position.

11. 11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the adjusting element (10) and the second unlocking element (22) form a connecting structure (13) for entraining the second unlocking element (22) by at least a predetermined section when the adjusting element (10) is pivoted laterally about the longitudinal axis (L), the connecting structure (13) being configured to offset the spacer structure (11) and the sliding structure (21) when the adjusting element (10) slides laterally about the longitudinal axis (L) from the unlocked position to the adjusting position, thereby maintaining the predetermined distance when pivoted in the adjusting direction (V).

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