Endoscopy system

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

[0003]

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

Background Art

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

[0003] An endoscope generally refers to a medical instrument for observing the inside of the body for medical purposes. Depending on the part to be examined, it is called a "bronchoscope", "gastroscope", "laparoscope", "colonoscope", etc. Unlike most other medical imaging devices, an endoscope is directly inserted into the body. ​​​​​​​​​​On the other hand, the bending motion of the curved section is controlled by the pulling of multiple wires, and for this purpose, the operating section is equipped with various mechanical components, such as chains, to control the bending of the curved section. A direction adjustment knob is provided to operate these mechanical components, allowing the operator to manually control the bending motion.

[0007] However, this type of structure presents several problems, including reduced intuition and increased fatigue for the operator when manipulating the endoscope, as well as difficulty in applying artificial intelligence.

[0008] The aforementioned background technology is technical information that the inventor possessed or acquired during the process of deriving embodiments of the present invention, and is not necessarily publicly known technology that was disclosed to the general public before filing the application for embodiments of the present invention. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention has been proposed to solve the aforementioned problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope system with motorized bending motion so that the operator can use the endoscope comfortably.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a smart endoscopic system that allows artificial intelligence to be applied by motorizing the bending motion, enabling the bending part to automatically bend simply by the operator inserting the insertion part, positioning itself within the curved organ and advancing to the desired location, and furthermore, enabling the system to automatically perform the necessary processes in an endoscopic examination.

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

[0012] The technical problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] To achieve the above objective, one aspect of the present invention provides an insertion portion having a tip portion having an imaging means and an illumination means, a curved portion to which the tip portion is connected and which is curved in a direction set to allow observation of a desired part of a subject, and a flexible portion to which the curved portion is connected and which moves flexibly so as to be smoothly inserted into the subject;

[0014] A universal cord connected to an air source, water source, or suction source, providing air, water, or suction to the insertion part;

[0015] An endoscope system can be provided that includes at least one of the following: an operating unit having one or more of the following: a control means for connecting the insertion section and the universal cord and controlling the curvature angle of the curved section; an air supply valve for adjusting the air supply; a water supply valve for controlling the water supply; and a suction valve for controlling the suction; and an external device to which the universal cord is connected and which is provided with a power source for bending the curved section.

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

[0017] According to the embodiment, in order to curve the curved portion, a mechanical string may be included, one end of which is connected to the curved portion and the other end of which is connected to the power source of the external device, and which transmits the power generated by the power source to the curved portion.

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

[0019] According to one embodiment, the operating section may be provided with a compensator that performs a compensation function to prevent unexpected abnormal tension from affecting the posture maintenance of the curved section when such abnormal tension occurs due to twisting or bending of the universal cord.

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

[0021] If the universal cord becomes twisted or bent, causing unexpected abnormal tension, the mechanical string may be decoupled inside the operating section so that the abnormal tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved section.

[0022] Another aspect of the present invention is an insertable portion having a curved section that is inserted into a subject, illuminates, collects image information, and is curved in a set direction;

[0023] An endoscope system can be provided that includes an operating unit connected to the insertion section and controlling the curvature of the bending section; and an external device having a light source for illumination, processing the image information, and providing power to the bending section.

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

[0025] An operation portion connected to the distal end of the insertion portion, having control means for controlling the bending angle of the bending portion, and being sized and formed so as to be easily gripped by a user; and

[0026] An external device connected to the operation portion and provided with a power source for bending the bending portion; It is possible to provide an endoscope system including.

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

[0028] According to an embodiment, in order to bend the bending portion, it may include a mechanical string, one end of which is connected to the bending portion and the other end of which is connected to the power source of the external device, and the power generated by the power source is transmitted to the bending portion.

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

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

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

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

[0033] A further aspect of the present invention is a tip having imaging means and illumination means; a curved portion connected to the tip and curved in a direction set to allow observation of a desired area of ​​a subject; and an insertion portion connected to the curved portion and having a flexible portion that moves flexibly to allow smooth insertion into the subject;

[0034] An endoscope module including an operating section connected to the insertion section, having control means for controlling the curvature angle of the curved section, and formed to be easily grasped by the user; and

[0035] An endoscope system can be provided that includes an external device connected to the operating unit and equipped with a power source for bending the bending section.

[0036] Another aspect of the present invention can provide an endoscope system comprising: a light source device having a power source; and an endoscope module connected to the light source device, which is provided with a light source, receives power generated by the power source, and has a curved section that is curved by the power; [Effects of the Invention]

[0037] As described above, one embodiment of the present invention provides an endoscope system in which the bending motion is motorized to allow the operator to easily use the endoscope.

[0038] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a smart endoscope system that allows artificial intelligence to be applied by motorizing the bending motion, enabling the bending part to automatically bend when the operator inserts the insertion part, positioning itself within the curved body and advancing to the desired location, and further enabling the necessary processes of an endoscopic examination to be performed automatically.

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

[0040] Furthermore, the present invention has various effects, including excellent versatility, as can be clearly confirmed from the description of the embodiments below.

[0041] The following drawings accompanying this specification illustrate one embodiment of the present invention and, together with the summary of the invention described above, are intended to make the technical concept of the present invention easier to understand. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as being limited only to what is shown in the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0042] [Figure 1] An endoscope module constituting an endoscope system, according to one embodiment of the present invention, is shown. [Figure 2] This diagram shows how a universal cord is provided on an external device and how a first connector and a second connector are connected, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] An example of a compensator provided in the operating section according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 4] An example of a compensator provided in the operating section according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0043] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as methods for achieving them, will become apparent with reference to the embodiments described in detail with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented below and can be embodied in a variety of different forms, and should be understood to include all transformations, equivalents or substitutes that fall within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention. The embodiments presented below are provided to complete the disclosure of the present invention and to fully inform those who are ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. Where it is determined that a specific description of the relevant prior art would obscure the gist of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0044] Figure 1 shows an endoscope module that constitutes an endoscope system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 2 shows how a universal cord is fitted to an external device and how the first connector and the second connector are connected, according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2(a) shows the universal cord fitted to the external device, and Figure 2(b) shows it separated.

[0046] An endoscope system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an insertion tube (Insertion Tube) 200 having a tip portion 210 having imaging means and illumination means, a bending portion 220 to which the tip portion 210 is connected and which is curved in a direction set to allow observation of a desired area of ​​the subject, and a flexible portion 230 to which the bending portion 220 is connected and which moves flexibly to allow smooth insertion into the subject;

[0047] A Universal Code 400 is connected to an air source, water source, or suction source to provide air, water, or suction to the insertion portion 200;

[0048] A control body 300 having at least one of the following: an insertion portion 200 and the universal cord 400, a control means 310 for controlling the curvature angle of the curved portion 220, an air supply valve for adjusting the air supply, a water supply valve for controlling the water supply, and a suction valve for controlling the suction; and

[0049] The configuration may include an external device 500 to which the universal cord 400 is connected and which is provided with a power source 510 for bending the curved portion 220.

[0050] The insertion portion 200 may include a tip portion (Tube-Tip) 210, a bending section 220, and a flexible portion 230, as it is inserted into the patient by the operator when performing an endoscopic examination.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the tip portion 210 may be formed at the tip of the curved portion 220, or the curved portion and the flexible portion 230 may be connected by a single tube.

[0052] The tip portion 210 is located at the tip of the curved portion 220 of the insertion portion 200 so as to be inserted into the subject to observe various structures, and may include one or more of the following: an opening through which suction and auxiliary instruments pass; an illumination means that transmits light from a light source via an optical fiber to illuminate the area so as to ensure the operator's field of view; and an imaging means that images internal tissues and other objects to collect and transmit image information.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the curved portion 220 may be configured to maintain its shape in a mesh-like manner by weaving together wires made of metal material, and a mechanical string 420 is interposed inside the mesh shape to realize the bending motion of the curved portion 220.

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

[0055] Furthermore, the curved portion 220 is curved to a set angle during the process of the surgeon inserting the insertion portion 200 into the subject in order to observe the inside of the subject, and can guide the movement of the tip portion 210 so that it can move smoothly to the desired area to be observed.

[0056] The universal cord 400 is connected to an air source, water source, or suction source to provide air, water, or suction, and can deliver the provided air, water, or suction to the tip section 210. For this purpose, a channel through which air or water can move may be formed inside the universal cord 400, and this channel may also be formed inside the operating section and the insertion section 200.

[0057] The operator can operate the air supply valve, water supply valve, and suction valve located on the control unit 300 to spray air or water or activate suction from the tip of the insertion unit 200.

[0058] The operating unit 300 may be provided with control means 310 and function switches. The operator can control the bending motion using the control means 310 of the operating unit 300, and can select an air jet function or a water jet function using the function switches to perform suction. Here, the control means 310 includes, for example, a bending angle adjustment knob or a joystick.

[0059] The control means 310 can communicate with a power source 510 provided in an external device 500 by wire or wireless means. The operator can operate the control means 310 to transmit control commands to the power source 510 provided in the external device 500, and the power source 510 can be driven by the control commands to cause the bending section 220 to perform a bending motion.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the control means 310 may include artificial intelligence and a communication module that receives control commands for the artificial intelligence and transmits them to the power source 510. The artificial intelligence can set the bending motion of the curved section 220 to guide it to a desired location based on pre-programmed content, and can send control commands to perform it.

[0061] According to the embodiments of this specification, the combined body of the insertion section 200 and the operating section 300 is referred to as the "endoscopic module 100".

[0062] According to the embodiments of this specification, the combined body comprising the insertion section 200, the operating section 300, and the universal cord 400 is also referred to as the "endoscopic module 100".

[0063] In other words, according to the embodiment, the endoscope module 100 may include a combined body in which the insertion section 200 and the operating section 300 are connected, and a combined body in which the insertion section 200, the operating section 300 and the universal cord 400 are connected.

[0064] Furthermore, in this specification, "external device 500" means a device located "outside" the endoscope module 100, and may mean a device that exists as a separate product distinct from the endoscope module 100. The operator can only use the endoscope module 100 after connecting the universal cord 400 of the endoscope module 100 to the external device 500. The universal cord 400 may consist of a flexible cord portion and a connector portion that is directly connected to the external device 500.

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

[0066] When performing a biopsy using an endoscope, the operator can connect the endoscope module 100 to an external device 500, such as a light source device, and illuminate the inside of the body to be observed by supplying light from the light source device. The operator can also connect the endoscope module 100 to an image processing device, transmit the image information of the subject captured and collected by the camera to the image processing device, process the images, and save them for confirmation and analysis.

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

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

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

[0070] According to the embodiment, the first connector 520 may be provided in an externally exposed form on a connection portion of the external device 500 that is connected to the universal cord. The second connector 410 may also be provided in an externally exposed form on a connection portion of the universal cord 400 (where the connection portion includes a portion that is directly connected to the external device 500), or it may be provided at a position corresponding to the position where the first connector 520 of the external device 500 is provided.

[0071] With this configuration, when a user connects the universal cord to an external device, the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 can be coupled together.

[0072] Therefore, when a user connects the endoscope module 100 to the external device 500, the exposed portion of the first connector 520 and the exposed portion of the second connector 410 interact electrically or mechanically, thereby enabling the power generated by the power source 510 provided in the external device 500 to be transmitted to the mechanical string 420. Then, when a user removes the endoscope module 100 from the external device 500 to clean it, the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 are separated.

[0073] In this embodiment, the process by which a power source 510 provided in the external device 500 bends the curved section 220 via the mechanical string 420 will be described in detail. Furthermore, the external device 500 will be replaced with a light source device, and the power source 510 will be replaced with a motor in this description.

[0074] One end of the mechanical string 420 may be connected to the curved portion 220 of the insertion portion 200, and the other end may be connected to a second connector 410 provided at the tip of the universal cord 400. In this case, the mechanical string 420 may be provided passing through the universal cord 400, the operating portion 300, and the insertion portion 200.

[0075] On the other hand, the motor located inside the light source device may be connected to the first connector 520. According to this embodiment, the motor may also be further equipped with a reduction gear, which can reduce the motor's power output.

[0076] When the universal cord 400 of the endoscope module 100 is connected to the light source device, the optical fiber that performs the optical guide function, which is provided inside the endoscope module 100, is connected to the light source and the illumination means becomes functional. The power supply unit that supplies various power sources, which is located inside the light source device, is connected to the endoscope module 100 and supplies power to the endoscope module 100. The first connector 520 and the second connector 410 are coupled, and the motor's power pulls or relaxes the mechanical string 420, causing the bending section 220 to perform a bending motion.

[0077] The curved section 220 can perform bending movements in the up, down, left, and right directions. That is, it can perform yawing and pitching movements.

[0078] Although only one pair of mechanical strings 420 is shown in the drawing, a pair of mechanical strings 420 that perform bending motion in the vertical direction and a pair of mechanical strings 420 that perform bending motion in the horizontal direction may be provided, and a total of at least four mechanical strings 420 may be provided.

[0079] There may be multiple motors, and separate motors may be provided for vertical bending motion and horizontal bending motion. The pair of mechanical strings 420 may be driven by a one-to-one mapping, for example, by a chain-gear configuration or a pulley-belt configuration. For example, the pair of mechanical strings 420 may be driven in such a way that when one is pulled by 1, the other is slackened by -1.

[0080] In the embodiment of the present invention, the curved section 220 is connected to the power source 510 of the external device 500 and the mechanical string 420 to transmit power and control its curvature. This structure, in which the curved section 220 is connected to the power source 510 of the external device 500 to transmit power, is distinct from conventional techniques in which the curved section 220 is operated manually.

[0081] Conventional insertion sections 200 are equipped with a mechanical string 420 that bends the curved section 220, and the operating section 300 has a mechanical device that can pull or loosen the mechanical string 420, and the operating section 300 is equipped with a bending angle adjustment knob that can be manually operated. The universal cord 400 is equipped with electrical connection wires for air / water supply tubes and suction tubes, and does not have a power transmission configuration such as the mechanical string 420.

[0082] In conventional endoscopy techniques, the operator could control the bending motion of the bending section 220 by holding the control unit 300 in one hand and turning a knob to pull the mechanical string 420.

[0083] In this case, for example, during a gastroscopy, when the operator inserts the insertion section 200 orally into the patient, the tip section 210 moves from the mouth into the body and reaches the point where the esophagus and airway diverge. At such a location, even a skilled operator would need a lot of time to manually operate the knob to control the bending motion of the bending section 220.

[0084] In one embodiment of the present invention, a structure in which the curved portion 220 is connected to a power source to transmit power minimizes manual operation by the surgeon to control the bending motion, requiring only a short time to reach the desired location inside the body, thus saving time and effort.

[0085] Furthermore, inexperienced operators may lose their way to the desired area within the dark interior of the body, but this problem can be solved by applying artificial intelligence to motorize the bending motion, allowing the device to automatically advance to the desired area.

[0086] According to this embodiment, by detecting the current direction of movement from the endoscope image and inputting control values ​​for the power source 510 based on the direction of movement detected by artificial intelligence, the operator only needs to insert the insertion section 200, and the artificial intelligence will control the bending motion of the bending section 220. As a result, the insertion section 200 can appropriately control its own posture and advance accurately along the inside of the subject.

[0087] When the insertion part 200 is inserted into the subject, artificial intelligence automatically determines the curved portion of the organ and can bend it on its own, so the surgeon does not need to press any buttons or assume an awkward position. In other words, the artificial intelligence determines whether it is the esophagus or the airway and controls the bending in advance, so the surgeon only needs to insert the insertion part 200 into the subject through the mouth or elsewhere.

[0088] For example, during a gastroscopy, in the case of the pylorus, the difference between the position of the insertion tube 200 inside the body and the position the operator is actually viewing is almost 180 degrees. Maintaining this position while manually manipulating the device requires considerable force in the fingers. Especially when the operator is taking images in this position, even a slight movement of the tip 210 will immediately blur the image, requiring even more force in the fingers. Such manipulation causes significant fatigue for the doctor.

[0089] However, if, for example, there are eight areas that must be imaged during a pyloric examination, and artificial intelligence can identify these areas in advance and automatically perform the imaging, it would be extremely convenient for the operator, who may have difficulty even maintaining proper posture. The structure in this embodiment, in which the bending section 220 is connected to the power source 510 to transmit power, enables the motorization of the bending angle adjustment and allows the application of artificial intelligence, thereby realizing various functions and ensuring the convenience of the operator's use of the endoscope in the aforementioned situation.

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

[0091] Since the endoscopic module 100 is inserted into the patient's body, hygiene is crucial. Therefore, cleaning the endoscopic module is extremely important. After the operator uses the endoscopic module for biopsy, the module must be thoroughly cleaned.

[0092] To clean the endoscope module, a detergent containing chemicals diluted with water is required. However, the motor, which is the power source, is vulnerable to moisture, and exposure of the motor to moisture can be fatal to the lifespan of the endoscope module.

[0093] Because endoscope modules are very expensive, if the motor, which is the power source 510, is located inside the operating unit 300, the user must be careful not to let water enter the endoscope module when cleaning it, making cleaning the endoscope module cumbersome. If the endoscope module cannot be properly cleaned due to concerns that moisture may enter the motor inside the endoscope module and cause it to malfunction, it becomes a critical hygiene problem. Because endoscope modules are expensive, if the entire product has to be replaced due to the failure of internal components such as the motor, it is very uneconomical for the user.

[0094] In one embodiment of the present invention, the endoscopic system fundamentally solves the aforementioned problem because the motor is attached to an external device 500, which is configured as a separate product from the endoscopic module 100, rather than to the endoscopic module 100 itself. That is, after using the endoscopic module, the operator only needs to remove the endoscopic module from the external device 500 and clean it. The endoscopic module does not have a power source 510 such as a motor, and there is no risk of water entering the motor, so the endoscopic module can be cleaned with ease.

[0095] Figure 3 shows an example of a compensator provided in the operating section according to one embodiment of the present invention.

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

[0097] Here, the compensator 600 can perform a compensation function that adjusts the movement of the mechanical string 420 to prevent the curvature angle of the curved section 220 from changing due to an unexpected external force.

[0098] For example, if the mechanical string 420 experiences unexpected abnormal tension due to twisting or bending of the universal cord 400, the compensator 600 can perform a compensation function to ensure that the abnormal tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved section 220 (where posture maintenance includes maintaining the curvature angle).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the compensator 600 may be located inside the operating unit 300 or the universal cord 400. According to another embodiment, the compensator 600 may be located in an external device 500.

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

[0101] If abnormal tension occurs during operation due to the operator stepping on the universal cord 400, the idler pulley 620 will activate to relieve the abnormal tension, preventing any change in the tension of the mechanical string 420 on the insertion section 200 side, and maintaining the posture of the curved section (220).

[0102] Figure 4 shows an example of a compensator provided in the operating section according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] In another embodiment that allows compensation, the mechanical string 420 has a first string 710 interposed in the insertion portion 200 and a second string 720 coupled to the first string 710 and interposed in the universal cord 400.

[0104] If the universal cord 400 becomes twisted or bent, causing unexpected abnormal tension, the first string 710 and the second string 720 may be decoupled inside the operating section so that the abnormal tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved section.

[0105] The structure of the compensator 600 according to this embodiment may include a connecting pulley assembly 700 consisting of a plurality of pulleys 750 connected to a relatively rotatable compensating shaft 740, with the operating section 300 having a connecting pulley assembly 700, and each pulley 750 being connected to a first string 710 that is pulled out toward the insertion section 200 and connected to the curved section 220, and a second string 720 that is pulled out toward the universal cord 400 and connected to the second connector 410, and a tension sensor that senses the tension of the first string 710 and the second string 720 respectively being provided.

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

[0107] However, if the universal cord 400 twists or bends and abnormal tension is detected in the second string 720, the two pulleys of the connecting pulley assembly 700 immediately decouple, preventing abnormal tension from being applied to the first string 710, and allowing the curved section 220 to maintain its curvature angle.

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

[0109] If abnormal tension is detected, the first string 710 is coupled to the second string 720 before decoupling is performed to compensate for it. Therefore, if the first string 710 twists, the second string 720 is also affected by the abnormal tension and twists. Consequently, the posture of the curved section 220 is also affected. In this case, compensation is needed to return the first string 710 to its original state so that the curved section 220 can maintain its correct posture. To return it to its original state, a third string 730, which is separately connected to a power source 510, may also be coupled to the pulley 750 to which the first string 710 is coupled. When abnormal tension is detected, compensation for the third string 730 is performed together with decoupling, allowing the first string 710 and the curved section 220 to be restored to their original correct posture.

[0110] For example, since tension sensors are located on both the universal cord 400 side and the insertion part 200 side, if the universal cord 400 twists or breaks, causing abnormal tension in the second string 720, a corresponding opposite force should be provided. If, for instance, the tension sensor on the universal cord (400) side should have a force of 0, but the universal cord (400) twists and a force of 1 is applied, then the posture of the curved part (220) can be maintained by applying a force of -1 to the tension sensor on the insertion part (200) side.

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

[0112] On the other hand, another compensation method involves providing a control unit that collects sensing values ​​from a tension sensor and, if abnormal tension is detected, immediately issues a control command to the power source 510, for example, a motor, which then directly provides power to restore the system to its original state. In this embodiment, the control unit may be provided in the operating unit 300 or an external device 500.

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

[0114] In one embodiment of the present invention, the endoscope module differs from conventional technology in that a mechanical string 420 is also provided on the universal cord 400. This means that twisting or bending of the universal cord 400 can cause abnormal tension on the mechanical string 420. Conventional technology does not have this problem because the universal cord 400 does not have a mechanical string 420.

[0115] If the mechanical string 420 is subjected to abnormal tension, it can affect the posture maintenance of the curved portion 220, which plays a role within the subject, causing problems. For example, if the curved portion 220 must maintain a specific posture in order to image a particular desired area, abnormal tension can disrupt this posture, preventing it from performing its function and thus causing problems.

[0116] By applying the compensator 600 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the above-mentioned problems can be resolved, and abnormal tension caused by unexpected situations, external forces, etc., can be eliminated. On the other hand, yet another aspect of the present invention is an insertion portion 200 having a tip portion having imaging means and illumination means, a curved portion 220 to which the tip portion is connected and which is curved in a direction set to allow observation of a desired part of a subject, and a flexible portion to which the curved portion 220 is connected and which moves flexibly so as to be smoothly inserted into the subject;

[0117] An operating section 300 is formed to be easily grasped by the user, and has a control means 310 connected to the tip of the insertion section 200, which controls the curvature angle of the curved section 220; and

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

[0119] Here, the users may include physicians who use the endoscopic system.

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

[0121] According to one embodiment, in order to curve the curved portion 220, a mechanical string 420 may be included, one end of which is connected to the curved portion 220 and the other end of which is connected to the power source 510 of the external device 500, and which transmits the power generated by the power source 510 to the curved portion 220.

[0122] In other words, the mechanical string 420 may be configured to pass through the insertion section 200 and the operating section 300 and be connected to a power source 510 provided in the external device 500. This allows power generated by the power source 510 located inside the external device 500 to be transmitted to the curved section 220.

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

[0124] When the connection between the operating unit 300 and the external device 500 is disconnected, the first connector 520 and the second connector 410 also cease their interaction, allowing the user to wash the assembly of the operating unit 300 and the insertion unit 200 with water. Even when washed with water, the power source 510 is located in the external device 500 and not in the operating unit 300 or the insertion unit 200, so there is no risk of the power source 510 coming into contact with the washing water and malfunctioning.

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

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

[0127] In other words, the mechanical string 420 may be provided passing through the universal cord 400, the operating section 300, and the insertion section 200.

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

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

[0130] According to one embodiment, the operating section 300 may be provided with a compensator 600 that performs a compensation function to prevent unexpected abnormal tension from occurring in the universal cord 400 due to twisting, bending, or other reasons, so as not to affect the posture maintenance of the curved section 220. Since this compensator 600 may have substantially the same configuration as the compensator 600 described in the above-mentioned embodiment, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

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

[0132] If the universal cord 400 becomes twisted or bent, causing unexpected abnormal tension, the mechanical string 420 may be decoupled, i.e., separated, within the operating section 300, so that the abnormal tension does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved section 220. This structure may be substantially the same as the decoupling structure having the pulley 750, compensating shaft 740, and third string 730 described in the above-described embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0133] Another embodiment of the present invention can provide an endoscope system comprising: a light source device having a power source 510; and an endoscope module connected to the light source device and providing a light source, to which power generated by the power source 510 is transmitted, and which has a curved section 220 that is curved by the power;

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

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

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

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

[0138] The compensator configuration has already been described in the embodiments mentioned above, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0139] In the specification of this invention (particularly in the claims), the term "the foregoing" and similar demonstrative pronouns may refer to either the singular or plural. Furthermore, in this invention, when a range is described, it includes inventions to which individual values ​​belonging to the said range are applied (unless otherwise stated), and is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting the said range in the summary of the invention.

[0140] In the steps constituting the method according to the present invention, unless otherwise stated, the steps shall be carried out in an appropriate order. The present invention is not necessarily limited by the order in which the steps are described. The use of all examples or exemplary terms (such as "for example," "etc.") in the present invention is merely for the purpose of illustrating the invention in detail, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by such examples or exemplary terms unless otherwise limited by the claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, combinations, and changes may be incorporated within the scope of the claims or their equivalents, depending on the design conditions and factors.

[0141] Therefore, the concept of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and it can be said that the scope of the present invention includes not only the claims described later, but also all scopes equivalent to or equivalently modified from the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0142] 100: Endoscopy System 200: Insertion part 210:Tip 220: Curved section 230: Soft part 300:Operation unit 310: Control means 400: Universal Code 410: Second connector 420: Mechanical String 500: External device 510: Power source 520: First connector 600: Compensator 610: Main pulley 620: Idler Pulley 700: Connecting Pulley Connector 710: First string 720: Second string 730: The third string 740: Compensation axis 750: Pulley

Claims

1. An insertion section having a curved portion that is curved in a direction set to allow observation of a target area of ​​the subject, and a flexible portion connected to the curved portion that moves flexibly to allow smooth insertion into the subject; An operating section having control means for controlling the curvature angle of the curved portion, and sized to allow for easy gripping by the user; An external device on which a power source for bending the aforementioned curved section is installed; A universal cord connecting the operating unit and the external device; At least one pair of mechanical strings that transmit the power generated by the power source to the curved section; and A compensator adjusts the movement of the mechanical string so that abnormal tension in the universal cord does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved portion; Includes, The mechanical string is installed by passing through the universal cord, the operating section, and the insertion section. The compensator includes a connecting pulley assembly consisting of a plurality of pulleys connected to a relative rotatable compensating shaft, and the connecting pulley assembly is positioned in the operating section. Endoscopic system.

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

3. The endoscope system according to claim 1, characterized in that one end of the mechanical string is connected to the curved portion and the other end is connected to the power source of the external device to transmit the power generated by the power source to the curved portion.

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

5. The endoscopic system according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanical string is composed of two sets, one pair for bending in the vertical direction and one pair for bending in the horizontal direction, and the compensator is provided in each set.

6. An insertable part that is inserted into a subject, illuminates, collects image information, and has a curved portion that bends in a set direction; An operating unit connected to the insertion portion, which controls the curvature of the curved portion; An external device having a power source that provides power to the curved section; A universal cord connecting the operating unit and the external device; At least one pair of mechanical strings that transmit the power generated by the power source to the curved section; and A compensator adjusts the movement of the mechanical string so that abnormal tension in the universal cord does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved portion; Includes, The mechanical string is installed by passing through the universal cord, the operating section, and the insertion section. The endoscope system is characterized in that the compensator includes a connecting pulley assembly consisting of a plurality of pulleys connected to a relative rotatable compensating shaft, and the connecting pulley assembly is located in the operating section.

7. The endoscopic system according to claim 6, characterized in that the mechanical string consists of two sets, one pair for bending in the vertical direction and one pair for bending in the horizontal direction, and the compensator is provided in each set.

8. External devices having a power source; and An endoscope module having a universal cord connected to the external device, connected to a light source device to receive a light source, receiving power generated by the power source, and having a curved section that is curved by the power; Includes, The aforementioned endoscope module is An operating section having control means for controlling the curvature angle of the curved portion, and sized to allow for easy gripping by the user; A mechanical string that transmits the power generated by the power source to the curved section; and A compensator adjusts the movement of the mechanical string so that abnormal tension in the universal cord does not affect the posture maintenance of the curved portion; Includes, The mechanical string is installed by passing through the universal cord. A first connector is connected to the power source installed inside the external device. The aforementioned universal cord has a second connector, When the universal cord is connected to the external device, the first connector and the second connector are coupled, and the power pushes or pulls the mechanical string, causing the curved portion to perform a bending motion. The endoscope system comprises a connecting pulley assembly consisting of a plurality of pulleys connected to a relative rotatable compensating shaft, the connecting pulley assembly being located in the operating section.

Images