Endoscope with tension adjustment section

Abstract

The present invention relates to an endoscope, and more particularly to an endoscope having a power transmission system that transmits power provided from a power source to a bending section. It is possible to provide an endoscope that suppresses the movement of the power transmission system that transmits power provided from the power source to a bending section, keeps the movement of the power transmission system constant, and improves responsiveness.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] One aspect of the present invention relates to an endoscope, and more particularly to an endoscope having a power transmission system that transmits power provided from a power source to a bending portion.

Background Art

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

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

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

[0005] The structure of an endoscope generally includes an insertion tube (Insertion Tube) having a bending portion and a flexible portion and inserted into the body, an operation portion connected to one end of the insertion portion and controlling the bending operation of the bending portion, a connector coupled to a light source device, etc., and a universal cord separating the operation portion and the connector.

[0006] In addition, for an endoscope, in order to control the bending operation of the bending portion, a mechanical string is provided between the bending portion and the operation portion, and the mechanical string has a structure connected to a control knob provided on the operation portion. For an endoscope having such a structure, when an operator, who is a user, manually operates the control knob, the mechanical string transmits power so that the bending operation of the bending portion can be performed.

[0007] However, life-threatening situations can arise during endoscopic examinations and treatments. With this type of endoscope, in tense situations, the operator has no choice but to manually operate a knob to control the bending of the curved section. This causes the operator to concentrate solely on operating the knob, making it difficult to resolve the tense situation, and also raising concerns that the bending of the curved section may not be performed accurately.

[0008] Therefore, an endoscope was developed that can perform the bending motion of the bending section automatically using a power source, rather than manual operation by the operator. However, such an endoscope has problems in terms of control accuracy and stability because there is no suitable power transmission structure that can receive power from outside the endoscope.

[0009] In particular, with endoscopes of this structure, for example, if it is necessary to transmit power from the connector at one end of the endoscope to the curved section at the other end, the power transmission system becomes longer, which can lead to delays in power transmission or inability to maintain uniform power transmission, resulting in responsiveness problems.

[0010] The aforementioned background technology is technical information that the inventor possessed or acquired during the process of deriving embodiments of the present invention, and does not necessarily constitute prior art 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]

[0011] 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 that suppresses the movement of a power transmission system that transmits power supplied from a power source to a curved section, keeps the movement of the power transmission system constant, and improves responsiveness.

[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 endoscope having a connector that is coupled to an external device and supplied with power from the external device, wherein the connector is

[0014] An endoscope can be provided that includes one or more of the following: a power transmission means for transmitting power to a curved section; a power receiving section for receiving power from the external device; a power transmission section for receiving power from the power receiving section and transmitting it to the power transmission means; and a tension adjusting section for adjusting the tension of the power transmission means.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the connector may have a main frame, and the power receiving section, the power transmission section, and the tension adjustment section may all be provided on the main frame. According to one embodiment, the tension adjustment unit may be formed between the power transmission unit and the power transmission means.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the power transmission means may include a mechanical string that transmits power for axial movement and a guide tube that covers the mechanical string and guides its movement, and the tension adjustment unit may be characterized by adjusting the tension of the mechanical string by adjusting the diameter of the guide tube or by applying tension to the guide tube itself.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the guide tube may include a spring structure, and the tension adjustment unit may be characterized by adjusting the diameter of the spring structure by pulling or pushing the spring structure.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the guide tube may include a spring structure, and the tension adjustment unit may be characterized by applying tension to the spring structure itself by pulling or pushing the spring structure. According to the embodiment, the main frame is provided with the power receiving section and the power transmission section,

[0019] The end of the power transmission means may have a structure in which the mechanical string is pulled out from the tip of the guide tube, the pulled-out mechanical string is connected to the power transmission unit to provide power, and a tip fixing part is connected to the tip of the guide tube, and the tip fixing part may be provided on the main frame.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the main frame may be characterized by having a position selection section formed thereon, which allows the position of the tip fixing section to be selected in order to adjust the tension of the mechanical string. According to the embodiment, the main frame is provided with the power receiving section and the power transmission section,

[0021] The tension adjustment unit may be characterized by having a tip fixing unit connected to the tip of the guide tube from which the mechanical string is drawn out, and an installation unit formed on the main frame to which the tip fixing unit is provided.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the mounting portion may be characterized by including a plurality of pins formed on the main frame at predetermined intervals so as to lock the tip fixing portion.

[0023] Another aspect of the present invention includes one or more of the following: a connector; a curved portion provided for collecting image information of a subject; and a power transmission means having one end connected to the connector and the other end connected to the curved portion, for transmitting power from the connector to the curved portion. An endoscope can be provided in which a tension adjustment unit that adjusts the tension of the power transmission means is interposed at a connection site where the power transmission means is connected to the connector.

Advantages of the Invention

[0024] As described above, one embodiment of the present invention can provide an endoscope that suppresses the movement of a power transmission system that transmits power provided from a power source to a bending section, keeps the movement of the power transmission system constant, and improves responsiveness.

[0025] In addition, according to the embodiment, the present invention has various effects such as excellent versatility, and such effects can be clearly confirmed from the description of the embodiments described later.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows an endoscope according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a connector of an endoscope according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows the internal state with the cover omitted from the connector of FIG. 2, showing the power receiving section, the power transmission section, and the tension adjustment section. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a light source device to which an endoscope according to one embodiment of the present invention is coupled. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a state in which a power provider provided in the light source device of FIG. 4 and a power receiver provided in the connector of FIG. 3 are coupled. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 schematically shows a tension adjustment section formed in a power transmission means according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a guide tube provided inside a universal cord in a power transmission means according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8]Figure 8 shows a spring structure and a tip fixing part as one embodiment of a guide tube covering a mechanical string in a power transmission means according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the arrangement of a power receiving section, a power transmission section, and a tension adjustment section on the main frame of a connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 9, the power transmission means is omitted. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows the connector in Figure 3 with a fixed cover provided on the tension adjustment section. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] The terms used in this application are used solely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0030] In this application, the terms “includes” or “have” should be understood to indicate the presence of features, figures, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and not to preemptively exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof. Terms such as “First,” “Second,” etc., may be used to describe various components, but components should not be limited by the terms above. The terms above are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this description, identical or corresponding components will be assigned the same drawing number, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0032] Figure 1 shows an endoscope according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 shows the connector of the endoscope according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 shows the internal view of the connector in Figure 2 with the cover omitted, revealing the power receiver and power transmission unit, while Figure 4 shows a light source device to which an endoscope is connected according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 shows how the power supply unit provided in the light source device of Figure 4 and the power receiver provided in the connector of Figure 3 are coupled together.

[0033] An endoscope 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include one or more of the following: an insertion section 140, an operating section 130, a universal cord 120, and a connector 110.

[0034] According to this embodiment, an operating section 130 may be provided between one end of the insertion section 140 and one end of the universal cord 120, and a connector 110 may be connected to the other end of the universal cord 120.

[0035] The insertion portion 140 may be the part that is inserted into the patient's body when the user, who is the operator, performs an examination or treatment on the patient using the endoscope 100. The insertion portion 140 may be composed of a tip portion, a bending portion 141, and a flexible portion.

[0036] The tip may be configured to illuminate the target area, collect image information, or perform treatment. The tip may be located at the end of the insertion section and may include lighting means for illuminating the inside of the subject, imaging means for photographing the inside of the subject, a biopsy channel for collecting tissue from the subject, and air / water supply channels for spraying air or water for various purposes.

[0037] The curved portion 141 can bend at the user's operation and move along the inside of a curved and bent tubular organ within the body. A tip may be provided at the end of the curved portion 141, and by bending the tip through the bending motion, the tip can be positioned in the direction desired by the user. The flexible portion is located between the curved portion 141 and the operating portion 130, and may be the portion that moves together with the curved portion 141 as it moves along tubular organs within the patient's body.

[0038] The operating unit 130 may be provided with control means 131 that can control the bending motion of the curved section 141, and may also be provided with a flow control valve or flow control switch that can control air supply, water supply, or suction. Here, the control means 131 may include, for example, a joystick, which will be described later.

[0039] An insertion section 140 may be connected to one side of the operating section 130, and a universal cord 120 may be connected to the other side. A connector 110 may be connected to the end of the universal cord 120.

[0040] The connector 110 can serve the function of connecting the endoscope 100 to an external device. Here, the external device may include, for example, a light source device 300, an image processing device, and so on.

[0041] When the endoscope 100 is connected to a light source device 300 or an image processing device via the connector 110, the endoscope 100 can be supplied with light from the light source device 300 through the connector 110 to illuminate the inside of the patient's body, and the image information of the inside of the patient's body collected by the endoscope 100 can be transmitted to the image processing device via the connector 110.

[0042] The universal cord 120 connects the operating unit 130 and the connector 110, and separates the connector 110 from the operating unit 130 so that the user can easily move the operating unit 130 when gripping it and using the endoscope 100. In one embodiment, the universal cord 120 may be omitted, and the connector 110 may be connected to the other side of the operating unit 130.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the endoscope 100 may have a power receptor 111 that moves when power is transmitted from a power source; and a bending section 141 whose bending motion is controlled by the movement of the power receptor 111. According to the embodiment, the bending section 141 may have an imaging means that is inserted into a subject and collects image information, and an illumination means that illuminates the inside of the subject.

[0044] Here, the power source may mean a device that generates power, and may include, for example, a motor. According to one embodiment, the power source may be provided in the endoscope 100. According to another embodiment, the power source may be provided outside the endoscope 100. When the power source is provided outside the endoscope 100, it may mean that the power source is provided in a power supply device that is provided separately from the endoscope 100. According to another embodiment, the power supply device may include a light source device 300 or an image processing device, in which case the endoscope 100 is coupled to the light source device 300 or the image processing device and can operate by receiving power from the light source device 300 or the image processing device.

[0045] According to one embodiment, when the endoscope 100 according to this embodiment is connected to a light source device 300 having an internal power source, the endoscope 100 can be supplied with light from the light source device 300 to illuminate the inside of the patient's body, and the endoscope 100 can be supplied with power from the light source device 300 to perform bending movements inside the patient's body.

[0046] Furthermore, when the endoscope 100 is connected to an image processing device that has an internal power source, the endoscope 100 can transmit the collected image information of the patient's body to the image processing device, and the endoscope 100 can perform bending movements inside the patient's body by receiving power from the image processing device.

[0047] The power receptor 111 in this embodiment may represent a configuration that accepts power. The power receptor 111 may also include a configuration that accepts mechanical power. According to this embodiment, the power receptor 111 may be located outside the endoscope 100 and may be powered by an external device that exists as a separate product from the endoscope 100. According to this embodiment, the power receptor 111 may be directly powered by a light source device 300 that has an internal power source.

[0048] The power receptor 111 according to this embodiment may be provided on the connector 110 of the endoscope 100. When the connector 110 of the endoscope 100 is connected to a light source device 300 which has a built-in power source, power can be supplied from the power source of the light source device 300.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the light source device 300 may be provided with a power supply unit 310 that provides power. The power supply unit 310 provided in the light source device 300 may be formed to correspond in shape to the power receiver 111 provided in the connector 110. According to one embodiment, the power supply unit 310 may have a recess 311, and the power receiver 111 may have a protrusion 111a. The protrusion 111a of the power receiver 111 may have a structure that protrudes to the outside by passing through a slot 113 formed in the front cover 112 of the connector 110.

[0050] When the connector 110 is coupled to the connector receiving portion 320 of the light source device 300, the power provider 310 and the power receiver 111 are coupled, preparing for power to be transmitted from the light source device 300 to the connector 110.

[0051] The method for transmitting power from the light source device 300 to the endoscope 100 may include various methods. According to one embodiment, the power provider 310 may be connected to a rail structure formed on the light source device 300 and configured as a slider that moves along the rail structure, and the power receiver 111 may also be connected to a rail structure 200 provided on the connector 110, similar to the power provider 310, and configured as a slider that moves along the rail structure 200.

[0052] In this structure, when the power provider 310, which has received power from the power source, moves, the power receptor 111, which is engaged with the power provider 310, moves together, and power can be supplied from the light source device 300 to the connector 110.

[0053] The endoscope 100 according to this embodiment may be configured to include, in order, a connector 110, a universal cord 120, an operating section 130, and an insertion section 140. Here, the mechanical string 230 may be provided passing through the connector 110, the universal cord 120, the operating section 130, and the insertion section 140 in order. One end of the mechanical string 230 may be connected to the power receiver 111, and the other end may be connected to the curved section 141 that forms the end of the insertion section 140.

[0054] The power receiver 111 and the mechanical string 230 may be connected by power transmission units 210 and 220. According to one embodiment, the power transmission units 210 and 220 may include a pinion sprocket assembly 210 and a chain slider assembly 220.

[0055] According to the embodiment, the pinion sprocket assembly 210 has a structure in which the pinion gear 211 and the sprocket 212 are integrally formed on a single rotating body, and when the pinion gear 211 rotates, the sprocket 212 also rotates together with it. The chain slider assembly 220 may have a structure in which a pair of sliders 222 are connected to both ends of the chain 221, and when the chain 221 moves, the sliders 222 connected to each end of the chain 221 also move together with it.

[0056] A rack gear may be formed on the rear surface of the power receiver 111, and power can be transmitted by meshing the pinion gear 211 of the pinion sprocket assembly 210 with the rack gear. In addition, in the pinion sprocket assembly 210, the sprocket 212 can be transmitted by meshing with the chain 221 of the chain slider assembly 220. A pair of sliders 222 of the chain slider assembly 220 may each be connected to a mechanical string 230. In this case, a first string 231 and a second string 232, described later, may be connected to the pair of sliders 222, and this structure allows the first string 231 and the second string 232 to be paired.

[0057] With the configuration of the power transmission units 210 and 220 described above, when the power receptor 111 slides, the mechanical string 230 is pulled or pushed, transmitting power to the bending section 141. The bending section 141 receives power through the mechanical string 230 and performs a bending motion. Ultimately, the bending motion of the bending section 141 can be controlled by the movement of the power receptor 111.

[0058] According to the embodiment, the operating unit 130 can generate a control signal, and the control signal generated by the operating unit 130 can control the rotational force of the power source. According to the embodiment, the control signal generated by the operating unit 130 can control the travel distance d of the power receiver 111.

[0059] The operating unit 130 in this embodiment is sized and shaped to allow the user to grasp it and insert or rotate the insertion unit 140, including the curved portion 141, into the subject, and can function like a handle. The user can grasp the operating unit 130 and adjust the position of the curved portion 141 within the subject to collect image information or perform treatment procedures.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the operating unit 130 may be provided with a control means 131 for generating control signals, such as a joystick. The control signals generated by the control means 131 may include control commands for controlling the rotational force of the power source. If the power source is provided in an external device, such as a light source device 300, the control signal can be transmitted from the endoscope 100 to the external device by wire or wireless.

[0061] According to one embodiment, if the control signal transmission method is a wireless transmission method, a communication module may be implemented in the operating unit 130 as an embodiment for realizing wireless transmission, and the rotational force of the power source can be controlled by transmitting the control signal to the power source controller through the communication module.

[0062] According to one embodiment, when the control signal transmission method is a wired transmission method, as an embodiment for realizing wired transmission, the electrical cable configuration may be connected from the joystick to the operating unit 130, the universal cord 120, and the connector 110, and a control signal terminal may be provided at the end of the connector 110.

[0063] In this case, the connector receiving portion 320 of the light source device 300 may also be provided with a control signal receiving terminal, and the control signal receiving terminal may have a structure that allows it to be electrically connected to a power source controller. The power source controller may include, for example, a motor driver.

[0064] When connector 110 is connected to light source device 300, the control signal terminal is connected to the control signal receiving terminal, and the control signal generated by the joystick can be transmitted to the power source controller through the electrical cable, the control signal terminal and the control signal receiving terminal.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the control signal generated by the control means 131 provided in the operating unit 130 can control the travel distance d of the power supply body 310 of the light source device 300. Alternatively, according to one embodiment, the control signal generated by the control means 131 provided in the operating unit 130 can control the travel distance d of the power receiver 111 of the connector 110.

[0066] In other words, the control signal controls the rotational force of the power source of the light source device 300, and the power source generates power, which is then sequentially transmitted through the power provider 310 and the power receiver 111. Thus, the control signal generated by the operating unit 130 can control the travel distance d of the power receiver 111.

[0067] According to the embodiment, the rotational direction of the power source can determine the direction of movement of the power provider 310 or power receiver 111, and the rotational speed of the power source can determine the movement speed of the power provider 310 or power receiver 111. Furthermore, the direction of movement of the power receiver 111 can determine the curvature direction of the curved portion 141, and the movement speed of the power receiver 111 can determine the curvature speed of the curved portion 141.

[0068] The user, acting as the operator, can generate a control signal by operating a joystick and transmit it to a power source provided in the light source device 300. The power source, upon receiving the control signal, generates a rotational force corresponding to the control signal. This generated rotational force allows the power provider 310 and the power receptor 111 to move, and the movement of the power receptor 111 ultimately controls the bending motion of the bending section 141.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the power receiver 111 may include a type of slider. The power receiver 111 is coupled to a rail structure 200 formed on the connector 110 and can move in a specific direction by riding on the rail structure 200. For example, the power receiver 111 can slide back and forth between a first end and a second end formed by the rail structure 200 formed on the connector 110.

[0070] For example, the power receiver 111 can move back and forth between a first end and a second end within the curvature angle range of the curved portion 141, where the first end of the power receiver 111 can correspond to a first angle within the curvature angle range, and the second end can correspond to a second angle. For example, when the power receiver 111 moves from the first end to the second end, the curved portion 141 can be curved from the first angle to the second angle.

[0071] It is desirable that the bending angle range of the bending section 141 be predetermined by a set value. For example, the bending angle range of the bending section 141 can be set so that it bends only from a first angle to a second angle. In this way, the endoscope 100 is motorized, precise positional control of the bending section 141 is possible by computer, and the operator can predict the bending range of the bending section 141.

[0072] The control signal controls the travel distance d of the power supply unit 310 provided on the light source device 300 or the power receiver 111 provided on the connector 110, thereby ensuring that the bending operation of the curved section 141 accurately adheres to a predetermined bending angle range.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the power receiver 111 has a first slider and a second slider, and the control signal may include a first control signal for controlling the travel distance d of the first slider and a second control signal for controlling the travel distance d of the second slider.

[0074] The power receptor 111 may be configured as a pair. That is, the power receptor 111 may consist of a first slider and a second slider. The power supply 310 may also be configured as a pair, similar to the power receptor 111. Of the control signals, the first control signal can control the travel distance d of the first slider, and the second control signal can control the travel distance d of the second slider.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the mechanical string 230 that transmits power to the curved section 141 may be configured to include a first string 231, a second string 232, a third string, and a fourth string.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the first string 231, the second string 232, the third string, and the fourth string may each be controlled by four slides that move independently.

[0077] In another embodiment, the first string 231 and the second string 232 may constitute a first set string, and the third string and the fourth string may constitute a second set string.

[0078] The first string 231 and the second string 232 may constitute a first set string, and the third string and the fourth string may constitute a second set string.

[0079] In the first set of strings, the first string 231 and the second string 232 are paired, and when the first string 231 is pulled, the second string 232 is pushed, and when the second string 232 is pulled, the first string 231 is pushed. In the second set of strings, the third string and the fourth string are paired, and when the third string is pulled, the fourth string is pushed, and when the fourth string is pulled, the third string is pushed.

[0080] Here, the first set string is connected to the first slider and transmits power through the linear movement of the first slider, and the second set string is connected to the second slider and transmits power through the linear movement of the second slider. The configuration of the power receiver 111 according to this embodiment, which includes the first slider and the second slider, allows for effective control of two set strings, each paired with two mechanical strings 230.

[0081] According to the embodiment, the power receptor 111 is configured in a pair, and one of the pair of power receptors 111 can control the vertical curvature of the curved portion 141, and the other can control the horizontal curvature of the curved portion 141. The pair of power receptors 111 may also be configured to include a first slider and a second slider, the first slider can control the vertical curvature of the curved portion 141, and the second slider can control the horizontal curvature of the curved portion 141.

[0082] This structure allows the first slider and the second slider to move linearly independently, and the combination of the linear movements of the first and second sliders interconnects the vertical curvature and horizontal curvature of the curved section 141, thereby enabling curved movements in all directions (up, down, left, and right).

[0083] Figure 6 shows a schematic of a tension adjustment section formed in a power transmission means according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 7 shows a guide tube provided inside a universal cord in a power transmission means according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 8 shows a spring structure and a tip fixing part as one embodiment of a guide tube covering a mechanical string in a power transmission means according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 9 shows the arrangement of a power receiving section, a power transmission section, and a tension adjustment section on the main frame of a connector according to one embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 9, the power transmission means is omitted. On the other hand, Figure 10 shows the connector in Figure 3 with a fixed cover provided on the tension adjustment section. According to one embodiment of the present invention, an endoscope 100 having a connector 110 that is connected to an external device and receives power from the external device, wherein the connector 110 is

[0086] An endoscope 100 can be provided, which includes a power transmission means 250 for transmitting power to a curved section 141; a power receiving section 201 for receiving power from an external device; power transmission sections 210 and 220 for receiving power from the power receiving section 201 and transmitting it to the power transmission means 250; and a tension adjusting section 280 for adjusting the tension of the power transmission means 250.

[0087] In this embodiment, the power transmission means 250 can perform the function of transmitting power received by the connector 110 to the curved portion 141. The power transmission means 250 can consist of a mechanical string 230 and a guide tube 240 that covers and protects the mechanical string 230. In this structure, the mechanical string 230 can transmit power while moving axially inside the guide tube 240.

[0088] The power transmission means 250 according to this embodiment may be formed to be long along the longitudinal direction of the endoscope 100, and may have a structure that connects a connector 110 formed at one end of the endoscope 100 to a curved portion 141 formed at the other end of the endoscope 100. With this structure, the power transmission means 250 transmits the power received by the connector 110 to the curved portion 141, enabling the curved portion 141 to perform a bending motion.

[0089] According to the embodiment, there may be multiple power transmission means 250. For example, there may be four power transmission means 250. That is, it may include four mechanical strings 230 composed of a first string 231, a second string 232, a third string and a fourth string, and a guide tube 240. As mentioned above, the first string 231 and the second string 232 may be paired and move together, and the third string and the fourth string may also have a structure that allows them to be paired and move together.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the connector 110 may include a main frame 272. The power receiving section 201, the power transmission sections 210 and 220, and the tension adjustment section 280 may all be provided on the main frame 272.

[0091] According to the embodiment, the tension adjustment unit 280 may be interposed between the power transmission means 250 and the power transmission units 210 and 220. The tension adjustment unit 280 can perform the function of adjusting the tension in the power transmission means 250 by suppressing the axial movement of the mechanical string 230. There may be multiple tension adjustment units 280, and the multiple tension adjustment units 280 may be provided on one side and the other side of the main frame 272, respectively. One tension adjustment unit 280 can adjust the tension of a pair of power transmission means 250, and the other tension adjustment unit 280 can adjust the tension of another pair of power transmission means 250.

[0092] The longer the power transmission means 250, the more the mechanical string 230 stretches when transmitting power, causing delays in power transmission and making uniform power transmission difficult due to backlash. In particular, in a structure where the connector 110 is supplied with power from an external source, and the power supplied by the connector 110 is transmitted to the curved section 141 through the universal cord 120, the operating section 130, and the insertion section 140, the power transmission means 250 extends from the connector 110 to the curved section 141, which increases the length of the mechanical string 230 and worsens the responsiveness as described above.

[0093] To solve these problems, the present invention may apply a constant tension to the mechanical string 230 as it moves, in order to suppress its axial movement. This structure allows the power transmission by the mechanical string 230 to be output at a constant level.

[0094] In other words, in the present invention, the friction force adjustment unit 280 applies resistance to the axial movement of the mechanical string 230, allowing the mechanical string 230 to move while maintaining a constant tension without rattling. The tension adjustment unit 280 according to one embodiment of the present invention may be located at the connection point connected to the connector 110 within the longitudinal section constituting the power transmission means 250.

[0095] The connector 110 is configured to accommodate various functional components, and since it can form space inside for the friction force adjustment unit 280, it is effective for the friction force adjustment unit 280 in this embodiment to be formed in the connector 110.

[0096] According to one embodiment, in a power transmission means 250 having a mechanical string 230 and a guide tube 240, the tension adjustment unit 280 can adjust the tension of the mechanical string by adjusting the diameter of the guide tube 240 to suppress the movement of the mechanical string 230. The guide tube 240 has a structure that extends and is formed together with the mechanical string 230 along the longitudinal direction of the mechanical string 230 and covers the mechanical string 230 overall. Therefore, by increasing or decreasing the diameter of the guide tube 240 and suppressing the movement of the mechanical string 230 inside the guide tube 240, the tension applied to the mechanical string when it moves can be set to a specific value. The method of adjusting the diameter of the guide tube 240 is effective in adjusting the tension of the mechanical string because it applies uniform and continuous suppression over the entire length of the mechanical string 230.

[0097] According to this embodiment, the guide tube 240 may include a spring structure. Furthermore, the friction force adjustment unit 280 according to this embodiment can adjust the diameter of the spring structure by pulling or pushing the spring structure of the guide tube 240.

[0098] The spring structure is effective in realizing the friction force adjustment section 280 according to this embodiment because its diameter contracts when pulled in the longitudinal direction. According to this embodiment, the manufacturer of the endoscope 100 can adjust the diameter of the guide tube 240 by pulling or pushing the guide tube 240, which has a spring structure.

[0099] For example, if the diameter of the guide tube 240 is larger than the diameter of the mechanical string 230, and the inside of the guide tube 240 is loose, the restraining force against the movement of the mechanical string 230 decreases. Conversely, when the diameter of the guide tube 240 becomes approximately the same as the diameter of the mechanical string 230, and the inside of the guide tube 240 comes into contact with the outer surface of the mechanical string 230, the restraining force against the movement of the mechanical string 230 increases. In this way, the movement of the mechanical string 230 can be restrained.

[0100] In this specification, adjusting the frictional force generated when the mechanical string 230 moves can include either adjusting the tension of the guide tube 240 itself to adjust the frictional force generated when the mechanical string 230 moves, or adjusting the diameter of the guide tube 240 itself to adjust the frictional force generated when the mechanical string 230 moves.

[0101] In Figure 7, both Figure 7a and Figure 7b show the guide tube 240 positioned inside the universal cord 120. Figure 7a shows the guide tube 240 positioned inside the universal cord 120 in a curved shape, while Figure 7b shows the same configuration as in Figure 7a, but with the end fixing parts provided at both ends of the guide tube 240 pulled in the axial direction C, so that the guide tube 240 is not bent.

[0102] Referring to Figure 7, in Figure 7a, the length M between the pair of end fixings 260 is less than the length F of the universal cord 120. However, in Figure 7b, the length N between the pair of end fixings 260 is greater than the length F of the universal cord 120. That is, they extend from both ends of the universal cord 120, with the left end fixing protruding to the connector 110 and the right end fixing protruding to the operating part 130. According to this embodiment, each end fixing may be fixed to the positions of the connector 110 and the operating part 130, respectively.

[0103] When manufacturing the endoscope according to this embodiment, the manufacturer positions the power transmission means inside the universal cord 120. However, the diameter of the universal cord 120 is much larger than the diameter of the power transmission means. Therefore, the power transmission means ends up being positioned in a winding shape inside the universal cord 120 (see Figure 7a). When the power transmission means is positioned in such a winding shape, the mechanical string 230 inside the guide tube 240 experiences strong frictional force when moving in the longitudinal direction C inside the guide tube 240, preventing it from moving smoothly. This frictional force makes it difficult to accurately transmit power to the curved section, resulting in a decrease in the precision of position control of the curved section.

[0104] In this embodiment, the friction force adjustment unit is provided with end fixings at both ends of the guide tube 240, which are pulled and fixed in place. This causes the power transmission means to be pulled and positioned flat inside the universal cord 120, minimizing the friction force when the mechanical string 230 moves inside the guide tube 240, and enabling the smooth movement of the mechanical string 230.

[0105] Figure 7b shows the tip fixing part being pulled so that the outer surface of the guide tube 240 is positioned relatively parallel to the inner surface of the universal cord 120, while Figure 8b shows the tip fixing part being pulled even further than in Figure 7b. If the tip fixing part is continued to be pulled, the diameter of the guide tube 240 itself begins to change beyond the point where the guide tube 240 is parallel to the universal cord 120. If the tip fixing part is pulled even further, the guide tube 240 stretches and its diameter decreases. This will be discussed later.

[0106] Referring to Figure 8, Figure 8a shows the tip fixing part 260 being pulled by L1, and Figure 8b shows the tip fixing part 260 being pulled by L1. When the tip fixing part 260 is pulled by L1, the diameter of the guide tube 240 is D1. However, when the tip fixing part 260 is pulled by L2, which is longer than L1, the diameter of the guide tube 240 becomes smaller, D2. Therefore, the gap with the mechanical string 230 becomes narrower, making it difficult for the mechanical string 230 to move axially C.

[0107] According to the embodiment, the connector 110 may include a main frame 272. The power receiving section 201 may be configured to include a power receiver and a rail structure on which the power receiver can slide, and may be located on the front of the main frame 272. The main frame 272 is formed to be elongated in the longitudinal direction, with pinion sprocket assemblies rotatably connected to each of its two sides, and rail structures may be formed on each of the two sides of the main frame 272 so that both sliders of a pair of chain slider assemblies can slide.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the tension adjustment section 280 may include an installation section formed on the main frame 272, a tip fixing section fastened to a pin structure for fixing the power transmission means 250, and a fixing cover 273 for fixing the tip fixing section. According to one embodiment, the tip fixing section may be connected to one end of the guide tube 240 from which the mechanical string 230 is drawn out.

[0109] The tension adjustment unit 280 according to this embodiment may include a structure in which the mechanical string 230 passes through the guide tube 240 and is pulled out from the tip of the guide tube 240. In this structure, a tip fixing portion 260 may be formed at the tip of the guide tube 240, and the tip fixing portion 260 may be fixed to an installation portion on the main frame 272.

[0110] The tip fixing portion 260 may have any configuration within the scope of the technical idea of ​​having a structure that is fixed to the mounting portion of the main frame 272 when the guide tube 240 is ready to be pulled and tension applied to the mechanical string. According to the embodiment, the tip fixing portion 260 may be dumbbell-shaped, that is, cylindrical with a concave center.

[0111] The mounting portion 270 according to this embodiment can perform the function of fixing the tip fixing portion 260. According to this embodiment, the mounting portion 270 may be formed on the main frame 272 located inside the connector 110. According to this embodiment, the mounting portion may include a plurality of pin structures formed on the main frame 272 of the connector 110.

[0112] In one embodiment, the mounting section 270 may include a position selection section 271 that allows the manufacturer to select the position where the tip fixing section 260 is installed in order to adjust the tension of the mechanical string 230. In one embodiment, the position selection section may include a plurality of pins formed on the main frame 272. The plurality of pins may be formed at regular intervals, and the manufacturer can adjust the tension of the mechanical string to achieve optimal responsiveness by engaging and fixing the tip fixing section in a recess at an appropriate position among the recesses formed by the plurality of pins.

[0113] In other words, according to this embodiment, the position selection section 271 may include a plurality of pin structures formed on the main frame 272 of the connector 110. The manufacturer can adjust the diameter of the guide tube 240 by engaging the tip fixing section 260 with one of the plurality of pin structures and fixing it with the fixing cover 273, thereby extending the guide tube 240 by a set value.

[0114] The position selection unit 271 according to the present invention allows the tension adjustment unit 280 to suppress the axial movement of the mechanical string 230, and in addition to applying tension to the mechanical string, it is possible to adjust the degree of the suppression force that suppresses the axial movement of the mechanical string 230 in various ways.

[0115] When manufacturing the endoscope 100 according to this embodiment using the position selection unit 271 according to this embodiment, the manufacturer can perform responsiveness tests of the bending motion of the bending unit 141 and set the optimal responsiveness.

[0116] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the invention includes a connector 110; a curved portion 141 provided for collecting image information of a subject; and a power transmission means 250 having one end connected to the connector 110 and the other end connected to the curved portion 141, for transmitting power from the connector 110 to the curved portion 141;

[0117] An endoscope 100 can be provided in which a tension adjustment unit 280 for adjusting the tension of the power transmission means 250 is interposed at the connection point where the power transmission means 250 and the connector 110 are connected.

[0118] Here, the connector 110, the curved portion 141, the power transmission means 250, and the tension adjustment portion 280 are substantially the same as those described in the previously described embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted. The other components in this embodiment are also substantially the same as those described in the previously described embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0119] The use of the term "the foregoing" and similar descriptive terms in the specification of this invention (particularly in the claims) may be singular or plural. Furthermore, when a range is described in this invention, it includes inventions to which individual values ​​belonging to the above range are applied (unless otherwise stated), and is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting the above range in the detailed description of the invention.

[0120] With respect to the steps constituting the method according to the present invention, unless otherwise stated, the steps may be performed in any order that suits them. The present invention is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps are described above. The use of all examples or illustrative terms (e.g., etc.) in the present invention is solely for the purpose of illustrating the invention in detail, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by such examples or illustrative terms unless otherwise limited by the claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the claims or their equivalents can be constructed in various modifications, combinations, and variations depending on the design conditions and factors.

[0121] Therefore, the concept of the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments described above, and it can be said that not only the scope of the appended claims, but also all scopes equivalent to or equivalently modified from those claims, fall within the scope of the concept of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0122] 100: Endoscope 110: Connector 111: Power Receptor 111a:Protrusion 112: Front cover 113: Slot 120: Universal Code 130:Operation unit 131: Control means 132: Body cover 140: Insertion part 141: Curved section 200: Rail structure 201: Power receiving section 210: Pinion sprocket assembly 211: Pinion gear 212: Sprocket 220: Chain slider assembly 221: Chain 222: Slider 230: Mechanical String 231: First string 232: Second string 240: Guide tube 250: Power transmission means 260:Tip fixing part 270: Installation part 271: Position Selection Section 272: Mainframe 273: Fixed cover 280:Tension adjustment section 300: External device 310: Power provider 311: Recess 320: Connector receiving part d: Distance traveled

Claims

1. In an endoscope having a connector that is connected to an external device and receives power from the external device, The aforementioned connector is Power transmission means for transmitting power to a curved section; A power receiving unit that receives power from the aforementioned external device; A power transmission unit that receives power from the power receiving unit and transmits it to the power transmission means; and, Includes a tension adjustment unit for adjusting the tension of the power transmission means; The power transmission means comprises a mechanical string that transmits power for axial movement and a guide tube that covers the mechanical string and guides its movement, and the tension adjustment unit adjusts the tension of the mechanical string by adjusting the diameter of the guide tube or by applying tension to the guide tube itself. The main frame has the power receiving section and the power transmission section provided therein. The tension adjustment unit has a tip fixing unit connected to the tip of the guide tube from which the mechanical string is drawn out, and an installation unit formed on the main frame and on which the tip fixing unit is provided. The mounting portion includes a plurality of pins formed on the main frame at predetermined intervals so as to lock the tip fixing portion, The plurality of pins are arranged on the main frame along the longitudinal direction of the endoscope and in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. An endoscope characterized by the following features.

2. The power receiving unit, the power transmission unit, and the tension adjustment unit are all provided on the main frame. The endoscope according to claim 1.

3. The tension adjustment unit is formed between the power transmission unit and the power transmission means. The endoscope according to claim 1.

4. The guide tube includes a spring structure, and the tension adjustment unit adjusts the diameter of the spring structure or applies tension to the spring structure itself by pulling or pushing the spring structure. The endoscope according to claim 1.

5. The end of the power transmission means has a structure in which the mechanical string is pulled out from the tip of the guide tube to the outside, the pulled-out mechanical string is connected to the power transmission unit to provide power, and the tip fixing part is provided on the main frame. The endoscope according to claim 1.

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