Endoscope shaft

Abstract

To provide an endoscope shaft easy to produce.SOLUTION: The endoscope shaft comprises: a first tubular part having a first protrusion part; and a second tubular part which is adjacent to the first tubular part in the axial direction of the shaft and has a first receiving part for receiving the first protrusion part. The first tubular part and the second tubular part are slidable mutually in a radial direction of the shaft, and the first tubular part and the second tubular part are constituted so that the shaft is bendable in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction and the slidable radial direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 The present invention relates to an endoscope shaft. 【Background Art】 【0002】 In the medical field, movable endoscopes are used, and the shafts of movable endoscopes often have an internal structure formed by connecting a plurality of blocks. For example, in Patent Document 1, there is a knuckle structure in which a plurality of knuckles having a substantially cylindrical cylindrical portion are arranged so as to extend from the proximal end to the distal end in sequence along the axial direction, and each of the plurality of knuckles has a pair of proximal end side ridges formed so as to protrude from the surface on the proximal end side of the cylindrical portion and arranged at positions substantially symmetric with respect to the axis, and a pair of distal end side ridges formed so as to protrude from the surface on the distal end side of the cylindrical portion and arranged at positions corresponding to the proximal end side ridges, and a plurality of wires are provided with the distal end portion engaging with the knuckle at the foremost end and the proximal end portion reaching the proximal end of the knuckle structure. 【Prior Art Documents】 【Patent Documents】 【0003】 【Patent Document 1】 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-137898 【Summary of the Invention】 【Problems to be Solved by the Invention】 【0004】 In the shaft of a conventional movable endoscope such as Patent Document 1, a plurality of knuckles are connected by passing a wire through holes provided in the plurality of knuckles and connecting the distal end of the wire to the knuckle at the foremost end. In forming such a shaft, since the knuckles are not connected at the time of passing the wire through each knuckle, it is difficult to pass the wire and it is difficult to manufacture the shaft. The present invention has been made paying attention to the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an endoscope shaft that is easy to manufacture. 【Means for Solving the Problems】 【0005】 The shaft of the endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention that can solve the above problems is as follows. [1] The shaft of an endoscope, A first cylindrical portion having a first projection, The shaft has a second cylindrical portion adjacent to the first cylindrical portion in the axial direction and having a first receiving portion for receiving the first projection, The first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion are slidable relative to each other in the radial direction of the shaft. The shaft of an endoscope is configured such that the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion allow the shaft to bend in a vertical direction perpendicular to the axial direction and the slidable radial direction. 【0006】 As described above, when the first cylindrical part and the second cylindrical part are slidable radially relative to each other, they can be connected during manufacturing by sliding them radially, making it easier to connect the parts. Furthermore, this allows for the free combination of multiple cylindrical members with different axial lengths and shapes during manufacturing, making it easier to adjust the bendable portion of the shaft to bend into a desired shape. In addition, the ability of the shaft to bend vertically allows for the confirmation of the vertical field of view when the shaft is used as part of an endoscope. 【0007】 The shaft of the endoscope according to the embodiment is preferably one of the following [2] to

[15] . [2] The first projection is the shaft of the endoscope described in [1], which protrudes in the axial direction. [3] The shaft of the endoscope according to [1] or [2], wherein the first receiving portion has a groove extending in the radial direction. [4] The shaft of an endoscope according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the first cylindrical portion further has a second projection facing the first projection in the radial direction. [5] The shaft of the endoscope described in [4], wherein the groove receives the first projection and the second projection. [6] The cross-sectional shape of the groove includes an arc-shaped portion. The shaft of an endoscope according to any one of [3] to [5]. [7] The shaft of the endoscope according to [6], wherein the central angle of the arc-shaped portion is greater than 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees. [8] The shaft of an endoscope according to any one of [4] to [7], wherein the first projection and the second projection each have an arc-shaped portion whose outer edge is arc-shaped when viewed from the side in the opposite direction of the first cylindrical portion. [9] The shaft of the endoscope according to [8], wherein the first projection and the second projection each have a constricted portion on the side of the first cylindrical portion that is further from the second cylindrical portion than the arc-shaped portion when viewed from the side in opposing directions.

[10] The shaft of an endoscope according to any one of [4] to [9], wherein the first cylindrical portion is divided by a virtual plane passing through the center of the first projection and the center of the second projection and parallel to the axial direction, the first region having a first lumen extending in the axial direction and the second region having a second lumen extending in the axial direction.

[11] The shaft of an endoscope according to any one of [4] to

[10] , wherein the radial thickness of the first projection is smaller than the radial thickness of the second projection.

[12] The shaft of an endoscope according to any one of [4] to

[11] , wherein the second projection has a third lumen extending in the axial direction.

[13] The shaft of an endoscope according to any one of [3] to

[12] , wherein the groove has a portion on the side of the first cylindrical portion closer to the first cylindrical portion than the portion of the first projection whose circumferential length in the first cylindrical portion is the maximum length, where the length of the groove in the circumferential direction of the second cylindrical portion is smaller than the maximum length.

[14] The shaft of an endoscope according to any one of [4] to

[13] , wherein the groove has a portion on the side of the second cylindrical portion closer to the first cylindrical portion than the portion of the second projection whose circumferential length in the second cylindrical portion is the maximum length, in which the length of the groove in the circumferential direction of the second cylindrical portion is smaller than the maximum length.

[15] The shaft of an endoscope according to any one of [1] to

[14] , wherein the first cylindrical portion has a tapered portion that narrows toward the radially outward direction. [Effects of the Invention] 【0008】 According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an endoscope shaft that is easy to manufacture. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0009】 [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a front view of the shaft of an endoscope according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side view of the internal structure of the shaft as seen from direction A in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the cylindrical members when multiple cylindrical members are combined to form the internal structure shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a side view of the internal structure shown in Figure 2 when it is bent. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a side view of the internal structure of the shaft as seen from direction B in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a side view of the internal structure of the shaft as seen from direction F in Figure 2. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a modified example of the first cylindrical part of Figure 2. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a modified example of the first cylindrical part of Figure 2. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a side view of the cylindrical portion as seen from direction D in Figure 3. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a side view of the cylindrical portion as seen from direction E in Figure 3. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a modified example of the second cylindrical part of Figure 2. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a partially enlarged view of Figure 2. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a partially enlarged view of Figure 5. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a side view of the cylindrical portion when viewed from direction C of Figure 2. 【Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention】 【0010】 Hereinafter, the present invention will be described more specifically based on the following embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited by the following embodiments, and it is of course possible to appropriately modify and implement it within the range that can conform to the gist of the foregoing and following descriptions, and all of them are included in the technical scope of the present invention. In each drawing, for the sake of convenience, component reference numerals and the like may be omitted, but in such cases, reference shall be made to the specification and other drawings. In addition, the dimensions of various members in the drawings may differ from the actual dimensions because priority is given to facilitating the understanding of the features of the present invention. 【0011】 The shaft of the endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention has a first cylindrical portion having a first protrusion, and a second cylindrical portion that is adjacent to the first cylindrical portion in the axial direction of the shaft and has a first receiving portion for receiving the first protrusion. The first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion are slidable relative to each other in the radial direction of the shaft, and the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion are configured such that the shaft can be bent in a vertical direction perpendicular to the axial direction and the slidable radial direction. 【0012】 As described above, when the first cylindrical part and the second cylindrical part are slidable radially relative to each other, they can be connected during manufacturing by sliding them radially, making it easier to connect the parts. Furthermore, this allows for the free combination of multiple cylindrical members with different axial lengths and shapes during manufacturing, making it easier to adjust the bendable portion of the shaft to bend into a desired shape. In addition, the ability of the shaft to bend vertically allows for the confirmation of the vertical field of view when the shaft is used as part of an endoscope. 【0013】 The shaft of the endoscope according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 14. Figure 1 is a front view of the shaft of the endoscope according to the embodiment. Figure 2 is a side view of the internal structure of the shaft as seen from direction A in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the cylindrical members when a plurality of cylindrical members are combined to form the internal structure of Figure 2. Figure 4 is a side view of the internal structure of Figure 2 when it is bent. Figure 5 is a side view of the internal structure of the shaft as seen from direction B in Figure 1. Figure 6 is a side view of the internal structure of the shaft as seen from direction F in Figure 2. Figure 7 is a diagram showing a modified example of the first cylindrical part of Figure 2. Figure 8 is a diagram showing a modified example of the first cylindrical part of Figure 2. Figure 9 is a side view of the cylindrical part as seen from direction D in Figure 3. Figure 10 is a side view of the cylindrical part as seen from direction E in Figure 3. Figure 11 is a diagram showing a modified example of the second cylindrical part of Figure 2. Figure 12 is a partially enlarged view of Figure 2, and Figure 13 is a partially enlarged view of Figure 5. Figure 14 is a side view of the cylindrical portion as seen from direction C in Figure 2. 【0014】 As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the shaft according to the embodiment is the shaft 11 of the endoscope 10, and comprises a first cylindrical portion 1 having a first projection 1P, and a second cylindrical portion 2 adjacent to the first cylindrical portion 1 in the axial direction X of the shaft 11 and having a first receiving portion 1R that receives the first projection 1P. Because the first projection 1P is received by the first receiving portion 1R, the shaft 11 can be easily pushed in the axial direction X. 【0015】 The first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 are slidable relative to each other in the radial direction Z of the shaft 11. For example, as shown in Figure 3, it is preferable that the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 are configured so that the first cylindrical portion 1 can be fitted into the second cylindrical portion 2 by sliding the first cylindrical portion 1 from one side to the other in the radial direction Z when they are separated. Furthermore, it is preferable that the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 are configured so that the first cylindrical portion 1 can be separated from the second cylindrical portion 2 by sliding the first cylindrical portion 1 from one side to the other in the radial direction Z when the first cylindrical portion 1 is fitted into the second cylindrical portion 2. As a result, even if an operating wire or the like is placed inside the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2, the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 become slightly easier to slide in the radial direction Z, thereby improving the flexibility of the shaft 11 in the radial direction Z. Furthermore, this allows the first cylindrical section 1 and the second cylindrical section 2 to be connected by sliding during the manufacturing stage of the shaft 11. It also makes it easier to fine-tune the position of each cylindrical section after the connection is made. 【0016】 Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the first cylindrical section 1 and the second cylindrical section 2 are configured so that the shaft 11 can bend in the vertical direction Y. The vertical direction Y is perpendicular to the axial direction X and perpendicular to the radial direction Z, which allows the first cylindrical section 1 and the second cylindrical section 2 to slide. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, since the second cylindrical section 2 can bend in the vertical direction Y relative to the first cylindrical section 1, the shaft 11 can be bent. This makes it easier to insert the shaft 11 into the body and further expands the observable range of the endoscope 10. Also, if the shaft 11 has multiple such cylindrical sections, as shown in Figure 4, multiple cylindrical sections can bend in the same direction to form a curved shape. 【0017】 In this specification, perpendicular means that the angle between the two directions is preferably 90 degrees. Such perpendicularity includes not only the case where the angle between the two directions is 90 degrees, but also cases where it is 90 ± 10 degrees, 90 ± 5 degrees, or 90 ± 2 degrees. 【0018】 As shown in Figure 2, the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 are adjacent to each other in the axial direction X. Furthermore, the first projection 1P of the first cylindrical portion 1 is received by the first receiving portion 1R of the second cylindrical portion 2, which is adjacent to the shaft 11 in the axial direction X. As shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 are in contact with each other. Specifically, it is preferable that at least a part of the first projection 1P is in contact with the first receiving portion 1R. This makes it easier to push the shaft 11 in the axial direction X. 【0019】 As shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that the first projection 1P protrudes in the axial direction X. When such a first projection 1P is received by the first receiving portion 1R, the shaft 11 can be pushed in more easily in the axial direction X. Furthermore, the first projection 1P can function as an axis when the second cylindrical portion 2 is bent in the vertical direction Y. 【0020】 As shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that the first projection 1P has a widened portion whose circumferential width increases as it approaches the second cylindrical portion 2 in the axial direction X. Furthermore, it is preferable that the first projection 1P has a narrowed portion located on the second cylindrical portion 2 side of the widened portion in the axial direction X, and whose circumferential width decreases as it approaches the second cylindrical portion 2 in the axial direction X. With such a widened portion and narrowed portion, the first projection 1P can easily function as an axis when bending the second cylindrical portion 2 in the vertical direction Y. 【0021】 As shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that the first projection 1P has a contact portion that is in contact with the second cylindrical portion 2 and a non-contact portion that is not in contact with the second cylindrical portion 2. This makes it easier for the shaft 11 to bend in the vertical direction Y. 【0022】 As shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that the first cylindrical portion 1 has a tapered portion 1T that tapers outward in the radial direction. Having a tapered portion 1T that tapers outward from the radial center of the first cylindrical portion 1 makes it difficult for the radial outer portions of the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 to come into contact with each other, thus making it easier to bend the shaft 11 in the vertical direction Y. It is preferable that the tapered portion 1T extends in the circumferential direction of the first cylindrical portion 1, and more preferably extends around the entire circumference of the first cylindrical portion 1. The angle of inclination of the tapered portion 1T with respect to the radial direction is preferably 3 degrees or more, and more preferably 6 degrees or more. This makes it easier to bend the shaft 11 in the vertical direction Y. On the other hand, the angle of inclination of the tapered portion 1T with respect to the radial direction is preferably 15 degrees or less, and more preferably 10 degrees or less. This makes it easier to push the shaft 11 in the axial direction X. 【0023】 As shown in Figure 6, the axial length X of the first cylindrical portion 1, L1, may be shorter than the radial length Z of the first cylindrical portion 1, L2. By having multiple such cylindrical portions, the shaft 11 can easily form a smooth, arc-shaped curved portion during operation. On the other hand, length L1 may be longer than length L2, or it may be the same length as length L2. Length L1 is preferably 3 mm or more and 15 mm or less, and more preferably 5 mm or more and 10 mm or less. The outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion 1 is also preferably 3 mm or more and 15 mm or less, and more preferably 5 mm or more and 10 mm or less. 【0024】 As shown in Figures 3, 5, and 6, it is preferable that the first cylindrical portion 1 further has a second projection 2P facing the first projection 1P in the radial direction Z. This makes it easier to push the shaft 11 in the axial direction X. Also, when the shaft 11 is inserted into the body tissue, even if one of the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P detaches from the first receiving portion 1R, if the other remains inside the first receiving portion 1R, it is possible to prevent large deformation of the shaft 11. 【0025】 The second projection 2P is preferably received by the first receiving portion 1R, as shown in Figure 5. Specifically, it is preferable that at least a portion of the second projection 2P is in contact with the first receiving portion 1R. This makes it easier to push the shaft 11 in the axial direction X. 【0026】 As shown in Figure 5, it is preferable that the second projection 2P protrudes in the axial direction X. When such a second projection 2P is received by the first receiving portion 1R, the shaft 11 can be pushed in even more easily in the axial direction X. Furthermore, the second projection 2P can function as an axis when the second cylindrical portion 2 is bent in the vertical direction Y. 【0027】 As shown in Figure 5, it is preferable that the second projection 2P has a widened portion whose circumferential width increases as it approaches the second cylindrical portion 2 in the axial direction X. Furthermore, it is preferable that the second projection 2P has a narrowed portion located closer to the second cylindrical portion 2 than the widened portion in the axial direction X, and whose circumferential width decreases as it approaches the second cylindrical portion 2 in the axial direction X. With such a widened portion and narrowed portion, the second projection 2P can easily function as an axis when bending the second cylindrical portion 2 in the vertical direction Y. 【0028】 As shown in Figure 5, it is preferable that the second projection 2P has a contact portion that is in contact with the second cylindrical portion 2 and a non-contact portion that is not in contact with the second cylindrical portion 2. This makes it easier for the shaft 11 to bend in the vertical direction Y. 【0029】 As shown in Figure 3, it is preferable that the thickness of the first projection 1P in the radial direction Z is smaller than the thickness of the second projection 2P in the radial direction Z. This improves the flexibility of the first projection 1P. Furthermore, this makes it easier to create a lumen or the like between the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P, or in the second projection 2P. In addition, it is preferable that the first projection 1P is flattened. This also improves the flexibility of the first projection 1P. 【0030】 As shown in Figures 2 and 5, it is preferable that the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P each have arc-shaped portions 1C and 2C, respectively, whose outer edges are arc-shaped when viewed from the side in the opposite direction of the first cylindrical portion 1. This allows the second cylindrical portion 2 to be moved by rotating it around the arc-shaped portions 1C and 2C as axes, as shown in Figure 4. Furthermore, the shapes of the outer edges of the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P in the side view may be different from each other, but it is preferable that at least one of the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P has an arc-shaped portion. 【0031】 The central angles of the arc-shaped portions 1C and 2C are preferably greater than 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees, respectively. This makes it easier to move the second cylindrical portion 2 by rotating it around the arc-shaped portions 1C and 2C as axes. The central angle is the angle of the virtual circle passing through the outer edge of the arc-shaped portion, enclosed by the two radii passing through both ends of the arc of the outer edge. The central angle is more preferably 220 degrees or more and 340 degrees or less, even more preferably 260 degrees or more and 320 degrees or less, and even more preferably 270 degrees or more and 310 degrees or less. Furthermore, it is preferable that the central angles of the arc-shaped portions 1C and 2C in the side view are the same angle. 【0032】 As shown in Figures 2 and 5, it is preferable that the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P each have constricted portions 1N and 2N on their outer edges, respectively, in a side view of the first cylindrical portion 1 in an opposing direction, on the side furthest from the second cylindrical portion 2 than the arc-shaped portions 1C and 2C. In Figures 2 and 5, constricted portion 1N represents the constricted portion of the first projection 1P, and constricted portion 2N represents the constricted portion of the second projection 2P. Because the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P have constricted portions 1N and 2N, for example, as shown in Figure 2, if the first receiving portion 1R of the second cylindrical portion 2 has convex portions 1R1 and 1R2, the convex portions 1R1 and 1R2 can be fitted into the constricted portions 1N and 2N. As a result, the shaft 11 can be pushed in more easily in the axial direction X. It is preferable that the shapes of the constricted portion 1N and the constricted portion 2N in the side view are the same. Furthermore, it is preferable that the constricted portion 1N and the constricted portion 2N each extend in the radial direction Z and face each other in the radial direction Z. This makes it easier to slide the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 relative to each other in the radial direction Z. 【0033】 The number of constricted portions 1N is preferably two or more, and each constricted portion 1N is preferably extending in the radial direction Z and facing each other in the vertical direction Y. The number of constricted portions 2N is preferably two or more, and each constricted portion 2N is preferably extending in the radial direction Z and facing each other in the vertical direction Y. This makes it easier to slide the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 relative to each other in the radial direction Z. 【0034】 As shown in Figure 7, the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P may each have an elliptical portion O whose outer edge is elliptical when viewed from the side of the first cylindrical portion 1 in an opposing direction. In this case, it is preferable that the elliptical portion O extends in the vertical direction Y. This makes it easier for the elliptical portion O to fit into the first receiving portion 1R. The elliptical portion O may also extend in the axial direction X. 【0035】 As shown in Figure 8, the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P may each have a polygonal portion P whose outer edge is polygonal in the side view. Preferably, the polygon is a triangle, quadrilateral, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon. At least one of the corners of the polygon may be rounded. For example, even if the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P each have an elliptical portion O or a polygonal portion P, if the first receiving portion 1R has an arc-shaped portion, the second cylindrical portion 2 can be moved by rotating it around the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P as axes. 【0036】 As shown in Figures 2 and 5, it is preferable that the shape of the outer edges of the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P in the side view are the same. This makes it easier to slide the first cylindrical part 1 and the second cylindrical part 2 relative to each other in the radial direction Z. 【0037】 The first cylindrical portion 1 may have only one of the projections, the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P. In this case, it is preferable that the projection extends from one end to the other of the first cylindrical portion 1 in the radial direction Z. Furthermore, in this case, it is preferable that the projection has a plurality of lumens extending in the axial direction X. 【0038】 As shown in Figures 3 and 9, it is preferable that the first cylindrical portion 1 has a pair of grooves r1 and r2 that extend radially in the Z direction and face each other in the vertical Y direction. This allows, for example, the protrusions 1R1 and 1R2 of the first receiving portion 1R to be fitted into the pair of grooves r1 and r2, and also allows the protrusions 1R1 and 1R2 to slide radially in the Z direction. It is preferable that groove r1 includes the constricted portion 1N on one side of the first projection 1P and the constricted portion 2N on one side of the second projection 2P, and groove r2 includes the constricted portion 1N of the other side of the first projection 1P and the constricted portion 2N on the other side of the second projection 2P. By integrating the constricted portions of the projections and the grooves in this way, the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 can slide radially in the Z direction relative to each other. It is preferable that grooves r1 and r2 have the same shape. 【0039】 The first receiving portion 1R should be configured such that the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 can slide relative to each other in the radial direction Z of the shaft 11. For example, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, it is preferable that the first receiving portion 1R is recessed in the axial direction X. By receiving the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P with such a first receiving portion 1R, the shaft 11 can be pushed in even more easily in the axial direction X. In addition, this makes it easier for the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P to function as axes when the second cylindrical portion 2 is bent in the vertical direction Y. 【0040】 As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 10, it is preferable that the first receiving portion 1R has a protrusion 1R1 and a protrusion 1R2 that is opposite to the protrusion 1R1 in the direction Y perpendicular to it. This makes it easier for the first receiving portion 1R to receive the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P. Furthermore, it is preferable that the protrusions 1R1 and 1R2 each extend in the radial direction Z and face each other in the vertical direction Y. It is even more preferable that the protrusions 1R1 and 1R2 extend from one end to the other end of the second cylindrical portion 2 in the radial direction Z. This makes it easier for the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 to slide relative to each other in the radial direction Z of the shaft 11. 【0041】 As shown in Figures 2 and 5, it is preferable that the protrusions 1R1 and 1R2 of the first receiving portion 1R are curved so as to bulge outwards from the inside in the vertical direction Y. This makes it easier to rotate the second cylindrical portion 2 around the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P as axes. 【0042】 As shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that at least one of the protrusions 1R1 and 1R2 does not come into contact with the first cylindrical portion 1. Specifically, it is preferable that at least one of the protrusions 1R1 and 1R2 does not come into contact with the constricted portion 1N and / or constricted portion 2N. This makes it easier to bend the second cylindrical portion 2 in the direction Y perpendicular to the first cylindrical portion 1. 【0043】 As shown in Figures 3 and 10, it is preferable that the first receiving portion 1R has a groove 1r extending in the radial direction Z. This makes it easier for the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 to slide relative to each other in the radial direction Z of the shaft 11. It is preferable that the groove 1r penetrates the second cylindrical portion 2 in the radial direction Z. 【0044】 It is preferable that the groove 1r receives the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P. This makes it easier to transmit the axial pressing force X from the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P to the groove 1r. 【0045】 The cross-sectional shape of the groove 1r is preferably a shape that includes an arc-shaped portion 1Rc, as shown in Figure 2. This allows the second cylindrical portion 2 to rotate around the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P as axes. The cross-sectional shape of the groove 1r is the cross-sectional shape in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the groove 1r. In Figure 2, the extension direction of the groove 1r is the radial direction Z. 【0046】 The central angle of the arc-shaped portion 1Rc is preferably greater than 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees. This makes it easier to prevent the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P from detaching from the groove 1r. The central angle is more preferably 200 degrees or more and 320 degrees or less, even more preferably 220 degrees or more and 280 degrees or less, and even more preferably 230 degrees or more and 250 degrees or less. 【0047】 The central angle of the arc-shaped portion 1Rc is preferably smaller than the central angle of the arc-shaped portion 1C. Furthermore, the central angle of the arc-shaped portion 1Rc is preferably smaller than the central angle of the arc-shaped portion 2C. This makes it easier for the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 to slide relative to each other in the radial direction Z of the shaft 11. 【0048】 The cross-sectional shape of groove 1r may include a shape in which part of the sides of a polygon are omitted, as shown in Figure 11. The shape of groove 1r in Figure 11 is a shape in which part of one side of a quadrilateral is omitted. The omitted part is preferably one side of the polygon, and more preferably a part of one side of the polygon. The polygon is preferably a triangle, quadrilateral, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon, and more preferably a triangle, quadrilateral, pentagon, or hexagon. At least one corner of the polygon is rounded. Even with these shapes, if the first projection 1P and / or the second projection 2P have an arc-shaped portion, the second cylindrical portion 2 can be moved by rotating it around the first projection 1P and / or the second projection 2P as an axis. 【0049】 Preferably, the first receiving portion 1R is configured such that the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 cannot slide relative to each other in the axial direction X, as shown in Figure 2. This makes it easier to push the shaft 11 in the axial direction X. 【0050】 As shown in Figure 12, it is preferable that the groove 1r has a portion 1rm on the side of the first cylindrical portion 1 closer to the first cylindrical portion 1 where the length of the groove 1r in the circumferential direction of the first cylindrical portion 1 of the first projection 1P is the maximum length, and the length of the groove 1r in the circumferential direction of the second cylindrical portion 2 is smaller than the maximum length. This makes it easier to prevent the first projection 1P from detaching from the groove 1r. 【0051】 As shown in Figure 12, it is preferable that the groove 1r is in contact with the first projection 1P in at least a portion of the groove 1r that is closer to the second cylindrical portion 2 than the portion 1Pm where the circumferential length of the first cylindrical portion 1 of the first projection 1P is maximum. This makes it easier to push the shaft 11 in the axial direction X. 【0052】 As shown in Figure 13, it is preferable that the groove 1r has a portion 2rm on the side of the second cylindrical portion 2 closer to the first cylindrical portion 1 than the portion 2Pm where the circumferential length of the second projection 2P of the first cylindrical portion 1 is the maximum length, where the length of the groove 1r in the circumferential direction of the second cylindrical portion 2 is smaller than the maximum length. This makes it easier to prevent the second projection 2P from detaching from the groove 1r. 【0053】 As shown in Figure 13, it is preferable that the groove 1r is in contact with the second projection 2P in at least a portion of the groove 1r that is closer to the second cylindrical portion 2 than the portion 2Pm where the circumferential length of the second projection 2P of the first cylindrical portion 1 is maximum. This makes it easier to push the shaft 11 in the axial direction X. 【0054】 As shown in Figure 9, the first cylindrical portion 1 is divided by a virtual plane V that passes through the center 1Pc of the first projection 1P and the center 2Pc of the second projection 2P and is parallel to the axial direction X. Preferably, the first region 1A has a first lumen 1L extending in the axial direction X, and the second region 2A has a second lumen 2L extending in the axial direction X. For example, as shown in Figures 2, 4, and 5, a first operating wire 13a is placed in the first lumen 1L and a second operating wire 13b is placed in the second lumen 2L. By pulling one wire and loosening the other, the shaft 11 can be bent in the vertical direction Y. This makes the shaft 11 a movable shaft that can be bent in a desired direction. The first cylindrical portion 1 may also have a number of lumens extending in the axial direction X corresponding to the number of operating wires placed inside. In this case, it is preferable that the number of lumens in the first region 1A and the second region 2A are the same. 【0055】 It is preferable that the first lumen 1L and the second lumen 2L face each other in the vertical direction Y. This allows the first operating wire 13a and the second operating wire 13b to be positioned facing each other in the vertical direction Y, making it easier to bend the shaft 11 in the vertical direction Y. 【0056】 As shown in Figure 14, it is preferable that the tips of the first operating wire 13a and the second operating wire 13b are directly or indirectly fixed to the third cylindrical portion 3 located at the tip end of the shaft 11. This allows the second cylindrical portion 2 to be bent in the direction Y perpendicular to the first cylindrical portion 1 by pulling the second operating wire 13b and loosening the first operating wire 13a, as shown in Figure 4. On the other hand, by pulling the first operating wire 13a and loosening the second operating wire 13b, the second cylindrical portion 2 can be bent relative to the first cylindrical portion 1 in the opposite direction to that shown in Figure 4. When the tips of the first operating wire 13a and the second operating wire 13 are indirectly fixed to the third cylindrical portion 3, for example, the tips of the first operating wire 13a and the second operating wire 13b can be fixed to a ring-shaped member by welding, brazing, etc., and the ring-shaped member can be fixed to the third cylindrical portion 3 by bonding, brazing, etc. The ring-shaped member preferably contains metal, and preferably is made of metal. 【0057】 The first operating wire 13a and the second operating wire 13b preferably contain metal, and more preferably are made of metal. The first operating wire 13a and the second operating wire 13b may also contain resin, and may be made of resin. The number of operating wires is not limited to two; for example, there may be two to six wires, or two to four wires. 【0058】 As shown in Figures 3 and 9, the first cylindrical portion 1 preferably has a third lumen 3L extending in the axial direction X. A cable can be placed in the third lumen 3L. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, an objective lens 14 can be placed at the end of the cable. It is preferable that an image sensor is integrally provided on the objective lens 14. When multiple cables are arranged, an objective lens 14 may be placed at the end of the first cable, and an illumination device may be placed at the end of the second cable. The number of illumination devices may be two or more. It is preferable that the illumination device has a light-emitting diode (LED). Examples of cables include electric wires and optical fibers. It is also preferable that the cable has an insulating film. 【0059】 As shown in Figures 3 and 9, it is preferable that the second projection 2P has a fourth lumen 4L extending in the axial direction X. This improves the flexibility of the second projection 2P. The fourth lumen 4L can also be used as a forceps insertion hole, a fluid injection hole, a suction hole, etc. Examples of fluids injected into the body through the fluid injection hole include liquids and gases. 【0060】 As shown in Figure 9, the fourth lumen 4L is preferably located between the first projection 1P and the second projection 2P in the radial direction Z. This makes it easier to insert forceps or other instruments into the fourth lumen 4L. 【0061】 The first cylindrical part 1 and the second cylindrical part 2 preferably contain a resin, and more preferably consist of a resin. Furthermore, the first cylindrical part 1, the second cylindrical part 2, and the third cylindrical part 3 each preferably contain a resin, and more preferably consist of a resin. This improves flexibility. Furthermore, the endoscope 10 can be made a disposable endoscope. The resin is preferably a thermoplastic resin, a thermoplastic elastomer, or a mixture thereof. Examples of thermoplastic elastomers include polyester elastomers and polyamide elastomers. Examples of thermoplastic resins include polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutene, polyolefins such as ethylene-propylene copolymer and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyamides, polyimides, polyamide-imides, polyurethanes, and fluororesins. Examples of fluororesins include polytetrafluoroethylene, tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer, and tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more. Each cylindrical part is preferably manufactured by injection molding, but may also be manufactured using a 3D printer or the like. 【0062】 It is preferable that the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 are made of the same material, and more preferably made of the same material. This improves the interchangeability of the cylindrical members constituting each cylindrical portion, making it easier to manufacture the shaft 11 and reducing manufacturing costs. 【0063】 As shown in Figures 2, 3, 5, and 6, the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2 may have the same shape, or may be made of the same shape. This improves the interchangeability of the cylindrical members constituting each cylindrical portion and reduces manufacturing costs. For example, the first cylindrical portion 1 may have a first receiving portion 1R with the same shape as the second cylindrical portion 2 on the side opposite to the first projection 1P in the axial direction X. On the other hand, the second cylindrical portion 2 may have a first projection 1P with the same shape as the first cylindrical portion 1 on the side opposite to the first receiving portion 1R in the axial direction X, or it may have a first projection 1P and a second projection 2P with the same shape as the first cylindrical portion 1. Furthermore, the axial length X of the first cylindrical portion 1 and the axial length X of the second cylindrical portion 2 may be the same or different. If the lengths are the same, the interchangeability of the cylindrical members is improved, while if the lengths are different, it is possible to adjust the bendable portion of the shaft to bend into a desired shape during manufacturing. 【0064】 As shown in Figures 2, 5, and 6, it is preferable that the third cylindrical portion 3 located at the tip end of the shaft 11 has a first receiving portion 1R having the same shape as the second cylindrical portion 2. Furthermore, it is preferable that the third cylindrical portion 3 has a cylindrical portion on the side opposite to the first receiving portion 1R in the axial direction X. It is preferable that the objective lens 14 is arranged in the cylindrical portion. It is preferable that the tips of the first operating wire 13a and the second operating wire 13b are fixed directly or indirectly inside the cylindrical portion. 【0065】 The shaft 11 preferably has a plurality of first cylindrical portions 1 and a plurality of second cylindrical portions 2. Furthermore, it is preferable that the plurality of first cylindrical portions 1 and the plurality of second cylindrical portions 2 are arranged alternately in the axial direction X. As shown in Figures 2 and 5, it is preferable that the first cylindrical portion 1 has a first projection 1P and a second projection 2P that protrude toward the tip side of the shaft 11, but they may also be arranged to protrude toward the base end side of the shaft 11. Also, as shown in Figures 2 and 5, it is preferable that the first receiving portion 1R of the second cylindrical portion 2 is recessed toward the tip side of the shaft 11, but it may also be arranged to be recessed toward the base end side of the shaft 11. 【0066】 The shaft 11 preferably has a protective tube in which a first cylindrical portion 1 and a second cylindrical portion 2 are arranged in its lumen. The protective tube can protect the first cylindrical portion 1 and the second cylindrical portion 2. Preferably, a third cylindrical portion 3 is further arranged in the lumen of the protective tube. The protective tube preferably contains a resin, and more preferably is made of a resin. The resin is preferably a thermoplastic resin, a thermoplastic elastomer, or a mixture thereof. Examples of thermoplastic elastomers include polyester elastomers and polyamide elastomers. Examples of thermoplastic resins include polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutene, polyolefins such as ethylene-propylene copolymer and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyamide, polyimide, polyamide-imide, polyurethane, and fluororesin. Examples of fluororesin include polytetrafluoroethylene, tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer, and tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer. These may be used individually or in combination of two or more. 【0067】 As shown in Figure 1, the endoscope 10 preferably has a handle 12 located at the proximal end of the shaft 11. The handle 12 should be configured so that the user can grasp it. 【0068】 The handle 12 preferably has an operating section 12A for operating the first operating wire 13a and the second operating wire 13b. Preferably, the base ends of the first operating wire 13a and the second operating wire 13b are connected to the operating section 12A directly or indirectly. For example, by rotating the operating section 12A to one side in the circumferential direction, one wire can be pulled and the other wire can be loosened. Figure 1 shows a cylindrical operating section 12A, but the operating section 12A may be dial-shaped. The operating section 12A may also have a rotating mechanism such as a pulley or sprocket. 【0069】 Although not shown in the figures, it is preferable that the handle 12 has a connector portion to which a tube or the like for aspirating or supplying fluid can be connected. This allows for the aspiration of bodily fluids from or supplying fluid to bodily tissues via the fourth lumen 4L. Examples of fluids include liquids and gases. Although not shown in the figures, the base end of the handle 12 may be connected via a connector to an external cable connected to an external device such as a video processor. 【0070】 The endoscope 10 is preferably capable of observing the digestive tract, such as the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine; blood vessels, such as coronary arteries; respiratory organs, such as the thoracic cavity and bronchi; urinary organs, such as the bladder and renal pelvis; pancreas; and biliary tract. Furthermore, the endoscope 10 is preferably a disposable endoscope. This helps prevent infection in the person being observed. [Explanation of symbols] 【0071】 1, 2, 3 First cylindrical part, second cylindrical part, third cylindrical part 1A, 2A 1st area, 2nd area 1C, 2C Arc-shaped section 1L, 2L, 3L 1st lumen, 2nd lumen, 3rd lumen 1N, 2N waist area 1P, 2P 1st protrusion, 2nd protrusion 1Pc, 2Pc center 1 PM, 2 PM (maximum length portion) 1R 1st Reception Department 1Rc arc-shaped section 1rm (part smaller than the maximum length) 1r groove 1T Tapered section 10 Endoscopes 11 shafts 12 handles 12A Operation unit 13a, 13b Operating wires 14 Objective lens r1, r2 A pair of grooves O Elliptical part P polygonal part V Virtual Plane X-axis direction Y vertical direction Z radial direction

Claims

[Claim 1] It is the shaft of the endoscope, A first cylindrical portion having a first projection, The shaft has a second cylindrical portion adjacent to the first cylindrical portion in the axial direction and having a first receiving portion for receiving the first projection, The first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion are slidable relative to each other in the radial direction of the shaft. The first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion are configured such that the shaft can bend in a vertical direction perpendicular to the axial direction and the slidable radial direction, The protrusion of the first receiving portion is formed continuously from one end to the other end of the second cylindrical portion in the radial direction, forming the shaft of the endoscope. [Claim 2] The first projection protrudes in the axial direction, The first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion can be separated by sliding them radially from one end to the other while they are fitted together. The shaft of an endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion can be fitted together by sliding the first cylindrical portion radially from one end to the other, starting from a separated state. [Claim 3] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first receiving portion has a groove extending in the radial direction. [Claim 4] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 3, wherein the first cylindrical portion further has a second projection facing the first projection in the radial direction. [Claim 5] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 4, wherein the groove receives the first projection and the second projection. [Claim 6] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 5, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the groove includes an arc-shaped portion. [Claim 7] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 6, wherein the central angle of the arc-shaped portion is greater than 180 degrees and less than 360 degrees. [Claim 8] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 7, wherein the first projection and the second projection each have an arc-shaped portion whose outer edge is arc-shaped when viewed from the side in the opposite direction of the first cylindrical portion. [Claim 9] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 8, wherein the first projection and the second projection each have a constricted portion in which the outer edge is narrowed on the side further from the second cylindrical portion than the arc-shaped portion when viewed from the side of the first cylindrical portion in opposing directions. [Claim 10] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 4, wherein the first cylindrical portion is divided by a virtual plane passing through the center of the first projection and the center of the second projection and parallel to the axial direction, the first region having a first lumen extending in the axial direction, and the second region having a second lumen extending in the axial direction. [Claim 11] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 4, wherein the radial thickness of the first projection is smaller than the radial thickness of the second projection. [Claim 12] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 11, wherein the second projection has a third lumen extending in the axial direction. [Claim 13] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 3, wherein the groove has a portion on the side of the second cylindrical portion closer to the first cylindrical portion than the portion of the first projection whose circumferential length in the first cylindrical portion is the maximum length, where the length of the groove in the circumferential direction of the second cylindrical portion is smaller than the maximum length. [Claim 14] The shaft of the endoscope according to claim 4, wherein the groove has a portion on the side of the second cylindrical portion closer to the second cylindrical portion than the portion of the second projection whose circumferential length in the second cylindrical portion is the maximum length, where the length of the groove in the circumferential direction of the second cylindrical portion is smaller than the maximum length. [Claim 15] The shaft of an endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the surface of the end of the first cylindrical portion adjacent to the second cylindrical portion is inclined with respect to the radial direction, and the distance between the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion increases further outward than the portion of the first cylindrical portion closer to the center in the radial direction.

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