Ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic endoscope

Abstract

This ultrasonic probe is provided with: a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arrayed along a direction of arraying going from a first side toward a second side; a first flexible substrate on which are formed a first wiring group configured so as to extend from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the first side and so as to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers and a plurality of signal lines for transmitting / receiving ultrasonic signals to / from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, and a second wiring group configured so as to extend from the plurality of signal lines toward the second side; a second flexible substrate on which is formed a third wiring group configured so as to extend from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the second side; and a connecting section for electrically connecting the second wiring group and the third wiring group. Due to this configuration, provided is an ultrasonic probe that has a miniaturized distal end section and is prevented from decreasing in bend resistance.

Description

Ultrasound probe and ultrasound endoscope

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic endoscope.

[0002] Conventionally, in the medical field, ultrasonic endoscopes are used to observe the internal organs of a subject, such as a patient. An ultrasonic endoscope has a tip of an insertion section that is inserted into the subject, and is provided with multiple ultrasonic transducers arranged in a predetermined direction. A signal cable having multiple signal lines is connected to the proximal end of the insertion section. The ultrasonic transducers and the signal lines are electrically connected via a relay board provided on the back of the ultrasonic transducer at the tip of the ultrasonic endoscope.

[0003] Meanwhile, the tip of an ultrasonic endoscope is required to be miniaturized to facilitate insertion into a subject. Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for miniaturizing the tip of an ultrasonic endoscope by electrically connecting an ultrasonic transducer and a signal line via a flexible substrate. This technology prevents the density of the wiring pattern from becoming too high by extending wiring from the ultrasonic transducer to both the distal and proximal ends. If the density of the wiring pattern becomes too high, the width of the wiring pattern must be narrowed, which is undesirable because it makes it difficult to achieve high image quality due to losses caused by increased electrical resistance.

[0004] International Publication No. 2020 / 079855

[0005] In the technology of Patent Document 1, wiring is drawn out to the distal and proximal ends of the flexible substrate, so the connection portions between the flexible substrate and the signal lines are located at both ends of the flexible substrate, resulting in a large distance between the connection portions. When connecting the signal lines to the connection portions at both ends, the signal lines are connected while the flexible substrate is unfolded flat to ensure ease of connection. Therefore, it is necessary to remove the signal cable's holding tape and the outer sheath of the signal cable and signal line, expose the cable bundle inside the signal line, and untwist the cable bundle to lengthen the exposed portion. Then, the signal lines are connected to the distal and proximal ends of the flexible substrate, and the flexible substrate is folded to accommodate the ultrasonic transducer in the housing. If the exposed portion is long, part of the exposed portion will protrude outside the housing, reducing bending resistance.

[0006] Furthermore, to ensure electrical safety, the exposed portion can be covered again with an insulating material or the like, but this is not preferable because it complicates the structure and hinders miniaturization.

[0007] Furthermore, if an attempt is made to shorten the exposed portion, the flexible substrate becomes longer, and the flexible substrate cannot be accommodated in the housing, resulting in a decrease in bending resistance.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic endoscope that have a miniaturized tip portion and that prevent a decrease in bending resistance.

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, an ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged along an arrangement direction from a first side to a second side; a first flexible substrate on which are formed a first wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the first side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to a plurality of signal lines that transmit and receive ultrasonic signals to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers; and a second wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of signal lines toward the second side; a second flexible substrate on which is formed a third wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the second side; and a connection portion that electrically connects the second wiring group and the third wiring group.

[0010] Moreover, an ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention includes a signal cable having the plurality of signal lines electrically connected to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, respectively.

[0011] In the ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the ultrasonic transducers are located on the second side of the signal cable.

[0012] In the ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the connection portion is located closer to the first side than the plurality of ultrasonic transducers.

[0013] In the ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the first flexible substrate and the second flexible substrate are formed from a single flexible substrate.

[0014] In addition, in an ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the first flexible substrate has a first group of connection terminals that electrically connect the first group of wirings and the plurality of signal lines, and a second group of connection terminals that electrically connect the second group of wirings and the plurality of signal lines.

[0015] In the ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the first group of connection terminals and the second group of connection terminals are formed on a first surface.

[0016] In addition, in an ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the first group of connection terminals is formed on a first surface, and the second group of connection terminals is formed on a second surface that is different from the first surface.

[0017] In the ultrasound probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the connection portion fixes the first flexible substrate and the second flexible substrate together.

[0018] In addition, in an ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the connection portion includes a via that is electrically connected to the second wiring group and electrically connects the first surface to a second surface that is different from the first surface, and a fourth wiring group that extends from the via toward the second side and is configured to electrically connect the via to the third wiring group.

[0019] In the ultrasound probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the connection portion includes an anisotropic conductive material.

[0020] In the ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, a flying lead is formed at the tip of the third wiring group.

[0021] and a flexible substrate on which a first wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the first side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the plurality of signal lines and a third wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the second side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the plurality of signal lines are formed; a housing that accommodates the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, the flexible substrate, and the exposed portions of the plurality of signal lines; and a joint that joins the first side of the flexible substrate to the second side of the flexible substrate.

[0022] In addition, in an ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, a second wiring group is formed on the flexible substrate, extending from the plurality of signal lines toward the second side and configured to electrically connect the third wiring group and the plurality of signal lines.

[0023] In addition, in an ultrasonic probe according to one aspect of the present invention, the first wiring group and the third wiring group are formed on a first surface, and the joint portion joins a second surface, which is a surface different from the first surface on the first side of the flexible substrate, to the second surface on the second side of the flexible substrate.

[0024] An ultrasonic endoscope according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first flexible substrate on which are formed a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged along an arrangement direction from a first side to a second side, a first wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the first side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to a plurality of signal lines for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, and a second wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of signal lines toward the second side, and a second flexible substrate on which is formed a third wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the second side. an ultrasonic probe having a flexible substrate, a connection portion that electrically connects the second wiring group and the third wiring group, and a housing that accommodates the plurality of ultrasonic vibrators; an insertion portion that is inserted into a subject and has a rigid member connected to the first side of the ultrasonic probe, a bendable bending portion that is connected to the first side of the rigid member, and a flexible tube that is connected to the first side of the bending portion, and an operation portion that is provided on the first side of the insertion portion and receives operations to bend the bending portion, and the connection portion is located on the second side of the bending portion.

[0025] According to the present invention, it is possible to realize an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic endoscope having a miniaturized tip portion and preventing a decrease in bending resistance.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an endoscopic system including an ultrasonic probe according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic probe. FIG. 3 is a top view of an FPC. FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the FPC. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the FPC. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a connection portion in FIG. 2. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a manufacturing method of an ultrasonic probe. FIG. 8 is a partial enlarged view of a connection portion of an ultrasonic probe according to a first modification. FIG. 9 is a top view of an FPC of an ultrasonic probe according to a second modification. FIG. 10 is a bottom view of an FPC of an ultrasonic probe according to the second modification. FIG. 11 is a partial enlarged view of a connection portion of an ultrasonic probe according to the second modification. FIG. 12 is a partial enlarged view of a connection portion of an ultrasonic probe according to a third modification. FIG. 13 is a partial enlarged view of an FPC of an ultrasonic probe according to a fourth modification. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of an ultrasonic probe according to the second embodiment.

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic endoscope according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. The present invention can be generally applied to ultrasonic probes and ultrasonic endoscopes.

[0028] In addition, in the drawings, the same or corresponding elements are appropriately designated by the same reference numerals. It should be noted that the drawings are schematic, and the dimensional relationships and ratios of each element may differ from the actual situation. The dimensional relationships and ratios may also differ between the drawings.

[0029] (Embodiment 1) [Schematic Configuration of Endoscope System] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an endoscopic system including an ultrasound probe according to embodiment 1. The endoscopic system 1 is a system that performs ultrasound diagnosis and treatment inside a subject, such as a human, using an ultrasound endoscope. As shown in Fig. 1, the endoscopic system 1 includes an ultrasound endoscope 2, an ultrasound observation device 3, an endoscopic observation device 4, a display device 5, an insertion section 6, an operation section 7, a universal cord 8, and an endoscopic connector 9.

[0030] In the following, the tip side of the insertion portion 6 (the tip side in the direction of insertion into the subject) will be referred to as the "tip side," and the base side of the insertion portion 6 (the side away from the tip of the insertion portion 6) will be referred to as the "base side."

[0031] The ultrasonic endoscope 2 is capable of being partially inserted into the subject, and has the functions of transmitting ultrasonic pulses (acoustic pulses) toward the body wall of the subject and receiving ultrasonic echoes reflected by the subject to output an echo signal, as well as capturing an image of the inside of the subject to output an image signal.

[0032] The ultrasound observation device 3 is electrically connected to the ultrasound endoscope 2 via an ultrasound cable 31, and outputs pulse signals to the ultrasound endoscope 2 and receives echo signals from the ultrasound endoscope 2 via the ultrasound cable 31. The ultrasound observation device 3 then generates an ultrasound image by performing predetermined processing on the echo signals.

[0033] The endoscopic connector 9 of the ultrasonic endoscope 2 is detachably connected to the endoscopic observation device 4. The endoscopic observation device 4 includes a video processor 41 and a light source device .

[0034] The video processor 41 receives an image signal from the ultrasonic endoscope 2 via the endoscope connector 9. The video processor 41 then performs predetermined processing on the image signal to generate an endoscopic image.

[0035] The light source device 42 supplies the ultrasonic endoscope 2 with illumination light that illuminates the inside of the subject via the endoscope connector 9 .

[0036] The display device 5 is configured using a liquid crystal display, an organic electroluminescence (EL) display, a CRT (cathode ray tube), or a projector, and displays ultrasound images generated by the ultrasound observation device 3, endoscopic images generated by the endoscopic observation device 4, etc.

[0037] The insertion section 6 is a portion that is inserted into the subject and includes the ultrasonic probe 10 provided at the distal end, a rigid member 61 connected to the proximal end of the ultrasonic probe 10, a bendable bending section 62 connected to the proximal end of the rigid member 61, and a flexible tube 63 connected to the proximal end of the bending section 62.

[0038] Inside the insertion section 6, the operating section 7, the universal cord 8, and the endoscopic connector 9, a light guide for transmitting illumination light supplied from the light source device 42, a signal cable for transmitting pulse signals and echo signals, and an image signal cable for transmitting image signals are routed, and conduits for circulating fluids are also provided.

[0039] The operation unit 7 is connected to the proximal end side of the insertion unit 6 and is a part that receives various operations from a doctor or the like. The operation unit 7 includes a bending knob 71 for bending the bending portion 62, and a plurality of operation members 72 for performing various operations.

[0040] The universal cord 8 extends from the operation unit 7 and is a cord on which a light guide, a signal cable, an image signal cable, and a tube that constitutes part of a duct are arranged.

[0041] The endoscope connector 9 is provided at the end of the universal cord 8. The endoscope connector 9 is connected to the ultrasound cable 31 and is also inserted into the endoscopic observation device 4 to be connected to the video processor 41 and the light source device 42.

[0042] [Configuration of Ultrasonic Probe] Next, the configuration of the ultrasonic probe 10 will be described. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic probe, and corresponds to the cross section taken along line A-A in Fig. 3 (the direction along line A-A is the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic transducers). However, Fig. 2 shows a state in which the FPC 115 in Fig. 3 is bent.

[0043] The ultrasonic probe 10 is a convex type ultrasonic probe and has a cylindrical scanning surface that is convex toward the outside (upward in FIG. 2 ). The ultrasonic probe 10 includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 111, an acoustic matching layer 112, an acoustic lens 113, a back surface layer 114, a flexible printed circuit (FPC) 115, a connection portion 116, a ground line 117, a signal cable 118, and a housing 119.

[0044] In the following, an example will be described in which the first side corresponds to the base end side when the FPC 115 is unfolded as shown in Fig. 3, and the second side corresponds to the tip end side when the FPC 115 is unfolded as shown in Fig. 3, but this is not limiting. Also, the surface of the FPC 115 on the ultrasonic transducer 111 side will be referred to as the "first surface," and a surface different from the first surface will be referred to as the "second surface." However, in the following, when wiring is provided on three or more surfaces, such as a three-dimensional wiring board, rather than a board that extends in a plane like the FPC 115, the "second surface" may be a side surface of the first surface.

[0045] The ultrasonic transducers 111 are arranged in an arrangement direction from the proximal end to the distal end. The ultrasonic transducers 111 are located closer to the distal end than the signal cable 118.

[0046] The ultrasonic transducer 111 is formed using a PMN-PT single crystal, a PMN-PZT single crystal, a PZN-PT single crystal, a PIN-PZN-PT single crystal, or a relaxor material. Note that PMN-PT single crystal is an abbreviation for a solid solution of magnesium lead niobate and lead titanate. PMN-PZT single crystal is an abbreviation for a solid solution of magnesium lead niobate and lead zirconate titanate. PZN-PT single crystal is an abbreviation for a solid solution of zinc lead niobate and lead titanate. PIN-PZN-PT single crystal is an abbreviation for a solid solution of indium lead niobate, zinc lead niobate, and lead titanate. Relaxor materials are a general term for ternary piezoelectric materials in which lead zirconate titanate (PZT) is added with a lead-based complex perovskite relaxor material to increase the piezoelectric constant and dielectric constant. Lead-based complex perovskite is Pb(B1,B2)O ３where B1 is either magnesium, zinc, indium or scandium, and B2 is either niobium, tantalum or tungsten.

[0047] The acoustic matching layer 112 is located relative to the ultrasonic transducers 111 in the direction in which each ultrasonic transducer 111 transmits ultrasonic waves. The acoustic matching layer 112 matches the acoustic impedance between the ultrasonic transducers 111 and the observation target in order to efficiently transmit sound (ultrasound) between the ultrasonic transducers 111 and the observation target. The acoustic matching layer 112 may be a single layer or may be two or more layers. Furthermore, depending on the characteristics of the ultrasonic transducers 111 and the observation target, an acoustic matching layer may not be provided.

[0048] Acoustic lens 113 is formed using silicone, polymethylpentene, epoxy resin, polyetherimide, or the like, and has one surface that is convex or concave to focus ultrasonic waves, and emits ultrasonic waves that have passed through acoustic matching layer 112 to the outside, or takes in ultrasonic echoes from the outside. Acoustic lens 113 can also be provided as desired, and a configuration without acoustic lens 113 is also possible.

[0049] The back layer 114 is laminated on the side of the ultrasonic transducer 111 opposite to the acoustic matching layer 112, and is a dematching layer that reflects at least a portion of unnecessary ultrasonic waves generated by the operation of the ultrasonic transducer 111, or a backing material that attenuates unnecessary ultrasonic waves generated by the operation of the ultrasonic transducer 111. Note that the back layer 114 may not be provided depending on the characteristics of the ultrasonic transducer 111 and the observation target.

[0050] The FPC 115 electrically connects the ultrasonic transducers 111 to the signal lines 1181 of the signal cable 118 .

[0051] The connecting portion 116 fixes the second surface on the distal end side of the FPC 115 to the second surface on the proximal end side of the FPC 115. The connecting portion 116 is preferably located closer to the proximal end than the ultrasonic transducer 111. The connecting portion 116 is preferably located closer to the distal end than the curved portion 62. This is to prevent stress caused by bending from being applied to the connecting portion 116.

[0052] The ground line 117 electrically connects the ultrasonic transducer 111 to the ground line of the signal cable 118 .

[0053] The signal cable 118 is electrically connected to each of the ultrasonic transducers 111 and includes multiple signal lines 1181 that transmit and receive ultrasonic signals to and from the ultrasonic transducers 111. Each of the multiple signal lines 1181 is a coaxial line having a center conductor that transmits a pulse signal or an echo signal and a ground line insulated from and surrounding the center conductor. The signal cable 118 includes an exposed portion 1181a located at the tip and exposing the signal line 1181, and a sheathed portion 1181b located proximal to the exposed portion 1181a and covering the signal line 1181 with an outer sheath. The exposed portion 1181a is a portion obtained by removing the holding tape and outer sheath of the signal cable 118, exposing the signal line 1181, and untwisting the signal line 1181. The signal lines 1181 are connected to each connection terminal (described later) by exposing the center conductor of each coaxial line (not shown) at the tip of the exposed portion 1181a.

[0054] The housing 119 accommodates the multiple ultrasonic transducers 111 , the FPC 115 , and exposed portions 1181 a of the multiple signal lines 1181 .

[0055] [Configuration of FPC] Fig. 3 is a top view of the FPC. Fig. 4 is a bottom view of the FPC. Figs. 3 and 4 are views showing the FPC 115, which is bent as shown in Fig. 2, unfolded into a flat state. In Figs. 3 and 4, the upper side is the base end side and the lower side is the tip end side.

[0056] The FPC 115 includes a first flexible substrate located proximal to the line B-B and a second flexible substrate located distal to the first flexible substrate. The first flexible substrate and the second flexible substrate may be configured as a single flexible substrate, or each may be configured as a single flexible substrate. In the first embodiment, the line B-B separating the first flexible substrate and the second flexible substrate is set at a position that halves the number of ultrasonic transducers 111 that the ultrasonic probe 10 has, but the position of the line B-B can be set arbitrarily. For example, the number of ultrasonic transducers 111 connected to the first flexible substrate may be twice the number of ultrasonic transducers 111 connected to the second flexible substrate, and the position of the line B-B may be set closer to the distal end, or may be set randomly.

[0057] As shown in Fig. 3, wiring groups 121 to 123, connection terminal groups 131 to 135, and electrode portion 141 are formed on a first surface of FPC 115. As shown in Fig. 4, wiring group 124 and connection terminal group 136 are formed on a second surface of FPC 115. It is preferable that wiring groups 121 to 124 extend linearly and are regularly arranged as shown in the figure, but they may also extend randomly or be irregularly arranged as a countermeasure against noise, etc.

[0058] The wiring group 121 (first wiring group) extends from the ultrasonic transducer 111 toward the base end, and electrically connects the ultrasonic transducer 111 and the signal line 1181. The connection terminal group 131 formed at the tip of the wiring group 121 electrically connects the wiring group 121 and the ultrasonic transducer 111. The connection terminal group 133 (first connection terminal group) formed at the base end of the wiring group 121 electrically connects the wiring group 121 and the signal line 1181.

[0059] The wiring group 122 (second wiring group) extends from the signal line 1181 toward the tip side. The connection terminal group 135 (second connection terminal group) formed at the base end of the wiring group 122 electrically connects the wiring group 122 and the signal line 1181.

[0060] The wiring group 123 (third wiring group) extends from the ultrasonic transducer 111 toward the distal end. A connection terminal group 132 formed at the base end of the wiring group 123 electrically connects the wiring group 123 to the ultrasonic transducer 111. A connection terminal group 134, which is, for example, a flying lead, is formed at the distal end of the wiring group 123.

[0061] Wiring group 124 (fourth wiring group) is connected to the tip of wiring group 122, connected to a via that electrically connects the first surface and the second surface, and extends from this via toward the tip on the second surface. That is, wiring group 124 is formed in the same number as wiring group 122, at a position facing wiring group 122 across FPC 115. Connection terminal group 136 formed at the tip of wiring group 124 electrically connects wiring group 124 and wiring group 123.

[0062] The electrode section 141 is provided in the area where the ultrasonic transducers 111 are stacked, and is provided so that there is no difference in the conditions for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves between the ultrasonic transducers 111.

[0063] 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the FPC 115. The FPC 115 has a resin layer 1151, a conductive layer 1152 on which the wiring groups 121 to 123 are formed, an insulating layer 1153, and a via 1154 that electrically connects to the ultrasonic transducer 111.

[0064] [Configuration of the Connection Portion] Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of the connection portion in Fig. 2. In Fig. 6, the right side is the base end side and the left side is the tip end side. Since the tip end side of the FPC 115 is folded back toward the base end side as shown in Fig. 2, the connection terminal group 134 formed at the tip end of the FPC 115 in Fig. 3 is located on the base end side of the wiring group 123 in Fig. 6.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 6, the connection portion 116 includes a via 151, a wiring group 124 (fourth wiring group), a connection terminal group 136, and a connection terminal group 134, thereby electrically connecting the wiring group 122 and the wiring group 123.

[0066] The via 151 electrically connects the first surface and the second surface. Specifically, the via 151 electrically connects the wiring group 122 and the wiring group 124.

[0067] A group of connection terminals 134 formed at the tip of the group of wirings 123 electrically connects the group of wirings 123 and the group of wirings 124 .

[0068] [Method of Manufacturing an Ultrasonic Probe] Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing a method of manufacturing an ultrasonic probe. First, piezoelectric element layers that will become a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 111 are stacked to form a laminate (step S1).

[0069] Next, the piezoelectric element layer of the laminate and the FPC 115 are electrically connected (step S2).

[0070] Thereafter, the laminate formed in step S2 is diced with a dicing saw (step S3), whereby the piezoelectric element layer is cut and a plurality of rectangular parallelepiped ultrasonic transducers 111 are formed.

[0071] Then, the tip end side and the base end side of the FPC 115 are electrically connected to form the connection portion 116 (step S4). Specifically, the connection terminal group 136 of the FPC 115 is electrically connected to the connection terminal group 134, and the tip end side of the FPC 115 is fixed to the base end side of the FPC 115, thereby forming the connection portion 116.

[0072] Furthermore, the signal wire 1181 is electrically connected to the connection terminal group 133 and the connection terminal group 135 of the FPC 115 (step S5). At this time, because the distal end side and the proximal end side of the FPC 115 are fixed by the connection portion 116, the portion of the FPC 115 on which the connection terminal group 133 and the connection terminal group 135 are formed can be spread out flat to connect the signal wire 1181. The connection terminal group 133 and the connection terminal group 135 are formed together on the same surface (first surface) on the proximal end side of the FPC 115, as shown in FIG. 3, which improves workability and does not require the exposed portion 1181a to be long.

[0073] Thereafter, the ultrasonic transducer 111 is housed in the opening of the housing 119 (step S6). At this time, since the exposed portion 1181a is not long, the exposed portion 1181a can be housed inside the housing 119 as shown in FIG.

[0074] According to the first embodiment described above, the ultrasonic transducer 111 and the signal line 1181 are electrically connected by the FPC 115, and a relay board is not required, thereby enabling the miniaturization of the tip of the ultrasonic probe 10. Furthermore, by electrically connecting the tip side and the base side of the FPC 115 by the connection portion 116, the connection terminal group 133 and the connection terminal group 135 that connect to the signal line 1181 are formed together on the same surface (first surface) on the base side of the FPC 115. As a result, workability is improved, there is no need to lengthen the exposed portion 1181a, and the exposed portion 1181a can be accommodated within the housing 119, preventing a decrease in bending resistance.

[0075] (Modification 1) Fig. 8 is a partial enlarged view of a connection portion of an ultrasound probe according to Modification 1, and corresponds to the enlarged view of the connection portion in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 8, the connection portion 116A includes a via 151, a wiring group 124, a connection terminal group 136A, a connection terminal group 134A, a wiring group 125A, and a via 152A, thereby electrically connecting the wiring group 122 and the wiring group 123.

[0076] The connection terminal group 136A formed at the tip of the wiring group 124 electrically connects the wiring group 124 and the wiring group 125A.

[0077] The connection terminal group 134A formed at the base end of the wiring group 125A (fifth wiring group) electrically connects the wiring group 124 and the wiring group 125A.

[0078] The connection terminal group 136A and the connection terminal group 134A include an anisotropic conductive material (not shown) and are electrically connected by, for example, an anisotropic conductive film (ACF) or an anisotropic conductive paste (ACP).

[0079] The wiring group 125A extends from the connection terminal group 134A toward the tip side.

[0080] The via 152A electrically connects the first surface and the second surface on the tip side of the FPC 115A. Specifically, the via 152A electrically connects the wiring group 123 and the wiring group 125A.

[0081] As in the above-described first modification, the connection portion 116A may be an ACF or an ACP. In the first modification, the FPC 115A eliminates the need for a relay board, thereby enabling the miniaturization of the tip portion of the ultrasound probe 10. Furthermore, the connection terminal group 133 and the connection terminal group 135 that connect to the signal line 1181 via the connection portion 116A are formed together on the same surface (first surface) on the base end side of the FPC 115A, improving workability and preventing a decrease in bending resistance.

[0082] The connection portion is not particularly limited as long as it has a configuration that can electrically connect the wiring group 122 and the wiring group 123. The connection portion may be formed by physically contacting connection terminals and fixing them with adhesive or tape, or by mechanically crimping the connection terminals, or by welding, wire bonding, adhesive bonding with conductive resin, connection with a microconnector, contactless power supply, or the like.

[0083] (Modification 2) Fig. 9 is a top view of an FPC of an ultrasonic probe according to Modification 2. Fig. 10 is a bottom view of an FPC of an ultrasonic probe according to Modification 2. Figs. 9 and 10 are views of the FPC, which is bent as shown in Fig. 2, unfolded into a flat state, similar to Figs. 3 and 4. In Figs. 9 and 10, the upper side will be described as the base end side and the lower side as the tip end side.

[0084] As shown in Fig. 9, wiring groups 121B and 123, connection terminal groups 131, 132, and 133B, and electrode portion 141 are formed on a first surface of FPC 115B. As shown in Fig. 10, wiring groups 122B and 125B, and connection terminal groups 134B, 135B, and 136B are formed on a second surface of FPC 115B. In this configuration, since wiring group 121B is formed on the first surface side and wiring group 122B is formed on the second surface side, there is no need to increase the width of FPC 115 on the base end side as shown in Figs. 3 and 4.

[0085] Fig. 11 is a partial enlarged view of the connection portion of the ultrasound probe according to Modification 2, and corresponds to the enlarged view of the connection portion in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 11, the connection portion 116B includes a connection terminal group 136B, a connection terminal group 134B, a wiring group 125B (fifth wiring group), and a via 152B, thereby electrically connecting the wiring group 122B and the wiring group 123B.

[0086] The wiring group 121B (first wiring group) is formed on the first surface, extends from the ultrasonic transducer 111 toward the base end, and electrically connects the ultrasonic transducer 111 and the signal line 1181. The connection terminal group 133B (first connection terminal group) formed at the base end of the wiring group 121B electrically connects the wiring group 121B and the signal line 1181.

[0087] The wiring group 122B (second wiring group) is formed on the second surface and extends toward the tip side from the signal line 1181. The connection terminal group 135B (second connection terminal group) formed at the base end of the wiring group 122B electrically connects the wiring group 122B and the signal line 1181.

[0088] A connection terminal group 136B formed at the tip of the wiring group 122B electrically connects the wiring group 122B and the wiring group 125B.

[0089] A connection terminal group 134B formed at the base end of the wiring group 125B electrically connects the wiring group 122B and the wiring group 125B.

[0090] The wiring group 125B extends from the connection terminal group 136B toward the tip side.

[0091] The via 152B electrically connects the first surface and the second surface on the tip side of the FPC 115B. Specifically, the via 152B electrically connects the wiring group 123 and the wiring group 125B.

[0092] As in the above-described modified example 2, the wiring group 122B may be formed on the second surface. In the modified example 2, the FPC 115B eliminates the need for a relay board, thereby enabling the miniaturization of the tip of the ultrasound probe 10. Furthermore, the connection terminal group 133B and the connection terminal group 135B, which are connected to the signal line 1181 by the connection portion 116B, are formed together on the base end side of the FPC 115B, improving workability and preventing a decrease in bending resistance.

[0093] (Modification 3) Fig. 12 is a partial enlarged view of a connection portion of an ultrasound probe according to Modification 3, and corresponds to the enlarged view of the connection portion in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 12, the connection portion 116C includes a connection terminal group 136C and a connection terminal group 134C, thereby electrically connecting the wiring group 122C and the wiring group 123.

[0094] The wiring group 121C (first wiring group) is formed on the first surface, extends from the ultrasonic transducer 111 toward the base end, and electrically connects the ultrasonic transducer 111 and the signal line 1181. The connection terminal group 133C (first connection terminal group) formed at the base end of the wiring group 121C electrically connects the wiring group 121C and the signal line 1181.

[0095] The wiring group 122C (second wiring group) is formed on the second surface and extends toward the tip side from the signal line 1181. The connection terminal group 135C (second connection terminal group) formed at the base end of the wiring group 122C electrically connects the wiring group 122C and the signal line 1181.

[0096] In this configuration, similar to the second modification, the wiring group 121C is formed on the first surface side and the wiring group 122C is formed on the second surface side, so there is no need to increase the width of the FPC 115 on the base end side as shown in FIG.

[0097] The connection terminal group 136C formed at the tip of the wiring group 122C electrically connects the wiring group 122C and the wiring group 123C.

[0098] The connection terminal group 134C formed at the base end of the wiring group 123 electrically connects the wiring group 122C and the wiring group 123 together.

[0099] As in the above-described third modification, the wiring group 122C may be formed on the second surface. In the third modification, the FPC 115C also eliminates the need for a relay board, thereby enabling the miniaturization of the tip of the ultrasound probe 10. Furthermore, the connection terminal group 133C and the connection terminal group 135C, which connect to the signal line 1181 via the connection portion 116C, are formed together on the base end side of the FPC 115C, improving workability and preventing a decrease in bending resistance.

[0100] (Modification 4) Fig. 13 is a partial enlarged view of an FPC of an ultrasound probe according to Modification 4. As shown in Fig. 13, an FPC 115D is formed with wiring groups 121D and 123D, connection terminal groups 131D and 132D, an electrode portion 141D, and a ground wiring 117D. The wiring groups 121D or 123D and the ground wiring 117D are alternately arranged in a direction intersecting the extension direction of each wiring.

[0101] The wiring group 121D (first wiring group) extends from the ultrasonic transducer 111 toward the base end side, and electrically connects the ultrasonic transducer 111 and the signal line 1181. The connection terminal group 131D formed at the tip of the wiring group 121D electrically connects the wiring group 121D and the ultrasonic transducer 111.

[0102] The wiring group 123D (third wiring group) extends from the ultrasonic transducer 111 toward the distal end. The connection terminal group 132D formed at the proximal end of the wiring group 123D electrically connects the wiring group 123D and the ultrasonic transducer 111.

[0103] The electrode portion 141D is provided in an area where the ultrasonic transducers 111 are stacked, and is provided so as to prevent differences in the conditions for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves between the ultrasonic transducers 111. The electrode portion 141D is electrically connected to the ground wiring 117D.

[0104] The base end of the ground wiring 117D is electrically connected to the ground line of the signal cable 118. In this case, the ground line 117 shown in FIG.

[0105] As in the fourth modification described above, the ground wiring 117D may be formed on the FPC 115D.

[0106] 14 is a cross-sectional view of an ultrasonic probe according to embodiment 2. As shown in Fig. 14, an ultrasonic probe 10E includes a joining portion 116E that joins the second surface of the FPC 115 on the proximal end side to the second surface of the FPC 115 on the distal end side.

[0107] The joint 116E joins the base end side of the FPC 115 to the tip end side of the FPC 115, but does not have an electrical connection. Therefore, the wiring group 121 extending from the ultrasonic transducer 111 to the base end side is electrically connected directly to the exposed portion 1181a. Similarly, the wiring group 123 extending from the ultrasonic transducer 111 to the tip end side is electrically connected directly to the exposed portion 1181a.

[0108] According to the second embodiment described above, the ultrasonic transducer 111 and the signal line 1181 are electrically connected by the FPC 115, and a relay board is not required, which allows the tip of the ultrasonic probe 10E to be miniaturized. Furthermore, since the exposed portion 1181a can be connected in a state where the tip side and base end side of the FPC 115 are joined by the joint 116E, workability is improved, there is no need to lengthen the exposed portion 1181a, and the exposed portion 1181a can be accommodated within the housing 119, which prevents a decrease in bending resistance.

[0109] (Supplementary Note 1) A method for manufacturing an ultrasonic probe including: a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged along an arrangement direction from a first side to a second side; a first flexible substrate on which a first wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the first side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to a plurality of signal lines that transmit and receive ultrasonic signals to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, and a second wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of signal lines toward the second side are formed; and a second flexible substrate on which a third wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the second side is formed, the method comprising: electrically connecting the second wiring group and the third wiring group; and electrically connecting the plurality of signal lines to the first wiring group and the second wiring group.

[0110] (Supplementary Note 2) A method for manufacturing an ultrasonic probe comprising: a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged along an arrangement direction from a first side to a second side; a signal cable having a plurality of signal lines electrically connected to each of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers and transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, the signal lines comprising: an exposed portion located at a tip end where the conductors for transmitting and receiving the ultrasonic signals are exposed; and a covered portion located at a base end side of the exposed portion and where the conductors are covered with an outer sheath; and a flexible substrate on which are formed a first wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the first side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the plurality of signal lines, and a third wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the second side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the plurality of signal lines, the method comprising: joining the first side of the flexible substrate and the second side of the flexible substrate; electrically connecting the plurality of signal lines to the first wiring group and the third wiring group; A method for manufacturing an ultrasonic probe, comprising: accommodating the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, the flexible substrate, and the exposed portions of the plurality of signal lines in a housing.

[0111] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Thus, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0112] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Endoscope system 2 Ultrasonic endoscope 3 Ultrasonic observation device 4 Endoscope observation device 5 Display device 6 Insertion section 7 Operation section 8 Universal cord 9 Endoscope connector 10 Ultrasonic probe 31 Ultrasonic cable 41 Video processor 42 Light source device 61 Rigid member 62 Bending section 63 Flexible tube 71 Bending knob 72 Operation member 73 Treatment tool insertion port 111 Ultrasonic transducer 112 Acoustic matching layer 113 Acoustic lens 114 Back layer 115, 115A, 115B, 115C FPC 116, 116A, 116B, 116C Connection section 116E Joint section 117, 117D Ground line 118 Signal cable 119 Housing 121, 121B, 121C, 121D, 122, 122B, 122C, 123, 123D, 124, 125A, 125B Wiring group 131, 131D, 132, 132D, 133, 133B, 133C, 134, 134A, 134B, 134C, 135, 136, 136A, 136B, 136C Connection terminal group 141, 141D Electrode portion 151, 152A, 152B Via 1151 Resin layer 1152 Conductive layer 1153 Insulating layer 1154 Via 1181 Signal line 1181a Exposed portion 1181b Covered portion

Claims

1. An ultrasonic probe comprising: a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged along an arrangement direction from a first side to a second side; a first flexible substrate on which a first wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers towards the first side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to a plurality of signal lines for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, and a second wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of signal lines towards the second side are formed; a second flexible substrate on which a third wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the second side is formed; and a connection portion electrically connecting the second wiring group and the third wiring group.

2. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, further comprising a signal cable having said plurality of signal lines electrically connected to said plurality of ultrasonic transducers, respectively.

3. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of ultrasonic transducers are located on the second side relative to the signal cable.

4. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the connection portion is located on the first side relative to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers.

5. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the first flexible substrate and the second flexible substrate are formed from a single flexible substrate.

6. An ultrasonic probe as described in claim 2, wherein the first flexible substrate has: a first group of connection terminals that electrically connects the first group of wiring and the plurality of signal lines; and a second group of connection terminals that electrically connects the second group of wiring and the plurality of signal lines.

7. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 6, wherein the first group of connection terminals and the second group of connection terminals are formed on a first surface.

8. An ultrasonic probe as described in claim 6, wherein the first group of connection terminals is formed on a first surface, and the second group of connection terminals is formed on a second surface that is different from the first surface.

9. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the connection portion fastens the first flexible substrate and the second flexible substrate together.

10. The ultrasonic probe described in claim 7, wherein the connection portion includes: a via electrically connected to the second wiring group and electrically connecting the first surface and a second surface different from the first surface; and a fourth wiring group extending from the via toward the second side and configured to electrically connect the via and the third wiring group.

11. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 10, wherein the connecting portion includes an anisotropic conductive material.

12. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 10, wherein a flying lead is formed at a tip of the third wiring group.

13. An ultrasonic probe comprising: a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged along an arrangement direction from a first side to a second side; a signal cable having a plurality of signal lines electrically connected to each of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, the signal lines comprising an exposed portion located at a tip where a conductor for transmitting and receiving the ultrasonic signal is exposed, and a covered portion located at a base end side of the exposed portion where the conductor is covered with an outer skin; a flexible substrate on which a first wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the first side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers and the plurality of signal lines, and a third wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the second side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers and the plurality of signal lines are formed; a housing that accommodates the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, the flexible substrate, and the exposed portions of the plurality of signal lines; and a joint that joins the first side of the flexible substrate to the second side of the flexible substrate.

14. An ultrasonic probe as described in claim 13, wherein the flexible substrate is formed with a second wiring group extending from the plurality of signal lines toward the second side and configured to electrically connect the third wiring group and the plurality of signal lines.

15. An ultrasonic probe as described in claim 13, wherein the first wiring group and the third wiring group are formed on a first surface, and the joint joins a second surface, which is a surface different from the first surface on the first side of the flexible substrate, to the second surface on the second side of the flexible substrate.

16. An ultrasonic probe having: a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged along an arrangement direction from a first side to a second side; a first flexible substrate on which a first wiring group extending from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers toward the first side and configured to electrically connect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to a plurality of signal lines for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers and a second wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of signal lines toward the second side are formed; a second flexible substrate on which a third wiring group configured to extend from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to the second side is formed; a connection portion electrically connecting the second wiring group and the third wiring group; and a housing for accommodating the plurality of ultrasonic transducers; an insertion portion to be inserted into a subject, the insertion portion having: a rigid member connected to the first side of the ultrasonic probe; a bending portion connected to the first side of the rigid member and capable of bending; The connection portion is located on the second side of the bending portion.

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