Endoscope apparatus and endoscope having an endoscope apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to an endoscope apparatus (10) comprising a shaft (12), which comprises a proximal portion (14) and a distal portion (16), and an image capturing unit (20) arranged in the distal portion (16) of the shaft (12) and configured to capture images and generate image data. The image capturing unit (20) comprises a first image capturing device (21) directed in a first viewing direction (21a), the image capturing unit (20) furthermore comprises a second image capturing device (22) directed in a second viewing direction (22a) that differs from the first viewing direction (21a), and the first image capturing device (21) and the second image capturing device (22) overlap one another at least in part, both in an observation parallel to the first viewing direction (21a) and in an observation perpendicular to the first viewing direction (21a).

Description

[0001] Endoscope device and endoscope with an endoscope device

[0002] The present invention relates to an endoscope device and an endoscope with an endoscope device.

[0003] Endoscopes with a shaft that use digital technology for image generation and transmission are known from the prior art. Such endoscopes, also called video endoscopes, have, according to one design, an image acquisition unit on a distal section of their shaft that can capture an image of an examination object. The image acquisition unit can be powered by electrical energy through the shaft of the endoscope. Furthermore, image signals can be transmitted via a cable from the image acquisition unit to a proximal section of the shaft. This eliminates the need for optical elements such as lenses, in particular rod lenses, or optical fibers for image transmission through the shaft. The image acquisition unit can be understood as one or more cameras, which, for example, include or include an input lens and an image sensor.

[0004] Conventional endoscopes have a fixed viewing direction, defined by a viewing angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the shaft, and a fixed viewing angle, defined by the optics used. Viewing angle and viewing angle thus define an imaging area that can be viewed by a user of the endoscope in a suitable display unit. In practice, users use different endoscopes with different viewing directions for different imaging situations, which requires changing the endoscope during a therapeutic or diagnostic procedure. Typical viewing angles used between the longitudinal axis of the shaft and the respective viewing direction are, for example, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 75 degrees, 90 degrees, and for some applications, even 120 degrees.Users are familiar with these viewing angles and can therefore intuitively move the endoscope shaft while viewing the resulting image.

[0005] The size of the respective image area also depends on the angle of view. The angle of view can also be referred to as the image angle. The angle of view depends on the focal length of the lens used. It can also depend on the size or format of the image sensor used. In the case of a rectangular image, two different angles of view can also occur, for example, a vertical angle of view and a horizontal angle of view. Generally speaking, increasing the angle of view reduces image quality.

[0006] Different imaging areas can be achieved by using lenses or image capture devices with different viewing angles. This can be achieved, for example, by serially switching from one endoscope with a first viewing angle to another with a different second viewing angle, which is not optimal for handling, especially in the human medical field.

[0007] Endoscopes with upstream entrance optics that can be pivoted relative to the shaft are also known, for example, from US 2001 018 553 A1. In this case, for example, a distal prism is pivoted, allowing an angular range of over 100 degrees to be covered despite the use of an objective lens with a viewing angle of 55 degrees. The pivoting changes the current viewing angle, i.e., the current viewing direction, meaning that the specified angular range is not observed simultaneously.

[0008] Furthermore, a part within the endoscope must be moved. Maintaining centering can be challenging, particularly with the optical solution. Due to the limited space, the storage and movement of moving components is carried out using very delicate components that are easily damaged and thus rendered inoperable. In these cases, the sealing of the entire endoscope for autoclavability is based on a curved, elongated cover glass, which is very expensive to manufacture and difficult to handle during autoclave-tight soldering. Pivoting the camera module together with an image sensor also has the disadvantage that a supply line to the image sensor for the electrical power and image signals must be protected against kinking or specially designed for this purpose. Given the limited space on the distal section of the shaft, this is associated with a considerable amount of effort.

[0009] In addition, the installation space in a distal section of the shaft is only utilized to a limited extent. The camera module or the prism can only be oriented in a very specific viewing direction at any one time. Empty space must be reserved for all other viewing directions or prism positions, meaning the remaining space for pivoting cannot be used for other functional components such as the lighting. This results in far-reaching limitations for the overall design, since the central shaft area, due to its size, represents the "most valuable" installation space.

[0010] This restriction can be particularly problematic for illumination. The total number of possible glass fibers in the shaft is limited and must also be distributed over a large angular range in order to provide sufficient illumination for all orientations of the camera module or prism. This is particularly problematic with a large swivel angle, as a larger area must be reliably illuminated or, alternatively, the illumination must be laboriously swiveled together with the camera module or prism. This results in rather weak illumination in most applications.

[0011] WO 2015 128 801 A3 discloses an endoscope device with multiple camera modules directed in different viewing directions. The multiple camera modules are distributed over a hemispherical distal section of a shaft of the endoscope device. Such endoscope devices offer a large imaging field, but have a relatively large distal section, which is unsuitable for some applications.

[0012] US 2007 / 0197875 A1 discloses an endoscope device with three objective lenses arranged on a distal portion of a shaft of the endoscope device, distributed around a longitudinal axis of the shaft and directed in different viewing directions. Such endoscope devices also make inefficient use of the installation space in the distal portion.

[0013] The present invention is based on the object of achieving a large imaging range in a simple and / or inexpensive and / or user-friendly and / or reliable manner, in particular in a manner that is space-efficient and / or easy to handle, for example during manufacture, use, or processing. In other words, the aim is to cleverly utilize the installation space.

[0014] This object is achieved according to the invention by an endoscope device and an endoscope as described herein and defined in the claims. The endoscope device comprises a shaft having a proximal section and a distal section, and an image acquisition unit which is arranged in the distal section of the shaft and which is configured to acquire images and generate image data. The image acquisition unit comprises a first image acquisition device which is directed in a first viewing direction. The image acquisition unit comprises a second image acquisition device which is directed in a second viewing direction different from the first viewing direction. The first image acquisition device and the second image acquisition device overlap one another at least partially both when viewed parallel to the first viewing direction and when viewed perpendicular to the first viewing direction.

[0015] Furthermore, an endoscope can be provided with an endoscope device according to the invention.

[0016] The features of the invention allow a large imaging field to be achieved in a simple and / or cost-effective and / or user-friendly and / or reliable manner. In particular, a high degree of space efficiency and / or ease of handling can be achieved, for example, during manufacture, use, or cleaning. While moving parts can be omitted, a large imaging field, optimized illumination, and a simple structure can still be achieved. In some cases, this can be achieved using standard components or without special manufacturing processes such as curved cover glasses or the like.

[0017] The multiple image capture devices, which are directed in different directions, provide in particular a large imaging area of ​​the endoscope device without having to provide moving parts or without having to forego illumination of the imaging area due to a lack of installation space.

[0018] The endoscope device can be designed for a rigid endoscope. The endoscope device can be designed for a flexible endoscope. The endoscope device can be designed for a video endoscope.

[0019] An “endoscope device” is to be understood in particular as a preferably functional component, in particular a subassembly and / or a structural and / or functional component of an endoscope. The endoscope device can preferably form the endoscope at least partially, preferably at least to a large extent, and particularly preferably completely. For example, the endoscope device can be configured to be inserted at least partially and preferably at least to a large extent into a particularly artificial and / or natural cavity, in particular a body cavity, in particular in order to examine it. The endoscope device can be a medical and / or industrial endoscope device. In the context of this disclosure, “configured” can be understood in particular to mean specially programmed, designed, configured, and / or equipped.In the context of this disclosure, the fact that a component is configured for a specific function can be understood in particular to mean that the component fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0020] A "shaft" is to be understood in particular as an elongated part of an endoscope and / or an endoscope device, which is designed, for example, to be introduced into a particularly artificial and / or natural cavity, in particular a body cavity. An "elongated part" is to be understood in particular as a component whose main extension is at least a factor of five, preferably at least a factor of ten, and particularly preferably at least a factor of twenty greater than a greatest extension of the component perpendicular to its main extension, i.e. in particular a diameter of the component. A "main extension" of a component is to be understood in particular as its longest extension along its main extension direction.A "main extension direction" of a component is understood to mean, in particular, a direction that runs parallel to a longest edge of the smallest imaginary cuboid that just completely encloses the component and that preferably runs through a geometric center and / or through a center of mass of the component. The shaft can have a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis can run parallel to the main extension direction of the shaft. The shaft can have a diameter of at least 2 mm, at least 3 mm, or at least 4 mm and / or of at most 30 mm, at most 20 mm, or at most 15 mm. For example, the shaft diameter can be 5 mm or 10 mm.

[0021] The distal section can form a distal end section. The distal end section can comprise a distal end. Furthermore, the proximal section can form a proximal end section. The proximal end section can comprise a proximal end. An “end section” of a component should be understood in particular to mean a section which extends from one end of the component to the center of the component by a maximum of 10 cm, preferably by a maximum of 5 cm, and particularly preferably by a maximum of 3 cm. A “distal end section” of a component should be understood in particular to mean an end section which extends from a distal end of the component in the proximal direction. A “proximal end section” of a component should be understood in particular to mean an end section which extends from a proximal end of the component in the distal direction."Distal" is understood to mean, in particular, when operating the device facing a patient and / or away from an operator and / or user. In particular, "proximal" is the opposite of distal. "Proximal" is understood to mean, in particular, when operating the device facing away from a patient and / or away from an operator and / or user.

[0022] Furthermore, the endoscope device can in particular have at least one handle. The handle can be arranged, for example, at the proximal end section of the shaft. The handle is designed in particular for manual operation of the endoscope device. The handle comprises, for example, at least one handle and / or at least one operating element, such as a switch, button, or the like, which is preferably arranged on the handle.

[0023] The shaft can be constructed in one piece. Even with a one-piece shaft, the distal section can be structurally and / or functionally different from the proximal section. In some embodiments, at least one casing and / or housing of the distal section is formed in one piece with a casing of the shaft. The distal section can also be formed separately from the shaft and connected to the shaft, in particular, it can be provided in a fixed and / or immovable and / or permanently connected manner.

[0024] The image capture unit can define an imaging area of ​​the endoscope device. The image capture unit can comprise two, three, or more image capture devices. The plurality of image capture devices, which are directed in different directions, in particular provide a large imaging area of ​​the endoscope device without requiring moving parts or without having to forego illumination of the imaging area due to a lack of installation space. In particular, the first image capture device and the second image capture device, and preferably each of the image capture devices, have a fixed viewing direction. The image capture unit can be configured to transmit image data to a control unit. The image data can be digital data. The image data can be raster images composed of pixels.

[0025] The image capture devices each have, in particular, precisely one viewing direction and precisely one individual viewing angle, in particular for a specific orientation, for example for a vertical orientation and / or a horizontal orientation and preferably for an image diagonal. The viewing direction can be a main viewing direction of the respective image capture device. For example, the viewing direction can be a central axis of an input optics of the respective image capture device. The individual viewing angle can be an angle spanned with respect to the viewing direction. In particular, the central axis can be an angle bisector of the individual viewing angle. The specification of an individual viewing angle can also be understood as the largest viewing angle of the respective image capture device and / or as a viewing angle that corresponds to one of a respective image sensor.An image capture device can also be described by a horizontal viewing angle, a vertical viewing angle, and a diagonal viewing angle. Specifications relating to the viewing angle can refer to any of these three variables and preferably refer to a diagonal viewing angle.

[0026] The overall viewing angle can be defined analogously. This can be one of the viewing angles corresponding to a diagonal of the largest image that can be recorded simultaneously and / or jointly by the multiple image capture devices. Likewise, the specification of an overall viewing angle can refer to a horizontal overall viewing angle and / or a vertical overall viewing angle, in particular with respect to an image that can be recorded simultaneously and / or jointly by the multiple image capture devices.

[0027] The image capture devices can each comprise an input optics system and an image sensor. The image capture devices can each be formed by camera modules, in particular camera modules with short lenses or so-called camera cubes with wafer-level optics, and / or image sensors for image generation, in particular CCD chips or CMOS chips. Generally, within the scope of this disclosure, an image capture device can comprise the optical, electronic, and mechanical components required for sensor-based image capture, apart from a power supply line and / or a signal transmission line. Furthermore, the image capture devices described herein can generally be of modular design. This can mean, in particular, that an image capture device within the meaning of this disclosure can be operated as a standalone assembly, provided it is connected to a suitable power supply line and / or signal transmission line.Due to its nature as a self-contained assembly, this operability can also exist, in particular, when removed from the shaft and / or the endoscope device. The multiple image capture devices directed in different directions can have individual viewing angles of, for example, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, 75 degrees, 80 degrees, 85 degrees, 90 degrees, 95 degrees, 100 degrees, 105 degrees, or 110 degrees. The image capture devices can, in particular, together capture a common imaging area. The total viewing angle can, for example, be at least 110 degrees, 115 degrees, 120 degrees, 125 degrees, 130 degrees, 135 degrees, 140 degrees, 145 degrees.

[0028] 150 degrees, 155 degrees, 160 degrees, 165 degrees, 170 degrees, 175 degrees, 180 degrees, 185 degrees,

[0029] 190 degrees, 195 degrees, 200 degrees, 205 degrees, 210 degrees, 215 degrees, 220 degrees, 225 degrees,

[0030] 230 degrees, 235 degrees, 240 degrees, 245 degrees, 250 degrees, 255 degrees, 260 degrees, 265 degrees or 270 degrees.

[0031] The first image capture device can occupy a first installation space and the second image capture device can occupy a second installation space, wherein the second installation space engages in a projection of the first installation space parallel to the first viewing direction. The image capture devices are preferably arranged with a small gap between them so that the installation space available in the distal section can be used efficiently. The respective installation space can be a space required for the installation of the respective image capture device. Alternatively or additionally, the installation space can be the volume occupied by the respective image capture device in a fully assembled state of the endoscope device. The first installation space of the first image capture device and / or the second installation space of the second image capture device can have at least substantially the shape of a cylinder, in particular a circular cylinder.The first installation space of the first image capture device and / or the second installation space of the second image capture device can at least substantially have the shape of a cuboid. The first installation space of the first image capture device and / or the second installation space of the second image capture device can at least substantially have the shape of a cylinder standing on a cuboid. The first installation space of the first image capture device and / or the second installation space of the second image capture device can have an at least substantially cylindrical installation space section standing on an at least substantially cuboid installation space section. The base area of ​​the cuboid installation space section can be larger than the base area of ​​the cylindrical installation space section standing on the cuboid installation space section.The projection of the first installation space parallel to the first viewing direction can be a projection of the cuboid-shaped installation space section and / or can be a projection of the cylindrical installation space section. A cuboid-shaped installation space section can in each case be used to arrange an image sensor. In this case, it can generally be assumed that higher image quality can be achieved with a larger image sensor. Information relating to the shape of an object at least substantially corresponding to that of a specific geometric object is to be understood in particular to mean that a volume of the smallest geometric object of the designated type just surrounding the object in question and a volume of the object in question differ by at most 20%, preferably by at most 15%, more preferably by at most 10%, and particularly preferably by at most 5%.

[0032] The image capture unit may further comprise a third image capture device directed in a third viewing direction different from the first viewing direction and the second viewing direction. Providing three image capture devices makes it possible to provide a user with three different viewing angles, so that even with a large required imaging area, no endoscope change is necessary.The image capture unit can, in particular, comprise three image capture devices, wherein the three viewing directions correspond to three standard viewing directions with respect to the shaft's longitudinal axis, for example, a first viewing angle of 0 degrees, a second viewing angle of 30 degrees, and a third viewing angle of 90 degrees, or, for example, a first viewing angle of 0 degrees, a second viewing angle of 25 degrees, and a third viewing angle of 45 degrees, or, for example, a first viewing angle of 0 degrees, a second viewing angle of 25 degrees, and a third viewing angle of 90 degrees. In principle, the image capture unit can comprise two or three image capture devices, the viewing directions of which have any combination of the standard viewing directions of viewing angles with respect to the shaft's longitudinal axis of 0 degrees, 25 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees.

[0033] The third image capture device can at least partially overlap both the first image capture device and the second image capture device when viewed parallel to the first viewing direction. This arrangement allows for efficient use of the available installation space with three image capture devices.

[0034] The second image capture device and the third image capture device can at least partially overlap each other both when viewed parallel to the second viewing direction and when viewed perpendicular to the second viewing direction. This arrangement can utilize the available installation space even more efficiently with three image capture devices.

[0035] The first image capture device can occupy a first installation space, the third image capture device can occupy a third installation space, and the third installation space can engage in a projection of the first installation space parallel to the shaft's longitudinal axis. The second image capture device can occupy a second installation space, the third image capture device can occupy a third installation space, and the third installation space can engage in a projection of the second installation space parallel to the shaft's longitudinal axis. Such arrangements utilize the available installation space efficiently. The image capture devices can be tilted relative to one another. The third tree of the third image capture device can have the shape of a cylinder. The third installation space of the third image capture device can have the shape of a cylinder standing on a cuboid.The third installation space can have a cylindrical installation space section standing on a cuboid installation space section. The base area of ​​the cuboid installation space section can be larger than the base area of ​​the cylindrical installation space section standing on the cuboid installation space section. A cuboid installation space section of the third image capture device can also be used to accommodate the largest possible image sensor.

[0036] The image capture devices are preferably arranged one behind the other with respect to the shaft's longitudinal axis. Arranging them one behind the other allows for a particularly narrow shaft without sacrificing a large imaging area and / or provides space for additional units, such as, for example, an illumination unit laterally adjacent to the sequentially arranged capture devices. Arranging them one behind the other can mean that the image capture devices at least partially overlap in at least one view. Arranging them one behind the other can in particular mean that the image capture devices at least partially overlap in at least one view along the shaft's longitudinal axis.

[0037] The image capture devices can be arranged in alignment, in particular such that the optical axes of the image capture devices lie in one plane. With the aligned arrangement of the image capture devices, a user of an endoscope device can orient themselves more easily, in particular when selectively switching back and forth between different viewing directions. The aligned arrangement can mean that extensions of the optical axes intersect. The optical axes of the image capture devices can, in particular, lie in a plane that encompasses the shaft's longitudinal axis. The optical axes can correspond to a respective longitudinal axis of the associated image capture device. The longitudinal axis of the image capture device can correspond to an extension direction of the image capture device.

[0038] The image capture devices can each define a viewing angle. As mentioned, this can also be referred to as the image angle, meaning the image capture devices can each define an image angle. The image capture devices can be arranged such that they are each located outside the viewing angles of other image capture devices. With such an arrangement, the quality of the image data of the image capture unit can be increased because the image capture devices do not interfere with each other.

[0039] The image capture devices can each define a viewing angle of at least 90 degrees, preferably 100 degrees, and particularly preferably at least 110 degrees. Image capture devices can occupy a space with a length-to-diameter or width ratio of at most 4:1, at most 3:1, at most 2:1, or at most 1:1. Such image capture device designs are common camera module designs and can therefore be adopted by other technical applications.

[0040] The distal section of the shaft may have the shape of a partially bevelled

[0041] Cylinder. Such a shape of the distal portion can be manufactured efficiently. The partially chamfered cylinder can form a main body of the shaft. The partially chamfered cylinder can, in particular, be a hollow cylinder. The partially chamfered cylinder can accommodate the image acquisition unit. The partially chamfered cylinder can be circular in its cross-section. The partially chamfered cylinder can have at least two different chamfers defined by planes that have different inclination angles with respect to a longitudinal axis of the shaft.

[0042] The shaft can comprise a plurality of planar outer windows, each arranged in front of one of the image capture devices and extending perpendicular to the associated viewing direction. Planar outer windows are easy to manufacture and can be cost-effectively covered with or formed by planar cover glasses. The planar outer windows can each be configured to receive a planar cover glass and / or be formed by such a cover glass.

[0043] The image capture devices can be cast into the distal section of the shaft. Casting the image capture devices allows the distal section of the shaft to be manufactured cost-effectively, regardless of its shape. This can be particularly advantageous for endoscope devices that are part of a single-use endoscope.

[0044] The distal section can be designed to be autoclave-resistant. The autoclave-resistant design, in particular, provides a sealed distal section that is suitable for sterilization with an autoclave. The distal section can have cover glasses, in particular the flat cover glasses, that cover, in particular seal, the plurality of image capture devices and / or a lighting unit from an outer side of the distal section. The cover glasses can be soldered into the outer windows of the distal section. Alternatively or additionally, the distal section can be cast in such a way that the image capture unit and / or the lighting unit is / are covered, in particular sealed, from an outer side of the distal section.

[0045] A distal end of the distal section can have a first inclined surface on a distal side that is inclined with respect to the shaft longitudinal direction. At least one of the plurality of image capture devices can be directed in a direction parallel to a surface normal of the first inclined surface. The distal end can have a second inclined surface on the distal side that is inclined with respect to the shaft longitudinal axis. The inclination of the second surface can be different from the inclination of the first inclined surface. The at least one of the plurality of image capture devices can be directed in a direction parallel to a surface normal of the second inclined surface. Such inclined surfaces can simplify insertion and / or removal of the endoscope device in a human medical application.The first inclined surface and the second inclined surface may be formed by the at least two different bevels of the partially beveled cylinder, which are defined by planes having different angles of inclination with respect to a shaft longitudinal axis.

[0046] The image capture devices can be at least substantially identical in design. Such use of identical parts enables cost-effective production of the endoscope device.

[0047] The image acquisition unit can comprise an edge filter for at least one of the image acquisition devices, which blocks light below an edge wavelength and transmits light above the edge wavelength. The image acquisition unit can comprise, in particular, an edge filter for fluorescence endoscopy for at least one of the image acquisition devices. In fluorescence endoscopy, fluorescent dyes can be used to mark specific tissue types and / or specific anatomical regions. Alternatively or additionally, the autofluorescence of native structures can be used. The edge filter can have a transmission edge at a wavelength that is matched to the fluorescence of the respective dye, in particular such that the edge filter blocks excitation light and allows fluorescent light to pass through.Excitation light can be provided by a suitable light source, for example, by an external illumination device or preferably by an illumination unit integrated into the shaft, which, for example, comprises various lighting elements such as LEDs and / or laser diodes. These can, for example, comprise, in a generally known manner, at least one white light element for illumination for white light images and / or at least one colored light element such as a blue, green, yellow, red, or far-red LED or laser diode for illumination for fluorescence images, by means of which suitable dyes can be excited. This allows the image capture unit in question to be operated as a fluorescence camera.If the image areas of multiple image capture devices overlap, at least one of which is configured for fluorescence imaging and at least one for white-light imaging, an overlay display can be generated for a user for an overlapping area in which a fluorescence image is superimposed on a white-light image. For this purpose, for example, fluorescence images and white-light images can be recorded sequentially and / or alternately with correspondingly sequential and / or alternating illumination.

[0048] In a first operating state of the image acquisition unit, images can be captured by the first image acquisition device, so that images for the first viewing direction can be captured, and in a second operating state of the image acquisition unit, images can be captured by the second image acquisition device, so that images for the second viewing direction can be captured. By providing the first operating state and the second operating state, a user can easily switch between different viewing directions. Furthermore, by continuously switching between the first operating state and the second operating state, fluorescence endoscopy can be combined with white light endoscopy. In this regard, particular reference is also made to the previous paragraph.

[0049] Imaging areas of the first image capture device and the second image capture device can partially overlap, whereby in a stereo operating state of the image capture unit, at least pseudostereoscopic images can be captured by the first image capture device and the second image capture device. Pseudostereoscopic and, in particular, stereoscopic images provide a user with a particularly good image of an examination object. The images can be pseudostereoscopic in that they are based on image data from two different image capture devices whose optical axes are not directed towards a common point, but whose image areas overlap, so that two images from different perspectives are available for the overlapping area.

[0050] The plurality of image capture devices can be arranged offset along the shaft longitudinal axis. In other words, the plurality of image capture devices can be arranged one behind the other with respect to the longitudinal direction and / or the shaft longitudinal axis. The offset arrangement in the shaft longitudinal direction enables a narrow distal end piece. The overlapping imaging regions enable the generation of a complete panoramic image and / or pseudo-panoramic image with the aid of an image stitching method. Within the overlapping region of the individual image cones, a coherent image can be generated using an interpolation algorithm. The panoramic image can be a pseudo-panoramic image in the sense that the overlapping regions cannot possibly be determined geometrically correctly despite the interpolation. This can be due to the fact that the plurality of image capture devices are not located on a common axis of rotation orthat their central axes do not all intersect at a single point. Therefore, in some embodiments, the composite image may be primarily suitable for orientation.

[0051] Within a (pseudo-)panoramic image, the individual imaging areas of the image capture devices can be marked differently, for example, in different colors, so that a user can see which image capture device can best and / or most appropriately capture the object. The endoscope device can have a control unit configured to calculate a corresponding image representation and, for example, forward it to a display unit for presentation to a user. Likewise, with the help of the (pseudo-)panoramic image, instruments can be observed from insertion to the working area, which offers a time advantage in use and simultaneously increases patient safety, for example by preventing injuries caused by instruments that cannot be monitored during insertion.

[0052] The endoscope device can further comprise an illumination unit arranged in the distal section of the shaft and configured to generate illumination light for illuminating an object region to be imaged. Adequate illumination of an object region to be imaged is necessary for high image quality. The illumination unit can comprise or be formed by one or more light-emitting diodes and / or one or more laser diodes and / or one or more light guides. In particular, in embodiments in which the illumination unit comprises a light guide, the endoscope device can have an optical connection on the proximal section and / or in the vicinity thereof, which is configured for connection to an illumination device comprising the illumination unit.The shaft may further comprise a heat dissipation device configured to transfer heat from the distal portion of the shaft to the proximal portion of the shaft. The heat dissipation device may be formed by a heat pipe that can transfer heat via an evaporation and condensation circuit. The heat dissipation device may reduce heat input to an examination subject caused by the image acquisition unit and / or the illumination unit.

[0053] The devices according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiments described above. In particular, they may comprise a number of individual elements, components, and units that differs from the number stated herein to fulfill a function described herein. Furthermore, within the range of values ​​specified in this disclosure, values ​​within the stated limits are also to be considered disclosed and can be used arbitrarily.

[0054] It is particularly pointed out that all features and properties described with regard to a device, but also procedures, are transferable to methods and can be used within the meaning of the invention and are deemed to be disclosed.

[0055] The present invention is described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and use them in meaningful combination within the scope of the claims.

[0056] If there is more than one instance of a particular object, only one of them is provided with a reference symbol in the figures and in the description. The description of this instance can be transferred accordingly to the other instances of the object. If objects are named using numerical terms, such as first, second, third object, etc., these serve to name and / or assign objects. Accordingly, a first object and a third object, but not a second object, can be included. However, a number and / or sequence of objects can also be derived using numerical terms.

[0057] They show schematically:

[0058] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an endoscope device according to an embodiment; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the endoscope device according to the embodiment, with a shaft of the endoscope device indicated by a dashed line;

[0059] Fig. 3 is a sectional view of the endoscope device according to the embodiment along a shaft longitudinal axis of the endoscope device;

[0060] Fig. 4 is a front view of the endoscope device according to the embodiment, wherein an illumination unit is indicated by a dashed line;

[0061] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a first image capturing device of the endoscope apparatus according to the embodiment;

[0062] Fig. 6 is a front view of the first image capturing device of the endoscope apparatus according to the embodiment; and

[0063] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of an endoscope with the endoscope device according to the embodiment.

[0064] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an endoscope device 10 according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the endoscope devices 10 according to the embodiment, wherein a shaft 12 of the endoscope device 10 is indicated by a dashed line. Fig. 3 shows a sectional view of an endoscope device 10 according to the embodiment along a shaft longitudinal axis 13 of the endoscope device 10. Fig. 4 shows a front view of the endoscope device 10 according to the embodiment, wherein an illumination unit 26 is indicated by a dashed line.

[0065] The endoscope device 10 comprises a shaft 12 having a proximal portion 14 and a distal portion 16, and an image acquisition unit 20 arranged in the distal portion 16 of the shaft 12 and configured to acquire images and generate image data. The image acquisition unit 20 further comprises a first image acquisition device 21 directed in a first viewing direction 21a. The image acquisition unit 20 further comprises a second image acquisition device 22 directed in a second viewing direction 22a different from the first viewing direction 21a. The first image acquisition device 21 and the second image acquisition device 22 partially overlap each other both when viewed parallel to the first viewing direction 21a and when viewed perpendicular to the first viewing direction 21a.

[0066] The overlap of the first image capture device 21 with the second image capture device 22 when viewed parallel to the first viewing direction 21a is illustrated in Fig. 3 by a first overlap region B1 and corresponds to the view as shown in Fig. 4. The overlap of the first image capture device 21 with the second image capture device 22 when viewed perpendicular to the first viewing direction 21a is illustrated in Fig. 3 by a second overlap region B2. The first overlap region B1 and the second overlap region B2 are each indicated by dashed lines in Fig. 3.

[0067] The image capture unit 20 further comprises an optional third image capture device 23 directed in a third viewing direction 23a. The first viewing direction 21a, the second viewing direction 22a, and the third viewing direction 23a are standard viewing directions relative to the shaft's longitudinal axis 13, with the first viewing direction 21a corresponding to a viewing angle of 0 degrees, the second viewing direction 22a to a viewing angle of 30 degrees, and the third viewing direction 23a to a viewing angle of 90 degrees.

[0068] The third image capture device 23 partially overlaps both the first image capture device 21 and the second image capture device 22 when viewed parallel to the first viewing direction 21a. In addition, the second image capture device 22 and the third image capture device 23 partially overlap each other both when viewed parallel to the second viewing direction 22a and when viewed perpendicular to the second viewing direction 22a.

[0069] The image capture devices 21, 22, 23 are arranged one behind the other with respect to the shaft longitudinal axis 13. The image capture devices 21, 22, 23 overlap along the shaft longitudinal axis 13 and are arranged tilted relative to one another with respect to the shaft longitudinal axis 13. The image capture devices 21, 22, 23 are arranged such that they are each located outside the viewing angle of the other image capture devices. Furthermore, the image capture devices 21, 22, 23 are arranged in alignment such that the viewing directions 21a, 22a, 23a of the image capture devices

[0070] 21, 22, 23 lie in a plane which also includes the shaft longitudinal axis 13.

[0071] The endoscope device 10 is designed as part of a rigid endoscope. The endoscope device 10 is designed as part of a video endoscope. The distal section 16 forms the distal end of the shaft 12 and can also be referred to as the distal end section. The shaft 12 is also designed as a single piece and accommodates the image acquisition unit 20.

[0072] The shaft 12 has the distal section 16 in the shape of a partially beveled cylinder 15. In this case, the beveled cylinder 15 is a hollow cylinder with a circular cross-section. The beveled cylinder 15 has two different bevels defined by planes that have different angles of inclination with respect to the shaft's longitudinal axis 13. A flat outer window is provided on the shaft 12 for each image capture device 21, 22, 23, which extends perpendicular to the associated viewing direction 21a, 22a, 23a.

[0073] Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 show the endoscope device 10 in a state in which the image capture devices 21, 22, 23 have not yet been cast into the distal section 16. Such casting can be performed in a known manner. In this case, a space between the image capture devices 21, 22, 23 and the distal section 16 of the shaft 12 or the associated outer window is filled with material, so that the shaft 12 is sealed off from the outside.

[0074] The endoscope device 10 further comprises an illumination unit 26, which is shown in Fig. 4. For a simple representation of the endoscope device 10, the illumination unit 26 is not shown in Figs. 1 to 3. The illumination unit 26 is formed by a plurality of light guides, which are arranged offset on both sides of the image capture devices 21, 22, 23 with respect to the shaft longitudinal axis 13. For this purpose, the endoscope device 10 has an optical connector (not shown) on a proximal section, which is configured for connection to an illumination device (not shown).

[0075] The first image capture device 21 occupies a first installation space, and the second image capture device 22 occupies a second installation space, wherein the second installation space engages in a projection 21b of the first installation space parallel to the first viewing direction 21a. The third image capture device 23 occupies a third installation space, and the third installation space engages in a projection 21a of the first installation space parallel to the shaft longitudinal axis 13. Furthermore, the third installation space engages in a projection of the second installation space parallel to the shaft longitudinal axis 13. The projection 21b of the first installation space parallel to the first viewing direction is explained in more detail with reference to Fig. 6.

[0076] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a first image acquisition device 21 of the endoscope device 10 according to the embodiment, and Fig. 6 shows a front view of the first image acquisition device 21 of the endoscope device 10 according to the embodiment.

[0077] The image acquisition unit 20 defines an imaging area of ​​the endoscope devices 10. In the present example, the image acquisition unit 20 is formed with three image acquisition devices 21, 22, 23, each of which comprises a cover glass 28, an input optic 30 whose central axes coincide with the respective viewing directions 21a, 22a, 23a of the respective image acquisition devices 21, 22, 23, and an image sensor 32. The image acquisition devices 21, 22, 23 are thus each formed as camera modules. The image acquisition devices 21, 22, 23 each have a viewing angle of 90 degrees.

[0078] The first image capture device 21, the second image capture device 22, and the third image capture device 23 are essentially identical in construction. The explanations of the first image capture device 21 shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 can therefore be applied accordingly to the second image capture device 22 and the third image capture device 23.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 5, the first installation space of the image capture device 21 has the shape of a cylinder standing on a cuboid, wherein the first installation space has a cuboid-shaped installation space section and a cylindrical installation space section. The cover glass 28 and a section of the input optics 30 are located within a cylindrical installation space section, and the other section of the input optics 30 and the image sensor 32 are located within a cuboid-shaped installation space section. The first installation space is the space required for the installation of the respective image capture device 21, 22, 23 and, in the present case, does not correspond to the exact space occupied by the first image capture device 21. The present first installation space of the first image capture device 21 is defined merely as an example and could also be defined differently depending on the application.For example, the first installation space of the image capture device 21 could also be defined as a cuboid-shaped installation space that can completely accommodate the first image capture device 21.

[0080] As can be seen in Fig. 6, the base area of ​​the cuboidal installation space section is larger than the base area of ​​the cylindrical installation space section. The projection 21b of the first installation space parallel to the first viewing direction 21a is, in this case, a projection of the cuboidal installation space section and a projection of the cylindrical installation space section, i.e., a combination of the projections, since no projection completely overlaps the other projection.

[0081] In a further embodiment, the described arrangement of the image acquisition unit 20 can be further developed for fluorescence endoscopy. In this case, at least one of the image acquisition devices 21, 22, 23 would have to be provided with an edge filter that blocks light below an edge wavelength and transmits light above the edge wavelength. Fluorescence endoscopy can utilize substances labeled with fluorescent dyes. Due to their specific properties, these substances accumulate in altered tissue and make it visually distinct.

[0082] In a further embodiment, the endoscope device 10 comprises a control device (not shown) which is configured to determine a panoramic image based on a plurality of images acquired at different rotational positions of the distal section 16 with respect to the shaft longitudinal axis 13 by means of the plurality of image capture devices 21, 22, 23, in order to provide the user with a good overview of the examination object during an examination when the user rotates the endoscope device 10 about its shaft longitudinal axis 13. The control device is further configured to mark different image areas of the panoramic image, which are based on images acquired with different image capture devices 21, 22, 23, differently for the user. The different markings enable the user to identify which image capture device 21, 22, 23 can most accurately capture the examination object.

[0083] Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of an endoscopic system 100 with an endoscope 50 having an endoscope device 10. The endoscopic system 100 shown as an example comprises the endoscope 50 with the endoscope device 10 and with a handle 102, a connecting cable 104, and a supply unit 106 connected to the endoscope device 10 via the cable 104. The endoscopic system 100 and / or the endoscope device 10 and the supply unit 106 can be part of a medical system. The supply unit 106 can be used with a display (not shown). In addition, the supply unit 106 can be configured to forward and / or process image data received from the endoscope device 10.

[0084] List of reference symbols

[0085] 10 Endoscope device

[0086] 12 shaft

[0087] 13 Shaft longitudinal axis

[0088] 14 proximal section

[0089] 15 beveled cylinder

[0090] 16 distal section

[0091] 20 image acquisition unit

[0092] 21 first image capture device

[0093] 21a first view

[0094] 21b Projection

[0095] 22 second image capture device

[0096] 22a second view

[0097] 23 third image capture device

[0098] 23a third viewing direction

[0099] 26 lighting unit

[0100] 28 Cover glass

[0101] 30 entrance optics

[0102] 32 Camera module

[0103] 50 endoscopes

[0104] 100 endoscopic system

[0105] 102 Grab handle

[0106] 104 cables

[0107] 106 supply unit

[0108] B1 first overlap area

[0109] B2 second overlap area

Claims

Claims 1. An endoscope device (10), comprising: a shaft (12) comprising a proximal section (14) and a distal section (16); an image acquisition unit (20) arranged in the distal section (16) of the shaft (12) and configured to acquire images and generate image data, wherein the image acquisition unit (20) comprises a first image acquisition device (21) directed in a first viewing direction (21a), wherein the image acquisition unit (20) comprises a second image acquisition device (22) directed in a second viewing direction (22a) different from the first viewing direction (21a), and wherein the first image acquisition device (21) and the second image acquisition device (22) at least partially overlap one another both when viewed parallel to the first viewing direction (21a) and when viewed perpendicular to the first viewing direction (21a).

2. Endoscope device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the first image capture device (21) occupies a first installation space, wherein the second image capture device (22) occupies a second installation space, and wherein the second installation space engages in a projection (21b) of the first installation space parallel to the first viewing direction (21a).

3. Endoscope device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the image acquisition unit (20) comprises a third image acquisition device (23) which is directed in a third viewing direction (23a) different from the first viewing direction (21a) and the second viewing direction (22a).

4. Endoscope device (10) according to claim 3, wherein the third image capture device (23) at least partially overlaps both the first image capture device (21) and the second image capture device (22) when viewed parallel to the first viewing direction (21a).

5. Endoscope device (10) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the second image capture device (22) and the third image capture device (23) at least partially overlap each other both when viewed parallel to the second viewing direction (22a) and when viewed perpendicular to the second viewing direction (22a).

6. Endoscope device (10) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the first image capture device (21) occupies a first installation space, wherein the third image capture device (23) occupies a third installation space, and wherein the third installation space engages in a projection (21b) of the first installation space parallel to a shaft longitudinal axis (13) of the shaft (12).

7. Endoscope device (10) according to one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the second image capture device (22) occupies a second installation space, wherein the third image capture device (23) occupies a third installation space, and wherein the third installation space engages in a projection of the second installation space parallel to the shaft longitudinal axis (13).

8. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the image capturing devices (21, 22, 23) are arranged with respect to the Shaft longitudinal axis (13) are arranged one behind the other.

9. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) are arranged in alignment, in particular such that the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) each define an optical axis, wherein the optical axes of the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) lie in one plane.

10. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) each define a viewing angle, and wherein the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) are arranged such that they are each located outside the viewing angles of other image capture devices.

11. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) each define a viewing angle which is at least 90 degrees, preferably at least 100 degrees and particularly preferably at least 110 degrees.

12. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) each occupy a space having a length to diameter ratio of at most 4:1, at most 3:1, at most 2:1 or at most 1:

1.

13. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the distal portion (16) of the shaft (12) has the shape of a partially beveled cylinder (15).

14. Endoscope device (10) according to claim 13, wherein the partially beveled cylinder (15) has at least two different bevels (17) defined by planes having different angles of inclination with respect to the shaft longitudinal axis (13) of the shaft (12).

15. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the shaft (12) comprises a plurality of planar outer windows (18), each of which is arranged in front of one of the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) and extends perpendicular to the associated viewing direction (21a, 22a, 23a).

16. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) in the distal section (16) of the shaft (12) are cast.

17. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the image capture devices (21, 22, 23) at least in are essentially identical in construction.

18. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the image acquisition unit (20) for at least one of the Image capture devices (21, 22, 23) comprise an edge filter which filters light blocks light below an edge wavelength and transmits light above the edge wavelength.

19. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in a first operating state of the image acquisition unit (20) images can be acquired by means of the first image acquisition device (21) such that images for the first viewing direction (21a) can be acquired, and wherein in a second operating state of the image acquisition unit (20) images can be acquired by means of the second image acquisition device (22) such that images for the second viewing direction (22a) can be acquired.

20. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein imaging areas of the first image capture device (21) and the second image capture device (22) at least partially overlap, and wherein in a stereo operating state of the image capture unit (20) at least pseudostereoscopic images can be captured by means of the first image capture device (21) and the second image capture device (22).

21. Endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a lighting unit (26) arranged in the distal section (16) of the shaft (12) and which is designed to generate illuminating light for illuminating an object area to be imaged.

22. Endoscope (50) with an endoscope device (10) according to one of the preceding claims.

Images