Endoscope cover attachment system

Abstract

An endoscope cover attachment system 100 comprises: a distal end cover 45 having a tube portion 46 configured to cover a distal end portion 5 of an endoscope 1, a distal end portion insertion port 50 provided at the base end of the tube portion 46 and configured to allow the insertion of the distal end portion 5 into the tube portion, and cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r and a locking belt 56 configured to lock onto the distal end portion 5; and a holder 60 having a frame body 61 that covers the distal end cover 45, a cover removal port 65 configured to allow the removal of the distal end cover 45 from the frame body, and a locking claw 87 that holds the distal end cover 45 on the frame body 61. When the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r are not locked onto the distal end portion 5 and the holder 60 is moved in the direction of removing the distal end portion 5 from the cover removal port 65, the locking claw 87 maintains the state in which the distal end cover 45 is held at the frame body 61.

Description

Endoscope cover mounting system

[0001] The present invention relates to an endoscope cover attachment system for an endoscope whose distal end is covered with a cover.

[0002] Endoscopes have been widely used for observing the inside of a subject. Endoscopes include direct-viewing endoscopes that observe along the longitudinal axis of the insertion portion, and side-viewing endoscopes that observe in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis of the insertion portion.

[0003] A side-viewing endoscope has an observation window, an illumination window, etc. arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the distal end of the insertion section. Furthermore, a side-viewing endoscope generally has a housing chamber for housing a lifting stand adjacent to the observation window, the illumination window, etc.

[0004] The shape of the tip of such a side-viewing endoscope is more complex than that of a direct-viewing endoscope. For this reason, a cover (tip cover) that covers the tip of the side-viewing endoscope is designed to be removable after use, for the purpose of making it easier to clean the tip.

[0005] When the tip cover is configured to be detachable from the tip portion, measures are required to prevent the tip cover from falling off while the endoscope is in use. In response to this, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology in which a protruding locking portion provided on the tip cover is locked into a locking groove or the like provided in the tip portion.

[0006] JP 2007-289434 A

[0007] However, in the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, the tip cover is generally engaged with the tip portion while being held directly by a user such as a surgeon. Specifically, the user holds the tip cover with multiple fingers and presses it against the tip portion, thereby deforming it to engage with the tip portion. Therefore, depending on the position at which the user holds the tip cover, the tip cover may become distorted, and the tip cover may not be properly engaged with the tip portion. However, because the engaging portions are composed of small protrusions, it may be difficult to visually confirm whether the tip cover is properly engaged with the tip portion.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope cover attachment system that can properly lock a cover to a distal end portion.

[0009] An endoscope cover attachment system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a tubular portion configured to cover the tip of an endoscope, a cover having a first opening provided at the base end of the tubular portion and configured to insert the tip into the tubular portion, and a second locking portion configured to lock onto a first locking portion of the tip, a frame body covering the cover, a second opening provided in the frame body configured to remove the cover from the frame body, and a holding portion holding the cover on the frame body, wherein when the holder is moved in the direction of removing the tip from the first opening with the second locking portion not locked onto the first locking portion, the holding portion is configured to maintain the cover held on the frame body.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention provides a cover attachment system for an endoscope, comprising: a tubular portion configured to cover a tip portion of an endoscope; a cover having a first opening provided at the base end of the tubular portion and configured to insert the tip portion into the tubular portion; and a locking portion configured to lock onto the tip portion; a frame body covering the cover; a second opening provided in the frame body and configured to remove the cover from the frame body; and a holding portion that holds the cover on the frame body; and when the locking portion is not locked onto the tip portion, a first force, which is the maximum force required to move the cover in the direction of removing the tip portion from the first opening, is smaller than a second force required by the holding portion to release the cover from the frame body.

[0011] 5A and 5B are cross-sectional views taken along the line VIII-VIII in FIG. 5A and VIII in FIG. 5B, respectively, of the endoscope according to the first embodiment; a perspective view showing the holder according to the first embodiment; a plan view showing the holder according to the first embodiment; a rear view showing the holder according to the first embodiment; a perspective view showing the second contact surface of the holder according to the first embodiment; a perspective view showing the second contact surface of the holder according to the first embodiment; a perspective view showing the first contact surface of the holder according to the first embodiment; a perspective view showing the guide protrusions and sliding surface of the holder according to the first embodiment; a perspective view showing the tip end to which the tip cover is attached by the holder according to the first embodiment; 1 is a cross-sectional view of the endoscope cover attachment system according to the first embodiment, showing the pressing surface of the holder, according to the first embodiment; 2 is a perspective view of the contact avoidance surface of the holder according to the first embodiment; 3 is a perspective view of the contact avoidance surface of the holder according to the first embodiment; 4 is a cross-sectional view of the holder according to the first embodiment, showing the pressing surface of the holder's raising base, according to the first embodiment; 5 is a rear view of the holder holding the tip cover according to the first embodiment; 1 is a perspective view showing the tip portion, tip cover, and holder according to the first embodiment; 2 is a perspective view showing the tip portion and the tip cover held by the holder according to the first embodiment; 3 is a perspective view showing the tip cover attached to the tip portion using the holder according to the first embodiment; 4 is a perspective view showing the tip cover attached to the tip portion removed from the holder according to the first embodiment; 5 is an explanatory view showing the tip portion, tip cover, and holder using plan views and cross-sectional views according to the first embodiment;1 is an explanatory diagram showing, using plan views and cross sections, the process of attaching a tip cover to a tip portion using a holder according to the first embodiment; 2 is an explanatory diagram showing, using plan views and cross sections, the process of attaching a tip cover to a tip portion using a holder according to the first embodiment; 3 is an explanatory diagram showing, using plan views and cross sections, the state in which the tip cover has been attached to the tip portion using a holder according to the first embodiment; 4 is an explanatory diagram showing, using plan views and cross sections, the state in which the tip cover attached to the tip portion has been removed from the holder according to the first embodiment; FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the field of view when the tip cover is not properly attached to the tip portion of a third modified example of the first embodiment; a cross-sectional view showing the tip portion and tip cover of a fourth modified example of the first embodiment; a cross-sectional view showing the tip portion and tip cover of a fifth modified example of the first embodiment; a perspective view showing the holder from the rear side of a sixth modified example of the first embodiment; a rear view showing the holder of a sixth modified example of the first embodiment; a rear view showing the holder of a seventh modified example of the first embodiment; a perspective view showing the holder of a second embodiment; a plan view showing the tip portion and the tip cover held by the holder of a second embodiment; a plan view showing the tip portion and the tip cover held by the holder of a third embodiment; a rear view showing the tip cover held by the holder of a third embodiment; a plan view showing the tip cover attached to the tip portion using the holder of a third embodiment;

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] 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 that the length relationships, length ratios, and quantities of elements within a single drawing may differ from reality in order to simplify the explanation. Furthermore, there may be portions in which the length relationships and ratios differ between multiple drawings.

[0014] 1 to 37 show a first embodiment of the invention. Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an endoscope 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0015] The endoscope 1 is an insertion instrument that has a portion to be inserted into a subject. In this embodiment, an endoscope for use in the duodenum is shown as the endoscope 1. However, the subject may be either a living body such as a human or animal, or a non-living body such as a machine or building.

[0016] The endoscope 1 is, for example, a reusable endoscope. That is, the endoscope 1 is subjected to processes such as cleaning and sterilization after each use. This allows the endoscope 1 to be used multiple times.

[0017] The endoscope 1 includes an insertion section 2, an operation section 3, and a universal cable 4. The endoscope 1 is configured as, for example, a side-viewing electronic endoscope.

[0018] The insertion section 2 is configured to be inserted into a subject and includes, in order from the distal end along the longitudinal axis Ax, a distal end portion 5, a bending portion 6, and a flexible tube portion 7.

[0019] As will be described later, the distal end portion 5 is provided with an illumination window 25, an observation window 26, an air / water supply nozzle 27, a treatment tool elevator 29 (see FIGS. 2 to 4, etc.), and the like.

[0020] The bending portion 6 is a portion that can be bent, for example, in two directions, up and down, two directions, left and right, or four directions, up and down, left and right. Here, each of the up and down, left and right directions is defined, for example, in association with an image captured using the observation window 26.

[0021] The flexible tube section 7 is a tube section that has flexibility. Note that, here, an example is given in which the endoscope 1 is a flexible endoscope that has the flexible tube section 7. However, the endoscope 1 may be a rigid endoscope in which the portion corresponding to the flexible tube section 7 is rigid.

[0022] The operation unit 3 is provided on the proximal end side of the insertion section 2. The operation unit 3 is a portion with which the user operates the endoscope 1. The operation unit 3 includes a grip portion 8, a treatment tool insertion port 9, a bending operation knob 10, a plurality of operation buttons 11, and a treatment tool raising lever 12.

[0023] The grip portion 8 is a portion where the user grips the endoscope 1 .

[0024] The treatment instrument insertion port 9 is an opening on the proximal end side of the treatment instrument channel. A treatment instrument such as forceps is inserted into the treatment instrument channel through the treatment instrument insertion port 9. The distal end side of the treatment instrument inserted into the treatment instrument insertion port 9 is guided to the distal end portion 5 via the treatment instrument channel (not shown).

[0025] The bending operation knob 10 is an operation device for operating the bending of the bending portion 6. The bending operation knob 10 is operated, for example, by using the thumb of the hand holding the grip portion 8. When the bending operation knob 10 is operated, a bending operation wire (not shown) is pulled, and the bending portion 6 is bent.

[0026] The plurality of operation buttons 11 include, for example, an air / water supply button, a suction button, and buttons related to imaging.

[0027] The air / water supply button is a button for operating to supply air and water to the tip portion 5. Note that air and water are supplied to the tip portion 5 via an air / water supply channel (not shown).

[0028] The suction button is a button for operating the suction from the inside of the subject through the distal end portion 5. The suction from the inside of the subject is performed, for example, via the treatment instrument channel that also serves as the suction channel. When the suction operation is performed, for example, liquid or mucous membrane is suctioned from inside the subject.

[0029] The button related to image capture is, for example, a button switch for a release operation.

[0030] The treatment tool raising lever 12 is a lever for operating the treatment tool raising base 29 of the distal end portion 5 to raise and lower.

[0031] The universal cable 4 extends from, for example, the side surface of the proximal end of the operation unit 3. A connector 13 is provided at the extending end of the universal cable 4. The connector 13 connects the endoscope 1 to a processor (video processor), a light source device, a suction pump, a water tank, and the like.

[0032] Next, the detailed configuration of the tip portion 5 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0033] The distal end portion 5 has a distal end portion body 20 made of a metal such as stainless steel. An outer cover 21 made of a hard resin or the like is provided on the proximal end side of the distal end portion body 20. The outer cover 21 covers the connection between the distal end portion body 20 and the bending portion 6.

[0034] The tip portion body 20 has a generally rectangular prism shape with four faces on the circumferential surface around the longitudinal axis Ax. In the following description, for convenience, the directions in which the faces are formed are defined as up, down, left, and right directions (see FIGS. 4 and 5), and the faces are referred to as the upper face, lower face, left face, and right face.

[0035] An illumination window 25, an observation window 26, and an air / water nozzle 27 are provided near the left side of the top surface of the tip portion main body 20. The illumination window 25, the observation window 26, and the air / water nozzle 27 are arranged in a row along the longitudinal axis Ax in order from the tip side.

[0036] The illumination window 25 is formed by an illumination unit (not shown) built into the tip body 20. More specifically, the illumination window 25 is formed by the tip surface of the illumination optical system of the illumination unit. By arranging the illumination window 25 on the upper surface of the tip body 20, the illumination unit is configured to irradiate illumination light in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis Ax.

[0037] The observation window 26 is formed by an imaging unit (not shown) built into the tip body 20. More specifically, the observation window 26 is formed by the distal end surface of the imaging optical system of the imaging unit. By arranging the observation window 26 on the upper surface of the tip body 20, the imaging unit is configured to capture images in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis Ax.

[0038] By arranging the illumination window 25 and the observation window 26 , the distal end portion 5 constitutes a side-viewing endoscope 1 for observing a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis Ax of the insertion portion 2 .

[0039] The air and water nozzle 27 is supported by the tip body 20 with its tip facing the observation window 26. As a result, the air and water nozzle 27 is configured to supply air or water to the observation window 26 depending on the operation state of the air and water button.

[0040] Furthermore, a raising base accommodating groove 28 is provided near the right side surface of the tip portion main body 20. The raising base accommodating groove 28 extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax and is configured as a groove that is open on the upper surface side and the tip side. This raising base accommodating groove 28 is disposed near the illumination window 25, the observation window 26, and the air / water supply nozzle 27.

[0041] A treatment tool port 30 communicating with the tip of the treatment tool channel is provided at the base end of the elevator housing groove 28. The treatment tool port 30 is configured to allow the tip side of the treatment tool inserted into the treatment tool channel to protrude into the subject via the elevator housing groove 28.

[0042] A treatment tool elevator 29 is housed inside the elevator housing groove 28. The treatment tool elevator 29 is configured to swing (stand up or lay down) depending on the operation state of the treatment tool elevator lever 12. By swinging the treatment tool elevator 29, the treatment tool elevator 29 can adjust the orientation of the tip side of the treatment tool protruding into the subject.

[0043] The tip portion 5 also has a pair of left and right protruding plates 31l, 31r that protrude from the tip surface of the tip portion main body 20. These protruding plates 31l, 31r extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax, parallel to each other and sandwiching the elevator housing groove 28 therebetween. Tip portion side protrusions 32l, 32r are provided on the tip side of each protruding plate 31l, 31r, respectively, as first locking portions (protrusions). Each tip portion side protrusion 32l, 32r protrudes outward to the left and right of the tip portion 5, respectively, and extends in the up-down direction of the tip portion main body 20. These tip portion side protrusions 32l, 32r form locking claws that lock a tip cover 45 (described later).

[0044] Additionally, keys 33l and 33r are provided on the outer surfaces of the protruding plates 31l and 31r, respectively. The keys 33l and 33r are configured as protrusions that protrude outward to the left and right of the tip portion 5 and extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax.

[0045] A protrusion 35 serving as a first locking portion is provided on the upper surface of the base end side of the tip portion body 20. This protrusion 35 extends in the left-right direction of the tip portion body 20. This protrusion 35 constitutes a locking claw for locking the tip cover 45.

[0046] When the endoscope 1 configured in this manner is used, a tip cover 45 is attached to the tip portion 5 as a cover. The tip cover 45 is replaceable each time the endoscope 1 is used. That is, the endoscope 1 is used with the tip cover 45 attached to the tip portion 5. After use, the endoscope 1 is subjected to processes such as cleaning and sterilization with the tip cover 45 removed from the tip portion 5. When the endoscope 1 is to be reused, a new tip cover 45 is attached to the tip portion 5.

[0047] The tip cover 45 is a molded product made of elastic material such as silicone rubber or polyethylene. As shown in Figures 2 to 9, the tip cover 45 has a tubular portion 46 configured to cover the tip portion 5. The basic shape of the tubular portion 46 is a substantially cylindrical shape with a closed tip.

[0048] 7 , a tip portion insertion opening 50 serving as a first opening is provided at the base end of the tubular portion 46. The tip portion insertion opening 50 has an opening shape that allows the tip portion 5 to be inserted into the tubular portion 46. In other words, the tip portion insertion opening 50 is configured so that the tip portion 5 can be inserted into the tubular portion 46.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 , a pair of left and right cover-side protrusions 51l and 51r are provided inside the tubular portion 46 on the tip side of the tubular portion 46 as second locking portions (locking portions). Each cover-side protrusion 51l and 51r is formed by a protrusion that protrudes inward from the tubular portion 46 and extends in the vertical direction of the tubular portion 46. Each cover-side protrusion 51l and 51r is configured to lock onto each of the tip-end protrusions 32l and 32r when the tip end 5 is inserted into the tubular portion 46 to a set position. Here, the set position of the tip end 5 relative to the tubular portion 46 is a position for properly attaching the tip cover 45 to the tip end 5. As a result, each cover-side protrusion 51l and 51r forms a locking claw that can lock onto each of the tip-end protrusions 32l and 32r. That is, during the process of inserting the tip end portion 5 into the tubular portion 46, the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r elastically deform together with the tubular portion 46 and ride up onto the outside of the tip end-side protrusions 32l, 32r. As the insertion of the tip end portion 5 into the tubular portion 46 progresses and the tip end portion 5 is inserted up to a set position relative to the tubular portion 46, the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r ride up onto the tip end-side protrusions 32l, 32r. As a result, the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r are positioned in the recesses on the base end side of the tip end-side protrusions 32l, 32r, respectively. At this time, the elastically deformed cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r and the tubular portion 46 are restored to their original shapes. As a result, the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r are engaged with the tip end-side protrusions 32l, 32r, respectively.

[0050] Furthermore, a pair of left and right keyways 52l, 52r are provided inside the cylindrical portion 46 on the tip side of the cylindrical portion 46. Each keyway 52l, 52r is recessed from the inner wall of the cylindrical portion 46 toward the outside of the cylindrical portion 46 and is configured as a groove extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax. Each keyway 52l, 52r is configured to engage with each key 33l, 33r when the tip portion 5 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 46. By engaging each keyway 52l, 52r with each key 33l, 33r, each keyway 52l, 52r is configured to determine the relative position of the tip portion 5 and the tip cover 45 around the longitudinal axis Ax.

[0051] An opening 55 serving as a third opening is provided in the peripheral wall around the longitudinal axis Ax of the tubular portion 46 at a position corresponding to the upper surface of the tip portion 5. As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the opening 55 has a shape that allows the illumination window 25, the observation window 26, the air / water supply nozzle 27, the elevator housing groove 28, and the treatment tool elevator 29, which are provided in the tip portion main body 20, to be exposed to the outside.

[0052] Furthermore, the opening 55 forms a locking belt 56 as a second locking portion (locking portion) on the base end side of the tubular portion 46. When the distal end portion 5 is inserted into the tubular portion 46 to a set position, the locking belt 56 is positioned adjacent to the base end of the protrusion 35 of the distal end portion main body 20. That is, the protrusion 35 is positioned inside the opening 55. Specifically, during the process of inserting the distal end portion 5 into the tubular portion 46, the locking belt 56 elastically deforms together with the tubular portion 46 and rides up onto the protrusion 35. When the distal end portion 5 is further inserted into the tubular portion 46 and is inserted into the tubular portion 46 to a set position, the locking belt 56 is positioned on the base end side of the protrusion 35. At this time, the elastically deformed locking belt 56 and the tubular portion 46 are restored to their original shapes, and the locking belt 56 is locked to the protrusion 35.

[0053] The tip cover 45 configured in this manner is attached to the tip portion 5 while being held by the holder 60. In other words, the holder 60 functions as a jig for attaching the tip cover 45 to the tip portion 5. The holder 60, together with the tip cover 45, constitutes the endoscope cover attachment system 100.

[0054] Holder 60 is a molded product made of a material such as resin that is harder than tip cover 45 (for example, silicone rubber, polyethylene, or polycarbonate that is thicker than tip cover 45). As shown in Figures 27 to 30, holder 60 has a frame 61 that is configured to cover tip cover 45. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the basic shape of frame 61 is a cylinder with a closed tip.

[0055] As shown in Figure 12, a cover removal opening 65 is provided as a second opening at the base end of the frame body 61. The cover removal opening 65 has an opening shape that allows the tip cover 45 to be removed from the frame body 61. In other words, the cover removal opening 65 is configured to remove the tip cover 45 arranged inside the frame body 61. This cover removal opening 65 is used to remove the tip cover 45 from the frame body 61 after the tip cover 45 has been attached to the tip portion 5. The cover removal opening 65 can also be used as an insertion opening when placing the tip cover 45 inside the frame body 61.

[0056] 10 and 11, an opening 66 serving as a fourth opening is provided in the upper part of the frame body 61. As shown in Fig. 29, the opening 66 is disposed at a position where the elevator accommodating groove 28 of the distal end portion 5 and the treatment instrument elevator 29 are exposed to the outside of the frame body 61 through the opening 55 of the distal end cover 45.

[0057] 10 and 11 , a distal end wall 67 closing the distal end of the frame 61 is provided with a protrusion 68 having a generally cylindrical shape. This protrusion 68 can be used when pushing the holder holding the distal end cover 45 toward the distal end portion 5. In order to allow the protrusion surface 68a to function as a pressing surface against which the user's finger is pressed, the protrusion surface 68a is configured as a concave curved surface centered on the longitudinal axis Ax, which is the central axis of the frame 61. The protrusion 68 is also provided with an opening 69 serving as a fifth opening that connects the inside and outside of the frame 61.

[0058] The tip wall 67 has an injection port mark 70 in a part of the protrusion 68, which is formed when the holder 60 is molded by injection molding or the like. The injection port mark 70 is set at a position lower than the tip end surface 68a of the protrusion 68. This makes it possible to avoid contact between the user's fingers and the injection port mark 70 when the user pushes the holder 60 toward the tip portion 5.

[0059] 10 to 12, a pair of first flanges 75l, 75r are provided on the left and right side portions of the frame body 61. Each of the first flanges 75l, 75r is provided on a portion of the circumferential direction of the frame body 61, midway along the longitudinal axis Ax. Each of the first flanges 75l, 75r is an outward flange that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the frame body 61. These first flanges 75l, 75r can be used, for example, when a user grips the holder 60 between their thumb and index finger. For this reason, the protruding end surfaces of each of the first flanges 75l, 75r are configured as arc-shaped curved surfaces.

[0060] Furthermore, to make it easier for the user to directly grasp the frame body 61 of the holder 60, the outer surface of the frame body 61 located on the tip side of each of the first flanges 75l, 75r is configured as an arc-shaped curved surface.

[0061] Additionally, a pair of second flanges 76u, 76d are provided on the upper and lower portions of the frame 61. Each of the second flanges 76u, 76d is provided on a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the frame 61 in the circumferential direction, closer to the base end than each of the first flanges 75l, 75r. More specifically, each of the second flanges 76u, 76d is disposed on the same plane as the cover removal opening 65. Each of the second flanges 76u, 76d is an outward flange that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the frame 61. Similar to each of the first flanges 75l, 75r described above, the protruding end surface of each of the second flanges 76u, 76d is configured as an arc-shaped curved surface.

[0062] The first flanges 75l, 75r and the second flanges 76u, 76d form a circular image of the holder 60 along the longitudinal axis Ax (see FIG. 12). The outer diameter of the circular image is set to be larger than the inner diameter (10 to 30 mm) of an auxiliary tool such as a mouthpiece used when inserting the endoscope 1 into a subject.

[0063] As indicated by dots in FIGS. 13 to 15, a first contact surface 80 and a second contact surface 81 for contacting the cylindrical portion 46 of the tip cover 45 are formed inside the frame body 61 .

[0064] The first contact surface 81 is a surface formed to contact a lower portion (second portion 57) of the outer surface of the tubular portion 46. Here, as shown in Fig. 19 , the second portion 57 is a portion of the outer surface of the tubular portion 46 that is located on the opposite side of the longitudinal axis Ax from the fastening belt 56, and is set near the center of the tubular portion 46 in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax.

[0065] The second contact surface 80 is a surface formed so as to come into contact with an upper portion (third portion 58) of the outer surface of the tubular portion 46. Here, as shown in Fig. 27, the third portion 58 is a portion of the outer surface of the tubular portion 46 that is located at a position different from the fastening belt 56 in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax, and is set closer to the tip of the tubular portion 46. Note that the second contact surface 80 is formed so as to come into contact with a part of the inner circumferential surface of the opening 55 in addition to the third portion 58.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 16 to 18 , a guide protrusion 85 is provided as a protrusion on the tip side of the interior of the frame 61. This guide protrusion 85 is provided closer to the tip side in the longitudinal axis Ax direction than the opening 66. The guide protrusion 85 is formed to protrude downward from the inner surface of the upper side of the frame 61. The guide protrusion 85 is also disposed at a position corresponding to the opening 55 of the tip cover 45 and the elevator platform accommodating groove 28 of the tip portion 5. The left-right width of the guide protrusion 85 is set to be slightly smaller than the width of the elevator platform accommodating groove 28. As shown in FIG. 18 , the guide protrusion 85 is configured to be inserted into the elevator platform accommodating groove 28 through the opening 55 of the tip cover 45. As indicated by dots in FIGS. 16 and 17 , the left and right side surfaces of the guide protrusion 85 are set as sliding surfaces 86 that slide against the left and right wall surfaces of the elevator platform accommodating groove 28. As a result, when attaching the tip cover 45 to the tip portion 5 , the guide protrusions 85 make it possible to position the tip cover 45 around the longitudinal axis Ax relative to the tip portion 5 .

[0067] 12 and 19 , the guide protrusions 85 have locking claws 87 at their lower ends as holding portions. The locking claws 87 are claw-shaped projections that protrude from the lower ends of the guide protrusions 85 toward the inside (downward) of the frame 61. As shown in FIG. 19 , the locking claws 87 are configured to be inserted into the interior of the tubular portion 46 through the openings 55 when the tip cover 45 is placed inside the holder 60. The locking claws 87 lock onto the inner wall surface of the tip side of the tubular portion 46, thereby restricting movement of the tip cover 45 toward the base end in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax. In this way, the locking claws 87 are configured to hold the tip cover 45 to the frame 61. Here, to make it possible to visually confirm that the tip cover 45 is held by the locking claws 87, the locking claws 87 (guide protrusions 85) are positioned so as to be exposed to the outside of the frame 61 through the openings 69.

[0068] When the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 are not properly locked to the tip-side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusions 35, and the tip end 5 is moved in the direction of removal from the tip-end insertion opening 50, the locking claw 87 is configured to maintain a state in which the tip cover 45 is held within the frame 61. More specifically, when the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 are not locked to the tip-side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusions 35, a first force amount, which is the maximum force amount for moving the tip end 5 in the direction of removal from the tip-end insertion opening 50, is set to be smaller than a second force amount for the locking claw 87 to release the tip cover 45. Here, the first force amount roughly corresponds to the frictional force generated between the tip cover 45 and the tip 5, for example, when each cover side protrusion 51l, 51r rides up on each tip side protrusion 32l, 32r, and the engaging belt 56 rides up on the protrusion 35.

[0069] On the other hand, in a state in which the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 are properly locked to the tip-end side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusion 35, respectively, when the tip end 5 is moved in the direction of removal from the tip end insertion opening 50, the locking claw 87 is configured to release the retention of the tip end cover 45 on the frame body 61. This release of retention is achieved by setting a third force amount required to release the engagement between the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 and the tip-end side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusion 35 to be greater than the second force amount.

[0070] Here, the engagement of the locking claws 87 with the tip cover 45 is released when the locking claws 87 elastically deform the tip side of the tip cover 45. Alternatively, the engagement of the locking claws 87 with the tip cover 45 can also be released when the tip side of the tip cover 45 elastically deforms and tilts the locking claws 87.

[0071] 23 , an elevator presser plate 88 is provided inside the frame 61. This elevator presser plate 88 protrudes in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax of the frame 61 on the proximal end side of the guide protrusion 85. As indicated by dots in FIG. 23 , the elevator presser plate 88 is formed with an elevator abutment surface 89. The elevator abutment surface 89 is configured to abut against the treatment instrument elevator 29 when the treatment instrument elevator 29 is erected at an angle equal to or greater than a predetermined angle. When the elevator abutment surface 89 abuts against the treatment instrument elevator 29, the elevator presser plate 88 pushes the treatment instrument elevator 29 further upward in the erect direction as the holder 60 moves toward the proximal end (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 37 ). As a result, the elevator presser plate 88 guides the treatment instrument elevator 29 into the opening 66, preventing interference between the holder 60 and the treatment instrument elevator 29. In this way, the opening 66 functions as an escape space for the treatment instrument elevator 29 to escape from a position where it would interfere with the holder 60. Note that the escape space can also be formed by a recess formed by recessing the inner surface of the frame body 61 in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis Ax.

[0072] As indicated by dots in FIG. 20 , the tip surface formed inside the frame 61 is configured as a pressing surface 90 for pressing the tip cover 45 held by the frame 61. As shown in FIG. 24 , the pressing surface 90 is configured as a curved surface having a normal intersecting the longitudinal axis Ax. More specifically, at least a portion of the pressing surface 90 is spherical. When the tip side of the tip cover 45 is elastically deformed by the pressing of the pressing surface 90, the surface of the tip cover 45 near each of the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r comes into contact with the pressing surface 90 (see FIG. 33 ). This allows the pressing surface 90 to transmit vibrations to the holder 60 when each of the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r moves over each of the tip side protrusions 32l, 32r and engages with each of the tip side protrusions 32l, 32r. That is, since the pressing surface 90 is a curved surface, it functions as a transmitting portion for reliably transmitting vibrations from the tip cover 45 to the holder 60 .

[0073] When the cover-side protrusions 51l and 51r ride on the tip-end-side protrusions 32l and 32r, the left and right side surfaces of the tubular portion 46, including the cover-side protrusions 51l and 51r, elastically deform so as to expand in the left-right direction, which is the first direction (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 26 ). To avoid such interference with the tubular portion 46, contact avoidance surfaces 91l and 91r are formed on the left and right side surfaces of the interior of the frame 61. Each contact avoidance surface 91l and 91r includes a first portion that faces the cover-side protrusions 51l and 51r. Furthermore, when the tip cover 45 is inserted into the frame 61, each contact avoidance surface 91l and 91r is positioned at a distance from the tip cover 45 (each cover-side protrusion 51l and 51r) in the left-right direction. Each contact avoidance surface 91l and 91r is formed by recessing a portion of the inner surface of the frame 61 toward the left and right sides of the frame 61. As a result, each of the contact avoidance surfaces 91l, 91r forms a space between itself and the tip cover 45. Here, the amount of recess of each of the contact avoidance surfaces 91l, 91r is set to an amount that allows the space between itself and the tip cover 45 to be maintained even when each of the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r rides up each of the tip-side protrusions 32l, 32r.

[0074] Furthermore, when the fastening belt 56 rides up on the protrusion 35, the fastening belt 56 elastically deforms to expand upward, which is the first direction (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 26 ). To avoid such interference with the fastening belt 56, a contact avoidance surface 92u is formed on the inner upper surface of the frame 61. The contact avoidance surface 92u includes a first portion that faces the fastening belt 56. Furthermore, when the tip cover 45 is inserted into the frame 61, the contact avoidance surface 92u is positioned at a distance above the fastening belt 56. The contact avoidance surface 92u is formed by recessing a portion of the inner surface of the frame 61 upward. This forms a space between the contact avoidance surface 92u and the fastening belt 56. The recession of the contact avoidance surface 92u is set to an amount that allows the space between the contact avoidance surface 92u and the fastening belt 56 to be maintained even when the fastening belt 56 rides up on the protrusion 35.

[0075] Furthermore, when the locking belt 56 rides on the protrusion 35, the tubular portion 46 elastically deforms such that the fourth portion 59, which faces the locking belt 56 across the longitudinal axis Ax, expands downward in the first direction (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 26 ). To avoid such interference with the fourth portion 59, a contact avoidance surface 92d is formed on the inner lower surface of the frame 61. The contact avoidance surface 92d includes a fifth portion 92a facing the fourth portion 59. Furthermore, when the tip cover 45 is inserted into the frame 61, the contact avoidance surface 92d is positioned at a distance downward from the fourth portion 59. The contact avoidance surface 92d is formed by recessing the base end side downward relative to the second contact surface 81. This forms a space between the contact avoidance surface 92d and the locking belt 56. The recession of the contact avoidance surface 92d is set to an amount that allows the space between the fourth portion 59 and the fourth portion 59 to be maintained even when the fourth portion 59 expands.

[0076] Next, an example of a method for a user to attach the tip cover 45 to the tip portion 5 will be described. Note that the series of steps may be performed by a single user or may be performed by multiple users. The users may include workers at the manufacturer.

[0077] As a first step, the user inserts the tip cover 45 into the frame body 61 along the longitudinal axis Ax (see FIG. 31 ). The tip cover 45 is inserted using the cover removal opening 65 provided at the base end of the frame body 61.

[0078] As a next step, the user pushes the tip cover 45, which has reached the tip end inside the frame 61, further toward the tip end of the frame 61. As a result, the tip of the tip cover 45 moves toward the tip end while elastically deforming, and the locking claw 87 is inserted into the interior of the tubular portion 46 through the opening 55. This insertion of the locking claw 87 locks the locking claw 87 against the edge of the tip end of the opening 55, and the tip cover 45 is held in the holder 60 (see FIG. 32 ). The locked state between the locking claw 87 and the tip cover 45 can be visually confirmed through the opening 69 provided in the protrusion 68 of the holder 60. Furthermore, although the locking claw 87 has been described as locking into the opening 55, a third opening or recess different from the opening 55 may also be formed in the tubular portion 46.

[0079] In the next step, the user inserts the tip portion 5 into the tip cover 45 held by the holder 60 (see FIG. 33 ). The tip portion 5 is inserted using the tip portion insertion port 50 provided at the base end of the tubular portion 46.

[0080] 37 , when the treatment instrument elevator 29 of the distal end portion 5 is raised to a predetermined height or more, the elevator abutment surface 89 of the elevator presser plate 88 abuts against the treatment instrument elevator 29. As a result, as the distal end portion 5 moves in the insertion direction, the treatment instrument elevator 29 is pressed by the elevator presser plate 88 and rises further. The raised treatment instrument elevator 29 is then guided into the opening 66. This prevents interference between the treatment instrument elevator 29 and the holder 60.

[0081] In the next step, the user pushes the tip end 5 inserted into the tip end cover 45 further toward the tip end of the tip end cover 45. As a result, the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 elastically deform together with the tubular portion 46 and ride up onto the tip end side protrusions 32l, 32r and protrusion 35, respectively (see FIG. 34). At this time, the spaces formed by the contact avoidance surfaces 91l, 91r, 92u, and 92d on the inner surface of the frame body 61 prevent interference between the holder 60 and the tip end cover 45 (see FIG. 26), and the tip end cover 45 elastically deforms into an appropriate shape.

[0082] Then, the cover-side projections 51l, 51r and the engagement belt 56 ride over the tip-side projections 32l, 32r and projections 35, respectively, so that the tip cover 45 is engaged with the tip 5 (see FIG. 35).

[0083] As a next step, the user removes the tip portion 5 from the cover removal opening 65 of the holder 60 along the longitudinal axis Ax.

[0084] Here, in a state where the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 are properly locked to the tip-side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusion 35, respectively, when the tip portion 5 is moved in the direction of removal from the cover removal opening 65, the locking claw 87 is configured to release the retention of the tip cover 45 on the frame body 61. Therefore, when the tip cover 45 is properly locked to the tip portion 5, the tip portion 5 can be removed from the holder 60 with the tip cover 45 still attached (see FIG. 36 ).

[0085] On the other hand, when the tip portion 5 is moved in the direction of removal from the cover removal opening 65 in a state in which the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 are not properly locked to the tip portion side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusion 35, the locking claws 87 are configured to maintain the state in which the tip cover 45 is held within the frame body 61. Therefore, the state in which the tip cover 45 is attached to the tip portion 5 is not maintained, and the tip cover 45 remains within the holder 60. In other words, unless the tip cover 45 is properly locked to the tip portion 5, the tip cover 45 is not removed from the holder 60, and only the tip portion 5 is removed from the holder 60.

[0086] This allows the tip cover 45 to be appropriately locked to the tip portion 5. That is, the endoscope cover attachment system 100 includes a cylindrical portion 46 configured to cover the tip portion 5 of the endoscope 1, a tip portion insertion port 50 provided at the base end of the cylindrical portion 46 and configured to insert the tip portion 5 into the cylindrical portion, a tip cover 45 having cover side protrusions 51l, 51r and a locking belt 56 configured to lock onto the tip portion 5, a frame 61 covering the tip cover 45, a cover removal port 65 configured to remove the tip cover 45 from the frame 61, and a locking claw 87 that holds the tip cover 45 on the frame 61, and is configured so that when the holder 60 is moved in the direction of removing the tip portion 5 from the cover removal port 65 in a state where the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r are not locked onto the tip portion 5, the locking claw 87 maintains the state in which the tip cover 45 is held on the frame 61. In other words, the tip cover 45 held in the holder 60 cannot be removed from the holder 60 unless it is properly locked to the tip portion 5. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the tip cover 45 from being attached to the tip portion 5 in a state where it is not properly locked.

[0087] The endoscope cover attachment system 100 also includes a tubular portion 46 configured to cover the tip portion 5 of the endoscope 1, a tip portion insertion port 50 provided at the base end of the tubular portion 46 and configured to insert the tip portion 5 into the tubular portion, a tip cover 45 having cover side protrusions 51l, 51r and a locking belt 56 configured to lock onto the tip portion 5, a frame body 61 that covers the tip cover 45, a cover removal port 65 configured to remove the tip cover 45 from the frame body, and a holder 60 having a locking claw 87 that holds the tip cover 45 on the frame body 61, and the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 deform the tubular portion 46 in the process of locking onto the tip portion 5, and the portions of the inner surface of the frame body 61 that face the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 are spaced apart in the deformation direction of the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56. That is, the holder 60 has contact avoidance surfaces 91l, 91r, 92u, and 92d on its inner surface to allow proper elastic deformation of the tip cover 45 during the process in which the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 lock onto the tip side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusion 35. The endoscope cover attachment system 100 having such a holder 60 is configured to allow the user to grip the tip cover 45 via the holder 60. This prevents the proper elastic deformation of the tip cover 45 from being hindered by the user's fingertips or the like, and accurately achieves the locking of the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 onto the tip side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusion 35.

[0088] The holder 60 also has guide protrusions 85 for positioning the tip cover 45 about the longitudinal axis Ax relative to the tip portion 5 by sliding contact with the elevator accommodating groove 28. This makes it possible to accurately position the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 about the longitudinal axis Ax relative to the tip portion-side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusion 35. This makes it possible to more accurately lock the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r and the locking belt 56 to the tip portion-side protrusions 32l, 32r and the protrusion 35.

[0089] Furthermore, the pressing surface 90 formed on the tip surface inside the frame 61 is configured to function as a transmission portion for transmitting vibrations generated when the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r climb over the tip side protrusions 32l, 32r and engage with the tip side protrusions 32l, 32r to the holder 60. This vibration (click feeling) enables the holder 60 to notify the user that the cover side protrusions 51l, 51r have engaged with the tip side protrusions 32l, 32r.

[0090] The holder 60 also has first flanges 75l and 75r that protrude outward from the frame 61. This allows the user to easily grasp the fine holder 60 when attaching the tip cover 45 to the tip portion 5.

[0091] Furthermore, the holder 60 has second flanges 76u, 76d that protrude outward from the frame body 61. The projection formed by the first flanges 75l, 75r and the second flanges 76u, 76d is set to be larger than the inner diameter of a mouthpiece or the like. This reliably prevents a user from accidentally inserting the insertion section 2, with the holder 60 attached to the tip portion 5, into a subject.

[0092] 38 , the groove width of the keyways 52l, 52r can be set to be sufficiently larger than the width of the keys 33l, 33r. This configuration can improve the ease of inserting the keys 33l, 33r into the keyways 52l, 52r. Alternatively, it is also possible to set only the groove width of the base end portion of the keyways 52l, 52r, through which the keys 33l, 33r first pass when attaching the tip cover 45 to the tip portion 5, to be sufficiently larger than the width of the keys 33l, 33r.

[0093] [Second Modification] As shown in FIG. 39, the opening 66 of the holder 60 can be expanded to a position where a part of the observation window 26 is exposed.

[0094] In this configuration, an additional step is performed in which the user starts capturing an endoscopic image using the imaging optical system when inserting the insertion portion 2 into the tip cover 45. This allows the user to check the engagement state of the tip cover 45 with respect to the tip portion 5 based on the state in which the holder 60 is reflected in the endoscopic image.

[0095] Furthermore, the opening 66 of the holder 60 can be expanded to a position that exposes the fastening belt 56. This allows the user to visually confirm the state of engagement between the fastening belt 56 and the protrusion 35.

[0096] 40, it is also possible to provide a canopy 55a on the proximal side of the opening 55 of the tip cover 45. This canopy 55a is out of the field of view of the observation window 26 when the tip cover 45 is properly engaged with the tip portion 5 (see FIG. 41). On the other hand, when the tip cover 45 is not properly engaged with the tip portion 5, the canopy 55a enters the field of view of the observation window 26 (see the hatched area in FIG. 42).

[0097] This allows the user to check the engagement state of the tip cover 45 with respect to the tip portion 5 based on the endoscopic image even immediately before using the endoscope 1 .

[0098] 43, slits 51la and 51ra may be provided near the cover-side protrusions 51l and 51r of the tip cover 45. These slits 51la and 51ra allow elastic deformation of the cover-side protrusions 51l and 51r. By providing these slits 51la and 51ra, the amount of deformation at the tip end of the tubular portion 46 can be reduced when the tip cover 45 is attached to the tip end portion 5.

[0099] 44, it is also possible to eliminate the cover-side protrusions 51l, 51r of the tip cover 45. By configuring it in this way, the amount of deformation on the tip side of the tubular portion 46 can be suppressed when the tip cover 45 is attached to the tip portion 5.

[0100] 45 and 46 , the frame 61 of the holder 60 can be formed so that the image in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax is a substantially rectangular shape. In this case, the first flanges 75l, 75r and the second flanges 76u, 76d, etc. can be omitted, and the holder 60 can have a simple shape and a size that is easy for the user to hold.

[0101] 47 , it is possible to eliminate the locking claws provided inside the frame body 61 of the holder 60 and provide a plurality of locking claws 87 as holding portions at the base end of the frame body 61. Each locking claw 87 in this modification is configured to be displaced in a direction intersecting the insertion direction (the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax) of the tip cover 45 into the holder 60. That is, when the tip cover 45 is inserted into the frame body 61, each locking claw 87 elastically deforms in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis Ax to lock onto the base end of the tip cover 45. Furthermore, when the tip end cover 45 is properly locked onto the tip end portion 5, if the tip end portion 5 is moved in a direction to be removed from the cover removal opening 65, each locking claw 87 elastically deforms in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis Ax to release the locking from the tip cover 45.

[0102] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 48 to 50. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above mainly in the configuration of the frame body 61. Components similar to those in the first embodiment described above will be given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0103] The frame body 61 of this embodiment has a distal frame portion 93 , a proximal frame portion 94 , and a pair of connecting plates 95 .

[0104] The distal end frame portion 93 is formed in a substantially circular plate shape. The proximal end surface of the distal end frame portion 93 is configured as a pressing surface 93 a for pressing the distal end cover 45 .

[0105] The base-side frame portion 94 is formed in a generally ring shape. This forms a cover removal opening 94a in the base-side frame portion 94. A pair of left and right flat surfaces 94b extending in the up-down direction is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the base-side frame portion 94. Each flat surface 94b is configured to abut against the outer surface of the tip cover 45 midway in the direction of the longitudinal axis Ax. When each flat surface 94b abuts against the outer surface of the tip cover 45, the flat surface 94b engages the tip cover 45 by frictional force. This allows each flat surface 94b to function as a retaining portion for retaining the tip cover 45 inside the frame body 61. While the present embodiment illustrates an example in which the base-side frame portion 94 has a flat surface 94b, the flat surface is not limited to a flat surface as long as it can retain the outer surface of the tip cover 45 by frictional force.

[0106] The pair of connecting plates 95 respectively connect the upper side of the distal frame portion 93 to the upper side of the proximal frame portion 94, and the lower side of the distal frame portion 93 to the lower side of the proximal frame portion 94. As a result, the pair of connecting plates 95 connect the distal frame portion 93 to the proximal frame portion 94 while the left and right side portions on the distal side of the frame body 61 are open.

[0107] In the embodiment configured in this manner, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0108] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 51 to 53. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above mainly in the configuration of the frame body 61. Components similar to those in the first embodiment described above will be given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0109] The frame body 61 of this embodiment has a frame plate 96 and a base end side frame portion 97 .

[0110] The frame plate 96 is made of a plate-like member having a generally U-shape with an open base end, so that the frame plate 96 covers the portion of the tip cover 45 from its tip end surface to the left and right side surfaces.

[0111] The base-side frame portion 97 is formed in a generally ring shape. This allows a cover removal opening 97a to be formed in the base-side frame portion 97. The base ends of the frame plates 96 are connected to the left and right sides of the base-side frame portion 97. A pair of flanges 98 are provided on the left and right sides of the base-side frame portion 97.

[0112] Furthermore, the base-side frame portion 97 is provided with a plurality of protrusions 99. These protrusions 99 are connected to the base end of the tip cover 45. As a result, each protrusion 99 functions as a holding portion for holding the tip cover 45 inside the frame body 61. When the tip cover 45 is properly engaged with the tip portion 5, if the tip portion 5 is moved in the direction of removal from the cover removal opening 97a, each protrusion 99 is destroyed. As a result, the tip cover 45 is released from the state held within the frame body 61 of the holder 60. Furthermore, when the tip cover 45 is properly engaged with the tip portion 5, the tip portion 5 may be further moved in the direction of attachment to the tip cover 45 to destroy each protrusion 99.

[0113] Here, the holder 60 of this embodiment is integrally formed with the tip cover 45 by injection molding or the like using the same material (for example, silicone rubber, polyethylene, or polycarbonate).

[0114] In the embodiment configured in this manner, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0115] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various modifications and variations are possible, and these are also within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the configurations of the above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate.

[0116] [Additional Notes] According to the above-described embodiments and modifications, the following configurations can be obtained.

[0117] [Supplementary Item 1] An endoscope cover attachment system comprising: a tubular portion configured to cover a tip portion of an endoscope; a cover having a first opening provided at the base end of the tubular portion and configured to insert the tip portion into the tubular portion; and a holder having a frame body covering the cover, a second opening provided in the frame body and configured to remove the cover from the frame body, and a holding portion that holds the cover on the frame body; wherein, with the cover engaged with the tip portion, when the tip portion is moved in the direction of removal from the first opening, the holder is configured to release the cover.

[0118] [Supplementary Item 2] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 1, characterized in that the holding portion is a protrusion that protrudes from the frame body toward the inside of the frame body.

[0119] [Supplementary Item 3] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 2, wherein the holder releases the cover when the protrusion falls down.

[0120] [Supplementary Item 4] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 2, wherein the holder releases the cover when the protrusion is destroyed.

[0121] [Supplementary Item 5] An endoscope cover attachment system comprising: a tubular portion configured to cover a tip portion of an endoscope; a cover having a first opening provided at the base end of the tubular portion and configured to insert the tip portion into the tubular portion; and a holder having a frame body covering the cover, a second opening provided in the frame body and configured to remove the cover from the frame body, and a holding portion that holds the cover on the frame body; wherein a third force for releasing the engagement between the holding portion and the tip portion is greater than a second force for releasing the cover from the holding portion.

[0122] [Appendix 6] A method for attaching a cover to an endoscope, comprising the steps of: inserting the tip of an endoscope into a cover held by a holder; engaging the cover with the tip; moving the holder in a direction opposite to the insertion direction of the tip; and releasing the cover from the holder.

[0123] [Supplementary Item 7] The endoscope cover attaching method according to Supplementary Item 6, characterized in that the releasing step includes a step of displacing the holding portion of the holder in a direction intersecting the insertion direction.

[0124] [Supplementary Item 8] The endoscope cover attaching method according to Supplementary Item 6, characterized in that the releasing step includes a step of destroying the holding portion.

[0125] [Supplementary Item 9] An endoscope cover attachment system comprising: a cover having a tubular portion configured to cover a tip portion of an endoscope, a first opening provided at the base end of the tubular portion and configured to insert the tip portion into the tubular portion, and a locking portion provided on the tubular portion and configured to engage with the tip portion; and a holder having a frame body covering the cover, a second opening provided on the frame body configured to remove the cover from the frame body, and a holding portion to hold the cover on the frame body, wherein the holder has a convex portion that protrudes toward the inside of the frame body and is configured to be inserted into an elevator accommodating groove in the tip portion.

[0126] [Supplementary Item 10] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 9, characterized in that the cover has a third opening that exposes the treatment tool elevator base at the tip, and the protrusion is located in the third opening.

[0127] [Supplementary Item 11] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 2, characterized in that the protrusion is configured to raise the treatment instrument elevator base when the distal end portion is inserted into the cover.

[0128] [Appendix 12] The endoscope cover mounting system described in appendix 11 is characterized in that the frame body has an escape space configured to allow the treatment instrument raising base to be placed therein, and the escape space is provided on the second opening side of the convex portion in a direction along a first axis which is the insertion direction of the tip portion.

[0129] [Supplementary Item 13] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 12, characterized in that the escape space is formed by an opening that connects the inside and outside of the frame body.

[0130] [Supplementary Item 14] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 12, characterized in that the escape space is formed by a recess provided in the frame body and recessed in a direction intersecting the first axis.

[0131] [Appendix 15] A method for attaching a cover for an endoscope, comprising the steps of: inserting the tip of the endoscope into a cover stored in a holder; inserting a convex portion of the holder into an elevator accommodating groove in the tip; raising a treatment instrument elevator in the tip by the convex portion; and engaging the tip cover with the tip.

[0132] [Supplementary Item 16] An endoscope cover attachment system comprising: a cover having a tubular portion configured to cover a tip portion of an endoscope, a first opening provided at the base end of the tubular portion and configured to insert the tip portion into the tubular portion, and a locking portion provided on the tubular portion and configured to engage with the tip portion; and a holder having a frame body covering the cover, a second opening provided on the frame body configured to remove the cover from the frame body, and a holding portion for holding the cover on the frame body, wherein the holder has a pair of first flanges protruding from an outer surface of the frame body.

[0133] [Supplementary Item 17] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 16, characterized in that the pair of first flanges are provided midway on the frame body in the central axis direction of the second opening.

[0134] [Supplementary Item 18] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 16, wherein the pair of flanges have curved end faces.

[0135] [Appendix 19] The endoscope cover attachment system described in appendix 16 is characterized in that the holder has a pair of second flanges protruding from the outer surface of the frame body, and the image of the holder along the central axis direction of the second opening is a circle defined by the pair of first flanges and the pair of second flanges.

[0136] [Supplementary Item 20] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 19, characterized in that the pair of second flanges are arranged on the same plane as the second opening.

[0137] [Supplementary Item 21] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 16, wherein the outer surface of the frame body located on the distal side of the pair of first flanges is a curved surface.

[0138] [Appendix 22] The endoscope cover attachment system described in appendix 1 is characterized in that the frame body has a tip wall that closes the tip, and the tip wall has a cylindrical protrusion centered on the central axis of the second opening.

[0139] [Supplementary Item 23] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 22, wherein the tip surface of the protrusion is a concave curved surface centered on the central axis.

[0140] [Supplementary Item 24] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 22, characterized in that the protrusion has a fifth opening that connects the inside and outside of the frame body and exposes the holding portion.

[0141] [Supplementary Item 25] An endoscope cover attachment system comprising: a tubular portion configured to cover a tip portion of an endoscope; a cover having a first opening provided at a base end of the tubular portion and configured to insert the tip portion into the tubular portion; and a holder having a frame body covering the cover, a second opening provided in the frame body and configured to remove the cover from the frame body, a holding portion for holding the cover on the frame body, and a fourth opening provided in the frame body, wherein the fourth opening exposes a portion of an observation window in the tip portion.

[0142] [Supplementary Item 26] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 25, wherein the fourth opening exposes a portion of the observation window in a direction intersecting with the central axis of the second opening.

[0143] [Supplementary Item 27] ​​The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 25, wherein the fourth opening exposes the locking portion.

[0144] [Supplementary Item 28] The endoscope cover attachment system according to Supplementary Item 25, wherein the tip cover has a third opening configured to expose the observation window.

[0145] [Supplementary Item 29] A method for attaching a cover for an endoscope, comprising the steps of: inserting a tip portion of an endoscope into a cover housed in a frame body of a holder; and capturing an image of the inner wall of the frame body using an imaging optical system of the endoscope.

[0146] [Supplementary Item 30] The method for attaching a cover for an endoscope according to Supplementary Item 29, further comprising the step of inserting the tip portion into the cover and engaging the cover with the tip portion while imaging the inner wall.

[0147] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 556,475 filed February 22, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, including the specification, claims, and drawings.

[0148] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 endoscope 2 insertion section 3 operation section 4 universal cable 5 distal end section 6 bending section 7 flexible tube section 8 grip section 9 treatment tool insertion port 10 bending operation knob 11 operation button 12 treatment tool raising lever 13 connector 20 distal end section main body 21 outer cover 25 lighting window 26 observation window 27 air / water supply nozzle 28 raising base accommodating groove 29 treatment tool raising base 30 treatment tool port 31l, 31r protruding plate 32l, 32r distal end section side convex section 33l, 33r key 35 convex section 45 distal end cover 46 cylindrical section 50 distal end section insertion port 51l, 51r cover side convex section 51la, 51ra ... Slit 52l, 52r ... Key groove 55 ... Opening 55a ... Eaves 56 ... Locking belt 57 ... Second part 58 ... Third part 59 ... Fourth part 60 ... Holder 61 ... Frame body 65 ... Cover removal port 66 ... Opening 67 ... Tip wall 68 ... Projection part 68a ... Tip surface 69 ... Opening 70 ... Inlet mark 75l, 75r ... First flange 76u, 76d ... Second flange 80 ... First contact surface 81 ... Second contact surface 85 ... Guide protrusion 86 ... Sliding surface 87 ... Locking claw 88 ... Elevator pressing plate 89 ... Elevator abutting surface 90 ... Pressing surface 91l, 91r ... Contact avoidance surface 92d ... Contact avoidance surface 92u: Contact avoidance surface 93: Distal end frame portion 93a: Pressing surface 94: Base end frame portion 94a: Cover removal opening 94b: Flat surface 95: Connecting plate 96: Frame plate 97: Base end frame portion 97a: Cover removal opening 98: Flange 99: Protrusion 100: Endoscope cover attachment system Ax: Longitudinal axis

Claims

1. An endoscope cover attachment system comprising: a cover having a tubular portion configured to cover the tip of an endoscope, a first opening provided at the base end of the tubular portion and configured to insert the tip into the tubular portion, and a second locking portion configured to lock onto a first locking portion of the tip; and a holder having a frame body covering the cover, a second opening provided on the frame body and configured to remove the cover from the frame body, and a retaining portion that holds the cover on the frame body, wherein the retaining portion is configured to maintain the cover held on the frame body when the holder is moved in the direction of removing the tip from the first opening with the second locking portion not locked onto the first locking portion.

2. The endoscope cover mounting system according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding portion is a protrusion that protrudes from the frame body toward the inside of the frame body.

3. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 2, wherein the cover has a third opening in which the protrusion is disposed.

4. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 3, wherein the third opening is configured to expose a portion of the tip.

5. The endoscope cover mounting system according to claim 4, wherein the part of the tip is a treatment tool lifting base.

6. The endoscope cover mounting system according to claim 2, characterized in that the holding portion is provided in the second opening and configured to contact the first opening of the cover housed in the frame body.

7. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 2, wherein the cover and the holder are connected by the protrusion.

8. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 7, wherein the material of the cover and the material of the holder are the same.

9. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 1, characterized in that the holder is formed to be harder than the cover, and the retaining portion is the inner surface of the holder that frictionally engages with the outer surface of the cover.

10. The endoscope cover mounting system described in claim 2, characterized in that when the first locking portion is locked to the second locking portion and the holder is moved in the direction of removing the tip portion from the first opening, the protrusion is configured to release the state in which the cover is held by the frame body.

11. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 10, wherein the protrusion releases the cover from the storage portion by collapsing.

12. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 10, wherein the protrusion, when broken, releases the state in which the cover is held in the storage portion.

13. The endoscope cover mounting system described in claim 1, characterized in that when the holder is moved in the direction of removing the tip portion from the first opening while the first locking portion is locked to the second locking portion, the holding portion is configured to release the state in which the cover is held by the frame body.

14. The endoscope cover mounting system according to claim 1, characterized in that the area in which the frame covers the cover includes the periphery of the second locking portion, and the second locking portion is capable of transmitting vibrations to the holder when it locks onto the first locking portion.

15. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 1, wherein the holder is made of resin.

16. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 15, wherein the resin is polycarbonate.

17. An endoscope cover attachment system comprising: a cover having a tubular portion configured to cover the tip of an endoscope, a first opening provided at the base end of the tubular portion and configured to insert the tip into the tubular portion, and a locking portion configured to lock onto the tip; and a holder having a frame body covering the cover, a second opening provided on the frame body and configured to remove the cover from the frame body, and a retaining portion for holding the cover on the frame body, wherein when the locking portion is not locked onto the tip portion, a first force which is the maximum force required to move the cover in the direction of removing the tip portion from the first opening is smaller than a second force required by the retaining portion to release the cover from the frame body.

18. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 17, wherein the first force corresponds to a frictional force generated between the engaging portion and the tip portion.

19. The endoscope cover attachment system according to claim 17, wherein the third force for releasing the engagement between the engagement portion and the tip portion is greater than the second force.

20. The endoscope cover mounting system described in claim 19, characterized in that the third force is the force required to deform the tubular portion and detach the engaging portion from the tip portion when the holder is moved in the direction of removing the tip portion from the first opening.

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