JP3369974B2 - Endoscope device - Google Patents

Description

Description: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an endoscope apparatus, and more particularly to an endoscope apparatus.
Does not peel off from each other even after high-pressure steam sterilization.
The present invention relates to an endoscope device having a rigid structure. 2. Description of the Related Art Insertion into a body cavity or the like
Observe the deep part of the patient, and use a treatment tool if necessary.
Endoscope that can perform therapeutic treatment etc. by medical
Widely used in the field. [0003] In the case of a medical endoscope, the endoscope used is checked.
Indeed, sterilization is necessary to prevent infectious diseases
Become indispensable. [0004] Conventionally, this disinfection sterilization treatment has been carried out by ethylene oxide.
Relying on gas such as oxide gas (EOG) or disinfectant
However, as is well known, sterilizing gases are very poisonous.
Sterilization work is complicated to ensure the safety of the equipment. Also, after sterilization
Aeration to remove gas adhering to equipment
The problem that it cannot be used immediately after sterilization due to the time required
There is a point. In addition, the problem of high running costs
There is a point. In the case of a disinfectant, management of the disinfectant is complicated.
And disposable disinfectant solutions require significant costs.
There is a point. Therefore, after sterilization, no complicated work is required.
Autoclave that can be used quickly and has low running cost
Reeve sterilization (high-pressure steam sterilization) is often performed on medical equipment.
ing. However, in autoclave sterilization,
Negative pressure inside the chamber and then infiltration of high-temperature, high-pressure steam
And drying under negative pressure is common.
You. In order to sterilize the endoscope, heat is required.
・ Must be resistant to high temperature and high pressure steam. Destruction
The temperature at the time of bacteria is generally around 132 ° C.
It expands when it rises. Endoscopes assembled at room temperature are hot
, Stress concentrates in part due to deformation of parts due to thermal expansion
You. The lens fits into the lens frame with a small gap
Align the center with the lens etc., multiple lenses on the lens surface
In some cases, they are bonded together and further bonded to the frame.
With this structure, the thermal expansion coefficient of the lens frame is greater than that of the lens.
Because of its large size, it is necessary to consider axial deformation due to thermal expansion.
The thermal expansion of the lens frame is larger than the thermal expansion of the lens.
There is a problem that the lenses are separated from each other
Was. Therefore, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Sho 58-90605 discloses
The lens and the lens frame should have similar thermal expansion coefficients.
Proposals have been made. In addition, the same as ethylene oxide gas sterilization
Depressurize the inside of the sterilization chamber (chamber) containing the endoscope
The endoscope should be able to withstand such low pressure environments.
Need to be built. At that time, the endoscope is generally immersed in a chemical solution
Because it has a watertight structure to enable
When the chamber is rapidly depressurized during sterilization,
The internal pressure of the mirror becomes relatively high, and inside the exterior wall of the endoscope
The most flexible part, typically the outer tube of the bend
There is a problem that it will burst and stretch. Therefore, conventionally, ethylene oxide gas elimination
When performing gas sterilization of bacteria, etc., use a common endoscope.
Valves for communication between the inside and outside of the endoscope are provided in the light guide connector, etc.
The outer skin tube of the curved part ruptures when depressurizing the chamber
Was prevented. Also, in the case of some electronic scopes, a waterproof key is used.
With ethylene oxide gas sterilization, etc.
After gas sterilization, the outer skin of the curved part during decompression in the chamber
The tube was prevented from bursting. [0013] Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 63-23045 discloses
Endoscope in a watertight structure in the outer tube
How to protect the outer tube from rupture by covering the protective member
Has also been proposed. [0014] However, the lens
Make the thermal expansion coefficients of the glass material of the frame and the lens close to each other
Is the cost of using a special metal for the lens frame
Lenses have the same coefficient of thermal expansion due to up and lens functions
Can not be adopted if the glass material cannot be used
There is a problem. [0015] In addition, during autoclave sterilization, the endoscope
If the outside is communicated, steam will enter the endoscope,
The endoscope is prematurely degraded by the steam.
Was. In particular, in the case of an electronic scope, a solid-state imaging device and the like
An imaging unit with electrical components is placed inside the endoscope.
These parts are destroyed by the infiltrated steam.
There is a problem that image failure occurs. Also, an electronic scope and a fiber scope
Both are applied to the lens surface by the vapor that has entered the endoscope.
There has been a problem that fogging occurs and poor visual field occurs. In addition, the workability of a general lens glass material
Good multi-component glass is produced by steam during autoclave sterilization.
Is deteriorated by the steam that has entered the endoscope.
There is also a problem that the material itself deteriorates and causes poor visual field.
You. [0019] Also, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 63-37921 discloses
Endoscope in a watertight structure in the outer tube
Proposal to prevent rupture of outer tube by covering with protective member
In the case, the protection member made it difficult for high-pressure steam to penetrate
Therefore, the operation of inserting the protection member up to the operation unit is troublesome. Therefore, the present invention has been made based on the above-mentioned circumstances.
The purpose is to make the optical members the same glass material
Autoclave sterilization, even when not using
Endoscope device that does not cause separation between optical members when
Is to provide. Another object of the present invention is to ensure that sterilization is achieved.
The outer shell of the curved part that can be easily assembled and removed
To provide an endoscope device having a tube protection member
It is in. According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided:
Endoscope devices were positioned and joined face to face
A plurality of optical members and the plurality of optical members are inserted and assembled.
And a frame for attaching, the endoscope device,
One of the plurality of optical members inserted into the frame;
Only the members are fitted to the frame hand Adhere and fix
Remaining light of the plurality of optical members inserted into the frame
The structural member has an inner diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the inner peripheral surface of the frame.
Then, the remaining optical member and the frame are not bonded and fixed.
It is You. In the present invention, the endoscope device is autoclaved.
When put into a sterilizer, the endoscope device is at a high temperature of about 132 ° C.
become. The frame of the optical member and the optical member such as metal
It expands at each coefficient of thermal expansion. For frames with a large coefficient of thermal expansion
Optical members that receive axial stress due to
There is only one optical member that is
Other optical members that are surface bonded receive stress from the frame
Nothing. Therefore, during sterilization with high-temperature and high-pressure steam, light
The phenomenon that the surface adhesion between the structural members peels does not occur.
No. Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
It will be described with reference to FIG. (First to Fourth Embodiments) First to Fourth Embodiments
Is a storage that can store the tube for covering the bending section of the endoscope insertion section.
Insert the endoscope body into the endoscope body (insertion section, operation section, or connector
Part), it bends during autoclave sterilization
That can protect the part covering tube
It is. (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention.
1 shows an external view of an endoscope apparatus according to an embodiment. (A) is inside
FIG. 2B is an overall view of the endoscope main body, and FIG.
FIG. (Configuration) As shown in FIG.
Reference numeral 1 denotes an operation unit 2, an insertion unit 3, and a universal cord 4.
Can be connected to a light source device or video processor (not shown)
And a functional connector section 5. The insertion section 3 is provided with an angle lever 6 of the operation section 2.
The bending portion 7 that can be bent by the operation of
You. The grip 9 of the operation section 2 includes the tip 8 of the insertion section 3 and
The storage unit 10 for storing the bending unit 7 has an opening 11
Is provided. FIG. 1 (b) shows the view of arrow A in FIG. 1 (a).
The open portion 11 of the storage portion 10 is made of an elastic material such as silicone rubber.
Tightened phosphorus as support member made of material
The plug 12 is assembled. The tightening ring 12
The small inside diameter is larger than the outside diameter of the curved portion 7 of the insertion portion 3 and the tip 8.
It is small, and the opening 8 is
When these parts 8 and 7 are inserted
The structure is easy to attach and hold. Specifically,
As shown in FIG. 1 (b), the inside of the tightening ring 12 is pleated.
May be configured. FIG. 2 shows the state of FIG.
Of the end portion 8 and the bending portion 7 of the storage portion 10 provided with the operation portion 2
FIG. (Operation) After the endoscope 1 is used, cleaning is performed.
U. Thereafter, the endoscope 1 is kept watertight, and
Insert the curved part 7 into the storage part 10 through the opening 11
Put into the Reeve sterilizer. Previous line of autoclave sterilization
In the process, the inside of the device becomes negative pressure and is filled with high-pressure steam and destroyed.
The bacterium is used, and drying is performed at a negative pressure in a later step. The process of negative pressure
Then, the endoscope tries to expand because the internal pressure is higher. Curvature
The sheath tube in section 7 is the softest and most elastic,
Ram is blocked by the inner wall of the storage unit 10
It does not swell significantly and does not burst. Haute
After reave sterilization, remove it from storage unit 10 before using it again.
The distal end portion 8 and the curved portion 7 of the insertion section 3 are pulled out. The operating portion 2 is provided with a tip portion 8 and a bending portion 7.
The insertion part 3 is bent to be inserted into the storage part 10
It is autoclaved in a state. (Effects) (1) Autoclave sterilization of the endoscope body in a watertight state
Reduce the effect of water vapor on the internal components.
Can be (2) The protective member for preventing the rupture of the curved portion is an endoscope
Curved during autoclave sterilization because it is provided on the body
Be sure to use the protective member that matches the outer diameter of the
Can be. Also, there is no need to worry about losing it like an accessory. (3) The distal end portion 8 and the curved portion 7 of the insertion portion 3 are stored.
It can be stored simply by inserting it into the storage part 10, and the insertion part 3
Autoclave is sterilized in the state where it was kept. After sterilization again
When used, the connector section 5 is not shown with a light source
Until after connecting to the video processor, the tip
8 and the bending portion 7 can be protected by the storage portion 10.
You. (Second Embodiment) FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the present invention.
The external view of the endoscope apparatus of 2nd Embodiment is shown. (Configuration) In this embodiment, the tip of the insertion section 3
The storage section 10 for storing the end section 8 and the bending section 7 is provided with an endoscope book.
It is provided on the connector section 5 of the body. Other configurations are
It is the same as FIG. (Operation) After the endoscope 1 is used, cleaning is performed.
U. Thereafter, the endoscope 1 is kept watertight, and
Insert the curved part 7 into the storage part 10 through the opening 11
Put into the Reeve sterilizer. Previous line of autoclave sterilization
In the process, the inside of the device becomes negative pressure and is filled with high-pressure steam and destroyed.
The bacterium is used, and drying is performed at a negative pressure in a later step. The process of negative pressure
Then, the endoscope tries to expand because the internal pressure is higher. Curvature
The sheath tube in section 7 is the softest and most elastic,
Ram is blocked by the inner wall of the storage unit 10
It does not swell significantly and does not burst. Haute
After reave sterilization, remove it from storage unit 10 before using it again.
The distal end portion 8 and the curved portion 7 of the insertion section 3 are pulled out. The distal end 8 and the bending portion 7 are provided on the connector 5.
The insertion part 3 is relatively
It is in a straight state, and in this state
Sterilized. (Effects) (1) When the protective member of the curved portion is provided on the connector
When the autoclave is destroyed with the insertion part relatively straight
It can be inserted into the bacteria device, and the insertion part has a bending habit.
Hateful. Also, the bending load of the entire scope is small. (2) Since there is no change in the shape of the operation unit 2,
It is good. (Third Embodiment) FIG. 4 shows a third embodiment of the present invention.
The external view of the endoscope apparatus of 3rd Embodiment is shown. (Structure) In this embodiment, the operation unit 2
The tip 8 and the curved portion 7 of the insertion portion 3 are stored in the lip 9
Storage section 13 is provided. The storage unit 13 is opened.
It is provided on the open / close lid 14 that can be closed and the grip 9,
It has a shape corresponding to the opening / closing lid 14, and
Groove portion 1 capable of accommodating distal end portion 8 and bending portion 7 of insertion portion 3
5, a locking projection 16 provided at an end of the opening / closing lid 14,
The convex portion of the opening / closing lid 14 is provided at an end of the groove 15.
16 and the protrusion 16 is engageable.
And a locking recess 17. The opening / closing lid 14 is
One side of the outer periphery has a hinge structure, and the other side has the groove.
The part 15 may be configured to be freely openable and closable,
Can be attached to and detached from the groove 15 with the lid
It may be configured to be detachable. Also, the opening / closing lid 14 and the groove portion
On each inner surface of No. 15, a semicircular shape was formed by an elastic body.
The support member 18 is assembled. The support member 18 is
It is composed of wavy silicon or sponge, etc.
15 the tip 8 and the bending portion 7 of the insertion portion 3
When closing 14, these parts 8 and 7 are tightened
It has a function to hold. The length of the storage section 13 is endoscope
From the front end 8 to the rear end of the curved section 7 in the mirror insertion section 3
Is formed to have a dimension longer than the length of Other configurations are shown in FIG.
Is the same as (Operation) When the open / close lid 14 is opened and closed in the storage portion 13,
Wear. In the opened state, the distal end portion 8 and the curved portion 7 are
Position, and close the open / close lid 14. At this time, the tip 8 and
And the curved portion 7 are supported by elastic support members 18, 18.
It is sandwiched and fixed. In addition, the convex portion 16 is elastically deformed.
The opening / closing lid 14 fits into the concave portion 17 at the end of the groove 15
Fixed. (Effects) (1) The use of the opening / closing lid 14 enables the end 8 of the endoscope and the bay.
The storage and holding of the curved portion 7 are simple. (2) Operation unit except during autoclave sterilization
Since the groove 15 provided in 2 is closed by the lid 14,
The appearance is good (even in terms of design). (Fourth Embodiment) FIG. 5 shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
The external view of the endoscope apparatus of 4th Embodiment is shown. (Configuration) As shown in FIG.
Are an operation unit 20, a rigid sheath portion 21, a bending portion 22, and
And an insertion part 24 composed of
-Can be connected to a light source device (not shown)
Light source connector 26 and video processor (not shown)
And a connectable video connector 27. video
The connector 27 has a waterproof key for keeping the inside watertight.
When the cap 28 is assembled and watertight
Is assembled to cover the electrical contacts of the video connector 27
Can be opened. The video connector 27 has a tip
A storage section 29 for storing the end rigid section 23 and the curved section 22 is provided.
Have been killed. The specific configuration of the storage section 29 is the third configuration in FIG.
This is the same as the storage section 13 of the embodiment. That is, the storage unit
Reference numeral 29 denotes a groove 291 provided in the connector 27 and the groove
A lid 292 that can be closed, and the lid is locked to the groove.
Locking projection 293 and recess 2 provided in lid and groove
94. (Operation) The opening / closing lid 292 is opened and closed in the storage section 29.
Wear. In the opened state, the distal end portion 23 and the curved portion 22 are
Position 1 and close the open / close lid 292. At this time, the tip 2
3 and the curved portion 22 are formed by elastic support members 295, 295.
And it is fixed. In addition, the convex portion 293 is elastically deformed.
Into the recess 294 at the end of the groove 291,
Is fixed. (Effects) (1) The use of the opening / closing lid 292 allows the end 23 of the endoscope and the bay to be opened.
The storage and holding of the curved portion 22 are simple. (2) Except during autoclave sterilization, the groove 291
Is closed by the lid 292,
Good looking. (3) Connection of the waterproof cap 28 and the tip 2
3 and the bending portion 22 are stored in one of the video connectors 27.
Because it is a place, it is hard to make a mistake in the connection procedure. (Fifth to Seventh Embodiments) Fifth to Seventh Embodiments
In the embodiment, a bending portion covering tube is provided at the insertion portion of the internal mirror.
And a protection that is detachably fitted to the curved portion covering tube.
In an endoscope device having a tube or a protective cover,
Autoclave sterilization with protective cover or protective tube
This is a configuration suitable for performing. (Fifth Embodiment) FIG. 6 shows a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an insertion portion in the endoscope device according to the embodiment.
is there. (A) shows the end of the endoscope insertion section 3 (see FIGS. 1 to 4).
3 shows a cross section of the end portion 8 and the curved portion 7. Also, FIG.
Bending part when the endoscope 1 does not have the storage parts 10 and 13
7 shows a sectional view of a protective cover 30 of FIG. (Construction) The protective cover 30 is permeable to gas.
It is composed of highly porous material,
A fluororesin having properties is desirable. Of the endoscope insertion section 3
The maximum outer diameter of the tip portion 8 and the bending portion 7 is d (see (a)).
When the inner diameter of the protective cover 30 is D (see (b)),
It has a relationship of D ≧ d. The protective cover 30 is provided at the tip of the insertion portion 3.
Longer than the length from the section 8 to the rear end of the curved section 7
Has been established. (Action) Put into an autoclave sterilizer
Before the insertion, the curved portion 7 is protected from the distal end 8 of the insertion portion 3 by the protective governor.
30 so that it is completely covered. The protective cover 30 is bent at the insertion portion 3.
Partially adheres to the part 7. The protection tube 30
High temperature water vapor touches the outer periphery of the curved portion 7
Therefore, sterilization can be surely performed. (Effect) The protective member 30 of the curved portion 7 is
Simple structure because it is provided in a cylindrical shape with a transparent material
Thus, the autoclave sterilization can be performed reliably. (Sixth Embodiment) FIG. 7 shows a sixth embodiment of the present invention.
Cover of insertion section in endoscope apparatus of embodiment
FIG. Different from the protective cover shown in FIG.
FIG. 2 shows a side view of the protective cover 31 having the above configuration. (Construction) The protective cover 31 has a spiral shape.
Spiral (coil) made of metal or polymer material
And higher than normal temperature and lower than 100 ° C.
Transforms at temperatures within a certain range. In addition, the protection cover 31
Assuming that the inner diameter at room temperature is D1, D1> d. Also strange
If the inner diameter in the state is D2, D22d. (Operation) The protective cover 31 is attached to the curved portion 7 (FIG. 6).
(Refer to (a))), at normal temperature, the outer peripheral surface of the curved portion 7
(Clearance) between the inner peripheral surface of the protective cover 31 and
Is easy to insert because it has
When put into a slave sterilizer, the temperature rises and the protective cover
The inner diameter of -31 becomes small, and the curved portion 7 is tightened. this
As a result, the outer tube of the curved portion 7 ruptures even at a negative pressure.
There is nothing. (Effects) (1) A material in which the protection member 31 of the curved portion 7 has a shape memory characteristic
Protected before autoclaving as it is made of quality
The member 31 can be easily assembled to the curved portion 7 in a state of expanded diameter.
Can be. (2) When performing autoclave sterilization, protector
Since the material 31 is in close contact with the curved portion 7, the outer skin of the curved portion 7 ruptures.
Without passing through high-pressure steam and
The bending section 7 can be autoclaved. (Seventh Embodiment) FIG. 8 shows a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
Cover of insertion section in endoscope apparatus of embodiment
FIG. A structure different from the protective cover shown in FIG.
FIG. 1 shows an external view of a protective cover 32 having a natural shape memory characteristic.
And a modification of the embodiment of FIG.
It is. (Construction) The protective cover 32 has a net-like shape.
It has a tubular shape made of metal with memory characteristics,
Inner diameters D1 and D2 and maximum outside of endoscope insertion part at the time of warming or transformation
The relationship with the diameter d (see FIG. 6A) is the same as that of the embodiment shown in FIG.
The same as the protective cover 31 in FIG. (Operation) The protective cover 32 is connected to the curved portion 7 (FIG. 6).
(Refer to (a))), at normal temperature, the outer peripheral surface of the curved portion 7
(Clearance) between the inner surface of the protective cover 32 and
Is easy to insert because it has
When put into a slave sterilizer, the temperature rises and the protective cover
The inside diameter of -32 becomes small, and the curved portion 7 is tightened. this
As a result, the outer tube of the curved portion 7 ruptures even at a negative pressure.
There is nothing. (Effects) (1) A material in which the protection member 31 of the curved portion 7 has a shape memory characteristic
Protected before autoclaving as it is made of quality
The member 31 can be easily assembled to the curved portion 7 in a state of expanded diameter.
Can be. (2) When performing autoclave sterilization, protector
Since the material 31 is in close contact with the curved portion 7, the outer skin of the curved portion 7 ruptures.
Without passing through high-pressure steam and
The bending section 7 can be autoclaved. (Eighth to Tenth Embodiments) Eighth to First Embodiments
In the embodiment of the present invention, the heat
A structure in which separation between optical members due to a difference in expansion coefficient does not occur.
It was a good thing. (Eighth Embodiment) FIG. 9 shows an eighth embodiment of the present invention.
1 shows an imaging unit in an endoscope apparatus according to an embodiment.
FIG. The distal end portion 8 of the insertion section 3 of the endoscope 1 (see FIGS.
4 or the insertion portion 24 in the endoscope 19 of FIG.
Of the imaging unit 33 incorporated in the tip portion 23) of the
Plane. (Construction) Inserted at the tip of the imaging unit 33
The cover glass 34 exposed on the outer peripheral surface of the portion 3 is made of a metal frame.
35 is metal-welded. The frame 35 is made of metal or
Is a CCD holder 36 made of insulating ceramic.
Metal welded. The CCD holder 36 has a plurality of light
Configure a frame for assembling the structural members (39-42)
I have. Behind the cover glass 34, an objective lens group 37 is provided.
Are assembled and fixed to the lens frame 38. The solid-state image sensor 39 is positioned on the cover glass 40.
It is put out and glued and fixed. Cover glass 40
Optical member 41 such as optical filter and lens 42
Each is positioned and fixed. Outer diameter of optical member 41
Is larger than the outer diameter of the lens 42. Optical member 41, lens 42 and solid-state image pickup device
Cover glass 40 with 39 attached to CCD holder
Insert at 36. Optical member 4 in hole of CCD holder 36
1 and the inside diameter of the part where the lens 42 is inserted
I have. The outer diameter of the optical member 41 is
It is almost the same as the inside diameter. CCD holder 36 and solid-state imaging
The fixing of the element 39 is performed by the outer peripheral surface of the optical member 41 and the CCD holder.
The inner surface of the holder 36 is fitted and fixed with adhesive,
The periphery of the source 40 and the end of the CCD holder 36 are bonded.
At this time, the inner peripheral surface of the CCD holder 36 and the outer
No adhesive is attached to the peripheral surface. The lens frame 38 and the CCD holder 36 are
It is focused and adhered and fixed. After this CCD
The holder 36 and the frame 35 are metal-joined. A cable is provided behind the solid-state image sensor 39.
43 is electrically connected via a substrate 44, and a cable 4
Reference numeral 3 denotes an end (not shown) of a connector portion 5 (see FIGS. 1-3).
Connected to a video processor (not shown).
You. (Operation) Observation section when using the endoscope 1
Cover glass 34, objective lens group 37, cover glass
An image is formed by the solid-state image sensor 39 through the source 40 and the like. this
After signal processing, transmission to the board 44, amplification, and cable
And transmits it to a video processor (not shown).
No. processing is performed, and it is projected on a monitor (not shown). In the sterilization process of autoclave sterilization, high temperature
(About 132 ° C) depending on the coefficient of thermal expansion of each material
To expand. When the CCD holder 36 is made of metal, glass
Expands more. The CCD holder 36 and the optical member
Only one member 41 is fitted and bonded and fixed
As a result, stress is applied to the bonding surface between the optical members due to axial deformation.
There is nothing wrong. (Effect) Even after autoclaving,
No delamination occurs on the bonded surfaces of multiple optical members
effective. (Ninth Embodiment) FIG. 10 shows a ninth embodiment of the present invention.
9 shows an imaging unit in an endoscope apparatus according to a ninth embodiment.
FIG. The distal end portion 8 of the insertion section 3 of the endoscope 1 (see FIG. 1)
To FIG. 4 or the insertion portion 2 in the endoscope 19 of FIG.
Of the imaging unit 45 incorporated in the front end 23 of the
It shows a cross section. (Structure) Inserted at the tip of the imaging unit 45
The cover glass 34 exposed on the outer peripheral surface of the portion 3 is made of a metal frame.
35 is metal-welded. The frame 35 is made of metal or
Is a CCD holder 46 made of insulating ceramics.
Metal welded. The CCD holder 46 has a plurality of light
Frames for assembling structural members (39, 47 to 49)
Has formed. The solid-state image sensor 39 is located on the cover glass 47.
It is put out and glued and fixed. Cover glass 47
Outer diameter of the size that cannot be inserted into the hole of the CCD holder 46
Or have a variant. The cover glass 47 is an optical filter.
Position on the optical member 48 such as a filter and the lens 49
Out and fixed. Outer diameter of optical member 48 and lens
49 have the same outer diameter. Optical member 48, lens 49 and solid-state image sensor
The cover glass 47 to which the cover 39 is attached is attached to the CCD holder 4.
Insert into 6. The lens 49 is the step of the CCD holder 46
It hits the part 50 and is positioned. Then the cover
The end faces of the glass 47 and the CCD holder 46 are in the axial direction.
There is a gap. The optical member 48 in the hole of the CCD holder 46
The inner diameter of the inner circumference is almost the same as the outer diameter of the optical member 48
The inner diameter of the inner periphery of the hole where the lens 49 is located is
Is larger than the outside diameter. The CCD holder 46 and the solid-state image sensor 39
Fixing is performed between the outer peripheral surface of the optical member 48 and the CCD holder 46.
The peripheral surface is fitted and adhesively fixed, and the periphery of the cover glass 47 is
And the end of the CCD holder 36. Other configurations
Is the same as the embodiment of FIG. (Action) During the autoclave sterilization process
Is the high temperature (about 132 ° C) and the thermal expansion of each material
It expands according to the rate. CCD holder 36 is a metal place
When expanded, it expands more than glass. CCD holder 46 and light
The optical member 48 is adhered and the optical member 48 is adhered.
Lens 49 and CCD holder 46 are fixed
The adhesive surface between the optical member 48 and the lens 49 is peeled off
Nothing to do. Also, the CCD holder 46 and the cover
Since the lath 47 has a gap, the cover glass 47
Influenced by stress due to thermal expansion of CCD holder 46
And the bonding surface between the cover glass 47 and the optical member 48
Does not peel off. Other functions are shown in FIG.
Same as state. (Effects) (1) Even if autoclave sterilization is performed, a plurality of optical members
No peeling occurs on the bonded surfaces. (2) The optical member attached to the solid-state imaging device
The size can be increased. (3) Affixed to the solid-state imaging device,
Optical members to be inserted into the
Therefore, the assembling work to the solid-state imaging device is easy. (4) Other effects are the same as in the embodiment of FIG.
The same. (Tenth Embodiment) FIG.
Cross section of insertion section in endoscope apparatus of tenth embodiment
The figure is shown. Of the insertion section 3 of the endoscope (fiberscope)
2 shows a cross section of the tip 8. (Structure) The tip of the tip 8 formed of metal
A hole 5 for inserting an optical member (54 to 57) is provided in the end body 51.
2 are provided. The objective lens is adhered and fixed to the lens frame 53.
Cover glass 54, lens 55, lens 57
It is composed of The cover glass 54 has the same outer shape as the lens 55.
Of the lens frame 53 where the lens 55 is located.
The inner diameter of the inner peripheral surface is the inner diameter of the inner peripheral surface where the cover glass 54 is located.
It is larger than the inner diameter. The cover glass 54 and the lens 55 are aligned.
It is fixed by bonding. Also, with the lens frame 53
The cover glass 54 is fitted and adhered and fixed.
The closing frame 53 and the lens 55 are not bonded and fixed. On the end face of the optical fiber bundle 56 for image guide
The lens 57 that has been aligned and attached is an optical fiber bundle.
57 is smaller than the outer diameter of the end on the object side. With optical fiber bundle 56
Insert the lens 57 into the hole 52 of the main body 51 to adjust the focus.
The inner surface of the hole 52 and the optical fiber bundle 56 are fitted and bonded and fixed.
ing. The lens 57 and the inner surface of the hole 52 are adhesively fixed.
Absent. Reference numeral 58 denotes a treatment tool channel. (Action) During the sterilization process of autoclave sterilization
Is the high temperature (about 132 ° C) and the thermal expansion of each material
It expands according to the rate. Assembling optical members (54-57)
The lens frame 53 and the tip main body 51 serving as frames for mounting are made of metal.
Swells more than glass. The lens frame 53 and the cover glass 54 are adhered firmly.
Fixed and bonded to cover glass 54
55 indicates that the lens frame 53 is not adhered and fixed.
-The adhesive surface between the glass 54 and the lens 55 does not peel
No. Also, the inner surface of the hole 52 of the main body 51 and the optical fiber bundle 56
The optical fiber bundle 56 is bonded and fixed.
Since the lens 57 is not bonded to the inner surface of the hole 52,
The adhesive surface between the fiber bundle 56 and the lens 57 does not peel off.
No. (Effects) (1) The lens attached to the cover glass is
It does not peel off during sterilization. (2) The lens bonded to the optical fiber bundle is
No peeling due to autoclave sterilization. (3) Autoclaving the endoscope body in a watertight state
Sterilization can be performed. [Supplementary Note] (Supplementary Note 1) A plurality of optical members joined by a plane to each other,
A frame for assembling the optical member.
Wherein one of the joined optical members is
Only the frame is fitted to the frame, and
An endoscope apparatus characterized by the following. (Appendix 2) The endoscope apparatus is
Described in Additional Item 1, characterized in that the
Endoscope device. (Appendix 3) Fitted and bonded and fixed to the frame
The optical member is a solid-state image sensor or lens cover.
The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the endoscope is glass.
apparatus. (Appendix 4) Fitted and bonded and fixed to the frame
Wherein the optical member is an optical fiber bundle.
2. The endoscope apparatus according to claim 1. (Appendix 5) Covering the curved portion of the endoscope insertion section
The endoscope body has a storage section that can store tubes.
An endoscope device characterized by the above-mentioned. (Appendix 6) The storage section is an endoscope insertion section.
At least as long as the length from the tip to the back end of the tube
An additional item characterized by having a cylindrical space.
6. The endoscope apparatus according to 5. (Additional Item 7) The storage section is provided for insertion of an endoscope.
Attached to a part or connector part
Item 6. The endoscope apparatus according to Item 5. (Appendix 8) The endoscope apparatus is
Item 5 characterized in that it can be sterilized
Endoscope device. (Appendix 9) The endoscope insertion portion has a curved portion covering
A tube that can be detachably attached to the curved section covering tube.
In an endoscope apparatus having a protective cover to be fitted,
The protective cover is made of a material that has gas permeable pores
However, the inner diameter is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the bending section of the endoscope insertion section.
When performing autoclave sterilization.
An endoscope device which is fitted to a probe. (Additional Item 10) Covering the insertion section of the endoscope with a curved portion
With tube
An endoscope apparatus having a protective cover to be fitted,
The protective cover is made of metal or polymer with shape memory properties
The inner diameter of the protective cover is the endoscope insertion part at room temperature.
Larger than the outside diameter of the curved part, higher than normal temperature and higher than 100 ° C
Transformed at low temperature, almost the same as the outer diameter of the curved part of the endoscope insertion part
An endoscope apparatus characterized by being changed so as to have a diameter. The operation of the above-mentioned additional items 1 to 10 will be described.
explain. In additions 1, 2, and 3,
When put into a sterilizer, the endoscope device is heated to about 132
° C. The optical member and the frame made of metal etc.
Expands at a thermal expansion coefficient of Axial direction with frame with large coefficient of thermal expansion
The optical member that receives the stress in the
Only one optical member, and the surface
Other optical components are not subject to stress from the frame.
No. Therefore, when sterilized by high-temperature and high-pressure steam,
There is no occurrence of a phenomenon in which the surface bond of the layer is peeled off. In the additional item 4, the optical member is an optical fiber
The lens is attached to the bundle and the optical fiber bundle.
It is a main body made of metal or the like at the end of the endoscope insertion portion. Optical fiber bundle
Is inserted into the hole provided in the body at the tip, and
Glued. However, the lens bonded to the optical fiber bundle
It is not adhesively fixed to the end body. Put into an autoclave sterilizer,
When the device becomes hot, the metal body is
The lens has a higher thermal expansion coefficient, but the lens is thermally deformed by the metal body.
Optical fiber bundle and lens are separated due to no stress caused by
I will not. In additions 5, 6, 7 and 8, the endoscope
After using for the procedure, wash. After this, the endoscope insertion point
Insert the curved part from the end into the storage part provided in the endoscope body
And put into an autoclave sterilizer. During the autoclave sterilization process,
If there is an empty stroke, the inside of the sterilization chamber becomes vacuum and the endoscope
The internal pressure becomes relatively high and the endoscope tries to expand. this
When the endoscope's most bulging curved tube is
Begins to see, but is blocked by the inner wall of the storage
Inability to inflate, causing tubing to burst
There is no. After autoclaving is complete, insert the endoscope.
Remove the tip of the entrance from the storage section. The endoscope body is autoclaved in a watertight state.
Because bacteria can be carried out, the effect of water vapor on
Can be reduced. The storage section is fixed to the endoscope body in advance.
Outside diameter of the bend during autoclave sterilization.
Use the protective member (storage section) that was included in
be able to. Also, don't worry about losing like accessories
No. In the additional item 7, in addition to the above,
Protection member (storage part) is provided on the connector
Autoclave with the insertion part relatively straight
It can be put into a sterilizer and has a bent
Has an effect that is difficult to cut. In the additional item 9, the endoscope is used for the procedure.
Thereafter, cleaning is performed. After this, protect the endoscope from the end of the insertion section.
Cover with a bar and put into an autoclave sterilizer. In the autoclave sterilization process,
If there is an empty stroke, the inside of the sterilization chamber becomes vacuum and the endoscope
The internal pressure becomes relatively high and the endoscope tries to expand. this
When the endoscope's most bulging curved tube is
Begins to see, but is blocked by the inner wall of the protective cover
Can not inflate, and the cover may
There is no. Also, since the protective cover allows gas to pass through,
Water vapor spreads over the outer peripheral surface of the cover of the curved part, ensuring
Can be sterilized. Autoclave sterilization is completed
After that, remove the protective cover from the endoscope insertion part. The endoscope body is autoclaved in a watertight state.
Because bacteria can be carried out, the effect of water vapor on
Can be reduced. The protective member of the curved part is gas permeable.
Since it is provided in a tubular shape with a material that
Reliable autoclave sterilization can be performed. In the additional item 10, the endoscope is used for the procedure.
After use, wash. After this, it is protected from the endoscope insertion section tip
Cover and put into autoclave sterilizer. In the autoclave sterilization process,
If there is an empty stroke, the inside of the sterilization chamber becomes vacuum and the endoscope
The internal pressure becomes relatively high and the endoscope tries to expand. Ma
In addition, protective cover to perform before vacuum process after raising the temperature
Deforms, the inner diameter becomes smaller,
Attach. The endoscope swells most when the chamber is evacuated.
The sheath tube of the curved part starts to swell,
Barred by the inner wall of the bar, it can swell more than the inner wall
The tubing does not burst. Haute
After the sterilization of the lave is completed, insert the protective cover from the endoscope insertion section.
Remove. The endoscope body is autoclaved in a watertight state.
Because bacteria can be carried out, the effect of water vapor on
Can be reduced. Protective member of curved part is shape memory
Easy to assemble when provided with a material with characteristics
And the outer skin of the curved part does not rupture. As described above, according to the present invention, the optical
Even if the members are not using the same glass material,
Separation of optical members occurs when performing lave sterilization
Nothing. When autoclaving is performed
The bendable outer tube can be reliably sterilized and assembled easily.
Construct a protective member that can be attached and removed
Can be.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an external view of an endoscope apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an external view showing a state in which a distal end portion and a curved portion of an insertion portion in FIG. 1 are stored in a storage portion. FIG. 3 is an external view of an endoscope apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an external view of an endoscope apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is an external view of an endoscope apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a sectional view showing a protective cover in an endoscope apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a side view showing a protective cover in an endoscope apparatus according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an external view showing a protective cover in an endoscope apparatus according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a sectional view showing a relationship between an optical member and a frame thereof in an endoscope apparatus according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing a relationship between an optical member and a frame thereof in an endoscope apparatus according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a sectional view showing a relationship between an optical member and a frame thereof in an endoscope apparatus according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. [Description of Signs] 1 endoscope 2 operating part 3 insertion part 4 universal cord 5 connector part 6 angle lever 7 bending part 8 tip part 9 grip 10 storage part 11 opening 12 … Tightening ring 13… Storage part 14… Open / close lid 15… Groove 16… Protrusion 17… Recess 18… Support member 19… Endoscope 20… Operation part 21… Hard sheath 22… Bend 23… Hard tip 24… Insertion part 25 Universal cable 26 Light source connector 27 Video connector 28 Waterproof cap 29 Storage part 30 Protective cover 31 Protective cover 32 Protective cover 33 Imaging unit 34 Cover glass 35 Frame 36 CCD holder 37 ... Objective lens group 38 ... Lens frame 39 ... Solid-state image sensor 40 ... Cover glass 41 ... Optical member 42 ... Lens 43 ... Cable 44 ... Substrate 45 ... Imaging unit 4 6 CCD holder 47 Cover glass 48 Optical member 49 Lens 50 Step 51 Main body 52 Hole 53 Lens frame 54 Cover glass 55 Lens 56 Optical fiber bundle 57 Lens

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Seiichi Higuma 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Inside O-limpus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Takao Yamaguchi 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo No. Oh-Limpus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Hiroshi Tatsuno 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo In-house Olympus Optical Industries Co., Ltd. (72) Kazutaka Nakachi 2-43 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo No. 2 Within Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Takahiro Kishi 2-43-2, Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan No. 2 Inventor Yasuhito Kura, Inside (72) O-limpus Optical Co., Ltd. 2-43, Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo No. 2 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. (56) References JP-A-4-114623 (JP, A) JP-A-63-247459 (JP, A) (58) The field (Int.Cl. ^7, DB name) A61B 1/00 - 1/32

Claims (1)

(57) [Claim 1] An endoscope having a plurality of optical members positioned and joined to each other by a surface, and a frame for inserting and assembling the plurality of optical members. In the apparatus, only one optical member of the plurality of optical members inserted into the frame is fitted and fixed to the frame by bonding, and the other of the plurality of optical members inserted into the frame is fixed. Wherein the optical member has an inner diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the inner peripheral surface of the frame, and the remaining optical member and the frame are not bonded and fixed.