U.S. patent application number 15/568748 was filed with the patent office on 2019-04-25 for endoscope cap, endoscope and method of manufacturing endoscope cap.
The applicant listed for this patent is HOYA CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Yoshitsugu Hosogoe.
Application Number | 20190117045 15/568748 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 60992464 |
Filed Date | 2019-04-25 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190117045 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hosogoe; Yoshitsugu |
April 25, 2019 |
ENDOSCOPE CAP, ENDOSCOPE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING ENDOSCOPE
CAP
Abstract
Provided is an endoscope cap or the like with an elevator which
is easily attached to and detached from the distal end of an
endoscope. An endoscope cap attachable to and detachable from an
endoscope including a lever pivotally provided at a distal end of
an insertion part of an endoscope and a pivot part causing the
lever to pivot comprises: a cylindrical cover; and an elevator
which is pivotally supported at the inside of the cover, is
connected to the lever when the endoscope is attached to the cover,
and pivots in response to pivoting of the lever.
Inventors: |
Hosogoe; Yoshitsugu; (Tokyo,
JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
HOYA CORPORATION |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
60992464 |
Appl. No.: |
15/568748 |
Filed: |
July 18, 2017 |
PCT Filed: |
July 18, 2017 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2017/025966 |
371 Date: |
October 25, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 1/00098 20130101;
A61B 1/018 20130101; A61B 1/00137 20130101; A61B 1/0057 20130101;
A61B 1/00 20130101; G02B 23/24 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 1/00 20060101
A61B001/00; A61B 1/005 20060101 A61B001/005 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 19, 2016 |
JP |
2016-141763 |
Jul 19, 2016 |
JP |
2016-141764 |
Claims
1-23. (canceled)
24. An endoscope cap attachable to and detachable from an endoscope
including a lever pivotally provided at a distal end of an
insertion part of an endoscope and a pivot part causing the lever
to pivot, comprising: a bottomed cylindrical cover having an
opening end which is attachable to and detachable from a distal end
of the insertion part of the endoscope; a pedestal fixed to an
inside of the cover and having an elevator attachment hole; and an
elevator located inside the cover and having an elevator shaft
inserted into the elevator attachment hole, an elevating part
protruding in a direction intersecting the elevator shaft, and a
connection concave part opened at the opening end side of the
elevator and connected to the lever, the elevator being pivotable
around the elevator shaft with respect to the pedestal.
25. The endoscope cap according to claim 24, wherein the cover has,
at an edge of a contact part with the pedestal, a first fixing
projection protruding toward the pedestal.
26. The endoscope cap according to claim 24, wherein the cover
includes, at an inner side surface, a second fixing projection
having an L shape protruding toward the opening end, and the
pedestal includes a third fixing projection having an L shape
opposed to the second fixing projection and protruding toward a
bottom of the cover.
27. The endoscope cap according to claim 24, wherein the cover
includes a pedestal fixing hole at the bottom, and the pedestal
includes a fourth fixing projection inserted into the pedestal
fixing hole.
28. The endoscope cap according to claim 24, wherein the pedestal
is integrally formed with the cover.
29. The endoscope cap according to claim 24, wherein the cover
includes, at an inner surface, an attachment projection formed in a
line along the opening end.
30. The endoscope cap according to claim 24, wherein the cover has
a window part opened at a side surface, and the elevator is
pivotable in a direction of changing a distance between the
elevator and the window part.
31. An endoscope cap attachable to and detachable from an endoscope
including a lever pivotally provided at a distal end of an
insertion part of an endoscope and a pivot part causing the lever
to pivot, comprising: a bottomed cylindrical cover having an
opening end which is attachable to and detachable from a distal end
of an insertion part of the endoscope; a pedestal fixed to the
inside of the cover and having an elevator attachment hole; and an
elevator located inside the cover and having an elevator shaft
inserted into the elevator attachment hole, an elevating part
protruding in a direction intersecting the elevator shaft, and an
elevator projection protruding at the opening end side of the
elevator and connected to the lever, the elevator being pivotable
around the elevator shaft with respect to the pedestal.
32. The endoscope cap according to claim 31, wherein the cover has,
at an edge of a contact part with the pedestal, a first fixing
projection protruding toward the pedestal.
33. The endoscope cap according to claim 31, wherein the cover
includes, at an inner side surface, a second fixing projection
having an L shape protruding toward the opening end, and the
pedestal includes a third fixing projection having an L shape
opposed to the second fixing projection and protruding toward a
bottom of the cover.
34. The endoscope cap according to claim 31, wherein the cover
includes a pedestal fixing hole at the bottom, and the pedestal
includes a fourth fixing projection inserted into the pedestal
fixing hole.
35. The endoscope cap according to claim 31, wherein the pedestal
is integrally formed with the cover.
36. The endoscope cap according to claim 31, wherein the cover
includes, at an inner surface, an attachment projection formed in a
line along the opening end.
37. The endoscope cap according to claim 31, wherein the cover has
a window part opened at a side surface, and the elevator is
pivotable in a direction of changing a distance between the
elevator and the window part.
38. (canceled)
39. (canceled)
40. An endoscope, comprising: a hollow lever chamber protruding
from a part of a distal end of an insertion part in an insertion
direction and including a support wall along the insertion
direction; a pivot part operated remotely from an outside of the
lever chamber; and a lever including a lever shaft penetrating the
support wall, a pivot connection part located contiguous to the
lever shaft, accommodated in the lever chamber and connected to the
pivot part, and an elevator projection protruding in a direction
intersecting the lever shaft outside the lever chamber and exposed
to a surface, the lever being pivotable around the lever shaft.
41. The endoscope according to claim 40, comprising an endoscope
cap including: a bottomed cylindrical cover having an opening end
which is attachable to and detachable from a distal end of an
insertion part of the endoscope; a pedestal fixed to an inside of
the cover and having an elevator attachment hole; and an elevator
located inside the cover and having an elevator shaft inserted into
the elevator attachment hole, an elevating part protruding in a
direction intersecting the elevator shaft, and a connection concave
part opened at the opening end side of the elevating part, the
elevator being pivotable around the elevator shaft with respect to
the pedestal, wherein in a case where the opening end is attached
to the distal end of the insertion part, the elevator projection is
located in the connection concave part, and the elevator shaft is
disposed coaxially with the lever shaft.
42. The endoscope according to claim 41, wherein the elevator
projection has a planar part at a side surface, and the connection
concave part has a planar part at a portion corresponding to the
planar part.
43. The endoscope according to claim 41, wherein the elevator
projection has a side surface concave part at a side surface, and
the connection concave part has, at an inner surface, an inner
surface convex part corresponding to the side surface concave
part.
44. The endoscope according to claim 40, wherein the pivot
connection part protrudes in a direction intersecting the lever
shaft.
45. The endoscope according to claim 40, wherein the pivot part is
an elevating wire penetrating the insertion part.
46-56. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is the national phase under 35 U. S. C.
.sctn. 371 of PCT International Application No. PCT/JP2017/025966
which has an International filing date of Jul. 18, 2017 and
designated the United States of America.
FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to an endoscope cap, an
endoscope and a method of manufacturing an endoscope cap.
BACKGROUND
[0003] An endoscope having an elevator at the distal end of a
channel passing through the inside of an insertion part has been
used. The elevator is used to bend a treatment tool or the like
inserted into the channel and to guide the tool to have a desired
orientation.
[0004] An endoscope provided with a wall between an elevator and an
elevating wire which moves the elevator is disclosed in Japanese
Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. H8-56900 (hereinafter,
referred to as Patent Document 1). An endoscope having an elevator
mounted to a cap which is detachable from the distal end of an
insertion part is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application
Laid-Open Publication No. 2002-17655 (hereinafter, referred to as
Patent Document 2).
[0005] An endoscope in which an elevator, an elevating wire and a
cap covering the elevator are detachable from an insertion part is
disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No.
H6-315458 (hereinafter, referred to as Patent Document 3).
SUMMARY
[0006] The endoscope disclosed in Patent Document 1 takes a lot of
work in cleaning because of its complicated structure around the
elevator. The endoscopes disclosed in Patent Documents 2 and 3
require a lot of trouble in attachment and detachment of the
cap.
[0007] According to an aspect, an object is to provide an endoscope
cap with an elevator which is easily attached to and detached from
the distal end of an endoscope.
[0008] An endoscope cap attachable to and detachable from an
endoscope including a lever pivotally provided at a distal end of
an insertion part of the endoscope and a pivot part causing the
lever to pivot, comprises: a bottomed cylindrical cover that has an
opening end that is attachable to and detachable from the distal
end of the insertion part of the endoscope; a pedestal that is
fixed to an inner side of the cover and that has an elevator
attachment hole; and an elevator that is located at the inner side
of the cover, and that has an elevator shaft inserted into the
elevator attachment hole, an elevating part protruding in a
direction intersecting the elevator shaft and a connection concave
part opened at the opening end side of the elevating part and
connected to the lever, the elevator being able to pivot around the
elevator shaft with respect to the pedestal.
[0009] According to an aspect, an endoscope cap with an elevator
which is easily attached to and detached from the distal end of the
endoscope may be provided.
[0010] The above and further objects and features will more fully
be apparent from the following detailed description with
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates an outer appearance of an endoscope;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a distal end of an insertion
part;
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a state where a treatment tool tip end
protrudes from the distal end of the insertion part;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cap;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an elevator;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the distal end of the
insertion part before the cap is attached;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the distal end of the
insertion part before the cap is attached;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a lever;
[0019] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the lever;
[0020] FIG. 10 is a side view of the distal end of the insertion
part;
[0021] FIG. 11 is a section view of the insertion part taken along
the line XI-XI in FIG. 10;
[0022] FIG. 12 is a section view of the insertion part taken along
the line XII-XII in FIG. 11;
[0023] FIG. 13 is a section view of the cover taken along the line
XIII-XIII in FIG. 10;
[0024] FIG. 14 is a section view illustrating the procedure of
attaching the cap to the distal end of the insertion part;
[0025] FIG. 15 is a section view of the insertion part taken along
the line XV-XV in FIG. 10;
[0026] FIG. 16 is a section view of the endoscope in which an
elevator is elevated;
[0027] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a cap according
to Embodiment 2;
[0028] FIG. 18 is a section view of the cap according to Embodiment
2;
[0029] FIG. 19 is a section view of the cap according to Embodiment
2 taken along the line XIX-XIX in FIG. 18;
[0030] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a cap according
to Embodiment 3;
[0031] FIG. 21 is a side view of a pedestal and an elevator
according to Embodiment 3 combined together;
[0032] FIG. 22 illustrates the state where the cover and the
pedestal according to Embodiment 3 are in the process of being
combined together;
[0033] FIG. 23 is a section view of the cap according to Embodiment
3;
[0034] FIG. 24 is a section view of the cap according to Embodiment
3 taken along the line XXIV-XXIV in FIG. 23;
[0035] FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of a cap according
to Embodiment 4;
[0036] FIG. 26 is a section view of the cap according to Embodiment
4;
[0037] FIG. 27 is a section view of a portion where a lever and an
elevator according to Embodiment 5 are connected with each
other;
[0038] FIG. 28 is a section view of an insertion part according to
Embodiment 6;
[0039] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a distal end of an
insertion part according to Embodiment 7 before a cap is
attached;
[0040] FIG. 30 is a section view of the insertion part according to
Embodiment 7;
[0041] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a lever according to
Embodiment 7;
[0042] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a cap according to
Embodiment 7;
[0043] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a lever according to
Embodiment 8;
[0044] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a cap according to
Embodiment 8;
[0045] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a cap according to
Embodiment 9;
[0046] FIG. 36 is a section view of a portion where a lever and an
elevator according to Embodiment 10 are connected with each other;
and
[0047] FIG. 37 is a section view of a portion where a lever and an
elevator according to Embodiment 11 are connected with each
other.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiment 1
[0048] FIG. 1 illustrates the outer appearance of an endoscope 10.
The endoscope 10 according to the present embodiment is a flexible
endoscope directed to an upper gastrointestinal tract. The
endoscope 10 has an operation part 20 and an insertion part 30. The
operation part 20 includes an elevator operation lever 21, a
channel inlet 22 and a bending knob 23. The operation part 20 is
connected to a video processor, a light source device, a display
device and so forth that are not illustrated.
[0049] The insertion part 30 is long and has one end connected to
the operation part 20. The insertion part 30 has, from the
operation part 20 side, a flexible section 12, a bending section 13
and a cap 50. The flexible section 12 is flexible. The bending
section 13 bends in response to the operation of the bending knob
23. The cap 50 covers a rigid distal end portion 31 (see FIG. 2)
that is contiguous from the bending section 13. The cap 50 is an
example of an endoscope cap according to the present
embodiment.
[0050] In the endoscope 10 according to the present embodiment, the
cap 50 may be attached or detached to/from the distal end portion
31. The cap 50 has a cover 52 which is an exterior member and an
elevator 80 (see FIG. 2). The detailed structure of the cap 50 will
be described later.
[0051] In the following description, the longitudinal direction of
the insertion part 30 will be referred to as an insertion
direction. Likewise, along the insertion direction, the side closer
to the operation part 20 will be referred to as a proximal side,
whereas the side farther from the operation part 20 will be
referred to as a distal side.
[0052] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a distal end of the
insertion part 30. FIG. 3 illustrates the state where a treatment
tool tip end 41 protrudes from the distal end of the insertion part
30. The configuration of the endoscope 10 according to the present
embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.
[0053] A distal end portion 31 located at the distal end of the
bending section 13 has, on one side thereof, an observation window
36 and an illumination window 37 that are aligned on one side along
the insertion direction. The illumination window 37 is located more
toward the distal side than the observation window 36. The distal
end portion 31 has a channel outlet 35 at the proximal side on the
other side thereof. An elevating part 83 is disposed at the distal
side of the channel outlet 35. The cover 52 which covers the distal
end portion 31 has a substantially rectangular window part 53 at a
portion corresponding to the observation window 36, illumination
window 37 and elevating part 83.
[0054] The illumination window 37 directs the illumination light
emitted from a light source device (not illustrated). Through the
observation window 36, it is possible to optically observe the area
irradiated with the illumination light. The endoscope 10 according
to the present embodiment is of a so-called side view type, in
which a viewing direction for optical observation is a direction
intersecting the insertion direction. The endoscope 10 may also be
of a forward oblique view type with a viewing direction somewhat
inclined toward the distal end or a backward oblique view type with
a viewing direction somewhat inclined toward the proximal end.
[0055] The channel inlet 22 and the channel outlet 35 are connected
with each other by a channel 34 running through the inner side of
the flexible section 12 and the bending section 13. The treatment
tool 40 may be inserted through the channel inlet 22 from the
treatment tool tip end 41, to protrude the treatment tool tip end
41 from the channel outlet 35.
[0056] As illustrated by the solid line in FIG. 3, the treatment
tool tip end 41 protrudes while curving gently over the elevating
part 83. If the elevator operation lever 21 is operated as
illustrated by the arrow in FIG. 1, a lever 60 moves as described
later, and an elevator 80 also moves in conjunction with the lever
60. As the elevator 80 moves, the treatment tool tip end 41 located
over the elevator 80 is bent toward the proximal side, i.e. the
operation part 20 side, as indicated by the arrows in FIGS. 1 and
3. The movement of the treatment tool tip end 41 is photographed by
an image sensor (not illustrated) or the like through the
observation window 36, and is displayed on a display device (not
illustrated).
[0057] The treatment tool 40 is an instrument for treatment, for
example, a high-frequency knife, forceps or contrast tube. The
instrument to be inserted into the channel 34 is not limited to the
instrument for treatment. For example, an instrument for
observation such as an ultrasound probe or ultra-slim endoscope may
also be inserted into the channel 34 and used. In the following
description, the treatment tool 40 includes an instrument for
observation.
[0058] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cap 50. FIG. 4 is a
perspective view of a cap 50 when viewed from the attachment side
to the endoscope 10. The cap 50 has a cover 52, a pedestal 70 and
an elevator 80. The cover 52 has a bottomed cylindrical shape
having an opening end 56 at one end thereof and a bottom at the
other end thereof. The cover 52 has, at the opening end 56 side of
the window part 53, a protrusion 49 which protrudes inward.
[0059] The pedestal 70 has a first wall 77 rising toward the window
part 53 from the inner surface of the cover 52 that is opposed to
the window part 53, and a second wall 78 extending from the first
wall 77 on the cover 52 side along the inner surface of the cover
52. The first wall 77 has the shape of a plate with its wide
surface being parallel to the axial direction of the cover 52.
[0060] The pedestal 70 has an elevator attachment hole 76
penetrating through the first wall 77. The pedestal 70 is fixed to
the inner surface of the cover 52 by adhesion or welding while the
elevator 80 is pivotally attached to the elevator attachment hole
76. The pivot here means rotary motion within a predetermined angle
range.
[0061] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the elevator 80. The
configuration of the elevator 80 will be described with reference
to FIGS. 4 and 5. The elevator 80 has an elevator shaft 82, an
elevating part 83 and a lever connection part 81. The elevator
shaft 82 is a columnar shaft with an expanding slot. The elevator
shaft 82 has, at an end thereof, a retainer with a diameter one
size larger than that of the elevator shaft 82. The elevating part
83 is disposed in a direction intersecting the central axis of the
elevator shaft 82. The elevating part 83 has, at one surface
thereof, a spoon-shaped recess 84 which is wider at a side distant
from the elevator shaft 82.
[0062] The lever connection part 81 is located at the elevator
shaft 82 side of the elevating part 83. The lever connection part
81 is a round hole opened at the inner surface of a cylindrical
surface that is coaxial with the elevator shaft 82 so as to have an
orientation intersecting the elevator shaft 82. More specifically,
the central axis of the elevator shaft 82 is orthogonal to the
central axis of the lever connection part 81. The lever connection
part 81 may be a rectangular hole, an elliptical hole or the like.
The lever connection part 81 may or may not penetrate through the
elevating part 83. In the following description, the lever
connection part 81 of a concave shape may also be referred to as a
connection concave part.
[0063] The elevator shaft 82 is inserted into the elevator
attachment hole 76. The elevator 80 may pivot around the elevator
shaft 82 with respect to the pedestal 70. The retainer located at
an end of the elevator shaft 82 prevents the once inserted elevator
shaft 82 from coming off the elevator attachment hole 76. The
recess 84 is opposed to the window part 53.
[0064] An assembly method for the cap 50 will be described with
reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. First, the elevator 80 is attached to
the pedestal 70 so as to be able to pivot. More specifically, the
elevator shaft 82 is inserted into the elevator attachment hole 76.
Subsequently, the pedestal 70 is fixed to the inner surface of the
cover 52. More specifically, the pedestal 70 in which adhesive is
applied to one surface of the second wall 78 is inserted into the
inner surface of the cover 52 through the opening end 56 side. The
adhesive is cured while the surface of the second wall 78 applied
with the adhesive is pressed against the inner surface of the cover
52. The direction of inserting the elevator shaft 82 into the
elevator attachment hole 76 intersects with the direction of
inserting the pedestal 70 into the cover 52.
[0065] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the distal end of the
insertion part 30 before the cap 50 is attached. The distal end
portion 31 has a substantially columnar shape, and is divided into
an optics housing 33 and a lever chamber 69 by a groove formed from
the distal side to the proximal side at a position offset from the
center. The channel outlet 35 is opened at the bottom of the
groove. A bar-like elevator connection part 61 is exposed near the
channel outlet 35. The elevator connection part 61 will be
described later.
[0066] The distal end portion 31 has a first planar part 321 along
the longitudinal direction of the insertion part 30. At the optics
housing 33 side of the first planar part 321, the observation
window 36 and the illumination window 37 are disposed. At the
proximal side of the observation window 36, a nozzle 38 for
injecting water and air to the observation window 36 to clean the
observation window 36 is provided. At the outside of the optics
housing 33, a second planar part 322 is provided.
[0067] The lever chamber 69 is hollow. The lever chamber 69 has a
support wall 68 on the optics housing 33 side. The distal end
portion 31 has a cap fixing groove 39 at the outer periphery
thereof on the proximal side.
[0068] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the distal end of the
insertion part 30 before the cap 50 is attached. FIG. 7 illustrates
a state where a lever chamber lid 67 (see FIG. 11) is removed so as
to show the inside of the lever chamber 69. A pivot connection part
64 and a wire fixing part 65 are accommodated inside the lever
chamber 69. The wire fixing part 65 is connected to an end of the
elevating wire 24.
[0069] The elevating wire 24 passes through the insertion part 30
and is connected to the elevator operation lever 21 (see FIG. 1).
More specifically, the elevating wire 24 is inserted into a guide
tube (not illustrated) having an inner diameter somewhat larger
than the outer diameter of the elevating wire 24. The guide tube
(not illustrated) penetrates through the insertion part 30 along
the longitudinal direction. Thus, the distal end of the elevating
wire 24 moves back and forth in conjunction with the operation of
the elevator operation lever 21. The elevating wire 24 is an
example of the pivot part according to the present embodiment. The
elevating wire 24 is operated remotely by the elevator operation
lever 21.
[0070] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a lever 60. The lever 60 has
a lever shaft 63, an elevator connection part 61, a pivot
connection part 64, a wire fixing part 65 and two O-rings 62.
[0071] The lever shaft 63 is a columnar shaft. The columnar
elevator connection part 61 protrudes from the side surface of the
lever shaft 63 in a direction intersecting the central axis of the
lever shaft 63. From an end of the lever shaft 63, the pivot
connection part 64 protrudes in a direction intersecting the
central axis of the lever shaft 63, which is different from the
protruding direction of the elevator connection part 61. A wire
fixing part 65 having an expanding slot is provided at an end of
the pivot connection part 64. Two O-rings 62 are fixed at a portion
of the lever shaft 63 that is located between the elevator
connection part 61 and the pivot connection part 64.
[0072] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the lever 60. The
elevator connection part 61 has a male thread at one end thereof.
The lever shaft 63 has a female thread at a side surface thereof.
After the lever shaft 63 that received the O-rings 62 is inserted
into the hole opened at the support wall 68, the male thread of the
elevator connection part 61 is coupled with the female thread of
the lever shaft 63, so that the lever 60 is pivotally supported by
the support wall 68. By holding and rotating the planar part
located at the end of the elevator connection part 61 with a tool
such as needle-nose pliers, the elevator connection part 61 and the
lever shaft 63 may securely be coupled with each other.
[0073] FIG. 10 is a side view of the distal end of the insertion
part 30. FIG. 10 illustrates the distal end of the insertion part
30 to which the cap 50 is attached when viewed from the window part
53 side. The cap 50 is fixed to the insertion part 30 by being
pressed from the distal side of the distal end portion 31. The end
face of the lever chamber 69 on the distal side abuts the bottom of
the cap 50. The observation window 36, the illumination window 37
and the elevating part 83 are seen inside the window part 53.
[0074] FIG. 11 is a section view of the insertion part 30 taken
along the line XI-XI in FIG. 10. The lever chamber 69 is sealed
with the lever chamber lid 67. A hole through which the lever shaft
63 penetrates the support wall 68 is sealed with the two O-rings
62. The structure described above prevents water or the like from
intruding into the lever chamber 69.
[0075] An observation optical system such as lens is disposed under
the observation window 36 in FIG. 11. A video image photographed by
an image sensor (not illustrated) via the observation optical
system is processed by a video processor (not illustrated) and is
displayed on a display device.
[0076] A light guide fiber 371 is disposed under the observation
optical system in FIG. 11. The light guide fiber 371 is connected
to the illumination window 37. The light guide fiber 371 guides
illumination light from a light source device (not illustrated) to
the illumination window 37.
[0077] The cover 52 has a planar part corresponding to the second
planar part 322 at the inner surface thereof. The second planar
part 322 abuts the planar part of the cover 52 so as to prevent the
cap 50 from rotating.
[0078] FIG. 12 is a section view of the insertion part 30 taken
along the line XII-XII in FIG. 11. The XII-XII section is a cross
section passing the central axis of the lever shaft 63 and the
central axis of the elevator shaft 82 along the longitudinal
direction of the insertion part 30. As illustrated in FIGS. 11 and
12, the central axis of the lever shaft 63 and the central axis of
the elevator shaft 82 are coaxially arranged. The lever 60 is
provided at the distal end of the insertion part 30 of the
endoscope 10 so as to be able to pivot around the lever shaft
63.
[0079] The elevator connection part 61 is inserted into the lever
connection part 81. The elevator connection part 61 and the lever
connection part 81 connect the lever 60 and the elevator 80 with
each other. That is, in the case where the lever 60 pivots around
the lever shaft 63, the elevator 80 also pivots integrally with the
lever 60. Since the central axis of the lever shaft 63 and the
central axis of the elevator shaft 82 are coaxially arranged, the
elevator 80 smoothly operates together with the lever.
[0080] As illustrated above, when the cap 50 is mounted to the
distal end portion 31 of the endoscope 10, the elevator 80 is
connected to the lever 60. Connection here means the state where
the elevator 80 and the lever 60 are connected while pivoting
together if the lever 60 pivots.
[0081] In the following description, the elevator connection part
61 having the shape of a projection as illustrated in FIG. 12 may
also be referred to as an elevator projection. The elevator
projection has a shape which may be inserted into the connection
concave part illustrated with reference to FIG. 5.
[0082] The cover 52 has, at the inner surface thereof, an
attachment projection 55 extending in a line along the edge of the
opening end 56. The attachment projection 55 is inclined more
gently on the opening end 56 side compared to the bottom side of
the cover 52. The attachment projection 55 is engaged with the cap
fixing groove 39 formed at an outer periphery of the distal end
portion 31.
[0083] Because of the gentle inclination on the opening end 56
side, fitting of the attachment projection 55 into the cap fixing
groove 39 is relatively easy when the cap 50 is pressed onto the
distal end of the insertion part 30. Since the inclination on the
bottom side is steep, on the other hand, the cap 50 that had been
once fixed is unlikely to come off the insertion part 30. After the
cap 50 is pressed onto the distal end of the insertion part 30, a
medical tape or the like may be wound around the opening end 56 of
the cap 50 as well as the insertion part 30. This can further
secure the fixed cap 50.
[0084] FIG. 13 is a section view of the cover 52 taken along the
line XIII-XIII in FIG. 10. In FIG. 13, members other than the cover
52 are not illustrated. The surface of the protrusion 49 that faces
the center of the cover 52 is a flat surface. The first planar part
321 abuts the protrusion 49 so as to prevent the cap 50 from
rotating.
[0085] The cover 52 has a cutout 54 having a substantially
triangular cross section at the inner surface thereof. As indicated
by the broken lines in FIG. 10, the cutout 54 is a groove formed
between the edge of the window part 53 and the opening end 56.
[0086] FIG. 14 is a section view illustrating the procedure of
attaching the cap 50 to the distal end of the insertion part 30.
The elevator operation lever 21 is operated to direct the elevator
connection part 61 toward the distal end of the insertion part 30.
The elevator 80 in the cap 50 directs the lever connection part 81
toward the opening end 56.
[0087] In this state, the cap 50 is pressed onto the distal end
portion 31 from the distal side. The cover 52 temporarily expands
so that the attachment projection 55 is engaged into the cap fixing
groove 39. This fixes the cap 50 to the distal end portion 31. As
the elevator connection part 61 fits into the lever connection part
81, the lever 60 and the elevator 80 may pivot in an integrated
manner. As described earlier, the end face of the lever chamber 69
on the distal side abuts the bottom of the cover 52, the first
planar part 321 abuts the protrusion 49, and the second planar part
322 abuts the flat surface at the inner surface of the cover 52.
This structure prevents the cap 50 from rotating and rattling.
[0088] FIG. 15 is a section view of the insertion part 30 taken
along the line XV-XV in FIG. 10. FIG. 16 is a section view of the
endoscope 10 in which the elevator 80 is elevated. The movement of
the elevator 80 will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and
16.
[0089] In the state illustrated in FIG. 15, the elevator 80 is
accommodated inside the cover 52. The recess 84 is located at a
position that allows the treatment tool tip end 41 protruding from
the channel outlet 35 to bend gently upward in FIG. 15.
[0090] As the elevator operation lever 21 moves, the elevating wire
24 connected to the elevator operation lever 21 is pulled toward
the proximal side. Being pulled by the elevating wire 24, the lever
60 pivots around the lever shaft 63. Since the elevator connection
part 61 is connected to the lever connection part 81, the elevator
80 also pivots to rise together with the lever 60. As a result, the
distance between the elevator 80 and the window part 53
changes.
[0091] FIG. 16 illustrates the state where the elevator 80 pivots.
Being pushed by the elevator 80, the treatment tool tip end 41
protruding from the channel outlet 35 is bent toward the proximal
side. The pivoting movement for the elevator 80 to rise as
illustrated in FIG. 16 may also be referred to as "the elevator 80
is elevated" in the description below. The bending of the treatment
tool tip end 41 by being pushed by the elevated elevator 80 may
also be referred to as "the treatment tool 40 is elevated" in the
description below. The operation of the elevator operation lever 21
may adjust the degree of elevation of the treatment tool 40.
[0092] A method of using the endoscope 10 according to the present
embodiment will now be summarized. The endoscope 10 is stored in a
state where the cap 50 is removed and is subjected to cleaning or
the like. The cap 50 is provided in a sterilized package. The user
takes out the cap 50 from the sterilized package and attaches the
cap 50 to the distal end portion 31 of the endoscope 10.
[0093] The user inserts the insertion part 30 through the mouth of
a subject to be examined. While viewing a video image photographed
via the observation window 36, the user guides the distal end of
the insertion part 30 to a target site. The user inserts the
treatment tool 40 or the like according to a purpose through the
channel inlet 22. After confirming that the treatment tool tip end
41 protrudes from the distal end of the insertion part 30 and is
located near the target site, the user operates the elevator
operation lever 21 to guide the treatment tool tip end 41 to the
target site. The user performs a necessary treatment or the like
and then pulls out the treatment tool 40 from the channel 34. The
user pulls out the endoscope 10 from the subject, and terminates
the examination or treatment.
[0094] The cover 52 may easily be detached by breaking it through
the cutout 54. The cap 50 according to the present embodiment is
so-called single use, and is discarded after one use.
[0095] The user performs a process such as cleaning on the
endoscope 10 after the cap 50 is removed, to prepare for the next
use. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the endoscope 10 after the cap 50 is
detached has no elevator 80. The elevator connection part 61 used
when the elevator 80 is fixed is exposed at the distal end portion
31, as illustrated in FIG. 6. Since the lever chamber 69 is sealed
with the lever chamber lid 67 and the O-rings 62, no body fluid or
the like is adhered to the path of the elevating wire 24.
[0096] It is therefore possible to provide the endoscope 10 that
has short process time between cases and that may efficiently be
put into practice, since no special cleaning work or the like is
necessary for cleaning the complicated structure around the
elevator 80 and the elevating wire 24.
[0097] The endoscope 10 according to the present embodiment is
provided with the elevator 80 and is of the side view type, which
makes it suitable for diagnosis and treatment of duodenum and
pancreaticobiliary duct areas. In particular, for the case of
performing procedures such as endoscopic retrograde cholangio
pancreatography (ERCP), endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST), endoscopic
biliary drainage (EBD) and so forth, the endoscope 10 according the
present embodiment is suitable. This is because, in these
procedures, treatment or the like is performed by guiding the
treatment tool 40 into the duodenum papilla on the duodenal wall as
well as the pancreas duct, common bile duct and the like that are
opened at the duodenum papilla.
[0098] According to the present embodiment, it is possible to
provide the cap 50 that may prevent it from being reused by
mistake, since the cap 50 is detached from the insertion part 30 by
breaking the cover 52 after use. According to the present
embodiment, it is possible to provide the endoscope 10 to/from
which the elevator 80 and the cap 50 may be attached and detached.
According to the present embodiment, it is also possible to provide
the endoscope 10 including the elevator 80, which may be subjected
to a process such as cleaning with procedures similar to those for
a regular endoscope without the elevator 80.
[0099] The endoscope 10 of the side view type may also be referred
to as a side view endoscope. Likewise, the endoscope 10 suitable
for diagnosis or the like of the duodenum and pancreaticobiliary
duct areas may also be referred to as a duodenoscope.
[0100] According to the present embodiment, since the pedestal 70
and the cover 52 are separate members, their respective shapes are
simple. It is thus possible to manufacture them at lower cost by,
for example, injection molding.
[0101] For the pivot part, an expandable shape memory alloy (SMA)
actuator may also be employed instead of the elevating wire 24. In
such a case, one end of the SMA actuator is fixed to the wire
fixing part 65 whereas the other end thereof is fixed to the distal
end portion 31. A heater is placed around the SMA actuator. The
heater is configured to operate in conjunction with the movement of
the elevator operation lever 21.
[0102] As the heater operates and the SMA actuator contracts, the
lever 60 and the elevator 80 pivot. For the pivot part, any other
linear actuator may also be employed.
[0103] A pivoting actuator such as a small motor may also be
employed for the pivot part. The small motor is disposed in the
lever chamber 69, and the motor shaft and the lever shaft 63 may be
connected with each other to allow the lever 60 to pivot.
[0104] In the case where an actuator is employed for the pivot
part, the elevator 80 may be operated by a means not using a hand
of the user, such as voice control, for example.
[0105] The cap 50 may also be provided in the state where the
elevator 80 and the cover 52 or the pedestal 70 are temporarily
fixed to each other by an adhesive material or the like while the
lever connection part 81 faces the opening end 56. Accordingly, the
cap 50 which is used in a simple manner may be provided while
eliminating the trouble of confirming the orientation of the
elevator 80 before the cap 50 is attached to the insertion part
30.
[0106] It is also possible for the user to select and use a cap 50
with a specification according to a procedure from multiple types
of caps 50 with different specifications. For example, a cap 50
provided with a stopper that restricts the pivotal range of the
elevator 80 to be narrow may also be provided. In the case of using
a combination of expensive and precise instruments such as an
ultrasound probe or ultra-slim endoscope, for example, the
narrowing of the pivotal range may prevent such instruments from
being damaged by excessive bending.
[0107] In the case where the recess 84 has a shape contoured to the
profile of the treatment tool tip end 41, the treatment tool 41 is
unlikely to sway to the left and right at elevation, and thus tends
to be easily operated. Multiple types of caps 50 having elevators
80 with recesses 84 of different shapes may be provided. For
example, a cap 50 with a recess 84 having a shape that can easily
hold a thin treatment tool 40 may be used to facilitate precise
operation of the thin treatment tool 40 such as a guide wire.
[0108] Accordingly, the endoscope 10 for which the user may select
and use the cap 50 suitable for a purpose may be provided.
[0109] The endoscope 10 may be a so-called ultrasound endoscope
provided with an ultrasound transducer at the distal end. Here, the
cap 50 may preferably have a hole at the bottom through which the
ultrasound transducer is inserted. The endoscope 10 may also be an
endoscope directed to a lower gastrointestinal tract. The endoscope
10 may also be a so-called rigid endoscope provided with a rigid
insertion part 30. The endoscope 10 may also be a so-called
industrial endoscope used for inspection of engine, pipework and so
forth.
[0110] The lever connection part 81 may have the shape of a
projection whereas the elevator connection part 61 may be a concave
part corresponding to the lever connection part 81.
[0111] The cover 52 may not necessarily have the cutout 54. In such
a case, the user may pull and deform the cover 52 to remove the cap
50 from the insertion part 30. The user may also use a tool such as
a scalpel to remove the cap 50 from the insertion part 30.
[0112] The cap 50 may be reusable. In such a case, the user
visually checks the cap 50 removed from the insertion part 30 and,
if it is not broken, reuses the cap 50 after performing a process
such as cleaning. Since the opening end 56 of the cap 50 is wide
open, a process such as cleaning may more easily be performed
compared to the state where the cap 50 stays attached to the
insertion part 30. Because of its small size, the cap 50 may easily
be put into a sterilized package for autoclave sterilization, for
example.
[0113] The lever connection part 81 may have the shape of a
projection whereas the elevator connection part 61 may be a concave
part corresponding to the lever connection part 81.
Embodiment 2
[0114] The present embodiment relates to a cap 50 which is easily
assembled. Portions common to those in Embodiment 1 will not be
described here.
[0115] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of a cap 50
according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 18 is a section view of the cap 50
according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 19 is a section view of the cap 50
according to Embodiment 2 taken along the line XIX-XIX in FIG. 18.
The configuration of the cap 50 according to the present embodiment
will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19.
[0116] The cap 50 has a cover 52, a pedestal 70 and an elevator 80.
The pedestal 70 has a first wall 77, a second wall 78 and a third
wall 79. The first wall 77 is a substantially rectangular plate.
The second wall 78 is a substantially rectangular plate which
extends substantially perpendicular to the first wall 77 from the
edge of a long side of the first wall 77. The third wall 79 is a
substantially rectangular plate which extends in the same direction
as the second wall 78 from the edge of a short side of the first
wall 77.
[0117] At the first wall 77, an elevator attachment hole 76 is
formed at an end distant from the third wall 79. The elevator
attachment hole 76 is a round hole penetrating through the first
wall 77. The third wall 79 is provided with a third fixing
projection 73 on a surface opposite from the first wall 77. The
third fixing projection 73 is a projection having an expanding
slot. The third fixing projection 73 has, at an end thereof, a
retainer with a diameter one size larger than that of the
projection 73.
[0118] The second wall 78 has two pedestal edge projections 71 at
the edges thereof on the long side of the surface opposite to the
first wall. The pedestal edge projections 71 are projections
protruding along the ridge line of the second wall 78.
[0119] The cover 52 has a pedestal fixing hole 57 at the bottom.
The pedestal fixing hole 57 is a stepped round hole having an inner
diameter on the outer surface side of the cover 52 larger than the
outer diameter thereof on the inner surface side of the cover 52.
The cover 52 has two first fixing projections 59 on the inner
surface thereof. The first fixing projections 59 are two parallel
projections protruding in directions facing each other. The
distance between the two first fixing projections 59 corresponds to
the distance between the two pedestal edge projections 71.
[0120] A method of assembling the cap 50 will now be described.
First, the elevator 80 is pivotally attached to the pedestal 70.
More specifically, the elevator shaft 82 is inserted into the
elevator attachment hole 76. Subsequently, the pedestal 70 is fixed
to the inner surface of the cover 52. More specifically, the
pedestal 70 is inserted into the cover 52 while sliding between the
two first fixing projections 59 from the opening end 56 side. As
illustrated in FIG. 17, the direction of inserting the elevator
shaft 82 into the elevator attachment hole 76 intersects with the
direction of inserting the pedestal 70 into the cover 52.
[0121] As illustrated in FIG. 19, the pedestal edge projections 71
and the first fixing projections 59 are engaged with each other to
fix the pedestal 70 to the inner surface of the cover 52. That is,
the two first fixing projections 59 form so-called dovetail
grooves, and the pedestal 70 serves as a so-called dovetail tenon
to be fit into the dovetail grooves.
[0122] The pedestal 70 is pressed against the bottom of the cover
52. The third fixing projection 73 is inserted into the pedestal
fixing hole 57. The thick diameter part at the tip end of the third
fixing projection 73 is engaged with the stepped part of the
pedestal fixing hole 57, to prevent the once-inserted third fixing
projection 73 from coming off the pedestal fixing hole 57. The
procedures described above complete the cap 50.
[0123] According to the present embodiment, the cap 50 which can
easily be assembled by fitting three components of the cover 52,
pedestal 70 and elevator 80 in order may be provided.
[0124] The cap 50 according to the present embodiment may also be
reusable. In the case of reusing, the user preferably removes the
pedestal 70 and the elevator 80 from the cover 52 after use,
performs cleaning or the like, and thereafter assembles them for
reuse.
[0125] More specifically, a jig or the like is used to pinch the
third fixing projection 73 in directions of closing the expanding
slot while pushing it toward the inner side of the cover 52, to
remove the pedestal 70 from the cover 52. Furthermore, a jig or the
like is used to pinch the elevator shaft 82 in directions of
closing the expanding slot while pushing it, to remove the elevator
80 from the pedestal 70.
[0126] By disassembling the cap 50 into three components according
to the procedures described above, a process such as cleaning may
easily be performed. Before reusing, the cap 50 is assembled
according to the procedures described earlier. This can provide the
cap 50 that can easily be cleaned around the elevator 80 to be
reused.
[0127] It is also possible to reuse the pedestal 70 and the
elevator 80 while only the cover 52 employs a single use component.
In such a case, the cutout 54 which helps to easily break the cover
52 may preferably be formed. Accordingly, the cap 50 which is
easily removable after use and has reusable pedestal 70 and
elevator 80 may be provided.
[0128] Upon inserting the pedestal 70 into the cover 52, an
adhesive may be applied between the two first fixing projections 59
or the two pedestal edge projections 71. This allows the pedestal
70 and the cover 52 to be securely fixed to each other.
[0129] In the case of using an adhesive, only one of the first
fixing projections 59 and one of the pedestal edge projections 71
may be employed. Here, the first fixing projection 59 and the
pedestal edge projection 71 serve as abutting parts for positioning
between the pedestal 70 and the cover 52.
Embodiment 3
[0130] The present embodiment relates to a cap 50 in which an
elevator attachment hole 76 is formed by two components. Portions
common to those in Embodiment 2 will not be described here.
[0131] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the cap 50
according to Embodiment 3. FIG. 21 is a side view of a pedestal 70
and an elevator 80 according to Embodiment 3 combined together.
FIG. 22 illustrates the state where a cover 52 and the pedestal 70
according to Embodiment 3 are in the process of being combined
together. FIG. 23 is a section view of the cap 50 according to
Embodiment 3. FIG. 24 is a section view of the cap 50 according to
Embodiment 3 taken along the line XXIV-XXIV in FIG. 23. The
configuration of the cap 50 according to the present embodiment
will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 to 24.
[0132] The cap 50 includes the cover 52, pedestal 70 and elevator
80. The cover 52 has, at the inner surface thereof, a second fixing
projection 58 of a substantially L-shaped plate protruding toward
the window part 53 and having a tip end further protruding toward
the opening end 56. The second fixing projection 58 has, at a
corner thereof on the window part 53 side, an elevator receiver 581
which corresponds to approximately one-fourth a cylindrical
surface.
[0133] The pedestal 70 includes an annular first wall 77 and a
rectangular plate-like third wall 79 that are contiguous with each
other to form an L shape. At the first wall 77, a first elevator
attachment part 761 is formed at an inner surface distant from the
third wall 79. The first elevator attachment part 761 corresponds
to approximately three quarters of a cylindrical surface that is
contiguous with a hole at a middle part of the first wall 77. The
first wall 77 is further provided with a plate-like fourth fixing
projection 74 protruding toward a third fixing projection 73.
[0134] The third wall 79 is provided with the third fixing
projection 73 on a surface opposite from the first wall 77. The
third fixing projection 73 is a projection having an expanding
slot. The third fixing projection 73 has, at an end thereof, a
retainer with a diameter one size larger than that of the
projection 73.
[0135] A method of assembling the cap 50 will now be described.
First, the elevator 80 and the pedestal 70 are combined together.
More specifically, the elevator shaft 82 is inserted into the hole
at the middle part of the first wall 77 so as to abut the inner
surface of the first elevator attachment part 761. FIG. 21
illustrates the state where the elevator 80 and the pedestal 70 are
combined together. The elevator shaft 82 is temporarily fixed to
the inner surface of the first elevator attachment part 761.
[0136] Subsequently, the pedestal 70 is fixed to the inner surface
of the cover 52. More specifically, the pedestal 70 and the
elevator 80 are inserted into the cover 52 through the opening end
56, as illustrated in FIG. 22.
[0137] The pedestal 70 is pressed against the bottom of the cover
52. The third fixing projection 73 is engaged into the pedestal
fixing hole 57. Here, as illustrated in FIG. 23, the second fixing
projection 58 and the fourth fixing projection 74 are engaged with
each other. The first elevator attachment part 761 and the elevator
receiver 581 together form the elevator attachment hole 76 having a
cylindrical surface surrounding the elevator shaft 82. The elevator
attachment hole 76 pivotally supports the elevator shaft 82. The
procedures described above complete the cap 50.
[0138] As illustrated in FIG. 20, the direction of inserting the
elevator shaft 82 into the hole of the first wall 77 intersects
with the direction of inserting the pedestal 70 into the cover
52.
[0139] According to the present embodiment, the cap 50 in which the
elevator shaft 82 and the pedestal 70 are easily assembled may be
provided. Furthermore, since the pedestal 70 is fixed to the inner
surface of the cover 52 with the plate-like fourth fixing
projection 74, it is possible to provide the cap 50 in which the
pedestal 70 is not likely to come off the cover 52 even if a force
of pulling the pedestal 70 and the elevator 80 in the direction of
the window part 53 is applied.
Embodiment 4
[0140] The present embodiment relates to a cap 50 having a fixing
projection for fixing a pedestal 70 to the bottom of a cover 52.
Portions common to those in Embodiment 3 will not be described
here.
[0141] FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the cap 50
according to Embodiment 4. FIG. 26 is a section view of the cap 50
according to Embodiment 4. The configuration of the cap 50
according to the present embodiment will be described with
reference to FIGS. 25 and 26.
[0142] The cap 50 has a cover 52, a pedestal 70 and an elevator 80.
The cover 52 has, at the bottom thereof, a fifth fixing projection
51 protruding toward the opening end. The fifth fixing projection
51 has, at an end thereof, a retainer with a diameter one size
larger than that of the projection 51. The pedestal 70 has a cover
fixing hole 75 penetrating through the third wall 79.
[0143] By pressing the pedestal 70 against the bottom of the cover
52, the fifth fixing projection 51 is engaged into the cover fixing
hole 75.
[0144] According to the present embodiment, the cap 50 having a
smooth bottom, i.e. a smooth portion that is in contact with the
distal end of the insertion part 30 when attached to the endoscope
10, may be provided.
Embodiment 5
[0145] The present embodiment relates to an endoscope 10 that
provides a feel of click when a cap 50 is attached to a distal end
portion 31. Portions common to those in Embodiment 1 will not be
described here.
[0146] FIG. 27 is a section view of a portion where a lever 60 and
an elevator 80 according to Embodiment 5 are connected with each
other. A side surface concave part 91 having the shape of a
triangular groove is formed at the outer periphery of the elevator
connection part 61 protruding from the lever 60. An inner surface
convex part 92 having the shape corresponding to the side surface
concave part 91 is formed at the inner periphery of the concave
lever connection part 81 located at the elevator 80. In the state
where the lever 60 and the elevator 80 are connected with each
other, the inner surface convex part 92 fits into the side surface
concave part 91 as illustrated in FIG. 27.
[0147] When the cap 50 is attached to the distal end portion 31,
the elevator connection part 61 thrusts into the lever connection
part 81 while pushing out the inner surface convex part 92. When
the inner surface convex part 92 fits into the side surface concave
part 91, the user who is working to attach the cap 50 may sense a
feel of click. Thus, the user may recognize that the cap 50 is
pushed to reach a predetermined position.
[0148] According to the present embodiment, the endoscope 10 that
provides a feel of click when the cap 50 is pushed to a
predetermined position of the distal end portion 31 may be
provided.
[0149] It is also possible to form a convex part at the outer
periphery of the elevator connection part 61 and a concave part at
the inner periphery of the lever connection part 81.
Embodiment 6
[0150] The present embodiment relates to a cap 50 in which a
pedestal 70 and a cover 52 are formed in an integral manner.
Portions common to those in Embodiment 1 will not be described
here.
[0151] FIG. 28 is a section view of an insertion part 30 according
to Embodiment 6. FIG. 28 illustrates a cross section cut at a
position similar to the line XI-XI indicated in FIG. 10. In the
present embodiment, the pedestal 70 is integrally formed with the
inner surface of the cover 52.
[0152] For example, a 3D printer may be used to fabricate the cover
52 of this type. The use of the 3D printer capable of printing more
than one materials allows for simultaneous fabrication of the
pedestal 70 and cover 52, as well as the elevator 80 which can
pivot with respect to the pedestal 70.
[0153] According to the present embodiment, it is possible to
provide the cap 50 with a small number of components to be
used.
Embodiment 7
[0154] The present embodiment relates to an endoscope 10 including
a lever connection part 81 of a projection shape and an elevator
connection part 61 of a concave shape. Portions common to those in
Embodiment 1 will not be described here.
[0155] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a distal end of an
insertion part 30 according to Embodiment 7 before a cap 50 is
attached. FIG. 30 is a section view of an insertion part 30
according to Embodiment 7. FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a lever
60 according to Embodiment 7. FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the
cap 50 according to Embodiment 7. The structure of the endoscope 10
according to the present embodiment will be described with
reference to FIGS. 29 to 32.
[0156] As illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 31, the elevator connection
part 61 according to the present embodiment is a round hole formed
at a side surface of a lever shaft 63. For the elevator connection
part 61, a hole of any shape such as a rectangular hole or an
elliptical hole may be employed. The elevator connection part 61
may or may not penetrate through the lever shaft 63. In the
following description, the elevator connection part 61 having the
shape of a recess as illustrated in FIG. 30 may also be referred to
as a connection concave part.
[0157] As illustrated in FIG. 32, the lever connection part 81
according to the present embodiment is a columnar projection formed
on the inner surface of the cylindrical surface that is coaxial
with the elevator shaft 82 so as to intersect the elevator shaft
82. In the following description, the lever connection part 81
having the shape of a projection as illustrated in FIG. 31 may also
be referred to as an elevator projection. The lever connection part
81 has a shape which may be inserted into the elevator connection
part 61 formed at the lever 60.
[0158] FIG. 30 is a cross section passing the central axis of the
lever shaft 63 and the central axis of the elevator shaft 82 along
the longitudinal direction of the insertion part 30. The lever
connection part 81 is inserted into the elevator connection part
61.
[0159] According to the present embodiment, the distal end of the
insertion part 30 only has a hole of the elevator connection part
61, which facilitates cleaning after use. It is noted that a brush
corresponding to the dimension of the elevator connection part 61
is used to clean the inside of the elevator connection part 61.
Embodiment 8
[0160] The present embodiment relates to an endoscope 10 in which a
lever shaft 63 also serves as an elevator projection. Portions
common to those in Embodiment 1 will not be described here.
[0161] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a lever 60 according to
Embodiment 8. FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a cap 50 according
to Embodiment 8. The configuration of the endoscope 10 according to
the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 33
and 34.
[0162] As illustrated in FIG. 33, the lever shaft 63 according to
the present embodiment has two cutouts in a direction parallel to
the central axis, and includes two parallel planar elevator
connection parts 61. As illustrated in FIG. 34, the lever
connection part 81 according to the present embodiment is a
substantially U-shaped recess formed at a side surface of a
columnar surface that is coaxial with the elevator shaft 82 so as
to intersect with the elevator shaft 82.
[0163] The cap 50 is pushed onto the insertion part 30 from its
distal end so that the elevator connection part 61 fits into the
lever connection part 81. This connects the lever 60 and the
elevator 80 with each other so that they may able to pivot in an
integrated manner. That is, in the present embodiment, the lever
shaft 63 also serves as an elevator projection.
[0164] According to the present embodiment, the distal end of the
insertion part 30 has neither a projection nor a hole, which
facilitates cleaning after use.
[0165] Only one of the elevator connection parts 61 may be
provided. The two elevator connection parts 61 may not necessarily
be parallel to each other.
Embodiment 9
[0166] The present embodiment relates to an endoscope 10 in which a
member for connecting a lever 60 and an elevator 80 is detachable.
Portions common to those in Embodiment 1 will not be described
here.
[0167] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a cap 50 according to
Embodiment 9. The cap 50 according to the present embodiment has a
recessed lever connection part 81 as in Embodiment 1 described with
reference to FIG. 4. The endoscope 10 according to the present
embodiment has a recessed elevator connection part 61 at the distal
end of the insertion part 30, as in Embodiment 6 described with
reference to FIGS. 29 and 30. The endoscope 10 according to the
present embodiment comprises a round bar-like connecting tool
89.
[0168] After the connecting tool 89 is inserted into the lever
connection part 81 or elevator connection part 61, the cap 50 is
pushed onto the insertion part 30 and fixed. The connecting tool 89
fits into the elevator connection part 61 and the lever connection
part 81. This allows the lever 60 and the elevator 80 to pivot in
an integrated manner.
[0169] According to the present embodiment, the distal end of the
insertion part 30 only has a hole of the elevator connection part
61, which facilitates cleaning after use. Moreover, the connecting
tool 89 may easily be cleaned and reused because of its simple
shape. Thus, the endoscope 10 with a small number of members to be
discarded even if the cap 50 is made as single use may be
provided.
[0170] The lever connection part 81 may be a prism, elliptical
column or the like. Magnetic substances are used for the lever 60,
elevator 80 and connecting tool 89, so that the endoscope 10 may be
provided which prevents the components from falling off at the time
of attachment and facilitates the attachment of the cap 50.
Embodiment 10
[0171] The present embodiment relates to an endoscope 10 which may
obtain a feel of click when the cap 50 is attached to the distal
end portion 31. Portions common to those in Embodiment 1 will not
be described here.
[0172] FIG. 36 is a section view of a portion where a lever 60 and
an elevator 80 according to Embodiment 10 are connected with each
other. A side surface concave part 91 having the shape of a
triangular groove is formed at the outer periphery of the elevator
connection part 61 protruding from the lever 60. An inner surface
convex part 92 having the shape corresponding to the side surface
concave part 91 is formed at the inner periphery of the concave
lever connection part 81 located at the elevator 80. In the state
where the lever 60 and the elevator 80 are connected with each
other, the inner surface convex part 92 fits into the side surface
concave part 91 as illustrated in FIG. 36.
[0173] When the cap 50 is attached to the distal end portion 31,
the elevator connection part 61 thrusts into the lever connection
part 81 while pushing out the inner surface convex part 92. While
the inner surface convex part 92 thrusts into the side surface
concave part 91, the user who is working to attach the cap 50 may
sense a feel of click. Thus, the user may recognize that the cap 50
is pushed to reach a predetermined position.
[0174] According to the present embodiment, the endoscope 10
producing a feel of click when the cap 50 is pushed to a
predetermined position of the distal end portion 31 may be
provided.
Embodiment 11
[0175] The present embodiment relates to an endoscope 10 which may
obtain a feel of click when the cap 50 is attached to the distal
end portion 31. Portions common to those in Embodiment 7 will not
be described here.
[0176] FIG. 37 is a section view of a portion at which a lever 60
and an elevator 80 according to Embodiment 11 are connected with
each other. A side surface concave part 91 having the shape of a
triangular groove is formed at the outer periphery of the lever
connection part 81 protruding from the elevator 80. An inner
surface convex part 92 having the shape corresponding to the side
surface concave part 91 is formed at the inner periphery of the
concave elevator connection part 61 located at the lever 60. In the
state where the lever 60 and the elevator 80 are connected with
each other, the inner surface convex part 92 fits into the side
surface concave part 91 as illustrated in FIG. 37.
[0177] When the cap 50 is attached to the distal end portion 31,
the lever connection part 81 thrusts into the elevator connection
part 61 while pushing out the inner surface convex part 92. When
the inner surface convex part 92 thrusts into the side surface
concave part 91, the user who is working to attach the cap 50 may
sense a feel of click. Thus, the user may recognize that the cap 50
is pushed to reach a predetermined position.
[0178] According to the present embodiment, the endoscope 10
producing a feel of click when the cap 50 is pushed to reach a
predetermined position of the distal end portion 31 may be
provided.
[0179] The technical features (components) described in each
example embodiment may be combined with one another, and such
combinations may form new technical features.
[0180] It is to be noted that, as used herein and in the appended
claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural
referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0181] It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed
herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. Since
the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended
claims rather than by the description preceding them, all changes
that fall within metes and bounds of the claims, or equivalence of
such metes and bounds thereof are therefore intended to be embraced
by the claims.
[0182] In relation to the embodiments including Embodiments 1 to 11
described above, the following clauses will further be
disclosed.
[0183] 1. An endoscope cap attachable to and detachable from an
endoscope including a lever pivotally provided at a distal end of
an insertion part of an endoscope and a pivot part causing the
lever to pivot, comprising:
[0184] a bottomed cylindrical cover having an opening end; and
[0185] an elevator pivotally supported at an inside of the cover,
connected to the lever when the cover is attached to the endoscope,
and pivoting in response to pivoting of the lever.
[0186] 2. The endoscope cap according to clause 1, wherein
[0187] the cover has a window part at a side surface, and
[0188] the elevator includes an elevator shaft pivotally supported
by the cover and a lever connection part located at the opening end
side and connectable to the lever.
[0189] 3. The endoscope cap according to clause 2, wherein the
elevator is pivotable in a direction of changing a distance between
the elevator and the window part.
[0190] 4. The endoscope cap according to clause 2 or 3, wherein the
cover has a cutout contiguous to the window part.
[0191] 5. The endoscope cap according to any one of clauses 2 to 4,
further comprising a pedestal fixed to an inside of the cover,
[0192] wherein the elevator shaft is pivotally supported at the
inner side of the cover through the pedestal.
[0193] 6. An endoscope, comprising:
[0194] a hollow lever chamber protruding from a part of a distal
end of an insertion part in an insertion direction and including a
support wall along the insertion direction; and
[0195] a lever having a lever shaft penetrating the support wall
and an elevator connection part located outside the lever chamber
and exposed to a surface, the lever being pivotable around the
lever shaft.
[0196] 7. The endoscope according to clause 6, comprising an
endoscope cap including:
[0197] a bottomed cylindrical cover having an opening end; and
[0198] an elevator pivotally supported at an inner side of the
cover, connected to the lever when the cover is attached to the
endoscope, and pivoting in response to pivoting of the lever.
[0199] 8. A method of manufacturing an endoscope cap,
comprising:
[0200] inserting an elevator shaft of an elevator into a
pedestal;
[0201] inserting the pedestal together with the elevator into a
bottomed cylindrical cover having an opening end through the
opening end; and
[0202] fixing the cover and the pedestal to each other.
[0203] 9. A method of using an endoscope cap, comprising:
[0204] preparing an endoscope including a lever pivotally provided
at a distal end of an insertion part of an endoscope and a pivot
part pivoting the lever; and
[0205] attaching an endoscope cap to the endoscope, the endoscope
cap including: a bottomed cylindrical cover having an opening end;
and an elevator pivotally supported at an inner side of the cover,
connected to the lever when the cover is attached to the endoscope,
and pivoting in response to pivoting of the lever.
[0206] 10. A method of using the endoscope cap according to clause
9, comprising:
[0207] breaking the cover through a cutout formed at the cover;
and
[0208] removing the endoscope cap from the endoscope after
breaking.
* * * * *