DE102017128744A1 - endoscope - Google Patents

Abstract

An endoscope (10) comprises a light coupling (40) for coupling the endoscope (10) to a light source (20) and for receiving a luminous flux from the light source (20), a main light transmitter (50) for transmitting a part of the light source Light coupling (40) received illumination luminous flux to a distal end (18) of the endoscope (10) for illuminating an object viewed by the endoscope (10) and a photoelectric device (72) for receiving light and generating at least either an electrical signal or electrical power. The photoelectric device (72) is formed and arranged to receive a portion of an illumination luminous flux received at the light coupling (40).

Description

The present invention relates to an endoscope and more particularly to detecting the number of uses of an endoscope.

Endoscopes, like other medical instruments, are subject to wear and aging even when used. In addition to mechanical effects during use as part of a medical procedure, especially the thermal load during autoclaving between two medical measures causes aging. Different coefficients of expansion of different materials or components heated or cooled at different rates generate mechanical stresses or relative movements; plastics used can become brittle and break.

Failure of an endoscope during a medical procedure may delay it and, in the worst case, endanger a patient's health or life. A detachment of parts, for example a potting compound at the distal end of the endoscope, during a medical procedure, can result in these parts remaining in the patient as a foreign body and endangering his health or his life.

For the reasons mentioned above, it is important to ensure that especially endoscopes whose perfect condition can not be checked from the outside because of their complexity, or that can not be easily checked from the outside, are not used as often as desired and not for any length of time. Rather, especially the number of autoclaving cycles should not exceed a predetermined maximum value, to which the manufacturer can ensure a perfect condition of the endoscope.

In DE 39 09 090 A1 An endoscope is described which has a sensor for detecting moisture that has entered the endoscope (column 1 , Lines 33 to 46 , Claim 1).

In WO 94/14129 A1 is an electrically operated medical device with a memory in which a maximum number of sterilization processes and an accumulated number of sterilization processes is stored described (page 6 , Lines 1 to 12 ).

In DE 197 23 442 B4 [0010] The endoscope includes a sensor for electronically sensing temperature, pressure, humidity, radiation or other environmental conditions, an energy store, a signal processing unit for processing the sensor signal, and a transmitter unit for transmitting information on the outside (paragraph [0023]) The registration device can detect the number of sterilization cycles (paragraph [0027]).

In DE 200 05 496 U1 is described a detection system for surgical instruments (page 1 , last paragraph), by means of which cycles can be recorded (page 3 , third last line, to page 4 , Row 2 ).

In DE 102 25 232 A1 there is described a medical instrument having a storage element for rewritable storage of operating parameter data (paragraphs [0009], [0012], claim 1).

In DE 603 06 309 T2 an endoscopy information system for detecting the usage history of an endoscope is described (paragraph [0006]).

In DE 10 2007 039 088 A1 there is described a device for automatic counting of thermocycles subjected to a medical instrument (paragraph [0001]). The device comprises a recognition unit 1 with an element 2 made of a thermosensitive material 16 (Paragraph [0016], 1 ).

In EP 2 543 309 A1 is an endoscopic arrangement, at the distal end of which an opto-electrical converter for generating electrical power for the energy supply is arranged (paragraphs [FIG. 0030 ], [ 0034 ], [ 0048 ]).

An object of the present invention is to provide an improved endoscope, in particular an endoscope, which can generate a warning signal after a predetermined number of uses.

This object is solved by the subject matters of the independent claims.

Further developments are specified in the dependent claims.

Embodiments of the present invention are based on the idea, in the case of an endoscope or another medical instrument, of supplying part of a luminous flux generated by a light source directly to a photoelectric component which generates electrical power and / or a signal indicating use of the medical instrument. The electrical power and / or the signal may be detected, for example, for a type of operating hours counter that records the total or total time of use and / or the number of uses or uses and / or the number of autoclaving cycles.

An endoscope includes a light coupling for coupling the endoscope to a light source and for receiving an illumination luminous flux from the light source, main light transmission means for transmitting a portion of an illumination luminous flux received at the light coupling to a distal end of the endoscope for illuminating an object viewed through the endoscope a photoelectric device for receiving light and generating at least one of an electrical signal and electrical power, wherein the photoelectric device is configured and arranged to receive a portion of an illumination luminous flux received at the light coupling.

In particular, the endoscope has a rigid and straight shaft which has a constant or substantially constant cross-section and is designed and adapted to be inserted into a natural or artificial opening of a patient's body. Alternatively, the endoscope can have a flexible, that is to say elastically or plastically non-destructively deformable shaft. A distal end of the shaft forms a distal end of the endoscope.

A proximal end of the endoscope is formed in particular by an eyepiece. An image generated by a lens at the distal end of the endoscope is transmitted through a rod lens system or other relay lens system or through an ordered bundle of optical fibers to the proximal end of the endoscope and the eyepiece. Through the eyepiece, medical personnel can view the transferred image. Alternatively, the eyepiece can be coupled to a camera which captures the transmitted image and converts it into an analog or digital image signal.

The light coupling is arranged in particular at or near the proximal end of the endoscope. The light coupling is arranged in particular in a region of the endoscope which has a larger cross-section than the shaft of the endoscope, which extends from this region to the distal end of the endoscope. The light coupling is in particular designed to be mechanically connected to one end of a light-conducting cable and separated from it again without destruction, without the use of tools, with simple manipulations by medical personnel. For this purpose, the light coupling comprises, for example, a Renkverbindung (also referred to as a bayonet coupling) or a threaded coupling.

It is also conceivable, of course, an integral light cable, so a light cable that is not detachably connected to the endoscope.

In particular, the main light transmission device comprises one or more optical fibers which extend from the proximal end of the endoscope to the distal end of the endoscope and transmit a part, in particular a large part, of an illumination luminous flux received at the light coupling from a light source to the distal end of the endoscope , The main light transmission device may comprise one or more light exit surfaces at the distal end of the endoscope, for example in the form of light exit surfaces of optical fibers. Further, at the distal end of the endoscope, one or more lenses, prisms, mirrors, or other reflective surfaces may be arranged to shape the illumination luminous flux transmitted from the main light transmitter and exiting the distal end of the endoscope.

At or in the light coupling, a fiber cone (also referred to as fiber taper) may be provided for matching the cross section of the illuminating light flux received at the light coupling to the cross section of a bundle of optical fibers or other component of the main light transmitting device.

The photoelectric component is in particular a photoelement or a photovoltaic component for absorbing photons and for providing electrical power or an electrical signal. Alternatively, the photoelectric device may be a photoresistor or a phototransistor or other electronic device that generates a signal dependent on the received light. With regard to its spectral sensitivity, the photoelectric component is adapted in particular to the spectrum of illumination light which is produced by conventional light sources for endoscopy.

The photoelectric device is directly coupled to the light coupling in the sense that not only illumination light reflected or remitted from an object viewed by the endoscope is directed to the photoelectric device. Rather, the photoelectric device is so directly coupled to the light coupling, that a part of the received at the light coupling illuminating luminous flux without leaving the endoscope and thus falls regardless of the conditions of use of the endoscope on the photoelectric device.

When the photoelectric component for generating electric power is provided and formed, by means of the electric power generated by the photoelectric component, a load, in particular an electronic circuit, can be operated in the endoscope without the Endoscope has an input for receiving electrical power. When the photoelectric device is provided and configured to generate an electrical signal, this electrical signal can be used to detect the number of uses or the total integrated or summed life of the endoscope's uses.

An endoscope, as described here, further comprises, in particular, an energy store, which is connected to the photoelectric component, for storing electrical energy.

The energy store comprises, for example, a capacitor or an accumulator. Electric energy generated by the photoelectric device and stored in the energy storage may cause operation of an electrical sensor, an electronic circuit, and / or other electrical or electronic components even at times when the photoelectric device receives no or too little illumination light, and therefore none or too low electrical power generated for the immediate operation of the electronic components allow. Furthermore, the energy store can briefly provide a higher electrical power than the photoelectric component itself, for example, to generate a short bright light signal by means of a light emitting diode or other light source.

In particular, in an endoscope as described herein, the photoelectric device is optically coupled to the light coupling such that it receives no more than half of a light output received at the light coupling, with the proximal end of the main light transmitting device having the light coupling optically is coupled to receive no less than half of the light output received at the light coupling.

Specifically, the photoelectric device and the proximal end of the main light transmitting device are optically coupled to the light coupling such that the photoelectric device is not more than one third, not more than one quarter, not more than one tenth, not more than one twentieth or more as one fiftieth of the light power received at the light coupling, and corresponding to the proximal end of the main light transmitting device, not less than two-thirds or not less than three-fourths or not less than nine-tenths or not less than 19 twentieths or not less than 49 fiftieths on the Light coupling receives received light power. With the light power received at the light coupling is always in the intended manner, d. H. in particular within the intended cross-section and with the intended angular distribution and within the intended spectral range received light power meant.

In a typical light output of 1 W (Watt) transmitted from a light source to an endoscope, it may be sufficient to direct approximately one percent of the light power received at the light coupling, that is 10 mW (milliwatt), to the photoelectric device in order to achieve the same usual efficiencies to produce an electrical power of about 1 mW. An electrical power of 1 mW is already sufficient to operate a complex electronic circuit.

In an endoscope as described here, the photoelectric component is arranged in particular near the proximal end of the endoscope.

In particular, the photoelectric component is arranged in a proximal section of the endoscope with a clearly enlarged cross-section compared to the shaft of the endoscope. For a conventional geometry endoscope, this means that the photoelectric device is located within the proximal third or quarter or fifth of the length of the endoscope.

An endoscope, as described here, further comprises, in particular, a usage detection device for detecting at least one of a duration or a number of uses of the endoscope.

By use of the endoscope is meant, in particular, an event that satisfies one or more predetermined conditions. An example of a predetermined condition is that the power of the illuminating luminous flux received at the light coupling or the power of the part of the illuminating luminous flux received by the photoelectric device reaches or exceeds a predetermined minimum value. Further, a predetermined condition may be that another predetermined condition is satisfied for a predetermined minimum duration.

Alternatively or additionally, the usage detection means may be provided and adapted to detect the end of use of the endoscope at the temperature prevailing during autoclaving of the endoscope between two uses. The usage detecting means may detect use of the endoscope based on a power generated by the photoelectric device or on an electrical signal generated by the photoelectric device.

The usage detection device may include one or more sensors for detecting the Temperature of the endoscope or the distal end of the endoscope or another part of the endoscope or for detecting the position of the endoscope in space and / or a linear acceleration and / or an angular acceleration or another size from which the use of the endoscope can be concluded , include. Alternatively or additionally, the usage detection device may be coupled to one or more such sensors.

An endoscope, as described here, further comprises, in particular, a device for the inductive or capacitive reception of power and for the provision of electrical supply power to the usage detection device.

A device for the inductive or capacitive reception of power can be integrated, for example, in an eyepiece shell of the endoscope. The device for the inductive or capacitive reception of power is in particular provided and designed to receive this power when the endoscope is coupled to a camera equipped with a corresponding device for the inductive or capacitive transmission of power.

When the endoscope has means for inductively or capacitively receiving power and providing electric power to the usage detecting device, the photoelectric device may be configured to provide no power. In this case, the usage detection device is provided and configured in particular only for generating an electrical signal dependent on the intensity or power of the received light.

In an endoscope as described herein, the usage detecting device is electrically connected to the photoelectric device, in particular, to receive electric power from the photoelectric device.

The photoelectric device may be provided and configured to provide all of the utility for the usage sensing device.

When the photoelectric device is provided for providing electric power to the usage detecting device and the endoscope further comprises means for inductively or capacitively receiving power, the usage detecting device may be configured to be supplied with power by the inductive or capacitive receiving power device or by the photoelectric component, on the other hand, to provide different functionalities.

In particular, in an endoscope as described herein, the usage detection device is further configured to detect a number of events when a temperature of the endoscope reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold.

Exceeding a predetermined temperature is an example of a predetermined condition against which the usage detection device can detect a usage. This condition is related in particular to the temperature of the distal end of the endoscope. The temperature of the distal end of the endoscope is above room temperature when the distal end of the endoscope is placed in a body of a patient. Specifically, the predetermined threshold temperature is between room temperature at which the endoscope is typically stored between two uses (typically 15 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius) and a patient's body temperature (typically at least 36 degrees Celsius). The threshold value of the temperature is for example 30 degrees Celsius. When the endoscope is used, the temperature of the endoscope, in particular the temperature of the distal end of the endoscope, generally rises significantly above the room temperature up to the body temperature of the patient and beyond. The number of events in which the temperature of the endoscope exceeds this predetermined threshold thus corresponds to the number of uses of the endoscope.

Alternatively, the predetermined threshold of temperature is between the typical body temperature of a patient and the temperature in the autoclave during autoclaving (typically over 130 degrees Celsius). With each autoclave between two uses of the endoscope, the temperature of the endoscope rises significantly above the body temperature of a human and up to or almost to the temperature of the autoclave. The number of events in which the temperature exceeds the appropriate predetermined threshold therefore corresponds to the number of autoclaving processes and thus to the uses of the endoscope.

In an endoscope as described herein, the usage detecting means is particularly adapted to detect at least either a number of events in which the optical power received by the photoelectric device exceeds a predetermined threshold, or a number of events in which through the photoelectric Component received power falls below a predetermined threshold, to detect or sum up or integrate a total duration of periods during which the power received by the photoelectric device exceeds a predetermined threshold.

In particular, all events or all periods within which, in addition to exceeding or falling below a predetermined threshold, further conditions are met, are counted or integrated. For example, all events are counted at which the optical power received by the photoelectric device exceeds a predetermined threshold during a predetermined minimum period of time or at which the optical power received by the photoelectric device falls below it again after a predetermined minimum period of time above the predetermined threshold. The predetermined minimum period of time is, for example, five minutes. With this additional condition can be avoided that the preliminary examination of the endoscope is counted prior to its actual use as part of a medical procedure already as own use of the endoscope.

In particular, an endoscope, as described here, furthermore comprises a signal source which is coupled to the usage detection device or is part of the usage detection device, for generating an optical or acoustic or haptic perception by a human or by a non-human receiver electrically or electromagnetically or inductively or optically or mechanically detectable signal containing information about the number of uses of the endoscope.

For example, a signal visually perceivable by a human being is a light signal that illuminates continuously or within a predetermined period of time after the beginning or end of use or in the form of a short pulse or flash. The light signal can be generated for example by a light emitting diode and depending on the number of uses of the endoscope change its duration or its color. For example, a light emitting diode on an outer surface of the endoscope or in the eyepiece of the endoscope shines green or blue during each use or after each use when the number of uses is less than a predetermined fraction of a total number of uses, yellow as the number of uses more is less than the predetermined maximum number of uses, and red when the number of uses exceeds the predetermined maximum number of uses. Instead of the color, the duration or modulation of a light signal may be changed depending on the number of uses.

Alternatively, the signal source - eg at the beginning or end of use - may only generate an audible signal if the number of uses is less than a predetermined maximum number of uses, or only if the number of uses is greater than a predetermined maximum number of times Uses is. Alternatively or additionally, the pitch or a modulation of the audible signal may be changed depending on the number of uses.

Alternatively, the signal source may be provided and configured to generate a vibration of the endoscope or other haptic-detectable signal.

Alternatively or additionally, the signal source may be designed to generate a capacitively, inductively, electromagnetically, optically or mechanically transferable signal detectable by a non-human receiver (for example on a camera coupled to the endoscope). One example is an RFID transponder in the endoscope, which can be read by a corresponding device and provides the number of uses and optionally an identity of the endoscope.

An endoscope as described here, in particular, furthermore comprises a sensor for detecting a moisture content in the endoscope or a pressure or another parameter and for generating a sensor signal associated with the detected moisture content or the detected pressure or the detected other parameter, and a detection device for Detecting the sensor signal and generating a visually or acoustically or haptically perceptible by a human and / or by a non-human receiver electrically or electromagnetically or inductively or optically or mechanically detectable signal containing information about the sensor signal.

In particular, an endoscope as described herein further includes sub-light transmitting means for transmitting light received at the light coupling to the photoelectric device.

In an endoscope, as described here, the auxiliary light transmission device comprises in particular an optical fiber, wherein a light entry surface of the optical fiber at the light entrance surface of the light coupling or at or near a Light exit surface of a fiber cone which optically couples the light entrance surface of the light coupling with a light entrance surface of the main light transmission means, or is arranged adjacent to a light entrance surface of the main light transmission means, and wherein a light exit surface of the optical fiber is optically coupled to the photoelectric component.

The sub-light transmission device may comprise a plurality of parallel optical fibers, in particular in the form of one or more bundles. The light entry surface of the optical fiber or the optical fibers is in particular part of a light entry surface of the light coupling. The light entry surface of the light coupling is intended and designed to be coupled to a light exit surface of a light source or to a light exit surface of a light guide cable, in particular to be opposite this or to rest against it.

The light exit surface of the fiber cone may be arranged opposite a light entry surface of the secondary light transmission device or on the light entry surface of the main light transmission device. The light entry surface of the secondary light transmission device is arranged in particular in a plane with the light entry surface of the main light transmission device.

In an endoscope, as described here, a light entry surface of the optical fiber is in particular in the middle or at the edge of the light entrance surface of the light coupling or in the middle or at the edge of the light exit surface of the fiber cone or in the middle or at the edge of the light entrance surface of the Main light transmission device arranged.

An arrangement of the light entrance surface of the optical fiber in the center of the light entrance surface of the light cone or in the center of the light exit surface of the fiber cone or in the center of the light entrance surface of the main light transmission device can allow a reliable supply of a part of the luminous flux provided by a light source to the photoelectric device.

An arrangement of the light entry surfaces of a plurality of optical fibers at the edge of the light entry surface of the light coupling or at the edge of the light exit surface of the fiber cone or at the edge of the light entry surface of the main light transmission device may be simpler in terms of manufacturing technology.

In an endoscope as described here, the auxiliary light transmission device comprises in particular a plurality of optical fibers, wherein light entry surfaces of the plurality of optical fibers at an edge of the light entrance surface of the light coupling or at an edge of a light exit surface of a fiber cone, the light entrance surface of the light coupling with the optically coupled to the proximal end of the main light transmission means, or are arranged on an edge of a light entrance surface of the main light transmission means, wherein light exit surfaces of the plurality of optical fibers are optically coupled to the photoelectric device.

If the light entry surfaces of a plurality of optical fibers are evenly distributed over the edge, even with a slight misalignment, supply of a part of the illuminating luminous flux provided by a light source and to the photoelectric device can be ensured and at the same time easier to realize than an arrangement in the middle.

An endoscope as described herein further includes, in particular, an optical device for adjusting a light beam transmitted from the sub-light transmission device to a photosensitive region of the photoelectric device.

The optical device for adaptation is, in particular, an optical device for adjusting the overall cross section and / or the intensity distribution or the distribution of the power density within the beam cross section. The optical device is designed, in particular, to widen and / or collimate a light bundle emanating from a light exit surface of the secondary light-transmitting device or to narrow the light bundle and optionally to collimate it. The optical device for adaptation comprises in particular one or more lenses, mirrors or gratings.

In particular, an endoscope as described herein further includes a beam splitter for splitting a luminous flux received at the light coupling into a first part supplied to the main light transmitting means and a second part supplied to the photoelectric device.

The beam splitter comprises, for example, a partially reflecting surface between two prisms cemented to each other. The photoelectric component can be mechanically and optically connected directly to the beam splitter or coupled to the beam splitter via the aforementioned auxiliary light transmission device.

In an endoscope, as described here, the auxiliary light transmission device in particular comprises at least one of a mirror or a reflective surface or a lens.

In an endoscope as described here, the photoelectric component is arranged in particular on or opposite a lateral surface of a fiber cone, which is provided on or in the light coupling, or on or opposite to a lateral surface of the main light transmission device.

In this case, the photoelectric device is provided to catch light laterally leaving the fiber cone or the main light transmitting device due to optical imperfections, and to partially convert it into electric power. The photoelectric component is formed in this case, in particular as a flexible, such as organic solar cell.

Arranging the photoelectric device at or opposite a lateral surface of the fiber cone or the main light transmission device and converting illumination light that laterally leaves the fiber cone or the main light transmission device due to imperfections into electrical power has several advantages. In particular, the illuminating luminous flux actually provided for illuminating an object viewed by means of the endoscope is not further reduced. Further, the photoelectric device may be formed over a large area and has to absorb only a low power density and is therefore only slightly heated.

An endoscope as described here has, in particular, no further input for receiving power except for the light coupling.

An endoscope which, apart from a light coupling for coupling to a light source, has no further input for receiving electrical or optical power is often referred to as an analogue endoscope.

Instead of an endoscope, another medical instrument having a light coupling for receiving a luminous flux from a light source may also have features, properties and functions of an endoscope described herein.

list of figures

• 1 eine schematische Darstellung eines Endoskops und einer Lichtquelle;
• 2 eine schematische Darstellung eines weiteren Endoskops;
• 3 eine schematische Darstellung eines weiteren Endoskops;
• 4 eine schematische Darstellung eines weiteren Endoskops;
• 5 eine schematische Darstellung eines weiteren Endoskops;
• 6 eine schematische Darstellung eines weiteren Endoskops.

Embodiments will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. Show it:

• 1 a schematic representation of an endoscope and a light source;
• 2 a schematic representation of another endoscope;
• 3 a schematic representation of another endoscope;
• 4 a schematic representation of another endoscope;
• 5 a schematic representation of another endoscope;
• 6 a schematic representation of another endoscope.

Description of the embodiments

1 shows a schematic representation of an endoscope 10 and a light source 20 that has a fiber optic cable 30 connected to each other. The endoscope 10 is shown predominantly in a section along a plane containing an axis of symmetry of the shaft of the endoscope. The schematic representation in 1 is not to scale, especially the light source 20 and the fiber optic cable 30 not shown to scale. Cut surfaces of optically transparent or partially transparent components are in 1 without hatching, cut surfaces of other components shown with hatching.

The endoscope 10 has a proximal end 12 which is formed by an eyepiece shell. Furthermore, the endoscope points 10 a shaft 14 on. The shaft 14 of the endoscope 10 extends from a distal end 18 to a region with a significantly enlarged cross-section near the proximal end 12 of the endoscope 10 ,

In the shaft 14 is an observation beam path 16 arranged. The observation beam path 16 includes (for example, in the case of a flexible shaft 14 ) an ordered bundle of optical fibers or (in the case of a rigid shaft 14 ) a series of rod lenses or another relay lens system. Details of the observation beam path 16 are - of plane-parallel window components at the distal end and at the proximal end of the observation beam path 16 apart - in 1 not shown.

The light source 20 includes a light bulb 21 , a lens 22 and / or other optical means for converging illumination light coming from the light source 20 is generated on a light entrance surface 32 of the fiber optic cable 30 , A power source for the light source 21 , optical filters, mechanical structures and other means of light source 20 are in 1 not shown.

The fiber optic cable 30 has a light exit surface 34 on, at a light entry surface 43 a light coupling 40 of the endoscope 10 is applied. Devices for releasable or permanent mechanical connection of the ends of the optical cable 30 with the light source 20 on the one hand and with the light coupling 40 of the endoscope 10 on the other hand are in 1 not shown.

The light coupling 40 of the endoscope 10 includes a fiber cone 41 , often referred to as Fasertaper. A light entry surface of the fiber cone 41 forms the light entry surface 43 the light coupling 40 , A light exit surface 45 of the fiber cone 41 has a smaller diameter and a smaller area than the light entry surface 43 of the fiber cone 41 on.

A main light transmission device 50 couples the light coupling 40 optically with the distal end 18 of the endoscope 10 , A light entry surface 54 the main light transmission device 50 is with the light exit surface 45 of the fiber cone 41 by one for that from the light source 20 generated and from the fiber optic cable 30 transmitted illumination light connected transparent putty. A light exit surface 58 the main light transmission device 50 forms part of an end face of the shaft 14 at the distal end 18 of the endoscope 10 , In the shaft 14 the main light transmission device runs 50 parallel to the observation beam path 16 , The main light transmission device 50 is formed in particular by a bundle of optical fibers. The main light transmission device 50 can in the shaft 14 have a crescent-shaped cross-section.

The endoscope 10 includes a light guide 60 as a sub-light transmission device. In the illustrated example, a light entrance surface 64 of the light guide 60 in a plane with the light entry surface 54 the main light transmission device 50 and arranged in the middle. A light exit surface 65 of the light guide 60 is opposite a lens 67 , in the 1 is indicated as a diverging lens arranged.

The endoscope 10 further comprises a usage detection device 70 , in the 1 as orthogonal to the sectional plane of the 1 arranged board is indicated with several electronic components. The usage detecting device includes a photoelectric device 72 as an electric power source for generating electric power to the usage detecting means 70 , The light exit surface 65 of the light guide 60 , the Lens 67 and the photoelectric device 72 are arranged so that from the light exit surface 65 of the light guide 60 Exiting illumination light on the photoelectric device 72 falls and thereby largely exactly a photosensitive region of the photoelectric device 72 illuminates. The Lens 67 serves as optical means for adjusting the of the light exit surface 65 of the light guide 60 outgoing illumination luminous flux to the photosensitive surface of the photoelectric device 72 ,

The usage detection device 70 further includes a capacitor 74 as energy storage, with the photoelectric component 72 - For example, via a maximum power point control - is electrically connected.

The usage detection device 70 further includes an integrated circuit 78 for collecting and counting uses. The integrated circuit 78 is in particular with the photoelectric component 72 and the capacitor 74 electrically coupled. The usage detection device 70 further comprises a light emitting diode 79 as a signal source for generating a visible signal.

When the endoscope 10 through the fiber optic cable 30 with the light source 20 is coupled and the bulbs 21 Lighting light generated, the illumination light from the light guide cable 30 to the light coupling 40 of the endoscope 10 transfer. The fiber cone 41 fits the cross section of the illumination light bundle out of the light guide cable 30 to the light entry surface 54 the main light transmission device 50 on.

Much of the at the light coupling 40 received illumination luminous flux is in the main light transmission device 50 coupled, from this to the distal end 18 transmitted to the endoscope and occurs there at the light exit surface 58 out to one through the endoscope 10 to illuminate the observed object.

A small part of the at the light coupling 40 received illumination luminous flux is not in the main light transmission device 50 but in the light guide 60 coupled. This part of the illumination luminous flux occurs at the light exit surface 65 of the light guide 60 out and fall - shaped by the lens 67 largely or completely on the photosensitive area of the photoelectric device 72 , The photoelectric component 72 largely absorbs the received illumination light and generates electrical supply power to the usage detection device 70 ,

At the in 1 The example shown has the usage detection device 70 a capacitor 74 as energy storage. Part of the photoelectric component 72 generated power charges the capacitor 74 , Another part of the photoelectric component 72 generated power powers the integrated circuit 78 , the light emitting diode 79 and / or other components of the user detection device 70 ,

In the condenser 74 stored energy may be a supply to the usage detection device 70 or parts thereof even if no illumination light or too little Illuminating light on the photoelectric component 72 falls and this produces no electrical power or too little electric power, allow. Furthermore, the capacitor 74 a short-term supply of a power higher than that of the photoelectric device 72 provided electrical power, allow, for example, by means of the light emitting diode 79 to generate a short, bright blinking signal.

The integrated circuit 78 is provided and adapted to the number of uses of the endoscope 10 to count. To not count the short pre-examination of the endoscope as a separate use prior to use as part of a medical procedure is the integrated circuit 78 in particular designed to count only events in which several conditions are met simultaneously as one use. For example, the integrated circuit detects 78 not only whether that of the photoelectric component 72 received light power reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold, but also how long the period of time within which the received light power reaches or exceeds the predetermined threshold. Only when the period of time is longer than a predetermined minimum duration (for example, five minutes) does the integrated circuit increase the value of the use counter.

Alternatively or additionally, the integrated circuit can, for example, the time interval between a drop of the of the photoelectric component 72 detected radiation power below the predetermined threshold and the renewed exceeding of the predetermined threshold. If the time period between falling below and exceeding is shorter than a predetermined period of time, for example, one or more hours, the value of the use counter is not increased because the endoscope 10 in between was highly likely not autoclaved.

Alternatively or additionally, the integrated circuit sensor signals of other sensors for detecting the temperature at the location of the user detection device 70 , at the distal end 18 of the endoscope 10 or elsewhere, to detect a pressure within the endoscope 10 for detecting mechanical stresses or forces within the endoscope 10 and / or for detecting the linear or rotational acceleration or the position of the endoscope 10 in the room or be coupled with such sensors.

The integrated circuit 78 is further configured to compare the value of the usage counter with one or more thresholds and the light emitting diode 79 depending on the result of the comparison. If, for example, the endoscope 10 designed for 1000 uses, controls the integrated circuit 78 the LED 79 in particular, so as to generate a green light signal at the beginning, during or at the end of a use or at another predetermined time, when the value of the use counter is not more than 700, generates a yellow light signal when the value of the usage counter is between 700 and 1000, and a red light signal is generated when the value of the usage counter is 1000.

Alternatively or in addition to the light emitting diode 79 can the user detection device 70 comprise a different signal source for generating a visually or acoustically or haptically perceptible by a human or by a non-human receiver electrically or electromagnetically or inductively or optically or mechanically detectable signal and / or control depending on the result of the comparison.

For these tasks, the integrated circuit includes 78 in particular a counter, a memory for storing the value of the use counter, a comparator means for comparing the value of the use counter with one or more predetermined threshold values, and a controller for the light-emitting diode 79 and / or another signal source. Furthermore, the integrated circuit 78 Means for controlling the charging of the capacitor 74 and / or for generating one or more supply voltages. These parts of the integrated circuit 78 may be due to different or partially equal areas of hardware and partly by software or firmware inside or outside the integrated circuit 78 can be stored, be realized. Instead of a single integrated circuit 78 can the user detection device 70 have multiple integrated circuits with different functions. Furthermore, said functional units can be partially or completely implemented by discrete or integrated analog or digital circuits.

2 shows a schematic representation of another endoscope 10 , which in some features, properties and functions based on the 1 similar to the endoscope shown. The way of displaying the endoscope 10 in 2 similar to that of the endoscope in 1 , Below are in particular features, properties and functions of in 2 shown endoscopes 10 in which this differs from that of the 1 distinguished endoscope differs.

This in 2 shown endoscope 10 differs from that based on the 1 shown endoscope in particular in that instead of a light guide a plurality of optical fibers 60 are provided. The light entry surfaces 64 the light guide 60 are at the edge of the light entry surface 54 the main light transmission device 50 and thus with respect to the edge of the light exit surface 45 of the fiber cone 41 arranged. The light entry surfaces 64 the light guide 60 are especially uniform on the circumference of the light exit surface 54 the main light transmission device 50 distributed. A slight lateral misalignment of the light entry surface 54 the main light transmission device 50 and thus also the light entry surfaces 64 the light guide 60 relative to the light exit surface 45 of the fiber cone 41 can cause the light entry surfaces 64 single light guide 60 no longer visually with the light exit surface 45 of the fiber cone 41 are coupled. Opposite light entry surfaces 64 other light guides 60 are in this case, however, quite with the light exit surface 45 of the fiber cone 41 coupled, so that anyway a part of the light coupling 40 received illumination luminous flux in the light guide 60 is coupled.

Illuminating surfaces 65 the light guide 60 are directly next to each other and opposite the lens 67 and the photoelectric device 72 arranged. From the light exit surfaces 65 the light guide 60 Exiting illumination light is incident on the photoelectric device 72 so that this produces electrical power.

Deviating from the representations in the 1 and 2 can with a suitable arrangement of the light exit surface 65 of the light guide 60 or the light exit surfaces 65 the light guide 60 opposite the photoelectric device 72 the Lens 67 omitted.

3 shows a schematic representation of another endoscope 10 , which in some features, properties and functions based on the 1 and 2 resembles shown endoscopes. The way of displaying the endoscope 10 in 3 resembles the type of representation in the 1 and 2 , Below are in particular features, properties and functions of in 3 shown endoscopes 10 in which this differs from the basis of the 1 and 2 distinguished endoscopes.

This in 3 The endoscope shown differs from the one based on the 1 and 2 shown endoscopes in particular in that the photoelectric component 72 not directly on the board of the user detection device 70 and is thus arranged adjacent to the other components. Instead, the photoelectric device is 72 near the proximal end of the main light transmitting device 50 arranged and via electrical lines to the board of the user detection device 70 connected. The electrical wires between the photoelectric component 72 and the user acquisition device board 70 are in 3 not shown in section. In the illustrated example, the photoelectric device is 72 in a recess in a socket for mechanically holding the proximal end of the main light-transmitting device 50 arranged.

A light guide 60 is next to the fiber cone 41 arranged so that a light entrance surface 64 of the light guide 60 in a plane with the light entry surface 43 of the fiber cone 40 and is arranged at the edge. A light exit surface 65 of the light guide 60 is so opposite to the photoelectric device 72 arranged that from the light exit surface 65 of the light guide 60 Exiting illumination light on the photoelectric device 72 falls.

Deviating from the illustration in 1 can between the light exit surface 65 of the light guide 60 and the photoelectric device 72 a lens or other means for shaping the light exit surface 65 emerging light beam and for adapting the light beam to the photosensitive surface of the photoelectric device 72 be provided.

Deviating from the illustration in 3 can use multiple optical fibers 60 be provided, their light entry surfaces 64 in a plane with the light entry surface 43 of the fiber cone 41 and are arranged at the edge, and their light exit surfaces 65 opposite the photoelectric device 72 or against several different photoelectric components 72 are arranged. The light entry surfaces 64 the light guide 60 are especially at the edge of the light entry surface 43 of the fiber cone 41 evenly distributed to ensure that even with a lateral misalignment of the light entry surface 43 of the fiber cone 41 relative to a light exit surface 34 a fiber optic cable 30 (see. 1 ) Illumination light to the photoelectric device 72 or to at least one of a plurality of photoelectric components 72 is directed.

4 shows a schematic representation of another endoscope 10 , which in some features, properties and functions based on the 1 to 3 resembles shown endoscopes. The way of displaying the endoscope 10 in 4 resembles the type of representation in the 1 to 3 , Below are in particular features, properties and functions of in 4 shown endoscopes 10 in which this differs from the basis of the 1 to 3 distinguished endoscopes.

This in 4 illustrated endoscope 10 is different from the ones based on the 1 to 3 shown endoscopes in particular by the fact that between the light exit surface 45 of the fiber cone 41 and the light entry surface 54 the main light transmission device 50 a beam splitter 48 with a partially reflecting surface 49 is arranged. The photoelectric component 72 is - similar to the case of the 3 shown endoscope - of the other components of the user detection device 70 arranged spatially spaced, directly on a light exit surface of the beam splitter 48 ,

The reflectance of the partially reflecting surface 49 of the beam splitter 48 is chosen so that one for generating sufficient supply to the user detection device 70 through the photoelectric device 72 sufficient part of the at the light coupling 40 received illumination luminous flux to the photoelectric device 72 arrives, and that as much of the at the light coupling 40 received luminous flux via the main light transmission device 50 to the distal end 18 of the endoscope 10 arrives.

5 shows a schematic representation of another endoscope 10 , which in some features, properties and functions based on the 1 to 4 resembles shown endoscopes. The way of displaying the endoscope 10 in 5 resembles the type of representation in the 1 to 4 , Below are in particular features, properties and functions of in 5 shown endoscopes 10 in which this differs from the basis of the 1 to 4 distinguished endoscopes.

This in 5 illustrated endoscope differs from the basis of the 1 to 4 shown endoscopes in particular in that the photoelectric component 72 on a conical lateral surface of the fiber cone 41 is arranged. The photoelectric component 72 is in particular by means of an optically transparent Kitts directly with the lateral surface of the fiber cone 41 mechanically connected and optically coupled. The photoelectric component 72 is, for example, a thin and flexible (elastically or plastically deformable) organic solar cell. The photoelectric component 72 In particular, has the shape of an annular or C-shaped section of a lateral surface of a circular cone.

6 shows a schematic representation of another endoscope 10 , which in some features, properties and functions based on the 1 to 5 resembles shown endoscopes. The way of displaying the endoscope 10 in 6 resembles the type of representation in the 1 to 5 , Below are in particular features, properties and functions of in 6 shown endoscopes 10 in which this differs from the basis of the 1 to 5 distinguished endoscopes.

This in 6 shown endoscope 10 is different from the ones based on the 1 to 5 shown endoscopes in particular in that the photoelectric component 72 on a part of the lateral surface of the main light transmission device 50 is applied. In this case, the photoelectric component 72 - as in 6 indicated - a portion of the main light transmission device 50 surrounded tubular or tubular. Alternatively, the photoelectric device is 72 For example, only between the inner surface of an outer shaft tube and the main light transmission device 50 arranged. The photoelectric component 72 is in particular a flexible organic solar cell.

Similar to the case of the 5 The endoscope receives the photoelectric component 72 only illumination light, which is the main light transmission device 50 because of their imperfections leaves. The one to the distal end 18 of the endoscope 10 transferred and there at the light exit surface 58 Exiting portion of the illumination luminous flux is thus not further reduced.

In the case of the 1 to 6 shown endoscopes has the photoelectric component 72 each a double function. On the one hand, it provides a service to the user detection device 70 , On the other hand, the usage detecting device recognizes 70 - alone or among others - on the basis of the photoelectric component 72 generated supply use of the endoscope 10 ,

Alternatively, the photoelectric device 72 merely for generating utility for the usage detection device 70 or merely provided and designed as a sensor for detecting a use.

When the photoelectric device 72 merely for generating utility for the usage detection device 70 is provided and designed, the user detection device 70 For example, include a temperature sensor or be coupled to a temperature sensor. With the temperature sensor, the usage detection device 70 a use of the associated with the use of heating the entire endoscope 10 or the distal end 18 of the endoscope 10 beyond the room temperature. Alternatively or additionally, the usage detection device 70 an autoclaving process based on the associated heating of the endoscope 10 to detect a temperature well above 100 degrees Celsius.

When the photoelectric device 72 is provided and designed only as a sensor for detecting a use, the usage detection device, for example via an induction coil at the proximal end 12 of the endoscope 10 from one to the endoscope 10 coupled and inductively power-providing camera to be supplied with electrical power.

A medical instrument other than an endoscope may have similar features, properties and functions to those of the 1 to 6 illustrated endoscopes. This is particularly true with respect to the branching of a part of an illumination luminous flux provided by a light source, the supply thereof to a photoelectric device, the generation of electric power and / or an electric signal by the photoelectric device depending on the intensity or power of the photoelectric device received Illumination light and the optional use of the power or electrical signal for a user detection device.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

endoscope

12

proximal end of the endoscope 10

14

Shank of the endoscope 10

16

Observation beam of the endoscope 10

18

distal end of the endoscope 10

20

light source

21

Illuminant of the light source 20

22

Lens of the light source 20

23

Light exit surface of the light source 20

30

optical cable

32

Light entry surface of the optical fiber cable 30

34

Light exit surface of the fiber optic cable 30

40

Light coupling of the endoscope 10

41

Fiber cone at the light coupling 40

43

Light entry surface of the fiber cone 41 , for optical coupling with the light exit surface 34 of the fiber optic cable 30

45

Light exit surface of the fiber cone 41

48

Beam splitter between the light exit surface of the fiber cone 41 and the light entrance surface of the main light transmission device 50

49

partially reflecting surface of the beam splitter 48

50

Main light transmission device of the endoscope 10

54

Light entrance surface of the main light transmission device 50

58

Light exit surface of the main light transmission device 50 at the distal end 18 of the endoscope 10

60

Optical fiber as a secondary light transmission device 50 of the endoscope 10

64

Light entry surface of the light guide 60

65

Light exit surface of the light guide 60

67

Lens as optical means for adjusting one of the light exit surface 65 outgoing luminous flux

70

Use detector

72

Photoelectric component as an electrical power source and / or sensor of the user detection Einrich

74

Capacitor as energy storage of the user detection device 70

78

Integrated circuit for detecting and counting uses

79

Light-emitting diode as a signal source of the user detection device, for generating a visible signal

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 3909090 A1 [0005]
• WO 9414129 A1 [0006]
• DE 19723442 B4 [0007]
• DE 20005496 U1 [0008]
• DE 10225232 A1 [0009]
• DE 60306309 T2 [0010]
• DE 102007039088 A1 [0011]
• EP 2543309 A1 [0012]

Claims (15)

Endoscope (10) with: a light coupling (40) for coupling the endoscope (10) to a light source (20) and receiving a luminous flux from the light source (20); a main light transmitting means (50) for transmitting a part of an illumination luminous flux received at the light coupling (40) to a distal end (18) of the endoscope (10) for illuminating an object viewed by the endoscope (10); a photoelectric device (72) for receiving light and generating at least one of electrical signal and electrical power, wherein the photoelectric device (72) is formed and arranged to receive a portion of an illumination luminous flux received at the light coupling (40). An endoscope (10) according to the preceding claim, further comprising: an energy storage (74) connected to the photoelectric device (72) for storing electrical energy. Endoscope (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the photoelectric device (72) is optically coupled to the light coupling (40) such that it does not receive more than half of a light output received at the light coupling (40), the proximal end of the main light transmitting means (50) is optically coupled to the light coupling (40) so as to receive not less than half of a light power received at the light coupling (40). An endoscope (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the photoelectric device (72) is disposed near the proximal end of the endoscope (10). An endoscope (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a usage detector (70) for detecting at least one of a duration and a number of uses of the endoscope (10). An endoscope (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the usage detecting means (70) is electrically connected to the photoelectric device (72) to receive electric power from the photoelectric device (72). Endoscope (10) after one of Claims 5 and 6 wherein the usage detection means (70) is further adapted to detect a number of events at which a temperature of the endoscope (10) reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold. Endoscope (10) after one of Claims 5 to 7 in which the usage detecting means (70) is adapted to detect at least one of a number of events in which the optical power received by the photoelectric device (72) exceeds a predetermined threshold, or a number of events in which the one due to the photoelectric component (72) falls below a predetermined threshold, to detect or summate or integrate a total duration of periods during which the power received by the photoelectric device (72) exceeds a predetermined threshold. Endoscope (10) after one of Claims 5 to 8th , further comprising: a signal source (79) coupled to the usage detection means (70) or part of the usage detection means (70) for generating a human or auditory or haptic perception by a human, or electrical or electromagnetic or inductive by a non - human receiver optically or mechanically detectable signal containing information about the number of uses of the endoscope (10). An endoscope (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a sub light transmitting means (60) for transmitting light received at the light coupling (40) to the photoelectric device (72). Endoscope (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the sub-light transmission device comprises an optical fiber (60), a light entry surface (64) of the optical fiber (60) at the light entry surface (43) of the light coupling (40) or at or near a light exit surface (45) of a fiber cone (41) having the light entrance surface (43) of the light coupling (40) with a light entrance surface (58) the main Lichtübertragungseinrichung (50) optically coupled, or is arranged adjacent to a light entrance surface of the main light transmission device, a light exit surface (65) of the optical fiber (60) is optically coupled to the photoelectric component (72). Endoscope (10) after one of Claims 10 and 11 further comprising: optical means (67) for adjusting one of the sub-light transmitting means (60) transmitted light beam to a photosensitive region of the photoelectric device (72). An endoscope (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a beam splitter (48) for splitting a luminous flux received at the light coupling (40) into a first part which is supplied to the main light transmission means (50) and a second part which is supplied to the photoelectric component (72). Endoscope (10) after one of Claims 1 to 9 in which the photoelectric component (72) is arranged on or opposite a lateral surface (44) of a fiber cone (41) provided on or in the light coupling (40) or on or opposite to a lateral surface of the main light transmission device (50) , An endoscope (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the endoscope (10) has no further input for receiving power except the light coupling (40).

Images