DE102021116927A1 - noise detection algorithm - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a system comprising: an endoscope (2), a display unit (18) and a communication bus (48), preferably a serial communication bus; the endoscope (2) comprising: a proximal endoscope handle or interface (4) comprising a handle or interface housing (38) and a handle or interface circuit board (40) housed in the handle or interface housing (38); and an insertion string (6) extending from the endoscope handle or interface (4) and comprising an insertion tube (8), a bending section (10) and a distal tip unit (12), the distal tip unit (12) including a camera module (13 ) comprising an image sensor (14) configured to capture images and an image sensor circuit (42) configured to communicate with the display unit (18) via the communications bus (48); the display unit (18) including an input circuit (50) configured to communicate with the handle or interface circuit board (40) and with the image sensor circuit (42) via the communication bus (48); and the communication bus (48) connects the endoscope (2) and the display unit (18) and is configured to enable communication between the image sensor circuitry (42), the handle or interface circuit board (40) and the input circuitry (50) allows; wherein the input circuitry (50) of the display unit (18) is configured to check, preferably continuously or pulsed, the communications bus (48) for radio frequency noise and electrical interference.

Description

The present disclosure relates to an (endoscopic) system comprising: an endoscope/endoscope unit, a display/display unit and a communication bus. The endoscope/endoscope unit comprises the following: a proximal endoscope handle (handheld) or, alternatively, an interface for connecting the endoscope to, for example, a robotic arm, comprising a (handle or interface) housing and an inside the (handle or interface -) printed circuit board housed in the housing; and an insertion string (or endoscope shaft) extending from the endoscope handle or interface and an insertion tube, a (actively operable) bending section (so-called "deflection") provided at a distal end/end portion of the insertion tube, and a distal Tip unit (so-called an image sensor circuit configured to communicate with the display unit via the communication bus. The display unit includes an input circuit configured to communicate with the (handle/interface) circuit board and with the image sensor circuit via the communication bus. The communication bus connects the endoscope and the display unit and is configured to allow communication between the image sensor circuitry, the (handle/interface) circuit board and the input circuitry. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to the display unit as such and to a method performed by the display unit.

Related Prior Art

Endoscopes and similar special instruments such as bronchoscopes, arthroscopes, colonoscopes, laparoscopes, gastroscopes and duodenoscopes are known from the prior art and are used at least for the visual examination and diagnosis of hollow organs and body cavities and, if necessary, to support operations, e.g. B. for targeted tissue removal used. Both reusable and disposable endoscopes are known from the prior art. In principle, an insertion string consisting of an insertion tube, a (distal) bending section and a (distal) tip unit, which extends in this order from a proximal endoscope handle, can be inserted into a hollow organ or a body cavity to be examined with the endoscope.

Known endoscopes typically have an internal working channel that is generally provided within the insertion string and extends from the endoscope handle towards the distal tip assembly and has an opening at the distal end of the distal tip assembly. The working channel is usually accessible via an access port provided in the endoscope handle. The access port allows a surgical instrument to be passed through the working channel into the patient's body cavity (i.e., distal to the tip of the endoscope). A surgeon can use the surgical instrument to perform medical procedures in the patient's body cavity. In this context it is already known to use electrosurgical tools in endoscopic interventions, i. H. Insert electrosurgical tools into the patient's body cavity via the access port and working channel. In addition, the working channel can also be used as a suction channel, e.g.

For example, electrosurgical tools are known to operate with high voltage pulses (e.g., in the 4kV to 5kV range) which generate radio frequency noise and electrical interference. An electrosurgical tool designed for argon plasma coagulation (APC) is an example of such electrosurgical tools. Argon plasma coagulation is an electrosurgical, monopolar procedure for superficial hemostasis, devitalization and ablation using ionized argon gas, which as an inert gas can be easily ionized. High voltage pulses create a strong electric field (radio frequency) that can be perceived as high frequency noise and electrical interference on cables carrying images from the distal tip to the handle. The radio frequency noise and electrical interference can be present along the entire working channel to a tool tip of the electrosurgical tool.

It is known to use such electrosurgical tools in combination with known reusable endoscopes. In reusable endoscopes, many components are made of metal parts and the cables for image transmission from the distal tip to the handle, which cables are provided within the endoscope's insertion tube, may be shielded so that reusable endoscopes provide good shielding against radio frequency noise and electrical interference that may result from the use of such electrosurgical tools.

For disposable endoscopes, it is important that the entire endoscope can be manufactured economically and inexpensively. Therefore, parts/components of disposable endoscopes are mainly made of materials such as plastic, polymer and/or resin. In single-use endoscopes, the working channel is generally designed as a flexible polymer tube. In addition, it is desirable to use unshielded cables, which are less expensive than shielded cables, for disposable endoscopes. As a result, single-use endoscopes typically do not provide good shielding against radio frequency noise and electrical interference when an electrosurgical tool is inserted into the working channel and operated. Nevertheless, even a single-use endoscope should be suitable for electrosurgical tools without the live images being affected by radio frequency noise and electrical disturbances on the communication bus. Accordingly, it is to be avoided that the communication bus is impaired, so that, for example, data is written at a wrong place in a register of a camera module provided in an endoscope tip unit.

Concretely, at the distal tip unit of endoscopes (both disposable and reusable endoscopes), image pickup means such as a camera module having an image sensor and an image sensor circuit are usually installed. An image captured by the image sensor can be displayed on a monitor provided in a display unit connected to the endoscope. The display unit may further include an image processing device such as a CPU or an FPGA that can communicate with the image sensor via a communication bus. In particular, the images recorded by the image sensor can be transmitted to the image processing device via the communication bus and processed there. In addition, settings from the image processing device can be transmitted to the camera module provided in the distal tip via the communication bus. For single-use endoscopes, the cables for the communication bus are usually not shielded.

When a high-frequency electrosurgical tool (such as an electrosurgical tool configured to perform argon plasma coagulation) is inserted into the working channel of an endoscope and operated by the operator, high frequencies and high levels of noise occur, affecting the communication bus and can lead to bits being inserted incorrectly, e.g. in an incorrect position in a register or with an incorrect value, and bits of the transmitted data are missing from the data transmission over the communication bus because the communication bus is located quite close to the working channel and therefore to the high-frequency electrical noise source (the electrosurgical tool). . Especially for single-use endoscopes that use a communication bus with unshielded cables to transmit image signals and settings, if high-frequency noise and electrical noise occur in an image signal, they will cause flickering and freezing of images on the screen/monitor connected to the imaging device can. When high-frequency noise and an electrical disturbance occurs in an adjustment signal, especially in a register address, the data is likely to be written to an unknown address, namely an unexpected, random location, which can lead to an interruption in normal operation, and a complete reset of the entire system would be required to resume correct operation. Thus, the radio frequency noise and electrical interference can drastically degrade the performance of endoscopic operations and result in the operator being unable to perform an endoscopic procedure as intended.

In summary, when using high-frequency electrosurgical tools with disposable endoscopes (with especially the communication bus that is not well shielded), the endoscope and an associated display unit that displays live images on a screen are very susceptible to high-frequency noise and electrical noise generated by the use of such electrosurgical tools. In particular, there is a risk of losing live images because the communication on the communication bus goes wrong, i.e. data is written to the wrong places in the register of the camera module in the distal tip.

Summary of Revelation

The object and aim of the present disclosure is to eliminate or at least reduce the disadvantages of the prior art and to adequately deal with the situation described above. In particular, it aims to prevent flickering and freezing images on a screen/monitor connected to an endoscope due to radio frequency noise and electrical interference, as well as interruptions in normal operation/system failures.

The objects and aims of the present disclosure are achieved by an (endoscopic) system according to claim 1, by a display unit according to claim 13 and by a method according to claim 15. Advantageous embodiments are claimed in the dependent claims and/or explained below.

In the present disclosure, "distal" means essentially "in a direction away from an operator, preferably toward a patient" and "proximal" means essentially "in a direction toward the operator, preferably away from a patient."

The present disclosure relates to an (endoscopic) system comprising: an endoscope or an endoscope unit, a display or a display unit and a communication bus, preferably a serial communication bus; the endoscope comprising: a proximal endoscope handle or (robot) interface (as defined above) having a handle/interface housing and a handle/interface circuit board housed in the handle/interface housing; and an insertion string (endoscope shaft) extending from the endoscope handle/interface and comprising an insertion tube, a bending section (actively operable) and a distal tip unit (endoscope head), wherein the distal tip unit comprises a camera module having an image sensor configured so that it captures images, and an image sensor circuit configured to communicate with the display unit via the communication bus; wherein the display unit comprises an input circuit (particularly comprising a logic circuit) configured to communicate with the handle/interface circuit board and with the image sensor circuit via the communication bus; and the communication bus connects the endoscope and the display unit and is configured to enable communication between the image sensor circuitry, the handle/interface circuit board and the input circuitry; wherein the display unit/input circuitry of the display unit is configured to check for radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communication bus, preferably continuously or pulsed.

In addition, the present disclosure relates to a display unit comprising an input circuit configured to check, preferably continuously or pulsed, a communication bus for radio frequency noise and electrical interference, via which the display unit can be connected to an endoscope/an endoscope unit and which enables communication between the input circuitry and the endoscope.

Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a method for checking, preferably continuously or pulsating, for high-frequency noise and electrical interference on a communication bus via which a display unit can be connected to an endoscope/an endoscope unit and which enables communication between the display unit and the endoscope.

According to the present disclosure, a (separate) display unit is provided, which is particularly suitable for preventing high-frequency electrical noise and interference, which can arise when, for example, an electrosurgical tool is used in a working channel of an endoscope, from affecting a communication bus that configured to provide communication between the endoscope and the display unit. The present disclosure takes into account that flickering and frozen images on a screen connected to the endoscope or, in the worst case, a system failure can occur immediately/immediately when high-frequency noise and electrical noise occur in the endoscope. Therefore, the display unit of the present disclosure, particularly the input circuitry of the display unit, is configured to preferably continuously (i.e. continuously/non-stop) check for the presence of radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communication bus.

In the event that the input circuit of the display unit determines that high-frequency noise and electrical interference are present on the communication bus, which are particularly suitable (in terms of their quality and / or quantity) to affect the communication bus / communication via the communication bus, the Input circuitry configured to (temporarily) terminate communication over the communications bus.

The input circuit can be configured in such a way that, in the event of high-frequency noise and electrical interference on the communication bus, it interrupts the communication via the communication bus at least for a specific, preferably predetermined, period of time.

By immediately terminating communication via the communication bus for a certain period of time when high-frequency noise and electrical noise capable of affecting the communication bus are present in the endoscope, it is preferable to prevent communication via the communication bus from entering into an erroneous state , in which, for example, images cannot be processed by an image processing device provided in the display unit and therefore cannot be displayed on a display.

Preferably, the communication bus is a serial communication bus such as an I ² C bus or an SCCB (Serial Camera Control Bus).

The endoscope can include a working channel configured for insertion of an electrosurgical tool (i.e., an electrosurgical tool can be inserted into the working channel). The working channel can extend inside the endoscope handle and/or inside the insertion cord, in particular from a working channel access connection preferably provided in the endoscope handle to the distal tip unit. The working channel is formed in particular by a connecting part (Y-connection) encompassing the working channel access connection, by a (flexible) working channel hose within the insertion strand and by a tip housing of the distal tip unit. The fitting and working channel tubing are typically made of polymer/resin/plastic material. Preferably, communication over the communication bus is interrupted when radio frequency noise and electrical interference of a certain quality and/or quantity is present in the working channel.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that the endoscope includes a detector circuit configured to detect the presence in the working channel of radio frequency noise and electrical interference, particularly arising from the use and operation of an electrosurgical tool. That is, preferably, the endoscope itself is configured to detect the presence of radio frequency noise and electrical interference. Advantageously, high-frequency noise and electrical interference are detected directly and immediately where they occur, namely in the endoscope. The detector circuitry may be configured to continuously or pulsatilely search for high frequency noise and electrical interference that may affect the communication bus and may be at least partially integrated/implemented into the handle/interface circuit board.

The detector circuit/protection circuit may be configured to provide an output signal indicative of the presence of the radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communications bus, particularly in the event that the radio frequency noise and electrical interference is of a specified quality and/or quantity to reach. The output signal can particularly preferably be transmitted to the input circuit of the display unit. When the protection circuit/detector circuit detects such a high-frequency disturbance and the input circuit receives the output signal, the communication via the communication bus is preferably stopped by the display unit (its input circuit).

It must be understood that the output signal can be transmitted directly to the display unit or indirectly transmitted to the display unit. For example, the output signal may also be a trigger signal that pulls down a connected line/communications line, e.g., a clock line, in the communications bus that transmits the captured images from the image sensor to the display unit. In other words, and more generally, the handle/interface circuit board (in which the detector circuitry is preferably at least partially integrated) can be configured to pull down an already existing bus (e.g., the communications bus that transmits the captured images from the image sensor to the display unit). to provide the display unit with a signal indicating that radiofrequency noise and electrical interference, preferably of a certain quality and/or quantity, are present in the endoscope. Therefore, advantageously, no additional wire is required between the handle/interface circuit board and the display unit.

Preferably, the communication between the input circuit, the handle/interface circuit board and the image sensor circuit is master-slave, with the input circuit being the master and the handle/interface circuit board and the image sensor circuit being slaves. This can be particularly advantageous in an alternative embodiment in which no detector circuit is provided in the endoscope.

According to this alternative embodiment, the input circuit may be configured to first adjust a communication line output signal of a communication line of the communication bus and compare the communication line output signal with a communication line input signal of the communication line received from the handle/interface board to determine a presence of the radio frequency noise and electrical interference (of a specified quality and/or quantity) on the communication bus.

More preferably, the communication line output signal is an output clock signal of a clock line of the communication bus and the communication line input signal is an input clock signal of the clock line of the communication bus, and the input circuit is configured to first set the output clock signal and adjust the output clock signal with the one set by the handle/interface PCB received a input clock signal to determine the presence of high frequency noise and electrical interference on the communication bus.

In addition, the input circuit may be configured to generate a comparison signal based on a comparison of the communication line output signal and the communication line input signal and determine the presence of the radio frequency noise and the electrical interference when the comparison signal exceeds a predetermined threshold.

In summary, according to the alternative embodiment, a logic circuit of the input circuit can be set up to combine an output of a communication line, in particular a clock line, of the communication bus on the input circuit with an input of the communication line, in particular a clock line, of the communication bus from the (handle/interface) circuit board to compare. By comparing the communication bus communication line output on the input circuit with the communication bus communication line input from the (handle/interface) PCB, it can be determined whether the high-frequency noise and electrical interference are present on the communication bus without the detection circuit being provided must become. The communication bus between the display unit, the handle/interface circuit board and the camera module in the distal tip unit is preferably master/slave based. The input circuit provided in the display unit can be the master and pull down or up a communication line on the communication bus. For example, if the communication line is pulled low by the display unit but suddenly goes to an unexpected high value, the display unit may perceive this as the presence of radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communication bus. A comparison signal indicating the result of the comparison can be generated by the display unit. The radio frequency noise and electrical interference can be considered to be present in the endoscope when the comparison signal exceeds a predetermined threshold.

The display unit is therefore preferably configured to check, preferably continuously, whether an interference detection signal (output signal of the detector circuit or comparison signal of the input circuit) is received, which indicates the presence of high-frequency noise and electrical interference, preferably of a certain quality and/or quantity, on the communication bus . When such a failure detection signal is received, the display unit, in particular the input circuit, preferably executes a (termination) algorithm/method arranged to terminate the communication between the display unit and the endoscope via the communication bus.

According to a preferred embodiment, the logic (contained in the input circuitry of the display unit) comprises a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), and the algorithm/method of the present disclosure is implemented on the Field Programmable Gate Array. In other words, it may be practical to implement the algorithm/method on such a Field Programmable Gate Array, which is part of the logic (circuitry) of the input circuit provided in the display unit. Advantageously, a field programmable gate array can be easily updated and programmed to carry out the algorithm of the present disclosure.

1. a) feststellen, ob ein Rauschenerfassungssignal empfangen wird;
2. b) den Kommunikationsbus sperren, wenn das Rauschenerfassungssignal empfangen wird.
3. c) Suche nach einem weiteren Rauschenerfassungssignal für eine erste vorbestimmte Zeitspanne;
4. d) falls in Schritt c) kein weiteres Rauschenerfassungssignal empfangen wird, einen Betrieb des Kommunikationsbus neu starten;
5. e) für den Fall, dass in Schritt c) ein weiteres Rauschenerfassungssignal empfangen wird, warten, bis für die erste vorbestimmte Zeitspanne kein Rauschenerfassungssignal empfangen wird, d.h. bis ein Ende einer von einem elektrochirurgischen Werkzeug abgegebenen Plusfolge (Burst) erreicht ist.
6. f) am Ende der Pulsfolge eine zweite vorbestimmte Zeitspanne abwarten und feststellen, ob während dieser zweiten vorbestimmten Zeitspanne eine weitere Pulsfolge festgestellt wurde;
7. g) falls in Schritt f) keine weitere Pulsfolge festgestellt wird, den Betrieb des Kommunikationsbus wieder aufnehmen; und
8. h) falls in Schritt f) eine weitere Pulsfolge festgestellt wird, Schritt f) wiederholen, bis in Schritt f) keine weitere Pulsfolge festgestellt wird.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the algorithm/method of the present disclosure comprises the following steps (ie the display unit is configured to perform the following steps):

1. a) determining whether a noise detection signal is received;
2. b) disable the communication bus when the noise detection signal is received.
3. c) searching for another noise detection signal for a first predetermined period of time;
4. d) if no further noise detection signal is received in step c), restarting operation of the communication bus;
5. e) in the event that a further noise detection signal is received in step c), waiting until no noise detection signal is received for the first predetermined period of time, ie until an end of a burst emitted by an electrosurgical tool is reached.
6. f) wait a second predetermined period of time at the end of the pulse train and determine whether another pulse train was detected during this second predetermined period of time;
7. g) if no further pulse train is detected in step f), resuming operation of the communication bus; and
8. h) if a further pulse sequence is detected in step f), repeat step f) until no further pulse sequence is detected in step f).

More generally, the algorithm/method according to the present disclosure specifically takes into account the type of electrosurgical devices/tools used for endoscopic procedures. In particular, an electrosurgical tool configured to perform argon plasma coagulation (APC) may be a specific example of such an electrosurgical tool. Within the scope of the present disclosure, it was determined that specific background noise signals are emitted when such an electrosurgical tool is controlled/supplied. In particular, it has been shown that such electrosurgical tools periodically emit pulse trains, both in a fast pulse mode and in a slow pulse mode. A pulse train usually consists of a large number of individual pulses, which can cause disruption in the communication bus, resulting in incorrect data being transmitted to incorrect addresses.

Advantageously, the display unit according to steps a) and b) above is configured to stop/block the communication on the communication bus immediately when a noise detection signal/single pulse is received to prevent a single pulse from causing disturbance of the communication bus.

Furthermore, according to steps c), d) and e) above, the display unit is advantageously configured to check whether the received noise detection signal is random noise (this is the case if no further noise is received during the first predetermined time period, cf. steps c) and d))) or whether the received noise detection signal is part of a pulse train (this is the case if further noise is received during the first predetermined time period, cf. steps c) and e)). If the noise detection signal is random noise, the operation of the communication bus can be restarted/resumed. Only when the noise detection signal is part of a pulse train will the operation of the communication bus be further blocked.

The first predetermined period of time is preferably defined as a function of a distance between two individual pulses in a pulse sequence. It has been found, for example, that two individual pulses in a pulse train are usually spaced by microseconds. Against this background, the first specified time span can be selected such that it is sufficiently longer than the interval between two individual pulses. Preferably, the first predetermined period of time can be set in the single digit millisecond range (e.g. between 1 ms and 10 ms). More preferably, the first predetermined period of time is set to 1 ms according to the present disclosure. This setting of the first predetermined period of time makes it possible for a pulse train that is suitable for interfering with communication via the communication bus to be reliably detected.

According to step e) above, the display unit is preferably configured to wait until no further noise detection signal has been received for the first predetermined period of time if a pulse train has been detected. The display unit is thus preferably configured in such a way that it determines whether an end of a pulse sequence has been reached or not.

By waiting a second predetermined period of time according to step f), it can be determined whether a first detected pulse train belongs to a pulsed operation of the electrosurgical tool and whether a distance between two pulse trains is too small to resume operation of the communication bus between two pulse trains. Especially in a fast pulsed operation of the electrosurgical tool, it is preferable not to start the operation of the communication bus between two pulse sequences.

It has been found that the second predetermined period of time is preferably set in a millisecond range, in particular between 100 ms and 200 ms, for example 125 ms. This allows another pulse train to be recognized in the fast pulse mode of the electrosurgical tool, so that the operation of the communication bus in the fast pulse mode can be prevented from being restarted.

Preferably, in the event that a further pulse train/further pulse trains are detected in the second predetermined period of time, the display unit is configured to wait until no further pulse train is/are detected for/during the second predetermined period of time. The display unit therefore preferably ensures that the communication bus is only restarted when a rapid pulse mode of the electrosurgical tool has ended.

Generally speaking, it can be said that the second predetermined period of time is preferably longer than the first predetermined period of time.

Furthermore, it can be said that the display unit is configured to interrupt the communication/operation of the communication bus only in case of random noise for a first short predetermined period of time and to interrupt the communication of the communication bus for a period that is longer as the first predetermined period of time when a burst resulting from operation of an electrosurgical tool occurs.

Additionally, the system according to the present disclosure may include an electrosurgical tool configured to be inserted into the working channel of the (single-use) endoscope and manipulated by the operator. During operation of the electrosurgical tool, it generally emits high frequency electrical noise that includes a train of pulses with a wide range of frequencies. The display unit of the present disclosure is specially prepared for the situation mentioned (electrosurgical tool used in the working channel of a disposable endoscope).

The display unit can comprise a display/screen/monitor. Alternatively, the display/screen/monitor may be in electrical communication with the display unit and formed/configured as a separate part/component from the display unit.

The present disclosure enables the live image displayed on the display/screen/monitor during an electrosurgical procedure to be maintained with acceptably low flicker during the procedure. The solution according to the present disclosure is highly compatible with disposable endoscopes, where plastic materials are common. Furthermore, the present disclosure can be easily implemented through a code update of a field programmable gate array of the display unit. Preferably, no changes to the hardware of the endoscope are required. Advantageously, the communication bus is protected against a wide range of high frequency noise and electrical interference.

1. 1. Endoskop umfassend: einen proximalen Endoskopgriff oder Interface, der ein Griff- oder ein Interfacegehäuse, einen Arbeitskanal-Zugangsanschluss und eine Leiterplatte umfasst, wobei die Leiterplatte innerhalb des Griffs oder Interfacegehäuses untergebracht ist; einen Einführstrang, der sich von dem proximalen Endoskopgriff oder Interface erstreckt und einen Einführschlauch, einen Biegeabschnitt und eine distale Spitzeneinheit umfasst, wobei die distale Spitzeneinheit ein mit der Leiterplatte verbundenes Kameramodul umfasst; einen Arbeitskanal, der sich vom Arbeitskanal-Zugangsanschluss des Endoskopgriffs oder Interface zur distalen Spitzeneinheit des Einführstrangs erstreckt; und einen Detektorschaltkreis, der so konfiguriert ist, dass er das Vorhandensein eines Hochfrequenzrauschens und einer elektrischen Störung erfasst, die sich aus der Verwendung und dem Betrieb eines elektrochirurgischen Werkzeugs im Arbeitskanal ergeben.
2. 2. Endoskop nach Aspekt 1, wobei der Detektorschaltkreis Folgendes umfasst: ein Sensorteil, das so konfiguriert ist, dass es das Vorhandensein des Hochfrequenzrauschens und der elektrischen Störung erkennt, und ein Schaltkreisteil, das elektrisch mit dem Sensorteil verbunden und so konfiguriert ist, dass es ein Ausgangssignal liefert, das das Vorhandensein des hochfrequenten Störgeräuschs und der elektrischen Störung anzeigt.
3. 3. Endoskop nach Aspekt 2, wobei das Sensorteil so konfiguriert ist, dass es dem Schaltkreisteil eine Spannung zuführt, und das Schaltkreisteil so konfiguriert ist, dass es das Ausgangssignal auf der Grundlage der dem Schaltkreisteil vom Sensorteil zugeführten Spannung ausgibt.
4. 4. Endoskop nach Aspekt 3, wobei das Schaltkreisteil so konfiguriert ist, dass es eine obere Grenzwertspannung und eine untere Grenzwertspannung einstellt, und das Ausgangssignal des Schaltkreisteils geändert wird, wenn die vom Sensorteil übertragene Spannung oberhalb der oberen Grenzwertspannung oder unterhalb der unteren Grenzwertspannung liegt.
5. 5. Endoskop nach einem der Aspekte 2 bis 4, wobei das Schaltkreisteil in die im Endoskopgriff oder Interface vorgesehene Leiterplatte integriert ist.
6. 6. Endoskop nach einem der Aspekte 2 bis 5, wobei das Schaltkreisteil einen Fensterkomparator umfasst.
7. 7. Endoskop nach einem der Aspekte 2 bis 6, wobei das Sensorteil um den Arbeitskanal herum angeordnet ist, so dass es den Arbeitskanal zumindest teilweise umgibt.
8. 8. Endoskop nach einem der Aspekte 2 bis 7, wobei der Arbeitskanal durch ein den Zugangsanschluss aufweisendes Verbindungsteil, durch einen Arbeitskanalschlauch und durch ein Spitzengehäuse der distalen Spitzeneinheit gebildet wird und das Sensorteil an einer Außenfläche des Verbindungsteils oder an einer Außenfläche des Arbeitskanalschlauchs angeordnet ist.
9. 9. Endoskop nach einem der Aspekte 2 bis 8, wobei das Sensorteil ein elektrisch leitendes Teil ist und so konfiguriert ist, dass es als Kondensator funktioniert.
10. 10. Endoskop nach einem der Aspekte 2 bis 9, wobei das Sensorteil als elektrisch leitende Folie oder Band oder als flexible Leiterplatte ausgebildet ist, so dass es gebogen und geformt werden kann, um einer Außenkontur des Arbeitskanals zu folgen.
11. 11. Endoskop nach einem der Aspekte 2 bis 10, wobei das Sensorteil im proximalen Endoskopgriff oder Interface angeordnet ist.
12. 12. System, das Folgendes umfasst: ein Endoskop nach einem der vorhergehenden Aspekte 1 bis 11; und eine Displayeinheit, die mit der im Griff- oder Interfacegehäuse des Endoskopgriffs oder Interface untergebrachten Leiterplatte verbunden ist, die so konfiguriert ist, dass sie über einen Kommunikationsbus mit dem in der distalen Spitzeneinheit des Einführstrangs vorgesehenen Kameramodul kommuniziert, und die so konfiguriert ist, dass sie eine Kommunikation über den Kommunikationsbus beendet, wenn der Detektorschaltkreis das Vorhandensein des hochfrequenten Störgeräuschs und der elektrischen Störung erkennt.
13. 13. System nach Aspekt 12, wobei die Displayeinheit einen Eingabeschaltkreis umfasst, der eine logische Schaltung zur Kommunikation mit der im Griff- oder Interfacegehäuse des Endoskopgriffs oder Interfaces untergebrachten Leiterplatte und mit dem in der distalen Spitzeneinheit des Endoskops vorgesehenen Kameramodul umfasst, wobei der Eingabeschaltkreis so konfiguriert ist, dass er indirekt oder direkt ein Ausgangssignal vom Detektorschaltkreis empfängt.
14. 14. System nach Aspekt 12 oder 13, ferner umfassend: ein elektrochirurgisches Werkzeug, das so konfiguriert ist, dass es mit Hochspannungspulsen betrieben wird, die während des Betriebs Hochfrequenzrauschen und eine elektrische Störung erzeugen.
15. 15. System nach Aspekt 14, wobei das elektrochirurgische Werkzeug zum Einführen in den Arbeitskanal des Endoskops vorgesehen ist, die Hochspannungspulse ein elektrisches Feld erzeugen, und das elektrische Feld ein Sensorteil des Detektorschaltkreises auflädt, wenn das elektrochirurgische Werkzeug im Arbeitskanal aufgenommen ist und betrieben wird.

The present disclosure may also relate to the following aspects, wherein each aspect of the following aspects can be independently and arbitrarily combined with any of the above aspects and the claims.

1. An endoscope comprising: a proximal endoscope handle or interface comprising a handle or interface housing, a working channel access port and a circuit board, the circuit board being housed within the handle or interface housing; an insertion string extending from the proximal endoscope handle or interface and including an insertion tube, a bending section and a distal tip assembly, the distal tip assembly including a camera module connected to the circuit board; a working channel extending from the working channel access port of the endoscope handle or interface to the distal tip assembly of the delivery string; and a detector circuit configured to detect the presence of radio frequency noise and electrical interference resulting from use and operation of an electrosurgical tool in the working channel.
2. 2. The endoscope according to aspect 1, wherein the detector circuit comprises: a sensor part configured to detect the presence of the high-frequency noise and the electrical interference, and a circuit part electrically connected to the sensor part and configured to provides an output signal indicative of the presence of the high frequency noise and electrical interference.
3. 3. The endoscope according to aspect 2, wherein the sensor part is configured to supply a voltage to the circuit part, and the circuit part is configured to output the output signal based on the voltage supplied from the sensor part to the circuit part.
4. 4. The endoscope according to aspect 3, wherein the circuit part is configured to set an upper limit voltage and a lower limit voltage, and the output signal of the circuit part is changed when the voltage transmitted from the sensor part is above the upper limit voltage or below the lower limit voltage.
5. 5. The endoscope according to any one of aspects 2 to 4, wherein the circuit part is integrated in the circuit board provided in the endoscope handle or interface.
6. 6. The endoscope according to any one of aspects 2 to 5, wherein the circuit part comprises a window comparator.
7. 7. The endoscope according to any one of aspects 2 to 6, wherein the sensor part is arranged around the working channel so that it at least partially surrounds the working channel.
8. 8. Endoscope according to one of aspects 2 to 7, wherein the working channel is formed by a connecting part having the access port, by a working channel tube and by a tip housing of the distal tip unit and the sensor part is arranged on an outer surface of the connecting part or on an outer surface of the working channel tube.
9. 9. Endoscope according to one of aspects 2 to 8, wherein the sensor part is an electrically conductive part and configured to function as a capacitor.
10. 10. The endoscope according to any one of aspects 2 to 9, wherein the sensor part is formed as an electrically conductive foil or tape or as a flexible circuit board so that it can be bent and shaped to follow an outer contour of the working channel.
11. 11. Endoscope according to one of aspects 2 to 10, wherein the sensor part is arranged in the proximal endoscope handle or interface.
12. 12. A system, comprising: an endoscope according to any one of the preceding aspects 1 to 11; and a display unit connected to the circuit board housed in the handle or interface housing of the endoscope handle or interface, configured to communicate via a communication bus with the camera module provided in the distal tip unit of the insertion string, and configured to it terminates communication over the communication bus when the detector circuitry detects the presence of the high frequency noise and electrical interference.
13. 13. The system of aspect 12, wherein the display unit includes an input circuit that includes logic circuitry for communicating with the circuit board housed in the handle or interface housing of the endoscope handle or interface and with the camera module provided in the distal tip unit of the endoscope, the input circuit so is configured to indirectly or directly receive an output signal from the detector circuit.
14. 14. The system of aspect 12 or 13, further comprising: an electrosurgical tool configured to be operated with high voltage pulses that generate high frequency noise and electrical interference during operation.
15. 15. The system of aspect 14, wherein the electrosurgical tool is provided for insertion into the working channel of the endoscope, the high voltage pulses generate an electric field, and the electric field charges a sensor portion of the detector circuit when the electrosurgical tool is received in the working channel and is operated.

character list

• 1 ist eine Draufsicht auf ein Endoskop und eine Displayeinheit gemäß der vorliegenden Offenbarung;
• 2 ist eine schematische Darstellung der elektrischen Verbindungen und Kommunikationsleitungen, die im Endoskop und der Displayeinheit gemäß der vorliegenden Offenbarung vorgesehen sind;
• 3 ist eine perspektivische Ansicht, die einen Endoskopgriff des Endoskops in einer offenen Konfiguration zeigt;
• 4 ist eine perspektivische, illustrative Ansicht, die ein Sensorteil und eine Griffleiterplatte in einem vom Endoskopgriff demontierten Zustand zeigt;
• 5 zeigt eine erste Ausführungsform einer elektrischen Schaltung, die einen Detektorschaltkreis gemäß der vorliegenden Offenbarung bildet;
• 6 zeigt eine zweite Ausführungsform einer elektrischen Schaltung, die einen Detektorschaltkreis gemäß der vorliegenden Offenbarung bildet;
• 7 zeigt ein Diagramm zur Veranschaulichung der Funktionsweise eines Fensterkomparators, der im Detektorschaltkreis gemäß der vorliegenden Offenbarung enthalten ist;
• 8 zeigt ein Diagramm zur Veranschaulichung des Pulsierens eines elektrochirurgischen Werkzeugs in einem schnellen Pulsmodus;
• 9 zeigt eine Pulsfolge aus einer Vielzahl von Pulsfolgen, die in 8 dargestellt sind;
• 10 zeigt einzelne Pulse der in 9 gezeigten Pulsfolge;
• 11 zeigt ein Diagramm zur Veranschaulichung des Pulsierens eines elektrochirurgischen Werkzeugs in einem langsamen Pulsmodus;
• 12 zeigt eine Pulsfolge aus einer Vielzahl von Pulsfolgen, die in 11 dargestellt sind; und
• 13 zeigt ein Flussdiagramm eines Algorithmus gemäß der vorliegenden Offenbarung.

The disclosure is explained in more detail below on the basis of preferred embodiments and with reference to the attached figures.

• 1 12 is a plan view of an endoscope and a display unit according to the present disclosure;
• 2 Fig. 12 is a schematic representation of the electrical connections and communication lines provided in the endoscope and the display unit according to the present disclosure;
• 3 14 is a perspective view showing an endoscope handle of the endoscope in an open configuration;
• 4 Fig. 14 is a perspective illustrative view showing a sensor part and a grip circuit board in a state disassembled from the endoscope grip;
• 5 12 shows a first embodiment of an electrical circuit forming a detector circuit according to the present disclosure;
• 6 12 shows a second embodiment of an electrical circuit forming a detector circuit according to the present disclosure;
• 7 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a window comparator included in the detector circuit according to the present disclosure;
• 8th Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating pulsing of an electrosurgical tool in a fast pulse mode;
• 9 shows a pulse sequence from a large number of pulse sequences that are 8th are shown;
• 10 shows individual pulses of the in 9 shown pulse train;
• 11 Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating pulsing of an electrosurgical tool in a slow pulse mode;
• 12 shows a pulse sequence from a large number of pulse sequences that are 11 are shown; and
• 13 10 shows a flow diagram of an algorithm in accordance with the present disclosure.

The figures are schematic and only serve to understand the disclosure. The features of the various embodiments are interchangeable.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

In 1 an endoscope 2 is shown. The endoscope 2 is preferably a single-use endoscope, which is essentially formed from parts made of plastic/polymeric material. The endoscope 2 has a proximal endoscope handle 4 which is intended to be held by an operator and which is designed to accommodate operating parts of the endoscope 2 . Here the presence of a handle 4 is the preferred embodiment. However, it is also possible to use an interface that can be coupled to the distal end of a robotic arm or the like instead of the handle. Since such an interface has the same functions as a handle, but differs essentially only in the outer shape, the handle is shown in the figures only as a synonym for both handle and interface. Furthermore, the endoscope 2 includes an insertion cord 6 which is designed for insertion into the body cavity of a patient. The delivery string 6 comprises a (flexible/passively bendable) delivery tube 8, a (actively operable) bending section 10 and a distal tip unit 12, which extend from the endoscope handle 4 in this order.

A camera module 13 is provided on/in the distal tip unit 12 . The camera module 13 comprises an image sensor circuit 42 and an image sensor 14. The image sensor circuit 42 is designed in such a way that it enables the image sensor 14 to be adjusted. The camera module 13 can be a light source such as. B. light emitting diodes or optical fibers, which are connected to a proximal light source, so that the patient's body cavity can be illuminated and examined. An image recorded by the image sensor 14 can be displayed on a display 16 of a display unit 18 . The endoscope 2 can be connected to the display unit 18 via a plug connection 20 . The endoscope 2 can include a plug that can be plugged into a socket of the display unit 18 . It is understood that the display unit 18 does not necessarily include the display 16 . Alternatively, an external monitor can also be provided which is not part of the display unit 18 and which is connected to the display unit 18 .

The endoscope 2 has an internal working channel 22. The working channel 22 is essentially formed by a biopsy port/Y-connector 76, a pliable/flexible polymer tube connected to the Y-connector 76, i.e. a working channel tube 65, and a tip housing of the distal tip unit 12 , On / in which the working channel 22 forms an opening to the environment. The Y-connection 76 includes an access port 24 for inserting instruments into the working channel 22. The working channel tube 65 is provided in/within the delivery string 6 and extends from the Y-connection 76 provided in the endoscope handle 4 towards the distal tip unit 12. The Working channel 22 is accessible via access port 24 . In particular, an electrosurgical tool 25 is an example of a minimal instrument that can be passed through the working channel 22 into the patient's body cavity via the Y-connector 76 and the working channel tube 65 . The operator can thus use the tool 25 to carry out medical interventions in the body cavity of the patient.

The endoscope handle 4 comprises two actuation units 26, 28, namely a first actuation unit 26 and a second actuation unit 28, for actively steering/bending the bending section 10, whereby the distal tip unit 12 is oriented in certain directions. Alternatively, the endoscope handle 4 can also comprise only one actuating unit 26 , 28 . The actuation unit 26, 28 can be a grip wheel or a lever. In the embodiment shown, a torsional/rotational force can be applied to both the first actuator 26 and the second actuator 28 by the operator. How out 1 can be seen, the first actuating unit 26 and the second actuating unit 28 are arranged coaxially, ie rotatable about a common axis of rotation. The first actuating unit 26 and the second actuating unit 28 are in 1 both designed as grip wheels.

The distal tip unit 12 can be oriented in different directions by bending the bending portion 10, respectively. At the in 1 The endoscope 2 shown is basically a two-plane bending endoscope. That is, the distal tip assembly 12, or more specifically, the bending portion 10, is bent in a first bending plane (eg, in an up-and-down direction) and in a second bending plane (eg, in a right-and-left direction). can. In particular, the first actuating unit 26 is operator actuatable to bend the distal tip assembly 12/bending portion 10 in the first bending plane, and the second actuating unit 28 is operator actuated to bend the distal tip assembly 12/bending portion 10 in the second to bend the bending plane. The first bending plane is preferably perpendicular to the second bending plane.

It goes without saying that the endoscope 2 according to the present disclosure can also be a single-plane bending endoscope.

In order to achieve the bending movements mentioned above, the bending section 10 can have a large number of segments, wherein two adjacent segments from the plurality of segments, ie a pair of segments, can each be connected via corresponding flexible hinge elements. The flex section 10 may be largely covered by a flexible, tubular outer cover 30 to prevent contamination.

The endoscope 2 can have control wires 31 (in 1 not shown) for controlling the bending movement of the bending section 10 have. The control wires 31, which are routed in additional functional channels within the insertion line, can be connected to the first actuating unit 26 and/or to the second actuating unit 28. The control wires 31 may extend throughout the insertion tube 8 and preferably throughout the flexure section 10 and are connected to the most distal segment of the flexure section or to the distal tip assembly. By rotating the first operation unit 26, control wires 31/control wire sections can be pulled and released, and the distal tip unit 12 can tilt according to a direction in which the first operation unit 26 is rotated. In other words, by operating the first operating unit 26, the operator can tilt the distal tip unit 12 into the first bending plane by bending the bending section 10 accordingly. By rotating the second operation unit 28, control wires 31/control wire sections can be pulled and released, and the distal tip unit 12 can tilt according to a direction in which the second operation unit 28 is rotated. In other words: by actuating the second actuating unit 28, the operator can tilt the distal tip unit 12 into the second bending plane by bending the bending section 10 accordingly.

The endoscope 2, in particular the endoscope handle 4, also includes two valves, namely a gas/water injection valve 32 and a suction valve 34. Alternatively, the endoscope handle 4 can also have only one valve 32, 34. The gas/water injection valve 32 and the suction valve 34 are arranged next to one another on an upper surface 36 of a handle housing 38 (in particular formed from two half-shells) of the endoscope handle 4 .

2 FIG. 12 is a schematic representation of the electrical connections and communication paths provided in the endoscope 2 and the display unit 18 according to the present disclosure. As in 2 As can be seen, the endoscope handle 4 comprises a handle circuit board 40 which is accommodated in the handle housing 38 . The grip circuit board 40 is electrically connected via electrical lines 44 to the camera module 13, in particular to the image sensor circuit 42 and the image sensor 14, and is electrically connected.

The display unit 18 is electrically connected to the grip circuit board 40 via electrical lines 46 and communicates with it when the endoscope 2 and the display unit 18 are connected via the plug connection 20, and is set up to supply the grip circuit board 40, the image sensor circuit 42 and the image sensor 14 . In particular, the display unit 18 can communicate with the image sensor 14 via a communication bus 48 . The image sensor circuitry 42 on the distal tip assembly 12 is configured to communicate over the communication bus 48 . Alternatively, communication between the display unit 18 and the handle circuit board 40 may be wireless and the handle circuit board 40 may alternatively be battery powered. The images recorded by the image sensor 14 can be transmitted to the display unit 18 via the communication bus 48 and processed there. To this end, the display unit 18 includes an input circuit 50 having logic for communicating with the handle circuit board 40 and receiving the images captured by the image sensor 14 over the communication bus 48 . The input circuit 50 can be a circuit board. In other words, the communication bus 48 serves to transmit the image data transmitted from the image sensor 14 on the distal tip unit 12 of the endoscope 2 to the handle circuit board 40 in the endoscope handle 4 and further to the input circuit 50 of the display unit 18. Some examples of communication buses are I ² C and SCCB (Serial Camera Control Bus), both of which have been found to be suitable serial communication buses for purposes of the present disclosure.

The input circuit 50 can be realized with a logic circuit, an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) 52 or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and so on.

In particular, the input circuitry 50 is implemented with an FPGA 52 according to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure. The display unit 18 is configured to display the processed images on the display 16 .

As in 2 indicated, an electrosurgical tool 25 configured to operate with high voltage pulses (e.g., in a range of 4 kV to 5 kV) that generate high frequency noise and electrical interference during operation, via access port 24 be introduced into the working channel 22. Such an electrosurgical tool 25 is known from the prior art and is in the rule z. B. used for cauterization of tissue and may be passed through the working channel 22 and out of a working channel opening 56 provided in the distal tip assembly 12. During operation of the electrosurgical tool 25, the high voltage pulses result in a strong electric field (RF) which is perceived as noise on the communication bus 48. The noise can adversely affect communication, ie it can lead to electrical interference. Noise that results in electrical interference is referred to as radio frequency noise and electrical interference for purposes of the present disclosure. Since the working channel 22 is preferably made of plastic material according to the present disclosure, the working channel 22 itself does not provide good/sufficient shielding against radio frequency noise and electrical interference. Therefore, the communications bus 48 with the wires 44 routed in the launch string 6 adjacent the working channel 22 is very susceptible to radio frequency noise and electrical interference from the working channel. When electrosurgical tool 25 is positioned distal to working channel opening 56 in a patient's body cavity, image sensor circuitry 42 and image sensor 14 are relatively close to electrosurgical tool 25 and thus to the source of radio frequency noise and electrical interference. However, as previously mentioned, since the cable 58 transmits the voltage of about 4 kV to 5 kV to a tool tip of the electrosurgical tool 25, high frequency noise and electrical interference are present along the entire working channel 22 .

In addition, the display unit 18 is configured in such a way that it writes exposure data to the image sensor 14 via the communication bus 48 , in particular the lines 44 . In particular, during data transmission via the communication bus 48 , data is written into a register in the image sensor 14 with, for example, four bytes including the device address, two register addresses and image data captured by the image sensor 14 and is transmitted to the display unit 18 . During operation of the electrosurgical tool 25, the radio frequency noise and electrical disturbances on the communication bus 48 can result in incorrect bits being inserted in the data transmission and bits of the transmitted data being missing.

Therefore, the endoscope 2 according to the present disclosure as shown in FIG 2 1, may include a detector circuit 60 that detects the presence of radio frequency noise and electrical interference created by use of the electrosurgical tool 25 in the working channel 22. FIG. The detector circuit 60 includes a sensor part 62 that detects the presence of the high-frequency noise and electrical noise, and a circuit part 64 that is electrically connected to the sensor part 62 . The sensor part 62 is arranged in the vicinity of the working channel 22 (in particular on an outer surface of the working channel hose 65 or the Y-connection 76) so that it at least partially surrounds the working channel 22, as already described in FIG 2 implied. The sensor part 62 can be arranged on the working channel 22, preferably inside the handle housing 38. The sensor portion 62 may be disposed at least partially around a portion of the working channel 22, preferably within the handle housing 38. The sensor portion 62 is an electrically conductive member or at least has an electrically conductive surface capable of building up a capacitance charge. The circuit part 64 of the detector circuit 60 can, as in 2 shown, may be included in the grip circuit board 40.

When radio frequency noise and electrical interference is present in working channel 22 , sensor portion 62 is configured to inject a voltage into circuit portion 64 . The circuit part 64 is configured to provide an output signal which is forwarded to the display unit 18 . The output signal depends on the voltage which is fed to the circuit part 64 from the sensor part 62 . In particular, the output signal may indicate that radio frequency noise and electrical interference are present, or it may indicate that radio frequency noise and electrical interference are not present. The output of the circuit part 64 serves as an input to the display unit 18 which, based on the input signal, can temporarily interrupt the communication via the communication bus 48.

3 shows the handle housing 38 of the endoscope handle 4 in the open configuration, ie with the half-shells of the two half-shells forming the handle housing 38 removed. It can be seen that a working channel tube 65 which forms part of the working channel 22 extends from the Y-connection 76 into the delivery string 6 . It can also be seen that a large number of other (functional) hoses such as a water jet hose 66 , a flushing hose 68 , an insufflation hose 70 , a line hose 72 including the electrical lines 44 and control wires 31 are routed into the insertion cord 6 .

In 3 For example, sensor portion 62 is attached to Y-junction 76 that includes access port 24 . The Y-junction 76 further includes a first inlet duct 73, a second inlet duct 74 which merges into the first inlet duct 73, and a common outlet duct 75. The second inlet duct 74 is opposite the first Inlet duct 73 angled at an angle of less than 90°. The outlet channel 75 forms an extension of the first inlet channel 73. The first inlet channel 73, the second inlet channel 74 and the outlet channel 75 are thus arranged in an approximately Y-shape relative to one another. The working channel hose 65 is connected to the outlet channel 75 . An electrosurgical instrument 25 can be introduced into the working channel tube 65 via the second inlet channel 74 and the outlet channel 75 . Thus, it can be said that the second inlet channel 74, outlet channel 75, working channel tube 65 and tip housing of the distal tip assembly 12 combine to form the working channel 22, and the second inlet channel 74 serves as the access port 24. Three possible arrangements/positions/locations (1), (2) and (3) of the sensor part 62 are shown, with the sensor part 62 only being shown in position (1). As in 3 can be seen, the sensor part 62 according to position (1) is located around/on an outer surface of the second inlet channel 74. According to position (2), the sensor part 62 can also be positioned around the Y-connection 76 in a transition area between the second inlet channel 74 and the Outlet channel 75 may be arranged. According to position (3), the sensor part 62 can also be arranged around the outlet channel 75 of the Y-connection 76 . It goes without saying that the sensor part 62 can also be arranged around the working channel hose 65 connected to the outlet channel 75 . In any case, the sensor part 62 is preferably arranged within the handle housing 38 of the endoscope handle 4 in order to be in the vicinity of the handle circuit board 40 . However, it is also understood that the present disclosure is not limited to this arrangement and the sensor part 62 can in principle be arranged anywhere (ie also in the entire insertion line 6 ) in the vicinity of the working channel hose 65 .

The sensor part 62 can be made of a conductive material. In particular, the sensor part 62 in 3 formed as an electrically conductive foil or tape and is bent or shaped to follow a contour of the working channel 22 . The sensor part 62 can, for. B. consist of a copper foil or a flexible circuit board, which is placed close to the outer surface of the working channel 22, in particular to the outer surface of the Y-connection 76 or the working channel hose 65. The sensor part 62 can be glued to the outer surface of the working channel 22 . The sensor portion 62 may have an area of between 0.5 cm ² and 2 cm ² , particularly about 1 cm ² , to provide sufficient capacitance to detect the high frequency noise and electrical interference, and surrounds the working channel 22 (at least partially) to better detect the high voltage pulses that can cause high frequency noise and electrical interference on the communication bus 48. in the in 3 As shown in the configuration shown, when the electrosurgical tool 25 is inserted into the working channel 22, the sensor portion 62 (particularly a surface of the sensor portion 62) is quite close to the high frequency electrical noise source (the electrosurgical tool 25 or its cable 58). Therefore, the sensor part 62 is charged by an electric field generated by the radio frequency noise and electrical interference generated by the electrosurgical tool 25 operating in the working channel 22 .

As in 4 As can be seen better, the sensor part 62 is preferably arranged around/on an outer surface of the Y-connection 76 . In order to be charged by the high-frequency noise and electrical interference generated by the electrosurgical tool 25 operating in the working channel 22, the sensor part 62 should have a distance of less than 3 mm, in particular less than 2 mm, e.g. B. from 1 mm to 2 mm, from the inside of the Y-connection 76 have. Therefore, a wall thickness of the Y-connection 76 should be adjusted accordingly.

4 12 also shows that the sensor part 62 is connected to the handle circuit board 40 via a cable 78 . In addition, shows 4 a first cable line 72, which runs from the handle circuit board 40 into the insertion strand 6, and a second cable line 80, which runs from the handle circuit board 40 in the direction of the display unit 18.

5 and 6 12 show two embodiments of electrical circuit diagrams of the detector circuit 60. The two embodiments are based on the same concept but are implemented slightly differently. Both detector circuits 60 include a capacitor 82 (ie, sensor portion 62) electrically connected to a window comparator circuit (included in circuit portion 64) shown in FIG 5 as an IC (integrated circuit) chip 84 and in 6 as two op-amps 86,88. An output of the window comparator circuit is communicated to the display unit 18 via the communication bus 48, for example with a clock line of the communication bus 48.

Functionally, the capacitor 82 is charged by the high frequency noise and electrical noise generated in the working channel 22 during operation of the electrosurgical tool 25, and the window comparator is a circuit that operates within a specific voltage window, creating a window effect so that , when an input voltage 90 of the capacitor 82 falls below a certain level, here lower limit span termed voltage 92, an output voltage 94 goes low, and when the input voltage 90 of capacitor 82 rises above a certain level, termed herein upper limit voltage 96, the output voltage 94 goes low. The output voltage is thus only high for voltages between the lower and upper limit voltages 92,96. Therefore, the high frequency noise and electrical noise charging the capacitor 82 can cause the voltage of the capacitor 82 to be above the upper limit voltage 96 or below the lower limit voltage 92 and can be detected by the window comparator.

In the present disclosure, the upper and lower limit voltages 92, 96 define the range of high frequency noise and electrical interference. As soon as the input voltage 90 exceeds a range between the upper and lower limit voltages 92, 96, the output voltage 94, which can be regarded as a trigger signal for detecting high frequency electrical noise, becomes low and the trigger signal can be a connected line in the communication bus 48, for example a clock line of the communication bus 48, further pull down.

In electrical detail, the capacitor is 82 in 5 electrically connected to IC chip 84 pins 1IN- and 21N+. The upper limit voltage 96 in 5 is electrical to pin 1 IN+ and the lower limit voltage is 92 in 5 is electrically connected to IC chip 84 pin 2IN-. The voltage supply Vcc is on pin Vcc+ and ground on pin Vcc-. A capacitor 98 acts as a filter and a zener diode 100 acts as a voltage regulator.

Similarly, the capacitor is 82 in 6 - electrically connected to an inverting terminal of the op amp 86 and to a non-inverting terminal of the op amp 88 via an optional resistor 102 . The upper limit voltage 96 in 6 is electrically connected to a non-inverting terminal of the op amp 86 and the lower limit voltage 92 is electrically connected to an inverting terminal of the op amp 88 . The power supply Vcc is connected to a positive power supply of the op-amp 86,88 and ground is connected to a negative power supply of the op-amp 86,88. The zener diodes 104, 106 together with the resistor 102 form a zener clamp to prevent a voltage from exceeding a certain value, with a resistor 108 designed to limit the current to a safe value for the zener Diodes 104, 106 limited. A capacitor 110 acts as a filter.

Furthermore, a bias circuit can be provided at the input of the window comparator circuit, which is electrically connected to the capacitor 82, using a voltage divider with two resistors 112, 114 both in 5 as well as in 6 is used, so that the voltage at the input of the window comparator circuit can be influenced quickly to a voltage value fixed by the bias. In particular, the values of resistors 112, 114 can be set equal so that the design voltage value of the bias can be fixed at 1/2 Vcc.

The lower and upper limit voltages 92, 96 are preferably set via a voltage divider network consisting of three resistors 116,118,120. The three resistors 116, 118, 120 can be chosen to have equal resistance values. This allows the voltage across each resistor to drop by a third of the supply voltage Vcc. Therefore, in this example, the upper limit voltage 96 can be set to 2/3 Vcc and the lower limit voltage to 1/3 Vcc. The resistors 116, 118 and 120 can be set to any values to set the lower and upper limit voltages 92,96.

In addition, a pull-up resistor 122 may be provided at the output of the window comparator circuit, which may be connected to the same power supply as the window comparator or to a separate power supply in the handle circuit board 40. The circuits in 5 and 6 12 only show two exemplary embodiments of the detector circuit 60. The peripheral electrical components around the capacitor 82 and the window comparator 84, 86, 88 can be adapted according to the different requirements.

How the window comparator works is explained using 7 better understood. 7 shows a time course of the input voltage 90 (solid line in 7 ) of the capacitor 82, the output voltage 94 (dashed line in 7 ), the upper limit voltage 96/ U1 (dashed line in 7 ) and the lower limit voltage 92/ U2 (dotted line in 7 ). The horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents the amplitude of the voltages. The upper limit voltage 96/U1 and the lower limit voltage 92/U2 define the threshold voltages for determining high frequency noise and electrical interference. If the input voltage 90 is between the upper limit voltage 96/ U1 and the lower limit voltage 92/ U2, the output signal (dashed line in 7 ) indicating the output voltage 94 of the circuit part 64, "high", which is detected as no high frequency noise and no electrical interference, while when the input voltage 90 is above the upper limit voltage 96/U1 or below the lower limit voltage 92/U2, the output signal indicating the output voltage 94 of the circuit part 64 becomes "low". , which is considered to indicate the presence of high-frequency noise and electrical interference. In other words, the output signal of the circuit part 64 changes when the voltage transmitted by the sensor part 62 exceeds the upper limit voltage 96/U1 or falls below the lower limit voltage 92/U2.

As in 2 As shown, the output signal is transmitted from the handle circuit board 40 to the display unit 18 via the lines 46 . In this manner, an existing bus such as communications bus 48 (used primarily for the transmission of images) can be used to transmit the output signal and there is no need to provide an additional communications bus in accordance with the present disclosure. The output of the circuit part 64 can be regarded as a trigger signal. In particular, a communication line such as the clock line of communication bus 48 may be pulled low when the output signal/trigger signal goes low. As an alternative to this, the output signal can also be transmitted directly to the display unit 18 . The present disclosure provides a specific algorithm/method that is executed when the output signal indicating the presence of high frequency noise and electrical interference is received directly or indirectly from the input circuitry 50 of the display unit 18 . The display unit 18 is configured to continuously check for the presence of radio frequency noise and electrical interference in the working channel 22 that may affect the communications bus 48 . As will be described in more detail below, the display unit 18 interrupts communication on the communication bus 48 for at least a certain period of time when it detects the presence of the radio frequency noise and electrical interference.

In an alternative practical embodiment, no detector circuit 60 is provided in the endoscope 2 . According to this alternative embodiment, the input circuitry 50 continuously monitors or monitors a communication path on the communication bus 48. The communication bus 48 between the display unit 18, the grip circuit board 40 and the camera module 13 in the distal tip unit 12 may be master/slave based. The input circuitry 50 on the display unit 18 is preferably the master and can pull down or raise, i.e. set, (a signal of) the communication line on the communication bus 48 . The input circuit 50 can then constantly check or monitor whether the (signal of the) communication line is actually as originally set. The input circuit 50 is configured to determine whether the communication line is in an unexpected state, i. H. in a state not originally set by the input circuit 50. This may be interpreted by input circuitry 50 as the presence of high frequency noise and electrical interference on communications bus 48 .

In particular, the input circuit 50 can control the clock line as a master and send a clock signal over the clock line. The grip board 40 can be the slave and receive the clock signal from the master over the clock line. For example, if the output of the clock line set by input circuitry 50 is pulled low, but the clock line of communications bus 48 is suddenly in an unexpected high state, input circuitry 50 may view this as the presence of high frequency noise and electrical noise on communications bus 48. This comparison of the clock line output signal set by the input circuit 50 and the clock line input signal received from the handle circuit board 40 is performed by the input circuit 50 . A comparison signal indicating the result of the comparison can be generated from the input circuit 50. FIG. Once the difference in the comparison exceeds a predetermined threshold, the input circuitry 50 may pull the comparison signal low, which is interpreted as the presence of radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communication bus 48 .

In summary, the method according to the alternative practice is implemented on the input circuitry 50 of the display unit 18 and is configured to continuously check for radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communication bus 48 by checking a communication line on the communication bus 48 supervised. Preferably, the input circuit 50 compares an output signal of the clock line set by the input circuit 50 (as "controller/master") with the input signal of the clock line from the handle circuit board 40 (as "peripheral/slave") to determine a presence of the high-frequency noise and the detect electrical interference on the communication bus 48 without using a detector circuit 60.

As will be described in more detail below, the display unit 18 interrupts communication on/over the communication bus 48 for at least a certain period of time when radio frequency noise and electrical interference are present. This applies to both of the embodiments described above.

The present disclosure was developed with the nature of electrosurgical (e.g., plasma surgical) tools 25 used in endoscopic procedures in mind. Usually, such electrosurgical tools emit 25 electrical noise signals consisting of a burst of (single) pulses / bursts of (single) pulses, which include high voltage pulses and a wide frequency range, and there is a risk that a single pulse of the / the pulse train (n)/ burst(s) interfering with the communications bus 48 (e.g., the I ² C bus).

Electrosurgical tools can be operated in various modes to perform a desired medical procedure. 8th 12 shows, for example, pulsing the electrosurgical tool 25 in a fast pulse mode. In this mode, the electrosurgical tool 25 pulses the current at a fast rate (eg, 125MS/s). It can be seen that a plurality of pulse trains 124 occur periodically when the electrosurgical tool 25 is pulsing the current at the fast rate in this mode. Two pulse trains 124 are about 60 ms apart (their starts). In 9 is a burst pulse 124 (from the multitude of in 8th shown pulse sequences 124) shown in more detail. The individual pulses are generally closer together at the beginning of the pulse train 124 than at the end of the pulse train 124. This becomes clear when you look at 10 which shows the transition/change from initially faster monopulses to slower monopulses in the burst. Two slower single pulses are spaced about 50 µs apart, as in 10 you can see. 11 and 12 12 show pulsing of the electrosurgical tool 25 in a slow pulse mode. As in 11 As can be seen, two slow-pulse mode pulse trains 124 are about 800 ms apart (their beginnings). In 12 it can be seen that a single pulse train 124 lasts approximately 200 ms in the slow pulse mode. Since the individual pulses are high voltage pulses in both the fast and slow pulse modes, a strong electric field can develop which can cause high frequency noise and electrical interference that can propagate in the working channel 22 and affect the communication bus 48, leading to results in incorrect data being written to incorrect addresses in the image sensor 14. The waveforms of the individual pulses were measured with an HF electrosurgical tool 25 in APC (Argon Plasma Coagulation) mode, which can also represent a general characteristic of radio frequency noise and electrical disturbances generated in an ordinary HF electrosurgical tool.

The display unit 18 according to the present disclosure suitably accommodates the described nature of the electrosurgical tools 25 with respect to pulsing in both the fast pulse mode and the slow pulse mode. The display unit 18 is configured to temporarily interrupt communication between the display unit 18 and the image sensor 14 via the grip circuit board 40 and the communication bus 48 when radio frequency noise and electrical interference is detected. This is done with reference to the flow chart in 13 explained in more detail.

• A: Start
• B: Rauschen-Erkennungssignal erhalten?
• C: Weiterbetrieb des Kommunikationsbus
• D: Return
• E: Kommunikationsbus blockieren und nach weiterem Rauschen für die Zeit t1 suchen
• F: Weiteres Rauschen-Erkennungssignal erhalten?
• G: Wiederaufnahme des Betriebs des Kommunikationsbus
• H: Return
• I: Warten für Zeit t1
• J: Weiteres Rauschen-Erkennungssignal während t1 empfangen?
• K: Warten für Zeit t2
• L: Weitere Pulsfolge während t2 festgestellt?
• M: Wiederaufnahme des Betriebs des Kommunikationsbus
• N: Return
• +: ja
• -: nein

In the flow chart in 13 the following abbreviations are used:

• A: Start
• B: Receive noise detection signal?
• C: Continued operation of the communication bus
• D: Return
• E: Block communication bus and look for further noise for time t1
• Q: Got another noise detection signal?
• G: Resume operation of the communication bus
• H: Return
• I: Waiting for time t1
• J: Another noise detection signal received during t1?
• K: Waiting for time t2
• L: Another pulse sequence detected during t2?
• M: Resumption of operation of the communication bus
• N: Return
• +: yes
• -: no

Specifically, the display unit 18 first determines (step S1) whether a noise detection signal (in the “low” state) is/was received. The noise detection signal may be the output signal received indirectly or directly from the detector circuit 60 of the grip circuit board 40 or the comparison signal generated by the input circuit 50 of the display unit 18. If no noise detection signal is received ("No"), the communication bus 48 continues to operate. If the noise detection signal is received (“Yes”), the communication bus 48 is immediately blocked, ie the communication on the communication bus 48 is temporarily ended/stopped. Thus, a single pulse is prevented from causing the communication bus 48 to malfunction.

Then (as step S2) the display unit 18 checks/searches for another noise/noise detection signal for a first short period of time t1, for example for 1 ms. If no further noise/no further noise detection signal is received (“No”) during the first, short period of time t1, the noise detection signal received in step S1 was random noise. In particular, the individual pulses of a pulse sequence are usually spaced about 50 μs apart. The first, short period of time is therefore chosen so that it is sufficiently longer than 50 µs (e.g. 1 ms) so that one knows for sure that the single pulse detected in S1 does not belong to a pulse train. In the event that the noise detection signal received in S1 is determined to be random noise (i.e., in the event that no further noise is received during time t1), communication on communication bus 48 continues.

If another noise/noise detection signal is received during the first, short period of time t1 ("Yes"), the display unit 18 is configured to again wait for the first, short period of time t1 and determine whether during this period of time t1 another noise/another noise detection signal is received (step S3). If there is another noise (“Yes”), this process is repeated. The display unit 18 is thus configured to wait until no further noise detection signal has been received for the time period t1. If no further noise detection signal has been received for the period of time t1, this means that an end of a pulse train 124 has been reached.

In a next step, the display unit 18 is configured to wait a second, long period of time t2, for example 125 ms. The second, long period of time is set such that another pulse train would be detected in the fast pulse mode. This prevents the communication of the communication bus 48 from continuing during rapid pulse operation of the electrosurgical tool 25 . In the event that a further pulse sequence 124 is detected during the second, long period of time t2 (step S4), the second, long period of time t2 is again awaited. This process is repeated as long as a further pulse sequence 124 is detected during a second, long period of time t2. Only when no further pulse sequence 124 is detected during the second, long period of time t2 is the operation of the communication bus 48 resumed.

In a practical implementation of the present disclosure, the 13 The methods illustrated are implemented on the FPGA 52 that is part of the input circuitry 50 of the display unit 18 . The FPGA 52 can be easily updated and configured to implement and perform the method of the present disclosure. An input signal to the FPGA 52 can be either the output signal of the detector circuit 60 or the comparison signal of the logic circuit of the input circuit 50.

Reference List

2

endoscope

4

endoscope handle

6

insertion strand

8th

insertion tube

10

bending section

12

distal tip unit

13

camera module

14

image sensor

16

monitor/ screen

18

display unit

19

image processing device

20

plug connection

22

working channel

24

access port

25

electrosurgical tool

26

first actuation unit

28

second actuation unit

30

cover

31

control wire

32

gas/water injection valve

34

suction valve

36

upper surface

38

handle housing

40

grip circuit board

42

image sensor circuit

44

electric lines

46

electric lines

48

communication bus

50

input circuit board

52

FPGA

56

working channel opening

58

Cable

60

detector circuit

62

sensor part

64

circuit part

65

working channel tubing

66

water jet hose

68

flushing hose

70

insufflation tube

72

first cable line

73

first intake port

74

second intake port

75

exhaust port

76

Y connection

78

Cable

80

second cable line

82

capacitor

84

IC chip

86

first op-amp

88

second op-amp

90

input voltage

92

lower limit voltage

94

output voltage

96

upper limit voltage

98

capacitor

100

zener diode

102

Resistance

104

zener diode

106

zener diode

108

Resistance

110

capacitor

112

Resistance

114

Resistance

116

Resistance

118

Resistance

120

Resistance

122

pull-up resistor

124

pulse train

Claims (15)

System comprising: an endoscope (2), a display unit (18) and a communication bus (48), preferably a serial communication bus; wherein the endoscope (2) comprises: a proximal endoscope handle or interface (4) comprising a handle or interface housing (38) and a handle or interface circuit board (40) housed within the handle or interface housing (38); and an insertion string (6) extending from the endoscope handle or interface (4) and comprising an insertion tube (8), a bending section (10) and a distal tip unit (12), the distal tip unit (12) including a camera module (13 ) comprising an image sensor (14) configured to capture images and an image sensor circuit (42) configured to communicate with the display unit (18) via the communications bus (48); the display unit (18) including an input circuit (50) configured to communicate with the handle or interface circuit board (40) and with the image sensor circuit (42) via the communications bus (48); and where the communication bus (48) connects the endoscope (2) and the display unit (18) and is configured to allow communication between the image sensor circuitry (42), the handle or interface circuit board (40) and the input circuitry (50). ; whereby the input circuitry (50) of the display unit (18) is configured to check, preferably continuously or pulsed, the communications bus (48) for radio frequency noise and electrical interference. system after claim 1 wherein the input circuitry (50) is configured to interrupt communication over the communications bus (48) in the event of radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communications bus (48). system after claim 1 or 2 , wherein the communication between the input circuit (50), the handle or interface circuit board (40) and the image sensor circuit (42) is on a master-slave basis, the input circuit (50) being the master and the handle or interface - The circuit board (40) and the image sensor circuit (42) are slaves. system after claim 3 wherein the input circuit (50) is configured to first adjust a communication line output signal of a communication line of the communication bus (48) and the communication line output signal with a communication line input signal of the communication line received from the handle or interface circuit board (40). compares to determine a presence of the radio frequency noise and the electrical interference on the communication bus (48). system after claim 4 wherein the communication line output signal is an output clock signal of a clock line of the communication bus (48) and the communication line input signal is an input clock signal of the clock line of the communication bus (48), and the input circuit (50) is configured to first adjust the output clock signal and the output clock signal compared to the input clock signal received from the handle or interface circuit board (40) to determine the presence of radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communications bus (48). system after claim 4 or 5 wherein the input circuit (50) is configured to generate a comparison signal based on a comparison of the communication line output signal and the communication line input signal and to determine the presence of the radio frequency noise and the electrical interference when the comparison signal exceeds a predetermined threshold. system according to one of the Claims 1 until 3 , wherein the endoscope (2) further comprises a working channel (22) configured for inserting an electrosurgical tool (25) into a patient's body cavity, and a detector circuit (60) configured to detect the high-frequency noise and the electrical interference, that result from use and operation of the electrosurgical tool (25) and affect the communication bus (48) in the working channel (22). system after claim 7 wherein the detector circuit (60) is configured to provide an output signal indicative of the presence of the radio frequency noise and the electrical interference on the communications bus (48). System according to any of the preceding Claims 1 until 8th wherein the input circuit (50) is arranged to: a) determine whether a noise detection signal is received; and b) disabling the communications bus (48) when the noise detection signal is received. system after claim 9 wherein the input circuit (50) is further arranged to: c) search for another noise detection signal for a first predetermined period of time; d) if no further noise detection signal is received in step c), restarting operation of the communication bus (48); and e) if in step c) another noise detection signal is received, waiting until no noise detection signal is received for the first predetermined period of time, ie until an end of a pulse train (124) emitted by an electrosurgical tool (25) is reached. system after claim 10 , wherein the input circuit (50) is further set up: f) to wait a second predetermined period of time at the end of the pulse train (124) and to determine whether a further pulse train (124) is detected during the second predetermined time period; g) if no further pulse train (124) is detected in step f), resuming operation of the communication bus (48); and h) if a further pulse train (124) is detected in step f), repeating step f) until no further pulse train (124) is detected in step f). System according to any of the preceding Claims 1 until 11 , Further comprising an electrosurgical tool (25) which is configured so that it can be inserted into a working channel (22) of the endoscope (2) and, during operation, emits a high-frequency electrical noise signal which has a pulse train (124) with a covers a wide frequency range. A display unit (18) having an input circuit (50) configured to test, preferably continuously or pulsed, a communications bus (48) for radio frequency noise and electrical interference via which the display unit (18) is connected to an endoscope (2). can be and communication between the input circuit (50) and the endoscope (2) allows. Display unit (18) after Claim 13 wherein the input circuitry (50) is configured to interrupt communication over the communications bus (48) in the event of radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communications bus (48). A method for, preferably continuously or pulsating, checking a communication bus (48) via which a display unit (18) can be connected to an endoscope (2) and the one enabling communication between the display unit (18) and the endoscope (2) for radio frequency noise and electrical interference, and preferably for terminating communication over the communication bus (48) in the event of radio frequency noise and electrical interference on the communication bus (48).

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