DE202015004578U1 - Endoscope and endoscope kit - Google Patents

Abstract

Endoscope (1), comprising a shaft (2) and a base body (4) arranged at a proximal end (3) of the shaft (2), characterized in that the base body (4) forms a liquid-tight housing and in that a handle element (5 , 24) is arranged in a fixed spatial relationship to the base body (4).

Description

The invention relates to an endoscope with a shaft and a body arranged at a proximal end of the shaft.

Such endoscopes are known, wherein in the base body, for example, electronics for image analysis, a light source or other electronic functional units can be arranged. The shaft of the endoscope can be inserted into a cavity, which is difficult to access from the outside, and which can be examined with the endoscope.

There is a desire to design endoscopes ergonomically in order to achieve easy handling.

The invention is concerned with developing an endoscope, so that the performance characteristics are improved and the manufacturing costs are reduced.

To achieve this object, the features of claim 1 are provided according to the invention. In particular, it is thus proposed according to the invention in an endoscope of the type described above that the base body forms a liquid-tight housing and that a handle element is arranged in a fixed spatial relationship to the base body. The advantage here is that in a usually required before each use process of processing a workload can be saved by the endoscope or at least the shaft with the main body does not need to be processed because a disposable part in the form of the handle element with possibly subsequent throw or subsequent cover sheet is attached. An advantage is alternatively or additionally, that customizable to customer requirements handle shapes or handle functions are available, for which a standardized body is used. This has the particular advantage that test, test and / or approval procedures, which relate only to the main body, need not be performed separately for each handle element. The base body is preferably housing-forming for at least one electronic circuit and / or at least one optical arrangement.

The liquid-tight encapsulation by the base body has the further advantage that penetration of germs or other contaminants into the base body and into the shaft attached thereto is avoidable, so that the endoscope is longer usable ready to use.

In one embodiment, it may be provided that the handle element is formed dimensionally stable. The advantage here is that a support of the handle element is dispensable and / or that a correct orientation of the handle member with respect to the body even with the handle element removed is visible or can be made visible.

In one embodiment, it may be provided that the handle element is permanently attached to the base body. The advantage here is that handle element and body form a single unit. It is thus possible for a user to hide that different endoscopes have a matching internal structure. In particular, the non-detachable connection may be formed positively and / or cohesively. Thus, simple mounting options for the handle element are described.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle member is at least partially formed of an elastomer. The advantage here is that the handle element separated from the body can be configured with almost any shape. A change in the design of the handle member is thus possible without the body and the shaft formed thereon must be changed. This is particularly advantageous when the endoscope is to be used and used in the medical field, since in this area an approval of the functionally essential parts of the endoscope is required. The invention thus makes it possible to adapt the handle to individual uses and / or to an individual user, wherein carrying out a renewed authorization procedure with a changed handle element is dispensable or avoidable. Thus, the manufacturing costs of an endoscope according to the invention are reducible with individually customizable performance characteristics. The invention thus makes it possible to adapt an endoscope with little effort to an individual specific application and / or in a preferred manner as a user wishes to hold the endoscope. The invention thus avoids having to find otherwise necessary compromises between a variety of different applications and user habits, in which the most optimal ergonomic design is often not achievable.

Preferably, the handle member is formed entirely of the elastomer. It can be provided that the handle element behind the base body and / or surrounds and is supported on the base body. Thus, measures for self-stabilization of the handle element are dispensable.

Instead of an elastomer, other, especially non-elastic materials for the Handle element used, for example, polymers, metal parts or ceramics.

The handle member may also be composed of two or more shells.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle member is fixed to the shaft and surrounds the base body spaced. It is thus a contactless recording of the body on or accessible in the handle element.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle member rests on the body at least partially flat. The advantage here is that good grip properties of the handle element when gripping from the outside can be reached. Another advantage is that a good grip of the handle element on the base body can be achieved. Due to the areal adaptation of the handle element to the base body, a cavity-free support can be achieved. Thus, relatively strong gripping properties can be achieved.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle element has on the outside a hand support surface which completely surrounds the main body in a circumferential direction. The advantage here is that the main body is well preserved in the handle element with one hand of the user.

It can be provided that the handle element is integrally formed. Thus, a simple manufacturability, for example in an injection molding process, achievable.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle element is formed in different areas with different thicknesses. The advantage here is that between a universal outer contour of the body and an individual customized outer contour of the handle element is easily mediated. Another advantage is that material weakenings in the material of the handle element can be formed, which increase the elasticity of the material. This is advantageous for applying the handle element to the base body.

It can also be provided that the handle element has at least two cohesively interconnected components. Thus, for example, different colors and / or gripping or functional properties can be achieved.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that at least one electronic functional unit is formed in or on the base body. For example, the electronic functional unit may be given by electronics to an image analysis and / or by a light source or (have) such. The advantage here is that with the endoscope an electronic image recording and / or artificial lighting of a cavity to be examined is feasible.

In one embodiment of the invention, the handle element is detachably arranged on the base body. The advantage here is that the handle element is replaceable. Thus, one and the same body can be equipped with different handle elements, for example, to easily personalize the endoscope and adapt it to a user. It is also conceivable here that the handle elements are each provided with an individual marking, for example a name of the user to whom the handle element is cut, or a name or a mark of a company in which the endoscope is to be inserted, and / or with a individual shape and / or color on the or an outer contour are provided.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle element can be locked to the main body. The advantage here is that the handle element is easily fixed to the body. This is favorable, for example, if a thimble is formed on the handle element, which can be tensioned by inserting the base body into the handle element and / or is tensioned. It can be provided that a locking device is designed for fixing on the base body, which has at least one operating part. Thus, it can be achieved that counter-locking parts, for example projections or recesses, can be formed on the basic body, but these need not be designed to be mechanically movable. As a result, the body is easier to clean. The actuating part may in this case be integrated, for example, in the handle element. The advantage here is that an assembly of the handle element is easily executable.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the locking device is designed as a plug-in lock. Thus, an introduction of torsional forces on the handle element or a distally subsequent union or tube for the shaft during a locking can be avoided. The lock is thus one-handed actuated and / or solvable.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle member has a predetermined breaking point, which destroys upon removal of the handle member from the body becomes. In this way it can be achieved that the handle element is not used twice in succession. Thus, for example, hygiene regulations can be better implemented. Preferably, the predetermined breaking point is formed on one, for example, the already mentioned, locking device. The advantage here is that a locking option is automatically permanently disabled when the handle element is separated from the body.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that at a distal handle end of the handle member, a tubular cap is formed, in which the shaft is received and / or recorded. The advantage here is that the shaft, for example, is estimated against contamination and / or that a preparation of the shaft is dispensable prior to application of the endoscope. It is particularly advantageous if the cap is formed closed at the distal end. In this way, penetration of substances into the shaft and / or direct contact of the shaft with an examination environment can be prevented. A preparation of the shaft after use is thus not required, but it is sufficient to replace the union with the handle element. The cap may be releasably attached to the handle member. This allows an interchangeability of the throw. The throw can also be inextricably, for example, integrally connected, formed on the handle member.

The terms distal and proximal are to be understood in relation to a position of the user.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that at a proximal end of the handle handle element a cover film is formed. The advantage here is that a supply line that goes off the base body, in or with the cover film is receivable, so that contact of the supply line with a study environment is avoidable. Thus, it is not absolutely necessary to form the supply line sterile, for example, in the medical field. Preferably, the cover film is formed tubular, to accommodate the supply line on all sides without gaps. For example, the cover sheet may be releasably connected to the handle member or fixedly formed on the handle member.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that on the inside of the handle member a receptacle for the base body is formed, which has an inner diameter constriction in use position at a distal receiving end. The advantage here is that a stop for insertion of the main body with the shaft in the handle element is formed.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle member is held non-positively on the base body and / or the shaft at least in a longitudinal direction of the shaft. The advantage here is that slipping of the handle element of the main body can be prevented. This can for example be achieved in that the handle element has an inner diameter which is slightly smaller than an outer diameter of the base body. Thus, it is easily achievable that the handle element clamped non-positively on the body. Alternatively or additionally, the handle element may be held in a form-fitting manner on the base body and / or the shaft at least in the longitudinal direction.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that on the inside of the handle element at least one along an insertion direction for the body extending recess are formed. Alternatively or additionally, the depression on the base body, for example on one, in particular the already mentioned, outer contour, be formed and extend along the insertion direction. The recess may be formed groove or groove-shaped and / or be limited by rib-shaped elevations. In this way, a frictional resistance during insertion of the body can be reduced. Also, a vent when plugging in reach. It is particularly advantageous if the at least one recess formed on one, for example, the already mentioned, recording for the main body. Thus, a compact internal structure of the handle member is achievable.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that in the handle member at a distal end of the recording, for example, the already mentioned distal end of the recording, a reinforcing and / or holding element is formed. The advantage here is that an example inelastic abutment to a support of the body to the handle member is provided. It is particularly favorable when the reinforcing and / or holding element is formed in the handle element. Thus, it is easily achievable that the reinforcing and / or holding element is invariably available at the correct position.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the handle element engages behind the base body at least on one side with respect to a longitudinal direction, for example the already mentioned longitudinal direction, of the shaft. The advantage here is that a stop for insertion of the main body is formed in the handle element. Preferably, the handle element engages behind the base body at least on the distal side or at the distal handle end of the handle member. Thus, a defined position of the body in the handle element after insertion of the shaft by the handle element is definable.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle member has a through opening. Thus, the base body is easily inserted into the handle member by the shaft is inserted through the opening.

In one embodiment of the invention, it may be provided that at least one electrical switching device is formed on the base body and at least one actuating region for actuating the at least one switching device is formed through the actuating region at a corresponding position of the handle element. The advantage here is that an actuation of, for example, provided in the body electrical and electronic functions is possible with attached handle element. The actuation can be achieved by a mechanical, magnetic, optical, acoustic and / or electrical coupling. In this case, corresponding generators and / or sensors may be formed in or on the base body on the one hand and in or on the handle element on the other hand. A simple optical coupling can for example provide that an optical sensor is concealable and releasable. Here or generally, it may be favorable if the handle element is at least partially made of a transparent or translucent material.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that at least one technical functional unit is formed in the handle element. Thus, a functionality of the body is expandable or supplemented.

It can be provided that the at least one technical functional unit is supplied with energy from the main body. This can be done for example by a corresponding contact via an outer contour of the body.

Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the at least one technical functional unit for energy supply is set up by energy harvesting. The advantage here is that a self-sufficient functional unit can be provided in the handle element.

For example, it can be provided that the at least one technical functional unit realizes a logger function for detecting at least one external variable. The advantage here is that improper use of the endoscope is detectable and registrable. External variables can be, for example, temperatures, pressures, general environment variables, accelerations, shocks or other state and / or process variables.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle member is made in an injection molding or printing process. For example, the handle element may be fabricated with a 3D plotter or 3D printer that prints elastomers. Thus, individual designs of an outer contour of the handle element can be easily realized, in particular in a region of the already mentioned hand support surface. For larger numbers can be provided that the material of the handle member is molded in an injection molding process.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the handle member has at least one opening for a working channel. For example, this working channel can be provided for a rinsing liquid and / or an instrument. In this way, for example, the distal tip of the endoscope can be cleaned. The advantage here is that in the disposable part working channels are available that are easily replaceable. Here, for example, be provided that the working channel is formed in the aforementioned union.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that defines an outer contour of the body a preferred orientation of the handle member on the body in the use position. Thus, it is achievable that an orientation of the base body and / or the shaft on the outside of the handle element is easily detected. It is particularly favorable if an unambiguous orientation is defined by the design of the outer contour of the basic body. This can be achieved for example by corresponding projections or reductions or generally by a deviation from a rotationally symmetrical outer contour of the base body. Alternatively or additionally, this is achieved by a non-circular design of a cross section of the base body, for example in the form of a polygon.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the main body forms an outer contour of a prism. For example, the main body may be cylindrical or formed as a multi-sided prism having a base surface of a preferably regular polygon. The advantage here is that a constant in the course along a longitudinal extension is formed, which is particularly easy to insert into an elastic handle element.

In one embodiment of the invention can be provided that the engagement element is dimensionally stable elastic. In this case, the dimensional stability can be characterized, for example, by the fact that the handle element automatically assumes an initial shape again after an elastic deformation within a permissible range after discharge. The advantage here is that the handle element, for example, by widening the aforementioned opening in a simple manner can be pulled over the body, wherein the handle element after relief assumes the originally created shape.

An application of the invention of potentially independent inventive significance relates to an endoscope kit with at least one base body provided with a shank and at least two handle elements, wherein the at least two handle elements have different outer contours and are each attachable to the base body. The advantage here is that in a simple manner, a plurality of individually adapted endoscopes are formed, the functionally essential parts of an endoscope can be used unchanged.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that with the kit at least two mutually different endoscopes according to the invention, in particular as described above and / or according to one of the directed to an endoscope claims, with matching basic body are formed. Thus, the described advantages of the endoscope according to the invention in the endoscope kit according to the invention can be realized.

The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to embodiments, but is not limited to these embodiments. Further exemplary embodiments result from the combination of the features of individual or several protection claims with one another and / or with one or more features of the exemplary embodiments.

It shows in a highly simplified form for explaining the invention:

1 : an endoscope according to the invention in a sectional view,

2 FIG. 1 shows a further endoscope according to the invention in a sectional illustration,

3 a third endoscope according to the invention in a sectional view with a union for receiving the shaft,

4 : an endoscope kit according to the invention,

5 a further endoscope according to the invention,

6 : Cross-sectional views of differently configured main body and handle elements,

7 two locking devices each of an endoscope according to the invention,

8th a further endoscope according to the invention with an attached functional unit,

9 : different cross sections through endoscopes according to the invention,

10 : another way of forming a fixture for an external functional unit and

11 : the attachment of an endoscope according to the invention to a holder or guide aid.

1 shows a whole with 1 designated endoscope according to the invention, details of the endoscope, which are not necessary to illustrate the invention, are omitted for simplicity of illustration.

The endoscope 1 has a known shaft 2 with which it is insertable into a cavity, for example into a body cavity.

At a proximal end 3 of the shaft is a basic body 4 educated.

The main body 4 forms opposite the shaft 2 a thickening. The main body 4 is liquid-tight against the environment encapsulated.

To the main body 4 and in the area of the proximal end 3 of the shaft 2 is a handle element 5 arranged. The handle element 5 is made of an elastomer, making it over the main body 4 can be pulled. In the use position according to 1 surrounds the handle element of the body 4 along a circumference of the main body 4 and is on the body 4 supported. The handle element 5 engages behind the main body 4 with respect to the longitudinal direction of the shaft 2 on the distal side of the handle element 5 ,

By this support is the handle element 5 inside on the body 4 flat on. Thus, the handle element 5 . 24 in a fixed spatial relationship to the main body 4 arranged.

On the outside is on the handle element 5 a palm rest area 6 educated. This hand rest area 6 encloses the body 4 in its circumferential direction completely. Here, the circumferential direction is with respect to a longitudinal axis of the shaft 2 and / or the basic body 4 definable.

In 1 it can be seen that the handle element 5 in different areas above the body 4 is formed with different material thickness. This allows an individual shaping of the hand support surface 6 described outer contour.

Inside the main body 4 is at least one per se known electronic functional unit 7 arranged, to which a supply line 8th leads. The electronic functional unit 7 includes in the embodiment an electronics for image evaluation of the shaft 2 captured images and a light source for illuminating an examination subject via the shaft 2 ,

The handle element 5 is on the body 4 detachably arranged and can thus be removed. For this is the main body 4 with the supply line 8th ahead of the handle element 5 pulled out.

At a proximal end of the handle 9 the handle element 5 closes a tubular cover 10 indicating a contact between the supply line 8th and an examination area, for example a patient.

Inside is on the handle element 5 a recording 11 educated. An inner contour of the picture 11 is on an outer contour 12 adjusted so that the main body 4 with excess in the recording 11 is insertable.

At the distal end of the recording 13 the recording 11 is an inner diameter constriction 14 educated. The inner diameter constriction 14 forms a transition between an outer diameter of the body 4 and an outer diameter of the shaft 2 , Thus, the inner diameter constriction forms 14 a stop for the inserted body 4 , By the inner diameter 14 engages behind the handle element 5 the main body 4 at its distal end.

By the partially or completely flat concerns the handle element 5 on the body 4 is the handle element 5 on the body 4 in one through the shaft 2 given longitudinal direction positively held. In addition, the handle element 5 Material weakening areas 15 on, through which the elastic handle element 5 non-positively on the shaft 2 is held.

At the inner diameter constriction 14 is not shown in detail reinforcing and / or holding element 16 in the material of the handle element 5 cast in to a reinforced abutment for the inserted body 4 to build. To form the endoscope 1 became the shaft 2 through a continuous opening 17 the handle element 5 put through until the main body 4 at the inner diameter constriction 14 is applied.

At the base body 4 is outside on the outer contour 12 a known electrical switching device 18 , For example, one or more push buttons formed. At a corresponding position is on the handle element 5 an operating area 19 formed, which is an actuation of the electrical switching device 18 from the outside through the handle element 5 allows. For example, the operating range 19 be formed by a material weakening and / or by a cast-in or injected component. The operating area 19 can also be through a passage opening to the electrical switching device 18 be educated.

The electrical switching device 18 serves to control the electronic functional units 7 in the main body 4 ,

To the electrical switching device 18 and the operating area 19 align with each other in a simple way, the base body 4 an outer contour 12 on, which is not continuously rotationally symmetrical, but is non-circular in cross-section and thus a defined arrangement of the body 4 in the recording 11 forces.

The handle element 5 is dimensionally stable elastically designed to hold it over the main body 4 to be able to pull.

2 shows a further inventive endoscope 1 , Functionally and / or structurally identical or similar components and functional units are denoted by the same reference numerals and not described separately again. The remarks to 1 therefore apply to 2 corresponding.

The embodiment according to 2 differs from the embodiment according to 1 by a modified embodiment of the hand support surface 6 , While the embodiment according to 1 for example, for a pin-like positioning of the endoscope 1 in a hand of an operator or user is particularly suitable the design of the palmrest surface 6 rather, for a position in the hand in which, for example, a flashlight is frequently held.

In the embodiment according to 2 are the basic body 4 and the shaft 2 identical to the embodiment according to FIG 1 educated. Accordingly, the handle elements 5 in 1 and 2 formed inside matching. In other words, the shaft will fit 2 and the main body 4 out 1 also in the handle element 5 out 2 ,

3 shows a further embodiment of the invention. According to the embodiments according to 1 and 2 structurally and / or functionally identical or identical components and functional units are designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. The execution to the 1 and 2 therefore apply to 3 corresponding.

The embodiment according to 3 differs from the previous embodiments in that on the handle element 5 In addition, a tubular cap 20 is trained. The throw 20 extends from a distal end of the handle 21 the handle element 5 and is sized in length so that the shaft 2 is completely absorbable. At its free end is the throw-over 20 through a cover 22 locked. The cover 22 is here formed wholly or partially transparent to a study with the endoscope 1 to enable.

Instead of or in addition to the cover 22 Can the cloak 20 at the distal end also on a longitudinal side of the shaft have a transparent window, for example, when the endoscope is set up for a laterally angled observation.

The throw 20 can be integral with the handle element 5 trained and or inextricably linked to this. He can also be releasably with handle element 5 be connected. The handle element 5 , if necessary with throw 20 and / or cover film 10 , Can be formed in the invention and in particular in the embodiments as a disposable part.

5 shows a further inventive endoscope 1 , Functionally and / or structurally identical or similar components and functional units are denoted by the same reference numerals and not described separately again. The remarks to the 1 to 3 therefore apply to 5 corresponding.

The handle element 5 is also here on the body 4 arranged and takes to the main body 4 thus a solid spatial relationship.

The handle element 5 has an opening 26 on, on which a working channel 27 empties. The working channel 27 extends over the full length of the shaft 2 ,

In the handle element 5 is a technical functional unit 28 educated. This technical functional unit 28 has a photosensitive sensor 29 , which has a viewing window 30 can be covered. About electrical contacts 31 becomes the technical functional unit 28 from a non-illustrated energy storage in the body 4 provided.

The electrical switching device 18 is magnetic, electrical, acoustic or optical with a generator 32 coupled, over the operating area 19 is activatable.

The generator 32 is powered by energy harvesting, ie by the extraction of small amounts of electrical energy from sources such as ambient temperature, vibration or air currents. Alternatively, instead of the generator 32 Also, a passive element, such as a magnet used. The electrical switching device 18 has a corresponding sensor for detecting a signal from the generator 32 or the passive element.

On the inside of the picture 11 are depressions 33 formed along the direction of insertion of the body 4 extend.

6 shows an example of four possible cross sections through the body 4 and the handle element 5 , Other cross-sectional shapes are usable.

It can be seen that the depressions 33 in the main body (right half of the picture) or in the handle element (left half of the picture) can be formed. The wells 33 can through rib-shaped projections 34 be limited. The wells 33 thus create air cushions that provide venting or ventilation of the intake 11 allow for insertion or withdrawal of the body. In addition, reduce the pits 33 the friction forces through the otherwise flat on the body 4 adjacent handle elements 5 ,

In 6 In addition, it can be seen that the cross sections deviate from a rotationally symmetrical design, so that an orientation between the base body 4 and handle element 5 easier to detect and adjust.

7 shows two locking devices 35 in an endoscope according to the invention 1 can be used provided the endoscope 1 a plug-in direction distinguishes.

The locking devices 35 each have an actuating part 36 for releasing and locking the handle element 5 relative to the main body 4 ,

The locking device 35 thus forms a plug connection.

The actuating part 36 - Here a lever - is in each case on the handle element 5 or another fixed point articulated and thus in the handle element 5 integrated. When applying the respective operating part 5 becomes the locking element 38 out of engagement with the locking projection 37 come as Gegenverriegelungsteil. The plug connection is now detachable. When inserting the main body 4 locks the locking device 35 automatically.

A predetermined breaking point, not shown, destroys the locking device 35 if the main body 4 again from the recording 11 should be removed.

8th shows a further embodiment of the invention. According to the embodiments according to 1 to 3 and 5 structurally and / or functionally identical or identical components and functional units are designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. The remarks to the 1 to 7 therefore apply to 8th corresponding.

The embodiment according to 8th differs from the previous embodiments in that on the handle element 5 outside an additional module 39 is present for the function extension. The additional module 39 is thus detachable on the handle element 5 fixable.

In the embodiment according to 8th is the handle element 5 to the body 4 molded and thus inextricably linked to this.

9 shows in a cross-sectional view, in which the insertion direction of the main body 4 is perpendicular to the drawing plane, different versions of the attachment of the additional module 39 on the handle element 5 , A tongue and groove system 40 allows each plugging the additional module 39 in this insertion direction.

10 shows a further attachment option for the additional module 39 , Here are two spaced apart openings 41 formed, in which suitably formed projections of the additional module 39 can be used.

11 shows greatly simplifies a holder 42 for an inventive endoscope 1 , The holder 42 has an arm 45 with joints 44 on a stand 43 is attached. At his free end 46 is the endoscope 1 via a corresponding, already described additional module 39 on the arm 45 attached.

4 shows an endoscope kit according to the invention 23 , with which inventive endoscopes 1 can be formed according to the preceding embodiments.

The endoscope kit 23 therefore has a basic body 4 with trained shaft 2 and two handle elements 5 . 24 , For explanation, the handle element is an example 5 identical to the handle element 5 out 2 shown. The handle element 24 is identical to the handle element 5 out 3 shown. This match serves only to illustrate the invention, it is also handle elements 5 according to 1 or further handle elements providable.

To form an endoscope according to 2 or 3 is the shaft 2 with the main body 4 in the direction indicated by arrows plugging direction in the openings 17 the handle elements 5 . 24 optional plug-in, until the body 4 in the respective recording 11 is arranged.

It should be mentioned that at the recording 11 , For example by Kantenrundung, each an insertion aid 25 (compare by way of example 1 ) is formed to insert the body 4 into the undersized picture 11 against the elastic resistance of the elastomer of the handle member 5 to enable.

At an endoscope 1 is thus proposed according to the invention, one on a shaft 2 arranged body 4 with a handle element 5 surrounded by an elastomer such that the handle member to the body 4 is supported.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

endoscope

2

shaft

3

proximal end

4

body

5

Handle element

6

Palmrest area

7

electronic functional unit

8th

supply line

9

proximal end of the handle

10

cover

11

admission

12

outer contour

13

distal end of recording

14

Inner diameter narrowing

15

Material weakening region

16

Reinforcement and / or holding element

17

opening

18

electrical switching device

19

operating range

20

wrap

21

distal end of the handle

22

cover

23

Endoscope kit

24

Handle element

25

insertion

26

opening

27

working channel

28

technical functional unit

29

sensor

30

window

31

electrical contact

32

generator

33

deepening

34

head Start

35

locking device

36

actuating member

37

catch projection

38

locking element

39

additional module

40

Tongue and groove system

41

opening

42

bracket

43

stand

44

joint

45

poor

Claims (28)

Endoscope ( 1 ), with a shaft ( 2 ) and one at a proximal end ( 3 ) of the shaft ( 2 ) arranged body ( 4 ), characterized in that the basic body ( 4 ) forms a liquid-tight housing and that a handle element ( 5 . 24 ) in a fixed spatial relationship to the basic body ( 4 ) is arranged. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) is formed dimensionally stable. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) insoluble, in particular positive and / or cohesive, on the base body ( 4 ) is attached. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) is at least partially, in particular completely, made of an elastomer, in particular which the main body ( 4 ) behind and / or surrounds and on the base body ( 4 ) is supported. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) on the shaft ( 2 ) is attached and the main body ( 4 ) spaced surrounds. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) on the base body ( 4 ) at least partially rests flat and / or outside a palm rest area ( 6 ), which the basic body ( 4 ) completely encloses in a circumferential direction, and / or that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) is integrally formed. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) is formed in different areas with different material thickness and / or has at least two cohesively interconnected components. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in or on the base body ( 4 ) at least one electronic functional unit ( 7 ), in particular electronics for image evaluation and / or a light source is formed. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) detachable on the base body ( 4 ) is arranged. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) with the basic body ( 4 ) is lockable, in particular wherein a locking device ( 35 ) for fixing to the base body ( 4 ), which at least one preferably in the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) integrated actuating part ( 36 ) having. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the locking device ( 35 ) is designed as a plug-in lock. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ), in particular one or the locking device ( 35 ), a predetermined breaking point, which upon removal of the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) from the main body ( 4 ) gets destroyed. Endoscope according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that at a distal end of the handle ( 21 ) of the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) a tubular, preferably closed throw ( 20 ) is formed, in which the shaft ( 2 ) is receivable and / or recorded. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that at a proximal end of the handle ( 9 ) of the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) a preferably tubular cover film ( 10 ) is trained. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that on the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) inside a receptacle for the main body ( 4 ), which in use position at a distal receiving end ( 13 ) an inner diameter constriction ( 14 ) and / or that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) on the base body ( 4 ) and / or the shaft at least in a longitudinal direction of the shaft ( 2 ) is held positively and / or non-positively. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that on the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) on the inside, in particular on the or a receptacle ( 11 ) for the main body ( 4 ), and / or on the base body ( 4 ) on a handle element ( 5 . 24 ) facing outer contour, at least one along an insertion direction for the main body ( 4 ) deepening ( 33 ) is trained. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that in the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) at the or a distal receiving end ( 13 ) a reinforcing and / or holding element ( 16 ) is formed, in particular cast, is and / or that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) the basic body ( 6 ) at least on one side with respect to the or a longitudinal direction of the shaft ( 2 ) engages behind. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) a through opening ( 17 ) having. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that on the base body ( 4 ) at least one electrical switching device ( 18 ) is formed and at a corresponding position of the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) at least one operating area ( 19 ) to an actuation of the at least one switching device ( 18 ) by the operating area ( 19 ), in particular via a mechanical, magnetic, optical, acoustic and / or electrical coupling is formed. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that in the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) at least one technical functional unit ( 28 ) is trained. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the at least one technical functional unit ( 28 ) from the main body ( 4 ) is supplied with energy and / or that the at least one technical functional unit ( 28 ) is set up for energy supply through energy harvesting. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the at least one technical functional unit ( 28 ) realized a logger function for detecting at least one external variable. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) is produced in an injection molding or printing process. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) at least one opening ( 26 ) for a working channel ( 27 ), in particular for a rinsing liquid and / or an instrument. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that an outer contour of the base body ( 4 ) a preferred, in particular unique, orientation of the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) on the base body ( 4 ) defined in the position of use and / or that the basic body ( 4 ) forms an outer contour of a prism. Endoscope ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that the handle element ( 5 . 24 ) is dimensionally stable elastic. Endoscope kit ( 23 ), with at least one with a shaft ( 2 ) provided basic body ( 4 ) and at least two handle elements ( 5 . 24 ), wherein the at least two handle elements ( 5 . 24 ) have different outer contours and each on the base body ( 4 ) are attachable. Endoscope kit ( 23 ) according to claim 27, characterized in that at least two mutually different endoscopes ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 26 with a matching base body ( 4 ) are bildbar.

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