WO2012090642A1

WO2012090642A1 - Fiber scanning endoscope

Info

Publication number: WO2012090642A1
Application number: PCT/JP2011/077774
Authority: WO
Inventors: 伊藤俊一
Original assignee: Hoya株式会社
Priority date: 2010-12-27
Filing date: 2011-12-01
Publication date: 2012-07-05

Abstract

A first fixed-side casing (221) has an engagement member storage part (250) and a first moving member storage part (260). The first moving member storage part (260) has two first moving-side support plates (261) having circular-arc cross-sections. The first moving-side support plates (261) extend from one end of a first moving cylindrical member (262) along a center axis (X) toward the distal end (111) thereof. A first moving-side casing (214) has a first main storage part (241) having a cylindrical shape. The first main storage part (241) has, on the side surface of the proximal end side thereof, two first cutouts (242) having substantially rectangular shapes. The first cutouts (242) extend from the end of the proximal end side along the center axis (X) toward the distal end (111) thereof. The first moving-side support plates (261) engage with the first cutouts (242).

Description

Fiber scanning endoscope

The present invention relates to a fiber scanning endoscope in which an optical fiber is provided on the optical axis of an optical system.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-321792 discloses a confocal endoscope having a confocal optical system for obtaining a tomographic image. The confocal optical system mainly includes an optical fiber that guides reflected light from an observation object to an endoscope processor, and a lens that is provided on the optical axis of the optical fiber and collects the reflected light at the tip of the optical fiber. Prepare. A shape memory alloy whose length is changed by a temperature change is connected to the confocal optical system, and heating the shape memory alloy causes the confocal optical system to move back and forth on the optical axis to produce a confocal effect. Observe.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-43763 discloses a fiber scanning endoscope including a scanning optical fiber stored in a distal end portion of an endoscope. The scanning optical fiber mainly includes an optical fiber that guides illumination light from the endoscope processor to the observation object, and a lens that is provided on the optical axis of the optical fiber and collects the illumination light on the observation object.

In order to efficiently drive the confocal optical system, it is desirable to place a member that generates a driving force on the optical axis and apply the driving force from the optical axis. On the other hand, in the scanning optical fiber, the optical fiber must be provided on the optical axis. However, when the confocal optical system and the scanning optical fiber are integrated into one unit, both the member that generates the driving force and the optical fiber cannot be provided on the optical axis. When the member that generates the driving force is removed from the optical axis, the driving efficiency is lowered and the diameter of the endoscope is increased. Further, when the optical fiber is removed from the optical axis, the member that generates the driving force must bypass the optical fiber, so that the length of the unit becomes long.

In order to solve these problems, it is conceivable to use a torsional displacement actuator as a member that generates a driving force. The torsional displacement actuator mainly includes a piezoelectric element that is provided in an annular shape and has a female screw cut on an inner peripheral surface, and an engagement member that has a male screw surface that engages with the inner peripheral surface. When the piezoelectric element vibrates, the engaging member rotates and advances and retracts in the axial direction. The optical system is driven using the force generated by the advance and retreat as the driving force. However, since the engaging member is rotating, there is a possibility that the rotational force is transmitted to the optical system and the optical system rotates. When the optical system rotates, there is a possibility that an image suitable for observation cannot be obtained.

The subject of the first invention of the present application is a fiber scanning endoscope in which a confocal optical system and a scanning optical fiber are integrated, has a good operating efficiency, is small, and is suitable for observation. It is to obtain a fiber scanning endoscope that can obtain an image.

Challenge of the present second invention, the size of the compact and while maintaining the operation efficiency is to obtain a fiber scanning endoscope confocal optical system and a scanning optical fiber is integrated.

A fiber scanning endoscope according to a first invention of the present application engages with an engaging member, a fixing unit having an engaging member that advances and retreats while rotating around a rotation axis, and a fixing casing that stores the engaging member. Yes a moving unit for advancing and retracting the rotation axis direction, and an optical fiber provided on the rotary shaft while penetrating the engagement member and the mobile unit, a stationary casing, a fixed-side rotation preventing member extending in the rotation axis direction by The moving unit includes a moving-side anti-rotation member that extends in the rotation axis direction and engages with the fixed-side anti-rotation member, and a drive member that is provided around the optical fiber and drives the optical fiber in the radial direction. Features.

The fixed casing has a cylindrical shape, and the fixed-side anti-rotation member is a plate-like member in which a part of the fixed casing extends toward the moving unit along the rotation axis. A notch having a width substantially the same as the width of the fixed-side anti-rotation member in the circumferential direction, and when the fixed-side anti-rotation member is engaged with the movement-side anti-rotation member, It is preferable to suppress.

Stationary casing is a cylindrical shape, the fixed-side rotation preventing member, a hole opened to the side of the fixed casing, movable anti-rotation member protrudes from the mobile unit at a predetermined angle with respect to the rotation axis rod-like It is a member, It is preferable to suppress rotation of the moving unit with respect to the fixed unit by engaging the fixed side rotation preventing member with the moving side rotation preventing member.

The fixed casing has a cylindrical shape, and the fixed-side anti-rotation member is a hole that opens in the plane of the fixed casing, and the moving-side anti-rotation member has a rod shape that protrudes from the moving unit at an angle parallel to the rotation axis. It is a member, It is preferable to suppress rotation of the moving unit with respect to the fixed unit by engaging the fixed side rotation preventing member with the moving side rotation preventing member.

The fixing unit further includes a vibration member provided in an annular shape and having an internal thread cut on the inner surface, and the engagement member includes a male screw that engages with the inner surface of the vibration member, and a first shaft that passes through the central axis of the vibration member. The moving unit has a moving member that engages with the engaging member in the axial direction of the engaging member, and an elastic member that applies an elastic force so as to press the moving member against the engaging member. The moving member includes a second tubular portion that penetrates the moving member so as to be coaxial with the first tubular portion when engaged with the engaging member, and the optical fiber includes the first tubular portion and the first tubular portion. It is preferable to penetrate through the inside of the tubular portion of 2 and to advance and retract in the axial direction while rotating the engaging member by vibration generated by the vibrating member.

It is preferable that the optical unit further includes an optical unit connected to the moving member, and the optical fiber is provided on the optical axis of the optical unit.

A fiber scanning endoscope according to a second invention of the present application has a vibration member provided in a ring shape and having an internal thread cut on an inner surface of the ring, and a male screw engaged with the inner surface of the vibration member. Add an engaging member having a first tubular portion which penetrates on the center axis, a moving member engaged with the engaging member in the axial direction of the engaging member, an elastic force to press the moving member engaging member and an elastic member, the moving member comprises a second tubular portion extending through the movable member such that the first tubular portion coaxially when engaged with the engaging member, engaged by the vibration of the vibration member is caused The combined member moves forward and backward in the axial direction while rotating.

It is preferable to further include an optical fiber provided through the insides of the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion. The optical fiber can be provided in a straight line.

The engagement member includes an engagement shaft portion that engages with the vibration member, and a cylinder that has an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the engagement shaft portion and is provided coaxially with the engagement shaft portion. And the engaging head engages with the moving member, and the opening end of the first tubular portion that opens to the engaging head is rounded by the first radius of curvature and engages with the moving member at the engaging head. It is preferable that the outer periphery of the surface to be rounded is rounded with a second radius of curvature larger than the first radius of curvature. It is possible to prevent the moving member from rotating when the engaging member rotates.

According to the first invention of the present application, a fiber scanning endoscope in which a confocal optical system and a scanning optical fiber are integrated, has a good operating efficiency, is small, and is suitable for observation. A fiber scanning endoscope capable of obtaining an image is obtained.

According to the second invention of the present application, a fiber scanning endoscope in which the confocal optical system and the scanning optical fiber are integrated is obtained while reducing the size and maintaining the operation efficiency.

1 is a diagram illustrating a fiber scanning endoscope according to a first embodiment. FIG. It is sectional drawing which showed roughly a part of distal end part of a fiber scanning endoscope. It is a partial cross section figure of the distal end part of a fiber scanning endoscope. It is a partial cross section figure of the distal end part of a fiber scanning endoscope. It is a partial perspective view of the distal end part of a fiber scanning endoscope. It is a partial cross section figure of the distal end part of a fiber scanning endoscope. It is a partial exploded view of the distal end part of a fiber scanning endoscope. It is a partial perspective view of the distal end portion of the fiber scanning endoscope according to the second embodiment. It is a partial cross section figure of the distal end part of a fiber scanning endoscope. It is a partial perspective view of the distal end portion of the fiber scanning endoscope according to the third embodiment. It is a partial cross section figure of the distal end part of a fiber scanning endoscope. It is a partial perspective view of the distal end part of the fiber scanning endoscope by a 4th embodiment. It is a partial cross section figure of the distal end part of a fiber scanning endoscope. It is a partial cross section figure of the distal end of the fiber scanning endoscope by a 5th embodiment. It is a partial cross section figure of the distal end of the fiber scanning endoscope by a 6th embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Endoscope apparatus 110 Flexible part 111 Distal end 112 Proximal end 120 Operation part 130 Connector 200 Confocal unit 210 1st moving side unit 211 Optical lens 212 Actuator for scanning 213 Optical fiber 214 1st moving side casing 216 Cover glass 220 First fixed unit 221 First fixed casing 222 Moving member 223 Spring 224 Moving actuator 225 First engagement member 226 Inner peripheral surface 227 Engagement shaft portion 228 First engagement head 229 First tubular portion 230 Moving shaft portion 231 Moving head portion 232 Second tubular portion 233 First opening 234 Second opening 235 Joint shaft 236 Second storage portion 237 Harness 238 Small diameter portion 240 Actuator storage portion 241 First main storage portion 242 First notch 24 3 Joining shaft inner peripheral surface 250 Engagement member storage portion 251 Actuator support plate 252 Engagement cylindrical member 260 First moving member storage portion 261 First moving side support plate 262 First moving cylindrical member 271 First Storage portion 425 Second engagement member 428 Second engagement head portion 429 Third tubular portion

Hereinafter, an endoscope apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

An outline of the endoscope apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The endoscope apparatus 100 is used by being connected to an endoscope processor (not shown), and includes a flexible part 110 inserted into the body of a subject, an operation part 120 held by an operator, and an endoscope. It mainly includes a connector 130 for connecting the mirror device 100 and the endoscope processor.

The distal end 111 of the flexible part 110 is inserted into the body of the subject, and the proximal end 112 is connected to the operation part 120. An imaging element and a confocal unit 200 (not shown) are stored at the distal end 111 of the flexible portion 110. The confocal unit 200 emits laser light used to obtain a confocal image to the optical fiber 213 and moves the tip of the optical fiber 213 in a predetermined direction to scan the laser light toward the observation object. To do. The optical fiber 213 receives reflected light from the subject at the distal end 111 side end of the optical fiber and transmits it to the confocal unit 200. The image pickup device picks up an observation object using white light and transmits the obtained image to the endoscope processor. The endoscope processor displays the received image on a monitor.

The configuration of the confocal unit 200 will be described with reference to FIG. The confocal unit 200 includes a first moving side unit 210 provided at the front end of the confocal unit 200, and a first fixed side unit 220 that stores the first moving side unit 210 therein.

The first fixed-side unit 220 includes a first fixed-side casing 221 fixed to the distal end 111 of the endoscope, a moving member 222 stored in the first fixed-side casing 221, and a moving member 222. A spring 223 that is an elastic member that urges the actuator, a moving actuator 224 that forms a vibration member, and a first engaging member 225 that engages with the moving actuator 224.

The first fixed casing 221 is formed by coaxially connecting a first storage portion 271 and a second storage portion 236 having a cylindrical shape. The outer periphery of the first storage unit 271 and the outer periphery of the second storage unit 236 have the same diameter. The thickness of the side wall of the first storage unit 271 is thinner than the thickness of the second storage unit 236. Circular walls are provided at both ends of the second storage portion 236, and a part of the circular wall opens in the axial direction. A first opening 233 opens in a circular wall facing the first storage portion 271, and a second opening 234 opens in the other circular wall. The first storage unit 271 is connected to the second storage unit 236 through the first opening 233. In the first storage portion 271, a circular wall is provided at the end on the distal end 111 side, and a part of the circular wall opens in the axial direction to form a third opening 215. A cover glass 216 is fitted into the third opening 215. The first storage unit 271 stores the first fixed-side casing therein.

The first opening 233 has a cylindrical inner surface and extends to a predetermined length in the axial direction of the first fixed-side casing 221 while maintaining a constant diameter. The second opening 234 has a cylindrical inner surface and extends to a predetermined length in the axial direction of the first fixed-side casing 221 while maintaining a constant diameter. The length that the first opening 233 extends in the axial direction of the first fixed-side casing 221 is shorter than the length that the second opening 234 extends. A second storage portion 236 having a diameter longer than the diameters of the first opening 233 and the second opening 234 is provided between the first opening 233 and the second opening 234.

The moving actuator 224 is composed of a piezoelectric element. A plurality of movement actuators 224 are arranged in the circumferential direction on the inner side surface of the second opening 234 to constitute a torsional displacement type piezoelectric actuator. An internal thread is cut on the inner peripheral surface 226 of the moving actuator 224. A harness 237 is connected to the proximal end 112 side end of the moving actuator 224. The harness 237 supplies power from the endoscope processor to the movement actuator 224 via the flexible portion 110. The outer surface of the first fixed-side casing 221 is fixed inside the flexible portion 110.

The first engagement member 225 includes a cylindrical engagement shaft portion 227 having an outer peripheral surface with a male screw cut, and a first engagement head having a substantially cylindrical shape having a diameter longer than that of the engagement shaft portion 227. Part 228. The engagement shaft portion 227 and the first engagement head portion 228 are joined so as to be coaxial with the central axis X of the first engagement member 225. The male screw provided on the engaging shaft portion 227 engages with the female screw provided on the inner peripheral surface 226 of the moving actuator 224. Thereby, the first engagement member 225 rotates along the central axis X. In the first engagement head 228, the periphery of the circular plane opposite to the engagement shaft portion 227 is rounded with a predetermined radius of curvature. On the central axis X of the first engagement member 225, a first tubular portion 229 is provided. The first tubular portion 229 has a cylindrical shape and has an inner diameter larger than the diameter of the optical fiber 213.

The moving member 222 has a cylindrical moving shaft portion 230 and a moving head portion 231 having a cylindrical shape having a longer diameter than the moving shaft portion 230. The moving shaft 230 and the moving head 231 are joined so as to be coaxial with the central axis X of the moving member 222. A second tubular portion 232 is provided on the central axis X of the moving member 222. The second tubular portion 232 has a cylindrical shape and has an inner diameter larger than the diameter of the optical fiber 213.

The moving shaft portion 230 engages with the inner periphery of the first opening 233 and can move back and forth along the central axis X. The moving member 222 is arranged so as to be coaxial with the first engaging member 225 and so that the moving head 231 and the first engaging head 228 are engaged. Since the moving member 222 and the first engaging member 225 are coaxial, the first tubular portion 229 and the second tubular portion 232 are aligned. A thin-diameter portion 238 whose diameter is reduced stepwise is provided at the tip of the moving shaft portion 230.

A spring 223 is provided between the moving head 231 and the first fixed casing 221. The spring 223 biases the moving head 231 toward the first engagement member 225. Thereby, the moving head 231 is always engaged with the first engaging head 228.

A cylindrical joint shaft 235 is provided at the tip of the moving shaft portion 230 so as to be coaxial with the moving shaft portion 230. The joining shaft 235 has a cylindrical shape, and the inner periphery has an inner diameter that is substantially the same as the diameter of the optical fiber 213. Further, the outer periphery of the joining shaft 235 has substantially the same diameter as the diameter of the moving shaft portion 230. The joining shaft 235 is connected to the first moving side unit 210.

The optical fiber 213 is inserted with play in the inner periphery of the first tubular portion 229, and the optical fiber 213 is fixed to the inner periphery of the second tubular portion 232 and the joining shaft 235. Thereby, the central axis X of the first engaging member 225 and the moving member 222 and the optical axis of the optical fiber 213 coincide.

The first moving side unit 210 includes a cylindrical first moving side casing 214, an optical lens 211 provided at the front end of the first moving side unit 210, and a scanning actuator provided at the rear end of the optical lens 211. 212. The first moving casing 214 houses the optical lens 211 and the scanning actuator 212 on the inner periphery.

The scanning actuator 212 is a piezoelectric element provided around the optical fiber 213, and moves the tip of the optical fiber 213 in an arbitrary direction. The optical lens 211 includes a plurality of lenses, and is provided so that the optical axis thereof coincides with the optical axis of the optical fiber 213. Light emitted from the tip of the optical fiber 213 is irradiated to the subject via the optical lens 211.

Next, the operation of the confocal unit 200 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 3 shows a state in which the moving unit 210 has moved toward the distal end 111. When the moving actuator 224 vibrates in a predetermined pattern, the first engaging member 225 is rotated by the vibration and protrudes toward the distal end 111. At this time, since the optical fiber 213 is inserted with play in the inner periphery of the first tubular portion 229, the optical fiber 213 does not rotate. When the first engaging head 228 protruding toward the distal end 111 presses the moving head 231, the moving member 222 moves toward the distal end 111 against the biasing force of the spring 223. Then, the joining shaft 235 and the first moving unit 210 connected to the moving member 222 move toward the distal end 111. As a result, the focal plane X moves to a position away from the distal end 111.

FIG. 4 shows a state when the moving side unit 210 moves toward the proximal end. When the moving actuator 224 vibrates in a pattern different from that when projecting toward the distal end 111, the first engaging member 225 rotates by the vibration and moves away from the distal end 111. When the first engagement head 228 moves away from the distal end 111, the moving head 231 that engages with the first engagement head 228 is biased by the spring 223, so that the first engagement head It leaves the distal end 111 together with the part 228. Then, the joining shaft 235 connected to the moving member 222 and the first moving unit 210 are separated from the distal end 111. Thereby, the focal plane X moves to a position close to the distal end 111.

Thereby, the first moving unit 210 can change the distance from the distal end 111 to the confocal plane X. Further, the scanning actuator 212 provided in the movable body side unit drives the tip of the optical fiber 213 to realize the function of the fiber scanning endoscope.

Next, details of the first fixed casing 221 and the first moving casing 214 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7, the first storage unit 271 is omitted for explanation.

The first fixed casing 221 includes an actuator storage 240 that stores the movement actuator 224, an engagement member storage 250 that stores the first engagement member 225, and a first movement that stores the movement member 222. And a member storage unit 260. These members are arranged in the order of the first moving member storage 260, the engagement member storage 250, and the actuator storage 240 from the distal end 111 side.

The actuator storage unit 240 has a rectangular tube shape, and stores the movement actuator 224 on the inner peripheral side. The outer peripheral surface is formed by connecting four H-shaped panels.

The engaging member storage section 250 includes two actuator support plates 251 having an arcuate cross section and an engaging cylindrical member 252 having a cylindrical shape. The actuator support plate 251 extends from the engagement cylindrical member 252 toward the actuator storage portion 240. The outer surface of the actuator support plate 251 and the outer surface of the engaging cylindrical member 252 are flush with each other.

The first moving member storage unit 260 includes two first moving side support plates 261 having an arc cross section, and a first moving cylindrical member 262 having a cylindrical shape. The first movable cylindrical member 262 is disposed coaxially with the central axis X.

The first moving side support plate 261 extends from one end surface of the first moving cylindrical member 262 toward the distal end 111 along the central axis X. The outer surface of the first moving side support plate 261 and the outer surface of the first moving cylindrical member 262 are flush with each other. The two first moving support plates 261 are symmetric with respect to a plane passing through the central axis X.

The first moving-side casing 214 is mainly composed of a first main storage portion 241 having a cylindrical shape and a joining shaft 235 having a cylindrical shape. The first main storage portion 241 and the joining shaft 235 are arranged coaxially with the central axis X.

In the first main storage portion 241, the end surface on the distal end 111 side has an annular shape, and the end surface on the proximal end side is coupled to the joining shaft 235. The end surface on the proximal end side has a hole on the central axis X and penetrates the inner peripheral surface of the joining shaft 235. Two first cutouts 242 having a substantially rectangular shape are provided on the side surface on the proximal end side in the first main storage portion 241. The first notch 242 extends along the central axis X from the proximal end side toward the distal end 111. When viewed from the direction perpendicular to the central axis X, the first notch 242 penetrates from the outer peripheral surface to the inner peripheral surface. The two first cutouts 242 are symmetric with respect to a plane passing through the central axis X. The joining shaft 235 includes a joining shaft inner peripheral surface 243 having an inner peripheral diameter substantially the same as the outer peripheral diameter of the small diameter portion 238.

The actuator storage unit 240 is fixed by being sandwiched between two actuator support units. The first engagement member 225 is screwed into the movement actuator 224, and the first engagement head 228 penetrates the inner peripheral surface of the engagement cylindrical member 252.

The first engaging head 228 engages with the moving head 231. The moving shaft 230 connected to the moving head 231 passes through the inner periphery of the spring 223 and the first opening 233. And the end surface of the 1st moving member storage part 260 engages with the end surface of the engagement cylindrical member 252, and is connected. At this time, the tip of the moving shaft 230, that is, the small-diameter portion 238 protrudes from the first opening 233 toward the distal end 111, and is engaged with and joined to the joining shaft inner peripheral surface 243.

The first moving support plate 261 engages with the first cutout 242 so as to be slidable along the central axis X. Accordingly, the first moving-side casing 214 can move along the central axis X with respect to the first fixed-side casing 221.

According to this embodiment, even if the moving member 222 tries to rotate when the first engaging member 225 rotates, the first moving member storage portion 260 and the first moving-side casing 214 prevent rotation. The optical lens 211 and the optical fiber 213 are prevented from rotating.

Furthermore, the moving actuator 224 and the scanning actuator 212 can be provided simultaneously on the axis of the optical fiber 213, and the optical fiber 213 can be provided without bending. Therefore, the confocal optical system and the scanning optical fiber can be integrated while reducing the size of the endoscope apparatus 100 and maintaining the transmission efficiency of the optical fiber 213.

Further, since the moving actuator 224 is fixed to the first fixed unit 220, it does not move with respect to the flexible portion 110. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the harness 237 connected to the movement actuator 224 with a configuration for preventing damage due to movement.

The scanning actuator 212 can be provided on the central axis X of the first moving unit 210, that is, on the center of gravity axis. When the first moving unit 210 is moved, the movement of the first moving unit 210 may be uneven due to the influence of the inclination of the flexible portion 110. However, by providing the scanning actuator 212 on the center of gravity axis of the first moving-side unit 210, movement unevenness can be reduced.

Next, a second endoscope apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The second endoscope apparatus according to the present embodiment differs from the first embodiment only in the shapes of the second moving member storage 760 and the second moving side casing 714. Hereinafter, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted. The second moving member storage unit 760 and the second moving side casing 714 will be described. 8 and 9, the first storage unit 271 is omitted for explanation.

The second fixed-side casing 721 includes an actuator storage 240 for storing the movement actuator 224, an engagement member storage 250 for storing the first engagement member 225, and a second movement for storing the movement member 222. And a member storage unit 760. These members are arranged in the order of the second moving member storage 760, the engagement member storage 250, and the actuator storage 240 from the distal end 111 side.

The second moving member storage unit 760 includes two second moving side support plates 761 having an arcuate cross section, and a second moving cylindrical member 762 having a cylindrical shape. The second moving cylindrical member 762 is disposed coaxially with the central axis X.

The second moving side support plate 761 extends from the one end surface of the second moving cylindrical member 762 toward the distal end 111 along the central axis X. The outer surface of the second moving side support plate 761 and the outer surface of the second moving cylindrical member 762 are flush with each other. The two second moving support plates 761 are symmetrical with respect to a plane passing through the central axis X.

The second moving casing 714 is mainly composed of a second main storage portion 741 having a cylindrical shape and a joining shaft 235 having a cylindrical shape. The second main storage portion 741 and the joining shaft 235 are arranged coaxially with the central axis X.

In the second main storage portion 741, the end surface on the distal end 111 side has a ring shape, and the end surface on the proximal end side is coupled to the joining shaft 235. The end surface on the proximal end side has a hole on the central axis X and penetrates the inner peripheral surface of the joining shaft 235. On the proximal end side of the second main storage portion 741, a part of the outer peripheral surface is scraped off in the axial direction to form two second cutouts 742. When viewed from the direction perpendicular to the central axis X, the second notch 742 has a rectangular shape and does not penetrate the inner peripheral surface. The second notch 742 extends along the central axis X from the proximal end to the distal end 111. The two second notches 742 are symmetric with respect to a plane passing through the central axis X. The joining shaft 235 includes a joining shaft inner peripheral surface 243 having an inner peripheral diameter substantially the same as the outer peripheral diameter of the small diameter portion 238.

The second moving side support plate 761 engages with the second notch 742 so as to be slidable along the central axis X. Accordingly, the second moving casing 714 can move along the central axis X with respect to the second fixed casing 721.

According to this embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment is obtained. Further, since the second notch 742 does not penetrate from the outer peripheral surface of the second main storage portion 741 to the inner peripheral surface, the strength of the second main storage portion 741 can be maintained.

Next, a third endoscope apparatus according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The third endoscope apparatus according to the present embodiment differs from the first embodiment only in the shapes of the third moving member storage 860 and the third moving side casing 814. Hereinafter, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted, and the third moving member storage 860 and the third moving casing 814 will be described. 10 and 11, the first storage unit 271 is omitted for explanation.

The third fixed-side casing 821 has an actuator storage 240 for storing the movement actuator 224, an engagement member storage 250 for storing the first engagement member 225, and a third movement for storing the movement member 222. And a member storage unit 860. These members are arranged in the order of the third moving member storage 860, the engagement member storage 250, and the actuator storage 240 from the distal end 111 side.

The third moving member storage unit 860 includes a third moving cylindrical member 862 having a cylindrical shape. The third movable cylindrical member 862 is disposed coaxially with the central axis X. The third movable cylindrical member 862 includes a slit 861 that penetrates from the inner peripheral surface to the outer peripheral surface in the radial direction and extends in the axial direction.

The third moving-side casing 814 is mainly composed of a third main storage portion 841 having a cylindrical shape and a joint shaft 235 having a cylindrical shape. The third main storage portion 841 and the joining shaft 235 are arranged coaxially with the central axis X. An engaging protrusion 842 protrudes from the outer surface of the joining shaft 235 at a right angle. The engaging protrusion 842 has a cylindrical shape, and the protruding length is substantially the same as the radial thickness of the third movable cylindrical member 862. When the third fixed casing 821 and the third moving casing 814 are assembled, the engaging protrusion 842 is inserted into the slit 861. When the third moving-side casing 814 advances and retreats along the central axis X, the engagement protrusion 842 is guided by the inner wall of the slit 861 and advances and retreats in the slit 861 along the central axis X.

According to this embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment is obtained. Further, since the first notch 242 and the second notch 742 are not provided, the strength of the third main storage portion 841 can be maintained.

Next, a fourth endoscope apparatus according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The fourth endoscope apparatus according to the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment only in the shapes of the fourth moving member storage 960 and the fourth moving casing 914. Hereinafter, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted, and the fourth moving member storage unit 960 and the fourth moving side casing 914 will be described. 12 and 13, the first storage unit 271 is omitted for the sake of explanation.

The fourth fixed-side casing 921 includes an actuator storage section 240 that stores the movement actuator 224, an engagement member storage section 250 that stores the first engagement member 225, and a fourth movement that stores the movement member 222. And a member storage unit 960. These members are arranged in the order of the fourth moving member storage 960, the engagement member storage 250, and the actuator storage 240 from the distal end 111 side.

The fourth moving member storage unit 960 includes a fourth moving cylindrical member 962 having a cylindrical shape. The fourth moving cylindrical member 962 is arranged coaxially with the central axis X. Two slide rods 961 having a cylindrical shape extend from the end portion of the fourth moving tubular member 962 close to the distal end 111 toward the distal end 111 along the central axis X. The two slide rods 961 are provided at positions that are symmetric with respect to a plane that passes through the central axis X.

The fourth moving-side casing 914 is mainly composed of a fourth main storage portion 941 having a cylindrical shape and a joining shaft 235 having the same cylindrical shape. The fourth main storage portion 941 and the joining shaft 235 are arranged coaxially with the central axis X. Two slide holes 942 having a cylindrical shape extend from the proximal end side end of the fourth main storage portion 941 along the central axis X toward the distal end 111. The length in which they extend is slightly longer than the length of the slide bar 961 in the direction along the central axis X. The two slide holes 942 are provided at positions symmetrical to each other with respect to a plane passing through the central axis X.

When the fourth fixed casing 921 and the fourth moving casing 914 are assembled, the slide rod 961 is inserted into the slide hole 942. When the fourth moving-side casing 914 advances and retracts along the central axis X, the slide bar 961 advances and retracts along the central axis X while being guided by the slide hole 942.

According to this embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment is obtained. Further, the fourth moving casing 914 can advance and retreat while being accurately along the central axis X.

Next, a fifth endoscope apparatus according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The fifth endoscope apparatus according to the present embodiment differs from the first engagement member 225 only in the shape of the second engagement member 425. Hereinafter, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted. The second engagement member 425 will be described.

The second engagement member 425 has a cylindrical engagement shaft portion 227 having an outer peripheral surface with a male screw cut, and a second engagement head having a substantially columnar shape having a longer diameter than the engagement shaft portion 227. Part 428. In the second engagement head 428, the circumference of the circular plane opposite to the engagement shaft portion 227 is rounded with the second radius of curvature. A third tubular portion 429 is provided on the central axis X of the second engagement member 425. The third tubular portion 429 has a cylindrical shape and has an inner diameter larger than the diameter of the optical fiber 213. In the third tubular portion 429, the open end of the circular plane that engages with the moving member 222 is rounded with the first radius of curvature. The second radius of curvature is greater than the first radius of curvature.

Thereby, the joint area between the second engaging head 428 and the moving head 231 is reduced, and the frictional force generated between the second engaging head 428 and the moving head 231 is reduced. When the frictional force decreases, the rotational force generated when the second engaging head 428 rotates is less likely to be transmitted to the moving head 231. Accordingly, since the moving member 222 can be prevented from rotating together with the second engaging member 425, the moving member 222 does not rotate.

According to the present embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained, and the movement member 222 can be prevented from rotating due to the rotation of the second engagement member 425.

Next, a sixth endoscope apparatus according to the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The sixth endoscope apparatus according to the present embodiment differs from the first engagement member 225 only in the shape of the third engagement member 525. Hereinafter, the third engagement member 525 will be described, and the same components as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted.

The third engagement member 525 has a cylindrical shape having the same diameter over the entire length, and has an outer peripheral surface in which a male screw is cut. Thereby, the joining area of the 3rd engagement member 525 and the moving head 231 becomes small, and the frictional force which arises between the 3rd engagement member 525 and the moving head 231 reduces. When the frictional force decreases, the rotational force generated when the third engagement member 525 rotates is less likely to be transmitted to the moving head 231. Accordingly, the moving member 222 can be prevented from rotating together with the third engaging member 525, and thus the moving member 222 does not rotate.

According to the present embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained, and the moving member 222 can be prevented from rotating due to the rotation of the third engaging member 525.

In any of the embodiments, the moving head 231, the moving shaft 230, the first storage 271, and the second storage 236 do not have to be cylindrical.

In any of the embodiments, the engagement head 228 may not be provided.

Further, in any embodiment, the outer periphery and the outer periphery of the second storage portion 236 of the first storage unit 271 may not be the same diameter, the thickness of the side wall of the first storage portion 271 of the second The thickness of the storage portion 236 may not be thinner.

While embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is understood that modifications may be made to the structure and relationship of each part without departing from the scope and spirit of the described invention. It is obvious to those skilled in the art.

Claims

A fixing unit having an engaging member that advances and retreats while rotating around a rotation axis, and a fixing casing that stores the engaging member;
A moving unit that moves forward and backward in the direction of the rotation axis by engaging with the engaging member;
An optical fiber provided on the rotating shaft while penetrating the engaging member and the moving unit;
The fixed casing has a fixed-side rotation preventing member extending in the rotation axis direction,
The moving unit includes a moving-side anti-rotation member that extends in the rotation axis direction and engages with the fixed-side anti-rotation member, and a drive member that is provided around the optical fiber and drives the optical fiber in the radial direction. Fiber scanning endoscope.
The fixed casing has a cylindrical shape, and the fixed-side rotation prevention member is a plate-like member in which a part of the fixed casing extends toward the moving unit along a rotation axis,
The movement-side anti-rotation member is a notch having a width substantially the same as the width of the fixed-side anti-rotation member in the circumferential direction of the fixed casing,
The fiber scanning endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the fixed side rotation preventing member is engaged with the moving side rotation preventing member to suppress rotation of the moving unit with respect to the fixed unit.
The fixed casing has a cylindrical shape, and the fixed-side anti-rotation member is a hole opened on a side surface of the fixed casing,
The movement-side rotation preventing member is a rod-like member protruding from the moving unit at a predetermined angle with respect to the rotation axis,
The fiber scanning endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the fixed side rotation preventing member is engaged with the moving side rotation preventing member to suppress rotation of the moving unit with respect to the fixed unit.
The fixed casing has a cylindrical shape, and the fixed-side rotation prevention member is a hole that opens in a plane of the fixed casing,
The movement-side rotation preventing member is a rod-like member protruding from the moving unit at an angle parallel to the rotation axis,
The fiber scanning endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the fixed side rotation preventing member is engaged with the moving side rotation preventing member to suppress rotation of the moving unit with respect to the fixed unit.
The fixing unit further includes a vibrating member provided in an annular shape and having an internal thread cut on an inner surface thereof,
The engagement member includes a male screw that engages with an inner surface of the vibration member, and a first tubular portion that penetrates on a central axis of the vibration member,
The moving unit includes a moving member that engages with the engaging member in an axial direction of the engaging member, and an elastic member that applies an elastic force so as to press the moving member against the engaging member.
The moving member includes a second tubular portion that penetrates the moving member so as to be coaxial with the first tubular portion when engaged with the engaging member;
The optical fiber is provided penetrating through the inside of the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion,
The fiber scanning endoscope according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the engagement member rotates in an axial direction while rotating due to vibration generated by the vibration member.
The fiber scanning endoscope according to claim 5, further comprising an optical unit connected to the moving member, wherein the optical fiber is provided on an optical axis of the optical unit.
An oscillating member provided in an annular shape and having an internal thread cut in the annular inner surface;
An engagement member having a male thread that engages with an inner surface of the vibration member and having a first tubular portion penetrating on a central axis of the vibration member;
A moving member that engages with the engaging member in the axial direction of the engaging member;
An elastic member that applies an elastic force so as to press the moving member against the engaging member;
The moving member includes a second tubular portion that penetrates the moving member so as to be coaxial with the first tubular portion when engaged with the engaging member;
A fiber scanning endoscope in which the engagement member rotates and advances and retracts in the axial direction due to vibration generated by the vibration member.
The fiber scanning endoscope according to claim 7, further comprising an optical fiber provided through the inside of the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion.
The fiber scanning endoscope according to claim 8, further comprising an optical unit connected to the moving member, wherein the optical fiber is provided on an optical axis of the optical unit.
The engagement member includes an engagement shaft portion that engages with the vibration member, and a cylinder having an outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the engagement shaft portion, and the engagement head is provided coaxially with the engagement shaft portion. And
The engagement head engages with the moving member, and the opening end of the first tubular portion that opens to the engagement head is rounded with a first radius of curvature;
The fiber scanning endoscope according to claim 7, wherein an outer periphery of a surface that engages with the moving member in the engaging head is rounded with a second radius of curvature larger than the first radius of curvature.