DE102019108078A1 - Endoscope with a power transmission element between a power transmission shaft and a forceps elevator - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an endoscope with a distal end section (1), the distal end section (1) forming a closed housing (110); wherein a cap (2) surrounding the distal end section (1) on the distal side is placed on the distal end section (1), the cap (2) being removable from the distal end section (1); wherein a power transmission shaft (30) which can be actuated from the proximal side is mounted in the distal end section (1), a forcepshaft lever (3) being pivotably mounted in the cap (2). A power transmission element (303) is slidably arranged on the power transmission shaft (30). The force transmission element (303) is operatively coupled to the forceps elevator (3) and is adapted to transmit a rotational movement of the force transmission shaft (30) to the forceps elevator (3). The cap (2) together with the force transmission element (303) and the forceps elevator (3) can be removed from the distal end section (1).

Description

The present invention relates to an endoscope with a distal end section on which a force transmission element is arranged between a force transmission shaft and a forceps elevator.

An endoscope is a device with which the interior of living organisms, but also technical cavities can be examined. An important part of an endoscope is the distal end section, on which a light emitting device and an image recording device are arranged. The distal end portion is inserted into the interior of the organism or the technical cavity. The area around the inside of an organism or the technical cavity is illuminated by the light emitting device, so that an image of this environment can be recorded by the image recording device. The image of this environment can be submitted to an evaluation or the basis for specific action decisions with regard to the interior of the organism or the technical cavity. In addition, a forceps elevator is arranged in the distal end section. The forceps elevator can push an instrument pushed through the endoscope to the illuminated area of the environment. For this purpose, the forceps elevator is raised by remote control, which changes the angle of the advanced instrument.

After the examination, the instrument is pulled out of the endoscope. The endoscope can then be removed from the organism or the technical cavity. After the endoscope and in particular the distal end section has been removed, it is cleaned and sterilized.

In particular, the distal end section should be free of residues and germs after cleaning and sterilization.

DE 10 2015 113 016 A1 discloses an endoscope head. On the distal side of the endoscope head, a pivoting element that can be actuated from the proximal side is provided. At the distal end section of the working channel, a pivotable forceps elevator is provided, which is rotatably anchored in a cap. The cap can be removed from the endoscope head. At the distal end of the endoscope head, a camera, lighting and the forceps elevator with its control mechanism are provided. The camera is on one side and the control mechanism of the forceps elevator is on the other side of the distal end. The forceps elevator is pushed into the space in the middle. When the cap is removed, the space in the middle is exposed. The cap and the forceps elevator can be designed as a single use assembly. The room in the middle is subjected to cleaning and sterilization.

It is the object of the present invention to create an endoscope in which the structure of the distal end section realizes an even better cleaning.

This object is achieved by an endoscope with the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

The invention is directed to an endoscope having a distal end portion having a distal end portion, the distal end portion forming a closed housing; wherein a cap surrounding the distal end portion on the distal side is placed on the distal end portion, the cap being removable from the distal end portion; a power transmission shaft which can be actuated from the proximal side is mounted in the distal end section; wherein an elevator lever (elevator) is pivotably mounted in the cap. In this endoscope, a force transmission element is arranged so that it can be pushed onto the force transmission shaft. The force transmission element is operatively coupled to the forceps elevator and is adapted to transmit a rotational movement of the force transmission shaft to the forceps elevator. The cap, including the force transmission element and the forceps elevator, can be pulled off the distal end section.

With this structure, both the control mechanism for the power transmission shaft and optical devices such as e.g. a camera and / or an LED can be accommodated on one side in the distal end section. The other side of the distal end section can thus be completely omitted. The distal end section can thus be designed with only one distal extension.

Since the cap together with the force transmission element and forceps lever can be removed from the distal end section, the force transmission element does not have to be accommodated in a structure of the distal end section. The distal end section can be designed entirely without a force transmission element between the force transmission shaft and the forceps elevator. The distal end section is thus freely accessible and can be cleaned particularly effectively.

The endoscope can be constructed in such a way that only a coupling section of the power transmission shaft protrudes from the closed housing of the distal end section and the rest of the power transmission shaft lies within the closed housing; and the Force transmission element is slidably arranged on the coupling portion of the power transmission shaft. The coupling portion can be designed to have a simple structure and a simple geometric shape. It can be designed so that it is easy to clean and that no contaminants stick after cleaning. For example, it can have a simple cuboid shape with rounded edges.

The coupling section of the power transmission shaft can have a protrusion facing away from the closed housing of the distal end section, the power transmission element can have a groove which is adapted to the shape of the protrusion, and the cap can be removable from the distal end section so that the groove of the power transmission element along the projection of the power transmission shaft slides. Such a type of coupling portion allows a simple and easy to accomplish connection and disconnection of the power transmission shaft and the power transmission element. Furthermore, the coupling section is very easy to clean.

The groove of the power transmission element can have two parallel, opposite side walls, between which the projection of the power transmission shaft is arranged displaceably along the side walls. A safe and reliable pushing of the force transmission element onto the coupling section is made possible. Nevertheless, this coupling section enables sufficient force and torque to operate the forceps and levers.

The projection of the power transmission shaft can have two parallel, opposite flat surfaces, each of which rests slidably on one of the side walls of the groove of the power transmission element in the longitudinal direction of the groove.

Alternatively, the projection of the power transmission shaft can have at least two sub-projections extending away from the closed housing of the distal end section, which sub-projections are arranged in the groove of the force-transmitting element so that the lacing direction of the sub-projections runs in the longitudinal direction of the groove, and at least sections of the outer peripheral surface of the sub-projections on the side walls of the The groove of the force transmission element can slide in the longitudinal direction of the groove.

Both options ensure efficient power transmission from the power transmission shaft to the power transmission element.

The force transmission element can form a first force transmission element, and a second force transmission element can be arranged between the first force transmission element and the forceps elevator, which is adapted to transmit a rotational movement of the first force transmission element to the forceps elevator. Thus, the exact geometric design of the power transmission from the power transmission shaft to the forceps elevator can be varied and designed according to specific goals. For example, the first force transmission element and the second force transmission element can be designed in such a way that the first force transmission element pulls the second force transmission element obliquely upwards in order to support the rotational movement of the forceps elevator.

The first force transmission element can have a cam shape with a cam nose, the cam nose pointing towards the distal side in a situation with the forceps elevator in the rest position, the second force transmission element can be designed as a lever, and a proximal end of the lever can be articulated on the cam nose of the first force transmission element be, and a distal end of the lever can be articulated on the forceps elevator.

The power transmission element can have a central axle element which protrudes on the side of the power transmission element facing away from the power transmission shaft in the direction away from the power transmission shaft and at the protruding end forms an axle element end which is mounted in a bearing provided on an inner side surface of the cap. As a result, the force transmission element is securely and firmly mounted and is able to also absorb and transmit a relatively high force or a relatively high torque.

The axial element end of the power transmission element can be axially insertable and extractable into the bearing provided on the cap, but is not movable in the cap extension direction, which corresponds to the axial direction of the distal end portion, relative to the bearing provided on the cap. The power transmission element can easily be mounted in the cap and at the same time cannot be displaced in the insertion direction of the cap, which corresponds to the insertion direction of the power transmission element on the power transmission shaft.

The forceps elevator can be rotatable supported on both of its lateral sides in the cap. As a result, the forceps elevator is safely guided and can absorb a high force from an instrument to be moved by the forceps elevator and does not wobble or shift during its pivoting movement, even when under load.

The endoscope can be a duodenoscope.

The aspects of the present invention explained above can be combined as appropriate.

Figure list

• 1 shows, in a first embodiment, a schematic side view of a distal end section of an endoscope in which the invention can be applied, a cap being shown removed from the distal end section.
• 2 FIG. 13 shows a schematic plan view of the distal end section of FIG 1 where the cap is shown separately.
• 3 FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the distal end portion of FIG 1 .
• 4th shows a schematic side view of the distal end section with the pivoting mechanism for the forceps elevator arranged in the cap, the cap itself not being shown.
• 5 FIG. 11 shows a schematic top view of the distal end section in the situation from FIG 4th .
• 6th Figure 12 shows a schematic side view of the interior of the cap as viewed from the direction of the distal extension.
• 7th Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view of the interior of the cap as viewed from the direction of the distal extension.
• 8th Figure 12 shows a further schematic perspective view of the interior of the cap viewed from the direction of the distal extension, with the cam element removed for the sake of clarity.
• 9 shows a schematic side view of the interior of the distal extension without cap when the forceps elevator is not actuated.
• 10 shows a schematic perspective view of the interior of the distal extension without a cap when the forceps elevator is not actuated.
• 11 shows a schematic side view of the interior of the distal extension with the cap when the forceps elevator is not actuated.
• 12 shows a schematic side view of the interior of the distal extension with cap when the forceps elevator is activated.
• 13 shows a schematic side view of the distal extension with pushed-on force transmission mechanism for the forceps elevator.
• 14th shows a schematic side view of the distal extension with the force transmission mechanism for the forceps elevator removed.
• 15th shows a 3 corresponding perspective view of the distal end section of a second embodiment.

The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the drawings using exemplary embodiments.

First embodiment

With reference to FIG 1 to 14th a first embodiment of the present invention is described.

First, referring to the 1 to 10 the structure of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

1 shows a schematic side view of a distal end section 1 of an endoscope, with a cap 2 from the distal end portion 1 shown peeled off. 2 shows a schematic plan view of the distal end section 1 . 3 Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the distal end portion 1 .

The distal end section 1 can be understood as a cylinder whose central axis runs parallel and congruent to the axis of an insertion tube (not shown) of the endoscope and extends it. The distal end section 1 forms an endoscope head which connects to the insertion tube in the distal direction.

On the distal end section 1 is a protective cap 2 attached from the distal side. The cap 2 is from the distal end portion 1 removable by removing it from the distal end portion 1 is withdrawn in the distal direction. The cap 2 is preferably designed as a single-use body. The cap 2 forms one with a bottom 2 B provided mug. The floor 2 B the cap 2 is in the 1 and 2 on the right side of the cap 2 shown.

The cap 2 has a window 2a . The window 2a is an opening in the peripheral wall of the cap 2 . The window 2a provides access to the inside of the cap 2 . On an inner peripheral wall of the cap 2 is the window 2a Opposite a forceps elevator 3 hinged. Therefore, it is on the inner peripheral wall of the cap 2 a bearing described in more detail below 203 intended. This warehouse 203 forms a pivot point of the forceps elevator 3 . A proximal section of the forceps elevator 3 sits swiveling on this bearing. The forceps elevator 3 is in the cap 2 thus flexibly integrated. When the cap 2 from the distal end portion 1 is pulled, the forceps elevator becomes 3 therefore also deducted.

The window 2a thus offers access to the forceps elevator 3 and to an image pickup device 11 and to a light emitting device 18th described below.

At the bottom 2 B opposite proximal side has the cap 2 a proximal opening. A latching projection protrudes from the inner surface at the edge of the proximal opening 2c inward forward. When putting on the cap 2 at the distal end portion 1 the locking projection arrives 2c at the distal end portion 1 engaged.

The snap-in protrusion 2c may be provided at a portion along the inner circumference, see FIG 7th . Alternatively, the latching projection 2c as a continuous nose on the inner circumference of the cap 2 be provided.

The cap has on the inner surface 2 also a forceps lever guide described below 2d . The forceps elevator 2d has an arc-like extension and has a guide groove running along the arc-like extension 2e for guiding the forceps elevator 3 during its pivoting movement.

The distal end section 1 is as an enclosure 110 built up. The distal end section 1 has a main body 9 on the proximal side and a distal extension 10 . On the proximal side is the main body 9 connected to the insertion tube, not shown, of the endoscope. A control unit of the endoscope is located on the proximal side of the insertion tube.

The main body 9 is constructed like a cylinder. The distal extension 10 extends from the main body 9 in the distal direction. The distal extension extends here 10 only from a portion of the distal side of the main body 9 . Another section of the distal side of the main body 9 forms a free space. In 2 is the free space below the distal extension 10 shown. In this free space is the forceps elevator 3 can be arranged.

On the main body 9 there is a groove on the outer circumference 19th provided in which the latching projection 2c the cap 2 can snap into place. The groove 19th may be provided at a portion along the circumference, see 3 . Alternatively, the groove 19th as a continuous groove on the outer circumference of the main body 9 be provided.

The main body 9 and the distal extension 10 are constructed in one piece and together form the housing 110 .

In the distal extension 10 are the image capture device 11 and the light emitting device 18th arranged. 3 shows the more detailed structure in a sectional view. At an in 3 on the upper side of the distal extension shown 10 are in one wall of the case 110 a distal LED 18th used as a light emitting device, which are switched by the control unit of the endoscope. The invention is not related to an LED 18th limited. The number of LEDs 18th can be two, three or more.

The image capture device 11 forms a camera and can for example be designed as a CMOS sensor or CCD sensor. The image capture device 11 receives image data of the surroundings and forwards them to the control unit of the endoscope for evaluation. In particular, the image recording device 11 Arranged and aligned so that they get image data through the LED 18th lighted environment.

The distal end section 1 has a flushing nozzle 5 on an outer surface of a window of the image pickup device 11 can give off a cleaning liquid or air. The rinsing nozzle 5 is on the upper side of the distal extension 10 . Through the insertion tube and the main body 9 extends a not shown flushing channel. The irrigation channel is fluidly connected to a liquid source or air source on the proximal side, for example on the control unit. The flushing channel delivers the cleaning liquid or air to the flushing nozzle 5 .

In the distal extension 10 is a wave 30th a forceps elevator drive mechanism. One end of the shaft 30th points from the distal extent 10 to a forceps elevator side of the distal extension 10 in front. On the forceps elevator side of the distal extension 10 are the forceps transfer mechanism and the forceps elevator 3 arranged. At the end of the shaft pointing to the side of the forceps lift 30th is a projection designed as a coupling section 302 molded in one piece. The lead 302 is as a flat one in the direction of extension of the distal extension 10 elongated coupling flange formed. The lead 302 has an upper and a lower flat surface 306 , of which in 3 only the top flat surface 306 is shown. On the distal and proximal side is the protrusion 302 with a rounding 307 Mistake. So the head start 302 a circumferential surface, which by the upper and a lower flat surface 306 and the distal and proximal fillets 307 is formed. The lead 302 can be coupled to the force transmission mechanism of the forceps transfer mechanism. On the lead 302 the forceps transfer mechanism can be pushed on from the distal side and removed again.

In the distal extension 10 opens in the area below the end piece of the shaft pointing towards the Albarran lift side 30th a distal working channel exit 701 of a working channel 7th . The working channel 7th leads to the above-mentioned free space in which the forceps elevator 3 can be arranged. The working channel 7th is formed in a channel member that has the insertion portion and the main body 9 of the distal end section 1 passes through. Through the working channel 7th For example, instruments can be guided to a destination by the control unit, as described below.

The forceps transfer mechanism for the forceps transfer mechanism is described in detail below.

The forceps transfer mechanism is in the canopy 2 integrated. The forceps transfer mechanism consists of a cam element 303 and a lever element 310 . The cam element 303 serves as a first power transmission element. The lever element 310 serves as a second power transmission element.

The cam element 303 is on the ledge 302 postponable. The cam element 303 is as a flat disc with a cam nose facing the distal side 308 educated. The cam nose 308 is located on the longitudinal direction of the cam element 303 seen distal side. The cam element 303 has a groove 304 extending in the longitudinal direction of the cam element 303 extends. The groove 304 is on the proximal side of the cam element 303 open, see 7th . The groove 304 has a bevel on the proximal side 304A so that the groove widens on the proximal side. The groove 304 is on the distal side of the cam element 303 closed. In the direction of extent, the groove 304 an upper side wall 305a and a lower side wall 305b . The top side wall 305a stands the lower side wall 305b across from. The top side wall 305a and the lower side wall 305b are through the groove bottom of the groove 304 connected. The top side wall 305a and the lower side wall 305b extend perpendicular to the extension surface of the cam element 303 . The top side wall 305a and the lower side wall 305b run parallel to each other and are spaced so that the projection 302 into the groove 304 can be pushed. The top side wall 305a and the lower side wall 305b serve to keep them when pushed onto the ledge 302 on the upper and lower flat surface 306 of the projection 302 be guided. The dimensional relationship between the groove 304 and the lead 302 is doing so that the lead 302 into the groove 304 can be pushed and pulled out of it, and upon rotation of the projection 302 the cam element 303 is rotated.

Because the groove 304 the bevel on the proximal side 304A has and the lead 302 on the distal side the rounding 307 is the insertion of the protrusion 302 into the groove 304 facilitated.

Between the distal end of the groove 304 and the cam nose 308 is in the cam element 303 a hole 403 provided that is perpendicular to the cam element 303 extends. The hole 403 is designed as a through hole. The hole 403 connects the one flat surface of the cam element 303 with the other flat surface of the cam element 303 .

At the groove 304 opposite side has the cam element 303 one away from the cam element 303 elevating axis element 309 , please refer 4th and 5 . The axis element 309 is designed as a hollow cylindrical projection which has a diametrical slot (shape of an interrupted ring). The diametrical slot divides the axis element 309 in two protruding protrusions, see 5 . The axis element 309 is in a storage hole 210 of a warehouse 208 introduced that on the inner peripheral wall of the cap 2 is trained, see 8th . Thus is the cam element 303 about the camp 208 rotatable in the cap 2 stored.

The axis element 309 is at the center of rotation of the cam element 303 educated. At the lead 302 pushed-on cam element 303 are the wave 30th and the axis element 309 averaged. At the position of the axis element 309 is in the cam element 303 a central through hole 309A intended. The through hole 309A forms the central cylinder-like cavity in the axis element formed as a hollow cylindrical projection 309 . Since the axis element 309 through the through hole 309A is hollow and has the diametrical slot, the projections opposing one another via the slot can be pressed towards one another. This allows the axis element 309 easily into the storage hole 210 of the camp 208 be introduced.

This is the axis element 309 of the cam element 303 in the axial direction into the bearing 208 insertable and extractable. The axis element 309 but cannot in the direction of extent of the cap, that is to say in the axial direction of the cap 2 , relative to the bearing 208 be moved. The axial direction of the cap 2 corresponds to the axial direction of the distal end section 1 .

In the hole 403 of the cam element 303 is a pen 404 of the lever element 310 introduced, see 4th . The pencil 404 is on the proximal side of the lever element 310 into a proximal pin hole 311 inserted and protrudes from the lever element 310 in front. The pencil 404 serves as a propeller shaft. Thus is the lever element 310 about the pen 404 relative to the cam element 303 rotatable.

The lever element 310 is designed as a flat lever. The lever element 310 has a proximal end for connection to the cam element 303 and a distal end for connection to the forceps elevator 3 . The lever element 310 is angled along the longitudinal direction so that the flat proximal end is parallel but laterally offset to the distal end, see 5 . The bend in the lever element 310 ensures that the forceps elevator 3 radially further inside in the cap 2 is arranged as the cam member 303 . This allows the forceps elevator 3 at the distal end portion 1 open cap 2 directly to the distal working channel exit 701 of the working channel 7th positioned opposite one another.

Another pen 405 is on the distal side of the lever element 310 into a distal pin hole 312 inserted and and protrudes from the lever element 310 in front. The pencil 405 protrudes from the lever element 310 on the same side as the pen 404 in front. The pencil 405 serves as a propeller shaft. The pencil 405 is in a hole on one side of the forceps elevator 3 introduced, see 4th . Thus is the lever element 310 about the pen 405 relative to the forceps elevator 3 rotatable.

The forceps elevator 3 is in the cap 2 rotatably mounted. In the cap 2 is on the side facing the window 2a opposite, a base on the inner surface 202 educated. An upper surface of the pedestal 202 increases in the distal direction. The top surface of the base 202 forms a guide surface 204 and serves as an extension of the working channel 7th and can instruments from the working channel 7th to the forceps elevator 3 to lead. On the distal side of the base 202 is in the base 202 the warehouse 203 educated. In stock 203 is the forceps elevator 3 so rotatably mounted that it is relative to the base 202 and thus relative to the cap 2 can pivot. More precisely, the forceps elevator has 3 a laterally protruding pin on the proximal side 406 . The pencil 406 serves as a cardan shaft and is in the bearing 203 introduced. The forceps elevator 3 is thus about the pen 406 in stock 203 of the base 202 rotatable.

The forceps elevator 3 owns to the warehouse 203 opposite side in the distal area one from the bearing 203 pointing away (not shown) projection in the guide groove 2e the forceps elevator 2d is used. This becomes the forceps elevator 3 during its pivoting movement around the bearing 203 both supported and guided on the side opposite to the bearing. Guiding the forceps elevator 3 in the forceps elevator 2d prevents the forceps lever from tilting or wobbling 3 when the forceps elevator 3 is stressed by an advanced instrument. The rotation of the forceps elevator 3 is thus through the forceps elevator 2d performed on the inner peripheral wall of the cap 2 is formed. The forceps elevator 3 is thus through the bearing on both of its lateral sides 203 and the forceps elevator 2d in the cap 2 rotatably supported.

In the distal area, i.e. on the storage area 203 opposite side has the forceps elevator 3 a spoon-like depression 320 . At the spoon-like depression 320 can through the working channel 7th advanced instruments are in contact when they are pushed by pivoting the forceps elevator 3 experience a reversal of direction and through the window 2a the cap 2 be guided to a destination.

The forceps transfer mechanism transmits rotational force to the shaft 30th to the forceps elevator 3 . The forceps transfer mechanism is driven by a forceps elevator drive mechanism described below.

The forceps elevator drive mechanism is by means of a pull rope that can be actuated from the proximal side of the endoscope 32 , a drive lever 31 and the wave 30th educated.

The pull rope 32 is in a cable duct 33 guided. The cable canal 33 is formed in a channel member that has the insertion portion and the main body 9 of the distal end section 1 passes through. The pull rope 32 is operated from the proximal side of the endoscope, for example by the control unit.

In the distal extension 10 is in the housing 110 a chamber 4th designed to accommodate the forceps elevator drive mechanism. This chamber 4th is in the distal extent according to the invention 10 integrated.

9 shows the distal extension 10 viewing from the side. 9 shows the chamber 4th . The chamber 4th is one in the distal extension 10 formed recess in the housing 110 . The chamber 4th is only to the in 9 side facing the viewer and in the proximal direction over the pull cable channel 33 open, see 10 . In the 9 The side facing the viewer forms an access side to the chamber 4th . In the 9 The side facing the observer is the one facing the forceps elevator 3 opposite side of the distal extension 10 .

This access side to the chamber 4th is through an in 9 lid, not shown, tightly closed. The cover can be removed from the housing of the distal extension 10 be removed. The cover is on the housing of the distal extension 10 fastened by screws or an adhesive (glue) so that the chamber 4th is sealed watertight. The only unlocked access to the chamber 4th is through the cable canal 33 educated.

In the wall between the chamber 4th and the one to the forceps elevator 3 pointing side is in the distal extent 10 the bearing for the shaft 30th of the forceps elevator 3 educated. The bearing for the shaft 30th extends from the chamber 4th through the housing 110 to the side of the free space where the forceps elevator 3 is placed when the cap 2 is postponed. The projection protrudes on the side of the free space 303 des to the chamber 4th opposite end of the shaft 30th before like this in the 4th and 5 is shown.

That to the head start 303 opposite end of the shaft 30th is one in the chamber 4th arranged connection end for the drive lever 31 of the forceps elevator 3 . On the one in the chamber 4th arranged shaft end of the shaft 30th is one end of the drive lever 31 of the forceps elevator 3 arranged. This can be done in the chamber for this purpose 4th arranged shaft end of the shaft 30th be a square profile. The drive lever 31 has one on the square profile of the shaft end of the shaft 30th adapted square opening 37 . The drive lever 31 is through the square opening 37 on the square profile of the shaft end of the shaft 30th put on. When the drive lever 31 is moved, the shaft rotates 30th . Other types of construction besides the square profile can be used for the shaft end, which transmits power to the drive lever 31 to the wave 30th allow.

The drive lever 31 has on the shaft end of the shaft 30th opposite side a recording 38 , in which a distal nipple 35 of the pull rope 32 is used. The drive lever 31 is designed as a swivel element. The pull rope 32 extends from the drive lever 31 through the pull cable channel 33 to the control unit of the endoscope and is pulled or relieved in a manner known to the person skilled in the art, for example by means of a lever or adjusting wheel.

The chamber 4th has a proximal wall 41 . The proximal wall 41 is located in the distal end section 1 . The proximal wall 41 can be in the main body 9 or in the distal extension 10 are located. In the proximal wall 41 An opening is formed which is the distal end of the pull cord channel 33 forms. Thus the pull rope runs 32 through the opening in the proximal wall 41 . Between the proximal wall 41 and the drive lever 31 is a feather 34 arranged. The feather 34 is designed as a spiral spring and surrounds the pull rope 32 . The feather 34 presses the drive lever 31 from the proximal wall 41 path. The feather 34 cocks the drive lever 31 to a distal side. When the pull rope 32 is pulled, the biasing force of the spring 34 overcome and the drive lever 31 is pivoted to a proximal position. When the pull rope is not activated 32 is the drive lever 31 by the pen 34 pressed into the distal end position, in which over the shaft 30th the projection serving as a coupling section 302 is in a horizontal position, see the 1 and 3 .

In the chamber 4th are only the drive lever 31 , the distal end of the pull cord 32 , the feather 34 and that in the chamber 4th protruding shaft end of the shaft 30th arranged. The chamber 4th is sealed to the outside. Germs cannot enter the chamber 4th and the cable canal 33 penetration.

function

The following is the function of the present embodiment with reference to FIG 11 - 14th described.

First, the function of the present embodiment is based on 11 and 12 described.

11 shows the situation in which the forceps elevator 3 is not actuated. The pull rope 32 is relaxed.

In this situation an instrument can pass through the working channel 7th to the forceps elevator 3 be pushed. A distal end of the instrument is then attached to the spoon-like recess 320 of the forceps elevator 3 issue. Around the distal end of the instrument up through the window 2a the cap 2 to push the forceps elevator 3 turned.

For this purpose, the pull rope 32 pulled in the proximal direction until the biasing force of the spring 34 is overcome. This leaves the drive lever 31 its distal position and pivots to the proximal side. By pulling the pull rope 32 therefore becomes the drive lever 31 , and thus also the wave 30th clockwise in 11 turned. This rotation of the shaft 30th turns over the ledge 302 the cam element 303 also in a clockwise direction in 11 . This becomes the lever element 310 considering 11 pulled to the top right. This becomes the forceps elevator 3 around his camp 203 pivoted in the proximal direction. The spoon-like depression 320 of the forceps elevator 3 and thus also the distal end of the instrument are rotated upwards.

12 shows the situation in which the forceps elevator 3 has been pivoted upwards.

By repeating the pivoting movement of the forceps elevator 3 the instrument, not shown, can through the window 2a the cap 2 be pushed to the destination. The destination is indicated by the LED 18th and illuminated by the image pickup device 11 photographed. Thus, the user can view the relative position of the distal end of the instrument to the target location and by actuating the pull rope 32 correct the position of the distal end of the instrument relative to the target location.

Below is based on the 13 and 14th described how the cap 2 at the distal end portion 1 is put on and removed from this again.

An endoscope ready for use is grasped. A new cap 2 is taken from sterile packaging. On the distal end section 1 of the endoscope will be the new cap 2 put on. This is when the cap is pushed on 2 the projection serving as a coupling section 302 in a horizontal position because the drive lever 31 by the pen 34 when the pull rope is not activated 32 is pressed into the distal end position. In the cap 2 lies the forceps elevator 3 in its distal end position on the inner surface of the cap 2 on. The groove is in this position 304 of the cam element 303 in the mounting direction of the cap 2 also aligned horizontally. The structural relationship between the distal end section 1 and the cap 2 is tuned so that the lead 302 exactly in the groove 304 of the cam element 303 sits when the inner circumferential surface of the cap 2 on the outer circumferential surface of the distal end section 1 is pushed on and the locking projection 2c the cap 2 at the groove 19th on the circumference of the distal end section 1 clicks into place.

Thus, when the cap is put on 2 on the outer circumferential surface of the distal end section 1 automatically the lead 302 exactly in the groove 304 of the cam element 303 introduced. The rounding off 307 head Start 302 and the bevel 304A at the entrance of the groove 304 of the cam element 303 also facilitate the introduction of the projection 302 into the groove 304 of the cam element 303 .

When the cap 2 thus so far on the distal end section 1 is pushed that the latching projection 2c the cap 2 at the groove 19th is engaged, the projection is 302 so far into the groove 304 of the cam element 303 inserted that shaft 30th and the camp 208 are averaged. So are the waves 30th and the cam element 303 averaged.

Thus, at at the distal end section 1 open cap 2 one rotation of the shaft 30th the cam element 303 rotate optimally.

The endoscope is now ready for use. 13 shows the state in which the cap 2 on the distal end portion 1 is postponed. The cap is for better clarity 2 itself not shown. Thus, the positional relationship of the inner members of the cap 2 relative to the distal end portion 1 out 14th can be removed.

After using the endoscope, the cap 2 taken and in the distal direction from the distal end portion 1 deducted. 14th shows the state in which the cap 2 from the distal end portion 1 is withdrawn. The cap is for better clarity 2 itself not shown. Here, the positional relationship of the inner members of the cap 2 relative to the distal end portion 1 with the cap removed 2 out 14th can be removed.

Thus, the distal end portion remains 1 removed ie dismantled cap 2 the forceps elevator 3 and the entire forceps transfer mechanism consisting of the cam member 303 as the first force transmission element and the lever element 310 as a second force transmission element in the cap 2 . The dismantled cap 2 can be disposed of.

At from the distal end section 1 dismantled cap 2 remains at the distal end section 1 only the projection serving as a coupling section 302 .

Effects of the invention

After use, the endoscope is removed with the cap removed 2 cleaned. With the cap removed 2 is the distal end portion 1 on one side where the drive lever is located 31 opposite end of the shaft 30th located, completely open. The cleaning of the endoscope according to the invention is particularly easy because the area of the distal end section 1 from which the cap 2 has been removed, is particularly easily accessible.

The connection of the cam element 303 with the end of the wave 30th is simple. The user just needs the cap 2 on the distal end portion 1 slide until the snap-in protrusion 2c at the groove 19th clicks into place. The cap 2 is designed so that the dimensional relationship between the locking projection 2c and the camp 208 in the cap 2 the dimensional relationship between the groove 19th and the end of the wave 30th (the lead 302 as a coupling section). This is how the cam element connects 303 with the end of the wave 30th reliable. Operating errors or inaccurate placement of the Cam element 303 at the end of the wave 30th are thereby avoided. The connection of the cam element 303 with the end of the wave 30th so happens quickly.

There are two power transmission elements, namely the cam element 303 as the first force transmission element and the lever element 310 as a second power transmission element, for power transmission between the shaft 30th and the forceps elevator 3 are provided, the exact geometric design of the power transmission between the shaft 30th and the forceps elevator 3 can be designed very flexibly and with a high degree of freedom. This, for example, allows the forceps elevator 3 precisely fitting to the working channel outlet 701 to be ordered. In addition, the force of the lever element 310 at the forceps elevator 3 take place obliquely upwards and to the proximal direction. One for turning the forceps elevator 3 A favorable distribution of the acting force components can thereby be designed.

Second embodiment

The following is with reference to FIG 15th a second embodiment of the present invention is described.

In the first embodiment, the power transmission shaft 30th the elongated protrusion 302 that of the rotational force of the power transmission shaft 30th to the cam element 303 transmits. The invention is not limited to this.

Instead of the elongated protrusion 302 has the power transmission shaft in the second embodiment 30th at least two away from the closed case 110 of the distal end section 1 away extending sub-projections 1310 . The sub-projections 1310 protrude like a fork from the end of the power transmission shaft 30th in front. The sub-projections 1310 form a coupling section 1302 .

The distal end section is thus located in the insertion direction 1 between a proximal sub-projection 1310 and a distal sub-projection 1310 1302 a gap. The sub-projections 1310 are in the groove 304 of the power transmission element 303 arranged so that the lacing direction of the sub-projections 1310 runs in the longitudinal direction of the groove. There are at least sections of an outer circumferential surface of the sub-projections 1310 on the side walls 305a , 305b the groove 304 of the power transmission element 303 slidable in the longitudinal direction of the groove. Thus, the cam member 303 as in the first embodiment from the distal side onto the fork-like sub-projections 1310 postponed. The sub-projections 1310 can have a D-shaped cross-section, but also another, such as circular, square, octagonal, etc. cross-section. The power transmission from the shaft 30th to the power transmission element 303 thus takes place via the fork-like spaced-apart sub-projections 1310 .

In the second embodiment, only two projections protrude from the shaft end of the power transmission shaft 30th out of the case 110 of the distal end section 1 in front. The two protrusions are small in size. The total circumferential length of the two projections is less than the circumferential length of the elongated projection 302 of the first embodiment. Thus, the area of the shaft end is the power transmission shaft 30th particularly easy to clean in the second embodiment.

The other elements, the remaining structure and the effect of the second embodiment are the same as the first embodiment.

Alternatives

In the first and second exemplary embodiments, the LED forms the light emitting device 18th . Alternatively, an optical fiber can be used as the light emitting device.

In the first and second embodiment, the cap is 2 designed as a single-use body and is disposed of after use. Alternatively, the dismantled cap 2 getting cleaned. The dismantled cap 2 can be disassembled into its individual components, cleaned and reused.

Other coupling mechanisms also protrude 302 and the groove 304 in the cam element 303 can be selected as long as it is guaranteed that the first force transmission element is in a section of the shaft with high dimensional accuracy 30th can be inserted from the distal side so that the shaft can rotate 30th pivoting the forceps elevator 3 has the consequence.

The first power transmission element 303 does not have to be a cam element. The shape of the first power transmission element 303 is not restricted and can be chosen freely. It is only sufficient that a power transmission from the shaft 30th to the forceps elevator 3 or from the wave 30th Via a second force transmission element to the forceps elevator 3 is made possible.

The hole 403 does not have to be a through hole. The hole 403 can be used as a blind hole in the cam element 303 be formed from the side facing the groove 304 is opposite.

The groove 304 of the cam element 303 can lead 302 have a suitable game. Alternatively, the dimensional relationship of the groove 304 of the cam element 303 to the lead 302 be designed so that the projection 302 particularly firm in the groove 304 of the cam element 303 sits.

In the exemplary embodiments, the areas are 306 of the projection 302 and the side walls 305a , 305b the groove 304 on the cam element 303 each designed in parallel. The invention is not limited to this. Alternatively, the surfaces 306 of the projection 302 and the side walls 305a , 305b the groove 304 not be parallel. For example, the surfaces 306 and the side walls 305a , 305b be designed in a wedge shape. More precisely, the surfaces can 306 of the projection 302 move away from each other in the proximal direction, and in a corresponding manner the side walls 305a , 305b expand in the proximal direction (increasing distance).

In the exemplary embodiments, the groove is at the proximal end 304 the bevel 304A provided to the insertion of the projection 302 to facilitate. The bevel 304A can be omitted. Because the lead 302 the rounding off 307 possesses, it is also without bevel 304A at the groove 304 easily into the groove 304 implementable.

The forceps elevator 2d can be omitted. Instead, the forceps elevator 3 on the proximal side another protruding pin on the one facing the pin 406 opposite side, with this further protruding pin in one of the bearings 203 opposite bearing in the cap 2 is supported. The pencil 406 and the further protruding pin can be an integral shaft in a through hole on the proximal side of the forceps elevator 3 be used.

The invention is advantageously applicable to a duodenoscope, a gastroscope, a colonoscope or a similar endoscope. The principle of the invention can also be applied to any other type of endoscope.

The principle of the invention can also be applied to other medical devices that use a distal end section with illumination and image recording.

List of reference symbols

1

distal end section

2

cap

2a

Window of the cap

2 B

Bottom of the cap

2c

Snap-in protrusion

2d

Forceps elevator

2e

Guide groove

3

Forceps levers

4th

chamber

5

Rinsing nozzle

7th

Working channel (working channel element)

9

Main body of the distal end portion

10

distal extension

11

Image capture device

18th

Light emitting device (LED)

19th

Groove

30th

Shaft of the forceps elevator

31

Drive lever (swivel element)

32

Pull rope

33

Cable canal

34

feather

35

Cable nipple

37

Through opening

38

Holder for pull cable nipple

41

proximal wall

110

casing

202

base

203

Bearing (for forceps elevator)

204

Guide surface

208

Bearing (for cam element)

210

Storage hole

302

Coupling section, projection

303

first power transmission element; Cam element

304

Groove

304A

bevel

305a

Side wall

305b

Side wall

306

flat surface

307

Rounding off

308

Cam nose

309

Axis element

309A

Through hole

310

second power transmission element; Lever element

311

Pinhole

312

Pinhole

320

spoon-like depression

403

hole

404

Pin (cardan shaft)

405

Pin (cardan shaft)

406

Pin (cardan shaft)

701

Working channel outlet

1302

Coupling section, projection

1306

flat surface

1310

Sub-projection

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

Patent literature cited

• DE 102015113016 A1 [0005]

Claims (11)

Endoscope with a distal end section (1), the distal end section (1) forming a closed housing (110); wherein a cap (2) surrounding the distal end section (1) on the distal side is placed on the distal end section (1), the cap (2) being removable from the distal end section (1); a power transmission shaft (30) which can be actuated from the proximal side is mounted in the distal end section (1), a forcepshaft (3) being pivotably mounted in the cap (2); characterized in that a force transmission element (303) is slidably arranged on the force transmission shaft (30), the force transmission element (303) is operatively coupled to the forceps elevator (3) and is adapted to a rotational movement of the force transmission shaft (30) to the forceps elevator lever (3) transferred, and the cap (2) together with the force transmission element (303) and forceps elevator (3) can be pulled off from the distal end section (1). Endoscope according to Claim 1 , wherein only a coupling section (302) of the power transmission shaft (30) protrudes from the closed housing (110) of the distal end section (1) and the remainder of the power transmission shaft (30) lies within the closed housing (110); and the power transmission element (303) is slidably arranged on the coupling section (302) of the power transmission shaft (30). Endoscope according to Claim 2 , wherein the coupling section (302) of the power transmission shaft (30) has a projection (302) pointing away from the closed housing (110) of the distal end section (1), the power transmission element (303) has a groove (304) which conforms to the shape of the Projection is adapted, and the cap (2) from the distal end portion (1) is removable so that the groove (304) of the power transmission element (303) slides along the projection (302) of the power transmission shaft (30). Endoscope according to Claim 3 , wherein the groove (304) of the power transmission element (303) has two parallel extending opposite side walls (305a, 305b), between which the projection (302) of the power transmission shaft (30) is arranged displaceably along the side walls (305a, 305b). Endoscope according to Claim 4 , wherein the projection (302) of the power transmission shaft (30) has two parallel extending opposite flat surfaces (306), which each abut slidably on one of the side walls (305a, 305b) of the groove (304) of the power transmission element (303) in the longitudinal direction of the groove. Endoscope according to Claim 4 wherein the projection (1302) of the power transmission shaft (30) has at least two sub-projections (1310) which extend away from the closed housing (110) of the distal end section (1) and which are arranged in the groove (304) of the power transmission element (303) that the lined-up direction of the sub-projections (1310) runs in the longitudinal direction of the groove, and at least sections of an outer circumferential surface of the sub-projections (1310) are slidably in contact with the side walls of the groove (304) of the force transmission element (303) in the longitudinal direction of the groove. Endoscope according to one of the Claims 1 to 6th , wherein the force transmission element (303) forms a first force transmission element (303), and a second force transmission element (310) is arranged between the first force transmission element (303) and the Albarran lever (3) which is adapted to a rotational movement of the first force transmission element (303 ) to the forceps elevator (3). Endoscope according to Claim 7 , wherein the first force transmission element (303) has a cam shape with a cam lug (308), the cam lug (308) pointing to the distal side in a situation with the openwork lever (3) in the rest position, the second force transmission element (310) as a lever (310 ), a proximal end of the lever (310) is articulated on the cam lug (308) of the first force transmission element (303), and a distal end of the lever (310) is articulated on the forceps elevator (3). Endoscope according to one of the Claims 1 to 8th , wherein the power transmission element (303) has a central axis element (309) which protrudes on the side of the force transmission element (303) facing away from the power transmission shaft (30) in the direction pointing away from the power transmission shaft (30) and at the protruding end an axis element end forms which is mounted in a bearing (208) provided on an inner side surface of the cap (2). Endoscope according to Claim 9 , wherein the axis element end of the force transmission element (303) in the axial direction in the bearing (208) provided on the cap (2) can be inserted and pulled out, but not in the cap extension direction which corresponds to the axial direction of the distal end section (1) relative to the the cap (2) provided bearing (208) is movable. Endoscope according to one of the Claims 1 to 10 , wherein the forceps elevator (3) is rotatable supported on both of its lateral sides in the cap (2).

Images