DE102022128571A1 - Coupling plug and coupling system with a coupling plug - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a coupling plug (2) for detachably connecting a light guide (6) to a coupling device (4) of a medical instrument (8), in particular an endoscope light guide coupling plug, comprising a light guide holder (10) which is designed to receive a light guide (6) and to enable light to be coupled out of the light guide (6), a thread (12) which can be screwed onto the coupling device (4) to produce a mechanical fixation of the light guide holder (10) relative to the coupling device (4), wherein the thread (12) defines a thread self-locking, and a securing unit (14) with at least one prestressed securing element (16), wherein the securing element (16) is designed to interact with the thread (12) in such a way that a total self-locking of the thread (12) and securing element (16) exceeds the thread self-locking.The invention further relates to a coupling system (66) with a coupling plug (2).

Description

The present invention relates to a coupling plug for detachably connecting a light guide to a coupling device of a medical instrument, in particular an endoscope light guide coupling plug, and a coupling system for detachably connecting a light guide to a medical instrument, in particular an endoscope light guide coupling system.

An endoscope is often used nowadays to perform a diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedure, such as a minimally invasive surgical intervention, on a part of a patient's body that is difficult to access. Parts of the body that are difficult to access are, in particular, hollow spaces such as a body cavity and/or a hollow organ. The endoscope is designed in such a way that it can be partially guided into the patient's cavity in order to perform the diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedure. In addition, the endoscope is usually intended to shine light into the patient's cavity during the diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedure in order to make anatomical structures visible and/or to be able to better monitor the diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedure. For this purpose, the endoscope is designed to guide light from a coupling device into the patient's cavity, with the light being coupled into the endoscope at the coupling device. In order to guide the light to the coupling device of the endoscope, a flexible light guide is often provided, which can be detachably connected to a light source at one end and to the coupling device of the endoscope at the other end.

In order to detachably connect the light guide to the coupling device of the endoscope, a coupling plug is provided according to the state of the art, which can be screwed onto the coupling device. The coupling device often comprises at least one standardized component. Furthermore, according to the state of the art, the coupling plug is designed in such a way that it can be easily screwed onto the coupling device with just a few turns. This is achieved, for example, by a multi-start thread on the coupling plug and the coupling device, which only requires a few turns to close completely. However, multi-start threads have a low self-locking effect, which can lead to the coupling plug at least partially detaching from the coupling device during operation of the endoscope and the coupling of light into the endoscope being impaired or even made impossible. This impairs the quality of the diagnostic and/or therapeutic action. Furthermore, this poses a problem for the safety of the operation of the endoscope and/or the safety of the patient and/or the user.

Based on the prior art, it is an object of the present invention to increase the safety in connection with a coupling device of a medical instrument, in particular an endoscope.

The object is achieved according to the invention by a coupling plug and a coupling system as described herein and defined in the claims.

The present invention provides a coupling plug for detachably connecting a light guide to a coupling device of a medical instrument, in particular an endoscope light guide coupling plug. The coupling plug comprises a light guide holder which is designed to receive a light guide and to enable light to be coupled out of the light guide, a thread which can be screwed onto the coupling device to produce a mechanical fixation of the light guide holder relative to the coupling device, wherein the thread defines a thread self-locking, and a securing unit with at least one pre-stressed securing element, wherein the securing element is designed to interact with the thread in such a way that a total self-locking of the thread and securing element exceeds the thread self-locking.

According to the invention, this achieves the result that a secure connection can be established between the light guide and the coupling device. The probability that the connection will at least partially come loose during operation of the medical instrument is reduced. Therefore, the safety in connection with the operation of the medical instrument is increased. For example, light is reliably coupled out of the light guide and coupled into the medical instrument. This is particularly advantageous in order to achieve a consistent quality of operation of the medical instrument. A screw connection that can be produced quickly and easily can nevertheless have a high degree of self-locking and be correspondingly reliable thanks to the measures according to the invention. For example, in connection with the particularly partially automated making of a diagnosis based on image data that is generated during operation of the medical instrument, the at least substantially consistent quality of operation of the medical instrument is advantageous. The at least substantially consistent quality Operation can in particular mean the provision of light with at least substantially unchanged amplitude and frequency. In addition, the coupling plug can advantageously be connected to coupling devices known from the prior art. Furthermore, the probability is reduced that the light guide will at least substantially completely detach from the coupling device of the medical instrument during operation and that the light with high energy density will consequently pose a danger to a user and/or patient. In addition, simple and/or intuitive operation of the coupling plug is advantageous.

The medical instrument can be any medical instrument that requires light at least partially from an external source to carry out a therapeutic and/or diagnostic action. Light in this context can include at least any electromagnetic radiation visible to the human eye. In particular, light can mean illumination light. Furthermore, light can include electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength that is necessary for imaging methods, in particular for hyperspectral and/or multispectral imaging. The medical instrument can, for example, at least partially include an endoscope and/or exoscope.

The light from the external source can be guided to the medical instrument via a light guide so that it can be coupled into it. For this purpose, the light guide can be connectable to the coupling device of the medical instrument in order to fix one end of the light guide in a suitable position relative to the medical instrument. The suitable position is, for example, one in which contact of the end of the light guide with a light guide device of the medical instrument is provided and/or light can be coupled into the medical instrument with sufficient efficiency and/or intensity for the diagnostic and/or therapeutic action. Light that is coupled out of the light guide, in particular in the area of the coupling plug, should in particular be coupled into the medical instrument.

The coupling device can be designed to enable the coupling of light into the medical instrument. For this purpose, the light guide is, for example, partially pushed into the coupling device and/or brought into contact with the latter and/or a device enclosed by the latter. Furthermore, the coupling device can be designed to facilitate and/or permit the mechanical fixation of a device enclosing the light guide, in particular the coupling plug. The medical instrument can comprise a housing which, for example, houses lines, cables and/or tools in its interior. The coupling device can be designed to provide access to the interior of the housing of the medical instrument. In addition, the coupling device can be a standardized and/or standardized component. The connection between the light guide and the coupling device is detachable, which means that the connection can be established as required, for example, before the therapeutic and/or diagnostic action is carried out. The coupling device can preferably have a circular and/or approximately round cross-section. Furthermore, the coupling device can be rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axial direction and/or define a longitudinal axis that is at least substantially parallel to an axis defining the rotational symmetry. "Substantial" can mean relating to the basic geometry. This can include elements that negligibly cancel out the symmetry.

The coupling plug can be connected to the coupling device by a movement towards a coupling side of the coupling device. This movement can in particular be at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the coupling device. The coupling side is the side of the coupling device that faces the light guide and/or defines a plane that is at least substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The coupling device can define an outer diameter in the area of the coupling side of, for example, 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 4 mm to 10 mm, in particular 6 mm to 8 mm.

The optical fiber holder can accommodate the optical fiber in such a way that at least almost no and/or only minimal relative movements occur between the optical fiber holder and the optical fiber. For example, the optical fiber can be glued and/or clamped and/or glued and/or clamped into the optical fiber holder. According to other embodiments, the optical fiber holder can accommodate the optical fiber in such a way that a rotational movement of the optical fiber holder relative to the optical fiber is possible and an axial relative movement is at least substantially not possible. If the optical fiber holder is mechanically fixed to the coupling device, the optical fiber is connected to the coupling device. Furthermore, the optical fiber holder can be designed so that possibly further units, elements and/or the like included by the coupling plug can be attached to the optical fiber holder.

The thread can be an internal or external thread. If the thread is an internal thread, the coupling plug in the connected state with the coupling device in particular at least partially encloses this. It can be provided that the coupling plug must be at least partially pushed onto the coupling device before the thread can be screwed onto the coupling device. The coupling device can comprise an external thread onto which the coupling plug can be screwed. It can be provided that the external thread is arranged offset from a frontmost point of the coupling device by an axial distance, for example by a distance of at least 1 mm, at least 3 mm or even at least 5 mm. The thread can be designed in such a way that the thread can be screwed onto the coupling device with, for example, 1-20 turns, preferably at least substantially 1-10 turns and/or in particular at least substantially 1-4 turns, to produce the mechanical fixation of the optical fiber holder. Alternatively or additionally, the thread can comprise at least two threads, in particular three threads. This allows the thread to be operated quickly and easily.

The thread self-locking defined by the thread counteracts a loosening of the connection between the light guide and the coupling device. In particular, it counteracts a loosening of the connection, in particular an unintentional unscrewing, during use of the medical instrument for a diagnostic and/or therapeutic action. In particular in the case of a thread with two or even three threads, a rather low self-locking can occur. Although operation is easy due to several threads, the self-locking may not be sufficient to achieve a secure connection.

The securing unit can define a self-locking mechanism that prevents the connection between the optical fiber and the coupling device from coming loose. This self-locking mechanism is present in particular in addition to the thread self-locking mechanism. The self-locking mechanism can in particular prevent the thread of the coupling plug from turning on the coupling device. The securing unit can be designed in several parts. The securing element can be radially movable relative to the optical fiber holder. Several, for example ten, preferably five, in particular one, two and/or three securing elements can be provided. The securing elements can be jointly pre-tensioned by at least one common element, in particular by a single element. Alternatively or additionally, the securing elements can each be pre-tensioned by one element.

Pre-tensionable can mean that the securing element can be actively pre-tensioned by the user. For example, the securing unit can be manipulated by the user in order to pre-tension the securing element. The pre-tensioning can in particular be provided immediately before and/or during screwing of the thread onto the coupling device. Furthermore, it can be provided that the securing unit can be activated. Activateable can mean that an action by the user is required to put the securing unit into a state in which the securing unit defines a self-locking that is different from zero and/or significant. Alternatively or additionally, the securing unit can be designed to be at least substantially automatic. Automatic can mean that the securing unit can be brought into a state in which the securing unit automatically defines a self-locking when the coupling plug is connected to the coupling device.

The overall self-locking can be at least substantially the sum of the thread self-locking and the self-locking of the securing unit. In particular, the thread self-locking can be defined by a first force that is required for screwing on, for example in a state in which the securing unit is not contributing. Furthermore, the self-locking of the securing unit can be defined by a second force. The overall self-locking can then be defined by a third force that at least substantially corresponds to the sum of the first force and the second force. In this context, “force” can be understood to mean in particular a force in terms of magnitude. Cooperation can in particular mean that the securing element and the thread cooperate in the function of mechanically fixing the light guide holder. The function of the thread and the securing element can, however, be provided separately from one another. In particular, it can be provided that the thread and/or the securing unit are designed in such a way that at least substantially at least one mechanical fixation of the light guide can be produced independently by the thread and/or the securing unit. It can be provided that the securing unit essentially supports the mechanical fixation. In particular, it can be provided that the mechanical fixation can be produced primarily by the thread and the securing unit is intended to support the mechanical fixation in a state requiring security. The state requiring security can be This can occur, for example, if the user has screwed the thread onto the coupling device with too few turns and/or partial turns and/or a significant axial force that is at least substantially unforeseen for an intended application of the medical instrument acts on the coupling plug. In some embodiments, a securing unit according to the invention also allows the number of turns of the thread required for mechanical fixation to be reduced.

According to further embodiments, the securing element can be moved between at least one release position and a securing position and can be pre-tensioned into the securing position. It can be provided that the securing element can be moved at least partially into the securing position in order to at least mechanically fix the optical fiber holder relative to the coupling device in a supporting manner. In particular, it can be provided that the securing element can be moved into the securing position by a radial movement. It can be provided that the securing element can be moved into the release position during the connection and/or assumes this position and/or is brought into this position by the connection, for example pressed and/or pulled. It can also be provided that the securing element already assumes the securing position during the connection. Advantageously, a user can determine whether the securing element is in a suitable position to cooperate with the thread in such a way that the overall self-locking exceeds the thread self-locking.

Furthermore, the securing element can be designed to apply a radial force to the coupling device. The radial force can define a frictional force between the coupling device and the coupling plug. The frictional force can counteract the loosening of the coupling plug and/or define the self-locking of the securing unit. The magnitude of the radial force can advantageously be adjustable and/or be related to the preload of the securing element.

In addition, the safety unit can comprise at least one spring element. The spring element can be designed as a helical spring. In some embodiments, the spring element can be designed as an air spring. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the spring element can be designed as a leaf spring, leg spring, conical spring and/or disc spring. The spring element can be a compression spring element or a tension spring element. A design with a spring element can be advantageous in terms of manufacturing technology. In addition, there is a wealth of experience in dealing with spring elements.

Furthermore, the spring element can be at least partially deformable in a radial direction. The spring element can be designed to apply a force to the securing element in a radial direction. The construction can advantageously be simplified by the spring element being deformable in the radial direction.

According to further embodiments, the securing unit can comprise a pre-tensioning device by means of which a pre-tension of the securing element and in particular of the spring element can be adjusted. The pre-tension can be adjustable when the coupling plug is not connected. In addition, the pre-tension can be changed by an action of the user during connection of the coupling plug. Advantageously, the pre-tension can be set application-specifically and/or coupling device-specifically. A high degree of flexibility in the use of the coupling plug can be achieved and/or safety can be further increased.

In addition, the coupling plug can comprise a nut which is secured against movement in an axial direction relative to the optical fiber holder and comprises the thread for establishing a mechanical fixation of the optical fiber holder relative to the coupling device on the coupling device. Advantageously, the design of the coupling plug and/or in particular the design of the components relating to the nut can be based on the experience in the design of known coupling plugs and/or the wealth of experience in dealing with coupling plugs which comprise a nut. In addition, operating safety is increased because the operation of a coupling plug with a nut is similar to the operation of conventional coupling plugs.

In addition, the pre-tensioning device can be provided on the nut. The pre-tensioning device is preferably accessible from a radially outer side of the nut. This allows the pre-tensioning device to be easily accessible and/or operated.

Furthermore, the pre-tensioning device can comprise a pre-tensioning element that can be screwed into the nut, wherein the securing element is secured against the nut by screwing the pre-tensioning element, in particular about a rotation axis that extends radially. can be tightened. Screwing to pre-tension the pre-tensioning element can cause radial compression and/or expansion of the spring element. This can make the coupling plug easy to use. In addition, it can be provided that the pre-tensioning element can be screwed in by the user. The user can apply a screwing force to screw it in and estimate the pre-tensioning force of the locking element based on the size of the screwing force.

In addition, the nut can extend axially beyond the light guide holder. In a non-connected state, contact between the light guide holder and/or in particular the end of the light guide and a person, for example the user, a helper and/or a patient, can advantageously be prevented. Due to the energy density of the coupled-out light, contact carries the risk of causing burns and/or eye injuries, for example. Safety in connection with medical facilities can be increased and the risk of accidents reduced.

According to further embodiments, the securing unit can comprise at least one indicator which is designed to provide a user with information about a state of the securing unit. In particular, the information can comprise the magnitude of the pre-tensioning force of the securing element and/or the presence of a pre-tensioned state. The coupling device-specific and/or application-specific adjustment of the securing unit can advantageously be facilitated.

The information can also include haptic feedback for the user. The haptic feedback can be perceived by the user in a particularly reliable manner. Safety in connection with handling the coupling plug can be increased. The present invention also provides for a coupling system for detachably connecting a light guide to a medical instrument, in particular an endoscope light guide coupling system, comprising a coupling device and a coupling plug. In particular, the coupling plug can be a coupling plug according to the invention.

Furthermore, a groove can be provided on the coupling device and, when the coupling plug is connected, the securing element can at least partially engage in the groove.

In particular, the self-locking of the securing unit can be defined by the fact that the pre-tensioned securing element must be moved radially to release the coupling plug. For example, the spring element must be deformed for the securing element to move.

This advantageously makes it possible to achieve a particularly secure coupling plug. The risk of the coupling plug becoming accidentally loose is reduced.

In addition, the coupling device can comprise a base and an adapter placed on the base, and when the coupling plug is connected, the securing element can interact with the adapter. The base can in particular be a standardized and/or standardized component. The adapter can, for example, be designed to improve the mechanical fixation of the optical fiber holder and/or make it more secure. For example, the groove can be formed on the adapter and designed to be related to the coupling plug. In general, the adapter can be designed to be related to the coupling plug.

The invention is explained below using figures as examples. The drawing, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and use them in combination as appropriate within the scope of the claims.

If there is more than one example of a particular object, only one of them may be provided with a reference symbol in the figures and in the description. The description of this example can be transferred to the other examples of the object accordingly. If objects are named in particular using numerical words, such as first, second, third object, etc., these serve to name and/or assign objects. Accordingly, for example, a first object and a third object, but not a second object, can be included. However, a number and/or sequence of objects could also be derived using numerical words.

• 1 ein medizinisches System, das ein medizinisches Instrument, in diesem Fall ein Endoskop, ein medizinisches Gerät, einen Bildschirm und eine alleinstehende Lichtquelle umfasst;
• 2A eine Ausführungsform eines Kupplungssystems, umfassend den Kupplungsstecker und die Kupplungseinrichtung, wobei der Kupplungsstecker in einem mit der Kupplungseinrichtung verbundenen Zustand dargestellt ist;
• 2B eine alternative Sicherungseinheit für das Kupplungssystem;
• 3 die Lichtleiterfassung ohne Lichtleiter;
• 4 eine Draufsicht in axialer Richtung und einen Querschnitt des Montageelements;
• 5 eine Seitenansicht, einen Querschnitt der Längsseite und einen Querschnitt in axialer Richtung der Mutter;
• 6 einen Querschnitt und eine Seitenansicht aus zumindest im Wesentlichen derselben Perspektive von dem Sicherungselement;
• 7 das Vorspannelement der Vorspanneinrichtung in einer Draufsicht, einer Seitenansicht und einem Querschnitt in Seitenansicht;
• 8 den Grundsockel der Kupplungseinrichtung; und
• 9 den Adapter in einer vergrößerten Ansicht.

Show it:

• 1 a medical system comprising a medical instrument, in this case an endoscope, a medical device, a display and a stand-alone light source;
• 2A an embodiment of a coupling system comprising the coupling plug and the coupling device, wherein the coupling plug is shown in a state connected to the coupling device;
• 2 B an alternative safety unit for the coupling system;
• 3 the fiber optic socket without fiber optic;
• 4 a plan view in axial direction and a cross-section of the mounting element;
• 5 a side view, a cross-section of the longitudinal side and a cross-section in the axial direction of the nut;
• 6 a cross-section and a side view from at least substantially the same perspective of the securing element;
• 7 the prestressing element of the prestressing device in a plan view, a side view and a cross-section in side view;
• 8th the base of the coupling device; and
• 9 the adapter in an enlarged view.

1 shows a medical system 43 that includes a medical instrument 8, in this case an endoscope 48, a medical device 47, and a screen 44. The medical device 47 includes a light source 46 and an interface 62 for the endoscope 48. The medical device 47 is connected to the endoscope via the interface 62 by means of a data cable 50. The data cable 50 is designed to transmit image data from the endoscope 48 to the medical device 47. The endoscope 48 is designed to generate the image data. In particular, the endoscope 48 is designed to generate image data from a cavity of a patient, for example a body cavity and/or a hollow organ, for carrying out a diagnostic and/or therapeutic action. The generated image data can be displayed on the screen 44, for example during the diagnostic and/or therapeutic action, and/or processed by the medical system 43, for example to support the diagnostic and/or therapeutic action.

In order to be able to control the lighting conditions in the cavity, the endoscope 48 comprises a lighting device (not shown in detail). The lighting device of the endoscope 48 can be fed and/or supplied with light in particular via the light source 46 by coupling light into the endoscope 48. For this purpose, a coupling device 4 is arranged on the endoscope 48 and/or the endoscope 48 comprises a coupling device 4. Depending on the embodiment, the coupling device 4 can form a light interface 64 to a light guide device 56 of the lighting device of the endoscope 48 and/or surround and/or enclose such a light interface 64.

In order to guide the light from the light source 46 to the endoscope 48, a light guide 6 is provided which is connected at one end to the light source 46 in such a way that light can be coupled into the light guide 6 on the light source side. To couple light into the endoscope 48, the light guide 6 can be connected to the coupling device 4 of the endoscope 48 if required. If required, the light source 46 can be connected to the endoscope 48 by means of the light guide 6 and the connection can be released again. In this way, various functions in the 1 Medical instruments 8 (not shown) can be connected to the light source 46 if required. A coupling plug 2 is provided at the other end of the light guide 6 to connect the light cable 6 to the endoscope 48 and/or to other medical instruments 8. The coupling plug 2 is provided according to the invention in such a way that the light guide 6 is and/or can be detachably connected to the coupling device 4 of the endoscope 48. Embodiments of the coupling plug 2 are described in more detail in further figures.

2A shows an embodiment of a coupling system 66, comprising the coupling plug 2 and the coupling device 4, wherein the coupling plug 2 is shown in a state connected to the coupling device 4. The coupling plug 2 and the coupling device 4 are designed to be rotationally symmetrical about a longitudinal axis 68. The coupling device 4 comprises a base 40 (see 8th ). An adapter 42 is placed on the base 40. The adapter forms a groove 38. The adapter 42 also encloses the light interface 64. The adapter 42 also includes an external thread 13.

The coupling plug 2 comprises a light guide socket 10 and a nut 22. The nut is secured against movement in an axial direction relative to the light guide socket 10 by means of a mounting element 54. Furthermore, the nut 22 is attached to the light guide socket such that the nut 22 is rotatable relative to the light guide socket 10. The nut 22 comprises a thread 12 and a locking unit 14. The thread 12 can be screwed onto the coupling device 4, in particular onto the external thread 13, to produce a mechanical fixation of the light guide socket 10 relative to the coupling device 4 and defines a thread self-locking. The thread 12 is a three-start thread and can be screwed onto the coupling device 4 with essentially three turns. After three turns of the thread 12, a part of the nut 22 touches a stop 70 of the coupling device 4. In this position, the light guide holder 10 is mechanically fixed to the coupling device 4 and the light guide holder is positioned relative to the light interface 64 so that light can be coupled into the endoscope 8.

The securing unit 14 comprises a securing element 16, a pre-tensioning device 20, a pre-tensioning element 24 and a spring element 18. How the securing unit 14 can be mounted on the nut is shown and/or explained in detail in further figures. The securing element 16 can be moved between a securing position and at least one release position. The spring element 18 is pre-tensioned into the securing position by the pre-tensioning device 20, in particular by the pre-tensioning element 24. For this purpose, the spring element 18 is compressed in the radial direction so that it exerts a radial force on the securing element 16. The securing element 16 is thereby pressed into the securing position. In the present case, the securing position is a radially inner position of the securing element 16. When the coupling plug 2 is connected, the securing element 16 secures the coupling plug 2 by contributing to the self-locking of the connection between the coupling plug 2 and the coupling device 4. In the present case, there is a continuum of release positions in which the securing element 16 is located radially further out than in the securing position. If the securing element 16 is in a release position, its contribution to the self-locking is at least reduced, possibly to zero or at least approximately zero.

The securing element 16 is secured in the radial direction by a part, in particular by a contact surface 33, of the nut 22, which is shown in detail in another figure. Furthermore, a part of the securing element 16 engages at least partially in the groove 38 of the coupling device 4. The overall self-locking of the thread 12 and the securing element 16 exceeds the self-locking of the thread in that for an axial relative movement between the light guide holder 10 and the coupling device 4, the securing element 16 must be moved in the radial direction in order to lift it out of the groove 38. The radial movement of the securing element 16 is counteracted by a spring force of the spring element 18. The magnitude of the spring force can be influenced by the pretensioning device 20.

Furthermore, as in 2A As shown, in some embodiments an indicator 26 is arranged such that it moves radially together with the securing element 16 and can at least partially protrude beyond the outer surface of the nut 22. If the securing element 16 is in a securing position, for example by at least partially engaging in the groove 38, the indicator 26 can be provided such that it at least does not substantially protrude beyond the outer surface of the nut. In 2A the indicator 26 is shown, for example, in a state in which the securing element 16 is in a release position and/or not in the securing position. The indicator 26 then protrudes radially and can therefore be felt by a user. A user can thus feel using the indicator 26 whether the securing element 16 is in the securing position.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the coupling plug 2 causes a noise when the securing element 16 moves into the securing position and/or causes the noise as soon as it is moved into the securing position.

According to another embodiment, which is not shown in the figures, the securing element 16 does not at least partially engage in a groove 38 of the coupling device 4, but rather applies a radial force to the coupling device 4, which can be at least substantially the same as the spring force. In such embodiments, the coupling device 4 can be designed without the groove 38 or without any groove at all. The radial force on the coupling device 4 creates a frictional force that counteracts the release of the connection between the optical fiber holder 10 and the coupling device 4. To set and/or adapt the overall self-locking, the spring force can be influenced by the pretensioning device 20.

3 shows the light guide holder 10 without the light guide 6. The light guide 6 can be accommodated by the light guide holder 10 and/or the light guide holder 10 can be provided on the light guide 6 in such a way that the coupling out of the light guide 6 is possible. In particular, it can be provided that the light guide 6 is flush with the end of the light guide holder 10 that is proximal to the endoscope 48. This end of the light guide 6 represents a counterpart to the light interface 64. In addition, the external mounting thread 28 is provided on the light guide 10, which enables the mounting element 54 to be screwed on.

The 4A and 4B show a top view in the axial direction and a cross section of the mounting element 54. The mounting element 54 is ring-shaped, wherein the inner diameter corresponds at least substantially to the outer diameter of the region of the light guide 10 on which the mounting element 54 is provided. The mounting inner thread 30 matching the mounting outer thread 28 of the light guide 10 is also provided on the mounting element 54.

The 5A to 5C show a side view, a cross section of the long side and a cross section in the axial direction of the nut 22. The nut 22 comprises at least one recess 72, in the case shown three of the recesses 72, for the securing unit 14. The recess 72 comprises an internal preloading thread 25, the contact surface 33 and an opening 37. The internal preloading thread 25 is designed such that the preloading element 24 can be screwed into the nut 22. Furthermore, the contact surface 33 and/or the opening 37 are designed such that the securing element 16 can be introduced into the nut in a form-fitting manner at least in the region of the contact surface 33. A securing section 34 of the securing element 16 can protrude at least partially into the hollow interior of the nut 22.

In addition, the nut 22 comprises a mounting section 31 and the thread 12. The mounting section 31 is designed such that it can interact with the optical fiber holder 10 and the mounting element 54 in order to fix the nut 22 axially relative to the optical fiber holder 10. The coupling plug 2, in particular the nut 22, can be screwed onto the coupling device 4 via the thread 12.

The 6A and 6B show a cross section and a side view of the securing element 16. The securing element 16 comprises a contact section 32, the securing section 34 and a spring receiving section 36. The contact section 32 is designed to interact with the contact surface 33 of the nut and/or to secure the securing element radially. The position of the securing element 16 when the contact section 32 contacts the contact surface 33 can be the securing position. At least in the securing position, the securing section 34 can protrude through the opening 37 of the nut 22, for example into the interior of the nut 22. The securing section 34 can at least partially engage in the groove 32 and/or apply the radial force to the coupling device 4. The spring element 18 can be at least partially enclosed by the spring receiving section 36. The spring receiving section 36 can be designed such that it guides the spring element 18 radially.

The 7A to 7C show the pre-tensioning element 24 of the pre-tensioning device 20 in a top view, a side view and a cross-section in side view. The pre-tensioning element 24 comprises a pre-tensioning external thread 27, a further spring receiving section 39 and a slot 23. The pre-tensioning device 20 can be screwed onto the nut 22 through the pre-tensioning external thread 27. The spring element 18 can be at least partially enclosed by the further spring receiving section 39. The spring element 18 can be arranged between the two spring receiving sections 36, 39 and, when the pre-tensioning element 24 and the securing element 16 move towards one another, generate a spring force that is opposite to the direction of movement. This spring force can define and/or be the pre-tensioning force. The pre-tensioning element 24 and the securing element 16 can be moved towards one another by actuating the pre-tensioning element 24. Actuating can comprise screwing the pre-tensioning element 24 into the nut 22. If the preload element 24 is screwed into the nut 22 and/or a preload force is set, the spring element 18 exerts a radial force on the securing element 16. The securing element 16 can apply the radial force to the coupling device. Furthermore, the securing element 16 can be pressed against the nut 22 by the radial force, the spring force and/or the preload force, and in the process, for example, the securing section 34 can protrude into the nut 22 and/or at least partially engage in the groove 38. If the securing element 16 is lifted out of the groove 38, it is pressed with a radial force that is greater than the spring force and/or preload force. This allows the securing unit to define a self-locking mechanism.

The slot 23 is provided to simplify the actuation, in particular the screwing, of the pre-tensioning element 24. For example, a screwdriver can be inserted into the slot 23 for pre-tensioning.

8th shows the base base 40 of the coupling device 4 comprising an adapter external thread 58, an external thread 13 and a groove 38. According to embodiments not shown, the coupling plug 2 can be designed to be mechanically fixed on the base base 40. In particular, the nut 22 can be screwed onto the external thread 13. According to the 2 In the embodiment shown, the adapter 42 is placed on the base 40. In particular, the adapter 42 is screwed onto the adapter external thread 58. The base 40, onto which the adapter 42 is placed according to 2 In the present case, for example, the nominal outer diameter 74 is 7.49 mm.

9 shows the adapter 42 in an enlarged view. The adapter 42 comprises an adapter internal thread 59, the external thread 13 according to 2 , the groove 38 according to 2 and stop 70 according to 2 The adapter thread 59 can be screwed onto the base 40. This allows the adapter 42 to be detachably attached to the base 40.

In general, the groove 38 can be designed in such a way that it has an at least partially form-fitting secure connection with securing section 34 of the securing unit 14.

Furthermore, a base and/or an adapter without the groove 38 can be provided.

List of reference symbols

2

Coupling plug

4

Coupling device

6

Light guide

8th

medical instrument

10

Fiber optic socket

12

thread

13

External thread

14

Security unit

16

Securing element

18

Spring element

20

Pre-tensioning device

22

Mother

23

slot

24

Preload element

25

Preloading internal thread

26

indicator

27

Preloading external thread

28

Mounting external thread

30

Mounting internal thread

31

Assembly section

32

Contact section

33

Contact surface

34

Security section

36

Spring receiving section

37

breakthrough

38

Groove

39

additional spring receiving section

40

Base base

42

adapter

43

medical system

44

Screen

46

Light source

47

medical device

48

endoscope

50

Data cable

54

Mounting element

58

Adapter external thread

59

Adapter internal thread

62

interface

64

Light interface

66

Coupling system

68

Longitudinal axis

70

attack

72

Recess

74

Base diameter

Claims (15)

Coupling plug (2) for detachably connecting a light guide (6) to a coupling device (4) of a medical instrument (8), in particular an endoscope light guide coupling plug, comprising: a light guide holder (10) which is designed to receive a light guide (6) and to enable light to be coupled out of the light guide (6); a thread (12) which can be screwed onto the coupling device (4) to produce a mechanical fixation of the light guide holder (10) relative to the coupling device (4), wherein the thread (12) defines a thread self-locking; and a securing unit (14) with at least one prestressed securing element (16), wherein the securing element (16) is designed to interact with the thread (12) in such a way that a total self-locking of the thread (12) and securing element (16) exceeds the thread self-locking. Coupling plug (2) after Claim 1 , wherein the securing element (16) is movable between at least one release position and a securing position and is prestressed into the securing position. Coupling plug (2) after Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the securing element (16) is designed to apply a radial force to the coupling device (4). Coupling plug (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the securing unit (14) comprises at least one spring element (18). Coupling plug (2) after Claim 4 , wherein the spring element (18) is at least partially deformable in a radial direction. Coupling plug (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the securing unit (14) comprises a pretensioning device (20) by means of by which a preload of the securing element (16) can be adjusted. Coupling plug (2) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: a nut (22) which is secured against movement in an axial direction relative to the optical fiber holder (10) and comprises the thread (12) for establishing a mechanical fixation of the optical fiber holder (10) relative to the coupling device (4) on the coupling device (4). Coupling plug (2) after Claim 6 and 7 , wherein the pretensioning device (20) is provided on the nut (22). Coupling plug (2) after Claim 8 , wherein the pretensioning device (20) comprises a pretensioning element (24) which can be screwed into the nut (22), wherein the securing element (16) can be pretensioned by screwing the pretensioning element (24). Coupling plug (2) according to one of the Claims 7 until 9 , wherein the nut (22) projects axially beyond the light guide holder (10). Coupling plug (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the security unit (14) comprises at least one indicator (26) which is configured to provide a user with information about a state of the security unit (14). Coupling plug (2) after Claim 11 , where the information includes haptic feedback for the user. Coupling system (66) for detachably connecting a light guide (6) to a medical instrument (8), in particular an endoscope light guide coupling system, comprising: a coupling device (4); and a coupling plug (2) according to one of the preceding claims. Coupling system (66) according to Claim 13 , wherein a groove (38) is provided on the coupling device (4), and wherein in a connected state of the coupling plug (2) the securing element (18) at least partially engages in the groove (38). Coupling system (66) according to Claim 13 or 14 , wherein the coupling device (4) comprises a base socket (40) and an adapter (42) placed on the base socket (40), and wherein in the connected state of the coupling plug (2) the securing element (16) interacts with the adapter (42).

Images