JP2000060791A - Endoscope tray - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent damage of a soft and flexible covered portion or the like in an endoscope and prevent the internal contents of the endoscope from degrading due to intrusion of gas or steam, etc., by equipping an endoscope tray with a check valve that can be connected to a ventilation means between the interior space and the exterior and that passes gas only from the interior of the endoscope to the exterior. SOLUTION: In a sterilization process, an endoscope is set on the tray 10 and housed in a case. And, the ventilation mouthpiece 8 of a connector 7 is mounted into a mounting hole 18 of the tray 10, a valve 15 is pressed by a projection 19 and thereby opens the ventilation mouthpiece 8. The inside periphery of the mounting hole 18 and the outside periphery of the ventilation mouthpiece 8 are tightly contacted with an O ring 18a, and a communication hole 20 is closed with a check valve 22, and the interior of the endoscope is maintained in a tightly closed condition. And, in a negative pressure process or the like, if the internal pressure of the endoscope becomes higher than the atmospheric pressure, as the check valve 22 is pushed down against a spring 24, air in the endoscope is discharged externally through the communicating hole 20, a ventilation groove 22a and the ventilation hole 25, thereby, expansion and explosion of a curved rubber to the like can be avoided.

Description

Description: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method for adjusting the internal pressure of an endoscope.
To prevent damage to the endoscope and deterioration of built-in components.
Pertaining to the endoscope tray. [0002] In general, ethylene oxide gas and
During the sterilization process of medical equipment using a
There is a process of negative pressure. However, in the method described above,
When a negative pressure is applied to the sterilizer to sterilize the endoscope, for example,
The flexible covering such as the covering rubber of the curved part is
Is expanded due to the pressure difference between the outside of the mirror) and the inside of the endoscope.
There was a risk of tearing. In response to this, for example, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 64-680
No. 1 discloses a cylindrical shape having a vent hole and low thermal conductivity.
Protective body is provided on the tray, and the endoscope flexible tube
Of the flexible tube by placing the
A technique for preventing expansion is disclosed. Further, the vent cap provided on the endoscope is released.
It is possible to prevent the expansion of coated rubber etc.
Many techniques for preventing rupture have been proposed.
Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 5-253168 discloses a vent cap for an endoscope.
Gas from inside the endoscope to the outside
A check valve that does not allow gas to pass from outside to inside the mirror
The disclosed technology is disclosed. [0005] However, the above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open
In the technique described in JP-A-253168, a check valve is used.
Are small and easy to lose.
Do not forget to attach the check valve to the vent when sterilizing
There is a fear. To cope with this, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-88077 discloses
The report includes information on each part of the endoscope
It has a groove formed asymmetrically so that it fits in a certain direction exactly.
The vent cap at a position corresponding to the vent cap of the storage case
A projection to release the endoscope and store the endoscope in the storage case.
When put in, make sure the vent cap is opened by the protrusion.
Techniques are disclosed. However, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-88077 discloses the above.
In the technology described in the above, the endoscope is stored in a storage case.
Sometimes the vent cap is always open
During sterilization, a large amount of gas or water vapor enters through the vent
There is a possibility that the light may enter the endoscope and deteriorate the built-in object. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances.
To prevent damage to the flexible covering of the endoscope, etc.
Of the endoscope due to the ingress of gas, water vapor, etc.
Provide an endoscope tray that can prevent deterioration of internal components
The purpose is to provide. Means for Solving the Problems [0009] To solve the above problems,
Therefore, the endoscope tray according to the present invention provides an inner space and an outer space.
For sterilization that can mount an endoscope with ventilating means
In the endoscope tray, it is connectable with the ventilation means,
Allow gas to pass from inside the endoscope to the outside,
Equipped with a check valve that does not allow gas to pass into the endoscope
Things. The present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
An embodiment will be described. First Embodiment FIGS. 1 to 4 show the present invention.
FIG. 1 shows an endoscope and an endoscope according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a tray, and FIG.
FIG. 3 shows a state in which a vent cap is connected to the endoscope tray.
FIG. 4 is a sectional view showing the operation state of the check valve.
is there. (Structure) In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes an optical type.
1 shows a flexible endoscope, which is held by an observer
An operation unit 2 for performing various operations, and a tip side of the operation unit 2
An inserted portion 3 connected to the end of the inserted portion 3
The bending operation is automatically performed by an angle lever provided on the operation unit 2.
And a contact portion provided on the proximal end side of the operation portion 2.
An eye 5 and a universal connector extended from the operation unit 2
And the other end of the universal cord 6
And a connector 7. Here, the endoscope 1 has a partition wall with the outside.
The above members are connected to each other so that they are all airtight
However, the ventilation as a ventilation means provided in the connector 7
The inside and outside of the endoscope 1 can be communicated by the base 8
Has become. As shown in FIG. 2, the vent cap 8 has a base end.
The side is hermetically fixed to the connector 7 and this vent
Through the communication hole 8a drilled inside the gold 8, the connection
The inside of the cutter 7 communicates with the outside of the endoscope 1. The distal end of the communication hole 8a is tapered.
The valve seat 8b is formed with a communication hole 8a.
A valve 15 that opens and closes is mounted. The distal end of the valve 15 abuts against a valve seat 8b.
O-ring 16 is provided.
A spring 17 for urging the valve 15 toward the valve seat 8b is provided.
You. In a normal state, the valve urged by the spring 17
15 is pressed against the valve seat 8b via the O-ring 16.
As a result, the communication hole 8a is closed, and the air inside the endoscope 1 is closed.
Dense condition is ensured. As shown in FIG. 1, the endoscope is used at the time of sterilization or the like.
The storage case 9 for storing the endoscope 1 is
Endoscope tray 10 with removable lid 11
The lid 11 is fastened to the endoscope tray 10
It can be fixed by gold 12. The endoscope tray 10 and the lid 11 have multiple
A number of ventilation holes 13 are provided through which holes are etched.
The ability to pass lenoxide gas and water vapor
I have. The endoscope tray 10 has the shape of the endoscope 1.
A setting groove 14 having a shape substantially along the shape is formed.
I have. Here, the setting groove 14 is provided in the endoscope 1.
Each part is exactly where and in the direction
Is formed so that it fits in the setting groove 14.
Therefore, the endoscope 1 moves the ventilation cap 8 to the bottom of the endoscope tray 10.
It is designed to be stored facing the unit side. By the way, the endoscope 1 is attached to the endoscope tray 10.
Set the insertion part 3 in a bent state when storing
With ethylene oxide gas or autoclave
At the time of sterilization, the soft insertion portion 3 made of resin is bent.
There is a danger that the habit will be attached and the insertability will be greatly affected.
You. Therefore, the setting groove of the endoscope tray 10
In 14, at least the insertion part 3 of the endoscope 1 is placed.
The insertion portion setting groove 14b to be formed is formed linearly.
Have been. A connector for housing the connector 7 of the endoscope 1
The vent hole 8 is fitted to the bottom of the
A freely attachable vent hole mounting hole 18 is provided. The vent hole 18 is shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG.
The bottom of the ventilation hole mounting hole 18 is provided with the ventilation hole
When the valve 8 is mounted, the valve 15 is pressed against the urging force of the spring 17.
A projection 19 for pressing and releasing the airtight state is provided.
You. In the inner periphery of the vent hole mounting hole 18,
An O-ring 18a is provided.
Through the outer periphery of the vent cap 8 when the vent cap 8 is attached
The inner periphery of the base mounting hole 18 is brought into close contact therewith. A vent is provided on the bottom of the endoscope tray 10.
A ventilation hole 25 is provided at a position facing the gold mounting hole 18.
The bottom of the ventilation hole 25 is connected to the ventilation hole through the communication hole 20.
It communicates with the bottom of the gold mounting hole 18. The bottom of the ventilation hole 25 has a tapered valve seat.
A communication hole 20 is formed in the valve seat 25a.
A check valve 22 that closes is attached. A valve seat 25a is provided at the tip end of the check valve 22.
An abutable O-ring 23 is provided, and a proximal end is provided.
A spring 24 for urging the check valve 22 toward the valve seat 25a is provided.
Have been. At normal times, the spring 24
Check valve 22 is pushed through O-ring 23 to valve seat 25a.
The communication hole 20 is closed by being disciplined,
The hole 25 and the vent hole 18 are closed. A ventilation groove 2 is provided on the side of the check valve 22.
2a is provided, and the check valve 22 is urged by the spring 24.
Through the ventilation groove 22a when pressed down against
So that the vent hole mounting hole 18 and the vent hole 25 communicate with each other.
It has become. (Action) Ethylene oxide gas or auto
In the sterilization process using a clave or the like, the endoscope 1
Instead, it is stored in the storage case 9. That is, the endoscope
1 is set in the setting groove 14 of the endoscope tray 10.
The lid 11 is fastened to the upper surface of the endoscope tray 10.
The storage case 9 is fixed by the gold 12.
Is stored inside. At this time, as shown in FIG.
The provided vent 8 is a vent fitting of the endoscope tray 10.
When attached to the mounting hole 18, the bottom of the vent hole mounting hole 18
The valve 15 is pressed by the projection 19 provided, and the vent 15
Although the gold 8 is in an open state, the inner periphery of the vent hole mounting hole 18 and
The outer periphery of the air vent 8 is tightly adhered via the O-ring 18a.
And the communication hole 20 is closed by the check valve 22.
The interior of the endoscope 1 is airtight without communication with the outside
Is kept. Next, a sterilization process in a sterilizer (not shown) is performed.
During the negative pressure process, etc.
When the internal pressure of the endoscope 1 becomes relatively higher than the external pressure, FIG.
As shown in the figure, the check valve 22 resists the urging force of the spring 24.
Depressed. Thereby, the inside of the endoscope 1 is communicated.
Communicates with the outside through hole 20, ventilation groove 22a, and ventilation hole 25
Then, the air in the endoscope 1 flows out. Therefore,
The pressure inside the endoscope 1 and inside the sterilizer becomes the same,
The curved rubber does not expand and burst. On the other hand, when the inside of the sterilizer enters the pressurizing step,
The stop valve 22 is pressed against the valve seat 25a by the urging force of the spring 24.
Thus, communication between the inside and the outside of the endoscope 1 is cut off. Obedience
It depends on ethylene oxide gas and autoclave
During the sterilization process, gas and steam enter the endoscope 1
The structure inside the endoscope 1 is not damaged. Here, in the sterilization process, the endoscope
The insertion groove setting groove 14b of the ray 10 is formed linearly
Therefore, the soft insertion portion 3 made of resin is sterilized.
A bending habit is not given by heat or the like at the time. (Effects) As described above, in this embodiment,
The following effects are obtained.・ Ethylene oxide gas or autoclay
Gas and water vapor enter the endoscope even during sterilization
It does not degrade the internal structure of the endoscope. The above-mentioned endoscope tray is made of ethylene oxalate.
Sterilize the endoscope with id gas, autoclave, etc.
Used for transportation of endoscopes by air transport, etc.
It can also be applied when sending. That is, empty the endoscope
When transporting by transport, etc.,
Although the pressure becomes a negative pressure, the endoscope tray is used for the endoscope.
By carrying the tray, it is possible to
Connection with check valve made, forgetting to attach check valve to vent
Never. The check valve is integrated with the tray
Therefore, the check valve is not lost. The vent cap of the endoscope is a conventional small and simple
It is not necessary to modify the endoscope. FIG. 5 shows a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 relates to the embodiment, and FIG.
It is principal part sectional drawing which shows the connected state. The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment described above.
Since it is almost the same as the embodiment, only different configurations are explained.
For the sake of simplicity, the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted. (Configuration) Endoscope tray 30 of the present embodiment
The vent hole mounting hole 18 and the outside of the endoscope tray 30
Is provided. here
Then, as shown in FIG.
a is opened on the side of the endoscope tray 30. The bypass passage 31 is provided with
A bypass opening / closing means capable of arbitrarily opening / closing the ipass passage 31;
The ventilation valve 32 is provided. This vent valve 32
Is a disc-shaped valve body 32a, and is vertically mounted on the valve body 32a.
Shaft 32b and a head provided at an end of the shaft 32b.
And a portion 32c. The bypass passage 31 has an opening.
An inward flange 33 is provided near the end 31a.
The surface on the side of the vent hole mounting hole 18 of the facing flange 33 is the valve seat 33.
a. The ventilation valve 32 has a valve body 32a having the valve seat.
33a so that it can be freely contacted and separated.
The opening and closing of the ipass passage 31 is enabled, and the ventilation valve 3
2 is prevented from falling off. Here, the valve body 32a is provided with a seal rubber 3
4 is provided, and the valve body 32a is
The bypass passage 3 is pressed against the seat 33a.
Airtightness at the time of valve closing of 1 is maintained. The inward flange 33 and the head 32c
And a spring 35 interposed therebetween, and the urging force of the spring 35
Thereby, the ventilation valve 32 is biased in the valve closing direction. The ventilation valve 32 is formed by the spring 35.
When the valve is closed, the head 32c moves out of the open end 31a.
It is exposed to the department. (Action) Ethylene oxide gas or auto
After sterilization in a clave or the like, the first embodiment
In this case, the pressure inside the endoscope 1 remains negative.
However, in the endoscope tray 30 according to the present embodiment, the head 3
2c is pressed to open the ventilation valve 32 and the bypass passage 31
To release the pressure inside the endoscope 1 and the pressure outside.
Can be one. (Effects) As described above, in this embodiment,
In addition to the effects obtained in the first embodiment, after sterilization
Since the pressure inside the endoscope can be made equal to the atmospheric pressure,
The effect is that the structure inside the mirror is not burdened and damaged.
There is fruit. FIG. 6 shows a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 shows a vent cap on an endoscope tray according to the embodiment.
It is principal part sectional drawing which shows the connected state. The third embodiment is similar to the first embodiment.
Since it is almost the same as the embodiment, only different configurations are explained.
For the sake of simplicity, the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted. (Configuration) Endoscope tray 40 of the present embodiment
The vent hole mounting hole 18 and the outside of the endoscope tray 40
Is provided. here
Then, as shown in FIG.
a faces the endoscope tray 40 and the detachable lid 45.
It is opened at the position where it is. The cover 45 is provided with the bypass passage.
A bypass opening / closing means that can be fitted to the open end 41a of the road 41;
A stopper 46 is provided, and the stopper 46 is
Ring 47 is provided. In this case, the stopper 46 is connected to the lid 45.
Fits to open end 41a when fixed to endoscope tray 40
And the bypass passage 41 is closed.
You. At this time, the O-ring 47 is
The blockage of the IPUS passage 41 is airtight. (Function) Ethylene oxide gas or auto
In order to sterilize the endoscope 1 by using a
The endoscope tray 40 is fixed on the endoscope tray 40 with the lid 45 fixed thereto.
When the plug is set, the plug 46 is bypassed through the O-ring 47.
The bypass passage 41 is fitted to the open end 41a of the passage 41.
Airtightly closed. After the sterilization, the pressure in the endoscope 1 becomes negative.
It is bypassed by removing the lid 45
The passage 41 is opened.
Air flows into the endoscope 1. Therefore, after sterilization,
Open the bypass passage 41 without operating the ventilation valve etc.
The internal pressure of the endoscope 1 is equal to the atmospheric pressure.
Can be. (Effects) As described above, in the present embodiment,
In addition to the effects obtained in the first and second embodiments described above,
After sterilization, the endoscope can be used without operating the vent valve, etc.
The pressure can be returned to atmospheric pressure. Fourth Embodiment FIG. 7 shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 relates to the embodiment, and FIG.
It is principal part sectional drawing which shows the connected state. The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment described above.
Since it is almost the same as the embodiment, only different configurations are explained.
For the sake of simplicity, the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted. (Configuration) Endoscope tray 50 of the present embodiment
The vent hole mounting hole 18 and the outside of the endoscope tray 50
Is provided. here
As shown in FIG.
a faces the endoscope tray 50 and the detachable lid 55.
It is opened at the position where it is. In the vicinity of the open end 51a of the bypass passage 51
Is formed with a large-diameter portion 51b.
A passage as a bypass opening / closing means for opening / closing the path passage 51
An air valve 52 is provided. The vent valve 52 is substantially the same as the large diameter portion 51b.
A valve body 52a formed on a disk member of the same diameter,
2a and a head 52b protruding from the valve body 52a.
And the provided ventilation groove 52c. Also, a vent hole for mounting the large diameter portion 51b.
The end surface on the 18 side is formed as a valve seat 51c.
1c is provided with a seal rubber 53. The ventilation valve 52 has a valve body 52a.
Abuts on and separates from seal rubber 53 provided on valve seat 51c.
By being disposed on the large diameter portion 51b so that
The bypass passage 51 can be freely opened and closed, and the vent valve
52 is prevented from falling off. Here, a spring 54 is provided on the ventilation valve 52.
The ventilation valve 5 is driven by the urging force of the spring 54.
2 is urged in the valve opening direction. At this time, the ventilation valve 52
From the open end 51a of the bypass passage 51
It is exposed to the outside. The cover 55 has an inside.
When it is fixed to the endoscope tray 50, it passes through the bypass passage 51.
The head 52b is closed by the spring 54 so as to be closed by the air valve 52.
A pressing portion 56 for pressing against the urging force is provided.
I have. (Action) Ethylene oxide gas or auto
In order to sterilize the endoscope 1 by using a
Place the lid 55 on the tray 50 and fix the lid 55 to the endoscope tray 50.
Then, the head 52b is pressed by the pressing portion 56,
The bypass passage 51 is closed by a ventilation valve 52. After the sterilization, the pressure in the endoscope 1 becomes negative.
However, by removing the lid 55, the pressing portion 5
6, the pressing of the head 52b is released, and the spring 54 is biased.
By force, the vent valve 52 is operated in the valve opening direction to bypass the valve.
The passage 51 is opened. Thereby, the bypass passage 41
Air flows into the endoscope 1 through the
The pressure can be equal to atmospheric pressure. (Effects) As described above, in the present embodiment,
It is possible to obtain substantially the same effect as in the third embodiment.
Wear. The present invention is limited to the above embodiments.
The bypass opening / closing means is a general cock
There may be. The vent of the endoscope does not have a valve structure.
A simple one, usually closed with a cap
It may be what you are doing. The endoscope shown in each of the above embodiments
Tray with an optical flexible endoscope (fiberscope)
Instead of an electronic flexible endoscope (videoscope).
May be used. That is, it is shown in each of the above embodiments.
The endoscope tray is, for example, an electronic flexible endoscope shown in FIG.
It is also possible to apply to the mirror 60. This endoscope 60
Is a solid-state image sensor, for example, a CCD with a built-in tip
Part 62 and the proximal end of the insertion part 62
An operation unit 63 that performs various operations by being gripped;
3 and a universal cord 64 extending from
And a connector provided at the other end of the universal cord 64.
Light source device and a camera (not shown)
Connected to control unit. The connector part 6
5 is electrically connected to a video processor and a video scope.
Socket 66 for connecting signal cable to continue
The inside of this socket 66 is replaced with a vent cap
The opening 66a for communicating the inside and the outside of the endoscope 60 is provided.
Have been killed. Even in such an electronic endoscope,
An endoscope tray substantially similar to the first to fourth embodiments described above.
A can be configured. [Supplementary Note 1] (Supplementary Note 1-1) A ventilation hand that can ventilate the internal space and the outside
A sterile endoscope tray on which an endoscope with a step can be placed
In the endoscope that can be connected to the ventilation means.
Through the gas from outside to inside the endoscope.
Is provided with a check valve that does not allow gas to pass through
Endoscope tray. (Supplementary Note 1-2) The ventilation means is in a ventilation state.
And the non-ventilated state can be selected.
B) when the endoscope is placed, the ventilation means is not
From an air state to a ventilation state, and the endoscope is not placed.
Non-venting means for bringing the venting means into a non-venting state
The endoscope according to Supplementary Note 1-1, comprising a step.
tray. (Supplementary Note 1-3) The check valve is bypassed.
A bypass passage for communicating the ventilation means to the outside
Bypass opening and closing means for opening and closing the bypass passage.
Described in Appendix 1-1 or 1-2.
Endoscope tray. (Supplementary Note 1-4) The Bypass Opening / Closing Means
Means that the bypass passage is always shut off,
A valve that communicates with the bypass passage.
An endoscope tray according to Supplementary Note 1-3. (Supplementary Note 1-5) The Bypass Opening / Closing Means
Is a lid detachably attached to the endoscope tray, and
A plug that can be inserted into and removed from the open end of the bypass passage provided.
And the lid was fixed to the endoscope tray
At this time, the plug closes the open end of the bypass passage.
4. The endoscope tray according to claim 1, wherein: (Supplementary Note 1-6) The Bypass Opening / Closing Means
Is provided in the bypass passage and opens and closes the bypass passage
A vent valve, and a lid detachably attached to the endoscope tray,
The vent valve, wherein the lid is attached to the endoscope tray
When attached, it is pressed by this lid and
The supplementary note 1-3, wherein the bypass passage is closed.
The endoscope tray as described. (Supplementary Note 1-7) The Bypass Opening / Closing Means
Is a cock, described in Supplementary Note 1-3, wherein
Endoscope tray. (Supplementary Note 1-8) Inserting flexible insertion portion
The endoscope tray for sterilization in which the endoscope provided can be placed.
And a groove for accommodating the endoscope.
That is, at least the groove for accommodating the insertion portion is linearly formed.
An endoscope tray characterized by being formed. By the way, it is used for a lens component of a conventional flexible mirror.
General glass materials used are deteriorated by autoclave.
Therefore, in an autoclave-compatible endoscope,
Can be used as a glass material that is exposed and comes into contact with steam
Absent. Therefore, endoscopes that are autoclavable
As an optical member exposed on the outer surface of the endoscope,
Generally, sapphire, an optical member with high heat resistance, is used.
It will be. However, sapphire has a concave lens and a convex lens.
Because it is very difficult to process into small holes,
As disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 209898, the conventional
Light guide fiber for endoscopes compatible with autoclave sterilization
-There is no illumination lens at the tip,
The NA specific to the guide fiber becomes the illumination angle as it is
I was Then, next, a wide illumination angle is obtained, and
Even after autoclaving, the illumination light decreases and the illumination angle changes.
Of endoscope devices that do not cause deterioration of illumination diameter
I will tell. FIG. 9 shows that a wide illumination angle can be obtained
Despite the clave, the illumination light decreases, the illumination angle changes, etc.
First Embodiment of Endoscope Apparatus that Does Not Deteriorate Illumination Diameter
FIG. 9 shows an essential part of the light guide fiber.
It is sectional drawing. (Structure) In FIG.
A light guide fiber 71 is shown.
Of the endoscope insertion portion (not shown)
It is arranged in. The emission end 71a has a tapered shape.
The base end of the conical fiber 72 formed at
ing. Here, the conical fiber 72 is a single fiber.
And a core 73 made of quartz glass and a cladding.
And the head 74. (Function) Light emitted from a light source (not shown)
Is transmitted by the light guide fiber 71 and emitted
Low NA specific to the light guide fiber 71 from the end 71a
Light incident on conical fiber 72 as light (with a narrow exit angle)
Is done. The low light incident on the conical fiber 72
The NA light is applied to the inclined clad 7 of the conical fiber 72.
By repeating total reflection in step 4, light with a wide emission angle
The light is converted and emitted from the tip of the light guide fiber 71.
It is. (Effect) As described above, in the present embodiment,
A wide illumination angle can be obtained.
Deterioration of the illumination system, such as a decrease in bright light or a change in the illumination angle,
Endoscope device can be provided. In this embodiment, the conical fiber
Quartz glass is used, but it is resistant to autoclaves.
Uses multi-component glass with high temperature and pressure steam resistance
Conical fiber may be used. In this embodiment, the conical fiber
Is a single fiber, but a conduit that bundles multiple strands
It may be a type. FIG. 10 shows that a wide illumination angle can be obtained and
Degradation of illumination light and change of illumination angle even after performing toclave
Second implementation of an endoscope apparatus that does not cause deterioration of the illumination diameter such as
FIG. 10 shows the main part of the light guide fiber.
FIG. This embodiment is almost the same as the above-described embodiment.
Since they are almost the same, only different configurations will be described and the same
The same reference numerals are given to the components and the description is omitted. (Configuration) In FIG.
A light guide fiber 7;
5 is provided at the distal end of the endoscope insertion portion.
Have been. Here, the light guide fiber 75 is
For example, those with high NA of 0.6 or more are adopted.
You. The light-receiving end of the light guide fiber 75
The tip of the conical fiber 72 is in close contact with 75a.
It is arranged. Further, the base end of the conical fiber 72
, A light source 77 is exposed. (Operation) In this endoscope apparatus, the light source
The light from 77 enters the conical fiber 72 and has a high N
A light is converted and emitted. The high N emitted from the conical fiber 72
The light of A is the light of the high NA and the light guide fiber 7
5 and is emitted from the emission end. (Effect) As described above, in the present embodiment,
A wide illumination angle can be obtained.
Deterioration of the illumination system, such as a decrease in bright light or a change in the illumination angle,
Endoscope device can be provided. Also, the light guide fiber emitting end is illuminated.
Wide illumination angle without attaching lens and conical fiber
can get. FIG. 11 shows that a wide illumination angle is obtained and that
Degradation of illumination light and change of illumination angle even after performing toclave
Third Embodiment of Endoscope Apparatus in Which Illumination Diameter Does Not Degrade
Fig. 11 shows the main part of the light guide fiber.
FIG. This embodiment is different from the second embodiment described above.
Because it is almost the same as the state, only the different configuration will be described,
The same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted. (Structure) In this embodiment, the light source
(Not shown) and a conical fiber 72
The light guide fiber is interposed
The emission end 78 a of the bar 78 is the base end of the conical fiber 72.
Connected to the unit. (Operation) In this endoscope apparatus, the light source
Is conical via the light guide fiber 78
The light enters the fiber 72, is converted into high NA light, and is emitted.
Is done. High N emitted from the conical fiber 72
The light of A is the light of the high NA and the light guide fiber 7
5 and is emitted from the emission end. (Effect) In the present embodiment as described above,
It is possible to obtain substantially the same effect as in the above-described second embodiment.
Wear. [Supplementary Note 2] (Supplementary Note 2-1) Light from the light source is applied to the tip of the endoscope as illumination light.
Endoscope device with a light guide for transmitting
And the output end of the light guide is resistant to high-temperature and high-pressure steam.
Tapered conical calf made of an optical member having
An endoscope device having a fiber disposed therein. (Appendix 2-2) Light from the light source is transmitted to the endoscope
Inside with light guide for transmitting as illumination light at the end
In the endoscope device, a high temperature
Tapered taper made of pressure-steam resistant optical member
Endoscope characterized by arranging different conical fibers
apparatus. (Supplementary Note 2-3) The optical member is made of quartz glass.
2-1 and 2-2.
Endoscope device. (Supplementary Note 2-4) The optical member is a high-temperature, high-pressure
It is made of multi-component glass with water vapor resistance.
22. The endoscope apparatus according to Supplementary Note 2-1 or 2-2. (Supplementary Note 2-5) The Conical Fiber
Is a single fiber, Appendix 2-1.
Endoscope apparatus according to 2-2. (Supplementary Note 2-6) The Conical Fiber
Is a conduit-type conical pallet that bundles multiple tips
Supplementary notes 2-1 and 2-2 characterized in that it is a fiber.
The endoscope apparatus according to claim 1. (Supplementary Note 2-7) The Light Guide File
The fiber is a high NA fiber with NA of 0.6 or more
An endoscope apparatus according to Supplementary Note 2-2, wherein: (Supplementary Note 2-8) The endoscope apparatus is an automatic
It is an endoscope device compatible with clave sterilization
The endoscope device according to Supplementary Note 2-1 or 2-2. By the way, it is used for a lens component of a conventional flexible mirror.
General glass materials used are deteriorated by autoclave.
Therefore, in an autoclave-compatible endoscope,
Can be used as a glass material that is exposed and comes into contact with steam
Absent. Therefore, endoscopes that are autoclavable
As an optical member exposed on the outer surface of the endoscope,
Generally, sapphire, an optical member with high heat resistance, is used.
It will be. However, sapphire glass has
Due to the birefringence effect, this sapphire glass
When used as an optical member for eyepieces and imaging systems,
There are problems such as a reduction in image resolution. For example, FIG. 13 shows an objective cover made of sapphire.
-The main part showing the tip of a conventional endoscope device equipped with glass
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view in which a distal end portion 90 of the endoscope device has an image.
Image guide fiber 81 and image guide fiber 8
1 and the image guide base 82 with
Image of the subject arranged at the tip of the
An objective lens 83 made of a general glass material for
A sapphire pair disposed at the further end of the lens 83
Object cover glass 91 and metal made of these members inserted
And the objective frame 85 are arranged. Here, the objective cover glass 91 is
It is formed with a constant thickness. The outer periphery of the objective cover glass 91 is made of gold.
Plating is applied, and through this gold plating, the objective cover
The lath 91 and the object frame 85 are joined by soldering.
You. The image guide fiber 81 and the image guide fiber
The base 82 is soldered or a contact that is difficult to pass steam.
They are joined by an adhesive. Furthermore, image guide mouth
The gold 82 and the object frame 85 are joined by laser welding.
ing. Therefore, the objective cover glass 91 and the image guide
The space surrounded by the end of the fiber 81 is airtightly sealed.
Space. [0119] The distal end of the endoscope apparatus configured as described above.
At 90, the light incident on the objective cover glass 91
Is the objective lens after birefringence as shown in C in the figure.
An image is formed on the image guide fiber 81 via 83
However, deviation of the imaging position due to birefringence
If the distance is larger than the fiber distance of the fiber 81 (see D in the figure),
The image resolution decreases. Then, next, the optics of the objective, eyepiece, and imaging system
Using sapphire glass that can maintain the ability
Of the endoscope system compatible with autoclave sterilization
You. FIG. 12 shows the optical capabilities of the objective, eyepiece, and imaging system.
With sapphire glass that can maintain
Of an endoscope device compatible with autoclave sterilization
FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a main part showing a distal end portion of the endoscope apparatus.
FIG. The conventional endoscope device shown in FIG.
The same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. (Structure) As shown in FIG.
The tip portion 80 of the device is made of a thin plate made of sapphire.
An objective cover glass 84 is provided. Here, the objective cover glass 84 is
Image of light that has passed through the objective cover glass 84 and has been birefringent
The deviation of the image formation position on the image guide fiber 81 is
Thickness smaller than the inter-fiber distance of the guide fiber 81
Is set to The outer periphery of the objective cover glass 84 is
Is gold-plated, and the objective
The bar glass 84 and the object frame 85 are joined by soldering.
Have been. (Operation) The incident light is incident on the objective cover glass 84.
Image guide fiber after birefringence (see A in the figure)
The shift of the image formation position of multiple light images formed on 81 is an image
It is smaller than the inter-fiber distance of the guide fiber 81 (B in the figure).
), So that the resolution does not decrease. (Effect) In the present embodiment as described above,
Objective, eyepiece, imaging by birefringence of sapphire glass
Maintain high resolution without compromising system optical performance
can do. [0128] Further, the optics exposed outside the endoscope apparatus.
Since sapphire glass can be used for the member,
The endoscope device can perform autoclave sterilization.
You. Note that a sapphire objective cover glass was used.
If the transmitted light forms an image on the CCD, the
-The thickness of the glass
The deviation of the image forming position of the folded light on the CCD is
The thickness may be set to a value smaller than the xel size. As described above, according to the present invention,
Sterilization treatment with Tylene oxide gas, autoclave, etc.
Ensure that the endoscope's flexible covering is not damaged during
Can be prevented, and the ingress of gas, water vapor, etc.
Deterioration of the built-in components of the endoscope can be prevented.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIGS. 1 to 4 relate to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an endoscope and an endoscope tray. FIG. 3 is a sectional view showing a state in which a vent cap is connected to an endoscope tray; FIG. 4 is a sectional view showing an operation state of a check valve; FIG. FIG. 6 is a sectional view of an essential part showing a state in which a vent cap is connected to an endoscope tray according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a sectional view showing a state where a vent cap is connected to an endoscope tray according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an electronic flexible endoscope. FIG. 9 is a view showing a wide illumination angle, a decrease in illumination light even after autoclaving, and an illumination angle. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a light guide fiber according to the first embodiment of the endoscope apparatus in which the illumination diameter does not deteriorate due to a change in degree, etc. FIG. And, even if autoclave is performed, the illumination light decreases, the illumination angle changes, etc.
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a light guide fiber according to a second embodiment of the endoscope apparatus in which the illumination diameter does not deteriorate. FIG. Even if the illumination light decreases, the illumination angle changes, etc.
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a light guide fiber according to a third embodiment of the endoscope apparatus in which the illumination diameter does not deteriorate. FIG. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an essential part showing an endoscope apparatus capable of autoclave sterilization using sapphire glass and capable of performing autoclave sterilization. [Description of Reference Numerals] 1 Endoscope 3 Insertion section 8 Vent (venting means) 10 Endoscope tray 11 Lid 14 Setting groove 14b Insertion Part setting groove 15 Valve 19 Projection (non-venting release means) 22 Check valve 30 Endoscope tray 31 Bypass passage 32 Vent valve (Bypass opening / closing means) 40 Endoscope tray 41 Bypass passage 41a Open end 5 lid (bypass opening / closing means) 46 plug (bypass opening / closing means) 50 endoscope tray 51 bypass passage 51a open end 52 ventilation valve (bypass opening / closing means) 55 lid (bypass opening / closing means) 56 pressing part (bypass opening / closing means) ) 60 endoscope 62 insertion section 66a opening (venting means)

   ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page    (72) Inventor Seiichi Hikuma             2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Ori             Inside of Opus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Hiroshi Tatsuno             2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Ori             Inside of Opus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Takao Yamaguchi             2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Ori             Inside of Opus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Yasuhito Kura             2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Ori             Inside of Opus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Takahiro Kishi             2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Ori             Inside of Opus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Kazutaka Nakachi             2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Ori             Inside of Opus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Yasuyuki Futaki             2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Ori             Inside of Opus Optical Co., Ltd. F-term (reference) 2H040 BA00 BA12 BA14 CA09 CA11                       CA12 CA22 DA03 DA12 DA13                       DA57 EA01                 4C061 AA00 BB00 CC00 DD03 FF07                       GG09 GG13 JJ13

Claims (1)

Claims: 1. An endoscope tray for sterilization on which an endoscope having a ventilation means capable of ventilation between an internal space and the outside can be placed, wherein the tray can be connected to the ventilation means. An endoscope tray comprising a check valve that allows gas to pass from inside the endoscope to the outside and does not allow gas to pass from the outside to the inside of the endoscope.