JP2000139817A - Endoscope device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To simply and surely obtain a movement-adjustable optical system, which keeps strength against the pressure variation of external environment and is constituted to be airtight for surely preventing entering of high-pressure and high-temperature steam, without necessitating the external force of a magnet, etc. SOLUTION: At least one of members constituting an optical unit can be extended/contracted and constituted of metallic tube-like elastic members 25 and 27. Thus, though relative pressure variation between an optical system constituted to be movable and airtight and external environment occurs at the time of autoclave sterilization, tube-like elastic members 25 and 27 are not provided with steam permeability of themselves and perfectly interrupt high-pressure and high-temperature steam. In addition, there is not a mechanical gap and transmission of high-pressure and high-temperature steam is prevented.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an endoscope apparatus, and more particularly, to an endoscope apparatus capable of performing high-pressure and high-temperature steam sterilization and having a focus adjusting function in an optical system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Endoscopes that can be inserted into a body cavity or the like to observe a deep portion of the body cavity or the like and perform a medical treatment or the like by using a treatment tool as needed are widely used in the medical field. Have been.

[0003] In the case of a medical endoscope, it is essential to surely disinfect and sterilize the used endoscope in order to prevent infectious diseases and the like.

Conventionally, this disinfecting sterilization treatment has relied on a gas such as ethylene oxide gas (EOG) or a disinfecting solution. However, as is well known, sterilizing gases are extremely poisonous, and in order to ensure the safety of sterilization work. Sterilization is complicated. In addition, there is a problem in that it takes a long time for aeration to remove gas adhering to the device after sterilization, so that the device cannot be used immediately after sterilization. Further, there is a problem that the running cost is high.

[0005] Further, in the case of a disinfecting solution, there is a disadvantage that management of the disinfecting solution is complicated, and a great deal of expense is required for disposal treatment of the disinfecting solution.

Therefore, recently, without complicated work,
High-pressure high-temperature steam sterilization (hereinafter, autoclave sterilization), which can be used immediately after sterilization and has low running costs, is becoming mainstream in endoscope devices.

[0007] A typical condition of the autoclave sterilization is the American Standard ANSI / AAMI ST37-1992 approved by the American National Standards Institute and issued by the Medical Device Development Association.
4 minutes at 2 ° C, sterilization step 132 for gravity type
℃, 10 minutes. Conditions vary from country to country, but generally, the autoclave sterilization temperature is
The temperature is set between 115 ° C. and 140 ° C., and the pressure during the sterilization step is set at about +0.2 MPa with respect to the atmospheric pressure.

However, high-pressure high-temperature steam under the above-mentioned conditions has a property of permeating a member formed of a polymer material. In particular, flexible materials such as rubber and elastomer easily permeate high-pressure and high-temperature steam. Therefore, when the autoclave sterilization is performed, the high-pressure high-temperature steam enters the space sealed by the rubber member.

In general, endoscope devices such as electronic endoscopes and fiberscopes have a waterproof structure with a rubber seal member such as an O-ring in order to prevent water or the like from entering the inside of the endoscope. For this reason, when performing autoclave sterilization, high-pressure and high-temperature steam enters the endoscope through the rubber seal member and fogging occurs on the lens surface,
A problem occurs in which a visual field defect occurs.

[0010] In addition, a general multi-component glass having good workability, which is a lens glass material, is deteriorated by high-pressure and high-temperature steam during autoclave sterilization. Therefore, the glass material itself is deteriorated by high-pressure and high-temperature steam entering the endoscope. There is also a problem of causing poor visual field. As a countermeasure, a structure is generally used in which the lens unit has an airtight structure so that high-pressure high-temperature steam does not enter the lens unit. However, some optical systems require a focus adjustment mechanism, and in this case, it has been difficult to employ an airtight structure.

As a prior art for moving and adjusting an optical system for focus adjustment, there is Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-127398. In this publication, a lens that moves along the optical axis direction is supported by a spring member back and forth, and at least one of the lenses is formed of a shape memory alloy.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-260, as having a means for moving and adjusting the optical system and making the lens unit airtight, is disclosed.
There are JP-A-5-281454 and JP-A-53-121845. In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-281454, an optical system is moved by magnetic coupling inside and outside a sealed package. In Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open Publication No. 53-121845, the space between the endoscope objective lens and the image guide is covered with a cylindrical elastic body.

As shown in Japanese Patent Application No. 62-114580,
A structure has been proposed in which a lens unit is filled with a transparent liquid to prevent water vapor from adhering to the lens surface and causing fogging.

On the other hand, when a flexible endoscope using an image guide fiber or a light guide fiber is subjected to autoclave sterilization, the conventional fiber outer tube is made of silicon which is permeable to water vapor. There was a problem of breaking.

Further, when the endoscope is sterilized with an autoclave or ethylene oxide gas, there is a process in which the pressure inside the chamber of the sterilizer becomes negative, and at this time, the pressure inside the endoscope becomes relatively high and the endoscope is bent. The rubber will burst. Therefore,
Although an endoscope is provided with a vent to communicate the inside and outside during sterilization, the curved rubber does not burst, but there is a problem that the silicone outer tube bursts.

To cope with these problems, there are Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 58-1905 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 59-87408.

Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 58-1905 relates to a rigid type image guide fiber used in a high-temperature environment, in which a metal protective tube is provided outside the image guide fiber.

In JP-A-59-87408, in order to improve the durability of an image guide fiber or the like, a low vapor permeable material such as butyl synthetic rubber or fluorine synthetic resin is used for an outer tube. Things are listed.

[0019]

However, in addition to the above-mentioned prior art, there are various known techniques for the movement adjusting mechanism of the optical system. In particular, there are many well-known movement adjustment mechanisms of an optical system having a waterproof structure required for an endoscope. However, these are not watertight and airtight, but cannot prevent the infiltration of high-pressure, high-temperature steam when subjected to autoclave sterilization (described in JP-A-5-281454). .

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 9-127398 does not describe (1) airtightness, watertightness, and the like, and it is very difficult to configure an airtight package using the following means. (2) Heating / cooling means or electrical control means are required for the shape memory alloy, so high cost and complicated equipment are unavoidable. (Similarly, a motor and actuator are built in an airtight space. You can say what you did). (3) Position control is required (installation of sensors, feedback control), and high cost and complicated equipment cannot be avoided.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-281454 describes that an airtight package is formed. However, the use of magnetic coupling has the following problems. (1) Magnets increase the number of parts and cost. (2) The size of the device is increased by the space for the magnet. (3) The problem of demagnetization due to temperature change of the magnet itself. (4) Influence of magnetic force on surroundings. (5) New designs and experiments, such as magnet size, are constantly forced by the optical system to be adjusted (there is no versatility). (6) The connection may be deviated by vibration or impact.

In Japanese Utility Model Application Laid-Open No. 53-121845, the purpose is dust prevention, but the description of airtight and hermetic packages and the configuration thereof are described. However, there are the following problems. (1) Rubber has gas permeability and cannot be airtight. Some permeation is inevitable even with resin. In particular, soft materials are easily transmitted. (2)
In the case of an elastic body made of rubber or resin, the elastic body is destroyed by a sudden change in the internal air when a pressure changes during the sterilization process, especially when negative pressure is applied during evacuation. (3) Since the fixing structure merely presses the elastic body against the frame with the annular member, gas permeation cannot be prevented, and the permeation amount of high-pressure and high-temperature steam from this portion is larger than that of the material itself.
(4) Even if the observation window # 10 of the objective can be hermetically joined to the distal end main body # 2, invasion of high-pressure high-temperature steam from a portion (not shown) having a curved structure cannot be avoided. At this time,
High-pressure high-temperature steam enters between the observation window # 10 and the objective lens # 9 from the sliding surface between the holding frame # 11 and the lens frame # 12, and fogging due to dew condensation is inevitable. Furthermore, since the space between the objective lens and the image guide is merely sealed with the elastic cylindrical member, there is the following problem. (5) The length of the elastic cylindrical member in the optical axis direction is short, and a sufficient stroke cannot be secured. Further, if an attempt is made to secure a stroke, the distance between the objective lens and the image guide becomes longer, and the overall length becomes longer. (6) No airtight measures are taken against high-pressure, high-temperature steam that enters between the cover glass and the objective lens.

Japanese Patent Application No. 62-114580 has a structure in which diopter adjustment is not possible and cannot be used for an eyepiece unit.

Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 58-1905 has a problem that it is not flexible and cannot be applied to a flexible endoscope.

According to JP-A-59-87408, when a flexible endoscope is sterilized by an autoclave, a low vapor-permeable material such as butyl synthetic rubber or fluorine synthetic resin used for an outer tube is insufficient. In addition, there is a problem that the permeation of high-pressure and high-temperature steam deteriorates the function of the solid lubricant of the fiber and deteriorates the fiber itself, causing the fiber to break.

Therefore, a first object of the present invention is to provide an air-tightly movable and adjustable optical system which maintains strength against pressure changes in the external environment and reliably prevents intrusion of high-pressure, high-temperature steam, using a power supply and a magnet. It is an object of the present invention to provide an endoscope apparatus which can be obtained simply and reliably without requiring external force such as the above.

A second object of the present invention is to secure a stroke in the optical axis direction of a tubular elastic member that covers a space between an endoscope objective lens and an image guide, and to shorten the entire length of an optical system. It is to provide a possible endoscope device.

A third object of the present invention is to provide a structure which does not cause moisture to adhere to the lens even if autoclave sterilization is performed and high-pressure and high-temperature steam enters the endoscope, thereby preventing fogging of the visual field. It is an object of the present invention to provide an endoscope apparatus which can adjust diopter, has a simple structure, and is advantageous in cost.

A fourth object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope apparatus in which the image guide fiber and the light guide fiber are not deteriorated even when autoclaving is performed.

[0030]

An endoscope apparatus according to the present invention comprises:
In an endoscope apparatus having a movable optical system movable in an optical axis direction, when an optical unit including the movable optical system is sealed and configured, at least one of members constituting a partition of the optical unit is used. One is a tubular elastic member that can expand and contract in the optical axis direction and has at least a surface formed of metal.

According to this configuration, the focal point of the optical system can be adjusted by expanding and contracting the tubular elastic member in the optical axis direction. In addition, during autoclave sterilization, even if there is a relative pressure change between the airtight optical system and the external environment, the tubular elastic member has a surface that is a metal having no vapor permeability, so the penetration of high-pressure, high-temperature steam is completely prevented. To shut off.

[0032]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. (First to Sixth Embodiments) The first to sixth embodiments are directed to an endoscope apparatus capable of adjusting a diopter, by using a tubular elastic member around a moving optical system to form an airtight space. Is shown to form an embodiment.

(First Embodiment) FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention.
1 shows an endoscope apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing a structure of an eyepiece of a fiberscope using an optical fiber for image transmission.

(Structure) As shown in FIG. 1, the endoscope eyepiece 1 is formed by bundling optical fibers for transmitting an endoscope image incident from an objective lens at the tip of an endoscope insertion portion (not shown). That is, the image guide 2 formed of an optical fiber bundle extends from the distal end of the endoscope together with the outer tube 3 covering the image guide 2. The outer tube 3 is made of a material such as a fluororesin, a Gore-Tex, or a metal blade corresponding to pressure and temperature changes. The exterior of the insertion section is made of a flexible material such as rubber or elastomer. The image guide 2 is an image guide (hereinafter referred to as I) in the endoscope eyepiece 1.
G) The IG frame 4 is made of sapphire or the like having heat resistance and vapor resistance at a position where the IG frame 4 covers the end on the eyepiece side of the image guide 2 and covers the image formed at the end of the image guide 2. The IG cover window 5 is hermetically joined by any one of brazing (solder), laser welding, and epoxy resin adhesive.

An eyepiece optical system 6 is arranged so that an endoscope image passing through the IG cover window 5 is formed at an eye point of an observer (not shown). The eyepiece optical system 6 constitutes a moving optical system that is built in the fixed barrel 16 and enables diopter adjustment. A movable frame 7 extending so as to cover the IG frame 4 is connected to the eyepiece optical system 6, and a first frame provided on an outer peripheral side of the movable frame 7 is provided.
First cam groove 9 in which the cam pin 8 moves straight in parallel with the optical axis.
Is engaged with the interlocking frame 11 along the second cam groove 12 which is oblique in the circumferential direction via the cut support frame 10. Interlocking frame 1
A second cam pin 13 that engages with the outer peripheral surface of 1 is provided so as to also engage with the focus adjustment ring 14.

On the support frame 10, a fixed cylinder 16 is provided on the eyepiece side with an elastic member 17 for exerting a biasing force between the movable frame 7 and the movable frame 7 in the optical axis direction.
And is fixed by the first screw 18 through An eyepiece 19 is screw-engaged with the fixed barrel 16 and a locking screw 20 is tightened. A first annular elastic watertight member 15 is arranged between the eyepiece 19 and the focus adjustment ring 14, and the focus adjustment ring 14 is configured to be slidable with respect to the eyepiece 19. The support frame 10 and the fixing cylinder 16 are used for the cover window fixing frame 3.
Together with 0, it forms a fixed frame. The IG frame 4 supported by the support frame 10 at a site (not shown) is also a fixed frame. That is, the fixed frame refers to a frame fixed to the endoscope main body.

A cover window fixing frame 30 is fixed to the eyepiece 19 on the inner periphery on the eyepiece side of the eyepiece 19 by screwing the second annular elastic watertight member 21 therebetween. In the cover window fixing frame 30, a cover window 22 having a diameter larger than the ray height of the eyepiece optical system 6 is sandwiched between the cover window fixing frame 30 and the cover window holder 23, and the cover window 22 is covered by the cover window fixing frame 30. At the window joining surface 24, it is air-tightly joined by any one of brazing (soldering), laser welding, and epoxy resin adhesive.

The outer peripheral surfaces of the IG frame 4 and the movable frame 7 are joined by metal or metal-coated first tubular elastic members 25 with both end portions serving as first elastic body airtight joining surfaces 26. Airtight joining is performed by any of brazing (solder), laser welding, and epoxy resin adhesive. Similarly, a second tubular elastic member 27 is hermetically joined at both ends thereof to a second elastic body airtight joint surface 28 on a uniform surface of each of the movable frame 7 and the cover window fixing frame 30 without any step. .

The first and second tubular elastic members 25, 27
Is a tubular member that can expand and contract in the optical axis direction and maintain airtightness. For example, a metal flexible bellows for vacuum used for vacuum piping can be used. This flexible bellows for vacuum is a metal bellows structural member such as one formed by welding a plurality of metal disk-shaped members into a bellows shape, or one formed by integrally forming a metal thin plate into a bellows shape. It is.

A general bellows for a vacuum pipe has a substantially constant diameter over its entire length,
The tubular elastic member of the present embodiment has a configuration in which the diameter is not constant over the entire length. However, similarly to the flexible bellows for a vacuum pipe, it can be configured by welding or integrally forming a disk-shaped member.

The first and second tubular elastic members 25,
27 may be a rubber or resin member having an outer surface provided with a metal thin film or a metal coating in addition to the above-described configuration.
In addition, it is possible to prevent high-pressure and high-temperature steam from entering the inside. In the present embodiment, the first and second tubular elastic members 25 and 27 are provided at their end portions with cylindrical surfaces or flange surfaces 26 and 28 for hermetic joining.

As described above, the IG cover window 5, the IG frame 4,
Surrounded by the first tubular elastic member 25, the movable frame 7, the second tubular elastic member 27, the cover window fixing frame 30, and the cover window 24,
An optical unit having an optical system that moves in the direction of the optical axis is completely airtightly sealed, and forms an airtight seal, that is, an airtight space 29. The IG frame 4 and the outer tube 3 connected to the IG frame 4 are made of metal, and if they are air-tightly joined, the air-tight space is formed up to the end of the endoscope.
The IG cover window 5 does not necessarily need to be airtightly joined.

Although the materials are not particularly described, it goes without saying that the materials of the parts and the joining materials used in the present embodiment are those that withstand at least the sterilization temperature of 135 ° C. or more and have steam resistance. No. Further, respective components surrounding the hermetic space 29, such as the IG frame 4, the IG cover window 5, the first and second tubular elastic members 25 and 27, the movable frame 7, the cover window fixing frame 30, and the cover window 22, that is, the hermetic seal. The hermetic partition wall member forming the sealing portion is selected from materials having no or almost no gas permeability, such as metals, crystalline materials such as resin, ceramics, glass, and sapphire. More preferably, the hermetic partition wall member is made of metal, ceramics, glass, or a crystalline material that reliably blocks the transmission of high-pressure, high-temperature steam.

The resin and some ceramics permeate high-pressure, high-temperature steam, though very slightly. For this reason,
When these are used as airtight partition members, it is preferable to arrange a water-absorbing member 31 such as silica gel inside the airtight space just in case. The member 31 absorbs water.

On the other hand, the airtight joining means for joining the airtight partition members is partially shown in this embodiment, but is selected from metal welding, molten glass, and adhesion. The types of metal welding include brazing, brazing such as soldering,
There are fusion welding represented by laser welding and electron beam welding and pressure welding represented by resistance welding. As for the hermetic joining means, preferably, metal welding or molten glass which reliably prevents the intrusion of high-pressure and high-temperature steam through the joining portion is selected.

In the case where the tubular elastic member and the fixing frame which is hermetically joined to the tubular elastic member are made of metal, or where the surface of the joint between these members is subjected to metal surface treatment, the joining method Regarding the above, brazing, brazing such as soldering, and metal welding such as laser welding have the highest reliability.

The resin-based adhesive, though very small, transmits high-pressure, high-temperature steam. Therefore, when an adhesive is used, a ceramic-based adhesive or an epoxy resin-based adhesive or the like is used. An adhesive having a property of hardly permeating high-pressure and high-temperature steam by post-curing is used. Also in this case, it is preferable to dispose the water-absorbing member 31 such as silica gel inside the airtight space.

(Action) 1) During Autoclave Sterilization In the autoclave sterilization, the inside of the sterilization device can be evacuated (negative pressure) during the pre-sterilization step or the drying step, and on the contrary, during sterilization, the pressure becomes positive. Here, among the pressure changes applied to the endoscope eyepiece 1, the airtight space 29 has its own strength ensured with respect to at least the pressure change in the inner space of each gas-permeable annular elastic watertight member. A second tubular elastic member 25,
27 and the IG frame 4, the IG cover window 5, the movable frame 7, the cover window fixing frame 30, and the cover window 24, which are substantially rigid bodies, are not broken by pressure changes and maintain the original configuration. Further, since the components and the joints 26 and 28 thereof are air-tightly joined, even if a positive pressure is applied during autoclave sterilization, high-pressure high-temperature steam does not enter the air-tight space 29.

2) At the time of use In the case of an endoscope using an image guide formed of an optical fiber bundle as an image transmission means, it is necessary to accurately focus an eyepiece on an image output end of the image guide. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the focus diopter according to each diopter of the observer.

Therefore, when the operator looks through the cover window 22 of the endoscope eyepiece 1 or connects a video camera to output an image, the focus adjustment ring 14 is rotated for image formation. Then, the interlocking frame 11 rotates in conjunction with the second cam pin 13. The rotation of the interlocking frame 11 is performed by the second cam groove 12 of the interlocking frame 11, the first cam groove 9 of the support frame 10 that moves straight, and the first cam groove 9 on both.
The cam pin 8 causes the movable frame 7 to move straight in the optical axis direction. When the movable frame 7 moves in the optical axis direction, the movable frame 7
Space with G frame 4, first tubular elastic member 25, movable frame 7
The space between the second elastic member 27 and the space between the cover window fixing frame 30 and the second tubular elastic member 27 contracts when one of them expands. However, both ends of the first and second tubular elastic members 25 and 27 are airtightly connected, and the eyepiece optical system 6 can be moved without destroying the airtight space 29 as a whole.

The elastic member 17 is provided on the fixed cylinder 16 with respect to the movable frame 7.
Is pressed toward the object side to prevent backlash of the eyepiece optical system 6.
However, the elastic member 17 is not always necessary as long as the fitting play or the like is pressed down in dimension.

(Effects) As described above, in this embodiment,
It has the following effects.

(1) An optical system capable of moving and adjusting to an airtight space without requiring external power such as a power supply and a magnet while maintaining strength against pressure changes in the external environment and reliably preventing intrusion of high-pressure, high-temperature steam is required. An endoscope apparatus that can be obtained simply and reliably can be realized.

(2) Even in an endoscope apparatus using an image guide formed of an optical fiber bundle as an image transmission means, the diopter can be adjusted for each observer, and the visual field can be obtained even if autoclave sterilization is performed. No defects occur.

(3) The present invention can be realized without largely changing the structure of the eyepiece of the endoscope.

(4) If the image pickup device is integrally provided inside the cover window fixing frame, an endoscope-integrated videoscope with an airtight focus adjustment mechanism can be realized.

(5) If the eyepiece optical system is a fixed-focus zoom optical system, an airtightness adjustment unit of the zoom mechanism can be realized.

In the above embodiment, the medical endoscope for performing autoclave sterilization has been described.
Other endoscopes that are sterilized by autoclave, endoscopes that may be immersed in liquid for a long time, or water may enter inside the endoscope, such as industrial endoscopes used in high humidity environments It is effective to use the configuration of the present invention for a mirror or the like.

FIGS. 2 and 3 relate to an application of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a view for explaining an example of the configuration of an eyepiece using a tubular elastic member having a substantially constant diameter over its entire length. FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating a volume change absorbing member provided in an eyepiece unit, and FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating a normal state of a small-diameter tubular elastic member;
(B) is a figure which shows the state which is absorbing the volume change by the small diameter tubular elastic member.

As shown in FIG. 2, in the present embodiment, for example, the eyepiece 32 is provided with an eyepiece 34 integrally fixed to a main body 33 constituting the operation section, and at least one eyepiece provided in the eyepiece 34 is provided. An eyepiece unit 36 having an eyepiece 35 composed of at least one optical member
And a diopter adjustment ring 37 serving as a diopter adjustment operation unit for adjusting the focal position of the eyepiece 35.

At the distal end of the eyepiece unit 36, a proximal end of the image guide 2 extending from the distal end of the endoscope is arranged.

The eyepiece lens unit 36 includes a metal front cover glass frame 38 as an airtight partition member, and a sapphire front cover as an airtight partition member joined to the front cover glass frame 38 in an airtight manner. Glass 39,
A metal eyepiece lens frame 40 serving as an airtight partition member, a tubular elastic member 41 having both ends air-tightly joined to the eyepiece lens frame 40 and the front cover glass frame 38 and capable of expanding and contracting in the optical axis direction; The eyepiece 3 made of glass having high pressure, high temperature, and steam resistance, which is airtightly joined to the lens frame 40.
5 and hermetically sealed.

In this embodiment, as the tubular elastic member 41, a metal flexible bellows for vacuum used for vacuum piping or the like is used. The vacuum flexible bellows is formed by welding a plurality of metal disc-shaped members into a bellows shape, or by integrally forming a metal into a bellows shape.

A rotation restricting groove 34 a for restricting the rotation of the eyepiece unit 36 is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the eyepiece 34.
Are formed. A rotation stop pin 42 attached to the eyepiece frame 40 is engaged with the rotation restricting groove 34a.

A circumferential through hole 34b is formed in the side peripheral portion of the eyepiece 34. A fixing pin 43 for fixing the diopter adjustment ring 37 is inserted through the circumferential through hole 34b. By fixing the fixing pin 43 to the interlocking frame 44, the diopter adjustment ring 37 is provided. And the interlocking frame 44 are integrated.

As a result, the diopter adjustment ring 37
, The interlocking frame 44 integrally connected and fixed by the fixing pin 43 simultaneously rotates. When the interlocking frame 44 rotates, a cam hole 44a cut obliquely in the circumferential direction of the interlocking frame 44 is formed.
The eyepiece lens frame 40 moves in the optical axis direction, for example, in the direction of the distal end, and the tubular elastic member 41 expands and contracts. At this time, the airtightness in the eyepiece unit 36 is maintained.

A volume change absorbing member 46 is provided on the side peripheral surface of the eyepiece lens frame 40. The volume change absorbing member 46 is a member that absorbs a volume change in the eyepiece lens unit 36. That is, the amount of deformation of the tubular elastic member 41 during the diopter adjustment is large, and the volume change in the hermetically sealed eyepiece unit 36 is large, so that the gas inside is compressed and the rotational force of the diopter adjustment ring 37 is increased. Is provided in order to prevent the size from becoming large and the rotation from being returned to the original state. In the present embodiment, for example, a small-diameter tubular elastic member 47 is hermetically attached.

That is, the inner space of the eyepiece unit 36 of the present embodiment includes the front cover glass 39, the front cover glass frame 38, the tubular elastic member 41, the eyepiece frame 40, and the eyepiece 35. Small diameter tubular elastic member 47
And is hermetically sealed.

The small-diameter tubular elastic member 47 serving as the volume change absorbing member 46 has a contracted shape as shown in FIG. 3A when the tubular elastic member 41 is in an extended state. Then, when the tubular elastic member 41 is in a contracted state, it changes to an elongated shape as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3B. That is, the small-diameter tubular elastic member 47 expands and contracts and absorbs the volume change in the airtight space at the time of diopter adjustment.

The rotation restricting groove 3 of the eyepiece 34
The eyepiece frame 40 does not rotate because the rotation stop pin 42 is engaged with the pin 4a. Further, the main body part 33 and the eyepiece 34, the eyepiece 34 and the eyepiece unit 36, and the eyepiece 34
And the diopter adjustment ring 37, and the diopter adjustment ring 3
7 and the fixing pin 43,
O-rings 48a, 48b, 48c, 48 for maintaining watertightness
d and 48e are arranged. This prevents the liquid from entering the eyepiece 32 during washing or immersion in a chemical solution.

According to this configuration, an eyepiece unit can be formed in which the tubular elastic member has a simple shape having a substantially constant diameter over the entire length and is hermetically sealed.

The other structures, operations and effects are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the same members are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted.

The same applies to the case where the tubular elastic members 41 are provided at two positions on the distal end side and the proximal end side of the eyepiece frame 40 of the eyepiece unit 36A constituting the eyepiece section 32 as shown in FIG. Action and effect can be obtained.

Specifically, in addition to the tubular elastic member 41, the proximal tubular elastic member 4 is provided on the proximal side of the eyepiece frame 40.
1a is arranged. And, this base end side tubular elastic member 41
a is hermetically bonded to the eyepiece lens frame 40 and the base end cover glass frame 49. As a result, the inner space of the eyepiece lens unit 36A is
, A front cover glass frame 38, and a tubular elastic member 41.
, An eyepiece frame 40, and a proximal tubular elastic member 41a
, Base cover glass frame 49, base cover glass 86
This results in a hermetically sealed structure.

In this embodiment, the eyepiece 34 and the base cover glass frame 49 are fixed with an adhesive. When adjusting the diopter, only the eyepiece frame 40 moves in the optical axis direction. At this time, the tubular elastic member 41 and the proximal end tubular elastic member 41a expand and contract with each other such that one contracts when the other contracts. Further, a ventilation hole 89 is formed in a part of the eyepiece lens joining surface of the eyepiece lens frame 40 for communicating the eyepiece lens distal side space 87 and the eyepiece lens proximal side space 88 formed with the eyepiece 35 therebetween. I have.

Thus, when the gas in one airtight space is compressed at the time of diopter adjustment, the compressed gas is sent into the other airtight space to adjust the diopter adjusting ring 37.
However, it is possible to solve such a problem that the amount of the turning force becomes large and the rotation is returned to the original state.

Further, in the present configuration, the O-ring 48b shown in FIG. 2 is not arranged at the time of diopter adjustment, so that the amount of rotational force of the diopter adjustment ring 37 is further reduced, and the operation at the time of diopter adjustment is performed. In addition to improving the performance, defects due to the deterioration of the O-ring are eliminated.

(Second Embodiment) FIG. 5 shows an endoscope apparatus according to a second embodiment. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a video adapter used between an eyepiece of an endoscope and a camera head for the endoscope. The upper section shows the state where the inner optical system is closer to the endoscope, and the lower section shows the state where the inner optical system is closer to the camera head.

(Structure) As shown in FIG. 5, the video adapter 51 is connected to an eyepiece of an endoscope 52 indicated by a two-point line by an eyepiece mount 54 (not shown). Similarly, it is connected to a camera head 53 for an endoscope via a first annular elastic watertight member 55 by a screw mount (not shown).

On the endoscope 52 side of the main body 56 of the video adapter 51, an eyepiece mount 54 is rotatably fixed to the abutting surface of the eyepiece mount 54 with a nut 57 via a washer 58 with respect to the optical axis. . Body 5
An adjusting ring 59 is rotatably arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the main body 56 by fixing a ring stopper 62 with a screw 63 via the second annular elastic watertight member 61 and the main body 56. The main body 56 constitutes a fixed frame together with the cover window frame 49.

A first cam groove 64 formed obliquely to the optical axis is cut in the inner peripheral surface of the adjustment ring 59, and the cam cam pin 45 is engaged with the first cam groove 64, and The pin 45 also engages with a rectilinear cam groove 66 parallel to the optical axis cut by the main body 56, and is connected to a lens frame 67 that is a movable frame.

At least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the lens frame 67 is fitted to the inner peripheral surface of the main body 56. Also, the lens frame 67
Incorporates an imaging optical system 68. The imaging optical system 68
The moving optical system is built in the fixed frame and enables diopter adjustment.

The first end surface on the endoscope side end of the main body 56 is
The cover window frame 69 is joined at least at a joint surface 70 in a watertight manner. A first cover window 71 is hermetically joined to the inner peripheral surface of the first cover window frame 69 with the outer peripheral surface of the cover window 71 as a joint surface 72 as in the first embodiment.

Similarly, a second cover window frame 49 is joined to the inner peripheral surface of the other end of the main body 56 at least in a water-tight manner at the joining surface 74 on the inner peripheral surface at the other end facing the endoscope side. .
A second cover window 75 is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the second cover window frame 49.
Between the outer peripheral surface of the cover window 75 as a joining surface 76,
Similar to the first embodiment, the airtight connection is made by any one of the joining means such as brazing (soldering), laser welding, and epoxy resin adhesive.

The first cover window frame 69 is provided with a thin first convex portion 77 in the optical axis direction toward the inside, and is provided with a first end portion 84 of the lens frame 67 on the endoscope side. A first tubular elastic member 78 having a metal or metal coating therebetween has a first convex portion 77 and a first end portion 84 at both ends thereof.
In the same manner as in the first embodiment,
At 9 it is joined airtight.

Similarly, the second cover window frame 49 is provided with a thin second projection 80 in the optical axis direction toward the inside, and the second end 85 of the lens frame 67 on the camera head side. A second tubular elastic member 81, which is an elastic body made of metal or metal-coated, has both ends at the second end.
And the second end portion 85 are hermetically joined at the joining surface 82 by the method shown in the first embodiment.

Note that the first and second biconvex portions 77,
80 and the first and second end portions 84 and 85 are not particularly provided as long as they can be air-tightly joined, and are not directly provided, and the first and second cover window frames 69 and 7 are directly provided.
3 and the lens frame 67 with the first and second tubular elastic members 78 and 8.
1 may be hermetically joined.

As a result, the first and second cover windows 71, 7
5, an optical system that is surrounded by the first and second cover window frames 69 and 73, the first and second tubular elastic members 78 and 81, and the lens frame 67, and has an optical system that moves in the optical axis direction. The unit is hermetically sealed and configured as an airtight seal, that is, an airtight space 83. The optical system 68 is configured to be movable within a predetermined range along the optical axis in the hermetic space 83.

(Operation) 1) At the time of autoclave sterilization As in the first embodiment, the pressure change applied to the video adapter 51 includes at least the gas-permeable annular elastic watertight members and the space inside the watertight joint surface. In response to pressure changes, the hermetic space 83 has its first and second strengths secured.
The first and second cover windows 71 and 75, which are substantially rigid, and the first and second cover window frames 69,
73 and the lens frame 67, so that the original structure is maintained without being destroyed by pressure changes. Further, since each component and its joint are air-tightly joined, no high-pressure high-temperature steam enters the air-tight space 83 even if a positive pressure is applied.

2) In Use The operator rotates the adjustment ring 59 in order to form an endoscope image on the image pickup device inside the camera head 53. Then, the cam cam pin 45 moves in the optical axis direction along the first cam groove 64 cut obliquely with respect to the optical axis and the rectilinear cam groove 66 of the main body 56. Then, the lens frame 67 connected to the cam cam pin 45 moves together with the imaging optical system 68 along the optical axis. At this time, when one of the first and second tubular elastic members 78 and 81 expands, the other contracts. Further, when moving, the frictional resistance provided by the second annular elastic watertight member 61 acts, so that the adjustment ring 59 stops at an arbitrary position. As a result, the distance between the imaging optical system 68 and an imaging device (not shown) is adjusted.

In addition to the airtight joint surface, the entire inner space is kept watertight by the watertight joint surface and each of the annular elastic watertight members, and there is no liquid infiltration during cleaning, immersion in a drug solution, or during operation. .

(Effects) As described above, in the present embodiment,
It has the following effects.

(1) Similarly to the first embodiment, an optical system which can maintain the strength against pressure change of the external environment, reliably prevent the intrusion of high-pressure and high-temperature steam, and can move and adjust to an airtight space by using a power source, An endoscope device that can be obtained simply and reliably without external force such as a magnet can be realized.

(2) The size of the space between the video adapter, the endoscope, and the camera head does not change when the optical system moves. For this reason, the pressure in the watertight space does not change and the operability is excellent.

(3) Similarly, since there is no problem that the surface is exposed or covered and hidden with the movement of the optical system, the liquid is not accumulated and the cleaning property is improved.

(4) The unit that forms the airtight space manufactured earlier can be put in the main body and joined in a watertight manner, so that the infiltration of dust and the like can be prevented.

(Third Embodiment) FIG. 6 shows an endoscope apparatus according to a third embodiment. FIG. 6 is a sectional view of a distal end portion of a video endoscope having a built-in image pickup device such as a CCD, which is a solid-state image pickup device.

(Configuration) As shown in FIG.
The front end frame 102 is attached to the front end. A light guide 103 is provided on the end frame 102 with an illumination lens 104 provided on the end side thereof. The light guide 103 is connected to a light source device (not shown) at the rear.

An objective lens frame 105, which is a movable frame, is disposed on the distal end frame 102 in a water-tight and slidable manner in the optical axis direction by an annular elastic watertight member 106. 107 is hermetically bonded by the method described in the first embodiment, and an objective lens system 108 is disposed inside the object 107 along the optical axis. The filter frame 109 is fitted to the rear end of the objective lens frame 105,
An optical filter 110 such as an infrared cut filter and a crystal filter is built in the inside of the filter 9. Tip frame 102
And the filter frame 109, together with the image sensor frame 111,
It constitutes a fixed frame. The objective lens system 108 constitutes a moving optical system that is built in the fixed frame and enables diopter adjustment.

An image sensor frame 111 is hermetically joined to the filter frame 109 on the inner peripheral surface on the rear end side of the filter frame 109 by the method described in the second embodiment. An image sensor 112 is fixed to the image sensor frame 111, and the contact pin 11 of the image sensor is fixed.
3. Image sensor connector 114 electrically connected to this
The image sensor substrate 116 on which the drive circuit 115 of the image sensor 112 is mounted is fixed via the. Image sensor substrate 11
6, a flexible printed wiring (FPC) board 117 is connected integrally and maintaining electrical connection, and a hermetic connector pin 118 is hermetically connected to the image sensor frame 111 at the rear end of the image sensor frame 111. 119 is electrically connected.

The hermetic connector pin 119 is fixed to the hermetic connector 118 via a sintered glass so as to be insulated, and is connected to a camera control unit (not shown) via a signal harness 120 which is electrically coupled. An image sensor watertight cover 123 is provided between the filter frame 109 and a cable jacket 122 that covers the outside of the signal harness 120.
Are joined in a watertight manner at the cover connecting portion 124.

The filter frame 109 and the image pickup device frame 111 are fixed to the front end frame 102 or the front end outer member 121 of the insertion portion 101 with the relative position to the front end frame 102 fixed. The tip frame 102 and the tip exterior member 121 are water-tightly joined at the abutting surface or the fitting surface.

The objective lens frame 105 and the filter frame 109
A tubular elastic member 126 coated with metal or metal is provided between the objective lens frame 105 and the filter frame 109.
The outer peripheral surfaces of both are hermetically bonded so as to cover the mating surface with
7, as in the first embodiment, the connection is made airtight by any of the joining means, such as brazing (soldering), laser welding, or an epoxy resin adhesive. As a result, the objective cover lens 107, the objective lens frame 105, the tubular elastic member 126, the filter frame 109, the image sensor frame 111,
An optical unit having an optical system that moves in the optical axis direction and is surrounded by the hermetic connector 118 is configured as an airtight space 128 that is airtight against high-pressure high-temperature steam.

In the watertight space of the objective lens frame 105, a protruding piece 129 is provided on the outer surface (here, the airtight joint surface 127) while ensuring airtightness, and an endoscope operating section (not shown) is provided on the protruding piece 129. An operation wire 130 extending up to is provided.

A coiled elastic member 131 is provided between the objective lens frame 105 and the front end frame 102 or the front end exterior member 121.
Are provided so as to always urge the objective lens frame 105 toward the distal end side with a constant amount of force.

In this configuration, the objective lens frame 105 is configured to be movable. However, the arrangement of the projecting piece 129 and the coiled elastic member 131 may be changed so that the filter frame 109 and the image sensor frame 111 can be movable.

(Operation) 1) At the time of autoclave sterilization As in the first embodiment, at least the gas-permeable annular elastic watertight member 106 and the space inside the watertight joint are included in the pressure change applied to the insertion portion 101. In response to the pressure change, the hermetic space 128 has a tubular elastic member 126 whose strength is secured and an objective cover lens 107 which is a substantially rigid body, an objective lens frame 105, a filter frame 109, and an image sensor frame 1.
11. Because it is covered with the hermetic connector 118, it is not destroyed by a change in pressure and maintains its original configuration.
In addition, since each component and its joint are air-tightly joined, no high-pressure high-temperature steam enters the air-tight space 128 even when a positive pressure is applied.

2) At the time of use The illumination light from the light source device (not shown) passes through the light guide 103 and becomes a certain diffused light by the illumination lens 104 to illuminate the subject. This subject image is formed on the image sensor 112 as an image by the objective cover lens 107 and the objective lens system 108 as a reflected image of the illumination light. The light beam to be imaged is transmitted to the image sensor 11 by the optical filter 110.
2, the characteristics are changed so as to obtain appropriate image data. Here, the image pickup device 112 of the operator is an endoscope image which is a subject image.
In order to adjust the focus, the focus adjustment ring of the operation unit (not shown) is driven. Then, tension is applied to the operation wire 130 coupled to the focus adjustment ring, and the objective lens frame 105
Is pulled. Objective lens frame 105
Moves in the optical axis direction along the fitting surface with the end frame 102. As a result, the tip frame 102 or the tip exterior member 121
The relative distance between the image pickup device 112 fixed through another frame and the objective optical system 108 changes, and the focus can be adjusted. At this time, if the focus adjustment ring is adjusted in the direction in which the operation wire 130 is loosened, the position of the objective lens frame 105 is adjusted without rattling in the optical axis direction because the objective lens frame 105 is urged toward the distal end by the coiled elastic member 131. . If the focus adjustment ring or the operation wire 130 can be arbitrarily fixed (locked), the operator can adjust the focus at an arbitrary position and then fix it. Further, since the amount of movement at this time is very small, the pressure change in the airtight space is sufficiently absorbed. (Effect) As described above, the present embodiment has the following effects.

(1) As in the first embodiment, an optical system capable of moving and adjusting the pressure in an airtight space while maintaining strength against pressure changes in the external environment and reliably preventing the intrusion of high-pressure, high-temperature steam is provided. An endoscope device that can be obtained simply and reliably without external force such as a magnet can be realized.

(2) It is unnecessary to adjust the position (focus) of the objective lens system and the image pickup device (image guide), which has been conventionally adjusted at the time of assembly. In addition, there is no problem of the fixing method (adhesion or the like) after adjustment accompanying this.

(3) When moving the objective lens system, compared to moving the image sensor, there are few additional objects such as cables and the operability is good. On the other hand, when the imaging device is moved, the objective lens frame does not protrude or dive from the distal end of the endoscope, and the distal end frame and the objective lens frame can be joined without a gap.

(Fourth Embodiment) In the present embodiment, the eyepiece optical system 6 of the first embodiment is replaced with a zoom optical system (not shown). All functions and effects are the same as those of the first embodiment except for the zoom.

(Fifth Embodiment) FIGS. 7 to 9 relate to an endoscope apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration of a videoscope having a hard insertion portion. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a cross section near the distal end portion in FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a cross section near the operation grip portion in FIG.

(Structure) As shown in FIG. 7, an endoscope 150 according to the present embodiment has a rigid insertion portion 151, an operation grip portion 152 provided on the base end side of the insertion portion 151, and Universal cord 15 extending from operation gripper 152
3 and a light guide connector 154 provided at the base end of the universal cord 153. A camera cable 155 extends from the light guide connector 154.

A camera connector 156 is provided at an end of the camera cable 155. The light guide connector 154 is connected to a light source device (not shown), and the camera connector 156 is connected to a camera control unit (not shown).

As shown in FIG. 8, an emission end of a light guide fiber 158 is provided at a distal end side in a metal outer tube 157 constituting an exterior of the insertion portion 151, and an observation end is further provided inside. An optical system 159 is provided.

The observation optical system 159 includes the metal inner tube 1.
A plurality of relay lenses 161 arranged in the 60 inner holes;
A cover glass 162 made of sapphire is disposed on the distal end side of the inner tube 160, and the cover glass 162 is hermetically bonded to an inner peripheral surface of the inner tube 160. The relay lens 161 is disposed at an optically optimum position by a plurality of spacing rings 163. Further, the relay lens 161 is not fixed to the inner tube 160 but is dropped into the inner hole of the inner tube 160.
That is, the relay lens 161 is slidable with respect to the inner tube 160.

As shown in FIG. 9, the inner tube 160 extends to the inside of the operation holding portion 152, and
64 is hermetically bonded. The inner cylinder holding member 164
Is an outer cylinder holding member 16 to which the outer pipe 157 is fixed in a watertight manner.
5 is a fixed frame fixed to the inside of 5.

The rearmost lens of the relay lens 161 arranged inside the inner tube 160 projects from the base end surface of the inner tube 160 and is fixed to a relay lens holding member 166 arranged inside the inner cylinder holding member 164. ing. And
An imaging lens 167 held by a relay lens holding member 166 is disposed at an end of the relay lens 161. The relay lens holding member 166 is a spring 16 which is an elastic member disposed on the inner surface of the inner cylinder holding member 164.
8 and a spring retainer 169 attached to the inner cylinder holding member 164.

With this configuration, even when the inner tube 160 made of metal having a different thermal expansion and the relay lens 161 have different dimensional changes in the length direction due to a temperature change during autoclave sterilization, the inner tube 160 can be used. The relay lens holding member 166 urged by the spring 168 moves and absorbs the sliding. This prevents the relay lens 161 from being damaged. That is, this configuration is an effective structure in an assembled structure using longitudinal parts having different thermal expansions.

The inner cylinder holding member 164 is joined to the tubular elastic member 170 in an airtight manner. This tubular elastic member 17
A movable frame 171 is hermetically joined to the other end of the “0”.
Inside the movable frame 171, an image sensor fixing frame 173 holding an image sensor 172 which is a part of the image pickup optical system is arranged and fixed. A hermetic connector 174 is hermetically joined to the rear end of the movable frame 171.
The hermetic joint in this embodiment is joined by hermetic joining means such as brazing, welding, and bonding.

As a result, the cover glass 162, the inner tube 160, the inner tube holding member 164, the tubular elastic member 170,
An optical unit surrounded by the movable frame 171 and the hermetic connector 174 and having an observation optical system therein is hermetically sealed to form an airtightly sealed portion, that is, an airtight space 175.

The image pickup device 172 is connected to the substrate 17.
6, the conductor 177 extends through the conductor 177.
Is the contact pin 1 provided on the hermetic connector 174.
78 is electrically connected. This contact pin 178
Is disposed in a through hole 179a provided in a metal hermetic connector main body 179.
A glass sealing member 18 is provided in the gap between the
0 is sealed and hermetically sealed in an insulating state. A cable 181 is electrically connected to the contact pin 178. The other end of the cable 181 is electrically connected to the camera connector 156.

An interlocking frame 183 having a cam groove 182 inclined in the circumferential direction is arranged on the outer periphery of the movable frame 171. A cam pin as an engaging member attached to the movable frame 171 is provided. 184 and the cam groove 182 of the interlocking frame 183 are engaged.

Further, an operation holding part exterior member 186 is fixed to the outer cylinder holding member 165 by a screw 185. A rotation restricting groove 187 in the direction of the optical axis is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the operation holding portion exterior member 186, and a rotation stop pin 188 that engages with the rotation restricting groove 187 is attached to the movable frame 171. I have. Thus, a rotation preventing mechanism of the movable frame 171 is configured.

Further, a through hole 189 cut in the circumferential direction is provided in the operation holding portion exterior member 186, and the focus adjustment ring 190 and the interlocking frame 183 are fixed to the fixing pin through the through hole 189. 191 are integrally fixed.

As described above, the circumferentially inclined cam groove 18 formed on the interlocking frame 183 interlocking with the focus adjustment ring 190
2, a cam pin 184 engaged with a cam groove 182 formed in the movable frame 171 and a rotation preventing mechanism constitute a movement direction conversion mechanism for converting the rotational movement of the focus adjustment ring 190 into a linear movement in the optical axis direction. are doing. The exterior of the endoscope 150 is hermetically sealed by an O-ring 192 which is an annular elastic watertight member.

(Operation) 1) At the time of autoclave sterilization As in the first embodiment described above, each component constituting the outer wall of the hermetic space 175 and its joint are not destroyed by the pressure change of the autoclave sterilization. Absent. In addition, since the components constituting the outer wall of the hermetic space 175 and their joints are hermetically bonded, no high-pressure high-temperature steam enters the hermetic space 175 even when a positive pressure is applied.

2) During Use The metal inner tube 160, which is a long part, and the relay lens 161 have different coefficients of thermal expansion depending on the temperature environment during use, and thus cause different dimensional changes. Thereby, the relay lens holding member 166 moves in the optical axis direction,
Imaging lens 1 disposed at the base end of relay lens 161
The relative distance between the image sensor 67 and the image sensor 172 changes. Then, due to the change in the relative distance, the imaging surface of the imaging element 172 and the subject image transmitted by the relay lens 161 and the imaging lens 167 are out of focus. That is, an accurate image cannot be obtained.

When an in-focus image cannot be obtained, the surgeon rotates the focus adjustment ring 190. When the focus adjustment ring 190 is rotated, the fixing pin 19 is rotated.
The interlocking frame 183 connected by 1 also rotates together.
When the interlocking frame 183 rotates, the cam pins 184 provided on the movable frame 171 engaged with the cam grooves 182 of the interlocking frame 183 move in the optical axis direction. As a result, the movable frame 171 and the image sensor 172 held by the image sensor frame 173 inside the movable frame move in the optical axis direction.

At this time, since the tubular elastic member 170 expands and contracts, the solid-state imaging device 172 can be moved in the optical axis direction while keeping the airtight space 175 airtight.

At this time, the rotation restricting groove 187 in the optical axis direction on the inner peripheral surface of the operation holding portion exterior member 186 and the movable frame 17
The movable frame 171 does not rotate because the rotation stop pin 188 provided in the first frame 1 is engaged.

By this operation, the imaging lens 167 arranged at the base end of the relay lens 161 and the image pickup element 172
Is adjusted. That is, an in-focus and accurate image can be obtained regardless of the temperature environment.

Note that the relay lens 1 according to the present embodiment is
61 may be replaced by an optical fiber image guide. Further, the imaging lens 167 may be a zoom optical system. Further, an imaging lens may be provided on the imaging element frame 173 side.

In the present embodiment, the imaging device 172 is configured to be movable in the optical axis direction. However, the invention is not limited to this configuration.
The imaging lens 167 provided fixedly with respect to 6 and disposed between the relay lens 161 and the image sensor 172 may be configured to move in the optical axis direction by an external operation. In this case, the frame holding the imaging lens 167 is a movable frame,
A tubular elastic member is airtightly joined to each of the front side and the rear side of the movable frame, and the other end of each tubular elastic member is airtightly joined to the fixed frame. In other words, this configuration is different from the cover window fixing frame 30 of the first embodiment shown in FIG.
This is similar to the configuration in which an image sensor is provided inside.

(Effects) As described above, in the present embodiment,
It has the following effects.

(1) As in the first embodiment, an optical system capable of moving and adjusting to an air-tight space while maintaining strength against pressure changes in the external environment, reliably preventing intrusion of high-pressure and high-temperature steam, and supplying power to the power source is provided. Thus, it is possible to realize an endoscope apparatus which can be obtained simply and reliably without requiring an external force such as a magnet.

(2) Even in an endoscope in which the insertion portion is thin and an image pickup device cannot be arranged at the tip of the insertion portion, condensation of optical members due to high-pressure high-temperature steam during autoclave sterilization or a relay lens due to a temperature change in autoclave sterilization. Observation image failure such as destruction of the image does not occur, and it is possible to obtain a focused and accurate image under any temperature environment,
The insertion section can realize a video scope having a small diameter.

(3) Further, a video scope having a small diameter insertion section as described above, which has good focus adjustment operability of the optical system and has a simple configuration, can be realized.

(4) At the time of assembling, there is no need to adjust the position of the imaging lens and the image sensor.

(Sixth Embodiment) In the third embodiment, the endoscope insertion portion 101 is shown, but in the present embodiment, the inside of the third embodiment that is not shown is not shown. The eyepiece optical system (corresponding to reference numeral 6 in FIG. 1) of the eyepiece eyepiece is configured as a zoom optical system. The operation and effect of this embodiment are the same as those of the third embodiment except for the zoom.

According to the above-described first to sixth embodiments, the endoscope apparatus which has an optical system that ensures airtightness, enables autoclave sterilization, and adjusts the diopter of the optical system. Can be realized only by a simple modification of the conventional product without using any special adjusting means or driving mechanism for adjusting the optical system.

(Seventh and Eighth Embodiments) The seventh and eighth embodiments are directed to an endoscope apparatus capable of adjusting diopter, in which a tubular elastic member and a liquid member are provided around a moving optical system. Is used to form a watertight space.

(Seventh Embodiment) FIG. 10 is a half sectional view of an endoscope eyepiece of an endoscope apparatus according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

(Configuration) As shown in FIG.
Reference numeral 1 denotes an eyepiece base 202 which is screwed and assembled above an operation unit (not shown). Inner frame 2 on eyepiece base 202
03 is screwed, and an outer frame 204 serving as an eyepiece is screwed to the inner frame 203. Eyepiece base 20
2, the inner frame 203 and the outer frame 204 together with the cover glass holder 205 constitute a fixed frame.

[0146] The cover glass retainer 205 is
The cover glass 206 is water-tightly bonded via a ring, and a cover glass 206 is fixed to the cover glass holder 205 in a water-tight manner.

The rotating ring 20 is provided on the operation portion side of the outer frame 204.
7 is assembled in a watertight manner via an O-ring, a locking pin 209 is screwed into the rotating ring 207, and is assembled in a watertight manner via an O-ring.

A ring 2 is provided on the operation unit side of the rotating ring 207.
08 is watertightly assembled via an O-ring. The ring 208 is fixed to the operation unit. Accordingly, the rotating ring 207 is composed of the ring 208 and the outer frame 204.
It is rotatably assembled with respect to.

The watertightness of the eyepiece 201 is maintained by the ring 208, the rotating ring 207, the locking pin 209, the outer frame 204, the cover glass holder 205, the cover glass 206, and various O-rings.

The locking pin 209 mounted on the rotatable rotating ring 207 is a cam 21 having a cam surface 210.
It is locked to 1. The cam 211 is rotatably attached to the eyepiece base 202 and the ring 208.

The lens frame 212 is provided inside the eyepiece base 202.
Is mounted so as to be movable in the axial direction.
A spring 215 is mounted between the A surface 213 of the twelfth and the B surface 214 of the inner frame 203. The spring 215 biases the lens frame 212 toward the operation unit.
The pin 216 mounted on the cam 12 is urged against the cam surface 210 of the cam 211.

An optical fiber bundle 217 for transmitting an image formed by imaging an observation site is attached to an optical fiber bundle receiver 218 by screws or adhesive from the tip of an endoscope insertion portion (not shown). Eyepiece end surface 219 of optical fiber bundle 217
, A cover glass 220 is adhered and fixed with a transparent adhesive, and a mask-shaped chromium oxide vapor deposition 221 is applied to a surface of the cover glass 220 on the operation unit side.

One end of a first bellows 222 is fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the optical fiber bundle receiver 218 by a ring 223 in a watertight manner. The other end of the first bellows 222 is watertightly fixed to the inner surface of the lens frame 212 by a ring 224. It is preferable that the first bellows 222 has a bellows shape made of a metal or a bellows shape made of an elastic member (for example, a soft resin such as rubber or an elastomer).
If it is an elastic member, it may have a substantially cylindrical shape. The rings 223 and 224 constitute joining means for joining the first bellows 222 in a watertight manner.

A cover glass 225 is provided on the lens frame 212.
And a cover glass 226 are hermetically assembled. As a method for airtight bonding, cover glasses 225 and 226 are used.
In general, nickel / silver is vapor-deposited on the peripheral surface of the lens frame and brazed to the lens frame 212. Also, cover glass 2
25 and 226 may have a lens shape. A plurality of lenses 227 are assembled between the cover glass 225 and the cover glass 226. Multiple lenses 227
Constitutes a moving optical system that is built in a fixed frame and enables diopter adjustment.

The space surrounded by the cover glass 220, the first bellows 222, the cover glass 225 and the like is filled with a transparent liquid member 228. It is necessary to assemble the liquid member 228 so that air bubbles do not enter. Although it is desirable to use silicone for the liquid member 228, it is required that the liquid member 228 has heat resistance of about 135 ° C., has little change over time, and has high transparency.

One end of the second bellows 229 is watertightly fixed between the outer frame 204 and the cover glass retainer 205, and the other end is watertightly fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the lens frame 212 by a ring 230. The cover glass retainer 205 and the ring 230 constitute a joining means for joining the second bellows 229 in a watertight manner.

Further, the cover glass 206 and the second bellows 2
A space surrounded by the cover 29 and the cover glass 226 is filled with a transparent liquid member 231. The liquid member 231 is made of the same material as the liquid member 228.

When the liquid members 228 and 231 can be made of a fluorine-based material having an extremely low water vapor transmission rate, the cover glass 225 and the cover glass 2 can be used.
26 may be bonded and fixed in a watertight manner.

(Operation) FIG. 11 is a half sectional view when the lens frame 212, the lens 227 and the cover glasses 225, 226 have moved. By rotating the rotation ring 207, the cam 211 rotates, and the pin 216 urged on the cam surface 210 moves in the axial direction. Pin 216 is lens frame 2
12, the lens 227 and the cover glasses 225 and 226 move accordingly.

At this time, the liquid members 228 and 231 are forced to deform (flow), but the volume can be kept the same by the deformation of the first bellows 222 and the second bellows 229. It does not hinder movement.

Therefore, the lens 227 and the cover glass 2
The reference numerals 25 and 226 can be intentionally moved in the axial direction with respect to the eyepiece-side end surface 219 of the optical fiber bundle 217.

When autoclaving a medical product such as an endoscope body, the endoscope body can be sterilized by exposing it to high-pressure, high-temperature steam.

(Effect) As described above, in the present embodiment,
It has the following effects.

(1) High-pressure high-temperature steam enters the watertight structure by autoclave sterilization, but the surface of the cover glass, which is the outer surface of the lens group, is covered with an adhesive or covered with a liquid member. Therefore, no fogging occurs.

(2) Diopter can be adjusted with a simple structure.

(3) It is possible to have a fogging preventing structure and a diopter adjustable structure with little increase in cost.

(4) It is possible to have a fogging preventing structure and a diopter adjustable structure with almost no weight increase.

(Eighth Embodiment) FIG. 12 is a half sectional view of an eyepiece of an endoscope apparatus according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. The same parts as those in the seventh embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

(Structure) As shown in FIG. 12, a locking pin 209 mounted on a rotatable rotating ring 207 is
It is locked on a cam 211 having a cam surface 210. The cam 211 is rotatably attached to the eyepiece base 202 and the ring 208. By rotating the rotation ring 207, the cam 211 rotates, and the pin 216 urged on the cam surface 210 moves in the axial direction. A lens 227 and cover glasses 225 and 226 are fixed to a lens frame 232 in which a pin 216 is screwed on a side surface. Further, an O-ring 234 is incorporated in a side surface of the optical fiber bundle receiver 233, and the lens frame 232 is movable and watertightly attached to an outer surface of the optical fiber bundle receiver 233.

An O-ring 235 is attached to the inner surface of the cover glass retainer 236, and the lens frame 232 is movable and water-tightly attached to the cover glass retainer 236.

A space surrounded by the cover glass 220, the lens frame 232, the cover glass 225 and the like is filled with a transparent liquid member 228.

A space surrounded by the cover glass 226, the lens frame 232, the cover glass retainer 236, the cover glass 206 and the like is filled with a transparent liquid member 231.

The lens frame 232 is provided with a communication port 237 for communicating the liquid member 228 and the liquid member 231.

The structures of the liquid members 228 and 231 and other structures are the same as those of the seventh embodiment.

(Operation) By rotating the rotary ring 207, the cam 211 rotates, and the pin 216 urged on the cam surface 210 moves in the axial direction. The pin 216 is the lens frame 21
2, the lens 227 and the cover glasses 225 and 226 move accordingly.

At this time, pressure is applied to the liquid member 228 or 231 to move through the communication port 237. Therefore,
It does not hinder movement of the lens frame 232 and the like.

Accordingly, the lens 227 and the cover glass 2
25 and 226 can be intentionally moved with respect to the eyepiece side end surface 219 of the optical fiber bundle 217.

When sterilizing a medical product such as an endoscope body by autoclave sterilization, the endoscope body can be sterilized by exposing it to high-pressure and high-temperature steam.

(Effects) As described above, in the present embodiment,
It has the following effects.

The diopter can be adjusted with a small amount of operation force. Other effects are the same as those of the seventh embodiment.

According to the seventh and eighth embodiments described above, (1) high-pressure high-temperature steam enters the watertight structure by autoclave sterilization, but the surface of the cover glass, which is the outer surface of the lens group, Is covered with an adhesive or covered with a liquid member, so that no fogging occurs.
(2) Diopter adjustment can be performed with a simple structure. (3) It is possible to have a fogging prevention structure and a diopter adjustable structure with little increase in cost. (4) It is possible to have a fogging preventing structure and a diopter adjustable structure with almost no increase in weight.

(Ninth to Eleventh Embodiments) Ninth to First Embodiments
The first embodiment shows an embodiment of an endoscope apparatus configured such that high-pressure high-temperature steam does not touch an image guide fiber or a light guide fiber during autoclave sterilization or the like to deteriorate the fibers. .

(Ninth Embodiment) FIG. 13 is a sectional view showing an endoscope apparatus according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. FIG.
Reference numeral 3 denotes an endoscope insertion section 301.

(Structure) As shown in FIG. 13, an endoscope is provided with an objective lens 303 at the distal end rigid portion 302 and an image guide fiber 304 behind the objective lens 303.

The outer periphery of the objective lens 303 has been subjected to metallizing processing, and is soldered to the tip rigid portion 302.
It is fixed by brazing or the like so that high-pressure, high-temperature steam does not enter the inside of the lens from the joint at the time of autoclave sterilization.

The rigid distal end portion 302 is provided with an illumination lens 305 and a light guide fiber 306 behind the illumination lens 305. The illumination lens 305 is also fixed to the rigid distal end portion 302 in the same manner as the objective lens 303.

FIG. 14 shows an image guide fiber 304.
It is. The light guide fiber 306 has the same basic structure. Metal bases 307 and 307 are adhesively fixed to both ends of the image guide fiber 304. A thin and flexible metal tube 308 of stainless steel, aluminum, or the like is fixed to both bases 307 by soldering, brazing, laser welding, or the like, and covers the entire length of the fiber. Further, the base 307 on the front end side is also fixed to the front end hard portion 302 by soldering, brazing, laser welding, or the like. Therefore, the high-pressure high-temperature steam does not intrude from these joints to degrade the fiber. It is desirable that high-pressure, high-temperature steam does not intrude from this joint, but there is no significant deterioration of the fiber as long as the fiber is at least watertight with an adhesive or the like.

(Function) When autoclaving the endoscope, there is a process in which the pressure inside the chamber of the autoclave apparatus becomes negative, and at this time, the pressure inside the endoscope becomes relatively high and the curved rubber ruptures. I will. Therefore, in order to solve this problem, (1) an endoscope is provided with a vent hole to allow communication between the inside and outside during sterilization, and (2) a rupture prevention pipe is mounted outside the curved rubber. In the case of the former (1), a large amount of high-pressure and high-temperature steam enters the endoscope from the vent cap, and
Also in the case of (2), high-pressure high-temperature steam enters from the resin of the flexible tube. However, since the image guide fiber 304 and the light guide fiber 306 are covered with the metal tube 308, a large amount of high-pressure high-temperature steam does not directly contact the fiber.

(Effect) As described above, in the present embodiment,
It has the following effects.

(1) Since high pressure and high temperature steam does not touch the fiber, the fiber is not deteriorated and broken.

(2) Since the fiber outer tube is made of metal, the outer tube does not burst even in the autoclave or the negative pressure step of ethylene oxide gas sterilization.

(Tenth Embodiment) FIG. 15 shows another embodiment of the metal tube 308.

(Structure) As shown in FIG. 15, the difference from the ninth embodiment lies in the shape of the metal tube 308. In the metal tube 308, a portion corresponding to a curved portion of the endoscope has a bellows shape 309. Bellows 309
May extend the entire length of the image guide fiber 304 or the light guide fiber 306.

(Operation) This is the same as the ninth embodiment.

(Effects) In addition to the effects of the ninth embodiment,
This has the effect of bending more flexibly.

According to the ninth and tenth embodiments described above, there is an advantage that the fiber is not deteriorated and broken because the high-pressure high-temperature steam does not touch the fiber.

(Eleventh Embodiment) FIG. 16 shows another embodiment of the image guide fiber 304 or the light guide fiber 306 in FIG.
Here, the image guide fiber 304 will be described.

(Structure) As shown in FIG. 16, a plurality of fibers 304 are bundled, and both ends are inserted into caps 307, 307 and fixed by bonding or the like. Further, the entire length of the fiber 304 is covered with a flexible tube 310 made of silicon or the like, and both ends of the tube 310 are adhered to a base 307 and fixed firmly with a thread 311. At this time, the tube 310 is filled with a liquid lubricant without an air layer. Examples of the liquid lubricant include grease-like compounds such as olefin, paraffin, and silicon.

(Operation) In the negative pressure step in autoclave sterilization or ethylene oxide gas sterilization, the pressure inside the outer tube 310 of the image guide fiber 304 or the light guide fiber 306 becomes relatively higher than the outside. Since the inside is filled with the liquid lubricant without an air layer, the outer tube 310 is filled.
Does not swell and burst.

During autoclave sterilization, high-pressure high-temperature steam enters the scope, but the fiber does not deteriorate because the liquid lubricant does not directly touch the fiber.

(Effects) As described above, in the present embodiment,
It has the following effects.

(1) Even if autoclave sterilization or ethylene oxide gas sterilization is performed, the outer tube of the image guide fiber or the light guide fiber does not burst.

(2) There is no deterioration of the image guide fiber or the light guide fiber.

[Appendix] (Appendix 1) In an endoscope apparatus having a movable optical system movable in the optical axis direction, when an optical unit including the movable optical system is sealed and configured, An endoscope apparatus wherein at least one of the members constituting the partition of the optical unit is made of a tubular elastic member which is expandable and contractible in the optical axis direction and at least the surface is made of metal.

(Additional Item 2) In an endoscope apparatus having an observation optical system for transmitting a subject image, a movement movable in an optical axis direction constituted by at least a part of optical members of the observation optical system. An optical system, a movable frame that holds the moving optical system, a tubular elastic member that is expandable and contractible in the optical axis direction and that is joined to the movable frame by airtight joining means, at least a surface of which is made of metal, and An endoscope device having an airtight seal as a part of a partition.

(Additional Item 3) A fixed frame that supports the entire optical system, an optical system that is built in and moves in the fixed frame, and a space that moves in the optical axis direction of the optical system that moves with the fixed frame. An endoscope apparatus comprising: a tubular elastic member that can expand and contract in the optical axis direction; and a joining unit that hermetically joins the fixed frame and the tubular elastic member.

(Additional Item 4) A fixed frame for supporting the entire optical system, a moving optical system built in the fixed frame, and an optical axis direction covering a moving space in the optical axis direction of the fixed frame and the moving optical system. An endoscope device in which a tubular elastic member made of metal which can be expanded and contracted, and a fixed frame and the tubular elastic member are joined by air-tight joining means of brazing, welding and bonding.

(Supplementary note 5) The optical system and the image sensor that relatively move in the optical axis direction can expand and contract the fitting part of the optical system and the image sensor or the frame supporting the image sensor in the optical axis direction. An endoscope device airtightly joined by a tubular elastic member.

(Additional Item 6) The endoscope apparatus according to any one of Additional Items 1 to 4, wherein the tubular elastic member has a bellows structure made of a thin metal plate.

(Additional Item 7) The tubular elastic member is a metal or a metal-coated rubber or resin, and at least one of the additional items 1 to 4 is air-tightly joined to the frame at the metal thin film or the metal coated surface. An endoscope apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

(Additional Item 8) The airtight joining means may be a fusion welding,
5. The endoscope apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the endoscope is metal welding such as pressure welding or brazing, molten glass, or adhesion.

(Supplementary note 9) The tubular elastic member is a bellows structure member made of a fusion-welded metal thin plate.
7. The endoscope apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the endoscope apparatus is metal welding.

(Additional Item 10) The endoscope apparatus according to Additional Item 2, wherein the partition walls constituting the hermetically sealed portion are made of metal, resin, ceramics, glass, or a crystalline material.

(Supplementary note 11) The partition according to Supplementary note 8 or 10, wherein the partition walls forming the hermetic sealing portion are made of metal, ceramics, glass, or a crystalline material, and the hermetic joining means is metal welding or molten glass. Endoscope device.

(Supplementary note 12) The endoscope apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the moving optical system is an internal part of the hermetic sealing portion or a part of a partition.

(Additional Item 13) The endoscope according to at least one of Additional Items 1 to 4, wherein a tubular elastic member is provided in a frame in a space before and after the moving optical system in the optical axis direction. Mirror device.

(Additional Item 14) The tubular elastic members are provided at the front and the rear of the movable frame, respectively, and the airtight partitions partitioned by optical members forming a moving optical system held by the movable frame. 14. The endoscope according to supplementary note 13, wherein the front space and the rear space in the sealed portion communicate with each other.

(Additional Item 15) The endoscope apparatus according to any one of Additional Items 1 to 4, wherein the moving optical system is an imaging lens or an imaging element.

(Additional Item 16) The endoscope according to at least one of the additional items 1 to 4, wherein the moving optical system is an objective optical system of the endoscope or a photographing device connected to the endoscope. Mirror device.

(Additional Item 17) The moving optical system is at least one of the additional items 1 to 4, which is an eyepiece optical system of an endoscope or an imaging optical system of a photographing adapter connected to the endoscope. An endoscope apparatus according to claim 1.

(Additional Item 18) An insertion portion, an image guide made of an optical fiber for transmitting a subject image disposed in the insertion portion, and an image transmitted by the image guide is formed at an eye point of an observer. An endoscope apparatus having an eyepiece optical system for moving the optical system, wherein the movable optical system is movable in an optical axis direction and is constituted by at least a part of optical members of the eyepiece optical system, and the moving optical system is held. A movable frame, a tubular elastic member airtightly joined to the movable frame and capable of expanding and contracting in the optical axis direction, at least a surface of which is made of metal, and a hermetically sealed portion including the tubular elastic member as a part of a partition. The endoscope apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the movable optical system is a part of an internal component of the hermetic sealing portion and / or a partition.

(Additional Item 19) A rigid insertion portion, an elongated tubular member arranged in the rigid insertion portion, and a subject image which is fixedly inserted and arranged in the tubular member are transmitted. An imaging optical system including a solid-state imaging device and an imaging lens for imaging an image transmitted by the relay lens, which is disposed closer to the base end than the insertion section. In the endoscope apparatus, a movable optical system configured to include at least one of the imaging lens and the solid-state imaging device and movable in an optical axis direction, a movable frame that holds the movable optical system, and a hermetic seal with the movable frame. An endoscope apparatus comprising: a tubular elastic member which is expandable and contractible in an optical axis direction and is formed of a metal at least on a surface thereof; and a hermetically sealed portion including the tubular elastic member as a part of a partition wall.

(Supplementary Item 20) An adjusting ring provided on the exterior and rotatable from the outside, and a movement direction converting mechanism for converting the rotational movement of the adjusting ring into a linear movement in the optical axis direction of the movable frame. An endoscope apparatus according to attachment 19, wherein

(Supplementary Item 21) The movement direction conversion mechanism may include:
An adjustment ring or an interlocking frame that rotates in conjunction with the adjustment ring,
Alternatively, a cam groove provided in one of the members of the movable frame, which is obliquely cut in the circumferential direction, and fixed to the other member of the member provided with the cam groove, which engages with the cam groove. 21. The endoscope apparatus according to claim 20, comprising an engagement member provided on the movable frame, and a rotation preventing mechanism provided on the movable frame for preventing the movable frame from rotating.

(Supplementary Item 22) The lens unit having the hermetically sealed structure further includes a volume change absorbing member that absorbs a volume change of gas in the lens unit internal space that changes when the tubular elastic member expands and contracts. Item 2. The endoscope apparatus according to Item 1.

The operation of the above-mentioned additional items 1 to 21 will be described. Additional notes 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9,1
In 0, 11, 12, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19, during autoclave sterilization, the tubular elastic member permeates its own vapor even if a relative pressure change occurs between the airtight optical system and the external environment. Insulation, completely shut off high-pressure high-temperature steam, and maintain its shape without swelling or shrinking. In addition, there are no mechanical gaps at the joints between the tubular elastic member, the fixed frame, and the moving optical system, and there is no permeation of high-pressure high-temperature steam. Further, at the time of use, the optical system moves along the optical axis by directly or indirectly moving a pin or the like provided outside the airtight unit of the moving optical system with a cam structure or the like.

In the supplementary item 5, the optical system support frame and the imaging surface support frame are formed by a tubular elastic member that covers a fitting portion between the optical system support frame supporting the optical system and the imaging surface support frame containing the imaging surface. Is relatively moved along the fitting portion, the tubular elastic member expands and contracts sufficiently, and the relative distance is adjusted.

In the additional item 13, in addition to the additional items 2 and 4, a pin provided outside the hermetically sealed space of the optical system that is movable relative to the fixed pair of the fixed optical systems. The optical system moves in the optical axis direction by moving it directly or indirectly with a cam structure or the like, and the tubular elastic member relatively expands and contracts with the optical system fixed at both ends in the optical axis direction. Do it.

[0229] In Additional Item 14, the gas in one space is compressed by forming a ventilation hole that connects the eyepiece lens front end space and the eyepiece lens base end space formed in the eyepiece lens frame. In this case, it is possible to solve the problem that the compressed gas is sent into the other space to increase the amount of rotational force of the diopter adjusting ring and that the rotation is returned to the original state.

In the additional items 20, 21 and 22, when an in-focus image cannot be obtained, the interlocking frames connected by the fixed pins are rotated together by rotating the focus adjustment ring. When the interlock frame rotates, the cam pins provided on the movable frame engaged with the cam grooves of the interlock frame move in the optical axis direction. Thereby, the movable frame and the image sensor held by the image sensor frame inside the movable frame move in the optical axis direction. At this time, the volume change of the gas in the lens unit space is absorbed by the volume change absorbing member.

(Additional Item 23) In an endoscope apparatus including a lens unit having an airtight structure and a frame member having a watertight structure in which the lens unit is movably mounted, an outer periphery including at least a lens surface of the lens unit An endoscope apparatus in which a transparent member having fluidity is arranged in a space surrounded by a surface.

(Additional Item 24) The endoscope apparatus according to Additional Item 23, wherein the frame member and the lens unit are connected by a deformable connection member.

(Additional Item 25) The endoscope apparatus according to Additional Item 24, wherein the deformable connection member has a bellows structure.

(Additional Item 26) The endoscope apparatus according to Additional Item 24, wherein the deformable connection member is formed of an elastic member.

(Additional Item 27) The endoscope according to Additional Item 23, wherein the endoscope has a plurality of spaces surrounded by an outer peripheral surface including the lens surface, and the lens frame has a communication port communicating the plurality of spaces. apparatus.

(Additional Item 28) The endoscope apparatus according to additional item 23 or 24, wherein the transparent member is a member having heat resistance.

The operation of the above-mentioned additional items 23 to 28 will be described. In Additional Item 23, when the operator performs the diopter adjustment operation, the lens unit moves with respect to the eyepiece-side end surface of the optical fiber bundle, and the diopter can be adjusted.

In the additional item 24, when the lens unit moves, the transparent member covering the surface of the optical member on the outer peripheral surface of the lens unit can flow by deforming the connection member. Other functions are the same as those of the supplementary item 23.

[0239] In Additional Item 25, when the lens unit moves, the transparent member covering the surface of the optical member on the outer peripheral surface of the lens unit flows due to the bellows connecting member expanding and contracting and deforming. it can. Other functions are the same as those of the supplementary item 23.

[0240] In Additional Item 26, when the lens unit moves, the transparent member covering the surface of the optical member on the outer peripheral surface of the lens unit flows due to deformation of the connection member provided by the elastic member. it can. Other functions are the same as those of the supplementary item 23.

In Additional Item 27, when the lens unit moves, the transparent member covering the optical member surface on the outer peripheral surface of the lens unit flows by moving the transparent member through the communication port of the lens frame. be able to. Other functions are the same as those of the supplementary item 23.

In the supplementary item 28, when the autoclave sterilization is performed, the entire endoscope is heated to about 135 ° C. However, since the transparent member has heat resistance, no coloring or denaturation occurs.

(Additional Item 29) In an endoscope apparatus having an optical fiber bundle formed by bundling a large number of optical fibers, both ends of the optical fiber bundle are fixed to a base, and the space between the bases is flexible. An endoscope device covered with a tube made of a metal material and joined to the base in a watertight manner.

(Additional Item 30) The endoscope apparatus according to Additional Item 29, wherein the tube has a bellows at least in part.

The operation of the above-mentioned additional items 29 and 30 will be described. With the configuration of the additional items, while having flexibility,
It has the effect that high-pressure, high-temperature steam from the autoclave does not touch the fiber.

[0246]

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to maintain the strength of a moving optical system against a change in pressure of the external environment and to ensure the airtightness against the intrusion of high-pressure high-temperature steam. Therefore, it is possible to sterilize the endoscope apparatus with high-pressure and high-temperature steam such as autoclave sterilization. Moreover, the diopter of the optical system can be adjusted and the airtight structure for autoclave sterilization can be achieved by simply modifying the conventional device without using any special adjustment means such as a power supply or magnet, or a driving mechanism. Can be realized.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing an endoscope apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 2 and 3 relate to an application example of the first embodiment,
FIG. 2 is a view for explaining a configuration example of an eyepiece using a tubular elastic member having a substantially constant diameter over its entire length.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a volume change absorbing member provided in an eyepiece unit.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating another configuration of the eyepiece unit.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view showing an endoscope apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view showing an endoscope apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

7 to 9 relate to an endoscope apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration of a videoscope having a hard insertion portion.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory view showing a cross section near the tip end in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is an explanatory view showing a cross section near the operation grip section in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing an endoscope apparatus according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a sectional view showing the operation of the illustrated apparatus.

FIG. 12 is a sectional view showing an endoscope apparatus according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a sectional view showing an endoscope apparatus according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a sectional view showing the image guide fiber in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a sectional view showing an endoscope apparatus according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a sectional view showing an endoscope apparatus according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Endoscope eyepiece part 2 ... Image guide 3 ... Exterior tube 4 ... IG frame 5 ... IG cover window 6 ... Eyepiece optical system 7 ... Movable frame 8 ... First cam pin 9 ... First cam groove 10 ... Support Frame 10 11 Interlocking frame 11 12 Second cam groove 13 Second cam pin 14 Focus adjustment ring 15 First annular elastic watertight member 16 Fixed cylinder 17 Elastic member 18 First screw 19 Eyepiece 20 ... Loosening screw 21 ... Second annular elastic watertight member 22 ... Cover window 23 ... Cover window holder 24 ... Cover window joining surface 25 ... First tubular elastic member 26 ... First elastic body airtight joining surface 27 ... Second tubular elastic member 28 ... second elastic body airtight joint surface 29 ... airtight space 30 ... cover window fixing frame 51 ... video adapter 52 ... endoscope 53 ... camera head 54 ... eyepiece mount 55 ... first annular elasticity water Dense member 56 ... Body 57 ... Nut 58 ... Washer 59 ... Adjusting ring 61 ... Second annular elastic watertight member 62 ... Ring stopper 63 ... Screw 64 ... First cam groove 65 ... Cam pin 66 ... Straight cam groove 67 ... Lens frame 68 imaging optical system 69 first cover window frame 70 joining surface 71 first cover window 72 joining surface 73 second cover window frame 74 joining surface 75 second cover window 76 joining Surface 77: first convex portion 78: first tubular elastic member 79: joining surface 80: second convex portion 81: second tubular elastic member 82: joining surface 83: airtight space 84: first end 85 second end portion 101 insertion portion 102 tip frame 103 light guide 104 illumination lens 105 objective lens frame 106 annular elastic watertight member 107 objective cover lens 108 objective lens system 109 Filter frame 110 Optical filter 111 Image sensor frame 112 Image sensor 113 Contact pin 114 Image sensor connector 115 Drive circuit 116 Image sensor substrate 117 FPC board 118 Hermetic connector 119 Hermetic connector pin 120 Signal harness 121: tip exterior member 122: cable jacket 123: imaging element watertight cover 124: cover connection part 126: tubular elastic member 127 ... hermetic joint surface 128 ... hermetic space 129 ... protruding piece 130 ... operating wire 131: coiled elastic member 201 ... Eyepiece section 202 ... Eyepiece base 203 ... Inner frame 204 ... Outer frame 205 ... Cover glass holder 206 ... Cover glass 207 ... Rotating ring 208 ... Ring 209 ... Locking pin 210 ... Cam surface 211 ... Cam 212 ... Lens frame 213 214 ... End face 2 15 Spring 216 Pin 217 Optical fiber bundle 218 Optical fiber bundle receiver 219 Eyepiece end face 220 Cover glass 221 Chromium oxide deposition 222 First bellows 223, 224 Rings 225, 226 Cover glass 227 Lens 228 Liquid member 229 Second bellows 230 Ring 231 Liquid member 232 Lens frame 233 Optical fiber bundle receiver 234, 235 O-ring 236 Cover glass holder 237 Communication port 301 Insertion section 302 Tip Hard part 303 ... Objective lens 304 ... Image guide fiber 305 ... Illumination lens 306 ... Light guide fiber 307 ... Base 308 ... Metal tube 309 ... Bellows 310 ... Soft tube

Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Takao Yamaguchi 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Inside Olympus Optical Industrial Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Susumu Aono 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Olympus Optical Within Kogyo Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Takeaki Nakamura 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Kazutaka Nakachi 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Ori (72) Inventor Takahiro Kishi 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Orimpass Optical Industry Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Yasuhito Kura 2-34-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Within Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Yasuyuki Futaki 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Within Olympus Optical Industries Co., Ltd. (72) Yousuke Yoshimoto 2-43 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo No. 2 Inside Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. An endoscope apparatus having a moving optical system movable in an optical axis direction, wherein when an optical unit including the moving optical system is sealed and configured, a partition of the optical unit is configured. At least one of the members
One is an endoscope device, which is a tubular elastic member that can expand and contract in the optical axis direction and has at least a surface formed of metal.