JP2000316794A - Endoscope holder - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily and surely execute the proper usage of a rotary operation for changing an observation direction by providing a change-over means in an operation body, by which a state is changed-over into a first one where a rotary body is rotated by following up the rotary action of the operation body or a second one where the rotary body is not rotated by not following up the rotation of the operation body. SOLUTION: An endoscope holder is provided with a pressure pin 33 for controlling the connection state of an operation ring 29 which is normally rotated integrally with the endoscope 1 to a built-in ring 31 having an imaging device 25 and is provided with an elastic member 34 in the operation ring 29, and then, a first state where the built-in ring 31 is rotated with the rotary action of the operation ring 29 and a second state where the built-in ring 31 does not follow the rotation of the ring 29 are changed-over by the operation of the pressure pin 33. Therefore, an operation for integrally rotating the endoscope 1 and the imaging device 25 and an operation for rotating only the endoscope 1 are easily and surely used properly only the grasping the operating ring 29 by one hand and operating the pressure pin 33 by the fingers of the grasping hand.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an endoscope holder used for holding an endoscope in endoscopic surgery.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In an operation under endoscopic observation,
An endoscope is inserted into a body cavity, and a treatment is performed while observing an observation image captured by a TV camera, which is imaging means attached to the endoscope, on a monitor. In this case, since the surgeon generally holds the surgical instrument in his / her hand, the surgeon uses the endoscope holder to securely hold the endoscope at the operation site. The endoscope holder has a three-dimensional degree of freedom so that the endoscope can be guided to a surgical site from a position and a direction desired by the operator.

[0003] An operator moves the endoscope to an arbitrary position and direction by the endoscope holding tool, or moves the endoscope itself around a center axis in the insertion direction (the center axis in the longitudinal direction of the endoscope). By rotating the endoscope, the observation object of the endoscope is changed. In particular, in the operation of rotating the endoscope itself around the center axis in the insertion direction, the TV camera and the endoscope are integrally rotated, and only the endoscope is rotated with the TV camera fixed. There are cases. Hereinafter, these two methods of rotating the endoscope will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 9 shows a state in which an endoscope is inserted into an operation site in a body cavity. In the figure, reference numeral 200 denotes a side-view type endoscope capable of observing the side. A TV camera (not shown) is rotatably attached to the endoscope 200. Also, 2
Reference numeral 04 denotes a body cavity wall having a substantially cylindrical shape. The arrow A indicates the observation direction of the endoscope 200 inserted into the body cavity in the illustrated state. The first observation target P is located on the body cavity wall 204 in the observation direction A. Arrow B indicates the observation direction of the endoscope 200 when the endoscope 200 turned in the observation direction A is rotated by 90 ° in the direction C about the longitudinal center axis O thereof. The second observation target P ′ is located on the body cavity wall 204 in the observation direction B.

In the state shown in FIG. 9, when the first observation object P located in the observation direction A is observed by the endoscope 200, the first observation object P becomes the TV camera attached to the endoscope 200. Are displayed on the monitor via the monitor as shown in FIG. Next, from this state, in order to observe the second observation target P ′ located in the observation direction B, the TV camera and the endoscope 200 are integrated with each other in the C direction around the longitudinal central axis O in the direction C.
When rotated by 0 °, the second observation target P ′ is projected on the monitor as shown in FIG. The observation state by the monitor in this case is the same as the state in which the operator enters the body cavity and observes the body cavity wall 204 as shown in FIG. That is, since the relative position between the TV camera as the imaging means and the endoscope 200 does not change, the vertical relationship of the observation image on the monitor is always in the insertion direction of the endoscope (the vertical relationship of the second observation target P ′). Matches. Therefore, the surgeon can easily grasp the internal structure of the body cavity, and can safely insert and remove the endoscope from the operative portion where operation is most important during surgery.

On the other hand, from the state in which the first observation object P is observed by the endoscope 200, in order to observe the second observation object P 'located in the observation direction B, the TV camera is fixed. When only the endoscope 200 is rotated by 90 ° in the direction C around the longitudinal center axis O, the relative position between the TV camera and the endoscope 200 changes, and the second observation object P ′ is shown in FIG. It is projected on the monitor as shown. The observation state by the monitor in this case is the same as the state as if the body cavity wall 204 was expanded, as shown in FIG. That is, an observation image in the same direction as a state in which the operator directly looks into the unfolded body cavity wall 204 from the outside is displayed on the monitor. When only the endoscope 200 is rotated around the longitudinal center axis O while the TV camera is fixed as described above, the direction of the TV camera with respect to the operator is always kept constant. When performing a treatment operation on the observation objects P and P ′ while observing the observation image on the monitor, the direction in which the operator actually moves the surgical tool and the direction in which the surgical tool moves on the monitor are always kept constant. .

[0007] Such two kinds of rotation operation of the endoscope are as follows.
Depending on the operation site and the operation state, the operator can use the endoscopic operation accordingly.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. Hei 8- 211305 discloses an endoscope holder having six axes of freedom to which a TV camera and an endoscope can be integrally attached. Even in such an endoscope holder, the observation direction of the endoscope can be changed by the two kinds of endoscope rotation operations as described above. That is, when the TV camera attached to the endoscope holder is held by hand and the TV camera is rotated integrally with the endoscope with respect to the endoscope holder, the observation direction of the endoscope is changed, An observation image as shown in FIG. 11A can be obtained. On the other hand, if the endoscope is rotated with respect to the TV camera while holding and fixing the TV camera with one hand and holding the endoscope with the other hand, as shown in FIG. It is possible to obtain a proper observation image.

[0009]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION However, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 8-2
In the endoscope holder disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 11305,
The operation of rotating the endoscope with respect to the TV camera is significantly different from the operation of rotating the TV camera and the endoscope integrally. That is, when the TV camera and the endoscope are integrally rotated, the TV camera may be held and rotated with respect to the endoscope holder, but when only the endoscope is rotated, Must be operated by holding the TV camera and the endoscope with separate hands. Therefore, when the above two rotation operations are repeatedly performed during the operation, the operation burden on the operator increases, and there is a possibility that the operation cannot be efficiently performed. Further, when only the endoscope is rotated, both hands are robbed by the rotation operation of the endoscope, so that the treatment operation performed while observing the observation image of the endoscope must be interrupted. This not only reduces the efficiency of the operation, but also increases the burden on the patient.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to move the endoscope around its longitudinal center axis without changing the relative position between the endoscope and the imaging means. Rotational operation that changes the observation direction by rotating it, and rotation operation that changes the observation direction while rotating the endoscope only around its longitudinal center axis and changing the relative position between the endoscope and the imaging means are easy. An object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope holder that can be used properly and reliably.

[0011]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an endoscope holder according to the present invention comprises an operable holding arm for holding an endoscope at a desired position, and Operating body to which the endoscope is connected and fixed, and which is rotatably provided with respect to the holding arm, and which is optically connected to the endoscope which is connected to and fixed to the operating body. An optical element having a light receiving surface for receiving observation light from a mirror, or a rotating body to which an image pickup means for capturing an observation image by an endoscope is fixed; And a switching means for switching between a first state in which the rotating body follows the rotation of the operating body and a second state in which the rotating body does not follow the rotation of the operating body.

[0012]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 shows an endoscope 1 and an endoscope holder 4 for holding the endoscope 1. As shown in the figure, the endoscope 1 includes an insertion section 2 to be inserted into a body. At the base end of the insertion section 2, a connection section 3 connected to the endoscope holder 4 is formed. In addition, the endoscope holder 4 is
The connecting portion 3 of the endoscope 1 is detachably connected and the endoscope 1
An imaging unit 5 for capturing an observation image obtained by
It comprises a holding arm 6 for holding the endoscope 1 via the imaging unit 5 and a mounting portion 7 which is removably mounted on a side rail of a surgical bed (not shown).

The mounting portion 7 of the endoscope holder 4 comprises a mounting portion main body 8a and a base 8b extending from the mounting portion main body 8a. The attachment portion main body 8a is provided with a hook-shaped engagement portion 9 that is hooked and attached to a side rail (hereinafter, referred to as a bedside rail) of the operation bed. Further, a fixing knob 10 for fixing the mounting portion main body 8a to the bedside rail is provided on the mounting portion main body 8a so as to face the engaging portion 9. The fixing knob 10 is screwed and attached to the attaching portion main body 8a, and has a screw portion extending toward the engaging portion 9. In addition, the fixed knob 10
At the end of the screw portion, a pressing member is provided which is pressed against the mounting surface of the bedside rail.

Therefore, when the fixing knob 10 is tightened in a state where the engaging portion 9 is hooked on the bedside rail, and the pressing member of the fixing knob 10 is pressed against the mounting surface of the bedside rail, the mounting portion main body is provided. 8a can be fixed to the bedside rail.

A vertical arm 11 constituting the holding arm 6 is rotatably mounted on the base 8b of the mounting portion 7. The vertical arm 11 extends from the base 8b vertically upwards, it can rotate about a first axis O ₁ perpendicular consistent with its longitudinal axis. In addition, the base 8b has the first
Adjustment knob 12 for adjusting the force of the rotation of the vertical arm 11 about the axis O ₁ of is attached by screwing. Adjusting knob 12 has a threaded portion extending into the first orthogonal and vertical arm 11 to the axis O _1, the end of the threaded portion is pressed against the outer circumferential surface of the vertical arm 11 A pressing member is provided. Therefore, the amount of rotational force of the vertical arm 11 is determined by the amount of tightening of the adjustment knob 12 with respect to the base 8b, that is, the degree of pressing of the pressing member against the vertical arm 11.

At the upper end of the vertical arm 11, a first link arm 1 constituting the holding arm 6 is connected via a joint 14.
One end of 3 is rotatably attached. In this case, the first link arm 13 can be pivoted to the second about the axis O ₂ of the orthogonal first and the axis O _1. Also,
The other end of the first link arm 13 is connected to the second link arm 15 constituting the holding arm 6 via the joint 16.
Is rotatably mounted at one end. in this case,
The second link arm 15 is connected to a third link parallel to the _second axis O2.
It is possible to rotate about the axis O ₃ of the third
Can be rotated about a _fourth axis O ₄ (longitudinal axis of the second link arm 15) orthogonal to the axis O ₃ . The other end of the second link arm 15 has a joint 17.
The imaging unit 5 is rotatably mounted via the. In this case, the imaging unit 5 can rotate around a _fifth axis O5 orthogonal to the _fourth axis O4.

The link arms 13 and 15 are connected to the respective axes O and O by the weight of the endoscope 1 and the holding arm 6 for holding the endoscope.
_A rotation force adjustment mechanism (not shown) is provided inside each of the joints 14, 16, and 17 in order to prevent natural rotation around _{2 to} O ₅ .

FIG. 2 shows the internal configuration of the endoscope 1 and the imaging unit 5. As shown, the imaging unit 5 includes a housing 30. An operation ring 29 as an operation body is rotatably attached to the housing 30. Further, the connection portion 3 of the endoscope 1 is detachably connected to the operation ring 29 via a mounting screw 28. The operation ring 29 is attached to the housing 30 so that the operation ring 29 can rotate around the longitudinal center axis L2 of the insertion section 2 of the endoscope 1 connected thereto.

A built-in ring 31 is provided inside the operation ring 29 as a rotating body. This built-in ring 31
Can rotate around the longitudinal center axis L2 of the insertion section 2 of the endoscope 1 connected to the operation ring 29,
It is rotatably attached to the housing 30. The built-in ring 31 includes an image pickup device 2 as an image pickup unit.
5 and a distal end portion of a light guide 21 that is optically connected to the endoscope 1 and supplies illumination light to the endoscope 1 are incorporated in a fixed state. TV cable 1 for image sensor 25
8 is connected to one end. The TV cable 18 is shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2, the arm protrudes from the base 8b through the inside of each of the arms 11, 13, and 15, and the other end is connected to the camera control unit 19. Note that the camera control unit 19 is connected to the monitor 20, converts an electric signal transmitted through the TV cable 18 into a video signal, and outputs the video signal to the monitor 20.
Further, the light guide 21 has a cylindrical portion at the tip end facing the endoscope 1. The base end of the light guide 21 passes through the inside of each of the arms 11, 13, and 15, and
And is connected to the light source device 22 (see FIG. 1).

On the other hand, the endoscope 1 has an objective lens 23 at the tip of the insertion section 2. This objective lens 23
The observation optical axis L1 passing through the center is the longitudinal central axis L of the insertion section 2.
2 is attached to the tip of the insertion portion 2 so as to form a certain angle α with respect to the insertion portion 2. Further, a relay lens 24 is provided in the insertion section 2 of the endoscope 1, and an imaging lens 38 is provided in a base end of the endoscope 1. Imaging lens 38
Are opposed to the image sensor 25 on the imaging unit 5 side with the endoscope 1 connected to the operation ring 29, and the objective lens 2
3 and receives the observation light guided by the relay lens 24 to form an image on the image sensor 25. Insertion section 2
Inside, a light guide 27 that receives illumination light from the light guide 21 disposed on the imaging unit 5 side is disposed over substantially the entire length thereof. In this case, the light guide 27 is cylindrically arranged in the insertion section 2 so as to surround the imaging lens 38 and the relay lens 24 from the outside in accordance with the arrangement shape of the distal end of the light guide 21.
The endoscope 1 can face the light guide 21 while being connected to the operation ring 29. Further, an illumination lens 26 for irradiating illumination light guided by the light guide 27 in a direction substantially parallel to the observation optical axis L1 is provided at a distal end of the insertion section 2.

A push pin 33 is attached to the side wall of the operation ring 29 of the imaging unit 5 so as to penetrate. The push pin 33 includes a shaft extending toward the outer peripheral surface of the built-in ring 31 and an elastic member 34 such as rubber provided at an end of the shaft and pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the built-in ring 31.
And can move in the direction indicated by the arrow 36 in the figure. An urging spring 35 is provided between the operation ring 29 and the push pin 33. This biasing spring 35 is
The elastic member 34 constantly urges the push pin 33 in a direction away from the outer peripheral surface of the built-in ring 31.

In this configuration, when the push pin 33 is pushed against the operating ring 29 in the direction of the arrow 39 against the urging force of the urging spring 35 to press the elastic member 34 against the outer peripheral surface of the built-in ring 31, The operation ring 29 is connected to the built-in ring 31. Therefore, when the operation ring 29 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 31 is integrated with the operation ring 29.
Also rotate. When the pushing force acting on the push pin 33 is released, the elastic member 34 is biased by the spring 35.
Is separated from the outer peripheral surface of the built-in ring 31, and the push pin 33
Is retracted to the outside of the operation ring 29 in the radial direction. That is, the connection state between the operation ring 29 and the built-in ring 31 is released. Therefore, even if the operation ring 29 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 31 does not rotate.

That is, in the present embodiment, the push pin 33 and the elastic member 34 control the connection state between the operation ring 29 and the built-in ring 31, and the operation ring 29 (the endoscope 1 is connected to the operation ring 29). The first state in which the built-in ring 31 (imaging element 25) is rotated with the rotation of the operation ring 29 and the endoscope 1);
The switching unit switches between a second state in which the built-in ring 31 is not rotated with the rotation of the operation ring 29.

Next, a method of using the endoscope holder 4 having the above configuration will be described.

When the endoscope holder 4 is used by being fixed to the bedside rail, first, the engaging portion 9 of the mounting portion 7 of the endoscope holder 4 is hooked on the bedside rail. Then, the fixing knob 10 is tightened against the mounting portion main body 8a, and the pressing member of the fixing knob 10 is pressed against the mounting surface of the bedside rail. Thereby, the mounting portion main body 8a is fixed to the bedside rail.

Next, the endoscope 1 is connected via a mounting screw 28 to an operation ring 29 provided on the imaging unit 5 of the endoscope holder 4. Thereby, the endoscope 1 is fixed to the operation ring 29, and the endoscope 1 can be rotated together with the operation ring 29.

In this manner, the endoscope 1 is connected to the endoscope holder 4.
Then, the operation is started on the patient lying on the operation bed. In the operation, the operation ring 29 is grasped by hand, and the arms 11 and 1 constituting the endoscope holder 4 are held.
By rotating the imaging units 5 around the rotation axes O _{1 to} O ₅ , the endoscope 1 is three-dimensionally oriented so that the observation optical axis L 1 of the objective lens 23 is directed to a desired observation target. Move to

In observation with the endoscope 1, the light source device 22
Is supplied to the observation target via the light guides 21 and 27 and the illumination lens 26. The reflected light from the observation target passes through the objective lens 23 and the relay lens 24, forms an image on the imaging device 25 by the imaging lens 38, and is converted into an electric signal by the imaging device 25. This electric signal is transmitted to the camera control unit 19 via the TV cable 18 and converted into a video signal, and then displayed on the monitor 20 as an observation image by the endoscope 1 and observed by the operator.

During the operation, from the state of observing the first observation object P shown in FIG. 9 by the endoscope 1, in order to observe the second observation object P ′, the operation ring is pushed while pushing the push pin 33. When the camera 29 is rotated 90 degrees in the direction C together with the endoscope 1, the second observation object P 'is projected on the monitor 20 as shown in FIG. That is,
With the observation optical axis L1 of the objective lens 23 oriented in the observation direction A, the push pin 33 is pushed into the operation ring 29 in the direction of the arrow 39, and the elastic member 34 is inserted into the built-in ring 3.
When the operation ring 29 is pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the operation ring 2, the operation ring 29 is connected to the built-in ring 31.
When the camera 9 is rotated, the built-in ring 31 (image sensor 25) rotates integrally with the operation ring 29, and the endoscope 1 and the image sensor 2
The observation direction is changed without changing the relative position with respect to 5. Therefore, an observation image as shown in FIG. 11A in which the vertical relationship of the observation image of the endoscope 1 always coincides with the insertion direction of the endoscope 1 can be observed on the monitor 20.

On the other hand, from the state of observing the first observation object P, the operation ring 2 is operated without operating the push pin 33.
When the camera 9 is rotated by 90 degrees in the direction C together with the endoscope 1, the second observation object P 'is projected on the monitor 20 as shown in FIG. That is, when the push pin 33 is not pushed in, the elastic member 34 is separated from the outer peripheral surface of the built-in ring 31 by the urging force of the spring 35, and the connection state between the operation ring 29 and the built-in ring 31 is released. Therefore, even if the operation ring 29 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 31 (image sensor 25) does not rotate. Therefore, the observation direction is changed in a state where the relative position between the endoscope 1 and the imaging device 25 is changed, and an observation image rotated by 90 degrees as shown in FIG. You.

As described above, the endoscope holder 4 of the present embodiment controls the connection state between the operation ring 29 which always rotates integrally with the endoscope 1 and the built-in ring 31 having the image pickup device 25. A push pin 33 and an elastic member 34 are provided on the operation ring 29, and by operating the push pin 33,
The first state in which the built-in ring 31 is rotated with the rotation of the operation ring 29, and the built-in ring 31 does not follow the rotation of the operation ring 29 (the built-in ring 31 does not rotate).
The second state can be switched.

Accordingly, the endoscope 1 and the imaging device 25 can be connected to the longitudinal center axis L2 of the endoscope 1 simply by holding the operation ring 29 with one hand and operating the push pin 33 with the finger of the hand. The operation of integrally rotating the endoscope 1 and the operation of rotating only the endoscope 1 around the longitudinal center axis L2 can be performed easily and reliably by properly using them. That is, when only the endoscope 1 is rotated, the operation ring 29 may be rotated with respect to the housing 30 of the imaging unit 5 without holding the operation ring 29 with one hand and operating the push pin 33. When the image pickup device 25 and the endoscope 1 are integrally rotated, the push pin 33 is pushed in with the finger of the hand holding the operation ring 29 to operate the operation ring 29.
Can be rotated. Therefore, even when the above two rotation operations are repeatedly performed during the operation, the operator can efficiently perform the operation without feeling a burden on the operation.

In this embodiment, the image pickup device 2
5 rotates together with the built-in ring 31, so that the image sensor 2
As compared with a case where an optical element is provided between the endoscope 5 and the endoscope 1 and the optical element is rotated, the configuration is simplified, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show a second embodiment of the present invention. Note that, in this embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

As shown, an endoscope connecting portion 43 is rotatably attached to the other end of the second link arm 15 via the joint 17. In this case, the endoscope connection portion 43 can rotate around a _fifth axis O5 orthogonal to the _fourth axis O4. Further, the endoscope 40 is rotatably connected to the endoscope connecting portion 43.
Specifically, an operation ring 42 as an operation body is integrally fixed to a base end portion of the endoscope 40.
Is attached to the endoscope connection portion 43 so that the insertion portion 41 of the endoscope 40 can rotate about the longitudinal center axis O ₆ (perpendicular to the fifth axis O ₅ ).

As shown in detail in FIG.
Has an objective lens 44 at the tip of the insertion portion 41. This objective lens 44 has an observation optical axis L passing through its center.
3 is attached to the distal end of the insertion portion 41 such that the reference numeral 3 is orthogonal to the longitudinal center axis O ₆ of the insertion portion 41. In addition, the endoscope 4
A first image guide 45 is provided in the insertion section 41 of the “0” over substantially the entire length thereof. In this case, the first
Of the image guide 45 is positioned at the image forming position of the objective lens 44.

A second image guide 48 is provided in the endoscope connection portion 43 over substantially the entire length thereof.
In this case, the base end portion of the second image guide 48 is
Its central axis is fixed in the endoscope connection portion 43 so as to coincide with the axis O ₅ of the fifth. An imaging lens 53 is fixed in the endoscope connection portion 43 so as to face the base end surface of the second image guide 48. The imaging lens 53 forms an observation image sent from the endoscope 40 through the second image guide 48 on an image sensor 56 inside a TV camera 55 provided in the hollow joint 17. . Note that the TV camera 55 is attached to the endoscope connection section 43 via the attachment screw 54.

A built-in ring 46 as a rotating body is disposed inside the endoscope connecting portion 43. This built-in ring 4
6 rotates with respect to the endoscope connection portion 43 so that the insertion portion 41 of the endoscope 40 connected to the endoscope connection portion 43 can rotate around the longitudinal center axis O ₆ of the insertion portion 41. It is kept possible. Further, the built-in ring 46 has a distal end portion of a second image guide 48 and an imaging lens 47 that forms an observation image sent through the first image guide 45 on the distal end surface of the second image guide 48. Built-in in a fixed state. In this case, the distal ends of the imaging lens 47 and the second image guide 48 have their central axes coincident with the longitudinal central axis O ₆ of the insertion section 41 of the endoscope 40 connected to the endoscope connection section 43. It is arranged to be. The endoscope connecting portion 43 has a hollow portion 57 adjacent to the built-in ring 46 that allows the second image guide 48 to twist.

An operation lever 49 is provided on a side wall of the operation ring 42.
Is movably provided. This operation lever 49 is
As shown by arrows 50 and 51 in FIG.
2 can be moved substantially parallel to the central axis. In addition, built-in ring 4
A plurality of engagement grooves 52 that can be engaged with the operation lever 49 are formed on the outer peripheral surface of 6. In such a configuration, when the operation lever 49 is moved in the direction shown by the arrow 50 to engage with the engagement groove 52, the operation ring 42
6 is connected. Therefore, in this state, the operation ring 4
When the second ring 2 is rotated, the built-in ring 46 also rotates integrally with the operation ring 42. When the operation lever 49 is moved in the direction indicated by the arrow 51 to release the engagement state between the engagement groove 52 and the operation lever 49, the connection state between the operation ring 42 and the built-in ring 46 is released. Therefore, even if the operation ring 42 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 46 does not rotate.

That is, in the present embodiment, the operation lever 49 and the engagement groove 52 control the connection state between the operation ring 42 and the built-in ring 46, and follow the rotation of the operation ring 42 (endoscope 40). Switching means for switching between a first state in which the built-in ring 46 (the imaging lens 47 and the second image guide 48) is rotated and a second state in which the built-in ring 46 is not rotated with the rotation of the operation ring 42. Is composed.

Next, a method of using the endoscope holder having the above configuration will be described.

In the operation, the operation ring 42 is grasped by hand, and the arms 11, 13, 1 constituting the endoscope holder are operated.
5 and the endoscope connection part 43 are rotated around each of the rotation axes O _{1 to} O _5, whereby the observation optical axis L of the objective lens 44 is
Endoscope 40 so that 3 is oriented to the desired observation object
Is moved three-dimensionally.

In the observation by the endoscope 40, the illumination light supplied from the light source device is guided to the observation object via a light guide and an illumination lens (not shown). The reflected light from the observation target is transmitted to the objective lens 44 and the first image guide 4.
5, the image is formed on the image sensor 56 by the image forming lens 53 via the image forming lens 47 and the second image guide 48, and is converted into an electric signal by the image sensor 56. The electric signal is transmitted to the camera control unit 19 via the TV cable 18 and is converted into a video signal. Then, the electric signal is displayed on the monitor 20 as an observation image by the endoscope 40 and observed by the operator.

During the operation, from the state where the first observation object P shown in FIG. 9 is observed by the endoscope 40, the operation lever 49 is moved by the arrow 50 to observe the second observation object P '.
When the operation ring 42 is moved in the direction C together with the endoscope 40 while being moved in the direction indicated by
When rotated by 0 degrees, the second observation target P ′ is projected on the monitor 20 as shown in FIG.
That is, the observation optical axis L3 of the objective lens 44 is in the observation direction A
When the operation lever 49 is moved in the direction shown by the arrow 50 and is engaged with the engagement groove 52 in a state where
Since the operation ring 42 is connected to the built-in ring 46, if the operation ring 42 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 46 (the imaging lens 47 and the second image guide 48) is rotated integrally with the operation ring 42. . In this case, the tip of the second image guide 48 is
8 and the base end portion is fixed to the endoscope connecting portion 43, so that the observation image is twisted in the hollow portion 57 by the rotation of the built-in ring 46 from the imaging lens 53 to the imaging device 56. Communicate to Therefore, the endoscope 40
The observation direction is changed without changing the relative position between the endoscope 40 and the imaging element 56, and the vertical relationship of the observation image of the endoscope 40 always coincides with the insertion direction of the endoscope 40, as shown in FIG. Such an observation image can be observed on the monitor 20.

On the other hand, in order to observe the second observation object P ′ from the state in which the first observation object P is observed, the operating lever 49 is moved in the direction indicated by the arrow 51 and the engagement groove 52 is moved. In the state where the engagement state between the
When the operation ring 42 is rotated by 90 degrees in the direction C together with the endoscope 40, the second observation target P 'is projected on the monitor 20 as shown in FIG. That is,
When the engagement state between the engagement groove 52 and the operation lever 49 is released, the connection state between the operation ring 42 and the built-in ring 46 is released.
Even if 2 is rotated, the built-in ring 46 does not rotate. For this reason, the observation direction is changed in a state where the relative position between the endoscope 40 and the imaging element 56 is changed, and an observation image rotated by 90 degrees as shown in FIG. You.

As described above, in the endoscope holder of the present embodiment, the second image guide 48 having the light receiving surface for receiving the observation light from the endoscope 40 is fixed to the built-in ring 46, An operation lever 49 for controlling a connection state between the operation ring 42 and the built-in ring 46 that always rotates together with the mirror 40 is provided on the operation ring 42. The operation of the operation lever 49 causes the built-in ring 46 to rotate in accordance with the rotation of the operation ring 42, and the built-in ring 46 does not follow the rotation of the operation ring 42 (the built-in ring 46 does not rotate). ) The second state can be switched.

Therefore, only by holding the operation ring 42 with one hand and operating the operation lever 49 with the fingers of the hand, the endoscope 40 and the image pickup device 56 can be viewed without changing the relative position. a rotation operation to change the observation direction by rotating the mirror 40 to the longitudinal center axis O ₆ around, the endoscope 4
0 only by rotating its longitudinal central axis O ₆ around the endoscope 4
The rotation operation for changing the observation direction while changing the relative position between the image sensor 56 and the image sensor 56 can be easily and reliably used and selectively performed. In particular, in the present embodiment, the operation lever 4
Since the switching state set by the engagement and disengagement of the engagement groove 52 and the engagement groove 52 is maintained, there is no need to operate the switching means every time the endoscope 40 is moved or operated, and the switching operation is not troublesome.

In this embodiment, the endoscope 40 is connected to the operating ring 42 and the built-in ring 46 in a connected state.
The second image guide 48 is twisted with the rotation of the built-in ring 46 so that the relative position between the endoscope connection portion 43 and the imaging device 56 does not change. Become.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show a third embodiment of the present invention. Note that, in this embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

As shown, an endoscope connecting portion 64 is rotatably attached to the other end of the second link arm 15 via a joint 17. In this case, the endoscope connection section 64 can rotate around a _fifth axis O5 orthogonal to the _fourth axis O4. Further, the endoscope 60 is rotatably connected to the endoscope connection portion 64.

As shown in detail in FIG.
Has an insertion portion 61 and an operation portion 63 detachably connected to the endoscope connection portion 64. An objective lens 85 is provided at the tip of the insertion section 61. This objective lens 8
5, to form a predetermined angle observation optical axis L4 passing through the center thereof with respect to the longitudinal center axis O ₇ of the insertion portion 61, the insertion portion 4
1 is attached to the tip. The operation unit 63 is provided with a lens 86. The lens 86 receives observation light guided from the objective lens 85 via a relay optical system (not shown) in the insertion unit 61, and receives a parallel light beam. Inject

The operation section 63 is a body 67 which is detachably connected to the endoscope connection section 64 via a mounting screw 69, and an operation body integrally formed with the insertion section 61 and held by the body 67. Operating ring 65. In this case, the operation ring 65 can rotate around the longitudinal central axis O ₇ (perpendicular to the fifth axis O ₅ ) of the insertion portion 61 of the endoscope 60 and is indicated by an arrow 87 in the figure. It is attached to the main body 67 so that it can move up and down.

A built-in ring 70 and an image ring 71 as a rotating body are rotatably attached to the main body 67. In this case, the built-in ring 70 and the image ring 71 are connected to the longitudinal central axis O of the insertion portion 61 of the endoscope 60.
₇ can be rotated. A rotator prism 72 having a light receiving surface for receiving observation light from the endoscope 60 and correcting the rotation of a parallel light beam emitted from the endoscope 60 is provided inside an image ring 71 forming a part of the rotating body.
Is provided. The luminous flux emitted by the rotator prism 72 passes through an imaging lens 73 provided in the endoscope connection section 64 and is imaged in a TV camera 74 as imaging means attached to the endoscope connection section 64. An image is formed on an element (not shown).

A speed reducing member 78 is provided in the main body 67. The deceleration member 78 is rotatably held by the main body 67 via a shaft 79 extending from the main body 67, and has a rotation axis O ₈ parallel to the longitudinal center axis O ₇ of the insertion portion 61 of the endoscope 60. Can be turned around. A first annular groove 80 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the reduction member 78 at a position facing the built-in ring 70, and a second annular groove 81 is formed at a position facing the image ring 71. In this case, the diameter of the second annular groove 81 is
0 is set to １ ／ of the diameter.

Built-in ring 70 and image ring 71
Are formed with annular grooves 77 and 83 having the same diameter. The built-in ring 70 is connected to a speed reduction member 78 via a belt 82 which is engaged over two grooves 77 and 80.
Is linked to Further, the image ring 71 is connected to a speed reduction member 78 via a belt 84 which is hooked over the two grooves 81 and 83.

The built-in ring 70 has an uneven portion 75 at an end protruding toward the operation ring 65. The operation ring 65 is provided at a portion facing the end of the built-in ring 70 with the uneven portion 7 engageable with the uneven portion 75 of the built-in ring 70.
6. In this configuration, by moving the operation ring 65 with respect to the main body 67 in the direction indicated by the arrow 87 in the drawing, the concave and convex portions 75 and 76 can be engaged with each other or the engaged state can be released. Can be. An urging spring 6 is provided between the main body 67 and the operation ring 65.
8 are provided. The biasing spring 68 is provided with the uneven portion 7.
The operation ring 65 is constantly biased in a direction in which the operation rings 65 and 76 are separated from each other (the engagement between the concave and convex portions 75 and 76 is released).

In this configuration, when the operating ring 65 is pressed against the main body 67 against the urging force of the urging spring 68 (moved in the direction indicated by the arrow 87 in the figure), the concave and convex portions 75, 76 Are engaged, and the operation ring 65 is connected to the built-in ring 70. Therefore, when the operation ring 65 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 70 rotates integrally with the operation ring 65, and the reduction member 78 connected to the built-in ring 70 via the belt 82 also rotates. The rotation of the speed reduction member 78 is controlled via the belt 84 by the image ring 71.
Accordingly, the image ring 71 is rotated by a rotation amount of 内 蔵 of the rotation amount of the built-in ring 70 (the diameter of the second annular groove 81 is set to の of the diameter of the first annular groove 80). ), The longitudinal central axis O ₇ of the insertion portion 61 of the endoscope 60.
Rotate around. When the pressing force of the operation ring 65 against the main body 67 is released, the engagement between the concave and convex portions 75 and 76 is released by the urging force of the urging spring 68, and the connection state between the operation ring 65 and the built-in ring 70 is changed. It is released. Therefore, even if the operation ring 65 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 70 does not rotate, and accordingly,
The reduction member 78 and the image ring 71 do not rotate.

Next, a method of using the endoscope holder having the above configuration will be described.

In the operation, the operation ring 65 is gripped by hand, and the arms 11, 13, 1 constituting the endoscope holder are operated.
5 and the endoscope connection portion 64 are rotated around the respective rotation axes O _{1 to} O _5, whereby the observation optical axis L of the objective lens 85 is adjusted.
Endoscope 60 so that 4 is directed to a desired observation object.
Is moved three-dimensionally.

In the observation by the endoscope 60, the illumination light supplied from the light source device is guided to the observation object via a light guide and an illumination lens (not shown). The reflected light from the observation target passes through an objective lens 85, a relay optical system (not shown), a lens 86, and a rotator prism 72, and is imaged on an image sensor in a TV camera 74 by an image forming lens 73. It is converted into an electric signal by the element. The electric signal is transmitted to the camera control unit 19 via the TV cable 18 and is converted into a video signal. Then, the electric signal is displayed on the monitor 20 as an observation image by the endoscope 60 and observed by the operator.

During the operation, shown in FIG. 9 by the endoscope 60
From the state where the first observation target P is observed, the second observation
In order to observe the target P ', the urging force of the urging spring 68 is
Operation ring 65 was pressed against main body 67
(Moved in the direction indicated by the arrow 87 in the figure),
Turn the operation ring 65 with the endoscope 60 by 90 degrees in the C direction.
When rotated, the second observation target P 'is shown in FIG.
Is displayed on the monitor 20 as shown in FIG. That is,
The observation optical axis L4 of the objective lens 85 is oriented in the observation direction A.
The operating ring 65 against the main body 67
When the concave and convex portions 75 and 76 are engaged with each other,
Ring 65 is connected to the built-in ring 70,
When the operation ring 65 is rotated with the operation ring
The built-in ring 70 rotates integrally with the
The speed reduction member 78 connected via the bolt 82 also rotates.
The rotation of the speed reduction member 78 is imaged via the belt 84.
Is transferred to the image ring 71, thereby
The rotation of the built-in ring 70 is 1/2 of the rotation of the built-in ring 70.
Thus, the longitudinal center axis O of the insertion portion 61 of the endoscope 60₇Around
Rotate. The rotation of the image ring 71 allows the endoscope
The parallel light beam emitted from the mirror 60 is rotated by a rotator prism.
The longitudinal center axis O of the endoscope 60 is ₇Around
Is corrected without rotation for the rotation of the TV camera
An image is formed on the image sensor in the image 74 via the image forming lens 73.
You. Therefore, the relative position between the endoscope 60 and the image sensor is
The observation direction is changed without any change, and the viewing direction of the endoscope 60 is changed.
The vertical relationship of the image always matches the insertion direction of the endoscope 60
An observation image as shown in FIG.
Can be observed at

On the other hand, in order to observe the second observation object P ′ from the state of observing the first observation object P, the pressing force of the operation ring 65 against the main body 67 is released and the uneven portions 75, When the operation ring 65 is rotated by 90 degrees in the direction C together with the endoscope 60 in a state where the engagement states of the 76 are released, the second observation target P ′ is monitored as shown in FIG. It is projected on 20. That is, when the engagement between the concave and convex portions 75 and 76 is released, the connection state between the operation ring 65 and the built-in ring 70 is released. Does not rotate, and therefore, the speed reduction member 78 and the image ring 71 do not rotate. Therefore, the observation direction is changed in a state where the relative position between the endoscope 60 and the image sensor has changed, and an observation image rotated by 90 degrees as shown in FIG. 12A is displayed on the monitor 20. .

As described above, according to the endoscope holder of the present embodiment, the operation of the operation ring 65 causes the built-in ring 70 and the image ring 71 to rotate with the rotation of the operation ring 65. 1 and rotation of the operation ring 65, the built-in ring 70 and the image ring 7
The second state in which 1 does not follow (the built-in ring 70 and the image ring 71 do not rotate) can be switched. Therefore, by simply holding the operation ring 65 with one hand and operating the operation lever 65 with the held hand, the endoscope 60 can be moved along its longitudinal center without changing the relative position between the endoscope 60 and the imaging device. a rotation operation to change the observation direction by rotating the axis O ₇ around, while changing the relative position of the endoscope 60 only the longitudinal central axis O ₇ is rotated endoscope 60 and the image pickup element about the observation The rotation operation for changing the direction can be easily and reliably used properly.

In particular, in this embodiment, since the operation ring 65 for operating the endoscope 60 constitutes a switching means for switching between the first state and the second state, the operator looks for the switching means. The switching operation can be performed quickly and reliably without the need. Further, in the present embodiment, since the rotator prism 72 is used, the rotation can be corrected without deteriorating the observation image of the endoscope 60. Further, in the present embodiment, since the operation unit 63 including the endoscope 60 and the switching unit is configured to be detachable from the endoscope holder, the operation unit 63 is configured as shown in the first and second embodiments, for example. The switching means can be easily changed to the operator's preference.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Note that, in the present embodiment, the first
The same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

As shown, an endoscope connecting portion 90 is rotatably attached to the other end of the second link arm 15 via the joint 17. In this case, the endoscope connection section 90 can rotate around a _fifth axis O5 orthogonal to the _fourth axis O4. Further, an endoscope 150 is connected to the endoscope connection section 90 so as to be optically rotatable. The endoscope 150 includes an insertion portion 151 and an attachment portion 15.
2 and is detachably connected to the endoscope connecting section 90 via a mounting screw 153 provided on the mounting section 152. In the figure, reference numeral 91 denotes a TV as an image pickup means
Camera. The TV camera 91 is connected to the endoscope connection unit 9.
It is optically detachably attached to the camera. Reference numeral 92 denotes a TV cable derived from the TV camera 91 and connected to the camera control unit 19.

As shown in detail in FIG.
An objective lens 155 is provided at the tip of the 0 insertion portion 151. The objective lens 155, the observation optical axis L5 is to form a predetermined angle with respect to the longitudinal center axis O ₈ of the insertion portion 151, it is attached to the distal end of the insertion portion 151 through its center. In addition, a lens 154 is provided on the mounting portion 152 of the endoscope 150. The lens 154 is observation light guided from the objective lens 155 via a relay optical system (not shown) in the insertion portion 151. And emits a parallel light beam.

The endoscope connection section 90 includes a main body 95 and an operation ring 94 as an operation body held by the main body 95. In this case, the operation ring 94 is attached to the endoscope 15
The zero insertion portion 151 is attached to the main body 95 so as to be rotatable around a longitudinal center axis O ₈ (perpendicular to the fifth axis O ₅ ).

The endoscope 150 is integrally attached to the operation ring 94 via attachment screws 153. A TV camera 91 is detachably attached to the main body 95 via an attachment screw 96. Body 95
, A built-in ring 97 and an image ring 98 as a rotating body are rotatably mounted. in this case,
The built-in ring 97 and the image ring 98 include the endoscope 1
Can be rotated around the longitudinal center axis O ₈ of the insertion portion 151 of the 50. Further, a rotator prism 99 having a light receiving surface for receiving observation light from the endoscope 150 and correcting the rotation of the parallel light beam emitted from the endoscope 150 is provided inside the image ring 98 forming a part of the rotating body. Is provided. The luminous flux emitted by the rotator prism 99 forms an image on an image sensor (not shown) in the TV camera 91 attached to the main body 95 via the imaging lens 100 provided in the main body 95. It is supposed to be.

The first electromagnetic coil 101 is fixed to the operation ring 94 at a position facing the main body 95.
This electromagnetic coil 101 is an excitation type electromagnetic coil,
The magnetic force disappears in a state where one of the two switches 102 and 103 provided on the operation ring 94 and having different shapes is turned on (energized). In addition, the operation ring 94 includes
The second electromagnetic coil 1 is located at a position facing the built-in ring 97.
05 is fixed. The electromagnetic coil 105 is a non-excitation type electromagnetic coil, and generates a magnetic force when the switch 102 is turned on (energized).

The main body 95 includes a first electromagnetic coil 101.
Is fixed at a position opposed to the magnetic material. In addition, an adsorbing portion 106 made of a material that is adsorbed by a magnetic body is fixed to the built-in ring 97 at a position facing the second electromagnetic coil 105.

A speed reduction member 108 is provided in the main body 95. The deceleration member 108 is rotatably held by the main body 95 via a shaft 109 extending from the main body 95, and a rotation axis O ₉ parallel to the longitudinal center axis O ₈ of the insertion section 151 of the endoscope 150. Can be turned around. A first annular groove 110 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the reduction member 108 at a position facing the built-in ring 97, and a second annular groove 111 is formed at a position facing the image ring 98. In this case, the second annular groove 11
The diameter of 1 is set to の of the diameter of the first annular groove 110.

Built-in ring 97 and image ring 98
Are formed with annular grooves 107 and 113 having the same diameter. The built-in ring 97 has two grooves 107,
It is connected to a speed reduction member 108 via a belt 112 that is hung over 110. Further, the image ring 98 is connected to the speed reduction member 108 via a belt 114 which is engaged over the two grooves 111 and 113.

In this configuration, when the switch 102 provided on the operation ring 94 is turned on, a current flows through the second electromagnetic coil 105 provided on the operation ring 94 to generate a magnetic force. The attracting portion 106 is attracted to the second electromagnetic coil 105 to connect the operation ring 94 and the built-in ring 97, and the first electromagnetic coil 101 is detached from the attracting portion 104 due to the disappearance of the magnetic force. Rotation of the operation ring 94 with respect to 95 becomes possible. Therefore, when the operation ring 94 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 97 is integrated with the operation ring 94.
Rotates, and the speed reduction member 108 connected to the built-in ring 97 via the belt 112 also rotates. And the speed reduction member 1
08 is rotated via the belt 114 to the image ring 98.
Accordingly, the image ring 98 is rotated by a rotation amount of の of the rotation amount of the built-in ring 97 (the diameter of the second annular groove 111 is set to １ ／ of the diameter of the first annular groove 110). because it is), to rotate about the longitudinal center axis O ₈ of the insertion portion 151 of the endoscope 150.

On the other hand, when the switch 103 provided on the operation ring 94 is turned on, a current is supplied to the first electromagnetic coil 101 provided on the operation ring 94 and the electromagnetic coil 1 is turned on.
The magnetic force of 01 disappears. Therefore, the suction portion 104 provided in the main body 95 and the first electromagnetic coil 10
The state of adsorption with 1 is released. Therefore, the operation ring 9
4 is that the fixing force by the electromagnetic brake is lost and the main body 9
5 becomes freely rotatable. Also, at this time, no current is supplied to the second electromagnetic coil 105 provided on the operation ring 94, so that the suction unit 1 provided on the built-in ring 97 is provided.
06 and the second electromagnetic coil 105 are also released. That is, the connection state between the operation ring 94 and the built-in ring 97 is released. Therefore, even if the operation ring 94 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 97 does not rotate, and accordingly, the speed reduction member 108 and the image ring 98 do not rotate.

That is, in the present embodiment, the second electromagnetic coil 105 and the attracting portion 106 (electromagnetic clutch)
Controls the connection state between the operation ring 94 and the built-in ring 97 so that the built-in ring 97 and the image ring 98 (rotator prism 99) are rotated with the rotation of the operation ring 94 (endoscope 150). The switching means switches between a state 1 and a second state in which the built-in ring 97 and the image ring 98 are not rotated with the rotation of the operation ring 94.

Next, a method of using the endoscope holder having the above configuration will be described.

In the operation, the operation ring 94 is grasped by hand, and each of the arms 11, 13, 1 constituting the endoscope holder is operated.
By 5 and the endoscope connection portion 90 to rotate to the rotation axis O ₁ ~ O ₅ around the endoscope 1 as the observation optical axis L5 of the objective lens 155 is directed to a desired observation target
50 is moved three-dimensionally.

In the observation with the endoscope 150, the illumination light supplied from the light source device is guided to the observation object via a light guide and an illumination lens (not shown). The reflected light from the observation target passes through the objective lens 155, the relay optical system (not shown), the lens 154, and the rotator prism 99, and is imaged on the image sensor in the TV camera 91 by the imaging lens 100, and the image is captured. It is converted into an electric signal by the element. This electric signal is transmitted to the camera control unit 19 via the TV cable 18 and is converted into a video signal. Then, the electric signal is displayed on the monitor 20 as an observation image by the endoscope 150 and observed by the operator.

During the operation, a switch provided on the operation ring 94 for observing the second observation object P ′ from the state where the first observation object P shown in FIG. 9 is observed by the endoscope 150. With the operation ring 94 turned on,
Is rotated 90 degrees in the C direction together with the endoscope 150,
The second observation target P ′ is projected on the monitor 20 as shown in FIG. That is, the switch 10
When the switch 2 is turned on, a current is applied to the second electromagnetic coil 105 provided on the operation ring 94 to generate a magnetic force, and the attracting portion 106 provided on the built-in ring 97 is attracted to the second electromagnetic coil 105. Operation ring 94 and built-in ring 97
Is connected, the first electromagnetic coil 101 is detached from the attracting portion 104 due to the disappearance of the magnetic force, and the operation ring 94 with respect to the main body 95 can be rotated. Therefore, when the operation ring 94 is rotated in this state,
The built-in ring 97 rotates integrally with the operation ring 94, and the reduction member 108 connected to the built-in ring 97 via the belt 112 also rotates. Then, the rotation of the speed reduction member 108 is transmitted to the image ring 98 via the belt 114, whereby the image ring 98 is rotated by a rotation amount of 内 蔵 of the rotation amount of the built-in ring 97 and the insertion portion of the endoscope 150 is inserted. 151
Rotates around the longitudinal central axis O _8. The rotation of the image ring 98, the parallel light flux emitted from the endoscope 150 is corrected without rotating with respect to the longitudinal center axis O ₈ around the rotation of the endoscope 150 by the action of the rotator prism 99, TV An image is formed on an image sensor in the camera 91 via an imaging lens 100. Therefore, the observation direction is changed without changing the relative position between the endoscope 150 and the image sensor, and the vertical relationship of the observation image of the endoscope 150 always coincides with the insertion direction of the endoscope 60 in FIG. An observation image as shown in a) can be observed on the monitor 20.

On the other hand, in order to observe the second observation object P ′ from the state where the first observation object P is observed, the operation ring 94 is turned on while the switch 103 provided on the operation ring 94 is turned on. 9 in the C direction together with the endoscope 150
When rotated by 0 degrees, the second observation target P ′ is projected on the monitor 20 as shown in FIG.
That is, when the switch 103 is turned on, the operation ring 9 is turned on.
Electric current is applied to the first electromagnetic coil 101 provided in 4, and the magnetic force of the electromagnetic coil 101 disappears. Therefore, the suction portion 104 provided in the main body portion 95 and the first
Of the electromagnetic coil 101 is released. Therefore, the operation ring 94 loses the fixing force by the electromagnetic brake, and becomes rotatable with respect to the main body 95. At this time, the second electromagnetic coil 1 provided on the operation ring 94
Since no electric current is supplied to the electric coil 05, the adsorption state between the adsorption section 106 provided on the built-in ring 97 and the second electromagnetic coil 105 is also released. That is, the connection state between the operation ring 94 and the built-in ring 97 is released. Therefore, even if the operation ring 94 is rotated in this state, the built-in ring 9
7 does not rotate, and thus the speed reduction member 108 and the image ring 98 also do not rotate. Therefore, the endoscope 150
The observation direction is changed in a state where the relative position between the camera and the imaging element is changed, and an observation image rotated by 90 degrees as shown in FIG.

As described above, according to the endoscope holder of the present embodiment, the operation of the switches 102 and 103 causes the operation of the operation ring 94 to rotate the built-in ring 97.
And a first state in which the image ring 98 is rotated;
The second state in which the built-in ring 97 and the image ring 98 do not follow the rotation of the operation ring 94 can be switched. Therefore, the operation ring 94 is gripped with one hand, and the switches 102, 10
Only perform three operations, the endoscope 150 and the rotation operation and for changing the direction of observation of the endoscope 150 is rotated to the longitudinal center axis O ₈ around without changing the relative positions of the imaging element, the inner endoscope 150 only can be performed rotating operation and a selectively used easily and reliably change the direction of observation while changing the relative position between the longitudinal center axis O ₈ is rotated endoscope 150 and the imaging element around the .

In this embodiment, the rotation of the operation ring 94 with respect to the main body 95 is controlled by the switch 10 having a different shape.
The operation ring 94 including the endoscope 150 is securely fixed to the main body 95 when not operating, because the operation ring 94 can be fixed and released by the action of the electromagnetic brake accompanying the operation of the operation 2 and 103. The rotation of the ring 94 is possible, and not only the operability is further improved, but also there is no possibility that the endoscope 150 is unexpectedly rotated.

Further, since the switches 102 and 103 have different shapes, the surgeon looks away from the operative site, and
It is possible to determine the shape with a fingertip and to select and operate the switching means without confirming the positions of 2, 103. Therefore, the operator can operate without interrupting the operation.
Further, even when the switches 102 and 103 are visually checked, the switches can be easily distinguished from each other due to the difference in shape, and erroneous operation can be prevented.

In this embodiment, the switches 102,
103 has a mode in which the unevenness of the switch surface is different, but as a method for the operator to easily distinguish between the two switches, the color arrangement is changed, or the switch outer shape is changed, for example, into a ○ shape and a □ shape. It is also conceivable to do so.

According to the technical contents described above, various configurations as shown below can be obtained.

1. An endoscope, an imaging unit that captures an observation image of the endoscope, an image rotation unit disposed between the endoscope and the imaging unit, and rotation of the endoscope around a central axis in an insertion direction. An endoscope holding system, comprising: switching means for switching the operation of the image rotating means accompanying the above, and an endoscope holder for holding the endoscope.

2. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the endoscope is provided with the image rotating means.

3. 2. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the endoscope holder is provided with the image rotating means.

4. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging means is provided integrally with the endoscope holder.

[0092] 5. An endoscope, an imaging unit that captures an observation image of the endoscope, an image rotation unit disposed between the endoscope and the imaging unit, and rotation of the endoscope around a central axis in an insertion direction. An endoscope holder having a switching means for switching the operation of the image rotating means.

6. 6. The endoscope holder according to claim 5, wherein an imaging means is provided integrally with the endoscope holder.

7. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging means is a TV camera, and the endoscope holder according to claim 5.

8. 6. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging means comprises an image sensor.

9. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the image rotating means comprises an image guide.

10. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the image rotating means comprises a rotator prism.

11. 6. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the image rotating means comprises an image sensor.

12. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the switching means comprises an elastic member provided at a distal end of an operation unit.

13. 6. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the switching means comprises an operation section and a groove engaged with the operation section.

14. 6. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the switching means comprises a set of concave and convex portions.

15. 6. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein the switching means comprises an operation ring.

16. 6. The endoscope holding system according to claim 1, wherein said switching means comprises an electromagnetic clutch.

[0104]

According to the endoscope holder of the present invention, the observation direction is changed by rotating the endoscope around its longitudinal center axis without changing the relative position between the endoscope and the imaging means. The rotation operation and the rotation operation of rotating the endoscope only around its longitudinal center axis to change the observation direction while changing the relative position between the endoscope and the imaging means can be performed simply and reliably by performing the operation properly. it can.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an endoscope holder according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of a main part of the endoscope holder of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an endoscope holder according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of a main part of the endoscope holder of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an endoscope holder according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of a main part of the endoscope holder of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an endoscope holder according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a main part of the endoscope holder of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the endoscope is inserted into an operation portion in a body cavity.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display screen on a monitor when a first observation target located in an observation direction A is observed by an endoscope.

11A is a monitor display screen of a second observation target when the TV camera is rotated together with the endoscope, and FIG. 11B is a schematic diagram of an observation state.

12A is a monitor display screen of a second observation target when the endoscope is rotated with respect to the TV camera, and FIG. 12B is a schematic diagram of an observation state.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Endoscope 6 ... Holding arm 25 ... Image sensor (imaging means) 29, 42, 65, 94 ... Operation ring (operating body) 31, 46, 70, 97 ... Built-in ring (rotating body) 33 ... Push pin ( Switching means) 48 Image guide (optical element) 48 Operating lever (switching means) 71, 98 Image ring (rotating body) 72, 99 Rotator prism (optical element)

Claims (1)

[Claims] An operating body for holding an endoscope at a desired position, an operating body rotatably provided with respect to the holding arm, to which an endoscope is connected and fixed; An optical element or an optical element having a light receiving surface for receiving observation light from the endoscope is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the operation body and optically connected to an endoscope connected to and fixed to the operation body. A rotating body fixed to the operating body, a first state in which the rotating body follows the rotation of the operating body in accordance with the rotation of the operating body, and a first state in which the rotating body does not follow the rotation of the operating body. 2. An endoscope holder comprising: switching means for switching between the two states.