JP2014083202A - Insertion instrument, endoscope, and method for manufacturing insertion instrument - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an elongated insertion instrument having a coil pipe with a proximal end portion whose axial movements can be easily restricted.SOLUTION: An insertion instrument 10 includes a bendable bending tube 34, an elongated angle wire 60a, a coil pipe 62a, and an engaging mechanism 64 for engaging the coil pipe. The coil pipe 62a is wound with a wire in the shape of a coil with the closely wound wire, and the angle wire 60a is inserted into the coil pipe to be movable in an axial direction. An proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a has a deformed portion 74 having an enlarged diameter portion where an outer diameter is enlarged toward a proximal end side beyond a distal end portion of the coil pipe while keeping a state in which the adjacent wires are mutually brought into contact. The engaging mechanism 64 engages the proximal end portion of the coil pipe to restrict the movements of the proximal end portion of the coil pipe along an axial direction of a central axis of the coil pipe.

Description

  The present invention relates to an insertion instrument inserted into, for example, a narrow hole, an endoscope used for observing the inside of a narrow hole, and a method for manufacturing the insertion instrument.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a mechanism for fixing the proximal end of a coil pipe inside an operation portion of an endoscope. A cylindrical regulating member is fixed to the proximal end portion of the coil pipe through which the angle wire is inserted by brazing or soldering. The restricting member fixed to the proximal end portion of the coil pipe is locked inside the operation portion. In the endoscope, the axial movement of the proximal end portion of the coil pipe is thus restricted.

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 58-153801

  For example, when fixing the coil pipe of the endoscope disclosed in Patent Document 1 to the regulating member, it is possible to confirm whether solder or solder is rotating around the entire circumference in the gap between the coil pipe and the regulating member, or for soldering. It is necessary to remove the used flux. The wire diameter of the coil pipe is, for example, smaller than 1 mm depending on the type of endoscope. Since the inner diameter of the coil pipe is, for example, about several millimeters, the operation of fixing the coil pipe to the regulating member by brazing or soldering is very complicated.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an elongated insertion instrument having a coil pipe that can easily regulate the axial movement of the proximal end portion, and an endoscope having such an insertion instrument. An object is to provide a manufacturing method.

  An insertion instrument according to the present invention has a bendable bending tube, one end at least partially inserted through the bending tube, and the other end receiving a driving force from a driving force input unit, and is driven at the other end. An elongated angle wire that receives a force and moves in the axial direction to bend the bending tube connected to the one end, and is arranged between one end and the other end of the angle wire. The angle wire is inserted so as to be movable in the axial direction, and the outer diameter increases toward the base end side while maintaining the state where the distal end portion and the adjacent strands are in contact with each other. A coil pipe having a base end portion having a deformed portion having a diameter-enlarged portion, a central axis defined by the tip end portion and the base end portion, and a base of the coil pipe through which the angle wire is inserted. The proximal end of the coil pipe engaging the end There and an engagement mechanism for restricting the movement along the axial direction of the center axis of the coil pipe with respect to the driving force input portion.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an elongated insertion instrument having a coil pipe that can easily regulate the axial movement of the proximal end portion, and an endoscope having such an insertion instrument.

The schematic perspective view which shows the endoscope which concerns on the 1st to 3rd embodiment. The schematic perspective view which shows the bending tube of the bending part of the endoscope which concerns on the 1st to 3rd embodiment. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an endoscope according to a first embodiment. The schematic schematic diagram which shows the state which curved the bending part of the insertion part of the endoscope which concerns on 1st Embodiment to the U direction. FIG. 2B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 2C-2C in FIG. 2A. The schematic top view which shows the state seen from the arrow 3A direction in FIG. 3B which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which follows the arrow 3B-3B line | wire in FIG. 3A which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 1st Embodiment. FIG. 3B is a schematic longitudinal sectional view showing an enlarged view between the first tubular portion and the deformable portion of the coil pipe shown in FIG. 3B and between the deformable portion and the second tubular portion. The outline which shows the state seen from the arrow 4A direction in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B which shows the state which connected the base end part of the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 1st Embodiment to the connection mechanism. Top view. Schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view along the arrow 4B-4B line in FIG. 4A which shows the state which connected the base end part of the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 1st Embodiment to the connection mechanism. . The schematic top view which shows the state seen from the arrow 5A direction in FIG. 5B which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on the 1st modification of 1st Embodiment. FIG. 5B is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view taken along the line 5B-5B in FIG. 5A, showing the coil pipe disposed inside the endoscope according to the first modification of the first embodiment. From the direction of arrow 4A in FIGS. 2A and 2B, showing a state in which the proximal end portion of the coil pipe disposed inside the endoscope according to the first modification of the first embodiment is connected to the connection mechanism. The schematic top view which shows the state seen. Along the arrow 6B-6B line in FIG. 6A, showing a state in which the proximal end portion of the coil pipe disposed inside the endoscope according to the first modification of the first embodiment is connected to the connection mechanism. FIG. The schematic top view which shows the state seen from the arrow 7A direction in FIG. 7B which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on the 2nd modification of 1st Embodiment. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on the 2nd modification of 1st Embodiment along the arrow 7B-7B line in FIG. 7A. The schematic top view which shows the state seen from the arrow 8A direction in FIG. 8B which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on the 3rd modification of 1st Embodiment. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which follows the arrow 8B-8B line in FIG. 8A which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on the 3rd modification of 1st Embodiment. The schematic top view which shows the state seen from the arrow 9A direction in FIG. 9B which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which follows the arrow 9B-9B line in FIG. 9A which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the state which connected the base end part of the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 2nd Embodiment to the connection mechanism. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on the modification of 2nd Embodiment. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the state which connected the base end part of the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on the modification of 2nd Embodiment to the connection mechanism. The schematic top view which shows the state seen from the arrow 12A direction in FIG. 12B which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which follows the arrow 12B-12B line | wire in FIG. 12A which shows the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the state which connected the base end part of the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 3rd Embodiment to the connection mechanism. The schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the state which connected the base end part of the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 3rd Embodiment to the connection mechanism. The schematic perspective view which shows the endoscope which concerns on 4th Embodiment. The schematic perspective view which shows the bending tube of the bending part of the endoscope which concerns on 4th Embodiment. The outline which shows the state seen from the arrow 4A direction in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B which shows the state which connected the base end part of the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 4th Embodiment to the connection mechanism. Top view. Schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view along the arrow 15B-15B line in FIG. 15A which shows the state which connected the base end part of the coil pipe arrange | positioned inside the endoscope which concerns on 4th Embodiment to the connection mechanism. . The schematic schematic diagram which shows the structure of the insertion instrument which concerns on 5th Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

A first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 4B.
As shown in FIG. 1A, an endoscope (insertion instrument) 10 according to this embodiment is provided with a long and thin insertion portion 12 inserted into a narrow hole and a proximal end portion of the insertion portion 12, for example. And an operation unit 14 that is held and operated. In the endoscope 10, an observation optical system and an illumination optical system (not shown) are arranged in the same manner as a general endoscope. The endoscope 10 is preferably formed with a channel (not shown) that is used for air supply and water supply, or through which a treatment instrument is inserted.

  The insertion portion 12 has a distal end hard portion 22, a bending portion 24, and a tubular body (flexible tube portion) 26 in order from the distal end side to the proximal end side. The proximal end of the tubular body 26 is connected to the operation unit 14 via a bend 28. In this embodiment, the tubular body 26 disposed between the bending portion 24 and the operation portion 14 will be described as a flexible tube portion that can be easily bent in various directions. For example, a hard pipe formed of a stainless steel material or the like may be used so that it cannot be easily bent in various directions.

A bending portion 24 shown in FIG. 1A has a bending tube 34 in which a plurality of bending pieces 34a, 34b,... Shown in FIG. The bending tube 34 supports a pair of angle wires 60a and 60b, which will be described later, so as to be movable in the axial direction by wire guides (not shown) provided on the bending pieces 34a, 34b,. The distal ends (one end) of the angle wires 60 a and 60 b are inserted through the inside of the bending tube 34 and are fixed to the bending piece 34 a at the most distal end of the bending tube 34 or the distal end rigid portion 22. That is, at least a part of the distal ends of the angle wires 60 a and 60 b are inserted into the bending tube 34. The base ends (the other end) of the angle wires 60 a and 60 b are extended toward the operation unit 14.
The bending tube 34 of the bending portion 24 can be bent with respect to the central axis C of the insertion portion 12. Here, the bending tube 34 has two directions (upward direction (U direction) and straight direction (bending angle is 0 degree). It can be bent downward (D direction). The length of the bending tube 34 can be set as appropriate.

  For example, a blade (not shown) that is a net-like tubular body is disposed outside the bending tube 34, and the bending portion 24 is a cylindrical outer skin 24a made of, for example, a rubber material and having elasticity (see FIG. 1A). ) Is arranged.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the endoscope 10 has a bending drive mechanism 44 for bending the bending portion 24 in a plurality of directions. That is, the bending drive mechanism 44 is disposed in the insertion unit 12 and the operation unit 14.
The bending drive mechanism 44 includes a plate-like base 50 supported by the operation unit 14, a sprocket (traction mechanism) 52, an operation knob for bending part (curving operation input unit) 54, a chain (traction mechanism) 56, The coupling mechanisms 58a and 58b, a pair of angle wires 60a and 60b, a pair of coil pipes 62a and 62b, and a connection mechanism (engaging portion) 64 are provided. The sprocket 52 and the bending portion operation knob 54 form a driving force input portion that inputs a driving force to bend the bending portion 24.

The sprocket 52 is rotatably supported with respect to the base 50. Sprocket 52 is rotatable in its center axis C ₁ around. Bending part operating knob 54 can rotate the sprocket 52 is disposed outside the cover 82a of the operation portion main body 82 to the center axis C ₁ around. That is, the sprocket 52 and the bending portion operation knob 54 move integrally with the operation portion main body 82. Therefore, the operation amount of the bending portion operation knob 54 is reflected in the movement amount of the sprocket 52, that is, the rotation amount.
The chain 56 is wound around the sprocket 52 with the end portions 56 a and 56 b facing the distal end side of the insertion portion 12. In the base 50, a chain guide 50a is formed in a substantially U shape outside the chain 56. The chain 56 can maintain a state in which the chain 56 is engaged with the sprocket 52 by the base 50 including the chain guide 50a. Therefore, when rotates the sprocket 52 to the center axis C ₁ around, near and away from the end portion 56a of the chain 56 without departing from the sprockets 52 and 56b with respect to the distal end of the predetermined direction (the insertion portion 12 Direction).

The base ends (other ends) of the angle wires 60a and 60b are supported on the end portions 56a and 56b of the chain 56 through the coupling mechanisms 58a and 58b. For this reason, the angle wires 60a and 60b can receive the driving force from the driving force input unit and move in the axial direction thereof, thereby bending the bending tube 34 connected to the distal ends of the angle wires 60a and 60b.
Each angle wire 60a, 60b is formed to be elongated by twisting, for example, a stainless steel wire. The distal ends (one end) of the angle wires 60 a and 60 b are fixed to the proximal end of the distal end hard portion 22 or the distal end of the bending tube 34 of the bending portion 24.
The angle wires 60a and 60b are inserted through the coil pipes 62a and 62b. That is, the coil pipes 62a and 62b are disposed between the distal ends (one end) and the proximal ends (the other end) of the angle wires 60a and 60b. The distal ends of the coil pipes 62 a and 62 b are fixed to the proximal end of the bending tube 34 of the bending portion 24 and the distal end of the tubular body 26. The base end portions of the coil pipes 62 a and 62 b are supported by the connection mechanism 64.
In addition, since the structure of the coil pipes 62a and 62b is the same, only one coil pipe 62a is demonstrated and description of the structure of the coil pipe 62b is abbreviate | omitted.

The coil pipe 62a shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B is formed in a closely wound coil shape so that the adjacent strands in the axial direction are in close contact with each other (there is no gap). The strand of the coil pipe 62a is formed of a metal material such as stainless steel. Coil pipe 62a in this embodiment, toward the proximal end from the cross-section tip perpendicular to the central axis C _A defined by the distal end of the coil pipe 62a and (the tip portion) base and (proximal end) It is formed in a circular shape.

The coil pipe 62a includes a first tubular portion 72, a deformed portion 74 formed by deforming the wire itself of the coil pipe 62a with respect to the first tubular portion 72, and a second portion in order from the distal end to the proximal end. And a tubular portion 76. Of the coil pipe 62a, the first tubular portion 72 occupies substantially the entire length including the tip (tip portion) 72a of the coil pipe 62a. Of the coil pipe 62a, the deformable portion 74 and the second tubular portion 76 are located at the base end including the base end of the coil pipe 62a. In this embodiment, the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62 a, that is, the deformation portion 74 and the second tubular portion 76 engage with the connection mechanism (engagement portion) 64. In this embodiment, the cross section with respect to the central axis C _A of the first tubular portion 72, deformed portion 74 and a second tubular portion 76 is formed in a circular.

The first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a, the center axis _{C A} of the deformed portion 74 and a second tubular portion 76 is common. The first tubular portion 72 has a substantially constant inner diameter and outer diameter. The deformable portion 74 is formed as an enlarged diameter portion in which the inner diameter and the outer diameter gradually increase from the proximal end of the first tubular portion 72 toward the distal end of the second tubular portion 76.
As shown in FIG. 3C, the position of the deformed portion 74 of the wire 63, towards the proximal side from the distal end side, it is offset radially outwards with respect to the direction along the central axis C _A. In other words, the deformed portion 74 has an outer diameter that increases toward the proximal end side while maintaining the state where the adjacent strands 63 are in contact with each other. However, as shown in FIG. 3C, wire 63 adjacent along the proximal side from the distal end side of the coil pipe 62a, the center axis Ca of adjacent strands 63, of between Cb, perpendicular to the central axis C _A It is preferable that the width W in the direction to be smaller than the radius r of the strand 63. As a result of such formation, can be prevented when the compressive force is applied along the central axis C _A of the coil pipe 62a, the escape of pitch shift and stresses the strands of the front end side enters the inside of the wire of the proximal side .
Incidentally, when the compressive force is applied along the central axis C _A of the coil pipe 62a, the angle of the easily deformable portion 74 pitch shift of the wire with adjacent occurs varies with the diameter of the wire 63 (radius r) .

  The second tubular portion 76 has the same inner diameter as the inner diameter of the base end of the deformable portion 74 and the same outer diameter as the outer diameter of the base end of the deformable portion 74.

  As shown in FIG. 1A, the operation unit 14 includes an operation unit main body 82 in which a bending unit operation knob 54 is disposed, and a grip 84 that is held by a user of the endoscope 10. The grip 84 has a cylindrical shape, and is disposed between the folding stop 28 at the proximal end portion of the insertion portion 12 and the operation portion main body 82.

  1A includes a cover 82a. 2A and 2B, the cover 82a covers, for example, the base end of the base 50, the sprocket 52, and the portion of the chain 56 that is engaged with the sprocket 52 (a portion between one end and the other end). ing. The grip 84 forms a grip portion that is gripped by the user of the endoscope 10 with, for example, the left hand. The bending portion operation knob 54 is located outside the cover 82a and can be operated with the thumb of the left hand holding the grip 84, for example.

  A base 50 on which a part of the bending drive mechanism 44 is disposed is supported on the operation unit main body 82. The base 50 is made of a stainless steel material or the like and is formed in a plate shape having a thickness of about several millimeters. For example, the base 50 is preferably formed so that the direction along the axial direction of the insertion portion 12 is longer than the direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the insertion portion 12. Of the bending drive mechanism 44, a sprocket (traction mechanism) 52, a chain (traction mechanism) 56, and coupling mechanisms 58a and 58b are disposed in the region of the base 50. The base 50 is further provided with a connection mechanism (engagement mechanism) 64 that supports the base ends of the coil pipes 62a and 62b. The connection mechanism 64 is disposed on the side of the base 50 that is close to the distal end portion of the insertion portion 12.

  As shown in FIG. 4A, in this embodiment, the connection mechanism (main body) 64 is formed in a block shape having connection portions (engagement portions) 102 and 104 on which the base ends of the coil pipes 62a and 62b are supported. Is formed. Here, since the two coil pipes 62a and 62b and the two connection portions 102 and 104 have the same shape, the case where the base end portion of one coil pipe 62a is engaged with and supported by one connection portion 102 will be described. To do.

The connecting portion 102 includes a first tubular portion 112, a support portion 114, a second tubular portion 116, a distal end opening 118, a proximal end opening 120, and a side surface opening 122. The first tubular portion 112, the support portion 114, the second tubular portion 116, the distal end opening 118, the proximal end opening 120, and the side surface opening 122 communicate with each other. The first cylindrical portion 112, the support portion 114, the second cylindrical portion 116, and an inner flange 124 described later form a storage portion that can store the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a in cooperation with each other. To do. Further, the distal end opening 118, the proximal end opening 120, and the side surface opening 122 of the connecting portion 102 cooperate to accommodate the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a (the first tubular portion 112, the support portion 114, the second tubular shape). A slit that can be taken in and out of the portion 116 and the inner flange 124) is formed. As will be described later, in particular the side opening 122 is capable of loading and unloading the proximal end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a in a direction substantially perpendicular to the center axis C _A of the coil pipe 62a.
The distal end opening 118 and the proximal end opening 120 are opened along the axial direction of the coil pipe 62a in a state where the angle wire 60a and the angle wire 60a are inserted. The side opening 122 is used when the base end portion of the coil pipe 62a is taken in and out of the connection portion 102. The first tubular portion 112 is continuous with the tip opening 118 and is continuous with the side opening 122. The second tubular portion 116 is continuous with the base end opening 120 and is continuous with the side opening 122. The support portion 114 is formed between the first tubular portion 112 and the second tubular portion 116 and is continuous with the side opening 122.

  The cross sections of the first cylindrical portion 112, the support portion 114, and the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connection portion 102 are each formed in a substantially U shape. That is, the first cylindrical portion 112, the support portion 114, and the second cylindrical portion 116 are formed from the back portion (semicircular portion) 132 having a semicircular cross section and from the end of the back portion 132 to the side opening 122. Extending portions 134a and 134b extending in a state of facing each other.

Side opening 122 of the connecting portion 102, first cylindrical portion 112, substantially suitable to be formed into the same shape as the vertical cross section along the central axis C _A of the support portion 114 and the second cylindrical portion 116 is there. The side opening 122 has a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the proximal end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a. Here, the side opening 122 has substantially the same shape and the same size as the base end portion of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a shown in FIG. 3B, the outer shape of the deformable portion 74, and the second tubular portion 76. Slightly larger or slightly smaller. The first cylindrical portion 112 formed continuously with the side opening 122 is formed to have the same size, slightly larger or slightly smaller than the base end portion of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a. The support part 114 formed continuously with the side opening 122 is formed to have the same size, slightly larger or slightly smaller than the deformed part 74 of the coil pipe 62a. The second cylindrical portion 116 formed continuously from the side opening 122 is formed to have substantially the same size, slightly larger or slightly smaller than the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a. Further, the side opening 122 is formed to have the same size, slightly larger or slightly smaller than the first tubular portion 112, the support portion 114, and the second tubular portion 116.
The side opening 122, the first cylindrical portion 112 formed continuously from the side opening 122, the support portion 114, and the second cylindrical portion 116 are the same size as the proximal end portion of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a. Although it may be substantially the same size as the outer shape of the portion 74 and the second tubular portion 76, it may be slightly larger or slightly smaller, but here, the case where it is slightly smaller will be mainly described. The opposing extending portions 134a and 134b are also formed in the same shape as the shape of the side opening 122 along the direction orthogonal to the central axis C toward the inner portion 132 where the coil pipe 62a is disposed. It is preferable that
Of the first cylindrical portion 112, the axial length along the central axis C _A of the coil pipe 62a is sufficiently shorter than the length of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a. The width of the side opening 122 of the first tubular portion 112 (the distance between the extended portions 134a and 134b) is constant. The inner portion 132 of the first tubular portion 112 has an inner diameter that is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a, and extends the first tubular portion 72 toward the distal end side.

Of the support portion 114, the axial length along the central axis C _A of the coil pipe 62a is a length substantially the same as the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a. The width of the side opening 122 of the support part 114 is the same as the width of the base end of the first cylindrical part 112 at the tip. The width of the side opening 122 of the support portion 114 increases from the distal end toward the proximal end. That is, the support portion 114 is disposed between the first tubular portion 112 and the second tubular portion 116, and gradually increases from the proximal end of the first tubular portion 112 to the distal end of the second tubular portion 116. The inner diameter of 132 is enlarged.

Of the second cylindrical portion 116, the axial length along the central axis C _A of the coil pipe 62a is a length substantially the same as the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a. The width of the side opening 122 of the second cylindrical portion 116 (distance between the extended portions 134a and 134b) is the same as the width of the base end of the support portion 114 and is constant. The inner portion 132 of the second tubular portion 116 has an inner diameter that is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a. The second tubular portion 76 has an inner flange so that the proximal end of the coil pipe 62a is brought into contact with the proximal end of the second tubular portion 76 and the coil pipe 62a is prevented from moving toward the proximal end. (Contact portion) 124 is provided. The inner flange 124 is formed in the back portion 132 and the extending portions 134 a and 134 b in the proximal end opening 120. That is, the width of the proximal end opening 120 is larger than the outer diameter of the angle wire 60a and smaller than the contact position between the inner diameter and the outer diameter of the proximal end of the coil pipe 62a. For this reason, the movement of the base end of the coil pipe 62a can be suppressed, and the ramp of the angle wire 60a can be prevented.

In addition, the inclination of the support part 114 of the connection part 102 is substantially equal to the inclination of the deformation part 74 of the coil pipe 62a. Further, deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a is not symmetric with respect to the central axis C _A, it is preferable that offset in the axial direction of the central axis C _A in accordance with the angle of the wire of the coil pipe 62a. Thus, tip position and proximal position of the support portion 114 of the connecting portion 102, it is preferable that offset in the axial direction of the central axis C _A.

  Next, the operation of the endoscope 10 according to this embodiment will be described. Here, a procedure (manufacturing method) for connecting the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a to the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 disposed on the base 50 in a state where the angle wire 60a is inserted into the coil pipe 62a will be described. To do. Further, a procedure for removing the coil pipe 62a from the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 after the use of the endoscope 10 for maintenance of the endoscope 10 will be briefly described.

  First, a procedure (manufacturing method) for connecting the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a to the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 disposed on the base 50 will be described. Specifically, a procedure for arranging the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a with respect to the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 will be described.

The base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62 a is opposed to the side opening 122 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 in a state where the distal end portion of the coil pipe 62 a is separated from the operation portion main body 82. The deformed portion 74 and the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a are slightly stretched against the force of the spring that tries to maintain the natural state. In this state, the deformed portion 74 and the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a, that is, the base end portion 78, the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 and the side opening 122 and the extension portion of the second tubular portion 116 are provided. It arrange | positions in the back part 132 through between 134a and 134b. At this time, the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a against the side opening 122 of the connecting portion 102, pushed in a direction substantially perpendicular to the center axis _{C A} of the coil pipe 62a.
Note that the proximal end of the coil pipe 62 a is disposed in the back portion 132 of the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connection portion 102 while being in contact with the inner flange 124.
The inner diameter of the inner portion 132 of the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connecting portion 102 is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a in a natural state (a state in which no load is applied in the radial direction). . The inner diameter at a predetermined distance from the inner flange 124 in the back portion 132 of the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 is predetermined from the proximal end of the coil pipe 62a to the distal end side in the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a in the natural state. It is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the distance position. The inclination of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a matches the inclination of the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102.

When the proximal end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a is disposed in the back portion 132 of the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connection portion 102, the outer peripheral surface of the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a attempts to return to the original outer diameter. The urging force (spring force) to work. Therefore, deformation portion 74 and the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a is an inner circumferential surface of the inner portion 132 of the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connecting portion 102, radially outward relative to the central axis _{C A} Press.
The outer peripheral surface of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a exerts a force in the normal direction of the inner peripheral surface of the support portion 114. The inclination of the deformation portion 74 is a direction that restricts movement of the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a to the distal end side. For this reason, the deformation | transformation part 74 receives reaction force from the support part 114 so that the movement to the front end side from the support part 114 is controlled.
Therefore, the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62 a of this embodiment is in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 and the inner peripheral surface of the second cylindrical portion 116. At this time, the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62 a is detachably fixed to the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64. The distal end of the coil pipe 62 a extends to the distal end side of the insertion portion 12 through the distal end opening 118 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64.

  The procedure (manufacturing method) for connecting the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62b to the connection portion 104 of the connection mechanism 64 disposed on the base 50 in a state where the angle wire 60b is inserted into the coil pipe 62b is the procedure described above. Since it is the same as that, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  Thereafter, the grip 84 is attached to the operation unit main body 82. Further, the base end portion of the insertion portion 12 in a state where the distal ends of the angle wire 60a and the coil pipe 62a are fixed at the positions shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, respectively, are fixed to the operation portion 14 via the folding stop 28. To do. In this way, the endoscope 10 is manufactured.

When the user of the endoscope 10 holds the grip 84 with, for example, the left hand and rotates the bending portion operation knob 54 with respect to the operation portion main body 82, for example, the U-direction side angle wire (one angle wire) 60a is Towed. The distal end of the angle wire 60 a is fixed to the bending piece 34 a at the most distal end of the bending tube 34 or the distal end rigid portion 22. For this reason, the bending part 24 begins to bend in the U direction. As the U-direction side angle wire 60a is pulled, a force (compression force) is applied to the U-direction side coil pipe 62a through which the U-direction angle wire 60a is inserted in a contracting direction. At this time, the distal end of the U-direction side coil pipe 62 a is fixed to the proximal end of the bending tube 34 of the bending portion 24 and the distal end of the tubular body 26. For this reason, the proximal end of the U-direction side coil pipe 62 a is pressed against the inner flange 124 of the connection portion 102. That, U direction side coil pipe 62a is compressed along the axial direction of the central axis C _A. At this time, the deformation portion 74 has a small distance W between the central axes Ca and Cb of the adjacent strands 63 with respect to the radius r of the strand 63 (see FIG. 3C). For this reason, when compressive force is loaded to the deformation | transformation part 74, it can prevent that the strand 63 penetrates into the inner side of the adjacent strand.
That is, the force acting on the operation portion 14 side when the U-direction side coil pipe 62a is compressed is applied to the inner flange (contact portion) 124 of the connection mechanism 64, and the U-direction side coil pipe 62a is moved to the operation portion 14 side ( to move is restricted to the base end side) along the central axis C _a. At this time, it is possible to prevent a positional deviation (pitch deviation) in which the strand on the distal end side of the U-direction side coil pipe 62a enters the inside of the proximal strand.

When the bending portion operation knob 54 is rotated as described above, for example, the D-direction side angle wire (the other angle wire) 60b is pushed to the tip side. For this reason, the D-direction side angle wire 60b is once bent between the coupling mechanism 58b and the proximal end of the coil pipe 62b. Thereafter, as the bending portion 24 is bent, the D-direction angle wire 60b is pulled toward the distal end side. _A force (tensile force) is applied to the coil pipe 62b through which the D-direction angle wire 60b is inserted in a direction extending along the central axis CA. The distal end of the D-direction side coil pipe 62b is the proximal end of the bending tube 34 of the bending portion 24 and is fixed to the position of the distal end of the tubular body 26. For this reason, the base end of the D-direction side coil pipe 62b extends away from the inner flange 124 of the connecting portion 102. At this time, the base end portion 78 of the D direction side coil pipe 62b is because it is supported by the supporting portion 114 of the connecting portion 104 of the connection mechanism 64 is moved distally to the coil pipe 62b is along the central axis C _A This is restricted and is prevented from coming off from the connecting portion 104.

Thus, the structure (the bending mechanism of the bending portion 24) capable of bending the bending portion 24 of the endoscope 10 according to this embodiment from the straight state in the U direction and the D direction that are opposite to each other is as follows. This is the same as the structure of a general endoscope bending mechanism. For this reason, the endoscope 10 described in this embodiment can ensure the same bending performance as a conventional endoscope.
The proximal end portions 78 of the coil pipes 62a and 62b are connected (engaged) to a connection mechanism (engagement mechanism) 64, and are connected to the bending portion operation knob 54 and the sprocket 52, that is, the driving force input portion. Each of the predetermined positions is maintained. For this reason, the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a through which the angle wire 60a is inserted is connected by the connection mechanism 64, and the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62b through which the angle wire 60b is inserted is connected by the connection mechanism 64. the connection mechanism 64 may be a coil pipe 62a, base end portions 78 and 62b restrict the movement along the axial direction of the central axis _{C a} of the coil pipe 62a, 62b relative to the driving force input portion.

When maintaining the coil pipes 62 a and 62 b of the endoscope 10, the endoscope 10 is disassembled according to a procedure opposite to the manufacturing procedure of the endoscope 10.
The proximal ends 78 of the coil pipes 62a and 62b with the angle wires 60a and 60b inserted through the side openings 122 of the connection portions 102 and 104 of the connection mechanism 64 resist the spring biasing force of the coil pipes 62a and 62b. Remove it. At this time, the side opening 122 of the connecting portion 102 of the proximal end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a, is taken out from the direction substantially perpendicular to the center axis _{C A} of the coil pipe 62a.
With this operation, the state of the extracted coil pipes 62a and 62b can be confirmed, and the coil pipes 62a and 62b can be exchanged.

Here, the size of the first cylindrical portion 112, the support portion 114, and the second cylindrical portion 116 that are formed continuously from the side opening 122 and the side opening 122 is mainly the size of the first pipe pipe 62a. The case where each of the proximal end portion of the tubular portion 72, the deformable portion 74, and the outer shape of the second tubular portion 76 is slightly smaller has been described. When the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a is disposed with respect to the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64, the side opening 122, the first cylindrical portion 112 formed continuously to the side opening 122, the support portion 114, and the second portion are formed. When the size of the cylindrical portion 116 is substantially the same as or slightly larger than the outer shape of the proximal end portion of the first tubular portion 72, the deformable portion 74, and the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a, the coil What is necessary is just to arrange | position the pipe 62a in the back part 132 through between the support part 114 of the connection part 102 of the connection mechanism 64, the side opening 122 of the 2nd cylindrical part 116, and extension part 134a, 134b with a natural state. At this time, since the outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface at an appropriate position of the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a is larger than the inner diameter of the base end of the first cylindrical portion 112, the outer peripheral surface of the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62 is supported. It is supported on the inner peripheral surface of the portion 114. For this reason, in any case, the deformation portion 74 receives a reaction force from the support portion 114 so that the movement from the support portion 114 to the distal end side is restricted. Thus, for example, the bending portion 24 when is bent in a U direction, is restricted from moving distally of D direction side coil pipe 62b is along the central axis C _A, is prevented from being disengaged from the connecting portion 104 Yes.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the following can be said.
When the endoscope 10 is manufactured, the base ends 78 of the coil pipes 62a and 62b are driven by simply engaging the base ends 78 of the coil pipes 62a and 62b with the connection portions 102 and 104 of the connection mechanism 64, respectively. It can be supported at a predetermined position with respect to the force input unit.
When the endoscope 10 is maintained, the connection (engagement) of the base end portion of the coil pipe 62a is released simply by removing the base end portions 78 of the coil pipes 62a and 62b from the connection mechanism 64 disposed on the base 50. be able to. For this reason, even when the bending drive mechanism 44 is repeatedly used, for example, when the natural length of the coil pipes 62a and 62b is shortened or lengthened, maintenance such as replacement can be easily performed. Even when the coil pipe 62a is replaced, as described in this embodiment, the deformed portion 74 and the second tubular portion 76 whose shape is changed with respect to the first tubular portion 72 by the strand of the new coil pipe 62a itself. Should be formed.

Here, the coil pipe of the conventional endoscope has a constant inner diameter and outer diameter. A fixing member is fixed to the proximal end of the coil pipe. The coil pipe and the fixing member are fixed by soldering, but it is necessary to turn the solder all around, and it is necessary to confirm that the solder is turning all around the base end of the coil pipe There is. Furthermore, it is necessary to remove the flux after soldering between the base end portion of the coil pipe and the fixing member. Then, the fixing member is hooked on the members corresponding to the connection portions 102 and 104 of the connection mechanism 64 described in this embodiment.
The proximal end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a described in this embodiment plays the same role as a fixing member attached to the coil pipe of the conventional endoscope by deforming the shape with respect to the first tubular portion 72. . For this reason, it is not necessary to attach a fixing member to the coil pipe 62a of this embodiment. That is, when supporting the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a at a predetermined position of the connection mechanism 64, it is possible to eliminate the work required for performing the soldering work or the soldering work. And the workability | operativity at the time of arrange | positioning the base end part of the coil pipe 62a in a predetermined position can be improved greatly.

In this embodiment, the cross section of the second tubular portion 76 has been described as being circular, but may be an ellipse, for example. That is, it is also preferable that the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a is formed so that the shape gradually changes from a circular shape to an elliptical shape as it goes from the distal end to the proximal end of the deformable portion 74.
In this case, it is preferable that the shape of the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 gradually changes from a circular shape to an elliptic shape as it goes from the distal end to the proximal end.

Next, a first modification of the endoscope 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A to 6B.
The cross section from the distal end to the proximal end of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a shown in FIG. 5B is preferably a circular shape with an inner diameter and an outer diameter being substantially constant. The base end of the coil pipe 62a shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B is formed in a substantially regular hexagonal shape, for example. It is preferable that the distal end of the deformable portion 74 has a circular shape, and the base end of the deformable portion 74 has a regular hexagonal shape. In other words, the shape of the deformable portion 74 gradually changes from the circular shape at the distal end toward the regular hexagonal shape at the proximal end. Specifically, a polygon having more corners than a hexagon is formed from the circular shape at the distal end of the deformable portion 74 toward the base end side, and the number of corners gradually decreases toward the base end side so that a regular hexagon is formed. Form. The second tubular portion 76, cross section perpendicular to the central axis C _A from the distal end to the proximal end is hexagonal.

The connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 has a shape in which the back portion 132 at the distal end of the support portion 114 is semicircular and the back portion 132 at the proximal end is a regular hexagon divided in half, and is shaped from the distal end toward the proximal end. Is gradually changing. The back portion 132 of the second tubular portion 116 has a shape in which the cross section is a regular hexagonal shape divided in half. Incidentally, the peripheral surface of the length of the inner portion 132 perpendicular to the central axis C _A of the support portion 114 is gradually increased toward the proximal end from the distal end.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a is inserted and fitted from the side opening 122 to the back portion 132 of the second cylindrical portion 116, so that the coil pipe 62a has its central axis C. It is restricted from rotating around the _A axis. For this reason, during use of the endoscope 10, the coil pipe 62a can be restricted from rotating about its axis. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the coil pipe 62a from being twisted.

Next, a second modification of the endoscope 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B. This modification is a modification in which the corners of the cross section of the second tubular portion 76 of the first modification are reduced to a square. Here, the description of the connection mechanism 64 is omitted, and the shape of the coil pipe 62a will be briefly described.
The cross section from the distal end to the proximal end of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a shown in FIG. 7B is preferably a circular shape having an inner diameter and an outer diameter that are substantially constant. The proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B is formed in a substantially square shape (substantially rectangular shape), for example. It is preferable that the cross section of the distal end of the deformable portion 74 is circular, and the cross section of the base end of the deformable portion 74 is square. That is, the shape of the cross section of the deformable portion 74 gradually changes from the circular shape at the distal end toward the square shape at the proximal end. The second tubular portion 76, cross section perpendicular to the central axis C _A from the distal end to the proximal end is a square shape. Incidentally, the center of gravity of the square of the modification is preferably coincides with the center axis C _A.
Although not illustrated, the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 of this modified example gradually changes in shape from the distal end to the proximal end of the support portion 114 as described in the first modified example. Further, the back portion 132 of the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 of this modified example has a substantially rectangular shape to which the square second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a can be attached and detached from the distal end to the proximal end. It is.

  Next, a third modification of the endoscope 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B. This modification is a modification in which the angle of the cross section of the second tubular portion 76 of the first and second modifications is reduced to an equilateral triangle. Here, the description of the connection mechanism 64 is omitted, and the shape of the coil pipe 62a will be mainly described.

The cross section of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a shown in FIG. 8B is preferably circular. The base end of the coil pipe 62a shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B is formed in a substantially triangular shape, for example. As for the cross section of the deformation | transformation part 74, it is suitable that a front-end | tip is circular shape and a base end is an equilateral triangle shape. That is, the shape of the cross section of the deformable portion 74 gradually changes from the circular shape at the tip toward the regular triangle at the base. The second tubular portion 76, cross section perpendicular to the central axis C _A from the distal end to the proximal end is an equilateral triangle. Incidentally, the center of gravity of the triangle of the modification is preferably coincides with the center axis C _A.
Although not illustrated, the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 of this modified example gradually changes in shape from the distal end to the proximal end of the support portion 114 as described in the first modified example. Further, the back portion 132 of the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 of this modified example has a substantially rectangular shape to which the equilateral triangular second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a can be attached and detached from the distal end to the proximal end. Shape.

  In the first to third modified examples, the shape gradually changes from a circular shape to a regular n-corner shape from the distal end of the deformable portion 74 toward the proximal end of the deformable portion 74. It is not necessary to change to a regular n-gon, and it is also preferable to change from a circular shape to an n-gon (n is a natural number of 3 or more). In this case, the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 is formed so as to be able to support the outer peripheral surface of the deformation portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a, and the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 is the coil pipe 62a. The outer peripheral surface of the second tubular portion 76 is formed so as to be supported.

  Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9A to 10. This embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment including each modification. The same members as those described in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. To do.

As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the first tubular portion 72 and the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a used in the endoscope 10 of this embodiment are formed to have the same inner diameter and outer diameter. .
The deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a is formed as a bulged portion that bulges radially outward with respect to the proximal end of the first tubular portion 72, and has a diameter expanded portion 174a that increases in diameter from the distal end toward the proximal end side. , And a reduced diameter portion 174b that is reduced in diameter toward the proximal end from the most expanded position. The proximal end of the enlarged diameter portion 174a and the distal end of the reduced diameter portion 174b may be at the same position, or the largest diameter portion of the coil pipe 62a between the proximal end of the enlarged diameter portion 174a and the distal end of the reduced diameter portion 174b. There may be formed a portion having a constant diameter. The second tubular portion 76 extends to the proximal end side of the reduced diameter portion 174b while maintaining the inner diameter and outer diameter of the proximal end of the reduced diameter portion 174b of the deformable portion 74.
Incidentally, the inclination angle α of the enlarged diameter portion 174a with respect to the center axis C _A shown in FIG. 9B, it is preferable that the inclination angle β of the reduced diameter portion 174b of the same size with respect to the center axis C _A.

As shown in FIG. 10, the axial length along the central axis _{C A} of the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connecting portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64, the central axis _{C A} of the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a It is preferable that it is formed longer than the axial length along. For this reason, when the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a is attached to the connection portion 102, a cross absorption portion (gap) G is formed between the base end of the coil pipe 62a and the inner flange 124 of the connection portion 102. Has been. By crossing absorbing portion G is formed, it is possible to reduce the influence of the direction of the length of the tolerance along the central axis C _A of the second tubular portion 76 (allowable length).
In this embodiment, the first tubular portion 72 and the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a are described as having the same inner diameter and outer diameter. As described in the first embodiment, it is allowed that the inner diameter and the outer diameter of the second tubular portion 76 are larger than those of the first tubular portion 72. In this case, it is preferable axial length of the enlarged diameter portion 174a along the center axis C _A is longer than the axial length of the reduced diameter portion 174b.

The side opening 122 of the connecting portion 102 has substantially the same shape and the same size as the base end portion of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a shown in FIG. 9B, the outer shape of the deformable portion 74, and the second tubular portion 76. , Slightly larger or slightly smaller.
The width of the side opening 122 of the first tubular portion 112 of the connecting portion 102 is constant. The inner portion 132 of the first tubular portion 112 has an inner diameter that is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a, and extends the first tubular portion 72 toward the distal end side.
The width of the side opening 122 of the second cylindrical portion 116 is constant. The inner portion 132 of the second tubular portion 116 has an inner diameter that is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a, and extends the second tubular portion 76 toward the distal end side.
Note that the widths of the first tubular portion 112 and the second tubular portion 116 are preferably the same as the outer diameters of the first tubular portion 72 and the second tubular portion 76. Alternatively, it is preferable that the second tubular portion 116 is slightly wider or slightly narrower than the first tubular portion 112.

The support portion 114 includes a distal end side support portion 214a that supports the enlarged diameter portion 174a of the coil pipe 62a, and a proximal end side support portion 214b that supports the reduced diameter portion 174b of the coil pipe 62a. As shown in FIG. 10, it is preferable that the distal end side support portion 214a is formed so as to maintain the spread angle from the distal end side to the proximal end side of the enlarged diameter portion 174a of the coil pipe 62a at an angle α. . It is preferable that the base end side support portion 214b is formed so as to maintain a contraction angle from the distal end side to the base end side of the reduced diameter portion 174b of the coil pipe 62a at an angle β.
The enlarged diameter portion 174a and reduced diameter portion 174b of the coil pipe 62a is not symmetric with respect to the central axis _{C A,} the axis of the central axis _{C A} in accordance with the angle of the wire of the coil pipe 62a (the angle with respect to the center axis _{C A)} It is preferable that the direction is shifted. Therefore, the distal end position of the distal end side support portion 214a of the connection portion 102, the proximal end position of the proximal end side support portion 214b, and the boundary between the proximal end of the distal end side support portion 214a and the distal end of the proximal end side support portion 214b. position, it is preferable that offset in the axial direction of the central axis C _a.

  Next, the operation of the endoscope 10 according to this embodiment will be briefly described. Here, a procedure (manufacturing method) for connecting the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a to the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 disposed on the base 50 in a state where the angle wire 60a is inserted into the coil pipe 62a will be described. To do.

  The base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62 a is opposed to the side opening 122 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 in a state where the distal end portion of the coil pipe 62 a is separated from the operation portion main body 82. The base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62 a is disposed in the back portion 132 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 through the side opening 122.

The size of the first cylindrical portion 112, the support portion 114, and the second cylindrical portion 116 formed continuously from the side opening 122 of the connecting portion 102 is the base end portion of the first tubular portion 72 of the coil pipe 62a, and is deformed. The outer shape of the portion 74 and the second tubular portion 76 may be approximately the same size, slightly larger, or slightly smaller, but here, the case where each is slightly smaller will be mainly described.
The enlarged diameter portion 174a and the reduced diameter portion 174b of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a are stretched against the force of a spring that intends to maintain a natural state. In this state, the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a is disposed in the back portion 132 through the side opening 122 of the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 and between the extending portions 134a and 134b.
When the proximal end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a is disposed in the back portion 132 of the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connection portion 102, the deforming portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a is urged (spring) to return the outer diameter to the original. Force) works. Therefore, deformation portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a is an inner circumferential surface of the inner portion 132 of the second cylindrical portion 116 of the connecting portion 102 is pressed radially outward with respect to the central axis _{C A.}
Further, the outer peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion 174a of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a exerts a force in the normal direction of the inner peripheral surface of the distal end side support portion 214a of the support portion 114, and the reduced diameter portion 174b of the deformable portion 74 The outer peripheral surface exerts a force in the normal direction of the inner peripheral surface of the base end side support portion 214b of the support portion 114. For this reason, the deformation | transformation part 74 receives reaction force from the support part 114 so that the movement to the front end side and base end side with respect to the support part 114 is controlled.
Therefore, the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62 a of this embodiment is in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64. At this time, the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62 a is detachably fixed to the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64. The distal end of the coil pipe 62 a extends to the distal end side of the insertion portion 12 through the distal end opening 118 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64.

  In maintenance of the endoscope 10, the coil pipe 62 a may be taken out of the connection mechanism 64 through the side opening 122.

For example, U-direction side angle wire 60a is pulled, the U-direction side coil pipe 62a, compressive force is applied in a direction along the central axis C _A. At this time, the reduced diameter portion 174b of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a presses the proximal end side support portion 214b of the connection portion 102. For this reason, the coil pipe 62a is restricted from moving further from the proximal end of the deformable portion 74 to the proximal end side (the direction closer to the bending portion operation knob 54 and the sprocket 52) with respect to the connecting portion 102. .

For example, U-direction side angle wire 60a is pushed distally, the U-direction side coil pipe 62a, tensile force in a direction along the central axis C _A is added. At this time, the enlarged diameter portion 174a of the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a presses the distal end side support portion 214a of the connection portion 102. For this reason, the coil pipe 62 a is restricted from moving further from the distal end of the deformable portion 74 to the distal end side (a direction away from the bending portion operation knob 54 and the sprocket 52) with respect to the connection portion 102.

  Here, the size of the first tubular portion of the coil pipe 62a is mainly the size of the side opening 122, the first cylindrical portion 112 formed continuously with the side opening 122, the support portion 114, and the second cylindrical portion 116. The case where each of the proximal end portion 72, the deformable portion 74, and the outer shape of the second tubular portion 76 is slightly smaller has been described. When the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a is disposed with respect to the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64, the side opening 122, the first cylindrical portion 112 formed continuously to the side opening 122, the support portion 114, and the second portion are formed. When the size of the cylindrical portion 116 is substantially the same as or slightly larger than the outer shape of the proximal end portion of the first tubular portion 72, the deformable portion 74, and the second tubular portion 76 of the coil pipe 62a, the coil What is necessary is just to arrange | position the pipe 62a in the back part 132 through between the support part 114 of the connection part 102 of the connection mechanism 64, the side opening 122 of the 2nd cylindrical part 116, and extension part 134a, 134b with a natural state. At this time, the outer peripheral surface of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62 is supported by the inner peripheral surface of the support portion 114. That is, when a compressive force is applied to the coil pipe 62, the outer peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion 174 a of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62 is supported by the inner peripheral surface of the distal end side support portion 214 a of the support portion 114. Further, when a tensile force is applied to the coil pipe 62, the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 174 b of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62 is supported by the inner peripheral surface of the proximal end support portion 214 b of the support portion 114. For this reason, in any case, the deformation portion 74 receives a reaction force from the support portion 114 so that the movement to the distal end side and the proximal end side is restricted with respect to the support portion 114.

Next, a modification of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B.
As shown in FIG. 11B, the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 of this modification has a distal end side support portion 314a and a proximal end side support portion 314b. The distal end side support portion 314a has an inclination angle γ (<α) having a magnitude greatly different from the inclination angle α of the enlarged diameter portion 174a of the coil pipe 62a in the natural state. Similarly, the base end side support portion 314b has an inclination angle δ (<β) having a magnitude greatly different from the inclination angle β of the reduced diameter portion 174b of the coil pipe 62a in the natural state. Note that the inclination angles γ and δ may be the same or different.

The operation when the base end portion of the coil pipe 62a described in the second embodiment is connected to the connection portion 102 of this modification will be briefly described.
As shown in FIG. 11A, it adds the deformation portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a which is inserted the angle wire 60a, the compressive force F in the axial direction of the central axis C _A. Then, in the diameter-enlarged portion 174a, the strands on the distal end side sequentially enter inside the strands on the proximal end side from the distal end to the proximal end. Thus, enlarged diameter portion 174a of the deformable portion 74, the outer diameter increases with the axial length becomes shorter along the central axis C _A. In the reduced diameter portion 174b, the proximal end strands sequentially enter the distal end side strands from the proximal end toward the distal end. Thus, reduced diameter portion 174b of the deformable portion 74, the outer diameter increases with the axial length becomes shorter along the central axis C _A relative nature. Then, the proximal end side inner peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion 174a and the distal end side inner peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 174b are brought into contact with each other. For this reason, the deforming portion 74 forms a convex portion protruding radially outward with respect to the first tubular portion 72 and the second tubular portion 76. Since the deformed portion (convex portion) 74 abuts the proximal end side inner peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion 174a and the distal end side inner peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 174b, the second embodiment shown in FIG. It can withstand a larger load than the enlarged diameter portion 174a and the reduced diameter portion 174b of the deformable portion 74 described in the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 11B, the coil pipe 62 a in this state is disposed in the back portion 132 of the connection portion 102 through the side opening 122. That is, the coil is applied to the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 in a state where the proximal end side inner peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion 174a of the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a and the distal end side inner peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 174b are in contact. A pipe 62a is arranged.

For example, when causing the bending portion 24 by adding a traction U direction side angle wire 60a is bent in a U direction, the U-direction side coil pipe 62a, compressive force is applied in a direction along the central axis C _A. At this time, the reduced diameter portion 174b of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a presses the proximal end side support portion 314b of the connection portion 102. Since the enlarged diameter portion 174a is in contact with the reduced diameter portion 174b of the deformable portion 74, the enlarged diameter portion 174a cooperates to press the proximal end support portion 314b of the connecting portion 102 in addition to the reduced diameter portion 174b. . For this reason, the coil pipe 62a is restricted from moving further from the proximal end of the deformable portion 74 to the proximal end side with respect to the connecting portion 102.
For example, U-direction side angle wire 60a is pushed distally, the U-direction side coil pipe 62a, tensile force in a direction along the central axis C _A is added. At this time, the enlarged diameter portion 174a of the deforming portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a presses the distal end side support portion 314a of the connection portion 102. Since the reduced diameter portion 174b is in contact with the enlarged diameter portion 174a of the deformable portion 74, the distal diameter side support portion 314a of the connecting portion 102 is pressed by the reduced diameter portion 174b in addition to the enlarged diameter portion 174a. For this reason, the coil pipe 62 a is restricted from moving further from the distal end of the deformable portion 74 to the distal end side with respect to the connecting portion 102.

  Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 12A to 13B. This embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment and the second embodiment including each modification, and is the same as the members described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment. The same reference numerals are given to the members, and detailed description is omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a in this embodiment, the distal end side expansion part arranged along the axial direction of the central axis C _A (first bulging portion) 74a And a base end side bulging portion (second bulging portion) 74b in an adjacent state. It is preferable that the distal end side bulged portion 74a and the proximal end side bulged portion 74b are formed in the same manner as the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a described in the second embodiment. That is, the distal-side bulged portion 74a has a diameter-expanded portion 474a and a reduced-diameter portion 474b, and the base-side-side bulged portion 74b has a diameter-expanded portion 574a and a diameter-reduced portion 574b.
In this embodiment, a circular pipe portion (first circular pipe portion) 74c having a constant diameter is provided between the proximal end of the distal end side bulging portion 74a and the distal end of the proximal end side bulging portion 74b.

As shown in FIG. 12B, the inclination angle η of the enlarged diameter portion 474a of the distal bulged portion 74a with respect to the center axis _{C A,} the inclination angle of the enlarged diameter portion 574a of the base end side bulged portion 74b with respect to the center axis _{C A} theta Are preferably the same size. The inclination angle μ of the reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal bulged portion 74a, the inclination angle ν of the reduced diameter portion 574b of the base end side expansion portion 74b with respect to the center axis C _A of the same size with respect to the center axis C _A Is preferred. Further, these inclination angles η, θ, μ, and ν are preferably the same size.

The connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 is formed so as to support between the reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal end side bulging portion 74a and the enlarged diameter portion 574a of the proximal end side bulging portion 74b.
The connection part 102 of this embodiment has a support part 114, a distal end opening 118, a proximal end opening 120, and a side opening 122 not shown here. The 1st cylindrical part 112 which arrange | positions the 1st tubular part 72 demonstrated in 1st and 2nd embodiment, and the 2nd cylindrical part 116 which arrange | positions the 2nd tubular part 76 are not formed. . For this reason, in this embodiment, only the deformed portion 74 of the proximal end portion 78 (the deformed portion 74 and the second tubular portion 76) of the coil pipe 62a is connected to and held by the connection mechanism 64.
The support portion 114 includes a distal end side support portion 414a that supports the reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal end side bulged portion 74a of the coil pipe 62a, an intermediate support portion 414b that supports the circular tube portion 74c, and a proximal end side bulged portion 74b. And a base end side support portion 414c for supporting the enlarged diameter portion 574a. The inner diameter of the intermediate support portion 414b is preferably the same as the outer diameter of the circular tube portion 74c, slightly larger or slightly smaller than that.
The distal end side support portion 414a has an inclination angle ψ that is the same as or different from the inclination angle μ of the reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal end side bulging portion 74a of the coil pipe 62a in the natural state. Similarly, the base end side support portion 414c has an inclination angle ω that is the same as or different from the inclination angle θ of the enlarged diameter portion 574a of the base end side bulging portion 74b of the coil pipe 62a in the natural state. The inclination angles ψ and ω may be the same or different from each other.
The side opening 122 and the extended portions 134a and 134b of the connecting portion 102 are formed by, for example, the distal end of the reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal end side bulged portion 74a of the coil pipe 62a and the enlarged diameter portion 574a of the proximal end side expanded portion 74b. It is formed to pass between the base end.

The operation when the base end portion of the coil pipe 62a shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B is connected to the connection portion 102 (see FIG. 13A) of this modification will be briefly described.
The sizes of the distal end side support portion 414a, the intermediate support portion 414b, and the proximal end side support portion 414c of the support portion 114 formed continuously to the side opening 122 of the connection portion 102 are the same as the outer shape of the deformation portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a. Although it may be substantially the same size, slightly larger, or slightly smaller, here, the case where each is slightly smaller will be mainly described.
_A tensile force is applied along the axial direction of the central axis CA to the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a through which the angle wire 60a is inserted. Then, the distal end side bulged portion 74a of the enlarged diameter portion 474a, and the enlarged diameter portion 574a of the base end side expansion portion 74b is toward the proximal end from the distal end, the distal of the proximal end relative to the central axis _{C A} the rear end side of the wire of the wire side is the distal end side, i.e., sequentially shifted in a direction coming close to the central axis C _a. Reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal bulged portion 74a, and, the reduced diameter portion 574b of the base end side expansion portion 74b includes, from proximal to distal, containing the distal tip side of the central axis _{C A} lines leading end side of the wire of the proximal side, i.e., sequentially shifted in a direction coming close to the central axis C _a. Therefore, the distal end side bulged portion 74a and the proximal side bulged portion 74b of the deformable portion 74, the maximum outer diameter decreases with the axial length becomes longer along the central axis C _A relative nature.

  The coil pipe 62 a in this state is disposed in the back portion 132 of the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 through the side opening 122. At this time, the reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal end side bulged portion 74a of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a is brought into contact with the distal end side support portion 414a of the support portion 114, and the enlarged diameter portion 574a of the proximal end side bulged portion 74b is changed. The coil pipe 62a is disposed on the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 in a state of being in contact with the base end side support portion 414c of the support portion 114. That is, the connection mechanism 64 is sandwiched between the reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal end side bulging portion 74a of the deformed portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a and the enlarged diameter portion 574a of the proximal end side bulged portion 74b, and the coil for the connection mechanism 64 The position of the base end portion of the pipe 62a is defined.

For example, when the bending portion 24 by adding a traction U direction side angle wire 60a is bent in the U direction, the U-direction side coil pipe 62a, compressive force is applied in a direction along the central axis C _A. At this time, the reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal end side bulged portion 74a of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a presses the distal end side support portion 414a of the connection portion 102. For this reason, the coil pipe 62a is restricted from moving further from the proximal end of the deformable portion 74 to the proximal end side with respect to the connecting portion 102. Wire of the distal bulged portion 74a and the proximal side bulged portion 74b shown in FIG. 13A, since close to the central axis C _A against the natural state shown in FIG. 12B, the resistance to compressive forces than the natural state Can be bigger.
For example, U-direction side angle wire 60a is pushed distally, the U-direction side coil pipe 62a, tensile force in a direction along the central axis C _A is added. At this time, the diameter-enlarged portion 574a of the proximal-side bulged portion 74b of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a presses the proximal-side support portion 414c of the connecting portion 102. For this reason, the coil pipe 62 a is restricted from moving further from the distal end of the deformable portion 74 to the distal end side with respect to the connecting portion 102.

  Here, the case where the size of the side opening 122 and the support portion 114 formed continuously to the side opening 122 is slightly smaller than the outer shape of the deformation portion 74 of the coil pipe 62a has been mainly described. When the base end portion of the coil pipe 62a is disposed with respect to the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64, the size of the side opening 122 and the support portion 114 formed continuously to the side opening 122 is the deformation of the coil pipe 62a. When the coil pipe 62a is formed in a natural state, the side opening 122 of the support portion 114 of the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 and the extension portions 134a and 134b are formed. What is necessary is just to arrange | position in the back part 132 through between. At this time, the outer peripheral surface of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62 is supported by the inner peripheral surface of the support portion 114. That is, when a compressive force is applied to the coil pipe 62, the outer peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion 574 a of the base end side bulged portion 74 b of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62 is within the base end side support portion 414 c of the support portion 114. Supported by the peripheral surface. Further, when a tensile force is applied to the coil pipe 62, the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 474b of the distal end side bulged portion 74a of the deformable portion 74 of the coil pipe 62 is the inner peripheral surface of the distal end side support portion 414a of the support portion 114. Supported by For this reason, in any case, the deformation portion 74 receives a reaction force from the support portion 114 so that the movement to the distal end side and the proximal end side is restricted with respect to the support portion 114.

As shown in FIG. 13A, the connecting portion 102 of this embodiment does not need to form the first tubular portion 112 and the second tubular portion 116 described in the first and second embodiments. Thus, the connection mechanism 64 of this embodiment can be made shorter than the central axis axial length of the direction along the C _A connection mechanism 64 described in the first and second embodiments . By using the connection mechanism 64 and the coil pipe 62a described in this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the weight of the endoscope 10 as compared with the first and third embodiments.

In this embodiment, it has been described that the first bulging portion 74a and the second bulging portion 74b are present at the proximal end portion of the coil pipe 62a. For example, as shown in FIG. 13B, a third bulging portion 74d having a similar shape may be formed at the base end of the second bulging portion 74b via a circular pipe portion (second circular pipe portion) 74e. good. At this time, three of the bulging portion 74a, 74b, of the 74d, by selecting the two bulging portions adjacent in the axial direction of the central axis _{C A,} the distal end side supporting portion 414a and the proximal side supporting the connecting portion 102 The part 414c can be pressed. That is, the connection portion 102 can be engaged using the first and second bulge portions 74a and 74b or the second and third bulge portions 74b and 74d. In this case, the position of the base end portion of the coil pipe 62a with respect to the connection mechanism 64 can be easily adjusted when maintaining the coil pipe 62a that has expanded or contracted due to the use of the endoscope 10. Therefore, when the coil pipe 62a shown in FIG. 13B is used, maintenance of the endoscope 10 can be performed more easily than when the coil pipe 62a shown in FIG. 13A is used.

In the first and second embodiments described above, the example in which the entire base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62 a is disposed in the connection portion 102 of the connection mechanism 64 of the engagement mechanism 64 has been described. As described in this embodiment, even if only a part of the base end portion of the coil pipe 62a, in particular, only a part of the deformation portion 74 is engaged with the engagement mechanism 64, the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a. There can be restricted from moving along the axial direction of the central axis C _a of the coil pipe 62a with respect to the driving force input portion.

  Next, a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14A to 15B. This embodiment is a modification of the first to third embodiments including each modification, and is the same as the members described in the first to third embodiments. The same reference numerals are given to the members, and detailed description is omitted.

The bending portion 24 of the endoscope 10 shown in FIG. 14A includes a bending tube 36 in which a plurality of bending pieces 36a, 36b,... Shown in FIG. The bending tube 36 supports two pairs of angle wires 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d so as to be movable in the axial direction by wire guides (not shown) provided on the bending pieces 36a, 36b,. The distal ends (one end of the pulling member) of the angle wires 60a, 60b, 60c, and 60d are fixed to the most distal bending piece 36a or the distal end rigid portion 22 of the bending tube 36, and the base end (the other end of the pulling member) is the operation unit 14. It is extended toward.
The bending tube 36 of the bending portion 24 can be bent with respect to the central axis C of the insertion portion 12. Here, the bending tube 36 has four directions (upward direction (U direction), respectively, with respect to a straight state (the bending angle is 0 degree). It can be bent downward (D direction), right direction (R direction) and left direction (L direction). The length of the bending tube 36 can be set as appropriate.

  For this reason, the bending drive mechanism 44 of this embodiment has a structure in which the bending portion 24 is bent in the R direction and the L direction in addition to the U direction and the D direction. Inside the cover 82a of the operation unit 14, another sprocket (not shown) is arranged coaxially with the sprocket 52 described in the first embodiment and operates independently. The sprocket is connected to a bending portion operation knob 54 a disposed outside the operation portion 14. A chain (not shown) is wound around another sprocket, and the base ends of the angle wires 60c and 60d shown in FIG. 15A are supported at the end of the chain. The angle wires 60c and 60d are connected to the coil pipes 62c and 62d. It is inserted.

As shown in FIG. 15A, the connection mechanism 64 of this embodiment includes first to fourth connection portions (engagement portions) 102, 104, 106, and 108. The connection portions 106 and 108 are formed on the lower side in FIG. 15A with respect to the connection portions 102 and 104 described in the first embodiment.
The first connecting portion 102 is engaged with the proximal end portion of the U-direction coil pipe 62a through which the U-direction angle wire 60a is inserted. The base end portion of the coil pipe 62b in the D direction through which the angle wire 60b in the D direction is inserted is engaged with the second connecting portion 104. The third connection portion 106 is engaged with the proximal end portion of the R-direction coil pipe 62c through which the R-direction angle wire 60c is inserted. The fourth connecting portion 108 is engaged with the proximal end portion of the L-direction coil pipe 62d through which the L-direction angle wire 60d is inserted.
The first connection unit 102 illustrated in FIGS. 15A and 15B has the same structure as the connection unit 102 described in the first embodiment. Since the structure of the second to fourth connecting portions 104, 106, 108 is the same as that of the connecting portion 102 described in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here. That is, the same structure as that of the connection unit 102 described in the first embodiment can be used for each of the four connection units 102, 104, 106, and 108.

  In addition, in order to hold | maintain the base end part of two pairs of coil pipes 62a, 62b, 62c, 62d of such an endoscope 10 so that attachment or detachment is possible, it demonstrates in the 1st-3rd embodiment containing a modification. The connection mechanism 64 having the structure described above can be used.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, the example of the endoscope 10 having the above-described observation optical system and illumination optical system has been described. As an insertion instrument that does not have an observation optical system and an illumination optical system, the structures of the insertion unit 12 and the operation unit 14 can be used as they are.

Next, a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. This embodiment is a modification of the first to fourth embodiments including each modification, and is the same as the members described in the first to fourth embodiments. The same reference numerals are given to the members, and detailed description is omitted.
This embodiment is an example of the insertion instrument 10 in which the operation portion 14 as described in the first to fourth embodiments is not disposed at the proximal end portion of the insertion portion 12.

As shown in FIG. 16, the insertion instrument 10 according to this embodiment includes an insertion portion 12, a bending drive mechanism 44a, and a controller 18 connected to the bending drive mechanism 44a.
The bending drive mechanism 44a includes a power source P, a motor M that is a drive source driven by electric power supplied from the power source P, and a pulley 52a that is a transmission unit that transmits the driving force of the motor M disposed in the motor M. A wire 57 that is a transmission portion for transmitting a driving force from the motor M via the pulley 52a, coupling mechanisms 58a and 58b, angle wires 60a and 60b, coil pipes 62a and 62b, a connection mechanism (engaging mechanism) 64). The motor M and the pulley 52a form a driving force input unit that inputs a driving force for bending the bending portion 24 of the insertion portion 12.
The power source P, the motor M, and the connection mechanism 64 are supported, for example, inside a cover 82b disposed at the proximal end portion of the insertion portion 12. It is also preferable that the connection mechanism 64 is disposed not only inside the cover 82 b but also inside the base end portion of the insertion portion 12. As described in the first embodiment, the pulley 52 a may be the sprocket 52 and the wire 57 may be the chain 56.

The motor M is provided with an encoder E, and the motor M and the encoder E are connected to the controller 18. The controller 18 can output a signal to operate the motor M to rotate the pulley 52a in a desired direction and a desired angle. Therefore, the bending portion 24 can be bent through the wire 57, the coupling mechanisms 58a and 58b, and the angle wires 60a and 60b disposed on the pulley 52a. At this time, the coil pipes 62a and 62b through which the angle wires 60a and 60b are inserted operate as described in the first to third embodiments. For this reason, the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a through which the angle wire 60a is inserted is engaged by the engagement mechanism 64, so that the base end portion 78 of the coil pipe 62a becomes the motor M and the pulley 52a, that is, the driving force input. it can be restricted from moving along the axial direction of the central axis C _a of the coil pipe 62a with respect to part.
Therefore, the coil pipes 62a and 62b described in the first to third embodiments are described in the first to third embodiments with respect to the insertion instrument 10 that does not have the operation unit 14. It can be used similarly.
In this embodiment, a structure is described in which a pair of angle wires 60a and 60b and a pair of coil pipes 62a and 62b are electrically bent in two directions. However, the fourth embodiment will be described. As described above, it may be formed to be bent in four directions having two pairs of angle wires 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d and two pairs of coil pipes 62a, 62b, 62c, 62d.

  Although several embodiments have been specifically described so far with reference to the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and all the embodiments performed without departing from the scope of the invention are described. Including implementation.

C A _... central axis, 60a ... angle wires, 62a ... coil pipe, 64 ... connecting mechanism, 72 ... first tubular portion, 74 ... deformable portion, 76 ... second tubular portion, 78 ... engaging portion (base end portion) 102. Connection part.

Claims (15)

A bendable tube,
At least a portion having one end inserted into the bending tube and the other end receiving the driving force from the driving force input portion are received, and the other end receives the driving force and moves in the axial direction to be connected to the one end. An elongated angle wire for bending the bent tube,
The angle wire is disposed between one end and the other end of the angle wire, the wire is wound in a tightly wound coil shape, and the angle wire is inserted so as to be movable in the axial direction. Specified by a base end portion having a deformed portion having a diameter-expanding portion that expands an outer diameter toward the base end side while maintaining a state where they are in contact with each other, and the tip end portion and the base end portion A coiled pipe having a central axis to be
The base end portion of the coil pipe through which the angle wire is inserted is engaged, and the base end portion of the coil pipe moves along the axial direction of the central axis of the coil pipe with respect to the driving force input portion. An insertion device comprising an engaging mechanism for regulating. The engagement mechanism is
A slit that allows the proximal end of the coil pipe to be taken in and out;
The insertion device according to claim 1, further comprising: a housing portion that communicates with the slit and accommodates a proximal end portion of the coil pipe in a state in which movement in the axial direction of the angle wire is restricted.   The insertion instrument according to claim 2, wherein the slit has a side opening that allows a proximal end portion of the coil pipe to be taken in and out in a direction substantially perpendicular to a central axis of the coil pipe.   The insertion device according to claim 3, wherein the side opening has a shape corresponding to an outer shape of the base end portion of the coil pipe.   The insertion device according to claim 1, wherein the engagement mechanism includes a support portion that supports the deformation portion of the coil pipe and restricts the deformation portion from moving toward the tip side of the coil pipe.   The insertion device according to claim 1, wherein the engagement mechanism has, at a base end thereof, an abutting portion through which the angle wire is inserted and the base end of the coil pipe can abut.   The deformed portion of the coil pipe is located on the proximal end side of the enlarged diameter portion in addition to the enlarged diameter portion, and has a reduced diameter portion that reduces the outer diameter toward the proximal end side. The insertion device according to claim 1, comprising:   The insertion tool according to claim 7, wherein a plurality of the bulging portions are formed along an axial direction of the central axis of the coil pipe.   The engagement mechanism includes a distal end side support portion that supports a reduced diameter portion of the distal side bulge portion among the plurality of bulge portions, and a proximal end side of the bulge portion that is supported by the distal end side support portion. The insertion device according to claim 8, further comprising a proximal end support portion that supports a diameter-expanded portion of an adjacent bulge portion.   Of the bulging portion, an inclination angle of a diameter-expanding portion that expands toward the base end side along the central axis, and a diameter-reducing portion that decreases in diameter toward the base end side along the central axis. The insertion instrument according to claim 7, wherein the inclination angles are the same. The proximal end portion of the coil pipe has a tubular portion having a polygonal cross section adjacent to the deformation portion,
The insertion device according to claim 1, wherein the engagement mechanism has a polygonal cylindrical portion that supports the tubular portion.   The deformed portion of the coil pipe is located at the distal end of the tubular portion, and the cross section is from a circular shape toward the same shape as that of the polygonal cylindrical portion from the distal end to the proximal end of the deformable portion. The insertion device according to claim 11, wherein the shape is changed. The angle wire and the coil pipe have one or two pairs,
The insertion device according to claim 1, wherein the engagement mechanism has a plurality of engagement portions formed according to the number of the angle wires and the coil pipes. An insertion instrument according to claim 1;
An operating portion disposed at the other end of the angle wire,
An endoscope in which a driving force for bending the bending tube can be input to the operation portion via the angle wire, and a bending operation input portion included in the driving force input portion is provided. It is a manufacturing method of the insertion instrument according to claim 1,
The manufacturing method, comprising: housing the base end portion of the coil pipe through which the angle wire is inserted directly into the engagement mechanism from a direction substantially orthogonal to the central axis of the coil pipe.

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