JP2017086550A - Endoscope - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an endoscope in which both prevention of electric leakage and fixing of components are realized with downsizing achieved.SOLUTION: The endoscope comprises: a first member formed cylindrically having an end face at an end, the first member including one of a notch formed by notching a part of the end face and a through-hole formed radially extending through the vicinity of the end face; and a second member formed cylindrically or columnarly having a step face in the peripheral surface. The first and second members are joined together, in a configuration with the end face in contact with the step face, by way of a first joining portion formed by filling a first adhesive into the notch or into the through-hole and a second joining portion formed by applying a second adhesive to a portion which does not overlap the portion filled with the first adhesive in the peripheral surface. One of the first and second adhesives has an electrical conductivity higher than the other, and the other has an adhesive force higher than the one.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3B

Description

  The present invention relates to an endoscope, and more particularly to an endoscope used for observation in a body cavity of a subject.

  In a medical endoscope, in order to protect a user who performs endoscopic observation and a subject who is an object of endoscopic observation, electric leakage from a portion of the endoscope that can contact the human body Need to prevent. Further, in a medical endoscope, in order to ensure optical performance during use, it is necessary that the optical components incorporated in the endoscope are fixed as firmly as possible.

  On the other hand, in a medical endoscope, when realizing miniaturization by reducing the diameter of an insertion portion inserted into a body cavity of a subject, for example, a conductive material as disclosed in Patent Document 1 is used. By adopting a bonding method using an adhesive and an insulating adhesive in combination, an optical component built into the endoscope is prevented while preventing leakage from a portion of the endoscope that can come into contact with the human body. A policy to save space for a structure to be firmly fixed is being studied.

  By the way, in a process related to joining of predetermined parts such as a lens frame, which is a process included in a general endoscope manufacturing process, for example, an end face of one cylindrical part and a cylindrical or In some cases, the one component and the other component may be joined in a state where the step surface provided on the other column-shaped component is in contact with the stepped surface.

  However, Patent Document 1 does not particularly disclose a joining method that assumes the above-described arrangement state. Therefore, according to the joining method disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example, when the contact area between the step surface and the end surface is narrowed in accordance with the downsizing of the endoscope, the lens frame or the like There arises a problem that the predetermined parts cannot be sufficiently bonded to each other via a conductive adhesive or an insulating adhesive.

  Therefore, according to the joining method disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is a problem corresponding to the above-described problem that the endoscope cannot be reduced in size while achieving both prevention of leakage and fixing of parts. Yes.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope that can be reduced in size while simultaneously preventing leakage and fixing components.

  The endoscope according to one aspect of the present invention is formed in a cylindrical shape having an end surface at an end portion, and one or more notch portions formed by notching a part of the end surface or the end surface. A first member provided with any one or more through-hole portions formed by penetrating the vicinity in the radial direction, and a cylindrical shape including a step surface on one of the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface Or a second member formed in a column shape, and the first member and the second member are arranged in a state where the end surface and the step surface are in contact with each other. A first joint portion formed by filling the notch portion or the through-hole portion with the first adhesive, and a portion not overlapping with the first adhesive filling portion on the one peripheral surface A second joint formed by applying an adhesive, and the first adhesive. And one of the second adhesives has higher conductivity than the other adhesive, and the other adhesive has higher adhesive force than the one adhesive. Yes.

  The endoscope of one embodiment of the present invention includes a first member formed in a cylindrical shape having an end surface at an end portion, and a cylindrical shape having a step surface on one of the inner peripheral surface or the outer peripheral surface. One or more notches formed by cutting a part of the step surface and one or more penetrations formed in a radial direction through the vicinity of the step surface. A second member provided with any one of the holes, and the first member and the second member are arranged so that the end surface and the stepped surface are in contact with each other. A first joint portion formed by filling the notch portion or the through-hole portion with the first adhesive and a portion not overlapping with the first adhesive filling portion on the one peripheral surface 2 and a second joint formed by applying an adhesive, and the first joint One of the adhesive and the second adhesive has a higher conductivity than the other adhesive, and the other adhesive has a higher adhesive force than the one adhesive. ing.

  According to the endoscope of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the size while achieving both prevention of electric leakage and fixing of parts.

The figure which shows an example of a structure of the endoscope system containing the endoscope which concerns on an Example. The figure for demonstrating an example of the specific structure of the front-end | tip part of the endoscope which concerns on an Example. The figure which shows the example at the time of seeing a part of imaging unit concerning an Example from the outside. The figure which shows a part of cross section at the time of cut | disconnecting FIG. 3A by the III-III line. The figure which shows the example at the time of seeing a part of imaging unit which concerns on the 1st modification of an Example from the outside. The figure which shows a part of cross section at the time of cut | disconnecting FIG. 4A by the IV-IV line. The figure for demonstrating an example of the operation | work process for comprising the joining location of the lens frame and housing in an imaging unit like FIG. 4A and 4B. The figure which shows a part of cross section at the time of cutting | disconnecting FIG. 5A by the VV line. The figure for demonstrating an example of the operation | work process for comprising the joining location of the lens frame and housing in an imaging unit like FIG. 4A and 4B. The figure which shows a part of cross section at the time of cut | disconnecting FIG. 6A by the VI-VI line. The figure which shows the example at the time of seeing a part of imaging unit which concerns on the 2nd modification of an Example from the outside. The figure which shows a part of cross section at the time of cut | disconnecting FIG. 7A by the VII-VII line. The figure which shows the example at the time of seeing a part of imaging unit which concerns on the 3rd modification of an Example from the outside. The figure which shows a part of cross section at the time of cut | disconnecting FIG. 8A by the VIII-VIII line. The figure which shows the example at the time of seeing a part of imaging unit which concerns on the 4th modification of an Example from the outside. The figure which shows a part of cross section at the time of cut | disconnecting FIG. 9A by the IX-IX line. The figure for demonstrating an example of the specific structure of the imaging unit which concerns on the 5th modification of an Example. FIG. 10B is an exploded perspective view showing the external shape of the imaging unit in FIG. 10A. The figure for demonstrating an example of the specific structure of the front-end | tip part of the endoscope which concerns on the 6th modification of an Example.

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

  1 to 11 relate to an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an endoscope system 101 is connected to an endoscope 1 that can be inserted into a body cavity of a subject, a main body device 2 that can connect the endoscope 1, and a main body device 2. And a display device 3.

  The endoscope 1 includes an insertion portion 11 formed to have an elongated shape that can be inserted into a body cavity of a subject, and an operation portion 12 provided at a proximal end portion of the insertion portion 11. It is configured.

  A light guide 4 for guiding illumination light supplied from the main body device 2 to the distal end portion 11A of the insertion portion 11 is inserted into the endoscope 1. In addition, a plurality of signal lines used for transmitting an imaging signal output from an imaging unit 6 described later is inserted into the endoscope 1, for example.

  The distal end portion 11A of the insertion portion 11 is illuminated with the emission end portion of the light guide 4, the illumination lens unit 5 for irradiating the subject with illumination light emitted through the emission end portion, and the illumination light. An imaging unit 6 for imaging the subject is provided. A specific configuration of the tip portion 11A will be described later.

  The operation unit 12 includes, for example, one or more scope switches (not shown) that can give an instruction to the main body device 2 according to an operation of a user such as an operator. The operation unit 12 is detachably connected to the main body device 2 via, for example, a light connector 4 and a scope connector (not shown) incorporating a plurality of signal lines.

  The main body device 2 includes a light source unit 21, an image processing unit 22, and a control unit 23. Further, inside the main unit 2, GND is a reference potential point that is electrically connected to a housing 64 (described later) of the imaging unit 6 via a ground wire 91 (described later) provided in the endoscope 1. Terminals are provided.

  The light source unit 21 includes, for example, a xenon lamp or a white LED. The light source unit 21 is configured to be able to supply illumination light for illuminating a subject imaged by the endoscope 1 to the incident end of the light guide 4.

  The image processing unit 22 includes, for example, an image processing circuit. The image processing unit 22 is configured to generate an observation image by performing predetermined image processing on the imaging signal output from the endoscope 1, and to output the generated observation image to the display device 3. Has been.

  The control unit 23 includes, for example, a control circuit. Further, the control unit 23 is configured to perform control for operating the endoscope 1 and / or the main body device 2 in accordance with, for example, an instruction made in the scope switch of the operation unit 12.

  The display device 3 includes, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display) or the like, and is configured to display an observation image or the like output from the main body device 2.

  Here, an example of a specific configuration of the distal end portion 11A will be described with reference to FIG. 2 as appropriate. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of a specific configuration of the distal end portion of the endoscope according to the embodiment.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the distal end portion 11 </ b> A is provided with an exit end portion of the light guide 4, an illumination lens unit 5 including one or more lenses, and an imaging unit 6 inside the exterior member 7. Configured.

  The imaging unit 6 includes an objective lens unit 61, a lens frame 62, an image sensor 63, and a housing 64.

  The objective lens unit 61 includes, for example, one or more lenses, and is configured to form an optical image of a subject illuminated with illumination light emitted through the illumination lens unit 5.

  The lens frame 62 is made of, for example, metal, and is formed as a cylindrical part that can hold each lens in a state where the optical axes of the lenses of the objective lens unit 61 are aligned. The base end portion of the lens frame 62 is joined to the distal end portion of the housing 64 as will be described later. Further, the lens frame 62 is configured by disposing a tip surface at a position exposed to the outside of the insertion portion 11. That is, the distal end surface of the lens frame 62 is configured as a portion of the insertion portion 11 that can contact the human body.

  The image sensor 63 includes a solid-state image sensor such as a CCD or a CMOS, for example. The image sensor 63 generates an imaging signal by capturing an optical image of the subject formed by the objective lens unit 61, and outputs the generated imaging signal to the main body device 2 via the signal line 92. It is configured.

  The housing 64 is made of metal, for example, and can hold the image sensor 63 in accordance with the optical axis of the objective lens unit 61 held by the lens frame 62 and is connected to the image sensor 63. It is formed as a cylindrical part having an insertion hole 65 for allowing the signal line 92 inserted therethrough in the center. Further, the distal end portion of the housing 64 is joined to the proximal end portion of the lens frame 62 as described later. The housing 64 is configured to be electrically connected to a GND terminal inside the main body device 2 via a ground wire 91 extending from the base end portion.

  Next, an example of a specific configuration of a joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 in the imaging unit 6 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B. In FIGS. 3A and 3B, for convenience of illustration, it is assumed that portions unnecessary for description of the configuration of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are omitted as appropriate. Further, the III-III line in FIG. 3A and the one-dot chain line in FIG. 3B are line segments indicating an axial direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated insertion portion 11. FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating an example when a part of the imaging unit according to the embodiment is viewed from the outside. FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a part of a cross section when FIG. 3A is cut along the line III-III.

  As shown in FIG. 3A, the base end portion of the lens frame 62 is formed by cutting out a part of the base end surface 62 </ b> B at the base end portion of the lens frame 62 and having a semicircular shape in plan view. 62A is provided. In addition, in the inside of the semi-cylindrical space sandwiched between the portion belonging to the notch 62A of the base end surface 62B in the base end portion of the lens frame 62 and the step surface 64A (described later) of the housing 64, As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, a conductive adhesive 71 for mechanically joining the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 while being electrically connected is filled. Therefore, a portion belonging to the cutout portion 62 </ b> A in the base end surface 62 </ b> B at the base end portion of the lens frame 62 is joined to the step surface 64 </ b> A via the conductive adhesive 71. On the other hand, a portion of the base end surface 62 </ b> B at the base end portion of the lens frame 62 that does not belong to the notch 62 </ b> A is in contact with the step surface 64 </ b> A of the housing 64.

  As shown in FIG. 3B, a stepped surface 64 </ b> A that is a surface perpendicular to the axial direction (longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 11) is provided on the outer peripheral surface at the distal end portion of the housing 64. A reduced diameter portion 64B, which is a reduced portion, is provided. Further, as shown in FIG. 3B, an insulating adhesive 72 for mechanically connecting the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 is applied to a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64B that does not overlap the notch 62A. Has been. Therefore, a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64 </ b> B that does not overlap with the notch 62 </ b> A is joined to the inner peripheral surface of the base end portion of the lens frame 62 via the insulating adhesive 72. On the other hand, a conductive adhesive 71 is applied to a portion overlapping the notch 62A on the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64B.

  That is, according to the structure of the joining location according to the present embodiment, since the notched portion 62 </ b> A is filled with the conductive adhesive 71 having higher conductivity than the insulating adhesive 72, the joint portion is formed. The electrical continuity between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured. Moreover, according to the structure of the joining location which concerns on a present Example, the insulating adhesive 72 which has adhesive force higher than the conductive adhesive 71 is filled with the conductive adhesive 71 in the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter part 64B. Therefore, a mechanical joint strength between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured.

  Therefore, according to the imaging unit 6 including the joint portion according to the present embodiment, the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are connected while preventing the current leaking from the image sensor 63 from flowing from the front end surface of the lens frame 62 to the human body. It can be firmly fixed. Therefore, according to the endoscope 1 provided with the imaging unit 6 having the joint portion according to the present embodiment, it is possible to reduce the size while achieving both prevention of electric leakage and fixing of components.

  In addition, according to the structure of the joining location of the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 according to the present embodiment, for example, a plurality of notches 62A are formed at the base end of the lens frame 62 and the conductive adhesive is used. 71 may be filled in each of the plurality of notches 62A.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, as long as electrical conduction and mechanical joint strength between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are ensured, for example, the insulating adhesive 72 is filled in the notch 62A. In addition, the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 may be joined in a state in which the conductive adhesive 71 is applied to a portion that does not overlap the notch 62A on the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64B. That is, according to the present embodiment, as long as electrical continuity and mechanical joint strength between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are ensured, the joint formed by the conductive adhesive 71 and the insulation The junction formed by the adhesive 72 may be interchanged.

  On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 in the image pickup unit 6 is not limited to the one shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, and for example, FIG. 4A and FIG. It may be configured as shown in 4B. The configuration of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 according to the first modification of the present embodiment will be described below. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, a specific description regarding the portion to which the above-described configuration can be applied will be omitted as appropriate. 4A and 4B, for convenience of illustration, it is assumed that portions unnecessary for the description of the structure of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are omitted as appropriate. Further, the IV-IV line in FIG. 4A and the one-dot chain line in FIG. 4B are line segments indicating an axial direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated insertion portion 11. FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating an example when a part of the imaging unit according to the first modification example of the embodiment is viewed from the outside. FIG. 4B is a diagram showing a part of a cross section when FIG. 4A is cut along the line IV-IV.

  As shown in FIG. 4A, the base end portion of the lens frame 62 has a circular shape in a plan view formed by penetrating the vicinity of the base end surface 62B in the radial direction (direction perpendicular to the axial direction). A part 62C is provided. Further, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are mechanically joined to each other inside the cylindrical space formed by the through hole 62 </ b> C while being electrically connected. A conductive adhesive 71 is filled. Further, the base end surface 62 </ b> B of the lens frame 62 is in contact with the step surface 64 </ b> A of the housing 64.

  The outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64B is provided with a recess 64C formed in accordance with the position of the through hole portion 62C. Further, as shown in FIG. 4B, the same conductive adhesive 71 as that filled in the through hole 62 </ b> C is filled in the cylindrical space formed by the recess 64 </ b> C. Further, as shown in FIG. 4B, an insulating adhesive 72 for mechanically connecting the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 is applied to a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64B where the concave portion 64C is not provided. Has been.

  Here, an example of a work process for configuring the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 in the imaging unit 6 as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A to 6B. 5A to 6B, for convenience of illustration, it is assumed that portions unnecessary for the description of the configuration of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are omitted as appropriate. 5A, the dashed-dotted line in FIG. 5B, the VI-VI line in FIG. 6A, and the dashed-dotted line in FIG. 6B are lines indicating an axial direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated insertion portion 11. Suppose that it is minutes. FIG. 5A is a diagram for explaining an example of a work process for configuring the joint portion between the lens frame and the housing in the imaging unit as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a part of a cross section when FIG. 5A is cut along the line V-V. FIG. 6A is a diagram for explaining an example of a work process for configuring the joint portion between the lens frame and the housing in the imaging unit as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. FIG. 6B is a diagram showing a part of a cross section when FIG. 6A is cut along the line VI-VI.

  First, a factory worker forms a through-hole portion 62C by drilling a predetermined position of the base end portion of the lens frame 62, and then, for example, the lens frame 62 using a positioning jig or the like. The base end surface 62B and the step surface 64A are brought into contact with each other by adjusting the positional relationship between the housing 64 and the housing 64.

  Next, the factory worker injects the insulating adhesive 72 from the through-hole portion 62C to apply the insulating adhesive 72 to the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the reduced-diameter portion 64B, while the through-hole portion 62C. An insulating adhesive 72 is filled inside. Then, the factory worker cures the insulating adhesive 72 injected from the through-hole portion 62C so that the base end surface 62B and the stepped surface 64A are in contact with each other without using a positioning jig or the like. The lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are mechanically joined so as to be maintained (see FIGS. 5A and 5B).

  Subsequently, after confirming that the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are mechanically joined by the hardening of the insulating adhesive 72, the factory worker uses a cutting tool such as an end mill, for example. The insulating adhesive 72 inside the portion 62C is scraped off, and a part of the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64B is scraped off together with the insulating adhesive 72 to form a recess 64C (see FIGS. 6A and 6B).

  Thereafter, the factory worker fills the inside of the through-hole portion 62C and the recessed portion 64C with the conductive adhesive 71 by injecting the conductive adhesive 71 from the through-hole portion 62C. Then, the factory worker cures the conductive adhesive 71 injected from the through-hole portion 62C, thereby mechanically joining the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 while electrically connecting them (FIGS. 4A and 4B). reference).

  In other words, according to the configuration of the joint portion according to this modification, the joint portion formed by filling the through-hole portion 62C with the conductive adhesive 71 having higher conductivity than the insulating adhesive 72 is provided. The electrical continuity between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured. Moreover, according to the structure of the joining location which concerns on this modification, the filling place of the conductive adhesive 71 in the outer peripheral surface of the diameter-reduced part 64B is used for the insulating adhesive 72 which has higher adhesive force than the conductive adhesive 71. Therefore, a mechanical joint strength between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured.

  Therefore, according to the imaging unit 6 including the joint portion according to this modification, the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are connected while preventing the current leaking from the image sensor 63 from flowing from the front end surface of the lens frame 62 to the human body. It can be firmly fixed. Therefore, according to the endoscope 1 provided with the imaging unit 6 having the joint portion according to the present modification, it is possible to reduce the size while achieving both prevention of electric leakage and fixing of components.

  In addition, according to the structure of the joining location of the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 according to this modification, for example, a plurality of through-hole portions 62C are formed at the base end portion of the lens frame 62, and a conductive adhesive is used. 71 may be filled in each of the plurality of through-hole portions 62C.

  On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 in the imaging unit 6 is not limited to the one shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, and for example, FIG. 7A and FIG. It may be configured as shown in 7B. The configuration of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 according to the second modification of the present embodiment will be described below. In FIGS. 7A and 7B, for convenience of illustration, it is assumed that portions unnecessary for the description of the structure of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are omitted as appropriate. Moreover, the VII-VII line of FIG. 7A and the dashed-dotted line of FIG. 7B shall be a line segment which shows the axial direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongate insertion part 11. As shown in FIG. FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating an example when a part of the imaging unit according to the second modification example of the embodiment is viewed from the outside. FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a part of a cross section when FIG. 7A is cut along the line VII-VII.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, a step surface 64D, which is a surface perpendicular to the axial direction (longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 11), is provided on the inner peripheral surface at the distal end portion of the housing 64, thereby reducing the inner diameter of the housing 64. An enlarged diameter portion 64E that is an enlarged portion is provided. Further, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the enlarged diameter portion 64E has a circular shape in a plan view formed by penetrating the vicinity of the step surface 64D in the radial direction (direction perpendicular to the axial direction). A through hole 64F is provided. Further, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are mechanically joined to each other inside the cylindrical space formed by the through-hole portion 64 </ b> F while being electrically connected. A conductive adhesive 71 is filled. Further, as shown in FIG. 7B, an insulating adhesive 72 for mechanically connecting the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 is provided in a portion not overlapping with the through-hole portion 64F on the inner peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion 64E. It has been applied. Therefore, a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter portion 64 </ b> E that does not overlap the through hole portion 64 </ b> F is joined to the outer peripheral surface of the base end portion of the lens frame 62 via the insulating adhesive 72.

  A conductive adhesive 71 is applied to a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the base end portion of the lens frame 62 that overlaps the through hole portion 64F. Further, the base end surface 62 </ b> B of the lens frame 62 is in contact with the step surface 64 </ b> D of the housing 64.

  That is, according to the configuration of the joint portion according to the present modification, the joint portion formed by filling the through hole portion 64F with the conductive adhesive 71 having conductivity higher than that of the insulating adhesive 72 is provided. The electrical continuity between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured. Moreover, according to the structure of the junction location which concerns on this modification, the insulating adhesive 72 which has higher adhesive force than the conductive adhesive 71 is filled with the conductive adhesive 71 in the internal peripheral surface of the enlarged diameter part 64E. Since the joint portion formed by coating the portion that does not overlap the portion is provided, the mechanical joint strength between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured.

  Therefore, according to the imaging unit 6 including the joint portion according to this modification, the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are connected while preventing the current leaking from the image sensor 63 from flowing from the front end surface of the lens frame 62 to the human body. It can be firmly fixed. Therefore, according to the endoscope 1 provided with the imaging unit 6 having the joint portion according to the present modification, it is possible to reduce the size while achieving both prevention of electric leakage and fixing of components.

  On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 in the image pickup unit 6 is not limited to the one configured as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, and for example, FIG. 8A and FIG. It may be configured as shown in 8B. The configuration of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 according to the third modification of the present embodiment will be described below. 8A and 8B, for convenience of illustration, it is assumed that portions unnecessary for description of the configuration of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are omitted as appropriate. Moreover, the VIII-VIII line of FIG. 8A and the dashed-dotted line of FIG. 8B shall be a line segment which shows the axial direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongate insertion part 11. As shown in FIG. FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating an example in which a part of the imaging unit according to the third modification example of the embodiment is viewed from the outside. FIG. 8B is a diagram showing a part of a cross section when FIG. 8A is cut along the line VIII-VIII.

  As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, a chamfered portion 62 </ b> D formed by obliquely cutting a corner adjacent to the base end surface 62 </ b> B is provided at the base end portion of the lens frame 62. 8A and 8B, the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are electrically connected to each other inside the space sandwiched between the chamfered portion 62D and the stepped surface 64A of the housing 64. The conductive adhesive 71 for joining the two is filled. Therefore, a portion belonging to the chamfered portion 62 </ b> D at the base end portion of the lens frame 62 is joined to the stepped surface 64 </ b> A via the conductive adhesive 71. On the other hand, a base end surface 62 </ b> B corresponding to a portion not belonging to the chamfered portion 62 </ b> D in the base end portion of the lens frame 62 is in contact with the stepped surface 64 </ b> A of the housing 64.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, an insulating adhesive 72 for mechanically connecting the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 is applied to the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64B. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64 </ b> B is joined to the inner peripheral surface of the base end portion of the lens frame 62 via the insulating adhesive 72.

  That is, according to the configuration of the joint portion according to this modification, since the chamfered portion 62D is filled with the conductive adhesive 71 having higher conductivity than the insulating adhesive 72, the joint portion is formed. Electrical continuity between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured. Moreover, according to the structure of the joining location which concerns on this modification, the filling place of the conductive adhesive 71 in the outer peripheral surface of the diameter-reduced part 64B is used for the insulating adhesive 72 which has higher adhesive force than the conductive adhesive 71. Therefore, a mechanical joint strength between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured.

  Therefore, according to the imaging unit 6 including the joint portion according to this modification, the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are connected while preventing the current leaking from the image sensor 63 from flowing from the front end surface of the lens frame 62 to the human body. It can be firmly fixed. Therefore, according to the endoscope 1 provided with the imaging unit 6 having the joint portion according to the present modification, it is possible to reduce the size while achieving both prevention of electric leakage and fixing of components.

  On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 in the image pickup unit 6 is not limited to the one shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. For example, FIG. 9A and FIG. It may be configured as shown in 9B. The configuration of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 according to the fourth modification of the present embodiment will be described below. In FIGS. 9A and 9B, for convenience of illustration, it is assumed that portions unnecessary for the description of the configuration of the joint portion between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are omitted as appropriate. Further, it is assumed that the IX-IX line in FIG. 9A and the one-dot chain line in FIG. 9B are line segments indicating an axial direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated insertion portion 11. FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating an example when a part of the imaging unit according to the fourth modification example of the embodiment is viewed from the outside. FIG. 9B is a diagram illustrating a part of a cross section when FIG. 9A is cut along the line IX-IX.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, a notch portion 64G having a semicircular shape in plan view formed by cutting out a part of the stepped surface 64A is provided at the distal end portion of the housing 64. 9A and 9B and FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B inside the semi-cylindrical space sandwiched between the portion belonging to the notch 64G in the stepped surface 64A at the distal end portion of the housing 64 and the base end surface 62B of the lens frame 62. As shown in FIG. 9B, a conductive adhesive 71 for mechanically joining the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 while being electrically connected is filled. Therefore, a portion belonging to the notch portion 64G in the stepped surface 64A at the distal end portion of the housing 64 is joined to the base end surface 62B via the conductive adhesive 71. On the other hand, a portion of the stepped surface 64A at the distal end portion of the housing 64 that does not belong to the notched portion 64G is in contact with the proximal end surface 62B.

  As shown in FIG. 9B, an insulating adhesive 72 for mechanically connecting the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 is applied to the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64B. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 64 </ b> B is joined to the inner peripheral surface of the base end portion of the lens frame 62 via the insulating adhesive 72.

  In other words, according to the configuration of the joint portion according to the present modification, the joint portion formed by filling the cutout portion 64G with the conductive adhesive 71 having higher conductivity than the insulating adhesive 72 is provided. The electrical continuity between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured. Moreover, according to the structure of the joining location which concerns on this modification, the filling place of the conductive adhesive 71 in the outer peripheral surface of the diameter-reduced part 64B is used for the insulating adhesive 72 which has higher adhesive force than the conductive adhesive 71. Therefore, a mechanical joint strength between the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 can be ensured.

  Therefore, according to the imaging unit 6 including the joint portion according to this modification, the lens frame 62 and the housing 64 are connected while preventing the current leaking from the image sensor 63 from flowing from the front end surface of the lens frame 62 to the human body. It can be firmly fixed. Therefore, according to the endoscope 1 provided with the imaging unit 6 having the joint portion according to the present modification, it is possible to reduce the size while achieving both prevention of electric leakage and fixing of components.

  On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, instead of the imaging unit 6 shown in FIG. 2, for example, an imaging unit 6A as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B may be provided at the distal end portion 11A. The configuration and the like of the imaging unit 6A according to the fifth modification of the present embodiment will be described below. 10A and 10B is a line segment indicating an axial direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the elongated insertion portion 11. FIG. 10A is a diagram for describing an example of a specific configuration of the imaging unit according to the fifth modification example of the embodiment. FIG. 10B is an exploded perspective view showing an external shape of the imaging unit of FIG. 10A.

  As illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the imaging unit 6 </ b> A includes an objective lens unit 61, a lens frame 62, an image sensor 63, and a base member 81.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 10B, the notch 62A provided in the lens frame 62 of the present modified example is disposed at a position shifted in the circumferential direction from the formation position of the substrate extraction portion 81A (described later) in the base member 81. ing. That is, the portion belonging to the cutout portion 62A in the base end surface 62B at the base end portion of the lens frame 62 of the present modification is disposed at a position that does not overlap with the formation position of the substrate extraction portion 81A. In addition, a portion of the base end surface 62B at the base end portion of the lens frame 62 according to this modification that does not belong to the notch 62A is in contact with a stepped surface 82A (described later) of the base member 81.

  The image sensor 63 of the present modification generates an imaging signal by capturing an optical image of a subject formed by the objective lens unit 61, and the generated imaging signal is a flexible printed circuit board (hereinafter abbreviated as FPC). 93 is configured to output to the main body device 2 via the wiring provided in 93.

  The base member 81 is made of, for example, metal, and is formed as a cylindrical part on which the image sensor 63 can be arranged according to the optical axis of the objective lens unit 61 held by the lens frame 62. Yes. In addition, the base member 81 is configured to be electrically connected to a GND terminal inside the main body device 2 via a ground wire 91 extending from the base end portion.

  As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, a step surface 82A that is a surface perpendicular to the axial direction (longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 11) is provided on the outer peripheral surface at the distal end portion of the base member 81. A reduced diameter portion 82B, which is a portion obtained by reducing the outer diameter of 81, is provided. Further, the base end portion of the base member 81 is a groove portion formed by cutting a part of the step surface 82A so as not to contact the base end surface 62B of the lens frame 62, and the FPC 93 extended from the image sensor 63. Is provided so as to face the main body device 2 side. An image sensor 63 is attached to the center of the distal end surface of the reduced diameter portion 82B. Further, the FPC 93 extending from the image sensor 63 is flat on the outer peripheral surface of the reduced diameter portion 82B so as to be directed toward the substrate extraction portion 81A along the axial direction (longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 11). A D-cut surface 82C, which is a surface, is provided.

  Then, according to the imaging unit 6A according to this modification, for example, a configuration substantially similar to that shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B can be used at the joint between the lens frame 62 and the base member 81.

  Therefore, according to the imaging unit 6A according to this modification, the lens frame 62 and the base member 81 are firmly fixed while preventing the current leaking from the image sensor 63 from flowing from the front end surface of the lens frame 62 to the human body. be able to. Therefore, according to the endoscope 1 provided with the imaging unit 6A according to this modification, it is possible to reduce the size while achieving both prevention of electric leakage and fixing of components.

  On the other hand, the present embodiment is not limited to the one that is applied only to the endoscope 1 including the distal end portion 11A configured by providing the imaging unit 6 as illustrated in FIG. The present invention is also applied to the endoscope 1 having the distal end portion 11B configured by providing the optical scanning unit 111 as shown in FIG. The configuration of the tip portion 11B according to the sixth modification of the present embodiment will be described below. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of a specific configuration of the distal end portion of the endoscope according to the sixth modification example of the embodiment.

  Inside the endoscope 1 of the present modification, an illumination fiber 121 that is an optical fiber that guides illumination light supplied from the light source unit 21 of the main body device 2 and a return light from the subject are received. A light receiving fiber 122 including one or more optical fibers for guiding to a photodetector (not shown) of the device 2 is inserted. In the present modification, the image processing unit 22 generates an observation image corresponding to the return light detected by the above-described photodetector.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the distal end portion 11 </ b> B of the endoscope 1 according to the present modification operates in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the control unit 23 of the main body device 2 to perform scanning of a subject. The unit 111 and the incident end including the light incident surface of the light receiving fiber 122 are provided inside the exterior member 201.

  The optical scanning unit 111 includes an emission end including the light emission surface of the illumination fiber 121, a columnar ferrule 131 having the emission end penetrated in the center, and a plurality of the ferrule 131 provided on the side surface of the ferrule 131. The piezoelectric element 132 and a holding member 133 formed to hold the proximal end portion of the ferrule 131 are included.

  The piezoelectric element 132 oscillates in response to a drive signal supplied via a signal line 134 connected to the control unit 23 of the main body device 2, thereby swinging the emission end of the illumination fiber 121. It is configured to be able to.

  In other words, the optical scanning unit 111 according to the present modified example displaces the irradiation position of the illumination light irradiated to the subject via the emission end of the illumination fiber 121 according to the vibrations of the plurality of piezoelectric elements 132, thereby It is configured so that scanning can be performed. In addition, the plurality of piezoelectric elements 132 swings the emission end portion of the illumination fiber 121 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the control unit 23 of the main body device 2, thereby radiating light emitted through the emission end portion. It has a function as an actuator part capable of displacing the light irradiation position.

  The holding member 133 is formed as a cylindrical part having an insertion hole 135 through which the signal line 134 can be inserted. The holding member 133 is joined to the housing 143 in the vicinity of the step surface 154 provided at a predetermined position on the outer peripheral surface. In addition, the holding member 133 is configured to be electrically connected to the GND terminal inside the main body device 2 via a ground wire 136 extending from the base end portion.

  The optical scanning unit 111 includes an illumination lens unit 141, a lens frame 142, and a housing 143.

  The illumination lens unit 141 includes, for example, one or more lenses, and is configured to irradiate the subject with illumination light emitted through the emission end of the illumination fiber 121.

  The lens frame 142 is formed as a cylindrical part capable of holding each lens in a state where the optical axes of the lenses of the illumination lens unit 141 are aligned. The lens frame 142 is joined to the housing 143 in the vicinity of the step surface 151 provided at a predetermined position on the outer peripheral surface. Further, the lens frame 142 is configured by disposing a tip surface at a position exposed to the outside of the insertion portion 11. That is, the front end surface of the lens frame 142 is configured as a portion of the insertion portion 11 that can contact the human body.

  The housing 143 is formed as a cylindrical part having a distal end surface 152 and a proximal end surface 153. In addition, the housing 143 is configured to accommodate therein the emission end including the light emission surface of the illumination fiber 121, the ferrule 131 held by the holding member 133, and the plurality of piezoelectric elements 132. Has been. The front end of the housing 143 is joined to the lens frame 142 with the front end surface 152 in contact with the stepped surface 151. Further, the base end portion of the housing 143 is joined to the holding member 133 in a state where the base end surface 153 is in contact with the stepped surface 154.

  According to the optical scanning unit 111 according to the present modification, for example, at each of the joint portion between the lens frame 142 and the distal end portion of the housing 143 and the joint portion between the holding member 133 and the proximal end portion of the housing 143, A configuration similar to that shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B can be used.

  Therefore, according to the optical scanning unit 111 according to this modification, the holding member 133, the lens frame 142, and the current leaking from the plurality of piezoelectric elements 132 are prevented from flowing from the front end surface of the lens frame 142 to the human body. The housing 143 can be firmly fixed. Therefore, according to the endoscope 1 provided with the optical scanning unit 111 according to this modification, it is possible to reduce the size while achieving both prevention of electric leakage and fixing of components.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various modifications and applications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Endoscope 2 Main body apparatus 3 Display apparatus 4 Light guide 5 Illumination lens unit 6, 6A Imaging unit 7 Exterior member 11 Insertion part 11A, 11B Tip part 61 Objective lens unit 62 Lens frame 62A Notch part 62B Base end face 62C Through-hole Part 63 image sensor 64 housing 64A step surface 64B reduced diameter part 71 conductive adhesive 72 insulating adhesive

Japanese Patent No. 3259603

Claims (14)

It is formed in a cylindrical shape having an end face at the end, and is formed by penetrating in the radial direction one or more notches formed by cutting out part of the end face or the vicinity of the end face. A first member provided with any one or more through-hole portions;
A second member formed in a cylindrical shape or a columnar shape having a step surface on one of the inner peripheral surface or the outer peripheral surface;
Have
The first member and the second member are filled with the first adhesive in the notch portion or the through-hole portion in a state where the end surface and the step surface are in contact with each other. A formed first joint portion, and a second joint portion formed by applying a second adhesive to a portion of the one peripheral surface that does not overlap with the filling portion of the first adhesive. Are joined via
One of the first adhesive and the second adhesive has higher conductivity than the other adhesive, and the other adhesive is higher than the one adhesive. An endoscope characterized by having an adhesive force. The second member includes a groove formed by cutting a part of the stepped surface so as not to contact the end surface.
The first member and the second member are arranged at a position where a portion belonging to the cutout portion of the end surface does not overlap with a formation portion of the groove portion, and the cutout portion of the end surface. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the endoscope is joined via the first joint portion and the second joint portion in a state where a portion not belonging to the step surface is in contact with the step surface. . The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the notch is formed in a semicircular shape in plan view. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the through-hole portion is formed in a circular shape in plan view. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the first adhesive is a conductive adhesive, and the second adhesive is an insulating adhesive. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the first adhesive is an insulating adhesive and the second adhesive is a conductive adhesive. An objective lens unit that is held by the first member formed in a cylindrical shape and includes one or more lenses for forming an optical image of a subject;
2. The image sensor according to claim 1, further comprising: an image sensor that is held by the second member and configured to capture an optical image of a subject formed by the objective lens unit. Endoscope. An optical fiber that is provided inside the first member formed in a cylindrical shape, guides the illumination light supplied from the light source unit, and emits the light from the light exit surface;
Irradiation of the illumination light emitted through the light exit surface by swinging an exit end including the light exit surface while being provided inside the first member formed in a cylindrical shape An actuator part capable of displacing the position;
An illumination that is held by the second member formed in a cylindrical shape and includes one or more lenses for irradiating a subject with the illumination light emitted through the light exit surface The endoscope according to claim 1, further comprising: a lens unit. An optical fiber that is provided inside the first member formed in a cylindrical shape, guides the illumination light supplied from the light source unit, and emits the light from the light exit surface;
Irradiation of the illumination light emitted through the light exit surface by swinging an exit end including the light exit surface while being provided inside the first member formed in a cylindrical shape An actuator part capable of displacing the position;
The column-shaped ferrule which is hold | maintained by the said 2nd member, the said optical fiber penetrates and arrange | positions in the center part, and the said actuator part was provided in the side surface is further characterized by the above-mentioned. Endoscope. A first member formed in a cylindrical shape having an end surface at an end portion;
One or more notch portions formed in a cylindrical shape or a columnar shape having a step surface on one of the inner peripheral surface or the outer peripheral surface, and formed by cutting out part of the step surface, or A second member provided with any one or more through-hole portions formed so as to penetrate the vicinity of the step surface in the radial direction;
Have
The first member and the second member are filled with the first adhesive in the notch portion or the through-hole portion in a state where the end surface and the step surface are in contact with each other. A formed first joint portion, and a second joint portion formed by applying a second adhesive to a portion of the one peripheral surface that does not overlap with the filling portion of the first adhesive. Are joined via
One of the first adhesive and the second adhesive has higher conductivity than the other adhesive, and the other adhesive is higher than the one adhesive. An endoscope characterized by having an adhesive force. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein the notch is formed in a semicircular shape in plan view. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein the through-hole portion is formed in a circular shape in a plan view. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein the first adhesive is a conductive adhesive and the second adhesive is an insulating adhesive. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein the first adhesive is an insulating adhesive and the second adhesive is a conductive adhesive.

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