JP3811339B2 - Endoscope system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an endoscope system having an endoscope that performs sterilization after use by high-pressure steam sterilization.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, by inserting a long and thin insertion portion into a body cavity, the inside of a body cavity can be observed, and various medical treatments can be performed using a treatment instrument inserted into a treatment instrument channel as necessary. Endoscopes are widely used.
[0003]
In particular, endoscopes used in the medical field are used to observe various organs by inserting an insertion portion into a body cavity and using a treatment instrument inserted into a treatment instrument channel of an endoscope. Take action.
[0004]
For this reason, when an endoscope or treatment tool that has been used once is reused for another patient, it is necessary to prevent infection between patients via the endoscope or treatment tool. Had to clean and disinfect.
[0005]
In recent years, autoclave sterilization (high pressure steam sterilization), which can be used immediately after sterilization without complicated work and has a low running cost, is becoming the mainstream of disinfection sterilization treatment of medical devices.
[0006]
For example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-337171 has temperature detection means for detecting the temperature of an autoclave apparatus main body in which a medical device is stored and the temperature of the medical device, and the output of the temperature detection means is the use of the medical device. There is shown an autoclave device provided with a door lock / unlock mechanism that prohibits the door from being opened when the temperature does not fall below a reference temperature at which the temperature can be reduced.
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the autoclave device disclosed in JP-A-5-337171, the autoclave device is filled with high-temperature and high-pressure steam at 130 ° C. or higher during the sterilization process. There was a problem.
[0008]
Further, no consideration has been given to the case where the endoscope is autoclaved with an existing autoclave device.
[0009]
The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, does not require a special autoclave device, and can be used to reliably and easily confirm whether or not the temperature of the endoscope is usable after high-pressure steam sterilization. It aims at providing the endoscope system excellent in property.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The endoscope system of the present invention is With insert An endoscope, Provided toward the insertion portion arranged at a predetermined position, The distal end side of the bending portion provided on the distal end side of the insertion portion Outer surface A temperature detection unit for measuring temperature and information for determining whether or not the temperature of the insertion portion in the endoscope is usable based on the measurement value measured by the temperature detection unit are notified. And a notification means.
[0011]
According to this configuration, the operator can easily determine whether or not the temperature of the endoscope is in a usable temperature state based on the information notified to the notification means.
[0012]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
1 to 3 relate to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an endoscope apparatus, FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a white balance cap with a temperature measuring device used for white balance adjustment, FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the white balance cap.
[0013]
As shown in FIG. 1, an endoscope apparatus 1 according to this embodiment includes an electronic endoscope (hereinafter referred to as an endoscope) 2 provided with, for example, a CCD as an imaging unit, and a light source apparatus 3 that supplies illumination light. The video processor 4 mainly controls the image pickup means and processes a signal obtained from the image pickup means, and a monitor 5 connected to the video processor 4. Reference numeral 6 denotes a cart on which the light source device 3, the video processor 4, the monitor 5, and the like are placed, and the side of the cart 6 corrects variations in the color tone of the observed image due to individual differences of CCDs as imaging means. A white balance cap 21 for performing white balance adjustment is attached. Reference numeral 50 denotes a sterilization storage case, which will be described later, for storing the endoscope 2.
[0014]
The endoscope 2 includes an elongated and flexible insertion portion 10, an operation portion 11 provided continuously with a proximal end portion of the insertion portion 10, and a flexibility extending from a side of the operation portion 11. And a universal cord 12 having
[0015]
A connector 12 a detachably attached to the light source device 3 is provided at the end of the universal cord 12. By connecting the connector 12a to the light source device 3, illumination light from a lamp (not shown) provided in the light source device 3 is transmitted through a light guide (not shown) of the endoscope 2 to irradiate an observation site. ing.
[0016]
The connecting portion between the insertion portion 10 and the operation portion is provided with an insertion portion bending prevention member 7a made of an elastic member that prevents sudden bending, and the connection portion between the operation portion 11 and the universal cord 12 is the same. Further, an operation portion folding preventing member 7b is provided, and a connector portion folding preventing member 7c is similarly provided at a connecting portion between the universal cord 12 and the connector 12a.
[0017]
The elongated and flexible insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 2 is rigid in order from the distal end side, for example, a distal end rigid portion 13 provided with an observation window and an illumination window (not shown) on the distal end surface, and a plurality of bending pieces. A curved portion 14 that can be connected and bent, and a flexible tube portion 15 that is a flexible soft portion having delicate flexibility and elasticity are connected to each other. The bending portion 14 is bent by appropriately operating a bending operation knob 16 provided in the operation portion 11 so that the distal end surface of the distal end rigid portion 13 provided with an observation window or the like is directed in a desired direction. It has become.
[0018]
In addition to the bending operation knob 16, the operation unit 11 performs an air supply operation and a water supply operation when a cleaning liquid or gas is ejected from an air supply / water supply nozzle (not shown) provided on the distal end surface toward the observation window. A pneumatic operation button 17 and a suction operation button 18 for performing a suction operation through a suction port (not shown) provided on the distal end surface, a plurality of remote switches 19 for remotely operating the video processor 4 and an insertion portion of the endoscope 2 A treatment instrument insertion port 20 that communicates with a treatment instrument channel disposed on the instrument is provided.
[0019]
An electrical connector portion 12b is provided on the side of the connector 12a. A signal connector 4b of a signal cable 4a connected to the video processor 4 is detachably connected to the electrical connector portion 12b. By connecting the signal connector 4b to the electrical connector portion 12b, the imaging means of the endoscope 2 is controlled, and a video signal is generated from the electrical signal transmitted from the imaging means, and the endoscopic observation image is displayed. It is displayed on the screen of the monitor 5. The electrical connector portion 12b is provided with a vent (not shown) that communicates the inside and the outside of the endoscope 2. For this reason, a waterproof cap (hereinafter abbreviated as a waterproof cap) 9a, which will be described later, provided with a pressure adjustment valve (not shown) that closes the vent is detachably attached to the electrical connector portion 12b of the endoscope 2. It is the composition.
[0020]
The connector 12a has a gas supply base 12c that is detachably connected to a gas supply source (not shown) built in the light source device 3, and a water supply tank that is detachably connected to a water supply tank 8 that is a liquid supply source. A pressure base 12d and a liquid supply base 12e, a suction base 12f connected to a suction source (not shown) for performing suction from the suction port, and an injection base 12g connected to a water supply means (not shown) for water supply are provided. ing.
[0021]
Further, when a high frequency leakage current is generated in the endoscope 2 when performing a high frequency treatment or the like, an earth terminal base 12h is provided for returning the leakage current to a high frequency treatment device (not shown).
[0022]
The endoscope 2 is configured to be capable of high-pressure steam sterilization after washing when used for observation or treatment. When the endoscope 2 is high-pressure steam sterilized, the waterproof cap 9a is used. Is attached to the electrical connector portion 12b.
[0023]
When the endoscope 2 is sterilized by high-pressure steam, the endoscope 2 is stored in the sterilization storage case 50. The sterilization storage case 50 includes a tray 51, which is a case body, and a lid member 52. The tray 51 includes parts such as an insertion portion 10, an operation portion 11, a universal cord 12, and a connector 12a of the endoscope 2. A restricting member (not shown) corresponding to the shape of the endoscope is disposed so as to fit in a predetermined position. The tray 51 and the lid member 52 are formed with a plurality of vent holes for guiding high-pressure steam.
[0024]
The CCD, which is an imaging means provided in the endoscope 2, has a variation in the color tone of the observation image due to individual differences, and in order to correct this, it is necessary to perform white balance adjustment.
[0025]
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the white balance cap 21 is integrally attached to the cart 6 by a fixing member 6a.
The white balance cap 21 includes a cylindrical portion 22 having a concave portion 22a in which the distal end side of the insertion portion 10 formed in a substantially cylindrical shape is disposed, and a reference color for white balance adjustment is provided on the bottom surface of the cylindrical portion 22. A subject portion 23 formed in white is provided. The depth dimension of the concave portion 22a of the cylindrical portion 22 can accommodate from the distal end side of the insertion portion 10 to a part of the bending portion 14, and is, for example, about 30 mm to 100 mm.
[0026]
Further, one or more infrared temperature sensors 24 as temperature detecting means are arranged in the vicinity of the inner surface opening of the cylindrical portion 22 of the white balance cap 21 toward the substantially central axis direction of the cylindrical portion 22. The infrared temperature sensor 24 is electrically connected to a control unit 25 including a CPU for performing predetermined data processing and the like, and the temperature data measured by the infrared temperature sensor 24 processed by the control unit 25 is stored. Among them, predetermined temperature data is output and displayed on the display unit 26 which is a notification means for notifying information.
[0027]
The control unit 25 performs temperature measurement at any time, for example, at intervals of 0.1 sec immediately after the start of measurement when a cap unit power switch (not shown) is turned on, while a plurality of measured values are measured every predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds). Control is performed to display temperature data, which is the highest temperature among the temperature data, on the display unit 26. The operation described above is repeated until the cap power switch is returned to the OFF state.
[0028]
That is, the white balance cap 21 of this embodiment is a white balance cap provided with an endoscope temperature measuring device having a temperature measuring unit and a temperature display unit.
[0029]
Here, typical conditions for autoclaving the endoscope 2 will be described.
Typical conditions are American Standards Association approved and American Standard ANSI / AAMI ST37-1992 issued by the Medical Device Development Association. Prevacuum type sterilization process at 132 ° C for 4 minutes, Gravity type sterilization process at 132 ° C. 10 minutes.
[0030]
The temperature condition during the sterilization process of high-pressure steam sterilization varies depending on the type of the high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus and the time of the sterilization process, but is generally set in the range of about 115 ° C to 138 ° C. Some sterilizers can be set to around 142 ° C.
[0031]
About time conditions, it changes with temperature conditions of a sterilization process. Generally, it is set to about 3 to 60 minutes. Some types of sterilizers can be set to about 100 minutes.
[0032]
The pressure in the sterilizer in this step is generally set to about +0.2 MPa with respect to atmospheric pressure.
[0033]
Next, the high-pressure steam sterilization process of an endoscope in a general pre-vacuum type will be briefly described.
First, a waterproof cap 9a is attached to the electrical connector portion 12b of the endoscope 2 that is a device to be sterilized, accommodated in a sterilization storage case 50, and placed in a sterilization apparatus. By attaching the waterproof cap 9a to the electrical connector portion 12b, the pressure regulating valve is closed to close the vent. That is, the inside and the outside of the endoscope 2 are hermetically sealed. Then, the inside of the sterilization apparatus before the high-pressure sterilization process is brought into a reduced pressure state (pre-vacuum process).
[0034]
This pre-vacuum process is a process for infiltrating the steam into the details of the sterilization target device during the sterilization process. By reducing the pressure inside the sterilization apparatus, high-pressure and high-temperature steam is distributed throughout the sterilization target device. Become. The pressure in the sterilizer in this pre-vacuum process is generally set to about -0.07 to -0.09 MPa with respect to atmospheric pressure.
[0035]
However, when the pressure in the sterilizer decreases in the pre-vacuum process, the external pressure becomes lower than the internal pressure of the endoscope 2 and a pressure difference is generated. Then, the pressure adjustment valve of the waterproof cap 9a is opened, and the inside and the outside of the endoscope 2 are in communication with each other through the vent. This prevents a large pressure difference from occurring. That is, the endoscope 2 is prevented from being damaged by the pressure difference between the internal pressure and the external pressure.
[0036]
Next, sterilization is performed by sending high-pressure high-temperature steam into the sterilizer (sterilization process).
In this sterilization step, the inside of the sterilizer is pressurized. Then, a pressure difference is generated such that the external pressure is higher than the internal pressure of the endoscope 2. For this reason, the pressure regulating valve of the waterproof cap 9a is closed to block high-pressure steam from passing through the vent and entering the endoscope.
[0037]
However, the high-pressure steam is formed of fluoro rubber, silicon rubber, or the like which is a sealing means provided in the outer tube 15c of the flexible tube 15 formed of a polymer material or a connecting portion of the exterior body of the endoscope 2. The light penetrates through the O-ring and the like and gradually enters the endoscope.
[0038]
At this time, the exterior body of the endoscope 2 is in a state in which pressure from the outside to the inside is generated by adding the pressure decompressed in the pre-vacuum process and the pressure pressurized in the sterilization process.
[0039]
Next, in order to dry the sterilization target device after sterilization, the inside of the sterilization apparatus is again depressurized and dried (drying step) after the sterilization step. In this drying step, the inside of the sterilizer is decompressed to remove steam from the inside of the sterilizer, thereby promoting the drying of the sterilization target device in the sterilizer. The pressure in the sterilizer in this drying step is generally set to about -0.07 MPa to -0.09 MPa with respect to atmospheric pressure. In addition, the said drying process is arbitrarily performed as needed.
[0040]
In the decompression process after the sterilization process, a pressure difference is generated such that the pressure in the sterilization apparatus decreases and the external pressure becomes lower than the internal pressure of the endoscope 2. When this pressure difference occurs, the pressure regulating valve of the waterproof cap 9a is opened almost simultaneously, and the inside and outside of the endoscope 2 are in communication with each other through the vent, so that a large gap is formed between the inside and outside of the endoscope. A pressure difference is prevented from occurring. When the internal pressure and the external pressure of the endoscope 2 become substantially equal, the pressure adjusting valve of the waterproof cap 9a is closed. And the pressure reduction process is complete | finished and the inside of an apparatus becomes atmospheric pressure.
[0041]
At the end of the entire high-pressure steam sterilization process, the exterior body of the endoscope 2 is in a state in which pressure from the outside toward the inside is generated by the amount reduced in the pressure reducing process. Then, by removing the waterproof cap 9a from the electrical connector portion 12b, the inside and the outside of the endoscope 2 are communicated with each other by the vent, and the inside of the endoscope 2 becomes atmospheric pressure, and the exterior of the endoscope 2 The load due to the pressure difference that occurred in the body is eliminated.
[0042]
As described above, since the inside and outside of the endoscope 2 are exposed to high-pressure steam during the sterilization process, the temperature at the time of taking out from the inside of the sterilization apparatus is generally used in the case of the high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus without a cooling process. It is about 80 to 130 ° C.
[0043]
In using the endoscope 2 that has been subjected to high-pressure steam sterilization, first, white balance adjustment is performed before inspection. Therefore, the cap power switch is turned on. Then, the distal end side of the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 2 is inserted into the concave portion 22 a of the white balance cap 21, and the distal end surface of the insertion portion 10 is brought into contact with the subject portion 23 to image the subject portion 23. Adjust the white balance.
[0044]
In this insertion state and white balance adjustment state, the infrared temperature sensor 24 provided in the white balance cap 21 determines the temperature of the outer surface from the hard end portion 13 to the bending portion 14 inserted into the recess 22a. taking measurement. The temperature data measured by the infrared temperature sensor 24 is subjected to a predetermined process by the control unit 25 and the temperature is displayed on the display unit 26.
[0045]
At this time, when the temperature displayed on the display unit 26 is, for example, 40 ° C. or higher, the endoscope 2 is cooled without starting the inspection. On the other hand, when the display temperature is 40 ° C. or lower, it is determined that the endoscope inspection is possible, and the endoscope inspection is started after the white balance adjustment is completed.
[0046]
When the display temperature is 40 ° C., this 40 ° C. is substantially the same as the body temperature, and thus the temperature at which the subject hardly feels uncomfortable during the endoscopic examination. That is, this temperature is set as a reference temperature for determining whether or not to perform endoscopy.
[0047]
Thus, by providing temperature detection means such as an infrared temperature sensor on a white balance cap for white balance adjustment that is always used before endoscopy, and displaying the result measured by the infrared temperature sensor on the display unit In addition, the temperature of the insertion portion of the endoscope can be surely confirmed by substantially the same work as the normal white balance adjustment work. This makes it easy to check whether the temperature of the endoscope after autoclaving is in a usable state.
[0048]
In addition, since the distal end surface of the insertion portion of the endoscope is brought into contact with the subject portion for white balance adjustment, temperature measurement up to a predetermined position can be reliably performed.
[0049]
As a result, when adjusting the white balance, the operator usually holds the flexible tube, so that the temperature of the flexible tube can be recognized directly by hand, while the operator touches it until the normal inspection starts. The operator can grasp the temperature of the entire insertion portion by checking the temperature on the tip side from the bending portion not present on the display portion.
[0050]
Furthermore, by using an infrared temperature sensor that can be measured in a non-contact manner with respect to an object to be measured as a temperature detection means, it is possible to perform accurate temperature measurement without variations in measurement temperature caused by contact state or the like.
[0051]
In the present embodiment, the endoscope 2 does not require a special configuration for detecting the temperature, and the external devices such as the light source device 3, the video processor 4, and the monitor 5 have a special configuration for detecting the temperature. A simple configuration is not necessary. That is, existing endoscopes and external devices can be used. In addition, the control unit 25 controls the infrared temperature sensor 24 to measure the temperature at a predetermined interval as needed, and controls the display unit 26 to display the highest temperature data among the temperature data measured within a predetermined time. However, the temperature measured by the infrared temperature sensor 24 may be controlled on the display unit 26 in real time.
[0052]
In addition, as shown in the figure explaining the other structure of the white balance cap with a temperature measuring device in FIG. 4, the control unit 25 compares the maximum temperature t measured by the infrared temperature sensor 24 with a preset reference value T. And the expected time for calculating the expected time until the temperature of the endoscope 2 is cooled to the reference value T based on the temperature data t when the comparison result in the comparing unit 25a is t> T. The white balance cap 21a may be configured with the calculation unit 25b.
[0053]
Thus, when the comparison result in the comparison unit 25a is t> T, the control unit 25 displays a message indicating that the display unit 26 cannot be used or a figure, a symbol, a color, and the like. A warning sound is generated from the speaker that does not, and then the display unit 26 is controlled to display the estimated time obtained by the estimated time calculation unit 25b.
[0054]
When the expected time has elapsed, the temperature is confirmed again using the white balance cap 21a.
Note that the control unit 25 performs control to display a usable message, a figure, a symbol, a color, and the like when the comparison result in the comparison unit 25a is t <T.
[0055]
Thus, based on the comparison result between the temperature data obtained by the infrared temperature sensor and the reference value, the user can easily and appropriately determine whether the endoscope is at a usable temperature or not. Can make decisions.
[0056]
In addition, the expected time until the endoscope is cooled is calculated by the expected time calculation unit, and the expected time is displayed on the display unit. Until the approximate time, other work such as inspection preparation work can be performed.
[0057]
5 and 6 are related to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a view for explaining a scope hanger and an endoscope provided in a cart, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. It is a figure explaining the relationship between the temperature sensor provided in the scope hanger and the endoscope.
[0058]
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, in this embodiment, the contact hanger 30 provided on the cart 6 for holding the endoscope 2 at the time of non-inspection is formed by a thermocouple or the like as a temperature detecting means. A temperature sensor 27 is provided, and a display unit 26 as notification means is provided.
[0059]
The scope hanger 30 is provided with a holding part 31 that holds the operation part 11 and the operation part folding preventing member 7b of the endoscope 2, and the contact-type temperature sensor 27 is placed at a predetermined position of the holding part 31 with the operation. It arrange | positions so that the surface of the partial folding prevention member 7b may be contacted. Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the same members are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.
[0060]
The endoscope 2 after high-pressure steam sterilization is held on the scope hanger 30. Then, the contact-type temperature sensor 27 comes into contact with the operation portion folding preventing member 7b of the endoscope 2. Then, based on an instruction from a control unit (not shown), the surface temperature of the operation unit folding preventing member 7b is measured, and predetermined temperature data is displayed on the display unit 26 from the measured temperature data.
[0061]
Thus, in this embodiment, by providing the contact-type temperature sensor and the display unit on the scope hanger that always holds the endoscope before the inspection, the endoscope is used for temperature measurement until the start of the inspection. Since touching is prevented, the sterilized state can be reliably maintained. Other operations and effects are the same as those in the first embodiment.
[0062]
FIG. 7 is a view for explaining a leak tester according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the figure, in the present embodiment, the endoscope 2 is placed under water, and the temperature of the leak tester 35 that detects the damage such as perforation by pressurizing the inside of the endoscope 2 is detected by temperature detection means. A certain infrared temperature sensor 24 is provided, and a display unit 26 as notification means is provided.
[0063]
The infrared temperature sensor 24 is provided in the vicinity of the inner surface opening of the temperature inspection hole 35a in which the distal end side portion of the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 2 is inserted and arranged. As a result, as in the first embodiment, the temperature of the outer surface from the hard tip portion 13 inserted into the temperature inspection hole 35a to the curved portion 14 can be measured.
[0064]
The leak tester 35 is provided with a pressurizing pump 36 and a connecting pipe 37 for introducing pressurized air from the pressurizing pump 36 into the endoscope 2. Other configurations are the same as those of the above-described embodiment, and the same reference numerals are given to the same members and the description thereof is omitted.
[0065]
In this way, a leak tester, which is a relatively inexpensive device, is provided with temperature detection means and notification means, so that even if a cart having a white balance cap or scope hanger is used for inspection, a leak test can be performed. Thus, the temperature of the endoscope can be detected. Other operations and effects are the same as those of the above-described embodiment.
[0066]
FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining another configuration example of the endoscope system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the figure, in the present embodiment, a temperature sensor 28 is provided as a temperature detection means inside the connector 12a of the endoscope 2. The notification means is the monitor 5.
[0067]
Therefore, in this embodiment, the video processor 4 is provided with a control unit 25A including a comparison unit 25a and an expected time calculation unit 25b. Reference numeral 29 denotes an image control unit that controls the CCD of the endoscope 2 and processes an electrical signal obtained by the CCD into an image signal.
[0068]
The temperature sensor 28 and the electrical connector portion 12b are connected by a signal line 28a, and the signal cable 4a is connected to the electrical connector portion 12b to be connected to the control portion 25A provided in the video processor 4. The control unit 25A is electrically connected to the image control unit 29.
[0069]
After completion of the high-pressure steam sterilization, the endoscope 2 is connected to the video processor 4 via the signal cable 4a in order to prepare for the endoscopy. Then, the temperature sensor 28 and the control unit 25A are electrically connected, whereby the comparison unit 25a of the control unit 25A compares the temperature data with the reference value T of the temperature data measured by the temperature sensor 28.
[0070]
Here, when the comparison result is t> T, a message, a figure, or a symbol indicating that the temperature of the endoscope 2 is not suitable for use is displayed on the screen of the monitor 5 via the image control unit 29 and illustrated. A warning sound is generated by a speaker that does not, and the predicted time calculated by the predicted time calculation unit 25b is displayed. The control unit 25A compares the temperature data measured by the temperature sensor 28 at regular intervals, for example, every 3 minutes, by the comparison unit 25a, makes a determination, and makes the temperature usable by the expected time calculation unit 25b. The expected time is calculated, the display on the monitor 5 is updated, and a warning sound is generated.
[0071]
When the comparison result changes to t <T, a sound or sound that can be clearly distinguished from the warning sound is generated, and the screen display of the monitor 5 is changed so that the temperature of the endoscope 2 can be used. Announce that
[0072]
Thus, the temperature sensor is provided in the endoscope, the control unit for controlling the temperature sensor is provided in the video processor that is an external device, and the notification means is a monitor that is an external device necessary for endoscopic examination. The temperature can be reliably detected before inspection.
[0073]
In this embodiment, when the comparison result is t> T, the above-described notification is performed, and the power supply is forcibly stopped from the control unit 25A to the imaging means of the endoscope 2 from the image control unit 29. Control of stopping the display of the observation image on the screen of the monitor 5 or stopping the supply of illumination light from the light source device 3 to the endoscope 2 may be performed.
[0074]
In addition, in an endoscope of a type that electrically performs a bending operation of the bending portion, the supply of electricity related to the bending operation may be stopped. By performing these controls, it is possible to reliably prevent the endoscope 2 from being erroneously used by forcibly making the endoscope 2 unusable for examination.
[0075]
Even when these controls are performed, a message indicating that the temperature of the endoscope 2 is not suitable for use remains on the screen of the monitor 5, so that the operator can It is not mistaken for a failure of the mirror 2.
[0076]
In the present embodiment, the control unit 25A is provided in the video processor 4, but the apparatus provided with the control unit 25A is not limited to the video processor 4, and may be the light source device 3 or the like. That is, any external device may be used as long as it is connected to the endoscope 2 at the time of inspection.
[0077]
Further, the endoscope 2 may be provided with not only a temperature sensor 28 but also a notification means for replacing the control unit 25, the monitor screen, and the speaker. In this case, a special external device is not required, and an existing external device is provided. Can be used to improve compatibility.
[0078]
Further, the arrangement position of the temperature sensor 28 is not limited to the inside of the connector 12a, and may be provided in the vicinity of the CCD (not shown) at the distal end portion of the insertion portion 10 as long as it is provided in the endoscope 2. Good.
[0079]
By the way, in the autoclave device disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-337171, since the endoscope cannot be taken out of the autoclave device until the endoscope is cooled, the cycle time of high-pressure steam sterilization becomes long. Therefore, there is a problem that it is not suitable for sterilization between cases, and when there are a large number of endoscopes, it takes a very long time to sterilize all of them.
[0080]
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-105796 discloses that after the autoclave sterilization, the drying pipeline is ventilated by a ventilator, and the inside of the scope is dehumidified to be dried and cooled. Since only the inside is dried and cooled, the outer surface of the endoscope is not cooled, and there is a problem that it takes time for cooling.
[0081]
Therefore, an endoscope system that can shorten the cycle time of autoclaving and shorten the cooling time of the endoscope after autoclaving has been desired.
[0082]
FIGS. 9 and 10 relate to a cooling device that cools the endoscope that is at a high temperature after the high-pressure steam sterilization process, FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the tray and the air supply pump, and FIG. It is a figure which shows the state which accommodated the endoscope.
As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, in this embodiment, the sterilization storage case 50 is combined with the air pump 60.
[0083]
An air supply pump 60 is connected to the tray 51 a of the sterilization storage case 50 of the present embodiment via an air supply tube 61. The air supply tube 61 is detachably connected to a gas inlet 53 provided on the side of the tray 51a and communicating between the inside and the outside.
[0084]
The tray 51a is provided with a plurality of vent holes 51b that communicate with the inside and outside to introduce steam into the interior during high-pressure steam sterilization. In addition, a regulating portion 54 is provided in the tray 51a to regulate the position of each portion of the endoscope 2 housed and arranged to regulate the bending shape of the insertion portion 10 to a predetermined shape.
[0085]
Here, the cooling operation of the endoscope 2 will be described.
When the high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope 2 is completed, the waterproof cap 9a is removed from the electrical connector portion 12b of the endoscope 2. As a result, a vent (not shown) provided in the electrical connector portion 12b is opened.
[0086]
Next, the air supply tube 61 of the air supply pump 60 is connected to the gas introduction port 53. Then, the outside air is forcibly fed into the tray 51a by the air pump 60. The outside air sent into the tray 51a is discharged to the outside of the tray 51a through the vent hole 51b. As a result, the inside of the tray 51a is ventilated as needed.
[0087]
Further, the outside air sent by the air feed pump 60 is also introduced into the endoscope 2 through the vent hole, and the air in the endoscope is also ventilated.
That is, the outer surface and the inside of the endoscope 2 are cooled by the outside air sent by the air feed pump 60.
[0088]
In this way, by sending the outside air from the air feed pump into the tray in which the endoscope is housed, the outside air spreads over the outer surface and inside of the endoscope after high-pressure steam sterilization, greatly reducing the cooling time. It can be shortened.
[0089]
In addition, since the bending shape of the insertion portion is regulated to a predetermined shape by the regulation portion, it is possible to prevent the outer skin softened in a high temperature state from being rapidly cooled, thereby preventing a sudden bending wrinkle. it can.
[0090]
In addition, it is good also considering the tray provided with the gas inlet as a container only for cooling. Further, a plurality of endoscopes may be stored in the container. In that case, a blower fan or the like for introducing outside air into the container or exhausting air may be provided in the container instead of the air supply pump.
[0091]
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a cooling storage container that cools the endoscope that is at a high temperature after the high-pressure steam sterilization step.
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, instead of the configuration in which the sterilization storage case 50 and the air supply pump 60 are combined, a cooling storage container 70 for storing the sterilization storage case 50, a ventilation cooling device 75, Are combined.
[0092]
The cooling container 70 is provided with a gas inlet 71 and a gas outlet 72. An air supply tube 77a connected to an air supply pump 77 connected to a cooler 76 provided in the ventilation cooling device 75 to supply cooling air is detachably connected to the gas introduction port 71.
[0093]
On the other hand, a suction tube 78 a connected to a suction pump 78 is connected to the gas discharge port 72. The suction pump 78, the cooler 76, and the air supply pump 77 are connected to the control unit 79 so that their operations are controlled.
[0094]
The inside of the cooling container 70 is sealed to the outside except for the gas inlet port 71 and the gas outlet port 72, and the suction pump 78 is -0. It has a capacity of about 07 MPa to -0.15 MPa.
[0095]
Here, the cooling operation of the endoscope 2 will be described.
When the high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope 2 is completed, the sterilization storage case 50 in which the endoscope 2 is stored is stored in the cooling storage container 70, and the cooling storage container 70 is sealed.
[0096]
Next, the operation of the suction pump 78 is started under the control of the control unit 79. Then, the internal pressure in the cooling storage container 70 and the sterilization storage case 50 is reduced to about −0.07 MPa to −0.15 MPa with respect to the atmospheric pressure. When the internal pressure falls below the internal pressure of the endoscope 2, the pressure regulating valve of the waterproof cap 9a is opened, and the air whose humidity is high due to high-pressure steam sterilization in the endoscope is released to the outside. It will be released. When the internal pressure of the endoscope 2 becomes substantially equal to the internal pressure, the pressure adjustment valve is closed.
[0097]
Next, the control unit 79 operates the air supply pump 77 to send cooling air from the gas introduction port 71 into the cooling storage container 70. Then, the sterilization storage case 50 and the endoscope 2 are cooled. The cooling air used for cooling the sterilization storage case 50 and the endoscope 2 is discharged from the gas discharge port 72 by the suction pump 78 as needed.
[0098]
Then, the control unit 79 repeatedly performs the above-described decompression process by the operation of only the suction pump 78 and the cooling air circulation process by the operation of the air supply pump 77 and the suction pump 78 three times. As a result, the outer surface of the endoscope 2 is cooled, and air containing moisture at a high temperature inside the endoscope 2 is substantially discharged, and the inside of the endoscope 2 is cooled and dried.
[0099]
In this way, by performing the cooling operation while the endoscope is stored in the sterilization storage case, it is possible to easily cool the outer surface of the endoscope, cool the inside, and dry the endoscope.
[0100]
This eliminates the need to take out the endoscope from the sterilization storage case or remove the waterproof cap, so that the sterilized state of the endoscope 2 can be reliably and easily secured. Moreover, the drying process in the high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus mentioned above can be skipped.
[0101]
Instead of the suction pump 78, an air supply pump, an air supply source, and a suction pump installed in the endoscopic examination room may be used, and the operation / stop of these pumps may be switched manually. Further, the endoscope 2 may be stored directly in the cooling storage container 70 without being stored in the sterilization storage case 50. In this case, the waterproof cap 9a may be removed from the electrical connector portion 12b, and cooling may be performed by opening the vent.
[0102]
12 and 13 relate to an endoscope cooling device that cools an endoscope that is at a high temperature after the high-pressure steam sterilization process, FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the endoscope cooling device, and FIG. It is a figure explaining the structure of a control part.
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, an endoscope cooling device 80 is configured by an insertion portion accommodating member 81 capable of arranging a plurality of endoscopes 2 and a cooling water feeding device 82. .
[0103]
Inside the insertion portion accommodating member 81, a plurality of substantially pipe-shaped insertion portion regulating portions 83 for accommodating and holding the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 2 in a straight line are arranged. The insertion portion restricting portion 83 has an inner diameter of about 30 mm, and a plurality of through holes 83a are formed in the side surface portion of the insertion portion restricting portion 83 so as to communicate the inner hole and the outside as shown in FIG. ing. The insertion portion accommodating member 81 is provided with a cooling water inlet (hereinafter abbreviated as an inlet) 81a and a cooling water outlet (hereinafter abbreviated as an outlet) 81b.
[0104]
The cooling water supply device 82 is provided with a liquid supply pump 84 and a cooler 85, and a liquid supply tube 86 extending from the liquid supply pump 84 is connected to the introduction port 81a. A discharge tube 87 is connected to 81b and connected to the liquid feed pump 84 so that the discharged liquid passes through the cooler 85.
[0105]
The insertion portion accommodating member 81 is configured to be stretchable in the longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 2, and the height dimension for holding the operation portion 11 of the endoscope 2 is set to an arbitrary height. An endoscope holding portion 88 capable of performing the above is provided.
[0106]
Further, the insertion portion accommodating member 81 is filled with a cooling liquid 90 made of, for example, sterilized water or the like as a cooling medium having good thermal conductivity. The depth dimension of the insertion portion accommodating member 81 is set to about 0.6 m to 1.5 m, for example, and most of the insertion portion 10 is immersed in the coolant 90.
[0107]
Here, the cooling operation of the endoscope 2 will be described.
When the high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope 2 is completed, the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 2 is inserted into the insertion portion regulating portion 83 of the insertion portion housing member 81, and the operation portion 11 of the endoscope 2 is held by the endoscope. The endoscope holding portion 88 is adjusted in height so that the insertion portion 10 is immersed in the coolant 90 as much as possible. As a result, the coolant 90 flows into the insertion portion restricting portion 83 from the through hole 83a of the insertion portion restricting portion 83 and cools the insertion portion 10.
[0108]
Next, the liquid feed pump 84 is operated to circulate the coolant 90. Then, the coolant 90 flows into the insertion portion accommodating member 81 from the introduction port 81a, and the coolant 90 is discharged from the discharge port 81b as needed. The coolant 90 discharged from the discharge port 81 b is cooled by the cooler 85 and then circulated through the insertion portion accommodating member 81 again by the liquid feed pump 84.
[0109]
Thus, while using a liquid with good thermal conductivity as a cooling medium, and circulating the cooling medium through the cooler, the insertion portion can be efficiently cooled to reduce the cooling time.
[0110]
In addition, since the insertion portion of the endoscope is cooled by the coolant that circulates in a straight line by the insertion portion restricting portion, even if it becomes high temperature and softened in the high-pressure steam sterilization process, the bending wrinkles are caused by cooling. It can prevent sticking.
[0111]
Furthermore, since only the insertion part inserted into the body cavity is directly cooled when the endoscopy is used, the apparatus can be made compact.
[0112]
In addition, a cooling device may be provided in the above-described leak tester 35 so that cooling air is sent when the endoscope 2 is pressurized to promote cooling from the inside.
[0113]
14 and 15 relate to a cooling container that cools the endoscope that is at a high temperature after the high-pressure steam sterilization process, FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the cooling container, and FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC in FIG. It is.
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, an insertion portion storage portion 92 that stores the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 2 is provided in the cooling container 91. The cross-sectional shape of the insertion portion storage portion 92 is formed by a concave portion such as a U-shaped groove portion 93 having substantially the same inner diameter and width as the outer shape of the insertion portion 10 as shown in FIG. When the insertion portion 10 is stored in the storage portion 92, the U-groove surface 93 is in close contact with the surface of the insertion portion 10. In addition, a plurality of heat radiation fins 94 are provided on the outer surface of the cooling container 91 in order to enhance the heat radiation performance of the cooling container 91 against the outside air.
[0114]
In addition, the insertion part storage part 92 can accommodate substantially the entire length of the insertion part 10, and is set to a length of 0.6 m to 2 m, for example. The cooling container 91 is made of a resin material having a higher thermal conductivity than the resin material forming the surfaces of the flexible tube 15 and the curved portion 14 of the insertion portion 10 and an extremely high thermal conductivity such as an aluminum alloy. It is made of a metal.
[0115]
Here, the cooling operation of the endoscope 2 will be described.
When the high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope 2 is completed, the endoscope 2 is stored in the cooling container 91 and the insertion unit 10 is disposed in the insertion unit storage unit 92. Then, the heat of the insertion part 10 is conducted from the U-shaped groove part 93 in contact with the insertion part 10 to the cooling container 91, and is radiated to the outside air by the radiation fins 94, thereby cooling the insertion part 10. Note that the cooling rate can be further increased without exposing the endoscope 2 by exposing the radiating fins 94 to cooling water or the like.
[0116]
In this way, the endoscope can be efficiently and quickly cooled by arranging the endoscope in a cooling container formed of a member having a higher thermal conductivity than the resin material or the like that forms the surface of the endoscope. Can do.
[0117]
The cooling container 91 may be formed of a material that can be autoclaved so as to serve as the tray 51. Further, similarly to the scope hanger 30, the cooling container 91 may be provided with temperature detecting means and notification means of the endoscope 2. Thereby, the same effect as the scope hanger 30 can be obtained.
[0118]
Further, instead of the cooling container 91 provided with the insertion portion storage portion 92, as shown in FIG. 16A, a soft material having a large number of bubbles made of, for example, foamed polyethylene or the like, instead of the insertion portion storage portion 92. A cooling container 91A provided with the sponge member 95 may be used. The sponge member 95 is impregnated with a coolant such as sterilized water. The other shapes and materials of the cooling container 91A are the same as those of the cooling container 91.
[0119]
The hardness of the surface of the sponge member 95 is a hardness that is deformed by the weight of the endoscope 2 when the endoscope 2 is placed. That is, when the endoscope 2 is placed on the sponge member 95, the side surfaces of the insertion portion 10 and the operation portion 11 of the endoscope 2 are buried in the sponge member 95 as shown in FIG. .
[0120]
Here, the cooling operation of the endoscope 2 will be described.
When the high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope 2 is completed, the endoscope 2 is placed on the sponge member 95 of the cooling container 91A. Then, the sponge member 95 is elastically deformed by the weight of the endoscope 2, and the sponge member 95 comes into close contact with the insertion unit 10 and the operation unit 11. Thus, the sponge member 95 and the cooling water contained in the sponge member 95 are cooled.
[0121]
Thus, by arranging the sponge member impregnated with the cooling liquid in the cooling container, the degree of contact (contact area) between the endoscope surface and the member having good thermal conductivity is increased, and the cooling effect is greatly increased. Can be increased.
[0122]
It should be noted that the same action and effect can be obtained by using a gel-like cooling medium having such a hardness that the endoscope 2 is buried by its own weight instead of providing the sponge member 95. In this case, since no liquid is used for cooling, the trouble of wiping off the liquid can be saved.
[0123]
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a scope hanger having a cooling function.
As shown in the drawing, in the present embodiment, the scope hanger 100 is provided with a holding portion 101 that holds the operation portion 11 of the endoscope 2. The holding portion 101 is formed with a curved surface substantially similar to the outer shape of the operation portion 11 so that the contact area with the outer surface of the operation portion 11 is increased.
[0124]
Further, the holding portion 101 may also hold an operation portion folding prevention member 7 b formed of a member that can be elastically deformed of the operation portion 11. As a result, the contact area of the holding portion 101 is further increased.
[0125]
Further, when the holding unit 101 is formed of an elastically deformable member and the operation unit 11 is placed on the holding unit 101, the holding unit 101 is deformed by the weight of the endoscope 2 and the operation unit 11 is moved. You may make it the structure closely_contact | adhered to an outer surface.
[0126]
The holding portion 101 is made of a resin material having a higher thermal conductivity than a material made of a resin or the like that forms the outer surface of the operating portion 11 or the operating portion folding preventing member 7b, or an aluminum having a very high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum. Etc., and a material that can be sterilized under high pressure steam.
[0127]
In addition, the holding unit 101 is configured to increase its own volume, or the thermal conductivity of the support member 102 to which the holding unit 101 is fixed is made of the same or better material as the holding unit 101. By providing a contact surface between the support member 101 and the support member 102 to increase the total volume of the holding unit 101 and the support member 102, a heat capacity that can be absorbed is increased.
[0128]
The holding unit 101 and the support member 102 are configured to be detachable, and the holding unit 101 is configured to be detachable from the support member 102 and capable of high-pressure steam sterilization together with the endoscope 2. You may make it the structure which provides the heat sink 94 mentioned above in the holding | maintenance part 101 or the support member 102. FIG.
[0129]
Here, the cooling operation of the endoscope 2 will be described.
When the high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope 2 and the holding unit 101 is completed, the holding unit 101 is connected to the support member 102 and installed so that the insertion unit 10 of the endoscope 2 is extended. Thereby, the endoscope 2 is held by the scope hanger 100 during the preparation for the examination.
[0130]
The heat of the endoscope 2 is conducted to the holding unit 101 having good thermal conductivity through the operation unit 11 and the operation unit folding preventing member 7b, and further conducted to the support member 102 and radiated to the outside air to be endoscope 2. Is cooled.
[0131]
In this way, the scope hanger holding part and the support member are made of a material having higher thermal conductivity than the material forming the outer surface of the endoscope, so that the endoscope is placed on the scope hanger. The endoscope can be efficiently cooled.
[0132]
Further, since the insertion portion is cooled in a straight line state, it is possible to prevent bending and wrinkling due to cooling.
[0133]
Furthermore, since the holding part is capable of high-pressure steam sterilization, the sterilized state can be maintained until immediately before the inspection.
[0134]
The holding unit 101 may be provided with a temperature detection unit and a notification unit.
[0135]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.
[0136]
[Appendix]
According to the embodiment of the present invention as described above in detail, the following configuration can be obtained.
[0137]
(1) an endoscope;
Temperature detecting means for measuring the temperature of the endoscope;
Based on the measurement value obtained by this temperature detection means, a notification means for notifying information for determining whether or not the temperature of the endoscope is in a usable state,
An endoscope system comprising:
[0138]
(2) The endoscope system according to appendix 1, comprising an endoscope temperature measuring device in which the temperature detecting means and the notification means are integrated.
[0139]
(3) The endoscope system according to appendix 1, wherein the temperature detection unit and the notification unit are used in combination with the endoscope, and are provided in any device used before endoscopy.
[0140]
(4) The endoscope system according to appendix 1, wherein the temperature detection unit measures the temperature of at least a part of the outer surface of the insertion portion of the endoscope.
[0141]
(5) The endoscope system according to appendix 1, wherein the temperature detection unit measures the temperature of a predetermined part.
[0142]
(6) The endoscope system according to appendix 5, wherein the temperature detection means measures the temperature on the distal end side from the bending portion provided on the distal end side of the insertion portion of the endoscope.
[0143]
(7) The endoscope system according to attachment 3, wherein the device is a white balance setting reference observation target member for setting a white balance of an endoscope image.
[0144]
(8) The endoscope system according to appendix 3, wherein the device is an endoscope holding device that holds the endoscope.
[0145]
(9) The endoscope system according to appendix 1, wherein the temperature detection means is a non-contact type temperature sensor.
[0146]
(10) an endoscope having temperature detecting means;
Notification means for notifying information for determining whether or not the temperature of the endoscope is in a usable state to at least one of the endoscope or an external device connected to the endoscope;
The endoscope system according to appendix 1, comprising:
[0147]
(11) Comparing means for comparing the temperature data measured by the temperature detecting means with a preset set value;
The endoscope system according to appendix 2 or appendix 10, wherein the notifying unit notifies whether or not the temperature of the endoscope is in a usable state based on a comparison result of the comparing unit.
[0148]
(12) The endoscope system according to appendix 11, further comprising forced stop means for disabling the endoscope and the external device when the comparison result of the comparison means is not usable.
[0149]
(13) Based on the temperature data measured by the temperature detection means, it has time calculation means for calculating the time required for the temperature of the endoscope to be lowered to a usable state, and the notification means The endoscope system according to supplementary note 2 or supplementary note 10, which notifies the time calculated by the time calculation means.
[0150]
(14) In an endoscope cooling apparatus for cooling an endoscope,
A case body capable of storing at least a part of the insertion portion;
A cooling medium;
Introducing means for introducing the cooling medium into the case body housing portion;
Endoscope cooling device comprising
(15) The endoscope cooling device according to appendix 14, further comprising a restricting portion that holds the predetermined position of the insertion portion in a linear shape or a predetermined bent shape.
[0151]
(16) temperature detecting means for measuring the temperature of the endoscope;
Based on the temperature data obtained by this temperature detection means, notification means for notifying information for determining whether or not the temperature of the endoscope is in a usable state,
The endoscope cooling apparatus according to appendix 14, wherein
[0152]
(17) When the high-pressure steam sterilization of the endoscope is performed, the storage device for high-pressure steam sterilization in which the inside and outside of the endoscope are formed in an airtight manner is provided with a case main body formed so as to be accommodated. Endoscope cooling device.
[0153]
(18) In a cooling container that houses and cools an endoscope having an elongated and flexible insertion portion,
A cooling container comprising a close contact surface portion that is in close contact with at least a part of the outer surface of the insertion portion of the endoscope.
[0154]
(19) The cooling container according to appendix 18, wherein the close-contact surface portion includes a cooling portion that forcibly cools the insertion portion.
[0155]
(20) The cooling container according to appendix 19, wherein the contact surface portion is formed of a porous material that can be penetrated by liquid and whose surface shape can be deformed by the weight of the endoscope.
[0156]
(21) The cooling container according to appendix 19, wherein the cooling medium is a gel material whose surface shape can be deformed by the weight of the endoscope.
[0157]
(22) The cooling container according to appendix 18, wherein the contact surface portion is formed of a material higher than the thermal conductivity of the outer surface of the insertion portion that is in close contact with the contact surface portion.
[0158]
(23) The cooling container according to appendix 18, formed of a material resistant to steam sterilization.
[0159]
(24) The cooling container according to appendix 18, further comprising holding means for maintaining a predetermined position of the insertion portion in a linear shape or a predetermined bent shape.
[0160]
(25) In an endoscope holding device that holds an endoscope having an elongated and flexible insertion portion in a state where the insertion portion is linearized,
A holding part for holding at least a part of the endoscope is provided detachably with respect to the support member,
The holding portion is provided with a contact portion that contacts at least a part of the outer surface of the endoscope, and the contact portion is made of a member having higher thermal conductivity than the outer surface of the endoscope and having resistance to high-pressure steam sterilization. The formed endoscope holding device.
[0161]
(26) The endoscope holding device according to appendix 25, wherein a heat capacity of the holding unit is formed larger than a heat capacity of the endoscope.
[0162]
(27) The holding portion is connected to a support member and connected, the support member has a larger heat capacity than the holding portion, and the outer surface of the support member in the connection portion is formed of a member having high thermal conductivity. The endoscope holding apparatus according to appendix 25.
[0163]
(28) The endoscope holding device according to appendix 25, wherein the holding portion is formed in a shape along the outer shape of the gripping portion of the operation portion of the endoscope.
[0164]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, there is no need for a special autoclave device, and it is excellent in compatibility that can reliably and easily check whether the temperature of the endoscope is usable after high-pressure steam sterilization. An endoscope system can be provided.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 relate to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an endoscope apparatus.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a white balance cap with a temperature measuring device used for white balance adjustment.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a white balance cap
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating another configuration of a white balance cap with a temperature measuring device.
FIGS. 5 and 6 are related to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a scope hanger and an endoscope provided in a cart.
6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 5, illustrating the relationship between the temperature sensor provided on the scope hanger and the endoscope;
FIG. 7 is a view for explaining a leak tester according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating another configuration example of the endoscope system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.
9 and FIG. 10 are related to a cooling device for cooling an endoscope that is at a high temperature after the high-pressure steam sterilization step, and FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between a tray and an air feed pump;
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state where an endoscope is stored in a storage case.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a cooling storage container that cools an endoscope that is at a high temperature after the high-pressure steam sterilization step.
FIGS. 12 and 13 relate to an endoscope cooling device that cools an endoscope that is at a high temperature after the high-pressure steam sterilization step, and FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the endoscope cooling device.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an insertion portion restricting portion.
FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 relate to a cooling container that cools an endoscope that is at a high temperature after the high-pressure steam sterilization step, and FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the cooling container.
15 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC in FIG.
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating another configuration of the cooling container
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a scope hanger having a cooling function.
[Explanation of symbols]
10 ... Insertion section
21 ... White balance cap
22 ... Cylindrical part
23 ... Subject part
24 ... Infrared temperature sensor
25 ... Control unit
26 ... Display section

Claims (4)

An endoscope with an insertion portion ;
A temperature detection means that is provided toward the insertion portion disposed at a predetermined position and measures the temperature of the outer surface on the distal end side from the bending portion provided on the distal end side of the insertion portion;
Based on the measurement value measured in this temperature detection means, notification means for notifying information for determining whether or not the temperature of the insertion portion in the endoscope is in a usable state,
An endoscope system comprising:   The endoscope system according to claim 1, wherein the temperature detection unit is a non-contact type temperature sensor.   The endoscope system according to claim 2, wherein the temperature detection unit is installed in an apparatus having a white balance setting reference observation target unit for setting the white balance of the endoscope image. Based on the temperature data related to the measurement value measured by the temperature detection means, further comprising a time calculation means for calculating the time required for the temperature of the insertion portion in the endoscope to fall into a usable state,
The endoscope system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the notification unit notifies the time calculated by the time calculation unit.

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