JP4590436B2 - Endoscope - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an endoscope capable of autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization).

  Today, in the medical field, it is possible to observe a deep part in a body cavity by inserting a thin insertion part into the body cavity or the like, or to perform a therapeutic treatment or the like by using a treatment tool as necessary. Mirrors are widely used. In these medical endoscopes, it is essential to surely sterilize the used endoscope.

In recent years, autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization), which can be used immediately after sterilization and has a low running cost, is becoming mainstream as sterilization of medical devices.
Typical conditions for autoclave sterilization include American standard ANSI / AAMI ST37-1992, approved by the American National Standards Institute and issued by the Medical Device Development Association. This condition is for prevacuum type sterilization process at 132 ° C, 4 minutes, and gravity type. In the sterilization process, the temperature is 132 ° C. and 10 minutes.

  Such environmental conditions for autoclave sterilization are extremely harsh for endoscopes, and in order to realize an endoscope capable of autoclaving that is resistant to this, only by other disinfection / sterilization means Compared to usable endoscopes, various measures such as high pressure measures, high temperature measures, and steam measures must be taken.

  Further, a conventional endoscope is provided with a push button device such as a remote switch for performing operations such as freeze and release in the operation unit. For example, as described in Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 2-58401, the push button device is provided with an operation unit. A switch provided with a switch, a pressing member (elastic waterproof film) that covers the switch in a water-tight manner, and a pressing portion that can press the switch on a portion of the pressing member facing the switch One with a device has been proposed.

  However, in general, an endoscope has a higher pressure outside the endoscope than the inside of the endoscope after the pressurization process or the drying process of autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization). A force directed from the outside of the endoscope to the inside of the endoscope is applied by the pressure difference between the inside and outside. For this reason, in the endoscope described in Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 2-58401, the soft pressing member is elastically deformed toward the inside of the endoscope and the end of the pressing portion of the pressing member approaches the switch. Depending on the case, there is a risk of pressing the switch.

When the amount of pressing into the switch by the end of the pressing portion is large, there is a possibility that a very small stem constituting the switch is deformed. In particular, during the pressurization stroke, not only the force but also a high temperature load is applied to the switch, so that the switch itself may be deformed in some cases. Furthermore, when left for a long time after completion of the drying process, the force from the outside of the endoscope to the inside continues to be applied for a long time, the stem may be permanently deformed, and the operation feeling may be changed.
Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 2-58401

  The endoscope incorporates an elongated resin tube used as an air supply / water supply conduit, a treatment instrument insertion conduit, or the like as a built-in object in the insertion portion. When such an endoscope is inserted into an autoclave sterilizer and sterilized by autoclave, the inside of the endoscope is hermetically sealed, so the resin tube expands in the outer diameter direction due to the pressure of the pressurization process, and the endoscope There was a risk of squeezing all the other built-in objects built in. When the built-in object is pressed in this way, there arises a problem that, for example, the fiber bundle for transmitting illumination light used for the light guide breaks in the middle.

  Therefore, it has been desired to provide an endoscope in which even if the resin tube expands during the autoclave sterilization process, at least after the autoclave sterilization process, the resin tube does not compress other built-in components. In addition, even if the inner diameter of the flexible tube contracts due to the pressure during the pressurizing stroke, it has been desired to provide an endoscope in which the resin tube does not press other built-in components at least after the autoclave sterilizing stroke. Furthermore, it has been desired to provide an endoscope in which the resin tube does not compress other built-in objects even at the time of the pressurization stroke.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a resin tube having an outer diameter dimension that expands in the outer diameter direction under a load during autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) is built in the insertion portion. However, an object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope in which a resin tube does not compress all other built-in objects at least after the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization process.

  Another object of the present invention is to pressurize autoclave sterilization (high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization) into an insertion portion having an inner diameter that expands in the inner diameter direction under load during autoclave sterilization (high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization). Endoscope that does not compress all other built-in components at least after the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization process, even if it incorporates a resin tube with an outer diameter that expands in the outer diameter direction under load. Is to provide.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above object, another object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope in which the resin tube does not compress other built-in objects even during the pressurization stroke.

The endoscope according to the first aspect of the present invention, in the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizable endoscope incorporating a single elongated resin tube in the flexible tube even without low, pressure in the resin tube is a resin tube Considering the expansion amount of the resin tube when it becomes higher by 0.3 MPa than the outside atmospheric pressure, even if the resin tube expands by the expansion amount , it is between all other built-in objects. The resin tube is arranged in the flexible tube so that a gap is formed.

The endoscope according to the second aspect of the present invention, the soluble Shiwakan, in high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizable endoscope incorporating a single elongated resin tube even without low, the flexible pipe outside air pressure is the The amount of contraction of the flexible tube when it is higher by 0.3 MPa than the pressure inside the flexible tube, and the case where the pressure inside the resin tube is 0.3 MPa higher than the pressure outside the resin tube In consideration of the expansion amount of the resin tube, even when the flexible tube contracts by the contraction amount and the resin tube expands by the expansion amount, there is a gap between all the other built-in objects. The resin tube is disposed in the flexible tube so that is formed.

  The endoscope according to the first aspect of the present invention incorporates a resin tube having an outer diameter dimension that expands in the outer diameter direction under a load during autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) pressurization. However, at least after the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization process, the resin tube can be prevented from pressing all other built-in objects.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
1 to 3 relate to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram showing an endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a push button device provided in the endoscope of FIG. 2 (a) is a cross-sectional configuration diagram of the push button device under atmospheric pressure, and FIG. 2 (b) is a diagram illustrating the pressurization process of autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) from the state of FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory view showing a modification of the push button device of FIG. 2 after the drying process, FIG. 3A is a view showing a modification of the push button device of FIG. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional configuration diagram of the push button device in which an elastic member is disposed inside the waterproof film portion.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an endoscope apparatus 1 having an embodiment of the present invention includes an endoscope 2 having an imaging means (not shown) and a detachably connected to the endoscope 2. A light source device 3 that supplies illumination light to a light guide provided in the endoscope 2, and is connected to the endoscope 2 via a signal cable 4 to control the imaging means of the endoscope 2, and A video processor 5 that processes a signal obtained from the imaging means and outputs a standard video signal, and a monitor 6 that receives the video signal from the video processor 5 and displays an endoscopic image. . The endoscope 2 is configured to be sterilized by high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization (hereinafter referred to as autoclave sterilization) after washing after being used for observation and treatment.

  The endoscope 2 has a flexible elongated insertion portion 7, an operation portion 8 provided on the proximal end side of the insertion portion 7, and a flexibility extending from a side portion of the operation portion 8. A universal cord 9, a connector portion 10 that can be detachably connected to the light source device 3 provided at the end of the universal cord 9, and can extend to a side portion of the connector portion 10 to be connected to the video processor 5. The signal cable 4 is mainly composed of an electrical connector portion 11 that can be detachably connected.

  The connecting portion between the insertion portion 7 and the operation portion 8 is provided with an insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 having an elastic member for preventing a sudden bending of the connection portion. An operation part side folding prevention member 13 is provided at a connection part with the universal cord 9, and a connector part side folding prevention member 14 is provided at a connection part between the universal cord 9 and the connector part 10.

  The insertion portion 7 includes a flexible flexible tube portion 15 having flexibility, a bending portion 16 that can be bent by the operation of the operation portion 8 provided on the distal end side of the flexible tube portion 15, and a distal end. The distal end portion 17 is provided with an observation optical system, an illumination optical system, and the like (not shown).

  The operation section 8 includes an air / water supply operation button 21 for operating an air supply operation and a water supply operation, a suction operation button 22 for operating a suction operation, and a bending operation knob for performing a bending operation of the bending section 16. 23, a push button device 24 as a plurality of remote switches for remotely operating the video processor 5, and a treatment instrument insertion port 25 which is an opening communicating with the treatment instrument channel. The detailed structure of the push button device 24 will be described later.

  An air supply / water supply nozzle (not shown) for ejecting a cleaning liquid or gas toward the observation window of an observation optical system (not shown) by the air supply operation and the water supply operation, and the insertion portion 7 are disposed at the distal end portion 17. A suction port (not shown) which is an opening on the distal end side of a treatment tool channel (not shown) for inserting the treatment tool or sucking the liquid in the body cavity is provided. In addition, a liquid feed port (not shown) for ejecting the liquid that is opened toward the observation object is provided.

  The connector 10 includes a gas supply base 26 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 27 that is a liquid supply source. Water is supplied from the pressure base 28 and the liquid supply base 29, a suction base 30 connected to a suction source (not shown) for performing suction from the suction port of the tip portion 17, and water from the liquid feed port of the tip portion 17. For this purpose, an injection cap 31 connected to a water supply means (not shown) is provided. The connector 10 is provided with a ground terminal cap 32 for returning the leakage current to the high-frequency treatment device when a high-frequency leakage current is generated in the endoscope when a high-frequency treatment is performed.

  The electrical connector section 11 is provided with a vent hole 66 (not shown) that communicates the inside and the outside of the endoscope 2. In addition, a waterproof cap 33 with a pressure adjusting valve can be detachably connected to the electrical connector portion 11, and the waterproof cap 33 is provided with a pressure adjusting valve (not shown).

In autoclave sterilization, a sterilization storage case (hereinafter referred to as a storage case) 34 for storing the endoscope 2 is used.
The storage case 34 includes a tray 35 that stores the endoscope 2 and a lid member 36 of the tray 35. The tray 35 and the lid member 36 are provided with a plurality of air holes (not shown) so that water vapor can pass through these holes during autoclave sterilization.

  The tray 35 is formed with a restriction portion (not shown) corresponding to the endoscope 2, and the restriction portion is configured such that each part of the endoscope 2 is placed in a predetermined position. The restricting portion is provided with an insertion portion restricting portion (not shown) in which the insertion portion 7 having flexibility is accommodated.

  As described above, typical conditions for autoclave sterilization are approved by the American National Standards Association, the American Standard ANSI / AAMI ST37-1992 issued by the Medical Device Development Association, prevacuum type sterilization process at 132 ° C for 4 minutes, and gravity type sterilization process. 10 minutes at 132 ° C.

The temperature conditions during the sterilization process of autoclave sterilization (high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization) vary depending on the type of autoclave sterilization apparatus (high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus) and the time of the sterilization process, but generally range from 115 ° C to 138 ° C. Set by. Some sterilizers can be set to about 142 ° C. The time condition varies depending on the temperature condition of the sterilization process, but is generally set to about 3 to 60 minutes. Some types of sterilizers can be set to about 100 minutes.
The pressure in the sterilization chamber in this process is generally set to about +0.2 MPa with respect to atmospheric pressure.

In a general pre-vacuum type high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization process, a pre-vacuum process in which the sterilization chamber containing the equipment to be sterilized is depressurized before the sterilization process, and then high-pressure high-temperature steam is sent into the sterilization chamber for sterilization. The sterilization process to be performed is included. The pre-vacuum process is a process for allowing the steam to penetrate into the details of the device to be sterilized during the subsequent sterilization process. By reducing the pressure in the sterilization chamber, high-pressure and high-temperature steam is distributed over the entire device to be sterilized.
The pressure in the sterilization chamber in the pre-vacuum process is generally set to about -0.07 MPa to -0.09 MPa with respect to atmospheric pressure.

  Some of them include a drying step in which the inside of the sterilization chamber is decompressed again after the sterilization step in order to dry the sterilization target device after sterilization. In this process, the inside of the sterilization chamber is decompressed to remove steam from the sterilization chamber, and the drying of the equipment to be sterilized in the sterilization chamber is promoted. In this process, the pressure in the sterilization chamber is generally set to about -0.07 to -0.09 MPa with respect to the atmospheric pressure.

  When the endoscope 2 is autoclave sterilized, the waterproof cap 33 with a pressure regulating valve is attached to the electrical connector portion 11. In this state, the pressure regulating valve (not shown) of the waterproof cap 33 is closed, the vent hole is closed by the waterproof cap 33, and the inside of the endoscope 2 is sealed watertight from the outside.

  In the case of a sterilization method having a pre-vacuum stroke, when the pressure difference occurs such that the pressure in the sterilization chamber decreases during the pre-vacuum stroke and the pressure is lower outside the endoscope 2, the pressure regulating valve Is opened, and the inside and outside of the endoscope 2 communicate with each other through the vent hole to prevent a large pressure difference between the inside of the endoscope 2 and the pressure in the sterilization chamber. Thereby, the endoscope 2 is not damaged by the pressure difference between the inside and the outside.

  In the sterilization process, when the pressure inside the sterilization chamber is pressurized and a pressure difference is generated such that the pressure is higher in the outside than in the endoscope 2, the pressure regulating valve is closed. Accordingly, high-pressure and high-temperature steam does not actively enter the endoscope 2 through the waterproof cap 33 and the vent hole.

  However, the high-temperature and high-pressure steam is an O-ring formed from fluoro rubber, silicon rubber, or the like, which is a sealing means provided at the outer skin of the flexible tube made of a polymer material or the connecting portion of the exterior body of the endoscope 2. Gradually invade from inside. It should be noted that the exterior body of the endoscope 2 is in a state in which a pressure from the outside to the inside is generated by adding the pressure reduced in the pre-vacuum stroke and the pressure pressurized in the sterilization stroke.

In the case of the method including the decompression process after the sterilization process, the pressure difference in the sterilization chamber decreases in the decompression process and a pressure difference is generated so that the pressure is lower in the exterior than in the endoscope 2. The pressure regulating valve is opened to prevent the inside and outside of the endoscope 2 from communicating with each other through the vent hole, thereby preventing a large pressure difference between the inside of the endoscope 2 and the pressure in the sterilization chamber. Thereby, the endoscope 2 is not damaged by the pressure difference between the inside and the outside.
Next, when the pressure inside and outside becomes equal, the pressure regulating valve is closed. When the decompression process ends, the sterilization chamber becomes atmospheric pressure.

  As described above, when all the processes of autoclave sterilization (high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization) are completed, the outer body of the endoscope 2 is in a state where pressure from the outside to the inside is generated by the pressure reduced in the pressure reducing process. Become.

When the waterproof cap 33 is removed from the electrical connector portion 11, the inside and outside of the endoscope 2 communicate with each other through the vent hole, and the inside of the endoscope 2 is at atmospheric pressure, and the exterior body of the endoscope 2. The load caused by the pressure generated in the system is eliminated.
As described above, after autoclaving, the endoscope 2 can be used for endoscopy.

Next, the detailed structure of the push button device 24 provided in the endoscope 2 capable of autoclave sterilization will be described with reference to FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 2, the push button device 24 has a switch 41 capable of high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization, a pressure-tight cover that covers the switch 41 in a watertight manner, and can be elastically deformed to operate the switch 41. It is mainly composed of a pressing member 42 that can be displaced with respect to the switch 41.

  The pressing member 42 is liquid-tightly fixed to the operation unit exterior body 8a, and an elastically deformable waterproof film part 43 that is directly touched by an operator, and a part that is integrated with the waterproof film part 43 and that faces the switch 41. It is comprised from the press part 44 which can press the switch 41. FIG.

  The switch 41 incorporates a stem (not shown), and the switch is switched ON / OFF by deformation of the stem. In order to facilitate deformation, the stem is made of a thin metal material or a part of a resin material. The waterproof film 43 is formed of a soft rubber material. Moreover, the said press part 44 is shape | molded from hard materials, such as a metal material and a resin material.

The shape of the waterproof membrane 43 is devised so that the waterproof membrane 43 has the function of the pressing portion 44, and the pressing portion 44 itself is omitted as in the push button device 24b shown in FIG. However, the pressing member 42 may be configured integrally.
Further, in the push button device 24, the elastic force of the pressing member 42 is given by the rubber hardness of the waterproof membrane portion 43. However, like the push button device 24c in FIG. This elastic force may be given by arranging a simple elastic member.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the position of the end of the pressing portion 44 in the atmospheric pressure environment is an initial reference position, and the distance between the initial reference position and the end of the switch 41 is Xsp. In FIG. 2A, Xsp has a positive distance, that is, a gap, but Xsp may be zero. Xsp is zero when the end of the pressing portion 44 is in contact with the end of the switch 41 or when the pressing portion 44 biases the switch 41. Further, the switch 41 itself can move by Xsw (stroke of the switch 41: Xsw).

  As shown in FIG. 2B, after the autoclave sterilization pressurization process and the drying process are finished, the pressure outside the endoscope 2 is relatively higher than the inside. As a result, a force from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2 is applied. For this reason, the soft waterproof film portion 43 is elastically deformed in the inner direction of the endoscope 2. Accordingly, the end of the pressing portion 44 moves by Xac (the amount of displacement of the end of the pressing portion 44 with respect to the initial reference position: Xac).

  Here, if the position of the end of the pressing portion 44 before autoclave sterilization is set such that Xac> Xsp, the pressing portion 44 urges the switch 41 after the pressurization process and the drying process are finished by the pressure in the autoclave sterilization process. In particular, in the pressurization stroke, a stem (not shown) built in the switch 41 is permanently deformed by a double load of a pressure load and a high-temperature thermal load, and the switch is operated during the endoscopic examination. May deteriorate, or conduction failure may occur. Even after the drying process is finished, the pressing portion 44 urges the switch 41 for a long time compared to the normal switch operation, and the switch 41 is placed in a harsh state as compared with the normal switch operation. In addition, a stem (not shown) built in the switch 41 may be permanently deformed.

  Depending on the type of resin material used for the pressing member 42, the pressing member 42 itself may be permanently deformed due to the pressure in the pressurizing process and the high temperature thermal load. 44 may leave the switch 41 energized.

In consideration of the above, in this embodiment, the distance Xsp between the initial reference position and the end of the switch 41 in the atmospheric pressure environment is set as follows.
Xac ≦ Xsp (1)
Xac: Displacement amount with respect to the initial reference position of the end of the pressing part Xsp: Distance between the initial reference position of the end of the pressing part and the switch end As described above, by setting the position of the pressing part 44 before autoclave sterilization, autoclave sterilization Due to the pressure in the stroke, the pressing portion 44 does not urge the switch 41 after the pressurization stroke or the drying stroke is completed.

  The displacement amount Xac of the pressing member 42 with respect to the initial reference position is an amount that moves only by the pressure after the pressurization process or the drying process, and if the person using the endoscope 2 pushes the waterproof film 43. The pressing portion 44 can move by Xsp + Xsw (Xsw: stroke of the switch 41), and the switch 41 can be pushed by Xsw to perform normal switch operation.

  The endoscope 2 is provided with a pressure adjustment valve (not shown). This pressure adjustment valve opens only when the internal pressure is higher than the outside of the endoscope 2, and closes when the external pressure is higher than the inside of the endoscope 2. And the outside is in a liquid-tight state.

  In the initial state before the start of autoclave sterilization (high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization), the pressure inside and outside the endoscope 2 is almost equal to atmospheric pressure (abbreviated as Pa), so the valve provided in the endoscope 2 is closed. It remains as it is. Since there is no pressure difference between the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2, no force is applied from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2, so the waterproof film 43 is not deformed.

  Next, consider the pre-vacuum process. In the pre-vacuum process, the inside of the autoclave sterilizer (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer) is in a negative pressure state (the pressure at this time is expressed as -Pv1), and a pressure difference is generated between the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2. The pressure adjustment valve is opened by this pressure difference, and the internal pressure of the endoscope 2 is adjusted. At the end of the pre-vacuum stroke, there is no pressure difference between the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2, and the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2 are in a substantially uniform negative pressure state (pressure is -Pv1). Even in this state, there is no pressure difference between the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2, and no force is directed from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2, so the waterproof film 43 is not deformed.

  Next, consider the time of the sterilization process. In the sterilization process, the inside of the autoclave sterilizer is in a pressurized state (the pressure at this time is Pac), and a pressure difference is generated between the outside of the endoscope 2 (pressure is Pac) and the inside (pressure is -Pv1). Since the pressure difference generated here is a force directed from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2, the pressure adjustment valve remains closed. In such a state, a force due to this pressure difference (Pac − (− Pv1)) is also applied to the waterproof film portion 43 of the push button device 24, so that the pressure member 42 is deformed as shown in FIG. The position is displaced by Xac. The distance: Xsp between the initial reference position and the switch 41 is set as in relational expression (1) so that the pressing member 42 does not urge the switch 41 even in such a state.

  Consider the time of the drying process. In the drying process, the inside of the autoclave sterilizer is again in a negative pressure state (the pressure at this time is described as -Pv2). At this time, the internal pressure of the endoscope 2 is also in a negative pressure state, and the pressure is approximately -Pv1.

Here, the magnitude of the absolute value of Pv1 and Pv2 will be described. Pv1 is the internal pressure of the endoscope 2 at the end of the pre-vacuum stroke, but this absolute value slightly decreases by the time of the drying stroke. This is because pressure loss occurs because a seal portion (O-ring or the like) (not shown) of the endoscope 2 does not maintain ideal absolute airtightness. Furthermore, since Pv2 is forced into a negative pressure state by the autoclave sterilizer, the absolute value of Pv1 and Pv2 is | Pv1 | <| Pv2 | P (2)
It is.

  From the above, although the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2 are in a negative pressure state, the pressure regulating valve is opened and the pressure is adjusted by the difference in the absolute value of the pressure. At the end of the drying process, there is no pressure difference between the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2, and the outside and inside of the endoscope 2 are in a substantially uniform negative pressure state (the pressure at this time is denoted as -Pavg). Even in this state, there is no pressure difference between the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2, and no force is directed from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2, so the waterproof film 43 is not deformed.

  When the drying process is completed, the inside of the autoclave sterilizer is opened to atmospheric pressure: Pa. At this time, the inside of the endoscope 2 remains in a negative pressure state (the pressure is −Pavg), and a pressure difference is generated between the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2. Although a pressure difference is generated here, the pressure adjustment valve remains closed because the pressure difference is a force directed from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2. In such a state, a force due to this pressure difference (Pa − (− Pavg)) is also applied to the waterproof membrane portion 43 and deformed as shown in FIG. 2B, but the pressure difference at this time is the pressure during the sterilization process. Since it is smaller than the difference, the displacement amount of the pressing member 42 with respect to the initial reference position is smaller than Xac. In this state, the pressing member 42 does not bias the switch 41.

  In general, in a facility that uses the endoscope 2, the endoscope 2 is often put into the autoclave sterilizer after the end of the day of the endoscopic examination. In such a case, the autoclave sterilization process is started immediately after use, but it is often the next morning that the endoscope 2 is removed from the autoclave sterilizer after the autoclave sterilization process is completed. Therefore, if the state after the end of the drying process is long, it continues for one night, and the internal pressure of the endoscope 2 remains in a negative pressure state. If it is long, the pressure continues to be applied to the waterproof membrane 43 overnight.

In a general autoclave sterilizer, the pressure applied to the waterproof membrane 43 is relative to atmospheric pressure,
During the pressurization stroke:
Pac − (− Pv1) ≈ + 0.27 to +0.29 [MPa] (3)
At the end of the drying process:
Pa − (− Pavg) ≈ + 0.07 to +0.09 [MPa] (4)
It is.

  Therefore, for example, even when a load of 0.3 [MPa] is applied to the waterproof membrane 43 and the pressing member 42 moves, Xsp (initial reference position and switch 41 and And the rubber hardness of the waterproof membrane 43 may be set. It should be noted that when the operator presses the waterproof membrane portion 43 with a finger, Xsp and the rubber hardness of the waterproof membrane portion 43 are set so that the switch 41 is properly energized.

The endoscope 2 provided with the push button device 24 configured as described above obtains the effects described below.
Even if the pressing member 42 is displaced in the direction of the switch 41 after the autoclave sterilization process and the waterproof membrane 43 is permanently deformed, the pressing member 42 does not urge the switch 41, so that the switch 41 remains in the ON state. Never become.

  Further, since the pressing member 42 does not urge the switch 41 after the autoclave sterilization process, the stem built in the switch 41 may be permanently deformed even when left for a long time after the autoclave sterilization process, resulting in poor conduction. And the operation feel is not deteriorated.

  Further, when the pressing member 42 does not urge the switch 41 even in the pressurization stroke of the autoclave sterilizer, the switch 41 is not damaged by the pressure in the pressurization stroke and the high temperature thermal load. . In addition, even when using an autoclave sterilizer having a drying process, by setting the initial reference position so that the pressing member 42 does not bias the switch 41 due to the pressure difference between the pressurizing process and the depressurizing process, The switch 41 is not damaged.

  In addition, even if the pressing member 42 energizes the switch 41 after the pressurizing process or the drying process, the pressing member 42 is within a range where the stem built in the switch 41 is not permanently deformed or damaged by the energizing. So that the switch 41 may be energized, the distance between the initial reference position before autoclave sterilization and the switch 41: Xsp and the rubber hardness of the waterproof membrane 43 may be set.

That is, even if the pressing member 42 urges the switch 41 after the pressurization process or the drying process, the stem built in the switch 41 is not permanently deformed.
Xsp <Xac <Xsp + Xsw (5)
Xsp: Distance between the initial reference position of the end of the pressing portion and the switch end Xac: Displacement amount with respect to the initial reference position of the end of the pressing portion Xsw: The configuration of the stroke of the switch.

Here, for example, a case will be described in which the stem built in the switch 41 has a structure that is not permanently deformed in a state where it is urged by the pushing amount: Scr [mm].
In a general autoclave sterilizer, the pressure applied to the waterproof membrane 43 is expressed as described in relational expressions (3) and (4) above with respect to the atmospheric pressure.

  That is, when a load of 0.29 [MPa] is applied to the waterproof membrane 43 with respect to the atmospheric pressure and the pressing member 42 is displaced, the pressing member 42 moves the switch 41 by an amount shorter than Scr [mm]. Assume that it was energized. Thus, for example, if the stem built in the switch 41 is not permanently deformed even when a load of 0.29 [MPa] is applied to the waterproof film portion 43, the pressing member after the pressurization process or the drying process is completed. 42 may energize the switch 41.

  The distance between the initial reference position before autoclave sterilization and the switch 41: Xsp and the rubber hardness of the waterproof membrane 43 are set so as to achieve such a configuration. The distance between the initial reference position before autoclave sterilization and the switch 41: Xsp and the rubber of the waterproof membrane 43 so that the switch 41 is properly energized when the operator presses the waterproof membrane 43 with a finger. Set the hardness.

Thereby, after the pressurization process and the drying process of the autoclave sterilization apparatus, a force directed from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2 is applied due to a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the endoscope, and the pressing member 42 moves toward the switch 41, The switch 41 is energized, but the energizing amount is not such an amount that the stem built in the switch 41 is permanently deformed.
As a result, when the operator presses the waterproof membrane 43 with his / her finger, it is only necessary to press the waterproof film portion 43 for a short distance, so that the operability is good.

  In this embodiment, the case where there is a pre-vacuum process and a drying process in which the inside of the autoclave sterilizer is in a negative pressure state is considered, but there is also an autoclave sterilizer of a type in which the pre-vacuum process and the drying process are omitted. When such an autoclave sterilizer is used, the external pressure does not become lower than the internal pressure of the endoscope 2, and therefore it is not always necessary to provide a pressure regulating valve in the endoscope 2. What is necessary is just to make the endoscope 2 into a watertight state, and to inject into an autoclave sterilizer.

  In addition, the inside of the autoclave sterilizer is in a pressurized state (the pressure at this time is Pac) during the sterilization process, and a pressure difference is generated between the outside (pressure is Pac) and the inside (pressure is Pa) of the endoscope 2; Force due to this pressure difference (Pac-Pa) is also applied to the waterproof membrane part 43. In this case, the distance between the initial reference position and the switch 41 before autoclave sterilization corresponding to the pressure difference: Pac-Pa: Xsp is set. Good.

That is, in the autoclave sterilizer of the type that omits the pre-vacuum process and the drying process, the pressure applied to the waterproof membrane 43 is relative to the atmospheric pressure.
During the pressurization stroke:
Pac-Pa≈ + 0.2 [MPa] (6)
At the end of the pressurization stroke:
Pa ≈ 0 [MPa] (7)
It is.

  Therefore, when using an autoclave sterilizer of the type in which the pre-vacuum process and the drying process are omitted, even when a load of 0.2 [MPa] is applied to the waterproof membrane 43 and the pressing member 42 is displaced, the pressing member The initial reference position before the autoclave sterilization and the distance between the switch 41: Xsp and the rubber hardness of the waterproof membrane 43 may be set so that 42 does not urge the switch 41. Note that the distance Xsp between the initial reference position and the switch 41 and the rubber hardness of the waterproof membrane 43 are set so that the switch 41 is properly energized when the operator presses the waterproof membrane 43 with a finger.

  If the switch 41 itself has a stroke: Xsw1 until the switch 41 is turned on, the distance Xsp between the initial reference position and the switch 41 in the atmospheric pressure state may be zero. That is, the switch 41 itself can be physically displaced by Xsw, but it is necessary to push the switch 41 by Xsw1 in order to actually turn on the switch.

In such a case, the distance: Xsp between the initial reference position and the end of the switch 41 under the atmospheric pressure environment may be set as shown in the following relational expression in consideration of Xsw1.
Xac−Xsw1 ≦ Xsp (8)
In the case where the switch 41 itself has a stroke Xsw1 until the switch 41 is turned on, the pressing member 42 may urge the switch 41 by an amount smaller than Xsw1 even in the state before the autoclave sterilization. .

  Further, according to the present invention, when the pressing member 42 does not urge the switch 41 during the autoclave sterilization process as in the above-described embodiment, or the pressing member 42 urges the switch 41 during the autoclave sterilization process. The energizing amount may be any of cases in which the switch 41 does not cause the breakage of the switch 41. In short, at the time when the entire process of the autoclave sterilization process is completed and the endoscope 2 is ready for inspection. The distance between the initial reference position before autoclave sterilization and the switch 41: Xsp and the rubber hardness of the waterproof membrane 43 may be set so that the pressing member 42 does not turn on the switch 41.

  Originally, the distance between the initial reference position before autoclave sterilization and the switch 41: Xsp and the rubber hardness of the waterproof membrane 43 are set so that the pressing member 42 does not urge the switch 41 in any stroke during the autoclave sterilization stroke. Although it is certain, it is sufficient to set an appropriate relationship within the scope of the present invention because the amount of force when the operator operates the switch 41 during the endoscopic examination becomes heavy and places a burden on the operator.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, an initial reference before autoclave sterilization is provided so that the pressing member 42 does not urge the switch 41 even when the pressure applied from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2 during the decompression stroke is 0.07 to 0.09 [MPa]. The distance between the position and the switch 41: Xsp and the rubber hardness of the waterproof film 43 may be set. With this setting, even if the pressing member 42 is displaced toward the switch 41 for a long time after completion of the autoclave sterilization process, the pressing member 42 does not bias the switch 41. It will not be broken by being forced. Further, even if the pressing member 42 is cooled in a displaced state and the pressing member 42 is deformed, the switch 41 is not pressed.

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

  By the way, the conventional endoscope incorporates an elongated resin tube used as an air supply / water supply conduit, a treatment instrument insertion conduit, or the like as a built-in object in the insertion portion 7. When such an endoscope is inserted into an autoclave sterilizer and sterilized by autoclave, the inside of the endoscope is hermetically sealed, so the resin tube expands in the outer diameter direction due to the pressure of the pressurization process, and the endoscope There was a risk of squeezing all the other built-in objects built in. When the built-in object is pressed in this way, there arises a problem that, for example, the fiber bundle for transmitting illumination light used for the light guide breaks in the middle.

  Therefore, it has been desired to provide an endoscope in which even if the resin tube expands during the autoclave sterilization process, at least after the autoclave sterilization process, the resin tube does not compress other built-in components. In addition, even if the inner diameter of the flexible tube contracts due to the pressure during the pressurizing stroke, it has been desired to provide an endoscope in which the resin tube does not press other built-in components at least after the autoclave sterilizing stroke. Furthermore, it has been desired to provide an endoscope in which the resin tube does not compress other built-in objects even at the time of the pressurization stroke.

With reference to FIG. 4, the structural example of the resin tube incorporated in such a flexible tube is demonstrated. The universal code has the same configuration. Only the configuration of the resin tube built in the flexible tube will be described below.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the flexible tube portion of the endoscope insertion portion according to the configuration example of the resin tube, and FIG. 4A shows the state before the endoscope is put into the autoclave sterilizer (initial state). 4B is a cross-sectional view of the flexible tube shown, and FIG. 4B shows the external pressure of the endoscope after the end of the sterilization process and the drying process by putting the endoscope into the autoclave sterilizer from the state of FIG. It is sectional drawing of the flexible tube part which shows the state where is relatively higher than an internal pressure. In addition, the dashed-dotted line in FIG.4 (b) has shown the resin tube 55 of the initial state. The universal cord 9 has the same configuration.

  As shown in FIG. 4 (a), the flexible tube portion 15 includes a spiral tube 51 in which a strip-shaped metal strip is spirally wound from the innermost layer, and a stainless wire rod covering the outer periphery of the spiral tube 51. It is composed of a net-like tube 52 formed by knitting in a net shape with a fine metal wire, and a resin outer sheath 53 covering the outside of the net-like tube 52. Although only one spiral tube 51 is illustrated in FIG. 4, the spiral tube 51 may be functionally configured in a double or triple manner. The outer skin 53 is formed of a resin material such as an ester thermoplastic elastomer, an amide thermoplastic elastomer, a styrene resin, a fluorine rubber, or a silicone rubber.

  Inside the flexible tube portion 15, there are provided a plurality of conduits such as an air / water supply conduit for performing air supply and water supply and a treatment instrument insertion conduit capable of performing suction. Is usually composed of a resin tube 55 formed of a resin material made of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or the like. Although four resin tubes 55 are shown in FIG. 4, the number of the resin tubes 55 is arbitrary, and may be four or less or four or more. Although not shown in FIG. 4, the illumination light is transmitted to the signal line for transmitting the signal information of the imaging device built in the distal end portion of the insertion portion 7 of the endoscope 2 and the illumination lens provided at the distal end. A fiber bundle for transmitting illumination light such as a light guide for transmission, a metal wire for transmitting a bending operation at the operation unit, and the like are incorporated in the flexible tube unit 15.

  As shown in FIG. 4A, the state inside the flexible tube portion 15 before the endoscope 2 is put into the autoclave sterilizer (initial state) is between the resin tubes 55 or between the resin tubes 55 and the spiral. A gap is formed between the inner periphery of the pipe 51.

  When the endoscope 2 is put into the autoclave sterilizer from this state and autoclave sterilization is performed, a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the endoscope occurs after the sterilization process and the drying process, and the force is directed from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2. Occurs. Accordingly, since at least one of the resin tubes 55 communicates with the external space of the endoscope 2, a force acting from the center to the outer diameter direction is applied to the resin tube 55. By this force, each resin tube 55 expands in the outer diameter direction.

  The resin tubes 55 are expanded in the outer diameter direction after the sterilization process and the drying process, but the expansion of the resin tubes 55 is caused by a pressure difference between the outside and the inside of the endoscope 2. Therefore, normally, when the endoscope 2 is taken out to the atmospheric pressure environment after the drying process is completed and the pressure regulating valve is forcibly opened, each expanded resin tube 55 returns to the original outer diameter. However, in the conventional endoscope, since each resin tube 55 is expanded while being placed in a high temperature environment in the sterilization process, the endoscope is taken out to the atmospheric pressure environment after the drying process is completed, and the pressure adjustment valve is forcibly set. Even if it is opened, the outer diameter may be slightly expanded from the original outer diameter.

  In the present embodiment, a gap is formed between the resin tubes 55 and between the resin tubes 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51 even after the sterilization process and the drying process are completed.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 4B, a gap is formed between the resin tubes 55 and between the resin tubes 55 and the inner circumference of the spiral tube 51 even after the sterilization process and the drying process are completed. A gap is set between the resin tubes 55 in the initial state, or between the resin tube 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51.

  In setting the gap amount, it is necessary to quantitatively know how much the resin tube 55 expands in the outer diameter direction after the sterilization process and the drying process are completed. It can be obtained by performing an experiment by applying the same pressure difference as after the end of the process or the drying process.

In a general autoclave sterilizer, the pressure applied from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2 is atmospheric pressure,
During the pressure stroke: +0.27 to +0.29 [MPa] (9)
At the end of the drying process: +0.07 to +0.09 [MPa] (10)
Therefore, it is only necessary to consider only the one with a larger pressure. For example, a pressure of +0.3 [MPa] from the inner diameter direction to the outer diameter direction is applied to the resin tube 55 alone, and the expansion amount at that time is measured. It ’s fine. In consideration of the expansion amount, an initial gap may be set so that a gap is formed even after the sterilization process or the drying process is completed.

Note that some autoclave sterilizers omit the pre-vacuum process and the drying process. However, in such an apparatus, the pressure applied from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2 with respect to the atmospheric pressure,
During pressure stroke: +0.2 [MPa]
At the end of the pressurization stroke: 0 [MPa]
Therefore, it is only necessary to consider only the one having a larger pressure. For example, a pressure of +0.2 [MPa] from the inner diameter direction to the outer diameter direction is applied to the resin tube 55 alone, and the amount of expansion at that time is measured, An initial gap may be set in consideration of the expansion amount.
In addition, in order to enable the endoscope 2 to be used for any autoclave sterilizer, the test is performed at a pressure of +0.3 [MPa], and an initial clearance is set in consideration of the expansion amount at that time. It is good to keep.

  Thereby, even after the sterilization process or the drying process is completed, a gap is formed between the resin tubes 55 or between the resin tube 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51. Therefore, each resin tube 55 is flexible. When the tube portion 15 is bent, it can freely move in the longitudinal direction within the flexible tube portion 15, and a load is not applied to the resin tube fixing portion at the end of the resin tube 55. In addition, the expansion of the resin tube 55 does not compress other built-in objects.

  As a result, no load is applied to the resin tube fixing portion at the end of the resin tube 55 even after the sterilization process or the drying process is completed, so that the end portion is broken and the occurrence rate of problems such as water leakage is reduced. Further, since the other built-in objects are not pressed, the other built-in objects are not damaged.

  In the above-described embodiment, the initial gap is set in consideration of the expansion amount of the resin tube 55 after the sterilization process and the drying process. Here, some of the flexible tube portions 15 contract their inner diameter after the sterilization process or the drying process. Therefore, the initial state is set in consideration of the expansion amount of the resin tube 55 after the end of the sterilization process and the drying process, as well as the amount of inner diameter contraction after the sterilization process and the drying process of the flexible tube portion 15 are completed.

  When setting the gap amount in the initial state, the expansion amount in the outer diameter direction of the resin tube 55 after completion of the sterilization process and the drying process is necessary, and at the same time, the flexible tube part after completion of the sterilization process and the drying process The amount of contraction in the inner diameter direction of 15 is also necessary. This is because the expansion amount in the outer diameter direction of the resin tube 55 after completion of the sterilization process and the drying process in the above-described embodiment is obtained in the experiment, after the sterilization process and the drying process are completed in the flexible tube unit 15 alone. The same pressure difference can be applied to conduct the experiment.

  In a general autoclave sterilizer, the pressure applied from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2 is expressed as described in relational expressions (9) and (10) with respect to the atmospheric pressure.

  For this reason, it is only necessary to consider only the one with a larger pressure. For example, a pressure of +0.3 [MPa] from the outer diameter direction to the inner diameter direction is applied to the flexible tube portion 15 alone, and the amount of contraction at that time is measured. You should do it. In consideration of the amount of shrinkage, the initial gap may be set so that a gap is formed between the built-in objects even after the sterilization process or the drying process. There is a type in which the pre-vacuum process and the drying process are omitted, but this case is the same as the case of the resin tube 55 alone.

  In the above-described embodiment, the initial state is such that a gap is formed between the resin tubes 55 and between the resin tubes 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51 even after the sterilization process and the drying process are completed. A gap is set between the resin tubes 55 and between the resin tube 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51.

  However, after the drying process, a gap needs to be formed between the resin tubes 55 or between the resin tube 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51. In the sterilization process, other built-in items may be damaged. The gap does not necessarily have to be formed as long as it is in a range that does not frustrate. Therefore, in the sterilization process, for example, the resin tube 55 and other built-in objects themselves may be slightly deformed as long as they are not damaged by the compression. A gap is set between the resin tubes 55 in the initial state or between the resin tube 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51 so that a gap is formed between the tube 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51. May be.

In a general autoclave sterilizer, the pressure applied from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2 is expressed as described in relational expressions (9) and (10) with respect to the atmospheric pressure.
For this reason, it is only necessary to consider only the one with a larger pressure. For example, the expansion of the resin tube 55 when a pressure of +0.3 [MPa] from the outer diameter direction to the inner diameter direction is applied to the flexible tube portion 15 alone. The amount of deformation and the amount of contraction of the flexible tube 15 are known in advance, and at the same time, the degree of deformation of the resin tube 55 and other built-in items is confirmed in advance by experiments. The initial gap may be set in consideration.

  This is because the endoscope 2 is transported after completion of the drying process, and therefore, if there is no gap between the resin tubes 55 or between the resin tubes 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51, the insertion portion 7 is transported. When bent inside, each built-in object cannot be moved relatively and may be damaged, but the endoscope 2 is not moved during the sterilization process. If the object is not pressed, it may be deformed somewhat and there is no gap.

  As a result, the resin tubes 55 expand during the sterilization process of the autoclave sterilization apparatus, and there is no gap between the resin tubes 55 or between the resin tubes 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51. There are gaps between the resin tubes 55 and between the resin tubes 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51.

  As a result, no gap is formed during the sterilization process, but the inside of the endoscope is maintained at a negative pressure state of −0.09 [MPa] at the maximum by the action of the pressure adjusting valve after the drying process is completed, and the resin tube 55 expands. Even when the flexible tube portion 15 is contracted, gaps are formed between the resin tubes 55 and between the resin tubes 55 and the inner periphery of the spiral tube 51. When the mirror 2 is handled, the endoscope 2 is not damaged.

  By the way, in the conventional endoscope, for example, the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 that is a soft folding member is liquid-tightly fitted on the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15 that is the outer surface of the endoscope. In the environment, the liquid does not enter the endoscope from the fitting portion between the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 and the flexible tube portion 15. When such an endoscope is put into an autoclave sterilization apparatus and autoclave sterilization is performed, the fitting portion between the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 and the flexible tube portion 15 and further the endoscope are applied by the pressure of the pressurization process. Water vapor will penetrate into the interior.

  On the other hand, in the drying process, the inside of the autoclave sterilizer is in a negative pressure state due to the decompression process. However, if the fitting part between the insertion-part-side folding preventing member 12 and the flexible tube part 15 remains liquid-tight, Water vapor that has entered the fitting portion of the flexible tube portion 15 and the endoscope during the pressure stroke may stagnate inside the fitting portion of the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 and the inside of the endoscope. In particular, when water vapor stagnates in the fitting portion of the insertion portion side folding stop member 12, the metal parts used in the fitting portion of the insertion portion side folding prevention member 12 may be rusted.

  Therefore, during the drying process of the autoclave sterilizer, the liquid-tight state between the elastic member such as the anti-bending member and the outer surface of the endoscope is released, and the rust of the fitting portion between the elastic member and the outer surface of the endoscope is released. It has been desired to provide an endoscope that prevents the occurrence.

With reference to FIG. 5, the example of a structure of such an insertion part side folding stop member is demonstrated. Note that the operation unit folding preventing member 13 and the connector side folding preventing member 14 have the same configuration. Hereinafter, only the configuration of the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 will be described.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an endoscope operation unit according to a configuration example of the insertion-part-side folding preventing member, and FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state of the endoscope operation unit in an atmospheric pressure environment. (B) shows the state of the endoscope operation section in a process in which the endoscope is put into the autoclave sterilizer from the state of FIG. (A) and the external pressure of the endoscope is lower than the internal pressure. It is sectional drawing. Note that the operation unit folding preventing member 13 and the connector side folding preventing member 14 have the same configuration. Hereinafter, only the configuration of the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, at least in the atmospheric pressure environment, the seal portion 60 of the endoscope 2 is liquid-tightly fitted on the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15. A space 61 is formed between the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 on the side and the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15. Since the seal portion 60 is liquid-tightly fitted on the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15, at least in an atmospheric pressure environment, liquid does not enter from the outside to the inside of the endoscope 2.

  The connection tube 62 and the insert member 63 are for mechanically fixing the flexible tube portion 15 and the insertion portion side folding member 12, and the connection tube 62 is attached to the outer skin 53 of the flexible tube portion 15. The insert member 63 is fixed to the insertion portion side folding stop member 12 with an adhesive or the like, or insert molded when the insertion portion side folding stop member 12 is molded. It is.

  Since the connecting pipe 62 and the insert member 63 are provided with a threaded portion to fix each other, the connecting pipe 62 and the insert member 63 are generally made of a metal material. In general, the insert member 63 is combined with the operation portion 8, and a seal member such as an O-ring 64 is provided between the insert member 63 and the operation portion 8.

  In the process of cleaning the endoscope 2, when the endoscope 2 is immersed in a cleaning liquid or water filled in a cleaning basket (not shown), the pressure of the cleaning liquid or water is applied to the endoscope 2. The pressure works from the outside to the inside, but this pressure is very small and may be considered to be almost equal to FIG.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 5B, in a state where the external pressure of the endoscope 2 is lower than the internal pressure, the seal portion 60 provided on the insertion portion side anti-folding member 12 includes the flexible tube portion 15. In an environment separated from the outer periphery and the external pressure of the endoscope 2 is lower than the internal pressure, a force directed from the inside of the endoscope 2 to the outside acts. The force directed from the inside of the endoscope 2 to the outside is a pressure in the drying process of the autoclave sterilization process, and a pressure of +0.07 to ± 0.09 [MPa] acts from the inside of the endoscope 2 to the outside. . As described with reference to FIG. 4, when a force smaller than the force from the inside of the endoscope 2 to the outside, for example, a pressure of +0.05 [MPa] from the inside of the endoscope 2 to the outside, is applied. The inner diameter, wall thickness, and material of the seal portion 60 of the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 are set so that 60 is separated from the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15. As a material of the seal portion 60, a resin material such as silicon rubber is widely used.

  When the endoscope 2 configured as described above is put into an autoclave sterilization apparatus and autoclaved, the endoscope 2 is placed in a high-temperature and high-pressure steam environment during the sterilization process. The vapor may penetrate into the space 61 through the member 12 itself. However, when the inside of the autoclave sterilizer is in a negative pressure state during the drying process, the seal portion 60 of the insertion portion side anti-folding member 12 is separated from the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15. It is effectively discharged outside the endoscope 2.

  As a result, in the drying process during the autoclave sterilization process, the steam that has entered the space 61 is effectively discharged to the outside, and thus the rusting of the connection pipe 62 and the insert member 63 made of a metal material can be prevented. Can do.

  In the above-described embodiment, the insertion portion side anti-folding member 12 is arranged so that the seal portion 60 of the insertion portion side anti-folding member 12 is separated from the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15 due to the negative pressure in the drying process during the autoclave sterilization process. The inner diameter and thickness material of the seal portion 60 were set.

  However, among the autoclave sterilizers, there is also a type of apparatus that omits a process of negative pressure inside the autoclave sterilizer, such as a pre-vacuum process and a drying process. When the endoscope 2 is inserted into such an apparatus and autoclave sterilization is performed, the vapor that has entered the space 61 during the sterilization process is not discharged, and the connecting pipe 62 made of a metal material or Rust is generated in the insert member 63.

  In view of this, it is configured so that the vapor that has entered the space 61 can be discharged even when the endoscope 2 is sterilized by an autoclave sterilizer of a type that does not have a drying process.

  For example, when a pressure of +0.05 [MPa] is applied from the inside of the endoscope 2 to the outside, the seal portion 60 of the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 is inserted so as to be separated from the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15. The inner diameter, thickness, and material of the seal portion 60 of the part-side folding preventing member 12 are set.

  Since an autoclave sterilizer of a type without a drying process is used, when the autoclave sterilization process is completed, the steam 61 remains in the space 61. Such an endoscope 2 is disposed in a pressure vessel connected to an aspirator capable of suctioning, for example, 0.1 [MPa] or more, and the inside of the pressure vessel is −0.1 [MPa with respect to atmospheric pressure. ] Under negative pressure.

  The seal portion 60 is set so as to be separated from the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15 when a pressure of +0.05 [MPa] from the inside of the endoscope 2 to the outside acts, for example. If the pressure is in a negative pressure state, the seal portion 60 is separated from the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15.

  When the endoscope 2 configured as described above is put into an autoclave sterilization apparatus and autoclaved, the endoscope 2 is placed in a high-temperature and high-pressure steam environment during the sterilization process. The vapor may penetrate into the space 61 through the member 12 itself. In an autoclave sterilizer of the type that omits the drying process, steam remains in the space 61 when the autoclave sterilization process is completed. However, after that, by installing the endoscope 2 in a pressure vessel set to a predetermined negative pressure state, the seal portion 60 is separated from the outer periphery of the flexible tube portion 15, and the vapor that has entered the space 61 during the sterilization process Can be discharged to the outside of the endoscope 2.

  In addition, although the case where the insertion part side bending prevention member 12 was liquid-tightly fitted to the outer periphery of the flexible tube part 15 was shown, this invention does not necessarily require the outer periphery of the insertion part side bending prevention member 12 and the flexible tube part 15. The combination of the elastic member having the seal portion and the outer surface of the endoscope is not a combination, and the combination of the outer periphery of the insertion portion side folding preventing member 12 and the flexible tube portion 15 is not necessary. It is not necessary.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the elastic member is liquid-tightly fitted to the outer surface of the endoscope at least at atmospheric pressure is shown, but it is not liquid-tight and the elastic member is simply fitted to the outer surface of the endoscope. Even in such a region, an elastic member having a seal portion that is partially liquid-tight may be used depending on the degree of contact. In short, when the endoscope 2 is placed under a predetermined pressure from the inner surface side of the endoscope 2 to the outer surface side, the vapor that has entered the gap between the elastic member and the endoscope outer surface during the sterilization process of the autoclave sterilizer The elastic member may be separated from the outer surface. That is, the seal portion 60 may be configured to be separated from the outer surface of the endoscope 2.

  By the way, the light guide and the illumination lens system, which are illumination light transmission fiber bundles, generate heat and deteriorate due to illumination light. As the deterioration of the light guide and the illumination lens system progresses, there is a risk that the transmission efficiency of the illumination light is lowered. Therefore, it has been desired to provide an endoscope apparatus capable of preventing the light guide and the illumination lens system from being deteriorated due to heat generated by the illumination light.

A configuration example of such an endoscope apparatus will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 6 is an overall configuration diagram according to a configuration example of an endoscope apparatus capable of preventing deterioration of the light guide and the illumination lens system.

As shown in FIG. 6, an endoscope apparatus 100 includes an endoscope 101 having an imaging unit (not shown) and a light guide 102 that is detachably connected to the endoscope 101 and provided in the endoscope 101. A light source device 103 for supplying illumination light to the endoscope 101 and connected to the endoscope 101 via a signal cable 104 to control the imaging means of the endoscope 101 and process signals obtained from the imaging means The video processor 105 outputs a standard video signal, and the monitor 106 receives the video signal from the video processor 105 and displays an endoscopic image. ◎
The distal end portion 107 a of the insertion portion 107 has the light guide 102 and an illumination lens system 108 that illuminates a subject with illumination light from the light guide 102.

  In this embodiment, a temperature sensor 110 such as a thermocouple is provided at the distal end portion 107 of the insertion portion, temperature information detected by the temperature sensor 110 is detected by the video processor 105, and the detected temperature is likely to exceed a predetermined allowable range. In this case, a warning display is automatically displayed on the monitor 106 from the video processor 105, and the light amount is automatically reduced from the video processor 105 to the light source device 103.

  The warning displayed on the monitor 106 is “CAUTION! When the temperature exceeds 30 ° C., for example. “If the temperature exceeds 35 ℃,“ Warning! "If the temperature exceeds 40 ° C, the light intensity is automatically reduced. ] Etc.

  In FIG. 6, the detected temperature is displayed as 40 ° C., but this need not always be displayed. Further, this temperature display may be represented by a display color such as blue at ˜30 ° C., green at 30 ° C. to 35 ° C., and red at 35 ° C.˜.

An endoscopic examination is performed using the endoscope apparatus 100 configured as described above. When the temperature is likely to exceed the allowable range, a signal for automatically reducing the light amount is transmitted from the video processor 105 to the light source device 103, and the light amount automatically decreases. And on the monitor, “The light intensity is automatically reduced. Is displayed.
Thereby, it is possible to prevent the light guide 102 and the illumination lens system 108 from being deteriorated.

[Appendix]
(Additional Item 1) A push button comprising a switch capable of high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization, and a pressing member that covers the switch in a water-tight manner and has a pressing portion that is elastically deformable and can be displaced in the pushing direction of the switch. Have the equipment,
The initial reference position with respect to the switch at the end of the pressing portion provided in the pressing member in the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization is based on the deformation of the pressing member due to the pressure and thermal load in the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization step after the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization step. An endoscope, wherein an amount of displacement of the end of the pressing portion with respect to an initial reference position is set to be equal to or less than a distance between the end of the pressing portion and the initial reference position at which the switch can be turned on.

  (Additional Item 2) Prior to the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization so that the pressing portion provided on the pressing member does not press the switch at least in the pressure of the pressurizing process in which the inside of the sterilizer is pressurized in the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization process. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein a distance between the end of the pressing portion and the switch is set.

  (Additional Item 3) In the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization process, at least in the pressure of the depressurization process in which the inside of the sterilization apparatus is depressurized, the press part provided on the pressing member does not press the switch, The endoscope according to appendix 1, wherein a distance between the end of the pressing portion and the switch is set.

  (Additional Item 4) The pressing portion before the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization so that the pressing portion provided on the pressing member does not press the switch due to a pressure difference between the decompression process and the pressurization process of the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization. The endoscope according to appendix 1, wherein a distance between an end portion and the switch is set.

  (Additional Item 5) When the pressure outside the endoscope is lower than the inside, the inside of the endoscope is communicated with the outside. When the pressure outside the endoscope is higher than the inside, the inside of the endoscope is sealed. The endoscope according to appendix 1, wherein communication means is provided.

(Additional Item 6) High-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization that incorporates at least one elongated resin tube having an outer diameter dimension that expands in the outer diameter direction under the pressure or heat load during the high-pressure and high-pressure steam sterilization is possible In an endoscope,
An endoscope, wherein the resin tube is arranged in the flexible tube so that a gap is formed with all other built-in objects after receiving a load of at least high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization.

(Additional Item 7) A flexible tube having an inner diameter that contracts in the inner diameter direction under a pressure or heat load during the high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization process is subjected to a load during the high-pressure and high-pressure steam sterilization pressure process. In an endoscope capable of high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization incorporating at least one elongated resin tube having an outer diameter dimension that expands in the outer diameter direction,
An endoscope, wherein the resin tube is arranged in the flexible tube so that a gap is formed with all other built-in objects after receiving a load of at least high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization.

  (Additional Item 8) The additional note, wherein the resin tube is disposed in the flexible tube so that a gap is formed with all other built-in components at least during the pressurization process of high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization. Item 6. The endoscope according to Item 6 or 7.

(Additional Item 9) In an endoscope capable of high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization having an elastic member in which at least one part is liquid-tightly fitted to the outer surface of the endoscope at atmospheric pressure,
An endoscope characterized in that at least a part of the elastic member is provided with a seal portion that is separated from the outer surface of the endoscope by a predetermined pressure or more from the inner surface side to the outer surface side of the elastic member.

  (Additional Item 10) The internal view according to Additional Item 9, wherein the predetermined pressure is a pressure smaller than a pressure from the inner surface side to the outer surface side of the elastic member during a decompression process of high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization. mirror.

[Purpose of supplementary notes]
(Appendix 1 to Appendix 5)
The purpose of Additional Item 1 to Additional Item 5 is to provide an endoscope that can prevent the switch from being deformed without pressing the switch even if the pressing member is deformed by autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization). is there.

(Appendix 6 to Appendix 8)
The purpose of Supplementary Item 6 is to provide at least a high-temperature high-pressure steam even if a resin tube having an outer diameter that expands in the outer diameter direction under a load during autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) is incorporated in the insertion portion. It is to provide an endoscope in which the resin tube does not press on all other built-in objects after the sterilization process.
The purpose of Supplementary Item 7 is to apply a load when autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) is applied to an insertion part having an inner diameter that expands in the inner diameter direction under load when autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) is applied. Provided is an endoscope in which even if a resin tube having an outer diameter dimension that expands in the outer diameter direction is received, at least after the high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization process, the resin tube does not compress all other built-in items. That is.
The purpose of the supplementary item 8 is to provide an endoscope in which the resin tube does not compress other built-in objects during the pressurization stroke in addition to the purpose of the supplementary item 6 or the supplementary item 7.

(Appendix 9 to Appendix 10)
The purpose of the supplementary items 9 and 10 is to release the liquid-tight state between the elastic member such as the anti-bending member and the outer surface of the endoscope during the drying process of autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization), It is an object of the present invention to provide an endoscope that prevents the occurrence of rust at the fitting portion with the outer surface of the endoscope.

[Action of notes]
(Appendix 1 to Appendix 5)
The actions related to Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 5 are described below.
Among the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization) processes, the autoclave sterilizer (high-temperature and high-pressure steam sterilization apparatus) is in a pressurized state, and when left after the drying process, However, the pressure outside the endoscope is relatively high. Due to this pressure difference, the soft pressing member is deformed in the direction of pushing the switch.

In the supplementary item 1, since the initial reference position is set, the position of the end of the pressing portion after the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) process is not displaced to a position where the switch is turned on.
In Additional Item 2, even after the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) process, even if the inside of the endoscope is in a depressurized state for a long time, the pressing member does not press the switch. Absent. Further, the switch is not pressed even if the pressing member remains deformed by being cooled in a state where the pressing member is deformed.
In Additional Item 3, the switch is not pressed even if the pressing member is deformed due to the high temperature and high pressure in the pressurization process of autoclave sterilization (high temperature and high pressure steam sterilization).
In Additional Item 4, even if the pressing member is deformed due to a pressure difference between the pressurizing process and the depressurizing process of autoclave sterilization (high temperature and high pressure steam sterilization), the pressing member does not press the switch.
In Additional Item 5, even in an autoclave sterilization apparatus (high temperature high pressure steam sterilization apparatus) having a pre-vacuum process of autoclave sterilization (high temperature high pressure steam sterilization), the inside of the endoscope is opened when the inside of the autoclave sterilization apparatus is in a reduced pressure state. When the inside of the autoclave sterilizer is in a pressurized state, the inside of the endoscope is sealed.

(Appendix 6 to Appendix 8)
The actions related to Supplementary Notes 6 to 8 are described below.
During the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) pressurization process, the flexible tube of the insertion portion or the resin tube built in the bending portion may expand in the outer diameter direction.

Additional Item 6 allows the initial (before autoclave sterilization) so that a gap is formed at least after the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) process in consideration of the expansion amount in the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) pressure process. Since the resin tube is disposed in the flexible tube or the curved portion, even if the resin tube expands during the autoclave sterilization process, a gap is formed between the built-in components at least after the autoclave sterilization process.
The additional item 7 also considers the shrinkage of the inner diameter of the flexible tube during the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) before the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization). Even if the resin tube expands and the inner diameter of the flexible tube contracts during the pressurization process (sterilization), a gap is formed between the built-in components at least after the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) process.
In Additional Item 8, a gap is formed between the built-in objects even during the pressurization process of autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization).

(Appendix 9 to Appendix 10)
The actions related to Supplementary Notes 9 and 10 are described below.
At atmospheric pressure, the seal portion of the elastic member is liquid-tightly fitted on the outer surface of the endoscope. When an endoscope equipped with such an elastic member is autoclaved (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization), the autoclave sterilization (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) is applied to the sealing part of the elastic member and the fitting part of the outer surface of the endoscope. Water vapor may enter. However, since the inside of the autoclave sterilizer (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer) is forcibly placed in a negative pressure during the drying process, the seal portion of the elastic member is separated from the outer surface of the endoscope and is not liquid-tight. For this reason, the water vapor | steam which penetrate | invaded into the fitting part by the pressurization process pressure is discharged | emitted in a drying process.
When using an autoclave sterilizer that does not have a drying process (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizer), water vapor is discharged from the endoscope in the same manner as described above by placing the endoscope in a negative pressure vessel. .

1 is an overall configuration diagram showing an endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the pushbutton apparatus provided in the endoscope of FIG. 1, FIG. 2 (a) is a cross-sectional block diagram of a pushbutton apparatus under atmospheric pressure, FIG.2 (b) is an autoclave sterilization from the figure (a) state. Cross-sectional configuration diagram of pushbutton device after completion of pressurization process and drying process of (high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilization) FIG. 3 is an explanatory view showing a modified example of the push button device of FIG. 2, and FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional configuration diagram of the push button device in which the waterproof film portion has a function of a press portion and integrally constitutes a press member; (B) is a cross-sectional block diagram of a push button device in which an elastic member is disposed inside the waterproof membrane portion. It is explanatory drawing of the flexible tube part of the endoscope insertion part concerning the structural example of a resin tube, Fig.4 (a) is a flexibility which shows the state before throwing an endoscope into an autoclave sterilizer (initial state). 4B is a cross-sectional view of the tube, and FIG. 4B shows that the external pressure of the endoscope after the end of the sterilization process and the drying process is greater when the endoscope is put into the autoclave sterilizer from the state of FIG. Sectional view of the flexible tube showing a relatively higher state than the internal pressure It is explanatory drawing of the endoscope operation part concerning the structural example of an insertion part side bending prevention member, Fig.5 (a) is sectional drawing which shows the state of the endoscope operation part in atmospheric pressure environment, FIG.5 (b) Sectional drawing which shows the state of the endoscope operation part in the process which throws an endoscope into an autoclave sterilizer from the state of the figure (a), and the external pressure of an endoscope becomes lower than an internal pressure. Overall configuration diagram according to a configuration example of an endoscope apparatus capable of preventing deterioration of a light guide and an illumination lens system

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Endoscope apparatus 2 ... Endoscope 7 ... Insertion part 8 ... Operation part 8a ... Operation part exterior body 15 ... Flexible pipe part 24 ... Pushbutton apparatus 41 ... Switch 42 ... Press member 43 ... Waterproofing film part 44 ... Press Part 51 ... Spiral tube 52 ... Reticulated tube 53 ... Outer skin 55 ... Resin tube

Claims (2)

In high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizable endoscope incorporating a single elongated resin tube in the flexible tube even without low,
Considering the expansion amount of the resin tube when the pressure inside the resin tube is higher by 0.3 MPa than the pressure outside the resin tube, even if the resin tube is expanded by the expansion amount An endoscope characterized in that the resin tube is arranged in the flexible tube so that a gap is formed between all other built-in objects. The variable Shiwakan, in endoscopic high-temperature high-pressure steam sterilizable incorporating a single elongated resin tube even without low,
When the atmospheric pressure outside the flexible tube is higher by 0.3 MPa than the atmospheric pressure inside the flexible tube, the contraction amount of the flexible tube and the atmospheric pressure inside the resin tube are 0 than the atmospheric pressure outside the resin tube. Considering the expansion amount of the resin tube when it becomes higher by 3 MPa, the flexible tube is contracted by the contraction amount and the resin tube is expanded by the expansion amount . An endoscope characterized in that the resin tube is disposed in the flexible tube so that a gap is formed between all the built-in objects.

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