WO2014156149A1 - Endoscope and endoscope system - Google Patents

Endoscope and endoscope system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014156149A1
WO2014156149A1 PCT/JP2014/001750 JP2014001750W WO2014156149A1 WO 2014156149 A1 WO2014156149 A1 WO 2014156149A1 JP 2014001750 W JP2014001750 W JP 2014001750W WO 2014156149 A1 WO2014156149 A1 WO 2014156149A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
imaging unit
endoscope
adhesive
adhesive portion
distal end
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/JP2014/001750
Other languages
French (fr)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
直人 松尾
雅昭 有田
Original Assignee
パナソニック株式会社
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by パナソニック株式会社 filed Critical パナソニック株式会社
Publication of WO2014156149A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014156149A1/en

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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B23/00—Telescopes, e.g. binoculars; Periscopes; Instruments for viewing the inside of hollow bodies; Viewfinders; Optical aiming or sighting devices
    • G02B23/24—Instruments or systems for viewing the inside of hollow bodies, e.g. fibrescopes
    • G02B23/2476—Non-optical details, e.g. housings, mountings, supports
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/00064—Constructional details of the endoscope body
    • A61B1/00071—Insertion part of the endoscope body
    • A61B1/0008—Insertion part of the endoscope body characterised by distal tip features
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/00064—Constructional details of the endoscope body
    • A61B1/00071—Insertion part of the endoscope body
    • A61B1/0008—Insertion part of the endoscope body characterised by distal tip features
    • A61B1/00096—Optical elements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/00112—Connection or coupling means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/04—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor combined with photographic or television appliances
    • A61B1/05—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor combined with photographic or television appliances characterised by the image sensor, e.g. camera, being in the distal end portion

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an endoscope and an endoscope system for imaging the inside of an observation target that cannot be directly observed from the outside.
  • the insertion section of the flexible mirror is housed in an easily bendable cable section that forms a transmission path for various signals and illumination light, and an imaging unit that is provided at the tip of the cable section and includes an objective lens system, an image sensor, and the like. And a leading end portion.
  • the tip is covered with a relatively rigid outer cylinder to protect the imaging unit, and the connection part between the tip and the cable is from the viewpoint of physical protection of the imaging unit and ensuring water resistance. Sufficient sealing performance is required.
  • an endoscope in which a metal cap-like cover is welded and joined to the tip of a hollow metal shaft (flexible shaft) that houses an imaging unit or the like in order to hermetically seal the insertion portion.
  • a metal cap-like cover is welded and joined to the tip of a hollow metal shaft (flexible shaft) that houses an imaging unit or the like in order to hermetically seal the insertion portion.
  • Patent Document 1 a mixture of a conductive filler and an adhesive resin is used as the conductive resin for sealing the insertion portion, but after the adhesive resin is cured, In addition, there is a problem that the interface between the adhesive resin and the filler serves as an entrance path for gas and moisture, and the sealing performance of the insertion portion is significantly lowered.
  • Patent Document 2 the conventional technique described in Patent Document 2 is effective when the insertion portion is configured only by a metal member.
  • the insertion portion is configured by a metal member and a resin member. In some cases, it is not applicable.
  • a metal shaft is used in the flexible mirror, there is a problem that it is difficult to ensure good flexibility in the insertion portion.
  • the present invention has been devised in view of such problems of the prior art, and can accurately fix the imaging unit disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion without impairing the flexibility of the insertion portion.
  • the main purpose is to provide an endoscope and an endoscope system that can maintain the sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion.
  • An endoscope system is an endoscope including a flexible insertion portion, an imaging unit disposed on a distal end side of the insertion portion, an imaging unit holder that holds the imaging unit, A flexible cable connected to the rear part of the imaging unit exposed from the rear side of the imaging unit holder; a first adhesive part that adheres to the imaging unit holder and covers the rear part of the imaging unit; And a second adhesive part that covers the distal end side of the cable part, and the second adhesive part has a hardness lower than that of the first adhesive part.
  • the present invention it is possible to maintain the sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion without impairing the flexibility of the insertion portion while accurately fixing the imaging unit arranged on the distal end side of the insertion portion. Excellent effect.
  • FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an endoscope system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Enlarged view of the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body Disassembled perspective view of the distal end of the insertion portion in the endoscope body Sectional view of the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body Perspective view of the rear side of the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body
  • Explanatory drawing of bending operation at the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body Sectional drawing which shows the modification of a structure of the adhesion part in the insertion part front-end
  • the exploded perspective view which shows the modification which introduced the holder member which hold
  • a first invention made to solve the above-described problem is an endoscope including a flexible insertion portion, the imaging unit disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion, and the imaging unit.
  • a first adhesive part and a second adhesive part that adheres to the first adhesive part and covers the distal end side of the cable part are provided, and the second adhesive part has a hardness lower than that of the first adhesive part. It is characterized by that.
  • the rear part of the imaging unit exposed from the rear side of the imaging unit holder is covered with the first adhesive part, and the flexible cable is connected to the rear part of the imaging unit. Since the distal end side of the portion is covered with the second adhesive portion having a lower hardness than the first adhesive portion, the imaging unit disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion is accurately fixed and the flexibility of the insertion portion is impaired. Therefore, the sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion can be maintained.
  • the second invention is characterized in that, in the first invention, the first adhesive portion is adhered to a rear surface of the imaging unit holder.
  • the outer diameter of the first adhesive portion is substantially the same as or less than the outer diameter of the imaging unit holder. As a result, it is possible to avoid an increase in the outer diameter of the insertion portion when the rear portion of the imaging unit is fixed by the first adhesive portion.
  • the third invention is characterized in that, in the first or second invention, the second adhesive part is provided so as to cover the periphery of the first adhesive part.
  • the second adhesive portion having a relatively low hardness covers the periphery of the first adhesive portion, it is possible to mitigate external impacts and the like.
  • the first adhesive portion is made of an ultraviolet curable resin.
  • the first adhesive portion can be cured in a short time by the ultraviolet curable resin, and the imaging unit is prevented from being displaced after alignment, thereby fixing the imaging unit. Can be increased.
  • a fifth invention is an endoscope system including the endoscope according to any one of the first to fourth inventions and an image processing device that processes an image from the endoscope.
  • FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a distal end of an insertion portion in an endoscope main body.
  • an endoscope system 1 is obtained by photographing an endoscope main body (endoscope) 2 that is a medical flexible endoscope and an inside of an observation target (here, a human body). It is mainly composed of a video processor (image processing apparatus) 3 that performs known image processing and the like for still images and moving images.
  • the endoscope body 2 includes an insertion portion 5 that is inserted into the observation target and a plug portion 6 to which the rear portion of the insertion portion 5 is connected.
  • the video processor 3 has a socket portion 7 that opens to the front wall 3a.
  • the plug portion 6 of the endoscope main body 2 is inserted into the socket portion 7, whereby the endoscope main body 2 receives power and various signals (video signal, control signal, etc.) with the video processor 3. Sending and receiving is possible.
  • the insertion portion 5 has a flexible cable portion 11 having a rear end connected to the plug portion 6 and a front end portion 12 connected to the front end of the cable portion 11.
  • the cable portion 11 has a well-known configuration in which a plurality of electric wires made of a conductor covered with an insulator and a protective coating are bundled together with a substantially circular cross section, and various signals with the front end portion 12.
  • the transmission path is formed.
  • the front end portion 12 includes an imaging unit 21 for imaging an observation target, an imaging unit holder 22 that holds the imaging unit 21, a rear portion of the imaging unit holder 22, and a distal end of the cable portion 11. And an adhesive portion 23 that covers the space.
  • the imaging unit 21 includes a lens unit 31 forming an objective optical system, an image sensor 32 (here, a CMOS sensor) on which light from the lens unit 31 is imaged on a light receiving surface, and this image. And a flat flexible cable 33 connected in a folded state on the rear surface side of the sensor 32.
  • a plurality of (four in this case) optical lenses L1 to L4 having the same diameter made of a glass material or a resin material are axially connected to a metal cylindrical lens frame 35.
  • the lens frame 35 is fixed to the lens mounting hole 22a of the imaging unit holder 22 having a substantially cylindrical shape.
  • a cover glass 36 is provided in front of the lens frame 35. The cover glass 36 is fitted into an imaging window 39 that opens on the front surface of the enlarged diameter portion 38 formed at the front end of the imaging unit holder 22.
  • the imaging unit holder 22 is formed with a plurality of adjustment holes 41 penetrating in the radial direction.
  • the operator can move the lens unit 31 in the front-rear direction through the adjustment hole 41 using a predetermined jig in order to adjust the fixing position of the lens unit 31.
  • the imaging unit holder 22 has an instrument insertion hole 45 opened below the imaging window 39 on the front surface of the enlarged diameter portion 38 and a pair of openings opened to the left and right of the instrument insertion hole 45.
  • Illumination holes 46 and 46 are formed.
  • the imaging unit holder 22 In the outer peripheral portion of the main body portion (reduced diameter portion) 37 of the imaging unit holder 22, grooves 47 and 48 provided so as to extend in the axial direction of the imaging unit holder 22 are an instrument insertion hole 45 and illumination holes 46 and 46, respectively. Part of Forceps or the like (not shown) can be inserted into the instrument insertion hole 45, and an optical fiber or the like (not shown) can be inserted into the illumination holes 46 and 46.
  • the imaging unit holder 22 is formed of a highly rigid material (metal, hard resin, etc.) so as to protect the imaging unit 21.
  • At least the front part of the image sensor 32 is fixed to a sensor fixing hole 22b (see FIG. 4) communicating with the lens mounting hole 22a of the imaging unit holder 22.
  • the flexible cable 33 on the rear side of the image sensor 32 (that is, the rear portion of the imaging unit 21) is exposed from the imaging unit holder 22.
  • the imaging unit 21 and the plug portion 6 are electrically connected to each other by connecting the distal end portion 11a of the cable portion 11 extending in the front-rear direction to the rear end of the flexible cable 33.
  • the bonding portion 23 is composed of a plurality of materials having different hardnesses, and as shown in FIG. 4, a hard bonding portion (first bonding portion) 51 covering the rear portion of the imaging unit 21 and at least the rear side of the hard bonding portion 51. And a soft adhesive part (second adhesive part) 52 that covers the distal end side of the cable part 11.
  • the hard adhesive portion 51 adheres to the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22, and extends rearward from the rear surface 22c to cover the imaging unit 21.
  • the front part 51 a of the hard adhesive part 51 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and the outer diameter thereof is set smaller than the outer diameter of the rear part (main body part 37) of the imaging unit holder 22.
  • the rear portion 51b of the hard adhesive portion 51 is connected to the rear side of the front portion 51a and has a substantially paraboloidal outer shape so as to gradually taper toward the rear.
  • the hard adhesive part 51 is formed from a relatively hard adhesive, and particularly, an ultraviolet curable resin is preferably used. More specifically, examples of the material forming the hard adhesive portion 51 include an epoxy adhesive and a modified acrylate adhesive (polyester-modified acrylate, epoxy-modified acrylate, urethane-modified acrylate resin, and the like).
  • the rigid adhesive portion 51 needs to have rigidity capable of maintaining the fixing position of the imaging unit 21 with respect to the imaging unit holder 22 even when the cable portion 11 is bent as described later.
  • the formation of the hard adhesive portion 51 is performed in a state where the imaging unit 21 is aligned with the imaging unit holder 22.
  • an ultraviolet curable resin is used for the hard adhesive portion 51, it can be cured in a shorter time than the case of heat curing or room temperature curing, and dripping of the applied hard adhesive portion 51 can be prevented.
  • the positional accuracy of the imaging unit can be prevented and the fixing accuracy of the imaging unit can be increased.
  • the hard adhesive portion 51 covers the entire rear portion of the imaging unit 21 protruding rearward from the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22.
  • the present invention is not limited to this, and at least the imaging unit holder 22 and the imaging unit 21 are covered.
  • the imaging unit 21 can be fixed by adhering to each other, a configuration in which the hard adhesive portion 51 covers a part of the rear portion of the imaging unit 21 is also possible.
  • the shape of the hard-bonding part 51 not only what was shown here but a various change is possible.
  • the terms “adhesion” and “adhesive” used in relation to two objects are not the strict meaning of bonding their surfaces and the substance used for the two objects, It is used in a broad sense as a substance to be used.
  • the soft adhesive portion 52 adheres to the outer peripheral surface so as to cover the entire hard adhesive portion 51 (excluding the adhesive surface with the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22), and extends backward as shown in FIG. And covers the tip portion 11 a of the cable portion 11.
  • the front part 52a of the soft adhesive part 52 adheres to the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22 (around the hard adhesive part 51).
  • the front portion 52a of the soft adhesive portion 52 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and the outer diameter thereof is set to be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the rear portion (main body portion 37) of the imaging unit holder 22 or less than the outer shape of the rear portion. .
  • the rear part 52b of the soft adhesive part 52 is connected to the rear side of the front part 52a and has a substantially paraboloidal outer shape so as to gradually taper toward the rear.
  • the bonding portion 23 (here, the hard bonding portion 51 and the soft bonding portion 52) is bonded to the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22, and the outer diameter of the bonding portion 23 (here, the soft bonding portion 52) is larger. Since the outer diameter of the imaging unit holder 22 (here, the main body portion 37) is set to be substantially the same as or smaller than that, the enlargement of the outer diameter of the insertion portion 5 can be avoided even when the bonding portion 23 is provided.
  • the soft adhesive portion 52 is formed from a relatively soft adhesive having a lower hardness than the hard adhesive portion 51. More specifically, as a material for forming the soft adhesive portion 52, for example, an epoxy adhesive, a modified acrylate adhesive, a modified silicone adhesive, a polyurethane adhesive, and a mixture of two or more thereof, a chloroprene rubber system Examples thereof include an adhesive and a vinyl acetate adhesive. As will be described later, the soft adhesive portion 52 needs to have flexibility to follow the bending operation of the cable portion 11. Further, when the endoscope system 1 is used for observation of a human body, it is necessary to select an appropriate material in consideration of the influence on the human body (leakage of adhesive components) and the like.
  • the formation of the soft adhesive portion 52 (application and curing of the adhesive) is performed after the formation of the hard adhesive portion 51.
  • the soft adhesive portion 52 so as to cover the periphery of the hard adhesive portion 51, there is an advantage that even when an external impact is applied to the adhesive portion 23, the impact can be reduced.
  • the cable portion 11 is bent as will be described later, there is an advantage that a failure or the like of the imaging unit 21 can be avoided by distributing the stress applied to the hard adhesive portion 51 via the soft adhesive portion 52. is there.
  • the hardness of the hard adhesive part 51 and the soft adhesive part 52 can be measured by, for example, a durometer (Shore hardness meter) type A / type D or JIS-A.
  • the components of the hard adhesive portion 51 and the soft adhesive portion 52 are selected so as to appropriately ensure appropriate thixotropy and sagging prevention properties in consideration of not only the hardness but also the ease of application work, etc. Is preferred.
  • the adhesion part 23 is provided so that it may have waterproof performance to such an extent that it will not be immersed inside even if it is submerged temporarily.
  • FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a bending operation at the distal end of the insertion portion in the endoscope body.
  • the cable portion 11 of the endoscope body 2 can be bent at any position including the vicinity of the distal end portion 11 a covered with the soft adhesive portion 52.
  • the endoscope main body 2 can be inserted into an observation target (such as a human body) while freely changing the angle of the distal end of the insertion portion 5 in the same manner as a conventional flexible mirror.
  • the soft adhesive portion 52 is elastically deformed following the bending operation of the tip portion 11a of the cable portion 11, peeling or cracking does not occur and the sealing performance does not deteriorate.
  • the bending operation of the cable part 11 hardly affects the hard adhesive part 51, and the fixing accuracy of the imaging unit 21 is maintained well.
  • FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the configuration of the adhesive portion at the distal end of the insertion portion shown in FIG.
  • the soft adhesive portion 52 adheres to the outer peripheral surface so as to cover the entire hard adhesive portion 51, but the configuration of the adhesive portion 23 is not limited to this, and various changes can be made.
  • the outer diameter of the hard adhesive portion 51 can be made substantially the same as the outer diameter of the imaging unit holder 22 (here, the main body portion 37).
  • the hard adhesive portion 51 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and extends rearward from the rear surface 22 c of the imaging unit holder 22 to cover the imaging unit 21.
  • the front surface 52 c of the soft adhesive portion 52 adheres to the rear surface 51 c of the hard adhesive portion 51, and extends backward to cover the front end portion 11 a of the cable portion 11. With such a configuration, there is an advantage that the outer diameter of the bonding portion 23 can be easily adjusted.
  • FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing a modified example in which a holder member for holding a hard adhesive portion is introduced at the distal end of the insertion portion shown in FIG.
  • the hard adhesive portion 51 is applied around the imaging unit 21 so as to cover the imaging unit 21, but depending on the characteristics of the hard adhesive portion 51 (such as low kinematic viscosity), the shape cannot be maintained until it is cured. There is also a possibility. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, a holder member 61 for holding the hard adhesive portion 51 can be used.
  • the holder member 61 has a substantially C shape in which a part of the cylinder is cut out, and the front end 61 a is fixed to the rear surface 22 c (see FIG. 5) of the imaging unit holder 22.
  • the hard adhesive portion 51 is poured into the inner peripheral surface side with the notched side as an upper side.
  • the holder member 61 may be formed of a material that can transmit ultraviolet rays.
  • the shape and size of the holder member 61 can be variously changed.
  • a holder member that holds a part (front portion) of the soft adhesive portion 52 may be separately provided.
  • the rear portion of the imaging unit 21 exposed from the rear side of the imaging unit holder 22 is covered with the hard adhesive portion 51, and a flexible cable connected to the rear portion of the imaging unit 21. Since the distal end portion 11 a side of the portion 11 is covered with the soft adhesive portion 52, the imaging unit 21 disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion 5 is accurately fixed by the hard adhesive portion 51, while the flexible adhesive portion 52 allows the insertion portion 5 to be It becomes possible to maintain the sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion 5 without impairing flexibility.
  • the adhesion part was comprised by two types of adhesives from which hardness differs, as long as the fixing performance of the above imaging units and the sealing performance of an insertion part can be maintained, it is 3 or more types It is also possible to use other adhesives. It should be noted that not all the constituent elements of the endoscope according to the present invention shown in the above embodiment are necessarily essential, and can be appropriately selected as long as they do not depart from the scope of the present invention.
  • the endoscope and the endoscope system according to the present invention provide a sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion without impairing the flexibility of the insertion portion while accurately fixing the imaging unit disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion. This is useful as an endoscope and an endoscope system that image the inside of an observation object that cannot be observed directly from the outside.
  • Endoscope system 2 Endoscope body (endoscope) 3 Video processor (image processing device) DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 5 Insertion part 6 Plug part 7 Socket part 11 Cable part 11a Tip part 12 Front end part 21 Imaging unit 22 Imaging unit holder 23 Adhesion part 31 Lens unit 32 Image sensor 33 Flexible cable 51 Hard adhesion part (1st adhesion part) 52 Soft adhesive part (second adhesive part)

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Abstract

[Problem] To maintain sealing performance in a distal end of an insertion part without compromising flexibility of the insertion part, and while precisely fixing an imaging unit disposed on a distal-end side of the insertion part in an endoscope. [Solution] An endoscope (2) provided with a flexible insertion part (5), wherein are provided an imaging unit (21) disposed on a distal-end side of the insertion part, an imaging unit holder (22) for retaining the imaging unit, a flexible cable part (11) connected to a rear part of the imaging unit exposed from a rear side of the imaging unit holder, a rigid bonding part (51) for bonding to the imaging unit holder and covering the rear part of the imaging unit, and a soft bonding part (52) for bonding to the rigid bonding part and covering a distal-end side of the cable part, the soft bonding part being configured so as to have a lower hardness than the rigid bonding part.

Description

内視鏡および内視鏡システムEndoscope and endoscope system
　本発明は、外部から直接観察できない観察対象の内部を撮像する内視鏡および内視鏡システムに関する。 The present invention relates to an endoscope and an endoscope system for imaging the inside of an observation target that cannot be directly observed from the outside.
　従来、医療用や工業用などの内視鏡として、観察対象の内部に挿入される挿入部に可撓性の素材を用いた軟性鏡が普及している。一般に、軟性鏡の挿入部は、各種信号や照明光などの伝送路を形成する屈曲容易なケーブル部と、このケーブル部の先端に設けられ、対物レンズ系やイメージセンサ等を含む撮像ユニットが収容される先端部とを有している。この先端部は、撮像ユニットを保護するために比較的剛性の高い外筒で覆われており、先端部とケーブル部との接続部位は、撮像ユニットの物理的保護や耐水性確保等の観点から十分な封止性能を必要とする。 Conventionally, as endoscopes for medical use and industrial use, flexible endoscopes using a flexible material for an insertion portion to be inserted into an observation target have been widespread. In general, the insertion section of the flexible mirror is housed in an easily bendable cable section that forms a transmission path for various signals and illumination light, and an imaging unit that is provided at the tip of the cable section and includes an objective lens system, an image sensor, and the like. And a leading end portion. The tip is covered with a relatively rigid outer cylinder to protect the imaging unit, and the connection part between the tip and the cable is from the viewpoint of physical protection of the imaging unit and ensuring water resistance. Sufficient sealing performance is required.
　そのような内視鏡の挿入部の封止構造として、例えば、挿入部の先端に位置する絶縁チューブにＣＣＤモジュールを挿入し、当該ＣＣＤモジュール用のケーブルを絶縁チューブの開口から延出させた状態で、隙間から絶縁チューブ内に導電性の樹脂を流し込んで導電層を形成することにより、絶縁チューブの開口を封止する構成が知られている（特許文献１参照）。 As a sealing structure for such an insertion portion of an endoscope, for example, a state where a CCD module is inserted into an insulating tube located at the distal end of the insertion portion, and a cable for the CCD module is extended from the opening of the insulating tube Thus, a configuration is known in which the opening of the insulating tube is sealed by pouring conductive resin into the insulating tube from the gap to form a conductive layer (see Patent Document 1).
　また、例えば、挿入部を密閉封止するために、撮像ユニット等を収容した中空の金属製のシャフト（フレキシブルシャフト）の先端に金属製のキャップ状カバーを溶接・接合した内視鏡が知られている（特許文献２参照）。 Also, for example, an endoscope is known in which a metal cap-like cover is welded and joined to the tip of a hollow metal shaft (flexible shaft) that houses an imaging unit or the like in order to hermetically seal the insertion portion. (See Patent Document 2).
特許３２６８００８号公報Japanese Patent No. 3268008 特許４７１９２２５号公報Japanese Patent No. 4719225
　しかしながら、上記特許文献１に記載の従来技術では、挿入部を封止するための導電性の樹脂として接着樹脂に導電性のフィラーを混合したものが使用されるが、接着樹脂が硬化した後には、接着樹脂とフィラーとの界面がガスや水分の進入経路となって挿入部の封止性能が著しく低下するという問題がある。 However, in the prior art described in Patent Document 1, a mixture of a conductive filler and an adhesive resin is used as the conductive resin for sealing the insertion portion, but after the adhesive resin is cured, In addition, there is a problem that the interface between the adhesive resin and the filler serves as an entrance path for gas and moisture, and the sealing performance of the insertion portion is significantly lowered.
　また、上記特許文献２に記載の従来技術は、挿入部を金属製の部材のみによって構成する場合には有効であるが、例えば、挿入部を金属製の部材と樹脂製の部材とによって構成する場合には適用できないという問題がある。また、軟性鏡において金属製のシャフトを用いた場合には、挿入部における良好な可撓性を確保することが難しいという問題もある。 In addition, the conventional technique described in Patent Document 2 is effective when the insertion portion is configured only by a metal member. For example, the insertion portion is configured by a metal member and a resin member. In some cases, it is not applicable. In addition, when a metal shaft is used in the flexible mirror, there is a problem that it is difficult to ensure good flexibility in the insertion portion.
　本発明は、このような従来技術の課題を鑑みて案出されたものであり、挿入部の先端側に配置される撮像ユニットを精度良く固定しつつ、挿入部の可撓性を損なうことなく挿入部先端における封止性能を維持することを可能とした内視鏡および内視鏡システムを提供することを主目的とする。 The present invention has been devised in view of such problems of the prior art, and can accurately fix the imaging unit disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion without impairing the flexibility of the insertion portion. The main purpose is to provide an endoscope and an endoscope system that can maintain the sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion.
　本発明の内視鏡システムは、可撓性を有する挿入部を備えた内視鏡であって、前記挿入部の先端側に配置された撮像ユニットと、前記撮像ユニットを保持する撮像ユニットホルダと、前記撮像ユニットホルダの後側から露出する前記撮像ユニットの後部に接続された可撓性のケーブル部と、前記撮像ユニットホルダに接着すると共に、前記撮像ユニットの後部を覆う第１接着部と、前記第１接着部に接着すると共に、前記ケーブル部の先端側を覆う第２接着部とを備え、前記第２接着部は、前記第１接着部よりも低い硬度を有することを特徴とする。 An endoscope system according to the present invention is an endoscope including a flexible insertion portion, an imaging unit disposed on a distal end side of the insertion portion, an imaging unit holder that holds the imaging unit, A flexible cable connected to the rear part of the imaging unit exposed from the rear side of the imaging unit holder; a first adhesive part that adheres to the imaging unit holder and covers the rear part of the imaging unit; And a second adhesive part that covers the distal end side of the cable part, and the second adhesive part has a hardness lower than that of the first adhesive part.
　本発明によれば、挿入部の先端側に配置される撮像ユニットを精度良く固定しつつ、挿入部の可撓性を損なうことなく挿入部先端における封止性能を維持することが可能となるという優れた効果を奏する。 According to the present invention, it is possible to maintain the sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion without impairing the flexibility of the insertion portion while accurately fixing the imaging unit arranged on the distal end side of the insertion portion. Excellent effect.
本発明の実施形態に係る内視鏡システムの全体構成図1 is an overall configuration diagram of an endoscope system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の拡大図Enlarged view of the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body 内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の分解斜視図Disassembled perspective view of the distal end of the insertion portion in the endoscope body 内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の断面図Sectional view of the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body 内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の後部側の斜視図Perspective view of the rear side of the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body 内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の屈曲動作の説明図Explanatory drawing of bending operation at the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body 図４に示した挿入部先端における接着部の構成の変形例を示す断面図Sectional drawing which shows the modification of a structure of the adhesion part in the insertion part front-end | tip shown in FIG. 図３に示した挿入部先端に硬性接着部を保持するホルダ部材を導入した変形例を示す分解斜視図The exploded perspective view which shows the modification which introduced the holder member which hold | maintains a hard adhesion part in the insertion part front-end | tip shown in FIG.
　上記課題を解決するためになされた第１の発明は、可撓性を有する挿入部を備えた内視鏡であって、前記挿入部の先端側に配置された撮像ユニットと、前記撮像ユニットを保持する撮像ユニットホルダと、前記撮像ユニットホルダの後側から露出する前記撮像ユニットの後部に接続された可撓性のケーブル部と、前記撮像ユニットホルダに接着すると共に、前記撮像ユニットの後部を覆う第１接着部と、前記第１接着部に接着すると共に、前記ケーブル部の先端側を覆う第２接着部とを備え、前記第２接着部は、前記第１接着部よりも低い硬度を有することを特徴とする。 A first invention made to solve the above-described problem is an endoscope including a flexible insertion portion, the imaging unit disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion, and the imaging unit. An imaging unit holder to be held, a flexible cable part connected to the rear part of the imaging unit exposed from the rear side of the imaging unit holder, and an adhesive unit that adheres to the imaging unit holder and covers the rear part of the imaging unit A first adhesive part and a second adhesive part that adheres to the first adhesive part and covers the distal end side of the cable part are provided, and the second adhesive part has a hardness lower than that of the first adhesive part. It is characterized by that.
　この第１の発明に係る内視鏡によれば、撮像ユニットホルダの後側から露出する撮像ユニットの後部が第１接着部によって覆われると共に、撮像ユニットの後部に接続された可撓性のケーブル部の先端側が第１接着部よりも低い硬度を有する第２接着部によって覆われるため、挿入部の先端側に配置される撮像ユニットを精度良く固定しつつ、挿入部の可撓性を損なうことなく挿入部先端における封止性能を維持することが可能となる。 According to the endoscope according to the first aspect of the invention, the rear part of the imaging unit exposed from the rear side of the imaging unit holder is covered with the first adhesive part, and the flexible cable is connected to the rear part of the imaging unit. Since the distal end side of the portion is covered with the second adhesive portion having a lower hardness than the first adhesive portion, the imaging unit disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion is accurately fixed and the flexibility of the insertion portion is impaired. Therefore, the sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion can be maintained.
　また、第２の発明では、上記第１の発明において、前記第１接着部は、前記撮像ユニットホルダの後面に接着されたことを特徴とする。 The second invention is characterized in that, in the first invention, the first adhesive portion is adhered to a rear surface of the imaging unit holder.
　この第２の発明に係る内視鏡によれば、第１接着部が撮像ユニットホルダの後面に接着されるため、第１接着部の外径を撮像ユニットホルダの外径と略同一またはそれ以下に設定することが可能となり、その結果、第１接着部によって撮像ユニットの後部を固定する場合に挿入部の外径が拡大することを回避することができる。 According to the endoscope according to the second aspect of the invention, since the first adhesive portion is bonded to the rear surface of the imaging unit holder, the outer diameter of the first adhesive portion is substantially the same as or less than the outer diameter of the imaging unit holder. As a result, it is possible to avoid an increase in the outer diameter of the insertion portion when the rear portion of the imaging unit is fixed by the first adhesive portion.
　また、第３の発明では、上記第１または第２の発明において、前記第２接着部は、前記第１接着部の周囲を覆うように設けられたことを特徴とする。 The third invention is characterized in that, in the first or second invention, the second adhesive part is provided so as to cover the periphery of the first adhesive part.
　この第３の発明に係る内視鏡によれば、比較的低い硬度を有する第２接着部が第１接着部の周囲を覆うため、外部からの衝撃等を緩和することができる。 According to the endoscope according to the third aspect of the invention, since the second adhesive portion having a relatively low hardness covers the periphery of the first adhesive portion, it is possible to mitigate external impacts and the like.
　また、第４の発明では、上記第１から第３の発明のいずれかにおいて、前記第１接着部は、紫外線硬化樹脂からなることを特徴とする。 Further, in a fourth invention, in any one of the first to third inventions, the first adhesive portion is made of an ultraviolet curable resin.
　この第４の発明に係る内視鏡によれば、紫外線硬化樹脂によって第１接着部を短時間で硬化させることが可能となり、位置合わせ後の撮像ユニットのずれを防止して撮像ユニットの固定精度を高めることが可能となる。 According to the endoscope according to the fourth aspect of the invention, the first adhesive portion can be cured in a short time by the ultraviolet curable resin, and the imaging unit is prevented from being displaced after alignment, thereby fixing the imaging unit. Can be increased.
　また、第５の発明は、上記第１から第４の発明のいずれかに係る内視鏡と、当該内視鏡からの画像を処理する画像処理装置とを備えた内視鏡システムである。 Further, a fifth invention is an endoscope system including the endoscope according to any one of the first to fourth inventions and an image processing device that processes an image from the endoscope.
　以下、本発明の実施の形態について図面を参照しながら説明する。なお、説明に用いる方向については、原則として図１中の方向の記載に従うものとする。ここで、「上」および「下」はビデオプロセッサ３の上下にそれぞれ対応し、「前（先）」および「後」は、内視鏡本体２の挿入部５側およびプラグ部６側にそれぞれ対応する。 Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, about the direction used for description, it shall follow the description of the direction in FIG. 1 in principle. Here, “upper” and “lower” correspond to the upper and lower sides of the video processor 3 respectively, and “front (front)” and “rear” respectively correspond to the insertion portion 5 side and the plug portion 6 side of the endoscope body 2. Correspond.
　図１は本発明の実施形態に係る内視鏡の全体構成図であり、図２は内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の拡大図である。図１に示すように、内視鏡システム１は、医療用の軟性鏡である内視鏡本体（内視鏡）２と、観察対象（ここでは、人体）の内部を撮影して得られた静止画および動画に対して周知の画像処理等を行うビデオプロセッサ（画像処理装置）３とから主として構成される。内視鏡本体２は、観察対象の内部に挿入される挿入部５と、挿入部５の後部が接続されるプラグ部６とを備える。 FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an endoscope according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a distal end of an insertion portion in an endoscope main body. As shown in FIG. 1, an endoscope system 1 is obtained by photographing an endoscope main body (endoscope) 2 that is a medical flexible endoscope and an inside of an observation target (here, a human body). It is mainly composed of a video processor (image processing apparatus) 3 that performs known image processing and the like for still images and moving images. The endoscope body 2 includes an insertion portion 5 that is inserted into the observation target and a plug portion 6 to which the rear portion of the insertion portion 5 is connected.
　ビデオプロセッサ３は、その前壁３ａに開口するソケット部７を有している。このソケット部７には、内視鏡本体２のプラグ部６が挿入され、これにより、内視鏡本体２は、ビデオプロセッサ３との間で電力や各種信号（映像信号、制御信号など）の送受が可能である。 The video processor 3 has a socket portion 7 that opens to the front wall 3a. The plug portion 6 of the endoscope main body 2 is inserted into the socket portion 7, whereby the endoscope main body 2 receives power and various signals (video signal, control signal, etc.) with the video processor 3. Sending and receiving is possible.
　挿入部５は、プラグ部６に後端を接続された可撓性のケーブル部１１と、このケーブル部１１の前端に連なる前端部１２とを有している。ケーブル部１１は、略円形の断面を有すると共に、絶縁体と保護被覆とで覆われた導体からなる複数の電線を束ねた周知の構成を有しており、前端部１２との間の各種信号の伝送路を形成する。前端部１２は、図２に示すように、観察対象を撮像するための撮像ユニット２１と、この撮像ユニット２１を保持する撮像ユニットホルダ２２と、この撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後部とケーブル部１１の先端部との間を覆う接着部２３とを有している。 The insertion portion 5 has a flexible cable portion 11 having a rear end connected to the plug portion 6 and a front end portion 12 connected to the front end of the cable portion 11. The cable portion 11 has a well-known configuration in which a plurality of electric wires made of a conductor covered with an insulator and a protective coating are bundled together with a substantially circular cross section, and various signals with the front end portion 12. The transmission path is formed. As shown in FIG. 2, the front end portion 12 includes an imaging unit 21 for imaging an observation target, an imaging unit holder 22 that holds the imaging unit 21, a rear portion of the imaging unit holder 22, and a distal end of the cable portion 11. And an adhesive portion 23 that covers the space.
　図３は内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の分解斜視図であり、図４は内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の断面図であり、図５は内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の後部側の斜視図である。図３に示すように、撮像ユニット２１は、対物光学系をなすレンズユニット３１と、レンズユニット３１からの光が受光面に結像されるイメージセンサ３２（ここでは、ＣＭＯＳセンサ）と、このイメージセンサ３２の後面側に折り畳まれた状態で接続された平型のフレキシブルケーブル３３とを有している。 3 is an exploded perspective view of the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body, and FIG. 5 is a rear side view of the distal end of the insertion section in the endoscope body. It is a perspective view. As shown in FIG. 3, the imaging unit 21 includes a lens unit 31 forming an objective optical system, an image sensor 32 (here, a CMOS sensor) on which light from the lens unit 31 is imaged on a light receiving surface, and this image. And a flat flexible cable 33 connected in a folded state on the rear surface side of the sensor 32.
　レンズユニット３１では、図４に示すように、ガラス素材または樹脂素材からなる同一径の複数（ここでは、４枚）の光学レンズＬ１～Ｌ４が金属製の円筒状のレンズ枠体３５に互いに軸方向に密接した状態で組み込まれている。レンズ枠体３５は、略円筒状をなす撮像ユニットホルダ２２のレンズ装着孔２２ａに固定されている。レンズ枠体３５の前方には、カバーガラス３６が設けられている。カバーガラス３６は、撮像ユニットホルダ２２の前端に形成された拡径部３８の前面に開口する撮像窓３９に嵌め込まれている。 In the lens unit 31, as shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of (four in this case) optical lenses L1 to L4 having the same diameter made of a glass material or a resin material are axially connected to a metal cylindrical lens frame 35. Built in close proximity to the direction. The lens frame 35 is fixed to the lens mounting hole 22a of the imaging unit holder 22 having a substantially cylindrical shape. A cover glass 36 is provided in front of the lens frame 35. The cover glass 36 is fitted into an imaging window 39 that opens on the front surface of the enlarged diameter portion 38 formed at the front end of the imaging unit holder 22.
　撮像ユニットホルダ２２には、その径方向に貫通する複数の調整孔４１が形成されている。挿入部５の組立時には、作業者は、レンズユニット３１の固定位置を調整するために、所定の治具を用いて調整孔４１を介してレンズユニット３１を前後方向に移動させることができる。また、撮像ユニットホルダ２２には、図３に示すように、拡径部３８の前面において撮像窓３９の下方に開口する器具挿通孔４５と、この器具挿通孔４５の左右にそれぞれ開口する一対の照明用孔４６、４６とが形成されている。撮像ユニットホルダ２２の本体部（縮径部）３７の外周部において、撮像ユニットホルダ２２の軸方向に延びるように設けられた溝部４７、４８は、それぞれ器具挿通孔４５および照明用孔４６、４６の一部を構成する。器具挿通孔４５には、図示しない鉗子等を挿通することが可能であり、また、照明用孔４６、４６には、図示しない光ファイバ等を挿通することが可能である。なお、撮像ユニットホルダ２２は、撮像ユニット２１を保護すべく剛性の高い材料（金属や硬質樹脂等）で形成される。 The imaging unit holder 22 is formed with a plurality of adjustment holes 41 penetrating in the radial direction. When assembling the insertion portion 5, the operator can move the lens unit 31 in the front-rear direction through the adjustment hole 41 using a predetermined jig in order to adjust the fixing position of the lens unit 31. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the imaging unit holder 22 has an instrument insertion hole 45 opened below the imaging window 39 on the front surface of the enlarged diameter portion 38 and a pair of openings opened to the left and right of the instrument insertion hole 45. Illumination holes 46 and 46 are formed. In the outer peripheral portion of the main body portion (reduced diameter portion) 37 of the imaging unit holder 22, grooves 47 and 48 provided so as to extend in the axial direction of the imaging unit holder 22 are an instrument insertion hole 45 and illumination holes 46 and 46, respectively. Part of Forceps or the like (not shown) can be inserted into the instrument insertion hole 45, and an optical fiber or the like (not shown) can be inserted into the illumination holes 46 and 46. The imaging unit holder 22 is formed of a highly rigid material (metal, hard resin, etc.) so as to protect the imaging unit 21.
　イメージセンサ３２の少なくとも前部は、撮像ユニットホルダ２２のレンズ装着孔２２ａに連通するセンサ固定孔２２ｂ（図４参照）に固定されている。イメージセンサ３２の後側のフレキシブルケーブル３３（すなわち、撮像ユニット２１の後部）は、撮像ユニットホルダ２２から露出している。このフレキシブルケーブル３３の後端に対し、前後方向に延在するケーブル部１１の先端部１１ａが接続されることにより、撮像ユニット２１とプラグ部６とが電気的に接続されている。 At least the front part of the image sensor 32 is fixed to a sensor fixing hole 22b (see FIG. 4) communicating with the lens mounting hole 22a of the imaging unit holder 22. The flexible cable 33 on the rear side of the image sensor 32 (that is, the rear portion of the imaging unit 21) is exposed from the imaging unit holder 22. The imaging unit 21 and the plug portion 6 are electrically connected to each other by connecting the distal end portion 11a of the cable portion 11 extending in the front-rear direction to the rear end of the flexible cable 33.
　接着部２３は、硬度の異なる複数の材料から構成され、図４に示すように、撮像ユニット２１の後部を覆う硬性接着部（第１接着部）５１と、この硬性接着部５１の少なくとも後側に接着し、ケーブル部１１の先端側を覆う軟性接着部（第２接着部）５２とを含む。 The bonding portion 23 is composed of a plurality of materials having different hardnesses, and as shown in FIG. 4, a hard bonding portion (first bonding portion) 51 covering the rear portion of the imaging unit 21 and at least the rear side of the hard bonding portion 51. And a soft adhesive part (second adhesive part) 52 that covers the distal end side of the cable part 11.
　硬性接着部５１は、撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後面２２ｃに接着すると共に、その後面２２ｃから後方に延在して撮像ユニット２１を覆う。硬性接着部５１の前部５１ａは、略円柱状をなし、その外径は撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後部（本体部３７）の外径よりも小さく設定されている。硬性接着部５１の後部５１ｂは、前部５１ａの後側に連なり、後方に向けて徐々に先細り状をなすように略回転放物面状の外形を有している。 The hard adhesive portion 51 adheres to the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22, and extends rearward from the rear surface 22c to cover the imaging unit 21. The front part 51 a of the hard adhesive part 51 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and the outer diameter thereof is set smaller than the outer diameter of the rear part (main body part 37) of the imaging unit holder 22. The rear portion 51b of the hard adhesive portion 51 is connected to the rear side of the front portion 51a and has a substantially paraboloidal outer shape so as to gradually taper toward the rear.
　硬性接着部５１は、比較的硬質の接着剤から形成され、特に、紫外線硬化樹脂を用いたものが好ましい。より詳細には、硬性接着部５１を形成する材料として、例えば、エポキシ系接着剤や、変性アクリレート系接着剤（ポリエステル変性アクリレート、エポキシ変性アクリレート、及びウレタン変性アクリレート樹脂等）が挙げられる。硬性接着部５１は、後述するようなケーブル部１１の屈曲動作の際にも、撮像ユニットホルダ２２に対する撮像ユニット２１の固定位置を維持可能な剛性を有することが必要である。 The hard adhesive part 51 is formed from a relatively hard adhesive, and particularly, an ultraviolet curable resin is preferably used. More specifically, examples of the material forming the hard adhesive portion 51 include an epoxy adhesive and a modified acrylate adhesive (polyester-modified acrylate, epoxy-modified acrylate, urethane-modified acrylate resin, and the like). The rigid adhesive portion 51 needs to have rigidity capable of maintaining the fixing position of the imaging unit 21 with respect to the imaging unit holder 22 even when the cable portion 11 is bent as described later.
　硬性接着部５１の形成（接着剤の塗付及び硬化）は、撮像ユニットホルダ２２に対して撮像ユニット２１を位置合わせした状態で行われる。硬性接着部５１に紫外線硬化樹脂を用いた場合には、熱硬化や常温硬化の場合に比べて短時間で硬化させることが可能であり、塗付された硬性接着部５１の垂れを防止できると共に、撮像ユニットの位置ずれを防止して撮像ユニットの固定精度を高めることができるという利点がある。 The formation of the hard adhesive portion 51 (application and curing of adhesive) is performed in a state where the imaging unit 21 is aligned with the imaging unit holder 22. When an ultraviolet curable resin is used for the hard adhesive portion 51, it can be cured in a shorter time than the case of heat curing or room temperature curing, and dripping of the applied hard adhesive portion 51 can be prevented. There is an advantage that the positional accuracy of the imaging unit can be prevented and the fixing accuracy of the imaging unit can be increased.
　なお、本実施形態では、硬性接着部５１は、撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後面２２ｃから後方に突出する撮像ユニット２１の後部全体を覆うが、これに限らず、少なくとも撮像ユニットホルダ２２と撮像ユニット２１とを接着して当該撮像ユニット２１を固定可能な限りにおいて、硬性接着部５１が撮像ユニット２１の後部の一部を覆う構成も可能である。硬性接着部５１の形状についても、ここに示したものに限らず種々の変更が可能である。また、本明細書において、２つの物に関して用いる「接着」及び「接着剤」の用語は、それらの表面を貼り合せること及びそれに用いる物質という厳密な意味ではなく、２つの物が結合する及びそれに用いる物質という程度の広い意味で用いられる。 In the present embodiment, the hard adhesive portion 51 covers the entire rear portion of the imaging unit 21 protruding rearward from the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and at least the imaging unit holder 22 and the imaging unit 21 are covered. As long as the imaging unit 21 can be fixed by adhering to each other, a configuration in which the hard adhesive portion 51 covers a part of the rear portion of the imaging unit 21 is also possible. Also about the shape of the hard-bonding part 51, not only what was shown here but a various change is possible. Also, in this specification, the terms “adhesion” and “adhesive” used in relation to two objects are not the strict meaning of bonding their surfaces and the substance used for the two objects, It is used in a broad sense as a substance to be used.
　軟性接着部５２は、硬性接着部５１の全体（撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後面２２ｃとの接着面を除く）を覆うようにその外周面に接着すると共に、図５にも示すように、後方に延在してケーブル部１１の先端部１１ａを覆う。軟性接着部５２の前部５２ａは、撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後面２２ｃ（硬性接着部５１の周囲）に接着する。また、軟性接着部５２の前部５２ａは、略円柱状をなし、その外径は撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後部（本体部３７）の外径と略同一あるいはその後部の外形以下に設定されている。軟性接着部５２の後部５２ｂは、前部５２ａの後側に連なり、後方に向けて徐々に先細り状をなすように略回転放物面状の外形を有している。 The soft adhesive portion 52 adheres to the outer peripheral surface so as to cover the entire hard adhesive portion 51 (excluding the adhesive surface with the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22), and extends backward as shown in FIG. And covers the tip portion 11 a of the cable portion 11. The front part 52a of the soft adhesive part 52 adheres to the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22 (around the hard adhesive part 51). The front portion 52a of the soft adhesive portion 52 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and the outer diameter thereof is set to be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the rear portion (main body portion 37) of the imaging unit holder 22 or less than the outer shape of the rear portion. . The rear part 52b of the soft adhesive part 52 is connected to the rear side of the front part 52a and has a substantially paraboloidal outer shape so as to gradually taper toward the rear.
　このように、接着部２３（ここでは、硬性接着部５１および軟性接着部５２）は撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後面２２ｃに接着し、しかも接着部２３（ここでは、軟性接着部５２）の外径が撮像ユニットホルダ２２（ここでは、本体部３７）の外径と略同一またはそれ以下に設定されるため、接着部２３を設けた場合でも挿入部５の外径の拡大を回避することができる。 As described above, the bonding portion 23 (here, the hard bonding portion 51 and the soft bonding portion 52) is bonded to the rear surface 22c of the imaging unit holder 22, and the outer diameter of the bonding portion 23 (here, the soft bonding portion 52) is larger. Since the outer diameter of the imaging unit holder 22 (here, the main body portion 37) is set to be substantially the same as or smaller than that, the enlargement of the outer diameter of the insertion portion 5 can be avoided even when the bonding portion 23 is provided.
　軟性接着部５２は、硬性接着部５１よりも低い硬度を有する比較的軟質の接着剤から形成される。より詳細には、軟性接着部５２を形成する材料として、例えば、エポキシ系接着剤、変性アクリレート系接着剤、変性シリコーン系接着剤、ポリウレタン系接着剤及びそれらの２以上の混合物や、クロロプレンゴム系接着剤ならびに酢酸ビニル系接着剤が挙げられる。軟性接着部５２は、後述するように、ケーブル部１１の屈曲動作に追従可能な可撓性を有することが必要である。また、内視鏡システム１を人体の観察に用いる場合には、人体への影響（接着剤成分の漏出）等を考慮して適切な材料を選択することが必要である。 The soft adhesive portion 52 is formed from a relatively soft adhesive having a lower hardness than the hard adhesive portion 51. More specifically, as a material for forming the soft adhesive portion 52, for example, an epoxy adhesive, a modified acrylate adhesive, a modified silicone adhesive, a polyurethane adhesive, and a mixture of two or more thereof, a chloroprene rubber system Examples thereof include an adhesive and a vinyl acetate adhesive. As will be described later, the soft adhesive portion 52 needs to have flexibility to follow the bending operation of the cable portion 11. Further, when the endoscope system 1 is used for observation of a human body, it is necessary to select an appropriate material in consideration of the influence on the human body (leakage of adhesive components) and the like.
　軟性接着部５２の形成（接着剤の塗付及び硬化）は、硬性接着部５１の形成後に行われる。硬性接着部５１の周囲を覆うように軟性接着部５２を設けることで、接着部２３に外部から衝撃が加えられた場合でも、その衝撃を緩和できるという利点がある。また、後述するようなケーブル部１１の屈曲動作の際にも、軟性接着部５２を介して硬性接着部５１に及ぶ応力を分散して撮像ユニット２１の故障等を回避することができるという利点もある。更に、周囲環境（例えば、人体内部）に暴露される軟性接着部５２のみに所定の特性（例えば、酸、アルカリ、及びアルコール等に対する耐性）を付与すればよく、硬性接着部５１の成分について選択の自由度が高まるという利点もある。 The formation of the soft adhesive portion 52 (application and curing of the adhesive) is performed after the formation of the hard adhesive portion 51. By providing the soft adhesive portion 52 so as to cover the periphery of the hard adhesive portion 51, there is an advantage that even when an external impact is applied to the adhesive portion 23, the impact can be reduced. In addition, when the cable portion 11 is bent as will be described later, there is an advantage that a failure or the like of the imaging unit 21 can be avoided by distributing the stress applied to the hard adhesive portion 51 via the soft adhesive portion 52. is there. Furthermore, it is only necessary to give predetermined characteristics (for example, resistance to acid, alkali, alcohol, etc.) only to the soft adhesive part 52 exposed to the surrounding environment (for example, the inside of the human body), and the components of the hard adhesive part 51 are selected. There is also an advantage that the degree of freedom increases.
　なお、硬性接着部５１および軟性接着部５２の硬度については、例えば、デュロメータ（ショア硬度計）タイプＡ・タイプＤや、ＪＩＳ－Ａによって測定することができる。また、硬性接着部５１および軟性接着部５２の成分については、硬度のみならず、塗付作業の容易さ等を考慮して適切なチクソトロピー性やタレ防止性を適切に確保するように選択することが好ましい。また、接着部２３は、一時的に水没しても内部に浸水することがない程度の防水性能を有するように設けられる。 The hardness of the hard adhesive part 51 and the soft adhesive part 52 can be measured by, for example, a durometer (Shore hardness meter) type A / type D or JIS-A. In addition, the components of the hard adhesive portion 51 and the soft adhesive portion 52 are selected so as to appropriately ensure appropriate thixotropy and sagging prevention properties in consideration of not only the hardness but also the ease of application work, etc. Is preferred. Moreover, the adhesion part 23 is provided so that it may have waterproof performance to such an extent that it will not be immersed inside even if it is submerged temporarily.
　図６は内視鏡本体における挿入部先端の屈曲動作の説明図である。内視鏡本体２のケーブル部１１は、軟性接着部５２に覆われた先端部１１ａ付近を含め、任意の位置において屈曲動作が可能である。これにより、図６に示すように、内視鏡本体２は、従来の軟性鏡と同様に、挿入部５の先端の角度を自由に変えながら観察対象（人体内等）に挿入可能である。この場合、軟性接着部５２は、ケーブル部１１の先端部１１ａの屈曲動作に追従して弾性変形するため、剥離や亀裂が生じて封止性能が低下することはない。一方で、ケーブル部１１の屈曲動作は、硬性接着部５１に対してほとんど影響を及ぼすことはなく、撮像ユニット２１の固定精度は良好に維持される。 FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a bending operation at the distal end of the insertion portion in the endoscope body. The cable portion 11 of the endoscope body 2 can be bent at any position including the vicinity of the distal end portion 11 a covered with the soft adhesive portion 52. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 6, the endoscope main body 2 can be inserted into an observation target (such as a human body) while freely changing the angle of the distal end of the insertion portion 5 in the same manner as a conventional flexible mirror. In this case, since the soft adhesive portion 52 is elastically deformed following the bending operation of the tip portion 11a of the cable portion 11, peeling or cracking does not occur and the sealing performance does not deteriorate. On the other hand, the bending operation of the cable part 11 hardly affects the hard adhesive part 51, and the fixing accuracy of the imaging unit 21 is maintained well.
　図７は図４に示した挿入部先端における接着部の構成の変形例を示す断面図である。図４に示した例では、軟性接着部５２は、硬性接着部５１の全体を覆うようにその外周面に接着するが、これに限らず接着部２３の構成は種々の変更が可能である。例えば、図７に示すように、硬性接着部５１の外径は、撮像ユニットホルダ２２（ここでは、本体部３７）の外径と略同一とすることができる。この場合、硬性接着部５１は、略円柱状をなし、撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後面２２ｃから後方に延在して撮像ユニット２１を覆う。また、軟性接着部５２は、その前面５２ｃが硬性接着部５１の後面５１ｃに接着すると共に、後方に延在してケーブル部１１の先端部１１ａを覆う。このような構成により、接着部２３の外径の調整が容易となるという利点がある。 FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the configuration of the adhesive portion at the distal end of the insertion portion shown in FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the soft adhesive portion 52 adheres to the outer peripheral surface so as to cover the entire hard adhesive portion 51, but the configuration of the adhesive portion 23 is not limited to this, and various changes can be made. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the outer diameter of the hard adhesive portion 51 can be made substantially the same as the outer diameter of the imaging unit holder 22 (here, the main body portion 37). In this case, the hard adhesive portion 51 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and extends rearward from the rear surface 22 c of the imaging unit holder 22 to cover the imaging unit 21. Further, the front surface 52 c of the soft adhesive portion 52 adheres to the rear surface 51 c of the hard adhesive portion 51, and extends backward to cover the front end portion 11 a of the cable portion 11. With such a configuration, there is an advantage that the outer diameter of the bonding portion 23 can be easily adjusted.
　図８は図３に示した挿入部先端に硬性接着部を保持するホルダ部材を導入した変形例を示す分解斜視図である。上述のように、硬性接着部５１は、撮像ユニット２１を覆うようにその周囲に塗り付けられるが、硬性接着部５１の特性（動粘度が小さい等）によっては、硬化するまで形状を維持できない場合もあり得る。そこで、例えば、図８に示すように、硬性接着部５１を保持するためのホルダ部材６１を用いることができる。ここでは、ホルダ部材６１は、円筒の一部が切り欠かれた略Ｃ字状をなし、その前端６１ａが、撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後面２２ｃ（図５参照）に固着される。ホルダ部材６１には、その切り欠かれた側を上方として内周面側に硬性接着部５１が流し込まれる。 FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing a modified example in which a holder member for holding a hard adhesive portion is introduced at the distal end of the insertion portion shown in FIG. As described above, the hard adhesive portion 51 is applied around the imaging unit 21 so as to cover the imaging unit 21, but depending on the characteristics of the hard adhesive portion 51 (such as low kinematic viscosity), the shape cannot be maintained until it is cured. There is also a possibility. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, a holder member 61 for holding the hard adhesive portion 51 can be used. Here, the holder member 61 has a substantially C shape in which a part of the cylinder is cut out, and the front end 61 a is fixed to the rear surface 22 c (see FIG. 5) of the imaging unit holder 22. In the holder member 61, the hard adhesive portion 51 is poured into the inner peripheral surface side with the notched side as an upper side.
　なお、硬性接着部５１に紫外線硬化樹脂を用いる場合には、ホルダ部材６１は紫外線を透過可能な材料で形成するとよい。また、ホルダ部材６１の形状やサイズは種々の変更が可能である。場合によっては、軟性接着部５２の一部（前部）を保持するホルダ部材を別途設けることもできる。 In the case where an ultraviolet curable resin is used for the hard adhesive portion 51, the holder member 61 may be formed of a material that can transmit ultraviolet rays. The shape and size of the holder member 61 can be variously changed. In some cases, a holder member that holds a part (front portion) of the soft adhesive portion 52 may be separately provided.
　このように、内視鏡システム１では、撮像ユニットホルダ２２の後側から露出する撮像ユニット２１の後部が硬性接着部５１によって覆われると共に、撮像ユニット２１の後部に接続された可撓性のケーブル部１１の先端部１１ａ側が軟性接着部５２によって覆われるため、挿入部５の先端側に配置される撮像ユニット２１を硬性接着部５１によって精度良く固定する一方、軟性接着部５２によって挿入部５の可撓性を損なうことなく挿入部５先端における封止性能を維持することが可能となる。 Thus, in the endoscope system 1, the rear portion of the imaging unit 21 exposed from the rear side of the imaging unit holder 22 is covered with the hard adhesive portion 51, and a flexible cable connected to the rear portion of the imaging unit 21. Since the distal end portion 11 a side of the portion 11 is covered with the soft adhesive portion 52, the imaging unit 21 disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion 5 is accurately fixed by the hard adhesive portion 51, while the flexible adhesive portion 52 allows the insertion portion 5 to be It becomes possible to maintain the sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion 5 without impairing flexibility.
　以上、本発明を特定の実施形態に基づいて説明したが、これらの実施形態はあくまでも例示であって、本発明はこれらの実施形態によって限定されるものではない。例えば、上記実施形態では、挿入部における接着部やケーブル部が露出している構成としたが、挿入部の可撓性を阻害しない限りにおいて、接着部やケーブル部を覆う外筒（円筒形のカバー部材）を設けてもよい。その場合、外筒の先端を撮像ユニットホルダ（例えば、拡径部の後部）に固着することができ、これにより、外筒内の密閉性が確保される。また、上記実施形態では、硬さの異なる２種類の接着剤によって接着部を構成したが、上述のような撮像ユニットの固定性能および挿入部の封止性能を維持可能な限りにおいて、３種類以上の接着剤を用いることも可能である。なお、上記実施形態に示した本発明に係る内視鏡の各構成要素は、必ずしも全てが必須ではなく、少なくとも本発明の範囲を逸脱しない限りにおいて適宜取捨選択することが可能である。 As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated based on specific embodiment, these embodiment is an illustration to the last and this invention is not limited by these embodiment. For example, in the above embodiment, the adhesive portion and the cable portion in the insertion portion are exposed. However, as long as the flexibility of the insertion portion is not hindered, an outer cylinder (cylindrical shape) that covers the adhesive portion and the cable portion is used. A cover member) may be provided. In that case, the front end of the outer cylinder can be fixed to the imaging unit holder (for example, the rear part of the enlarged diameter portion), thereby ensuring the hermeticity in the outer cylinder. Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the adhesion part was comprised by two types of adhesives from which hardness differs, as long as the fixing performance of the above imaging units and the sealing performance of an insertion part can be maintained, it is 3 or more types It is also possible to use other adhesives. It should be noted that not all the constituent elements of the endoscope according to the present invention shown in the above embodiment are necessarily essential, and can be appropriately selected as long as they do not depart from the scope of the present invention.
　本発明に係る内視鏡および内視鏡システムは、挿入部の先端側に配置される撮像ユニットを精度良く固定しつつ、挿入部の可撓性を損なうことなく挿入部先端における封止性能を維持することを可能とし、外部から直接観察できない観察対象の内部を撮像する内視鏡および内視鏡システムなどとして有用である。 The endoscope and the endoscope system according to the present invention provide a sealing performance at the distal end of the insertion portion without impairing the flexibility of the insertion portion while accurately fixing the imaging unit disposed on the distal end side of the insertion portion. This is useful as an endoscope and an endoscope system that image the inside of an observation object that cannot be observed directly from the outside.
１　内視鏡システム
２　内視鏡本体（内視鏡）
３　ビデオプロセッサ（画像処理装置）
５　挿入部
６　プラグ部
７　ソケット部
１１　ケーブル部
１１ａ　先端部
１２　前端部
２１　撮像ユニット
２２　撮像ユニットホルダ
２３　接着部
３１　レンズユニット
３２　イメージセンサ
３３　フレキシブルケーブル
５１　硬性接着部（第１接着部）
５２　軟性接着部（第２接着部） 1 Endoscope system 2 Endoscope body (endoscope)
3 Video processor (image processing device)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 5 Insertion part 6 Plug part 7 Socket part 11 Cable part 11a Tip part 12 Front end part 21 Imaging unit 22 Imaging unit holder 23 Adhesion part 31 Lens unit 32 Image sensor 33 Flexible cable 51 Hard adhesion part (1st adhesion part)
52 Soft adhesive part (second adhesive part)

Claims (5)

  1. 　可撓性を有する挿入部を備えた内視鏡であって、
    　前記挿入部の先端側に配置された撮像ユニットと、
    　前記撮像ユニットを保持する撮像ユニットホルダと、
    　前記撮像ユニットホルダの後側から露出する前記撮像ユニットの後部に接続された可撓性のケーブル部と、
    　前記撮像ユニットホルダに接着すると共に、前記撮像ユニットの後部を覆う第１接着部と、
    　前記第１接着部に接着すると共に、前記ケーブル部の先端側を覆う第２接着部と
    を備え、
    　前記第２接着部は、前記第１接着部よりも低い硬度を有することを特徴とする内視鏡。     An endoscope provided with a flexible insertion portion,
    An imaging unit disposed on a distal end side of the insertion portion;
    An imaging unit holder for holding the imaging unit;
    A flexible cable part connected to the rear part of the imaging unit exposed from the rear side of the imaging unit holder;
    A first adhesive portion that adheres to the imaging unit holder and covers a rear portion of the imaging unit;
    A second adhesive portion that adheres to the first adhesive portion and covers the tip side of the cable portion;
    The endoscope, wherein the second adhesive portion has a lower hardness than the first adhesive portion.
  2. 　前記第１接着部は、前記撮像ユニットホルダの後面に接着されたことを特徴とする請求項１に記載の内視鏡。 The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the first bonding portion is bonded to a rear surface of the imaging unit holder.
  3. 　前記第２接着部は、前記第１接着部の周囲を覆うように設けられたことを特徴とする請求項１または請求項２に記載の内視鏡。 The endoscope according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second adhesive portion is provided so as to cover a periphery of the first adhesive portion.
  4. 　前記第１接着部は、紫外線硬化樹脂からなることを特徴とする請求項１から請求項３のいずれかに記載の内視鏡。 The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first adhesive portion is made of an ultraviolet curable resin.
  5. 　請求項１から請求項４のいずれかに記載の内視鏡と、当該内視鏡からの画像を処理する画像処理装置とを備えた内視鏡システム。 An endoscope system comprising: the endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 4; and an image processing apparatus that processes an image from the endoscope.
PCT/JP2014/001750 2013-03-27 2014-03-26 Endoscope and endoscope system WO2014156149A1 (en)

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CN113271835A (en) * 2019-01-16 2021-08-17 奥林巴斯株式会社 Endoscope distal end structure and endoscope
CN113660815A (en) * 2021-10-20 2021-11-16 上海宇度医学科技股份有限公司 Support wiring assembly, wiring method and endoscope head
US11278192B2 (en) * 2016-10-25 2022-03-22 Fujifilm Corporation Endoscope
US11540707B2 (en) 2017-04-25 2023-01-03 Olympus Corporation Endoscope and image pickup module
EP4094671A4 (en) * 2020-03-04 2023-06-21 Micro-Tech (Nanjing) Co., Ltd. Multifunctional catheter

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JP5972415B1 (en) * 2015-02-19 2016-08-17 パナソニック株式会社 Endoscope
JP5908153B1 (en) * 2015-08-31 2016-04-26 パナソニック株式会社 Endoscope
JP5972441B1 (en) * 2015-08-31 2016-08-17 パナソニック株式会社 Endoscope
US9838576B2 (en) 2015-08-31 2017-12-05 Panasonic Corporation Endoscope
JP5909303B1 (en) * 2015-08-31 2016-04-26 パナソニック株式会社 Endoscope

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Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11278192B2 (en) * 2016-10-25 2022-03-22 Fujifilm Corporation Endoscope
US11540707B2 (en) 2017-04-25 2023-01-03 Olympus Corporation Endoscope and image pickup module
CN113271835A (en) * 2019-01-16 2021-08-17 奥林巴斯株式会社 Endoscope distal end structure and endoscope
EP4094671A4 (en) * 2020-03-04 2023-06-21 Micro-Tech (Nanjing) Co., Ltd. Multifunctional catheter
CN113660815A (en) * 2021-10-20 2021-11-16 上海宇度医学科技股份有限公司 Support wiring assembly, wiring method and endoscope head
CN113660815B (en) * 2021-10-20 2022-02-08 上海宇度医学科技股份有限公司 Support wiring assembly, wiring method and endoscope head

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