Patent ID: 6095970
Filing Date: 2000-08-01
Classification: A61B,G02B

Abstract:
An endoscope, comprising:an insertion tube which can be inserted into a human body;an imaging device;an object optical system which forms an image on the imaging device;a detachable unit accommodating the imaging device and the object optical system and having a first surface;a mounting portion provided on a tip of the insertion tube, to which the detachable unit is detachably mounted, the mounting portion having a second surface which mates with the first surface of the detachable unit when the detachable unit is mounted;at least one first contact formed on the first surface of the detachable unit; andat least one second contact formed on the second surface of the mounting portion;wherein the first and second contacts are electrically connected when the detachable unit is mounted to the mounting portion;wherein the second surface is curved so that the second surface is elastically deformed when the detachable unit is mounted to the mounting portion, andwherein the second contact is urged against the first contact, ensuring the connection between the first and second contacts.