Endoscope camera head

An endoscope camera head 6 includes a first and a second members 8, 9 that are relatively rotatable about a first axis Ax1. The first member 8 has a first rotation-sliding surface 84 that extends in an annular shape about the first axis Ax1 as its center. The second member 9 has a second rotation-sliding surface 93 that engages with the first rotation-sliding surface 84 in a state in which movement to a direction of the first axis Ax1 relative to the first member 8 is restricted, and that rotation-slides relative to the first rotation-sliding surface 84 about the first axis Ax1. The second rotation-sliding surface 93 abuts only on a part of the first rotation-sliding surface 84, to expose a part of the first rotation-sliding surface 84 outside.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is based on PCT filing PCT/JP2018/018989, filed May 16, 2018, which claims priority to JP 2017-148486, filed Jul. 31, 2017, the entire contents of each are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an endoscope camera head that is used in an endoscope device to observe an inside of a subject, such as a human body and a mechanical structure.

BACKGROUND ART

Endoscope devices to observe inside a subject, such as a human body and a mechanical structure in a medical field or an industrial field has conventionally been known (for example, refer to Patent Literature 1).

An endoscope device described in Patent Literature 1 includes an endoscope (optical telescope) that captures and emits a subject image inside the subject, and an endoscope camera head (TV camera) that holds the endoscope and that forms an image from the subject image emitted from the endoscope. Moreover, the endoscope is rotatably held about an optical axis set inside with respect to the endoscope camera head.

Specifically, the endoscope camera head includes a coupler and a camera-head main unit.

The coupler has a bottomed-cylindrical shape in which an eyepiece of the endoscope can be engaged. Furthermore, at a bottom portion of the coupler, a through hole in a circular shape when viewed from top, piercing therethrough to both sides is formed.

The camera-head main unit includes a casing, and an imaging unit that is housed in the casing, and that forms an image of the subject image emitted from the endoscope. On an external surface of the casing, a concave portion that extends in a ring shape about a first axis as a center is formed.

Furthermore, the coupler (endoscope) is configured such that a rim portion of the through hole in the coupler engages with the concave portion of the casing, and that an outer surface of the rim portion slides on an inner surface (hereinafter, referred to as coupler rotation-sliding surface) of the concave portion, thereby rotating with respect to the camera-head main unit about the first axis as the center.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

However, in the endoscope camera head described in Patent Literature 1, the coupler rotation-sliding surface is concealed with the casing rotation-sliding surface, and is not exposed outside. Therefore, when cleaning the endoscope camera head, it is difficult to clean a portion between the coupler rotation-sliding surface and the casing rotation-sliding surface with a brush. Moreover, it is difficult to let cleaning solution enter between the coupler rotation-sliding surface and the casing rotation-sliding surface. Accordingly, there is a problem that much time is consumed for cleaning.

The present invention is achieved in view of the above problem, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an endoscope camera head that enables to reduce cleaning time.

Solution to Problem

To solve the above-described problem and achieve the object, an endoscope camera head according to the present invention includes a first member and a second member that are capable of rotating relative to each other about a first axis, wherein the first member has a first rotation-sliding surface that extends in an annular shape about the first axis as a center, the second member engages with the first rotation-sliding surface in a state in which movement to a direction of the first axis is restricted relative to the first member, and has a second-rotation sliding surface that rotation-slides relatively to the first rotation-sliding surface about the first axis, and the second rotation-sliding surface abuts only on a part of the first rotation-sliding surface, to expose a part of the first rotation-sliding surface outside.

Moreover, in the above-described endoscope camera head according to the present invention, in the first member, a concave portion that extends in an annular shape about the first axis as a center is provided, the first rotation-sliding surface includes an inner surface of the concave portion, in the second member, a convex portion that extends in an annular shape about the first axis as a center, and that engages with the concave portion is provided, the second rotation-sliding surface includes an outer surface of the convex portion, and at a distal end of the convex portion, a groove portion that extends in a spiral shape about the first axis as a center, and respective parts of both end portions of which in a direction of the first axis are respectively positioned outside the concave portion is formed.

Moreover, in the above-described endoscope camera head according to the present invention, in the first member, a concave portion that extends in an annular shape about the first axis as a center is provided, the first rotation-sliding surface includes an inner surface of the concave portion, in the second member, a projection portion, a distal end of which extends in an arc shape about the first axis as a center, and that engages with the concave portion is provided, and the second rotation-sliding surface includes an outer surface of the projection portion.

Moreover, in the above-described endoscope camera head according to the present invention, the projection portion is provided in plurality in a direction of circle about the first axis as a center.

Moreover, the above-described endoscope camera head according to the present invention includes: a coupler holding an endoscope that captures and outputs a subject image; and a camera-head main unit that includes a casing supporting the coupler rotatably about the first axis, and an imaging unit that is housed in the casing, and that images the subject image emitted from the endoscope, wherein the first member is the casing, and the second member is the coupler.

Moreover, the above-described endoscope camera head according to the present invention includes: a coupler holding an endoscope that captures and outputs a subject image; and a camera-head main unit that includes a casing supporting the coupler rotatably about the first axis, and an imaging unit that is housed in the casing, and that images the subject image emitted from the endoscope, wherein the first member is the coupler, and the second member is the casing.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

In the endoscope camera head according to the present invention, the first and the second members constituted of a coupler and a casing, respectively have the first and the second rotation sliding surfaces. The second rotation-sliding surface abuts only on a part of the first rotation-sliding surface, to expose a part of the first rotation-sliding surface outside.

Therefore, it is possible to insert a cleaning brush or to let cleaning solution reach the second rotation-sliding surface through the part of the first rotation-sliding surface exposed outside. Furthermore, by rotating the first and the second members relatively to each other about the first axis in a state in which the cleaning brush is inserted or the cleaning solution has entered therein, the first and the second rotation-sliding surfaces can be easily and efficiently cleaned.

Therefore, according to the endoscope camera head according to the present invention, an effect of reducing cleaning time is produced.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, modes (hereinafter, embodiments) to implement the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that embodiments described below are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, like reference symbols are assigned to like parts in descriptions of the drawings.

First Embodiment

Schematic Configuration of Endoscope Device

FIG.1is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an endoscope device1according to a first embodiment.

The endoscope device1is used in a medical field, and is a device to treat a living tissue (incision, and the like) while observing inside the living body. This endoscope device1includes, as illustrated inFIG.1, a resectscope2, an endoscope imaging device3, a display device4, and a control device5.

The resectscope2is a part that is inserted into a living body, and that captures a subject image and treats a living tissue. This resectscope2includes, as illustrated inFIG.1, a sheath21, a guide tube22, an endoscope23, a resect electrode member24, and a handle portion25.

The sheath21is a part having a cylindrical shape, and inserted into a living body.

The guide tube22has a smaller outer diameter than an inner diameter of the sheath21, and is inserted in the sheath21. The guide tube22is fixed to the sheath21through a mounting member221(FIG.1) on its distal end side (left side inFIG.1).

In the mounting member221, a water supply inlet222to infuse solution into the sheath21, and to supply the solution from a distal end of the sheath21is provided.

The endoscope23is a part of capturing a subject image, and includes, as illustrated inFIG.1, an insertion portion231and an eyepiece232.

The insertion portion231is fixed inside the guide tube22, and is inserted into the sheath21. Inside this insertion portion231, an optical system that is constituted of one or more lenses, and that gathers the subject image is provided.

The eyepiece232is connected to a proximal end (right end portion inFIG.1) of the insertion portion231.

Inside this eyepiece232, an eyepiece optical system2321(refer toFIG.2) that emits the subject image gathered by the optical system inside the insertion portion231from the eyepiece232to outside is provided. The eyepiece232is formed in a tapered shape in which a diameter increases toward a right side, and to an increased-diameter portion, the endoscope imaging device3is detachably connected.

To the eyepiece232, a light source connector2323to connect a light guide2322is arranged. That is, light supplied to the light guide2322from a light source device (not shown) is supplied to the insertion portion231through the eyepiece232. The light supplied to the insertion portion231is emitted from the distal end of the insertion portion231, and is irradiated inside a living body. The light irradiated inside the living body and reflected in the living body (subject image) is emitted from the eyepiece232through the optical system inside the insertion portion231and the eyepiece optical system2321.

The resect electrode member24is inserted in the sheath21through the mounting member221, and its distal end protrudes out from the distal end of the sheath21. The resect electrode member24brought in contact with a living tissue at its end portion, and treats the living tissue with a high frequency current.

The handle portion25is a part with which a doctor or the like holds the resectscope2, and operates the resect electrode member24. This handle portion25includes, as illustrated inFIG.1, a fixing ring251, a slider252, and a spring member253.

The fixing ring251is a part on which a doctor or the like hooks his/her thumb, and is fixed to the guide tube22.

The slider252has the guide tube22inserted therethrough, to be configured to be movable in a left and right direction inFIG.1along the guide tube22.

To this slider252, the resect electrode member24is fixed as illustrated inFIG.1. That is, the resect electrode member24reciprocates in a left and right direction inFIG.1inside the sheath21, along with movement of the slider252.

Moreover, in the slider252, a power source connector2522to connect a high-frequency power cord2521connected to a high frequency power source (not shown) is provided. This power source connector2522is electrically connected with the resect electrode member24through a lead (not shown).

Furthermore, in the slider252, a finger hook member2523on which fingers other than a thumb of a doctor or the like are hooked, to move the slider252(to reciprocate the resect electrode member24) is arranged.

The spring member253has a substantially U-shape, and one end there of is attached to the fixing ring251, and the other end is attached to the slider252. The spring member253applies pressure in such a direction that the slider252is apart from the fixing ring251.

That is, a doctor or the like hooks his/her fingers on the fixing ring251and the finger hook member2523, and pulls the finger hook member2523, resisting the pressure of the spring member253, to thereby move the slider252in rightward inFIG.1(to move the resect electrode member24rightward inFIG.1). On the other hand, when the doctor or the like moves the fingers off the finger hook member2523, the slider252(the resect electrode member24) moves leftward inFIG.1by the pressure of the spring member253.

The endoscope imaging device3is detachably connected to the eyepiece232of the resectscope2(the endoscope23). The endoscope imaging device3images a subject image (a subject image emitted from the eyepiece232) captured by the endoscope23, and outputs an image signal (RAW signal) from this imaging under control of the control device5. The image signal is, for example, an image signal of4K or higher.

A detailed configuration of the endoscope imaging device3will be described later.

The display device4is constituted of a display using a liquid crystal, an organic EL (electroluminescence), or the like, and displays, under a control of the control unit5, an observation image based on a video signal from the control unit5.

The control device5includes a (CPU) central processing unit, and controls operations of the endoscope imaging device3, the display device4, and the light source device (not shown) in a centralized manner. For example, the control device5generates a video signal for display by subjecting the image signal (RAW signal) output from the endoscope imaging device3to predetermined image processing. The control device5then causes the display device4to display an observation image based on the video signal.

Configuration of Endoscope Imaging Device

Next, a configuration of the endoscope imaging device will be described.

FIG.2is a cross-section illustrating a connecting portion between the eyepiece232and an endoscope camera head6.FIG.3is an enlarged view of a part ofFIG.2.

The endoscope imaging device3includes, as illustrated inFIG.1orFIG.2, the endoscope camera head6and a cable7(FIG.1).

The endoscope camera head6is a part detachably connected to the eyepiece232as illustrated inFIG.1or

FIG.2. This endoscope camera head6includes, as illustrated inFIG.2, a casing8, a coupler9, a prism10, a lens unit11, and an imaging unit12.

The casing8corresponds to a first member according to the present invention. This casing8includes, as illustrated inFIG.2orFIG.3, a casing main body81and an attachment bush82.

The casing main body81is a case that houses the respective parts10to12. In this casing main body81, a protrusion portion811in a cylindrical shape, communicating inside and outside of the casing main body81is arranged, as illustrated inFIG.2orFIG.3.

In the protrusion portion811, as illustrated in FIG.2orFIG.3, a jut-out portion812that juts out toward a left side inFIG.2andFIG.3is arranged on an outer circumferential side. This jut-out portion812has an outer diameter substantially the same as the protrusion portion811, is formed in a cylindrical shape having an inner diameter larger than the protrusion portion811, and is integrated with a distal end of the protrusion portion811, coaxially with the protrusion portion811. Moreover, on an inner circumferential surface of the jut-out portion812, a screw groove813is formed.

The attachment bush82is a part to attach the coupler9to the casing8. This attachment bush82includes, as illustrated inFIG.2orFIG.3, a bush main body821and a jut-out portion822.

The bush main body821has an inner diameter substantially the same as the protrusion portion811, and is formed in a cylindrical shape having an outer diameter substantially the same as the inner diameter of the jut-out portion812. Furthermore, on an outer circumferential surface of the bush main body821, a screw groove823is formed as illustrated inFIG.2orFIG.3.

The jut-out portion822extends out from a rim portion at a left end inFIG.2,FIG.3on the outer circumferential surface of the bush main body821, and is formed in an annular shape having an outer diameter substantially the same as the jut-out portion812.

The casing main body81and the attachment bush82are fixed to each other, by engaging the screw grooves813and823with each other. In this state, center axes of the casing main body81and the attachment bush82agree with each other. The center axis corresponds to a first axis Ax1(FIG.2,FIG.3) according to the present invention. Moreover, in the attachment bush82, an optical device83of sapphire glass, or the like is fixed as illustrated inFIG.2orFIG.3.

In the state in which the casing main body81and the attachment bush82are fixed to each other, with surfaces of respective ends of the jut-out portion812and822facing each other, and the outer circumferential surface of the bush main body821, a concave portion84(FIG.2,FIG.3) extending in an annular shape having the first axis Ax1in center is provided. An inner surface of the concave portion84(the surfaces of respective ends of the jut-out portions812and822facing each other, and the outer circumferential surface of the bush main body821) corresponds to a first rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention.

The coupler9is a part corresponding to a second member according to the present invention. This coupler9has a bottomed-cylindrical shape in which the eyepiece232can be fitted therein as illustrated inFIG.2.

On an inner circumferential surface of this coupler9, a pressurizing portion91is arranged as illustrate inFIG.2.

This pressurizing portion91has elasticity enable to move in a direction of separation in adjoining isolation relative to a center axis Ax2of the coupler9, and applies pressure to the eyepiece232toward a bottom portion of the coupler9, by abutting on an outer circumferential surface of the eyepiece232that is fitted in the coupler9. In the first embodiment, four pieces of the pressurizing portions91are provided, and are arranged to be rotationally symmetric at 90° about the center axis Ax2. Note that in the state in which the eyepiece232is fitted inside the coupler9, an optical axis Ax3of the endoscope23(FIG.2, hereinafter, referred to as endoscope optical axis Ax3) agree with the center axis Ax2. Moreover, on an outer circumferential surface of the eyepiece232on a right end portion inFIG.2, an expanding portion2324that expands toward a right side inFIG.2is provided on the entire circumference. Therefore, when the eyepiece232is pressurized toward the bottom portion of the coupler9by the pressurizing portion91, the expanding portion2324abuts on the bottom portion. Thus, space Ar (FIG.2) is formed between the optical device83and the eyepiece optical system2321.

Moreover, the bottom portion of the coupler9is constituted of a plate in a circular shape when viewed from top, each plane of which is perpendicular to the center axis Ax2. Moreover, the bottom portion has a thickness substantially the same as a width of the concave portion84. Furthermore, in the bottom portion, a through hole92that penetrates through to its front and rear surfaces, and that has a circular shape when viewed from top having an inner diameter substantially the same as an outer diameter of the bush main body821is formed. The coupler9is attached to the casing8as a rim portion of the through hole92engages with (fits in) the concave portion84in a state in which an opening of the bottomed-cylindrical shape is directed to the left side inFIG.2. In this state, the center axis Ax2agrees with the first axis Ax1. Moreover, the coupler9is restricted its movement to a direction of the first axis Ax1relative to the casing8, and is rotatable relative to the casing8about the first axis Ax1(the center axis Ax2).

Therefore, the endoscope camera head6is structured rotatable about the first axis Ax1(the center axis Ax2, the endoscope optical axis Ax3), relative to the eyepiece232of the endoscope23through the coupler9. Moreover, the endoscope camera head6is structured such that its center of gravity O (FIG.1) is positioned off the first axis Ax1(a rotation center axis relative to the eyepiece232). The endoscope camera head6rotates about the first axis Ax1irrespective of rotation about the first axis Ax1of the resectscope2, and is structured to maintain an orientation in which an optical axis Ax4(FIG.2, hereinafter, referred to as in-case optical axis Ax4) set inside the casing81is along a vertical direction (orientation in which the center of gravity O is positioned below the first axis Ax1) all the time.

The rim portion of the through hole92extends in an annular shape about the first axis Ax1, and corresponds to a convex portion93(FIG.2,FIG.3) according to the present invention. Furthermore, the outer surface of the convex portion93is a portion that slides on the inner surface of the concave portion84, and corresponds to a second rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention.

At a distal end of the convex portion93(inner surface of the through hole92), a groove portion94is formed as illustrated inFIG.2orFIG.3.

FIG.4is a diagram illustrating the groove portion94. The groove portion94extends in a spiral shape about the first axis Ax1(the center axis Ax2) at the distal end of the convex portion93as illustrated inFIG.4. In the state in which the coupler9is attached to the casing8, a part of both end portions941,942in the direction of the first axis Ax1in the groove portion94is respectively positioned outside the concave portion84.

That is, in the state in which relative rotation of the casing8and the coupler9about the first axis Ax1is stopped, the outer surface of the convex portion93(the second rotation-sliding surface according to the second embodiment) abuts only on a part of the inner surface (the first rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention) of the concave portion84by having the groove portion94, enabling to expose a part of the inner surface of the concave portion84outside.

The prism10is arranged on the first axis Ax1and on the in-case optical axis Ax4as illustrated inFIG.2, and polarizes a subject image captured by the endoscope23to change the traveling direction. Specifically, the prism10polarizes a subject image (subject image that travels along the endoscope optical axis Ax3) that is emitted from the eyepiece232and taken into the casing8through the optical device83, to change the traveling direction by 90° to travel along the in-case optical axis

The lens unit11is arranged on the in-case optical axis Ax4as illustrated inFIG.2. This lens unit11is constituted of one or plural lenses, and forms an image of the subject image entering through the prism10on an imaging surface of the imaging unit12. Moreover, the lens unit11is provided with an optical zoom function (not shown) that changes an angle of view by moving the one or plural lenses under control of the control device5or an operating unit13(FIG.1), and a focus mechanism (not shown) that changes a focal point.

The imaging unit12is arranged on the in-case optical axis Ax4as illustrated inFIG.2. The imaging unit12images a subject image formed by the lens unit11under control of the control device5. This imaging unit12is constituted of a sensor chip in which an imaging device (not shown) that receives a subject image formed by the lens unit11to convert into an electrical signal, such as a CCD (charge coupled device) and a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor), and a signal processing unit (not shown) that outputs an image signal by subjecting the electrical signal (analog signal) from the imaging device to a signal processing (A/D conversion, and the like), and the like are integrally formed, and outputs the image signal (RAW signal (digital signal)) subjected to the A/D conversion. Note that the signal processing unit described above may be prepared as a separate unit without integrating with the imaging device.

The cable7is detachably connected at its one end to the control device5through a connector CN1(FIG.1), and is detachably connected at the other end to the endoscope camera head6through a connector CN2(FIG.1). The cable7transmits an image signal output from the endoscope camera head6to the control device5, and transmits a control signal, a synchronization signal, a clock, power, and the like output from the control device5to the endoscope camera head6.

Note that in transmission of an image signal from the endoscope camera head6through the cable7, the image signal may be transmitted in an optical signal, or may be transmitted in an electrical signal. The same applies to transmission of the control signal, the synchronization signal, and the clock from the control device5to the endoscope camera head6through the cable7.

Moreover, in the cable7, the operating unit13that receives various kinds of operations from a doctor and the like (for example, an instruction of image quality adjustment (white balance adjustment, brightness adjustment, and the like) of an observation image, an instruction to change an angle of view or a focal point of the lens unit11, and the like) is provided as illustrated inFIG.1.

According to the first embodiment described above, following effects are produced.

The endoscope camera head6according to the first embodiment includes the casing8having the concave portion84that extends in an annular shape about the first axis Ax1, and the coupler9having the convex portion93that extends in an annular shape about the first axis Ax1and that engages with the concave portion84. Moreover, at the distal end of the convex portion93, the groove portion94is formed that extends in a spiral shape about the first axis Ax1, and in which respective parts of the both end portions941and942in the direction of the first axis Ax1are positioned outside the concave portion84, respectively. The outer surface of the convex portion93abuts only on a part of the inner surface of the concave portion84by having the groove portion94, in the state in which relative rotation of casing8and the coupler about the first axis Ax1is stopped, to expose a part of the inner surface of the concave portion84.

Therefore, by relatively rotating the casing8and the coupler9about the first axis Ax1in a state in which the endoscope camera head6is immersed in cleaning solution, the cleaning solution flows into the groove portion94from the end portion941as indicated by an arrow inFIG.3, and follows the groove portion94to flows out of the groove portion94from the end portion942. That is, it is possible to clean a portion between the inner surface of the concave portion84and the outer surface of the convex portion93easily and effectively. Note that depending on a rotation direction of the casing8and the coupler9, a flowing direction of the cleaning solution indicated by the arrow inFIG.3is to be opposite.

Therefore, according to the endoscope camera head6according to the first embodiment, an effect of reducing the cleaning time is produced.

Modification 1-1 of First Embodiment

FIG.5andFIG.6are diagrams illustrating a modification 1-1 of the first embodiment. Specifically,FIG.5is a diagram corresponding toFIG.3.FIG.6is a diagram illustrating a groove portion815according to the modification 1-1.

In the endoscope camera head6according to the first embodiment described above, the first member according to the present invention is the casing8, and the second member according to the present invention is the coupler9, but it is not limited thereto. For example, as an endoscope camera head6A according to the modification 1-1 illustrated inFIG.5andFIG.6, the first member according to the present invention may be a coupler9A, and the second member according to the present invention may be a casing8A.

Specifically, the coupler9A according to the modification 1-1 includes a coupler main body95and an attachment bush96as illustrated inFIG.5.

The coupler main body95has a bottomed-cylindrical shape enabling to be engaged in the eyepiece232, similarly to the coupler9described in the first embodiment.

In a bottom portion of this coupler main body95, a through hole951that penetrates through to its front and rear surfaces, and that has a circular shape when viewed from top is formed as illustrated inFIG.5. Moreover, on an inner circumferential surface of the through hole951, a jut-out portion952that extends toward the center axis Ax2and that has an annular shape around the center axis Ax2as its center is formed on a right end rim side inFIG.5. Furthermore, on the inner circumferential surface of the through hole951, a screw groove953is formed on a left side inFIG.5relative to the jut-out portion952.

The attachment bush96is a member to attach the coupler9A to the casing8A. This attachment bush96includes a bush main body961and a jut-out portion962as illustrated inFIG.5.

The bush main body961has an outer diameter substantially the same as an inner diameter of the through hole951, and is formed in a cylindrical shape having an inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of the jut-out portion952. Moreover, on an outer circumferential surface of the bush main body961, a screw groove963is formed as illustrated inFIG.5.

The jut-out portion962protrudes toward the center axis Ax2from a left end rim side of an inner circumferential surface of the bush main body961inFIG.1, and is formed in an annular shape having an inner diameter substantially the same as the jut-out portion952.

The coupler main body95and the attachment bush96are fixed to each other, by engaging the screw grooves953and963with each other. In this state, a center axis of the attachment bush96agrees with the center axis Ax2of the coupler main body95.

In the state in which the coupler main body95and the attachment bush96are fixed to each other, with surfaces of respective ends of the jut-out portions952and962facing each other, and the inner circumferential surface of the bush main body961, a concave portion97extending in an annular shape having the first axis Ax1in center is provided as illustrated inFIG.5. An inner surface of the concave portion97(the surfaces of respective ends of the jut-out portions952and962facing each other, and the inner circumferential surface of the bush main body961) corresponds to the first rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention.

Moreover, the casing8A according to the modification 1-1 is structured without the attachment bush82, omitting from the casing8described in the first embodiment above, and is constituted of only of the casing81A having a protrusion portion811A in a different shape from the protrusion portion811.

The protrusion portion811A has a bottomed-cylindrical shape that communicates inside and outside of the casing main body81A, similarly to the protrusion portion811described in the first embodiment. Moreover, in the protrusion portion811A, the optical device83is fixed as illustrated inFIG.5. Furthermore, in the protrusion portion811A, a convex portion814that protrudes out from the left end rim on the outer circumferential surface inFIG.5, and that has an annular shape having the first axis Ax1as its center is provided. This convex portion814has thickness substantially the same as a width of the concave portion97. Moreover, the convex portion814has an outer diameter substantially the same as the inner diameter of the bush main body961. The coupler9A is attached to the casing8A as the convex portion814engages with (fits in) the concave portion97. In this state, the center axis Ax2agrees with the first axis Ax1. Moreover, the coupler9A is restricted its movement to a direction of the first axis Ax1relative to the casing8A, and is rotatable relative to the casing8A about the first axis Ax1(the center axis Ax2).

The outer surface of the convex portion814is a portion that slides on the inner surface of the concave portion97, and corresponds to the second rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention.

At a distal end of the convex portion814, a groove portion815is formed as illustrated inFIG.5orFIG.6.

The groove portion815extends in a spiral shape about the first axis Ax1at the distal end of the convex portion814as illustrated inFIG.6. In the state in which the coupler9A is attached to the casing8A, respective parts of the both end portions816and817in the direction of the first axis Ax1in the groove portion815are positioned outside the concave portion97, respectively.

That is, the outer surface of the convex portion814(the second rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention) abuts only on a part of the inner surface of the concave portion97(the first rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention) by having the groove portion815, in the state in which relative rotation of casing8and the coupler9A about the first axis Ax1is stopped, to expose a part of the inner surface of the concave portion97.

As the modification 1-1 described above, also when the first member according to the present invention is the coupler9A, and the second member according to the present invention is the casing8A, effects similar to those of the first embodiment described above are produced.

Second Embodiment

Hereinafter, same reference symbols are assigned to same components as the first embodiment described above, and detailed description thereof is omitted or simplified.

FIG.7is a cross-section illustrating a connecting portion between the eyepiece232and an endoscope camera head6B according to the second embodiment.FIG.8is a diagram illustrating a coupler9B according to the second embodiment. Specifically,FIG.8is a diagram of a view of the coupler9B from a side on which the eyepiece232is fitted in.

In the endoscope camera head6B according to the second embodiment, as illustrated inFIG.7orFIG.8, the coupler9B in a different shape from the coupler9is used for the endoscope camera head6described in the first embodiment above.

The coupler9B has a through hole92B having an inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of the through hole92when compared with the coupler9described in the first embodiment. The inner diameter of this through hole92B is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the jut-out portions812,822. Moreover, on an inner circumferential surface of the through hole92B, a projection portion98that projects toward the center axis Ax2from a right end rim side inFIG.7, and in which a proximal end thereof extends in an arc shape having the center axis Ax2(the first axis Ax1) as its center is formed. This projection portion98has thickness substantially the same as the width of the concave portion84. In the second embodiment, three pieces of the projection portions98are provided, and are arranged to be rotationally symmetric at 120° about the center axis Ax2(the first axis Ax1). Furthermore, a locus of distal ends of the three projection portion98forms a circular shape having a diameter substantially the same as the outer diameter of the bush main body821. The coupler9B is attached to the casing8as the three projection portions98respectively engage with (fit in) the concave portion84in a state in which an opening of the bottomed-cylindrical shape is directed to the left side inFIG.7. In this state, the center axis Ax2agrees with the first axis Ax1. Moreover, the coupler9B is restricted its movement to a direction of the first axis Ax1relative to the casing8, and is rotatable relative to the casing8about the first axis Ax1(the center axis Ax2).

The outer surface of the projection portion98is a portion that slides on the inner surface of the concave portion84, and corresponds to the second rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention.

That is, the outer surface of the projection portion98(the second rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention) abuts only on a part of the inner surface (the first rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention) of the concave portion84in a state in which relative rotation of the casing8and the coupler9B about the first axis Ax1is stopped, to expose a part of the inner surface of the concave portion84.

According to the second embodiment described above, following effects are produced.

FIG.9andFIG.10are diagrams illustrating an effect of the second embodiment. Specifically,FIG.9is a diagram corresponding toFIG.7.FIG.10is a diagram corresponding toFIG.8.

The endoscope camera head6B according to the second embodiment includes the casing8having the concave portion84that extends in an annular shape having the first axis Ax1as its center, and the coupler9B having the projection portion98, the distal end of which extends in an arc shape having the first axis Ax1as its center and engages with the concave portion84. The outer surface of the projection portion98abuts only on a part of the inner surface of the concave portion84in a state in which relative rotation of the casing8and the coupler9B about the first axis Ax1is stopped, to expose a part of the inner surface of the concave portion84outside.

Therefore, the inner surface of the concave portion84can be cleaned as described below.

That is, as illustrated inFIG.9orFIG.10, in a gap between a rim portion of the through hole92B and the jut-out portion812, a cleaning brush Br is brought into contact with the inner surface of the concave portion84from a portion at which the projection portion98is not formed. By rotating the coupler9B and the cleaning brush Br about the first axis Ax1with respect to the casing8as indicated by an arrow inFIG.10, a portion between the inner surface of the concave portion84and the outer surface of the projection portion98can be cleaned easily and efficiently.

Therefore, according to the endoscope camera head6B according to the second embodiment, an effect of reducing cleaning time is produced.

Moreover, in the gap between the rim portion of the through hole92B and the jut-out portion812, a portion at which the projection portion98is not formed is to be a ventilation hole that communicates inside and outside a space Ar. For this, it is possible to suppress formation of condensation on the eyepiece optical system2321or the optical device83, and to reduce drying time when condensation is formed.

Particularly, three pieces of the projection portions98are provided at positions to be rotationally symmetric at 120° about the first axis Ax1. For this, the ventilation holes that communicate inside and outside the space Ar can be spaced uniformly, and it is possible to suppress formation of condensation on the eyepiece optical system2321and the optical device83effectively, and to significantly reduce drying time when condensation is formed.

Modification 2-1 of Second Embodiment

FIG.11andFIG.12are diagrams illustrating a modification 2-1 of the second embodiment. Specifically,FIG.11is a cross section illustrating a connecting portion between a casing8C and the coupler9A according to the modification 2-1.FIG.12is a view of the casing8C from a distal end side of a protrusion portion811C.

In the endoscope camera head6B according to the second embodiment described above, the first member according to the present invention is the casing8, and the second member according to the present invention is the coupler9B, but it is not limited thereto. For example, as an endoscope camera head6C according to the modification 2-1 illustrated inFIG.11andFIG.12, the first member according to the present invention may be the coupler9A, and the second member according to the present invention is the casing8C.

Specifically, the coupler9A according to the modification 2-1 has the same configuration as the coupler9A described in the modification 1-1.

Moreover, the casing8C according to the modification 2-1 is structured without the attachment bush82, omitting from the casing8described in the second embodiment, and is constituted of only of a casing main body81C having the protrusion portion811C in a different shape from the protrusion portion811as illustrated inFIG.11orFIG.12.

The protrusion portion811C has a cylindrical shape that communicates inside and outside the casing main body81C, similarly to the protrusion portion811described in the second embodiment. Moreover, inside the protrusion portion811C, the optical device83is fixed as illustrated inFIG.11. Furthermore, in the protrusion portion811C, a projection portion818that protrudes from a left end rim side inFIG.11on an outer surface, and a proximal end of which extends in an arc shape having the first axis Ax1as its center is formed. This projection portion818has thickness substantially the same as the width of the concave portion97. In the modification 2-1, three pieces of the projection portions818are provided, and are arranged to be rotationally symmetric at 120° about the first axis Ax1. Furthermore, a locus of distal ends of the three projection portions98forms a circular shape having a diameter substantially the same as the inner diameter of the bush main body961. The coupler9A is attached to the casing8C as the three projection portions818respectively engage with (fit in) the concave portion97in a state in which an opening of the bottomed-cylindrical shape is directed to the left side inFIG.11. In this state, the center axis Ax2agrees with the first axis Ax1. Moreover, the coupler9C is restricted its movement to a direction of the first axis Ax1relative to the casing8C, and is rotatable relative to the casing8C about the first axis Ax1(the center axis Ax2).

The outer surface of the projection portion818is a portion that slides on the inner surface of the concave portion97, and corresponds to the second rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention.

That is, the outer surface of the projection portion818(the second rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention) abuts only on a part of the inner surface of the concave portion97(the first rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention), in the state in which relative rotation of casing8C and the coupler9A about the first axis Ax1is stopped, to expose a part of the inner surface of the concave portion97.

As in the modification 2-1 described above, also when the first member according to the present invention is the coupler9A, and the second member according to the present invention is the casing8C, a similar effect as the second embodiment described above is produced.

Modification 2-2 of Second Embodiment

FIG.13is a diagram illustrating a modification 2-2 of the second embodiment. Specifically,FIG.13is a diagram corresponding toFIG.7.

In the second embodiment described above, a projection portion98D may be used instead of the projection portion98as in an endoscope camera head6D (coupler9D) according to the modification 2-2 illustrated inFIG.13.

The projection portion98D includes a projection-portion main body981and a convex portion982as illustrated inFIG.13.

The projection-portion main body981is a portion that protrudes toward the center axis Ax2from a right end rim side inFIG.13on the inner circumferential surface of the through hole92B. A proximal end of this projection-portion main body981extends in an arc shape having the center axis Ax2(the first axis Ax1) as its center. Moreover, the projection-portion main body981has thickness larger than the width of the concave portion84. Furthermore, a locus of distal ends of the three projection portions981forms a circular shape having a diameter substantially the same as the outer diameter of the jut-out portion812

The convex portion982protrudes toward the center axis Ax2from a left end rim side inFIG.13at the distal end of the projection-portion main body981. This convex portion982has thickness substantially the same as the width of the concave portion84. Moreover, a locus of distal ends of the three convex portions982forms a circular shape having a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the jut-out portion812, and larger than the outer diameter of the bush main body821.

As described above, the distal end of the projection portion98D is formed in a stepped-shape along the center axis Ax2by the convex portion982.

With the structure described above, the coupler9D is attached to the casing8as the three convex portions982respectively engage with (fit in) the concave portion84in a state in which an opening of the bottomed-cylindrical shape is directed to a left side inFIG.13, and as the distal end of the projection-portion main body981abuts on the outer circumferential surface of the jut-out portion812. In this state, the center axis Ax2agrees with the first axis Ax1. Moreover, the coupler9D is restricted its movement to the direction of the first axis Ax1relative to the casing8, and is rotatable relative to the casing8about the first axis Ax1(the center axis Ax2).

The inner surface of the concave portion84and the outer circumferential surface and the jut-out portion812are portions on which the coupler9D slides, and corresponds to the first rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention. Moreover, the outer surface of the projection portion98D (the distal end of the projection-portion main body981and the outer surface of the convex portion982) is a portion that slides on the inner surface of the concave portion84and on the outer circumferential surface of the jut-out portion812, and corresponds to the second rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention.

That is, the outer surface of the projection portion98D (the second rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention) abuts only on a part of the inner surface of the concave portion84and of the outer circumferential surface of the jut-out portion812(the first rotation-sliding surface according to the present invention) in a state in which relative rotation of the casing8and the coupler9D about the first axis Ax1is stopped, to expose a part of the inner surface of the concave portion84and of the outer circumferential surface of the jut-out portion812outside.

According to the modification 2-2 described above, in addition to the effect similar to the second embodiment described above, a following effect is produced.

In the endoscope camera head6D according to the modification 2-2, the outer circumferential surface of the jut-out portion812and the distal end of the projection-portion main body981form a part of the first and the second rotation-sliding surfaces according to the present invention. That is, not a portion deep inside, but a portion easy to clean forms a part of the first and the second rotation-sliding surfaces according to the present invention. Therefore, cleaning is made further easier, and cleaning time can be further reduced.

Modification 2-3 of Second Embodiment

FIG.14is a diagram illustrating a modification 2-3 of the second embodiment. Specifically,FIG.14is a diagram corresponding toFIG.7.

In the second embodiment described above, as in an endoscope camera head BE (coupler9E) according to the modification 2-3 illustrated inFIG.14, a projection portion98E may be used instead of the projection portion98.

The projection portion98E is arranged at a position offset to right side (side apart from the eyepiece232) from the projection portion98described in the second embodiment.

According to the modification 2-3 described above, in addition to an effect similar to the second embodiment, a following effect is produced.

In the endoscope camera head6E according to the modification 2-3, the projection portion98E is arranged at a position offset to a direction apart from the eyepiece232. That is, by expanding the space Ar, sufficient ventilation is achieved. Therefore, it is possible to suppress formation of condensation on the eyepiece optical system2321or the optical device83effectively, and to significantly reduce drying time when condensation is formed.

Other Embodiments

Embodiments to implement the present invention have been described, but the present invention is not limited only to the first and the second embodiments and the modifications 1-1, 2-1 to 2-3 described above.

FIG.15is a diagram illustrating a modification 3-1 of the first and the second embodiments.

In the first and the second embodiments and the modifications 1-1, 2-1 to 2-3, the endoscope camera heads6,6A to6E are detachably provided with respect to the resectscope2for urinary organs, but it is not limited thereto. As in an endoscope device1F according to the modification 3-1 illustrated inFIG.15, the endoscope camera head6may be detachably provided, for example, with respect to an endoscope2F for digestive organs.

The endoscope2F is constituted of a rigid endoscope. That is, the endoscope2F is hard or at least a part thereof is flexible and has a thin and long shape, to be inserted into a living body. In this endoscope2F, an optical system that is constituted of one or more lenses, and gathers a subject image is provided. Light supplied from a light source device14(FIG.15) to the light guide2322is emitted from a distal end of the endoscope2F, to be irradiated to an inside of the living body. The light irradiated inside the living body and reflected inside the living body (subject image) is gathered by the optical system in the endoscope2F. The endoscope camera head6images the subject image gathered by the optical system in the endoscope2F.

Moreover, not limited to a rigid endoscope, the endoscope2F may be a flexible endoscope.

In the first and the second embodiments, and the modifications 1-1, 2-1 to 2-3, 3-1, the endoscope devices1,1F may be an endoscope device that is used in an industrial field, and that observes inside a subject, such as a mechanical structure.

In the first embodiment and the modification 1-1 described above, the grooves according to the present invention (the groove portions94,815) are arranged in the convex portions93,814, but it is not limited thereto, and may be arranged in the concave portions84,97.

In the second embodiment and the modifications 2-1 to 2-3 described above, the number of the projection portions according to the present invention (the projection portions98,98D,98E,818) is not limited to three, but may be one, two, four, or more.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST