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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention:
This invention relates to an endoscope chair to be used by an operator
while using a medical endoscopes.
2. Related Art Statement:
Recently, there is entensively used an endoscope whereby a body cavity
interior can be observed by inserting an elongated insertable part into
the body cavity without requiring to incise the body cavity or a curing
treatment can be made using a treating tool inserted through a forceps
channel provided in the insertable part.
There has been heretofore extensively used an endoscope of a type wherein
an image within a body cavity is transmitted to an eyepiece part by using
a fiber bundle relay lens system to observe the interior of the body
cavity or of a type wherein an image is converted to an electric video
signal which is then displayed in a monitor. An operating part is provided
in such endoscope so as to be gripped by the hand of the operator. As
shown in the gazette of Japanese Patent Laid Open No. 13436/1980, a still
camera or video camera is fitted to an eyepiece part provided in the above
mentioned operating part to image the interior of a body cavity. Thus, in
the case of using an endoscope, it is necessary to operate not only the
endoscope but also such various apparatus around the endoscope as a still
camera, video camera, forceps and endoscope light and current source
apparatus. Therefore, for example, a foot switch has been provided
separately from the endoscope operating part so as to help the manual
operation. Such foot switch has been merely arranged on a floor so as to
be operated by the foot while the endoscope user is standing.
Switches of such peripheral apparatus of an endoscope as current and light
source apparatus and a video processor have been provided mostly on
operating panels of the peripheral apparatus set in immovable positions.
Thus, for example, a foot switch for improving the operability is provided
for an endoscope besides various switches provided in the endoscope body.
However, such foot switch is to be used as merely placed on a floor, is
therefore in the way of feet of the user moving frequently during the
diagnosis and curing treatment and has a danger of accidentally causing a
misoperation. As the various peripheral apparatus are set in immovable
positions separately from the above mentioned endoscope body, the user
must go to the peripheral apparatus whenever he operates the endoscope.
Further, the user performs a diagnosis or curing treatment while keeping
the observing position of the endoscope and is therefore likely to be
fatigued. It is desirable that the user works while sitting on a chair.
However, as described above, the work is so complicated by the operation
of various switches that the fatigue at the time of using the endoscope
can not be reduced by sitting on a chair.
On the other hand, the operator must perform various operations while
holding the operating part of the endoscope as mentioned above, the
endoscope is used over a long time and therefore it is desirable to reduce
the burden on the operator of holding the endoscope during the operation.
Now, a hanger for keeping not only an endoscope but also treating tools has
been often used but is not to be used while the endoscope is being used
and is so formed as to keep the endoscope. With such hanger to be used to
keep an endoscope, such large movements required in the endoscope
inspection as varying in the vertical and horizontal directions the
position relation between the operating part and the mouth of the patient,
swinging the operating part largely rightward and leftward to be in the
form of a fan and twisting the operating part to twist the insertable part
can not be given to the operating part. Therefore, such hanger is not
adapted for use as a holding device while the endoscope is being used.
By the way, the present applicant has suggested an article supporting
apparatus by using an oil pressure in the gazettes of Japanese Utility
Model Publications Nos. 39834/1978 and 25038/1980. As oil pressure is
utilized therein, the apparatus is bulky.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope chair
apparatus whereby the operator can operate an endoscope and switch the
peripheral apparatus of the endoscope while sitting on a chair so that the
fatigue of the operator may be reduced and the operation of the above
mentioned endoscope and switching of the peripheral apparatus for the
endoscope may be easy.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope chair
apparatus whereby the operator of an endoscope is relieved of gripping the
operating part of the endoscope so that the fatigue of the operator may be
reduced and the operator may engage exclusively in various operations and
treatments.
In the endoscope chair apparatus of the present invention, a chair is
provided so that, while sitting on the chair, the user of an endoscope may
diagnose or treat a patient by inserting the endoscope into the body
cavity of the patient and various switches and the like may be arranged on
the chair.
Also, in the endoscope chair apparatus of the present invention, the above
mentioned chair is provided with an endoscope holding apparatus which can
be held by the operator without gripping the operating part of the
endoscope.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent
enough with the following explanation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGS. 1 to 7 show respective embodiments of the present invention wherein
an auxiliary apparatus is made as a chair apparatus.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the second embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the third embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the fifth embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the sixth embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the seventh embodiment.
FIGS. 8 to 11 relate to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view showing an endoscope holding
apparatus of the eighth embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a holding part holding an endoscope.
FIG. 10 is a sectioned view showing an attachment fitted to an endoscope.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory view showing a rotation regulating mechanism
formed in the holding part.
FIG. 12 is a sectioned view showing an attachment fitted to a breaking
stopping part different from that of the first embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view showing the ninth embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view showing the tenth embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the surroundings of a holding part in
the tenth embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a sectioned view showing the holding part in the tenth
embodiment.
FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view showing the eleventh embodiment of
the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a sectioned view showing a holding part in the eleventh
embodiment.
FIG. 19 is an elevation showing a handle part in the eleventh embodiment.
FIG. 20 is an elevation showing an embodiment of a handle part different
from that in FIG. 19.
FIG. 21 is a schematic perspective view showing the twelfth embodiment of
the present invention.
FIG. 22 is a side view showing a holding part in the thirteenth embodiment.
FIG. 23 is a schematic side view showing the fourteenth embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 24 is an elevation showing a switch box in the fourteenth embodiment.
FIG. 25 is a schematic side view showing the fifteenth embodiment.
FIG. 26 is a schematic perspective view showing the sixteenth embodiment.
FIG. 27 is a sectioned view showing a retractable arm in the sixteenth
embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 28 is a perspective view showing a holding part of the seventeenth
embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 29 is a sectioned view showing the structure of the holding part as
holding an endoscope.
FIG. 30 is a schematic plan view showing the eighteenth embodiment of an
auxiliary apparatus of the present invention wherein a chair and bed are
operatively connected with each other.
FIG. 31 is a side view of FIG. 30.
FIG. 32 is a schematic side view showing the nineteenth embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 33 is a schematic side view showing the twentieth embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 34 is a plan view of FIG. 33.
FIG. 35 is a schematic side view showing the twenty-first embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 36 is a schematic side view showing the twenty-second embodiment of
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:
Shown in FIG. 1 is the first embodiment of this invention. In the drawing,
the reference numeral 1 represents a body of a chair for an endoscope
operator. Below a seat part 2 in this body are provided a later described
electric light source 3, a supporting pillar 4 fixed below and supporting
seat part 2 and electric light source 3, and a base 5 supporting pillar 4
movably with respect to a floor. A plurality of casters 6 are provided
below the base 5.
A connector 8 provided at the end of a universal cord 7a of an endoscope 7
is connected to the electric light source 3 as a body of the above
mentioned endoscope apparatus so as to transmit an illuminating light and
exchange information. An operating panel 9 is provided on one side of the
electric light source 3 on which the connecting part 3a of this connector
8 is provided. A switch 9a for operating the electric light source 3 is
provided on this operating panel 9.
A supporting part 10 projecting in the width direction of the above
mentioned chair body 1 is provided in the front part of this operating
panel 9a. A supporting pillar 11 is supported on this supporting part 10.
At an intermediate part of this supporting pillar 11, an L-shaped bent arm
12 is fixed at the end so as to be rotatable in the peripheral direction
and slidable in the vertical or axial direction of the supporting pillar
11. A switch box 13 is provided at the tip of this arm 12.
Also, foot switches 14 are provided on the above mentioned base 5 so as to
be positioned below the feet of the user. The foot switches 14 are thus
provided with respect to the body 1 of the chair for the endoscope
operator, therefore can be prevented from being in the way below the feet
when the user or the like walks and moves and can reduce the danger of
misoperation.
The respective switches are positioned by considering their operating
frequency. That is to say, the operating switches provided on the above
mentioned operating panel 9 are so low in the using frequency as to be set
only once and are, for example, a main switch and switches for switching
on compressed air or an emergency light. Switches comparatively high in
using frequency are provided on the above mentioned switch box 13 and are,
for example, switches for adjusting the light amount and automatically
adjusting the light.
Further, the above mentioned foot switches 14 are provided with switches
high in using frequency the same as in the above mentioned switch box 13
and with such trigger switches required to be operated while operating the
endoscope with both hands as, for example, release switches in the imaging
apparatus and recording apparatus. Additional switches high in the
operating frequency are provided in the operating part 7b of the endoscope
7. If the endoscope 7 is in the operating state or both hands are being
used for other operations, the operation can be made easy by
simultaneously using both switches. Even if the user moves while sitting
on this endoscope apparatus chair, the respective switches which are
provided on the body 1 of this chair will be always in the same positions
with respect to the user and will be able to improve the operability to be
higher than in the conventional structure. Further, as the user can
operate the endoscope while sitting on the seat part 2, the fatigue in
operating the endoscope can be reduced to be remarkably lower than before.
An input and output cord 15 is formed of a curled cord and therefore can be
used for such signal cable as for the current source supply and other
peripheral apparatus. When the above mentioned seat body 1 is moved, the
cord 15 formed of a curled cord will not be in the way.
By the way, the above mentioned endoscope apparatus body may be one in
which the electric light source 3 is part of a video processor used in an
electronic endoscope having a built-in solid state imaging apparatus. In
such case, a freeze switch is added to the release switch of the above
mentioned imaging apparatus or recording apparatus.
The second embodiment shall be explained in the following with reference to
FIG. 2. The fundamental structure is substantially the same as in the
first embodiment and therefore the same component parts shall bear the
same reference numerals to avoid duplication of the explanation.
In the drawing, the reference numeral 1 represents a body of an endoscope
apparatus chair. A laser cauterizing apparatus 16 is provided as part of
the endoscope apparatus just below the seat part 2 of this body 1.
A laser probe 17 inserted through a forceps channel (not illustrated) of
the endoscope 7 is connected to this laser cauterizing apparatus 16. A
trigger switch of this laser cauterizing apparatus 16 is the foot switch
14 removably provided on the base 5. Other respective switches are
provided on a laser cauterizing panel 18 of the laser cauterizing
apparatus 16. An input and output cord 19 serving as a current source
supplying and earthing cord is connected to the above mentioned laser
cauterizing apparatus 16.
The above mentioned foot switch 14 and laser cauterizing apparatus 16 are
connected with each other through a connecting cord 20. As the above
mentioned foot switch 14 can be removed from the base 5, even in case the
user operates the laser cauterizing apparatus 16, for example, while
standing away from the body 1 of the endoscope apparatus chair, it will be
easy to arrange the above mentioned foot switch 14 below the foot of the
user.
By the way, the laser cauterizing apparatus 16 serving as part of the body
of the above mentioned endoscope apparatus may be a high frequency current
source. In such case, the above mentioned laser probe 17 is made with a
high frequency trap. A holder (not illustrated) supporting the operating
part 7b or the vicinity of the operating part 7b of the endoscope 7 may be
provided on the body 1. Further, the above mentioned seat part 2 may be of
a material having high friction or may be of a structure provided with
concavo-convexes or the like so as to be hard to slip.
The third embodiment of the present invention shall be explained in the
following with reference to FIG. 3. The same component parts as in the
above mentioned respective embodiments bear the same reference numerals to
avoid need for explanation.
In the drawing, the reference numeral 1 represents a body of an endoscope
apparatus chair. A control box 21 of the endoscope apparatus is provided
below the seat part 2 of the body 1. This control box 21 is provided with
switches 21a of the endoscope apparatus. Here, the above mentioned seat
part 2 is respect to the base 5. An input cord 22 and output cord 23 are
connected to the above mentioned control box 21. These input cord 22 and
output cord 23 are connected respectively to peripheral apparatus 24 and
25.
A foot switch 14 is provided on the base 5 and is connected to the above
mentioned control box 21 through a connecting cord 26.
The above mentioned seat part 2 is provided in the seating part with such
recess 27 as is shown in the drawing so that the user may easily
positively control the rotation and movement of the seat part while being
seated.
As shown in the drawing, if the user is to rotate the endoscope 7, for
example, in the direction of arrow A to change the visual field direction
of the endoscope 7, the user will twist his body but, as the above
mentioned seat part 2 is rotatable with respect to the base 5, he will be
able to easily twist the body.
Further, a locking mechanism (not illustrated) locking together the above
mentioned seat part and base 5 is provided on them so that the entire body
1 may be rotated on the floor through castors 6.
With such formation, if the chair is used without being moved, only the
seat part 2 will be able to be rotated and therefore the operability will
be improved.
The fourth endoscope of the present invention shall be explained in the
following with reference to FIG. 4. The same component parts as in the
above mentioned respective embodiments bear the same reference numerals to
avoid need for explanation.
In the drawing, the reference numeral 1 represents a body of a chair for an
endoscope apparatus. A seat part 2 of this body 1 is rotatably supported
by a supporting pillar 4 which is supported by a base 5 having castors 6
in the lower part. The above mentioned seat part 2 is formed to be
substantially bicycle saddle-like so that the operator may be seated with
both legs in contact on the sides with the seat part 2 and therefore the
rotation may be easily controlled. A supporting part 10 is provided on one
side of the above mentioned seat part 2. A supporting pillar 11 is
provided on this supporting part 2. An arm 12 bent to be L-shaped, for
example, in the horizontal direction is fixed at the end to an
intermediate part of this supporting pillar 11 so as to be rotatable in
the peripheral direction and slidable in the axial direction of the above
mentioned supporting pillar 11. A displaying panel 27 is provided at the
tip of the above mentioned arm 12. For example, a switch 28, monitor
screen and displaying part of the endoscope apparatus (not illustrated)
are provided on this displaying panel 27. Foot switches 14 are provided on
the above mentioned base 5 so as to operate the endoscope apparatus not
illustrated.
The fifth embodiment of the present invention shall be explained in the
following with reference to FIG. 5. The same component parts as in the
above mentioned respective embodiments bear the same reference numerals to
avoid explanation.
In the drawing, the reference numeral 2 represents a seat part provided on
a body 1 of a chair for an endoscope apparatus. This seat part 2 is
supported by a retractable supporting pillar 4, for example, in a
rectangular form so as to be adjustable in conformity with the length of
the legs of the user and the height of a bed (not illustrated).
The above mentioned seat part 2 is formed to be of such area of 300 to 1000
cm.sup.2 as can seat about half of the hip. A recess 29 is provided on the
seating part of this seat part 2 and a frame-like projection 30 is
provided outside the seating part. The stability when the operator is
seated on the seat is improved by the recess 29 and projection 30.
A plate-like foot resting part 31 is provided at the outside tip on the
base 5. A frictional area is made on the upper surface of this foot
resting part 31 and can be used also to pull the body 1 while operating
the endoscope 7.
A columnar foot supporting part 32 is provided near the supporting pillar 4
of the above mentioned base 5. A foot switch 14 is provided on the tip of
the base 5. In the case of operating this foot switch 14, the heel may be
supported on the above mentioned foot supporting part 32 and the foot
switch 14 may be operated with the toe. While preparing for the operation,
the foot may be kept supported on the foot supporting part 32. While
moving, the heel can be always kept in the position in which the toe
reaches the foot switch 14.
With such an arrangement, if the operator must diagnose many patients and
move frequently as, for example, in the case of group diagnoses of
stomachs and in an operation requiring a long time as, for example, in
color endscope inspection, the seating for a short time is so easy that
the fatigue degree can be reduced to be lower than before.
The body 1 is formed to be so small as to be able to be pulled with one
foot and therefore the operator can be seated without influencing the
operation of the endoscope inserted into the patient.
Further, even while the operator sits down, the leg not seated is free and
therefore the body 1 can be easily positively moved and rotated.
By the way, in case the recess 29 and projection 30 need not be provided on
the above mentioned seat part, the seat part 2 and foot resting part 31
may be rotatably provided with each other.
The sixth embodiment of the present invention shall be explained in the
following with reference to FIG. 6.
In the drawing, the reference numeral 33 represents a bed to be used by the
patient at the time of the diagnosis and curing treatment. A rail 36 is
fixed at both ends between legs 34 and 35 provided on one side of this bed
33.
A sliding supporting part 37 sliding along this rail 36 is provided part of
this rail 36. A retractable arm 38 is pivoted at one end to this sliding
supporting part 37 so as to be rotatable by a fixed angle. A supporting
pillar 40 having a seat part 39 rotatably provided in the upper part is
fixed to the other end of this arm 38, is retractable in the vertical
direction and is provided with a castor 6 at the lower end. Locking
mechanisms not illustrated are provided respectively in the retracting
part and rotating part.
Further, a foot switch 41 such as switch of the endoscope apparatus is
provided on a part of the above mentioned arm 38.
Thus, the sliding part and rotating part are provided for the chair
provided for the bed 33 and are further provided respectively with locking
mechanisms so that the user may freely select the moving direction and may
fix the chair in any position.
By the way, the above mentioned locking mechanism may be electrically
remote-controlled.
The seventh embodiment of the present invention shall be explained in the
following with reference to FIG. 7.
In the drawing, the reference numeral 42 represents a body of a chair for
an endoscope apparatus. This body 42 is provided with legs 43 bent to be
substantially channel-shaped. A rail 44 is fixed at both ends to these
legs 43 and is provided in part with a sliding supporting part 45 slidable
along this rail. This sliding supporting part 45 is provided with a
vertically retractable supporting pillar 46. A rotatable seat part 47 is
provided at the upper end of this supporting pillar 46.
An arm 48 is fixed at one end to the above mentioned sliding supporting
part 45 and is provided at the other end with a foot switch 49 serving as
a switch of the endoscope apparatus. In the drawing, the reference numeral
50 represents a bed to be used by the patient.
With such formation, there can be provided an endoscope apparatus chair
which has less freedom than in the sixth embodiment but has no obstacle
below the feet.
FIGS. 8 to 11 relate to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 shows an endoscope holding apparatus of the eighth embodiment. FIG.
9 is a perspective view showing a holding part for holding an endoscope.
FIG. 10 is a sectioned view showing an attachment fitted to the endoscope.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory view showing a rotation regulating mechanism
formed on the holding part.
As shown in FIG. 8, an endoscope holding apparatus 101 is formed of a
supporting pillar 103 erected on a bed 102, a pair of arms 106A and 106B
extending in the horizontal direction through an arm receiver 104 which
can be fixed to supporting pillar 103 variably in the height and rotatably
pivoted with respect to each other by an articulation 105 between the
arms, and a holding part 108 holding an endoscope 107 fitted to the end of
arm 106B.
The above mentioned arm receiver 104 is substantially cylindrical
ring-like, can freely slide and move in the height direction (vertical
direction) as shown by the arrow V as fitted to the outer periphery of the
supporting pillar 103 and can be fixed with a fixing screw 109 in any
height position. When this arm receiver 104 to which arm 106A is secured
in the base part is rotated with the fixing screw 109 loosened, the
projecting direction of the arm 106 can be changed as shown by the arrow H
even in a horizontal plane. The other arm 106B connected at one end with
this arm 106A through the articulation 105 can be varied and adjusted in
the angle .theta. in the horizontal plane between the arms 106A and 106B.
That is to say, as shown by the arrow H.sub.2, the projecting direction of
the other arm 106B can be changed with respect to arm 106A.
The holding part 108 formed at the tip of this arm 106B is formed by
fitting the arm 106B at the tip into a C-ring-like receiving frame 110 so
that the endoscope 107 may be held rotatably as shown by the arrow A
around the axis of the arm 106B.
This endoscope 107 comprises an elongated insertable part 111 made
insertable into the mouth cavity of the patient, a large width operating
part 112 connected to the rear end of this insertable part 111 and such
peripheral apparatus part as a video processor (not illustrated) connected
through a universal cord 114 by fitting a connector 113 to this operating
part 112. A curving operation knob 115 is provided to project on this
operating part 112 so that, by rotating this knob 115, a curvable part
provided near the tip of the insertable part 111 may be curved.
Now, as shown in FIG. 10, a break preventing part 117 shaped to be conical,
of rubber or the like, is formed on the fitting base part of the operating
part 112 that connects with the rear end of the insertable part 111. As
shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, a ring-like attachment 118 having a flange 118a
formed at the upper end is fitted on the outer periphery of part 117. The
C-ring-like receiving frame 110 can be externally fitted to the periphery
of the attachment 118. The endoscope 107 fitted with this attachment 118
is rotatable as shown by the arrow B within the receiving frame 110 and
can rotatably displace the operating part 112.
By the way, this receiving frame 110 is made C-ring-like by incising a
ring. The width of this incision 110a is made somewhat larger than the
outside diameter of the insertable part 111. Therefore, by passing the
insertable part 111 through this incision 110a, for example, as in FIG. 9,
the endoscope 107 can be held by simply holding the attachment 118 with
the receiving frame 110. Also, the insertable part can be simply removed
through the incision 110a.
Now, the receiving frame 110 is rotatable as shown by the arrow A around
the axis of the arm 106B as shown in FIG. 8. However, if the receiving
frame 110 rotates in excess, the flange 118a part will contact the
receiving frame 110, there will be no regulation of the downward movement
and the endoscope 107 will be likely to drop. Therefore, in order to
prevent such drop, as shown in FIG. 11, a rotation regulating means
(regulating the rotation over a certain angle range) is formed.
That is to say, pins 121a and 121b are provided to project near the tip of
the arm 106B and, on the other hand, a pin 122 is provided to project in
the axial direction of the arm 106B on the receiving frame 110 side.
Therefore, in FIG. 11, if the receiving frame 110 side is rotated and
inclined as shown, for example, by the reference numeral A1 with respect
to the arm 106B, the pin 121b will contact the pin 122 to limit the angle
of inclination, and therefore the endoscope 107 can be prevented from
dropping away.
By the way, the above mentioned attachment 118 is of a metal or a plastic
material. The break preventing part 117 is weakly pressed into this
attachment 118 so that the attachment 118 is fixed to the break preventing
part 117.
The operation of the thus formed eighth embodiment shall be explained in
the following.
By passing the insertable part 111 through the incision 110a of the
receiving frame 110 in the eighth embodiment as shown in FIG. 9, the
flange part 118a of the attachment 118 can be supported by the receiving
frame 110 to hold the endoscope 107.
By adjusting the arm receiver 104 fixing height and the arm 106A projecting
direction so that the endoscope 107 may be in a desired position with
respect to the mouth of the patient, the endoscope 107 is kept as held in
the eighth embodiment. This state is as shown, for example, in FIG. 8.
Even in case it is necessary to twist the operating part 112, it can be
simply twisted. Also, the position of the operating part 112 can be easily
changed by parallelly progressively displacing the operating part 112 by
changing the direction of the arm 106B with the articulation 105 or by
changing the arm receiving part 104 fixing height with the fixing screw
109. Also, for example, the operating part 112 can be quickly twisted by
the operator. The structure is simple and is adjusted with little trouble.
There is no danger to the patient that might be caused by misoperation or
accidental running. According to the thus functioning eighth embodiment,
the endoscope 107 can be held by the holding part 108 during the operation
and therefore the operator is not fatigued.
Also, the endoscope does not drop and is therefore safe to the operator and
patient.
FIG. 12 shows other embodiments of the break preventing part and
attachment. Small projections 131a and 131b locally expanded in the
diameter are formed in break preventing part 131 formed in the fitting
base part of the operating part 112 so as to be locally pressed into
contact with an attachment which is pressed in. A removal stopping
projection 131c is provided to prevent the removal of the attachment 132
by contacting the lower end of the attachment. A second break preventing
part 131d for preventing buckling is formed below this projection 131c.
By such formation, the pressing points in the attachment 132 are localized
to avoid damaging the flexible tube of the insertable part.
FIG. 13 shows the ninth embodiment of the present invention.
In an endoscope holding apparatus 141 of this embodiment, an arm 144 is
projected upward on the forward side of a saddle from a supporting pillar
143 of a chair 142 on which the operator is to sit and a curvable flexible
arm 145 is fitted on the top side of this arm 144. The holding part 108
used in the embodiment (the holding part 131 in FIG. 12) is fitted to the
tip of this flexible arm 145 through a short arm 146 so as to be able to
hold the endoscope 107.
The above mentioned flexible arm 145 is formed of a flexible spiral tube or
the like and is bendable in any direction as shown by the arrows. The
holding part 108 is rotatable around the axial direction of the short arm
146. Further, the endoscope 107 held by the holding part 108 is rotatable
around the center axis of the C-ring-like receiving frame 110 of the
holding part 108 as indicated by the arrow B.
Foot switches 147 and 148 are provided on the lower end of the above
mentioned supporting pillar 143 and are connected with a video processor
149 through a curled electrical cord 151, for example, extended out of the
lower end of the supporting pillar 143. A universal cord 114 extended from
the side of the endoscope 107 is connected also to the video processor 149
and the illuminating light from a light source device within the video
processor 149 is radiated onto the affected part from the tip of the
insertable part through a light guide within the universal cord. An
electric signal of an image formed on a light receiving surface by an
objective lens (not illustrated) and photoelectrically converted by a
solid state imaging device is input to the video processor 149 through the
universal cord 114 and is color-displayed on a displaying apparatus. Also,
the displayed electric signal can be photographed.
By the way, the connection by this curled cord can be used for the
connection by the universal cord of the foot switch, switch box switch,
video processor and peripheral apparatus in the other embodiments.
By the way, when the height of the saddle of the chair 142 is made a little
lower than the thigh of the operator as standing and the height of the
holding part 108 is as high as or a little higher than the navel of the
operator as seated on the chair 142, the operator will be able to inspect
the object with the same sense as when inspecting it while standing in the
conventional example and will be less fatigued.
The operation of the thus formed ninth embodiment is substantially the same
as the above mentioned eighth embodiment.
When such switches used frequently by the operator during the operation as,
for example, freeze or release switches are arranged in the foot switches
147 and 148, they will be convenient to the operation. If the operator is
standing, it will be hard to keep the foot raised to press the foot
switch. However, as in the ninth embodiment, the operator can operate the
endoscope while sitting on the chair 142 and therefore is not fatigued.
Further, the curled cord 151 is used for the switch connecting cable and
therefore can be compacted to be small even when the chair 142 approaches
the video processor 149. The cord is not likely to be trod by the castor
of the chair 142 and the chair 142 is easy to move.
The ninth embodiment has not only substantially the same effects as of the
eighth embodiment but also accomplished the following effects.
Even if the operator moves together with the chair 142, the foot switches
147 and 148 and endoscope 107 will move together and will be always in the
same positions and therefore the operator will not be fatigued and will
find them convenient. As the curled cord 151 is used, it will not be in
the way even when the chair 142 approaches the video processor 149.
By the way, the saddle of the above mentioned chair 142 has no back rest so
that the operator may easily stand up and sit down and is made narrow so
as to be easily held by the thighs.
By the way, the universal cord 114 may be also made a curled cord.
In FIG. 13, even if the holding part 108 holding the endoscope 107 and the
arm 144 are not provided and only the foot switches 147 and 148 are
provided on the chair 142 on which the operator is to sit, for the foot
switches which are hard to use while the operator is standing, the
operator need not apply the body weight on the feet while sitting.
Therefore, when using the chair 147 there is an effect that the foot
switches are easy to use.
By the way, in this embodiment, such endoscope apparatus as light and
current sources may be arranged in the chair 142 as in the respective
embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 3.
FIG. 14 shows a holding apparatus 161 of the tenth embodiment of the
present invention. A flexible arm 162 is fitted to a bed 102 and is
provided with a looped part 162 A on the way. An electromagnet 163 as is
shown in FIG. 15 is fitted to the tip of the flexible arm 162. A switch
164 of the electromagnet 163 is provided in a receiving part 165 of the
electromagnet 163. A holding part 166 for holding the endoscope 107
comprises a receiving member 168 provided with a fitting part 167 to be in
close contact with the end surface of the above mentioned electromagnet
163 as shown in FIG. 15 and a rotary frame 169 rotatable fitted to this
receiving member 168 as indicated by the arrow D and holding the endoscope
107 inside.
The above mentioned holding part 166 and flexible arm 162 are removably
fitted to the electromagnet 163. A removal preventing frame 170 is
integrally fixed to the rotary frame 169 as shown in FIG. 16 so that the
rotary frame 168 may not escape out of the receiving member 168. A rubber
member 171 is adhered to the inside surface of the rotary frame 169, that
is, to the part to be in contact with the endoscope 107 so as to hold the
endoscope 107 with friction. By the way, the method of removably fitting
the holding part 166 by using the electromagnet 163 can be used not only
for the tip of the flexible arm 162 extended out of the bed 102 as in this
embodiment but also may be applied to the other embodiments. The
electromagnet may be provided on the holding part 166 side instead of the
arm 162 side. The part to which the holding part 166 is fitted is not the
break preventing part 117 in this embodiment but is a gripping part on the
lower side of the operating part 112 as shown in FIG. 16 so as to maintain
the break preventing effect.
The operation of this tenth embodiment is the same as of the above
mentioned eighth embodiment.
This tenth embodiment has not only the same effects as of the above
mentioned eighth embodiment but also the following effects.
As the looped part 162A is provided on the way of the flexible arm 162, the
endoscope moves smoothly in all directions.
Now, when the operating part 112 is to be moved in a wide range, it will be
likely to exceed the movable range of the flexible arm 162 and the like.
In such case, it is desirable to somewhat narrow the movable range of the
holding part to compact the holding part. When the movable range is
exceeded, the operating part 112 may be removed from the holding part so
as to be used as before. In this embodiment, as the removably fitting part
is formed by using the electromagnet 162, the operating part 112 need not
be removed from holding part 166 when it is fitted or removed.
FIG. 17 shows a holding apparatus 181 of the eleventh embodiment of the
present invention.
An arm 183 is erected on a stand 182. A holding part 184 of the endoscope
107 is fitted to the upper end of the arm 183. A part of the above
mentioned arm 183 is formed of a flexible arm 185. As shown in FIG. 18, a
rotary frame 187 holding the endoscope 107 and having a handle part 186
formed thereon is in the holding part 184 and is rotatably fitted in a
receiving frame 188. The shape of the handle part 186 of the rotary frame
187 is substantially circular as shown in FIG. 19.
By the way, the reference numeral 189 represents a removal stopper of the
handle part 186.
A rubber member 190 is provided on the inside surface of the rotary frame
187 so as to hold the endoscope 107 by friction.
The operation of this embodiment is the same as of the above mentioned
eighth embodiment.
This embodiment has not only the same effects as of the above mentioned
eighth embodiment but also the following effects.
As the rotary frame 187 holding the endoscope 107 has the handle part 186,
the endoscope is easy to rotate and is convenient.
By the way, as shown in FIG. 20, a rotary operating lever 186' may be
provided instead of the handle part 186 shown in FIG. 19.
The rotary mechanism having the above mentioned handle part 186 or lever
part 186' can be applied also to the other embodiments.
FIG. 21 shows a holding apparatus 191 of the twelfth embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, a plurality of articulating parts
192 are provided and electromagnetic clutches 193 are provided on the
respective articulating parts 192 to form a multi-articulation arm 194.
This multi-articulation arm 194 is fixed at one end to the arm receiver
104 fitted to the supporting pillar 103 erected on the bed 102 and is
fixed to the supporting pillar 103 with the fixing screw 109. A holding
part 198 is provided at the other end of this multi-articulation arm 194
and is provided with an operating switch 195 of the above mentioned
electromagnetic clutches 193. When this operating switch 195 is pushed,
the electromagnetic clutches 193 will loosen and the arms in front and
rear of them will become free to rotate.
When this operating switch 195 is not pushed, the respective
electromagnetic switches 193 will be tight and the arms in front and rear
of them will be fixed. An auxiliary lever 196 is provided on the holding
part 198 so that, when the operator only grips the operating part 112 of
the endoscope, the operating switch 195 will be pushed. By the way, this
mechanism may be used also for a mono-articulation arm.
This arm fixing mechanism by the electromagnetic clutches 193 may be used
for multi-articulation arms or mono-articulation arms provided not only
for the multi-articulation arm coming out of the bed 2 but also for the
chair, peripheral apparatus, floor and wall.
According to the above mentioned twelfth embodiment, when the operating
part 112 is gripped to move the endoscope 107, the switch 195 will be
engaged, the respective articulations of the arm will loosen and the
endoscope 107 will be able to be freely moved.
When the endoscope 107 is positioned and is released from the grip, the
operating switch 195 will be disengaged, the articulations of the arm will
be fixed and the endoscope will be able to be held. The other operations
are the same as of the eighth embodiment. This embodiment has the effects
of the above mentioned eighth embodiment, is easy to swing and hold the
endoscope 107 and is convenient to the operation.
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