Video endoscope with switchable semiconductor light sources

US8409082B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG · DE

Inventors

• Klaus Irion · Liptingen, DE
• Peter Schwarz · Tuttlingen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 7, 2009
• Grant date: Apr 2, 2013
• Expiry date: Nov 22, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B1/0684
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A video endoscope has an endoscope part having a central image signal conductor, at least one optical waveguide, and a light supplying part which can be coupled to a proximal end of said endoscope part. The light supplying part has a central image signal conductor connection at a distal end thereof, and a light supply arranged coaxially around said central image signal conductor connection. The light supply has a plurality of light-emitting elements, each of said light-emitting elements can be supplied by means of a switchable semiconductor light source. Position sensors are arranged in an area of said light-emitting elements, and position indicators are arranged in an area of said optical waveguide. A position of said position indicators can be detected by said position sensors when said endoscope part and said light supplying part are coupled. Based on a detection of said position indicator, at least those light-emitting elements lying opposite to said optical waveguide are activated.