FLEXIBLE SECTION OF AN ENDOSCOPE

摘要

Disclosed is a flexible section of an endoscope. Said flexible section can flex smoothly and can be manufactured inexpensively. The disclosed flexible section is characterized by the provision of a plurality of joint rings (28b) and a manipulator member receiving unit (34). At least one joint ring (28b) has: an opening (38) that goes through the joint ring (28b) radially; and an engagement receiver (39) formed around the opening (38) on the radially outward part of the joint ring (28b). The manipulation member receiving unit (34), which is inserted from the radially outward side of the joint ring (28b) through the opening (38) to the radially inward side, has: a manipulation member insertion part (36), through which a manipulation member is inserted, which is formed by bending an elastic wire rod and which protrudes into the interior of the joint ring (28b); and an engagement part (37) that engages with the engagement receiver (39) such that the manipulation member receiving unit (34) can rotate, with respect to the joint ring (28b), about an axis of rotation that extends roughly in the radial direction of the joint ring (28b).