Switch mechanism for use in medical apparatuses, and image-pickup device for use in endoscopes

A switch mechanism for use in medical apparatuses, comprising:

• an airtight unit which is able to retain airtight therein;
• a magnetic switch which is provided in the airtight unit and which is able to detect changes in a magnetic force;
• a magnetic-force generating unit which is provided outside the airtight unit;
• and
• a magnetic-force changing mechanism which is able to change a magnetic force acting between a magnet and the magnetic switch.

A switch mechanism for use in medical apparatuses, comprising:

• an airtight unit which is able to retain airtight therein;
• a first magnet which is provided outside the airtight unit;
• an operation unit on which the first magnet is arranged, which is provided outside the airtight unit and which is able to move the first magnet with respect to the airtight unit;
• a second magnet which is provided in the airtight unit and which is able to receive a force from the first magnet in accordance with a position of the first magnet;
• and
• a detection switch unit which is provided in the airtight unit, which has a light-emitting part being able to emit light and a light-receiving part being able to receive light emitted from the light-emitting part, and which is able to detect a change in an amount of light received by the light-receiving part, in accordance with the position of the second magnet.