WO2012165299A1 - Receiving device and capsule-type endoscope system - Google Patents

Receiving device and capsule-type endoscope system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012165299A1
WO2012165299A1 PCT/JP2012/063373 JP2012063373W WO2012165299A1 WO 2012165299 A1 WO2012165299 A1 WO 2012165299A1 JP 2012063373 W JP2012063373 W JP 2012063373W WO 2012165299 A1 WO2012165299 A1 WO 2012165299A1
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WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
frame rate
imaging frame
image data
capsule endoscope
imaging
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PCT/JP2012/063373
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French (fr)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
直人 小出
徹 宮園
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オリンパスメディカルシステムズ株式会社
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Publication of WO2012165299A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012165299A1/en

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/00002—Operational features of endoscopes
    • A61B1/00004—Operational features of endoscopes characterised by electronic signal processing
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/00002—Operational features of endoscopes
    • A61B1/00011—Operational features of endoscopes characterised by signal transmission
    • A61B1/00016—Operational features of endoscopes characterised by signal transmission using wireless means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/04—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor combined with photographic or television appliances
    • A61B1/041—Capsule endoscopes for imaging
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/00002—Operational features of endoscopes
    • A61B1/0002—Operational features of endoscopes provided with data storages

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a receiving apparatus and a capsule endoscope system that receive image data wirelessly transmitted from a capsule endoscope introduced into a subject.
  • image data that is captured and wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope is received outside the body of the subject. Receive by device.
  • the image data received by the receiving device is stored in a memory built in the receiving device during the examination, and is transferred (downloaded) to an image observation device such as a workstation via the cradle after the examination is completed, and used for diagnosis by a doctor.
  • an image observation device such as a workstation via the cradle after the examination is completed, and used for diagnosis by a doctor.
  • a user when performing an examination using a capsule endoscope, a user (a medical worker such as a doctor or a nurse) turns on the power of the capsule endoscope and receives image data taken as a trial.
  • Various preparatory operations such as an operation confirmation such as reception on the side, a charge amount confirmation of the reception device, registration of patient information in the reception device, and patient identification with reference to the patient information registered in the reception device are performed.
  • Such preparatory work may be performed the day before the inspection. Therefore, even after the capsule endoscope is turned on and the receiving device starts receiving image data, the power is turned off until the patient actually swallows the capsule endoscope.
  • the reception of image data is often interrupted.
  • the conventional receiving apparatus can measure and display the data amount of the image data stored in the memory and the net inspection time (time when the image is actually taken) corresponding to the data amount. is not. Therefore, the user can determine whether the receiving apparatus can be used for the inspection from now on, or whether the receiving apparatus has already been inspected and should be used for downloading the image data. could not. Also, even if image data is stored in the receiving device, the test shooting data is merely stored, so the receiving device may be initialized and used, or the patient's body may be imaged. Since the inspection data thus stored is stored, it is impossible to determine whether the image data should be stored until it is downloaded.
  • the present invention has been made in view of the above, and provides a receiving device and a capsule endoscope system that allow a user to grasp a net inspection time corresponding to the amount of image data stored in a memory.
  • the purpose is to do.
  • a receiving apparatus receives image data wirelessly transmitted from a capsule endoscope that is introduced into a subject and images the inside of the subject.
  • An imaging frame rate acquisition unit that acquires an imaging frame rate when an image corresponding to the image data received from the capsule endoscope is captured, and the number of images corresponding to the image data
  • An image measurement unit that measures the image
  • a test time calculation unit that calculates a net test time for which imaging has been performed based on the imaging frame rate and the number of images
  • a display unit that displays the net test time It is characterized by providing.
  • the imaging frame rate acquisition unit calculates the imaging frame rate based on a reception interval of the image data.
  • the imaging frame rate acquisition unit calculates the imaging frame rate when a reception interval of the image data exceeds a predetermined time.
  • the imaging frame rate acquisition unit calculates the imaging frame rate when setting information of the imaging frame rate is added to the image data.
  • the imaging frame rate acquisition unit acquires the imaging frame rate from information related to an imaging frame rate wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope.
  • the information on the imaging frame rate is wirelessly transmitted from the capsule endoscope together with the image data.
  • the imaging frame rate acquisition unit determines the imaging frame rate based on information wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope, and transmits information regarding the imaging frame rate to the capsule endoscope.
  • the wireless communication apparatus further includes a transmission unit that wirelessly transmits.
  • the imaging frame rate acquisition unit determines the imaging frame rate based on the image data wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope.
  • a capsule endoscope system includes the receiving device and a capsule endoscope that wirelessly transmits image data obtained by imaging the inside of the subject to the receiving device.
  • the net inspection time when the image is taken is calculated and displayed based on the imaging frame rate when the image is taken and the number of images, the user can obtain the net of the inspection. It becomes possible to grasp the inspection time.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a capsule endoscope system according to the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 2 is a longitudinal side view showing a schematic structure of the capsule endoscope shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the capsule endoscope shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an appearance of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the reception timing of the image data in the receiving apparatus illustrated in FIG.
  • FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the calculation process of the imaging frame rate.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a capsule endoscope system according to the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 2 is a longitudinal side view showing a schematic structure of the capsule endoscope shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration
  • FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the capsule endoscope according to the second embodiment.
  • FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the receiving apparatus according to the second embodiment.
  • FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the reception timing of image data in the receiving apparatus shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a capsule endoscope according to the third embodiment.
  • FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the receiving apparatus according to the third embodiment.
  • FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a receiving apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.
  • FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a capsule endoscope according to the fourth embodiment.
  • 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the capsule endoscope shown in FIG. 16 and the receiving apparatus shown in FIG
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a capsule endoscope system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
  • This capsule endoscope system 1 includes a capsule endoscope 10 that wirelessly transmits image data of an in-vivo image acquired by being introduced into the body of a subject (patient) 100 and performing imaging, and a capsule endoscope. It is realized by a receiving device 20 that receives image data wirelessly transmitted from the mirror 10 and a workstation or personal computer having a display screen such as a monitor, and the image data transferred from the receiving device 20 via the cradle 30 to the image data. And an image observation device 40 that displays an image based on the screen.
  • FIG. 2 is a longitudinal side view showing a schematic configuration of the capsule endoscope 10.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the capsule endoscope 10.
  • the capsule endoscope 10 includes a capsule housing 110 that can be introduced into the lumen of the subject 100, and is incorporated in the capsule housing 110 to perform imaging.
  • An imaging unit 120 a signal processing / control unit 130 disposed on a circuit board provided in the capsule casing 110, a transmission module 141 for wirelessly transmitting image data generated in the signal processing / control unit 130, and And an antenna 142.
  • the capsule endoscope 10 includes a battery, circuit components, and the like (not shown).
  • the capsule-type housing 110 has a size that can be swallowed from the oral cavity of the subject 100, and is a substantially hemispherical tip cover 111 that is transparent or translucent to visible light, and opaque to visible light.
  • An outer case for liquid-tightly sealing the inside is formed by elastically fitting the body cover 112 made of a colored material.
  • the imaging unit 120 receives a plurality of illumination elements 121 such as LEDs that emit illumination light that illuminates the inside of the subject (inside the lumen) via the tip cover 111, and the reflected light of the illumination light to receive the inside of the subject.
  • An imaging element 122 such as a CCD or CMOS for imaging, and an imaging lens 123 that forms an image in the subject on the light receiving surface of the imaging element 122, and performs imaging in the end direction on the distal end cover 111 side. .
  • the signal processing / control unit 130 performs predetermined signal processing on the illumination element drive circuit 131 that drives the illumination element 121, the image sensor drive circuit 132 that drives the image sensor 122, and the signal output from the image sensor 122.
  • the signal processing unit 133 performs predetermined signal processing such as correlated double sampling processing, amplification processing, A / D conversion processing, and multiplexing processing on the signal output from the image sensor 122, so that the inside of the subject is processed. Image data corresponding to the imaging region is generated.
  • the control unit 134 includes a timing generator and a sync generator (hereinafter referred to as TG / SG) 135 that generate various timing signals and synchronization signals, and based on the timing signals and synchronization signals generated by the TG / SG 135, the lighting element
  • TG / SG a timing generator and a sync generator
  • Such a capsule endoscope 10 is swallowed from the mouth of the subject 100 and then moves in the digestive tract of the subject 100 by a peristaltic movement of the organ 100, and the body part (esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine). Etc.) are sequentially imaged at predetermined time intervals (for example, 0.5 second intervals). Then, image data is generated by performing predetermined signal processing on the imaging signal acquired by imaging, and the image data is sequentially wirelessly transmitted to the receiving device 20.
  • predetermined time intervals for example, 0.5 second intervals
  • the receiving device 20 is mounted near the body surface of the subject 100 and wirelessly transmitted from the capsule endoscope 10 via the antenna unit 21 having a plurality (eight in FIG. 1) of receiving antennas 21a to 21h. Received image data and related information.
  • Each of the receiving antennas 21a to 21h is realized by using, for example, a loop antenna, and corresponds to a predetermined position on the body surface of the subject 100 (for example, each organ in the subject 100 that is a passage route of the capsule endoscope 10). Position).
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an external appearance of the receiving device 20.
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the receiving device 20. 4 and 5, the receiving device 20 includes a power switch 201 that switches the power state (ON / OFF) of the receiving device 20, a battery 202 that supplies power to each unit of the receiving device 20, and various types of inspections.
  • An interface that mediates communication between a display unit 203 for displaying information, an operation input unit 204 for a user to input various information and commands to the receiving device 20, and an external device connected to the receiving device 20.
  • (I / F) unit 205 receiving unit 206 that receives image data wirelessly transmitted from capsule endoscope 10 via antenna unit 21, and signal that performs predetermined signal processing on the received image data
  • a processing unit 207, a memory 208, and a control unit 210 are provided.
  • the display unit 203 is realized by a display panel such as liquid crystal or organic EL. As shown in FIG. 4, during the examination by the capsule endoscope 10, patient information such as patient ID and patient name, examination information such as examination date, and received image data were captured. Information such as net inspection time is displayed.
  • the operation input unit 204 may be a touch panel provided on the display unit 203 in addition to a hardware operation member such as a push button.
  • the memory 208 stores in-vivo image data that has been subjected to signal processing by the signal processing unit 207, a program for controlling the operation of the receiving device 20, and the like.
  • a built-in memory is used as the memory 208.
  • a memory that is detachable from the receiving device 20 such as a USB memory or a compact flash (registered trademark) may be used. .
  • the control unit 210 is realized by hardware such as a CPU, and reads the various programs stored in the memory 208, thereby supervising the overall operation of the receiving device 20 according to various operation signals input via the interface unit 205. Control.
  • control unit 210 includes a reception interval determination unit 211 that determines a reception interval of image data received from the capsule endoscope 10, and an imaging frame rate that acquires the imaging frame rate of the capsule endoscope 10.
  • Imaging data is captured based on an imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 as an acquisition unit, an image measurement unit 213 that measures the number of images corresponding to received image data, and an imaging frame rate and the number of images.
  • an inspection time calculation unit 214 that calculates the net inspection time, and causes the display unit 203 to display the calculated inspection time.
  • FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving device 20.
  • FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the reception timing of image data.
  • step S101 the receiving device 20 receives image data wirelessly transmitted from the capsule endoscope 10.
  • step S ⁇ b> 102 the reception device 20 performs predetermined signal processing on the received image data and stores the image data in the memory 208.
  • the reception interval determination unit 211 measures a reception interval ⁇ T between the image data received this time and the image data received last time, and the reception interval ⁇ T is set to a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds to 10 seconds). ) Determine whether or not: For example, when image data is received for the first time (time t1), or after trial shooting, imaging is temporarily stopped, and thereafter (for example, after a time exceeding 5 seconds has elapsed), imaging is resumed (for example, time At t2, t3), it is determined that the reception interval exceeds a predetermined time.
  • a predetermined time for example, 5 seconds to 10 seconds.
  • the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 calculates the imaging frame rate based on the reception interval of the image data and stores it in the memory 208 ( Step S104).
  • FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing details of the imaging frame rate calculation process.
  • the receiving device 20 continues to receive image data.
  • the receiving apparatus 20 performs predetermined signal processing on the image data and stores the image data in the memory 208.
  • step S113 the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 measures the reception interval ⁇ T between the image data received this time and the image data received last time and stores it in the memory 208.
  • step S114 the image measurement unit 213 adds one image number as the number of images corresponding to the image data received this time, and stores it in the memory 208. At this time, even when image data of an invalid image (for example, an image thinned out during observation due to a lot of noise) is received, the image data is used to calculate the average value of the reception interval ⁇ T and the inspection time, which will be described later. The number of sheets is counted.
  • step S115 the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 determines whether image data has been received a predetermined number of times (for example, 3 to 5 times) after starting the imaging frame rate calculation process. If the image data has not been received a predetermined number of times (step S115: No), the operation returns to step S111.
  • a predetermined number of times for example, 3 to 5 times
  • the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 calculates the average value of the reception interval ⁇ T of the image data (step S116). In step S117, the reciprocal of this average value is calculated as the imaging frame rate. For example, when the average value of the reception interval ⁇ T is 0.5 seconds, the frame rate is 2 frames / second (fps). Thereafter, the operation returns to the main routine.
  • step S103 When it is determined in step S103 that the reception interval of the image data is within the predetermined time (step S103: Yes), the image measurement unit 213 takes one image as the number of images corresponding to the image data received this time. The sum is added and stored in the memory 208 (step S105). At this time, even when image data of an invalid image is received, the number of images is counted for use in calculating the inspection time.
  • the examination time calculation unit 214 divides the number of images stored in the memory 208 by the imaging frame rate calculated in step S104, thereby obtaining the net image of the image data received so far.
  • the inspection time is calculated. In other words, this inspection time corresponds to the amount of image data stored in the memory 208 so far.
  • step S107 the control unit 210 causes the display unit 203 to display the inspection time.
  • the inspection time calculated in step S106 is an approximate number based on the number of images and the imaging frame rate, the detection time may be displayed in minutes as shown in FIG.
  • step S108 when the operation of the power switch 201 or other operation for ending the reception of the image data from the capsule endoscope 10 is performed (step S108: Yes), the receiving device 20 ends the operation. On the other hand, when there is no operation to end the image data reception (step S108: No), the operation returns to step S101.
  • the inspection time is calculated based on the number of images corresponding to the received image data and the imaging frame rate and displayed on the display unit. It becomes possible to grasp the net inspection time by the endoscope. Further, according to the first embodiment, since the imaging frame rate is calculated based on the reception interval of the image data, it is possible to accurately calculate the net inspection time according to the specifications of the capsule endoscope. Become. For example, even when an imaging frame rate is set for each organ to be examined such as for gastric examination and small intestine examination for a capsule endoscope, no special setting is required on the receiving device side. The imaging frame rate set for the capsule endoscope can be calculated through reception of the image data, and the net inspection time can be obtained based on the imaging frame rate.
  • the user can determine whether the image data is stored in the memory in the receiving apparatus from the displayed net inspection time, and how much data is stored when the image data is stored ( That is, it can be determined whether the data is test shooting data or inspection data.
  • the user can use the receiving device as it is (without initializing) for inspection, can be used after initializing, or should be used for downloading image data from now on. It is possible to easily determine whether it is.
  • the user can estimate which part (organ) of the image data stored in the memory in the receiving apparatus is inspected according to the net inspection time displayed on the receiving apparatus. It becomes. This is because when the esophagus and stomach are examined, the net examination time is relatively short, whereas when the small intestine and large intestine are examined, the net examination time is relatively long.
  • the capsule endoscope system according to the second embodiment includes a capsule endoscope 15 shown in FIG. 9 and a receiving device 22 shown in FIG.
  • the capsule endoscope 15 includes a signal processing / control unit 150 capable of controlling the imaging frame rate. More specifically, the signal processing / control unit 150 includes a control unit 151 having an imaging frame rate control unit 152.
  • the imaging frame rate control unit 152 sets the imaging frame rate based on the image data signal-processed by the signal processing unit 133 to control the TG / SG 135 and also sets the imaging frame rate setting information (for example, the imaging frame rate). Is set to the image data.
  • the configuration other than the control unit 151 of the capsule endoscope 15 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
  • the organ through which the capsule endoscope 15 passes in the subject 100 has a characteristic color component (for example, an average color) corresponding to the organ.
  • a characteristic color component for example, an average color
  • the esophagus has color components such as white and blue
  • the stomach is red
  • the small intestine is yellow
  • the large intestine is orange
  • these color components are all features of images taken outside the subject 100.
  • the imaging frame rate control unit 152 extracts data corresponding to pixel values at a plurality of predetermined locations (for example, 4 locations) in the image from the image data processed by the signal processing unit 133, and the like.
  • a characteristic color component is calculated, and an imaging frame rate corresponding to the color component is set.
  • the imaging frame rate is set to a low value (for example, 0.5 fps), and the capsule endoscope 15 is set to the subject.
  • the imaging frame rate may be set high (for example, 1 fps).
  • the image pickup frame rate may be set high (for example, 2 fps).
  • the reception device 22 includes a control unit 220 having a flag identification unit 221 instead of the reception interval determination unit 211 illustrated in FIG. 5.
  • the flag identifying unit 221 identifies whether, for example, a frame rate setting flag is added to the image data received from the capsule endoscope 15 as frame rate setting information.
  • the configuration other than the control unit 220 of the receiving device 22 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving device 22.
  • the operations in steps S101, S102, and S104 to S108 shown in FIG. 11 are the same as those in the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the reception timing of image data.
  • step S201 the flag identifying unit 221 determines whether or not a frame rate setting flag is given to the received image data.
  • the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 calculates the imaging frame rate and stores it in the memory 208 (step S104). Note that when another imaging frame rate is already stored in the memory 208, the imaging frame rate is updated to a newly calculated value.
  • the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 performs several times after the time t4 (for example, 3 to The imaging frame rate is calculated based on the reception interval of the image data received over 5 times (see FIG. 8). As a result, when the reception interval changes from ⁇ T 1 to ⁇ T 2 before and after time t4, the imaging frame rate is changed from 1 / ⁇ T 1 to 1 / ⁇ T 2 .
  • step S106 the inspection time T 0 calculated before the change of the imaging frame rate is based on the number n of images received after the change of the imaging frame rate and the changed imaging frame rate f new.
  • the total inspection time T total T 0 + n / f new is calculated.
  • step S201: No when the frame rate setting flag is not given to the received image data (step S201: No), the operation proceeds to step S105.
  • the receiving device 22 grasps the timing at which the imaging frame rate has changed based on the frame rate setting information given to the image data, and again the image data at this timing. Therefore, it is possible to accurately calculate the net inspection time with simpler processing.
  • the reception interval determination unit 211 in the first embodiment may be further provided for the receiving apparatus according to the second embodiment.
  • the imaging frame rate can be calculated at the timing when the reception of the image data is started (resumed) and when the image data to which the setting information of the imaging frame rate is added is received, a wider variety of capsules It is possible to provide a receiving apparatus corresponding to the operation of the mold endoscope.
  • the capsule endoscope 15 may set the imaging frame rate based on various information other than the characteristic color component of the captured image.
  • a sensor that measures temperature, pressure, pH value, and the like may be provided in the capsule endoscope, and the imaging frame rate may be set based on the measurement values of these sensors.
  • the capsule endoscope system according to the third embodiment includes a capsule endoscope 16 shown in FIG. 13 and a receiving device 24 shown in FIG.
  • the capsule endoscope 16 shown in FIG. 13 includes a signal processing / control unit 160 capable of controlling the imaging frame rate. More specifically, the signal processing / control unit 160 includes a control unit 161 having an imaging frame rate control unit 162 and an imaging information generation unit 163. The configuration of the capsule endoscope 16 other than the control unit 161 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
  • the imaging frame rate control unit 162 sets the imaging frame rate based on the image data subjected to signal processing in the signal processing unit 133, for example, and controls the TG / SG 135.
  • the details of the method for setting the imaging frame rate are the same as those described in the second embodiment.
  • the imaging frame rate control unit 162 may set the imaging frame rate based on various information other than the characteristic color components of the captured image.
  • the imaging information generation unit 163 generates information about the imaging frame rate (for example, an internal clock signal) and adds it to the image data when the imaging frame rate control unit 162 sets the imaging frame rate.
  • Information regarding the imaging frame rate (hereinafter also referred to as imaging frame rate information) is transmitted to the receiving device 24 together with the image data.
  • the imaging information generation unit 163 newly starts an examination (when communication is established between the capsule endoscope 16 and the receiving device 24 or when image data is first transmitted), Information on the initial value of the imaging frame rate is generated and added to the image data.
  • the reception device 24 includes a control unit 240 including an imaging frame rate acquisition unit 241, an image measurement unit 213, and an examination time calculation unit 214.
  • the imaging frame rate acquisition unit 241 acquires the imaging frame rate currently set in the capsule endoscope 16 from the imaging frame rate information added to the image received from the capsule endoscope 16.
  • the operations of the image measurement unit 213 and the inspection time calculation unit 214 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Further, the configuration of the receiving device 24 other than the control unit 240 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving device 24.
  • the operations in steps S101 and S102 and S105 to S108 shown in FIG. 15 are the same as those in the first embodiment.
  • step S301 the imaging frame rate acquisition unit 241 determines whether imaging frame rate information is added to the received image data.
  • the imaging frame rate acquisition unit 241 acquires the imaging frame rate currently set in the capsule endoscope 16 from the imaging frame rate information. Is stored in the memory 208 (step S302). In addition, when another imaging frame rate is already stored in the memory 208, it is updated to a newly acquired imaging frame rate.
  • step S301: No when the imaging frame rate information is not added to the image data (step S301: No), the operation directly proceeds to step S105.
  • the receiving device 24 acquires the imaging frame rate from the imaging frame rate information transmitted together with the image data from the capsule endoscope 16, so that the net inspection time is reduced. It becomes possible to calculate more accurately and easily.
  • the capsule endoscope 16 adds the imaging frame rate information to the image data and transmits it to the receiving device 24.
  • the capsule endoscope 16 sets the imaging frame rate.
  • the imaging frame rate information may be transmitted as needed at the changed timing. In this case, on the receiving device 24 side, the imaging frame rate can be set and changed at any time regardless of the reception timing of the image data.
  • the capsule endoscope system according to the fourth embodiment includes a receiving device 26 shown in FIG. 16 and a capsule endoscope 17 shown in FIG.
  • the reception device 26 includes a control unit 260 including an imaging frame rate control unit 261 as an imaging frame rate acquisition unit, an imaging information generation unit 262, an image measurement unit 213, and an examination time calculation unit 214. And a transmitter 209 for wirelessly transmitting various information from the receiving device 26 to the capsule endoscope 17.
  • the configuration of the receiving device 26 other than the transmission unit 209 and the control unit 260 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
  • the imaging frame rate control unit 261 controls the imaging frame rate in the capsule endoscope 17 based on the image data received from the capsule endoscope 17.
  • the imaging information generation unit 262 generates information related to the imaging frame rate (for example, a control signal for controlling the internal clock of the capsule endoscope 17).
  • Information regarding the imaging frame rate (hereinafter also referred to as imaging frame rate information) is wirelessly transmitted to the capsule endoscope 17 at any time via the transmission unit 209.
  • the capsule endoscope 17 includes a receiving module 143 that receives information wirelessly transmitted from the receiving device 26 via the antenna 142, and signal processing / control that can control the imaging frame rate.
  • Unit 170 More specifically, the signal processing / control unit 170 includes a control unit 171 having an imaging frame rate setting unit 172.
  • the imaging frame rate setting unit 172 sets the imaging frame rate based on the imaging frame rate information received from the receiving device 26.
  • the configuration of the capsule endoscope 17 other than the control unit 171 and the reception module 143 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing operations of the receiving device 26 and the capsule endoscope 17.
  • the reception device 26 determines whether it is necessary to set an imaging frame rate for the capsule endoscope 17. Specifically, the receiving device 26 starts a new examination (when communication is established between the receiving device 26 and the capsule endoscope 17), or the capsule endoscope 17 has a predetermined organ. If it is determined that the image pickup frame rate has been reached, it is determined that the imaging frame rate needs to be set. In the latter case, the imaging frame rate control unit 261 extracts data corresponding to pixel values at a plurality of predetermined locations (for example, 4 locations) in the image from the image data processed by the signal processing unit 207.
  • a characteristic color component for example, average color
  • a predetermined threshold value for example, when the characteristic color component is white-blue, it is determined as the esophagus, when it is red, the stomach, when it is yellow, the small intestine, and when it is orange, it is determined as the large intestine.
  • the imaging frame rate control unit 261 determines the imaging frame rate to be set for the capsule endoscope 17, and the determined imaging frame rate. Is stored in the memory 208 (step S402). Specifically, the imaging frame rate control unit 261 sets an initial value of a predetermined imaging frame rate at the start of inspection. In the middle of the examination, an imaging frame rate is set according to the organ that the capsule endoscope 17 has reached. If another imaging frame rate is already stored in the memory 208, the imaging frame rate is updated to a newly set value.
  • step S403 the imaging information generation unit 262 generates information on a newly set imaging frame rate, and transmits the information to the capsule endoscope 17 from the transmission unit 209.
  • step S401 determines whether it is determined in step S401 that it is not necessary to set the imaging frame rate (step S401: No).
  • step S411 when the capsule endoscope 17 receives the imaging frame rate information (step S411: Yes), the imaging frame rate setting unit 172 sets its own imaging frame rate based on the imaging frame rate information (Ste S412).
  • step S413 the capsule endoscope 17 performs imaging at the imaging frame rate set in step S412.
  • step S411 when the capsule endoscope 17 does not receive the imaging frame rate information (step S411: No), the operation directly proceeds to step S413. In this case, the capsule endoscope 17 performs imaging at a set imaging frame rate (initial value or the like).
  • step S414 the capsule endoscope 17 transmits the image data to the receiving device.
  • step S101 the receiving device 26 receives image data.
  • step S106 the inspection time is calculated using the imaging frame rate set in step S402.
  • the number n of received images after the change of the imaging frame rate and the changed imaging frame rate f new are compared with the inspection time T 0 calculated before the change.
  • the total inspection time T total T 0 + n / f new is calculated.
  • the capsule endoscope 17 repeats the operations of steps S411 to S414 until the battery is turned off (step S415: No). Then, when the battery is turned off (step S415: Yes), the operation is terminated.
  • the examination time can be made more accurate and simple using the imaging frame rate set by itself. Can be calculated.
  • the reception device 26 controls the imaging frame rate of the capsule endoscope 17 based on the image data captured by the capsule endoscope, but the imaging frame is based on other information.
  • the rate may be controlled.
  • unique information such as an ID and information on specifications such as an inspection target region from the capsule endoscope 17 to the receiving device 26 May be configured such that the image capturing frame rate is determined based on these pieces of information on the receiving device 26 side, and information regarding the determined image capturing frame rate is transmitted to the capsule endoscope 17.
  • the capsule endoscope 17 is further provided with a sensor for measuring temperature, pressure, pH value, etc., and the capsule endoscope 17 transmits information about the measured values of these sensors to the receiving device 26 as needed, and the receiving device.
  • a sensor for measuring temperature, pressure, pH value, etc. the capsule endoscope 17 transmits information about the measured values of these sensors to the receiving device 26 as needed, and the receiving device.
  • an imaging frame rate may be determined based on these measurement values, and information regarding the determined imaging frame rate may be transmitted to the capsule endoscope.
  • the receiving device may control the imaging frame rate based on information input to the receiving device by the user. For example, when the user inputs information such as trial shooting and start of actual examination (swallowing of the capsule endoscope) to the receiving device using the operation input unit 204, the receiving device captures an imaging frame rate in the case of trial shooting. Is set to a low value (for example, 0.5 fps), and in the case of the actual examination, the imaging frame rate is set to a high value (for example, 2 fps), and information regarding these imaging frame rates is transmitted to the capsule endoscope It may be configured to do.
  • information such as trial shooting and start of actual examination (swallowing of the capsule endoscope)
  • the receiving device captures an imaging frame rate in the case of trial shooting. Is set to a low value (for example, 0.5 fps), and in the case of the actual examination, the imaging frame rate is set to a high value (for example, 2 fps), and information regarding these imaging frame rates is transmitted to the capsule endo
  • Embodiments 1 to 4 described above are merely examples for carrying out the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these. It is obvious from the above description that the present invention can be variously modified according to specifications and the like, and that various other embodiments are possible within the scope of the present invention.

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Abstract

Provided is a receiving unit which allows a user to comprehend the net test time which corresponds to the amount of image data stored in memory. This receiving device (20) receives image data transmitted wirelessly from a capsule-type endoscope (10) which is introduced into a subject (100) and images inside said subject (100), and is provided with an imaging frame rate calculation unit (212) which acquires the imaging frame rate when images corresponding to the image data received from the capsule-type endoscope (10) were imaged, an image measurement unit (213) which measures the number of images corresponding to the image data, a test time calculation unit (214) which, on the basis of the imaging frame rate and the number of images, calculates the net test time during which imaging was performed, and a display unit (203) which displays the net test time.

Description

受信装置及びカプセル型内視鏡システムReceiving device and capsule endoscope system
　本発明は、被検体内に導入されたカプセル型内視鏡から無線送信された画像データを受信する受信装置及びカプセル型内視鏡システムに関する。 The present invention relates to a receiving apparatus and a capsule endoscope system that receive image data wirelessly transmitted from a capsule endoscope introduced into a subject.
　被検体に導入されて被検体の体内を撮像するカプセル型内視鏡を用いた検査においては、カプセル型内視鏡が撮像して無線送信した画像データを、被検体の体外に装着された受信装置によって受信する。受信装置が受信した画像データは、検査中、受信装置に内蔵されたメモリに記憶され、検査終了後にクレードルを介してワークステーション等の画像観察装置に転送（ダウンロード）され、医師による診断に用いられる（例えば、特許文献１及び２参照）。 In an examination using a capsule endoscope that is introduced into a subject and images the inside of the subject, image data that is captured and wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope is received outside the body of the subject. Receive by device. The image data received by the receiving device is stored in a memory built in the receiving device during the examination, and is transferred (downloaded) to an image observation device such as a workstation via the cradle after the examination is completed, and used for diagnosis by a doctor. (For example, refer to Patent Documents 1 and 2).
　ところで、カプセル型内視鏡を用いた検査を行う際に、ユーザ（医師や看護師等の医療従事者）は、カプセル型内視鏡の電源をオンして、試し撮りした画像データを受信装置側で受信するといった動作確認、受信装置の充電量確認、受信装置への患者情報の登録、受信装置に登録した患者情報を参照しての患者の本人確認といった様々な準備作業を行う。このような準備作業は、検査の前日に行われることもある。このため、カプセル型内視鏡の電源がオンされて、受信装置が画像データの受信を開始した後であっても、患者がカプセル型内視鏡を実際に嚥下するまでの間に電源がオフされ、画像データの受信が中断することはしばしばある。 By the way, when performing an examination using a capsule endoscope, a user (a medical worker such as a doctor or a nurse) turns on the power of the capsule endoscope and receives image data taken as a trial. Various preparatory operations such as an operation confirmation such as reception on the side, a charge amount confirmation of the reception device, registration of patient information in the reception device, and patient identification with reference to the patient information registered in the reception device are performed. Such preparatory work may be performed the day before the inspection. Therefore, even after the capsule endoscope is turned on and the receiving device starts receiving image data, the power is turned off until the patient actually swallows the capsule endoscope. The reception of image data is often interrupted.
特開２００７－６８５６８号公報JP 2007-68568 A 特開２００９－１３１３１９号公報JP 2009-131319 A
　しかしながら、従来の受信装置は、メモリに記憶された画像データのデータ量や、このデータ量に対応する正味の検査時間（実際に撮像が行われた時間）を計測したり表示したりできる構成となっていない。そのため、ユーザは、受信装置を見ただけでは、その受信装置はこれから検査に使用して良いものなのか、又は、既に検査済みであり画像データのダウンロードに回すべきものなのかを判別することができなかった。また、受信装置に画像データが記憶されている場合でも、単に試し撮りデータが記憶されているだけなので、受信装置を初期化して使用しても良いものであるのか、又は、患者の体内を撮像した検査データが記憶されているため、画像データをダウンロードするまで保管すべきものであるのかを判別することができなかった。 However, the conventional receiving apparatus can measure and display the data amount of the image data stored in the memory and the net inspection time (time when the image is actually taken) corresponding to the data amount. is not. Therefore, the user can determine whether the receiving apparatus can be used for the inspection from now on, or whether the receiving apparatus has already been inspected and should be used for downloading the image data. could not. Also, even if image data is stored in the receiving device, the test shooting data is merely stored, so the receiving device may be initialized and used, or the patient's body may be imaged. Since the inspection data thus stored is stored, it is impossible to determine whether the image data should be stored until it is downloaded.
　本発明は、上記に鑑みてなされたものであり、メモリに記憶されている画像データの量に対応する正味の検査時間をユーザが把握することができる受信装置及びカプセル型内視鏡システムを提供することを目的とする。 The present invention has been made in view of the above, and provides a receiving device and a capsule endoscope system that allow a user to grasp a net inspection time corresponding to the amount of image data stored in a memory. The purpose is to do.
　上述した課題を解決し、目的を達成するために、本発明に係る受信装置は、被検体に導入されて該被検体の体内を撮像するカプセル型内視鏡から無線送信された画像データを受信する受信装置であって、前記カプセル型内視鏡から受信した画像データに対応する画像が撮像された際の撮像フレームレートを取得する撮像フレームレート取得部と、前記画像データに対応する画像の枚数を計測する画像計測部と、前記撮像フレームレートと前記画像の枚数とに基づいて、撮像が行われた正味の検査時間を算出する検査時間算出部と、前記正味の検査時間を表示する表示部とを備えることを特徴とする。 In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a receiving apparatus according to the present invention receives image data wirelessly transmitted from a capsule endoscope that is introduced into a subject and images the inside of the subject. An imaging frame rate acquisition unit that acquires an imaging frame rate when an image corresponding to the image data received from the capsule endoscope is captured, and the number of images corresponding to the image data An image measurement unit that measures the image, a test time calculation unit that calculates a net test time for which imaging has been performed based on the imaging frame rate and the number of images, and a display unit that displays the net test time It is characterized by providing.
　上記受信装置において、前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記画像データの受信間隔に基づいて前記撮像フレームレートを算出することを特徴とする。 In the receiving apparatus, the imaging frame rate acquisition unit calculates the imaging frame rate based on a reception interval of the image data.
　上記受信装置において、前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記画像データの受信間隔が所定の時間を越えた場合に前記撮像フレームレートを算出することを特徴とする。 In the receiving apparatus, the imaging frame rate acquisition unit calculates the imaging frame rate when a reception interval of the image data exceeds a predetermined time.
　上記受信装置において、前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記画像データに前記撮像フレームレートの設定情報が付与されている場合に前記撮像フレームレートを算出することを特徴とする。 In the receiving apparatus, the imaging frame rate acquisition unit calculates the imaging frame rate when setting information of the imaging frame rate is added to the image data.
　上記受信装置において、前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記カプセル型内視鏡によって無線送信された撮像フレームレートに関する情報から前記撮像フレームレートを取得することを特徴とする。 In the receiving apparatus, the imaging frame rate acquisition unit acquires the imaging frame rate from information related to an imaging frame rate wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope.
　上記受信装置において、前記撮像フレームレートに関する情報は、前記画像データと共に前記カプセル型内視鏡から無線送信されることを特徴とする。 In the receiving apparatus, the information on the imaging frame rate is wirelessly transmitted from the capsule endoscope together with the image data.
　上記受信装置において、前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記カプセル型内視鏡によって無線送信された情報に基づいて前記撮像フレームレートを決定し、前記撮像フレームレートに関する情報を前記カプセル型内視鏡に無線送信する送信部をさらに備えることを特徴とする。 In the receiving apparatus, the imaging frame rate acquisition unit determines the imaging frame rate based on information wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope, and transmits information regarding the imaging frame rate to the capsule endoscope. The wireless communication apparatus further includes a transmission unit that wirelessly transmits.
　上記受信装置において、前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記カプセル型内視鏡によって無線送信された前記画像データに基づいて前記撮像フレームレートを決定することを特徴とする。 In the receiving apparatus, the imaging frame rate acquisition unit determines the imaging frame rate based on the image data wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope.
　本発明に係るカプセル型内視鏡システムは、上記受信装置と、前記被検体の体内を撮像した画像データを前記受信装置に無線送信するカプセル型内視鏡とを備えることを特徴とする。 A capsule endoscope system according to the present invention includes the receiving device and a capsule endoscope that wirelessly transmits image data obtained by imaging the inside of the subject to the receiving device.
　本発明によれば、画像が撮像された際の撮像フレームレートと画像の枚数とに基づいて、撮像が行われた正味の検査時間を算出して表示するので、ユーザは、当該検査の正味の検査時間を把握することが可能となる。 According to the present invention, since the net inspection time when the image is taken is calculated and displayed based on the imaging frame rate when the image is taken and the number of images, the user can obtain the net of the inspection. It becomes possible to grasp the inspection time.
図１は、実施の形態１に係るカプセル型内視鏡システムの構成を示す模式図である。FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a capsule endoscope system according to the first embodiment. 図２は、図１に示すカプセル型内視鏡の概略構造を示す縦断側面図である。FIG. 2 is a longitudinal side view showing a schematic structure of the capsule endoscope shown in FIG. 図３は、図２に示すカプセル型内視鏡の構成を示すブロック図である。FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the capsule endoscope shown in FIG. 図４は、図１に示す受信装置の外観を示す模式図である。FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an appearance of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 図５は、図１に示す受信装置の構成を示すブロック図である。FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 図６は、図１に示す受信装置の動作を示すフローチャートである。FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 図７は、図５に示す受信装置における画像データの受信タイミングを示す図である。FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the reception timing of the image data in the receiving apparatus illustrated in FIG. 図８は、撮像フレームレートの算出処理を示すフローチャートである。FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the calculation process of the imaging frame rate. 図９は、実施の形態２におけるカプセル型内視鏡の構成を示すブロック図である。FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the capsule endoscope according to the second embodiment. 図１０は、実施の形態２における受信装置の構成を示すブロック図である。FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the receiving apparatus according to the second embodiment. 図１１は、図１０に示す受信装置の動作を示すフローチャートである。FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 図１２は、図１０に示す受信装置における画像データの受信タイミングを示す図である。FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the reception timing of image data in the receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 図１３は、実施の形態３におけるカプセル型内視鏡の構成を示すブロック図である。FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a capsule endoscope according to the third embodiment. 図１４は、実施の形態３における受信装置の構成を示すブロック図である。FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the receiving apparatus according to the third embodiment. 図１５は、図１４に示す受信装置の動作を示すフローチャートである。FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 図１６は、実施の形態４における受信装置の構成を示すブロック図である。FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a receiving apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. 図１７は、実施の形態４におけるカプセル型内視鏡の構成を示すブロック図である。FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a capsule endoscope according to the fourth embodiment. 図１８は、図１６に示すカプセル型内視鏡及び図１７に示す受信装置の動作を示すフローチャートである。18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the capsule endoscope shown in FIG. 16 and the receiving apparatus shown in FIG.
　以下に、本発明の実施の形態について、図面を参照しながら説明する。なお、以下の説明において、一例として、被検体の体内に導入されて体内画像を撮像するカプセル型内視鏡を含むシステムを例示するが、この実施の形態によって本発明が限定されるものではない。 Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, as an example, a system including a capsule endoscope that is introduced into the body of a subject and captures an in-vivo image is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. .
（実施の形態１）
　図１は、本発明の実施の形態１に係るカプセル型内視鏡システムの構成を示す模式図である。このカプセル型内視鏡システム１は、被検体（患者）１００の体内に導入されて撮像を行うことにより取得した体内画像の画像データを無線送信するカプセル型内視鏡１０と、カプセル型内視鏡１０から無線送信された画像データを受信する受信装置２０と、モニタ等の表示画面を備えたワークステーションやパーソナルコンピュータ等によって実現され、受信装置２０からクレードル３０を介して転送された画像データに基づく画像を画面に表示する画像観察装置４０とを備える。 (Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a capsule endoscope system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. This capsule endoscope system 1 includes a capsule endoscope 10 that wirelessly transmits image data of an in-vivo image acquired by being introduced into the body of a subject (patient) 100 and performing imaging, and a capsule endoscope. It is realized by a receiving device 20 that receives image data wirelessly transmitted from the mirror 10 and a workstation or personal computer having a display screen such as a monitor, and the image data transferred from the receiving device 20 via the cradle 30 to the image data. And an image observation device 40 that displays an image based on the screen.
　図２は、カプセル型内視鏡１０の概略構成を示す縦断側面図である。また、図３は、カプセル型内視鏡１０の構成を示すブロック図である。図２及び図３に示すように、カプセル型内視鏡１０は、被検体１００の管腔内に導入可能なカプセル型筐体１１０と、このカプセル型筐体１１０内に内蔵されて撮像を行う撮像ユニット１２０と、カプセル型筐体１１０内に設けられた回路基板上に配置された信号処理・制御部１３０と、信号処理・制御部１３０において生成された画像データを無線送信する送信モジュール１４１及びアンテナ１４２とを備える。なお、カプセル型内視鏡１０は、この他、図示しない電池や回路構成部品等を備える。 FIG. 2 is a longitudinal side view showing a schematic configuration of the capsule endoscope 10. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the capsule endoscope 10. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the capsule endoscope 10 includes a capsule housing 110 that can be introduced into the lumen of the subject 100, and is incorporated in the capsule housing 110 to perform imaging. An imaging unit 120, a signal processing / control unit 130 disposed on a circuit board provided in the capsule casing 110, a transmission module 141 for wirelessly transmitting image data generated in the signal processing / control unit 130, and And an antenna 142. In addition, the capsule endoscope 10 includes a battery, circuit components, and the like (not shown).
　カプセル型筐体１１０は、被検体１００の口腔から飲み込み可能な大きさを有し、略半球状で可視光に対して透明性又は透光性を有する先端カバー１１１と、可視光に対して不透明な有色材質からなる胴部カバー１１２とを弾性的に嵌合させることで、内部を液密に封止する外装ケースを形成する。 The capsule-type housing 110 has a size that can be swallowed from the oral cavity of the subject 100, and is a substantially hemispherical tip cover 111 that is transparent or translucent to visible light, and opaque to visible light. An outer case for liquid-tightly sealing the inside is formed by elastically fitting the body cover 112 made of a colored material.
　撮像ユニット１２０は、先端カバー１１１を介して被検体内（管腔内）を照明する照明光を出射するＬＥＤ等の複数の照明素子１２１と、照明光の反射光を受光して被検体内を撮像するＣＣＤやＣＭＯＳ等の撮像素子１２２と、この撮像素子１２２の受光面において被検体内の像を結像させる結像レンズ１２３とを有し、先端カバー１１１側の端部方向の撮像を行う。 The imaging unit 120 receives a plurality of illumination elements 121 such as LEDs that emit illumination light that illuminates the inside of the subject (inside the lumen) via the tip cover 111, and the reflected light of the illumination light to receive the inside of the subject. An imaging element 122 such as a CCD or CMOS for imaging, and an imaging lens 123 that forms an image in the subject on the light receiving surface of the imaging element 122, and performs imaging in the end direction on the distal end cover 111 side. .
　信号処理・制御部１３０は、照明素子１２１を駆動する照明素子駆動回路１３１と、撮像素子１２２を駆動する撮像素子駆動回路１３２と、撮像素子１２２から出力される信号に対して所定の信号処理を施す信号処理部１３３と、これらの各部の動作を制御する制御部１３４とを有する。信号処理部１３３は、撮像素子１２２から出力される信号に対し、相関二重サンプリング処理、増幅処理、Ａ／Ｄ変換処理、多重化処理等の所定の信号処理を施すことにより、被検体内の撮像領域に対応する画像データを生成する。制御部１３４は、各種タイミング信号や同期信号を生成するタイミングジェネレータ及びシンクジェネレータ（以下、ＴＧ・ＳＧと記す）１３５を含み、ＴＧ・ＳＧ１３５により生成されたタイミング信号や同期信号に基づいて、照明素子駆動回路１３１、撮像素子駆動回路１３２、信号処理部１３３の動作やそれらの動作タイミング等を制御する。 The signal processing / control unit 130 performs predetermined signal processing on the illumination element drive circuit 131 that drives the illumination element 121, the image sensor drive circuit 132 that drives the image sensor 122, and the signal output from the image sensor 122. A signal processing unit 133 to be applied, and a control unit 134 that controls operations of these units. The signal processing unit 133 performs predetermined signal processing such as correlated double sampling processing, amplification processing, A / D conversion processing, and multiplexing processing on the signal output from the image sensor 122, so that the inside of the subject is processed. Image data corresponding to the imaging region is generated. The control unit 134 includes a timing generator and a sync generator (hereinafter referred to as TG / SG) 135 that generate various timing signals and synchronization signals, and based on the timing signals and synchronization signals generated by the TG / SG 135, the lighting element The operation of the drive circuit 131, the image sensor drive circuit 132, the signal processing unit 133, the operation timing thereof, and the like are controlled.
　このようなカプセル型内視鏡１０は、被検体１００の口から飲み込まれた後、臓器の蠕動運動等によって被検体１００の消化管内を移動しつつ、生体部位（食道、胃、小腸、および大腸等）を所定の時間間隔（例えば、０．５秒間隔）で順次撮像する。そして、撮像により取得した撮像信号に対して所定の信号処理を施すことにより画像データを生成し、この画像データを受信装置２０に順次無線送信する。 Such a capsule endoscope 10 is swallowed from the mouth of the subject 100 and then moves in the digestive tract of the subject 100 by a peristaltic movement of the organ 100, and the body part (esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine). Etc.) are sequentially imaged at predetermined time intervals (for example, 0.5 second intervals). Then, image data is generated by performing predetermined signal processing on the imaging signal acquired by imaging, and the image data is sequentially wirelessly transmitted to the receiving device 20.
　受信装置２０は、被検体１００の体表近傍に装着され、複数（図１においては８個）の受信アンテナ２１ａ～２１ｈを有するアンテナユニット２１を介して、カプセル型内視鏡１０から無線送信された画像データ及び関連情報を受信する。各受信アンテナ２１ａ～２１ｈは、例えばループアンテナを用いて実現され、被検体１００の体表上の所定位置（例えばカプセル型内視鏡１０の通過経路である被検体１００内の各臓器に対応した位置）に配置される。 The receiving device 20 is mounted near the body surface of the subject 100 and wirelessly transmitted from the capsule endoscope 10 via the antenna unit 21 having a plurality (eight in FIG. 1) of receiving antennas 21a to 21h. Received image data and related information. Each of the receiving antennas 21a to 21h is realized by using, for example, a loop antenna, and corresponds to a predetermined position on the body surface of the subject 100 (for example, each organ in the subject 100 that is a passage route of the capsule endoscope 10). Position).
　図４は、受信装置２０の外観を示す模式図である。また、図５は、受信装置２０の構成を示すブロック図である。図４及び図５に示すように、受信装置２０は、受信装置２０の電源状態（ＯＮ／ＯＦＦ）を切り替える電源スイッチ２０１と、受信装置２０の各部に電源を供給するバッテリ２０２と、検査に関する各種情報を表示する表示部２０３と、受信装置２０に対する種々の情報や命令をユーザが入力するための操作入力部２０４と、当該受信装置２０と接続される外部機器との間で通信を仲介するインタフェース（Ｉ／Ｆ）部２０５と、カプセル型内視鏡１０から無線送信された画像データをアンテナユニット２１を介して受信する受信部２０６と、受信した画像データに対して所定の信号処理を施す信号処理部２０７と、メモリ２０８と、制御部２１０とを備える。 FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an external appearance of the receiving device 20. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the receiving device 20. 4 and 5, the receiving device 20 includes a power switch 201 that switches the power state (ON / OFF) of the receiving device 20, a battery 202 that supplies power to each unit of the receiving device 20, and various types of inspections. An interface that mediates communication between a display unit 203 for displaying information, an operation input unit 204 for a user to input various information and commands to the receiving device 20, and an external device connected to the receiving device 20. (I / F) unit 205, receiving unit 206 that receives image data wirelessly transmitted from capsule endoscope 10 via antenna unit 21, and signal that performs predetermined signal processing on the received image data A processing unit 207, a memory 208, and a control unit 210 are provided.
　表示部２０３は、液晶または有機ＥＬ等の表示パネルによって実現される。図４に示すように、表示部２０３には、カプセル型内視鏡１０による検査中、患者ＩＤ、患者氏名等の患者情報、検査日等の検査情報、受信した画像データの撮像が行われた正味の検査時間といった情報が表示される。
　操作入力部２０４は、押しボタン等のハードウェアの操作部材の他、表示部２０３上に重ねて設けられたタッチパネルであっても良い。 The display unit 203 is realized by a display panel such as liquid crystal or organic EL. As shown in FIG. 4, during the examination by the capsule endoscope 10, patient information such as patient ID and patient name, examination information such as examination date, and received image data were captured. Information such as net inspection time is displayed.
The operation input unit 204 may be a touch panel provided on the display unit 203 in addition to a hardware operation member such as a push button.
　メモリ２０８は、信号処理部２０７によって信号処理が施された体内画像の画像データや、当該受信装置２０の動作を制御するためのプログラム等を記憶する。なお、実施の形態１においては、メモリ２０８として内蔵メモリを使用するが、その代わりに、ＵＳＢメモリやコンパクトフラッシュ（登録商標）のように、受信装置２０から着脱可能なメモリを使用しても良い。 The memory 208 stores in-vivo image data that has been subjected to signal processing by the signal processing unit 207, a program for controlling the operation of the receiving device 20, and the like. In the first embodiment, a built-in memory is used as the memory 208. Instead, a memory that is detachable from the receiving device 20 such as a USB memory or a compact flash (registered trademark) may be used. .
　制御部２１０は、ＣＰＵ等のハードウェアによって実現され、メモリ２０８に記憶された各種プログラムを読み込むことにより、インタフェース部２０５を介して入力される各種操作信号等に従って、受信装置２０全体の動作を統括的に制御する。 The control unit 210 is realized by hardware such as a CPU, and reads the various programs stored in the memory 208, thereby supervising the overall operation of the receiving device 20 according to various operation signals input via the interface unit 205. Control.
　具体的には、制御部２１０は、カプセル型内視鏡１０から受信した画像データの受信間隔を判定する受信間隔判定部２１１と、カプセル型内視鏡１０の撮像フレームレートを取得する撮像フレームレート取得手段としての撮像フレームレート算出部２１２と、受信した画像データに対応する画像の枚数を計測する画像計測部２１３と、撮像フレームレートと画像の枚数とに基づいて、画像データの撮像が行われた正味の検査時間を算出する検査時間算出部２１４とを備え、算出した検査時間を表示部２０３に表示させる。 Specifically, the control unit 210 includes a reception interval determination unit 211 that determines a reception interval of image data received from the capsule endoscope 10, and an imaging frame rate that acquires the imaging frame rate of the capsule endoscope 10. Imaging data is captured based on an imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 as an acquisition unit, an image measurement unit 213 that measures the number of images corresponding to received image data, and an imaging frame rate and the number of images. And an inspection time calculation unit 214 that calculates the net inspection time, and causes the display unit 203 to display the calculated inspection time.
　次に、受信装置２０の動作について説明する。図６は、受信装置２０の動作を示すフローチャートである。また、図７は、画像データの受信タイミングを示す図である。 Next, the operation of the receiving device 20 will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving device 20. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the reception timing of image data.
　まず、ステップＳ１０１において、受信装置２０は、カプセル型内視鏡１０から無線送信された画像データを受信する。続くステップＳ１０２において、受信装置２０は、受信した画像データに対して所定の信号処理を施してメモリ２０８に記憶させる。 First, in step S101, the receiving device 20 receives image data wirelessly transmitted from the capsule endoscope 10. In subsequent step S <b> 102, the reception device 20 performs predetermined signal processing on the received image data and stores the image data in the memory 208.
　ステップＳ１０３において、受信間隔判定部２１１は、今回受信した画像データと前回受信した画像データとの受信間隔ΔＴを測定し、該受信間隔ΔＴが予め設定された所定時間（例えば、５秒～１０秒）以下であるか否かを判別する。例えば、画像データを最初に受信したとき（時刻ｔ１）や、試し撮りの後、一旦撮像を停止し、その後（例えば、５秒を超える時間が経過した後）撮像を再開したとき（例えば、時刻ｔ２、ｔ３）には、受信間隔が所定時間を超えていると判別される。 In step S103, the reception interval determination unit 211 measures a reception interval ΔT between the image data received this time and the image data received last time, and the reception interval ΔT is set to a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds to 10 seconds). ) Determine whether or not: For example, when image data is received for the first time (time t1), or after trial shooting, imaging is temporarily stopped, and thereafter (for example, after a time exceeding 5 seconds has elapsed), imaging is resumed (for example, time At t2, t3), it is determined that the reception interval exceeds a predetermined time.
　画像データの受信間隔ΔＴが所定時間を超えている場合（ステップＳ１０３：Ｎｏ）、撮像フレームレート算出部２１２は、画像データの受信間隔に基づいて撮像フレームレートを算出してメモリ２０８に記憶させる（ステップＳ１０４）。 When the image data reception interval ΔT exceeds the predetermined time (step S103: No), the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 calculates the imaging frame rate based on the reception interval of the image data and stores it in the memory 208 ( Step S104).
　図８は、撮像フレームレートの算出処理の詳細を示すフローチャートである。まず、ステップＳ１１１において、受信装置２０は、画像データを引き続き受信する。続くステップＳ１１２において、受信装置２０は、画像データに所定の信号処理を施してメモリ２０８に記憶させる。 FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing details of the imaging frame rate calculation process. First, in step S111, the receiving device 20 continues to receive image data. In subsequent step S <b> 112, the receiving apparatus 20 performs predetermined signal processing on the image data and stores the image data in the memory 208.
　ステップＳ１１３において、撮像フレームレート算出部２１２は、今回受信した画像データと前回受信した画像データとの受信間隔ΔＴを測定してメモリ２０８に記憶させる。 In step S113, the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 measures the reception interval ΔT between the image data received this time and the image data received last time and stores it in the memory 208.
　ステップＳ１１４において、画像計測部２１３は、今回受信した画像データに対応する画像の枚数として、画像枚数を１つ加算してメモリ２０８に記憶させる。この際、無効画像（例えば、ノイズが多いため観察の際に間引きされる画像）の画像データを受信した場合も、後述する受信間隔ΔＴの平均値の算出及び検査時間の算出に用いるため、画像枚数はカウントされる。 In step S114, the image measurement unit 213 adds one image number as the number of images corresponding to the image data received this time, and stores it in the memory 208. At this time, even when image data of an invalid image (for example, an image thinned out during observation due to a lot of noise) is received, the image data is used to calculate the average value of the reception interval ΔT and the inspection time, which will be described later. The number of sheets is counted.
　ステップＳ１１５において、撮像フレームレート算出部２１２は、撮像フレームレートの算出処理を開始してから画像データを所定回数（例えば、３～５回）受信したか否かを判定する。画像データを所定回数受信していない場合（ステップＳ１１５：Ｎｏ）、動作はステップＳ１１１に戻る。 In step S115, the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 determines whether image data has been received a predetermined number of times (for example, 3 to 5 times) after starting the imaging frame rate calculation process. If the image data has not been received a predetermined number of times (step S115: No), the operation returns to step S111.
　一方、画像データを所定回数受信した場合（ステップＳ１１５：Ｙｅｓ）、撮像フレームレート算出部２１２は、画像データの受信間隔ΔＴの平均値を算出する（ステップＳ１１６）。そして、ステップＳ１１７において、この平均値の逆数を撮像フレームレートとして算出する。例えば、受信間隔ΔＴの平均値が０．５秒である場合、フレームレートは２フレーム／秒（ｆｐｓ）となる。その後、動作はメインルーチンに戻る。 On the other hand, when the image data is received a predetermined number of times (step S115: Yes), the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 calculates the average value of the reception interval ΔT of the image data (step S116). In step S117, the reciprocal of this average value is calculated as the imaging frame rate. For example, when the average value of the reception interval ΔT is 0.5 seconds, the frame rate is 2 frames / second (fps). Thereafter, the operation returns to the main routine.
　ステップＳ１０３において画像データの受信間隔が所定時間内であると判定された場合（ステップＳ１０３：Ｙｅｓ）、画像計測部２１３は、今回受信した画像データに対応する画像の枚数として、画像枚数を１つ加算してメモリ２０８に記憶させる（ステップＳ１０５）。この際、無効画像の画像データを受信した場合も、検査時間の算出に用いるため画像枚数はカウントされる。 When it is determined in step S103 that the reception interval of the image data is within the predetermined time (step S103: Yes), the image measurement unit 213 takes one image as the number of images corresponding to the image data received this time. The sum is added and stored in the memory 208 (step S105). At this time, even when image data of an invalid image is received, the number of images is counted for use in calculating the inspection time.
　続くステップＳ１０６において、検査時間算出部２１４は、メモリ２０８に記憶された画像の枚数を、ステップＳ１０４において算出した撮像フレームレートで割ることにより、それまでに受信した画像データの撮像が行われた正味の検査時間を算出する。この検査時間は、言い換えれば、それまでにメモリ２０８に記憶された画像データの量に相当する。 In subsequent step S106, the examination time calculation unit 214 divides the number of images stored in the memory 208 by the imaging frame rate calculated in step S104, thereby obtaining the net image of the image data received so far. The inspection time is calculated. In other words, this inspection time corresponds to the amount of image data stored in the memory 208 so far.
　ステップＳ１０７において、制御部２１０は、検査時間を表示部２０３に表示させる。この際、ステップＳ１０６において算出された検査時間は、画像の枚数と撮像フレームレートとに基づく概数であるので、図４に示すように、検出時間を分単位で表示しても良い。 In step S107, the control unit 210 causes the display unit 203 to display the inspection time. At this time, since the inspection time calculated in step S106 is an approximate number based on the number of images and the imaging frame rate, the detection time may be displayed in minutes as shown in FIG.
　ステップＳ１０８において、電源スイッチ２０１の操作、その他カプセル型内視鏡１０からの画像データ受信を終了させる操作がなされた場合（ステップＳ１０８：Ｙｅｓ）、受信装置２０は動作を終了する。一方、画像データ受信を終了させる操作がない場合（ステップＳ１０８：Ｎｏ）、動作はステップＳ１０１に戻る。 In step S108, when the operation of the power switch 201 or other operation for ending the reception of the image data from the capsule endoscope 10 is performed (step S108: Yes), the receiving device 20 ends the operation. On the other hand, when there is no operation to end the image data reception (step S108: No), the operation returns to step S101.
　以上説明したように、実施の形態１によれば、受信した画像データに対応する画像の枚数と撮像フレームレートとに基づいて検査時間を算出して表示部に表示するので、ユーザは、カプセル型内視鏡による正味の検査時間を把握することが可能となる。また、実施の形態１によれば、画像データの受信間隔に基づいて撮像フレームレートを算出するので、カプセル型内視鏡の仕様に応じて、正味の検査時間を正確に算出することが可能となる。例えば、カプセル型内視鏡に対し、胃検査用、小腸検査用といった検査対象の臓器ごとに撮像フレームレートが設定されている場合であっても、受信装置の側に特別な設定を要することなく、画像データの受信を通してカプセル型内視鏡に設定された撮像フレームレートを算出し、この撮像フレームレートに基づいて正味の検査時間を求めることができる。 As described above, according to the first embodiment, the inspection time is calculated based on the number of images corresponding to the received image data and the imaging frame rate and displayed on the display unit. It becomes possible to grasp the net inspection time by the endoscope. Further, according to the first embodiment, since the imaging frame rate is calculated based on the reception interval of the image data, it is possible to accurately calculate the net inspection time according to the specifications of the capsule endoscope. Become. For example, even when an imaging frame rate is set for each organ to be examined such as for gastric examination and small intestine examination for a capsule endoscope, no special setting is required on the receiving device side. The imaging frame rate set for the capsule endoscope can be calculated through reception of the image data, and the net inspection time can be obtained based on the imaging frame rate.
　従って、ユーザは、表示された正味の検査時間から、受信装置内のメモリに画像データが記憶されているか否か、また、画像データが記憶されている場合にはどの程度のデータの量か（即ち、試し撮りデータか、又は検査データか）を判別することができる。それにより、ユーザは、その受信装置がそのまま（初期化せずに）検査に使用できるものであるのか、初期化した上で使用できるものであるのか、或いは、これから画像データのダウンロードに回すべきものであるのかを容易に判断することが可能となる。 Therefore, the user can determine whether the image data is stored in the memory in the receiving apparatus from the displayed net inspection time, and how much data is stored when the image data is stored ( That is, it can be determined whether the data is test shooting data or inspection data. As a result, the user can use the receiving device as it is (without initializing) for inspection, can be used after initializing, or should be used for downloading image data from now on. It is possible to easily determine whether it is.
　さらに、ユーザは、受信装置に表示された正味の検査時間に応じて、受信装置内のメモリに記憶された画像データが、どの部位（臓器）を検査したものであるかを推定することも可能となる。これは、食道や胃を検査対象とする場合、正味の検査時間は比較的短くなるのに対し、小腸や大腸を検査対象とする場合、正味の検査時間は比較的長くなるからである。 Further, the user can estimate which part (organ) of the image data stored in the memory in the receiving apparatus is inspected according to the net inspection time displayed on the receiving apparatus. It becomes. This is because when the esophagus and stomach are examined, the net examination time is relatively short, whereas when the small intestine and large intestine are examined, the net examination time is relatively long.
（実施の形態２）
　次に、本発明の実施の形態２について説明する。実施の形態２に係るカプセル型内視鏡システムは、図９に示すカプセル型内視鏡１５と、図１０に示す受信装置２２とを備える。 (Embodiment 2)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The capsule endoscope system according to the second embodiment includes a capsule endoscope 15 shown in FIG. 9 and a receiving device 22 shown in FIG.
　図９に示すように、カプセル型内視鏡１５は、撮像フレームレートを制御可能な信号処理・制御部１５０を備える。より詳細には、信号処理・制御部１５０は、撮像フレームレート制御部１５２を有する制御部１５１を備える。撮像フレームレート制御部１５２は、例えば、信号処理部１３３により信号処理された画像データに基づき撮像フレームレートを設定してＴＧ・ＳＧ１３５を制御すると共に、撮像フレームレートの設定情報（例えば、撮像フレームレートを設定した旨を示す撮像フレームレート設定フラグ）を画像データに付与する。なお、カプセル型内視鏡１５の制御部１５１以外の構成については実施の形態１と同様である。 As shown in FIG. 9, the capsule endoscope 15 includes a signal processing / control unit 150 capable of controlling the imaging frame rate. More specifically, the signal processing / control unit 150 includes a control unit 151 having an imaging frame rate control unit 152. For example, the imaging frame rate control unit 152 sets the imaging frame rate based on the image data signal-processed by the signal processing unit 133 to control the TG / SG 135 and also sets the imaging frame rate setting information (for example, the imaging frame rate). Is set to the image data. The configuration other than the control unit 151 of the capsule endoscope 15 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
　ここで、被検体１００内においてカプセル型内視鏡１５が通過する臓器は、臓器に応じた特徴的な色成分（例えば、平均色）を有している。例えば、食道は白青系、胃は赤系、小腸は黄系、大腸は橙系といった色成分を有しており、これらの色成分はいずれも、被検体１００外を撮像した画像が有する特徴的な色成分とは異なる。そこで、撮像フレームレート制御部１５２は、信号処理部１３３が処理した画像データから画像内の所定の複数箇所（例えば、４箇所）における画素値に対応するデータを抽出するなどして、各画像の特徴的な色成分を算出し、その色成分に応じた撮像フレームレートを設定する。具体的には、カプセル型内視鏡１５が被検体１００外にあると判断される間、撮像フレームレートを低い値（例えば、０．５ｆｐｓ）に設定し、カプセル型内視鏡１５が被検体１００内に導入されたと判断された後（例えば、特徴的な色成分が食道を示す白青系になった後）、撮像フレームレートを高く（例えば、１ｆｐｓ）するといった設定を行っても良い。或いは、小腸検査を目的とする場合に、カプセル型内視鏡が胃から小腸に移動したと判断された際（例えば、特徴的な色成分が胃を示す赤系から小腸を示す黄系に変化した際）に撮像フレームレートを高くする（例えば、２ｆｐｓ）といった設定を行っても良い。 Here, the organ through which the capsule endoscope 15 passes in the subject 100 has a characteristic color component (for example, an average color) corresponding to the organ. For example, the esophagus has color components such as white and blue, the stomach is red, the small intestine is yellow, and the large intestine is orange, and these color components are all features of images taken outside the subject 100. Different from typical color components. Therefore, the imaging frame rate control unit 152 extracts data corresponding to pixel values at a plurality of predetermined locations (for example, 4 locations) in the image from the image data processed by the signal processing unit 133, and the like. A characteristic color component is calculated, and an imaging frame rate corresponding to the color component is set. Specifically, while it is determined that the capsule endoscope 15 is outside the subject 100, the imaging frame rate is set to a low value (for example, 0.5 fps), and the capsule endoscope 15 is set to the subject. After it is determined that the image is introduced into the image 100 (for example, after the characteristic color component becomes white-blue indicating the esophagus), the imaging frame rate may be set high (for example, 1 fps). Or, for the purpose of inspection of the small intestine, when it is determined that the capsule endoscope has moved from the stomach to the small intestine (for example, the characteristic color component changes from the red system indicating the stomach to the yellow system indicating the small intestine) The image pickup frame rate may be set high (for example, 2 fps).
　一方、図１０に示すように、受信装置２２は、図５に示す受信間隔判定部２１１の代わりにフラグ識別部２２１を有する制御部２２０を備える。フラグ識別部２２１は、カプセル型内視鏡１５から受信した画像データに、フレームレートの設定情報として、例えばフレームレート設定フラグが付与されているか否かを識別する。なお、受信装置２２の制御部２２０以外の構成については実施の形態１と同様である。 On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the reception device 22 includes a control unit 220 having a flag identification unit 221 instead of the reception interval determination unit 211 illustrated in FIG. 5. The flag identifying unit 221 identifies whether, for example, a frame rate setting flag is added to the image data received from the capsule endoscope 15 as frame rate setting information. The configuration other than the control unit 220 of the receiving device 22 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
　次に、受信装置２２の動作について説明する。図１１は、受信装置２２の動作を示すフローチャートである。なお、図１１に示すステップＳ１０１、Ｓ１０２、及びＳ１０４～Ｓ１０８の動作は実施の形態１と同様である。また、図１２は、画像データの受信タイミングを示す図である。 Next, the operation of the receiving device 22 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving device 22. The operations in steps S101, S102, and S104 to S108 shown in FIG. 11 are the same as those in the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the reception timing of image data.
　ステップＳ１０２に続くステップＳ２０１において、フラグ識別部２２１は、受信した画像データにフレームレート設定フラグが付与されているか否かを判定する。フレームレート設定フラグが付与されている場合（ステップＳ２０１：Ｙｅｓ）、撮像フレームレート算出部２１２は、撮像フレームレートを算出してメモリ２０８に記憶させる（ステップＳ１０４）。なお、メモリ２０８に既に別の撮像フレームレートが記憶されている場合、撮像フレームレートは新たに算出された値に更新される。 In step S201 following step S102, the flag identifying unit 221 determines whether or not a frame rate setting flag is given to the received image data. When the frame rate setting flag is given (step S201: Yes), the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 calculates the imaging frame rate and stores it in the memory 208 (step S104). Note that when another imaging frame rate is already stored in the memory 208, the imaging frame rate is updated to a newly calculated value.
　例えば、図１２に示すように、時刻ｔ４のタイミングで受信した画像データにフレームレート設定フラグが付与されていた場合、撮像フレームレート算出部２１２は、時刻ｔ４から後の数回（例えば、３～５回）に渡って受信した画像データの受信間隔に基づいて撮像フレームレートを算出する（図８参照）。これにより、時刻ｔ４の前後で受信間隔がΔＴ1からΔＴ2に変化した場合、撮像フレームレートは、１／ΔＴ1から１／ΔＴ2に変更される。 For example, as shown in FIG. 12, when the frame rate setting flag is added to the image data received at the timing of time t4, the imaging frame rate calculation unit 212 performs several times after the time t4 (for example, 3 to The imaging frame rate is calculated based on the reception interval of the image data received over 5 times (see FIG. 8). As a result, when the reception interval changes from ΔT 1 to ΔT 2 before and after time t4, the imaging frame rate is changed from 1 / ΔT 1 to 1 / ΔT 2 .
　なお、ステップＳ１０６においては、撮像フレームレートの変更前までに算出された検査時間Ｔ0に対し、撮像フレームレートの変更後に受信した画像の枚数ｎと変更後の撮像フレームレートｆnewとに基づいて算出された検査時間（ｎ／ｆnew）を加算することにより、トータルの検査時間Ｔtotal＝Ｔ0＋ｎ／ｆnewが算出される。 In step S106, the inspection time T 0 calculated before the change of the imaging frame rate is based on the number n of images received after the change of the imaging frame rate and the changed imaging frame rate f new. By adding the calculated inspection time (n / f new ), the total inspection time T total = T 0 + n / f new is calculated.
　一方、受信した画像データにフレームレート設定フラグが付与されていない場合（ステップＳ２０１：Ｎｏ）、動作はステップＳ１０５に移行する。 On the other hand, when the frame rate setting flag is not given to the received image data (step S201: No), the operation proceeds to step S105.
　以上説明したように、実施の形態２によれば、受信装置２２は、画像データに付与されたフレームレートの設定情報に基づいて撮像フレームレートが変化したタイミングを把握し、このタイミングで再度画像データの受信間隔を測定して撮像フレームレートを新たに算出するので、より簡単な処理で正味の検査時間を正確に算出することが可能となる。 As described above, according to the second embodiment, the receiving device 22 grasps the timing at which the imaging frame rate has changed based on the frame rate setting information given to the image data, and again the image data at this timing. Therefore, it is possible to accurately calculate the net inspection time with simpler processing.
　なお、実施の形態２に係る受信装置に対し、実施の形態１における受信間隔判定部２１１をさらに設けても良い。この場合、画像データの受信を開始（再開）したタイミング、及び、撮像フレームレートの設定情報が付与された画像データを受信したタイミングにおいて撮像フレームレートの算出を行うことができるので、より多様なカプセル型内視鏡の動作に対応する受信装置を提供することが可能となる。 Note that the reception interval determination unit 211 in the first embodiment may be further provided for the receiving apparatus according to the second embodiment. In this case, since the imaging frame rate can be calculated at the timing when the reception of the image data is started (resumed) and when the image data to which the setting information of the imaging frame rate is added is received, a wider variety of capsules It is possible to provide a receiving apparatus corresponding to the operation of the mold endoscope.
　また、カプセル型内視鏡１５は、撮像した画像の特徴的な色成分以外の種々の情報に基づいて撮像フレームレートを設定しても良い。例えば、カプセル型内視鏡に温度や圧力やｐＨ値等を測定するセンサを設け、これらのセンサの測定値に基づいて撮像フレームレートを設定することとしても良い。 Also, the capsule endoscope 15 may set the imaging frame rate based on various information other than the characteristic color component of the captured image. For example, a sensor that measures temperature, pressure, pH value, and the like may be provided in the capsule endoscope, and the imaging frame rate may be set based on the measurement values of these sensors.
（実施の形態３）
　次に、本発明の実施の形態３について説明する。実施の形態３に係るカプセル型内視鏡システムは、図１３に示すカプセル型内視鏡１６と、図１４に示す受信装置２４とを備える。 (Embodiment 3)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The capsule endoscope system according to the third embodiment includes a capsule endoscope 16 shown in FIG. 13 and a receiving device 24 shown in FIG.
　図１３に示すカプセル型内視鏡１６は、撮像フレームレートの制御可能な信号処理・制御部１６０を備える。より詳細には、信号処理・制御部１６０は、撮像フレームレート制御部１６２と、撮像情報生成部１６３とを有する制御部１６１を備える。なお、カプセル型内視鏡１６の制御部１６１以外の構成については実施の形態１と同様である。 The capsule endoscope 16 shown in FIG. 13 includes a signal processing / control unit 160 capable of controlling the imaging frame rate. More specifically, the signal processing / control unit 160 includes a control unit 161 having an imaging frame rate control unit 162 and an imaging information generation unit 163. The configuration of the capsule endoscope 16 other than the control unit 161 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
　撮像フレームレート制御部１６２は、例えば信号処理部１３３において信号処理が施された画像データに基づいて撮像フレームレートを設定し、ＴＧ・ＳＧ１３５を制御する。なお、撮像フレームレートの設定方法の詳細については、実施の形態２において説明したものと同様である。或いは、撮像フレームレート制御部１６２は、撮像した画像の特徴的な色成分以外の種々の情報に基づいて撮像フレームレートを設定することとしても良い。 The imaging frame rate control unit 162 sets the imaging frame rate based on the image data subjected to signal processing in the signal processing unit 133, for example, and controls the TG / SG 135. The details of the method for setting the imaging frame rate are the same as those described in the second embodiment. Alternatively, the imaging frame rate control unit 162 may set the imaging frame rate based on various information other than the characteristic color components of the captured image.
　撮像情報生成部１６３は、撮像フレームレート制御部１６２が撮像フレームレートを設定した際に、撮像フレームレートに関する情報（例えば、内部クロック信号）を生成して画像データに付加する。この撮像フレームレートに関する情報（以下、撮像フレームレート情報ともいう）は、画像データと共に受信装置２４に送信される。なお、撮像情報生成部１６３は、新たに検査を開始した際（カプセル型内視鏡１６と受信装置２４との間で通信が確立した際、又は最初に画像データを送信した際）には、撮像フレームレートの初期値に関する情報を生成して画像データに付加する。 The imaging information generation unit 163 generates information about the imaging frame rate (for example, an internal clock signal) and adds it to the image data when the imaging frame rate control unit 162 sets the imaging frame rate. Information regarding the imaging frame rate (hereinafter also referred to as imaging frame rate information) is transmitted to the receiving device 24 together with the image data. When the imaging information generation unit 163 newly starts an examination (when communication is established between the capsule endoscope 16 and the receiving device 24 or when image data is first transmitted), Information on the initial value of the imaging frame rate is generated and added to the image data.
　一方、図１４に示すように、受信装置２４は、撮像フレームレート取得部２４１と、画像計測部２１３と、検査時間算出部２１４とを有する制御部２４０を備える。撮像フレームレート取得部２４１は、カプセル型内視鏡１６から受信した画像に付加された撮像フレームレート情報から、カプセル型内視鏡１６において現在設定されている撮像フレームレートを取得する。なお、画像計測部２１３及び検査時間算出部２１４の動作については、実施の形態１と同様である。また、受信装置２４の制御部２４０以外の構成については実施の形態１と同様である。 On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the reception device 24 includes a control unit 240 including an imaging frame rate acquisition unit 241, an image measurement unit 213, and an examination time calculation unit 214. The imaging frame rate acquisition unit 241 acquires the imaging frame rate currently set in the capsule endoscope 16 from the imaging frame rate information added to the image received from the capsule endoscope 16. The operations of the image measurement unit 213 and the inspection time calculation unit 214 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Further, the configuration of the receiving device 24 other than the control unit 240 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
　次に、受信装置２４の動作について説明する。図１５は、受信装置２４の動作を示すフローチャートである。なお、図１５に示すステップＳ１０１、１０２、及びＳ１０５～Ｓ１０８の動作は実施の形態１と同様である。 Next, the operation of the receiving device 24 will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the receiving device 24. The operations in steps S101 and S102 and S105 to S108 shown in FIG. 15 are the same as those in the first embodiment.
　ステップＳ１０２に続くステップＳ３０１において、撮像フレームレート取得部２４１は、受信した画像データに撮像フレームレート情報が付加されているか否かを判定する。撮像フレームレート情報が付加されている場合（ステップＳ３０１：Ｙｅｓ）、撮像フレームレート取得部２４１は、この撮像フレームレート情報から、カプセル型内視鏡１６において現在設定されている撮像フレームレートを取得してメモリ２０８に記憶させる（ステップＳ３０２）。なお、メモリ２０８に既に別の撮像フレームレートが記憶されている場合、新たに取得された撮像フレームレートに更新される。 In step S301 following step S102, the imaging frame rate acquisition unit 241 determines whether imaging frame rate information is added to the received image data. When the imaging frame rate information is added (step S301: Yes), the imaging frame rate acquisition unit 241 acquires the imaging frame rate currently set in the capsule endoscope 16 from the imaging frame rate information. Is stored in the memory 208 (step S302). In addition, when another imaging frame rate is already stored in the memory 208, it is updated to a newly acquired imaging frame rate.
　この場合、ステップＳ１０６においては、ステップＳ３０２において記憶された撮像フレームレートを用いて検査時間が算出される。より詳細には、撮像フレームレートの変更前までに算出された検査時間Ｔ0に対し、撮像フレームレートの変更後に受信した画像の枚数ｎと変更後の撮像フレームレートｆnewとに基づいて算出された検査時間（ｎ／ｆnew）を加算することにより、トータルの検査時間Ｔtotal＝Ｔ0＋ｎ／ｆnewが算出される。 In this case, in step S106, the inspection time is calculated using the imaging frame rate stored in step S302. More specifically, the test time T 0 calculated before the change of the imaging frame rate is calculated based on the number n of received images after the change of the imaging frame rate and the changed imaging frame rate f new. The total inspection time T total = T 0 + n / f new is calculated by adding the inspection time (n / f new ).
　一方、画像データに撮像フレームレート情報が付加されていない場合（ステップＳ３０１：Ｎｏ）、動作はそのままステップＳ１０５に移行する。 On the other hand, when the imaging frame rate information is not added to the image data (step S301: No), the operation directly proceeds to step S105.
　以上説明したように、実施の形態３によれば、受信装置２４は、カプセル型内視鏡１６から画像データと共に送信された撮像フレームレート情報から撮像フレームレートを取得するので、正味の検査時間をより正確に且つ簡単に算出することが可能となる。 As described above, according to the third embodiment, the receiving device 24 acquires the imaging frame rate from the imaging frame rate information transmitted together with the image data from the capsule endoscope 16, so that the net inspection time is reduced. It becomes possible to calculate more accurately and easily.
　なお、上記実施の形態３においては、カプセル型内視鏡１６から受信装置２４に対し、撮像フレームレート情報を画像データに付加して送信したが、カプセル型内視鏡１６は、撮像フレームレートを変更したタイミングで撮像フレームレート情報を随時送信しても良い。この場合、受信装置２４側では、画像データの受信タイミングにかかわらず、撮像フレームレートを随時設定変更することができる。 In the third embodiment, the capsule endoscope 16 adds the imaging frame rate information to the image data and transmits it to the receiving device 24. However, the capsule endoscope 16 sets the imaging frame rate. The imaging frame rate information may be transmitted as needed at the changed timing. In this case, on the receiving device 24 side, the imaging frame rate can be set and changed at any time regardless of the reception timing of the image data.
（実施の形態４）
　次に、本発明の実施の形態４について説明する。実施の形態４に係るカプセル型内視鏡システムは、図１６に示す受信装置２６と、図１７に示すカプセル型内視鏡１７とを備える。 (Embodiment 4)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The capsule endoscope system according to the fourth embodiment includes a receiving device 26 shown in FIG. 16 and a capsule endoscope 17 shown in FIG.
　図１６に示すように、受信装置２６は、撮像フレームレート取得手段としての撮像フレームレート制御部２６１と、撮像情報生成部２６２と、画像計測部２１３と検査時間算出部２１４とを有する制御部２６０を備え、さらに、受信装置２６からカプセル型内視鏡１７に対して種々の情報を無線送信する送信部２０９を備える。なお、受信装置２６の送信部２０９及び制御部２６０以外の構成については実施の形態１と同様である。 As illustrated in FIG. 16, the reception device 26 includes a control unit 260 including an imaging frame rate control unit 261 as an imaging frame rate acquisition unit, an imaging information generation unit 262, an image measurement unit 213, and an examination time calculation unit 214. And a transmitter 209 for wirelessly transmitting various information from the receiving device 26 to the capsule endoscope 17. The configuration of the receiving device 26 other than the transmission unit 209 and the control unit 260 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
　撮像フレームレート制御部２６１は、カプセル型内視鏡１７から受信した画像データに基づいて、カプセル型内視鏡１７における撮像フレームレートを制御する。また、撮像情報生成部２６２は、撮像フレームレートに関する情報（例えば、カプセル型内視鏡１７の内部クロックを制御する制御信号）を生成する。この撮像フレームレートに関する情報（以下、撮像フレームレート情報ともいう）は、送信部２０９を介してカプセル型内視鏡１７に随時無線送信される。 The imaging frame rate control unit 261 controls the imaging frame rate in the capsule endoscope 17 based on the image data received from the capsule endoscope 17. In addition, the imaging information generation unit 262 generates information related to the imaging frame rate (for example, a control signal for controlling the internal clock of the capsule endoscope 17). Information regarding the imaging frame rate (hereinafter also referred to as imaging frame rate information) is wirelessly transmitted to the capsule endoscope 17 at any time via the transmission unit 209.
　一方、図１７に示すように、カプセル型内視鏡１７は、受信装置２６から無線送信された情報をアンテナ１４２を介して受信する受信モジュール１４３と、撮像フレームレートを制御可能な信号処理・制御部１７０とを備える。より詳細には、信号処理・制御部１７０は、撮像フレームレート設定部１７２を有する制御部１７１を備える。撮像フレームレート設定部１７２は、受信装置２６から受信した撮像フレームレート情報に基づいて撮像フレームレートを設定する。なお、カプセル型内視鏡１７の制御部１７１及び受信モジュール１４３以外の構成については実施の形態１と同様である。 On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 17, the capsule endoscope 17 includes a receiving module 143 that receives information wirelessly transmitted from the receiving device 26 via the antenna 142, and signal processing / control that can control the imaging frame rate. Unit 170. More specifically, the signal processing / control unit 170 includes a control unit 171 having an imaging frame rate setting unit 172. The imaging frame rate setting unit 172 sets the imaging frame rate based on the imaging frame rate information received from the receiving device 26. The configuration of the capsule endoscope 17 other than the control unit 171 and the reception module 143 is the same as that of the first embodiment.
　次に、実施の形態４に係るカプセル型内視鏡システムの動作について説明する。図１８は、受信装置２６及びカプセル型内視鏡１７の動作を示すフローチャートである。 Next, the operation of the capsule endoscope system according to the fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing operations of the receiving device 26 and the capsule endoscope 17.
　まず、ステップＳ４０１において、受信装置２６は、カプセル型内視鏡１７に対して撮像フレームレートの設定が必要か否かを判定する。具体的には、受信装置２６は、新たに検査を開始する場合（受信装置２６とカプセル型内視鏡１７との間で通信が確立したとき）や、カプセル型内視鏡１７が所定の臓器に到達したと判断した場合に、撮像フレームレートの設定が必要であると判定する。なお、後者の場合、撮像フレームレート制御部２６１は、信号処理部２０７が処理した画像データから画像内の所定の複数箇所（例えば、４箇所）における画素値に対応するデータを抽出するなどして、画像の特徴的な色成分（例えば、平均色）を算出し、この特徴的な色成分を所定の閾値と比較することにより、カプセル型内視鏡１７が現在通過中の臓器を判断することができる。例えば、特徴的な色成分が白青系の場合には食道、赤系の場合には胃、黄系の場合には小腸、橙系の場合には大腸とそれぞれ判断される。 First, in step S401, the reception device 26 determines whether it is necessary to set an imaging frame rate for the capsule endoscope 17. Specifically, the receiving device 26 starts a new examination (when communication is established between the receiving device 26 and the capsule endoscope 17), or the capsule endoscope 17 has a predetermined organ. If it is determined that the image pickup frame rate has been reached, it is determined that the imaging frame rate needs to be set. In the latter case, the imaging frame rate control unit 261 extracts data corresponding to pixel values at a plurality of predetermined locations (for example, 4 locations) in the image from the image data processed by the signal processing unit 207. , Calculating a characteristic color component (for example, average color) of the image and comparing the characteristic color component with a predetermined threshold value to determine the organ that the capsule endoscope 17 is currently passing through Can do. For example, when the characteristic color component is white-blue, it is determined as the esophagus, when it is red, the stomach, when it is yellow, the small intestine, and when it is orange, it is determined as the large intestine.
　撮像フレームレートの設定が必要であると判定した場合（ステップＳ４０１：Ｙｅｓ）、撮像フレームレート制御部２６１は、カプセル型内視鏡１７に設定する撮像フレームレートを決定すると共に、決定した撮像フレームレートをメモリ２０８に記憶させる（ステップＳ４０２）。具体的には、撮像フレームレート制御部２６１は、検査開始の際には、予め定められた撮像フレームレートの初期値を設定する。また、検査の途中であれば、カプセル型内視鏡１７が到達した臓器に応じた撮像フレームレートを設定する。なお、メモリ２０８に既に別の撮像フレームレートが記憶されている場合、撮像フレームレートは新たに設定される値に更新される。 When it is determined that the imaging frame rate needs to be set (step S401: Yes), the imaging frame rate control unit 261 determines the imaging frame rate to be set for the capsule endoscope 17, and the determined imaging frame rate. Is stored in the memory 208 (step S402). Specifically, the imaging frame rate control unit 261 sets an initial value of a predetermined imaging frame rate at the start of inspection. In the middle of the examination, an imaging frame rate is set according to the organ that the capsule endoscope 17 has reached. If another imaging frame rate is already stored in the memory 208, the imaging frame rate is updated to a newly set value.
　ステップＳ４０３において、撮像情報生成部２６２は、新たに設定される撮像フレームレートに関する情報を生成し、送信部２０９からカプセル型内視鏡１７に送信させる。 In step S403, the imaging information generation unit 262 generates information on a newly set imaging frame rate, and transmits the information to the capsule endoscope 17 from the transmission unit 209.
　一方、ステップＳ４０１において撮像フレームレートの設定は必要ないと判定した場合（ステップＳ４０１：Ｎｏ）、受信装置２６の動作はステップＳ１０１に移行する。 On the other hand, when it is determined in step S401 that it is not necessary to set the imaging frame rate (step S401: No), the operation of the receiving device 26 proceeds to step S101.
　ステップＳ４１１において、カプセル型内視鏡１７が撮像フレームレート情報を受信した場合（ステップＳ４１１：Ｙｅｓ）、撮像フレームレート設定部１７２は、撮像フレームレート情報に基づいて自身の撮像フレームレートを設定する（ステップＳ４１２）。 In step S411, when the capsule endoscope 17 receives the imaging frame rate information (step S411: Yes), the imaging frame rate setting unit 172 sets its own imaging frame rate based on the imaging frame rate information ( Step S412).
　続くステップＳ４１３において、カプセル型内視鏡１７は、ステップＳ４１２において設定された撮像フレームレートで撮像を行う。 In subsequent step S413, the capsule endoscope 17 performs imaging at the imaging frame rate set in step S412.
　一方、カプセル型内視鏡１７が撮像フレームレート情報を受信しない場合（ステップＳ４１１：Ｎｏ）、動作はそのままステップＳ４１３に移行する。この場合、カプセル型内視鏡１７は、設定済み（初期値等）の撮像フレームレートで撮像を行う。 On the other hand, when the capsule endoscope 17 does not receive the imaging frame rate information (step S411: No), the operation directly proceeds to step S413. In this case, the capsule endoscope 17 performs imaging at a set imaging frame rate (initial value or the like).
　その後、ステップＳ４１４において、カプセル型内視鏡１７は、画像データを受信装置２６に送信する。 Thereafter, in step S414, the capsule endoscope 17 transmits the image data to the receiving device.
　これに応じ、ステップＳ１０１において、受信装置２６は画像データを受信する。以下のステップＳ１０２及びＳ１０５～Ｓ１０８の動作については、実施の形態１と同様である。なお、ステップＳ１０６においては、ステップＳ４０２において設定された撮像フレームレートを用いて検査時間が算出される。また、撮像フレームレートが変更された場合には、変更前までに算出された検査時間Ｔ0に対し、撮像フレームレートの変更後に受信した画像の枚数ｎと変更後の撮像フレームレートｆnewとに基づいて算出された検査時間（ｎ／ｆnew）を加算することにより、トータルの検査時間Ｔtotal＝Ｔ0＋ｎ／ｆnewが算出される。 Accordingly, in step S101, the receiving device 26 receives image data. The operations in the following steps S102 and S105 to S108 are the same as those in the first embodiment. In step S106, the inspection time is calculated using the imaging frame rate set in step S402. When the imaging frame rate is changed, the number n of received images after the change of the imaging frame rate and the changed imaging frame rate f new are compared with the inspection time T 0 calculated before the change. By adding the inspection time (n / f new ) calculated based on the total, the total inspection time T total = T 0 + n / f new is calculated.
　一方、カプセル型内視鏡１７は、バッテリがオフになるまでの間（ステップＳ４１５：Ｎｏ）、ステップＳ４１１～Ｓ４１４の動作を繰り返す。そして、バッテリがオフとなった場合（ステップＳ４１５：Ｙｅｓ）に、動作を終了する。 On the other hand, the capsule endoscope 17 repeats the operations of steps S411 to S414 until the battery is turned off (step S415: No). Then, when the battery is turned off (step S415: Yes), the operation is terminated.
　以上説明したように、実施の形態４によれば、受信装置の側でカプセル型内視鏡の撮像フレームレートを制御するので、自身で設定した撮像フレームレートを用いて検査時間をより正確且つ簡単に算出することが可能となる。 As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, since the imaging frame rate of the capsule endoscope is controlled on the receiving device side, the examination time can be made more accurate and simple using the imaging frame rate set by itself. Can be calculated.
　なお、実施の形態４において、受信装置２６は、カプセル型内視鏡が撮像した画像データに基づいてカプセル型内視鏡１７の撮像フレームレートを制御したが、それ以外の情報に基づいて撮像フレームレートを制御しても良い。例えば、カプセル型内視鏡１７と受信装置２６との間において通信が確立した際に、カプセル型内視鏡１７から受信装置２６に向けてＩＤ等の固有情報や検査対象領域等の仕様に関する情報を送信し、受信装置２６側においてこれらの情報に基づき撮像フレームレートを決定し、決定した撮像フレームレートに関する情報をカプセル型内視鏡１７に送信するといった構成にしても良い。 In the fourth embodiment, the reception device 26 controls the imaging frame rate of the capsule endoscope 17 based on the image data captured by the capsule endoscope, but the imaging frame is based on other information. The rate may be controlled. For example, when communication is established between the capsule endoscope 17 and the receiving device 26, unique information such as an ID and information on specifications such as an inspection target region from the capsule endoscope 17 to the receiving device 26 May be configured such that the image capturing frame rate is determined based on these pieces of information on the receiving device 26 side, and information regarding the determined image capturing frame rate is transmitted to the capsule endoscope 17.
　或いは、カプセル型内視鏡１７に温度や圧力やｐＨ値等を測定するセンサをさらに設け、カプセル型内視鏡１７がこれらのセンサの測定値に関する情報を受信装置２６に随時送信し、受信装置２６側において、これらの測定値に基づいて撮像フレームレートを決定し、決定した撮像フレームレートに関する情報をカプセル型内視鏡に送信する構成としても良い。 Alternatively, the capsule endoscope 17 is further provided with a sensor for measuring temperature, pressure, pH value, etc., and the capsule endoscope 17 transmits information about the measured values of these sensors to the receiving device 26 as needed, and the receiving device. On the 26th side, an imaging frame rate may be determined based on these measurement values, and information regarding the determined imaging frame rate may be transmitted to the capsule endoscope.
　また、ユーザが受信装置に対して入力した情報に基づき、受信装置が撮像フレームレートを制御しても良い。例えば、試し撮り、本番の検査開始（カプセル型内視鏡の嚥下）といった情報を、ユーザが操作入力部２０４を用いて受信装置に入力すると、受信装置は、試し撮りの場合には撮像フレームレートを低く（例えば、０．５ｆｐｓ）設定し、本番の検査の場合には撮像フレームレートを高く（例えば、２ｆｐｓ）設定するなどして、これらの撮像フレームレートに関する情報をカプセル型内視鏡に送信するといった構成にしても良い。 Further, the receiving device may control the imaging frame rate based on information input to the receiving device by the user. For example, when the user inputs information such as trial shooting and start of actual examination (swallowing of the capsule endoscope) to the receiving device using the operation input unit 204, the receiving device captures an imaging frame rate in the case of trial shooting. Is set to a low value (for example, 0.5 fps), and in the case of the actual examination, the imaging frame rate is set to a high value (for example, 2 fps), and information regarding these imaging frame rates is transmitted to the capsule endoscope It may be configured to do.
　以上説明した実施の形態１～４は、本発明を実施するための例にすぎず、本発明はこれらに限定されるものではない。本発明は、仕様等に応じて種々変形することが可能であり、更に本発明の範囲内において、他の様々な実施の形態が可能であることは、上記記載から自明である。 Embodiments 1 to 4 described above are merely examples for carrying out the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these. It is obvious from the above description that the present invention can be variously modified according to specifications and the like, and that various other embodiments are possible within the scope of the present invention.
　１　カプセル型内視鏡システム
　１０、１５～１７　カプセル型内視鏡
　２０、２２、２４、２６　受信装置
　２１　アンテナユニット
　２１ａ～２１ｈ　受信アンテナ
　３０　クレードル
　４０　画像観察装置
　１００　被検体
　１１０　カプセル型筐体
　１１１　先端カバー
　１１２　胴部カバー
　１２０　撮像ユニット
　１２１　照明素子
　１２２　撮像素子
　１２３　結像レンズ
　１３０、１５０、１６０、１７０　信号処理・制御部
　１３１　照明素子駆動回路
　１３２　撮像素子駆動回路
　１３３　信号処理部
　１３４、１５１、１６１、１７１　制御部
　１３５　タイミングジェネレータ及びシンクジェネレータ（ＴＧ・ＳＧ）
　１４１　送信モジュール
　１４２　アンテナ
　１４３　受信モジュール
　１５２、１６２　撮像フレームレート制御部
　１６３　撮像情報生成部
　１７２　撮像フレームレート設定部
　２０１　電源スイッチ
　２０２　バッテリ
　２０３　表示部
　２０４　操作入力部
　２０５　インタフェース（Ｉ／Ｆ）部
　２０６　受信部
　２０７　信号処理部
　２０８　メモリ
　２０９　送信部
　２１０、２２０、２４０、２６０　制御部
　２１１　受信間隔判定部
　２１２　撮像フレームレート算出部
　２１３　画像計測部
　２１４　検査時間算出部
　２２１　フラグ識別部
　２４１　撮像フレームレート取得部
　２６１　撮像フレームレート制御部
　２６２　撮像情報生成部 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Capsule-type endoscope system 10, 15-17 Capsule- type endoscope 20, 22, 24, 26 Receiving device 21 Antenna unit 21a-21h Receiving antenna 30 Cradle 40 Image observation device 100 Subject 110 Capsule type housing 111 Tip Cover 112 Body cover 120 Imaging unit 121 Illuminating element 122 Imaging element 123 Imaging lens 130, 150, 160, 170 Signal processing / control unit 131 Illuminating element driving circuit 132 Imaging element driving circuit 133 Signal processing unit 134, 151, 161, 171 Controller 135 Timing generator and sink generator (TG / SG)
141 Transmission module 142 Antenna 143 Reception module 152, 162 Imaging frame rate control unit 163 Imaging information generation unit 172 Imaging frame rate setting unit 201 Power switch 202 Battery 203 Display unit 204 Operation input unit 205 Interface (I / F) unit 206 Reception unit 207 Signal processing unit 208 Memory 209 Transmission unit 210, 220, 240, 260 Control unit 211 Reception interval determination unit 212 Imaging frame rate calculation unit 213 Image measurement unit 214 Examination time calculation unit 221 Flag identification unit 241 Imaging frame rate acquisition unit 261 Imaging Frame rate control unit 262 Imaging information generation unit

Claims (9)

  1. 　被検体に導入されて該被検体の体内を撮像するカプセル型内視鏡から無線送信された画像データを受信する受信装置であって、
    　前記カプセル型内視鏡から受信した画像データに対応する画像が撮像された際の撮像フレームレートを取得する撮像フレームレート取得部と、
    　前記画像データに対応する画像の枚数を計測する画像計測部と、
    　前記撮像フレームレートと前記画像の枚数とに基づいて、撮像が行われた正味の検査時間を算出する検査時間算出部と、
    　前記正味の検査時間を表示する表示部と、
    を備えることを特徴とする受信装置。     A receiving device that receives image data that is introduced into a subject and wirelessly transmitted from a capsule endoscope that images the inside of the subject,
    An imaging frame rate acquisition unit that acquires an imaging frame rate when an image corresponding to image data received from the capsule endoscope is captured;
    An image measuring unit for measuring the number of images corresponding to the image data;
    An inspection time calculation unit that calculates a net inspection time at which imaging was performed based on the imaging frame rate and the number of images;
    A display unit for displaying the net inspection time;
    A receiving apparatus comprising:
  2. 　前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記画像データの受信間隔に基づいて前記撮像フレームレートを算出することを特徴とする請求項１に記載の受信装置。 The receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging frame rate acquisition unit calculates the imaging frame rate based on a reception interval of the image data.
  3. 　前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記画像データの受信間隔が所定の時間を越えた場合に前記撮像フレームレートを算出することを特徴とする請求項２に記載の受信装置。 The receiving apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the imaging frame rate acquisition unit calculates the imaging frame rate when a reception interval of the image data exceeds a predetermined time.
  4. 　前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記画像データに前記撮像フレームレートの設定情報が付与されている場合に前記撮像フレームレートを算出することを特徴とする請求項２に記載の受信装置。 The receiving apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the imaging frame rate acquisition unit calculates the imaging frame rate when setting information of the imaging frame rate is added to the image data.
  5. 　前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記カプセル型内視鏡によって無線送信された撮像フレームレートに関する情報から、前記カプセル型内視鏡に設定されている前記撮像フレームレートを取得することを特徴とする請求項１に記載の受信装置。 The imaging frame rate acquisition unit acquires the imaging frame rate set for the capsule endoscope from information on an imaging frame rate wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope. Item 4. The receiving device according to Item 1.
  6. 　前記撮像フレームレートに関する情報は、前記画像データと共に前記カプセル型内視鏡から無線送信されることを特徴とする請求項５に記載の受信装置。 The receiving apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the information regarding the imaging frame rate is wirelessly transmitted from the capsule endoscope together with the image data.
  7. 　前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記カプセル型内視鏡によって無線送信された情報に基づいて前記撮像フレームレートを決定し、
    　前記撮像フレームレートに関する情報を前記カプセル型内視鏡に無線送信する送信部をさらに備えることを特徴とする請求項１に記載の受信装置。     The imaging frame rate acquisition unit determines the imaging frame rate based on information wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope;
    The receiving apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a transmitting unit that wirelessly transmits information related to the imaging frame rate to the capsule endoscope.
  8. 　前記撮像フレームレート取得部は、前記カプセル型内視鏡によって無線送信された前記画像データに基づいて前記撮像フレームレートを決定することを特徴とする請求項７に記載の受信装置。 The receiving apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the imaging frame rate acquisition unit determines the imaging frame rate based on the image data wirelessly transmitted by the capsule endoscope.
  9. 　請求項１に記載の受信装置と、
    　前記被検体の体内を撮像した画像データを前記受信装置に無線送信するカプセル型内視鏡と、
    を備えることを特徴とするカプセル型内視鏡システム。     A receiving device according to claim 1;
    A capsule endoscope that wirelessly transmits image data obtained by imaging the inside of the subject to the receiving device;
    A capsule endoscope system comprising:
PCT/JP2012/063373 2011-05-31 2012-05-24 Receiving device and capsule-type endoscope system WO2012165299A1 (en)

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