JP2012152245A - System for inspection of endoscope light guide, endoscope processor, and endoscope unit - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To detect the spectroscopic deterioration of a light guide.SOLUTION: An endoscope processor 20 includes a memory 23, a system controller 24 and a color difference operation circuit 27. When the initial setting of the light guide is executed, the memory 23 houses an initial spectroscopic signal and, when a light guide inspection function is executed, the color difference operation circuit 27 reads the initial spectroscopic signal from the memory 23. Further, the color difference operation circuit 27 calculates the discrimination value on the basis of the initial spectroscopic signal and the inspection spectroscopic signal. Furthermore, the color difference operation circuit 27 compares the discrimination value with first and second threshold values to discriminate whether the spectroscopic deterioration is generated in the light guide 31.

Description

  The present invention relates to an endoscope light guide inspection system for inspecting spectral deterioration of a light guide provided in an endoscope.

  An electronic endoscope used for observing the inside of a body or a structure is known. In an electronic endoscope, an insertion tube is inserted into a desired site, and a desired image can be observed by taking a subject image with an imaging device provided at the tip of the insertion tube.

  Usually, external light is not irradiated to the inside of the body or the structure. Therefore, in order to capture a subject image, the illumination light emitted from the external light source is transmitted by the light guide provided inside the insertion tube, and the illumination light is irradiated on the inside of the body.

  Since a high-power lamp is used as the external light source, the light guide may deteriorate. Due to the deterioration of the light guide, the illumination light is attenuated in the middle of transmission, and the subject cannot be irradiated with a sufficient amount of illumination light. Therefore, it has been proposed to recognize the deterioration state of the light guide by measuring the luminance of the light transmitted by the light guide (see Patent Document 1).

  However, even in the case where the transmittance of the entire light guide has not deteriorated, the transmittance of some bands may be lowered. Therefore, the light guide inspection method disclosed in Patent Literature 1 cannot inspect spectral degradation of the light guide, that is, deterioration of light transmittance in some bands.

JP 2010-44062 A

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope light guide inspection system that inspects spectral degradation of a light guide.

  An endoscope light guide inspection system according to the present invention is an endoscope light guide inspection system that inspects transmission characteristics of a light guide that transmits illumination light emitted from a light source to the distal end of an insertion tube of an endoscope. A receiving unit that receives an image signal generated by imaging an object irradiated with illumination light by an image sensor provided at the tip of the tube, and a spectral image signal corresponding to the amount of light received at a specific wavelength in the image signal A memory for storing an initial spectral signal corresponding to the initial value of the component, a switch for executing light guide inspection, and an inspection spectral signal that is a spectral image signal component in an image signal received by the receiving unit when the switch is turned on And a light guide based on the comparison between the discriminant value and the threshold, and a calculation unit that calculates the discriminant value by comparing the initial spectral signal stored in the memory with the initial spectral signal for each specific wavelength. It is characterized in that it comprises a discriminator for discriminating whether or not normal is.

  The discriminant value is calculated by calculating the absolute value of the difference between the initial spectroscopic signal and the inspection spectroscopic signal between the same specific wavelengths and summing the absolute values of the differences calculated for a plurality of specific wavelengths, Preferably, the determination unit determines that there is an abnormality in the light guide when the determination value exceeds a threshold value.

  Alternatively, the discriminant value is obtained from the light guide at the time of generating the inspection spectral signal using the light having the same wavelength as the wavelength of the test color used for calculating the color rendering evaluation number of the illumination light irradiated to the subject from the light guide at the time of generating the initial spectral signal. This is the color rendering index calculated using the sample light of the color rendering index as the light having the same wavelength as the reference light among the illumination light applied to the subject, and the discriminator is used as a light guide when the discrimination value is less than the threshold. It is preferable to determine that there is an abnormality.

  Further, it is preferable that the discrimination value is calculated for each test color, and it is determined that the light guide is abnormal when at least one of the calculated discrimination values is less than the threshold value.

  In addition, it is preferable that the subject imaged at the time of generating the initial spectral signal and the inspection spectral signal is colored white.

  Alternatively, it is preferable that the subject imaged when generating the initial spectral signal and the inspection spectral signal is colored in a predetermined single color other than white.

  Also, an information receiving unit that receives unique identification information given to the endoscope from the endoscope, and an endoscope in which the endoscope is newly connected based on the identification information received by the information receiving unit A novelty determining unit for determining whether or not the image is a newly connected endoscope, and the spectral image signal component is preferably stored in the memory as an initial spectral signal.

  Alternatively, it is preferable to provide an initialization switch that causes the spectral image signal component to be stored in the memory as the initial spectral signal.

  In addition, the endoscope processor of the present invention generates the image pickup device provided at the distal end of the insertion tube of the endoscope by capturing an object irradiated with the illumination light transmitted from the light source to the distal end of the insertion tube by the light guide. A receiving unit that receives an image signal, a memory that stores an initial spectral signal corresponding to an initial value of a spectral image signal component corresponding to the amount of received light of a specific wavelength in the image signal, and a switch that executes a light guide inspection And calculating the discriminant value by comparing the inspection light signal, which is the spectral image signal component in the image signal received by the receiving unit when the switch is turned on, with the initial spectral signal stored in the memory for each wavelength. And a discriminating unit that discriminates whether or not the light guide is abnormal based on a comparison between the discriminant value and the threshold value.

  An endoscope unit according to the present invention is an endoscope unit including an endoscope and an endoscope processor that are detachable from each other, and includes an illumination light provided from the light source provided in the endoscope. A light guide that is transmitted to the distal end of the insertion tube of the endoscope, an imaging device that is provided at the distal end of the insertion tube and that generates a spectral image signal by imaging a subject irradiated with illumination light, and an endoscope processor A memory for storing an initial spectral signal corresponding to an initial value of a spectral image signal component corresponding to the amount of received light of a specific wavelength in the image signal, and a light guide provided in at least one of the endoscope and the endoscope processor A switch for executing inspection, an inspection light signal that is a spectral image signal component in an image signal received by the receiving unit provided in the endoscope processor and turned on, and stored in a memory Whether or not there is an abnormality in the light guide based on a comparison between the determination value provided in the endoscope processor and the threshold value. And a discriminating section for discriminating.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to determine whether or not spectral degradation has occurred in the light guide by comparing the determination value with the threshold value.

1 is a block diagram schematically showing an internal configuration of an endoscope unit having an endoscope processor including an endoscope light guide inspection system to which a first embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows control of the operation | movement performed at the time of the light guide initial setting in 1st, 2nd embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows control of the operation | movement performed in the light guide test | inspection function in 1st Embodiment. It is a 1st flowchart which shows control of the operation | movement performed in the light guide test | inspection function in 2nd Embodiment. It is a 2nd flowchart which shows control of the operation | movement performed in the light guide test | inspection function in 2nd Embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing an internal configuration of an endoscope unit having an endoscope processor including an endoscope light guide inspection system to which the first embodiment of the present invention is applied.

  The endoscope unit 10 includes an endoscope processor 20, a spectroscopic endoscope 30, and a monitor 11. The endoscope processor 20 is connected to the spectroscopic endoscope 30 and the monitor 11.

  Illumination light for illuminating the subject is supplied from the endoscope processor 20 to the spectroscopic endoscope 30. The subject irradiated with the illumination light is imaged by the spectroscopic endoscope 30. A spectral image signal generated by the imaging of the spectral endoscope 30 is sent to the endoscope processor 20.

  In the endoscope processor 20, predetermined signal processing is performed on the spectral image signal obtained from the spectral endoscope 30. The spectral image signal subjected to the predetermined signal processing is transmitted to the monitor 11, and an image corresponding to the transmitted spectral image signal is displayed on the monitor 11.

  Next, the configuration of the spectroscopic endoscope 30 will be described. The spectroscopic endoscope 30 is provided with a light guide 31, an image sensor 32, and the like.

  The light guide 31 extends from the connector 33 connected to the endoscope processor 20 to the distal end of the insertion tube 34. Illumination light supplied from the endoscope processor 20 enters the incident end of the light guide 31. The illumination light incident on the incident end is transmitted to the exit end. The illumination light transmitted to the emission end is irradiated to the subject in the distal direction of the insertion tube 34.

  The optical image of the reflected light of the subject irradiated with the illumination light reaches the light receiving surface of the image sensor 32 provided at the distal end of the insertion tube 34. The image sensor 32 is controlled so as to generate a spectral image signal of one field at a constant period, for example, every 1/60 seconds. Note that the image sensor 32 generates spectral image signals φim (λ1) to φim (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths corresponding to the light components of the first to nth wavelengths λ1 to λn.

  Next, the configuration of the endoscope processor 20 will be described. The endoscope processor 20 is provided with a light source system 21, first and second video signal processing circuits 22a and 22b, a memory 23, a system controller 24, a timing controller 25, an input unit 26, a color difference calculation circuit 27, and the like.

  Illumination light is emitted from the light source system 21. When the spectroscopic endoscope 30 is connected to the endoscope processor 20, the light source system 21 is optically connected to the light guide 31. The illumination light emitted from the light source system 21 is incident on the incident end of the light guide 31.

  When the spectroscopic endoscope 30 is connected to the endoscope processor 20, the image sensor 32 is electrically connected to the first video signal processing circuit 22a. The spectral image signal generated and transmitted by the image sensor is received by the first video signal processing circuit 22a.

  In the first video signal processing circuit 22a, predetermined signal processing such as γ correction is performed. The first video signal processing circuit 22 a is connected to the memory 23. The spectral image signal that has undergone predetermined signal processing is stored in the memory 23.

  The memory 23 is connected to the second video signal processing circuit 22 b and the color difference calculation circuit 27. During normal image observation, the spectral image signal stored in the memory 23 is transmitted to the second video signal processing circuit 22b. At the time of a light guide inspection described later, the spectral image signal stored in the memory 23 is transmitted to the color difference calculation circuit 27.

  In the second video signal processing circuit 22b, predetermined signal processing is performed on the received spectral image signal. A spectral image signal that has undergone predetermined signal processing is transmitted to the monitor 11 as a video signal. As described above, an image signal is generated every 1/60 seconds and transmitted to the monitor 11. By switching the image displayed on the monitor 11 every 1/60 seconds, a real-time moving image is displayed on the monitor 11.

  As will be described later, the color difference calculation circuit 27 performs discrimination based on an initial spectral signal that is a spectral image signal stored in the memory 23 at the time of initial setting of the light guide and an inspection spectral signal stored in the memory 23 at the time of light guide inspection. The value Φim is calculated. Further, the color difference calculation circuit 27 detects the spectral deterioration of the light guide 31 based on the discrimination value.

  The first and second video signal processing circuits 22 a and 22 b and the memory 23 are connected to the system controller 24 and the timing controller 25 via the bus 28. The system controller 24 controls the operations of the first and second video signal processing circuits 22a and 22b and the memory 23. In addition, the timing controller 25 controls the timing of the operations of the first and second video signal processing circuits 22a and 22b and the memory 23.

  The bus 28 is also connected to the input unit 26. Various input operations by the user are possible on the input unit 26, and the system controller 24 controls each part according to the input operation.

  The endoscope processor 20 is provided with a light guide inspection function. The light guide inspection function is executed by an input operation to the input unit 26. Before executing the light guide inspection function, it is necessary to perform the light guide initial setting. The light guide initial setting and light guide inspection function will be described below together with the function of the color difference calculation circuit 27.

  It is necessary to use a white balance adjustment cap (not shown) or an inspection color chart for the initial setting of the light guide and the inspection function of the light guide.

  The white balance adjustment cap is a conventionally known cap for calculating R and B gains for white balance adjustment. The white balance adjustment cap is provided with a hole through which the distal end of the insertion tube 34 can be inserted, and the inside is colored white. Further, the color chart for inspection is provided with a chart plate inside and is shielded from the outside so that external light does not enter. The chart plate is colored in a single color, such as blue.

  When an operation input for executing light guide initial setting is performed, a spectral image signal of one field is generated every 1/60 seconds by the image sensor 32 as in normal observation, and a real-time moving image is displayed on the monitor 11. The

  When an operation input for measurement imaging is performed on the input unit 26 while a moving image is being displayed, the spectral image signals φim (λ1) to φim (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths are initial values of the first to nth wavelengths. Spectral signals φim0 (λ1) to φim0 (λn) are generated. The generated initial spectral signal is stored in the memory 23 as described above. When the initial spectral signal is stored in the memory 23, the light guide initial setting ends.

  The initial spectral signal is preferably stored in the memory 23 in a state where the light guide 31 is not deteriorated, and it is recommended that the initial spectral signal be stored before the spectroscopic endoscope 30 is newly used and after the spectroscopic endoscope 30 is repaired. Is done. It is also recommended that the initial spectral signal be stored before the endoscope processor 20 is newly used or when the light source system 21 is replaced.

  Next, the light guide inspection function will be described. When an operation input for executing the light guide inspection function is performed, a spectral image signal of one field is generated every 1/60 seconds by the image sensor 32 as in normal observation, and a real-time moving image is displayed on the monitor 11. The

  When an operation input for measurement imaging is performed on the input unit 26 while a moving image is displayed, the spectral image signals φim (λ1) to φim (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths are changed to the first to nth inspection spectral signals. It is generated as φim1 (λ1) to φim1 (λn). The generated inspection spectral signal is stored in the memory 23 as described above.

  When the inspection spectral signal is stored in the memory 23, the initial spectral signals φim0 (λ1) to φim0 (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths and the inspection spectral signals φim1 (λ1) to φim1 of the first to nth wavelengths. (Λn) is read from the memory 23 to the color difference calculation circuit 27. In the color difference calculation circuit 27, the discriminant value Φim represented by the equation (1) is calculated.

  In the color difference calculation circuit 27, the calculated discrimination value Φim is compared with the first and second threshold values (first threshold value <second threshold value). The first and second threshold values are stored in a ROM (not shown) and read out to the color difference calculation circuit 27 as necessary.

  The color difference calculation circuit 27 determines that the light guide 31 is sufficiently usable when the calculated determination value Φim is equal to or less than the first threshold value. When the calculated discriminant value Φim exceeds the first threshold and is equal to or smaller than the second threshold, it is determined that the deterioration of the light guide 31 is progressing. If the calculated discrimination value Φim exceeds the second threshold value, it is determined that the light guide 31 is not suitable for accurate color reproduction.

  The determination result is transmitted to the second video signal processing circuit 22b. In the second video signal processing circuit 22b, a message to be displayed on the monitor 11 is selected.

  When the determination value Φim ≦ the first threshold value, the light guide 31 displays a first message indicating that no spectral deterioration is recognized. When the first threshold value <the discriminant value Φim ≦ the second threshold value, a second message indicating that there is spectral degradation of the light guide 31 and the replacement time is approaching is displayed. When the second threshold value <the discriminant value Φim, a third message indicating that the spectral degradation of the light guide 31 has progressed sufficiently and that replacement is essential is displayed.

  Next, the operation control of each part executed by the system controller 24 and the color difference calculation circuit 27 at the time of initial setting of the light guide will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. As described above, the light guide initial setting is started when an initial setting operation is input to the input unit 26.

  In step S100, the system controller 24 starts generating a spectral image signal of one field every 1/60 seconds. The generated spectral image signal is subjected to predetermined signal processing and transmitted to the monitor 11 to display a real-time moving image on the monitor 11. After generation of the spectral image signal is started, the process proceeds to step S101.

  In step S <b> 101, the system controller 24 determines whether or not there is an input for performing measurement shooting. If no shooting execution input is detected, the process returns to step S101, and thereafter, a standby state is entered until a shooting execution input is detected. If a shooting execution input is detected, the process proceeds to step S102.

  In step S102, the system controller 24 sends the spectral image signals φim (λ1) to φim (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths to the image sensor 32 to the first to nth initial spectral signals φim0 (λ1) to φim0 (λn). ). After starting generation, the process proceeds to step S103.

  In step S <b> 103, the system controller 24 stores the first to nth initial spectral signals φim <b> 0 (λ <b> 1) to φim <b> 0 (λn) in the memory 23. When the first to n-th initial spectral signals φim0 (λ1) to φim0 (λn) are separately stored in the memory 23, the light guide initial setting process is terminated.

  Next, the operation control of each part executed by the system controller 24 and the color difference calculation circuit 27 in the light guide inspection function will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. As described above, the light guide inspection function is started when an inspection execution operation is input to the input unit 26.

  In step S200, the system controller 24 starts generating a spectral image signal of one field every 1/60 seconds. The generated spectral image signal is subjected to predetermined signal processing and transmitted to the monitor 11 to display a real-time moving image on the monitor 11. After the generation of the spectral image signal is started, the process proceeds to step S201.

  In step S <b> 201, the system controller 24 determines whether or not there is an input of measurement execution for measurement. If no shooting execution input is detected, the process returns to step S201, and thereafter, a standby state is entered until a shooting execution input is detected. If a shooting execution input is detected, the process proceeds to step S202.

  In step S202, the system controller 24 supplies the spectral image signals φim (λ1) to φim (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths to the image sensor 32 and the inspection spectral signals φim1 (λ1) to φim1 of the first to nth wavelengths. (Λn) is generated. After the inspection spectral signal is generated, the process proceeds to step S203.

  In step S203, the system controller 24 reads the initial spectral signals φim0 (λ1) to φim0 (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths from the memory 23 and transmits them to the color difference calculation circuit 27. After the transmission of the initial spectral signal, the process proceeds to step S204.

  In step S204, the color difference calculation circuit 27 calculates the absolute value of the difference between the initial spectral signal and the inspection spectral signal having the same wavelength. After calculating the absolute values of the differences of all the first to nth wavelengths, the discriminant value Φim is calculated by summing the absolute values of the differences. After the determination value Φim is calculated, the process proceeds to step S205.

  In step S205, the color difference calculation circuit 27 determines whether or not the determination value Φim calculated in step S204 is equal to or less than the second threshold value. If the determination value Φim exceeds the second threshold value, the process proceeds to step S206. If the determination value Φim is equal to or smaller than the second threshold value, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S206, the system controller 24 causes the post-stage signal processing circuit 22b to perform signal processing so as to display the third message on the monitor 11. After displaying the third message, the light guide inspection function process is terminated.

  In step S207, the color difference calculation circuit 27 determines whether or not the determination value Φim calculated in step S204 is equal to or less than the first threshold value. If the determination value Φim exceeds the first threshold value, the process proceeds to step S208. If the determination value Φim is equal to or smaller than the second threshold value, the process proceeds to step S209.

  In step S208, the system controller 24 causes the post-stage signal processing circuit 22b to perform signal processing so as to display the second message on the monitor 11. After the second message is displayed, the light guide inspection function process is terminated.

  In step S209, the system controller 24 causes the post-stage signal processing circuit 22b to perform signal processing so as to display the first message on the monitor 11. After the first message is displayed, the light guide inspection function process is terminated.

  As described above, according to the endoscope light guide inspection system to which the first embodiment is applied, a reference color such as a white balance adjustment cap is photographed as an initial state, and the same reference is used in subsequent inspections. It is possible to detect a change in the spectral transfer characteristics of the light guide 31 by shooting the color to be compared and comparing the color components generated by the shooting.

  Furthermore, even when the luminance component does not change from the normal state, the replacement timing of the light guide 31 is approaching or should be replaced by comparing the discrimination value with the first and second threshold values. It is possible to warn that.

  Note that in order to detect a change in the spectral transfer characteristic of the light guide 31, an article of the same color colored with a single color is imaged at the time of lamp guide initial setting and lamp guide inspection. As described above, the inside of the white balance adjustment cap and the color chart for inspection are imaged.

  When the white balance adjustment cap is used, it is not necessary to prepare a new color chart for inspection because the adjustment cap that has been used for white balance adjustment can be used. Further, since the spectral transfer characteristics of all wavelengths can be measured, it is possible to specify a wavelength band in which deterioration is remarkable. In addition, since only a single white image is taken, there is an advantage that the user is not forced to perform complicated operations.

  On the other hand, when the inspection color chart is used, the change in the spectral transfer characteristic near the wavelength of the color of the chart plate is larger than when the white balance adjustment cap is used. Therefore, it is possible to improve the inspection accuracy of spectral deterioration near the wavelength of the color of the chart plate.

  Next, an endoscope light guide inspection system to which the second embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described. The endoscope light guide inspection system according to the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the determination value calculated by the color difference calculation circuit 27 and the determination method of the deterioration state. Hereinafter, a description will be given focusing on differences from the first embodiment. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the site | part which has the same function as 1st Embodiment.

  The endoscope processor of the second embodiment can also use the white balance adjustment cap and the inspection color chart for both the initial setting of the light guide and the inspection function of the light guide.

  When an operation input for executing the light guide initial setting is performed, a spectral image signal of one field is generated every 1/60 seconds by the imaging device 32 as in the case of the normal observation as in the first embodiment.

  As in the first embodiment, when an operation input for measurement shooting is performed on the input unit 26 while a moving image is displayed, the spectral image signals of the first to nth wavelengths are initially at the first to nth wavelengths. Spectral signals φim0 (λ1) to φim0 (λn) are generated. The generated initial spectral signal is stored in the memory 23. When the initial spectral signal is stored in the memory 23, the light guide initial setting ends.

  Next, the light guide inspection function in the endoscope processor of the second embodiment will be described. When an operation input for executing the light guide inspection function is performed, a spectral image signal of one field is generated every 1/60 seconds by the image sensor 32 as in normal observation.

  Similarly to the first embodiment, when an operation input for measurement imaging is performed on the input unit 26 while a moving image is displayed, spectral image signals φim (λ1) to φim (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths are obtained. The first to nth inspection spectral signals φim1 (λ1) to φim1 (λn) are generated. The generated inspection spectral signal is stored in the memory 23.

  Unlike the first embodiment, when the inspection spectral signal is stored in the memory 23, the initial spectral signal and the inspection spectral signal are read from the memory 23 to the color difference calculation circuit 27. At the same time, the wavelengths of the 15 test colors used in the calculation of the color rendering index determined by JIS Z 8726 or CIE, 1974 are also read from the memory 23 to the color difference calculation circuit 27.

  In the color difference calculation circuit 27, the test No. Based on the initial spectral signal φim0 and the inspection spectral signal φim1 of the wavelength corresponding to the test color of test 1, A color rendering index R1 of 1 is calculated as a discrimination value.

  In the color difference calculation circuit 27, the test No. The color rendering index R1 of 1 is compared with the third threshold value. Test No. When the color rendering index R1 of 1 is less than the third threshold value, it is determined that the light guide 31 is unsuitable for accurate color reproduction. Test No. When the color rendering index R1 of 1 is equal to or greater than the third threshold value, the test No. The color rendering evaluation number R 1 of 1 is stored in the memory 23.

  Test No. When the color rendering index R1 of 1 is stored in the memory 23, the color difference calculation circuit 27 determines whether the test No. Based on the initial spectral signal φim0 and the inspection spectral signal φim1 of the wavelength corresponding to the test color of No. 2, the test No. A color rendering index R2 of 2 is calculated as a discrimination value.

  Test No. As with the color rendering index R1 of 1, the test No. The color rendering index R2 of 2 is compared with the third threshold value. Test No. When the color rendering index R2 of 2 is less than the third threshold value, it is determined that the light guide 31 is unsuitable for accurate color reproduction. Test No. When the color rendering index R1 of No. 2 is greater than or equal to the third threshold value, the test No. The color rendering index R2 of 2 is stored in the memory 23.

  Thereafter, similarly, until the color rendering index is less than the third threshold, the test No. 3-Test No. 3 Fifteen color rendering evaluation numbers R3 to R15 are calculated, compared with the third threshold value, and stored in the memory 23.

  Test No. If the color rendering index R15 of 15 is equal to or greater than the third threshold value, the test No. The color rendering evaluation number R 1 of 1 is read from the memory 23 to the color difference calculation circuit 27. In the color difference calculation circuit 27, the test No. The arithmetic evaluation number R1 of 1 is compared with the fourth threshold value (> third threshold value).

  Test No. When the calculation evaluation number R1 of 1 is less than the fourth threshold value, it is determined that the deterioration of the light guide 31 is progressing. Test No. When the arithmetic evaluation number R1 of 1 is equal to or larger than the fourth threshold value, the test No. The calculation evaluation number R2 of 2 is read from the memory 23 to the color difference calculation circuit 27.

  Thereafter, test no. As in the case of the calculation evaluation number R1 of 1, the test No. 1 is repeated until the color rendering evaluation number becomes less than the fourth threshold value. 2-Test No. 2 Fifteen color rendering evaluation numbers R2 to R15 are read out and compared with the fourth threshold value. Test No. When the color rendering evaluation number R15 of 15 is equal to or greater than the fourth threshold, it is determined that the light guide 31 is sufficiently usable.

  As in the first embodiment, the determination result is transmitted to the second video signal processing circuit 22b. In the second video signal processing circuit 22b, a message to be displayed on the monitor 11 is selected.

  If any color rendering index is equal to or greater than the fourth threshold, the light guide 31 displays a first message indicating that no spectral degradation is observed. If any of the color rendering evaluation numbers is greater than or equal to the third threshold value and less than the fourth threshold value, a second message indicating that the light guide 31 is spectrally degraded and that the replacement time is approaching is displayed. . If any of the color rendering evaluation numbers is less than the third threshold value, a third message indicating that the spectral degradation of the light guide 31 has progressed sufficiently and that replacement is essential is displayed.

  Next, control of the operation of each part executed by the system controller 24 and the color difference calculation circuit 27 in the light guide inspection function of the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. As described above, the light guide inspection function is started when an inspection execution operation is input to the input unit 26. The control of each part executed at the time of initial setting of the light guide is the same as that in the first embodiment (see FIG. 2).

  In step S300, the system controller 24 starts generating a spectral image signal of one field every 1/60 seconds. The generated spectral image signal is subjected to predetermined signal processing and transmitted to the monitor 11 to display a real-time moving image on the monitor 11. After the generation of the spectral image signal is started, the process proceeds to step S301.

  In step S <b> 301, the system controller 24 determines whether or not there is an input for performing measurement shooting. If no shooting execution input is detected, the process returns to step S301, and thereafter, a standby state is entered until a shooting execution input is detected. If a shooting execution input is detected, the process proceeds to step S302.

  In step S302, the system controller 24 supplies the spectral image signals φim (λ1) to φim (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths to the image sensor 32 and the inspection spectral signals φim1 (λ1) to φim1 of the first to nth wavelengths. (Λn) is generated. The system controller 24 stores the generated inspection spectral signals φim1 (λ1) to φim1 (λn) of the first to nth wavelengths in the memory 23. After storing, the process proceeds to step S303.

  In step S <b> 303, the system controller 24 reads the initial spectral signals φim0 (λ1) to φim0 (λn) from the memory 23 and transmits them to the color difference calculation circuit 27. After the transmission of the initial spectral signal, the process proceeds to step S304.

  In step S304, the system controller 24 checks the test number. Reset i to 1. Test No. After resetting, the process proceeds to step S305.

  In step S <b> 305, the system controller 24 reads the inspection spectral signals φim <b> 1 (λ <b> 1) to φim <b> 1 (λn) used for calculating the color rendering index from the memory 23 and transmits them to the color difference calculation circuit 27. After the transmission, the process proceeds to step S306.

  In step S306, the color difference calculation circuit 27 determines whether the test No. The color rendering index Ri for i is calculated. After calculating the color rendering index Ri, the process proceeds to step S307 (see FIG. 5).

  In step S307, the color difference calculation circuit 27 determines whether or not the color rendering evaluation number Ri calculated in step S306 is less than a third threshold value. If the color rendering index Ri is less than the third threshold value, the process proceeds to step S308. If the color rendering index Ri is equal to or greater than the third threshold value, the process proceeds to step S309.

  If the color rendering index Ri is less than the third threshold, it is estimated that the light guide 31 is not suitable for accurate color expression. Therefore, in step S308, the system controller 24 causes the post-stage signal processing circuit 22b to perform signal processing so that the above-described third message is displayed on the monitor 11. After displaying the third message, the light guide inspection function process is terminated.

  In step S309, the system controller 24 stores the color rendering evaluation number Ri calculated in step S306 in the memory 23. It should be noted that the color rendering index Ri is the test number. Stored separately. After storing in the memory 23, the process proceeds to step S310.

  In step S310, the system controller 24 checks the test number. It is determined whether i is 15. Test No. If i is not 15, the process proceeds to step S311. Test No. If i is 15, the process proceeds to step S312.

  In step S311, the system controller 24 checks the test number. Increment i by +1. After the increment, the process returns to step S305 (see FIG. 4).

  In step S312, the system controller 24 checks the test number. Reset i to 1. Test No. After i is reset, the process proceeds to step S313.

  In step S313, the system controller 24 checks the test number. The i color rendering index Ri is read from the memory 23 and transmitted to the color difference calculation circuit 27. After the transmission, the process proceeds to step S314.

  In step S314, the color difference calculation circuit 27 determines whether or not the color rendering evaluation number Ri read in step S312 is less than a fourth threshold value. When the color rendering index Ri is less than the fourth threshold value, the process proceeds to step S315. If the color rendering index Ri is equal to or greater than the fourth threshold value, the process proceeds to step S316.

  When the color rendering index Ri is not less than the third threshold value and less than the fourth threshold value, it is estimated that the light guide 31 is being deteriorated. Therefore, in step S315, the system controller 24 causes the post-stage signal processing circuit 22b to perform signal processing so that the above-described second message is displayed on the monitor 11. After the second message is displayed, the light guide inspection function process is terminated.

  In step S316, the system controller 24 checks the test number. It is determined whether i is 15. Test No. If i is not 15, the process proceeds to step S317. Test No. If i is 15, the process proceeds to step S318.

  In step S317, the system controller 24 checks the test number. Increment i by +1. After the increment, the process returns to step S313.

  When the color rendering index Ri is equal to or greater than the rth threshold, it is estimated that spectral degradation is not recognized in the light guide 31. Accordingly, in step S318, the system controller 24 causes the post-stage signal processing circuit 22b to perform signal processing so that the first message is displayed on the monitor 11. After the first message is displayed, the light guide inspection function process is terminated.

  As described above, according to the endoscope light guide inspection system to which the second embodiment is applied, it is possible to detect a change in the spectral transfer characteristic of the light guide 31 as in the first embodiment.

  Further, as in the first embodiment, even when the luminance component does not change from the normal state, the replacement timing of the light guide 31 is approaching by comparing the discrimination value with the third and fourth threshold values. And that it should be replaced.

  In the second embodiment, if even one test color, which is a color rendering evaluation number less than the fourth threshold value, is determined to be spectral degradation, degradation of light transmission ability in a specific wavelength band is determined. Can be detected with high sensitivity.

  In the first and second embodiments, the light guide initial setting is started when an operation for executing the light guide initial setting is input to the input unit 26. However, the new spectroscopic endoscope 30 is installed inside. When connected to the endoscope processor 20, the light guide initial setting may be automatically started to be executed.

  Whether the endoscope number is new by reading the serial number of the electronic endoscope 30 when the spectroscopic endoscope 30 is connected and comparing it with the serial number of the spectroscopic endoscope 30 connected so far. Can be determined.

  In the first and second embodiments, the first (third) and second (fourth) threshold values are compared with the discrimination value or the color rendering index, and any one of the first to third messages is compared. Although it is the structure to display, the structure which displays either a 1st message and any one of a 2nd, 3rd message may be sufficient compared with only any one threshold value. Even if only one of the second and third messages can be displayed, the user can be warned that the light guide 31 has undergone spectral degradation.

  In the first and second embodiments, the second and third messages are displayed on the monitor 11 to warn that spectral degradation has occurred. However, the warning is generated by other methods. It may be. For example, it is possible to warn by making an alarm sound or by providing a warning lamp in the endoscope processor 20 and turning on the warning lamp.

  In the first and second embodiments, a spectroscopic endoscope that generates a spectroscopic image signal is used. However, a spectroscopic image signal component is generated from a color image signal generated by a normal electronic endoscope. It may be a configuration.

  In the first embodiment, the sum of absolute values of differences between the initial spectral signal and the inspection spectral signal is used as a discriminant value, and in the second embodiment, the color rendering index is used as a discriminant value to be compared with a threshold value. Although it is a structure, even if it uses the discriminant value which compared the initial stage spectral signal and the test | inspection spectral signal for every wavelength, it is possible to acquire the effect similar to 1st, 2nd embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Endoscope unit 20 Endoscope processor 23 Memory 24 System controller 26 Input part 27 Color difference calculation circuit 30 Electronic endoscope 31 Light guide

Claims (10)

An endoscope light guide inspection system that inspects the transmission characteristics of a light guide that transmits illumination light emitted from a light source to the insertion tube tip of the endoscope,
A receiving unit that receives an image signal generated by capturing an image of a subject that is provided at a distal end of the insertion tube and the imaging element is irradiated with the illumination light;
In the image signal, a memory for storing an initial spectral signal corresponding to an initial value of a spectral image signal component corresponding to the amount of light received at a specific wavelength;
A switch for performing inspection of the light guide;
When the switch is turned on, the inspection spectral signal, which is the spectral image signal component in the image signal received by the receiving unit, is compared with the initial spectral signal stored in the memory for each specific wavelength. A calculation unit for calculating a discrimination value by
An endoscope light guide inspection system, comprising: a determination unit that determines whether or not the light guide is abnormal based on a comparison between the determination value and a threshold value. The discriminant value calculates the absolute value of the difference between the initial spectroscopic signal and the inspection spectroscopic signal between the same specific wavelengths, and sums the absolute values of the differences calculated for a plurality of the specific wavelengths. Is calculated by
The endoscope light guide inspection system according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines that the light guide is abnormal when the determination value exceeds the threshold value. The discrimination value is obtained by using, as a reference light, light having the same wavelength as the wavelength of a test color used for calculating the color rendering index among the illumination light emitted from the light guide to the subject when the initial spectral signal is generated. The color rendering evaluation number calculated as sample light with light having the same wavelength as the wavelength of the reference light among the illumination light irradiated to the subject from the light guide when generating a spectral signal,
2. The endoscope light guide inspection system according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines that the light guide is abnormal when the determination value is less than the threshold value.   The discrimination value is calculated for each of the test colors, and when at least one of the calculated discrimination values is less than the threshold value, it is determined that the light guide is abnormal. Item 4. The endoscope light guide inspection system according to Item 3.   The endoscope light guide inspection according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a subject imaged when the initial spectral signal and the inspection spectral signal are generated is colored in white. system.   The subject imaged at the time of generation of the initial spectral signal and the inspection spectral signal is colored in a predetermined single color other than white. Endoscope light guide inspection system. An information receiving unit that receives unique identification information given to the endoscope from the endoscope;
A novelty determining unit that determines whether the endoscope is a newly connected endoscope based on the identification information received by the information receiving unit;
The said spectral image signal component is stored in the said memory as said initial stage spectral signal when the said endoscope is a newly connected endoscope. The one of Claims 1-7 characterized by the above-mentioned. The endoscope light guide inspection system according to item 1.   The endoscope light guide inspection according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: an initialization switch that causes the spectral image signal component to be stored in the memory as the initial spectral signal. system. A receiving unit that receives an image signal generated by imaging an object irradiated with illumination light transmitted by a light guide from a light source to the distal end of the insertion tube, the imaging device provided at the distal end of the insertion tube of the endoscope;
In the image signal, a memory for storing an initial spectral signal corresponding to an initial value of a spectral image signal component corresponding to the amount of light received at a specific wavelength;
A switch for performing inspection of the light guide;
When the switch is turned on, determination is performed by comparing the inspection light signal, which is the spectral image signal component in the image signal received by the receiving unit, with the initial spectral signal stored in the memory for each wavelength. A calculation unit for calculating a value;
An endoscope processor comprising: a determination unit configured to determine whether or not the light guide is abnormal based on a comparison between the determination value and a threshold value. An endoscope unit composed of an endoscope and an endoscope processor that are detachable from each other,
A light guide provided in the endoscope for transmitting illumination light emitted from a light source to a distal end of an insertion tube of the endoscope;
An image sensor that is provided at a distal end of the insertion tube and generates a spectral image signal by imaging a subject irradiated with the illumination light;
A memory that is provided in the endoscope processor and stores an initial spectral signal corresponding to an initial value of a spectral image signal component corresponding to a received light amount of light of a specific wavelength in the image signal;
A switch that is provided in at least one of the endoscope and the endoscope processor and that performs an inspection of the light guide;
An inspection light signal, which is the spectral image signal component in the image signal received by the reception unit when the switch is turned on, provided in the endoscope processor, and the initial spectral signal stored in the memory Calculating a discriminant value by comparing each wavelength,
An endoscope unit, comprising: a determination unit that is provided in the endoscope processor and determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the light guide based on a comparison between the determination value and a threshold value.

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