JP2016209113A - Imaging System - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging system that enables an effect of image conversion processing to be enjoyed without a feeling of discomfort for an acquired image signal.SOLUTION: An imaging system includes: a through circuit 70 for outputting an observation image of a subject as a first signal without subjecting an image signal to image conversion processing; an image conversion circuit 30 for subjecting the image signal to predetermined image conversion processing, and outputting the image signal as a second signal; a conversion application selection counter 72 for counting the number of frames of the image signal; and a selection circuit 71 for selectively outputting the first signal output from the through circuit 70 and the second signal output from the image conversion circuit 30 according to the number of counts counted by the conversion application selection counter 72.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging system, for example, an imaging system having an imaging unit capable of outputting an observation image of a subject as an image signal.

  Conventionally, in the medical field and the industrial field, an endoscope including an imaging unit for observing a subject has been widely used. There is also a known technique for constituting an endoscope system, which is detachably connected to an endoscope and performs various signal processing related to the endoscope by a signal processing device called a video processor.

  The video processor in the endoscope system as described above includes a processing circuit that inputs an image signal output from the endoscope and performs predetermined image processing on the image signal. Examples of this image processing include edge enhancement processing, noise correction processing by median (median value) filtering processing, or average value filtering processing (Patent Document 1).

JP 2013-255808 A

  By the way, in the conventional endoscope system, the image processing such as the noise correction processing as described above usually performs image processing (image conversion processing) for each image in the moving image. Yes.

  However, such a conventional image conversion process has an effect unique to the image conversion process by performing the same image conversion process on each pixel of the entire image, but has a trade-off with the obtained effect. There are cases in which a negative effect is caused.

  That is, for example, if median filter processing or average value filter processing is performed on each pixel of an entire image for noise correction, noise in the image signal can be reduced, but resolution may be sacrificed. It can be said that these are in a trade-off relationship.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide an imaging system that can enjoy the effect of image conversion processing on an acquired image signal without a sense of incongruity.

  The imaging system of one embodiment of the present invention includes an imaging unit that outputs an observation image of a subject as an image signal, a through circuit that outputs the image signal as a first signal without performing image conversion processing, and the image An image conversion processing circuit that performs a predetermined image conversion process on the signal and outputs the signal as a second signal, a counter circuit that counts the number of frames or fields of the image signal, and the first circuit that is output from the through circuit And a selection output circuit that selectively outputs the first signal and the second signal output from the image conversion processing circuit according to the count number counted by the counter circuit.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an imaging system that can enjoy the effect of image conversion processing on an acquired image signal without a sense of incongruity.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an endoscope system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a main part of the endoscope system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image conversion selection circuit in the video processor of the endoscope system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the image conversion circuit in the image conversion selection circuit in the video processor of the endoscope system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing the operation of the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the first embodiment, and shows one example of the conversion application selection counter and the output image when image conversion is performed in units of frames. It is the figure which showed the example of a relationship. FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing the operation of the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the first embodiment. In addition to the conversion application selection counter and the output image when image conversion is performed in units of frames. It is the figure which showed the example of a relationship. FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing the operation of the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the first embodiment. In addition to the conversion application selection counter and the output image when image conversion is performed in units of frames. It is the figure which showed the example of a relationship. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a specific example of the image conversion circuit in the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a specific example of the image conversion circuit in the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of the image conversion circuit in the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a main part of an endoscope system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image conversion selection circuit in the video processor of the endoscope system according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing the operation of the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the fifth embodiment, and shows one example of the conversion application selection counter and the output image when image conversion is performed in field units. It is the figure which showed the example of a relationship. FIG. 14 is a timing chart showing the operation of the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the fifth embodiment. In addition to the conversion application selection counter and the output image when image conversion is performed in field units. It is the figure which showed the example of a relationship. FIG. 15 is a timing chart showing the operation of the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the fifth embodiment. In addition to the conversion application selection counter and the output image when performing image conversion in units of fields, FIG. It is the figure which showed the example of a relationship.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
Moreover, this invention is not limited by this embodiment. Furthermore, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same part in description of drawing. Furthermore, the drawings are schematic, and it should be noted that the relationship between the thickness and width of each member, the ratio of each member, and the like are different from the actual situation. Moreover, the part from which a mutual dimension and ratio differ also in between drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an endoscope system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a main part of the endoscope system according to the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an endoscope system 1 includes an endoscope 2 that captures an in-vivo image of a subject by inserting a distal end portion into a body cavity of a subject and outputs an image signal of the subject image, A video processor 3 that performs predetermined image processing on the image signal output from the endoscope 2 and comprehensively controls the operation of the entire endoscope system 1, and illumination that is emitted from the distal end of the endoscope 2 A light source device 4 that generates light and a display device 5 that displays an image subjected to image processing in the video processor 3 are provided.

  The endoscope 2 is connected to the proximal end side of the insertion portion 21 and has a flexible elongated insertion portion 21, an operation portion 22 that receives input of various operation signals, and extends from the operation portion 22. And a universal cord 23 incorporating various cables connected to the video processor 3 and the light source device 4.

  The insertion portion 21 is connected to a distal end portion 24 incorporating an image pickup device to be described later, a bendable bending portion 25 constituted by a plurality of bending pieces, and a proximal end side of the bending portion 25, and has a flexible length. And a flexible tube portion 26 having a scale shape.

  The distal end portion 24 is configured by using a glass fiber or the like, and forms a light guide path for light generated by the light source device 4. An illumination lens 242 provided at the distal end of the light guide 241. An image pickup device 244 as an image pickup device which is provided at an image forming position of the system 243 and the optical system 243, receives light collected by the optical system 243, photoelectrically converts the light into an electrical signal, and performs predetermined signal processing; A treatment instrument channel (not shown) through which the treatment instrument for the endoscope 2 is inserted. The optical system 243 includes one or a plurality of lenses.

With reference to FIG. 2, the electrical configuration of the image sensor 244 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 2, the image sensor 244 photoelectrically converts the light from the optical system 243 and outputs an electrical signal as image information, and the electrical signal output by the sensor unit 244a. An analog front end 244b (hereinafter referred to as “AFE unit 244b”) that performs noise removal and A / D conversion, and a P / S conversion unit that performs parallel / serial conversion on a digital signal output from the AFE unit 244b and transmits the digital signal to the outside. 244c (transmission unit), drive timing of the sensor unit 244a, timing generator 244d (synchronization signal generation unit) for generating various signal processing pulses in the AFE unit 244b and the P / S conversion unit 244c, and the operation of the image sensor 244. It has the control part 244e which controls, and the memory | storage part 244k which memorize | stores various setting information.

  In the present embodiment, the imaging element 244 employs a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor (CIS). The timing generator 244d receives various drive signals (synchronization signals) transmitted from the video processor 3.

  The sensor unit 244a includes a light receiving unit 244f in which a plurality of pixels each having a photodiode that accumulates a charge corresponding to the amount of light and an amplifier that amplifies the charge accumulated by the photodiode are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix, and a light receiving unit 244f. A readout unit 244g that reads out, as image information, an electrical signal generated by a pixel arbitrarily set as a readout target among the plurality of pixels.

  The endoscope system 1 according to the present embodiment adopts a simultaneous observation method, and the light receiving unit 244f includes CMYG (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Green) complementary color filters corresponding to each pixel. (Not shown) is provided.

  The AFE unit 244b includes a noise reduction unit 244h that reduces a noise component included in the electrical signal (analog), and an AGC (Auto Gain Control) unit that adjusts the amplification factor (gain) of the electrical signal and maintains a constant output level. 244i and an A / D conversion unit 244j that performs A / D conversion on the electrical signal output via the AGC unit 244i. The noise reduction unit 244h performs noise reduction using, for example, a correlated double sampling (Correleted Double Sampling) method.

  The control unit 244e controls various operations of the distal end portion 24 in accordance with the setting data received from the video processor 3. The control unit 244e is configured using a CPU or the like.

  In this embodiment, the storage unit 244k is realized by using a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory or a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and the observation information indicating the identification information of the video processor 3 and the frame sequential or simultaneous observation method. Information (in this embodiment, the video processor 3 employs a simultaneous observation method), the imaging speed (frame rate) of the image sensor 244, and the readout speed of pixel information from any pixel of the sensor unit 244a or shutter control setting In addition, the transmission control information of the pixel information read by the AFE unit 244b is stored.

  A collective cable 245 in which a plurality of signal lines for transmitting and receiving electrical signals to and from the video processor 3 are bundled is connected between the operation unit 22 and the distal end unit 24, and the operation unit 22 and the connector unit 27 are connected to each other. A collective cable 224 is connected between them. The plurality of signal lines include a signal line for transmitting an image signal output from the image sensor 244 to the video processor 3 and a signal line for transmitting a control signal output from the video processor 3 to the image sensor 244.

  In the present embodiment, a method of transmitting one signal (differential transmission) using two signal lines (differential signal lines) is used for transmission and reception of electrical signals. In this differential transmission system, the voltage between the differential signal lines is positive (+) and negative (-, phase inversion), so that even if noise is mixed in each line, it can be canceled. Resistant to noise, high-speed data transmission is possible.

  The differential transmission described above is preferably used when the length of the universal cord 23 or the flexible tube portion 26 is long, but when this length is short, the single-end signal transmission using a single-end signal is used. Even so, it is applicable.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the operation unit 22 includes a bending knob 221 that bends the bending unit 25 in the vertical direction and the left-right direction, and a treatment tool insertion unit 222 that inserts a treatment tool such as a biological forceps, a laser knife, or a test probe into the body cavity. And a plurality of first input switches 223a for inputting signals for switching between the air supply means, the water supply means or the gas supply means, and the plurality of second input switches 223b for inputting the settings of the video processor 3 or the light source device 4. A switch 223 provided.

  The treatment tool inserted from the treatment tool insertion portion 222 is exposed from the opening via the treatment tool channel of the distal end portion 24 (not shown). Here, when the signal is transmitted from the connector portion 27 to the distal end portion 24, a circuit that relays the signal with the universal cord 23 and converts the differential signal into a single-ended signal is provided.

  Here, when the differential signal is transmitted to the distal end portion 24, a conversion circuit for converting the differential signal into a single-ended signal may be a differential buffer, or the differential signal transmitted from the distal end portion 24 to the connector portion 27 It is also possible to relay the operation unit 22 once and arrange a differential buffer.

  Note that, for example, a twinax line is used for differential signal transmission within the universal cord 23 and a coaxial line is used for single-ended signal transmission within the insertion portion 21. It is preferable to configure with an imaging cable suitable for the above.

  The universal cord 23 includes at least a light guide 241 and a collective cable 224. The universal cord 23 has a connector portion 27 (see FIG. 1) that is detachable from the light source device 4.

  The connector portion 27 has a coiled coil cable 27a extending, and has an electrical connector portion 28 that is detachable from the video processor 3 at the extending end of the coil cable 27a.

  The connector unit 27 includes a control unit 271 that controls the endoscope 2 inside, a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) 272, and a reference clock signal (for example, a reference for operation of each component unit of the endoscope 2). , 68 MHz clock), a first EEPROM 274 that records configuration data, and a second EEPROM 275 that records endoscope-specific data including imaging information.

Next, the configuration of the video processor 3 will be described.
The video processor 3 includes an S / P conversion unit 301, an image processing unit 302, a brightness detection unit 303, a dimming unit 304, a read address setting unit 305, a drive signal generation unit 306, and an input unit 307. A storage unit 308, a control unit 309, and a reference clock generation unit 310.

  In the present embodiment, a configuration in which a simultaneous type is adopted as the video processor 3 will be described as an example. However, the present invention can also be applied to frame sequential.

  The S / P converter 301 performs serial / parallel conversion on an image signal (digital signal) output from the endoscope 2 when the endoscope 2 is connected to the video processor 3.

  The image processing unit 302 performs predetermined image processing on the parallel image signal output from the S / P conversion unit 301 to generate an in-vivo image displayed on the display device 5. The image processing unit 302 includes a color conversion unit 302a, a white balance (WB) adjustment unit 302b, a gain adjustment unit 302c, a γ correction unit 302d, an image conversion selection circuit 311, and a D / A conversion unit 302e. A format changing unit 302f and a still image memory 302h.

  The color conversion unit 302a converts the CMYG Bayer image signal into a luminance signal and a color difference signal, and outputs them to the subsequent stage.

  The white balance adjustment unit 302b converts the luminance signal and color difference signal output from the color conversion unit 302a into an RGB image signal and adjusts the white balance of the RGB image signal. Specifically, the white balance adjustment unit 302b adjusts the white balance of the RGB image signal based on the color temperature included in the RGB image signal.

  The gain adjustment unit 302c adjusts the gain of the RGB image signal. The gain adjustment unit 302c outputs the RGB signal subjected to gain adjustment to the γ correction unit 302d, and a part of the RGB signal for still image display, enlarged image display, or emphasized image display 302h. Output to.

  The γ correction unit 302 d performs gradation correction (γ correction) of the RGB image signal in correspondence with the display device 5.

  The image conversion selection circuit 311 is a processing circuit characterizing the present invention, and is characterized by performing a predetermined image conversion process in a time division manner. Details will be described later.

  The D / A conversion unit 302e converts the image signal output from the image conversion selection circuit 311 into an analog signal.

  The format changing unit 302f changes the image signal converted into the analog signal to a moving image file format such as a high-definition method and outputs the same to the display device 5.

  The brightness detection unit 303 detects a brightness level corresponding to each pixel based on the luminance signal output from the color conversion unit 302a, records the detected brightness level in a memory provided therein, and controls the control unit. To 309. The brightness detection unit 303 calculates a white balance adjustment value, a gain adjustment value, and a light irradiation amount based on the detected brightness level, and sends the white balance adjustment value to the white balance adjustment unit 302b. Are output to the gain adjusting unit 302 c and the light irradiation amount is output to the light adjusting unit 304.

  Under the control of the control unit 309, the light control unit 304 sets the type of light generated by the light source device 4, the light amount, the light emission timing, and the like based on the light irradiation amount calculated by the brightness detection unit 303. A light source synchronization signal including the set conditions is transmitted to the light source device 4.

  The read address setting unit 305 has a function of setting the pixel to be read on the light receiving surface of the sensor unit 244a and the reading order by communicating with the control unit 271 in the endoscope 2. At this time, the control unit 271 in the endoscope 2 reads out the type information of the sensor unit 224 a stored in the second EEPROM 275 and transmits it to the video processor 3.

  The read address setting unit 305 has a function of setting the pixel address of the sensor unit 244a read by the AFE unit 244b. Then, the readout address setting unit 305 outputs the set address information of the readout target pixel to the color conversion unit 302a.

  The drive signal generation unit 306 generates drive timing signals (horizontal synchronization signal (HD) and vertical synchronization signal (VD)) for driving the endoscope 2, and the FPGA 272 and the collective cable 224 in the endoscope 2. , 245 to a timing generator 244d (image sensor 244) via a predetermined signal line. This timing signal includes address information of a pixel to be read.

  Further, the drive signal generation unit 306 generates a standby signal for performing transmission control of an electric signal transmitted from the endoscope 2 to the video processor 3. Here, the standby signal is a signal for setting the transmission of the electric signal (image information) by the P / S conversion unit 244c to the FPGA 272 side to either the transmission state or the stop state (standby state).

  The input unit 307 receives input of an operation instruction signal for instructing the operation of the endoscope system 1 such as freeze or release set by the front panel or the keyboard, and performs various image adjustments (emphasis, electronic enlargement) in the image processing unit 302. , Color tone, and the like) and input of instruction signals for image processing related to image conversion to be described later.

  The storage unit 308 is realized using a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory or a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). The storage unit 308 stores various programs for operating the endoscope system 1 and data including various parameters necessary for the operation of the endoscope system 1.

  The storage unit 308 stores identification information and observation information of the video processor 3. Here, the identification information includes unique information (ID) of the video processor 3, year, spec information of the control unit 309 and transmission rate information.

  The control unit 309 is configured using a CPU or the like, and controls driving of each component including the video processor 3 (particularly the image conversion selection circuit 311), the endoscope 2 and the light source device 4, and inputs information to each component. Perform output control.

  Further, the control unit 309 transmits setting data for imaging control to the FPGA 272 of the connector unit 27 in the endoscope 2 connected to the video processor 3, and collects necessary signals and data for the imaging element 244 in the collective cable 224. The data is transmitted to the control unit 244e via a predetermined signal line included in H.245.

  The reference clock generation unit 310 generates a reference clock signal that serves as a reference for the operation of each component of the endoscope system 1 and supplies the generated reference clock signal to each component of the endoscope system 1.

Next, the configuration of the light source device 4 will be described.
The light source device 4 includes a light source 41, a light source driver 42, and a light source control unit 46.

  The light source 41 is configured using a white LED (Light Emitting Diode), a xenon lamp, or the like, and generates white light under the control of the light source control unit 46.

  The light source driver 42 causes the light source 41 to generate white light by supplying current to the light source 41 under the control of the light source control unit 46. Light generated by the light source 41 is emitted from the tip of the tip portion 24 via a condenser lens (not shown) and a light guide 241.

  The light source control unit 46 controls the amount of current supplied to the light source 41 according to the dimming signal transmitted from the dimming unit 304.

  The display device 5 has a function of receiving and displaying the in-vivo image generated by the video processor 3 from the video processor 3 via the video cable. The display device 5 is configured using a liquid crystal, an organic EL (Electro Lumine cence), or the like.

Next, the configuration of the image conversion selection circuit 311 will be described.
As described above, in the present embodiment, the image processing unit 302 performs predetermined image processing on the image signal output from the endoscope 2. For example, white balance adjustment and γ correction are performed, and a predetermined image conversion process such as noise correction is further performed in the image conversion selection circuit 311.

  Incidentally, in general, image processing for noise correction or the like involves performing the same image conversion processing on each pixel of an entire image related to a moving image signal. For this reason, while the effect unique to the image conversion process, for example, the noise feeling of the image signal can be reduced, there is a possibility that the resolution may be sacrificed, which may cause a so-called trade-off relationship.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and the image conversion selection circuit 311 performs the image conversion processing in a time-sharing manner, thereby obtaining an image conversion effect while maintaining the characteristics of the original image signal. Is possible.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the image conversion selection circuit 311 in the video processor 3 of the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a specific example of the image conversion circuit in the image conversion selection circuit 311 in the video processor 3. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the image conversion selection circuit 311 receives the image signal output from the γ correction unit 302d, passes through the image signal without performing image conversion, and outputs the same through the γ correction unit 302d. An image conversion circuit 30 that inputs an output image signal, outputs the image signal by performing a predetermined image conversion operation, and a conversion application selection for applying the image conversion operation in the image conversion circuit 30 in a time division manner The outputs of the counter 72, the through circuit 70 and the image conversion circuit 30 are input, and the information from the conversion application selection counter 72 is received to selectively output signals from the through circuit 70 and the image conversion circuit 30. And a selection circuit 71 for outputting.

  As described above, the through circuit 70 inputs the image signal output from the γ correction unit 302d. However, the input image signal is only subjected to the delay amount with the image conversion circuit 30 without any image conversion. Through and output to the selection circuit 71 in the subsequent stage.

  The image conversion circuit 30 inputs an image signal that is a moving image signal from the γ correction unit 302d, and performs predetermined image conversion on a signal corresponding to each pixel of the entire moving image signal. . In the first embodiment, when the image conversion circuit 30 performs the above-described image conversion, the image conversion circuit 30 performs predetermined image conversion in units of frames on a signal corresponding to each pixel of the moving image signal. ing.

  In the first embodiment, the image conversion circuit 30 is configured as a median processing or average value processing circuit 31 as shown in FIG. The median processing or average value processing circuit 31 is a circuit that removes noise from an input image signal using a so-called median (median value) filter or average value filter, and applies to the image signal that is a moving image signal. This is a circuit that performs the same image conversion process (noise removal process) on each pixel of the entire image (one frame).

  The median filter is a filter that removes noise by replacing the value of each pixel with the median value of surrounding pixels. The average value filter is a filter that removes noise by replacing the value of each pixel with the average value of surrounding pixels. It is a filter to do.

  Here, noise correction processing using these median filters or average value filters can obtain the effect of image conversion that removes predetermined noise, while some degradation in resolution is unavoidable. It is known that the influence of deterioration by noise removal processing using an average value filter is large.

  In this embodiment, the conversion application selection counter 72 is a counter that counts the number of frames of the image signal input by the image conversion selection circuit 311. Under the control of the control unit 309, information on the number of counters is sent to the selection circuit 71. To communicate.

  Under the control of the control unit 309, the selection circuit 71 performs a predetermined output ratio of the through circuit 70 and the image conversion circuit 30 (median processing or average value processing circuit) according to the counter number information from the conversion application selection counter 72. 31) are selectively output to the subsequent stage based on a predetermined ratio.

  More specifically, the selection circuit 71 includes an “image signal without image conversion processing; first signal” from the through circuit 70 and a “image signal with image conversion processing; second signal from the median processing or average value processing circuit 31. "Signal" is selected based on predetermined information indicating the ratio of selective output of each signal, and either the first signal or the second signal is selected according to the information on the counter number and output to the subsequent stage. To do.

  That is, the selection circuit 71 controls the “image signal without image conversion processing; first image under the control of the control unit 309 according to, for example, instruction information from the input unit 307 (information indicating the ratio of selective output). The ratio of the selective output between the “signal” and the “image signal with image conversion processing; second signal” can be adjusted.

  Here, the input unit 307 serves as a selection instruction unit for instructing a selective ratio between the first signal and the second signal.

  As described above, the image conversion selection circuit 311 in this embodiment can perform the noise removal processing (image conversion processing) in the median processing or the average value processing circuit 31 by time division according to the information on the counter number, The effect of the image conversion process can be adjusted by adjusting the time division ratio.

Next, the operation of the image conversion selection circuit 311 will be described.
5, 6, and 7 are timing charts showing an example of the relationship between the conversion application selection counter 72 and the output image from the image conversion selection circuit 311 in the case where image conversion is performed on a moving image signal in units of frames. 5 shows an example in which the ratio between the “image signal with image conversion process” in the image conversion circuit 30 and the “image signal without image conversion process” in the through circuit 70 is 1: 1, and FIG. : 2 shows an example in which the ratio is 2: 1.

  For example, when the ratio between the “image signal with image conversion process” and the “image signal without image conversion process” is set to 1: 1 in the input unit 307, the selection circuit 71 selects the conversion application under the control of the control unit 309. An image signal (image conversion processing present signal) that has been subjected to noise removal processing in the median processing or average value processing circuit 31 upon receiving information on the number of counters from the counter 72 and an image signal that has been passed through in the through circuit 70 (no image conversion processing is performed). Signal) is selectively output at a ratio of 1: 1.

  Here, when the ratio between the “image signal with image conversion process” and the “image signal without image conversion process” is set to 1: 1, the selection circuit 71 in the conversion application selection counter 72 as shown in FIG. In the frame corresponding to “0” in the counter, the output of the through circuit 70 is selected. That is, an image signal that is not subjected to image conversion processing is selected and output.

  On the other hand, the selection circuit 71 selects the output of the image conversion circuit 30 (median processing or average value processing circuit 31) in the frame corresponding to the conversion application selection counter 72 of “1”. That is, the image signal subjected to the image conversion process is selected and output.

  When the ratio between the “image signal with image conversion process” and the “image signal without image conversion process” is set to 1: 2, the selection circuit 71, as shown in FIG. In the frames corresponding to “0” and “1”, the output of the through circuit 70 is selected. That is, an image signal that is not subjected to image conversion processing is selected and output.

  On the other hand, the selection circuit 71 selects the output of the image conversion circuit 30 (median processing or average value processing circuit 31) in the frame corresponding to the conversion application selection counter 72 of “2”. That is, the image signal subjected to the image conversion process is selected and output.

  Further, when the ratio between the “image signal with image conversion process” and the “image signal without image conversion process” is set to 2: 1, the selection circuit 71, as shown in FIG. In the frame corresponding to “0”, the output of the through circuit 70 is selected. That is, an image signal that is not subjected to image conversion is selected and output.

  On the other hand, the selection circuit 71 selects the output of the image conversion circuit 30 (median processing or average value processing circuit 31) in the frames corresponding to the conversion application selection counter 72 of “1” and “2”. That is, the image signal subjected to image conversion is selected and output.

  By the way, as described above, when outputting “image signal with image conversion process” and “image signal without image conversion process” at a predetermined ratio, in other words, the presence or absence of these image conversion processes is determined according to the timing of the counter. When switching and outputting, the image displayed on the display device 5 may flicker and be visually recognized depending on the switching timing.

  In general, since the time resolution of the human eye is about 50 to 100 ms (10 to 20 Hz), it is desirable to set the timing of the counter in consideration of this frequency. That is, when the timing of the counter is set in consideration of this frequency, the displayed video appears to be smoothed in the time direction.

  And the endoscope system 1 of this embodiment considers the point concerned, and shall set the timing of the said counter to such an extent that flicker cannot be visually recognized with a human eye.

  As described above, in the first embodiment, the image conversion selection circuit 311 is provided in the image processing unit 302, and the “image signal without image conversion processing; By selectively outputting “image signal with image conversion process; second signal” subjected to a predetermined image conversion process at a predetermined adjustable ratio, the image conversion process can be performed while suppressing the influence of resolution degradation. An effect (in the present embodiment, a noise removal effect) can be obtained.

<First Modification>
In the first embodiment described above, the input unit 307 serves as a selection instruction unit that instructs a selective ratio between the first signal and the second signal. That is, the selection circuit 71 includes Under the control of the control unit 309 in accordance with instruction information from the input unit 307 (information indicating the ratio of selective output), the “image signal without image conversion process; first signal” and the “image conversion process exists” The ratio of the selective output with the “image signal; second signal” can be adjusted.

  On the other hand, the endoscope system of the first modified example selectively outputs the “image signal without image conversion process; first signal” and the “image signal with image conversion process; second signal”. The endoscope 2 is provided with a storage unit that stores in advance information indicating the ratio.

  Specifically, information indicating the ratio of the selective output is stored in the second EEPROM 275 in the connector portion 27 of the endoscope 2.

  In the first modification, the selection circuit 71 reads “information indicating the ratio of selective output” stored in the second EEPROM 275 in the endoscope 2 under the control of the control unit 309, and the instruction information. Under the control of the control unit 309, the “image signal without image conversion processing; first signal” and the “image signal with image conversion processing; second signal” are controlled according to (information indicating the ratio of selective output). ”To adjust the ratio of the selective output.

<Second Modification>
In the first embodiment described above, the input unit 307 serves as a selection instruction unit that instructs a selective ratio between the first signal and the second signal. That is, the selection circuit 71 includes Under the control of the control unit 309 in accordance with instruction information from the input unit 307 (information indicating the ratio of selective output), the “image signal without image conversion process; first signal” and the “image conversion process exists” The ratio of the selective output with the “image signal; second signal” can be adjusted.

  On the other hand, the endoscope system according to the second modification is information indicating the ratio of the selective output between the first signal and the second signal, and is unique for each type of the endoscope 2. The video processor 3 includes a storage unit that stores information.

  Specifically, information indicating the ratio of the selective output determined for each type of the endoscope 2 is stored in the storage unit 308 in the video processor 3.

  In the second modification, the selection circuit 71 stores the content stored in the second EEPROM 275 in the endoscope 2 when the endoscope 2 is connected to the video processor 3 under the control of the control unit 309. In accordance with the endoscope ID information, “information indicating the selective output ratio” corresponding to the type of the endoscope 2 stored in the storage unit 308 is read, and the instruction information (the selective output ratio is indicated). The ratio of the selective output between the “image signal without image conversion process; first signal” and the “image signal with image conversion process; second signal” under the control of the control unit 309 according to the information) Adjust.

<Third Modification>
In the first embodiment described above, the processing content in the image conversion circuit 30 (median processing or average value processing in the first embodiment) is configured as hardware having a dedicated function. In the third modification, the image conversion circuit 30 is configured by a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), for example, and the contents of the processing function can be changed.

<Fourth Modification>
In the first embodiment described above, the processing content in the image conversion circuit 30 is configured as hardware having a dedicated function. However, in the fourth modification, the processing function content of the image conversion circuit 30 is used. Is configured by software, for example, information related to the processing function is stored in the storage unit 308 connected to the control unit 309, and the image conversion circuit 30 sets the processing function in accordance with the stored contents.

<Fifth Modification>
In the first embodiment described above, the processing content in the image conversion circuit 30 is configured as hardware having a dedicated function. However, in the fifth modification, the processing of the image conversion circuit 30 is performed. The content of the function is stored in, for example, the second EEPROM 275 in the endoscope 2, and the processing function is set according to the stored content.

<Sixth Modification>
In the first embodiment described above, the image conversion selection circuit 311 that characterizes the present invention is provided in the video processor 3, but in the sixth modification, the function of the image conversion selection circuit 311 is provided in the endoscope 2. It is characterized by that.

  In the sixth modification, in the image conversion selection circuit provided on the endoscope 2 side, the conversion application selection counter outputs predetermined counter information based on the clock signal from the video processor 3 side.

  Further, in the sixth modified example, the image conversion selection circuit provided on the endoscope 2 side relates to a selection instruction from the video processor 3, that is, a selective ratio between the first signal and the second signal. Based on the information related to the selective ratio received from the instruction 2 or stored in the endoscope 2, the selection circuit, for example, of the control unit 271 according to the instruction information (information indicating the selective output ratio) Under the control, the ratio of the selective output between the “image signal without image conversion process; first signal” and the “image signal with image conversion process; second signal” is adjusted.

<Second Embodiment>
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a specific example of the image conversion circuit in the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  The basic configuration of the endoscope system of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and only the image conversion operation of the image conversion circuit 30 in the image conversion selection circuit 311 of the video processor 3 is different. It is to make. Accordingly, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described here, and descriptions of common parts will be omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the endoscope system of the second embodiment, the image conversion circuit 30 of the image conversion selection circuit 311 is configured as an edge enhancement processing circuit 32.

  The edge enhancement processing circuit 32 receives an image signal that is a moving image signal from the γ correction unit 302d in the video processor 3, and applies an edge to a signal corresponding to each pixel of the entire image of the moving image signal. Emphasis processing is performed.

  Here, it is known that when structure emphasis is performed by edge emphasis processing, if the degree of edge emphasis is large, the sense of noise in the video displayed on the display device 5 may be felt rather deteriorated.

  In view of such circumstances, in the second embodiment as well, in the same way as in the first embodiment, the selection circuit 71 performs the through circuit 70 and the image conversion circuit 30 according to the information on the counter number from the conversion application selection counter 72. An output signal with the (edge enhancement processing circuit 32) is selected and output to the subsequent stage.

  That is, the image conversion selection circuit 311 in the second embodiment performs noise correction processing (image conversion processing) in the edge enhancement processing circuit 32 according to the information on the counter number, as in the first embodiment. It is characterized by being performed by division.

  In addition, the image conversion selection circuit 311 in the second embodiment, in the same way as in the first embodiment, “through image signal with image conversion processing” in the edge enhancement processing circuit 32 and through-through according to the information on the counter number. Time division processing is performed by adjusting the ratio of the “image signal without image conversion processing” in the circuit 70.

  Since other configurations and operational effects are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted here.

  In the present embodiment as well, as in the first embodiment, the processing content in the image conversion circuit 30 is configured as hardware having a dedicated function, but is the same as in the third modification example in the first embodiment. In addition, the image conversion circuit 30 may be configured by a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) so that the contents of the processing function can be changed.

  Further, similarly to the fourth modification example of the first embodiment, the contents of the processing functions of the image conversion circuit 30 are stored in, for example, the storage unit 308 connected to the control unit 309, and the stored contents are immediately updated. Then, the processing function may be set.

  As described above, also in the second embodiment, the image conversion selection circuit 311 is provided in the image processing unit 302, and the image conversion process-free image signal; By selectively outputting “image signal with image conversion process; second signal” subjected to a predetermined image conversion process at a predetermined adjustable ratio, the image conversion process is performed while suppressing the influence of noise deterioration. (In this embodiment, the edge enhancement effect) can be obtained.

<Third Embodiment>
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a specific example of the image conversion circuit in the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  The basic configuration of the endoscope system of the third embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and only the image conversion operation of the image conversion circuit 30 in the image conversion selection circuit 311 of the video processor 3 is different. It is to make. Accordingly, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described here, and descriptions of common parts will be omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the endoscope system of the third embodiment, the image conversion circuit 30 of the image conversion selection circuit 311 is configured as a color matrix conversion processing circuit 33.

  The color matrix conversion processing circuit 33 inputs an image signal which is a moving image signal from the γ correction unit 302d in the video processor 3 and outputs a signal corresponding to each pixel of one whole image of the moving image signal. A color matrix conversion process is performed.

  This color matrix conversion process is a process of converting the color matrix of the image signal in order to emphasize the color tone of interest in the subject image. When the degree of enhancement is appropriate, the region of interest with respect to the original subject image However, when the degree of emphasis becomes excessive, there is a possibility that a problem that it becomes difficult to compare with the original subject image may occur.

  In view of such circumstances, in the third embodiment as well, in the same way as in the first and second embodiments, the selection circuit 71 determines whether the through circuit 70 and the image are in accordance with the counter number information from the conversion application selection counter 72. An output signal from the conversion circuit 30 (color matrix conversion processing circuit 33) is selectively output to the subsequent stage.

  That is, the image conversion selection circuit 311 in the third embodiment performs color matrix conversion processing (image conversion processing) in the color matrix conversion processing circuit 33 in accordance with the counter number information, as in the first embodiment. It is performed by time division.

  In addition, the image conversion selection circuit 311 in the third embodiment performs “image signal with image conversion processing” in the color matrix conversion processing circuit 33 and “no image conversion processing” in the through circuit 70 according to the information on the counter number. The time division process is performed by adjusting the ratio with the “image signal”.

  Since other configurations and operational effects are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted here.

  In the present embodiment as well, as in the first embodiment, the processing content in the image conversion circuit 30 is configured as hardware having a dedicated function, but is the same as in the third modification example in the first embodiment. In addition, the image conversion circuit 30 may be configured by a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) so that the contents of the processing function can be changed.

  Further, similarly to the fourth modification example of the first embodiment, the contents of the processing functions of the image conversion circuit 30 are stored in, for example, the storage unit 308 connected to the control unit 309, and the stored contents are immediately updated. Then, the processing function may be set.

  As described above, also in the third embodiment, the image conversion selection circuit 311 is provided in the image processing unit 302, and the image conversion process-free image signal; By selectively outputting “image signal with image conversion process; second signal” subjected to a predetermined image conversion process at an adjustable predetermined ratio, the normal color image signal is a fixed ratio in the output signal. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately adjust the degree of emphasis, and it is possible to easily identify the site of interest with respect to the original subject image.

<Fourth Embodiment>
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of the image conversion circuit in the image conversion selection circuit in the endoscope system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  The basic configuration of the endoscope system of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and only the image conversion operation of the image conversion circuit 30 in the image conversion selection circuit 311 of the video processor 3 is different. It is to make. Accordingly, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described here, and descriptions of common parts will be omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the endoscope system according to the fourth embodiment, the image conversion circuit 30 of the image conversion selection circuit 311 is configured as a specific pattern enhancement processing circuit 34.

  The specific pattern enhancement processing circuit 34 receives an image signal that is a moving image signal from the γ correction unit 302d in the video processor 3, and performs a predetermined enhancement conversion process on the signal of the entire image of the moving image signal. Is to be applied.

  In other words, the specific pattern enhancement process performs an enhancement conversion process on a specific pattern of the subject image, and when the degree of enhancement is appropriate, the specific pattern is easily recognized. When the degree of emphasis becomes excessive, information on the original subject image is lost, and there is a possibility that the pattern becomes difficult to recognize.

  In view of such circumstances, also in the fourth embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, the selection circuit 71 performs the through circuit 70 and the image conversion circuit 30 in accordance with the counter number information from the conversion application selection counter 72. An output signal with (the specific pattern emphasis processing circuit 34) is selected and output to the subsequent stage.

  That is, the image conversion selection circuit 311 in the fourth embodiment performs the specific pattern enhancement processing (image conversion processing) in the specific pattern enhancement processing circuit 34 in accordance with the information on the number of counters as in the first embodiment. It is performed by time division.

  In addition, the image conversion selection circuit 311 in the fourth embodiment performs “image signal with image conversion processing” in the specific pattern emphasis processing circuit 34 and “no image conversion processing” in the through circuit 70 according to the information on the counter number. The time division process is performed by adjusting the ratio with the “image signal”.

  Since other configurations and operational effects are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted here.

  In the present embodiment as well, as in the first embodiment, the processing content in the image conversion circuit 30 is configured as hardware having a dedicated function, but is the same as in the third modification example in the first embodiment. In addition, the image conversion circuit 30 may be configured by a PLD (Programmable Logic Device) such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) so that the contents of the processing function can be changed.

  Further, similarly to the fourth modification example of the first embodiment, the contents of the processing functions of the image conversion circuit 30 are stored in, for example, the storage unit 308 connected to the control unit 309, and the stored contents are immediately updated. Then, the processing function may be set.

  As described above, also in the fourth embodiment, the image conversion selection circuit 311 is provided in the image processing unit 302, and the image conversion process-free image signal; By selectively outputting “image signal with image conversion process; second signal” subjected to a predetermined image conversion process at a predetermined adjustable ratio, the original subject image signal is constant in the output signal. Since they are included in proportion, the degree of emphasis can be adjusted appropriately, and the specific pattern can be emphasized while leaving the original subject image information.

<Fifth Embodiment>
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a main part of an endoscope system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a video of the endoscope system according to the fifth embodiment. It is the block diagram which showed the structure of the image conversion selection circuit in a processor.

  The basic configuration of the endoscope system of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. Here, only the differences from the first embodiment are described, and common parts are described. The description of is omitted.

  In the endoscope system according to the first embodiment described above, the imaging device 244 in the endoscope 2 adopts a so-called progressive scanning method, and the video processor 3 also performs processing corresponding to progressive scanning (FIG. 2).

  Accordingly, in the first embodiment, the conversion application selection counter 72 in the image processing unit 302 in the video processor 3 is a counter that counts the number of frames of the image signal input by the image conversion selection circuit 311. Under the control of the control unit 309, information on the number of counters is transmitted to the selection circuit 71 (see FIG. 3).

  Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the image conversion circuit 30 receives an image signal that is a moving image signal from the γ correction unit 302d, and is predetermined for each signal corresponding to each pixel of the moving image signal in a frame unit. Image conversion.

  In contrast, the endoscope system according to the fifth embodiment includes an endoscope 102 that employs a so-called interlace scanning method, and the video processor 103 also performs processing corresponding to interlace scanning (see FIG. 11).

  As shown in FIG. 11, in the fifth embodiment, the video processor 103 includes an image processing unit 313 that performs the same image processing as the image processing unit 302, and the image processing unit 313 includes the image conversion unit 313. An image conversion selection circuit 312 having the same configuration as the selection circuit 311 is provided.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 12, in the fifth embodiment, the image conversion selection circuit 312 receives the interlaced image signal output from the γ correction unit 302d, and passes through and outputs the image without performing image conversion. 170, an image conversion circuit 130 that similarly inputs an image signal output from the γ correction unit 302d, performs a predetermined image conversion operation on the image signal in units of fields, and outputs the image signal in the image conversion circuit 130. A conversion application selection counter 172 for applying a conversion action in a time division manner, and outputs of the through circuit 170 and the image conversion circuit 130 are input, and information from the conversion application selection counter 172 is received and the through circuit 70 is received. A selection circuit 171 for selectively outputting an output signal from the image conversion circuit 130.

  As in the first embodiment, the through circuit 170 receives the image signal output from the γ correction unit 302d. However, for the input interlaced video signal, only the delay amount with the image conversion circuit 30 is matched. In particular, the image is not converted and is output to the selection circuit 171 at the subsequent stage.

  The image conversion circuit 130 receives an image signal that is a moving image signal by interlace scanning from the γ correction unit 302d, and performs predetermined image conversion on the interlaced moving image signal in units of fields.

  The image conversion circuit 130 is configured as a median processing or average value processing circuit, an edge enhancement processing circuit, a color matrix conversion processing circuit, a specific pattern enhancement processing circuit, or the like in the first to fourth embodiments.

  In the fifth embodiment, the conversion application selection counter 172 is a counter that counts the number of fields of the interlaced video signal input by the image conversion selection circuit 312, and controls the number of fields under the control of the control unit 309. Is transmitted to the selection circuit 171.

  Under the control of the control unit 309, the selection circuit 171 selects the output signals of the through circuit 170 and the image conversion circuit 130 and outputs them to the subsequent stage according to the counter number information from the conversion application selection counter 172. To do.

  More specifically, the selection circuit 171 includes the “image signal without image conversion process; first signal” in the field unit from the through circuit 170 and the “image signal with image conversion process: first signal” in the field unit from the image conversion circuit 130. "2 signal" is selected according to the information on the number of counters (information relating to the field unit), and one frame is composed of two fields and output toward the subsequent stage.

  In addition, as in the first embodiment, the selection circuit 171 performs the “image conversion unprocessed image signal” and the “image conversion” under the control of the control unit 309, for example, according to an instruction from the input unit 307. The ratio of the selective output with the “processed image signal” can be adjusted.

  That is, also in the fifth embodiment, the image conversion selection circuit 312 can perform the image conversion processing in the image conversion circuit 130 by time division according to the information on the counter number (information on the field unit), The effect of the image conversion process can be adjusted by adjusting the time division ratio.

Next, the operation of the image conversion selection circuit 312 in the fifth embodiment will be described.
FIG. 13, FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are timing charts showing an example of the relationship between the conversion application selection counter 172 and the output image from the image conversion selection circuit 312 when image conversion is performed on a moving image signal on a field basis. 13 shows an example in which the ratio of the “image signal with image conversion process” in the image conversion circuit 130 and the “image signal without image conversion process” in the through circuit 170 is 1: 1, and FIG. : 2 shows an example in which the ratio is 2: 1.

  For example, as illustrated in FIG. 13, when the ratio of “image signal with image conversion process” and “image signal without image conversion process” is set to 1: 1 in the input unit 307, the selection circuit 171 controls the control unit 309. Under the control of the image conversion circuit 130, the image signal processed by the image conversion circuit 130 (image conversion process presence signal) and the image signal (image image) passed through by the through circuit 170 are received. Signal without conversion processing) is selectively output at a ratio of 1: 1.

  Here, when the ratio of the “image signal with image conversion process” and the “image signal without image conversion process” is set to 1: 1, the selection circuit 171 has a conversion application selection counter 172 as shown in FIG. When the counter is “0” or “3”, the output of the through circuit 170 is selected. That is, an image signal for one field not subjected to image conversion processing is selected and output.

  On the other hand, the selection circuit 171 selects the output of the image conversion circuit 130 when the counter in the conversion application selection counter 172 is “1” or “2”. That is, an image signal for one field subjected to image conversion processing is selected and output. In both cases, one field is composed of two fields and output.

  When the ratio between the “image signal with image conversion process” and the “image signal without image conversion process” is set to 1: 2, the selection circuit 171 displays the counter in the conversion application selection counter 172 as shown in FIG. When “0”, “3”, “4” and “5” are selected, the output of the through circuit 170 is selected. That is, an image signal for one field not subjected to image conversion processing is selected and output.

  On the other hand, the selection circuit 171 selects the output of the image conversion circuit 130 when the counter in the conversion application selection counter 172 is “1” or “2”. That is, an image signal for one field subjected to image conversion processing is selected and output. In the same manner as described above, each frame is composed of two fields and output.

  Further, when the ratio between the “image signal with image conversion process” and the “image signal without image conversion process” is set to 2: 1, the selection circuit 171 displays the counter in the conversion application selection counter 172 as shown in FIG. When “0” and “3” are selected, the output of the through circuit 170 is selected. That is, an image signal for one field not subjected to image conversion processing is selected and output.

  On the other hand, the selection circuit 171 selects the output of the image conversion circuit 130 when the counter in the conversion application selection counter 172 is “1”, “2”, “4”, and “5”. That is, an image signal for one field subjected to image conversion processing is selected and output. In the same manner as described above, each frame is composed of two fields and output.

  As described above, also in the fifth embodiment, an image conversion selection circuit 312 is provided in the image processing unit 313, and the “image conversion process-free image signal; By selectively outputting “signal” and “image signal with image conversion processing; second signal” obtained by performing predetermined image conversion processing in units of fields at a predetermined adjustable ratio, the influence of resolution degradation is reduced. The effect of the image conversion process can be obtained while suppressing.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration employing the simultaneous type as the video processor has been described as an example. However, the present invention can also be applied to a configuration example employing the frame sequential method.

  Further, the functions related to the above-described image conversion selection circuit 311 are provided in the video processor 3 in the above-described embodiment, but are not limited thereto, and for example, the imaging device 244 and the operation unit 22 in the endoscope 2. Or the structure provided in the connector part 27 is also contained in this invention.

  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the configuration of the endoscope system is given as an example of the embodiment of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is not limited to the image processing function and other imaging systems. Even can be applied.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

1: Endoscope system 2: Endoscope 22: Operation unit 27: Connector unit 244: Image sensor 3: Video processor 302: Image processing unit 309: Control unit 311: Image conversion selection circuit 30: Image conversion circuit 31: Median Processing or average value processing circuit 32: edge enhancement processing circuit 33: color matrix conversion processing circuit 34: specific pattern enhancement processing circuit 70: through circuit 71: selection circuit 72: conversion application selection counter 4: light source device 5: display device

Claims (12)

An imaging unit that outputs an observation image of the subject as an image signal;
A through circuit that outputs the first signal without performing an image conversion process on the image signal;
An image conversion processing circuit that performs a predetermined image conversion process on the image signal and outputs the image signal as a second signal;
A counter circuit for counting the number of frames or fields of the image signal;
A selection output circuit that selectively outputs the first signal output from the through circuit and the second signal output from the image conversion processing circuit in accordance with a count number counted in the counter circuit; ,
An imaging system comprising: A selection instructing unit for instructing a ratio of selective output between the first signal and the second signal;
The said selection output circuit adjusts and outputs the ratio of the selective output of the said 1st signal and the said 2nd signal based on the instruction | indication of the said selection instruction | indication part. Imaging system. A storage unit that stores information on a ratio of a selective output between the first signal and the second signal;
The selective output circuit adjusts and outputs the selective output ratio between the first signal and the second signal based on the selective output ratio information stored in the storage unit. The imaging system according to claim 1.   The imaging system according to claim 3, further comprising an endoscope having the storage unit. An endoscope including the imaging unit is detachably connectable, and includes a processing unit that performs predetermined processing on the image signal output from the imaging unit, and a processor unit that includes the storage unit,
Information on the ratio of the selective output of the first signal and the second signal stored in the storage unit is information corresponding to the type of the endoscope connected to the processor. The imaging system according to claim 3, wherein   The imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the image conversion processing circuit performs image processing of median processing, average value processing, edge enhancement processing, color matrix conversion processing, or specific pattern enhancement processing.   The imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the image conversion processing circuit can change a content of the image conversion processing. A processing content storage unit for storing information on the content of the image conversion processing;
The imaging system according to claim 7, wherein the image conversion processing circuit performs predetermined image conversion processing on the image signal based on processing content information stored in the processing content storage unit.   The imaging system according to claim 8, further comprising an endoscope having the processing content storage unit. An endoscope including the imaging unit is detachably connectable, and includes a processing unit that performs predetermined processing on the image signal output from the imaging unit, and a processing unit that includes the processing content storage unit. ,
The imaging system according to claim 8, wherein the processing content information stored in the processing storage unit is information corresponding to a type of the endoscope connected to the processor. The imaging system according to claim 7, wherein the content of the image conversion process is any one of a median process, an average value process, an edge enhancement process, a color matrix conversion process, or a specific pattern enhancement process. An endoscope including the imaging unit, the through circuit, the image conversion processing circuit, the counter circuit, and the selection output circuit;
A processing circuit that allows the endoscope to be detachably connected, performs a predetermined process on the image signal output from the imaging unit, and a clock generation unit that provides predetermined clock information to the counter circuit; A processor having,
With
The counter circuit counts the number of frames or fields of the image signal according to the clock information from the clock generation unit,
The endoscope further controls a selective ratio between the first signal and the second signal that are selectively output in the selection output circuit according to the count number in the counter circuit. The imaging system according to claim 1, further comprising: