JP3363244B2 - Electronic equipment - Google Patents

Description

Description: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to the function of two setting means.
The present invention relates to an electronic device that can be set by one setting unit. 2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, image sensors such as CCDs have
Widely used for devices with imaging functions such as cameras
Became. Think of it as an electronic device using an image sensor
For example, a conventional example disclosed in JP-A-1-93268 is disclosed.
is there. This conventional example controls the accumulation time of the image sensor.
Control of exposure integration and electrical signal gain
Discloses a sensitivity adjustment method for automatically controlling the sensitivity. [0003] The above-mentioned Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 1-932 is disclosed.
In the conventional example of No. 68, for example, the accumulation time of the image sensor
Is longer than usual and the sensitivity is increased,
Although the S / N ratio does not deteriorate, the exposure time has been extended,
Blurring occurs in the picture. Further, control of the gain of an electric signal (AGC)
Does not affect moving images when sensitivity is increased
However, the S / N of the image is deteriorated. As described above, when observing a moving image,
When observing a still image with priority given to AGC, use exposure integration.
Is appropriate. However, in the conventional example,
As shown in the figure, two methods with different purposes
The operation is troublesome because the sensitivity is raised by controlling with
turn into. [0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above points.
Therefore, the aim was to provide an electronic device with improved operability.
Target. Means and action for solving the problem First set value
And an electronic device capable of setting a second set value.
A range in which the first set value can be varied and a range in which the second set value can be set.
The variable range is included in the variable range of one set value.
And can be set by one setting means,
Means to convert the set value set by one setting means
In the conventional example, it is operated separately by making it possible to
The operation and modification of one operating means
The operability has been improved by only having to operate the replacement means. An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Will be explained. 1 to 3 show a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 1 shows the overall configuration of the electronic endoscope apparatus according to the first embodiment.
Fig. 2 shows the external appearance of the CCU, and Fig. 3 shows the configuration of the CCU.
Is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, a first embodiment of the electronic device of the present invention is shown.
An electronic endoscope apparatus 1 as an embodiment has a built-in imaging unit.
The electronic endoscope 2 and the illumination light transmitting means of the electronic endoscope 2
A light source device 3 for supplying illumination light and an image of the electronic endoscope 2
While driving the imaging means, the output signal of the imaging means
Camera control unit (hereinafter CC) that performs signal processing
4), standard video signal processed by CCU4
And a color monitor 5 for displaying an image signal. The above-mentioned electronic endoscope 2 is an elongated, flexible material.
An insertion portion 6 and a wide-width operation formed at the rear end of the insertion portion 6
The working unit 7 and the universe extending out of the operating unit 7
A monkey cable 8 and the end of the universal cable 8
The light guide connector 9 provided at the end is attached to and detached from the light source device 3.
It can be freely connected. The light guide connector 9 has a signal cable.
Cable 11 is connected via a signal connector and the other signal
The connector 12 is provided on the front panel 13 of the CCU 4.
Can be detachably connected to the signal connector receiver 14
You. The light guide connector 9 is connected to the light source device 3.
Is generated by the lamp 15 in the light source device 3.
The white illumination light collected by the lens is
6 is irradiated. This light guide 16 is universal
Light transmitted through cable 8 and insertion section 6 and transmitted
The tip attached to the illumination window provided at the tip of the insertion section 6
The light exits from the surface and illuminates a subject such as an affected part in front. The illuminated object is observed adjacent to the illumination window.
Light is focused on the focal plane by the objective lens 17 attached to the window.
For example, CC as a solid-state imaging device on which an electric conversion surface is disposed
An optical image is formed on D18. On the photoelectric conversion surface of this CCD 18
Is a filter that optically separates colors, such as a mosaic filter.
Mounted for color imaging under white light
Can be. The CCD 18 is connected to the inside of the electronic endoscope 2 and to a signal.
In the CCU 4 via the signal line inserted in the cable 11
And a signal processing circuit 20. This
Drive circuit 19 generates a drive signal for driving the CCD 18
Then, this drive signal is applied to the CCD 18 via a signal line.
You. The application of the drive signal causes the CCD 18 to perform photoelectric conversion.
The output image signal is output to the signal processing circuit 20 via the signal line.
I do. Further, for example, the operation unit 7 of the electronic endoscope 2
A freeze switch 22 is provided.
Display a still image by operating the switch 22
I can do it. The signal processing circuit 20 receives an input image signal.
Signal processing to generate a standard video signal.
Output to the color monitor 5. The front panel of this CCU4
As shown in Fig. 2, the gain control knob is
23 and an integral priority switch 24 are provided. The gain control knob 23 adjusts the sensitivity.
The series of variable resistors VR1 and VR2 which are linked
To the video signal by the signal amplification means.
Gain and (Charge accumulation time (exposure time)
Change the sensitivity by changing the time to integrate the image)
It adjusts the sensitivity by associating it with the sensitivity by the integration function.
The integration priority switch 24 controls the integration function of the integration means.
This is a switch to give priority. In this embodiment, the conventional example is independent of it.
AGC gain adjustment knob and image integration adjustment provided respectively
Adjusting knob is operated with one gain control knob 23
Integration so that you can do it
Priority is given to either function of these two types of sensitivity adjustment
Priority function setting so that
New image integration priority switch 24 is provided.
The operability has been improved. FIG. 3 shows the structure of the signal processing circuit 20 in the CCU 4.
This is shown. The output signal of the CCD 18 is sent to the process circuit 26.
Input and amplified by the amplifier circuit in the process circuit 26.
After that, for example, R
A GB video signal is generated. This video signal is auto-gain controlled.
A circuit (hereinafter, abbreviated as an AGC circuit) 27 is input. This
AGC circuit 27 has a gain control terminal (hereinafter referred to as G
Amplification factor depending on the signal level applied to the C terminal)
(Gain) can be controlled by this GC terminal
Constitutes the integral priority switch 24, and the interlocking switch S
1 and S2, a variable resistor interlocked through one switch S2.
It is connected to the arresters VR1 and VR2. The video signal amplified by the AGC circuit 27 is
A / D converter 28 converts analog signals into digital data.
After being converted to a frame signal, it is temporarily stored in the frame memory 29.
Is done. Write digital signal to frame memory 29
The reading and reading are shown in the integration control circuit 31.
Not controlled by a memory controller. The integration control circuit 31 performs integration control.
According to the magnitude of the integral control voltage applied to the terminal Ic,
At the time of exposure to increase the image accumulation time (or exposure time)
When the drive circuit 19 is controlled via the
In addition, the frame memory 2
9 is controlled. That is, to increase the integral control voltage
Exposure time is longer, image integrator as integration means
The ability increases. In addition, it is constant when the integral control voltage is 0.
Image exposure time, resulting in, for example, NTSC
In CC, an image for one frame is CC at 1/30 sec.
Operation similar to image reading when reading from D18
I do. The data read from the frame memory 29
Digital signal is analog by D / A converter 32
After being converted into a signal, the encoder 33
Color monitor 5 which is converted into a standard video signal of TSC system
Output to the side. Freeze switch 2 provided on electronic endoscope 2
2 is connected to the integration control circuit 31 and
When the switch 22 is turned on, the integration control circuit 31
The image still control function operates, and writing to the frame memory 29 is performed.
Writing to the frame memory 29 is prohibited.
Just do it. Therefore, when the freeze switch 22 is pressed,
If N, the image written immediately before the write inhibit operation
Are repeatedly read. In other words, a still image is a color monitor
5 will be displayed. Freeze switch 2
Press 2 to change from ON to OFF, and write-protect operation
The mode will be released and the mode will be changed to a mode for displaying a normal moving image. The integration priority switch 24 includes a switch S
One common contact c is the integral control of the integral control circuit 31
Connected to the terminal Ic, and the common contact c of the switch S2 is set to AG
It is connected to the GC terminal of the C circuit 27. Also, switch
When the contact a of the switch S1 is connected to the contact b of the switch S2,
Both are connected to the variable resistance terminal of the variable resistor VR2,
The contact b of the switch S1 is connected to the contact a of the switch S2.
Connected to the variable resistance terminal of the variable resistor VR1.
ing. One end of the variable resistor VR1 is connected to GND.
The other end and the center tap Rc are connected to the positive power supply terminal + Vc
c. In addition, one end of the variable resistor VR2 and
And the center tap Rc are connected to GND, and the other end is positive.
It is connected to the source terminal + Vcc. The gain control knob 23 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 shows a state in which is set to the MIN position.
Is set to move to one end.
FIG. 3 shows a state in which the troll knob 23 is set at the center position.
Now, if the variable resistance terminal is set to move to the center tap Rc,
The gain control knob 23 to the MAX position.
In Fig. 3, the variable resistance terminal moves to the other end.
This is equivalent to setting. The integral priority switch 24 is active.
(Integration priority switch 24 is OFF
3), the switches S1 and S2 are both set as shown in FIG.
In this state, the common contact c is connected to the contact a.
When the integral priority switch 24 is pressed in the state, two linked
Switches S1 and S2 have the common contact c connected to the contact b.
State. The setting state shown in FIG.
In the OFF state), the variable resistor VR1 is connected to the AGC circuit 27.
Functions as a gain adjustment means for adjusting the gain of the
Integration in which the resistor VR2 adjusts the integration function by the integration means
Has a role to function as an adjusting means. In other words, this setting
In the state, the amplifier means (formed by the AGC circuit 27)
Gain adjustment function (than the integration function by the integration means)
It operates as a gain priority mode. In this case, the gain control knob 23 is
Move from the MIN position to the center tap Rc position
And the magnitude of the GC voltage value according to the set position
The gain of the AGC circuit 27 becomes larger. Center touch
Beyond the position Rc, the GC voltage value reaches its maximum value (that is,
+ Vcc), so that the AGC circuit 27
Does not change in the maximum state, but the product of the variable resistor VR2
The minute control voltage gradually increases from 0 when it exceeds the center tap Rc.
And the integration function increases according to the integration control voltage value.
Great. In the setting state shown in FIG.
Is turned on, the variable resistor VR1
In the setting state, determine the integration function by the integration means, and
The gain of the AGC circuit 27 is adjusted with the setting of the VR2.
Mode, that is, giving priority to the integration function by the integration means
Integral function priority mode can be set. In this embodiment, the setting is made by the first setting means.
Range of the first set value (eg, AGC gain)
And a second set value set by the second setting means (eg,
(Eg, integration level)
Range (voltage range by linked variable resistors VR1 and VR2)
Box), one setting means (gain control knob)
23) and the conversion means (integration priority switch 24)
The operability can be almost completely covered by the switching operation.
Has improved. The operation of the first embodiment will be described below.
During normal mode (integral priority switch 24 is OFF)
Is the MIN of the gain control knob 23,
AGC level from center to center, M from center
The AX gain functions as a variable integration region. That is, the gain control knob 23 is set to M
As you increase the voltage from IN, the variable resistor VR1
AGC level changes as the voltage of the variable resistor terminal changes
However, the voltage at the variable resistance terminal of the other variable resistor VR2 is
Does not change at the ground level. Therefore, the minimum (M
IN) The center is the control of the integration control circuit 5.
Signal is always 0 V, and the AGC level of the AGC circuit 27 is
Only le works. Therefore, in the operation of the gain UP, first, the AGC
Since it is performed with the gain of the circuit 27, there is no problem in observing the moving image.
No. And with the AGC gain set to MAX,
The integration is performed only when the raising operation is performed. That is, when the gain is increased beyond the center,
The voltage of the variable resistor terminal of the variable resistor VR1 changes from Vcc.
AGC gain maintains MAX gain,
The voltage of the variable resistor terminal of the variable resistor VR2 is varied and integrated.
The integration control of the control circuit 31 is performed. By this image integration, a unit time (for example, 1
Per second) reduces the number of images per second, so images like frame advance
The above operation (after the AGC gain reaches MAX)
At the beginning of the integration function).
Will be able to. On the other hand, a still image or a similar
When observing things, I want to emphasize image quality, that is, S / N
In this case, the integration priority switch 24 is pressed. This operation
From the MIN to the center of the gain control knob 23
Is the variable integration range, MAX is the AGC gain variable from the center
Range. That is, the gain control knob 23 is set to M
Up to IN-center, variable resistor terminal of variable resistor VR1
Voltage changes from 0 to Vcc, and according to the value of this voltage
Thus, the integration control circuit 31 performs integration control. Variable resistor
The voltage of the variable resistance terminal of the arrester VR2 does not change from 0.
, The AGC gain remains at the lowest level. The gain control knob 23 moves over the center.
Then, the voltage of the variable resistance terminal of the variable resistor VR1 is Vc
Since c does not change, the integration level maintains the maximum state
The voltage of the variable resistance terminal of the variable resistor VR2 is 0 to V
cc, and the AGC circuit 27
AGC gain works. Accordingly, the integral priority switch 24 is turned on.
As a result, the integration function can be given priority, and the S / N ratio can be increased.
Image with high image quality. According to the first embodiment, the sensitivity is increased.
For one of the two types of functions, one
Function can be set at the same time in a mode that gives priority to
And setting of both functions by operating the priority function switching means
Can be changed in most cases.
While being able to cover the functions that were operating each independently,
Normally, it can be set by operating only one operation means.
Workability can be improved. That is, when priority is given to the motion function of the moving image
In the state where the integral priority switch 24 is set to OFF
With the operation of the gain control knob 23 alone,
You can set the AGC gain to MAX
If the brightness is insufficient, the AGC gain is
In this state, the shortfall is compensated for by the integration function. Therefore, heavy movement
Sensitivity can be increased with a simple operation while viewing
You. In addition, a good S / N ratio for observing a still image is provided.
If you want to place importance on the image, set the integral priority switch 24 to
By turning it on, the gain control knob 23
The desired integration level can be set with only
If the brightness is insufficient even when the minute level is set to MAX,
When the integration level is at the maximum and the AGC gain function
Make up your feet. In this case, the S / N is emphasized.
The sensitivity can be increased by a simple operation. Therefore, the operator's desire for the observation object
Can be set to the degree increase mode, and desired by simple operation
The sensitivity can be set to be increased, and the operability can be improved. Although not shown, in the first embodiment,
Used two variable resistors VR1 and VR2
Is electrically connected to the two switch means of UP and DOWN.
Using two electronic volumes that change the bell instead
Good. An environment in which one of the functions is used preferentially
Then, a changeover switch for switching the priority (see FIG. 3 switch)
(S1 and S2) are not required. In this case,
What is necessary is just to make the connection state to be earlier. FIG. 4 shows a CCU according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
41 shows the configuration. In the first embodiment, at the time of imaging by the CCD 18
Although the integration means is formed by controlling the interval, this embodiment
Then, the image written in the frame memory 29 is integrated by the integration controller.
By adding a plurality of sheets under the control of the trawl circuit 42,
Integrating means is formed. Therefore, in this embodiment, the driving circuit 19
The read cycle is changed by the integration control circuit 42.
Not. Other configurations are the same as those in FIG.
Omitted. In the second embodiment, the operation by the integrating means is the
This is different from the first embodiment only. In other words, the integral control
The circuit 42 has a voltage value applied to the integration control terminal Ic.
The number of images to be integrated in the frame memory 29 according to
Set (in this case, the number of images is one, two, ...
So, for example, for a voltage between one and two sheets, the voltage
Set the addition coefficient of the second image to be smaller than 1 according to the value.
Is also good). Other functions and effects are almost the same as in the first embodiment.
It is like. It should be noted that the switching of the integral priority switch 24 is the first
From the two-stage switching in the first or second embodiment, three stages
May be set. For example, the middle of two stages
AGC gain and integration function overlap as switching state of
It is also possible to provide a sensitivity increasing region that functions as a function. FIG. 5 shows a CCU according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
51 shows a configuration. This third embodiment has the functions of the second embodiment.
In addition to the above, with priority given to the gain of the amplification means,
When the release switch 22 is turned on, decrease the gain.
The gain is compensated for by the integration function, and the static
This is to obtain a still image. FIG. 5 At the output of the D / A converter 32
The force signal (for example, the luminance signal) is supplied to the first integrating circuit 52 and
Through a second integration circuit 53 provided with a changeover switch S4.
Is input to a comparator 54, and the output of the comparator 54 is integrated.
It is input to the control circuit 31 '. The output signal of the D / A converter 32 is
In the case of an RGB color signal, a resistor for voltage division and an adder
A luminance signal can be generated by a combination of
A signal obtained by simply adding a color signal may be used as the switch S4.
No. In the following description, the signal output to the switch S4 is
It is described as a luminance signal). The first integration circuit
52 comprises, for example, a resistor R1 and a capacitor C1,
The second integrating circuit 53 includes a resistor R2 and a capacitor C2.
Have been. The integration control circuit 31 'is shown in FIG.
In addition to the function, when the integration priority switch 24 is OFF
(This state is detected by the level of the contact a of the switch S3),
Freeze Sui Switch When the switch 22 is turned on, the comparator 54
The integration operation is performed until the output of is inverted. The changeover switch S4 is set to a freeze switch.
Switch 22 and the OFF state of the integration priority switch 24
ANDing with the signal of the switch S3 for detecting
When the output of the circuit 55 is “H”, the common contact c is changed to the contact a.
To b. The switch S3 is a switch S3.
1, a switch that can be switched in conjunction with S2
You. The output of the AND circuit 55 is "H".
Then, the common of the GC terminal of the AGC circuit 27 and the switch S2
The changeover switch S5 provided between the contact point c and the contact point a
b, and the gain control voltage is set by the semi-fixed resistor R3.
Fixed value for low level during freeze (in this case, AG
(The gain of the C circuit 27 becomes a low value). The other structure is the same as that of the second embodiment.
Next, the operation will be described. When freeze switch 22 is OFF
The state is the same as in the second embodiment. In addition, integral priority switch
Switch 24 is turned on and the freeze switch 22
N is the same as in the second embodiment.
Switch 22 is turned on, writing is prohibited.
Image data written to the frame memory 29 immediately before the operation
Data is being read repeatedly. In other words, still images are displayed
Is done. On the other hand, when the integration priority switch 24 is OFF.
If the freeze switch 22 is turned on in the
Switch S4 is set to the contact b side by the output of the
At the same time, the switch S5 is also switched to the contact b side
The AGC circuit 27 is switched by switching the switch S5.
Gain switches to a lower value. Before the switch S4 is switched, the contact a
Because it is ON, the capacitor C2 of the integration circuit 53
Is the AGC number determined by the setting of the variable resistor VR1.
Maintains average luminance signal level corresponding to the gain of path 27
In this state, the switch S4 is switched to the contact b side.
When the freeze switch 22 is ON in the capacitor C2
Brightness level at the AGC gain set by the semi-fixed resistor R3.
Bell information is left. The integration control circuit 31 'has a freeze signal
When a signal is input, the integral control of the frame memory 29 is performed.
The output of the frame memory 29 is a resistor R1 and a capacitor.
The average luminance level is stored in the capacitor C1 of the integrating circuit 52 by C1.
The bell is stored and the comparator 54 freeze switches
22 is a capacitor C that holds the average luminance level when ON
2 and the potential of capacitor C1 during integration
And feeds the result to the integration control circuit 31 '.
Back. This feedback loop freezes
AGC gain luminance for time and stored luminance level
Are the same, the integration signal is output from the comparator 54.
The trolling circuit 31 'stops the integration and the frame memory 2
9 is frozen. According to the third embodiment, the image is frozen.
AGC gain is prioritized when performing the operation
Judge whether the AGC gain has priority or not.
Is an AGC gay, which is an electrical sensitization function just before it freezes
AGC for freeze, not freeze
Switching to gain, and deterioration of sensitization function due to the switching
Is compensated by the integration function, and the state matches the sensitization function before switching.
And set it to a still image. Therefore, S / N
Good still image. FIG. 6 shows a CCU according to a modification of the third embodiment.
61 shows the configuration of FIG. This function is also related to the third embodiment.
The background will be described first. Conventionally, in imaging devices,
As a means of improving the sensitivity, the video signal is electrically amplified and the sensitivity is increased.
A method of improving the quality of life (AGC)
The image is accumulated using the frame memory as disclosed in
A method of performing product addition (image integration) is known. However, these two types of sensitivity enhancement
Imaging using a combination of means and a freeze function
If you freeze the video on the device,
Freezes with AGC gain, the previous electrical sensitization function
At this time, if the gain of AGC is high, the S / N
They had to keep staring at the degraded still images. Therefore, the modification of the third embodiment has the above disadvantage.
In view of the above, the image
Provided is an imaging device capable of improving S / N. Therefore, when the freeze switch is depressed,
When AGC is detected, the electrical sensitization by AGC is reduced,
Performed integration using the flash memory to reach the target brightness.
At that point, stop the integration operation and freeze
I have. Hereinafter, the configuration will be described with reference to FIG. In the modification shown in FIG. 6, the AGC circuit 27
When the switch 62 is turned on, the AGC
When the release switch 22 is turned on, the AGC circuit 2
7 is reduced to a constant value,
It is made up of steps. The freeze switch 22 is an integral control memory
Controller 63, and the freeze switch 22
Is turned on, the integration control memory controller 63 compares
Until the output signal from the unit 54 is inverted.
The control for accumulating the images is performed by using 29. Further, the freeze switch 22 is turned on.
And switch S4 is set to contact b so that contact a is turned off.
Switch S5 and switch S5 from contact a to contact b.
Switch to. An AGC switch is connected to the contact a of the switch S5.
Switch 62 is connected, and the contact b is semi-fixed via a buffer.
The constant resistance R3 is connected. In this embodiment, the AGC circuit 27
The lower the applied voltage to the terminal, the higher the gain and the higher the applied voltage.
Characteristics with low gain are used.
The gain characteristics are opposite to those of FIG. Any feature
Can be used as well). The GC terminal of the AGC circuit 27 is positive by a resistor.
Is pulled up to the power supply terminal + Vcc.
When the AGC switch 62 is turned on,
Changed to a large gain. The other structure is the same as that of FIG.
Description is omitted. Next, the operation will be described. In FIG.
Is not in the state of being closed. Here with the electric sensitization function
When a certain AGC switch 62 is turned on, the AGC is activated.
You. At this time, the capacitor C2 has the OGC switch 62
The average luminance level at N is stored. When the freeze switch 22 is turned on, the switch
Switch S5 switches and the AGC gain is fixed (FIX)
At the same time as the gain is set, the switch S4 is also switched.
Therefore, the luminance level when the AGC gain is ON is stored in the capacitor C2.
File information is left. The integration control memory controller 63 is free.
When the delay signal is input, the integral control of the frame memory 29 is performed.
The output of the frame memory 29 constitutes the integration circuit 52
The average brightness level is held in the capacitor C1
You. The average brightness at the time of AGC and ON by the comparator 54
And the potential of the capacitor C2 for maintaining the
The potential of the capacitor C1 is compared with the potential during the integration operation, and the result is multiplied.
This is fed back to the minute control memory controller 63.
AGC, ON-time luminance by this feedback loop
When the stored luminance level becomes the same,
The controller 63 stops the integration and stores the frame memory 29 in the memory.
Leeds state. According to this modification, the freeze state
The electrical sensitivity is set to FIX and compared with AGC and ON.
Perform image integration using the frame memory for the lack of sensitivity.
Freeze with improved S / N compared to electrical sensitization
You can get a picture. By the way, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 62-250084 is described.
And the accumulation time of the image sensor and the gain of the electrical signal
A method of adjusting the sensitivity by using the control of
However, for example, the accumulation time of the image sensor
If you take it for a long time and raise the sensitivity, the S / N of the image will deteriorate so much
Does not occur, but blurring in the movie
Will happen. Also, since the number of images per second is reduced,
It will be a video feed. However, AGC alone does not
The control range of IN becomes narrow. For this reason, the observation ability at the time of moving images is not reduced.
Integration (exposure or image using field memory
Control the electrical gain as much as possible
FIG. 7 below for the purpose of providing an imaging device
Alternatively, the configuration shown in FIG. 9 may be adopted. It is necessary to control the electric gain as much as possible.
For example, the endoscope imaging device shown in FIG.
To the CCU 71 shown in FIG.
The AGC switch shown in FIG.
The configuration is the same as that of FIG. Accordingly, the configuration and operation of the CCU 71 shown in FIG.
Will be described below. Application of drive signal from drive circuit 73
The image signal output from the CCD 18 by the
Input to the path 74 and increased by the amplifier circuit in the process circuit 74.
After the width, by the color separation circuit in the process circuit 74,
For example, an RGB video signal is generated. This video signal is input to the AGC circuit 75.
You. The AGC circuit 75 is connected to the level applied to the AGC terminal.
Amplification in AGC mode depending on whether the signal is "L" or not
An AGC switch is connected to this AGC terminal.
Switch 72 is connected.
Mode (the output level depends on the average level of the input signal).
The gate of the AGC circuit 75 is controlled so that the power level becomes almost constant.
Control automatically). When the AGC switch 72 is OFF
Has the lowest gain because it is pulled up by a resistor.
Works with The video signal amplified by the AGC circuit 75 is
A / D converter 76 converts analog signals into digital data.
After being converted to a frame signal, it is temporarily stored in the frame memory 77.
Will be delivered. Writing digital signals to frame memory 77
Read and write are controlled by the memory controller 78
Is done. The data read from the frame memory 77
Digital signal is analog by D / A converter 79
After being converted into a signal, for example, N
It is converted to a standard video signal of the TSC system and
-Output to the monitor side. Exposure provided on front panel 81
Exposure time by terminal selected by time setting SW82
A corresponding exposure time control signal is generated by the control circuit 83
The exposure time control signal passes through a changeover switch 85.
Output to the drive circuit 73 and the memory controller 78
You. In this case, the changeover switch 85 sets the contact b
When ON, the drive circuit is controlled by the exposure time control signal.
Timing of drive signal applied to CCD 18 from 73
Is changed. That is, the drive signal is not applied, and C
Exposure time during imaging (exposure) with CD18 changed
It is. In addition, when the timing of the drive signal is changed,
Accordingly, the memory controller 78 sets the frame memory 77
Controls the timing of writing video signals to the Switching above
The switch 85 is an AGC gain MAX of the AGC circuit 75.
The switching is controlled by a signal. That is, normally, the contact a is set to the ON state.
Drive circuit 73 operates during the normal exposure period,
On the other hand, the AGC circuit 75 operates with the AGC gain,
When the C gain becomes maximum, the AGC gain MAX signal is output.
Switch off so that contact a turns on.
Change. When the contact b is turned on as described above, the drive
The path 73 changes the exposure period according to the exposure time control signal.
Longer than usual). Therefore, the frame memory 77 has
The image integration data corresponding to the change of the exposure period is stored.
You. On the other hand, the data read from the frame memory 77
The timing is not changed when the exposure time is changed.
Not be read in a predetermined field period displayed in color.
And output to the color monitor. That is, the TV memory is stored in the frame memory 77.
Field signal is input to the encoder 80, and NT
An SC composite signal is output. With the endoscope imaging apparatus thus configured,
Is the AGC gain of the AGC circuit 75 of the CCU 71.
Performs sensitization (sensitivity increase) as much as possible and the AGC gain
If MAX is not enough, the brightness is calculated by exposure integration
compensate. Therefore, in the case of watching a moving image, the AGC
Since the operation is prioritized, frame advance by integral operation
An image can be prevented as much as possible. FIG. 8 shows the CC in the first modification of FIG.
It is a block diagram which shows the structure of U71 '. This variant is
AGC target instead of AGC switch 72 in FIG.
AGC target value setting means for setting a value, for example, a variable resistor
The AGC function by the AGC circuit 75 using the arrester 91
Is output from the variable resistance terminal of the variable resistor 91.
It operates with the gain corresponding to the output voltage as the target value. One
That is, the average level of the output of the AGC circuit 75 is set to the AGC target.
The target value is set by the value setting means. The output from the variable resistance terminal is
The force voltage is a target value MA for detecting whether the target value is MAX.
X detection circuit 92, the target value MAX detection circuit
92 and the AGC gain MA of the AGC circuit 75
The X signal is used to switch the switch 85 through the OR circuit 93.
It is configured to be controlled. The other configuration is the same as that of FIG. This second
The operation of the first modification will be described. Of the output of the AGC circuit 75
The average level is set by the variable resistor 91. This setting
It is determined whether or not the target value level has reached the maximum by the target value.
AX detection circuit 92 detects this target value MAX detection time.
The target value MAX detection signal of the path 92 and the A
The GC gain MAX signal passes through the OR circuit 93 to the switch 8
5 is controlled. At least one of them is "H".
, The switch 85 changes from the contact a on the GND side to the contact b.
And the operation of the exposure time control circuit 83 becomes effective.
Exposure time control according to the integration time setting switch 82
It is performed and stored in the frame memory 77. Image stored in frame memory 77
Is read out at a predetermined timing and passed through the encoder 80.
Output to the color monitor. In this modification, for example, depending on the shooting state,
When the subject is dark, but only partially bright
In this case, the average luminance is somewhat high, so the AGC target value
Even if set to MAX, does the actual AGC gain go to the maximum?
And therefore integration does not work despite the overall darkness
When the AGC target value level is MAX,
Is also one that allows the integration to work.
The other effects are almost the same as those of FIG. FIG. 9 shows the CC in the second modification of FIG.
It is a block diagram which shows a structure of U71 ". In this modification,
Does not change the exposure time, but the memory controller 9
Under the control of 5, the image addition is performed in the frame memory 77.
This constitutes an integrating means. The front panel 81 has an integral time setting.
A variable resistor 96 is provided as a setting means.
The voltage of the variable resistance terminal of the resistor 96 is
Is input as an integration time setting signal to the
The controller 95 adds the image according to the level of this signal.
Determine the number. In this modification, the output of AGC circuit 75 is
The force signal is supplied to the A / D converter 76 and the frame memory 7
7. After sequentially passing through the D / A converter 79, switch 9
7, a signal processing system input to the encoder 80,
The output signal of the GC circuit 75 is encoded through the switch 97.
With a signal processing system that is bypassed so as to be input to the
Two processing systems are formed, and this switch 97 is
The configuration is such that it is performed using the MAX signal. That is, A
The GC gain MAX signal has an AGC gain of MAX
This signal is output only when the
Is switched on. The other structure is the same as that of FIG. Next
Will be explained. When the AGC gain has not reached MAX
Is a contact a where the switch 97 is not on the frame memory 77 side.
Is selected, the integration operation becomes invalid.
I have. Then, the AGC gain became at the time of MAX.
Sometimes, the switch 97 is set to the contact b on the frame memory 77 side.
The memory controller 95 sets the time
According to the signal, the image addition was used in the frame memory 77.
Implement the image integration function. According to this modification, the AGC gain is MA
If it is not X, sensitize with AGC gain as in Fig. 7.
The brightness does not increase even if the AGC gain is set to MAX.
Sensitization with the image integration (multiple image addition) function
So that it is possible to prevent the image from being frame-shifted as much as possible
Wear. According to the apparatus of FIGS. 7 to 9, electrical sensitization
In order to limit the integration operation until the maximum function,
Therefore, it is possible to prevent images such as frame advance from being displayed. What
Depending on the subject, the electric sensitization function does not reach the maximum
May require an integration function, in which case the integration
The threshold for limiting the operation can be used as a variable. In the present invention, the electronic endoscope 2 is replaced with an optical
Built-in solid-state imaging device such as CCD in the eyepiece of the endoscope
Endoscope with a TV camera attached
The same applies. In addition, the above-described embodiments and the like are partially
Embodiments configured in combination also belong to the present invention. [Appendix] (1) Gain level of video signal and long length of solid-state image sensor
Integration level to adjust sensitivity by inter-exposure or image addition
Is variably set in the imaging apparatus.
Set range of target value and settable range of the integration level
An imaging apparatus in which is included in a settable range of one set value.
Set the gain level target value and integration level setting to 1
It can be done by setting two setting values. (2) Gain level of video signal and solid-state
Adjust sensitivity by long-time exposure of image element or image addition
In the imaging apparatus in which the integration level can be variably set, the
In-level target value setting range and integration level setting
The settable range is included in the settable range of one set value.
The target value of the gain level and the integral level are set to 1
An imaging device that can be set with one operation means. Gain level
Setting means for setting the target value and setting the integration level
You can do this with (3) Gain level of video signal and solid-state imaging
Adjust sensitivity by long-time exposure of image element or image addition
In the imaging apparatus in which the integration level can be variably set, the
In-level target value setting range and integration level setting
The settable range is included in the settable range of one set value.
The target value of the gain level and the integration level are set.
Settable means, and a variable range of the one set value.
In the box, the setting range of the target value of the gain level and the product
Conversion means for converting the setting range of the minute level.
Imaging device. Setting of gain level target value and integration level
Can be set with a single setting means.
Can be converted by the conversion means. (4) Electricity is used as a means for improving or changing sensitivity.
Add multiple images using sensitization function and frame memory
And an integration method for moving images.
Image capture device with a freeze function
Is started, the sensitization function of the electric sensitization function is
Performs integration using the frame memory to achieve the target brightness.
Has a function to stop the integration operation when the
Imaging device. Electric sensitization when freeze operation is performed
Lower the sensitizing function of the function and lower the sensitizing function with the integration function.
Since the lower portion is compensated, a still image with a good S / N can be obtained. (5) The electric sensitization function is an automatic gain
5. The imaging device according to claim 4, comprising a control. (6) Electricity increase as a means for improving sensitivity
Sensing function and image integration (controls the exposure time of the image sensor
Cumulative addition of images by exposure integration or frame memory
Time etc.) in an imaging device having both methods,
Enable the electrical sensitization function by giving priority to the electrical sensitization function
Enable image integration only when the threshold value of the variable range is exceeded
An imaging device characterized in that: Excellent electrical sensitization function
The image integration function when the threshold is exceeded
Therefore, it is possible to prevent frame-by-frame images from being generated as much as possible. (7) The electric sensitization function is an automatic gain
7. The imaging device according to claim 6, comprising a control. According to the present invention as described above,
Variable range of the first set value set by the first setting means
And a second set value set by the second setting means.
Range is included in the variable range of one set value.
Setting within the first and second variable ranges by operating the setting means
And the first and second conversion means are switched by the switching operation of the conversion means.
Since the priority of the set value can be changed,
Easy setting of the operator's desired setting for the target
Can be set and operability can be improved.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an endoscope apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a CCU. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a CCU. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a CCU according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a CCU according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a CCU according to a modification of the third embodiment. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the CCU in the endoscope apparatus that controls the electric gain as much as possible. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a CCU according to a first modification of FIG. 7; FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a CCU according to a second modification of FIG. 7; [Description of Signs] 1 endoscope device 2 electronic endoscope 3 light source device 4 CCU 5 color monitor 6 insertion unit 7 operation unit 8 universal cable 11 signal cable 13 front panel 14 Signal connector receiver 17 Objective lens 18 CCD 19 Drive circuit 20 Signal processing circuit 22 Freeze switch 23 Gain control knob 24 Integration priority switch 25 Sensitivity adjusting means 27 AGC circuit 29 Frame memory 31 Integration control Circuits VR1, VR2 ... variable resistors S1, S2 ... switches

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of front page (56) References JP-A-4-91506 (JP, A) JP-A-1-93268 (JP, A) JP-A-1-124717 (JP, U) JP-A-56 51304 (JP, U) Jiko 56-52655 (JP, Y1) (58) Fields investigated (Int. Cl. ⁷ , DB name) A61B 1/00-1/32 H03K 17/00 G03B 7/08

Claims (1)

(57) An electronic device capable of setting a first set value and a second set value, wherein the variable range of the first set value and the second set value are provided. A setting unit that includes the variable range of the set value in one variable range of the set value, and sets the first set value and the second set value; and the variable of the one set value. An electronic device comprising: a conversion unit configured to convert a variable range of the first set value and a variable range of the second set value within a possible range.