JP3540690B2 - Endoscope system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an endoscope system, and more particularly, to an endoscope system capable of appropriately adjusting a dimming level according to a type of an imaging device (such as a CCD).
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, by inserting an elongated insertion portion into a body cavity, it is possible to diagnose an affected part or the like in the body cavity without performing an incision, and to perform a treatment by inserting a treatment tool as necessary. Endoscopes are widely used.
[0003]
The endoscope transmits illumination light from a light source device or the like to a distal end portion of the insertion portion by a light guide or the like, irradiates the target portion such as an affected part with an illumination light from the distal end portion via an illumination optical system, and An image of a target site such as an affected part is formed by an objective lens disposed at the distal end, and the formed optical image is transmitted to an eyepiece provided on the hand side by optical transmission means, and is enlarged and observed by an eyepiece optical system. I can do it.
[0004]
As the optical transmission means, for example, a fiber bundle is used in a flexible endoscope, and a relay lens is used in a hard endoscope, depending on the use and purpose.
[0005]
Recently, a solid-state imaging device, for example, a CCD is disposed in the distal end portion of the insertion portion, an optical image is formed on an image forming surface of the CCD by an objective lens, and photoelectric conversion is performed by the CCD to obtain image information of an electric signal. Electronic endoscopes that can display a desired image of a target site on a monitor or the like by performing various image processing on this image information have also been widely used.
[0006]
With the improvement of image processing technology in recent years, various types of image processing can be performed on the image information as described above, so that diagnosis and the like such as enlargement of an image and comparison with a related image can be performed more easily and reliably. Therefore, even in an endoscope having a conventional optical transmission means, an endoscope capable of processing an optical image as image information by detachably connecting a camera head unit having a CCD or the like to an eyepiece unit. Mirror systems have been developed.
[0007]
For example, in the image obtained by the electronic endoscope, since the usage state is such that there are many subjects having a luminal shape or severe irregularities, the distance between the distal end portion of the insertion portion and the subject varies, and illumination unevenness occurs, for example, on the same screen. There is a problem that halation occurs for a nearby subject, and a phenomenon that a distant object is dark and invisible occurs.
[0008]
Therefore, a technique for reducing illumination unevenness by controlling a diaphragm driving circuit of the light source device with a dimming signal generated from an imaging signal obtained by the CCD, and controlling a charge accumulation time of the CCD. Thus, there has been proposed an electronic shutter technology for performing light control.
[0009]
Conventionally, dimming methods are roughly divided into two types of dimming methods described below.
[0010]
(1) In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 1-257911, a video signal from a camera is guided to a light source device, a luminance signal is extracted from the video signal, and a reference value prepared separately is compared with the luminance signal. A dimming method for dimming light emitted from a light source device by operating aperture blades so that a signal and a luminance signal match is described. That is, automatic dimming is performed so that the brightness of the monitor matches the reference value. Then, by making the reference value variable, automatic dimming is performed so that the screen has the brightness desired by the user. In this prior art (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 1-257911), a luminance signal is extracted from a video signal on the light source device side. However, the luminance signal is extracted on the camera control unit (hereinafter referred to as CCU) side connected to the camera head in advance. There is also a method in which the extracted light is input to the light source device in the form of a luminance signal.
[0011]
(2) Japanese Patent Application No. 9-4885 describes a dimming method in which the CCU controls all the light. Details are as follows. By outputting the dimming signal while detecting the position signal of the diaphragm blade in the light source device on the CCU side, the CCU side can control the diaphragm blade. The automatic light control is basically performed by the electronic shutter on the CCU side as follows.
[0012]
First, the CCU outputs a dimming signal so that the aperture blade is fixed substantially at the center. Next, in this state, light control is performed by an electronic shutter. The target value of the electronic shutter is set to the brightness desired by the user by the dimming level adjusting means provided on the CCU side. Then, when the operating range of the electronic shutter is about to be exceeded, the amount of light is adjusted so that the diaphragm blade is slightly moved to always enter the operating range of the electronic shutter. Therefore, the amount of emitted light is always kept to a minimum.
[0013]
On the other hand, in an endoscope system that performs color imaging, as a prior art for performing white balance, Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-2164 discloses that white balance adjustment is performed when a white balance switch is pressed for a certain time or more. It is noted.
[0014]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, conventionally, as described above, two types of dimming methods are mixed, and furthermore, the brightness setting point in each dimming method is different between the case of the light source device side and the case of the CCU side. It was necessary to change the brightness setting location depending on the type of light source device and CCU. Further, in the case of one type of CCU having two types of CCDs, one having an electronic shutter function and one having no electronic shutter function, the dimming method differs for each type of CCD to be combined, that is, for each type of scope or camera head.
[0015]
For this reason, it is necessary to change the brightness adjustment position for each type of CCD, which is not convenient.
[0016]
On the other hand, a light source device often uses a discharge lamp because of its brightness and efficiency. However, the discharge lamp does not exhibit its designed performance immediately after lighting. In general, a stable light emitting state cannot be achieved unless the light is turned on for several tens of seconds to several minutes after the light is turned on. However, conventionally, there has been a possibility that a white balance may be obtained before the stable state is reached, that is, immediately after lighting, so that an appropriate white balance may not be obtained.
[0017]
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope system that can be used to determine where brightness adjustment should be performed regardless of the combination of any CCD, CCU, and light source device. is there.
[0018]
Another object of the present invention is to provide an endoscope system capable of obtaining an appropriate white balance by setting a white balance after a light source lamp used in a light source device is stabilized.
[0019]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
An endoscope system according to the present invention includes a light source device that supplies illumination light to an inspection target via an endoscope, an image processing device that processes an image signal from the endoscope, and a light source lamp of the light source device. Timer means for regulating the time until the brightness of the light source lamp is stabilized after lighting, and the image processing apparatus according to output information of the timer means. From Signal output to the monitor Against White balance White balance control means for controlling the timing of operating the function; It has.
[0020]
In addition, an endoscope system according to the present invention includes a light source device that supplies illumination light to an inspection target via an endoscope, an image processing device that processes an image signal from the endoscope, and a light source of the light source device. Timer means for specifying the time until the brightness of the light source lamp is stabilized after the lamp is turned on, and a signal output from the image processing apparatus to a monitor according to output information of the timer means. Against White balance Function operable Notification means for notifying the timing.
[0022]
In the present invention, a timer means for defining a time until the brightness of the light source lamp is stabilized after the light source lamp of the light source device is turned on, and the image processing apparatus is provided based on output information of the timer means. From Signal output to the monitor Against White balance White balance control means for controlling the timing of operating the function, or Signal output from the image processing device to a monitor Against White balance Function operable By providing a notification means for notifying the timing, the white balance is maintained until the brightness of the light source lamp used for the light source device becomes stable. By not operating the function or notifying the operable timing of the white balance function, Adjust the white balance after the light source lamp brightness has stabilized Did Thus, it is possible to obtain an appropriate white balance in the endoscope system.
[0023]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an endoscope system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
[0024]
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a scope (endoscope) having an optical system for capturing light from the subject 25 and a light guide system for irradiating the subject 25 with illumination light. The section is provided with a camera head 2 having a CCD 7 as an imaging device for receiving an optical image from the optical system and converting the optical image into an electric signal.
[0025]
An imaging signal from the camera head 2 is input to the CCU 5. The CCU 5 includes a CCD drive circuit 31 that drives the CCD 7, an image processing circuit 32 that processes an image signal from the CCD 7 and outputs the same to the monitor 4, a front panel 13 on which operation buttons and a display unit of the CCU 5 are mounted, and a CCU 5 inside. And a CPU 14 for controlling each circuit means. The image processing circuit 32 includes a white balance circuit 32a for adjusting the balance of each of the three primary colors of RGB.
[0026]
The light source device 6 includes a lamp 22, a lamp power supply 33 that supplies power to the lamp 22, an aperture unit 34 that adjusts the amount of light emitted from the lamp 22 to the light guide 3, and an adjustment unit that is generated by the image processing circuit 32 on the CCU 5 side. A light control circuit 35 for supplying a stop control signal to a stop unit 34 for performing automatic light control using an optical signal 38, a front panel 19 equipped with operation buttons and a display on the light source device 6 side, And a CPU 17 for controlling each circuit means. Here, it is assumed that a discharge lamp is used as the lamp 22, for example. Generally, the discharge lamp is not in a stable state immediately after lighting, and usually takes several tens of seconds to several minutes to exhibit the performance according to the design value of the lamp (that is, to reach a stable state). Therefore, the CPU 17 includes timer means for defining the time until the brightness of the lamp 22 becomes stable after the lamp 22 of the light source device 6 is turned on.
[0027]
The image processing circuit 32 in the CCU 5 generally includes a white balance circuit 32a for adjusting the balance of each of the three primary colors of RGB. In this method, a white object, for example, a gauze-like object is photographed, and then the RGB balance can be adjusted by pressing a white balance switch SW3 (see FIG. 6) provided on the front panel 13 or the like. Then, the CPU 17 of the light source device 6 notifies the CPU 14 of the CCU 5 by the lamp stabilization signal 36 that the lamp 22 has reached the stable state after the lamp 22 is turned on. On the other hand, it is informed that the lamp has reached a stable state (that is, a state where white balance can be adjusted). That is, the CPU 14 includes notification means for notifying the timing for operating the white balance function based on the output information of the timer means.
[0028]
Hereinafter, details of the operation of the first embodiment will be described.
First, the power switch SW4 (see FIG. 7) on the front panel 19 of the light source device 6 is turned on (ON), and a signal is output from the CPU 17 to the lamp power supply 33 to turn on the lamp 22. When the lamp 22 is turned on, the fact is input from the lamp power supply 33 to the CPU 17. When the lighting of the lamp 22 is confirmed by the CPU 17, the counting is started by the CPU 17 for the time that the known lamp is completely stabilized, and at the same time, the CPU 14 informs the CPU 14 that the lamp has not been stabilized by the lamp stabilizing signal 36. To the image signal processing circuit 32 via the monitor, a message to the effect that white balance cannot be obtained is displayed on the monitor 4, and the operator is prevented from obtaining white balance. If the time for the lamp 22 to completely stabilize has passed, the CPU 17 informs the CPU 14 of the lamp 22 stabilization by the lamp stabilization signal 36, thereby informing the monitor 4 that the white balance may be obtained. Is displayed.
[0029]
By the above operation, it is possible to know when the operator can take the white balance, and it is possible to perform the reliable white balance.
[0030]
[Second embodiment]
In the second embodiment, the following operations are combined in addition to the message display of the first embodiment.
[0031]
After the lamp 22 is turned on, the CPU 14 does not receive a signal from the white balance switch SW3 (see FIG. 6) on the front panel 13 of the CCU 5 based on the lamp stability signal 36 from the CPU 17 until the lamp 22 is stabilized. By doing so, the white balance switch SW3 is forcibly invalidated. That is, the CPU 14 includes a white balance control unit that controls the white balance function based on the output information of the timer unit.
[0032]
By the above operation, until the light source lamp is stably turned on, not only the message but also the white balance is forcibly not taken as in the first embodiment, so that the timing at which the white balance can be executed becomes clear and the timing becomes more reliable. It is possible to perform a proper white balance.
[0033]
[Third Embodiment]
FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of an endoscope system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The basic configuration of the third embodiment is the same as that of the first and second embodiments, but the CPU 17 of the light source device 6 has its timer function until the lamp 22 is stabilized after the lamp 22 is turned on. The light control circuit 35 generates a light-shielding signal 37 and supplies the light-control signal to the light control circuit 35. The light control circuit 35 controls the aperture unit 34 to perform light blocking so that white balance cannot be maintained. That is, in the present embodiment, the aperture unit 34 also serves as a dimming (shielding) unit.
[0034]
After the lamp 22 is turned on, until the lamp 22 is stabilized, the aperture unit 34 is closed by the light blocking signal 37, so that it is impossible to take an image with sufficient brightness. As a result, the white balance cannot be obtained until the lamp 22 is stabilized. When the time required for the lamp 22 to stabilize passes, the light shielding by the light shielding signal 37 is released, and the light shielding of the aperture unit 34 is released, so that the normal light control operation is performed. The light control circuit 35 is a circuit for performing automatic light control using a light control signal 38 originally generated by the image processing circuit 32 on the CCU 5 side.
[0035]
By the above operation, the white balance is not kept until the lamp is stabilized, so that the reliable white balance can be performed only when the lamp is lit stably.
[0036]
[Fourth Embodiment]
FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of an endoscope system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The fourth embodiment is basically the same as the third embodiment, but does not use the dimming stop unit 34 as a means for dimming (shielding) the light. A light-reducing mesh unit 39 as light-reducing (light-shielding) means is disposed between the light-receiving device and the light-incident end, and light is reduced by the light-reducing mesh unit 39. The light-attenuating mesh unit 39 performs light blocking by a light blocking signal 37 output from the CPU 17 until the lamp is stabilized after the lamp 22 is turned on, and the light blocking is released after the lamp is stabilized. The function and effect are the same as in the fifth embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.
[0037]
In the first to fourth embodiments, it is possible to use a light source lamp (for example, an incandescent lamp) other than the discharge lamp as the lamp 22. Therefore, it is also possible to change the adjustment value of the white balance circuit 32a by inputting information on the type of lamp to be used to the CPU 17 and changing the time setting of the timer means or by notifying the CCU-side CPU 14 of the lamp type.
[0038]
Further, the first to fourth embodiments may be implemented by combining any of them. By combining them, a more reliable white balance can be achieved. Further, the timer for judging the stability of the lamp 22 in the first to fourth embodiments may be performed by timer means having a different configuration from the CPU 17.
[0039]
By the way, there has been disclosed a conventional type in which unnecessary output light when the scope is not used is shielded by a standby switch provided on the light source device side. However, since this is separate from the scope and the light source device, this is a light source device. It took time and effort to press the button. Therefore, by providing the standby switch 40 on the camera head 2 as shown in FIG. 4, a person operating the scope 1 can directly operate the standby switch 40. When the standby switch 40 is pressed, the standby signal 41 informs the CPU 17 of the light source device 6 that the standby switch 40 is pressed, and based on this, the CPU 17 generates a light-shielded signal 37, and It operates to close the unit 34. This operation is continued until the standby switch 40 is pressed again.
[0040]
By incorporating the standby switch already disclosed in the camera head 2 as described above, it is possible to operate it at hand, for example, when it is desired to temporarily block the illumination light, thereby improving the usability.
[0041]
[Fifth Embodiment]
FIG. 5 shows an endoscope system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
In FIG. 5, reference numeral 1 denotes a scope (endoscope) having an optical system that captures light from the subject 25 and a light guide 3 for irradiating the subject 25 with illumination light. Is provided with a camera head 2 having a CCD 7 as an image pickup device for receiving an optical image from the optical system and converting it into an electric signal.
[0042]
An imaging signal from the camera head 2 is input to a CCU 5 serving as an image processing device. The CCU 5 drives the CCD 7 and controls the charge accumulation time of the CCD 7 based on an image signal from the CCD 7. The CCD detection unit 12 is an electronic shutter function determining unit that determines the type of the CCD, that is, the presence or absence of an electronic shutter function. A CCD driving means (timing generator 11) capable of performing image processing, an image processing means (process circuit 8, detection circuit 9, and shutter speed setting circuit 10) for processing an imaging signal from the CCD 7 and outputting the same to the monitor 4, and a CCU 5 side A front panel 13 on which operation buttons and a display are mounted; a communication interface 15 having a function of transmitting and receiving setting information to and from the light source device 6; and a CPU 14 for controlling each circuit unit in the CCU 5. It is configured.
[0043]
The light source device 6 includes a light source (a lamp 22 and a lens 23) driven by a lamp power supply (not shown), a diaphragm unit (aperture motor 20 and a diaphragm blade 21) for adjusting the amount of light emitted from the lamp 22 to the light guide 3, and a diaphragm. A position detection circuit 26; an aperture position setting circuit 18 which is an optical control unit for supplying an aperture control signal to the aperture unit in order to perform automatic light adjustment using an optical signal generated by the image processing unit on the CCU 5 side; A front panel 19 equipped with operation buttons and a display on the device 6 side, a communication interface 16 provided with a function for transmitting and receiving setting information to and from the CCU 6, and a CPU 17 for controlling each circuit means in the light source device 6. It is configured with.
[0044]
In the fifth embodiment configured as described above, the difference in the type of the CCD 7 is detected by the CCD detecting means 12, and the information is transmitted to the CPU 14 in the CCU 5 and is transmitted to the CPU 17 in the light source device 6 by communication. This makes it possible to appropriately adjust the dimming level according to the type of the CCD 7. Here, as the type of the CCD 7, there are two types, one having an electronic shutter function and the other having no electronic shutter function, and the dimming methods are different from each other. When the CCD 7 has the electronic shutter function, the dimming level is adjusted based on the electronic shutter function on the CCU 5 side, and when the CCD 7 does not have the electronic shutter function, the dimming level is adjusted based on the aperture blade on the light source device 6 side. The dimming level is adjusted.
[0045]
The endoscope system has two light control modes, an automatic light control mode and a manual light control mode. The automatic light control mode is a mode in which light is automatically controlled so that the brightness on the monitor 4 is constant. This is a mode in which a light amount is emitted. The setting of these dimming modes is performed using the mode changeover switch SW5 on the front panel 19 of the light source device 6 shown in FIG.
[0046]
First, a case where the automatic light control mode is set will be described.
In the automatic light control mode when the CCD 7 does not have the electronic shutter function, the control is performed by adjusting the amount of illumination light to the subject 25 by the aperture blade 21 of the light source device 6. Specifically, it is as follows. The light of the lamp 22 illuminates the subject 25 via the lens 23, the aperture blade 21, and the light guide 3, and the reflected light from the subject 25 is imaged on the CCD 7 via the scope 1. The image formed on the CCD 7 is converted into a video signal by the process circuit 8 and displayed on the monitor 4. The CPU 14 recognizes from the signal from the CCD detection means 12 that the CCD 7 does not have an electronic shutter function, and outputs a luminance signal proportional to the brightness of the image on the monitor 4 output from the detection circuit 9 to a shutter speed setting circuit. The data is received via the communication interface 10 and transmitted to the CPU 17 of the light source device 6 via the communication interface 15, the communication cable 24, and the communication interface 16.
[0047]
The CPU 17 of the light source device 6 that has received the luminance signal compares the level of the light amount adjustment set on the front panel 19 with the magnitude of the luminance signal, and matches the luminance signal with the set light amount adjustment level. The aperture blade 21 is controlled using the aperture position setting circuit 18 so as to perform the operation.
[0048]
If the brightness signal is smaller than the light amount adjustment level, it is determined that the brightness is lower than the desired brightness, and the CPU 17 instructs the aperture position setting circuit 18 to open the aperture blade 21. Conversely, if the luminance signal is larger than the light amount adjustment level, it is determined that the brightness is higher than the desired brightness, and the CPU 17 issues an instruction to the aperture position setting circuit 18 to close the aperture blade 21. When the luminance signal and the light amount adjustment level match, the aperture blade 21 is stopped at that position. The above operation is repeated so that the brightness on the monitor 4 is kept constant. That is, when a CCD having no electronic shutter function is connected as the CCD 7, the setting value of the front panel 19 on the light source device 6 side is effective for the brightness adjustment on the monitor 4.
[0049]
However, in this configuration, the state of the light amount adjustment level on the front panel 13 on the CCU 5 side and the state of the light amount adjustment level on the front panel 19 on the light source device 6 side, that is, the light amount adjustment levels on the CCU 5 side and the light source device 6 side, respectively. The CPU 14 and the CPU 17 operate so as to synchronize with each other via the communication interface 15 and the communication interface 16. Therefore, even when the operator changes the light amount adjustment level on the CCU 5 side, which is originally invalid, the light amount adjustment level of the light source device 6 changes in conjunction with the operation, so that automatic adjustment is performed at the brightness intended by the operator. It operates so that light is emitted, prevents confusion of the operator, and realizes an endoscope system excellent in operability.
[0050]
On the other hand, in the automatic light control mode when the CCD 7 has an electronic shutter function, the operation is performed by the electronic shutter function. Specifically, it is as follows. The CPU 14 recognizes that the CCD 7 has the electronic shutter function by the CCD detecting means 12. The CPU 14 outputs the light amount adjustment level set on the front panel 13 on the CCU 5 side to the shutter speed setting circuit 10, and at the same time, reads the aperture position information based on the aperture position detection circuit 26 in the light source device 6 from the communication interface 15. A signal (hereinafter referred to as a dimming signal) is transmitted to the light source device 6 via the communication interface 15 so as to be temporarily fixed in a state where the aperture is closed, for example, near the center. That is, the aperture blade 21 is controlled by the CCU 5. Then, in this state, the shutter speed is determined by the shutter speed setting circuit 10 so as to be at the level of the light amount adjustment set on the front panel 13 on the CCU 5 side, and the charge accumulation time of the CCD 7 is determined by the timing generator 11 based on the shutter speed. In other words, the electronic shutter function is operated so that the brightness on the monitor 4 matches the light amount adjustment level set on the front panel 13 on the CCU 5 side.
[0051]
However, if it is about to exceed the range of the effective shutter speed of the electronic shutter, the CPU 14 determines that the aperture blade 21 is turned on by the dimming signal based on the aperture position information of the aperture position detection circuit 26 in the light source device 6. The operation is performed by a necessary amount so that the shutter speed always falls within an effective range. This is because when the shutter speed cannot be increased any more, that is, when the shutter speed is too bright, the aperture blade 21 is slightly closed, and when the shutter speed cannot be reduced any more, that is, when the shutter speed is too dark, the aperture blade 21 is not. Means that the aperture blade 21 is operated by the dimming signal so that is slightly opened. The above operation is repeated so that the brightness on the monitor 4 is kept constant.
[0052]
That is, when the CCD 7 having the electronic shutter function is connected, the setting value of the front panel 13 of the CCU 5 is effective for the brightness adjustment on the monitor 4. However, in this configuration, the state of the light amount adjustment level on the front panel 13 and the state of the light amount adjustment level on the front panel 19, that is, the light amount adjustment levels on the CCU 5 side and the light source device 6 side, respectively, are set to the communication interface 15 and the communication interface 15 The CPU 14 and the CPU 17 operate so as to synchronize with each other via the CPU 16. Therefore, even when the operator changes the light amount adjustment level of the light source device 6 which is originally invalid, the light amount adjustment level of the CCU 5 changes in conjunction with the operation, so that the automatic adjustment is performed at the brightness intended by the operator. It operates so that light is emitted, prevents confusion of the operator, and realizes an endoscope system excellent in operability.
[0053]
The above description is all about the case of the automatic light control mode. Next, the operation when switching to the manual light control mode will be described.
[0054]
First, in the case where the CCD 7 does not have the electronic shutter function, when the light source device 6 is in the automatic light control mode, the operation described so far is performed.
[0055]
When the mode is switched to the manual light control mode by switching the mode changeover switch SW5 on the front panel 19 of the light source device 6, the CPU 17 controls the light source device 6 so that the aperture is adjusted to the light amount adjustment level set on the front panel 19. Then, the diaphragm blade 21 is driven based on the diaphragm position information from the diaphragm position detecting circuit 26, and at the same time, the CPU 14 of the CCU 5 is notified of manual light control via the communication interface 16, the communication cable 24, and the communication interface 15. The CPU 14 of the CCU 5 that has been informed of the manual light adjustment sets the level display method of the light amount adjustment level LED 29 of the front panel 13 in the same manner as the display method of the light source device 6 (see FIG. 8). It operates in conjunction with the light level adjustment level.
[0056]
The case where the CCD 7 has the electronic shutter function is basically the same as the case where the CCD 7 does not have the electronic shutter function, except for the following points. That is, when the mode is changed to the manual light control mode by the mode change switch SW5 of the light source device 6, the CPU 14 of the CCU 5 is notified of the manual light control via the communication interface 16, the communication cable 24 and the communication interface 15. . Next, the CPU 14 that has been informed of manual light control turns off the electronic shutter function (OFF) and displays information of the CCD 7 on the monitor 4 at a normal read speed. Similarly, the level display method of the light amount adjustment level LED 29 on the front panel 13 on the CCU 5 side is made the same as the display method of the light source device 6 (see FIG. 8), and furthermore, the operation is performed so as to be linked with the light amount adjustment level of the light source device 6. I do.
[0057]
As described above, according to the configuration of the fifth embodiment, the operator does not need to care about the type of the CCD 7 and the light control mode of the light source device 6 is either the automatic light control mode or the manual light control mode. By adjusting the light amount adjustment level of the light source device 6, the brightness is adjusted to a desired brightness suitable for each dimming mode, the confusion of the operator can be prevented, and an endoscope system excellent in operability can be realized.
[0058]
[Sixth Embodiment]
The basic configuration of the sixth embodiment is the same as that of the fifth embodiment in FIG. 5, but the configurations of the CCU 5 side front panel 13 and the light source device 6 side front panel 19 are different from those of the fifth embodiment. ing. FIG. 6 shows a configuration of the CCU 5 side front panel 13, and FIG. 7 shows a configuration of the light source device 6 side front panel 19.
[0059]
As shown in FIG. 6, the front panel 13 on the CCU 5 side has a power switch SW1, a light amount adjustment switch SW2 as first brightness setting means for performing light amount adjustment while displaying the light amount adjustment level LED 29, and a light amount switch on the CCU 5 side. An LED 27 as first valid / invalid display means for indicating whether the adjustment is valid / invalid and a white balance switch SW3 for executing white balance adjustment are provided.
[0060]
As shown in FIG. 7, a power switch SW4, a mode switch SW5 for switching between an automatic dimming mode and a manual dimming mode, and a light amount adjustment are performed on the light amount adjustment level LED 30 on the front panel 19 of the light source device 6 side. A light amount adjustment switch SW6 as second brightness setting means and an LED 28 as second valid / invalid display means for indicating whether light amount adjustment on the light source device 6 is valid / invalid are provided. Further, a means for setting the type of the lamp 2 to be used may be provided.
[0061]
As described above, the CCU 5 side front panel 13 and the light source device 6 side front panel 19 respectively show the valid / invalid of light amount adjustment on the CCU 5 side and the light source device 6 side as shown in FIGS. , And LEDs 27 and 28 as second valid / invalid display means. The automatic dimming operation according to the presence or absence of the electronic shutter function of the CCD 7 is the same as that of the first embodiment. However, according to the presence or absence of the electronic shutter function, when the CCD 7 has the electronic shutter function, the LED 27 of the front panel 13 is turned on. When the CCD 7 has no electronic shutter function, the LED 28 of the front panel 19 is turned on.
[0062]
Hereinafter, the operation of the sixth embodiment will be described. First, the case where the automatic light control mode is set will be described.
[0063]
When the CCD 7 does not have the electronic shutter function, the CPU 14 of the CCU 5 first recognizes from the output of the CCD detecting means 12 that the CCD 7 does not have the electronic shutter function, and sends the image of the image on the monitor 4 to the light source device 6. The CPU 17 of the light source device 6 is notified of the luminance signal proportional to the brightness and that the CCD 7 has no electronic shutter function via the communication interface 15, the communication cable 24, and the communication interface 16. The CPU 17, which has obtained the information indicating that the electronic shutter function is not provided, uses the brightness signal and the light amount adjustment level set on the light source device side front panel 19 to perform the automatic adjustment as described in the fifth embodiment. Simultaneously with the light emission, the LED 28 provided on the front panel 19 for indicating the validity / invalidity of the light amount adjustment is turned on, so that the light amount adjustment can be operated on the light source device 6 side by the operator. At this time, since the light amount adjustment of the front panel 13 on the CCU 5 side is invalidated, the CPU 14 turns off the LED 27 on the front panel 13 indicating the validity / invalidity of the light amount adjustment, and disables the light amount adjustment on the CCU 5 side for the operator. At the same time, the level of the light amount adjustment on the front panel 13 on the CCU 5 side is fixed to a preset value, for example, the center.
[0064]
By the above operation, when the CCD 7 having no electronic shutter function is connected, the light source device side LED 28 is turned on, and the CCU side LED 27 is turned off, so that the light amount adjustment on the light source device 6 side is effective. By notifying the user and further fixing the light amount adjustment on the CCU 5 side, the light amount adjustment of the automatic light adjustment can be performed without confusion for the operator.
[0065]
When the CCD 7 having no electronic shutter function is connected, the operation of turning on the LED 28 on the light source device side front panel 19 and turning off the LED 27 on the CCU side front panel 13 is replaced with the light amount adjustment level on the light source device 6 side. The LED 30 may be turned on, and when the level of the light quantity adjustment on the CCU 5 side is fixed, the light quantity adjustment level LED 29 on the CCU 5 side may be displayed by a method such as extinguishing, inverting, dimming, or blinking.
[0066]
On the other hand, when the CCD 7 has the electronic shutter function, the CPU 14 first recognizes that the CCD 7 has the electronic shutter function based on the output of the CCD detecting means 12, and outputs a dimming signal for operating the aperture blade and the CCD 7. Is notified to the CPU 17 via the communication interface 15, the communication cable 24, and the communication interface 16 at the same time, and the level of the light amount adjustment set on the front panel 13 is notified to the shutter speed setting circuit 10. As a result, at the same time as performing the automatic light control as described in the first embodiment, the LED 27 provided on the front panel 13 for indicating the validity / invalidity of the light amount adjustment is turned on, and the light amount adjustment is performed by the operator on the CCU 5 side. To enable operation. At this time, since the light amount adjustment level of the light source device 6 becomes invalid, the CPU 17 turns off the LED 28 provided on the front panel 19 for indicating whether the light amount adjustment is valid / invalid, and informs the operator that the light amount adjustment is invalid. At the same time, the level of light amount adjustment and the like on the front panel 19 are fixed to a preset mode, for example, the center of manual light control. Note that the fixing mode is not limited to the manual light control center, but may be an automatic light control or a light amount adjustment level other than the center.
[0067]
By the above operation, when a CCD having an electronic shutter function is connected to the CCD 7, the CCU-side LED 27 is turned on and the light source device-side LED 28 is turned off, so that the operator is informed that the light quantity adjustment on the CCU 5 is effective. By notifying and further fixing the light amount adjustment level on the light source device 6 side, the light amount adjustment for automatic light adjustment can be performed without confusion for the operator.
[0068]
When the CCD 7 having an electronic shutter function is connected, instead of turning on the CCU-side LED 27 and turning off the light source device-side LED 28, the light amount adjustment level LED 29 on the CCU 5 side is turned on and the light source device 6 is turned on. When the level of the light amount adjustment on the side becomes fixed, the light amount adjustment level LED 30 on the light source device 5 side may be displayed by a method such as extinguishing, inverting, dimming, and blinking.
[0069]
The above description is all about the case of the automatic light control mode. Next, the operation when switching to the manual light control mode will be described. The mode is switched to the manual light control mode by switching the mode switch SW5 on the front panel 19 of the light source device 6.
[0070]
First, when the CCD 7 does not have the electronic shutter function, manual light control is performed in accordance with the light amount adjustment level of the light source device 6 while the LED display on the CCU 5 is kept as it is. At this time, the light amount adjustment level LED 30 on the light source device 6 side is displayed as shown in FIG. 8, and the LED 28 indicating whether the light amount adjustment is valid / invalid is also turned on, and the light amount adjustment is effective on the light source device 6 side to the operator. To inform.
[0071]
When the CCD 7 has the electronic shutter function, the light source device 6 operates similarly to the case where the CCD 7 does not have the electronic shutter function. That is, manual light control is performed in accordance with the light amount adjustment level of the light source device 6 while the LED display on the CCU 5 side remains as it is. At this time, the light amount adjustment level LED 30 on the light source device 6 side is displayed as shown in FIG. 8, and the LED 28 indicating whether the light amount adjustment is valid / invalid is also turned on, and the light amount adjustment is effective on the light source device 6 side to the operator. To inform. Here, in addition to this operation, the CPU 17 informs the CPU 14 that the manual light control has been switched, so that the electronic shutter function is turned off (OFF), and the information of the CCD 7 is displayed on the monitor 4 at a normal reading speed. At the same time, the LED 27 indicating the validity / invalidity of the light amount adjustment is turned off, the level display method of the light amount adjustment level LED 29 on the front panel 13 is made the same as the display method of the light source device 6 (see FIG. 8), and the light amount adjustment of the light source device 6 is further performed. It works in conjunction with the level of. Thereby, the operator can adjust the light amount adjustment on the light source device 6 side without being confused.
[0072]
As described above, according to the configuration of the sixth embodiment, the operator does not need to worry about the type of the CCD 7 and can know which one of the CCU 5 and the light source device 6 should adjust the light amount adjustment level. Can be prevented.
[0073]
(Appendix)
(Additional Item 1) An endoscope for observing the inside of a body cavity, an imaging device for taking an endoscopic image, an image processing device for processing a signal from the imaging device, and for illuminating the inside of the body cavity In the endoscope system configured with the light source device,
An endoscope system wherein each setting information is transmitted and received between the image processing device and the light source device, and control characteristics of each device are automatically changed.
[0074]
(Additional Item 2) The transmission / reception content in Additional Item 1 is a set value of the first brightness setting means for setting a target brightness of the electronic shutter function of the imaging device and a target when adjusting the illumination light amount. An endoscope system comprising a set value of a second brightness setting unit for setting brightness.
[0075]
(Additional Item 3) The endoscope according to additional item 2, wherein the operation is performed such that the set value of the first brightness setting unit and the set value of the second brightness setting unit are the same. Mirror system.
[0076]
In additions 1 to 3, in the endoscope system, for example, when one of two dimming functions of a dimming function by the image processing device or a dimming function by the light source device is possible, the image processing device and When exchanging the imaging device by transmitting / receiving each dimming setting information to / from the light source device and automatically changing the brightness control characteristics of each device to have a fixed relationship (for example, equivalent to each other). In such a case, light control using an appropriate light control function of one of the image processing device and the light source device can be performed according to the type of the imaging device attached.
[0077]
(Additional Item 4) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 1, wherein the transmission / reception content includes a determination result of an electronic shutter function determining unit that determines whether or not the imaging device has an electronic shutter function.
[0078]
(Additional Item 5) Based on the output of the electronic shutter function determining means, first and second brightness setting means, and first and second indicating whether the first and second brightness setting means are enabled or disabled. 2. The endoscope system according to claim 4, wherein the endoscope system controls the valid / invalid display means.
[0079]
(Additional Item 6) When the imaging device has an electronic shutter function, the first validity / invalidity display means is displayed as valid, and the second validity / invalidity display means is displayed as invalid. An endoscope system according to item 1.
[0080]
(Additional Item 7) When the imaging device does not have an electronic shutter function, the first valid / invalid display means is displayed as invalid, and the second valid / invalid display means is displayed as valid. Item 6. The endoscope system according to item 5.
[0081]
(Additional Item 8) The additional item 5, wherein when the imaging device has an electronic shutter function, the operation of the first brightness setting unit is enabled and the operation of the second brightness setting unit is disabled. The endoscope system according to any of the preceding claims.
[0082]
(Additional Item 9) When the imaging device does not have an electronic shutter function, the operation of the first brightness setting means is invalidated, and the operation of the second brightness setting means is enabled. 6. The endoscope system according to 5.
[0083]
In the additional items 5 to 9, since the difference in the type of the imaging device (for example, a CCD) can be determined by the image processing device (CCU), the difference in the type of the imaging device and each front of the image processing device and the light source device can be determined. By mutually understanding the setting status of the panel by communication, the image processing device and the light source device are operated as follows according to the type of the imaging device.
[0084]
(1) Irrespective of the type of the imaging device, the respective brightness setting values are operated in conjunction with each other.
[0085]
(2) First and second valid / invalid display means (for example, LEDs) for indicating whether each brightness setting is valid or invalid are separately provided on each front panel of the image processing device and the light source device.
[0086]
In the case of an imaging device without an electronic shutter function, the second valid / invalid display means on the light source device side is turned on to indicate that the brightness setting on the light source device side is valid. In this case, the first valid / invalid display means on the image processing apparatus is turned on to indicate that the brightness setting on the image processing apparatus is valid. Also, the brightness setting of the ineffective one is fixed to a predetermined setting value.
[0087]
With the above operation, it is possible to inform the user of the location of the brightness setting that is appropriately effective no matter how the image processing device, the light source device, and the imaging device are combined, improve the operability, and improve the user's operability. Confusion can be eliminated.
[0088]
(Supplementary note 10) The information according to Supplementary note 1, wherein the information to be transmitted and received includes an output of a timer means for measuring a time required for the lamp to stabilize after the lamp of the light source device is turned on. Endoscope system.
[0089]
(Supplementary Item 11) A display that informs a monitor displaying an endoscope image of the appropriate timing in order to inform an appropriate timing for operating a white balance function for correcting a color of the image processing apparatus by an output of the timer means 11. The endoscope system according to additional item 10, wherein:
[0090]
(Additional Item 12) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 11, wherein the operation of the white balance function is restricted by an output of the timer means.
[0091]
(Additional Item 13) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 10, wherein a dimming unit for dimming light emitted from the light source device is controlled by an output of the timer unit.
[0092]
(Additional Item 14) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 13, wherein the dimming means is an aperture blade for performing automatic light control.
[0093]
(Additional Item 15) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 13, wherein the dimming unit is a dimming mesh.
[0094]
(Additional Item 16) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 13, wherein the operation of the white balance function is restricted by an output of the timer means.
[0095]
In the additional items 10 to 16, the timer means is operated for a period of time known in advance that the lamp is sufficiently stable from the time when the power of the light source device is turned on and the lamp is turned on. Then, the timer means passes a signal indicating that the lamp is not yet stable from the light source device to the image processing device until a predetermined time has elapsed. The image processing apparatus that has received the signal notifies the user by displaying on the monitor a message indicating that white balance cannot be obtained yet. After a predetermined time, a message to the effect that white balance can be taken is displayed on the monitor. In addition, while the lamp is not stable, the white balance switch is not forcibly accepted, or the light source device blocks light so that the white balance is not adjusted. Enable the balance switch or release the light from the light source device.
[0096]
With the above operation, it is possible to notify the user of an appropriate time to perform white balance, so that reliable white balance can be performed.
[0097]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, no matter what combination of an imaging device, an image processing device, and a light source device is performed, it is possible to easily instruct a user where to perform brightness adjustment. Thus, confusion of the user can be prevented, and operability can be improved.
[0098]
In addition, when a discharge lamp is used as the light source device, an appropriate white balance can be reliably obtained by setting a white balance after the discharge lamp is stabilized.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an endoscope system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an endoscope system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an endoscope system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a light shielding method according to the endoscope system of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an endoscope system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a front view showing the configuration of a front panel on the CCU side.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a front panel on the light source device side.
FIG. 8 is a view showing a method of displaying a light amount adjustment level in the light source device.
[Explanation of symbols]
1. Scope
2. Camera head
3. Light guide
4: Monitor
5. CCU (image processing device)
6. Light source device
7 ... CCD (imaging device)
8 Process circuit
9 ... Detection circuit
10 ... Shutter speed setting circuit
11 ... Timing generator
12 ... CCD detection means (electronic shutter function determination means)
13: CCU side front panel
14 ... CCU-side CPU (including communication means and white balance control means or notification means)
15 ... CCU side communication interface
16: Light source device side communication interface
17 ... Light source device side CPU (including communication means and timer means)
18 ... Aperture position setting circuit
19 ... Light source device side front panel
20 ... Aperture motor
21 ... Aperture blade
22 ... lamp
23 ... Lens
24 ... Communication cable
25 ... Subject
26 ... Aperture position detection circuit
27 ... CCU-side LED (first valid / invalid display means)
28 LED on the light source device side (second valid / invalid display means)
29: Light intensity adjustment level LED
30: Light intensity adjustment level LED
31 ... CCD drive circuit
32 ... Image processing circuit
33 ... Lamp power supply
34 ... Aperture unit
35 ... Dimming circuit
36 ... Lamp stability signal
37 ... Shade signal
38 ... Dimming signal
39 ... Dim mesh unit
SW2: Light intensity adjustment switch (first brightness setting means)
SW3… White balance switch
SW4: Power switch of light source device
SW5… Mode switch
SW6: Light intensity adjustment switch (second brightness setting means)

Claims (2)

A light source device that supplies illumination light to the inspection object via the endoscope,
An image processing device that processes an image signal from the endoscope,
After the light source lamp of the light source device is turned on, timer means for defining a time until the brightness of the light source lamp is stabilized,
White balance control means for controlling the timing of operating a white balance function for a signal output from the image processing apparatus to a monitor, based on output information of the timer means ,
An endoscope system comprising: A light source device that supplies illumination light to the inspection object via the endoscope,
An image processing device that processes an image signal from the endoscope,
After the light source lamp of the light source device is turned on, timer means for defining a time until the brightness of the light source lamp is stabilized,
Notification means for notifying the operable timing of a white balance function with respect to a signal output from the image processing apparatus to a monitor, based on output information of the timer means,
An endoscope system comprising:

Images