JPH10314121A - Image processor and recording medium for it - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To execute processing according to a purpose by picture-processing a picture signal based on picture processing setting data read from a recording medium to reduce the cost without increasing a circuit scale. SOLUTION: An external recording control part 17 stores an endoscope picture in a picture recording medium 18 and reads out the coefficient of a space filter of a picture processor and a parameter for the data conversion of a reloadable memory 14 from the medium 18. Then, when set data with respect to the filter 12 and the memory 14 is stored in the medium 18, set data is read out by the control of the part 17, inputted in the part 13 of the processor 6 and set in the filter 12 and the memory 14. The processor 6 processes a picture signal by characteristic based on set data stored in the medium 18 to display an endoscope picture picture-processed by a second observing monitor.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an endoscope image obtained from an endoscope apparatus and the like, and a recording medium for the image processing apparatus used in the image processing apparatus.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art At present, various image pickup apparatuses exist as means for acquiring an image. There are also many image processing apparatuses that perform image processing on images acquired by these imaging apparatuses.

[0003] For example, in the field of endoscopes, various endoscope devices have been proposed in accordance with their diagnostic purposes.
Various image processing apparatuses corresponding to the endoscope apparatus have been proposed. An example will be briefly described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 11A shows an endoscope apparatus 100 for normal light observation used for normal endoscopy. The endoscope apparatus 100 for normal light observation includes an electronic endoscope 101 capable of observation with normal light, and normal light for displaying a normal light image on a monitor 102 based on a signal output from the electronic endoscope 101. And a video signal processing device 103 for observation.

[0005] In this endoscope apparatus 100 for normal light observation,
For example, it is desired to clearly observe a thin blood vessel or the like traveling on the mucosal surface of the subject. Therefore, the video signal processing device for normal light 103 has a contour emphasis function of performing a filter process for emphasizing a relatively high frequency component on the obtained image, thereby facilitating observation of a thin blood vessel. I have.

FIG. 11 (b) shows an endoscope apparatus 104 for observing infrared light used for obtaining information on the deep mucosa of the subject. The infrared light observation endoscope device 104 also includes an electronic endoscope 104 capable of observation with infrared light and the electronic endoscope 1.
Image signal processor 107 for infrared light observation for displaying an infrared light image on the monitor 106 based on the signal output from
And

[0007] The observation using infrared light has the characteristic that information such as small blood vessels on the mucosal surface of the subject is lost, and thick blood vessels inside the mucous membrane can be observed. Therefore, in the infrared light observation video signal processing device 107 of the infrared light observation endoscope device 104, the normal light video signal processing device 103
Unlike this, the image processing apparatus has a contour emphasis function of performing a filter process for emphasizing relatively low frequency components on the obtained image. As a result, a noise component caused by a thin blood vessel is removed, and information on a deep mucous membrane can be obtained well.

FIG. 11C shows an endoscope apparatus 105 for fluorescence observation for diagnosing a lesion by generating fluorescence from a subject. This fluorescence observation endoscope device 108 also includes an electronic endoscope 109 capable of observing fluorescence emission from the subject,
A video signal processor for fluorescence observation 111 for displaying a fluorescence image on the monitor 110 based on the signal output from the electronic endoscope 109 is provided.

The observation by the endoscope apparatus 108 for fluorescence observation is performed by detecting a subtle change in the color tone of the fluorescence emitted from the subject. Therefore, the fluorescence observation video signal processing device 111 has a function of enhancing the color tone of the obtained image, thereby facilitating detection of a lesion in the subject.

FIGS. 11 (a) to 11 (c) show normal light observation,
Although an endoscope apparatus configured exclusively for infrared light observation and fluorescence observation has been described, an endoscope apparatus having a plurality of these functions has also been proposed.

In such an endoscope apparatus, a video signal processing apparatus is provided with an enhancement processing circuit capable of performing a plurality of enhancement processing functions. As described above, in the field of endoscopes, various endoscope apparatuses exist according to the purpose of diagnosis, and are configured to include a video signal processing apparatus that performs an enhancement process suitable for each diagnosis.

Further, as disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei.
There has been proposed a digital processing device that allows one device to have a plurality of image processing functions.

The digital processing device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 7-35447 includes an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), which is a programmable gate array, and a memory storing a plurality of types of programs. By changing the FPGA with a program stored in memory, it is possible to perform multiple image processing functions.

[0014]

As in the prior art, if a video signal processing device or a video signal processing device capable of performing the enhancement process according to the purpose of diagnosis is provided with each enhancement processing circuit, the circuit scale becomes large. However, there is a problem that the cost is increased.

Further, in the digital processing device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 7-35447, the function of the device can be changed only within a program stored in a memory built in the device. Therefore, a newly developed image acquisition means such as an endoscope cannot be handled because the corresponding program is not stored.

Although it is conceivable to replace the memory, it is not easy to replace the memory at the site where the device is stored.
Causes inconvenience. The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and has realized a cost reduction without increasing a circuit scale.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing device capable of performing a process according to a purpose, and to provide a recording medium for the image processing device used in such an image processing device.

[0017]

According to the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an image pickup means, wherein image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is provided. A recording medium mounting section to which a recording medium to be stored is detachably mounted, setting data reading means for reading the image processing setting data from the recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting section, and the image signal being input, Image signal processing means for processing the image signal based on the image processing setting data read by the reading means.

Further, the present invention has a recording medium mounting portion on which a recording medium is detachably mounted, reads data recorded on a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting portion, and reads out the read data. An image processing apparatus recording medium mounted on an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on an image signal based on data, wherein the image processing apparatus recording medium is configured to process the image signal into a predetermined state. The storage device stores setting data and is mounted on the recording medium mounting portion.

[0019]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

(First Embodiment) FIGS. 1 to 4 relate to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1 is an external view of an endoscope system according to the first embodiment, and FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image processing apparatus and an external recording apparatus. FIG. 3 is a flowchart for setting an image processing state of the image processing apparatus.
6 is a graph showing an example of a characteristic of setting data set in a rewritable memory provided in the image processing apparatus.

The endoscope system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is provided with an endoscope device 2 for normal light observation that enables endoscope observation with normal light. The endoscope apparatus 2 for normal light observation is configured similarly to the endoscope apparatus 100 for normal light observation described with reference to FIG. 11A, and includes an electronic endoscope 3 and a video signal processing apparatus 4 for normal light observation. ,
And a first observation monitor 5.

The endoscope apparatus 2 for normal light observation captures an image of the subject by the normal light with the electronic endoscope 3 and processes the image signal obtained at that time by the video signal processing apparatus 4 for normal light observation. Then, the obtained endoscope image is displayed on the first observation monitor 5.

The endoscope device 2 for normal light observation is connected to an endoscope attachment device 8 including an image processing device 6 and an external recording device 7. The endoscope attachment device 8 performs image processing on an image signal input from the endoscope device 2,
The image can be displayed on the second observation monitor 9 and can be recorded on a recording medium such as an optical disk inserted from the recording medium insertion unit 10 of the external recording device 7. is there.

That is, an image signal obtained by subjecting the endoscope image obtained by the endoscope device 2 for normal light observation to image processing by the image processing device 6 is displayed on the second observation monitor 9 and Can be recorded on a recording medium by the external recording device 7.

Although FIG. 1 illustrates that the endoscope device 2 for normal light observation is connected to the endoscope attachment device 8, the endoscope device 2 for normal light observation is described. Instead, the infrared light observation endoscope device 104 or the fluorescence observation endoscope device 108 shown in FIG. 11B or 11C is connectable, and another device for outputting an image signal is provided. It is also possible to connect.

The image processing device 5 and the external recording device 7 of the endoscope attachment device 8 are configured as shown in FIG.
The image processing device 6 receives the analog image signal output from the light observation video signal processing device 4, and the image signal is converted into a digital signal by the A / D converter 11.

The image signal converted into a digital signal by the A / D converter 11 is input to a spatial filter 12 at the next stage. The spatial filter 12 uses the coefficient set by the image processing control unit 13 constituted by the CPU to generate A
It filters the digitized image signal input from the / D conversion unit 11.

The image signal filtered by the spatial filter 12 based on the coefficient set by the image processing controller 13 is input to a rewritable memory 14 which operates as a look-up table.

The contents of the rewritable memory 14 are rewritten by the image processing controller 13, and the image signal input from the spatial filter 12 is converted according to the rewritten state.

The image signal converted by the rewritable memory 14 is supplied to a D / A converter 15 and a data memory 1.
6 is input. The D / A converter 15 converts the input signal into an analog image signal, outputs the signal to the second observation monitor 9, and allows the observation monitor 9 to display an endoscope image.

The signal output from the D / A converter 15 is again input to the endoscope device 2 for normal observation, and the image signal processed by the image processing device 6 is sent to the first observation monitor 5. It is also possible to display as an endoscope image.

The data memory section 16 has several functions. One is a function of temporarily storing an image signal processed by the image processing device 6 when the image signal is recorded by the external recording device 7.

That is, when an image recording instruction switch provided in the electronic endoscope device 3 or the like is operated, a signal output from the rewritable memory 14 is temporarily stored in the data memory unit 16 under the control of the image processing control unit 13. To remember.

The signal stored in the data memory unit 16 is output to the external recording device 7 via the image processing control unit 13, and the external recording device 7 performs an image signal recording operation. .

Another function of the data memory section 16 is to store coefficients set in the spatial filter 16 as setting data and also to store data conversion parameters in the rewritable memory 14 as setting data.

The setting data for setting the coefficients of the spatial filter 16 stored in the rewritable memory 14 is as follows:
As will be described in detail later, when the setting data for setting the coefficient of the spatial filter 16 is not input from the external recording device 7 side, it is stored as the setting for the spatial filter 16.

Similarly, the setting data of the parameters for data conversion in the rewritable memory 14 stored in the rewritable memory 14 is the same as when the setting data for the rewritable memory 14 is not input from the external recording device 7.
It is stored in the rewritable memory 14 for setting.

The respective setting data stored in the data memory unit 16 is set or not set in the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 under the control of the image processing control unit 13.

As described above, the image processing controller 13 sets the filter coefficients of the spatial filter 12 and controls the setting of the data conversion parameters of the rewritable memory 14. Further, it has a function of controlling the data memory unit 16.

The image processing control section 13 is further connected to the external recording device 7, and exchanges signals between them. The external recording device 7 has an external recording control unit 17 that is connected to the image processing control unit 13 and receives the image signal processed by the image processing device 6.

When the external endoscope control unit 17 is instructed to record an image signal from the electronic endoscope device 3 or the like, the external record control unit 17 stores the image signal input from the image processing device 6 into the recording The information is recorded on the medium 18.

The recording medium 18 is provided in the recording medium insertion section 1.
0 is attached to the external recording device 7. In this way, the external recording device 7 stores the obtained endoscope image in the image recording medium 18 and operates as a normal endoscopic image recording device.

The external recording device 7 further has a function of reading from the recording medium 18 the coefficients of the space fill 12 provided in the image processing device 6 and the setting data for setting the data conversion parameters in the rewritable memory 14. have.

That is, when the setting data for the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 is stored in the recording medium 18 inserted in the recording medium insertion unit 10, the setting data is controlled by the external recording control unit 17. The setting data is read and input to the image processing control unit 13 provided in the image processing device 6.

These data are stored in the image processing controller 1.
By the control of 3, the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 are set. Accordingly, the image processing device 6 performs processing on the image signal with characteristics based on the setting data stored in the recording medium 18 and displays the image-processed endoscope image on the second observation monitor 9.

A procedure for setting the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 based on the setting data stored in the data memory unit 16 or the recording medium 18 will be described with reference to FIG.

When the power is turned on or a predetermined operation button is operated, the image processing apparatus 6 controls the spatial filter 12 according to the procedure shown in FIG.
Then, the state setting of the rewritable memory 14 is started.

First, the image processing control section 13 determines whether or not the external recording device 7 is connected to the image processing device 6 (S101). If the external recording device 7 is connected, it is determined whether or not the recording medium 18 is mounted on the external recording device 7 (S102).

When the recording medium 18 is mounted on the external recording device 7, the spatial filter 1 is attached to the recording medium 18.
2 and whether or not setting data for setting the rewritable memory 14 is stored (S10).
3).

When it is determined that the content stored in the attached recording medium 18 stores the setting data for setting the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14, the setting data is read. (S104).

The setting data read from the recording medium 18 is stored in the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14.
Is set (S105). If it is determined in step S101 that the external recording device 7 is not connected, data for setting the state of the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 is input from the external recording device 7 side. Therefore, data stored in the data memory unit 16 of the image processing apparatus 6 is read (S106).

When it is determined in step S102 that the recording medium 18 is not mounted on the external recording device 7, no setting data is input from the external recording device 7 side. The read data is read (S106).

In step S103, the recording medium 18
When it is determined that the setting data is not stored in the
The data stored in the data memory unit 16 is read. As described above, the states of the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 are set.

The setting of reading the setting data is performed when the power of the endoscope system 1 is turned on or when the recording medium 1 is turned on.
8 can be done automatically upon insertion.

Further, a program for performing the processing of steps S106 and S105 is stored in the recording medium 18 itself,
When the recording medium 18 storing the program is attached to the external recording device 7, the setting state of the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 can be automatically changed.

Next, setting data for setting the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 will be described. As described above, in normal light observation, it is desired to clearly observe thin blood vessels running on the mucosal surface of the subject. Therefore, as an example of the setting data in the case of performing normal light observation, the setting data of the spatial filter 12 is data in which a relatively high frequency component is emphasized.

In the infrared light observation, it is desired to clearly observe information such as a thick blood vessel running inside the mucous membrane. Therefore, the setting data of the spatial filter 12 is used to emphasize a relatively low frequency component. Data.

In fluorescent observation or infrared light observation, there is a case where a diagnosis of a lesion is attempted to be made by enhancing a delicate contrast. When performing such image processing, data for enhancing the contrast is stored as setting data of the rewritable memory 14.

FIG. 4 shows an example of the setting data applied to the rewritable memory 14. FIG. 4 shows a rewritable memory 1 for enhancing a contrast in an infrared light observation to facilitate diagnosis of a lesion.
1 shows the setting data characteristic.

The horizontal axis of the graph is the input signal level of the image signal input to the rewritable memory 14, and the vertical axis of the graph is the output signal level output from the rewritable memory 14.

By setting the setting data in the rewritable memory 14 as described above, desired contrast enhancement can be performed. The setting data of the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 are not limited to those corresponding to normal light observation, infrared light observation, or fluorescence observation.
For example, setting data suitable for conditions such as the resolution of the endoscope used and the angle of view can be used.

Further, it is also possible to use setting data that does not perform any processing in the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14. As described above, the setting data created corresponding to various observations or various endoscopes is stored in the data memory unit 16 or the recording medium 18, and the image processing device 6 reads out the setting data according to the flow of FIG. Thus, desired image processing can be performed.

In the endoscope system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the endoscope device 2 for normal light observation is connected to the endoscope attachment device 8. This is configured as a normal use state.

Therefore, for example, what is stored in the data memory unit 16 provided in the image processing device 6 is setting data for emphasizing thin blood vessels on the mucous membrane surface with respect to the spatial filter 12, and is rewritable. The setting data for the memory 14 is such that the contrast is not particularly emphasized.

Therefore, unless the recording medium 18 storing the setting data is loaded in the external recording device 7, the endoscope system 1 uses the thin blood vessel on the mucosal surface based on the setting data stored in the data memory unit 16. Can be obtained as an endoscope image in which is emphasized.

In the endoscope system 1, when it is desired not to emphasize thin blood vessels on the mucous membrane surface but to perform another emphasizing process or not to perform the emphasizing process, a recording medium 18 for storing setting data corresponding thereto. Is attached to the external recording device 7.

Then, the setting data stored in the recording medium 18 is read, and the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 are set based on the setting data.
This enables enhancement processing different from enhancement of fine blood vessels on the mucosal surface.

When the endoscope attachment device 8 is connected not to the endoscope device 2 for normal observation but to an endoscope device having another function or another endoscope having a different resolution or the like. In addition, an endoscope capable of obtaining an endoscope image suitable for each state by mounting a recording medium 18 for storing setting data corresponding thereto in an external storage device and reading the setting data. The system 1 is configured.

For example, instead of the endoscope apparatus 2 for normal light observation, the endoscope apparatus 104 for infrared light observation shown in FIG.
Is connected. Then, it is assumed that the observer desires to enhance the contrast of the endoscope image obtained by the endoscope apparatus for infrared light observation 104 with the characteristics shown in FIG.

In this case, the setting data without special emphasis processing is applied to the spatial filter 12, and the setting data having the characteristics shown in FIG. Prepare

Then, the recording medium 18 is mounted on the external recording device 7, and the operation of reading the setting data is started.
Then, the setting state of the spatial filter 12 and the rewritable memory 14 is changed according to the read setting data, and an endoscope image subjected to image processing desired by the user is obtained.

By the way, in the group examination of the endoscope, an electronic endoscope which can obtain a large image as compared with the ordinary electronic endoscope 3 is often used because it facilitates the diagnosis of cancer.

Then, the blood vessels and the like on the mucous membrane surface are also enlarged. In the image processing in this case, when the filter processing from the low frequency band is performed rather than emphasizing the high frequency component of the image, the image becomes easy to see.

Therefore, the recording medium 18 storing the setting data for applying the filtering process from the low band to the image signal.
Is mounted on the external storage device 7 and the process of reading out the setting data is executed, whereby image processing suitable for an electronic endoscope used for a group examination is performed.

As described above, according to the endoscope system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the setting data for changing the image processing state of the image processing device 6 is stored in the recording medium 18, and the setting data It is possible to set the state of the image processing device 6 based on the image processing, so that image processing suitable for various observations such as normal light, infrared light, and fluorescence, or image processing suitable for various electronic endoscopes 3 can be performed. You can do it.

Further, various image processing can be performed only by providing a recording medium storing the setting data, so that the circuit scale can be reduced and the cost can be reduced. Furthermore, it can easily cope with a newly developed endoscope device or endoscope.

Further, since the image processing can be changed only by changing the recording medium 18 mounted on the external recording device 7, the endoscope system 1 is stored in a facility such as a hospital. Even in the state, work can be easily performed.

Note that the spatial filter 12 of the first embodiment
Has been described as being able to change the coefficient by the image processing control unit 13. However, it is configured as an FPGA like a rewritable memory 14, and the configuration of the arithmetic circuit itself is changed by the image processing control unit 13. It can also be configured as

In the first embodiment, the change of the image processing by the image processing device 6 has been described as being performed in accordance with the change of the image signal output side.
The processing state can be changed according to the output side device.

That is, when the output from the image processing device 6 is output not only to a specific output device (second observation monitor 9) but also to a different output device such as a hard copy device, the characteristics of the output device are In addition, the image processing device 6
Can be changed.

Further, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the endoscope system 1 is moved to the endoscope device 2 for normal light observation having the first observation monitor 5 for the second observation. The description has been made assuming that the endoscope attachment device 8 including the monitor 9 is configured to be added.

However, as shown in FIG. 5, the signal output from the image processing device 6 is converted to a video signal processing device 4 for normal light observation.
To the endoscope system 19 configured to be displayed on the first observation monitor 5.

Further, as shown in FIG. 6, an endoscope system 21 in which one processing device 20 is used without dividing the video signal processing device 4 for normal light observation and the image processing device 6 can be used.

(Second Embodiment) Next, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The same members as those of the endoscope system 1 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. The endoscope system 22 of the second embodiment is obtained by improving the endoscope system 1 of the first embodiment.

The endoscope system 22 includes the endoscope device 2 for normal observation and the endoscope auxiliary device 23.
The endoscope attachment device 23 includes a second observation monitor 9, an image processing device 6, an external recording device 7, and a storage image recording device 24.
And

The configurations of the image processing device 6 and the external recording device 7 of the endoscope attachment device 23 are the same as those in FIG. 2 described in the first embodiment. However, the functions are the same as those of the first embodiment, and will be described later.
In addition to the function of recording an image, the image processing apparatus also has a function of designating the image as an image for storage.

The storage image recording device 24 is for storing a large amount of endoscopic images obtained by endoscopic diagnosis, and records an image designated as a storage image. The storage image recording device 24 has a recording medium insertion unit 25 into which a recording medium can be inserted, similarly to the external recording device 7.

Then, image information and the like recorded on the recording medium 18 inserted into the recording medium insertion section 25 are transferred and recorded on a recording medium provided in the storage image recording device 24 itself. .

The image information and the like recorded in the storage image recording device 24 can be recorded on the recording medium 18 inserted in the recording medium insertion section 25 and can be displayed on the second observation monitor 9. .

FIG. 8 shows the configuration of the storage image recording device 24. The storage image recording device 24 includes the external recording device 7.
A recording medium insertion unit 25 into which the recording medium 18 storing image information and the like is inserted.

The storage medium 18 mounted on the storage image recording device 24 is subjected to reading control of image information and the like by a storage image recording control unit 26, and the read information is stored in a storage image recording unit 27. Be recorded.

The information recorded in the storage image recording unit 27 can be recorded on the recording medium 18 mounted on the storage image recording device 24 under the control of the storage image recording control unit 26. ing.

Next, the functions added to the image processing device 6 and the external recording device 7 will be described with reference to FIG.
When the power of the endoscope system 22 is turned on and the examination by the electronic endoscope 3 is started (S201), an image recording instruction switch for image recording provided on the electronic endoscope 3 or another image recording is provided. The instruction switch enables an instruction to record an endoscope image.

The image processing control unit 13 of the image processing device 6
The operation states of these image recording instruction switches are detected (S2).
02) For example, when it is detected that the image recording instruction switch provided on the electronic endoscope 3 has been operated, the image is recorded on the recording medium 18 mounted on the external recording device 7 as in the first embodiment. The signal is recorded (S203).

Thereafter, the image processing section 13 detects whether or not the image recording instruction switch is operated twice, for example, continuously within a predetermined time (S204). This indicates whether the observer wants to treat the image currently recorded on the recording medium 18 as an image for special storage because the image is considered to be effective for diagnosis.

That is, when the observer wants to record the currently recorded image as a storage image, he operates the image recording instruction switch within a predetermined time, for example, within 2 seconds after recording the image. If it is not necessary to treat the image as a storage image, the diagnosis is continued without operating the image recording instruction switch.

In this way, when the image processing control unit 13 detects that the image recording instruction switch is continuously pressed twice within a predetermined time by the observer, the image signal recorded on the recording medium 18 is Is added to the image (S205).

Then, these steps are repeated until an instruction to end the inspection is given (S206). If it is determined in step S204 that an instruction to save the image is not issued, it is detected whether or not an inspection end instruction has been issued (S206), and these steps are repeated until an inspection end instruction is issued.

[0098] As a method of designating a save image, a dedicated save image instruction button may be provided. In this manner, the recording medium 18 attached to the external recording device 7 stores an image signal to which information indicating that the image is a storage image and an image signal without additional information are stored.

Next, the recording medium 18 on which the image information is recorded
FIG. 10 shows the operation of the storage image recording device 24 to which
This will be described with reference to FIG. When the power of the storage image recording device 24 is turned on, the storage image recording control unit 26 detects whether the recording medium 18 has been inserted into the recording medium insertion unit 25 (S301).

Upon detecting that the recording medium 18 has been mounted, the storage image recording apparatus 24 activates an image transfer program (S302). When this program is started, the storage image recording control unit 26 reads an image signal having additional information indicating that the image is a storage image on the recording medium 28 (S303).

The read image signals are sequentially transferred to the storage image recording unit 27 (S304), and are repeated until the transfer of the storage image and the designated image is completed (S304).
305).

In this manner, all the image signals recorded on the recording medium 18 as the images for storage are automatically transferred to the image storage unit 27 for storage. As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to performing desired image processing, when recording an obtained image on the recording medium 18, it is possible to specify whether or not to handle the image as a storage image. I can do it.

Therefore, it becomes easy to edit only an image suitable as a storage image later. In addition, since an instruction to be a storage image is recorded together with the image signal as additional information, it is easy to automatically extract only the storage image based on the additional information and transfer the extracted image to another image recording unit. I can do it.

Further, since only the image designated as the image for storage is transferred to the image storage unit for storage 27, the storage capacity can be used effectively. As a method of managing the recording medium 18, it is also possible to prepare the recording medium 18 for the type of the setting data, the type of the endoscope device, and the like, and to repeatedly use the recording medium 18 according to the purpose.

[Supplementary note] (Supplementary note 1) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging means, image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is stored. A recording medium mounting section to which a recording medium is removably mounted; setting data reading means for reading the image processing setting data from the recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting section; An image signal processing means for processing the image signal based on the image processing setting data read by the means. (Additional Item 2) A recording medium mounting portion to which a recording medium is removably mounted is provided. Data recorded on a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting portion is read, and an image is formed based on the read data. A recording medium for an image processing apparatus mounted on an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on a signal, wherein the recording medium for the image processing apparatus stores image processing setting data for processing the image signal into a predetermined state. And a recording medium for an image processing apparatus, which is mounted on the recording medium mounting section. (Appendix 3) An image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging means, Image processing setting data storing means for storing first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal, and storing second image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal. A recording medium mounting section to which a recording medium is removably mounted, and the first image processing setting data or the second
Image processing means for processing the image signal based on the image processing setting data. (Additional Item 4) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, image processing setting for storing first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal A data storage unit, a recording medium mounting unit to which a recording medium for storing second image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is detachably mounted, and a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting unit A recording medium mounting detecting unit for detecting that the image signal has been mounted, and processing the image signal based on the first image processing setting data or the second image processing setting data according to a detection result of the recording medium mounting detecting unit. An image processing apparatus comprising: (Additional Item 5) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, image processing setting for storing first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal A data storage unit, a recording medium mounting unit to which a recording medium for storing second image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is detachably mounted, and a recording medium mounting unit mounted to the recording medium mounting unit. Data reading means for reading data recorded on the recording medium,
Image signal processing means for processing the image signal based on the first image processing setting data or the second image processing setting data according to a reading result of the data reading means. Image processing device. (Additional Item 6) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, image processing setting for storing first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal A data storage unit, a recording medium mounting unit to which a recording medium for storing second image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is detachably mounted, and a recording medium mounting unit mounted to the recording medium mounting unit. Setting data detecting means for detecting that the second image processing setting data is recorded on the recording medium, and the first image processing setting data or the second image processing data based on a detection result of the setting data detecting means. An image signal processing unit configured to process the image signal based on image processing setting data. (Additional Item 7) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, image processing setting for storing first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal A data storage unit, a recording medium mounting unit for detachably mounting a recording medium for storing second image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal, and a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting unit Recording medium mounting detecting means for detecting that the recording medium has been mounted, and processing the image data based on the first image processing setting data when the recording medium mounting detecting means detects non-mounting of the recording medium. An image processing apparatus comprising: an image signal processing unit configured to process the image data based on the second image processing setting data when the mounting of the medium is detected. (Additional Item 8) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, image processing setting for storing first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal A data storage unit, a recording medium mounting unit to which a recording medium for storing second image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is detachably mounted, and a recording medium mounting unit mounted to the recording medium mounting unit. Setting data detecting means for detecting that the second image processing setting data is recorded on the recording medium, and the second image processing setting data is not recorded on the recording medium by the setting data detecting means. Processing the image signal based on the first image processing setting data when detecting that the second image processing setting data is recorded on the recording medium; The image processing apparatus comprising: the image signal processing means for processing the image signal based on the image processing setting data, by comprising the. (Additional Item 9) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, image processing setting for storing first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal A data storage unit, a recording medium mounting unit to which a recording medium for storing second image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is detachably mounted, and a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting unit The second image processing setting data is recorded on a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting section based on a detection result of the recording medium mounting detecting means for detecting that the recording medium is mounted. Setting data detecting means for detecting that the
Image signal processing means for processing the image signal based on the first image processing setting data or the second image processing setting data in accordance with the detection result of the recording medium detecting means and the detection result of the setting data detecting means; An image processing apparatus comprising: (Additional Item 10) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, image processing setting for storing first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal A data storage unit, a recording medium mounting unit to which a recording medium for storing second image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is detachably mounted, and a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting unit A recording medium mounting detecting means for detecting that the recording medium is mounted, and when the recording medium mounting detecting means detects that the recording medium is mounted, the second recording medium is attached to the recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting section. Setting data detecting means for detecting that the image processing setting data is recorded, and when the recording medium detecting means detects the non-attachment of the recording medium, or when the setting data detecting means detects the second When it is detected that the image processing setting data is non-recorded, the image signal is processed based on the first image processing setting data, and the second image processing setting data is recorded by the setting data detecting means. An image signal processing unit for processing the image signal based on the second image processing setting data when detecting the fact. (Additional Item 11) An image processing apparatus comprising: an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit; and an image recording apparatus that records an image signal processed by the image processing apparatus on a recording medium. In the system, a recording medium mounting portion provided in the image recording device and removably mounting a recording medium for storing image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing, and the recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting portion. Setting data reading means for reading the image processing setting data from a medium, and an image signal processing means provided in the image processing device and processing the image signal based on the image processing setting data read by the reading means, An image processing recording system, comprising: (Additional Item 12) An image processing apparatus comprising: an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit; and an image recording apparatus that records an image signal processed by the image processing apparatus on a recording medium. In the system, an image processing setting data storage unit is provided in the image processing apparatus and stores first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on an image signal. A recording medium mounting section for detachably mounting a recording medium for storing second image signal processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on a signal, the first image processing apparatus being provided in the image processing apparatus; An image signal processing unit configured to process the image signal based on setting data or second image signal processing setting data. (Additional Item 13) An image processing apparatus comprising: an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit; and an image recording apparatus that records an image signal processed by the image processing apparatus on a recording medium. In the system, an image processing setting data storage unit is provided in the image processing apparatus and stores first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on an image signal. Detecting a connection state between the image processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus, wherein a recording medium for detachably mounting a recording medium storing second image signal processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on a signal; A connection state detecting unit that performs the first image processing setting data or the second image processing setting data based on a detection result of the connection state detecting unit. Image processing recording system characterized by comprising and an image signal processing means for processing the image signal based on. (Additional Item 14) An image processing apparatus comprising: an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit; and an image recording apparatus that records an image signal processed by the image processing apparatus on a recording medium. In the system, an image processing setting data storage unit is provided in the image processing apparatus and stores first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on an image signal. Detecting a connection state between the image processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus, wherein a recording medium for detachably mounting a recording medium storing second image signal processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on a signal; Connection state detecting means for detecting that a recording medium has been mounted on the recording medium mounting section, and a connection state detecting means provided in the image signal processing device. Means for processing the image signal based on the first image signal processing setting data or the second image signal processing setting data in accordance with a detection result of the means and the recording medium attachment detecting means. An image processing recording system, characterized in that: (Additional Item 15) An image processing apparatus comprising: an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit; and an image recording apparatus that records an image signal processed by the image processing apparatus on a recording medium. In the system, an image processing setting data storage unit is provided in the image processing apparatus and stores first image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on an image signal. A recording medium mounting unit to which a recording medium storing second image processing signal setting data for performing predetermined image processing on a signal is detachably mounted, and a connection state between the image processing apparatus and the image recording apparatus is detected. Connection state detection means for detecting, based on a detection result of the connection state detection means, a recording medium attachment detection means for detecting that a recording medium is attached to the recording medium attachment section; The image signal is provided in a signal processing device and based on the first image signal processing setting data or the second image signal processing setting data in accordance with detection results of the connection state detecting means and the recording medium attachment detecting means. An image signal processing means for processing the image data. (Additional Item 16) An image processing apparatus that receives an endoscope image signal captured under different imaging conditions and performs image processing on the endoscope image signal, and an endoscope processed by the image processing apparatus In an endoscope system having an image recording device that records an image signal on a recording medium, a recording medium that is provided in the image recording device and stores image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing corresponding to the imaging conditions is provided. A recording medium mounting section detachably mounted, setting data reading means for reading the image processing setting data from the recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting section, and provided in the image processing apparatus; An image signal processing unit configured to process the image signal based on the read image processing setting data. (Additional Item 17) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 16, wherein
The endoscope system, wherein the setting data reading means reads the image processing setting data recorded on the recording medium in accordance with the imaging condition. (Additional Item 18) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 17, wherein
The endoscope system according to claim 1, wherein the image processing setting data performs processing suitable for an endoscope image obtained by normal light observation. (Additional Item 19) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 17, wherein
The endoscope system according to claim 1, wherein the image processing setting data performs processing suitable for an endoscope image obtained by infrared light observation. (Additional Item 20) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 17, wherein
The endoscope system according to claim 1, wherein the image processing setting data performs processing suitable for an endoscope image obtained by fluorescence observation. (Additional Item 21) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 17, wherein
The endoscope system, wherein the image processing setting data has characteristics corresponding to an endoscope that captures an endoscope image. (Additional Item 22) The endoscope system according to Additional Item 17, wherein
The endoscope system according to claim 1, wherein the image processing setting data has characteristics corresponding to the number of pixels of an imaging unit of the endoscope that captures an endoscope image. (Additional Item 23) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, image processing setting data for performing image processing for restricting a predetermined frequency band component on the image signal is stored. A recording medium mounting section to which a recording medium is removably mounted; setting data reading means for reading the image processing setting data from the recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting section; An image processing apparatus comprising: a band limiting unit configured to limit a predetermined frequency band of the image signal based on the image processing setting data read by the unit. (Additional Item 24) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, a recording medium for storing image processing setting data for performing image processing for changing a color component of the image signal is detachable. A setting medium reading unit for reading the image processing setting data from the recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting unit; and the image signal is input and read by the reading unit. And a color component changing means for changing a color component of the image signal based on the image processing setting data. (Additional Item 25) The image processing device according to Additional Item 24, wherein the image processing setting data changes a contrast of the image signal. (Additional Item 26) An image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, wherein the image signal is subjected to image processing for changing a color component while limiting a predetermined frequency band for the image signal. A recording medium mounting section to which a recording medium storing processing setting data is detachably mounted, setting data reading means for reading the image processing setting data from the recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting section,
An image processing apparatus, comprising: an image signal processing unit that receives the image signal and processes the image signal based on image processing setting data read by the reading unit. (Additional Item 27) In an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, a recording medium that stores image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is detachably attached. A recording medium mounting portion to be mounted;
A recording medium attachment detection unit that detects that the recording medium is attached to the recording medium attachment unit; and setting data reading that reads the image processing setting data from the recording medium based on a detection result of the recording medium attachment detection unit. Means,
An image processing apparatus, comprising: an image signal processing unit that receives the image signal and processes the image signal based on image processing setting data read by the reading unit. (Additional Item 28) The image processing device recording medium according to Additional Item 2, wherein the image processing device storage medium stores image processing setting data for performing image processing for limiting a predetermined frequency component of the image signal. A recording medium for an image processing apparatus, comprising: (Additional Item 29) The recording medium for an image processing device according to Additional Item 2, wherein the image processing device recording medium stores image processing setting data for performing image processing for changing a color component of the image signal. A recording medium for an image processing apparatus, comprising: (Additional Item 30) The recording medium for an image processing device according to Additional Item 29, wherein the image processing setting data has a characteristic of changing a contrast of the image signal. (Additional Item 31) In an image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an imaging unit, image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal and reading out for reading out the image processing setting data A recording medium mounting section in which a recording medium storing a program is detachably mounted, and from the recording medium mounted in the recording medium mounting section based on an operation of a start instruction unit for instructing start of the image processing apparatus. Reading means for reading the read program and reading the image processing setting data in accordance with the reading program; and inputting the image signal and processing the image signal based on the image processing setting data read by the reading means. An image processing apparatus comprising: (Additional Item 32) The image processing device according to Additional Item 31, wherein the activation instruction unit is a power-on unit of the image processing apparatus. (Additional Item 33) The image processing device according to Additional Item 31, wherein the activation instruction means is means for knowing an instruction to read the image processing setting data. (Additional Item 34) A recording medium mounting portion in which a recording medium is detachably mounted, a program for reading data recorded on a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting portion is read, and a program is read out based on the reading program. Read the data recorded in the recording medium, the image processing apparatus recording medium mounted on an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on an image signal based on the read data,
The recording medium for the image processing apparatus records the readout program, and stores image processing setting data that is read out based on the readout program and processes the image signal into a predetermined state. A recording medium for an image processing device, which is mounted. (Additional Item 35) The recording medium for an image processing device according to Additional Item 34, wherein the image processing setting data has characteristics corresponding to an image signal input device that inputs an image signal to the image processing device. Recording medium for an image processing apparatus. (Additional Item 36) The recording medium for an image processing device according to Additional Item 34, wherein the image processing setting data has characteristics corresponding to an output device to which an image signal processed by the image processing device is input. Characteristic recording media for image processing devices. (Additional Item 37) The recording medium for an image processing device according to Additional Item 24, wherein the image processing setting data is a filter coefficient for filtering a predetermined frequency band of the image signal. Device recording medium. (Additional Item 38) The recording medium for an image processing device according to Additional Item 24, wherein the image processing setting data is data for changing color information of the image signal. (Additional Item 39) The recording medium for an image processing device according to Additional Item 24, wherein the image processing setting data is data for changing contrast information in the image signal. (Additional Item 40) The recording medium for an image processing device according to Additional Item 24, wherein the image processing setting data is data for changing a configuration of a programmable image processing circuit that processes the image signal. Recording medium for an image processing apparatus. (Additional Item 41) In an image recording apparatus that records an image signal obtained by an imaging unit on a recording medium, an image recording instruction unit that instructs recording of the image signal, and the image signal is transmitted based on an instruction of the image recording instruction unit Temporary storage means for temporarily storing, a storage image instruction means for instructing that the image signal stored in the temporary storage means to be a storage image, and an image signal based on the instruction of the storage image instruction means. An image recording apparatus comprising: a storage information adding unit configured to record additional information to be a storage image in association with the image signal. (Additional Item 42) In an image recording apparatus for recording an image signal obtained by an imaging means on a recording medium, an image recording instruction means for instructing recording of the image signal and a recording medium for recording the image signal are detachably mounted. A recording medium mounting portion to be recorded, image signal recording means for recording the image signal on a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting portion based on an instruction from the image recording instruction portion, and the image recorded on the recording medium. Storage image instruction means for instructing the signal to be an image for storage,
A storage information adding unit that records additional information to be stored in the image signal on the recording medium in association with the image signal based on an instruction of the storage image instruction unit. apparatus. (Additional Item 43) The image recording apparatus according to Additional Item 42, further comprising: an additional information reading unit that reads the additional information recorded on the recording medium; Image signal reading means for reading the read image signal from the recording medium, and storage image recording means for recording and storing the image signal read by the image signal reading means as a storage image. Image processing apparatus. (Additional Item 44) An image signal obtained by the imaging means,
An image recording apparatus in which a recording medium storing additional information indicating that the image signal is a storage image is removably mounted, wherein the additional information readout reads out the additional information recorded on the recording medium. Means, an image signal reading means for reading the image signal stored corresponding to the additional information from the storage medium based on the additional information read by the additional information reading means, An image recording apparatus comprising: a storage image recording unit that records and stores a read image signal as a storage image.

[0106]

According to the present invention, a recording medium for storing image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on an image signal is used, and the recording medium is mounted on an image processing apparatus.
The image processing state can be changed.

Therefore, the image processing apparatus can be changed so that various image processing can be easily performed without increasing the size of the apparatus, and the cost can be reduced.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an external view of an endoscope system including a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an image processing device and an external recording device of the endoscope attachment device according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for setting an image processing state of the image processing apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a graph illustrating an example of characteristics of setting data set in a rewritable memory provided in the image processing apparatus.

FIG. 5 is an external view showing an endoscope system which is a modification of the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is an external view showing an endoscope system according to a modification of the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is an external view of an endoscope system including a second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an image processing device and an external recording device of the endoscope attachment device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a recording procedure of an image signal in the external recording device.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for storing an image signal in the storage image recording apparatus.

11A is an external view of a conventional endoscope apparatus for normal light observation, FIG. 11B is an external view of a conventional endoscope apparatus for infrared light observation, and a conventional endoscope apparatus for fluorescence observation. FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 19, 21, 22 Endoscope system 2 Endoscope apparatus for normal light observation 3 Electronic endoscope apparatus 4 Video signal processing apparatus for normal light observation 5 First observation monitor 6 Image processing apparatus 7 External recording apparatus 8 Endoscope accessory device 9 Second observation monitor 10 Recording medium insertion unit 11 A / D conversion unit 12 Spatial filter 13 Image processing device control unit 14 Rewritable memory 15 D / A conversion unit 16 Data memory unit 17 External recording control Part 18 Recording medium

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Kenya Inomata 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Inside Olympus Optical Industrial Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Tadao Eto 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo No. Within Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Yudai Nakagawa 2-43-2 Hatagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Inside Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.

Claims (2)

[Claims] An image processing apparatus for performing image processing on an image signal obtained by an image pickup means, wherein a recording medium for storing image processing setting data for performing predetermined image processing on the image signal is detachable. A recording medium mounting portion to be mounted, setting data reading means for reading the image processing setting data from the recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting portion, and the image signal is input and read by the reading means. An image processing apparatus, comprising: image signal processing means for processing the image signal based on image processing setting data. 2. A recording medium mounting section on which a recording medium is detachably mounted, data read from a recording medium mounted on the recording medium mounting section is read, and an image is read based on the read data. A recording medium for an image processing apparatus mounted on an image processing apparatus that performs image processing on a signal, wherein the recording medium for the image processing apparatus stores image processing setting data for processing the image signal into a predetermined state. And a recording medium for an image processing apparatus, which is mounted on the recording medium mounting section.