TW202113334A - Phantom and fluorescence detection device - Google Patents

Abstract

To reduce the influence of aging on the testing of a device for acquiring fluorescence. This phantom comprises an electrical signal output unit for receiving excitation light and outputting an electrical signal corresponding to the intensity of the excitation light and a response light generation unit for receiving the electrical signal (current signal) and generating response light corresponding to the electrical signal. The wavelength of the response light is equal to the wavelength of the fluorescence that a fluorescent body emits as a result of receiving excitation light emitted from a fluorescence detection device. The electrical signal output unit comprises an optical sensor (photodiode). The response light generation unit comprises a voltage conversion unit for converting the electrical signal (current signal) into a voltage signal, a drive circuit for driving an electronic circuit element on the basis of the voltage signal, and the electronic circuit element (LED).

Description

Prosthesis and fluorescence detection device

The present invention is related to the testing of devices for obtaining fluorescence.

In the past, a fluorescent prosthesis containing fluorescent pigments has been known (refer to the abstract of Patent Document 1). In addition, the calibration of a fluorescence measuring device is also known (refer to Patent Documents 2 to 5).

[Advanced Technical Literature] Patent literature [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-96920 A [Patent Document 2] Japanese Special Publication No. 2009-540327 [Patent Document 3] JP 2007-212478 A [Patent Document 4] JP 2016-29401 A [Patent Document 5] JP 2011-17721 A

Summary of the invention [The problem to be solved by the invention] However, according to the conventional technology as described above, the fluorescent pigment of the fluorescent prosthesis may deteriorate over time.

Therefore, the present invention sets the following as a problem: when testing a device that acquires a fluorescent light, it is not susceptible to degradation over time.

[Means to solve the problem] The prosthesis of the present invention is configured to include: an electrical signal output unit that receives excitation light and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the intensity of the excitation light; and a response light generation unit that receives the electrical signal and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the electrical signal. For response light, the wavelength of the response light is equal to the following wavelength: the wavelength of the fluorescence generated by the phosphor receiving the excitation light.

According to the prosthesis configured as described above, the electrical signal output unit receives the excitation light and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the intensity of the excitation light. The response light generating unit receives the electrical signal and generates response light in response to the electrical signal. The wavelength of the response light is equal to the wavelength of the fluorescent light generated by the phosphor receiving the excitation light.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may also be configured such that the electrical signal output part has a light sensor, and the response light generation part has an electronic circuit element.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention can also be made: the aforementioned light sensor is a photodiode, and the aforementioned electronic circuit element is an LED.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may also be configured as: the electrical signal is a current signal, the response light generating unit: a voltage conversion unit, which converts the electrical signal into a voltage signal; and a driving unit, which drives the electron based on the voltage signal. Circuit components.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may also be configured as: the electrical signal is a voltage signal, and the response light generating unit has a driving unit that can drive the electronic circuit element based on the voltage signal.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may also be configured as: the electrical signal is a digital signal, and it has a driving part capable of driving the electronic circuit element based on the digital signal.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may be such that the response light generating unit has a white light source that generates white light; and a filter that receives the white light, transmits light of a predetermined wavelength, and outputs it as the response light.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may also be configured as: the response light generating part has: a light source, which generates light of a predetermined wavelength; and a dimming part, which receives the light of the predetermined wavelength and attenuates it to serve as the response light To output.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may be such that the response light generating part has a light source that generates light of a predetermined wavelength; and an aperture part that receives light of the predetermined wavelength, adjusts the amount of light, and outputs it as the response light.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may also be configured as: the response light generating part has: a light source, which generates light of a predetermined wavelength; and a diffusion part, which receives the light of the predetermined wavelength, diffuses it, and outputs it as the response light .

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may be configured such that the response light generating unit generates the response light when it is determined based on the electrical signal that the intensity of the excitation light exceeds a predetermined intensity.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may also be configured to include a determination light generating unit, and the determination light generating unit may generate a determination that is different from the response light when determining that the intensity of the excitation light exceeds a predetermined intensity based on the electrical signal. Light.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may also be configured such that the response light generating unit changes the intensity of the response light based on the ratio of the intensity of the fluorescence to the intensity of the excitation light.

In addition, the prosthesis of the present invention may be provided with an excitation light intensity output unit, and the excitation light intensity output unit outputs the intensity of the excitation light based on the electrical signal.

The fluorescence detection device of the present invention can emit excitation light and detect the fluorescence generated by the phosphor receiving the aforementioned excitation light, and is configured to include an intensity correction part based on the intensity received from the prosthesis of the present invention The obtained intensity of the aforementioned excitation light corrects the intensity of the aforementioned excitation light.

The form used to implement the invention Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

The first embodiment Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment. The prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment receives excitation light from the fluorescence detection device 8.

The fluorescence detection device 8 emits excitation light to the phosphor. Fluorescent substances exist in phosphors. If the phosphor receives the excitation light, it will produce fluorescence. The fluorescence detection device 8 receives fluorescence from the phosphor to detect it. Fluorescent bodies are, for example, sentinel lymph nodes. The fluorescent substance is, for example, ICG (Indocyanine green, indocyanine green), and other fluorescein or amino acetyl propionate hydrochloride can also be considered. Of course, various other well-known phosphors and phosphors can also be considered.

In addition, the wavelength of the excitation light and the wavelength of the fluorescence are determined by the fluorescent substance. For example, when the fluorescent substance is ICG, the wavelength of the excitation light is 785 nm, and the wavelength of the fluorescent light is around 805 nm. For example, when the fluorescent substance is luciferin, the wavelength of excitation light is 494 nm, and the wavelength of fluorescence is around 521 nm. For example, when the fluorescent substance is aminoacetyl propionate hydrochloride, the excitation light has a wavelength of 400 to 410 nm, and the fluorescent light has a wavelength of around 635 nm.

If the prosthesis 1 receives the excitation light from the fluorescence detection device 8, it will generate response light equal to the wavelength of the fluorescence. By observing the behavior of the fluorescence detection device 8 when the response light is received, the fluorescence detection device 8 can be tested.

For example, if the behavior of the fluorescence detection device 8 when emitting excitation light to the prosthesis 1 is the same as when the fluorescence detection device 8 emits excitation light to the phosphor, it can be determined that the fluorescence detection device 8 is operating normally . For example, if the fluorescence detection device 8 emits excitation light to the prosthesis 1 and the response light cannot be detected, it can be known that the fluorescence detection device 8 has a problem with the excitation light emission function or the response light detection function.

The prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment includes an electrical signal output unit 2 and a response light generating unit 4.

The electrical signal output unit 2 receives the excitation light, and outputs an electrical signal of the intensity of the light emitted by the stress. The electrical signal output unit 2 has a light attenuating plate 22 and a light sensor 24. The light attenuating plate 22 attenuates the excitation light and provides it to the light sensor 24. The light sensor 24 receives the excitation light via the light attenuation plate 22, and converts the excitation light into an electrical signal. However, the electrical signal is the current signal I. The light sensor 24 is, for example, a photodiode. In addition, a band-pass filter may be disposed between the light attenuating plate 22 and the light sensor 24 (for example, when the fluorescent substance is luciferin or aminoacetoxypropionate). However, depending on the intensity of the excitation light, a case where the light attenuating plate 22 is not required can also be considered.

The response light generating unit 4 receives the electrical signal, and generates response light in response to the electrical signal. However, the wavelength of response light is equal to the wavelength of fluorescence. The response light generating unit 4 has a voltage conversion unit 42, a drive circuit (drive unit) 44, and an electronic circuit element 46. The voltage conversion unit 42 converts the electric signal (current signal I) into a voltage signal V. The driving circuit 44 drives the electronic circuit element 46 according to the voltage signal V. The electronic circuit element 46 receives the voltage signal V via the drive circuit 44 and converts the voltage signal V into response light. The electronic circuit element 46 is, for example, an LED.

Next, the operation of the first embodiment will be explained.

The electrical signal output part 2 of the prosthesis 1 receives excitation light from the fluorescence detection device 8. The excitation light is supplied to the light sensor 24 through the light attenuating plate 22, and then converted into an electrical signal (current signal I) by the light sensor 24. The current signal I is supplied to the response light generating unit 4. The current signal I is converted into a voltage signal V by the voltage conversion unit 42, and then is supplied to the electronic circuit element 46 via the drive circuit 44. The electronic circuit element 46 emits response light. The fluorescence detection device 8 detects the response light.

According to the first embodiment, since the electrical signal output unit 2 and the response light generating unit 4 are electronic circuits that use electrical signals, they are less susceptible to degradation over time than fluorescent pigments (for example, ICG). Therefore, according to the first embodiment, when the fluorescence detection device 8 is tested, it is possible to be less susceptible to deterioration over time.

In addition, the following modifications can be considered in the first embodiment.

Modification 1 Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a prosthesis 1 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment. Modification 1 of the first embodiment is to replace the photo sensor 24 and the voltage conversion unit 42 of the first embodiment with the photo sensor (voltage output) 25 and the amplifier circuit 43.

The light sensor (voltage output) 25 receives the excitation light via the light attenuating plate 22, and converts the excitation light into an electrical signal. However, the electrical signal is the voltage signal V1. The amplifier circuit 43 amplifies the voltage signal V1 into a voltage signal V2. In addition, the driving circuit 44 drives the electronic circuit element 46 according to the voltage signal V2. Here, the voltage signal V2 is a signal based on the voltage signal V1, so the drive circuit 44 drives the electronic circuit element 46 based on the voltage signal V1.

Modification 2 Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of Modification 2 of the first embodiment. In Modification 2 of the first embodiment, the light sensor 24 of the first embodiment is replaced with a light sensor (digital output) 26. Furthermore, the response light generating part 4 of the prosthesis 1 of the modification 2 of the first embodiment has an FPGA (field programmable gate array) 41, a DAC (digital analog converter) 45, and an electronic circuit element 46 .

The light sensor (digital output) 26 receives the excitation light via the light attenuating plate 22, and converts the excitation light into an electrical signal. However, electrical signals are digital signals. The FPGA 41 and the DAC 45 drive the electronic circuit element 46 based on digital signals, and can achieve the same function as the drive circuit 44 of the first embodiment. The FPGA 41 receives a digital signal from the light sensor (digital output) 26, and outputs a signal equivalent to the digital conversion of the output of the drive circuit 44 of the first embodiment. The DAC 45 converts the output (digital) of the FPGA 41 into an analog, makes it equivalent to the output of the drive circuit 44 of the first embodiment, and supplies it to the electronic circuit element 46.

Second embodiment The prosthesis 1 of the second embodiment is different from the prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes a white light source 47 and a band-pass filter 48.

Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the second embodiment. The prosthesis 1 of the second embodiment includes an electric signal output unit 2 and a response light generating unit 4. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and the description will be omitted.

The fluorescence detection device 8 and the electric signal output unit 2 of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

The response light generating unit 4 includes a voltage conversion unit 42, a drive circuit (drive unit) 44, a white light source 47, and a band pass filter 48. The voltage conversion unit 42 and the drive circuit 44 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof are omitted. The white light source 47 generates white light. The band-pass filter 48 receives white light, transmits light of a predetermined wavelength, and outputs it as response light. However, the predetermined wavelength is equal to the wavelength of fluorescence.

Next, the operation of the second embodiment will be explained.

The electrical signal output part 2 of the prosthesis 1 receives excitation light from the fluorescence detection device 8. The excitation light is supplied to the light sensor 24 through the light attenuating plate 22, and then converted into an electrical signal (current signal I) by the light sensor 24. The current signal I is supplied to the response light generating unit 4. The current signal I is converted into a voltage signal V by the voltage conversion unit 42, and then is supplied to the white light source 47 via the drive circuit 44. White light is emitted from the white light source 47, and light of a predetermined wavelength is taken out by the band-pass filter 48 as response light. The fluorescence detection device 8 detects the response light.

According to the second embodiment, the same effect as the first embodiment can be exerted. In addition, even if there is no light source (such as LED) that generates light with a wavelength equal to that of fluorescent light, it can be provided with a band-pass filter 48 that allows light with a wavelength equal to that of fluorescent light to pass through. From the white light, light with a wavelength equal to that of the fluorescent light is taken out to generate response light.

In addition, in Modification 1 (refer to FIG. 2) and Modification 2 (refer to FIG. 3) of the first embodiment, a white light source 47 and a band pass filter 48 may also be provided instead of the electronic circuit element 46.

The third embodiment The prosthesis 1 of the third embodiment is different from the prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes a light reduction plate (light reduction portion) 49a.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the third embodiment. The prosthesis 1 of the third embodiment includes an electric signal output unit 2 and a response light generating unit 4. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and the description will be omitted.

The fluorescence detection device 8 and the electrical signal output unit 2 of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

The response light generating unit 4 includes a voltage conversion unit 42, a drive circuit (drive unit) 44, an electronic circuit element 46, and a light reduction plate (light reduction unit) 49a. The voltage conversion unit 42, the drive circuit 44, and the electronic circuit element 46 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description is omitted. However, the electronic circuit element 46 is a light source that generates light of a predetermined wavelength. In addition, the predetermined wavelength is equal to the wavelength of fluorescence. The dimming plate (dimming part) 49a receives light of a predetermined wavelength, attenuates it, and outputs it as response light.

Next, the operation of the third embodiment will be described.

The electrical signal output part 2 of the prosthesis 1 receives excitation light from the fluorescence detection device 8. The excitation light is supplied to the light sensor 24 through the light attenuating plate 22, and then converted into an electrical signal (current signal I) by the light sensor 24. The current signal I is supplied to the response light generating unit 4. The current signal I is converted into a voltage signal V by the voltage conversion unit 42, and then is supplied to the electronic circuit element 46 via the drive circuit 44. The light of a predetermined wavelength is emitted from the electronic circuit element 46 and is attenuated by the light-reducing plate 49a to become response light. The fluorescence detection device 8 detects the response light.

According to the third embodiment, the same effect as the first embodiment can be exerted. In addition, since the response light is attenuated by the light-reducing plate 49a, it is possible to perform a test that is expected to be a case where the fluorescent light detection device 8 is used for a fluorescent body with a small fluorescent light output.

In addition, in Modification 1 (refer to FIG. 2) and Modification 2 (refer to FIG. 3) of the first embodiment, it is also possible to provide a light reduction plate (light reduction portion) 49 a in front of the electronic circuit element 46.

Fourth embodiment The prosthesis 1 of the fourth embodiment is different from the prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes an aperture portion 49b.

Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the fourth embodiment. The prosthesis 1 of the fourth embodiment includes an electric signal output unit 2 and a response light generating unit 4. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and the description will be omitted.

The fluorescence detection device 8 and the electrical signal output unit 2 of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

The response light generating unit 4 includes a voltage conversion unit 42, a drive circuit (drive unit) 44, an electronic circuit element 46, and an aperture unit 49b. The voltage conversion unit 42, the drive circuit 44, and the electronic circuit element 46 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description is omitted. However, the electronic circuit element 46 is a light source that generates light of a predetermined wavelength. In addition, the predetermined wavelength is equal to the wavelength of fluorescence. The diaphragm 49b receives light of a predetermined wavelength, adjusts the amount of light, and outputs it as response light. In addition, the diaphragm 49b is, for example, a pinhole or a slit.

Next, the operation of the fourth embodiment will be described.

The electrical signal output part 2 of the prosthesis 1 receives excitation light from the fluorescence detection device 8. The excitation light is supplied to the light sensor 24 through the light attenuating plate 22, and then converted into an electrical signal (current signal I) by the light sensor 24. The current signal I is supplied to the response light generating unit 4. The current signal I is converted into a voltage signal V by the voltage conversion unit 42, and then is supplied to the electronic circuit element 46 via the drive circuit 44. The light of a predetermined wavelength is emitted from the electronic circuit element 46, and the amount of light is adjusted by the aperture portion 49b to become response light. The fluorescence detection device 8 detects the response light.

According to the fourth embodiment, the same effect as the first embodiment can be exerted. In addition, since the light amount of the response light is adjusted by the diaphragm part 49b, it is possible to perform a test that is expected to be a case where the fluorescence detection device 8 is used for a small phosphor.

In addition, in Modification 1 (refer to FIG. 2) and Modification 2 (refer to FIG. 3) of the first embodiment, the diaphragm portion 49 b may be provided in front of the electronic circuit element 46 in the same manner.

Fifth embodiment The prosthesis 1 of the fifth embodiment is different from the prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes a diffuser (diffuser) 49c.

Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the fifth embodiment. The prosthesis 1 of the fifth embodiment includes an electric signal output unit 2 and a response light generating unit 4. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and the description will be omitted.

The fluorescence detection device 8 and the electrical signal output unit 2 of the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

The response light generating unit 4 has a voltage conversion unit 42, a drive circuit (drive unit) 44, an electronic circuit element 46, and a diffuser (diffusion unit) 49c. The voltage conversion unit 42, the drive circuit 44, and the electronic circuit element 46 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description is omitted. However, the electronic circuit element 46 is a light source that generates light of a predetermined wavelength. In addition, the predetermined wavelength is equal to the wavelength of fluorescence. The diffusion plate 49c receives and diffuses light of a predetermined wavelength, and outputs it as response light.

Next, the operation of the fifth embodiment will be described.

The electrical signal output part 2 of the prosthesis 1 receives excitation light from the fluorescence detection device 8. The excitation light is supplied to the light sensor 24 through the light attenuating plate 22, and then converted into an electrical signal (current signal I) by the light sensor 24. The current signal I is supplied to the response light generating unit 4. The current signal I is converted into a voltage signal V by the voltage conversion unit 42, and then is supplied to the electronic circuit element 46 via the drive circuit 44. The light of a predetermined wavelength is emitted from the electronic circuit element 46, and is diffused into response light by the diffuser 49c. The fluorescence detection device 8 detects the response light.

According to the fifth embodiment, the same effect as the first embodiment can be exerted. In addition, since the diffusion plate 49c diffuses the response light, it is possible to perform a test that is expected to be a case where the fluorescence detection device 8 is used for a large phosphor.

In addition, in Modification 1 (refer to FIG. 2) and Modification 2 (refer to FIG. 3) of the first embodiment, the diffuser 49c may be provided in front of the electronic circuit element 46 in the same manner.

Sixth Embodiment The prosthesis 1 of the sixth embodiment is different from the prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes a threshold value recording unit 40a and a comparator 40b.

Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the sixth embodiment. The prosthesis 1 of the sixth embodiment includes an electrical signal output unit 2 and a response light generating unit 4. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and the description will be omitted.

The fluorescence detection device 8 and the electrical signal output unit 2 of the sixth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

The response light generating unit 4 includes a voltage conversion unit 42, a drive circuit (drive unit) 44, an electronic circuit element 46, a threshold value recording unit 40a, and a comparator 40b. The voltage conversion unit 42, the drive circuit 44, and the electronic circuit element 46 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

The threshold value recording unit 40a records the value of the voltage signal V when the intensity of the excitation light is a predetermined intensity as a threshold value. For example, when the predetermined intensity is 10 mW and the voltage signal V output from the voltage conversion unit 42 is 1V, 1V is recorded as the threshold value.

The comparator 40b compares the voltage signal V output from the voltage conversion unit 42 with the threshold value recorded by the threshold value recording unit 40a. Furthermore, the comparator 40b provides the drive signal V3 to the drive circuit 44 when the voltage signal V exceeds the threshold value. In addition, when the voltage signal V is less than the threshold value, the comparator 40b does not provide the signal to the drive circuit 44. Therefore, when the comparator 40b determines that the intensity of the excitation light exceeds the predetermined intensity based on the electrical signal (voltage signal V) (that is, when the voltage signal V exceeds the threshold), because the drive signal V3 will be provided to the drive circuit 44, so there will be response light.

In addition, the comparator 40 b is arranged between the voltage conversion unit 42 and the drive circuit 44. Specifically, the output terminal of the comparator 40b is connected to the input terminal of the drive circuit 44, and the input terminal of the comparator 40b is connected to the output terminal of the voltage conversion unit 42 and the threshold value recording unit 40a.

Next, the operation of the sixth embodiment will be explained.

The electrical signal output part 2 of the prosthesis 1 receives excitation light from the fluorescence detection device 8. The excitation light is supplied to the light sensor 24 through the light attenuating plate 22, and then converted into an electrical signal (current signal I) by the light sensor 24. The current signal I is supplied to the response light generating unit 4. The current signal I is converted into a voltage signal V by the voltage conversion unit 42. The voltage signal V is supplied to the comparator 40b to determine whether the threshold value is exceeded.

If it is determined that the voltage signal V exceeds the threshold value, the drive signal V3 is provided to the electronic circuit element 46 via the drive circuit 44. The electronic circuit element 46 emits response light. The fluorescence detection device 8 detects the response light.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the voltage signal V does not exceed the threshold value, the drive signal V3 is not supplied to the drive circuit 44, and therefore the electronic circuit element 46 does not emit response light.

According to the sixth embodiment, the same effect as the first embodiment can be exerted. In addition, when the intensity of the excitation light is insufficient, the response light cannot be detected, so it is easy to determine that the intensity of the excitation light is insufficient.

In addition, in Modification 1 (refer to FIG. 2) of the first embodiment, the threshold value recording unit 40a and the comparator 40b may also be provided in the same manner. At this time, the comparator 40b is arranged between the amplifier circuit 43 and the drive circuit 44. Specifically, the output terminal of the comparator 40b is connected to the input terminal of the drive circuit 44, and the input terminal of the comparator 40b is connected to the output terminal of the amplifier circuit 43 and the threshold value recording unit 40a. The threshold value recording unit 40a records the value of the voltage signal V2 when the intensity of the excitation light is a predetermined intensity as a threshold value.

In addition, in the modification 2 (see FIG. 3) of the first embodiment, the same function as that of the sixth embodiment can be realized. Here, in the FPGA 41, the value of the electrical signal (digital signal) when the intensity of the excitation light is a predetermined intensity is recorded as the threshold value. FPGA41 further determines whether the electrical signal (digital signal) exceeds the threshold, if it exceeds the threshold, it sends the electrical signal (digital signal) to the DAC45, and if it does not, it does not send the signal to the DAC45.

Seventh embodiment The prosthesis 1 of the seventh embodiment is different from the prosthesis 1 of the sixth embodiment in that the prosthesis 1 of the sixth embodiment is provided with the determination light generating unit 5.

Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the seventh embodiment. The prosthesis 1 of the seventh embodiment includes an electric signal output unit 2, a response light generating unit 4, and a determination light generating unit 5. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the sixth embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The fluorescence detection device 8, the electric signal output unit 2, and the response light generating unit 4 of the seventh embodiment are the same as those of the sixth embodiment, and the description is omitted.

The determination light generating unit 5 has a comparator 50 b, a drive circuit 54, and an electronic circuit element 56.

The comparator 50b compares the voltage signal V output from the voltage conversion unit 42 with the threshold value recorded by the threshold value recording unit 40a. Furthermore, the comparator 50b provides the drive signal V4 to the drive circuit 54 when the voltage signal V exceeds the threshold value. In addition, when the voltage signal V is less than the threshold value, the comparator 40b does not provide the signal to the drive circuit 54.

In addition, the comparator 50 b is arranged between the voltage conversion unit 42 and the drive circuit 54. Specifically, the output terminal of the comparator 50b is connected to the input terminal of the drive circuit 54, and the input terminal of the comparator 50b is connected to the output terminal of the voltage conversion unit 42 and the threshold value recording unit 40a.

The driving circuit 54 drives the electronic circuit element 56 according to the driving signal V4.

The electronic circuit element 56 receives the drive signal V4 via the drive circuit 54 and converts the drive signal V4 into determination light. The electronic circuit element 56 is, for example, an LED.

Therefore, when the comparator 50b determines that the intensity of the excitation light exceeds the predetermined intensity based on the electrical signal (voltage signal V) (that is, when the voltage signal V exceeds the threshold value), because the driving signal V4 will be provided to the driving circuit 54. Therefore, the electronic circuit element 56 generates the judgment light. The judgment light and the response light are different things.

Next, the operation of the seventh embodiment will be explained. However, descriptions of the parts that are the same as those of the sixth embodiment will be omitted.

The voltage signal V output by the voltage conversion unit 42 is supplied to the comparator 50b to determine whether it exceeds the threshold value.

If it is determined that the voltage signal V exceeds the threshold value, the drive signal V4 is provided to the electronic circuit element 56 via the drive circuit 54. The electronic circuit element 56 emits determination light.

On the other hand, if the determination voltage signal V does not exceed the threshold value, the driving signal V4 is not supplied to the driving circuit 54 and therefore the electronic circuit element 56 does not emit the determination light.

According to the seventh embodiment, the same effect as the sixth embodiment can be exerted. In addition, when the intensity of the excitation light is insufficient, the determination light will not be emitted, so it is easy to determine if the intensity of the excitation light is insufficient.

In addition, in Modification 1 (refer to FIG. 2) of the first embodiment, the threshold value recording section 40a, the comparator 50b, the drive circuit 54, and the electronic circuit element 56 may also be provided in the same manner. At this time, the comparator 50b is arranged between the amplifier circuit 43 and the drive circuit 54. Specifically, the output terminal of the comparator 50b is connected to the input terminal of the drive circuit 54, and the input terminal of the comparator 50b is connected to the output terminal of the amplifier circuit 43 and the threshold value recording unit 40a. The threshold value recording unit 40a records the value of the voltage signal V2 when the intensity of the excitation light is a predetermined intensity as a threshold value.

In addition, in the modification 2 (see FIG. 3) of the first embodiment, the same function as that of the seventh embodiment can be realized. Here, the electronic circuit element 56 is provided, and in the FPGA 41, the value of the electrical signal (digital signal) when the intensity of the excitation light becomes a predetermined intensity is recorded as a threshold value. FPGA41 further determines whether the electrical signal (digital signal) exceeds the threshold, and if it exceeds the threshold, the electrical signal (digital signal) is sent to the DAC for determining light (arranged between FPGA41 and electronic circuit element 56, and the digital output of FPGA41 is converted into analog. Then, it is provided to the electronic circuit element 56), and if it does not exceed, no signal is sent to the DAC for determining light.

Eighth embodiment The prosthesis 1 of the eighth embodiment is different from the prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes a variable resistor 42a.

Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the eighth embodiment. The prosthesis 1 of the eighth embodiment includes an electrical signal output unit 2 and a response light generating unit 4. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and the description will be omitted.

The fluorescence detection device 8 and the electrical signal output unit 2 of the eighth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

The response light generating unit 4 includes a voltage conversion unit 42, a variable resistor 42 a, a drive circuit (drive unit) 44, and an electronic circuit element 46. The drive circuit 44 and the electronic circuit element 46 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

Although the voltage conversion unit 42 is the same as the first embodiment, it is, for example, an operational amplifier, and receives the electrical signal (current signal I) by inverting the positive and negative ends at one end of the input side, and the other end of the input side is grounded. One end of the input side and the output side of the voltage conversion unit 42 are connected by a variable resistor 42a. By changing the resistance of the variable resistor 42a, the value of the voltage signal V can be changed, which in turn changes the intensity of the response light. The resistance of the variable resistor 42a is changed based on the ratio of the intensity of the fluorescence generated by the phosphor to the intensity of the excitation light (ie, the sensitivity). Therefore, the intensity of the response light changes based on the sensitivity.

Next, the operation of the eighth embodiment will be described.

The electrical signal output part 2 of the prosthesis 1 receives excitation light from the fluorescence detection device 8. The excitation light is supplied to the light sensor 24 through the light attenuating plate 22, and then converted into an electrical signal (current signal I) by the light sensor 24. The current signal I is supplied to the response light generating unit 4. The current signal I is converted into a voltage signal V by the voltage conversion unit 42, and then is supplied to the electronic circuit element 46 via the drive circuit 44. However, by changing the resistance of the variable resistor 42a based on the sensitivity, the value of the voltage signal V (and the intensity of the response light) can be changed. The electronic circuit element 46 emits response light. The fluorescence detection device 8 detects the response light.

According to the eighth embodiment, the same effect as the first embodiment can be exerted. In addition, because the resistance of the variable resistor 42a can be changed based on the sensitivity of the phosphor, thereby changing the intensity of the response light, it can be expected that a phosphor is used for phosphors with various sensitivities. The condition of the light detection device 8 is tested.

In addition, the following modifications can be considered in the eighth embodiment.

Fig. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of a prosthesis 1 according to a modification of the eighth embodiment. The modification of the eighth embodiment does not include the variable resistor 42a of the eighth embodiment, and replaces the drive circuit 44 of the eighth embodiment with a variable drive circuit 44a. The variable drive circuit 44a can change the drive voltage supplied to the electronic circuit element 46 based on the sensitivity of the phosphor, thereby changing the intensity of the response light.

In addition, even if the photo sensor 24 and the voltage conversion section 42 of the eighth embodiment and its modification are replaced with the photo sensor (voltage output) 25 and the amplifier circuit 43 (refer to the modification 1 and figure of the first embodiment) 2) The same effect can also be exerted.

In addition, the modification 2 (refer to FIG. 3) of the first embodiment can also be configured to achieve the same function as the eighth embodiment. At this time, FPGA41 will change the output to DAC45 based on the sensitivity of the phosphor.

Ninth Embodiment The prosthesis 1 of the ninth embodiment is different from the prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes an excitation light intensity output unit 6.

Fig. 12 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the ninth embodiment. The prosthesis 1 of the ninth embodiment includes an electrical signal output unit 2, a response light generating unit 4, and an excitation light intensity output unit 6. Hereinafter, the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and the description will be omitted.

The electrical signal output unit 2 and the response light generating unit 4 of the ninth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted. However, the drive circuit 44 may be replaced with a variable drive circuit 44a (refer to the modification of the eighth embodiment and FIG. 11).

The excitation light intensity output unit 6 outputs the intensity of the excitation light based on the electrical signal. The excitation light intensity output unit 6 has an ADC (analog to digital converter) 62 and an FPGA 64. The ADC 62 converts the voltage signal V (analog) output from the voltage conversion unit 42 into digital bits. FPGA64 receives the output of ADC62 and outputs the intensity of excitation light.

Although the fluorescence detection device 8 is the same as the first embodiment, it has a target value recording unit 82, an intensity correction unit 84, and an excitation light source 86. The target value recording unit 82 records the target value (for example, 10 mW) of the output of the excitation light. The intensity correction unit 84 corrects the intensity of the excitation light based on the intensity of the excitation light received from the FPGA 64 of the excitation light intensity output unit 6. Specifically, the intensity correction unit 84 receives the target value (for example, 10 mW) from the target value recording unit 82 and receives the intensity of the excitation light (for example, 9 mW) from the FPGA 64 of the excitation light intensity output unit 6. The intensity correction unit 84 corrects the excitation light intensity by setting (target value)×(target value)/(intensity of excitation light) (=10×10/9=11.1mW) as the new target value and supplying it to the excitation light source 86 strength. The excitation light source 86 outputs the excitation light in accordance with the new target value provided from the intensity correction unit 84.

Next, the operation of the ninth embodiment will be described. However, descriptions of the parts that are the same as those of the first embodiment will be omitted.

Assume that the output of the excitation light should be 10mW (target value) but only 9mW is output. The voltage signal V output by the voltage conversion unit 42 is converted into digits by the ADC 62 and provided to the FPGA 64. The FPGA 64 provides the intensity of the excitation light (9 mW) to the intensity correction unit 84 of the fluorescence detection device 8.

Then, it was learned that the output of the excitation light was 9mW/10mW=0.9 times the target value. Therefore, if the target value of 10mW is changed to 1/0.9=1.11, it is understood that the output of the excitation light should be exactly 10mW. Therefore, the intensity correction unit 84 provides (target value)×(target value)/(intensity of excitation light) (=10×10/9=11.1mW) as a new target value to the excitation light source 86, thereby correcting the excitation light Strength of. The excitation light source 86 cooperates with the new target value 11.1 mW provided from the intensity correction unit 84 to output excitation light. Then, the output of the excitation light becomes 11.1mW×0.9=10mW.

According to the ninth embodiment, the same effect as the first embodiment can be exerted. In addition, with the output of the excitation light intensity output unit 6, the output of the excitation light of the fluorescence detection device 8 can be automatically corrected.

In addition, in Modification 1 (refer to FIG. 2) of the first embodiment, the excitation light intensity output unit 6 may also be connected to the output of the amplifier circuit 43 in the same manner.

In addition, the following modification examples can be considered in the ninth embodiment.

Fig. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of a prosthesis 1 according to a modification of the ninth embodiment. The fluorescence detection device 8 is the same as that of the ninth embodiment. The prosthesis 1 is the same as that of the modification 1 (refer to FIG. 2) of the first embodiment. However, the output of the FPGA 41 of the prosthesis 1 is provided to the intensity correction unit 84. The FPGA 41 is equivalent to the excitation light intensity output unit 6 of the ninth embodiment.

1: prosthesis 2: Electrical signal output section 22: Light attenuation board 24: light sensor 25: Light sensor (voltage output) 26: Light sensor (digital output) 4: Response light generating part 40a: Threshold value recording section 40b: Comparator 41: FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) 42: Voltage conversion section 42a: Variable resistor 43: amplifying circuit 44: Drive circuit (drive part) 44a: Variable drive circuit 45: DAC (digital analog converter) 46: Electronic circuit components 47: white light source 48: band pass filter 49a: Dimming plate (dimming part) 49b: Aperture 49c: diffuser (diffuser) 5: Judgment light generating part 50b: Comparator 54: drive circuit 56: Electronic circuit components 6: Excitation light intensity output section 62: ADC (Analog to Digital Converter) 64: FPGA 8: Fluorescence detection device 82: Target value recording department 84: Strength Correction Department 86: Excitation light source I: current signal V, V1, V2: voltage signal V3, V4: drive signal

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a prosthesis 1 of the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a prosthesis 1 according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of Modification 2 of the first embodiment. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the second embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the third embodiment. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the fourth embodiment. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the fifth embodiment. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the sixth embodiment. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the seventh embodiment. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the eighth embodiment. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of a prosthesis 1 according to a modification of the eighth embodiment. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prosthesis 1 of the ninth embodiment. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of a prosthesis 1 according to a modification of the ninth embodiment.

1: prosthesis

2: Electrical signal output section

22: Light attenuation board

24: light sensor

4: Response light generating part

42: Voltage conversion section

44: Drive circuit (drive part)

46: Electronic circuit components

8: Fluorescence detection device

I: current signal

V: voltage signal

Claims (15)

A prosthesis with: The electrical signal output unit receives the excitation light and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the intensity of the excitation light; and The response light generating unit receives the electrical signal and generates response light in response to the electrical signal, The wavelength of the aforementioned response light is equal to the following wavelength: the wavelength of the fluorescent light generated by the phosphor receiving the aforementioned excitation light. The prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the electrical signal output part has a light sensor, and the response light generating part has an electronic circuit element. Such as the prosthesis of claim 2, wherein the aforementioned light sensor is a photodiode, and the aforementioned electronic circuit element is an LED. For example, the prosthesis of claim 2 or 3, wherein the aforementioned electrical signal is a current signal, and the aforementioned response light generating part has: The voltage conversion unit converts the aforementioned electrical signal into a voltage signal; and The driving unit drives the electronic circuit element according to the voltage signal. For example, the prosthesis of claim 2 or 3, wherein the electrical signal is a voltage signal, the response light generating part has a driving part, and the driving part can drive the electronic circuit element according to the voltage signal. Such as the prosthesis of claim 2 or 3, wherein the electrical signal is a digital signal, and has a driving part capable of driving the electronic circuit element according to the digital signal. The prosthesis according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the response light generating part has: White light source, producing white light; and The filter receives the white light, transmits light of a predetermined wavelength, and outputs it as the response light. The prosthesis according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the response light generating part has: A light source, which produces light of a predetermined wavelength; and The dimming unit receives the light of the predetermined wavelength, attenuates it, and outputs it as the response light. The prosthesis according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the response light generating part has: A light source, which produces light of a predetermined wavelength; and The aperture unit receives light of the predetermined wavelength, adjusts the amount of light, and outputs it as the response light. The prosthesis according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the response light generating part has: A light source, which produces light of a predetermined wavelength; and The diffuser receives the light of the predetermined wavelength, diffuses it, and outputs it as the response light. The prosthesis according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the response light generating unit generates the response light when it is determined based on the electrical signal that the intensity of the excitation light exceeds a predetermined intensity. For example, the prosthesis of claim 11 includes a determination light generating unit, and the determination light generating unit generates determination light different from the response light when determining that the intensity of the excitation light exceeds a predetermined intensity based on the electrical signal. The prosthesis according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the response light generating unit changes the intensity of the response light based on the ratio of the intensity of the fluorescence to the intensity of the excitation light. The prosthesis according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which is provided with an excitation light intensity output unit, and the excitation light intensity output unit outputs the intensity of the excitation light based on the electric power of the electrical signal. A fluorescence detection device can emit excitation light and detect the fluorescence generated by the phosphor receiving the aforementioned excitation light, The fluorescence detection device is provided with an intensity correction part, and the intensity correction part corrects the intensity of the excitation light based on the value of the intensity of the excitation light received from the prosthesis of claim 14.

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