Endoscope system, control method, and computer-readable recording medium

Abstract

An endoscope system, a control method, and a computer-readable recording medium storing a control program capable of simply switching information displayed on divided screens are provided. A screen (70) of a display (7) includes a main screen (71) and sub-screens (72, 73) and an input list screen (74). When an examination is performed by an endoscope (1), a control device (4) displays various kinds of information related to the examination on the main screen (71) and the sub-screens (72, 73), respectively. Also, the control device (4) displays options of information in information regions of switching targets included in the main screen (71) and the sub-screens (72, 73) on the input list screen (74). Then, the control device (4) switches the information displayed in the information regions of the switching targets in accordance with a user operation of selecting the options.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an endoscope system, a control method, and a computer-readable recording medium storing a control program. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, there was a known endoscope system that continuously captured images while illuminating the patient's body with ordinary light, such as white light, and displayed the images in real time. Furthermore, there was a known endoscope system that continuously captured images while illuminating the patient's body with special light, such as narrow-band light, and performed analyses such as IEE (Image-Enhanced Endoscopy).

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a medical image processing device that generates a composite image with an endoscopic observation image as the parent screen and an endoscopic insertion shape image as the child screen, or a composite image with an endoscopic observation image as the parent screen and a captured preview image as the child screen.

[0004] Patent document 2 describes an electronic endoscope system that, by operating a setting button, can set the display mode on the monitor to a single image display mode that displays a single image on the monitor, or a multiple image display mode that displays multiple images on the monitor.

[0005] Previous technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-219547

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-153991 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0010] However, in the aforementioned prior art, in structures that simultaneously display multiple pieces of information related to examinations such as endoscopy on a split screen, it is not easy to switch the information displayed on the split screen.

[0011] For example, in endoscopic examinations, it is required that the monitor primarily display real-time images obtained using camera elements installed in the endoscope, as well as auxiliary information such as the results of analysis performed by AI (Artificial Intelligence) based on the camera images obtained using camera elements installed in the endoscope.

[0012] There are multiple types of auxiliary information that should be displayed along with the real-time image. It would be desirable to easily switch between these multiple types of auxiliary information displayed along with the real-time image based on the judgment made by the examiner (e.g., a doctor) according to the condition of the endoscopic examination. However, no means to solve this problem are disclosed in the aforementioned patent documents 1 and 2.

[0013] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide an endoscope system, control method and computer-readable recording medium containing control program that can easily switch information displayed on split screens.

[0014] means for solving technical problems

[0015] This invention relates to an endoscope system, comprising a display and a processor that are visually recognizable by an examiner during an endoscope examination. The display screen includes multiple information areas and a selection area. During the examination, the processor performs the following processing: displays various types of information related to the examination in the multiple information areas; displays an option for the information in a switching object information area included in the multiple information areas in the selection area; and switches the information displayed in the switching object information area according to the user's operation of selecting the option.

[0016] Furthermore, the present invention is a control method for an endoscope system, the endoscope system including a display that can be visually recognized by the examiner when an examination is performed by an endoscope, wherein the screen of the display includes multiple information areas and a selection area, during the examination, various types of information related to the examination are displayed in the multiple information areas respectively, and options for the information displayed in the information area of ​​the switching object included in the multiple information areas are displayed in the selection area, and the information displayed in the information area of ​​the switching object is switched according to the user operation of selecting the option.

[0017] Furthermore, the present invention is a control program for controlling an endoscope system, the endoscope system including a display that can be visually recognized by the examiner during an endoscope examination, the control program being used to cause a computer to perform the following processing: the screen of the display includes multiple information areas and a selection area; during the examination, various types of information related to the examination are displayed in the multiple information areas respectively; options for the information displayed in the information area of ​​the switching object included in the multiple information areas are displayed in the selection area; and the information displayed in the information area of ​​the switching object is switched according to the user operation of selecting the option.

[0018] Invention Effects

[0019] According to the present invention, an endoscope system, a control method, and a computer-readable recording medium storing a control program are provided that can easily switch information displayed on a split screen. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an endoscope device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the endoscope device 100 shown.

[0022] Figure 3 It means by Figure 2 A diagram showing an example of the spectrum of light produced by the light source device 5.

[0023] Figure 4 It means Figure 2 A schematic plan view of the general structure of the camera element 23 shown.

[0024] Figure 5 It means Figure 2 This is an example of a functional block diagram of the signal processing unit 42 shown.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of switching illumination light in an endoscope device 100.

[0026] Figure 7 This is an example of a screen displayed on monitor 7.

[0027] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates an example of a change in the information area of ​​a switching object displaying information.

[0028] Figure 9 This is an example diagram illustrating the switching of displayed information. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0030] <An endoscopic device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention>

[0031] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of an endoscope device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Endoscopic device 100 is an example of the endoscopic system of the present invention. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the endoscope device 100 includes an endoscope 1, a control device 4 connected to the endoscope 1, and a light source device 5. The light source device 5 is an example of a light source capable of switching and illuminating various types of illumination light with different characteristics.

[0033] The control device 4 is connected to the display 7 and the input unit 6. The display 7 displays video images obtained by the endoscope 1 inside the patient's body, and the input unit 6 is an interface for inputting various information into the control device 4. The control device 4 controls the endoscope 1, the light source device 5, and the display 7.

[0034] The display 7 has a display surface in which display pixels are arranged in a two-dimensional manner, and displays an image based on the image data by depicting pixel data constituting image data on each display pixel of the display surface. The display 7 is an example of a display that can be visually recognized by an examiner (e.g., a doctor) during an examination performed by the endoscope 1.

[0035] The endoscope 1 includes: an insertion part 10, which is a tubular component extending in one direction and inserted into the body being examined; an operation part 11, which is provided at the base end of the insertion part 10 and is provided with operation components for performing observation mode switching operation, video recording operation, forceps operation, air and water delivery operation, and suction operation; a bend button 12, which is provided adjacent to the operation part 11; and a universal plug 13, which includes connector parts 13A and 13B for detachably connecting the endoscope 1 to the control device 4 and the light source device 5, respectively.

[0036] In addition, although Figure 1 The details are omitted, but the operating part 11 and the insertion part 10 are provided with various channels such as forceps holes for inserting forceps for collecting biological tissues such as cells or polyps, air and water supply channels, and suction channels.

[0037] The insertion part 10 is composed of a flexible part 10A, a curved part 10B provided at the front end of the flexible part 10A, and a rigid front end part 10C provided at the front end of the curved part 10B.

[0038] The bending portion 10B is configured to bend freely by rotating the bending knob 12. Depending on the part of the subject being examined using the endoscope 1, the bending portion 10B can be bent in any direction and at any angle, thereby allowing the front end portion 10C to face the desired direction.

[0039] < Figure 1 Internal structure of the endoscope device 100 shown>

[0040] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the endoscope device 100 shown. Figure 3 It means by Figure 2 A diagram showing an example of the spectrum of light produced by the light source device 5.

[0041] The light source device 5 can switch between normal light and special light as illumination. Normal light is light with a emission spectrum suitable for human recognition, such as white light. Special light is light with an emission spectrum different from normal light, suitable for image analysis by computers such as IEE.

[0042] Specifically, the light source device 5 includes a light source processor 51, a light source unit 52, and an optical path coupling unit 54. The light source processor 51 is connected to the system control unit 44 of the control device 4 and controls the light source unit 52 according to the instructions from the system control unit 44.

[0043] The light source unit 52 has, for example, multiple semiconductor light sources, which are individually turned on or off. When on, illumination light illuminating the object being observed is emitted by controlling the amount of light emitted by each semiconductor light source. In this embodiment, the light source unit 52 has LEDs of four colors: V-LED (Violet Light Emitting Diode) 52a, B-LED (Blue Light Emitting Diode) 52b, G-LED (Green Light Emitting Diode) 52c, and R-LED (Red Light Emitting Diode) 52d.

[0044] The light source processor 51 can independently control V-LED52a, B-LED52b, G-LED52c, and R-LED52d to independently change the amount of violet light V, blue light B, green light G, or red light R to emit light. For example... Figure 3 As shown, V-LED52a produces violet light V with a center wavelength of 405±10nm and a wavelength range of 380~420nm. B-LED52b produces blue light B with a center wavelength of 450±10nm and a wavelength range of 420~500nm. G-LED52c produces green light G with a wavelength range of 480~600nm. R-LED52d produces red light R with a center wavelength of 620~630nm and a wavelength range of 600~650nm.

[0045] Furthermore, when illuminated by ordinary light, the processor 51 controls each LED 52a-52d to emit white light with a light intensity ratio of V (violet), B (blue), G (green), and R (red) of Vc:Bc:Gc:Rc. Additionally, Vc, Bc, Gc, and Rc are greater than 0.

[0046] Furthermore, when irradiated with special light, the light source uses processor 51 to control each LED 52a to 52d so that the light intensity ratio between violet light V, blue light B, green light G and red light R, which are narrow-band light with short wavelengths, becomes Vs∶Bs∶Gs∶Rs, so that special light is emitted.

[0047] The light intensity ratio Vs∶Bs∶Gs∶Rs differs from the light intensity ratio Vc∶Bc∶Gc∶Rc used when irradiating with ordinary light, and should be appropriately determined according to the purpose of observation. For example, when emphasizing superficial blood vessels, it is preferable to make Vs greater than the other Bs, Gs, and Rs; when emphasizing medium and deep blood vessels, it is preferable to make Gs greater than the other Vs, Gs, and Rs.

[0048] The optical path coupling unit 54 couples the light emitted from V-LED52a, B-LED52b, G-LED52c, and R-LED52d, and emits the coupled light as illumination light. The illumination light emitted from the optical path coupling unit 54 of the light source unit 52 is incident on the light guide 53 (described later) built into the universal plug 13, and passes through the illumination lens 50 provided at the front end 10C of the insertion unit 10 to illuminate the subject.

[0049] The endoscope 1 has a camera optical system including an objective lens 21 and a lens group 22, an image sensor 23 that passes through the camera optical system to capture images of the subject, a memory 25 such as RAM (Random Access Memory), a communication interface (I / F) 26, a camera drive unit 27, and a light guide 53 for guiding the illumination light emitted from the light source unit 52 to the illumination lens 50.

[0050] The light guide 53 extends from the front end 10C to the connector portion 13A of the universal plug 13. When the connector portion 13A of the universal plug 13 is connected to the light source device 5, the illumination light emitted from the light source portion 52 of the light source device 5 can enter the light guide 53.

[0051] The image sensor 23 can be a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor, etc. In this embodiment, the image sensor 23 is a CMOS sensor using a rolling shutter.

[0052] The imaging element 23 has a light-receiving surface with multiple pixels arranged in a two-dimensional shape. The optical image formed on this light-receiving surface by the aforementioned imaging optical system is converted into an electrical signal (imaging signal) in each pixel. Then, the imaging element 23 converts the converted imaging signal from an analog signal into a digital signal of a specified number of bits and outputs the converted digital imaging signal to the memory 25. The imaging element 23 can be, for example, an imaging element equipped with a primary color or complementary color filter. The collection of imaging signals output from each pixel of the light-receiving surface of the imaging element 23 is called the imaging image signal.

[0053] The imaging element 23 can be arranged at the front end 10C with the light-receiving surface perpendicular to the optical axis Ax of the objective lens 21, or it can be arranged at the front end 10C with the light-receiving surface parallel to the optical axis Ax of the objective lens 21.

[0054] The imaging optical system mounted on the endoscope 1 consists of optical components such as lenses and prisms (including the aforementioned lens group 22) located in the light path from the subject between the imaging element 23 and the objective lens 21. Sometimes, the imaging optical system consists only of the objective lens 21.

[0055] The memory 25 temporarily records the digital camera signal output from the camera element 23.

[0056] Communication I / F 26 is connected to the communication interface (I / F) 41 of control device 4. Communication I / F 26 transmits the camera signal recorded in memory 25 to control device 4 through the signal line in universal plug 13.

[0057] The camera driver unit 27 is connected to the system control unit 44 of the control device 4 via the communication I / F 26. The camera driver unit 27 drives the camera element 23 and the memory 25 according to the instructions received from the system control unit 44 via the communication I / F 26.

[0058] The control device 4 includes a communication I / F 41, a signal processing unit 42, a display controller 43, a system control unit 44, and a recording medium 45, which are connected to the endoscope 1 via a communication I / F 26 through a universal plug cord 13.

[0059] The communication I / F41 receives the camera signal transmitted from the communication I / F26 of the endoscope 1 and transmits it to the signal processing unit 42.

[0060] The signal processing unit 42 has a built-in memory that temporarily records the camera signals received from the communication I / F 41. It processes the camera image signals (such as de-mosaicing or gamma correction) which are a collection of camera signals recorded in the memory to generate camera image information in a form capable of recognition processing. The camera image information generated by the signal processing unit 42 is recorded in a recording medium 45 such as a hard disk or flash memory.

[0061] The display controller 43 displays the captured image based on the captured image information generated by the signal processing unit 42 on the display 7. The coordinates of each pixel data constituting the captured image information generated by the signal processing unit 42 are associated with the coordinates of any display pixel constituting the display surface of the display 7 and managed accordingly.

[0062] The system control unit 44 controls each part of the control device 4 and sends commands to the camera drive unit 27 of the endoscope 1 and the light source processor 51 of the light source device 5, thereby centrally controlling the entire endoscope device 100. For example, the system control unit 44 controls the camera element 23 via the camera drive unit 27. Furthermore, the system control unit 44 controls the light source unit 52 via the light source processor 51.

[0063] The system control unit 44, signal processing unit 42, and display controller 43 include various processors, RAM, and ROM (Read Only Memory) for executing programs.

[0064] Various processors include general-purpose processors that execute programs to perform various processes, such as CPUs (Central Processing Units), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), and other processors whose circuit structure can be changed after manufacturing, such as Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs) or Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), which have circuit structures specifically designed to perform specific processes, such as dedicated circuits.

[0065] More specifically, these various processors are structured as circuits composed of semiconductor elements and other circuit components.

[0066] The system control unit 44, the signal processing unit 42, and the display controller 43 can be composed of one of various processors, or they can be composed of a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (e.g., a combination of multiple FPGAs or a combination of CPU and FPGA).

[0067] <Structure with ultrasonic transducer>

[0068] In addition to the imaging element 23, the endoscope 1 may also include an ultrasonic transducer for acquiring ultrasonic images within a biological body. The ultrasonic transducer is a transducer that oscillates ultrasonic waves and irradiates the oscillating ultrasonic waves. Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer also functions as an ultrasonic transducer that receives the echo signal of the irradiated ultrasonic waves and outputs the received echo signal. For example, an ultrasonic image can be acquired by performing various image processing operations on the echo signal output from the ultrasonic transducer by the processor of the control device 4.

[0069] < Figure 2 The schematic structure of the imaging element 23 shown >

[0070] Figure 4 It means Figure 2 A schematic plan view of the general structure of the camera element 23 shown.

[0071] The imaging element 23 includes: an imaging surface 60, wherein multiple pixel rows 62 formed by multiple pixels 61 arranged in the row direction X are arranged in the column direction Y orthogonal to the row direction X; a driving circuit 63 for driving the pixels 61 arranged on the imaging surface 60; and a signal processing circuit 64 for processing the pixel signals read from each pixel 61 of the pixel rows 62 arranged on the imaging surface 60 to a signal line. The imaging surface 60 constitutes a light-receiving surface.

[0072] Below, in Figure 4 In the diagram, the end of one end of the camera surface 60 in the column direction Y (the upper side in the diagram) is called the upper end, and the end of the other end of the camera surface 60 in the column direction Y (the lower side in the diagram) is called the lower end.

[0073] Figure 4 The driving circuit 63 shown independently drives each pixel row 62 according to the signal from the camera driving unit 27, and performs the following operations: resetting each pixel 61 included in the pixel row 62 (discharging the charge accumulated in the photoelectric conversion element), reading the pixel signal corresponding to the charge accumulated in the photoelectric conversion element of each pixel 61 to the signal line, etc.

[0074] Figure 4 The signal processing circuit 64 shown performs correlation double sampling on the pixel signals read from each pixel 61 of pixel row 62 to the signal line, and converts the correlation double sampling pixel signals into digital signals for output. The signal processing circuit 64 is controlled by the camera driver unit 27.

[0075] The signal processing unit 42 performs signal processing such as de-mosaic processing and gamma correction processing on the pixel signal output from the imaging element 23 to generate imaging image information.

[0076] The endoscope device 100 is equipped with a continuous shooting mode that generates multiple camera images based on a single camera instruction. In continuous shooting mode, the system control unit 44 drives the camera element 23 to capture images of the subject via the camera drive unit 27 in a rolling shutter manner.

[0077] The rolling shutter mode driver includes a rolling shutter reset driver and a rolling shutter readout driver. The rolling shutter reset driver is a driver that, while changing the pixel row 62, sequentially resets each pixel 61 of the pixel row 62 and begins exposure for each pixel 61. The rolling shutter readout driver is a driver that, while changing the pixel row 62, sequentially reads out signals from each pixel 61 of the exposed pixel row 62 and ends exposure for that pixel row 62.

[0078] < Figure 2 Functional block diagram of signal processing unit 42 shown >

[0079] Figure 5 It means Figure 2 This is an example of a functional block diagram of the signal processing unit 42 shown.

[0080] The processor of the signal processing unit 42 functions as a control device for a camera image information generation unit 42a, a real-time image generation unit 42b, an analysis unit 42c, and an analysis image generation unit 42d, for example, by executing a control program stored in a ROM built into the signal processing unit 42.

[0081] The image generation unit 42a generates image information by performing image processing such as de-mosaic processing or gamma correction processing on the image signal obtained by the imaging element 23. The image generation unit 42a outputs image frames from the generated image information based on the image signal obtained by imaging under normal light to the real-time image generation unit 42b, and outputs image frames from the image signal obtained by imaging under special light to the analysis unit 42c. Each image frame is an image signal obtained from a single imaging session.

[0082] The real-time image generation unit 42b generates real-time image information for displaying the real-time image based on the camera frame output from the camera image information generation unit 42a, and outputs the generated real-time image information as camera image information to the display controller 43 (see reference). Figure 2 The real-time image is a dynamic image that is displayed in real time based on the continuous imaging results of the camera element 23.

[0083] The analysis unit 42c performs analysis (image analysis) based on the camera frame output from the camera image information generation unit 42a, and outputs the analysis results to the analysis image generation unit 42d. For example, the analysis unit 42c performs contour extraction of the camera image as an analysis. For instance, the analysis unit 42c determines the contour of a biological structure reflected in the image represented by the camera image information obtained by illuminating a specific light source. The biological structure of a specific object may be, for example, a superficial blood vessel structure, a middle-layer blood vessel structure, or a deep blood vessel structure. The analysis performed by the analysis unit 42c is performed in parallel with the real-time image display.

[0084] The analysis image generation unit 42d generates IEE image information for displaying an IEE image representing the analysis results output from the analysis unit 42c, and outputs the generated IEE image information as camera image information to the display controller 43 (reference). Figure 2 An IEE image is an image that emphasizes the outline of the subject's structure, based on the photographic signal obtained by irradiating the image with special light such as blue laser. In this case, the special light, such as blue laser, constitutes the light used for image enhancement observation. For example, an IEE image may emphasize the superficial vascular structure, the intermediate vascular structure, or the deep vascular structure.

[0085] Furthermore, the image generated by the image analysis generation unit 42d is not limited to a photographic image or an image obtained by processing a photographic image; it can also be an image based on the analysis performed by the analysis unit 42c, representing numerical values ​​(quantity, accuracy, etc.) or characters (tumor category, etc.).

[0086] As in Figure 5 As explained, the endoscope device 100 includes an analysis unit 42c, which analyzes the image information obtained by imaging during a second period of imaging under special light. On the other hand, the endoscope device 100 displays a real-time image based on the image information obtained by imaging during a first period of imaging under normal light. Thus, dynamic image display based on normal light and analysis based on special light are both possible.

[0087] Switching of illumination light in endoscope device 100

[0088] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of switching illumination light in an endoscope device 100.

[0089] Illumination light moment 65 is the moment when the light source device 5 illuminates the light according to the instruction from the control device 4. WLI in illumination light moment 65 is the moment when the light source device 5 illuminates ordinary light such as white light as illumination light.

[0090] In illumination light moment 65, IEE1 is the moment when the light source device 5 illuminates a first special light with the first characteristic, such as narrow-band light, as illumination light. In illumination light moment 65, IEE2 is the moment when the light source device 5 illuminates a second special light with the second characteristic, which is different from the first characteristic, as illumination light.

[0091] As shown in illumination time 65, the light source device 5 repeatedly performs a preset illumination operation with a period T. This illumination operation involves illuminating with normal light, followed by illuminating with special light (either the first special light or the second special light). Figure 6 In the example shown, the light source device 5 alternately switches the special light to be illuminated to the first special light and the second special light every cycle T. However, the light source device 5 may also set only the first special light for each cycle T.

[0092] Image capture time 66 is the moment when the imaging element 23 captures an image (exposes) according to the instruction from the control device 4. The vertical dimension in image capture time 66 represents the column direction Y of pixel row 62 (reference). Figure 4 The position of the image sensor 23 in this embodiment is as described above. Therefore, the image capture time 66 is staggered according to each pixel row 62. Figure 6 In the example shown, the camera element 23 records video at a frame rate of 60 fps (frames per second).

[0093] As shown at illumination time 65 and imaging time 66, the first period during which the light source device 5 continuously illuminates ordinary light spans multiple consecutive frames in the imaging process based on the imaging element 23. Furthermore, the second period during which the light source device 5 continuously illuminates special light spans at least one frame in the imaging process based on the imaging element 23. Figure 6 In the example shown, the second period spans multiple consecutive frames based on the camera element 23.

[0094] Thus, the light source device 5 repeatedly performs the following operation: after continuously illuminating normal light (illumination light of the first characteristic) through multiple consecutive camera action frames, it illuminates special light (illumination light of the second characteristic). Then, as described above, the control device 4 displays a real-time image (moving image) on the display 7 based on the camera image obtained when illuminating normal light, and performs analysis based on the camera image obtained when illuminating special light.

[0095] <The image displayed on monitor 7>

[0096] Figure 7 This is an example of a screen displayed on monitor 7. Figure 8 This diagram illustrates an example of a change in the information area of ​​a switching object displaying information. Figure 9 This is an example diagram illustrating the switching of displayed information.

[0097] The display controller 43 displays the image information output from the signal processing unit 42 during the examination performed by the endoscope 1, for example, by... Figure 7 The screen 70 shown is displayed on the monitor 7. Screen 70 includes a main screen 71, sub-screens 72 and 73, and an input overview screen 74. The main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73 are examples of multiple information areas of the present invention. The input overview screen 74 is an example of a selection area of ​​the present invention.

[0098] The main screen 71, sub-screens 72 and 73, and input overview screen 74 are, for example, four split screens that are software-divided on one screen of the display 7 under the control of the control device 4. However, the screen 70 can also be hardware-divided into the four parts of the main screen 71, sub-screens 72 and 73, and input overview screen 74.

[0099] The main screen 71 displays a real-time image based on real-time image information output from the real-time image generation unit 42b of the signal processing unit 42. Sub-screens 72 and 73 display information that assists in positioning relative to the real-time image. For example, in... Figure 7 In the example shown, a stomach map is displayed on sub-screen 72, and an inserted shape image is displayed on sub-screen 73.

[0100] At this time, the main screen 71 constitutes a first information area that displays a dynamic image using a camera image obtained from the camera element 23 mounted on the endoscope 1. Sub-screens 72 and 73 constitute a second information area that displays information different from the dynamic image.

[0101] The gastric map on sub-screen 72 is an image representing the stomach of the subject to be inserted into the endoscope 1. The gastric map can be, for example, an image obtained by photographing the inside of the subject, or a pre-prepared image of the general large intestine.

[0102] The insertion shape image of sub-screen 73 is an image representing the shape of the insertion portion 10 of the endoscope 1 inserted into the stomach of the patient. For example, the insertion shape image is an image generated based on the detection result of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generating element provided in the front end portion 10C of the endoscope 1. At this time, for example, the endoscope device 100 also includes a magnetic field detection device that detects the magnetic field from the magnetic field generating element of the endoscope 1 inserted into the patient from outside the patient, and the system control unit 44 generates the insertion shape image based on the detection result of the magnetic field detection device.

[0103] Furthermore, the inserted shape image can be an image generated based on the detection result of the magnetic field of the magnetic field detection element provided in the front end 10C of the endoscope 1. At this time, for example, the endoscope device 100 also includes a magnetic field generating element that generates a magnetic field from the outside of the subject toward the inside of the subject, and the system control unit 44 generates the inserted shape image based on the detection result of the magnetic field of the magnetic field detection element provided in the endoscope 1.

[0104] By observing the gastric map and the insertion shape image, the operator of the endoscope 1 can easily insert the insertion part 10 of the endoscope 1 into the stomach.

[0105] The input overview screen 74 is, for example, an image showing a list of options (menus) that can be displayed on the main screen 71 and the respective sub-screens 72 and 73. Figure 7 In the example shown, the input overview screen 74 includes reduced images 74a to 74e.

[0106] Reduced images 74a to 74e are reduced versions of real-time images, ultrasound images, gastric maps, inserted shape images, and bioinformatics images, respectively. A reduced version of an image is an image scaled down compared to when it is displayed on the main screen 71 or sub-screens 72 and 73. For example, reduced image 74a is an image showing a real-time image at a smaller size (area) compared to when it is displayed on either the main screen 71 or sub-screens 72 and 73.

[0107] The reduced images 74a to 74e are labeled with numbers “1” to “5”, respectively. These numbers are, for example, numbers used for indication via the numeric keypad or the like included in the input unit 6.

[0108] exist Figure 7 The single-dash frame 75 surrounding sub-screen 73 is the information area representing the switching object of the displayed information in main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73 (in Figure 7 The example shown is for information in sub-screen 73. The single-dot dashed box 75 can be moved to any information area in the main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73 by user operation via a user interface such as the input unit 6.

[0109] For example, each time a specific user operation is performed on the input unit 6, the information area surrounded by the single-dot dashed box 75 switches in the order of main screen 71, sub-screen 72, sub-screen 73, main screen 71, ... Figure 8 This shows the information area enclosed by a single-dot-dash frame 75 changing from the main screen 71 to the sub-screen 72. Figure 8 In the example shown, sub-screen 72 is the switching object for displaying information.

[0110] For example, in Figure 8In the state shown, when the inspector specifies "2" via the numeric keypad of the input unit 6, as follows: Figure 9 As shown, the information displayed on sub-screen 72 switches from the stomach map to an ultrasound image corresponding to the reduced image 74b labeled "2".

[0111] Thus, during an examination performed by endoscope 1, control device 4 will control various functions related to the examination (in... Figure 7 The example shown contains three types of information, which are displayed in multiple information areas (main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73).

[0112] Furthermore, the control device 4 displays the information area of ​​the switching object included in multiple information areas ( Figure 8 In the shown sub-screen 72, the reduced images 74a to 74e are displayed as options for information related to the inspection on the input overview screen 74 (selection area). Then, based on the user operation of selecting the option displayed on the input overview screen 74 (e.g., the assignment of numbers based on the numeric keypad of the input section 6), the information area displayed on the switching object (in the selected area) is switched. Figure 8 The state shown is the information in sub-screen 72).

[0113] Thus, according to the endoscope device 100, in a structure that simultaneously displays multiple pieces of information related to the endoscope examination on a split screen, the information displayed on the split screen can be easily switched.

[0114] For example, during an endoscopy, a real-time image obtained using the camera element 23 mounted on the endoscope 1 can be primarily displayed on the main screen 71 of the display 7, and options for displaying auxiliary information on sub-screens 72 and 73 can also be simultaneously displayed. Therefore, the auxiliary information displayed along with the real-time image can be easily switched based on the judgment made by the examiner (e.g., a doctor) according to the condition of the endoscopy.

[0115] And, as Figure 7 As shown, the options for information displayed on the input overview screen 74 and also on the main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73 are scaled-down images of that information, allowing the inspector to intuitively grasp the content of the information represented by the option. This makes it easier to switch between information displayed on the split screen.

[0116] Furthermore, the options for displaying information on the main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73 include options for updating information based on the examination process performed by the endoscope 1. For example, as described above, the real-time image is a dynamic image that displays the continuous imaging results based on the imaging element 23 in real time and is updated according to the examination process. In addition, ultrasound images, insertion shape images, bio-information images, etc., can also be information that is updated according to the examination process.

[0117] The control device 4 can update the display of options on the input overview screen 74 based on the information updated during the examination performed by the endoscope 1. For example, the reduced image 74a displayed on the input overview screen 74 can be set to display a small dynamic image of a continuous sequence of images captured by the imaging element 23 in real time. As another example, the reduced image 74b displayed on the input overview screen 74 can be set to display a small dynamic image of a continuous sequence of ultrasound images obtained by the ultrasound transducer in real time. Thus, the examiner can intuitively grasp the content of the information represented by the option, thereby making it easier to switch the information displayed on the split screen.

[0118] Furthermore, when information updated according to the examination process performed by the endoscope 1 is displayed on either the main screen 71 or the sub-screens 72 and 73, the control device 4 may update the display of the information at a first frequency or at a second frequency lower than the first frequency on the input overview screen 74.

[0119] As an example, when displaying a live image on the main screen 71, the control device 4 updates the live image at a display rate of 60fps. Furthermore, the control device 4 updates a scaled-down image 74a of the live image displayed on the input overview screen 74 at a display rate of 6fps, which is lower than 60fps. Therefore, the inspector can easily understand that the information represented by the scaled-down image 74a is from the live image, and the amount of processing required to update the display of the scaled-down image 74a can be reduced.

[0120] in addition, Figure 7 The information contained in the input overview screen 74 shown is an example, and can be arbitrarily set. For example, the information contained in the input overview screen 74 can be... Figure 7 This is part of the information shown. And, besides... Figure 7 The information shown is other than or in place of the information provided. Figure 7 The information shown can also include other information (e.g., the results of analysis performed by the analysis unit 42c).

[0121] Furthermore, the structure where the options for information that can be displayed on the main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73 are the same has been described. However, it is also possible to set the structure where the options for information that can be displayed on the main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73 are different. In this case, the control device 4 can display only the information that can be displayed in the information area (information area of ​​the switching object) enclosed by the single-dot dashed frame 75 in the main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73 on the input overview screen 74.

[0122] Furthermore, the structure of the information area of ​​the displayed switching object, which is the information area selected by the user in the main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73, has been described, but it is not limited to this structure. For example, the information displayed on the main screen 71 may be fixed as a live image, and the information area selectable by the single-dot dashed box 75 may only be the sub-screens 72 and 73 (the second information area). In this case, for example, the options for information that can be displayed on the sub-screens 72 and 73 may include the results of the analysis performed by the analysis unit 42c, so that the inspector can refer to the live image and observe the results of the analysis as auxiliary information.

[0123] Alternatively, the information area of ​​the switching object can be unselectable by the user. For example, among the main screen 71 and sub-screens 72 and 73, only sub-screen 73 can be the information area for the switching object. In this case, the single-dot-dash frame 75 is either fixedly displayed on sub-screen 73 or not displayed on screen 70.

[0124] Furthermore, the single-dot dashed frame 75 is one example of information that can identify the information area of ​​the switching object in the main screen 71 and the sub-screens 72 and 73, but the information that can identify the information area of ​​the switching object is not limited to the single-dot dashed frame 75.

[0125] Furthermore, as an example of user operation for selecting options displayed on the input overview screen 74, the assignment of numbers based on the numeric keypad of the input unit 6 has been described, but it is not limited to this. For example, if the input unit 6 includes a pointing device such as a mouse, the user operation for selecting options displayed on the input overview screen 74 can be set to zoom in on any one of the images 74a to 74e by pointing (clicking, etc.) on the pointing device. Alternatively, if the display 7 is a touch panel capable of touch operation, the user operation for selecting options displayed on the input overview screen 74 can be set to zoom in on any one of the images 74a to 74e by touching the touch panel.

[0126] (Another example of analysis)

[0127] The analysis performed by the analysis unit 42c (signal processing unit 42) based on the image information obtained by illuminating the camera with special light has been described, but the analysis performed by the analysis unit 42c is not limited to this.

[0128] For example, the analysis unit 42c can perform the analysis of the insertion shape of the endoscope 1 as described above. Specifically, the analysis of the insertion shape of the endoscope 1 is to determine the insertion shape of the insertion part 10 of the endoscope 1 when inserted into the patient's body. For example, the analysis unit 42c determines the insertion shape of the endoscope 1 based on changes in the image information obtained by imaging when a special light is irradiated. The analysis image generation unit 42d generates image information for displaying an image representing the insertion shape of the endoscope 1 determined by the analysis unit 42c. Thus, the image representing the insertion shape of the endoscope 1 is displayed on the sub-screen 72, allowing the operator of the endoscope 1 to easily insert the insertion part 10 of the endoscope 1 into the patient's body.

[0129] Alternatively, the analysis unit 42c can perform the aforementioned analysis by detecting regions of interest within the patient to which the endoscope 1 is inserted. For example, the analysis unit 42c detects regions of interest within the patient based on an image represented by photographic image information obtained by illuminating a special light. Regions of interest are areas recommended for observation within the patient, such as areas with a high probability of lesions. The analysis image generation unit 42d generates image information for displaying an image highlighting the regions of interest detected by the analysis unit 42c in the image represented by photographic image information obtained by illuminating a special light. Thus, the image highlighting the regions of interest is displayed on the sub-screen 72, allowing the operator of the endoscope 1 to easily identify the regions of interest within the patient. Alternatively, the analysis image generation unit 42d can also generate image information for displaying a color difference-expanded image in the image represented by photographic image information obtained by illuminating a special light, wherein the color difference-expanding processing expands the color difference between abnormal portions (lesions, etc.) and normal portions of the regions of interest. Thus, the chromatic aberration image is displayed on sub-screen 72, allowing the operator of endoscope 1 to easily distinguish between abnormal and normal parts within the patient's body.

[0130] Alternatively, the analysis unit 42c can select similar case images for the aforementioned analysis. For example, the analysis unit 42c selects case images similar to those obtained by imaging with special light by searching a database accessible to the endoscope device 100. The analysis image generation unit 42d generates image information for displaying an image representing the result selected by the analysis unit 42c. The result selected by the analysis unit 42c can be the case image itself, or information such as diagnostic results associated with the case image selected by the analysis unit 42c in the aforementioned database. Thus, the selection result of similar case images is displayed on the sub-screen 72, allowing the operator of the endoscope 1 to easily compare the condition of the patient under observation with similar cases.

[0131] Alternatively, the analysis unit 42c can perform the aforementioned analysis to distinguish between tumors and non-tumors. For example, the analysis unit 42c determines whether a biological region reflected in an image obtained by imaging under special light is a tumor. The analysis image generation unit 42d generates image information to display an image representing the result determined by the analysis unit 42c. The result determined by the analysis unit 42c can be information indicating whether a biological region reflected in a recently captured image is a tumor, or information indicating the number of biological regions identified as tumors since the start of the current examination, etc. Thus, the tumor and non-tumor discrimination results are displayed on the sub-screen 72, which can assist the operator of the endoscope 1 in observation or operation of the endoscope 1.

[0132] Alternatively, the analysis unit 42c can determine the state of an organ as described above. For example, the analysis unit 42c determines the state of an organ reflected in an image represented by photographic image information obtained by irradiating a special light. The state of the organ may include, for example, the oxygen saturation of each region, the thickness, density, pattern, uniformity of blood vessel structures, or the surface structure of the large intestine (e.g., pit-like structure), the surface structure of the duodenum (e.g., villous structure), etc. The analysis image generation unit 42d generates image information for displaying an image representing the result determined by the analysis unit 42c. For example, the analysis image generation unit 42d generates an oxygen saturation image that visualizes the oxygen saturation of each determined region. Thus, the result of determining the state of the organ is displayed on the sub-screen 72, which can assist the operator of the endoscope 1 in observation or operation of the endoscope 1.

[0133] Alternatively, the analysis unit 42c can perform the aforementioned analysis by generating a predetermined cutting line. For example, the analysis unit 42c determines the predetermined cutting line (boundary line) in the biological region reflected in the image represented by the image information obtained by imaging under special light, which is used to remove tumors, etc. The analysis image generation unit 42d generates image information for displaying an image represented by the image information obtained by imaging under special light, with the predetermined cutting line determined by the analysis unit 42c appended. Thus, the image with the predetermined cutting line appended is displayed on the sub-screen 72, and the operator of the endoscope 1 can easily identify the predetermined cutting line in the patient's body.

[0134] (Variations of the first period, the second period, and period T)

[0135] The structure in which the lengths of the first period irradiated with ordinary light and the second period irradiated with special light are constant in each repetition of period T has been described. However, the lengths of the first period irradiated with ordinary light and the second period irradiated with special light may not be constant (or may be variable) in each repetition of period T. For example, the ratio of the lengths of the first period and the second period in one period T is 3:1, while the ratio of the lengths of the first period and the second period in another period T may be 3:2.

[0136] Furthermore, the case where the repetition period T of the actions of irradiating ordinary light and special light is constant is explained, but the period T can also be variable. Furthermore, the structure in which ordinary light is irradiated first and then special light is irradiated in period T is explained, but it can also be set that special light is irradiated first and then ordinary light is irradiated in period T.

[0137] Furthermore, the spectrum of light can generally be constant or variable during repeated cycles T. Similarly, the spectrum of a particular type of light can also be constant or variable during repeated cycles T.

[0138] Furthermore, the structure for the second period of irradiating special light after the first period of irradiating ordinary light has been described. However, there may be a non-irradiation period between the first and second periods when the light source device 5 does not irradiate the illumination light.

[0139] Furthermore, the structure can be configured to simultaneously illuminate narrow-band short-wavelength dimming light and white light as the aforementioned ordinary or special light. This allows for the highlighting and display of subtle color differences, facilitating observations such as inflammation observation or pick-up observation.

[0140] (Another example of camera element 23)

[0141] The structure of the camera element 23 using the rolling shutter method has been described, but it can be configured as the structure of the camera element 23 using the global shutter method.

[0142] (Another approach to endoscopic systems)

[0143] As an example of the endoscope system of the present invention, the endoscope device 100 has been described, but the endoscope system of the present invention can be implemented by multiple devices connected to each other via a network. For example, it can be configured such that at least a portion of the processing based on the control device 4 is performed by other devices connected to the endoscope device 100 via a network.

[0144] (Control Procedure)

[0145] The control program stored in the ROM of the control device 4 is stored in a non-transitory storage medium that can be read by a computer. Such a "computer-readable storage medium" includes, for example, optical media such as CD-ROM (Compact Disc-ROM) or magnetic storage media such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or memory cards. Furthermore, this program can also be provided via download from a network.

[0146] As explained above, the following matters are disclosed in this specification. (1)

[0148] An endoscope system includes a display and a processor that are visually recognizable by an examiner during an endoscopic examination, wherein...

[0149] The aforementioned display screen contains multiple information areas and selection areas.

[0150] During the above checks, the processor performs the following processing:

[0151] The various types of information related to the above inspections will be displayed in the above-mentioned multiple information areas respectively;

[0152] The options for the aforementioned information in the information area of ​​the switching object included in the above multiple information areas will be displayed in the above selection area;

[0153] The information displayed in the information area of ​​the aforementioned switching object will be switched according to the user's action of selecting the above options. (2)

[0155] According to the endoscope system described in (1), wherein,

[0156] The information area of ​​the aforementioned switching object is the information area selected by the user from the aforementioned multiple information areas. (3)

[0158] According to the endoscope system described in (1) or (2), wherein,

[0159] The option for the above information is an image containing a scaled-down version of the above information. (4)

[0161] According to any one of (1) to (3) of the endoscope system, wherein,

[0162] The options for the above information include options for information updated based on the above inspection process. (5)

[0164] According to the endoscope system described in (4), wherein,

[0165] The processor updates the option of updating the information updated according to the above-mentioned inspection process in the above-mentioned selection area. (6)

[0167] According to the endoscope system described in (4) or (5), wherein,

[0168] The processor described above performs the following processing:

[0169] If information updated according to the above inspection process is displayed in the above information area, the display of the information is updated at the first frequency;

[0170] The option to update the information updated according to the above-described inspection process at a second frequency, which is lower than the first frequency, is displayed in the above-described selection area. (7)

[0172] The endoscope system according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein,

[0173] The aforementioned multiple information areas include: a first information area displaying a dynamic image obtained using a camera element installed on the endoscope; and a second information area displaying information different from the dynamic image.

[0174] The information area of ​​the aforementioned switching object is contained in the aforementioned second information area. (8)

[0176] According to the endoscope system described in (7), wherein,

[0177] The second information area described above can be switched and displayed to include various information related to the above-mentioned examination, including the results of the analysis based on the above-mentioned camera images.

[0178] The selection area above displays various information related to the above examination, including the results of the above analysis, as options. (9)

[0180] According to the endoscope system described in (8), it includes a light source capable of switching and irradiating multiple illumination lights with different characteristics.

[0181] The aforementioned light source repeatedly performs the following action: after continuously illuminating light with a first characteristic during the first period of multiple consecutive camera action frames, it illuminates light with a second characteristic that is different from the first characteristic during the second period of at least one camera action frame.

[0182] The processor performs the above analysis based on the camera images obtained during the second period. (10)

[0184] According to the endoscope system described in (9), wherein,

[0185] The illumination light with the first characteristic mentioned above is white light, and the illumination light with the second characteristic mentioned above is light used for image enhancement observation. (11)

[0187] According to the endoscope system described in (9) or (10), wherein,

[0188] The lengths of the first and second periods mentioned above are either constant or variable when the above actions are repeated. (12)

[0190] The endoscope system according to any one of (9) to (11), wherein,

[0191] The spectra of the illumination light with the first characteristic and the illumination light with the second characteristic described above are either constant or variable when the above actions are repeatedly performed. (13)

[0193] According to any one of (9) to (12) of the endoscope system, wherein,

[0194] There is a period of no illumination from the light source between the first period and the second period. (14)

[0196] According to any one of (9) to (13) of the endoscope system, wherein,

[0197] The first period mentioned above is a longer period than the second period mentioned above. (15)

[0199] According to any one of (8) to (14) of the endoscope system, wherein,

[0200] The above analysis includes an analysis of the insertion shape of the endoscope equipped with the aforementioned imaging element. (16)

[0202] According to any one of (8) to (15) of the endoscope system, wherein,

[0203] The above analysis includes the extraction of the contours of the aforementioned camera images. (17)

[0205] According to any one of (8) to (16) of the endoscope system, wherein,

[0206] The above analysis includes the detection of regions of interest within a subject body to which an endoscope equipped with the aforementioned imaging element has been inserted. (18)

[0208] According to any one of (8) to (17) of the endoscope system, wherein,

[0209] The above analysis included the selection of images from similar cases. (19)

[0211] According to any one of (8) to (18) of the endoscope system, wherein,

[0212] The above analysis includes information that helps distinguish between tumors and non-tumor cells. (20)

[0214] According to any one of (8) to (19) of the endoscope system, wherein,

[0215] The above analysis includes determining the state of the organs. (twenty one)

[0217] The endoscope system according to any one of (8) to (20), wherein,

[0218] The above analysis includes the generation of the predetermined cut-off line. (twenty two)

[0220] A method for controlling an endoscope system, the endoscope system including a display that can be visually recognized by an examiner during an examination performed by the endoscope, wherein...

[0221] The aforementioned display screen contains multiple information areas and selection areas.

[0222] When conducting the above checks,

[0223] Various types of information related to the above-mentioned inspections will be displayed in the aforementioned multiple information areas.

[0224] The options for the aforementioned information in the information area of ​​the switching object included in the above multiple information areas will be displayed in the above selection area.

[0225] The information displayed in the information area of ​​the aforementioned switching object will be switched according to the user's action of selecting the above options. (twenty three)

[0227] A computer-readable recording medium storing a control program for controlling an endoscope system, the endoscope system including a display that can be visually viewed by an examiner during an endoscope examination, the control program being configured to cause the computer to perform the following processes:

[0228] The screen of the aforementioned display includes multiple information areas and selection areas;

[0229] When conducting the above checks,

[0230] The various types of information related to the above inspections will be displayed in the above-mentioned multiple information areas respectively;

[0231] The options for the aforementioned information in the information area of ​​the switching object included in the above multiple information areas will be displayed in the above selection area;

[0232] The information displayed in the information area of ​​the aforementioned switching object will be switched according to the user's action of selecting the above options.

[0233] Industrial availability

[0234] According to the present invention, an endoscope system, a control method, and a computer-readable recording medium storing a control program are provided that can easily switch information displayed on a split screen.

[0235] Symbol Explanation

[0236] 1-Endoscope, 4-Control device, 5-Light source device, 6-Input unit, 7-Display, 10-Insertion unit, 10A-Flexible part, 10B-Bending part, 10C-Front end, 11-Operating unit, 12-Angle knob, 13-Universal plug cord, 13A, 13B-Connector unit, 21-Objective lens, 22-Lens group, 23-Image sensor, 25-Memory, 26, 41-Communication I / F, 27-Image driver unit, 42-Signal processing unit, 42a-Image information generation unit, 42b-Real-time image generation unit, 42c-Analysis unit, 42d-Analysis image generation unit, 43-Display controller, 44-System 45-Recording medium, 50-Illumination lens, 51-Light source processor, 52-Light source unit, 52a-V-LED, 52b-B-LED, 52c-G-LED, 52d-R-LED, 53-Light guide, 54-Optical path coupling unit, 60-Image sensor, 61-Pixel, 62-Pixel row, 63-Drive circuit, 64-Signal processing circuit, 65-Illumination light timing, 66-Image timing, 70-Image screen, 71-Main image screen, 72, 73-Sub-image screen, 74-Input overview screen, 74a~74e-Reduced image, 75-Single-dot dashed frame, 100-Endoscope device.

Claims

1. An endoscope system comprising a display on which an examiner can visually recognize during an examination by an endoscope, and a processor, wherein a screen of the display includes a plurality of information areas and a selection area, the processor performs the following processing during the examination: displaying a plurality of kinds of information related to the examination in the plurality of information areas, respectively; displaying options of the information in information areas of a switching object included in the plurality of information areas in the selection area; and switching the information displayed in the information areas of the switching object in accordance with a user operation of selecting the options.

2. The endoscope system according to claim 1, wherein the information areas of the switching object are information areas selected by a user operation among the plurality of information areas.

3. The endoscope system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the options of the information are images including reduced images of the information.

4. The endoscope system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the options of the information include an option of information that is updated in accordance with a progress of the examination.

5. The endoscope system according to claim 4, wherein the processor updates display of the option of the information that is updated in accordance with the progress of the examination in the selection area in accordance with the progress of the examination.

6. The endoscope system according to claim 4, wherein the processor performs the following processing: in a case where the information that is updated in accordance with the progress of the examination is displayed in the information area, updating display of the information at a first frequency; and updating display of the option of the information that is updated in accordance with the progress of the examination in the selection area at a second frequency that is lower than the first frequency.

7. The endoscope system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of information areas include: a first information area that displays a moving image using an imaging image obtained from an imaging element provided to the endoscope; and a second information area that displays information different from the moving image, the information areas of the switching object are included in the second information area.

8. The endoscope system according to claim 7, wherein the second information area is capable of switching and displaying a plurality of kinds of information related to the examination including a result of analysis based on the imaging image, the selection area displays, as the options, a plurality of kinds of information related to the examination including the result of the analysis.

9. The endoscope system according to claim 8, wherein the endoscope system includes a light source capable of switching and irradiating a plurality of kinds of illumination light having different characteristics, the light source repeatedly performs the following actions, that is, after continuously irradiating illumination light of a first characteristic for a first period that lasts through a plurality of imaging action frames in succession, irradiating illumination light of a second characteristic different from the first characteristic for a second period that lasts through at least one imaging action frame, the processor performs the analysis based on the imaging image obtained in the second period.

10. The endoscope system according to claim 9, wherein the illumination light of the first characteristic is white light, and the illumination light of the second characteristic is light for image-enhanced observation. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 11. The endoscope system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the lengths of the first period and the second period are constant when the operation is repeated, or are not constant when the operation is repeated.

12. The endoscope system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the spectrum of the illumination light of the first property and the illumination light of the second property is constant when the operation is repeated, or is not constant when the operation is repeated.

13. The endoscope system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein there is a non-illumination period of the light source between the first period and the second period.

14. The endoscope system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the first period is a longer period than the second period.

15. The endoscope system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the analysis includes analysis of an insertion shape of an endoscope provided with the image pickup element.

16. The endoscope system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the analysis includes extraction of a contour of the picked-up image.

17. The endoscope system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the analysis includes detection of a region of interest in a subject into which an endoscope provided with the image pickup element is inserted.

18. The endoscope system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the analysis includes selection of a similar case image.

19. The endoscope system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the analysis includes information that assists in discrimination of a tumor and a non-tumor.

20. The endoscope system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the analysis includes determination of a state of an organ.

21. The endoscope system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the analysis includes generation of a cutaway predetermined line.

22. A control method of an endoscope system including a display that is visually recognized by an examiner when an examination is performed by an endoscope, wherein a screen of the display includes a plurality of information areas and a selection area, when the examination is performed, a plurality of kinds of information related to the examination are displayed in the plurality of information areas, respectively, an option of the information displayed in an information area that is a switching target included in the plurality of information areas is displayed in the selection area, the information displayed in the information area that is the switching target is switched according to a user operation that selects the option.

23. A computer-readable recording medium that stores a control program that controls an endoscope system including a display that is visually recognized by an examiner when an examination is performed by an endoscope, the control program causing a computer to execute the following processing: a screen of the display includes a plurality of information areas and a selection area; when the examination is performed, a plurality of kinds of information related to the examination are displayed in the plurality of information areas, respectively; an option of the information displayed in an information area that is a switching target included in the plurality of information areas is displayed in the selection area; the information displayed in the information area that is the switching target is switched according to a user operation that selects the option. The information displayed in the information area of the switching object is switched according to a user operation of selecting the option.

Images