Illumination device and camera device

Abstract

An illumination device and an imaging device. The illumination device is applied to an imaging section for imaging an object, characterized by comprising: a first objective cover composed of a light-transmissive member, disposed to direct light from the object to the imaging section in order for the imaging section to image the object, an area of a face substantially orthogonal to an optical axis of the imaging section being set to a prescribed first area; a second objective cover, an area of a face substantially orthogonal to the optical axis of the imaging section being set to a prescribed second area smaller than the first area; a first light source for illuminating the object via the first objective cover; and a second light source for illuminating the object via the second objective cover.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on January 20, 2020, with application number 202080011435.X and entitled "Lighting Device and Camera Device". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a lighting device and a camera device equipped with the lighting device. Background Technology

[0003] As a camera device equipped with an illumination device, for example, the camera device disclosed in cited document 1 is known. This camera device has an objective lens that contacts the skin of the human body via a gel, multiple light sources for illuminating light, and a camera unit for capturing images. The skin in contact with the objective lens is illuminated by multiple light sources located inside the camera device, and images are captured by the camera unit.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5797921 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] Typically, in imaging devices used to photograph skin, the aforementioned objective lens is a structure that needs to contact the skin surface via a gel to remove light reflection from the skin. However, depending on the position of the light source illuminating the skin, the light from the light source may be reflected by the objective lens, and due to the influence of the reflected light, the skin may not be properly imaged. This problem is not limited to photographing skin; the same issue may arise when photographing other objects.

[0009] The present invention was made in view of such a problem point, and its object is to provide an illumination device capable of suppressing the influence of reflected light from a light source to properly illuminate an object, and an imaging device having the illumination device.

[0010] Methods for solving problems

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an illumination device applied to a camera unit for photographing an object, characterized in that it comprises: a first objective lens cover, composed of a light-transmitting component, configured to guide light from the object to the camera unit in order to photograph the object, wherein the area of ​​a surface substantially orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera unit is set to a predetermined first area; a second objective lens cover, wherein the area of ​​a surface substantially orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera unit is set to a predetermined second area smaller than the first area; a first light source illuminating the object via the first objective lens cover; and a second light source illuminating the object via the second objective lens cover.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] According to the present invention, the influence of reflected light from the light source can be suppressed, and the object can be captured appropriately. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of the dermoscopic camera using Embodiment 1 of the present invention, showing the state without the adapter installed.

[0015] Figure 1B This is a perspective view of the dermoscopic camera using Embodiment 1 of the present invention, showing the state with the adapter installed.

[0016] Figure 2 It is a 3D exploded view of a dermoscopy camera.

[0017] Figure 3 It is a three-dimensional sectional view of the camera unit of a dermoscopic camera.

[0018] Figure 4 From Figure 1A Arrow IV in the image shows the main view of the illumination device of the dermoscopy camera.

[0019] Figure 5 It is Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the lighting device cut by the cutting line VV.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a lighting fixture with an adapter installed.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a front view of the base portion of the main body of the lighting device.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a front view of the first LED substrate removed from the base portion of the lighting device body.

[0023] Figure 9 yes Figure 5An enlarged view of the "IX" section.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a partial cross-sectional view from a dermoscopy camera.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the illumination during second dermoscopic imaging.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a dermoscopic camera with an adapter installed.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the illumination during second dermoscopic imaging.

[0028] Figure 14A It is a graph showing the illuminance distribution of the second objective lens based on simulation, and a graph showing the LED used for second dermoscopic imaging illuminated.

[0029] Figure 14B It is a diagram showing the illuminance distribution of the second objective lens based on simulation, and a diagram showing the illumination of the LED used for the first dermoscopic imaging.

[0030] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the shooting action of a dermoscopic camera.

[0031] Figure 16 This is a flowchart used to illustrate the procedures for dermoscopy photography.

[0032] Figure 17 This is a flowchart used to illustrate the first dermoscopic imaging procedure.

[0033] Figure 18 This is a flowchart used to illustrate the second dermoscopic imaging procedure.

[0034] Figure 19 It is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the focus position of the set camera object.

[0035] Figure 20 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the dermoscopic camera of Embodiment 2.

[0036] Figure 21 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the dermoscopic camera of Embodiment 2 with an adapter installed.

[0037] Figure 22A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the movement of the LED substrate in the operation of a dermoscopic camera, which is used to explain a modified example of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 22B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the rotation of the LED substrate in the operation of a dermoscopic camera, which is used to explain a variation of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 23 This is a flowchart illustrating the shooting action of a dermoscopic camera in a modified example of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the dermoscopy camera to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in this specification, the terms "dermoscope" and "dermoscopy" are used in the sense of using a magnifying glass (device) for skin examination and the skin examination or use of that magnifying glass.

[0041] In the following explanation, such as Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the explanation is based on an orthogonal coordinate system in which the side of the object being photographed (the subject) is defined as the front (front, front) of the dermoscopic camera 1, the opposite side is defined as the rear, and the up, down, left, and right directions when viewing the dermoscopic camera 1 from the front are directly defined as the up, down, left, and right directions. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the installation of each component is carried out using appropriate methods such as screws, bolts, or fittings.

[0042] (Regarding Implementation Method 1)

[0043] As an example of an imaging device, Embodiment 1 of the dermoscopy camera is an imaging device that captures images for examining the condition of the skin. The dermoscopy camera 1 is capable of capturing images such as... Figure 1B The adapter 70 is installed as shown in the diagram, and... Figure 1A The subject is filmed with the adapter 70 removed as shown. As will be described later, the adapter 70 is used when filming narrow areas such as between fingers or in the hollow of an ear.

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown, the dermoscopic camera 1 has a controller 2, a camera body 3 disposed in front of the controller 2, and an illumination device 4 disposed in front of the camera body 3.

[0045] The controller 2 includes: a display unit 10 with a touch panel LCD monitor 11 that displays various operation information and captured images, and serves as a setting unit for receiving user operations; a main body 20 with operation buttons such as a shutter button 21 and a power button 22; and a circuit board 30 housed between the display unit 10 and the main body 20. The circuit board 30 includes a storage unit 200 for storing captured images and a control unit 300 for controlling various parts of the dermoscopic camera 1.

[0046] The camera body 3 has a camera unit 40 and a frame 50 mounted on the housing 60 (described later) while supporting the camera unit 40. Figure 3 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the imaging unit 40 of the dermoscopic camera 1. The imaging unit 40 has an imaging lens system 41 with a lens assembly mounted on the optical axis OA. Furthermore, a circuit board 43 and an imaging element 44 are housed behind the imaging lens system 41, and in front of it, from front to back, an infrared cut-off filter (IRCF) 45, an ultraviolet transmission filter 46, and a polarization filter 47 are arranged sequentially. Additionally, on the left side of the imaging unit 40, a device for transmitting signals through a controller 2 extends... Figure 2 The flexible circuit board 48 of the camera unit 40 is operated.

[0047] The camera lens system 41 includes a lens assembly having a first camera lens 41a and a second camera lens 41b on an optical axis OA, and a lens barrel 41c housing the second camera lens 41b. The first camera lens 41a and the second camera lens 41b are positioned between the skin lesion, which is the subject of the image, and the imaging element 44, so that the image of the subject is imaged on the imaging element 44. The first camera lens 41a can move in the front-back direction, thereby changing the focal distance and changing the magnification. In the first camera lens 41a and the second camera lens 41b, a lens is used that, when used together, can magnify the patient's lesion to 10 to 30 times.

[0048] The imaging element 44 is a known imaging element, such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor, configured to convert the optical image of the subject into an electrical signal. The imaging unit 40 can use the imaging element 44 to capture images of the subject. The imaging unit 40 can, for example, capture still images and moving images.

[0049] like Figure 2As shown, the lighting device 4 includes: a housing 60, mounted on the main body 20 of the controller 2; a lighting device body 100, mounted on the front end of the housing 60; and an adapter 70, mounted on the housing 60, covering the front of the lighting device body 100. As described above, the adapter 70 is a detachable structure, which can be installed on the housing 60 when filming narrow areas such as between fingers or in the recess of an ear, and can be removed when filming the face, arm, or other similar areas. Thus, the adapter 70 is part of the lighting device 4 when used for filming, and is not included in the lighting device 4 when not used for filming.

[0050] like Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the housing 60 is cylindrical, and the camera body 3 is housed inside it. Figure 4 As shown, four protrusions 61 are evenly spaced on the outer circumferential surface of the cover 60. These protrusions 61 engage with the adapter 70 when the adapter 70 is installed, and disengage when the adapter 70 is removed. Additionally, as... Figure 4 As shown, on the outer peripheral surface of the housing 60, two detection switches 62 are equally spaced near the protrusion 61. When viewed from the front, the two detection switches 62 are arranged such that they sandwich the optical axis OA along the vertical direction. Figure 6 As shown, the detection switch 62 is forced by the spring 62a in a direction protruding from the housing 60. When the adapter 70 is removed, the detection switch 62 protrudes from the housing 60 and is in the off state. On the other hand, when the adapter 70 is installed via the protrusion 61, the detection switch 62 is pressed back by the adapter 70 and retracts. At this time, the detection switch 62 is in the on state. The two detection switches 62 function as a detection unit for detecting the installation and removal of the adapter 70.

[0051] like Figure 5 As shown, the main body 100 of the lighting device has: a base portion 110, which serves as a light source and is provided with a plurality of LED substrates equipped with LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes); a first annular cover portion 120 covering the periphery of the base portion 110; and a second cover portion 130, which is threadedly fixed to the first cover portion 120.

[0052] like Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the base portion 110 includes a base portion main body 180 and first to sixth LED substrates 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116 disposed on the base portion main body 180, as well as four polarizing plates 117.

[0053] The base body 180 is, for example, made of black synthetic resin. Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the base body 180 has: a cylindrical portion 181; an annular portion 182 formed at the front end of the cylindrical portion 181; first to fourth wall portions 183 to 186 disposed on the radial inner side of the annular portion 182 and extending obliquely rearward from the annular portion 182; four connecting portions 187 disposed between adjacent first to fourth wall portions 183 to 186; and a fifth wall portion 188 connected to the edges of the first to fourth wall portions 183 to 186.

[0054] like Figure 5 As shown, the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 181 is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the cover 60, and the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 181 fits into the inner circumferential surface of the cover 60. Thus, the base portion main body 180 is mounted on the cover 60.

[0055] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the annular portion 182 has a substrate mounting surface 182a on which the first LED substrate 111 is mounted. The substrate mounting surface 182a is a plane formed facing forward and has four threaded holes 182b for mounting the first LED substrate 111.

[0056] like Figure 5 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the first wall portion 183 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate, with its main surface facing slightly downwards and forward, and inclined relative to the optical axis OA. A second LED substrate 112 is mounted on the first wall portion 183 from the rear via screws (not shown), and an opening 183a is formed for exposing the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the second LED substrate 112 to the front. Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, a polarizing plate 117 is mounted on the front surface of the first wall portion 183.

[0057] like Figure 8 As shown, the second wall portion 184 is formed into a rectangular plate shape, with its main surface facing slightly to the left and inclined relative to the optical axis OA. A third LED substrate 113 is mounted from the rear of the second wall portion 184 using screws (not shown), and an opening 184a is formed to expose the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the third LED substrate 113 to the front. Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, a polarizing plate 117 is mounted on the front surface of the second wall portion 184.

[0058] like Figure 5 and Figure 8As shown, the third wall portion 185 is formed into a rectangular plate shape, with its main surface facing slightly upwards and forward, and inclined relative to the optical axis OA. A fourth LED substrate 114 is mounted from the rear of the third wall portion 185 using screws (not shown), and an opening 185a is formed to expose the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the fourth LED substrate 114 forward. Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, a polarizing plate 117 is installed on the front surface of the third wall portion 185.

[0059] like Figure 8 As shown, the fourth wall portion 186 is rectangular in shape, with its main surface facing slightly to the right and tilted relative to the optical axis OA. A fifth LED substrate 115 is mounted from the rear of the fourth wall portion 186 using screws (not shown), and an opening 186a is formed to expose the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the fifth LED substrate 115 to the front. Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, a polarizing plate 117 is installed on the front surface of the fourth wall portion 186.

[0060] Four connecting portions 187 are formed between the first to fourth rectangular wall portions 183 to 186 that extend obliquely backward from the annular portion 182. In this way, the four connecting portions 187 connect adjacent first to fourth wall portions 183 to 186, forming a continuous wall portion in the circumferential direction together with the first to fourth wall portions 183 to 186.

[0061] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the fifth wall portion 188 is a rectangular wall portion facing forward, connected to the edges of the first to fourth wall portions 183 to 186 extending rearward. In the fifth wall portion 188, a sixth LED substrate 116 is mounted from the rear via screws (not shown), and an opening 188a is formed for exposing the four LEDs 144 disposed on the sixth LED substrate 116 to the front. Additionally, a [feature / feature] is formed in the center of the fifth wall portion 188. Figure 3 The lens barrel 41c of the camera unit shown is inserted through the lens barrel insertion hole 188b.

[0062] The base body 180 is fitted and mounted while holding the first to sixth LED substrates 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116 and the polarizing plate 117. Figure 6 The cover shown is 60.

[0063] like Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first LED substrate 111 is secured by screws 189 ( Figure 7The annular substrate mounted on the substrate mounting surface 182a of the base body 180 has 16 LEDs 140 arranged circumferentially. The LEDs 140 are, for example, LEDs that emit white light, and function as ring flash lamps that emit light forward from the outer periphery of the lighting device body 100. The LEDs 140 are used in a general-purpose dermoscopic camera 1 (…). Figure 1A When photographing a skin lesion (as is usually done), light is emitted and illuminating the skin lesion.

[0064] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the second LED substrate 112 is a rectangular substrate extending in the left-right direction, which is threaded from the rear to the first wall portion 183 of the base body 180. Figure 8 As shown, on the second LED substrate 112, LEDs 141 emitting visible light, LEDs 142 emitting visible light, LEDs 143 emitting ultraviolet light, and LEDs 141 emitting visible light are arranged in a row from left to right in this order. Two of the LEDs 142 are covered by a polarizer 117. Thus, the two LEDs 142 emit polarized light. Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown, the second LED substrate 112 is disposed on the first wall portion 183, which is tilted forward relative to the vertical direction. Therefore, the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 disposed on the second LED substrate 112 are positioned such that they face the optical axis OA of the imaging unit 40, i.e., in... Figure 5 It is positioned slightly downwards and forwards from the center.

[0065] like Figure 8 As shown, the third LED substrate 113 is a rectangular substrate extending in the vertical direction, which is threaded from the rear to the second wall portion 184 of the base body 180 and arranged in a direction orthogonal to the second LED substrate 112. On the third LED substrate 113, similarly to the second LED substrate 112, LEDs 141 emitting visible light, LEDs 142 emitting visible light, LEDs 143 emitting ultraviolet light, and LEDs 141 emitting visible light are arranged in a row from top to bottom in this order. The fact that two LEDs 142 are covered by polarizing plates 117 is also the same as the structure of the second LED substrate 112. Furthermore, the third LED substrate 113 is provided on the inclined second wall portion 184 of the base body 180, and the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 provided on the third LED substrate 113 are arranged with their optical axes OA facing the imaging unit 40. Figure 8 It is positioned slightly to the left of the center.

[0066] like Figure 8As shown, the structure of the fourth LED substrate 114 is the same as that of the second LED substrate 112 rotated 180° around the optical axis OA. That is, LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the second LED substrate 112 and LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the fourth LED substrate 114 are arranged symmetrically vertically around the optical axis OA. Since the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 on the fourth LED substrate 114 are positioned slightly forward and upward, they emit light towards the optical axis OA. Furthermore, the two LEDs 142 on the fourth LED substrate 114 are covered by a polarizing plate 117. Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, the structure of the fifth LED substrate 115 is the same as that of the third LED substrate 113 rotated 180° around the optical axis OA. That is, the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the third LED substrate 113 and the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the fifth LED substrate 115 are arranged symmetrically about the optical axis OA. Since the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 on the fifth LED substrate 115 are positioned slightly to the right and forward, they emit light towards the optical axis OA. In addition, the two LEDs 142 on the fifth LED substrate 115 are covered by the polarizer 117. The LEDs 141, 142, and 143 on the second to fifth LED substrates 112, 113, 114, and 115 are respectively removed from the adapter 70. Figure 6 )of Figure 5 When performing dermoscopic imaging (first dermoscopic imaging) with the illumination device 4 shown, light is shone onto the affected skin area. Additionally, LEDs 142 and 143, other than LED 141, are equipped with adapter 70. Figure 6 When performing dermoscopic photography (second dermoscopic photography) with the illumination device 4 shown, light is also shone onto the affected skin area.

[0067] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the sixth LED substrate 116 is a rectangular substrate that is threaded from the rear to the fifth wall portion 188 of the base body 180. A lens barrel insertion hole 116a is formed on the sixth LED substrate 116, which corresponds to the lens barrel insertion hole 188b formed in the fifth wall portion 188 of the base body 180. Furthermore, four LEDs 144 that emit visible light during the second dermoscopic imaging are arranged around the lens barrel insertion hole 188b (116a) on the sixth LED substrate 116. The four LEDs 144 are arranged facing forward, emitting light towards the opening 188a formed in the fifth wall portion 188 of the base body 180. During the second dermoscopic imaging, the four LEDs 144 on the sixth LED substrate 116 illuminate the affected skin area instead of LED 141.

[0068] Thus, the lighting device 4 is provided with: LED 140, which emits light during normal shooting; LED 141, which emits light only during the first dermoscopic shooting; LED 144, which emits light only during the second dermoscopic shooting; and LEDs 142 and 143, which emit light during the first and second dermoscopic shooting.

[0069] like Figure 5 As shown, the first cover portion 120 covering the front end of the base portion 110 has a first cover portion body 121 and a light-transmitting plate 122 disposed on the front surface of the first cover portion body 121. The first cover portion body 121 is made of, for example, black synthetic resin, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the first cover 120 has an annular cover 121a covering the front of the first LED substrate 111, and a cylindrical outer wall 121b and an inner wall 121c erected on the cover 121a. The first cover 120 is mounted on the base body 180 with the outer wall 121b and the inner wall 121c abutting against the annular portion 182. A receiving space A for receiving the first LED substrate 111 and LEDs 140 is formed on the rear surface of the first cover body 121. This receiving space A is formed by the cover 121a, the outer wall 121b, the inner wall 121c, and the annular portion 182 of the base body 180. In addition, a light emitting hole 121d is formed in the cover 121a at a position corresponding to the LEDs 140. Therefore, corresponding to the 16 LEDs 140 provided on the first LED substrate 111, as Figure 4 As shown, 16 light-emitting holes 121d are formed in the first cover 120. The light-transmitting plate 122 is made of, for example, transparent synthetic resin, which allows light from the LED 140 to pass through the light-emitting holes 121d and prevents dust from entering the interior of the dermoscopic camera 1 by covering the light-emitting holes 121d. In this way, by emitting light from the LED 140 through the multiple light-emitting holes 121d arranged in the circumferential direction, the illumination device 4 can function as a ring flash.

[0070] In addition, such as Figure 9As shown, the outer wall portion 121b and inner wall portion 121c of the first cover body 121 are formed to cover the radially outer and inner end faces 111a, 111a of the first LED substrate 111, respectively. Furthermore, as described above, the base body 180 defining the receiving space A and the first cover body 121 are formed, for example, of black synthetic resin. Thus, light from the LED 140 passing through the first LED substrate 111 is absorbed by the base body 180, the outer wall portion 121b, and the inner wall portion 121c. For example, light L1 that is to be emitted from the inner end face 111a passing through the first LED substrate 111 is absorbed by the inner wall portion 121c. Additionally, light L2 that is to be transmitted rearward through the first LED substrate 111 is absorbed by the base body 180. Therefore, light emitted from the LED 140 only passes through the light emission hole 121d and is emitted outward from the receiving space A, suppressing light from entering the dermoscopic camera 1 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 10 As shown, light leakage occurs in space B) where the tip of the lens barrel 41c and the LEDs 141, 142, 143, and 144 used for dermoscopic imaging are located. Additionally, as... Figure 9 As shown, an internal thread 121e for mounting the second cover 130 is formed in the inner wall portion 121c.

[0071] like Figures 4-6 As shown, the second cover 130 has a cylindrical body 131, which is formed in the shape of a frustum-cone and serves as the first cover, and a first objective lens cover 132 with an opening 131a embedded in the top (front end) of the cylindrical body 131. The cylindrical body 131 is made of a light-blocking material so that transmitted light is not converted into electrical signals by the imaging element, for example, it is made of a resin such as a polyvinyl chloride derivative or an acrylic resin. Alternatively, a coating for preventing light transmission may be applied to the surface of the cylindrical body 131. The inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical body 131 is textured or coated with a reflective anti-reflective coating to suppress light reflection. Furthermore, as... Figure 9 As shown, an external thread 131b is formed at the bottom (rear end) of the cylinder 131, which engages with the internal thread 121e formed on the inner wall portion 121c. The external thread 131b and the internal thread 121e formed on the first cover portion 120 function as a loading and unloading unit for loading and unloading the second cover portion 130 onto the first cover portion 120.

[0072] Figure 5The first objective lens cover 132 shown is made of a light-transmitting component, such as glass, and is formed in a circular plate shape. The first objective lens cover 132 is arranged such that its main surface is orthogonal to the optical axis OA, and the area of ​​the main surface of the first objective lens cover 132 is set to a predetermined first area. In the case of dermoscopic imaging of a skin lesion, suppressing diffuse reflection of light from the skin surface is important. To suppress this diffuse reflection, a gel is applied to the skin lesion, and the first objective lens cover 132 is pressed down on it. This isolates the air layer between the skin lesion and the first objective lens cover 132, thus suppressing diffuse reflection of light from the skin surface. In this way, the first objective lens cover 132 pressed against the skin lesion allows light from the lens mounted on the optical axis to pass through. Figure 8 The light from LEDs 141, 142, 143, and 144 of the second to sixth LED substrates 112 to 116 shown passes through and illuminates the affected area of ​​the skin. The light reflected from the affected area enters the dermoscopic camera 1 and is guided to the camera unit 40.

[0073] During the first dermoscopy, such as Figure 10 As shown, a region r2 is formed around the area r1 where the skin S1 contacts the first objective lens cover 132, where the tip of the skin S1 contacts the barrel 131. Because the barrel 131 contacts the skin S1 in this region r2, external light is blocked, and the skin S1 in contact with the first objective lens cover 132 is less susceptible to external light. Therefore, light from LEDs 141, 142, 143, and 144 mounted on the second to sixth LED substrates 112 to 116 can be effectively irradiated onto the skin S1 in contact with the first objective lens cover 132. Furthermore, by pressing the first objective lens cover 132 against the skin S1, the distance between the skin S1 and the dermatological camera 1 and the brightness of the illuminated skin S1 can be maintained at a constant level, stabilizing exposure conditions and thus ensuring stable dermatological imaging. Moreover, the first objective lens cover 132 protects the inside of the dermatological camera 1 from moisture and dust.

[0074] like Figure 1B and Figure 6 As shown, the adapter 70 has a frustoconical cylindrical body 71 serving as a second cover, and a second objective lens cover 72 embedded in an opening 71a formed at the top (front end) of the cylindrical body 71. The cylindrical body 71 is made of resin such as a polyvinyl chloride derivative or an acrylic resin, and its inner circumferential surface is textured or coated with an anti-reflective coating to suppress light reflection. Additionally, as... Figure 6As shown, a hook-shaped portion 71b is formed at the bottom (rear end) of the cylindrical body 71. By engaging this hook-shaped portion 71b with the protrusion 61 formed on the cover 60, the adapter 70 can be installed on the cover 60. Consequently, the detection switch 62 is pressed back by the inner wall 70a of the adapter 70, becoming in the ON state. On the other hand, when the adapter 70 is removed from the cover 60, the hook-shaped portion 71b expands, and the engagement with the protrusion 61 is released. Consequently, the detection switch 62 is released from the pressing state of the inner wall 70a of the adapter 70 and protrudes from the cover 60, becoming in the OFF state. The hook-shaped portion 71b and the protrusion 61 function as a loading and unloading unit for loading and unloading the adapter 70 relative to the cover 60.

[0075] The second objective lens cover 72 is made of a light-transmitting component, such as glass, and is formed in a circular plate shape. During second dermoscopic imaging, it contacts the skin lesion being photographed. The second objective lens cover 72 is arranged with its principal surface orthogonal to the optical axis OA, and the area of ​​the principal surface of the second objective lens cover 72 is set to a predetermined second area smaller than the first area of ​​the first objective lens cover 132. Therefore, the second objective lens cover 72 can contact the narrow area of ​​the skin lesion through the pointed barrel 71. By applying gel to the narrow area of ​​the skin lesion and pressing the second objective lens cover 72, diffuse reflection of light from the skin lesion can be suppressed. During second dermoscopic imaging, the second objective lens cover 72 allows light to pass through from the area... Figure 8 The light emitted from LEDs 142 and 143 on the second to fifth LED substrates 112 to 115, and the light emitted from LED 144 on the sixth LED substrate 116, are transmitted to the skin lesion and the light reflected from the skin lesion is also transmitted into it.

[0076] During the second dermoscopy, such as Figure 12 As shown, a region r4 is formed around the area r3 where the skin S2 contacts the second objective lens cover 72, where the tip of the tube body 71 contacts the skin S2. Through the tube body 71 in this region r4 where it contacts the skin S2, external light is blocked, and the skin S2 in contact with the second objective lens cover 72 is less susceptible to the influence of external light. Furthermore, by providing the second objective lens cover 72, the effect of stable dermoscopic imaging is the same as that provided by providing the first objective lens cover 132.

[0077] Next, refer to Figures 10-13 The arrangement of LEDs, which serve as light-emitting units, in the lighting device 4 will be described in further detail. Additionally, in... Figures 10-13 To avoid complicating the accompanying drawings, only the front portion of the dermoscopy camera 1 is shown. Additionally, Figures 10-13 The cut-off position of the dermoscopic camera 1 in the cross-sectional view and Figure 5 and Figure 6The cut-off points in the sectional views are the same, cut along a cut line in the vertical direction. Additionally, in Figure 11 and Figure 13 In the image, shadow lines were applied to the areas illuminated by LEDs, with the shadow lines applied in a darker color to the brighter the illuminated areas.

[0078] In dermoscopy camera 1, such as Figure 10 As shown, the lens barrel 41c of the camera lens system 41 is inserted into the lens barrel insertion holes 116a and 188b and protrudes from the base body 180. During the first dermoscopic imaging, the camera lens system 41 moves the lens group to focus on the skin S1 that is in contact with the first objective lens cover 132. Assuming that the skin S1 is in contact with the first objective lens cover 132, light enters the dermoscopic camera 1, and then, the path of the light entering the imaging element 44 via the lens group such as the first camera lens 41a is as follows: Figure 10 As shown.

[0079] Point C is a point on the skin S1, located at the uppermost edge of the area that can be captured by the imaging element 44. Therefore, during the first dermoscopic imaging, the light rays passing through point C are located at the uppermost (outermost) edge of the light beam that enters the imaging element 44 from the subject through the first objective lens 132. The light reflected from point C on the skin S1 enters in various directions, and a portion of it enters the imaging element 44 via the lens assembly. Among the light rays entering the imaging element 44 through point C, the uppermost ray is the upper ray 171, and the lowermost ray is the lower ray 172. In addition, the upper ray 171 is the uppermost (outermost) upper ray among the multiple upper rays that enter the imaging element 44 through the first objective lens 132. The upper ray 171 and the lower ray 172 passing through point C are refracted by the lens assembly including the second imaging lens 41b and the first imaging lens 41a, and focused at point C' at the end of the imaging element 44. In addition, the light rays passing through point C, that is, the light rays located between the upper light ray 171 and the lower light ray 172 (e.g., the principal light ray), also pass through the first objective lens cover 132, are refracted by the lens group such as the second camera lens 41b, and are focused on point C' at the end of the imaging element 44.

[0080] Furthermore, during the first dermoscopic imaging, when the skin S1 is brought into contact with the first objective lens cover 132, light from the side forward of the first objective lens cover 132 hardly enters. Therefore, the portion of the upper ray 171 and lower ray 172 that is forward of the first objective lens cover 132 (skin S1 side) becomes imaginary ray, and this portion is also referred to as imaginary upper ray 171a and imaginary lower ray 172a.

[0081] The reversed upper ray 171' is an imaginary ray that reverses the portion of the upper ray 171 passing through point C that is forward of the first objective lens 132 (skin S1 side) (imaginary upper ray 171a) towards the imaging element 44 with the line extending vertically (orthogonal to the optical axis OA) from the front surface 132a of the first objective lens 132 as its axis of symmetry. The reversed lower ray 172' is an imaginary ray that reverses the portion of the lower ray 172 passing through point C that is forward of the first objective lens 132 (skin S1 side) (imaginary lower ray 172a) towards the imaging element 44 with the line extending vertically from the front surface 132a of the first objective lens 132 as its axis of symmetry.

[0082] Point D is a point on the skin S1, located at the lowest point within the area that can be captured by the imaging element 44. Therefore, during the first dermoscopic imaging, the light rays passing through point D are located at the lowest (outermost) point among the light rays contained in the beam of light incident from the subject through the first objective lens 132 into the imaging element 44. The light reflected from point D on the skin S1 enters various directions, and a portion of it is incident into the imaging element 44 via the lens assembly. Among the light rays incident into the imaging element 44 via point D, the uppermost ray is the upper ray 173, and the lowermost ray is the lower ray 174. Furthermore, the lower ray 174 is the lowest (outermost) lower ray among the multiple lower rays incident into the imaging element 44 via the lens assembly. In addition, the upper ray 173 and the lower ray 174 are illustrated using dashed lines to easily distinguish them from the upper ray 171 and lower ray 172 illustrated with solid lines. The upper ray 173 and lower ray 174 passing through point D pass through the first objective lens cover 132, are refracted by the lens assembly (second camera lens 41b, etc.), and converge at point D' at the end of the image sensor 44. Similarly, the ray passing through point D, i.e., the ray between the upper ray 173 and the lower ray 174 (e.g., the principal ray), also passes through the first objective lens cover 132, is refracted in the lens assembly, and converges at point C' at the end of the image sensor 44.

[0083] Furthermore, during the first dermoscopic imaging, when the skin S1 is brought into contact with the first objective lens cover 132, light from the side forward of the first objective lens cover 132 hardly enters. Therefore, the portion of the upper ray 173 and lower ray 174 that is forward of the first objective lens cover 132 (skin S1 side) becomes imaginary ray, and this portion is also referred to as imaginary upper ray 173a and imaginary lower ray 174a.

[0084] The reversed upper ray 173' is an imaginary ray that reverses the portion of the upper ray 173 passing through point D that is forward of the first objective lens 132 (skin S1 side) (imaginary upper ray 173a) towards the imaging element 44 with the line extending vertically (orthogonal to the optical axis OA) from the front surface 132a of the first objective lens 132 as its axis of symmetry. The reversed lower ray 174' is an imaginary ray that reverses the portion of the lower ray 174 passing through point D that is forward of the first objective lens 132 (skin S1 side) (imaginary lower ray 174a) towards the imaging element 44 with the line extending vertically from the front surface 132a of the first objective lens 132 as its axis of symmetry.

[0085] Here, the region 501a that is inverted about the line extending vertically (orthogonal to the optical axis OA) from the front surface 132a of the first objective lens hood 132 is the first inverted region 501b. The first region 501a is the region located in front of the first objective lens hood 132, which is the region between the uppermost upper ray (upper ray 171) and the lowermost lower ray (lower ray 174) of the light beam incident on the imaging element 44 through the first objective lens hood 132. The first region 501a is an imaginary region between the imaginary upper ray 171a and the imaginary lower ray 174a. Similarly, the first inverted region 501b is an imaginary region between the inverted upper ray 171' and the inverted lower ray 174'. Furthermore, while the first region 501a and the first inverted region 501b are represented as trapezoidal shapes in the cross-sectional view, in reality, the former, the first region 501a, is formed by rotating the imaginary upper ray 171a and the imaginary lower ray 174a around the optical axis OA, and the latter, the first inverted region 501b, is formed by inverting this region; both are frustoconical regions. At this time, viewed from the optical axis OA, the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the second LED substrate 112 and the fourth LED substrate 114 are located in regions further outward than the first inverted region 501b. By configuring it in this way, the light from the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 reflected from the rear surface 132b of the first objective lens cover 132 can be limited from entering the imaging element 44. Thus, the influence of the reflected light from the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 reflected from the rear surface 132b of the first objective lens cover 132 can be suppressed to a region in the center of the captured image without affecting it.

[0086] Furthermore, the outermost rays in the beam incident on the imaging element 44, which is located in front of the first objective lens 132, are the imaginary lower ray 172a and the imaginary upper ray 173a. The region in which the second region 502a is reversed about the line extending vertically (orthogonal to the optical axis OA) from the front surface 132a of the first objective lens 132 is the second reversed region 502b. The second region 502a is the region located in front of the first objective lens 132, within the region sandwiched between the imaginary lower ray 172a and the imaginary upper ray 173a. The second region 502a is an imaginary region sandwiched between the imaginary lower ray 172a and the imaginary upper ray 173a. Additionally, the second reversed region 502b is also an imaginary region sandwiched between the reversed lower ray 172' and the reversed upper ray 173'. Furthermore, while the second region 502a and the second inverted region 502b are represented as trapezoidal in cross-sectional views, in reality, the former, the second region 502a, is formed by rotating the imaginary lower ray 172a and the imaginary upper ray 173a around the optical axis OA, and the latter, the second inverted region 502b, is formed by inverting this region; both are frustoconical regions. LEDs 141, 142, and 143, disposed on the second LED substrate 112 and the fourth LED substrate 114, are arranged within the second inverted region 502b. Therefore, LEDs 141, 142, and 143 are not excessively positioned on the outer side, thus preventing the illumination device 4 and the dermoscopic camera 1 from becoming too large.

[0087] Refer to the sectional view cut along the vertical cutting line. Figure 10 The configuration of LEDs 141, 142, and 143 on the second LED substrate 112 and the fourth LED substrate 114, which are arranged vertically, has been described. Similarly, the configuration of LEDs 141, 142, and 143 on the third LED substrate 113, which is arranged horizontally, has also been described. Figure 8 ) and the fifth LED substrate 115 ( Figure 8 The arrangement of LEDs 141, 142, and 143 can also be explained with reference to the cross-sectional view cut along the left-right direction. That is, the third LED substrate 113 ( Figure 8 ) and the fifth LED substrate 115 ( Figure 8 LEDs 141, 142, and 143 are also located in a region that is outside the first reversal region 501b when viewed from the optical axis OA, and are located within the second reversal region 502b.

[0088] like Figure 11 As shown, LEDs 141, 142, and 143 disposed on the second LED substrate 112 are arranged in a manner facing slightly downwards and forwards. Similarly, as Figure 11 As shown, LEDs 141, 142, and 143, disposed on the fourth LED substrate 114, are arranged facing slightly upwards and forwards. Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, LEDs 141, 142, and 143 on the third LED substrate 113 are arranged facing slightly to the left, while LEDs 141, 142, and 143 on the fifth LED substrate 115 are arranged facing slightly to the right. With this arrangement, during the first dermoscopic imaging, each of the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 on the second to fifth LED substrates 112 to 115 emits light toward the first objective lens cover 132. This allows the entire area of ​​the first objective lens cover 132 to be placed in a brightly illuminated space B1, suppressing uneven lighting and providing bright illumination of the skin S1 in contact with the first objective lens cover 132.

[0089] As described above, during the first dermoscopic imaging, by focusing the light from the emitting LEDs 141, 142, and 143 toward the first objective lens cover 132, uneven illumination of the skin S1 can be suppressed. Furthermore, by arranging the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 as described above, the influence of reflected light from the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 reflected by the first objective lens cover 132 can be suppressed to a central area that does not affect the captured image, and the size of the illumination device 4 and the dermoscopic camera 1 can be reduced.

[0090] Next, the configuration of LED 144, which emits light during the second dermoscopic imaging, located on the sixth LED substrate 116, will be described. During the second dermoscopic imaging, the camera lens system 41 moves the lens assembly, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the focus is aligned with the skin S2 that is in contact with the second objective lens cover 72. Thus, assuming the skin S2 is in contact with the second objective lens cover 72, the path of light entering the dermoscopic camera 1 and subsequently, via the lens group such as the first camera lens 41a, and then entering the imaging element 44 is as follows: Figure 12 As shown.

[0091] Point E is a point on the skin S2, located at the uppermost edge of the area that can be captured by the imaging element 44. Therefore, during the second dermoscopic imaging, the light rays passing through point E are located at the uppermost (outermost) edge of the light beam that enters the imaging element 44 from the subject through the second objective lens 72. The light reflected from point E on the skin S2 enters in various directions, and a portion of it enters the imaging element 44 via the lens assembly. Among the light rays entering the imaging element 44 through point E, the uppermost ray is the upper ray 175, and the lowermost ray is the lower ray 176. Furthermore, the upper ray 175 is the uppermost (outermost) upper ray among the multiple upper rays that enter the imaging element 44 through the second objective lens 72. The upper ray 175 and the lower ray 176 passing through point E are refracted in the lens assembly through the second objective lens 72 and the first objective lens 132, and focused at point E' at the end of the imaging element 44.

[0092] Furthermore, during the second dermoscopic imaging, when the skin S2 is brought into contact with the second objective lens cover 72, almost no light enters from the side forward of the second objective lens cover 72. Therefore, since the portion of the upper ray 175 and lower ray 176 that is forward of the second objective lens cover 72 (skin S2 side) is considered an imaginary ray, this portion is also referred to as imaginary upper ray 175a and imaginary lower ray 176a.

[0093] The reversed upper ray 175' is an imaginary ray that reverses the portion of the upper ray 175 passing through point E, which is located in front of the second objective lens 72 (skin S2 side) (imaginary upper ray 175a), about the axis of symmetry of a line extending vertically (orthogonal to the optical axis OA) from the front surface 72a of the second objective lens 72 towards the imaging element 44. The reversed lower ray 176' is an imaginary ray that reverses the portion of the lower ray 176 passing through point E, which is located in front of the second objective lens 72 (skin S2 side) (imaginary lower ray 176a), about the axis of symmetry of a line extending vertically from the front surface 72a of the second objective lens 72 towards the imaging element 44.

[0094] Point F is a point on the skin S2, located at the lowest point within the area that can be captured by the imaging element 44. Therefore, during the second dermoscopic imaging, the light rays passing through point F are located at the lowest (outer) point among the light rays contained in the beam of light incident from the subject through the second objective lens 72 into the imaging element 44. The light reflected from point F on the skin S2 enters various directions, and a portion of it is incident into the imaging element 44 via the lens assembly. Among the light rays incident into the imaging element 44 through point F, the uppermost ray is the upper ray 177, and the lowermost ray is the lower ray 178. In addition, the lower ray 178 is the lowest (outer) lower ray among the multiple lower rays incident into the imaging element 44 through the second objective lens 72. The upper ray 177 and the lower ray 178 passing through point F are refracted in the lens assembly through the second objective lens 72 and the first objective lens 132, and focused at point F' at the end of the imaging element 44.

[0095] Furthermore, during the second dermoscopic imaging, when the skin S2 is brought into contact with the second objective lens cover 72, almost no light enters from the side forward of the second objective lens cover 72. Therefore, the portion of the upper ray 177 and the lower ray 178 that is forward of the second objective lens cover 72 (skin S2 side) becomes imaginary ray, and this portion is also referred to as imaginary upper ray 177a and imaginary lower ray 178a.

[0096] The reversed upper ray 177' is an imaginary ray that reverses the portion of the upper ray 177 passing through point F that is forward of the second objective lens 72 (skin S2 side) (imaginary upper ray 177a) towards the imaging element 44 with the line extending vertically (orthogonal to the optical axis OA) from the front surface 72a of the second objective lens 72 as its axis of symmetry. The reversed lower ray 178' is an imaginary ray that reverses the portion of the lower ray 178 passing through point F that is forward of the second objective lens 72 (skin S2 side) (imaginary lower ray 178a) towards the imaging element 44 with the line extending vertically from the front surface 72a of the second objective lens 72 as its axis of symmetry.

[0097] Here, the region 503a that is reversed about the line extending vertically (orthogonal to the optical axis OA) from the front surface 72a of the second objective lens cover 72 is the third reversed region 503b. The third region 503a is located in front of the second objective lens cover 72, within the region formed by the uppermost upper ray (upper ray 175) and the lowermost lower ray (lower ray 178) of the light beam incident on the imaging element 44 through the second objective lens cover 72. The third region 503a is an imaginary region formed by the imaginary upper ray 175a and the imaginary lower ray 178a. Similarly, the third reversed region 503b is an imaginary region formed by the reversed upper ray 175' and the reversed lower ray 178'. Furthermore, while the third region 503a and the third inverted region 503b are represented as trapezoidal shapes in the cross-sectional view, the former, the third region 503a, is actually formed by rotating the imaginary upper ray 175a and the imaginary lower ray 178a around the optical axis OA, and the latter, the third inverted region 503b, is formed by reversing this region; both are frustoconical regions. At this time, the LED 144 disposed on the sixth LED substrate 116 is located in a region further outward than the third inverted region 503b. Additionally, the LED 144 disposed on the sixth LED substrate 116 also has the same configuration in a cross-sectional view cut along the left-right direction, located in a region further outward than the third inverted region 503b when viewed from the optical axis OA. By configuring it in this way, the light from the LED 144 reflected from the rear surface 72b of the second objective lens cover 72 can be limited from entering the imaging element 44. Thus, the influence of the reflected light from the LED 144 reflected from the rear surface 72b of the second objective lens cover 72 can be suppressed to a region in the center of the captured image that does not affect it.

[0098] Furthermore, the outermost rays in the beam of light incident on the second objective lens 72, which is located in front of the imaging element 44, are the imaginary lower ray 176a and the imaginary upper ray 177a. The region in which the fourth region 504a is reversed about the line extending vertically (orthogonal to the optical axis OA) from the front surface 72a of the second objective lens 72 is the fourth reversed region 504b. The fourth region 504a is the region located in front of the second objective lens 72, within the region sandwiched between the imaginary lower ray 176a and the imaginary upper ray 177a. The fourth region 504a is an imaginary region sandwiched between the imaginary lower ray 176a and the imaginary upper ray 177a. Additionally, the fourth reversed region 504b is also the region sandwiched between the reversed lower ray 176' and the reversed upper ray 177'. Furthermore, while the fourth region 504a and the fourth inverted region 504b are represented as trapezoidal shapes in the cross-sectional view, the former, the fourth region 504a, is actually formed by rotating the imaginary lower ray 176a and the imaginary upper ray 177a around the optical axis OA, and the latter, the fourth inverted region 504b, is formed by inverting this region; both are frustoconical regions. The LED 144, disposed on the sixth LED substrate 116, is located within the fourth inverted region 504b. Additionally, the LED 144, disposed on the sixth LED substrate 116, also exhibits the same configuration in a cross-sectional view cut along the left-right direction, being located within the fourth inverted region 504b. Thus, the LED 144 can illuminate the second objective lens cover 72 from a position close to the optical axis OA, suppressing uneven light irradiation onto the skin S2.

[0099] Additionally, as mentioned above, the four LEDs 144 are arranged facing forward. Furthermore, as... Figure 13 As shown, during the second dermoscopic imaging, the light emitted forward from the four LEDs 144 can be focused by the second objective lens cover 72. This allows the entire area of ​​the second objective lens cover 72 to be placed in a brightly illuminated space B4, suppressing uneven lighting and brightly illuminating the skin S2 in contact with the second objective lens cover 72.

[0100] As described above, in the dermoscopic camera 1, during the first dermoscopic imaging, LED 141 emits visible light, while during the second dermoscopic imaging, LED 144, which is closer to the optical axis OA, emits visible light. Therefore, the smaller-diameter second objective lens 72, positioned centered on the optical axis OA, is more easily illuminated. This can also be achieved through… Figure 14A and Figure 14B This can be understood through a simulation of the illuminance distribution of the second objective lens cover. Specifically, the emitting LED in Figure 14A China is Figure 8 LED144 shown, in Figure 14B China is Figure 8 The eight LEDs 141 shown. Figure 14AIn region 73 of the second objective lens cover, unevenness in brightness is suppressed, resulting in uniform and bright illumination. On the other hand, in Figure 14B In the region 74 of the second objective lens shown, there is a part of the region 74a that is darkened due to insufficient illumination, resulting in uneven brightness.

[0101] Thus, when using the LED141 for first dermoscopic imaging... Figure 8 When the light is emitted, the uneven brightness of the second objective lens 72 can be attributed to the configuration of the LED 141. As described above, the LED 141 for first dermoscopic imaging is configured to illuminate the first objective lens 132. When focusing on one emitted light from this LED 141, such as Figure 11 As shown, the light passing through the first objective lens cover 132 illuminates a portion of the second objective lens cover 72, but not the entire area. Therefore, a portion of the second objective lens cover 72 is located in the brightly illuminated space B1, while the remaining area of ​​the second objective lens cover 72 is located in spaces B2 and B3, which are darker than space B1. This results in uneven brightness in the second objective lens cover 72. This uneven brightness is most pronounced in LED 141, which is positioned furthest from the optical axis OA, among the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 that emit light during the first dermoscopic imaging.

[0102] On the other hand, by configuring the second dermoscopic imaging LED 144 closer to the optical axis OA than the first dermoscopic imaging LED 141, such as Figure 13 As shown, the second objective lens cover 72 can be uniformly illuminated by light emitted forward from the LED 144. This suppresses uneven brightness in the image captured during second dermoscopic imaging, enabling the capture of easily diagnosable images.

[0103] Next, refer to Figures 15-19 The operation of the dermoscopy camera 1 will be explained. Additionally, in Figure 19 In the accompanying drawings, only the structure of the dermoscopic camera 1, necessary for explaining the focal position, is shown for ease of understanding. Furthermore, the operation of each part of the dermoscopic camera 1 is controlled by… Figure 2The control unit 300, shown on the circuit board 30, controls the operation of the dermoscopic camera 1. The control unit 300 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and the circuit board 30 is equipped with I / O interfaces, ROM (Read-Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). The CPU, such as a microprocessor, is a central processing unit that performs various processing or calculations. The control unit 300 reads the control program stored in the ROM, uses the RAM as working memory, and executes the control program via the CPU, thereby controlling the operation of each part of the dermoscopic camera 1.

[0104] When the user operates the power button 22 ( Figure 1A and Figure 1B At that time, the dermoscopic camera 1 is activated, and as follows: Figure 15 As shown, the user's setting of the shooting mode is first processed (step S11). The shooting modes include a normal shooting mode for performing the aforementioned normal shooting, a first DC (Dermoscopy) shooting mode for performing a first dermoscopy shooting, and a second DC shooting mode for performing a second dermoscopy shooting. The dermoscopy camera 1 is set to... Figure 2 The touch panel LCD monitor 11 of the display unit 10 shows three selectable shooting modes. The user selects any one of the three shooting modes by touching the LCD monitor 11, and the control unit 300 sets the shooting mode to the selected shooting mode accordingly.

[0105] Next, the control unit 300 determines whether the normal shooting mode is set as the shooting mode (step S12). In step S12, if the normal shooting mode is set (step S12: Yes), the control unit 300 determines whether the adapter 70 is installed on the lighting device 4 (step S13). The presence or absence of the adapter 70 is determined from the on / off state of the detection switches 62. That is, if both detection switches 62 are in the off state when they are protruding from the housing 60, the control unit 300 determines that the adapter 70 is not installed. On the other hand, if both detection switches 62 are in the on state when they are retracted, or if one of the two detection switches 62 is in the on state and the other is in the off state, the control unit 300 determines that the adapter 70 is installed. In addition, if only one detection switch 62 is in the on state, it means that the adapter 70 is installed on the housing 60 in an incomplete state.

[0106] In step S13, when the control unit 300 determines that the adapter 70 is not installed in the lighting device 4 (step S13: No), the normally used LED 140 ( Figure 5 (Step S14) Illumination. Thus, the affected skin area is brightly irradiated.

[0107] In step S13, when it is determined that the adapter 70 is installed (step S13: Yes), the control unit 300 reports that the adapter 70 has been removed (step S17). For example, the control unit 300 only needs to check the LCD monitor 11 ( Figure 2 The system displays "Please remove the adapter," prompting the user to remove adapter 70. This allows the user to remove adapter 70, ensuring that the light from LED 140 is not obstructed by adapter 70 during normal shooting, thus enabling bright illumination of the affected skin area.

[0108] Next, when the user half-presses... Figure 1A When the shutter button 21 is pressed, the control unit 300 moves the lens group of the camera lens system 41 to automatically focus on the skin lesion that is the subject of the image within the focus range P1 to ∞ (step S15). Here, P1 is the focus start position, and the lens group is moved to the ∞ position while searching for the focus position.

[0109] Here, we will explain the focus start position P1. Figure 19 The double-dotted lines in the figure represent virtual images of the constituent elements of the dermoscopic camera 1 projected onto the rear surface 132b of the first objective lens cover 132. These virtual images are generated at positions symmetrical to the physical object, sandwiching the rear surface 132b. That is, the virtual image 41c' of the lens barrel 41c, located at a distance d1 from the rear surface 132b of the first objective lens cover 132, is generated at a distance d1 away from the rear surface 132b. Similarly, the virtual image 144' of the LED 144, located at a distance d2 from the rear surface 132b of the first objective lens cover 132, is generated at a distance d2 away from the rear surface 132b. Likewise, the virtual image 180' of the base body 180, located at a distance d3 from the rear surface 132b of the first objective lens cover 132, is generated at a distance d3 away from the rear surface 132b. Here, when the focus is aligned with the virtual image generation range D1 where the virtual image projected onto the rear surface 132b is located, the focus is aligned with the tip of the virtual image 41c' of the lens barrel 41c, the unevenness of the surface of the virtual image 180' formed on the base body 180, various clamps, or the virtual image 144' of the LED 144. Sometimes these virtual images are projected into the captured image. Therefore, the focus start position P1 is set at a position offset from the virtual image generation range D1.

[0110] Furthermore, during normal shooting, the user can identify the distance between the affected skin area of ​​the subject and the front surface 132a of the first objective lens cover 132. Therefore, even when the normal shooting mode is set in step S11, it is also possible to... Figure 2The LCD monitor 11 shows the interval between the skin lesion whose virtual image is not projected into the captured image and the first objective lens cover 132, prompting the user to shift the focus position away from the virtual image generation range D1. This allows the skin lesion, as the subject of the image, to be positioned between the focus start position P1 and the ∞ position, enabling smooth autofocus.

[0111] Next, by the user pressing Figure 1A The shutter button 21 shown is used to control the control unit 300 to normally photograph the skin lesion and save the normally photographed image (step S16). Thus, the normal photographing of the skin lesion is completed.

[0112] On the other hand, when it is determined in step S11 that the first DC shooting mode or the second DC shooting mode is set (step S12: no), the control unit 300 executes the dermoscopic shooting action (step S20).

[0113] In the dermoscopy imaging procedure (step S20), firstly as follows: Figure 16 As shown, the control unit 300 determines whether the shooting mode is set to the first DC shooting mode (step S21). If the first DC shooting mode is set (step S21: Yes), the control unit 300 determines whether the adapter 70 is installed on the lighting device 4 (step S22). As described above, the presence or absence of the adapter 70 is determined from the on / off state of the detection switch 62. In step S22, if it is determined that the adapter 70 is not installed (step S22: No), the control unit 300 performs the first dermoscopic imaging operation (step S30).

[0114] On the other hand, in step S22, when it is determined that the adapter 70 is installed (step S22: Yes), the control unit 300 reports that the adapter 70 has been removed (step S23). This prompts the user to remove the adapter 70. Therefore, the first dermoscopic imaging action can be performed in the appropriate state after the adapter 70 has been removed (S30).

[0115] In the first dermoscopic imaging action (step S30), such as Figure 17 As shown, the control unit 300 temporarily sets the focus position of the skin lesion, which is the subject of the camera, to P2 (step S31). Here, as... Figure 19 As shown, the focal position P2 is the position of the front surface 132a of the first objective lens cover 132 that contacts the skin lesion. Therefore, the focal position can be pre-aligned with the location of the skin lesion, which is the subject of the photograph.

[0116] Next, the control unit 300 causes the eight LEDs 141 (which emit visible light) to... Figure 8 )Emitting light (step S32). Thus, it interacts with the first objective lens cover 132 ( Figure 11 The affected skin area is then illuminated more brightly by visible light. Next, when the user half-presses... Figure 1A When the shutter button 21 is pressed, the control unit 300 automatically focuses on the skin lesion that is the subject of the photograph (step S33). As described above, in step S31, since the focus position is pre-aligned with the position of the skin lesion that is in contact with the first objective lens cover 132, automatic focusing can be successfully completed. Then, by the user pressing... Figure 1A The shutter button 21 shown is used by the control unit 300 to perform a first dermoscopic photograph of the skin disease area and save the captured image (step S34). Next, the control unit 300 activates the eight LEDs 141 (…). Figure 8 (Step S35) . Thus, by executing steps S32 to S35, a first dermoscopic photograph of the skin irradiated by visible light can be performed.

[0117] Next, the control unit 300 causes the eight LEDs 142 (which emit visible light) to... Figure 8 ) emits light, which is emitted by polarizing plate 117 ( Figure 8 (Step S36) polarized light. Thus, the light is polarized with the first objective lens cover 132 ( Figure 11 The affected skin area is illuminated more brightly by polarized light. Next, the control unit 300 performs a first dermoscopic photograph of the affected skin area and saves the captured image (step S37). Then, the control unit 300 activates the eight LEDs 142 (… Figure 8 (Step S38) . Thus, by executing steps S36 to S38, a first dermoscopic photograph of the skin irradiated by polarized light can be performed.

[0118] Next, the control unit 300 causes the four LEDs 143 (which emit ultraviolet light) to... Figure 8 )Emitting light (step S39). Thus, it interacts with the first objective lens cover 132 ( Figure 11 The affected skin area is brightly irradiated with ultraviolet light. Next, the control unit 300 performs a first dermoscopic photograph of the affected skin area and saves the captured image (step S40). Then, the control unit 300 activates four LEDs 143 (…). Figure 8 (Step S41) . Thus, by performing steps S39 to S41, it is possible to perform a first dermoscopic photograph of the skin irradiated by ultraviolet light.

[0119] As described above, in the first dermoscopic imaging, by pressing the shutter button 21 ( Figure 1AThe process involves taking continuous photographs of the skin lesion that has been irradiated with visible light, the skin lesion that has been irradiated with polarized light, and the skin lesion that has been irradiated with ultraviolet light, and recording the captured images. Since the autofocus of the skin lesion is performed in step S33, the autofocus action can be omitted in the subsequent first dermoscopic photograph.

[0120] On the other hand, such as Figure 16 As shown, when the second DC shooting mode is set (step S21: No), the control unit 300 determines whether the adapter 70 is installed on the lighting device 4 (step S24). At this time, if at least one of the two detection switches 62 is in the retracted state and is in the on state, the control unit 300 determines that the adapter 70 is installed (step S24: Yes), and proceeds to step S25. On the other hand, if both detection switches 62 are in the off state (step S24: No), the control unit 300 reports that the adapter 70 is installed (step S26). For example, the control unit 300 only needs to check the LCD monitor 11 (… Figure 2 The system displays "Please install adapter," prompting the user to install adapter 70. This allows the user to install adapter 70 and take photos in the appropriate state during the second dermoscopic imaging procedure.

[0121] When it is determined that the adapter 70 is installed (step S24: Yes), the control unit 300 determines whether the adapter 70 is properly installed (step S25). When both detection switches 62 are in the ON state, the control unit 300 determines that the adapter 70 is properly installed (step S25: Yes) and performs the second dermoscopic imaging operation (step S50).

[0122] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S25 that the adapter 70 is not properly installed (step S25: No), the control unit 300 reports the reinstallation of the adapter 70 (step S27). For example, the control unit 300 in the LCD monitor 11 ( Figure 2 The system displays "Adapter not installed correctly. Please reinstall the adapter.", prompting the user to reinstall adapter 70. This allows the second dermoscopic imaging action (S50) to be performed with adapter 70 properly installed.

[0123] In the second dermoscopic imaging action (step S50), such as Figure 18 As shown, the control unit 300 temporarily sets the focus position of the skin lesion, which is the subject of the camera, to P3 (step S51). Here, as... Figure 19As shown, the focal point P3 is located on the front surface 72a of the second objective lens cover 72, which contacts the skin lesion during the second dermoscopic imaging. This allows the focal point to be pre-aligned with the location of the skin lesion in contact with the second objective lens cover 72.

[0124] Next, the control unit 300 causes the four LEDs 144 (which emit visible light) to... Figure 8 (Step S52) Light emission. The four LEDs 144 are configured as a light source close to the optical axis OA for second dermoscopic imaging. Thus, with the second objective lens cover 72 ( Figure 13 The affected skin area is then illuminated more brightly by visible light. Next, when the user half-presses... Figure 1B When the shutter button 21 is pressed, the control unit 300 automatically focuses on the skin lesion that is the subject of the photograph (step S53). As described above, in step S34, since the focus position is pre-aligned with the position of the skin lesion that contacts the second objective lens cover 72, the control unit 300 can smoothly complete the autofocus. Then, by the user pressing... Figure 1B The shutter button 21 shown is used by the control unit 300 to perform a second dermoscopic photograph of the skin disease area and save the captured image (step S54). Next, the control unit 300 activates the four LEDs 144 (…). Figure 8 (Step S55) . Thus, by executing steps S52 to S55, a second dermoscopic photograph of the skin lesion illuminated by visible light can be performed.

[0125] The next steps, S56 to S58, involve the control unit 300 emitting light from the LED 142 to perform a second dermoscopic photograph of the skin lesion irradiated by polarized light. While these steps S56 to S58 may differ from those performed with or without the adapter 70, they are similar to the steps involved in... Figure 17 The steps S36 to S38 of the first dermoscopic imaging are the same. Furthermore, the subsequent steps S59 to S61 involve the control unit 300 illuminating the LED 143 to perform a second dermoscopic imaging of the skin lesion irradiated by ultraviolet light. While these steps S59 to S61 differ depending on whether the adapter 70 is used, they are similar to the steps performed during the second dermoscopic imaging. Figure 17 Steps S39 to S41 of the first dermoscopic imaging procedure shown are the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions of these steps are omitted.

[0126] As mentioned above, in the second dermoscopic imaging, the shutter button 21 ( Figure 1BThe procedure performs a single operation, continuously capturing images of the skin lesion irradiated with visible light, the skin lesion irradiated with polarized light, and the skin lesion irradiated with ultraviolet light, and records the captured images. Furthermore, since autofocusing of the skin lesion is performed in step S53, the autofocusing action can be omitted in the subsequent second dermoscopic imaging.

[0127] As explained above, in the dermoscopic camera 1 using the illumination device 4 of the present invention, the first dermoscopic imaging LEDs 141, 142, and 143 are positioned outside the first inversion region 501b and within the second inversion region 502b. Furthermore, the second dermoscopic imaging LED 144 is positioned outside the third inversion region 503b and within the fourth inversion region 504b. This allows for suppression of device enlargement and minimizes the impact of reflected light from the first objective lens cover 132 on the central region of the captured image.

[0128] Furthermore, the LED 144 for second dermoscopic imaging is located in a region further outward than the third inversion region 503b, specifically, in a region further outward than the third inversion region 503b sandwiched between the inverted upper ray 175' and the inverted lower ray 178'. The third inversion region 503b is the region after the third region 503a is inverted with the line of the front surface 72a as the axis of symmetry. The third region 503a is the region sandwiched between the outermost upper ray (i.e., the imaginary upper ray 175a) and the outermost lower ray (i.e., the imaginary lower ray 178a) of the light beam contained in the beam incident on the imaging element 44. By configuring it in this way, the influence of reflected light from the LED 144 reflected by the second objective lens cover 72 can be suppressed without affecting the central region of the captured image.

[0129] Furthermore, LED 144 is located inside the fourth inversion region 504b, specifically inside the fourth inversion region 504b sandwiched between the inverted lower ray 176' and the inverted upper ray 177'. The fourth inversion region 504b is the region where the fourth region 504a is inverted about the line of the front surface 72a of the second objective lens cover 72 as its axis of symmetry. The fourth region 504a is the region sandwiched between the imaginary lower ray 176a and the imaginary upper ray 177a. These imaginary lower ray 176a and imaginary upper ray 177a are the outermost rays located at the outermost edge among the rays incident on the imaging element 44 from the object side. By positioning LED 144 further inside the region defined by these outermost rays, the enlargement of the device can be suppressed.

[0130] Furthermore, the aforementioned LEDs 141, 142, and 143 are positioned away from the optical axis OA. However, by tilting the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 toward the first objective lens cover 132, light can be focused onto the first objective lens cover 132, allowing for bright illumination of the photographed object without uneven brightness.

[0131] In addition, for second dermoscopic imaging using the adapter 70 with a small second objective lens cover 72, an LED 144 is additionally installed near the optical axis OA. In this way, by arranging the LED 144 near the optical axis OA, light can be easily directed to the second objective lens cover 72, and the subject can be brightly illuminated without uneven brightness.

[0132] Furthermore, the base body 180 and the first cover body 121, which define the receiving space A of the first LED substrate 111 where the LED 140 is provided, are made of black synthetic resin. The first cover body 121 is formed to cover the end face 111a of the first LED substrate 111. That is, the receiving space A for the light source (LED 140) used for normal shooting is defined, and the components on the space side between the first objective lens cover 132 (second objective lens cover 72) and the imaging unit 40 (the annular portion 182 and the inner wall portion 121c of the base body 180) are made of components with a high light absorption rate compared to other components (the first LED substrate 111, etc.). Thus, by using the base body 180 and the first cover body 121 to absorb the light that has passed through the first LED substrate 111, it is possible to prevent the light from shining on the internal components of the dermoscopic camera 1 (such as the LED 144, etc.), thereby preventing the internal components from being reflected in the image.

[0133] Furthermore, by setting up three types of light sources for dermoscopic imaging—one emitting visible light, one emitting polarized light, and one emitting ultraviolet light—the skin affected area can be illuminated with various types of light, enabling the capture of images useful for diagnosing the skin's condition. Moreover, since it is possible to continuously capture and record images of skin affected areas irradiated with visible light, polarized light, and ultraviolet light, the operation time can be shortened.

[0134] Furthermore, based on the dermoscopic imaging mode selected by the user via the LCD monitor 11—that is, in this embodiment, based on the imaging mode selected from the first DC imaging mode and the second DC imaging mode—the focus position of the skin lesion to be photographed is temporarily set. This temporarily set focus position is based on the intended position of the skin lesion to be photographed, thus enabling rapid focus alignment during actual imaging.

[0135] Furthermore, when the user selects the normal shooting mode, the focus start position of the skin lesion is set at a position deviated from the virtual image generation range D1 generated from the virtual image of the constituent elements of the dermoscopic camera 1 reflected in the first objective lens cover 132. This prevents the tip of the lens barrel 41c, unevenness formed on the surface of the base body 180, various clamps, or the virtual image of the LED 144 from being reflected in the captured image, thus enabling proper imaging of the skin lesion.

[0136] Furthermore, two detection switches 62 for detecting the adapter 70 installed on the housing 60 are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the housing 60. During each shooting session, the control unit 300 determines whether the adapter 70 is installed. This prevents situations where the adapter 70 is forgotten to be installed during a second dermoscopic shooting session that requires it. Additionally, it prevents situations where the adapter 70 is forgotten to be removed during normal shooting sessions that require it, as well as during the first dermoscopic shooting session.

[0137] Furthermore, when viewing the lighting device 4 from the front, the two detection switches 62 are arranged separately, sandwiching the optical axis OA along the vertical direction. By separating the detection switches 62 in this way, the control unit 300 can easily determine whether the adapter 70 is properly installed, for example, if the adapter 70 is not fully installed, only one detection switch 62 will be in the on state.

[0138] (Implementation Method 2)

[0139] Next, refer to Figure 20 , 21 The illumination device and the camera device equipped with the illumination device in Embodiment 2 will be described. In Embodiment 1 described above, the size of the illumination device 4 and the dermoscopic camera 1 is suppressed, and the influence of reflected light from LEDs 141, 142, and 143 used in the first dermoscopic imaging is suppressed. In addition, LED 144 used in the second dermoscopic imaging can easily illuminate the second objective lens cover 72 close to the optical axis OA, and the reflection of light from LED 144 is suppressed. On the other hand, Embodiment 2 focuses on further suppressing (preventing) the influence of reflected light. In addition, although the dimensions of the constituent elements differ from those in Embodiment 1 described above, the basic structure is the same. Therefore, the reference numerals for each constituent element of the dermoscopic camera 400 in Embodiment 2 are the same as those in Embodiment 1 described above.

[0140] like Figure 20As shown, compared to Embodiment 1 described above, the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 that emit light during the first dermoscopic imaging of the dermoscopic camera 400 are positioned further outward. The LEDs 141, 142, and 143 of the second LED substrate 112 and the fourth LED substrate 114, which were positioned within the second inversion region 502b in Embodiment 1, are positioned in this embodiment further outward than the second inversion region 502b. Furthermore, the LEDs 141, 142, and 143 also have the same configuration in a cross-sectional view cut along the left-right direction, i.e., the third LED substrate 113 ( Figure 8 ) and the fifth LED substrate 115 ( Figure 8 LEDs 141, 142, and 143 are also positioned in a region further outward than the second reversal region 502b. This prevents the influence of reflected light from LEDs 141, 142, and 143 used during the first dermoscopic imaging.

[0141] In addition, such as Figure 21 As shown, compared to Embodiment 1 described above, the second dermoscopic LED 144 of the dermoscopic camera 400, which emits light during dermoscopic imaging, is positioned further outward. The LED 144 of the sixth LED substrate 116 is located in a region further outward than the fourth inversion region 504b. Furthermore, the LED 144 of the sixth LED substrate 116 also exhibits the same configuration in a cross-sectional view cut along the left-right direction, located in a region further outward than the fourth inversion region 504b. This configuration prevents the reflected light from the LED 144 from affecting the captured image.

[0142] Thus, in the second embodiment, although the device is larger than that in the first embodiment, it can prevent the reflected light from LEDs 141 to 144 from affecting the image and suppress the effects of stray light.

[0143] This invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be modified and applied in various ways. In the above embodiments, the structures of a first dermoscopic imaging LED 141 emitting visible light and a second dermoscopic imaging LED 144 also emitting visible light were described. However, as... Figure 22A and Figure 22B As shown, the same light source can also be used for both the first and second dermoscopic imaging by changing the position or direction of the light source. Additionally, Figure 22A and Figure 22B The dashed lines in the image indicate the positions of LED substrates 150, 160 and LEDs 151, 161 during the first dermoscopic imaging, while the solid lines indicate the positions of LED substrates 150, 160 and LEDs 151, 161 during the second dermoscopic imaging.

[0144] like Figure 22A As shown, during the first dermoscopic imaging, the LED substrate 150 (dashed line) is positioned on the outer side, and the LED 151 (dashed line) is positioned at an angle towards the first objective lens cover 132. On the other hand, during the second dermoscopic imaging, as indicated by arrow Y1, the LED substrate 150 is moved inward by a drive unit (not shown) while changing the orientation of the LED 151 so that it faces forward. Furthermore, during the second dermoscopic imaging, the LED substrate 150 (solid line) is positioned closer to the optical axis OA, and the LED 151 (solid line) is positioned facing forward. Thus, by moving the LED substrate 150 carrying the LED 151, the LED 151 can be used as a light source for both the first and second dermoscopic imaging.

[0145] like Figure 22B As shown, during the first dermoscopic imaging, the LED substrate 160 (dashed line) is positioned on the outer side, and the LED 161 (dashed line) is tilted towards the first objective lens hood 132. On the other hand, during the second dermoscopic imaging, as indicated by arrow Y2, the LED substrate 160 is rotated by a drive unit (not shown) so that the LED 161 faces the second objective lens hood 72. This allows light to be irradiated across the entire area of ​​the second objective lens hood 72, providing bright illumination to the skin lesion in contact with the second objective lens hood 72 without uneven lighting. Thus, by rotating the LED substrate 160, the LED 161 can be used as a light source for both the first and second dermoscopic imaging.

[0146] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the control unit 300 determines whether the installation state of the adapter 70 is correct, and then performs shooting based on the shooting mode input by the user. That is, the input of the shooting mode from the user is fundamental, based on the selection of the shooting mode. However, it is not limited to this method; for example, the control unit 300 may determine the installation state of the adapter 70 and determine the shooting mode without the user's input of the shooting mode. See also... Figure 23 Explain this shooting action.

[0147] In the shooting action (step S70), firstly, the control unit 300 determines whether the adapter 70 is installed on the lighting device 4 (step S71). As described above, the presence or absence of the adapter 70 is determined by the on / off state of the detection switch 62. In step S71, when it is determined that the adapter 70 is installed (step S71: Yes), the control unit 300 sets to the second DC shooting mode, and when a user's shooting operation occurs, executes the second dermoscopic shooting action (step S72). This second dermoscopic shooting action (step S72) is related to... Figure 18 The second dermoscopic imaging action (S50) shown is the same. Additionally, the control unit 300 can also perform this action before executing step S72. Figure 2 The LCD monitor 11 shows that the shooting mode is the second DC shooting mode. This allows the user to identify the current shooting mode of the camera.

[0148] When the removal of adapter 70 is detected after the second dermoscopic imaging action (step S72) (step S73: Yes), the control unit 300 switches to the normal imaging mode or the first DC imaging mode. Then, according to the user's imaging operation, the control unit 300 executes the normal imaging action or the first dermoscopic imaging action (step S74). In this way, the control unit 300 switches from the second DC imaging mode to the normal imaging mode or the first DC imaging mode without user operation input by detecting the removal of adapter 70. In addition, in step S74, the user can... Figure 2 The LCD monitor 11 shown can be set to either the normal shooting mode or the first DC shooting mode.

[0149] When the installation of adapter 70 is detected after a normal shooting action or a first dermoscopic shooting action (step S74) (step S75: Yes), the control unit 300 advances the process to step S72 and switches the shooting mode to the second DC shooting mode. In this way, the control unit 300 switches from the normal shooting mode or the first DC shooting mode to the second DC shooting mode without user input by detecting the installation of adapter 70.

[0150] On the other hand, if the removal of adapter 70 is not detected in step S73 (step S73: No), the control unit 300 does not switch shooting modes and remains in standby mode in the second DC shooting mode. If a user performs a shooting operation, the second dermoscopic shooting action is executed (step S72). Furthermore, if the installation of adapter 70 is not detected in step S75 (step S75: No), the control unit 300 does not switch shooting modes and remains in standby mode in either the normal shooting mode or the first DC shooting mode.

[0151] When it is determined in step S71 that the adapter 70 is not installed (step S71: No), the control unit 300 switches to the normal shooting mode or the first DC shooting mode and performs the normal shooting action or the first dermoscopic shooting action according to the user's shooting operation (step S74).

[0152] When performing a normal shooting action or a first dermoscopic shooting action (step S74), the control unit 300 proceeds to S71. If it is determined that the adapter 70 is not installed (S71: Yes), the control unit 300 switches to the second DC shooting mode. Thus, by detecting the installation or removal of the adapter 70, the control unit 300 can switch shooting modes between the second dermoscopic shooting action and the normal or first dermoscopic shooting action without user intervention.

[0153] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, two detection switches 62 are provided for the detection adapter 70, but the number of detection switches 62 provided is arbitrary, and more than two detection switches 62 can also be provided. This allows for a more accurate assessment of the installation status of the adapter 70. Alternatively, a simpler structure can be constructed using only one detection switch 62.

[0154] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, if the set shooting mode does not correspond properly to the installation state of the adapter 70, Figure 2 The LCD monitor 11 displays this message, but other units can also be used as the reporting unit to notify the user. For example, a speaker that outputs sound to the dermoscopic camera 1 could be used to report the error via a beep, or a sound could be emitted to convey that an error has occurred. Alternatively, if the set shooting mode does not correspond properly to the installation state of the adapter 70, operating the shutter button 21 may not allow recording. In this case, the LCD monitor 11 can display this message and notify the user that the shutter button 21 was used improperly, or it can emit a beep or other sound to notify the user.

[0155] Furthermore, if the set shooting mode does not correspond properly to the installation status of the adapter 70, it is not necessary to report in all the situations described above, and the reporting step can be appropriately omitted. For example, it can be omitted in... Figure 16 The steps S21 to S23 of reporting in the first DC shooting mode shown can also be omitted in the steps S24 to S27 of reporting in the second DC shooting mode. Additionally, steps S25 and S27 of reporting improper installation of the adapter 70 can also be omitted.

[0156] Additionally, as a unit for detecting the adapter 70, a detection switch 62 is provided to switch the connection and disconnection based on the presence or absence of physical pressing of the adapter 70. However, other detection units may also be provided. For example, the structure may be as follows: electrical contact points are provided between the adapter 70 and the housing 60, and the adapter 70 is installed so that the contact points make contact and current flows. By detecting the current flowing through, the presence or absence of the connector 70 can be determined.

[0157] Furthermore, in the above-described method, the position of the light source is defined based on the inversion region, which is formed by reversing the area defined by the upper and lower light rays from the photographed subject, i.e., the skin, about the objective lens as the axis of symmetry. However, by arranging the light source at a distance from the optical axis OA, the reflection of the light source in the photographed image can be suppressed, thus allowing some offset on the axis of symmetry used to form the inversion region. Additionally, the inversion region and the region of the inversion source do not need to have strictly the same shape and size; some differences in shape and size are permissible.

[0158] Furthermore, LEDs 141, 142, and 143 can be positioned in other suitable locations, such as outside the second reversal region 502b, for example, outside the reversal region defined by the hypothetical light source of the field of view of the camera unit 40 during first dermoscopic imaging. Similarly, LED 144 can be positioned in other suitable locations, such as outside the fourth reversal region 504b, for example, outside the reversal region defined by the hypothetical light source of the field of view of the camera unit 40 during second dermoscopic imaging. This configuration can also suppress the influence of reflected light from LEDs 141 to 144 on the captured image.

[0159] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, it was described that the first to fourth regions 501a to 504a and the first to fourth inverted regions 501b to 504b, which are their inverted regions, are frustum-shaped regions. However, due to the aperture set in the lens assembly, these regions are not perfectly circular frustum-shaped regions, but rather elliptical frustum-shaped regions. In the case of elliptical frustum-shaped regions, the position of the light source can be determined by considering the major and minor axes of the ellipse when setting the light rays.

[0160] Furthermore, while the above embodiment uses a dermoscopic camera 1 as an example of an imaging device that employs illumination, it can also be applied to other imaging devices. Any imaging device that uses a structure to illuminate an object located on one side of a light-transmitting enclosure with light from a camera unit and a light source located on the other side to capture an image can be applied to this invention. For example, this invention can be applied to imaging devices that capture images of the surface of a structure for inspection, and also to imaging devices that illuminate inserted gaps with light to capture images.

[0161] In addition, three types of light sources are provided for dermoscopic imaging: one that emits visible light, one that emits polarized light, and one that emits ultraviolet light. However, the number of light sources can be appropriately set according to the subject being photographed. For example, only one type of light source may be used. Alternatively, a light source emitting near-infrared light may be provided to further increase the variety of light sources.

[0162] Furthermore, as a second dermoscopic imaging light source using adapter 70, LED 144 emitting visible light is positioned near the optical axis OA, but whether or not such a second dermoscopic imaging light source is used is arbitrary. Alternatively, other types of light sources, such as polarized light sources, can be positioned near the optical axis OA as the second dermoscopic imaging light source; furthermore, ultraviolet light sources can also be positioned near the optical axis OA. Thus, both the first and second dermoscopic imaging light sources can be configured using various types of light sources.

[0163] Furthermore, it has been explained that the second cover 130, on which the first objective lens cover 132 is provided, is a structure that can be installed and removed by screws, and the adapter 70, on which the second objective lens cover 72 is provided, is a structure that can be installed and removed by hook-shaped engaging members, but it may also be a structure with other installation and removal units. For example, the second cover 130 and the adapter 70 may also have a structure that has a rotating shaft, allowing them to move between a position covering the front of the camera device and a position that rotates from the state of covering the front to open the front of the camera device.

[0164] Additionally, during the second dermoscopy imaging, such as Figure 6 As shown, the adapter 70 is installed with the second cover 130 still attached, but it can also be installed after the second cover 130 is removed. Therefore, during the second dermoscopic imaging, the second cover 130 used for the first dermoscopic imaging can be omitted between the adapter 70 and the camera unit 40, making the design of the dermoscopic camera 1 suitable for second dermoscopic imaging easier. Furthermore, to avoid forgetting to remove the second cover 130 during the second dermoscopic imaging, the outer diameter of the second cover 130 can be made larger, or a protrusion can be provided on the second cover 130, so that the adapter 70 is not installed from above the second cover 130. Additionally, the adapter 70 can also have an external thread formed at its bottom (rear end), which corresponds to the internal thread 121e formed in the inner wall portion 121c. Figure 9 It is screwed into the adapter 70.

[0165] Alternatively, instead of using a structure that allows for the attachment and detachment of the second cover 130, which is provided with the first objective lens cover 132, the second cover 130 can be fixed to the first cover 120, for example. Figure 5 The structure of the second cover 130 is also possible. Alternatively, the second cover 130 can be the same as the first cover 120. Figure 5 The structure is formed as a single unit. This simplifies the structure of the dermoscopic camera 1.

[0166] Alternatively, if the subject's focus point is within the virtual image generation range D1 during normal shooting, operating the shutter button 21 will not result in recording. In this case, the LCD monitor 11 can also display an image urging the dermoscopic camera 1 to further separate from the subject for shooting. Thus, the user can record the subject from an appropriate position where a virtual image is not projected.

[0167] In addition, during dermoscopic photography, different types of light sources can be emitted sequentially and repeatedly while taking pictures by pressing the shutter button 21 in one go. However, it is also possible to take dermoscopic pictures by emitting only the light source specified by the user.

[0168] Furthermore, the adapter 70 for photographing narrow areas can be of any design; if the camera is not intended to photograph narrow areas, the adapter 70 is not required. In this case, since a second dermoscopic photograph is not required, a light source (e.g., LED 144) for the second dermoscopic photograph can also be omitted.

[0169] Furthermore, it was explained that the base body 180 and the first cover body 121 defining the receiving space A of the first LED substrate 111 are made of, for example, black synthetic resin, so that light from the normally used light source (LED 140) does not illuminate the interior of the dermoscopic camera 1. However, they can also be made of synthetic resin of other colors that easily absorb light. In addition, to suppress light leakage into the interior of the dermoscopic camera 1, it is also possible to use a method where... Figure 9 The base body 180 and the first cover body 121, which are separated from space A and space B, shown are other structures that can appropriately block light from a normally photographed light source located in space A.

[0170] For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, mirror finishing can also be applied to the outer surfaces of the first cover body 121 (shown as A1) and the base body 180 (shown as A2), so that the mirror surfaces reflect light L1 and light L2, preventing light from entering the first cover body 121 and the base body 180 themselves. In mirror finishing, known mirror finishing techniques such as applying a silver film or chrome plating to the surface can be used. Thus, by having light-reflecting units with increased light reflectivity in the first cover body 121 and the base body 180, light leakage into the dermoscopic camera 1 can also be suppressed.

[0171] Alternatively, light can be blocked by attaching commercially available shielding strips, rubber sheets, or metal plates that can block light from the light source (LED140) to the outer surface of the first cover body 121 (shown as A1) and the outer surface of the base body 180 (shown as A2).

[0172] Alternatively, the first cover body 121 and the base body 180 may also be made of a material that does not easily allow light to pass through. For example, the first cover body 121 and the base body 180 may be made of metals such as aluminum or stainless steel, or they may be made of black rubber material.

[0173] As described above, the base body 180 and the first cover body 121, which separate the receiving space A and the space B, are equipped with light-blocking units to prevent light from the normally photographing LED 140 located in the receiving space A from leaking into the tip of the lens barrel 41c and the space B where the dermoscopic photographing LEDs 141, 142, 143, and 144 are located. This light-blocking unit can be any of the units described above.

[0174] The scope of this invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but includes the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims and its equivalents.

[0175] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-66958, filed March 29, 2019, and Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-98137, filed May 24, 2019. Reference is made in whole to the description, claims, and drawings of Japanese Patent Application Publication Nos. 2019-66958 and 2019-98137.

[0176] Industrial availability

[0177] This invention is particularly useful in suppressing the influence of reflected light from the light source to properly photograph the subject.

[0178] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0179] 1…Dermatologic camera; 2…Controller; 3…Camera body; 4…Lighting device; 10…Display unit; 11…LCD monitor; 20…Main body; 21…Shutter button; 22…Power button; 30…Circuit board; 40…Camera unit; 41…Camera lens system; 41a…First camera lens; 41b…Second camera lens; 41c…Lens barrel; 43…Circuit wiring board; 44…Image sensor; 45…Infrared cut-off filter; 46…Ultraviolet transmission filter; 47…Polarization filter; 48…Flexible circuit board; 50…Frame; 60…Cover; 61…Protrusion; 62…Detection switch; 62a…Spring; 70…Adapter; 7 0a…Inner wall; 71…Cylinder; 71a…Opening; 71b…Hook-shaped part; 72…Second objective lens cover; 72a…Front surface; 73, 74…Area of ​​the second objective lens cover; 74a…Darkened area; 100…Illumination device body; 110…Base part; 111~116…First~Sixth LED substrates; 116a…Through hole in the lens barrel; 117…Polarizing plate; 120…First cover part; 121…First cover part body; 121a…Cover part; 121b…Outer wall part; 121c…Inner wall part; 121d…Light emission hole; 121e…Internal thread; 122…Light transmission plate; 130…Second cover part; 131…Cylinder; 131a…Opening; 13 1b…external thread; 132…first objective lens cover; 132a…front surface; 132b…rear surface; 140~144…LED; 150…LED substrate; 151…LED; 160…LED substrate; 161…LED; 171, 173, 175, 177…upper ray; 171', 173', 175', 177'…reversed upper ray; 172, 174, 176, 178…lower ray; 172', 174', 176', 178'…reversed lower ray; 180…base body; 181…cylindrical part; 182…annular part; 182a…substrate mounting surface; 183~186…first to second Four walls; 187…Connecting part; 188…Fifth wall; 188b…Lens tube insertion hole; 189…Screw; 200…Storage part; 300…Control part; 400…Dermoscopic camera; 404…Illumination device; 501a…First area; 501b…First reversal area; 502a…Second area; 502b…Second reversal area; 503a…Third area; 503b…Third reversal area; 504a…Fourth area; 504b…Fourth reversal area; A…Reception space; D1…Virtual image generation range; P1…Focus start position; P2, P3…Focus position; S1, S2…Skin; OA…Optical axis; r1~r4…Areas

Claims

1. A lighting device applied to a camera unit for photographing an object, characterized in that, have: The first objective lens cover is made of a light-transmitting component. In order for the imaging unit to capture an image of the object, it is configured to guide light from the object to the imaging unit. The area of ​​the surface of the first objective lens cover that is substantially orthogonal to the optical axis of the imaging unit is set to a predetermined first area. The second objective lens cover is configured to detachably cover the first objective lens cover, and the area of ​​the surface that is substantially orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera unit is set to a second area that is smaller than the first area. A first light source illuminates the object via the first objective lens cover; as well as A second light source illuminates the object via the first objective lens cover and the second objective lens cover.

2. The lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the first light source and the second light source is arranged symmetrically about the optical axis of the camera unit in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera unit.

3. The lighting device according to claim 2, characterized in that, At least one of the first light source and the second light source is configured such that the irradiated light is focused together within the entirety of the first objective lens cover or the second objective lens cover.

4. The lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the first light source and the second light source includes at least one of a light source that irradiates visible light, a light source that irradiates ultraviolet light, and a light source that irradiates light that deflects visible light.

5. The lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first light source is positioned outside the first reversal region. The first reversal region is the region in which the area defined by the first prescribed light ray is substantially reversed to the camera side within the first objective lens cover. The first prescribed light ray is the light ray contained in the beam that enters the imaging element of the imaging unit from the object side via the camera lens while the focus of the camera lens in the imaging unit is aligned with the object that is in contact with the first objective lens cover.

6. The lighting device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second light source is positioned outside the second reversal region. The second reversal region is the region in which the area defined by the second defined light beam is approximately reversed to the camera side within the second objective lens. The second defined light beam is the light beam that is incident on the camera element in the camera unit from the object side via the camera lens while the focus of the camera lens in the camera unit is aligned with the object that is in contact with the second objective lens. This light beam is located on the object side of the camera element in the camera unit.

7. The lighting device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first defined ray is, with the camera lens focused on the object in contact with the first objective lens cover, the outermost upper ray and the outermost lower ray among a plurality of upper rays included in the light beam that enters the imaging element from the object side via the camera lens. The second specified ray is, with the focus of the camera lens aligned with the object in contact with the second objective lens cover, the outermost upper ray and the outermost lower ray among the plurality of upper rays included in the beam that enters the imaging element from the object side via the camera lens.

8. The lighting device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first defined ray is the outermost ray among the plurality of rays in the light beam that enters the imaging element from the object side via the camera lens when the camera lens is focused on the object in contact with the first objective lens cover. The second specified ray is the outermost ray among the plurality of rays contained in the light beam that enters the imaging element from the object side via the camera lens when the focus of the camera lens is aligned with the object in contact with the second objective lens cover.

9. The lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first light source is composed of multiple first light sources, configured such that light emanating from these multiple first light sources converges within the entirety of the first objective lens cover. The second light source is composed of a plurality of second light sources, and is configured such that the light irradiated from the plurality of second light sources is focused together within the entirety of the second objective lens cover.

10. The lighting device according to claim 9, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of first light sources and each of the plurality of second light sources is composed of the same light source. The same light source is configured to selectively function as the first light source and the second light source by changing the position relative to the first objective lens cover and the second objective lens cover or the angle of light irradiated from the same light source.

11. The lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second objective lens cover is positioned to cover the first objective lens cover.

12. The lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first objective lens cover and the second objective lens cover can be optionally configured.

13. A camera device comprising the lighting device of claim 1 and the camera unit, wherein the camera captures images of human skin as the object, characterized in that, When the camera device captures an image of the skin via the first objective lens cover, the first objective lens cover is configured to contact the skin. When the camera device captures an image of the skin via the first objective lens cover and the second objective lens cover, the second objective lens cover is configured to contact the skin.

14. A camera device comprising the lighting device according to any one of claims 11 to 13 and the camera unit, for photographing human skin as the object, characterized in that, The first objective lens cover is disposed on top of the cylindrical first cover of the illumination device. The second objective lens cover is positioned on top of the cylindrical second cover. The second cover has a detachable assembly on the portion other than the top that can be attached to or detached from the lighting device. With the second objective lens cover in the state of being removed from the illumination device via the loading and unloading unit, the first objective lens cover is used as the objective lens cover that comes into contact with the skin. When the second objective lens cover is installed on the lighting device while the first objective lens cover is covered by the loading and unloading unit, the second objective lens cover is used as an objective lens cover that comes into contact with the skin.

15. The camera device according to claim 14, characterized in that, It also has: The setting unit selectively sets the shooting mode of the camera unit shooting the object to one of a plurality of shooting modes according to the user's operation of the camera device. The plurality of shooting modes include: a first shooting mode, shooting the object in a state where the object is illuminated by the first light source without using the second light source; and a second shooting mode, shooting the object in a state where the object is illuminated by the second light source without using the first light source. The detection unit detects whether the second cover is installed on the lighting device; and The reporting unit reports to the user that at least one of the following conditions is met: the detection unit detects that the second cover is installed on the lighting device and the shooting mode is set to the first shooting mode; or the detection unit detects that the second cover is not installed on the lighting device and the shooting mode is set to the second shooting mode.

16. The camera device according to claim 14, characterized in that, It also has: The setting unit selectively sets the shooting mode of the camera unit capturing the object to one of a plurality of shooting modes based on the user's operation of the camera device. These plurality of shooting modes include: a first shooting mode, capturing the object while illuminating it using the first light source without using the second light source; and a second shooting mode, capturing the object while illuminating it using the second light source without using the first light source; and... The detection unit detects the installation of the second cover onto the lighting device and the removal of the second cover from the lighting device. When the shooting mode is set to the first shooting mode, the setting unit switches the shooting mode to the second shooting mode when the detection unit detects that the second cover is installed on the lighting device. When the shooting mode is set to the second shooting mode, the setting unit switches the shooting mode to a shooting mode other than the second shooting mode among the plurality of shooting modes when the detection unit detects that the second cover is removed from the lighting device.

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