Light source device and system
By designing a variety of light source devices that can be connected to endoscopes, and using LED light sources and optical components to combine light, the problem of poor endoscope image quality in the existing technology has been solved, adaptive light source control has been achieved, and image quality has been improved. .
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202410968640.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-07-21
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-18
- Publication Date
- 2025-01-21
AI Technical Summary
It is difficult for existing endoscope light source devices to effectively improve the quality of the image capture, especially when different endoscope types and external diameters of the light guides.
A light source device that can be connected to a variety of endoscopes is designed, which contains a variety of light-emitting diode light sources and optical components. It generates white light by combining red, blue, purple and green light in white light, and performs white balance processing through the processor. , to adapt to different endoscope types.
It improves the quality of endoscope imaging images, enables adaptive light source control under different endoscope types and light guide outer diameters, and ensures consistent image quality.
Smart Images

Figure CN119326362A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The invention relates to a light source device and a system. Background Art
[0002] Patent Documents 1 to 4 describe a light source device for an endoscope.
[0003] Patent Documents 5 to 7 describe various types of endoscopes.
[0004] Patent Documents 8 to 10 describe a technique related to white balance processing of an endoscope.
[0005] Patent Document 1: Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 109507794
[0006] Patent Document 2: Chinese Utility Model Specification No. 209570749
[0007] Patent Document 3: Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 111110175
[0008] Patent Document 4: Chinese Utility Model Specification No. 212521711
[0009] Patent Document 5: Japanese Patent No. 4795202
[0010] Patent Document 6: Japanese Patent No. 4160577
[0011] Patent Document 7: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-99441
[0012] Patent Document 8: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-508
[0013] Patent Document 9: International Publication No. 2021 / 065939
[0014] Patent Document 10: Japanese Patent Publication No. 6-17942 Summary of the invention
[0015] The present invention provides a technology capable of improving the quality of an image captured by an endoscope.
[0016] A system of one mode of the technology of the present invention comprises: a light source device capable of connecting a plurality of endoscopes having different outer diameters of a light guide; and a processor, wherein the light source device comprises: a first light source generating red light including a light emitting diode; a second light source generating blue light including a light emitting diode; a third light source generating purple light including a light emitting diode; and a fourth light source generating white light including a light emitting diode; and an optical component capable of combining and introducing at least two of the red light, the blue light, the purple light and the green light included in the white light into the light guide of the endoscope, wherein the fourth light source generates the white light by a blue light emitting diode generating blue light and a fluorescent body generating light by receiving the blue light, wherein the optical path of the light emitted from the fourth light source and reaching the light guide is shorter than the optical path of the light emitted from the first light source, the second light source and the third light source and reaching the light guide, and wherein the processor performs white balance processing on a camera image signal output from an imaging element of the endoscope based on the type of the endoscope connected to the light source device.
[0017] A light source device of one mode of the technology of the present invention comprises: a first light source, which generates red light composed of a light emitting diode; a second light source, which generates blue light composed of a light emitting diode; a third light source, which generates purple light composed of a light emitting diode; a fourth light source, which generates white light composed of a light emitting diode; an optical component, which is configured to be able to introduce the above-mentioned red light into a light guide of an endoscope, introduce the above-mentioned blue light into the above-mentioned light guide, introduce the above-mentioned purple light into the above-mentioned light guide, and introduce the green light included in the above-mentioned white light into the above-mentioned light guide; a detection unit, which detects a part of the light generated by at least two of the above-mentioned first light source, the above-mentioned second light source, the above-mentioned third light source and the above-mentioned fourth light source; and a processor, which controls the light amount of the light generated by at least two of the above-mentioned first light source, the above-mentioned second light source, the above-mentioned third light source and the above-mentioned fourth light source based on the light detected by the above-mentioned detection unit.
[0018] A light source device of one embodiment of the technology of the present invention comprises: a first light source, which generates a first color light composed of a light-emitting diode; a second light source, which generates a second color light composed of a light-emitting diode; a third light source, which generates a purple light composed of a light-emitting diode; a fourth light source, which generates light including at least green light composed of a light-emitting diode; a first combining component, which can combine the first color light with the second color light; a second combining component, which can combine the light emitted from the first combining component with one of the purple light and the green light; and a third combining component, which can combine the light emitted from the first combining component with the second color light. The light emitted by the second combining component and the other of the purple light and the green light; a focusing component that focuses the light emitted from the third combining component onto the light guide of the endoscope; a first detecting unit that detects a portion of the light emitted from the second combining component and incident on the third combining component and a portion of the light emitted from the fourth light source and incident on the third combining component; and a processor that controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the first detecting unit.
[0019] Effects of the Invention
[0020] According to the technology of the present invention, the quality of images captured by an endoscope can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an endoscope device 100 as one embodiment of the technology of the present invention.
[0022] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the light source device 5.
[0023] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the structure of the fourth light source 54.
[0024] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram for explaining a modified example of the fourth light source 54 .
[0025] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5B which is a first modification example of the light source device 5 .
[0026] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5C as a second modification of the light source device 5 .
[0027] Figure 7 Is used to illustrate Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the 4th light source 54Xa which is a modified example of the 4th light source 54X.
[0028] Figure 81 is a diagram showing a light source device 5D which is a third modification example of the light source device 5 .
[0029] Fig. 9 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5F which is a fourth modification example of the light source device 5 .
[0030] Fig.10 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5H which is a fifth modification example of the light source device 5 .
[0031] Fig.11 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0032] Fig.12 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5C.
[0033] Fig.13 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5C.
[0034] Fig.14 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5B.
[0035] Fig.15 Yes means Fig.11 FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a modified example of the light source device 5 shown.
[0036] Fig.16 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5D.
[0037] Fig.17 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5F.
[0038] Fig.18 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5F.
[0039] Fig.19 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5H.
[0040] Fig. 20 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0041] Fig.21 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0042] Fig. 22 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0043] Fig.23 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0044] Fig.24 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0045] Fig.25 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0046] Explanation of symbols
[0047] 1-endoscope, 2-main body, 4-processor device, 4P-processor, 5, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5F, 5H-light source device, 5P-processor, 6-input unit, 7-display device, 10-insertion unit, 10A-flexible unit, 10B-bending unit, 10C-front end, 11-operating unit, 12-angle button, 13-universal cord, 13A, 13B-connector unit, 14-light guide, 51-first light source, 51A, 52A, 53A, 54A, 54g-light emitting diode, 52-second light source, 53-third light source, 54, 54X , 54Xa-the fourth light source, 54F-excitation light filter, 54R-the first phosphor, 54G-the second phosphor, 54Y-the third phosphor, 54Gx-the fourth phosphor, 55-optical component, 56, 57, 58-combining components, 56a, 57a, 58a-one surface, 56b, 57b, 58b-the other surface, 59-focusing lens, 60, 61, 62, 63-detection unit, 100-endoscope device, RL, WLr-red light, BL, WLb, Bl-blue light, GL-green light, VL-purple light, WL-white light. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] In this specification, purple light refers to light in a wavelength band of 380 nm to 430 nm. Blue light refers to light in a wavelength band of 430 nm to 490 nm. Green light refers to light in a wavelength band of 490 nm to 560 nm. Yellow light refers to light in a wavelength band of 560 nm to 600 nm. Red light refers to light in a wavelength band of 600 nm to 650 nm.
[0049] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an endoscope device 100 as one embodiment of the technology of the present invention.
[0050] The endoscope device 100 constitutes a system. The endoscope device 100 includes: an endoscope 1; a main body 2 including a processor device 4 and a light source device 5 connected to the endoscope 1; a display device 7 for displaying a camera image obtained by using the endoscope 1; and an input unit 6, which is an interface for inputting various information to the processor device 4.
[0051] The endoscope 1 comprises: an insertion portion 10, which is a long strip-shaped instrument extending in one direction and is inserted into a subject; an operating portion 11, which is provided with operating components arranged at the base end of the insertion portion 10 and is used to perform observation mode switching operations, video storage operations, forceps operations, air and water supply operations, suction operations or electric knife operations, etc.; an angle button 12, which is arranged adjacent to the operating portion 11; and a universal cord 13, which includes connector portions 13A and 13B for freely and detachably connecting the endoscope 1 to the light source device 5 and the processor device 4, respectively.
[0052] The operation portion 11 is provided with a forceps opening into which a biopsy forceps serving as a treatment instrument for collecting living tissues such as cells or polyps is inserted. Figure 1 Although not shown in the figure, various channels such as a forceps channel for inserting a biopsy forceps inserted from the forceps channel opening, a channel for supplying air and water, and a channel for suction are provided inside the operation portion 11 and the insertion portion 10.
[0053] The insertion portion 10 is composed of a flexible soft portion 10A, a curved portion 10B provided at the front end of the soft portion 10A, and a front end portion 10C which is harder than the soft portion 10A provided at the front end of the curved portion 10B. An imaging element and an imaging optical system are built into the front end portion 10C. The imaging element has a light receiving surface which is arranged in a two-dimensional shape, for example, a first pixel for detecting blue light and purple light, a second pixel for detecting red light, and a third pixel for detecting green light.
[0054] The bending portion 10B is configured to be bendable by rotating the angle knob 12. The bending portion 10B can be bent in any direction and at any angle depending on the part of the subject to which the endoscope 1 is applied, and the distal end portion 10C can be directed in a desired direction.
[0055] Inside the endoscope 1, a light guide 14 (see FIG. 1 ) formed by bundling a plurality of optical fibers is provided from the distal end portion 10C of the insertion portion 10 to the connector portion 13A. Figure 2 ). The light generated by the light source device 5 is introduced from the connector portion 13A to the light guide 14 and further reaches the distal end portion 10C, and is irradiated onto the subject from the illumination window provided in the distal end portion 10C.
[0056] The processor device 4 includes: a processor 4P for controlling the endoscope 1, the light source device 5 and the display device 7; and a memory composed of a storage medium such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), an SSD (Solid State Drive) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The light source device 5 includes a processor 5P and a memory for controlling a light source described later.
[0057] Processor 4P and processor 5P are respectively general-purpose processors, i.e., CPU (Central Processing Unit), which execute software to perform various functions, and processors, i.e., FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), which are processors whose circuit structures can be changed after manufacturing, i.e., programmable logic devices (PLD), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), which are processors, i.e., dedicated circuits, etc., which have circuit structures specially designed to perform specific processing.
[0058] The processor 4P and the processor 5P may each be composed of one processor, or may be composed of a combination of two or more processors of the same type or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs or a CPU and an FPGA). More specifically, the hardware structure of each of the processors 4P and 5P is a circuit (circuitry) formed by combining circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.
[0059] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the light source device 5.
[0060] The light source device 5 includes: a first light source 51; a second light source 52; a third light source 53; a fourth light source 54; an optical component 55; and a detection unit 60 for detecting a portion of light generated by at least two of the first light source 51, the second light source 52, the third light source 53, and the fourth light source 54. The first light source 51, the second light source 52, the third light source 53, and the fourth light source 54 are controlled by a processor 5P. The processor 5P controls the light amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source 51, the second light source 52, the third light source 53, and the fourth light source 54 based on the light detected by the detection unit 60. Details of the detection unit 60 and the control of the light amount will be described later.
[0061] The first light source 51 includes a light emitting diode 51A that generates red light. The first light source 51 generates red light RL having a wavelength characteristic of a central wavelength of 620 nm to 640 nm and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm, for example, by the light emitting diode 51A.
[0062] Second light source 52 includes light emitting diode 52A that generates blue light. Second light source 52 generates blue light BL having wavelength characteristics of a central wavelength of 440 nm to 450 nm and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm, for example, by light emitting diode 52A.
[0063] The third light source 53 includes a light emitting diode 53A that generates purple light. The third light source 53 generates purple light VL having a wavelength characteristic of a central wavelength of 410 nm to 430 nm and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm, for example, by the light emitting diode 53A.
[0064] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the structure of the fourth light source 54.
[0065] The fourth light source 54 includes the following components: a light emitting diode 54A that generates blue light for excitation; a first phosphor 54R that receives the blue light generated by the light emitting diode 54A and generates red light; and a second phosphor 54G that receives the blue light generated by the light emitting diode 54A and generates green light. The fourth light source 54 generates white light WL by mixing the blue light generated by the light emitting diode 54A, the red light generated by the first phosphor 54R, and the green light generated by the second phosphor 54G.
[0066] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram for explaining a modified example of the fourth light source 54 .
[0067] The fourth light source 54 includes a third phosphor 54Y that receives the blue light generated by the light emitting diode 54A and generates yellow light instead of the first phosphor 54R and the second phosphor 54G. In this way, the fourth light source 54 may also be configured to generate white light WL by mixing the blue light generated by the light emitting diode 54A and the yellow light generated by the third phosphor 54Y.
[0068] exist Figure 3 In the structure shown, Figure 4 Compared with the structure shown in FIG. 1 , the red light and the green light can be set to a wide band, thereby improving the color rendering. In addition, the light amount on the short wavelength side of the green light can be increased. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, by generating white light WL by combining a light emitting diode and a phosphor, white light WL including broadband green light can be generated at low cost.
[0069] The optical component 55 is configured to be able to introduce the red light RL generated by the first light source 51 into the light guide 14 of the endoscope 1, to introduce the blue light BL generated by the second light source 52 into the light guide 14, to introduce the purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 into the light guide 14, and to introduce the green light (hereinafter referred to as green light GL) included in the white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 into the light guide 14. The optical component 55 is configured to be able to combine at least two of the four colors of light, namely, the red light RL, the blue light BL, the purple light VL, and the green light GL, and introduce them into the light guide 14.
[0070] exist Figure 2 In the example of FIG. 5 , the optical component 55 includes three combining components (combining component 56 , combining component 57 , and combining component 58 ) each capable of combining a plurality of lights, and a condensing lens 59 as a condensing component.
[0071] The combining components 56, 57, and 58 are respectively configured to reflect light incident on one surface in a predetermined direction and transmit light incident on the other surface in the predetermined direction, thereby combining the light incident on one surface and the other surface and emitting the light in the predetermined direction. The combining components 56, 57, and 58 are respectively configured by, for example, a spectroscope having the property of reflecting light of a specific wavelength and transmitting other light.
[0072] exist Figure 2 In the example, the first light source 51, the combining component 56, the combining component 57, the combining component 58, and the focusing lens 59 are sequentially arranged in the direction along the optical axis of the focusing lens 59 (hereinafter referred to as the optical axis direction). In the combining component 56, one surface 56a and the other surface 56b are arranged at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the optical axis of the focusing lens 59. In the combining component 57, one surface 57a and the other surface 57b are arranged at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the optical axis of the focusing lens 59. In the combining component 58, one surface 58a and the other surface 58b are arranged at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the optical axis of the focusing lens 59.
[0073] With respect to the coupling member 56, on one side ( Figure 2 A second light source 52 is arranged on the upper side of the image, and the blue light BL generated by the second light source 52 is incident on a surface 56a of the combining component 56.
[0074] With respect to the coupling member 57, on one side ( Figure 2 A third light source 53 is arranged on the upper side (in the middle), and the purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 is incident on a surface 57a of the connecting component 57.
[0075] With respect to the coupling member 58, on one side ( Figure 2 A fourth light source 54 is arranged on the upper side of the structure, and the white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 is incident on a surface 58a of the combining component 58.
[0076] The combining component 56 is configured to reflect the blue light BL incident on one surface 56a toward the combining component 57 and transmit the red light RL incident on the other surface 56b toward the combining component 57, thereby combining the red light RL and the blue light BL and emitting them toward the combining component 57.
[0077] The combining component 57 is constructed so that the purple light VL incident on one surface 57a is reflected in the direction of the combining component 58, and the light (at least one of the red light RL and the blue light BL) emitted from the combining component 56 and incident on the other surface 57b is transmitted in the direction of the combining component 58, so that the light (at least one of the red light RL and the blue light BL) emitted from the combining component 56 is combined with the purple light VL and emitted toward the combining component 58.
[0078] The combining component 58 is configured to reflect the green light GL of the white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward the condensing lens 59, thereby transmitting the light (at least one of the red light RL, the blue light BL, and the purple light VL) emitted from the combining component 57 and incident on the other surface 58b toward the condensing lens 59, so that the light (at least one of the red light RL, the blue light BL, and the purple light VL) emitted from the combining component 57 can be combined with the green light GL and emitted toward the condensing lens 59. As an example, in the wavelength characteristics of the green light GL emitted from the combining component 58 to the condensing lens 59, the central wavelength is greater than or equal to 540 nm and less than or equal to 560 nm, and the half-peak width is greater than or equal to 80 nm.
[0079] The condenser lens 59 condenses the light emitted from the coupling member 58 to the light guide 14 .
[0080] The red light RL emitted from the first light source 51 is transmitted through the combining component 56, the combining component 57, and the combining component 58, and then introduced into the light guide 14. The blue light BL emitted from the second light source 52 is reflected by the combining component 56, and then transmitted through the combining component 57 and the combining component 58, and then introduced into the light guide 14. The purple light VL emitted from the third light source 53 is reflected by the combining component 57, and then transmitted through the combining component 58, and then introduced into the light guide 14. The green light GL of the white light WL emitted from the fourth light source 54 is reflected by the combining component 58 and then introduced into the light guide 14.
[0081] In the light source device 5, the optical path of the light emitted from the fourth light source 54 and reaching the light guide 14 is shorter than the optical path of the light emitted from the first light source 51, the second light source 52, and the third light source 53 and reaching the light guide 14. The fourth light source 54 generates white light WL by using a light-emitting diode and a fluorescent body with a large light diffusion. The fourth light source 54 is provided at the position closest to the light guide 14 among the four light sources, so that the positional relationship between the distribution range of the green light GL included in the white light WL and the base end surface of the light guide 14 can be easily adjusted.
[0082] The light source device 5 can operate in a plurality of modes in which the amount of light introduced into the light guide 14 of the endoscope 1 is different. The plurality of modes are selected according to the purpose of endoscopic examination, and include: a first mode in which red light RL, blue light BL, and green light GL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14; a second mode in which purple light VL and green light GL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14; a third mode in which blue light BL and purple light VL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14; a fourth mode in which red light RL, blue light BL, and purple light VL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14; and a fifth mode in which purple light VL, red light RL, blue light BL, and green light GL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14. The third mode and the fourth mode are not essential and may be omitted.
[0083] In the first mode, the processor 5P performs the first control for lighting the light emitting diodes of the first light source 51 , the second light source 52 , and the fourth light source 54 , and introducing the red light RL, the blue light BL, and the green light GL into the light guide 14 .
[0084] In the second mode, the processor 5P performs the second control for lighting the light emitting diodes of the third light source 53 and the fourth light source 54 , respectively, and introducing the purple light VL and the green light GL into the light guide 14 .
[0085] In the third mode, the processor 5P performs the third control for lighting the light emitting diodes of the second light source 52 and the third light source 53 and introducing the blue light BL and the purple light VL into the light guide 14 .
[0086] In the fourth mode, the processor 5P performs fourth control for lighting the light emitting diodes of the first light source 51 , the second light source 52 , and the third light source 53 , and introducing the red light RL, the blue light BL, and the purple light VL into the light guide 14 .
[0087] In the fifth mode, the processor 5P performs the fifth control for lighting the light emitting diodes of the first light source 51, the second light source 52, the third light source 53, and the fourth light source 54, and introducing the red light RL, the blue light BL, the green light GL, and the purple light VL into the light guide 14. In the fifth control, the fifth mode can be further divided into a plurality of modes by changing the light amounts of the lights generated from the four light sources.
[0088] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5B which is a first modification example of the light source device 5 .
[0089] The light source device 5B is a structure in which the positions of the third light source 53 and the fourth light source 54 are opposite in the light source device 5. In the light source device 5B, the combining component 57 reflects the green light GL of the white light WL incident on the one surface 57a in the direction of the combining component 58. In addition, the combining component 58 transmits the green light GL incident on the other surface 58b in the direction of the focusing lens 59, and reflects the purple light VL incident on the one surface 58a in the direction of the focusing lens 59. Figure 5 The structure shown can also realize the above-mentioned multiple modes.
[0090] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5C as a second modification of the light source device 5 .
[0091] The light source device 5C is a structure in which the fourth light source 54 is replaced with a fourth light source 54X in the light source device 5. The fourth light source 54X includes a light emitting diode 54g that generates green light GL. In the light source device 5C, the coupling member 58 reflects the green light GL incident on a surface 58a toward the condenser lens 59. Figure 6 The structure shown can also realize the above-mentioned multiple modes.
[0092] Figure 7 It is used to illustrate Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the 4th light source 54Xa which is a modified example of the 4th light source 54X.
[0093] The fourth light source 54Xa includes the following components: a light emitting diode 54A that generates excitation light Bl of blue light; a fourth phosphor 54Gx that receives the excitation light Bl generated by the light emitting diode 54A and generates green light GL; and an excitation light cutoff filter 54F that transmits the green light GL and cuts off the excitation light Bl. The fourth light source 54Xa only needs to include a light emitting diode that generates excitation light and a phosphor that receives the excitation light and generates light that includes at least green light GL. The excitation light is not limited to blue light. For example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment, the LED 54A may be replaced by an LED that generates purple light or an LED that generates ultraviolet light.
[0094] In addition, the excitation light cutoff filter 54F may not be as follows Figure 7 For example, it can be arranged in Figure 6 The optical path between the coupling member 58 and the fourth light source 54X in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B may be configured such that the coupling member 58 transmits components other than the green light GL of the light incident on the one surface 58a.
[0095] In addition, Figure 5 In the light source device 5B shown, the fourth light source 54 can also be replaced with the fourth light source 54X or the fourth light source 54Xa.
[0096] Figure 8 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5D which is a third modification example of the light source device 5 .
[0097] The light source device 5D is a structure in which the positions of the second light source 52 and the third light source 53 are opposite in the light source device 5. In the light source device 5D, the combining component 56 reflects the purple light VL incident on the one surface 56a in the direction of the combining component 57. In addition, the combining component 57 transmits the purple light VL incident on the other surface 57b in the direction of the combining component 58, and reflects the blue light BL incident on the one surface 57a in the direction of the combining component 58. Figure 8 The structure shown can also realize the above-mentioned multiple modes.
[0098] Fig. 9 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5F which is a fourth modification example of the light source device 5 .
[0099] The light source device 5F is a structure in which the positions of the second light source 52 and the fourth light source 54 are opposite to each other in the light source device 5D. In the light source device 5F, the combining component 57 reflects the green light GL of the white light WL incident on one surface 57a toward the direction of the combining component 58. In addition, the combining component 58 transmits the green light GL incident on the other surface 58b toward the direction of the focusing lens 59, and reflects the blue light BL incident on the one surface 58a toward the direction of the focusing lens 59. Fig. 9 The structure shown can also realize the above-mentioned multiple modes.
[0100] Fig.10 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5H which is a fifth modification example of the light source device 5 .
[0101] The light source device 5H is a structure in which the positions of the third light source 53 and the fourth light source 54 are opposite to each other in the light source device 5F. In the light source device 5H, the combining component 56 reflects the green light GL of the white light WL incident on one surface 56a in the direction of the combining component 57. In addition, the combining component 57 transmits the green light GL incident on the other surface 57b in the direction of the combining component 58, and reflects the purple light VL incident on the one surface 57a in the direction of the combining component 58. Fig.10 The structure shown can also realize the above-mentioned multiple modes.
[0102] In each of the light source device 5 and the light source devices 5B, 5C, 5D, 5F, and 5H described above, the positions of the first light source 51 and the second light source 52 may be reversed.
[0103] From the viewpoint of increasing the brightness of a color image captured by the endoscope 1 (an image captured while irradiating a subject with red light RL, green light GL, and blue light BL), the light introduced into the light guide 14 of the endoscope 1 is preferably brighter green light. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of emphasizing capillaries or patterns of the mucosal surface layer and displaying them clearly during special light observation, it is preferably brighter green light and purple light.
[0104] According to the configuration of light source device 5 and light source devices 5B and 5C, green light GL and purple light VL among the light introduced into light guide 14 are less attenuated by transmission or reflection of optical component 55 than other two colors of light. Therefore, the quality of the image captured by endoscope 1 can be improved.
[0105] In particular, according to the configuration of the light source device 5 and the light source device 5C, the green light GL of the light introduced into the light guide 14 is less attenuated than the other three colors of light by passing through or reflecting the optical component 55. Therefore, the quality of the image captured by the endoscope 1 can be improved.
[0106] Next, a specific configuration example of the detection unit 60 and a specific processing example of the processor 5P will be described.
[0107] Fig.11 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Fig.11 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the second mode.
[0108] exist Fig.11 In the example of FIG. 1 , a detection unit 61 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor is provided as the detection unit 60. The detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the focusing lens 59 relative to the coupling member 58.
[0109] exist Fig.11 In the light source device 5 shown, the combining component 58 has the following functions: to reflect a portion of the purple light VL incident on the other surface 58b in the direction of the detection unit 61, to transmit the blue light (hereinafter referred to as blue light WLb) in the white light WL incident on one surface 58a in the direction of the detection unit 61, and to transmit the red light (hereinafter referred to as red light WLr) in the white light WL incident on one surface 58a in the direction of the detection unit 61.
[0110] The detection unit 61 is configured to detect the purple light VL reflected by the other surface 58 b of the coupling member 58 and the blue light WLb and the red light WLr incident on the one surface 58 a of the coupling member 58 and transmitted through the coupling member 58 .
[0111] In addition, Fig.11 In the light source device 5 shown, the combining member 58 may transmit only one of the blue light WLb and the red light WLR in the direction of the detecting unit 61. In this case, the detecting unit 61 can detect the purple light VL reflected by the other surface 58b of the combining member 58 and the blue light WLb or the red light WLr incident on the one surface 58a of the combining member 58 and transmitted through the combining member 58.
[0112] exist Fig.11 In the light source device 5 of the structure shown, in the second mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of light of the purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 and the amount of light of the white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 based on the information of the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and the information of at least one of the blue light WLb and the red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61.
[0113] The information of the light detected by the detection unit 60 is, for example, a spectrum indicating the intensity of each wavelength. The control of the light amounts of the plurality of light sources by the processor 5P includes control to set the light amount of each of the plurality of light sources to a desired value and control to set the light amount ratio of the plurality of light sources to a desired value.
[0114] exist Fig.11 In light source device 5 of the structure shown, processor 5P determines the ratio between the light amounts of third light source 53 and fourth light source 54 based on, for example, the relationship between the peak values of the intensity of purple light VL and the peak values of the intensity of blue light WLb.
[0115] Alternatively, the processor 5P determines the ratio between the light amount of the third light source 53 and the light amount of the fourth light source 54 based on the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr.
[0116] Alternatively, the processor 5P derives the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL from the peak values of the intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr, and determines the ratio of the light amount of the third light source 53 to the light amount of the fourth light source 54 based on the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the derived green light GL and the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL. Here, the peak value of the intensity of the detected light is used, but the integral value obtained from the spectrum may be used instead of the peak value.
[0117] In addition, Fig.11 In the embodiment, the structure may be such that the coupling member 58 transmits a part of the green light GL incident on the one surface 58a toward the direction of the detection unit 61. In this case, the processor 5P can also determine the ratio of the light amount of the third light source 53 to the light amount of the fourth light source 54 based on the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL, for example.
[0118] The green light GL is guided into the light guide 14 after only one reflection in the optical component 55. Therefore, even if a part of the green light GL is detected in the detection unit 61, the amount of the green light GL guided into the light guide 14 can be sufficiently increased, and the quality of the image captured by the endoscope 1 can be improved.
[0119] Fig.12 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5C. Fig.12 This shows a state where the light source device 5C operates in the second mode.
[0120] Fig.12 The light source device 5C shown is Fig.11 The light source device 5 shown is different in that the fourth light source 54 is replaced by a fourth light source 54X and the coupling member 58 transmits a part of the green light GL incident on the one surface 58 a toward the detection unit 61 .
[0121] exist Fig.12 In the light source device 5C of the structure shown, in the second mode, the processor 5P controls the light amount of the purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 and the light amount of the green light GL generated by the fourth light source 54X based on the information of the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and the information of the green light GL detected by the detection unit 61. The processor 5P determines the ratio of the light amount of the third light source 53 to the light amount of the fourth light source 54X based on the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL, for example.
[0122] Fig.13 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5C. Fig.13 This shows a state where the light source device 5C operates in the second mode.
[0123] Fig.13 The light source device 5C shown is Fig.11 The light source device 5 shown is different in that the fourth light source 54 is replaced by a fourth light source 54Xa without the excitation light cutoff filter 54F, and the coupling member 58 transmits the excitation light B1 incident on a surface 58 a toward the detection unit 61 .
[0124] exist Fig.13 In the light source device 5C of the structure shown, in the second mode, the processor 5P controls the light amount of the purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 and the light amount of the green light GL generated by the fourth light source 54Xa (the light emission amount of the light emitting diode 54A) based on the information of the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and the information of the excitation light Bl detected by the detection unit 61. The processor 5P determines the ratio of the light amount of the third light source 53 to the light amount of the fourth light source 54Xa based on the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the excitation light Bl, for example.
[0125] Fig.14 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5B. Fig.14 This shows a state where the light source device 5B operates in the second mode.
[0126] exist Fig.14 In the example of FIG. 1 , a detection unit 61 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor is provided as the detection unit 60. The detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the focusing lens 59 relative to the coupling member 58.
[0127] exist Fig.14 In the light source device 5B shown, the coupling member 58 has the function of transmitting part of the purple light VL incident on one surface 58 a toward the detection unit 61 and transmitting part of the green light GL incident on the other surface 58 b toward the detection unit 61 . Fig.14 The illustrated detection unit 61 is configured to be able to detect the purple light VL that has been transmitted through the one surface 58 a of the coupling member 58 and the green light GL that has been incident on the other surface 58 b of the coupling member 58 and reflected by the coupling member 58 .
[0128] exist Fig.14 The light intensity control of the light source by the processor 5P in the second mode of the light source device 5B of the structure shown in FIG. Fig.12 The processor 5P shown is identical. Fig.14 In the light source device 5B shown, the fourth light source 54 may be changed to a fourth light source 54X or a fourth light source 54Xa.
[0129] Fig.15 Yes means Fig.11 FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a modified example of the light source device 5 shown. Fig.15 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fifth mode.
[0130] Fig.15 The light source device 5 shown is Fig.11 The difference is that the coupling member 58 reflects a part of the red light RL and the blue light BL incident on the other surface 58 b toward the detection unit 61 . Fig.15 The illustrated detection unit 61 is configured to detect purple light VL, red light RL, and blue light BL reflected by the other surface 58 b of the coupling member 58 , and blue light WLb and red light WLr incident on one surface 58 a of the coupling member 58 and transmitted through the coupling member 58 .
[0131] exist Fig.15 In the light source device 5 of the structure shown, in the fifth mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of red light RL generated by the first light source 51, the amount of blue light BL generated by the second light source 52, the amount of purple light VL generated by the third light source 53, and the amount of white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 based on the respective information of purple light VL, red light RL, blue light BL, blue light WLb and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61.
[0132] For example, the processor 5P derives the amount of green light GL based on the peak value of the intensity of red light WLr. The processor 5P derives the amount of blue light BL based on the relationship between the peak values of the detected intensity of blue light and the peak value of the intensity of red light WLr. The processor 5P derives the amount of purple light VL based on the peak value of the detected intensity of purple light VL. The processor 5P derives the amount of red light RL based on the peak value of the detected intensity of red light WLr. The processor 5P controls the amount of red light RL generated by the first light source 51, the amount of blue light BL generated by the second light source 52, the amount of purple light VL generated by the third light source 53, and the amount of white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 based on the amounts of light of each color thus derived.
[0133] Fig.16 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5D. Fig.16 This shows a state where the light source device 5D operates in the second mode.
[0134] Fig.16 The light source device 5D shown is Fig.11 The light source device 5 shown in FIG. 6 is different in that the positions of the second light source 52 and the third light source 53 are opposite. In the second mode of the light source device 5D of the structure shown in FIG. 6 , the light quantity control of the light source by the processor 5P is the same as that of FIG. Fig.11 The processors 5P shown are identical.
[0135] Fig.17 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5F. Fig.17 This shows a state where the light source device 5F operates in the second mode.
[0136] Fig.17 The light source device 5F shown is Fig.16 The light source device 5D shown in the figure is different in that the positions of the second light source 52 and the fourth light source 54 are opposite, and the combination component 58 is configured to reflect a part of the purple light VL incident on the other surface 58b in the direction of the detection unit 61, and reflect a part of the green light GL incident on the other surface 58b in the direction of the detection unit 61. Fig.17 The light intensity control of the light source by the processor 5P in the second mode of the light source device 5F of the structure shown in FIG. Fig.14 The processors 5P shown are identical.
[0137] Fig.18 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5F. Fig.18 This shows a state where the light source device 5F operates in the second mode.
[0138] Fig.18 In the light source device 5F shown, a detection unit 62 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor is provided as the detection unit 60. The detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 57.
[0139] exist Fig.18 In the light source device 5F shown, the combining member 57 has the following functions: a part of the purple light VL incident on the other surface 57b is reflected in the direction of the detection unit 62, and at least one of the blue light WLb and the red light WLr in the white light WL incident on the one surface 57a is transmitted in the direction of the detection unit 62. The detection unit 62 is configured to be able to detect the purple light VL reflected by the other surface 57b of the combining member 57 and the blue light WLb and the red light WLr incident on the one surface 57a of the combining member 57 and transmitted through the combining member 57. In addition, the following structure can be set: the combining member 57 transmits a part of the green light GL incident on the one surface 57a in the direction of the detection unit 62.
[0140] exist Fig.18In the light source device 5F of the structure shown, in the second mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 and the amount of white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 based on the information of the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 62 and the information of at least one of the blue light WLb and the red light WLR detected by the detection unit 62 (or the information of the green light GL detected by the detection unit 62).
[0141] Fig.19 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5H. Fig.19 This shows a state where the light source device 5H operates in the second mode.
[0142] Fig.19 The light source device 5H shown is Fig.18 The difference of the light source device 5F shown is that the positions of the third light source 53 and the fourth light source 54 are opposite, and the combining component 57 is constructed to reflect a part of the green light GL incident on the other surface 57b in the direction of the detection unit 62, and to transmit a part of the purple light VL incident on the one surface 57a in the direction of the detection unit 62.
[0143] exist Fig.19 The light intensity control of the light source by the processor 5P in the second mode of the light source device 5H of the structure shown in FIG. Fig.14 The processors 5P shown are identical.
[0144] Fig. 20 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Fig. 20 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the third mode.
[0145] exist Fig. 20 In the example of FIG. 1 , a detection unit 61 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor is provided as the detection unit 60. The detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the focusing lens 59 relative to the coupling member 57.
[0146] exist Fig. 20 In the light source device 5 shown, the combining member 57 has the following functions: a part of the blue light BL incident on the other surface 57b is reflected in the direction of the detection unit 61, and a part of the purple light VL incident on the one surface 57a is transmitted in the direction of the detection unit 61. The detection unit 61 is configured to detect the blue light BL reflected by the other surface 57b of the combining member 57 and the purple light VL incident on the one surface 57a of the combining member 57 and transmitted through the combining member 57.
[0147] exist Fig. 20In the light source device 5 of the structure shown, in the third mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of blue light BL generated by the second light source 52 and the amount of purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 based on the information of the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and the information of the blue light BL detected by the detection unit 61.
[0148] Fig.21 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Fig.21 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fourth mode.
[0149] Fig.21 The light source device 5 shown is Fig. 20 The light source device 5 shown is different in that the combining member 57 is configured to reflect a portion of the red light RL incident on the other surface 57b in the direction of the detecting unit 61. The detecting unit 61 is configured to be able to detect a portion of each of the blue light BL and the red light RL reflected by the other surface 57b of the combining member 57 and a portion of the purple light VL incident on the one surface 57a of the combining member 57 and transmitted through the combining member 57.
[0150] exist Fig.21 In the light source device 5 of the structure shown, in the fourth mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of red light RL generated by the first light source 51, the amount of blue light BL generated by the second light source 52, and the amount of purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 based on the information of purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61, the information of blue light BL detected by the detection unit 61, and the information of red light RL detected by the detection unit 61.
[0151] Fig. 22 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Fig. 22 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the second mode.
[0152] exist Fig. 22 In the example of FIG. 1 , a detection unit 61 and a detection unit 62 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor are provided as the detection unit 60. The detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 58. The detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 57.
[0153] exist Fig. 22In the light source device 5 shown in FIG. 1 , the combining member 57 has the function of transmitting a portion of the purple light VL incident on the surface 57a toward the detection unit 62. The combining member 58 has the function of transmitting the red light WLR and the blue light WLB of the white light WL incident on the surface 58a toward the detection unit 61. Fig. 22 In the embodiment, the coupling member 58 may be configured to transmit a part of the green light GL incident on the one surface 58 a toward the detection unit 61 .
[0154] exist Fig. 22 In the light source device 5 of the structure shown, in the second mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 and the amount of white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 based on the information of the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 62 and the information of the blue light WLb and the red light WLR detected by the detection unit 61 (or the information of the green light GL detected by the detection unit 61).
[0155] For example, the processor 5P determines the light amount of the third light source 53 and the light amount of the fourth light source 54 based on the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the blue light WLb.
[0156] Alternatively, the processor 5P determines the light amount of the third light source 53 and the light amount of the fourth light source 54 based on the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr.
[0157] Alternatively, the processor 5P derives the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL based on the peak value of the intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLR, determines the light amount of the fourth light source 54 based on the derived peak value of the intensity of the green light GL, and determines the light amount of the third light source 53 based on the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL.
[0158] Fig.23 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Fig.23 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fifth mode.
[0159] exist Fig.23 In the example of FIG. 1 , as the detection unit 60, a detection unit 61 and a detection unit 63 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor are provided. The detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 58. The detection unit 63 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 56.
[0160] exist Fig.23In the light source device 5 shown, the combining member 56 has the function of transmitting a part of the blue light BL incident on one surface 56a in the direction of the detection unit 63, and reflecting a part of the red light RL incident on the other surface 56b in the direction of the detection unit 63. The combining member 58 has the function of transmitting the red light WLR and the blue light WLB in the white light WL incident on one surface 58a in the direction of the detection unit 61, and reflecting a part of the purple light VL incident on the other surface 58b in the direction of the detection unit 61.
[0161] exist Fig.23 In the light source device 5 of the structure shown, in the fifth mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of red light RL generated by the first light source 51, the amount of blue light BL generated by the second light source 52, the amount of purple light VL generated by the third light source 53, and the amount of white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 based on the information of purple light VL, blue light WLb and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61 and the information of red light RL and blue light BL detected by the detection unit 63.
[0162] For example, the processor 5P determines the ratio of the light amount of the first light source 51 to the light amount of the second light source 52 based on the peak value of the intensity of the blue light BL and the peak value of the intensity of the red light RL. Furthermore, the processor 5P derives the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL based on the peak value of the intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLR, and determines the ratio of the light amount of the third light source 53 to the light amount of the fourth light source 54 based on the derived peak values of the intensity of the green light GL and the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL.
[0163] Fig.24 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Fig.24 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fifth mode.
[0164] exist Fig.24 In the example of FIG. 1 , a detection unit 61 and a detection unit 62 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor are provided as the detection unit 60. The detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 58. The detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 57.
[0165] exist Fig.24In the light source device 5 shown, the combining component 57 has the following functions: a part of the purple light VL incident on the one surface 57a is transmitted in the direction of the detection unit 62, a part of the red light RL incident on the other surface 57b is reflected in the direction of the detection unit 62, and a part of the blue light BL incident on the other surface 57b is reflected in the direction of the detection unit 62. The combining component 58 has the following function: the red light WLR and the blue light WLB in the white light WL incident on the one surface 58a are transmitted in the direction of the detection unit 61.
[0166] exist Fig.24 In the light source device 5 of the structure shown, in the fifth mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of red light RL generated by the first light source 51, the amount of blue light BL generated by the second light source 52, the amount of purple light VL generated by the third light source 53, and the amount of white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54, based on the information of blue light WLb and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61 and the information of purple light VL, red light RL, and blue light BL detected by the detection unit 62.
[0167] For example, the processor 5P determines the light quantity ratio of the first light source 51, the second light source 52, and the third light source 53 based on the peak value of the intensity of the blue light BL, the peak value of the intensity of the red light RL, and the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL. Furthermore, the processor 5P derives the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL based on the peak value of the intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLR, and determines the light quantity of the fourth light source 54 based on the relationship between the derived peak value and any one of the peak values of the intensity of the blue light BL, the peak value of the intensity of the red light RL, and the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL.
[0168] Alternatively, the light amount of each light source may be determined by determining the characteristics of the coupling component such that the detection unit 61 detects a portion of the red light WLr, the blue light WLb, and the purple light VL, and the detection unit 62 detects a portion of the red light RL and a portion of the blue light BL.
[0169] Fig.25 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Fig.25 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fifth mode.
[0170] exist Fig.25In the example of , as the detection unit 60, a detection unit 61, a detection unit 62, and a detection unit 63 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor are provided. The detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 58. The detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 57. The detection unit 63 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59 with respect to the coupling member 56.
[0171] exist Fig.25 In the light source device 5 shown, the combining member 56 has the function of transmitting a part of the blue light BL incident on one surface 56a in the direction of the detection unit 63, and reflecting a part of the red light RL incident on the other surface 56b in the direction of the detection unit 63. The combining member 57 has the function of transmitting a part of the purple light VL incident on one surface 57a in the direction of the detection unit 62, and reflecting a part of the blue light BL incident on the other surface 57b in the direction of the detection unit 62. The combining member 58 has the function of transmitting the red light WLR and the blue light WLB in the white light WL incident on one surface 58a in the direction of the detection unit 61, and reflecting a part of the purple light VL incident on the other surface 58b in the direction of the detection unit 61.
[0172] exist Fig.25 In the light source device 5 of the structure shown, in the fifth mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of red light RL generated by the first light source 51, the amount of blue light BL generated by the second light source 52, the amount of purple light VL generated by the third light source 53, and the amount of white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 based on the information of purple light VL, blue light WLb and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 63, the information of purple light VL and blue light BL detected by the detection unit 62, and the information of red light RL and blue light BL detected by the detection unit 61.
[0173] In the above description, the detection unit 60 (detection unit 61, detection unit 62, detection unit 63) is set at a position where it can detect light reflected from one surface of the coupling component or light transmitted from the other surface of the coupling component, but it is not limited to this. For example, the detection unit 60 can also be set at a position where it can detect light incident on the other surface of the coupling component and reflected by the other surface. In addition, the detection unit 60 can also be set at a position where it can detect light emitted from the light source before it is incident on the other surface of the coupling component.
[0174] If Fig.11For example, the structure may be as follows: a detection unit 60 for detecting leakage of purple light VL reflected by a surface 57a of the combining component 57 or purple light VL emitted from the third light source 53 is provided at a position between the third light source 53 and the combining component 57, and a detection unit 60 for detecting leakage of red light WLr and blue light WLb reflected by a surface 58a of the combining component 58 or red light WLr and blue light WLb emitted from the fourth light source 54 is provided at a position between the fourth light source 54 and the combining component 58.
[0175] according to Fig.11 , Figure 15-19 , Figure 22-Figure 25 The structure shown can generate broadband green light GL at low cost by using the fourth light source 54 that generates white light WL, and can control the light quantity of the light source with high precision by using the red light WLR and blue light WLb included in the white light WL. As for the green light GL, since it can be completely introduced into the light guide 14, the quality of the image captured by the endoscope 1 can be improved.
[0176] Next, the white balance processing performed by the processor 4P of the processor device 4 will be described.
[0177] The processor 4P acquires a captured image signal (a collection of pixel signals output from each pixel of the captured image signal) output from the image sensor of the endoscope 1, and performs white balance processing on the captured image signal obtained after demosaicing the captured image signal. The white balance processing includes a process of multiplying each pixel signal of each color component included in the captured image signal by an adjustment gain.
[0178] For example, when acquiring a video image signal captured by the endoscope 1 while the light source device 5 is operating in the first mode, the processor 4P multiplies the pixel signal of the red component contained in the video image signal after de-mosaic processing by the adjustment gain Gr1, multiplies the pixel signal of the green component contained in the video image signal by the adjustment gain Gg1, and multiplies the pixel signal of the blue component contained in the video image signal by the adjustment gain Gb1, thereby performing white balance processing.
[0179] Furthermore, when acquiring a video image signal captured by the endoscope 1 while the light source device 5 is operating in the second mode, the processor 4P multiplies the pixel signal of the green component contained in the video image signal after de-mosaic processing by the adjustment gain Gg2, and multiplies the pixel signal of the purple component contained in the video image signal by the adjustment gain Gv2, thereby performing white balance processing.
[0180] The processor 4P performs white balance processing for each mode of the light source device 5 using an adjustment gain corresponding to the mode.
[0181] In the endoscope device 100, a plurality of endoscopes having different outer diameters of the light guide 14 can be connected to the light source device 5 and the processor device 4 as the endoscope 1. For example, in the endoscope device 100, at least two of a side-viewing scope, a duodenoscope, a nasal endoscope, an oral endoscope, and a bronchoscope can be connected as the endoscope 1. The outer diameters of the light guides 14 of these endoscopes may be different.
[0182] The appropriate value of the above-mentioned adjustment gain varies depending on the type of endoscope 1. If the outer diameter of the light guide 14 is different, the positional relationship of the base end surface of the light guide 14 relative to the focusing lens 59 may also change, and thus the adjustment gain for obtaining an appropriate white balance may also change. Therefore, it is preferable to store the adjustment gain for each mode of the light source device 5 in the memory of the processor device 4 in a corresponding association with each type of endoscope 1 that can be connected to the light source device 5 and the processor device 4.
[0183] When the processor 4P performs white balance processing, it is preferable to perform white balance processing on a captured image signal output from an imaging element of the endoscope 1 based on the type of the endoscope 1 connected to the light source device 5 and the processor device 4 .
[0184] Specifically, when the processor 4P performs white balance processing, the type of the endoscope 1 connected to the light source device 5 and the processor device 4 is identified, the adjustment gain corresponding to the identified type is read from the memory, and the white balance processing is performed using the read adjustment gain. In this way, even when various types of endoscopes 1 are used, white balance processing suitable for the endoscope 1 used can be performed.
[0185] Furthermore, the memory of the processor 4P may not store the adjustment gain at the time of factory shipment. In this case, the processor 4P can perform appropriate white balance processing by performing data processing to generate the adjustment gain.
[0186] This data processing is performed, for example, in a state where a cap including a white image serving as a white reference is attached to the distal end portion 10C of the endoscope 1. With the cap attached to the distal end portion 10C, the white image can be captured by the endoscope 1.
[0187] If the endoscope 1 is connected, the processor 4P obtains identification information (e.g., individual identification number and type) for identifying the endoscope 1. In addition, the processor 4P obtains a camera image signal obtained by capturing a white image by the endoscope 1, generates an adjustment gain based on the obtained camera image signal, and associates the adjustment gain with the identification information and stores the result in a memory. The processor 4P performs data generation processing while the light source device 5 is operating in each mode, generates an adjustment gain for each mode of the light source device 5, and stores the result in a memory.
[0188] As a result, the adjustment gain group corresponding to the first mode, the adjustment gain group corresponding to the second mode, the adjustment gain group corresponding to the third mode, the adjustment gain group corresponding to the fourth mode, and the adjustment gain group corresponding to the fifth mode are associated with the identification information of the connected endoscope 1 and stored in the memory of the processor device 4.
[0189] When an endoscope 1 having identification information stored in the memory is connected, the processor 4P performs white balance processing using the adjustment gain corresponding to the identification information stored in the memory. On the other hand, when an endoscope 1 having no identification information stored in the memory is connected, the processor 4P performs data generation processing and performs white balance processing using the generated adjustment gain.
[0190] In this way, by performing data generation processing through the processor 4P, even when the types of endoscopes 1 used are different, an adjustment gain suitable for the type can be generated, thereby improving the quality of the captured image. Furthermore, even if the endoscopes 1 used are of the same type, an appropriate adjustment gain can be generated for each individual endoscope 1, thereby improving the quality of the captured image. Furthermore, when manufacturing the processor 4P, it is not necessary to generate the adjustment gain, which can reduce the manufacturing cost.
[0191] In addition, since the detection unit 60 is provided in the light source device 5 and the light source devices 5B, 5C, 5D, 5F, and 5H, it is possible to suppress the change in the amount of light of each color introduced into the light guide 14 due to the change of each light source over the years. Therefore, if the data generation process is performed once, the quality of the camera image can be improved even if the adjustment gain generated in the data generation process is continuously used. On the other hand, it is assumed that the detection unit 60 is not provided in the light source device 5 and the light source devices 5B, 5C, 5D, 5F, and 5H. In this case, if the light amount changes due to the change of each light source over the years, the generated adjustment gain may deviate from the appropriate value.
[0192] Therefore, even when the endoscope 1 in which the identification information and the gain for adjustment are stored is connected, it is preferable that the processor 4P executes the data generation process when a certain condition related to the operation of the light source device 5 is satisfied. The condition is, for example, that the cumulative value of the operation time of the light source device 5 reaches a predetermined value. The predetermined value is, for example, a value of α times the predetermined time (α is a natural number greater than 1).
[0193] By doing so, even when a change over time occurs in the light source device 5, the white balance can be appropriately maintained. In the case where the detection unit 60 is not provided in the light source device 5, the manufacturing cost of the light source device 5 can be reduced.
[0194] Even if the outer diameters of the light guides 14 are the same, the color tone of the imaged image may change due to the configuration of the imaging element included in the front end portion 10C (for example, whether the light receiving surface of the imaging element is vertical or horizontal relative to the longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 10) or the optical characteristics of the imaging optical system. Therefore, even if the endoscope device 100 is configured to connect only endoscopes 1 having the same outer diameter of the light guide 14, the processor 4P performs the above-mentioned data generation processing, generates and stores the gain for adjustment for each endoscope 1, and thus the quality of the image captured by the endoscope 1 can be improved.
[0195] In the above description, the various processes performed by the processor 4P may be performed by the processor 4P alone or by the processor 4P and other processors. Furthermore, the various processes performed by the processor 5P may be performed by the processor 5P alone or by the processor 5P and other processors. For example, the other processors are the processors of the servers in the inspection system storing the inspection data generated by the endoscope device 100, the processor 4P or the processor 5P. The processor 4P may also perform the various processes performed by the processor 5P.
[0196] The structure of the optical component 55 in the light source device 5 and the light source devices 5B, 5C, 5D, 5F, and 5H is only an example and is not limited thereto. The optical component 55 may have other structures as long as it is configured to be able to guide the red light RL into the light guide 14, guide the blue light BL into the light guide 14, guide the purple light VL into the light guide 14, and guide the green light GL into the light guide 14.
[0197] As described above, at least the following matters are described in this specification. In the following, components corresponding to the above-mentioned embodiment are shown in brackets, but the present invention is not limited thereto. (1)
[0199] A system (endoscope device 100) comprising:
[0200] A light source device (light source device 5, 5D) capable of connecting a plurality of endoscopes (endoscope 1) having light guides with different outer diameters; and
[0201] Processor (Processor 4P),
[0202] The light source device has:
[0203] The first light source (first light source 51) generates red light (red light RL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 51A).
[0204] The second light source (second light source 52) generates blue light (blue light BL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 52A).
[0205] The third light source (third light source 53) generates purple light (purple light VL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 53A);
[0206] a fourth light source (fourth light source 54) that generates white light (white light WL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A); and
[0207] an optical component (optical component 55) capable of combining at least two of the red light, the blue light, the purple light, and the green light (green light GL) included in the white light and introducing the combined light into the light guide (light guide 14) of the endoscope,
[0208] The fourth light source generates the white light by a blue light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A) that generates blue light and a phosphor (first phosphor 54R and second phosphor 54G or third phosphor 54Y) that receives the blue light and generates light.
[0209] The optical path of the light emitted from the fourth light source and reaching the light guide is shorter than the optical path of the light emitted from the first light source, the second light source and the third light source and reaching the light guide.
[0210] The processor performs white balance processing on a captured image signal output from an imaging element of the endoscope based on the type of the endoscope connected to the light source device. (2)
[0212] The system according to (1), wherein:
[0213] The processor performs a data generation process for generating data used for the white balance process. (3)
[0215] The system according to (1), wherein:
[0216] The plurality of endoscopes include at least one of a side-viewing endoscope, a duodenoscope, a nasal endoscope and a bronchoscope. (4)
[0218] The system according to (1), wherein:
[0219] The fourth light source generates the white light by a blue light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A) that generates blue light and two types of phosphors (first phosphor 54R and second phosphor 54G) that receive the blue light and generate light. (5)
[0221] The system according to (4), wherein:
[0222] The two types of phosphors are a first phosphor (first phosphor 54R) that generates red light upon receiving the blue light and a second phosphor (second phosphor 54G) that generates green light upon receiving the blue light. (6)
[0224] The system according to (2), wherein:
[0225] When performing the data generation process, the processor stores the data generated by the data generation process in association with the type of the endoscope connected to the light source device. (7)
[0227] The system according to (6), wherein:
[0228] When the endoscope of a type not storing the data is connected, the processor performs the data generating process. (8)
[0230] The system according to (6), wherein:
[0231] The processor performs the data generating process when a certain condition related to the operation of the light source device is satisfied. (9)
[0233] The system according to (2), wherein:
[0234] The light source device can operate in a plurality of modes in which the amount of light introduced into the light guide of the endoscope is different, and the processor performs the data generation process in each of the plurality of modes. (10)
[0236] The system according to (9), wherein:
[0237] The plurality of modes include a first mode in which the red light, the blue light, and the green light are combined and introduced into the light guide. (11)
[0239] The system according to (10), wherein:
[0240] The plurality of modes include a second mode in which the purple light and the green light are combined and introduced into the light guide. (12)
[0242] The system according to (1), wherein:
[0243] The above-mentioned light source device has a detection unit (detection unit 60) for detecting a part of the light generated by the above-mentioned first light source, the above-mentioned second light source, the above-mentioned third light source and the above-mentioned fourth light source, and controls the light amount of the light generated by at least two of the above-mentioned first light source, the above-mentioned second light source, the above-mentioned third light source and the above-mentioned fourth light source based on the light detected by the above-mentioned detection unit. (13)
[0245] A light source device (light source device 5, 5B, 5D, 5F, 5H), comprising: a first light source (first light source 51) that generates red light (red light RL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 51A); a second light source (second light source 52) that generates blue light (blue light BL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 52A); a third light source (third light source 53) that generates purple light (purple light VL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 53A); a fourth light source (fourth light source 54) that generates white light (white light WL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A); an optical component (optical component); Part 55), constituted as a light guide (light guide 14) capable of introducing the above-mentioned red light into the endoscope (endoscope 1), introducing the above-mentioned blue light into the above-mentioned light guide, introducing the above-mentioned purple light into the above-mentioned light guide, and introducing the green light (green light GL) contained in the above-mentioned white light into the above-mentioned light guide; a detection unit (detection unit 60), detecting a part of the light generated by at least two of the above-mentioned first light source, the above-mentioned second light source, the above-mentioned third light source and the above-mentioned fourth light source; and a processor (processor 5P), controlling the light amount of the light generated by at least two of the above-mentioned first light source, the above-mentioned second light source, the above-mentioned third light source and the above-mentioned fourth light source based on the light detected by the above-mentioned detection unit. (14)
[0247] The light source device according to (13) above, wherein:
[0248] The light source whose light quantity is controlled by the processor based on the light detected by the detection unit includes the third light source. (15)
[0250] The light source device according to (14), wherein:
[0251] The light source whose light quantity is controlled by the processor based on the light detected by the detection unit includes the fourth light source. (16)
[0253] The light source device according to (15), wherein:
[0254] The detection unit detects the purple light and the blue light (blue light WLb) included in the white light, and the processor controls the light amounts of the third light source and the fourth light source based on the detected purple light and blue light. (17)
[0256] The light source device according to (14), wherein:
[0257] The light source whose light quantity is controlled by the processor based on the light detected by the detection unit includes the second light source. (18)
[0259] The light source device according to (14), wherein:
[0260] The optical component includes a first combining component ( Figure 11-Figure 17 , Figure 22-Figure 25 The combination part 58, Fig.18 and Fig.19 Combination component 57). (19)
[0262] The light source device according to (18), wherein:
[0263] The detection unit includes a first detection unit that detects a portion of the light incident on the first coupling member ( Figure 11-Figure 17 , Figure 22-Figure 25 The detection unit 61, Fig.18 and Fig.19 Detection unit 62). (20)
[0265] The light source device according to (19), wherein:
[0266] The optical component includes: a second combining component capable of combining a plurality of light ( Figure 11-Figure 17 , Figure 22-Figure 25 and a third combining member capable of combining multiple light ( Figure 11-Figure 17 , Figure 22-Figure 25 The combination part 57),
[0267] The first coupling member is arranged on the light guide side relative to the second coupling member and the third coupling member. (twenty one)
[0269] The light source device according to any one of (18) to (20), wherein:
[0270] The detection unit detects a portion of the purple light incident on the first combining member and blue light (blue light WLb) included in the white light incident on the first combining member.
[0271] The processor controls the light intensity of the third light source and the light intensity of the fourth light source based on the detected purple light and blue light. (twenty two)
[0273] The light source device according to (14), wherein:
[0274] The optical component includes three combining components (combining component 56, combining component 57, combining component 58) capable of combining a plurality of lights.
[0275] The detection unit detects a part of light incident on any one of the two coupling components (coupling component 57 and coupling component 58) other than the coupling component (coupling component 56) located at the end portion opposite to the light guide side among the three coupling components. (twenty three)
[0277] The light source device according to (22), wherein:
[0278] The detection unit detects a part of the light incident on the coupling member (coupling member 58 ) located at the end portion on the light guide side among the three coupling members. (twenty four)
[0280] The light source device according to any one of (13) to (17), wherein:
[0281] The number of the detection units is smaller than the total number of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source. (25)
[0283] The light source device according to (24), wherein:
[0284] The number of the above-mentioned detection unit is one. (26)
[0286] The light source device according to (25), wherein:
[0287] The optical component includes a first combining component ( Figure 11-Figure 17 The combination part 58, Fig.18 and Fig.19 The combination part 57),
[0288] The detection unit detects a portion of the light incident on the first coupling member. (27)
[0290] The light source device according to (26), wherein:
[0291] The optical component includes: a second combining component capable of combining a plurality of light ( Figure 11-Figure 17 and a third combining member capable of combining multiple light ( Figure 11-Figure 17 The combination part 57),
[0292] The first combining member ( Figure 11-Figure 17 The coupling component 58) is arranged closer to the light guide member than the second coupling component and the third coupling component. (28)
[0294] The light source device according to (27), wherein
[0295] The processor controls the amount of light generated by the first light source, the amount of light generated by the second light source, the amount of light generated by the third light source, and the amount of light generated by the fourth light source based on the light detected by the detection unit. (29)
[0297] The light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), wherein:
[0298] The above-mentioned fourth light source includes: a blue light-emitting diode (light-emitting diode 54A), which generates blue light; a first phosphor (first phosphor 54R), which receives the blue light generated by the above-mentioned blue light-emitting diode and generates red light; and a second phosphor (second phosphor 54G), which receives the blue light generated by the above-mentioned blue light-emitting diode and generates green light. (30)
[0300] The light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), wherein:
[0301] The fourth light source includes a blue light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A) that generates blue light and a phosphor (third phosphor 54Y) that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates yellow light. (31)
[0303] The light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), wherein:
[0304] The processor selectively performs the first control and the second control, wherein the first control causes the red light, the blue light and the green light (green light GL) contained in the white light to be introduced into the light guide, and the second control causes the purple light and the green light (green light GL) contained in the white light to be introduced into the light guide. (32)
[0306] The light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), wherein:
[0307] The light generated by the third light source has a central wavelength of 410 nm to 430 nm, and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm. (33)
[0309] The light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), wherein:
[0310] The blue light is generated by a light-emitting diode (light-emitting diode 52A) included in the second light source. The light generated by the light-emitting diode has a central wavelength of 440 nm to 450 nm and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm. (34)
[0312] The light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), wherein:
[0313] The processor controls the purple light and the green light (green light GL) included in the white light to be introduced into the light guide.
[0314] In this control, the central wavelength of the green light introduced into the light guide is 540 nm or more and 560 nm or less, and the half-peak width is 80 nm or more. (35)
[0316] A light source device (light source device 5, 5B-5C), comprising:
[0317] The first light source (first light source 51) generates a first color light (red light RL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 51A);
[0318] The second light source (second light source 52) generates a second color light (blue light BL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 52A).
[0319] The third light source (third light source 53) generates purple light (purple light VL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 53A);
[0320] The fourth light source (the fourth light source 54, the fourth light source 54X, the fourth light source 54Xa) generates light including at least green light including a light emitting diode (the light emitting diode 54A);
[0321] 1st connecting member ( Figure 11-Figure 15 , Fig.23 , Fig.25 A combining component 56) capable of combining the first color light and the second color light;
[0322] Second connecting member ( Figure 11-Figure 15 , Fig.23 , Fig.25 A combining member 57) capable of combining the light emitted from the first combining member with one of the purple light and the green light;
[0323] The third connecting member ( Figure 11-Figure 15 , Fig.23 , Fig.25 A combining member 58) capable of combining the light emitted from the second combining member with the other of the purple light and the green light;
[0324] A light-collecting member (light-collecting member 59) collects the light emitted from the third combining member onto a light-guiding member (light-guiding member 14) of an endoscope (endoscope 1);
[0325] Detection Unit 1 ( Figure 11-Figure 15 , Fig.23 , Fig.25 a detection unit 61) for detecting a portion of light emitted from the second combining component and incident on the third combining component and a portion of light emitted from the fourth light source and incident on the third combining component; and
[0326] The processor (processor 5P) controls the light amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the first detection unit. (36)
[0328] The light source device according to (35), wherein:
[0329] The fourth light source (fourth light source 54 ) generates white light (white light WL) including the green light. (37)
[0331] The light source device according to (36), wherein:
[0332] The above-mentioned fourth light source (fourth light source 54) includes: a blue light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A) that generates blue light; a first phosphor (first phosphor 54R) that receives the blue light generated by the above-mentioned blue light emitting diode and generates red light; and a second phosphor (second phosphor 54G) that receives the blue light generated by the above-mentioned blue light emitting diode and generates the above-mentioned green light. (38)
[0334] The light source device according to (36) or (37), wherein:
[0335] The first detection unit detects the purple light and blue light (blue light WLb) included in the white light. (39)
[0337] The light source device according to (38), wherein:
[0338] The processor controls light intensities of the third light source and the fourth light source based on the purple light and the blue light detected by the first detection unit. (40)
[0340] The light source device according to (35), wherein:
[0341] The fourth light source (the fourth light source 54Xa) includes a blue light emitting diode (the light emitting diode 54A) that generates blue light and a third phosphor (the fourth phosphor 54Gx) that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates the green light. (41)
[0343] The light source device according to any one of (35) to (37), further comprising:
[0344] Second detection unit ( Fig.23 , Fig.25 The second detection unit 63 detects a portion of the light incident on the first combining component. (42)
[0346] The light source device according to (41), wherein
[0347] The second detection unit detects the first color light and the second color light, and the processor controls light amounts of the first light source and the second light source based on the first color light and the second color light detected by the second detection unit. (43)
[0349] The light source device according to (41), further comprising:
[0350] Detection Unit 3 ( Fig.25 The third detection unit detects a portion of light emitted from the first combining component and incident on the second combining component and a portion of light emitted from the third light source and incident on the second combining component. (44)
[0352] The light source device according to (43), wherein
[0353] The processor controls the amount of light generated by the first light source, the amount of light generated by the second light source, the amount of light generated by the third light source, and the amount of light generated by the fourth light source based on the light detected by the first detection unit, the second detection unit, and the third detection unit.
Claims
1. A system comprising: A light source device capable of connecting to a plurality of endoscopes having different outer diameters of light guides; and processor, The light source device comprises: The first light source includes a light emitting diode and generates red light; The second light source includes a light emitting diode and generates blue light; A third light source includes a light emitting diode and generates purple light; A fourth light source includes a light emitting diode and generates white light; and an optical component capable of combining and introducing at least two of the red light, the blue light, the purple light, and the green light included in the white light into the light guide of the endoscope, The fourth light source generates the white light by a blue light emitting diode that generates blue light and a phosphor that receives the blue light and generates light. The optical path of the light emitted from the fourth light source and reaching the light guide is shorter than the optical path of the light emitted from the first light source, the second light source, and the third light source and reaching the light guide. The processor performs white balance processing on a captured image signal output from an imaging element of the endoscope based on the type of the endoscope connected to the light source device.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor performs a data generation process of generating data used for the white balance process.
3. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of endoscopes include at least one of a side-viewing endoscope, a duodenoscope, a nasal endoscope, and a bronchoscope.
4. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The fourth light source generates the white light by using a blue light emitting diode that generates blue light and two types of phosphors that receive the blue light and generate light.
5. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The two types of phosphors are a first phosphor that receives the blue light and generates red light, and a second phosphor that receives the blue light and generates green light.
6. The system according to claim 2, wherein: When performing the data generation process, the processor stores the data generated by the data generation process in association with the type of the endoscope connected to the light source device.
7. The system according to claim 6, wherein: The processor performs the data generation process when the endoscope of a type in which the data is not stored is connected.
8. The system according to claim 6, wherein: The processor performs the data generation process when a certain condition related to the operation of the light source device is satisfied.
9. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The light source device is operable in a plurality of modes in which the amount of light introduced into the light guide of the endoscope is different, and the processor performs the data generation process in each of the plurality of modes.
10. The system according to claim 9, wherein: The plurality of modes include a first mode that combines the red light, the blue light, and the green light and introduces the combined light into the light guide.
11. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of modes include a second mode that combines the purple light and the green light and introduces the combined light into the light guide.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein: The light source device has a detection unit that detects a portion of light generated by the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source, and controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the detection unit.
13. A light source device comprising: The first light source includes a light emitting diode and generates red light; The second light source includes a light emitting diode and generates blue light; A third light source includes a light emitting diode and generates purple light; A fourth light source includes a light emitting diode and generates white light; an optical component configured to guide the red light into a light guide of an endoscope, guide the blue light into the light guide, guide the violet light into the light guide, and guide the green light included in the white light into the light guide; a detection unit that detects a portion of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source; and The processor controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the detection unit.
14. The light source device according to claim 13, wherein: The light source whose light amount is controlled by the processor based on the light detected by the detection unit includes the third light source.
15. The light source device according to claim 14, wherein: The light source whose light amount is controlled by the processor based on the light detected by the detection unit includes the fourth light source.
16. The light source device according to claim 15, wherein: The detection unit detects the purple light and the blue light included in the white light. The processor controls the light amounts of the third light source and the fourth light source based on the detected purple light and blue light.
17. The light source device according to claim 14, wherein: The light source whose light quantity is controlled by the processor based on the light detected by the detection unit includes the second light source.
18. The light source device according to claim 14, wherein: The optical component includes a first combining component capable of combining the purple light and the green light.
19. The light source device according to claim 18, wherein: The detection unit includes a first detection unit configured to detect a portion of light incident on the first coupling member.
20. The light source device according to claim 19, wherein: The optical component includes: a second combining component capable of combining a plurality of lights; and a third combining component capable of combining a plurality of lights. The first coupling member is arranged on the light guide side relative to the second coupling member and the third coupling member.
21. The light source device according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein: The detection unit detects a portion of the purple light incident on the first combining member and blue light included in the white light incident on the first combining member. The processor controls the light intensity of the third light source and the light intensity of the fourth light source based on the detected purple light and blue light.
22. The light source device according to claim 14, wherein: The optical component includes three combining components capable of combining multiple lights. The detection unit detects a part of light incident on any one of two of the three coupling components other than the coupling component located at an end portion on the side opposite to the light guide.
23. The light source device according to claim 22, wherein: The detection unit detects a portion of light incident on an end portion of the three coupling components located on the light guide side.
24. The light source device according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein: The number of the detection units is smaller than the total number of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source.
25. The light source device according to claim 24, wherein: The number of the detection unit is 1.
26. The light source device according to claim 25, wherein: The optical component includes a first combining member capable of combining the purple light and the green light, and the detection unit detects a portion of the light incident on the first combining member.
27. The light source device according to claim 26, wherein: The optical component includes: a second combining component capable of combining a plurality of lights; and a third combining component capable of combining a plurality of lights. The first coupling member is arranged on the light guide side relative to the second coupling member and the third coupling member.
28. The light source device according to claim 27, wherein: The processor controls the amount of light generated by the first light source, the amount of light generated by the second light source, the amount of light generated by the third light source, and the amount of light generated by the fourth light source based on the light detected by the detection unit.
29. The light source device according to any one of claims 13 to 20, 22, and 23, wherein: The fourth light source includes: a blue light emitting diode that generates blue light; a first phosphor that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates red light; and a second phosphor that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates green light.
30. The light source device according to any one of claims 13 to 20, 22, and 23, wherein: The fourth light source includes: a blue light emitting diode that generates blue light; and a fluorescent body that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates yellow light.
31. The light source device according to any one of claims 13 to 20, 22 and 23, wherein: The processor selectively performs a first control and a second control, wherein the first control introduces the red light, the blue light, and the green light included in the white light into the light guide, and the second control introduces the purple light and the green light included in the white light into the light guide.
32. The light source device according to any one of claims 13 to 20, 22, and 23, wherein: The light generated by the third light source has a central wavelength of 410 nm to 430 nm, and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm.
33. The light source device according to any one of claims 13 to 20, 22, and 23, wherein: The blue light is generated by a light emitting diode included in the second light source. The light generated by the light emitting diode has a central wavelength of 440 nm to 450 nm, and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm.
34. The light source device according to any one of claims 13 to 20, 22, and 23, wherein: the processor controls the purple light and the green light included in the white light to be introduced into the light guide, In this control, the central wavelength of the green light introduced into the light guide is 540 nm or more and 560 nm or less, and the half-peak width is 80 nm or more.
35. A light source device comprising: The first light source includes a light emitting diode and generates a first color light; The second light source includes a light emitting diode and generates a second color light; A third light source includes a light emitting diode and generates purple light; a fourth light source including a light emitting diode and generating light including at least green light; a first combining member capable of combining the first color light and the second color light; a second combining member capable of combining the light emitted from the first combining member with one of the purple light and the green light; a third combining member capable of combining the light emitted from the second combining member with the other of the purple light and the green light; A light-collecting member for collecting the light emitted from the third combining member onto the light guide of the endoscope; a first detection unit that detects a portion of the light emitted from the second coupling member and incident on the third coupling member and a portion of the light emitted from the fourth light source and incident on the third coupling member; and The processor controls the light amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the first detection unit.
36. The light source device according to claim 35, wherein: The fourth light source generates white light including the green light.
37. The light source device according to claim 36, wherein: The fourth light source includes: a blue light emitting diode that generates blue light; a first phosphor that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates red light; and a second phosphor that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates the green light.
38. The light source device according to claim 36 or 37, wherein: The first detection unit detects the purple light and blue light included in the white light.
39. The light source device according to claim 38, wherein: The processor controls light intensities of the third light source and the fourth light source based on the purple light and the blue light detected by the first detection unit.
40. The light source device according to claim 35, wherein: The fourth light source includes: a blue light emitting diode that generates blue light; and a third phosphor that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates the green light.
41. The light source device according to any one of claims 35 to 37, further comprising: The second detection unit detects a portion of the light incident on the first coupling member.
42. The light source device according to claim 41, wherein: The second detection unit detects the first color light and the second color light, The processor controls light intensities of the first light source and the second light source based on the first color light and the second color light detected by the second detection unit.
43. The light source device according to claim 41, further comprising: The third detection unit detects a portion of the light emitted from the first coupling member and incident on the second coupling member and a portion of the light emitted from the third light source and incident on the second coupling member.
44. The light source device according to claim 43, wherein: The processor controls the amount of light generated by the first light source, the amount of light generated by the second light source, the amount of light generated by the third light source, and the amount of light generated by the fourth light source based on the light detected by the first detection unit, the second detection unit, and the third detection unit.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
electronic endoscope
JP1994017942B2
Imaging device and endoscope
JP2018099441A
Endoscope apparatus, endoscope system, and white balance adjustment method
JP2019000508A
Endoscope system and method for operating same
WO2021065939A1