Multi-channel endoscope image processor and medical equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to a multi-channel endoscope image processor and medical equipment. The processor comprises a mainboard, a controller and a plurality of acquisition cards. The controller is connected with the mainboard; the plurality of acquisition cards are respectively connected with the controller through a plurality of PCIE (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interfaces of the mainboard, and the plurality of acquisition cards are respectively connected with the plurality of endoscopes in a one-to-one correspondence manner; wherein the controller is used for sending a clock signal, a frame synchronization signal and a line synchronization signal to the plurality of acquisition cards, so that the plurality of acquisition cards transmit video data acquired from the endoscope to the controller under the action of the clock signal, the frame synchronization signal and the line synchronization signal. The processor can realize acquisition, processing and synchronous display of multi-channel endoscope graphs.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of electronic endoscopes, in particular to a multi-channel endoscope image processor and a medical device. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the field of medical endoscopy diagnosis and treatment, the channel processing capability and video output performance of the image processor as the core device directly affect the diagnosis accuracy and operation efficiency.

[0003] The endoscope image processors on the market at present are mainly divided into two categories: repeated and disposable, but both types of products have key technical shortcomings: first, the high-definition channel processing capability is limited, and there is no product with three or more high-definition channel processing capabilities, which is difficult to meet the needs of multi-site and multi-angle high-definition image acquisition in complex diagnosis and treatment scenarios; second, the number of video output channels is small, which restricts the application scenarios of multi-terminal synchronous observation.

[0004] Even if some existing disposable endoscope image processors support 2-channel design, there are still core function defects, and they cannot realize the synchronous and simultaneous display of multi-channel high-definition images, which makes it difficult for doctors to compare and analyze multi-channel image information in real time during diagnosis and treatment, affecting the timeliness and accuracy of diagnosis and treatment decisions, and there is an urgent need for an endoscope image processor with multi-high-definition channel processing capability and supporting multi-channel synchronous display to make up for the shortcomings of existing technology. SUMMARY

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a multi-channel endoscope image processor and a medical device.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present application provides a multi-channel endoscope image processor, which comprises:

[0007] a mainboard;

[0008] a controller connected to the mainboard;

[0009] a plurality of acquisition cards connected to the controller through a plurality of PCIE interfaces of the mainboard, and the plurality of acquisition cards are respectively used to correspondingly connect a plurality of endoscopes;

[0010] The controller is configured to send a clock signal, a frame synchronization signal and a line synchronization signal to the plurality of acquisition cards, so that the plurality of acquisition cards transmit the video data collected from the endoscopes to the controller under the action of the clock signal, the frame synchronization signal and the line synchronization signal.

[0011] In one embodiment, the number of acquisition cards is at least three.

[0012] In one of the embodiments, the mainboard further comprises a plurality of video signal output interfaces, each of which is connected to the mainboard connection controller.

[0013] In one of the embodiments, the plurality of video signal output interfaces at least comprises two high-definition multimedia interfaces, two digital video interfaces, two serial digital interfaces, one composite synchronous video broadcast signal interface and two trigger interfaces.

[0014] In one of the embodiments, the processor further comprises:

[0015] A plurality of SFP optical modules, which are used to connect the plurality of acquisition cards one by one to the plurality of endoscopes.

[0016] In one of the embodiments, the processor further comprises:

[0017] A first line-to-board connector, which is connected to the mainboard;

[0018] An interactive operation panel, which is connected to the mainboard connection controller through the first line-to-board connector.

[0019] In one of the embodiments, the interactive operation panel at least comprises:

[0020] A universal serial bus interface, which is connected to the mainboard connection controller through the first line-to-board connector;

[0021] A plurality of operation keys, which are connected to the mainboard connection controller through the first line-to-board connector.

[0022] In one of the embodiments, the processor further comprises:

[0023] A second line-to-board connector, which is connected to the mainboard;

[0024] A display screen, which is connected to the mainboard connection controller through the second line-to-board connector.

[0025] In one of the embodiments, the display screen is a touch display screen.

[0026] In a second aspect, the present application provides a medical device, which comprises:

[0027] A medical device body;

[0028] and the multi-channel endoscope image processor in the above embodiments, which is connected to the medical device body.

[0029] The multi-channel endoscope image processor and the medical device described above have at least the following beneficial effects:

[0030] By connecting the controller to multiple acquisition cards via PCIe interfaces and combining the coordinated control of clock, frame synchronization, and line synchronization signals, parallel acquisition of multiple real-time video streams is achieved, and ultra-high-definition resolution is supported. This solves the problem that existing technologies can only have two-channel input and cannot be adapted to ultra-high-definition sensors, thus meeting the clinical needs for simultaneous imaging of multiple sites. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a multi-channel endoscopic image processor in one embodiment;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a multi-channel endoscopic image processor in another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more complete description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the present application. However, the present application can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application will be thorough and complete.

[0035] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0036] It is understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., used herein may be used to describe various elements, but these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this application, a first resistor may be referred to as a second resistor, and similarly, a second resistor may be referred to as a first resistor. Both the first resistor and the second resistor are resistors, but they are not the same resistor.

[0037] It is understood that the term "connection" in the following embodiments should be understood as "electrical connection," "communication connection," etc., if the connected circuits, modules, units, etc., have electrical signal or data transmission with each other.

[0038] It is understandable that "at least one" refers to one or more, and "multiple" refers to two or more. "At least a part of an element" refers to part or all of an element.

[0039] When used herein, the singular forms of “a,” “an,” and “the” may also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” or “having,” etc., specify the presence of the stated feature, whole, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0040] In one exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, this application provides a multi-channel endoscopic image processor, which includes a motherboard 2, a controller 4, and multiple acquisition cards 6. The controller 4 is connected to the motherboard 2; the multiple acquisition cards 6 are respectively connected to the controller 4 through multiple PCIe interfaces of the motherboard 2, and the multiple acquisition cards 6 are also used to connect to multiple endoscopes one-to-one; wherein, the controller 4 is used to send clock signals, frame synchronization signals, and line synchronization signals to the multiple acquisition cards 6, so that the multiple acquisition cards 6 transmit the video data acquired from the endoscopes to the controller 4 under the action of the clock signals, frame synchronization signals, and line synchronization signals.

[0041] The controller 4 can refer to a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited to the examples mentioned above.

[0042] For example, with controller 4 as the core control unit, controller 4 forms the control center of the entire system through connection with motherboard 2. Multiple acquisition cards 6 are connected to controller 4 through multiple PCIe interfaces configured on motherboard 2, and each acquisition card is connected to an endoscope, forming an independent and parallel multi-channel acquisition link, providing a hardware foundation for multi-channel data acquisition.

[0043] During the acquisition process, controller 4 first sends clock signals, frame synchronization signals, and line synchronization signals to all acquisition cards synchronously. These three types of signals constitute the core control logic of multi-channel synchronous acquisition. The clock signal provides a unified timing reference for each acquisition card, ensuring that the working rhythm of all acquisition cards remains consistent; the frame synchronization signal is used to calibrate the start acquisition time of video frames by different acquisition cards, avoiding misalignment of multi-channel video frames; the line synchronization signal further refines the synchronization accuracy, ensuring the synchronization of each acquisition card during video line scanning. Under the coordinated control of the above three types of signals, each acquisition card can synchronously start the data acquisition work from the corresponding endoscope, effectively avoiding timing deviations in the multi-channel acquisition process, realizing parallel acquisition of multiple real-time video streams, and supporting the acquisition of ultra-high-definition (3840*2160) resolution video data, solving the shortcomings of existing technologies that can only support two-channel input and cannot adapt to ultra-high-definition sensors.

[0044] In the synchronous transmission phase, the capture card transmits the acquired video data to the controller 4 via signal paths such as DVP, MIPI, LVDS, and SERDES. The motherboard 2 and the capture card communicate via custom pin signal allocation on the PCIe connector, ensuring high-speed and stable transmission of ultra-high-definition video data and preventing stuttering or packet loss during multi-channel video data transmission. After receiving the multi-channel video data, the controller 4 processes the data in parallel using its own computing capabilities and then transmits the processed video data to multiple video output interfaces on the motherboard 2, meeting the synchronous output requirements of multi-channel video data.

[0045] The aforementioned multi-channel endoscopic image processor, through the PCIE interface connection architecture of controller 4 and multiple acquisition cards 6, combined with the coordinated control of clock, frame synchronization, and line synchronization signals, realizes parallel acquisition of multiple real-time video streams and supports ultra-high-definition resolution. It solves the problem that existing technologies can only input two channels and cannot be adapted to ultra-high-definition sensors, thus meeting the clinical needs for simultaneous imaging of multiple sites.

[0046] In one exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the number of acquisition cards is at least three.

[0047] For example, from the perspective of clinical application needs, at least three acquisition cards can be connected to at least three endoscopes, enabling simultaneous acquisition of endoscopic images from three or more locations and angles. This breaks through the limitation of existing image processors that generally only support two or fewer channels for acquisition, meeting the needs of simultaneous observation of multiple locations in complex clinical scenarios. For example, in multi-organ examinations or minimally invasive surgeries, doctors can simultaneously acquire images of different target areas without frequently switching endoscopes or equipment, greatly improving the efficiency of diagnosis and surgical operations.

[0048] Secondly, more acquisition channels can simultaneously acquire richer image data, providing doctors with more comprehensive information about the patient's condition. This facilitates real-time comparative analysis of images from multiple regions, reducing diagnostic biases caused by missing or asynchronous data and improving diagnostic accuracy. Simultaneously, combined with the clock, frame synchronization, and line synchronization signals sent by controller 4, at least three acquisition cards can achieve synchronous acquisition and transmission of multi-channel video data under unified timing control. Combined with the multi-interface output of motherboard 2, this further expands the application scenarios of multi-channel synchronous display, providing more flexible and efficient image processing support for clinical practice.

[0049] In one exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the motherboard 2 also includes multiple video signal output interfaces, all of which are connected to the controller 4 via the motherboard 2.

[0050] For example, from the perspective of clinical application scenarios, multiple video signal output interfaces can simultaneously connect to multiple display devices (such as medical monitors, imaging workstations, etc.), supporting the synchronous output of multi-channel endoscopic video data processed by controller 4 to different terminals. This meets the image observation needs of multiple roles in the operating room, such as surgeons, assistants, and anesthesiologists, without the need to share a single display device, thus improving the coordination and efficiency of surgical collaboration. Moreover, the multi-interface design is compatible with the connection requirements of different types of display devices, avoiding device connection limitations caused by interface incompatibility, enhancing the compatibility of the processor with existing medical imaging systems, and reducing the cost of upgrading or replacing clinical equipment. At the same time, combined with the parallel processing capability of controller 4 for multi-channel video data, multiple output interfaces can realize independent output of different channel video streams or simultaneous display of the same video stream on multiple terminals. Doctors can flexibly choose single-channel detailed observation or multi-channel comparative analysis according to diagnostic needs, reducing operational interference caused by frequent switching of display content, further improving the accuracy and convenience of clinical diagnosis, and effectively overcoming the shortcomings of existing technologies such as limited video output channels and poor adaptability.

[0051] In one exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the multiple video signal output interfaces include at least two high-definition multimedia interfaces, two digital video interfaces, two serial digital interfaces, one composite synchronous video broadcast signal interface, and two trigger interfaces.

[0052] For example, a diverse range of interface combinations can comprehensively cover the connection needs of different types of medical display devices and imaging systems. For instance, HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) and DVI (Digital Visual Interface) interfaces are compatible with conventional high-definition medical displays, SDI (serial digital interface) interfaces meet the high requirements of stability and anti-interference for professional image transmission, and CVBS (Composite Video Broadcast Signal) interfaces are compatible with traditional analog display devices. This avoids device connection limitations caused by a single interface type, significantly improves the compatibility of the processor with existing medical equipment, and reduces the cost of replacing or upgrading clinical equipment. The two TRIG interfaces can send customized trigger levels and signal durations to external image acquisition workstations during photo and video capture, enabling precise synchronous acquisition of endoscopic images and external data to meet the needs of clinical image archiving and subsequent analysis. Multiple high-definition interfaces support the simultaneous output of multi-channel ultra-high-definition (3840*2160) video streams processed by controller 4 to multiple devices. This allows for simultaneous observation by multiple roles in the operating room (surgeon, assistants, etc.) and flexible switching between detailed single-channel viewing and multi-channel comparative analysis, avoiding frequent switching of display content that could interfere with operation. Furthermore, the parallel output of multiple interfaces ensures the independence and stability of video data transmission, effectively avoiding the risk of image interruption due to a single interface failure, further improving the reliability of clinical diagnosis and surgical operations, and addressing the shortcomings of existing technologies with limited output interface types and single functions.

[0053] In one exemplary embodiment, the processor further includes multiple SFP optical modules. The multiple SFP optical modules are used to connect multiple acquisition cards 6 one-to-one with multiple endoscopes.

[0054] For example, the SFP optical module, as a dedicated high-speed connection component, can fully leverage its high-speed signal transmission advantage to stably achieve real-time transmission of ultra-high-definition video data between the acquisition card and the endoscope. It effectively avoids signal attenuation, delay, or packet loss during data transmission, ensuring the clarity and timeliness of multi-channel endoscopic images, providing high-quality image data support for precise clinical diagnosis, and solving the performance bottleneck of traditional connection methods in high-speed data transmission scenarios.

[0055] From the perspectives of cost control and clinical practicality, based on the characteristics of the SFP optical module, the endoscope end does not require an additional dedicated connector. It can be connected to the SFP optical module simply through the PCB gold fingers, significantly simplifying the hardware structure of the endoscope end and substantially reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs. This cost advantage is particularly beneficial for disposable endoscopes, effectively alleviating the economic burden of clinical use and increasing the product's clinical accessibility. Simultaneously, the standardized design of the SFP optical module facilitates flexible compatibility between the acquisition card and different endoscope models, enhancing processor device compatibility and reducing usage limitations caused by device model incompatibility. This further improves its flexibility and practicality in multi-departmental and multi-scenario clinical applications, effectively overcoming the shortcomings of high endoscope connection costs and poor compatibility in existing technologies.

[0056] In one exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the processor also includes a first wire-to-board connector (not shown) and an interactive operation panel 8. The first wire-to-board connector is connected to the motherboard 2; the interactive operation panel 8 is connected to the controller 4 via the first wire-to-board connector and the motherboard 2.

[0057] For example, the wire-to-board connector, as a reliable board-level connection component, ensures the stability and low loss of signal transmission between the interactive operation panel 8 and the motherboard 2, avoiding problems such as delays and interruptions in the transmission of operation commands due to loose connections or poor contact, thus providing a hardware foundation for the accurate transmission of commands in clinical operations. The interactive operation panel 8 can integrate functions such as customizable buttons (e.g., taking photos, recording videos, image rotation, magnification), allowing medical staff to directly send operation commands to the controller 4 through the panel without the need for external devices or complex software. This significantly simplifies the operation process of endoscopic image acquisition and processing, reduces time consumption caused by cumbersome operations during surgery or diagnosis, and improves clinical work efficiency. Simultaneously, the modular connection method of the wire-to-board connector facilitates the later maintenance and replacement of the interactive operation panel 8. If the panel malfunctions, it can be quickly disassembled and replaced without requiring overall adjustments to the motherboard 2 or controller 4, reducing equipment maintenance costs and downtime. Furthermore, this connection architecture supports flexible adjustment of the functional layout of the interactive operation panel 8 according to clinical needs, enhancing the processor's adaptability to the operating habits of different departments.

[0058] In one exemplary embodiment, the interactive operation panel 8 includes at least a universal serial bus interface and multiple operation buttons. The universal serial bus interface is connected to the controller 4 via a first wire-to-board connector and the motherboard 2; the multiple operation buttons are connected to the controller 4 via the first wire-to-board connector and the motherboard 2.

[0059] In this embodiment, the USB interface can be flexibly connected to external devices (such as medical USB flash drives, mice, image storage devices, etc.), which makes it convenient for medical staff to quickly export endoscopic image data for archiving, analysis or sharing. It can also optimize the operation and interaction experience by connecting an external mouse. At the same time, it is compatible with multiple USB protocol devices, avoiding functional expansion bottlenecks caused by interface type limitations, and enhancing the collaboration between the processor and external devices.

[0060] Multiple operation buttons can be customized to perform core functions such as taking photos, recording videos, rotating images, and zooming. Medical staff can quickly trigger corresponding functions simply by pressing buttons during surgery or diagnosis, eliminating the need for complex menus and reducing operation steps and response time. This lowers the clinical risks associated with distracted operation, making it particularly suitable for scenarios with high timeliness requirements, such as surgery. Furthermore, the button customization function supports adaptation to the operating habits of different departments (such as gastroenterology and respiratory medicine), improving the device's scenario adaptability and effectively overcoming the shortcomings of existing technologies, such as limited interactive functions and cumbersome operation, providing more efficient and flexible operational support for clinical work.

[0061] In one exemplary embodiment, the processor further includes a second wire-to-board connector (not shown) and a display screen 10. The second wire-to-board connector is connected to the motherboard 2; the display screen 10 is connected to the controller 4 via the second wire-to-board connector and the motherboard 2.

[0062] For example, the second wire-to-board connector provides a reliable signal transmission link between the display screen 10 and the motherboard 2, effectively avoiding problems such as image stuttering and distortion caused by poor connection or signal attenuation. This ensures that the multi-channel endoscopic video data processed by the controller 4 can be presented on the display screen 10 in real time and clearly, providing high-quality visual support for medical staff to intuitively obtain lesion details and judge the condition. It is especially suitable for displaying ultra-high-definition (3840*2160) resolution images, ensuring the accuracy of clinical diagnosis. The integrated display screen 10 does not require additional external display devices, simplifying the deployment process of the processor and saving space in clinical scenarios such as operating rooms. At the same time, medical staff can directly view real-time images and operation feedback through the display screen 10 without frequently switching to view external devices, reducing operational distraction and improving the continuity of diagnosis and surgical operations.

[0063] In one exemplary embodiment, the display screen 10 is a touch display screen.

[0064] In this embodiment, the touch screen integrates image display and operation control functions. Medical staff do not need to rely on additional physical buttons or external devices. They can directly send instructions to the controller 4 through touch screen operations (such as clicking to switch channels, sliding to zoom in on lesion details, and using gestures to access image parameter menus). This greatly simplifies the operation process and reduces distractions caused by searching for physical buttons or adjusting operating equipment during surgery or diagnosis. Especially in surgical scenarios, it can shorten the operation response time and reduce the clinical risks caused by cumbersome operations.

[0065] In one exemplary embodiment, this application provides a medical device including a medical device body and a multi-channel endoscopic image processor as described in the above embodiment, wherein the multi-channel endoscopic image processor is connected to the medical device body.

[0066] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative descriptions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments or examples.

[0067] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0068] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A multi-channel endoscopic image processor, characterized in that, The processor includes: Motherboard; Controller, which is connected to the motherboard; Multiple acquisition cards are connected to the controller through multiple PCIe interfaces on the motherboard, and the multiple acquisition cards are also used to connect to multiple endoscopes in a one-to-one correspondence. The controller is used to send clock signals, frame synchronization signals, and line synchronization signals to multiple acquisition cards, so that the multiple acquisition cards transmit the video data acquired by the endoscope to the controller under the action of the clock signals, the frame synchronization signals, and the line synchronization signals.

2. The multi-channel endoscopic image processor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of acquisition cards is at least three.

3. The multi-channel endoscopic image processor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The motherboard also includes multiple video signal output interfaces, all of which are connected to the controller via the motherboard.

4. The multi-channel endoscopic image processor according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plurality of video signal output interfaces include at least two high-definition multimedia interfaces, two digital video interfaces, two serial digital interfaces, one composite synchronous video broadcast signal interface, and two trigger interfaces.

5. The multi-channel endoscopic image processor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The processor also includes: Multiple SFP optical modules are used to connect multiple acquisition cards to multiple endoscopes in a one-to-one correspondence.

6. The multi-channel endoscopic image processor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The processor also includes: The first wire-to-board connector is connected to the motherboard. An interactive operation panel is connected to the controller via the first wire-to-board connector and the motherboard.

7. The multi-channel endoscopic image processor according to claim 6, characterized in that, The interactive operation panel includes at least: A Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, wherein the USB interface is connected to the controller via the first wire-to-board connector and the motherboard; Multiple operation buttons are provided, and these operation buttons are connected to the controller via the first wire-to-board connector and the motherboard.

8. The multi-channel endoscopic image processor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The processor also includes: The second wire-to-board connector is connected to the motherboard. The display screen is connected to the controller via the second wire-to-board connector and the motherboard.

9. The multi-channel endoscopic image processor according to claim 8, characterized in that, The display screen is a touch screen.

10. A medical device, characterized in that, The medical device includes: Medical device body; And a multi-channel endoscopic image processor as described in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the multi-channel endoscopic image processor is connected to the medical device body.

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