Light source device and system
By using a variety of light emitting diode light sources and phosphor combinations in the endoscope, combined with optical components and processor control, the high-quality imaging images of the endoscope are realized, solving the problem of insufficient white balance processing in the prior art, and improving image clarity and color performance.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202421709589.8
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-07-21
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-18
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-08
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-07-18
AI Technical Summary
The image quality of the existing endoscopes is insufficient, and it is difficult to achieve effective white balance processing especially under different light sources combinations.
A combination of light emitting diode light sources (red, blue, purple, white) and phosphors is used to guide light of different colors into the endoscope light guide through optical components, and the processor is used to perform white balance processing to control the light amount to improve image quality.
The quality of the camera image of the endoscope is improved, especially in different light source modes to achieve clearer color image display and special light observation effects.
Smart Images

Figure CN223196055U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present 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 for an endoscope.
[0005] Patent Document 1: Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 109507794
[0006] Patent Document 2: Chinese Utility Model No. 209570749
[0007] Patent Document 3: Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 111110175
[0008] Patent Document 4: Chinese Utility Model 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 Laid-Open 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 technique capable of improving the quality of images captured by an endoscope.
[0016] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a light source device capable of connecting to a plurality of endoscopes having light guides having different outer diameters; and a processor, wherein the light source device comprises: a first light source for generating red light including a light emitting diode; a second light source for generating blue light including a light emitting diode; a third light source for generating violet light including a light emitting diode; and a fourth light source for 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 violet light, and the green light included in the white light into the light guide of the endoscope, the fourth light source generating the white light by a blue light emitting diode generating blue light and a phosphor generating light by receiving the blue light, the optical path of light emitted from the fourth light source and reaching the light guide being shorter than the optical paths of light emitted from the first light source, the second light source, and the third light source and reaching the light guide, and the processor performing 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 embodiment of the technology of the present invention comprises: a first light source that generates red light composed of a light-emitting diode; a second light source that generates blue light composed of a light-emitting diode; a third light source that generates purple light composed of a light-emitting diode; a fourth light source that generates white light composed of a light-emitting diode; an optical component that is configured to guide the above-mentioned red light into a light guide of an endoscope, guide the above-mentioned blue light into the above-mentioned light guide, guide the above-mentioned purple light into the above-mentioned light guide, and guide the green light contained in the above-mentioned white light into the above-mentioned light guide; a detection unit that detects a portion of 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 that controls the light amount of 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 according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first light source for generating a first color light including a light emitting diode; a second light source for generating a second color light including a light emitting diode; a third light source for generating a purple light including a light emitting diode; a fourth light source for generating a light including at least a green light including a light emitting diode; a first combining component for combining the first color light with the second color light; a second combining component for combining the light emitted from the first combining component with one of the purple light and the green light; a third combining component for combining the light emitted from the first combining component with the purple light and the green light; The light emitted by the above-mentioned second combining component and the other of the above-mentioned purple light and the above-mentioned green light; a focusing component that focuses the light emitted from the above-mentioned third combining component onto the light guide of the endoscope; a first detection unit that detects a portion of the light emitted from the above-mentioned second combining component and incident on the above-mentioned third combining component and a portion of the light emitted from the above-mentioned fourth light source and incident on the above-mentioned third combining component; and a processor that controls the amount of 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 first detection 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 1 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 as a first modified example of the light source device 5 .
[0026] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5C as a second modified example of the light source device 5 .
[0027] Figure 7 Is used to illustrate Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the fourth light source 54Xa as a modified example of the fourth light source 54X.
[0028] Figure 81 is a diagram showing a light source device 5D as a third modified example of the light source device 5 .
[0029] Figure 9 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5F as a fourth modified example of the light source device 5 .
[0030] Figure 10 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5H as a fifth modification of the light source device 5 .
[0031] Figure 11 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0032] Figure 12 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5C.
[0033] Figure 13 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5C.
[0034] Figure 14 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5B.
[0035] Figure 15 Yes Figure 11 FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a modified example of the light source device 5 shown.
[0036] Figure 16 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5D.
[0037] Figure 17 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5F.
[0038] Figure 18 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5F.
[0039] Figure 19 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5H.
[0040] Figure 20 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0041] Figure 21 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0042] Figure 22 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0043] Figure 23 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0044] Figure 24 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 .
[0045] Figure 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-Soft portion, 10B-Bending portion, 10C-Front end portion, 11-Operating unit, 12-Angle button, 13-Universal cord, 13A, 13B-Connector portion, 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 part, 100-endoscope device, RL, WLr-red light, BL, WLb, B1-blue light, GL-green light, VL-violet light, WL-white light. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] In this specification, violet light refers to light in the wavelength band from 380 nm to 430 nm. Blue light refers to light in the wavelength band from 430 nm to 490 nm. Green light refers to light in the wavelength band from 490 nm to 560 nm. Yellow light refers to light in the wavelength band from 560 nm to 600 nm. Red light refers to light in the wavelength band from 600 nm to 650 nm.
[0049] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an endoscope device 100 as one embodiment of the technology of the present invention.
[0050] The system comprises an endoscope device 100. 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 images captured by the endoscope 1; and an input unit 6 serving as 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 recording and storage operations, forceps operations, air and water supply operations, suction operations or electric knife operations; 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 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 port, 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 distal end of the soft portion 10A, and a distal end portion 10C that is more rigid than the soft portion 10A provided at the distal end of the curved portion 10B. The distal end portion 10C incorporates an imaging element and an imaging optical system. The imaging element has a light-receiving surface with a first pixel for detecting blue and violet light, a second pixel for detecting red light, and a third pixel for detecting green light, arranged two-dimensionally.
[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 ) is provided from the distal end portion 10C of the insertion portion 10 to the connector portion 13A. The light guide 14 is formed by bundling a plurality of optical fibers. 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 that controls the endoscope 1, the light source device 5, and the display device 7; and a memory composed of a storage medium such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), SSD (Solid State Drive), or HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The light source device 5 includes a processor 5P that controls the light source (described later) and memory.
[0057] Processor 4P and processor 5P are respectively general-purpose processors, i.e., CPU (Central Processing Unit), which execute software to perform various functions, FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), etc., which are processors whose circuit structure can be changed after manufacturing, i.e., programmable logic devices (PLD), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), etc., which are processors with circuit structures specially designed to perform specific processing, i.e., dedicated circuits.
[0058] Processor 4P and processor 5P may each be comprised of a single processor, or a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (e.g., a combination of multiple FPGAs or a CPU and an FPGA). More specifically, the hardware structure of processor 4P and processor 5P is a circuit formed by combining circuit elements such as semiconductor devices.
[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 intensity of 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 light intensity control 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 wavelength characteristics with a central wavelength of 620 nm to 640 nm and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm, for example.
[0062] Second light source 52 includes a light emitting diode 52A that generates blue light. Second light source 52 generates blue light BL having wavelength characteristics of, for example, a central wavelength of 440 nm to 450 nm and a half-value width of 15 nm to 30 nm, using 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 wavelength characteristics of a central wavelength of 410 nm to 430 nm and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm, for example, through the light emitting diode 53A.
[0064] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the structure of the fourth light source 54.
[0065] Fourth light source 54 includes a light-emitting diode 54A that generates blue excitation light; a first phosphor 54R that receives the blue light generated by light-emitting diode 54A and generates red light; and a second phosphor 54G that receives the blue light generated by light-emitting diode 54A and generates green light. Fourth light source 54 generates white light WL by mixing the blue light generated by light-emitting diode 54A, the red light generated by first phosphor 54R, and the green light generated by 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, which 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 manner, the fourth light source 54 can 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, the red light and the green light can be set to a wide band, thereby improving the color rendering. In addition, the light amount of the short wavelength side of the green light can be increased. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, by combining a light-emitting diode and a phosphor to generate white light wL, white light wL including broadband green light can be generated at low cost.
[0069] The optical component 55 is configured to guide the red light RL generated by the first light source 51 into the light guide 14 of the endoscope 1, guide the blue light BL generated by the second light source 52 into the light guide 14, guide the violet light VL generated by the third light source 53 into the light guide 14, and guide 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 combine at least two of the four colors of light: the red light RL, the blue light BL, the violet light VL, and the green light GL, and guide the combined light into the light guide 14.
[0070] exist Figure 2 In the example of FIG, the optical component 55 includes three combining components (a combining component 56, a combining component 57, and a combining component 58) each capable of combining a plurality of lights, and a condensing lens 59 as a condensing component.
[0071] Combining members 56, 57, and 58 are each 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. Combining members 56, 57, and 58 are each formed of a device having the property of reflecting light of a specific wavelength and transmitting other light, such as a spectroscope.
[0072] exist Figure 2 In the example of FIG, the first light source 51, the coupling member 56, the coupling member 57, the coupling member 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 coupling member 56, one surface 56a and the other surface 56b are arranged at an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the focusing lens 59. In the coupling member 57, one surface 57a and the other surface 57b are arranged at an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the focusing lens 59. In the coupling member 58, one surface 58a and the other surface 58b are arranged at an angle of 45 degrees with respect 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 drawing, and the blue light BL generated by the second light source 52 is incident on one surface 56a of the coupling member 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 of the connecting member 57, and the purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 is incident on a surface 57a of the connecting member 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 image, 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 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 by reflecting the purple light VL incident on one surface 57a 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 member 58 is configured to reflect green light GL of the white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward the condenser lens 59, thereby transmitting light (at least one of the red light RL, blue light BL, and violet light VL) emitted from the combining member 57 and incident on the other surface 58b toward the condenser lens 59. This allows the light (at least one of the red light RL, blue light BL, and violet light VL) emitted from the combining member 57 to be combined with the green light GL and emitted toward the condenser lens 59. For example, the wavelength characteristics of the green light GL emitted from the combining member 58 toward the condenser lens 59 include a central wavelength of not less than 540 nm and not more than 560 nm and a half-value width of not less than 80 nm.
[0079] The condenser lens 59 condenses the light emitted from the coupling member 58 to the light guide 14 .
[0080] Red light RL emitted from the first light source 51 passes through the coupling component 56, the coupling component 57, and the coupling component 58, and is then introduced into the light guide 14. Blue light BL emitted from the second light source 52 is reflected by the coupling component 56, passes through the coupling component 57 and the coupling component 58, and is then introduced into the light guide 14. Violet light VL emitted from the third light source 53 is reflected by the coupling component 57, passes through the coupling component 58, and is then introduced into the light guide 14. Green light GL of the white light WL emitted from the fourth light source 54 is reflected by the coupling component 58 and is then introduced into the light guide 14.
[0081] In the light source device 5, the optical path of light emitted from the fourth light source 54 and reaching the light guide 14 is shorter than the optical path of 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 using a light-emitting diode and a phosphor with a large light diffusion. Since the fourth light source 54 is located closest to the light guide 14 among the four light sources, 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 multiple modes, each with different amounts of light introduced into the light guide 14 of the endoscope 1. These modes are selected based on 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 violet light VL and green light GL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14; a third mode in which blue light BL and violet light VL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14; a fourth mode in which red light RL, blue light BL, and violet light VL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14; and a fifth mode in which violet light VL, red light RL, blue light BL, and green light GL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14. The third and fourth modes are not required and may be omitted.
[0083] In the first mode, the processor 5P performs first control to light up the light emitting diodes of the first light source 51 , the second light source 52 , and the fourth light source 54 , and to guide 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 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 a 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 to light up the light emitting diodes of the first light source 51 , the second light source 52 , and the third light source 53 , and to guide the red light RL, the blue light BL, and the violet light VL into the light guide 14 .
[0087] In the fifth mode, the processor 5P performs a fifth control to illuminate 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 to guide the red light RL, the blue light BL, the green light GL, and the violet 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 four light sources.
[0088] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5B as a first modified 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 to each other 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 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 purple light VL incident on the one surface 58a toward the direction of the focusing lens 59. Figure 5 The structure shown can also realize the multiple modes mentioned above.
[0090] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5C as a second modified example 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 multiple modes mentioned above.
[0092] Figure 7 Is used to illustrate Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the structure of the fourth light source 54Xa as a modified example of the fourth light source 54X.
[0093] The fourth light source 54Xa is composed of the following components: a light emitting diode 54A that generates blue excitation light B1; 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 containing at least green light GL. The excitation light is not limited to blue light. For example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment, the light-emitting diode 54A can be replaced by a light-emitting diode that generates purple light or a light-emitting diode that generates ultraviolet light.
[0094] In addition, the excitation light cutoff filter 54F may not be as Figure 7 For example, it can be set in Figure 6 The optical path between the coupling member 58 and the fourth light source 54X in FIG. Furthermore, a configuration may be adopted in which 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 as a third modified 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 to each other in the light source device 5. In the light source device 5D, the combining component 56 reflects the purple light VL incident on 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 multiple modes mentioned above.
[0098] Figure 9 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5F as a fourth modified 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. Figure 9 The structure shown can also realize the multiple modes mentioned above.
[0100] Figure 10 1 is a diagram showing a light source device 5H as a fifth modification 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 toward the direction of the combining component 57. In addition, the combining component 57 transmits the green light GL incident on the other surface 57b toward the direction of the combining component 58, and reflects the purple light VL incident on the one surface 57a toward the direction of the combining component 58. Figure 10 The structure shown can also realize the multiple modes mentioned above.
[0102] In the light source device 5 and each of 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 perspective of increasing the brightness of a color image captured by the endoscope 1 (an image captured while irradiating the 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 perspective of clearly displaying capillaries and their patterns on the mucosal surface during special light observation, brighter green and violet light are preferably used.
[0104] According to the configurations of light source device 5 and light source devices 5B and 5C, the green light GL and violet light VL of the light guided into light guide 14 are less attenuated by transmission or reflection through optical component 55 than the other two colors of light. Therefore, the quality of images 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 guided 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] Figure 11 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Figure 11 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the second mode.
[0108] exist Figure 11 In the example of FIG, 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 condenser lens 59 relative to the coupling member 58.
[0109] exist Figure 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 violet 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, Figure 11 In the light source device 5 shown, the coupling member 58 may transmit only one of the blue light WLb and the red light WLR toward the detection unit 61. In this case, the detection unit 61 can detect the purple light VL reflected by the other surface 58b of the coupling member 58 and the blue light WLb or the red light WLr that is incident on the one surface 58a of the coupling member 58 and transmits through the coupling member 58.
[0112] exist Figure 11 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 information about the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and information about at least one of the blue light WLb and the red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61.
[0113] The light information detected by the detection unit 60 is, for example, a spectrum indicating the intensity of each wavelength. The light intensity control of the plurality of light sources by the processor 5P includes control to set the light intensity of each of the plurality of light sources to a desired value and control to set the light intensity ratio of the plurality of light sources to a desired value.
[0114] exist Figure 11 In the light source device 5 having the structure shown, 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 54 based on the relationship between the peak intensity of the purple light VL and the peak intensity of the blue light WLb, for example.
[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 intensity of the green light GL from the peak intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak 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 derived peak intensity of the green light GL and the peak intensity of the violet light VL. Here, the peak value of the detected light intensity is used, but an integrated value calculated from the spectrum may be used instead.
[0117] In addition, Figure 11 In the embodiment, the coupling member 58 may be configured to transmit a portion of the green light GL incident on the one surface 58a toward the detection unit 61. In this case, the processor 5P may also determine 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 intensity of the purple light VL and the peak intensity of the green light GL, for example.
[0118] The green light GL is reflected only once in the optical component 55 and then guided into the light guide 14. Therefore, even with a configuration in which a portion of the green light GL is detected by the detection unit 61, the amount of green light GL guided into the light guide 14 can be sufficiently increased, thereby improving the quality of images captured by the endoscope 1.
[0119] Figure 12 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5C. Figure 12 This shows a state where the light source device 5C operates in the second mode.
[0120] Figure 12 The light source device 5C shown is Figure 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 portion of the green light GL incident on one surface 58 a toward the detection unit 61 .
[0121] exist Figure 12 In light source device 5C having the structure shown, in the second mode, processor 5P controls the amount of violet light VL generated by third light source 53 and the amount of green light GL generated by fourth light source 54X based on information about violet light VL and green light GL detected by detection unit 61. Processor 5P determines the ratio of the amount of light from third light source 53 to the amount of light from fourth light source 54X based on, for example, the relationship between the peak intensity of violet light VL and the peak intensity of green light GL.
[0122] Figure 13 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5C. Figure 13 This shows a state where the light source device 5C operates in the second mode.
[0123] Figure 13 The light source device 5C shown is Figure 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 one surface 58 a toward the detection unit 61 .
[0124] exist Figure 13 In the light source device 5C having the structure shown, in the second mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of violet light VL generated by the third light source 53 and the amount of green light GL generated by the fourth light source 54Xa (the amount of light emitted by the light-emitting diode 54A) based on information about the violet light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and information about the excitation light B1 detected by the detection unit 61. The processor 5P determines the ratio of the amount of light of the third light source 53 to the amount of light of the fourth light source 54Xa based on, for example, the relationship between the peak intensity of the violet light VL and the peak intensity of the excitation light B1.
[0125] Figure 14 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5B. Figure 14 This shows a state where the light source device 5B operates in the second mode.
[0126] exist Figure 14 In the example of FIG, 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 condenser lens 59 relative to the coupling member 58.
[0127] exist Figure 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 . Figure 14 The illustrated detection unit 61 is configured to detect the purple light VL that has passed through 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 Figure 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 is the same as Figure 12 The processor 5P shown is identical. Figure 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] Figure 15 Yes Figure 11 FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a modified example of the light source device 5 shown. Figure 15 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fifth mode.
[0130] Figure 15 The light source device 5 shown is Figure 11 The difference is that the coupling member 58 reflects part of the red light RL and the blue light BL incident on the other surface 58 b toward the detection unit 61 . Figure 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 Figure 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 BI 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 intensity of red light WLr. The processor 5P derives the amount of blue light BL based on the relationship between the peak intensity of the detected blue light and the peak intensity of the red light WLr. The processor 5P derives the amount of violet light VL based on the peak intensity of the detected violet light VL. The processor 5P derives the amount of red light RL based on the peak intensity of the detected red light WLr. Based on the amounts of each color light thus derived, the processor 5P controls the amount of red light RI generated by the first light source 51, the amount of blue light BL generated by the second light source 52, the amount of violet light VL generated by the third light source 53, and the amount of white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54.
[0133] Figure 16 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5D. Figure 16 This shows a state where the light source device 5D operates in the second mode.
[0134] Figure 16 The light source device 5D shown is Figure 11 The light source device 5 shown is different in that the positions of the second light source 52 and the third light source 53 are reversed. Figure 16The light intensity control of the light source by the processor 5P in the second mode of the light source device 5D of the structure shown is the same as Figure 11 The processors 5P shown are identical.
[0135] Figure 17 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5F. Figure 17 This shows a state where the light source device 5F operates in the second mode.
[0136] Figure 17 The light source device 5F shown is Figure 16 The light source device 5D shown is different in that the positions of the second light source 52 and the fourth light source 54 are opposite, and the coupling member 58 is configured to reflect a portion of the purple light VL incident on the other surface 58b toward the detection unit 61, and to reflect a portion of the green light GL incident on the other surface 58b toward the detection unit 61. Figure 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 is the same as Figure 14 The processors 5P shown are identical.
[0137] Figure 18 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5F. Figure 18 This shows a state where the light source device 5F operates in the second mode.
[0138] Figure 18 The light source device 5F shown in the figure includes a detection unit 62 including a light-receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor as a detection unit 60. The detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the coupling member 57 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59.
[0139] exist Figure 18 In the illustrated light source device 5F, the coupling member 57 has the function of reflecting a portion of the violet light VL incident on the other surface 57b toward the detection unit 62 and transmitting at least one of the blue light WLb and the red light WLr of the white light WL incident on the one surface 57a toward the detection unit 62. The detection unit 62 is configured to detect the violet light VL reflected by the other surface 57b of the coupling member 57 and the blue light WLb and the red light WLr incident on the one surface 57a of the coupling member 57 and transmitting through the coupling member 57. Alternatively, the coupling member 57 may be configured to transmit a portion of the green light GL incident on the one surface 57a toward the detection unit 62.
[0140] exist Figure 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] Figure 19 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5H. Figure 19 This shows a state where the light source device 5H operates in the second mode.
[0142] Figure 19 The light source device 5H shown is Figure 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 combination 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 one surface 57a in the direction of the detection unit 62.
[0143] exist Figure 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 is the same as Figure 14 The processors 5P shown are identical.
[0144] Figure 20 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Figure 20 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the third mode.
[0145] exist Figure 20 In the example of FIG, 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 condenser lens 59 relative to the coupling member 57.
[0146] exist Figure 20 In the illustrated light source device 5, the coupling member 57 has the function of reflecting a portion of the blue light BL incident on the other surface 57b toward the detection unit 61, and transmitting a portion of the violet light VL incident on the one surface 57a toward the detection unit 61. The detection unit 61 is configured to detect the blue light BL reflected by the other surface 57b of the coupling member 57 and the violet light VL incident on the one surface 57a of the coupling member 57 and transmitting through the coupling member 57.
[0147] exist Figure 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] Figure 21 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Figure 21 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fourth mode.
[0149] Figure 21 The light source device 5 shown is Figure 20 The light source device 5 shown is different in that the coupling member 57 is configured to reflect a portion of the red light RL incident on the other surface 57b toward the detection unit 61. The detection unit 61 is configured to detect a portion of each of the blue light BL and the red light RL reflected by the other surface 57b of the coupling member 57, and a portion of the violet light VL incident on the one surface 57a of the coupling member 57 and transmitted through the coupling member 57.
[0150] exist Figure 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] Figure 22 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Figure 22 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the second mode.
[0152] exist Figure 22 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , a detection unit 61 and a detection unit 62 each 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) of the coupling member 58 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59. The detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the coupling member 57 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59.
[0153] exist Figure 22In the light source device 5 shown in FIG. 1 , the coupling 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 coupling 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. Figure 22 In the embodiment, the coupling member 58 may be configured to transmit a portion of the green light GL incident on the one surface 58 a toward the detection unit 61 .
[0154] exist Figure 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 amounts of the third light source 53 and 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 intensity of the green light GL based on the peak intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak intensity of the red light WLR, determines the light amount of the fourth light source 54 based on the derived peak intensity of the green light GL, and determines the light amount of the third light source 53 based on the peak intensity of the purple light VL.
[0158] Figure 23 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Figure 23 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fifth mode.
[0159] exist Figure 23 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , a detection unit 61 and a detection unit 63 each 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) of the coupling member 58 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59. The detection unit 63 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the coupling member 56 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59.
[0160] exist Figure 23In the light source device 5 shown, the coupling member 56 has the function of transmitting a portion of the blue light BL incident on one surface 56a toward the detection unit 63 and reflecting a portion of the red light RL incident on the other surface 56b toward the detection unit 63. The coupling member 58 has the function of transmitting the red light WLR and the blue light WLB of the white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward the detection unit 61 and reflecting a portion of the violet light VL incident on the other surface 58b toward the detection unit 61.
[0161] exist Figure 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 between the light intensity of the first light source 51 and the light intensity of the second light source 52 based on the peak intensity values of the blue light BL and the peak intensity value of the red light RL. Furthermore, the processor 5P derives the peak intensity value of the green light GL based on the peak intensity values of the blue light WLb and the red light WLR, and determines the ratio between the light intensity values of the third light source 53 and the fourth light source 54 based on the derived peak intensity values of the green light GL and the peak intensity value of the violet light VL.
[0163] Figure 24 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Figure 24 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fifth mode.
[0164] exist Figure 24 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , a detection unit 61 and a detection unit 62 each 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) of the coupling member 58 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59. The detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the coupling member 57 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59.
[0165] exist Figure 24In the light source device 5 shown, the coupling member 57 has the function of transmitting a portion of the purple light VL incident on one surface 57a toward the detection unit 62, reflecting a portion of the red light RL incident on the other surface 57b toward the detection unit 62, and reflecting a portion of the blue light BL incident on the other surface 57b toward the detection unit 62. The coupling member 58 has the function of transmitting the red light WLR and the blue light WLB of the white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward the detection unit 61.
[0166] exist Figure 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 intensity ratio of the first light source 51, the second light source 52, and the third light source 53 based on the peak intensity values of the blue light BL, the red light RL, and the violet light VL. Furthermore, the processor 5P derives the peak intensity value of the green light GL from the peak intensity values of the blue light WLb and the red light WLR, and determines the light intensity of the fourth light source 54 based on the relationship between the derived peak value and any one of the peak intensity values of the blue light BL, the red light RL, and the violet 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, blue light WLb, and 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] Figure 25 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection unit 60 in the light source device 5 . Figure 25 This shows a state where the light source device 5 operates in the fifth mode.
[0170] exist Figure 25In the example shown in FIG. 1 , a detection unit 61, a detection unit 62, and a detection unit 63 each 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) of the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59 relative to the coupling member 58. The detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59 relative to the coupling member 57. The detection unit 63 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59 relative to the coupling member 56.
[0171] exist Figure 25 In the illustrated light source device 5, the coupling member 56 has the function of transmitting a portion of the blue light BL incident on one surface 56a toward the detection unit 63 and reflecting a portion of the red light RL incident on the other surface 56b toward the detection unit 63. The coupling member 57 has the function of transmitting a portion of the violet light VL incident on one surface 57a toward the detection unit 62 and reflecting a portion of the blue light BL incident on the other surface 57b toward the detection unit 62. The coupling member 58 has the function of transmitting the red light WLR and the blue light WLB of the white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward the detection unit 61 and reflecting a portion of the violet light VL incident on the other surface 58b toward the detection unit 61.
[0172] exist Figure 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 units 60 (detection units 61, 62, and 63) are positioned to detect light reflected from one surface of the coupling component or transmitted through the other surface of the coupling component. However, this is not limiting. For example, the detection units 60 may be positioned to detect light incident on and reflected from the other surface of the coupling component. Furthermore, the detection units 60 may be positioned to detect light emitted from a light source before it enters the other surface of the coupling component.
[0174] If Figure 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 Figure 11 、 Figure 15-19 、 Figure 22-Figure 25 The illustrated configuration utilizes a fourth light source 54 that generates white light wL, thereby enabling the inexpensive generation of broadband green light GL. Furthermore, the light intensity of the light source can be controlled with high precision using the red light WLR and blue light WLb contained in the white light wL. Since all of the green light GL can be guided into the light guide 14, the quality of images 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 the captured image signal (a collection of pixel signals output from each pixel of the image sensor) output from the image sensor of the endoscope 1 and performs white balance processing on the captured image signal obtained after demosaicing. The white balance processing includes multiplying the pixel signal of each color component included in the captured image signal by an adjustment gain.
[0178] For example, when the light source device 5 is operating in the first mode and obtaining a video image signal obtained by taking a picture with the endoscope 1, the processor 4P multiplies the pixel signal of the red component contained in the video image signal after demosaicing by the adjustment gain Grl, multiplies the pixel signal of the green component contained in the video image signal by the adjustment gain Ggl, and multiplies the pixel signal of the blue component contained in the video image signal by the adjustment gain Gbl, thereby performing white balance processing.
[0179] Furthermore, when the light source device 5 is operating in the second mode and obtaining a video image signal captured by the endoscope 1, the processor 4P multiplies the pixel signal of the green component contained in the video image signal after demosaicing 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 guide 14 of these endoscopes may differ.
[0182] The appropriate value of the adjustment gain described above varies depending on the type of endoscope 1. If the outer diameter of the light guide 14 varies, the positional relationship of the proximal end surface of the light guide 14 relative to the condenser lens 59 may also change, and thus the adjustment gain for achieving 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 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, it identifies the type of endoscope 1 connected to the light source device 5 and the processor device 4, reads the adjustment gain corresponding to the identified type from the memory, and performs white balance processing using the read adjustment gain. In this way, even when using various types of endoscopes 1, 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, with a cap including a white image serving as a white reference attached to the distal end portion 10C of the endoscope 1. With the cap attached to the distal end portion 10C, the endoscope 1 can capture the white image.
[0187] When the endoscope 1 is connected, the processor 4P acquires identification information (e.g., individual identification number and type) for identifying the endoscope 1. Furthermore, the processor 4P acquires a camera image signal obtained by capturing a white image with the endoscope 1, generates an adjustment gain based on the acquired camera image signal, and associates the adjustment gain with the identification information and stores it in memory. The processor 4P performs data generation processing while operating the light source device 5 in each mode, generating an adjustment gain for each mode of the light source device 5 and storing it in 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 for which identification information is stored in memory is connected, the processor 4P performs white balance processing using the adjustment gain corresponding to the identification information stored in memory. On the other hand, when an endoscope 1 for which identification information is not stored in memory is connected, the processor 4P performs data generation processing and performs white balance processing using the generated adjustment gain.
[0190] In this manner, the processor 4P performs data generation processing, enabling the generation of adjustment gains appropriate for each type of endoscope 1, even when different types of endoscopes 1 are used, thereby improving the quality of captured images. Furthermore, even when the endoscopes 1 used are of the same type, an appropriate adjustment gain can be generated for each endoscope 1, thereby improving the quality of captured images. Furthermore, since the processor 4P does not need to generate adjustment gains during manufacturing, manufacturing costs can be reduced.
[0191] Furthermore, 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 changes in the amount of each color light introduced into the light guide 14 due to changes in the light source over time. Therefore, if data generation processing is performed once, the quality of the camera image can be improved even if the adjustment gain generated in this data generation processing 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 changes in the light source over time, the generated adjustment gain may deviate from the appropriate value.
[0192] Therefore, even when an endoscope 1 in which identification information and adjustment gain are stored is connected, the processor 4P preferably executes data generation processing when a predetermined condition related to the operation of the light source device 5 is satisfied. This condition may be, for example, that the cumulative operating time of the light source device 5 reaches a predetermined value. This predetermined value may be, for example, α times the predetermined time (α is a natural number greater than 1).
[0193] This allows the white balance to be appropriately maintained even when a change occurs over time in the light source device 5. 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 diameter of the light guide 14 is the same, the color tone of the image produced by the endoscope 1 may vary depending on the arrangement of the imaging element included in the distal 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 to generate and store the adjustment gain for each endoscope 1, thereby improving the quality of the image captured by the endoscope 1.
[0195] In the above description, the various processes performed by processor 4P can be performed by processor 4P alone or by sharing the work between processor 4P and other processors. Furthermore, the various processes performed by processor 5P can be performed by processor 5P alone or by sharing the work between processor 5P and other processors. For example, other processors include a processor of a server within the inspection system that stores inspection data generated by the endoscope apparatus 100, processor 4P, or processor 5P. Processor 4P can also perform the various processes performed by 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 merely an example and is not limited thereto. The optical component 55 may have another structure as long as it is configured to guide red light RL, blue light BL, violet light VL, and green light GL into the light guide 14.
[0197] As described above, this specification includes at least the following matters: In the following, components corresponding to the above-described embodiment are shown in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited thereto. (1)
[0199] A system (endoscopic device 100) comprising:
[0200] A light source device (light source device 5, 5D) capable of connecting to 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] The fourth light source (the fourth light source 54) generates white light (white light WL) including a light emitting diode (the light emitting diode 54A); and
[0207] The optical component (optical component 55) is capable of combining at least two of the red light, the blue light, the violet 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 paths 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 data generation processing for generating data used for the white balance processing. (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 using 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 generation process when a predetermined 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 is operable in a plurality of modes in which the amounts of light introduced into the light guide of the endoscope are 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 that combines the red light, the blue light, and the green light and introduces the combined light into the light guide. (11)
[0239] The system according to (10), wherein
[0240] 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)
[0242] The system according to (1), wherein
[0243] The above-mentioned light source device has a detection unit (detection unit 60) that detects a portion 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) composed of a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 51A); a second light source (second light source 52) that generates blue light (blue light BL) composed of a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 52A); a third light source (third light source 53) that generates purple light (purple light VL) composed of a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 53A); a fourth light source (fourth light source 54) that generates white light (white light WL) composed of a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A); and an optical component (optical component). Part 55), configured 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 blue light (blue light WLb) included in the white light, and the processor controls light intensities 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 ( Figures 11-17 、 Figure 22-Figure 25 Combination component 58, Figure 18 and Figure 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 ( Figures 11-17 、 Figure 22-Figure 25 Detection unit 61, Figure 18 and Figure 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 multiple light ( Figures 11-17 、 Figure 22-Figure 25 and a third combining member capable of combining multiple light ( Figures 11-17 、 Figure 22-Figure 25 Combination member 57),
[0267] The first coupling member is arranged closer to the light guide than 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 coupling member and blue light (blue light WLb) included in the white light incident on the first coupling 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 components include three combining components (combining component 56, combining component 57, combining component 58) capable of combining multiple lights.
[0275] The detection unit detects a portion of light incident on any one of the two coupling members (coupling member 57 and coupling member 58 ) other than the coupling member (coupling member 56 ) located at the end opposite to the light guide side among the three coupling members. (twenty three)
[0277] The light source device according to (22), wherein
[0278] The detection unit detects a portion of 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 ( Figures 11-17 Combination component 58, Figure 18 and Figure 19 Combination member 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 multiple light ( Figures 11-17 and a third combining member capable of combining multiple light ( Figures 11-17 Combination member 57),
[0292] The first combining member ( Figures 11-17 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 above-mentioned processor selectively performs the first control and the second control, and the above-mentioned first control causes the above-mentioned red light, the above-mentioned blue light and the green light (green light GL) contained in the above-mentioned white light to be introduced into the above-mentioned light guide, and the above-mentioned second control causes the above-mentioned purple light and the green light (green light GL) contained in the above-mentioned white light to be introduced into the above-mentioned 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 inclusive, and a half-value width of 15 nm to 30 nm inclusive. (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 green light introduced into the light guide has a central wavelength of 540 nm to 560 nm, and a half-peak width of 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 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 the 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 (fourth light source 54, fourth light source 54X, fourth light source 54Xa) generates light including at least green light composed of a light-emitting diode (light-emitting diode 54A);
[0321] 1st connecting member ( Figure 11-Figure 15 、 Figure 23 、 Figure 25 A combining member 56) capable of combining the first color light and the second color light;
[0322] Second connecting member ( Figure 11-Figure 15 、 Figure 23 、 Figure 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 、 Figure 23 、 Figure 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-converging member (light-converging member 59) that converges the light emitted from the third coupling member onto the light guide (light guide 14) of the endoscope (endoscope 1);
[0325] Detection Unit 1 ( Figure 11-Figure 15 、 Figure 23 、 Figure 25 a detection unit 61) that detects a portion of light emitted from the second combining member and incident on the third combining member and a portion of light emitted from the fourth light source and incident on the third combining member; and
[0326] The processor (processor 5P) 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 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), 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 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 (fourth light source 54Xa) includes a blue light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A) that generates blue light and a third phosphor (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 ( Figure 23 、 Figure 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] 3rd Detection Unit ( Figure 25 The third detection unit detects a portion of the light emitted from the first combining component and incident on the second combining component, and a portion of the 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, characterized in that: have: 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 comprising a light emitting diode and generating purple light; a fourth light source comprising a light emitting diode and generating white light; and an optical component capable of combining at least two of the red light, the blue light, the violet light, and the green light included in the white light and introducing the combined 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 paths 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 for 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 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 generates red light upon receiving the blue light and a second phosphor that generates green light upon receiving the blue 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 predetermined 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 amounts of light introduced into the light guide of the endoscope are 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 according to claim 1, wherein: The light source device has a detection unit that detects a portion of the 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, characterized in that: have: 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 comprising a light emitting diode and generating purple light; a fourth light source comprising a light emitting diode and generating 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 quantity 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 quantity 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 that detects 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 closer to the light guide than 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 coupling member and blue light included in the white light incident on the first coupling 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 portion of light incident on any one of two of the three coupling components excluding 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 one.
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 closer to the light guide than 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 phosphor 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 for introducing the red light, the blue light, and the green light included in the white light into the light guide, and a second control for introducing 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 inclusive, and a half-peak width of 15 nm to 30 nm inclusive.
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 inclusive, and a half-value width of 15 nm to 30 nm inclusive.
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 green light introduced into the light guide has a central wavelength of 540 nm to 560 nm, and a half-peak width of 80 nm or more.
35. A light source device, characterized in that: have: 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 comprising a light emitting diode and generating purple light; a fourth light source comprising 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-converging member for converging the light emitted from the third coupling 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 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