Signal converter and signal conversion system

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model discloses a signal converter and a signal conversion system. The signal converter comprises M signal processing units and a first multiplexer, the M signal processing units are coupled with the corresponding K video signal sources, the first multiplexer is coupled with the M signal processing units and the video output end, M is a positive integer of at least 2, and K is a positive integer greater than or equal to M; wherein the M video processing units are used for converting K video signals of the K video signal sources into M video signals to be selected in a predetermined format; and the first multiplexer is used for selecting the to-be-selected video signals from the M to-be-selected video signals, converting the selected to-be-selected video signals into output signals matched with the video output end, and sending the output signals to the video output end. The signal processing speed is improved, and the signal processing time is shortened.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The utility model relates to signal processing technical field, especially signal converter and signal conversion system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Video switching is a technology that selectively outputs multiple video signals to a single display device. Video switching devices usually include multiple input terminals and an output terminal, and by selecting different input terminals, the video signal output to the output terminal is switched. The working principle of the video switcher is based on digital signal processing technology, which performs digital processing on the input video signal and then outputs it to the display device.

[0003] Currently, when selecting a video signal from multiple video signals, the video switching device starts to transmit and format convert the selected video signal, which has the disadvantage of slow processing speed. Moreover, there is a lack of corresponding state indication for the unselected video signal, and the user has difficulty in understanding the state of the unselected video signal. SUMMARY

[0004] The utility model embodiment proposes signal converter and signal conversion system, can improve processing speed.

[0005] A signal converter, comprising M signal processing units and a first multiplexer, the M signal processing units are coupled with corresponding K video signal sources, the first multiplexer is coupled with the M signal processing units and a video output terminal, M is at least 2 positive integer, K is greater than or equal to M positive integer;Wherein:

[0006] The M video processing units are used to convert the K video signals of the K video signal sources into M selected video signals of a predetermined format;

[0007] The first multiplexer is used to select a selected video signal from the M selected video signals, convert the selected selected video signal into an output signal adapted to the video output terminal, and send the output signal to the video output terminal.

[0008] Therefore, a plurality of video signal sources are respectively coupled with corresponding signal processing units, each of which acquires a corresponding video signal and converts the corresponding video signal into a candidate video signal in a predetermined format. When the first multiplexer selects a candidate video signal, the first multiplexer can directly convert the selected candidate video signal into an output signal adapted to the video output terminal. It can be seen that the candidate video signal in the predetermined format is ready before the first multiplexer makes a selection, saving signal transmission and format conversion time, improving processing speed and reducing processing time. Moreover, when the first multiplexer selects other candidate video signals again, the selected candidate video signal (also in the predetermined format) can be acquired from the signal processing unit corresponding to the selected candidate video signal again, thus further improving switching speed and reducing switching time.

[0009] In an embodiment, the K is equal to the M; the M video processing units are coupled with the K video signal sources in a one-to-one manner.

[0010] It can be seen that by coupling M video processing units with the same number of video signal sources in a one-to-one manner, a compact hardware structure is achieved, facilitating production.

[0011] In an embodiment, the K is greater than the M; at least one of the M video processing units is coupled with at least two of the K video signal sources.

[0012] It can be seen that by coupling at least one video processing unit with at least two video signal sources, a larger number of video signal sources can be supported.

[0013] In an embodiment, comprising:

[0014] a second multiplexer;

[0015] The at least one video processing unit is coupled with the at least two video signal sources via the second multiplexer; the second multiplexer is used to select a video signal from at least two video signals of the at least two video signal sources and send the selected video signal to the at least one video processing unit.

[0016] It can be seen that by applying a second multiplexer, at least one video processing unit can be conveniently coupled with at least two video signal sources.

[0017] In an embodiment, each of the M signal processing units respectively comprises a memory;

[0018] The memory is configured to store a negotiated transmission parameter or a content key of a video signal source coupled to a signal processing unit of the memory.

[0019] Therefore, by providing a memory in the signal processing unit for storing the negotiated transmission parameter or the content key, signal transmission and signal processing are facilitated.

[0020] In one embodiment, comprising:

[0021] M indicators are coupled to the M signal processing units in a one-to-one correspondence manner.

[0022] An indication state of each of the M indicators is associated with a state of a video signal of a video signal source coupled to the corresponding signal processing unit.

[0023] It can be seen that, by the indicators associated with the state of the video signal, a user can be aware of the state of the video signal of each video signal source.

[0024] In one embodiment,

[0025] When the video signal source coupled to the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has no video signal, the indication state of the indicator is in a first state;

[0026] When the video signal source coupled to the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has a video signal and the video signal source and the signal processing unit fail to negotiate the transmission parameter, the indication state of the indicator is in a second state;

[0027] When the video signal source coupled to the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has a video signal and the video signal source and the signal processing unit successfully negotiate the transmission parameter, the indication state of the indicator is in a third state.

[0028] Therefore, by distinguishing the different states of the video signal, a user can be aware of the state of each video signal in detail.

[0029] A signal conversion system, comprising:

[0030] K video signal sources;

[0031] A video output end;

[0032] The signal converter comprises M signal processing units and a first multiplexer, the M signal processing units are coupled with corresponding K video signal sources, the first multiplexer is coupled with the M signal processing units and the video output end, M is a positive integer of at least 2, and K is a positive integer greater than or equal to M; wherein: the M video processing units are used for converting K video signals of the K video signal sources into M candidate video signals of a predetermined format; and the first multiplexer is used for selecting a candidate video signal from the M candidate video signals, converting the selected candidate video signal into an output signal adapted to the video output end, and sending the output signal to the video output end.

[0033] Therefore, the plurality of video signal sources are respectively coupled with corresponding signal processing units, each video processing unit respectively acquires a corresponding video signal and converts the corresponding video signal into a candidate video signal of a predetermined format. When the first multiplexer selects a candidate video signal, the first multiplexer can directly convert the selected candidate video signal into an output signal adapted to the video output end. It can be seen that the candidate video signal with the predetermined format is prepared before the first multiplexer makes a selection, which saves signal transmission and format conversion time, improves processing speed and reduces processing time. Moreover, when the first multiplexer selects other candidate video signals again, the selected candidate video signals (also with the predetermined format) can be acquired from the signal processing units corresponding to the selected candidate video signals, so that the switching speed is also improved and the switching time is reduced.

[0034] In one embodiment, the K is equal to the M; and the M video processing units are coupled with the K video signal sources in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0035] It can be seen that by coupling the M video processing units with the same number of video signal sources in a one-to-one correspondence, a compact hardware structure is realized, which is convenient for production.

[0036] In one embodiment, the K is greater than the M; and at least one of the M video processing units is coupled with at least two of the K video signal sources.

[0037] It can be seen that by coupling at least one video processing unit with at least two video signal sources, a larger number of video signal sources can be supported. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0038] The preferred embodiments of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can more clearly understand the above and other features and advantages of the present application, and the accompanying drawings show:

[0039] Figure 1is an exemplary block diagram of a video signal conversion in the prior art.

[0040] Figure 2 is an exemplary block diagram of a signal converter according to embodiments of the present application.

[0041] Figure 3 is a first exemplary block diagram of a signal converter according to embodiments of the present application.

[0042] Figure 4 is a second exemplary block diagram of a signal converter according to embodiments of the present application.

[0043] Figure 5 is an exemplary block diagram of a signal conversion system in medical imaging according to embodiments of the present application.

[0044] In the drawings, the following reference signs apply:

[0045]

[0046] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] In order to make the objects, technical solutions and advantages of the present application clearer, the following further describes the present application in detail with examples. The terms and pronouns about persons in the present patent application are not limited to specific genders.

[0048] In order to describe concisely and intuitively, the following describes the solutions of the present application by describing several representative embodiments. A large number of details in the embodiments are only used to help understand the solutions of the present application. However, it is obvious that the technical solutions of the present application can not be limited to these details. In order to avoid unnecessary obscurity of the solutions of the present application, some embodiments are not described in detail, but only a framework is given. In the following, "comprising" means "comprising but not limited to", and "according to" means "at least according to, but not limited to only according to". Due to the language habits of Chinese, when the quantity of a component is not specifically indicated in the following, it means that the component can be one or more, or can be understood as at least one.

[0049] Figure 1 is an exemplary block diagram of a video signal conversion in the prior art. In Figure 1As an example, five video signal sources are used. The video signal sources 11-15 provide respective video signals. For example, the video signal sources 11-15 can provide DisplayPort (DP) signals, Digital Visual Interface (DVI) signals, High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) signals, Video Graphics Array (VGA) signals, Serial Digital Interface (SDI) signals, Low-Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS) signals, or Red Green Blue (RGB) signals. The multiplexer 21 includes five inputs, which are coupled to the five video signal sources 11-15 in a one-to-one manner. The output of the multiplexer 21 is coupled to the input of the processing unit 22. The output of the processing unit 22 is coupled to the video output 23.

[0050] When the multiplexer 21 selects a video signal source from the video signal sources 11-15 based on a selection signal (which can be triggered by a user), the multiplexer 21 starts to negotiate transmission parameters (e.g., transmission rate, channel number, voltage swing, pre-emphasis, equalization setting, latency, color space, resolution, and refresh rate) with the selected video signal source. After the negotiation is successful, the multiplexer 21 transmits the video signal from the selected video signal source based on the negotiated transmission parameters, converts the transmitted video signal to a uniform predetermined format (e.g., RGB format), and sends the video signal in the predetermined format to the processing unit 22. The processing unit 22 converts the video signal to an output signal that is compatible with the video output 23, and sends the output signal to the video output 23. For example, assume that the predetermined format is RGB format and the video output 23 is a DVI display device: the multiplexer 21 converts the selected video signal to the RGB format; the processing unit 22 converts the video signal in the RGB format to a DVI format, and sends the video signal in the DVI format to the video output 23, which is a DVI display device; and the video output 23, which is a DVI display device, displays the video signal in the DVI format.

[0051] In the above example, the video output 23 is a DVI display device. In other embodiments, the video output 23 can be a different type of display device, such as a VGA display device, an HDMI display device, a DP display device, or an SDI display device. Figure 1In the prior art video signal conversion, the multiplexer 21 starts to transmit and format-convert the selected video signal only after the multiplexer 21 selects the video signal source, which has the disadvantages of slow processing speed and long processing time. Moreover, the multiplexer 21 starts to transmit and format-convert the re-selected video signal only after the multiplexer 21 re-selects the video signal source, which results in slow switching speed and long switching time. In addition, in the prior art video signal conversion, there is no corresponding status indication for the unselected video signal.

[0052] In the embodiment of the present application, each of the plurality of video signal sources is coupled with a corresponding signal processing unit, each of the video processing units acquires a corresponding video signal and converts the acquired video signal into a predetermined format to obtain a selected video signal. When the first multiplexer selects a selected video signal (usually one selected video signal), the multiplexer acquires the selected video signal from the corresponding signal processing unit and converts the selected video signal into an output signal suitable for the video output terminal. It can be seen that the transmission time of the video signal and the conversion time of the video signal into the predetermined format are saved, thus improving the processing speed and reducing the processing time. Moreover, when the first multiplexer re-selects another selected video signal, the multiplexer acquires the re-selected video signal from the corresponding signal processing unit, thus improving the switching speed and reducing the switching time. In addition, the indicators associated with the status of the video signal facilitate the user to understand the status of the video signal of each video signal source.

[0053] The above disclosure details the technical defects in the related art, the causes of the technical defects, and the thinking and analysis process of overcoming the technical defects. In fact, the understanding of the above technical defects is not common knowledge in the art, but a novel discovery of the applicant in research. In addition, the cause tracing of the technical defects and the thinking and analysis process of overcoming the technical defects are also the results of gradual analysis of the applicant in the actual research process, and are not common knowledge in the art.

[0054] Figure 2 is an exemplary block diagram of the signal converter according to the embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 2As shown, the signal converter 40 comprises M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M and a first multiplexer 41, the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are coupled with corresponding K video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1K, the first multiplexer 41 is coupled with the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M and a video output terminal 42, M is a positive integer at least equal to 2, and K is a positive integer greater than or equal to M. Among them: M input terminals of the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are respectively coupled with the K video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1K. M output terminals of the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are respectively coupled with M input terminals of the first multiplexer 41 in a one-to-one correspondence. The output terminal of the first multiplexer 41 is coupled with the video output terminal 42.

[0055] The M video processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are used to convert K video signals of the K video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1K into M candidate video signals of a predetermined format. For example, before the first multiplexer 41 makes a selection, the M video processing units 31, 32, …, 3M continuously convert K video signals of the K video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1K into M candidate video signals of a predetermined format. The first multiplexer 41 is used to select a candidate video signal from the M candidate video signals based on a selection signal (which can be triggered by a user), read the selected candidate video signal from the video processing unit of the selected candidate video signal, convert the selected candidate video signal into an output signal adapted to the video output terminal 42, and send the output signal to the video output terminal 42.

[0056] As can be seen, by coupling each video signal source with a corresponding signal processing unit, each video processing unit respectively acquires a corresponding video signal and converts the corresponding video signal into a candidate video signal of a predetermined format. Before the first multiplexer 41 makes a selection, each signal processing unit has already prepared its own candidate video signal. When the first multiplexer 41 selects a candidate video signal, the first multiplexer 41 can directly read the selected candidate video signal from the signal processing unit of the selected candidate video signal and convert the selected candidate video signal into an output signal adapted to the video output terminal 42. Therefore, the signal transmission and format conversion time is saved, the processing speed is improved, and the processing time is reduced. Moreover, when the first multiplexer 41 selects another candidate video signal, the selected candidate video signal can be obtained from the signal processing unit of the selected candidate video signal, thereby improving the switching speed and reducing the switching time.

[0057] In one embodiment, K is equal to M; the M video processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are coupled with the K video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1K in a one-to-one correspondence. It can be seen that, by coupling the M video processing units with the same number of video signal sources in a one-to-one correspondence, a compact hardware structure is achieved, facilitating production.

[0058] In one embodiment, K is greater than M; at least one of the M video processing units 31, 32, …, 3M is coupled with at least two of the K video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1K. It can be seen that, by coupling at least one video processing unit with at least two video signal sources, a greater number of video signal sources can be supported.

[0059] In one embodiment, each of the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M comprises a memory; the memory is used to store the transmission parameter negotiated by the signal processing unit coupled with the memory or the content key of the video signal source. Therefore, by providing the memory for storing the transmission parameter negotiated or the content key in the signal processing unit, signal transmission and signal processing are facilitated.

[0060] In one embodiment, the signal converter 40 comprises: M indicators 51, 52, …, 5M coupled with the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M in a one-to-one correspondence; the indication state of each of the M indicators 51, 52, …, 5M is associated with the state of the video signal of the video signal source coupled with the corresponding signal processing unit. It can be seen that, by the indicators associated with the state of the video signal, the user can understand the state of the video signal of each video signal source.

[0061] In one embodiment, when the video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has no video signal, the indication state of the indicator is in a first state; when the video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has a video signal and the video signal source and the signal processing unit fail to negotiate the transmission parameter, the indication state of the indicator is in a second state; when the video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has a video signal and the video signal source and the signal processing unit successfully negotiate the transmission parameter, the indication state of the indicator is in a third state. Therefore, by distinguishing the different states of the video signal, the user can understand the state of each video signal in detail.

[0062] Figure 3 is a first exemplary structural diagram of the signal converter according to the embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 3As shown, the signal converter 40 comprises M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M and a first multiplexer 41, the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are coupled with the M video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1M in a one-to-one manner, the first multiplexer 41 is coupled with the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M and a video output terminal 42, M is a positive integer at least equal to 2. Among them: the M input terminals of the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are respectively coupled with the M video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1M. The M output terminals of the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are respectively coupled with the M input terminals of the first multiplexer 41 in a one-to-one manner. The output terminal of the first multiplexer 41 is coupled with the video output terminal 42.

[0063] The M video signals provided by the M video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1M can include DP signals, DVI signals, HDMI signals, VGA signals, LVDS, RGB signals or RGBHW signals, etc. The M video processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are used to convert the M video signals of the M video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1M into M candidate video signals of the same predetermined format. For example, before the first multiplexer 41 makes a selection, the M video processing units 31, 32, …, 3M continuously convert the K video signals of the M video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1M into M candidate video signals of the same predetermined format. The first multiplexer 41 is used to select a candidate video signal from the M candidate video signals based on a selection signal (which can be triggered by a user), read the selected candidate video signal from the video processing unit of the selected candidate video signal, convert the selected candidate video signal into an output signal adapted to the video output terminal 42, and send the output signal to the video output terminal 42.

[0064] In one embodiment, each of the M signal processing units 31, 32,..., 3M comprises a memory. The memory is used to store the negotiated transmission parameters or the content key of the video signal source coupled with the signal processing unit comprising the memory after negotiation between the video signal source and the signal processing unit. For example, the signal processing unit negotiates the transmission parameters and obtains the content key when it first handshakes with the corresponding video signal source, and stores the negotiated transmission parameters in the memory. The transmission parameters can include transmission rate, transmission mode, transmission bandwidth, error rate, time delay, resolution, refresh rate, jitter, etc. Each of the M signal processing units 31, 32,..., 3M can continuously obtain video signals from the M video signal sources 11, 12,..., 1M based on the negotiated transmission parameters stored in the respective memory, and obtain the authorization (e.g. the authorization to convert the video signals into a predetermined format) for processing the video signals based on the content key stored in the respective memory. Each signal processing unit converts the respective video signals into the same predetermined format (e.g. RGB format) based on the respective authorization.

[0065] In one embodiment, a predetermined size of cache area can be provided in the respective memory of the signal processing units 31, 32,..., 3M to store the video signals converted into the predetermined format. When selected by the first multiplexer 41, the video signals converted into the predetermined format are sent from the cache area to the first multiplexer 41. Preferably, the storage is performed in a way that the later data overwrites the earlier data in the cache area, so as to ensure that the data sent to the first multiplexer 41 is the latest data.

[0066] In one embodiment, the signal converter 40 comprises M indicators 51, 52,..., 5M coupled with the M signal processing units 31, 32,..., 3M in a one-to-one manner. The indication state of each of the M indicators 51, 52,..., 5M is associated with the state of the video signal of the video signal source coupled with the corresponding signal processing unit. For example, the indicator can be implemented as an LED display lamp. It can be seen that the indicators associated with the state of the video signal of the video signal source facilitate the user to understand the state of the video signal of each video signal source.

[0067] In one embodiment, when the video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has no video signal, the indication state of the indicator is in the first state; when the video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has video signal and the video signal source and the signal processing unit fail to negotiate the transmission parameter, the indication state of the indicator is in the second state; when the video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has video signal and the video signal source and the signal processing unit succeed in negotiating the transmission parameter, the indication state of the indicator is in the third state. For example, the first state can be that the indicator does not emit light; the second state can be that the indicator emits red light in flashing; and the third state can be that the indicator continuously emits green light. Thus, by distinguishing and indicating the different states of the video signals, the user can know the state of the video signal of each video signal source in detail.

[0068] Figure 4 is a second exemplary structure diagram of the signal converter according to the embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 4 the signal converter 40 comprises M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M and a first multiplexer 41, the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are coupled with corresponding K video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1K, the first multiplexer 41 is coupled with the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M and a video output end 42, M is a positive integer at least equal to 2, and K is a positive integer greater than M. Among them: M input ends of the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are coupled with the K video signal sources 11, 12, …, 1K respectively. M output ends of the M signal processing units 31, 32, …, 3M are coupled with M input ends of the first multiplexer 41 in a one-to-one corresponding manner. The output end of the first multiplexer 41 is coupled with the video output end 42.

[0069] Since K is greater than M, one or more multiplexers are further arranged in the signal converter 40 to realize the coupling of at least one video processing unit and at least two video signal sources. For example, as shown in Figure 4 the signal converter 40 further comprises a second multiplexer 43. The input end of the second multiplexer 43 is coupled with the video signal source 12 and the video signal source 13, and the output end of the second multiplexer 43 is coupled with the input end of the signal processing unit 32. Based on the selection operation of the second multiplexer 43, one video signal can be selected from the video signal source 12 and the video signal source 13 to be input to the video processing unit 32.

[0070] The K video signal sources 11, 12,... IK can provide K video signals, which can include DP signals, DVI signals, HDMI signals, VGA signals, LVDS, RGB signals, or RGBHW signals, etc. The M signal processing units 31, 32,... 3M are configured to convert M video signals from the K video signal sources 11, 12,... IK into M candidate video signals in the same predetermined format (wherein, based on the selection operation of the second multiplexer 43, one video signal is selected from the video signal source 12 and the video signal source 13 to be input into the signal processing unit 32). For example, before the selection of the first multiplexer 41, the M signal processing units 31, 32,... 3M continuously convert M video signals from the K video signal sources 11, 12,... IK into M candidate video signals in the same predetermined format. The first multiplexer 41 is configured to select a candidate video signal from the M candidate video signals based on a selection signal (which can be triggered by a user), read the selected candidate video signal from the video processing unit of the selected candidate video signal, convert the selected candidate video signal into an output signal that is compatible with the video output terminal 42, and send the output signal to the video output terminal 42.

[0071] In one embodiment, each of the M signal processing units 31, 32,... 3M includes a memory. The memory is configured to store the negotiated transmission parameters or the content key of the video signal source coupled to the signal processing unit including the memory. For example, the signal processing unit negotiates the transmission parameters and obtains the content key when it first performs handshake with the corresponding video signal source, and stores the negotiated transmission parameters in the memory. The transmission parameters can include transmission rate, transmission mode, transmission bandwidth, error rate, latency, resolution, refresh rate, and jitter, etc.

[0072] The signal processing unit 32 coupled to the second multiplexer 43 needs to store two sets of parameters, which are (1) the negotiated transmission parameters with the video signal source 12 and the content key of the video signal source 12, and (2) the negotiated transmission parameters with the video signal source 13 and the content key of the video signal source 13. The signal processing unit 32 selects one set of parameters from the above two sets of parameters based on the selection signal of the second multiplexer 43.

[0073] Each of the M signal processing units 31, 32,..., 3M, based on the negotiated transmission parameters stored in the respective memory, can continuously acquire video signals from M video signal sources among the K video signal sources 11, 12,..., 1K, and based on the content keys stored in the respective memory, acquire authorization for processing the video signals (e.g., authorization for format conversion into a predetermined format). Each signal processing unit, based on the respective authorization, converts the respective video signals into the same predetermined format (e.g., RGB format).

[0074] For example, assuming that the selection signal of the second multiplexer 43 selects the video signal source 12, the signal processing unit 32 reads the negotiated transmission parameters of the video signal source 12 and the content key of the video signal source 12 from its own memory, continuously acquires video signals from the video signal source 12 based on the negotiated transmission parameters of the video signal source 12, and acquires authorization for processing the video signals of the video signal source 12 based on the content key of the video signal source 12. After the authorization is completed, the video signals of the video signal source 12 are converted into the same predetermined format (e.g., RGB format). When the selection signal of the second multiplexer 43 is changed to select the video signal source 13, the signal processing unit 32 reads the negotiated transmission parameters of the video signal source 13 and the content key of the video signal source 13 from its own memory, continuously acquires video signals from the video signal source 13 based on the negotiated transmission parameters of the video signal source 13, and acquires authorization for processing the video signals of the video signal source 13 based on the content key of the video signal source 13. After the authorization is completed, the video signals of the video signal source 13 are converted into the same predetermined format (e.g., RGB format).

[0075] In one embodiment, a predetermined size of cache area can be provided in the respective memory of the signal processing units 31, 32,..., 3M, to store video signals converted into the predetermined format. When selected by the first multiplexer 41, the video signals converted into the predetermined format are sent from the cache area to the first multiplexer 41. Preferably, the storage is performed in a manner that later data overwrites earlier data in the cache area, so as to ensure that the data sent to the first multiplexer 41 is the latest data.

[0076] In one embodiment, the signal converter 40 includes M indicators 51, 52,..., 5M coupled to the M signal processing units 31, 32,..., 3M in a one-to-one manner. The indication state of each indicator is associated with the state of the video signals of the video signal source coupled to the corresponding signal processing unit. For example, the indicators can be implemented as LED display lights. As can be seen, through the indicators associated with the state of the video signals of the video signal sources, the user can easily understand the state of the video signals of each video signal source.

[0077] In one implementation, when the video signal source coupled to the corresponding signal processing unit has no video signal, the indicator is in a first state; when the video signal source coupled to the corresponding signal processing unit has a video signal but the video signal source and the signal processing unit fail to negotiate transmission parameters, the indicator is in a second state; and when the video signal source coupled to the corresponding signal processing unit has a video signal and the video signal source and the signal processing unit successfully negotiate transmission parameters, the indicator is in a third state. For example, the first state could be: the indicator is not emitting light; the second state could be: the indicator flashes red light; and the third state could be: the indicator continuously emits green light. Therefore, by distinguishing the different states of the video signal, it is convenient for users to understand the state of the video signal of each video signal source in detail.

[0078] based on Figures 2 to 4 As illustrated in the diagram and disclosed above, this utility model also proposes a signal conversion system. The signal conversion system includes: K video signal sources 11, 12...1K; a video output terminal 42; and a signal converter 40, including M signal processing units 31, 32...3M and a first multiplexer 41. The M signal processing units 31, 32...3M are coupled to the corresponding K video signal sources 11, 12...1K. The first multiplexer 41 is coupled to the M signal processing units 31, 32...3M and the video output terminal 42. M is a positive integer of at least 2, and K is a positive integer greater than or equal to M. Among them, the M video processing units 31, 32...3M are used to convert the K video signals from the K video signal sources 11, 12...1K into M candidate video signals of a predetermined format; the first multiplexer 41 is used to select a candidate video signal from the M candidate video signals, convert the selected candidate video signal into an output signal adapted to the video output terminal 42, and send the output signal to the video output terminal 42.

[0079] The embodiments of this utility model can be applied in many occasions that require high-quality video display, such as broadcasting and television, monitoring systems, video conferencing, educational demonstrations, and medical imaging.

[0080] Figure 5 This is an exemplary structural diagram of a signal conversion system in medical imaging according to an embodiment of the present invention. It includes five video signal sources contained in five medical imaging systems 101-105, and is based on... Figures 2 to 4 Each of the signal converters 40 shown in the diagram is coupled to a display device 60. Based on the signal switching and format conversion processing of the signal converter 40, any video signal from the medical imaging systems 101 to 105 can be conveniently switched and displayed on the display device 60.

[0081] For example, any one of the medical imaging systems 101-105 can include:

[0082] (1) X-ray radiography system: X-ray radiography system is one of the common medical imaging devices, usually used to obtain two-dimensional images of the skeletal system and certain tissue structures. It generates bone and tissue images by emitting X-rays and receiving reflected X-rays through a sensor. X-ray devices can include traditional X-ray machines and digitized X-ray devices, such as C-arm type X-ray devices. When the medical imaging system is implemented as an X-ray radiography system, the DP signal source can be implemented as an image workstation in the X-ray radiography system, and the medical data carried in the DP signal can be X-ray images.

[0083] (2) CT system: CT system uses a rotating X-ray source and a sensor for multi-angle imaging of the body, which can generate digital cross-sectional images. CT scanning can provide more detailed anatomical structure and tissue information, and is widely used in the fields of diagnosis and surgical planning. When the medical imaging system is implemented as a CT system, the DP signal source can be implemented as an image workstation in the CT system, and the medical data carried in the DP signal can be CT images.

[0084] (3) Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system: MRI system can provide detailed anatomical structure information by using strong magnetic field and radio waves to obtain high-resolution internal images, and has high resolution for soft tissue, and can obtain multiple plane medical images. When the medical imaging system is implemented as an MRI system, the DP signal source can be implemented as an image workstation in the MRI system, and the medical data carried in the DP signal can be MRI images.

[0085] (4) Ultrasound system: Ultrasound system uses ultrasound waves to generate real-time internal images. It sends ultrasound waves to the human body and receives their echoes, and forms medical images according to the propagation and reflection of sound waves in different tissues. When the medical imaging system 100 is implemented as an ultrasound system, the DP signal source can be implemented as an image workstation in the ultrasound system, and the medical data carried in the DP signal can be ultrasound images.

[0086] (5) Endoscopic imaging system: Endoscopic imaging system usually includes optical imaging system and illumination system, which is used to provide light or excitation light for optical imaging system, so that optical imaging system can image the tissue in the human body to observe lesions or perform surgery. When the medical imaging system is implemented as an endoscopic imaging system, the VGA video signal source can be implemented as an image workstation in the endoscopic imaging system, and the medical data carried in the VGA video signal can be endoscopic images.

[0087] The above describes the medical imaging system as an example to demonstrate the embodiments of the present application. Those skilled in the art can realize that the description is only demonstrative and is not used to limit the protection scope of the embodiments of the present application. It is easily understood that the various signal converters and signal conversion systems described by way of example can be applied to scenarios in which multiple medical imaging devices are applied, such as a composite examination room or a composite operating room, etc. Meanwhile, the signal converter or signal conversion system of the embodiments of the present application can also be applied to occasions in which high-quality video display is required, such as broadcast television, monitoring systems, video conferencing, educational demonstrations, etc.

[0088] It should be noted that not all the modules in the above structural diagrams are necessary, and some modules can be ignored according to actual needs. The division of the modules is only a functional division for ease of description, and in actual implementation, one module can be implemented by multiple modules, and the functions of multiple modules can be implemented by one module. These modules can be located in the same device or in different devices.

[0089] The hardware modules in the embodiments can be implemented mechanically or electronically. For example, a hardware module can include a specially designed permanent circuit or logic device (such as a dedicated processor, such as an FPGA or an ASIC) for completing a specific operation. The hardware module can also include a programmable logic device or circuit (such as including a general-purpose processor) for executing a specific operation. As for whether to implement the hardware module mechanically, or to implement the hardware module by using a dedicated permanent circuit, or to implement the hardware module by using a temporarily configured circuit, the decision can be made according to cost and time considerations.

[0090] The above only describes preferred embodiments of the present application and is not used to limit the protection scope of the present application. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present application shall be included in the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A signal converter (40), characterized by The signal converter (40) comprises M signal processing units (31, 32, …, 3M) coupled with corresponding K video signal sources (11, 12, …, 1K) and a first multiplexer (41) coupled with the M signal processing units (31, 32, …, 3M) and a video output terminal (42), wherein M is a positive integer at least equal to 2 and K is a positive integer greater than or equal to M; wherein: The M signal processing units (31, 32, …, 3M) are configured to convert K video signals of the K video signal sources (11, 12, …, 1K) into M candidate video signals in a predetermined format. The first multiplexer (41) is configured to select a candidate video signal from the M candidate video signals, convert the selected candidate video signal into an output signal adapted to the video output terminal (42), and send the output signal to the video output terminal (42).

2. The signal converter (40) according to claim 1, characterized in that The K is equal to the M; the M signal processing units (31, 32, …, 3M) are coupled with the K video signal sources (11, 12, …, 1K) in a one-to-one correspondence.

3. The signal converter (40) according to claim 1, characterized in that The K is greater than the M; at least one of the M signal processing units (31, 32, …, 3M) is coupled with at least two of the K video signal sources (11, 12, …, 1K).

4. The signal converter (40) according to claim 3, characterized in that The signal converter (40) further comprises: A second multiplexer (43); The at least one signal processing unit is coupled with the at least two video signal sources via the second multiplexer (43); the second multiplexer (43) is configured to select a video signal from at least two video signals of the at least two video signal sources and send the selected video signal to the at least one signal processing unit.

5. The signal converter (40) according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized by Each of the M signal processing units (31, 32, …, 3M) comprises a memory; The memory is configured to store a negotiated transmission parameter or a content key of a video signal source coupled with the signal processing unit comprising the memory.

6. The signal converter (40) according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized by The signal converter (40) further comprises: M indicators (51, 52, …, 5M) coupled with the M signal processing units (31, 32, …, 3M) in a one-to-one correspondence; An indication state of each of the M indicators (51, 52, …, 5M) is associated with a state of a video signal of a video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit.

7. The signal converter (40) according to claim 6, wherein: When the video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has no video signal, the indication state of the indicator is in a first state; When the video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has a video signal and the negotiation of the transmission parameter between the video signal source and the signal processing unit is unsuccessful, the indication state of the indicator is in a second state; and When the video signal source coupled with the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit has a video signal and the negotiation of the transmission parameter between the video signal source and the signal processing unit is successful, the indication state of the indicator is in a third state. When the one-to-one corresponding signal processing unit coupled video signal source has a video signal and the video signal source and the signal processing unit negotiation transmission parameters successfully, the indicator indication state is in the third state.

8. A signal conversion system characterized by, Comprise: K video signal source (11, 12……1K); Video output end (42); Signal converter (40), comprising M signal processing unit (31, 32……3M) and first multiplexer (41), the M signal processing unit (31, 32……3M) and corresponding K video signal source (11, 12……1K) is coupled, the first multiplexer (41) and the M signal processing unit (31, 32……3M) and the video output end (42) are coupled, M is at least 2 positive integer, K is greater than or equal to M positive integer;Wherein: the M video processing unit (31, 32……3M), for converting the K video signal source (11, 12……1K) K video signal into M selected video signal of predetermined format;The first multiplexer (41) is used for selecting selected video signal from the M selected video signal, converts the selected video signal into the output signal adapted to the video output end (42), and sends the output signal to the video output end (42).

9. The signal conversion system of claim 8, wherein, The K is equal to the M;The M video processing unit (31, 32……3M) and the K video signal source (11, 12……1K) are coupled in a one-to-one corresponding manner.

10. The signal conversion system of claim 8, wherein, The K is greater than the M;At least one video processing unit in the M video processing unit (31, 32……3M) is coupled with at least two video signal sources in the K video signal source (11, 12……1K).

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