Light source device and system

Abstract

To provide a system and a light source device capable of improving the quality of a captured image of an endoscope.SOLUTION: An endoscope apparatus 100 includes: a light source device 5 which allows connection of a plurality of types of endoscopes 1 having light guides with different outer diameters; and a processor 4P, wherein the light source device 5 includes: a first light source 51 that generates red light RL; a second light source 52 that generates blue light BL; a third light source 53 that generates purple light VL; a fourth light source 54 that generates white light WL; and an optical member 55 capable of combining at least two of the red light RL, the blue light BL, the violet light VL, and green light GL included in the white light WL and introducing the combined light into a light guide 14, wherein the fourth light source 54 generates the white light WL by a light emitting diode 54A, a first phosphor 54R, and a second phosphor 54G, and wherein the processor 4P performs white balance processing of the captured image signal output from the imaging element of the endoscope 1 connected to the light source device 5 on the basis of the type of the endoscope 1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a light source device and system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Documents 1 to 4 describe light source devices for endoscopes.

[0003] Patent documents 5-7 describe various types of endoscopes.

[0004] Patent documents 8 to 10 describe techniques relating to white balance processing for endoscopes. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] China Patent Publication No. 109507794 [Patent Document 2] China Utility Model No. 209570749 [Patent Document 3] China Patent Application Publication No. 111110175 [Patent Document 4] China Utility Model No. 212521711 [Patent Document 5] Patent No. 4795202 [Patent Document 6] Patent No. 4160577 [Patent Document 7] JP 2018-99441 A [Patent Document 8] JP 2019-508 A [Patent Document 9] International Publication No. 2021 / 065939 [Patent Document 10] Special Publication No. 6-17942 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present disclosure provides a technique capable of improving the quality of an image captured by an endoscope. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A system according to one aspect of the technology disclosed herein includes a light source device to which a plurality of types of endoscopes having different outer diameters of light guides can be connected, and a processor, wherein the light source device includes a first light source including a light emitting diode and generating red light, a second light source including a light emitting diode and generating blue light, a third light source including a light emitting diode and generating purple light, a fourth light source including a light emitting diode and generating white light, and an optical member capable of combining at least two of the red light, the blue light, the purple light, and the green light contained in the white light and introducing the combined light into the light guide of the endoscope, wherein the fourth light source generates the white light using a blue light emitting diode that generates blue light and a phosphor that receives the blue light and generates light, and the optical path of the light emitted from the fourth light source to 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 to the light guide, and the processor performs white balance processing of an image signal output from an imaging element of the endoscope based on the type of the endoscope connected to the light source device.

[0008] A light source device according to one aspect of the technology disclosed herein includes a first light source including a light emitting diode and generating red light, a second light source including a light emitting diode and generating blue light, a third light source including a light emitting diode and generating purple light, a fourth light source including a light emitting diode and generating white light, an optical member configured to introduce the red light into a light guide of an endoscope, introduce the blue light into the light guide, introduce the purple light into the light guide, and introduce green light contained in the white light into the light guide, a detection unit that detects a portion of the 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 a processor that controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the detection unit.

[0009] A light source device according to one aspect of the technology disclosed herein includes a first light source including a light emitting diode and generating a first color light, a second light source including a light emitting diode and generating a second color light, a third light source including a light emitting diode and generating a purple light, a fourth light source including a light emitting diode and generating light including at least green light, a first coupling member capable of combining the first color light and the second color light, a second coupling member capable of combining the light emitted from the first coupling member with one of the purple light and the green light, and a second coupling member capable of combining the light emitted from the second coupling member with the purple light and the green light. and the other of the purple light and the green light; a focusing member that focuses the light emitted from the third connecting member onto a light guide of the endoscope; a first detection unit that detects a portion of the light emitted from the second connecting member and entering the third connecting member and a portion of the light emitted from the fourth light source and entering the third connecting member; and a processor that controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the first detection unit. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the technique of the present disclosure, it is possible to improve the quality of images captured by an endoscope. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an endoscope apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the internal configuration of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the configuration of the fourth light source 54. As shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining a modified example of the fourth light source 54. As shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a light source device 5B which is a first modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a light source device 5C which is a second modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining the configuration of a fourth light source 54Xa which is a modified example of the fourth light source 54X in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a light source device 5D which is a third modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a light source device 5F which is a fourth modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a light source device 5H which is a fifth modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5C. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5C. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5B. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a modification of the light source device 5 shown in FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a detection section 60 in a light source device 5D. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5F. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5F. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5H. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] In this specification, violet light refers to light in a wavelength band of 380 nm or more and 430 nm or less. Blue light refers to light in a wavelength band of 430 nm or more and 490 nm or less. Green light refers to light in a wavelength band of 490 nm or more and 560 nm or less. Yellow light refers to light in a wavelength band of 560 nm or more and 600 nm or less. Red light refers to light in a wavelength band of 600 nm or more and 650 nm or less.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an endoscope apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure. The endoscope device 100 constitutes a system. The endoscope device 100 includes an endoscope 1, a main body unit 2 including a processor device 4 and a light source device 5 to which the endoscope 1 is connected, a display device 7 that displays captured images and the like obtained by capturing images using the endoscope 1, and an input unit 6 that is an interface for inputting various pieces of information to the processor device 4.

[0014] The endoscope 1 comprises an insertion section 10 which is a long instrument extending in one direction and which is inserted into a subject, an operation section 11 provided at the base end of the insertion section 10 and which has operation members for performing observation mode switching operation, image capture storage operation, forceps operation, air / water supply operation, suction operation, electric scalpel operation, etc., an angle knob 12 provided adjacent to the operation section 11, and a universal cord 13 including connector sections 13A, 13B which detachably connect the endoscope 1 to a light source device 5 and a processor device 4, respectively.

[0015] The operation unit 11 is provided with a forceps port for inserting a biopsy forceps, which is a treatment tool for collecting biological tissue such as cells or polyps. Although omitted in Fig. 1, various channels are provided inside the operation unit 11 and the insertion unit 10, such as a forceps channel through which the biopsy forceps inserted from the forceps port is inserted, a channel for supplying air and water, a channel for suction, etc.

[0016] The insertion section 10 is composed of a flexible soft section 10A, a bending section 10B provided at the tip of the flexible section 10A, and a tip section 10C provided at the tip of the bending section 10B and harder than the flexible section 10A. An imaging element and an imaging optical system are built into the tip section 10C. This imaging element has a light receiving surface on which, for example, a first pixel that detects blue light and purple light, a second pixel that detects red light, and a third pixel that detects green light are two-dimensionally arranged.

[0017] The bending portion 10B is configured to be freely bendable by rotating the angle knob 12. This bending portion 10B can be bent in any direction and at any angle depending on the part of the subject on which the endoscope 1 is used, and the tip portion 10C can be directed in a desired direction.

[0018] A light guide 14 (see FIG. 2) configured by bundling a plurality of optical fibers is provided inside the endoscope 1, extending from the tip 10C to the connector 13A of the insertion section 10. Light generated by the light source device 5 is introduced into the light guide 14 from the connector 13A and travels to the tip 10C, and is irradiated onto the subject through an illumination window provided in the tip 10C.

[0019] 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 configured with a storage medium such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The light source device 5 includes a processor 5P that controls a light source, which will be described later, and a memory.

[0020] Processor 4P and processor 5P are each a CPU (Central Processing Unit), which is a general-purpose processor that executes software to perform various functions, a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), which is a processor whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacture, such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a dedicated electrical circuit, such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), which is a processor having a circuit configuration designed specifically to execute a specific process.

[0021] Each of the processor 4P and the processor 5P may be configured with one processor, or may be configured with a combination of two or more processors of the same type or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). More specifically, the hardware structure of each of the processor 4P and the processor 5P is an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0022] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the internal configuration of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. 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 member 55, and a detection unit 60 that detects a part 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 amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source 51, the second light source 52, the third light source 53, and the fourth light source 54 based on the light detected by the detection unit 60. The detection unit 60 and the control of the amount of light will be described in detail later.

[0023] 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, for example, a center wavelength of 620 nm to 640 nm and a half width of 15 nm to 30 nm, by the light emitting diode 51A.

[0024] The second light source 52 includes a light emitting diode 52A that generates blue light. The second light source 52 generates blue light BL having wavelength characteristics of, for example, a center wavelength of 440 nm to 450 nm and a half width of 15 nm to 30 nm by the light emitting diode 52A.

[0025] 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, for example, a center wavelength of 410 nm or more and 430 nm or less and a half width of 15 nm or more and 30 nm or less by the light emitting diode 53A.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the configuration of the fourth light source 54. As shown in FIG. The fourth light source 54 includes a light emitting diode 54A that generates blue light for excitation, a first phosphor 54R that receives the blue light generated by the light emitting diode 54A and generates red light, and a second phosphor 54G that receives the blue light generated by the light emitting diode 54A and generates green light. The fourth light source 54 generates white light WL by mixing the blue light generated by the light emitting diode 54A, the red light generated by the first phosphor 54R, and the green light generated by the second phosphor 54G.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining a modified example of the fourth light source 54. As shown in FIG. The fourth light source 54 is configured to include a third phosphor 54Y that receives the blue light generated by the light emitting diode 54A and generates yellow light, instead of the first phosphor 54R and the second phosphor 54G. In this manner, the fourth light source 54 may 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.

[0028] In the configuration shown in Fig. 3, the red light and green light can be made wider band than in the configuration shown in Fig. 4, so that the color rendering can be improved. Also, the amount of light on the short wavelength side of the green light can be increased. As shown in Figs. 3 and 4, by combining a light emitting diode and a phosphor to generate white light WL, it is possible to generate white light WL containing a broadband green light at low cost.

[0029] The optical member 55 is configured to be able to introduce the red light RL generated by the first light source 51 into the light guide 14 of the endoscope 1, introduce the blue light BL generated by the second light source 52 into the light guide 14, introduce the purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 into the light guide 14, and introduce the green light (hereinafter referred to as green light GL) included in the white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 into the light guide 14. The optical member 55 is configured to be able to combine at least two of the four colors of light, the red light RL, the blue light BL, the purple light VL, and the green light GL, and introduce the combined light into the light guide 14.

[0030] In the example of FIG. 2, the optical member 55 includes three combining members (combining members 56, 57, and 58) each capable of combining a plurality of light beams, and a condensing lens 59 as a condensing member.

[0031] Each of the coupling members 56, 57, and 58 is 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 coupling the light incident on one surface and the other surface and emitting it in the predetermined direction. Each of the coupling members 56, 57, and 58 is configured by, for example, a dichroic mirror that has the property of reflecting light of a specific wavelength and transmitting other light.

[0032] 2, the first light source 51, the coupling member 56, the coupling member 57, the coupling member 58, and the condenser lens 59 are arranged in this order in the direction along the optical axis of the condenser lens 59 (hereinafter referred to as the optical axis direction). The coupling member 56 is arranged with one surface 56a and the other surface 56b forming an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59. The coupling member 57 is arranged with one surface 57a and the other surface 57b forming an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59. The coupling member 58 is arranged with one surface 58a and the other surface 58b forming an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the condenser lens 59.

[0033] A second light source 52 is arranged on one side (the upper side in Figure 2) of the connecting member 56 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the focusing lens 59, and the blue light BL generated by the second light source 52 is incident on one surface 56a of the connecting member 56.

[0034] A third light source 53 is arranged on one side (the upper side in Figure 2) of the connecting member 57 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the focusing lens 59, and the purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 is incident on one surface 57a of the connecting member 57.

[0035] A fourth light source 54 is arranged on one side (the upper side in Figure 2) of the connecting member 58 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the focusing lens 59, and the white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 is incident on one surface 58a of the connecting member 58.

[0036] The combining member 56 is configured to reflect the blue light BL incident on one surface 56a toward the combining member 57 and transmit the red light RL incident on the other surface 56b toward the combining member 57, thereby combining the red light RL and the blue light BL and emitting them to the combining member 57.

[0037] The combining member 57 is configured to reflect the purple light VL incident on one surface 57a toward the combining member 58, and to transmit the light (at least one of the red light RL and the blue light BL) emitted from the combining member 56 and incident on the other surface 57b toward the combining member 58, thereby being able to combine the light emitted from the combining member 56 (at least one of the red light RL and the blue light BL) with the purple light VL and output it to the combining member 58.

[0038] The coupling member 58 is configured to reflect the green light GL of the white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward the condenser lens 59, and transmit the light (at least one of the red light RL, the blue light BL, and the purple light VL) emitted from the coupling member 57 and incident on the other surface 58b toward the condenser lens 59, thereby combining the light (at least one of the red light RL, the blue light BL, and the purple light VL) emitted from the coupling member 57 with the green light GL and outputting the combined light to the condenser lens 59. The wavelength characteristics of the green light GL output from the coupling member 58 to the condenser lens 59 are, for example, a central wavelength of 540 nm or more and 560 nm or less and a half width of 80 nm or more.

[0039] The condenser lens 59 condenses the light emitted from the coupling member 58 onto the light guide 14 .

[0040] The red light RL emitted from the first light source 51 is transmitted through the coupling member 56, the coupling member 57, and the coupling member 58, and then introduced into the light guide 14. The blue light BL emitted from the second light source 52 is reflected by the coupling member 56, transmitted through the coupling member 57 and the coupling member 58, and then introduced into the light guide 14. The purple light VL emitted from the third light source 53 is reflected by the coupling member 57, transmitted through the coupling member 58, and then introduced into the light guide 14. The green light GL of the white light WL emitted from the fourth light source 54 is reflected by the coupling member 58 and introduced into the light guide 14.

[0041] In the light source device 5, the optical path of the light emitted from the fourth light source 54 to the light guide 14 is shorter than the optical paths of the light emitted from the first light source 51, the second light source 52, and the third light source 53 to the light guide 14. The fourth light source 54 generates white light WL by a light emitting diode and a phosphor that has a large light diffusion property. The fourth light source 54 is provided at a position closest to the light guide 14 among the four light sources, and thus it becomes possible to easily adjust 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.

[0042] The light source device 5 can operate in a plurality of modes with different numbers of lights introduced into the light guide 14 of the endoscope 1. The plurality of modes are selected according to the purpose of the endoscopic examination, and include a first mode in which red light RL, blue light BL, and green light GL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14, a second mode in which purple light VL and green light GL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14, a third mode in which blue light BL and purple light VL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14, a fourth mode in which red light RL, blue light BL, and purple light VL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14, and a fifth mode in which purple light VL, red light RL, blue light BL, and green light GL are combined and introduced into the light guide 14. The third and fourth modes are not essential and may be omitted.

[0043] In the first mode, the processor 5P performs a first control to turn on the light-emitting diodes of the first light source 51, the second light source 52, and the fourth light source 54, and introduce red light RL, blue light BL, and green light GL into the light guide 14.

[0044] In the second mode, the processor 5P performs a second control in which the light emitting diodes of the third light source 53 and the fourth light source 54 are turned on to introduce the purple light VL and the green light GL into the light guide 14.

[0045] In the third mode, the processor 5P performs a third control in which the light emitting diodes of the second light source 52 and the third light source 53 are turned on to introduce the blue light BL and the violet light VL into the light guide 14.

[0046] In the fourth mode, the processor 5P performs a fourth control in which the light-emitting diodes of the first light source 51, the second light source 52, and the third light source 53 are turned on to introduce red light RL, blue light BL, and purple light VL into the light guide 14.

[0047] In the fifth mode, the processor 5P performs a fifth control in which 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 are turned on to introduce the red light RL, the blue light BL, the green light GL, and the purple light VL into the light guide 14. In the fifth control, the fifth mode can be further divided into a plurality of modes by changing the amount of light generated from the four light sources.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a light source device 5B which is a first modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. Light source device 5B has a configuration in which the positions of third light source 53 and fourth light source 54 are reversed in light source device 5. In light source device 5B, coupling member 57 reflects green light GL of white light WL incident on one surface 57a toward coupling member 58. Coupling member 58 also transmits green light GL incident on the other surface 58b toward condenser lens 59, and reflects purple light VL incident on one surface 58a toward condenser lens 59. The configuration shown in FIG. 5 can also realize the above-mentioned multiple modes.

[0049] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a light source device 5C which is a second modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. The light source device 5C has a configuration in which the fourth light source 54 in the light source device 5 is replaced with a fourth light source 54X. 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 one surface 58a toward the condenser lens 59. The above-mentioned multiple modes can also be realized by the configuration shown in FIG.

[0050] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining the configuration of a fourth light source 54Xa which is a modified example of the fourth light source 54X in FIG. The fourth light source 54Xa includes a light emitting diode 54A that generates blue excitation light Bl, 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 cut filter 54F that transmits the green light GL and cuts the excitation light Bl. The fourth light source 54Xa may include a light emitting diode that generates excitation light and a phosphor that receives the excitation light and generates light including at least green light GL, and the excitation light is not limited to blue light. For example, in FIG. 7, the light emitting diode 54A may be replaced with a light emitting diode that generates purple light or a light emitting diode that generates ultraviolet light.

[0051] The excitation light cut filter 54F does not have to be included in the light source itself as in Fig. 7. For example, it may be provided in the optical path between the coupling member 58 and the fourth light source 54X in Fig. 6. Also, the coupling member 58 may be configured to transmit components other than the green light GL out of the light incident on one surface 58a.

[0052] In the light source device 5B shown in FIG. 5, the fourth light source 54 can be replaced with a fourth light source 54X or a fourth light source 54Xa.

[0053] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a light source device 5D which is a third modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. Light source device 5D has a configuration in which the positions of second light source 52 and third light source 53 are reversed in light source device 5. In light source device 5D, coupling member 56 reflects purple light VL incident on one surface 56a toward coupling member 57. Furthermore, coupling member 57 transmits purple light VL incident on the other surface 57b toward coupling member 58, and reflects blue light BL incident on one surface 57a toward coupling member 58. The configuration shown in FIG. 8 can also realize the above-mentioned multiple modes.

[0054] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a light source device 5F which is a fourth modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. Light source device 5F has a configuration in which the positions of second light source 52 and fourth light source 54 are reversed in light source device 5D. In light source device 5F, coupling member 57 reflects green light GL of white light WL incident on one surface 57a toward coupling member 58. In addition, coupling member 58 transmits green light GL incident on the other surface 58b toward condenser lens 59, and reflects blue light BL incident on one surface 58a toward condenser lens 59. The configuration shown in FIG. 9 can also realize the above-mentioned multiple modes.

[0055] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a light source device 5H which is a fifth modified example of the light source device 5. As shown in FIG. Light source device 5H has a configuration in which the positions of third light source 53 and fourth light source 54 are reversed in light source device 5F. In light source device 5H, coupling member 56 reflects green light GL of white light WL incident on one surface 56a toward coupling member 57. Furthermore, coupling member 57 transmits green light GL incident on the other surface 57b toward coupling member 58, and reflects purple light VL incident on one surface 57a toward coupling member 58. The configuration shown in FIG. 10 can also realize the above-mentioned multiple modes.

[0056] In each of the light source device 5 and the light source devices 5B, 5C, 5D, 5F, and 5H shown so far, the positions of the first light source 51 and the second light source 52 may be reversed.

[0057] It is desirable that the light introduced into the light guide 14 of the endoscope 1 be bright green light in order to increase the brightness of a color image (an image obtained by imaging a subject while irradiating the subject with red light RL, green light GL, and blue light BL) captured by the endoscope 1. It is also desirable that the green light and purple light be bright in order to emphasize and clearly display capillaries and their patterns in the mucosal surface during special light observation.

[0058] According to the configurations of the light source device 5 and the light source devices 5B and 5C, among the light guided to the light guide 14, the green light GL and the purple light VL are less attenuated by transmitting through or reflecting off the optical member 55 than the other two colors of light. Therefore, the quality of the image captured by the endoscope 1 can be improved.

[0059] In particular, according to the configurations of the light source device 5 and the light source device 5C, among the light guided to the light guide 14, the green light GL is less attenuated due to transmission through or reflection from the optical member 55 than the other three color lights. Therefore, the quality of the captured image captured by the endoscope 1 can be improved.

[0060] Next, a specific configuration example of the detection unit 60 and a specific processing example of the processor 5P will be described.

[0061] Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. Fig. 11 shows a state in which the light source device 5 is operating in the second mode.

[0062] 11, one 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 (the lower side in the figure) of the coupling member 58 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59.

[0063] In the light source device 5 shown in Figure 11, the connecting member 58 has the function of reflecting a portion of the purple light VL incident on the other surface 58b toward the detection unit 61, transmitting blue light (hereinafter referred to as blue light WLb) of the white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward the detection unit 61, and transmitting red light (hereinafter referred to as red light WLr) of the white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward the detection unit 61.

[0064] The detection unit 61 is configured to be able to detect the purple light VL reflected by the other surface 58b of the coupling member 58, and the blue light WLb and red light WLr that are incident on one surface 58a of the coupling member 58 and transmitted through the coupling member 58.

[0065] 11, 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 transmitted through the coupling member 58.

[0066] In the light source device 5 having the configuration shown in FIG. 11, 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 on the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and information on at least one of the blue light WLb and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61.

[0067] The information on the light detected by the detection unit 60 is, for example, a spectrum indicating the intensity for each wavelength. The control of the light amounts of the multiple light sources performed by the processor 5P includes control for setting the light amount of each of the multiple light sources to a desired value and control for setting the light amount ratio of the multiple light sources to a desired value.

[0068] In the light source device 5 having the configuration shown in FIG. 11, the processor 5P determines the ratio between the light intensity of the third light source 53 and the light intensity of the fourth light source 54, for example, based on the relationship between the peak intensity value of the purple light VL and the peak intensity value of the blue light WLb.

[0069] Alternatively, the processor 5P determines the ratio between the light intensity of the third light source 53 and the light intensity of the fourth light source 54 from the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the violet light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr.

[0070] Alternatively, the processor 5P derives the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL from the peak value of the intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr, and determines the ratio between the amount of light of the third light source 53 and the amount of light of the fourth light source 54 from the relationship between the derived peak value of the intensity of the green light GL and the peak value of the intensity of the violet light VL. Here, the peak value of the detected light intensity is used, but instead of this peak value, an integral value obtained from the spectrum may be used.

[0071] 11, the coupling member 58 may be configured to transmit a portion of the green light GL incident on one surface 58a toward the detection unit 61. In this case, the processor 5P may determine the ratio between the light amount of the third light source 53 and the light amount of the fourth light source 54, for example, from the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL.

[0072] The green light GL is reflected only once in the optical member 55 before being introduced into the light guide 14. Therefore, even if the detection unit 61 is configured to detect only a portion of the green light GL, the amount of green light GL introduced into the light guide 14 can be sufficiently increased, and the quality of the image captured by the endoscope 1 can be improved.

[0073] Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5C. Fig. 12 shows a state in which the light source device 5C is operating in the second mode.

[0074] The light source device 5C shown in FIG. 12 differs from the light source device 5 shown in FIG. 11 in that the fourth light source 54 is replaced with a fourth light source 54X and that the connecting member 58 transmits a portion of the green light GL incident on one surface 58a toward the detection unit 61.

[0075] 12, 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 green light GL generated by the fourth light source 54X based on information on the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and information on the green light GL detected by the detection unit 61. The processor 5P determines the ratio between the amount of light of the third light source 53 and the amount of light of the fourth light source 54X, for example, from the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL.

[0076] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5C. Fig. 13 shows a state in which the light source device 5C is operating in the second mode.

[0077] The light source device 5C shown in Figure 13 differs from the light source device 5 shown in Figure 11 in that the fourth light source 54 is replaced with a fourth light source 54Xa in which the excitation light cut filter 54F is omitted, and in that the coupling member 58 transmits the excitation light Bl incident on one surface 58a in the direction of the detection unit 61.

[0078] 13, in the second mode, the processor 5P controls the amount of the purple light VL generated by the third light source 53 and the amount of the green light GL generated by the fourth light source 54Xa (the amount of light emitted by the light-emitting diode 54A) based on information on the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and information on the excitation light Bl detected by the detection unit 61. The processor 5P determines the ratio between the amount of light of the third light source 53 and the amount of light of the fourth light source 54Xa, for example, from the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the excitation light Bl.

[0079] Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5B. Fig. 14 shows a state in which the light source device 5 is operating in the second mode.

[0080] 14, one 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 (the lower side in the figure) of the coupling member 58 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59.

[0081] 14, coupling member 58 has a function of transmitting a portion of purple light VL incident on one surface 58a toward detection unit 61, and transmitting a portion of green light GL incident on the other surface 58b toward detection unit 61. Detection unit 61 shown in FIG. 14 is configured to be able to detect purple light VL transmitted through one surface 58a of coupling member 58, and green light GL incident on the other surface 58b of coupling member 58 and reflected by coupling member 58.

[0082] The light amount control of the light source performed by the processor 5P in the second mode of the light source device 5B having the configuration shown in Fig. 14 is the same as that of the processor 5P shown in Fig. 12. In the light source device 5A shown in Fig. 14, the fourth light source 54 may be changed to a fourth light source 54X or a fourth light source 54Xa.

[0083] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a modified example of the light source device 5 shown in Fig. 11. Fig. 15 shows a state in which the light source device 5C is operating in the fifth mode.

[0084] 15 differs from FIG. 11 in that coupling member 58 reflects a portion of red light RL and blue light BL incident on the other surface 58b toward detection unit 61. Detection unit 61 shown in FIG. 15 is configured to be able to detect purple light VL, red light RL, and blue light BL reflected by the other surface 58b of coupling member 58, and blue light WLb and red light WLr incident on one surface 58a of coupling member 58 and transmitted through coupling member 58.

[0085] In the light source device 5 having the configuration shown in FIG. 15, 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 information on each of the purple light VL, red light RL, blue light BL, blue light WLb, and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61.

[0086] For example, the processor 5P derives the amount of the green light GL based on the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr. The processor 5P derives the amount of the blue light BL from the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the detected blue light and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr. The processor 5P derives the amount of the violet light VL from the peak value of the intensity of the detected violet light VL. The processor 5P derives the amount of the red light RL from the peak value of the intensity of the detected red light WLr. The processor 5P controls the amount of the red light RL generated by the first light source 51, the amount of the blue light BL generated by the second light source 52, the amount of the violet light VL generated by the third light source 53, and the amount of the white light WL generated by the fourth light source 54 from the amount of each color light derived in this way.

[0087] Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5D. Fig. 16 shows a state in which the light source device 5D is operating in the second mode.

[0088] Light source device 5D shown in Fig. 16 differs from light source device 5 shown in Fig. 11 in that the positions of second light source 52 and third light source 53 are reversed. The light source light amount control performed by processor 5P in the second mode of light source device 5D having the configuration shown in Fig. 16 is the same as that of processor 5P shown in Fig. 11.

[0089] Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5F. Fig. 17 shows a state in which the light source device 5F is operating in the second mode.

[0090] 17 differs from light source device 5D shown in Fig. 16 in that the positions of second light source 52 and fourth light source 54 are reversed, and that coupling member 58 is configured to reflect a portion of purple light VL incident on the other surface 58b toward the detection unit 61, and to reflect a portion of green light GL incident on the other surface 58b toward the detection unit 61. The light source light amount control performed by processor 5P in the second mode of light source device 5F configured as shown in Fig. 17 is the same as that of processor 5P shown in Fig. 14.

[0091] Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5F. Fig. 18 shows a state in which the light source device 5F is operating in the second mode.

[0092] 18 is provided with one detection unit 62 including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor as the detection unit 60. The detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (the lower side in the figure) of the coupling member 57 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59.

[0093] 18, coupling member 57 has a function of reflecting a portion of purple light VL incident on the other surface 57b toward detection unit 61, and transmitting at least one of blue light WLb and red light WLr of white light WL incident on one surface 57a toward detection unit 62. Detection unit 62 is configured to be able to detect purple light VL reflected by the other surface 57b of coupling member 57, and blue light WLb and red light WLr incident on one surface 57a of coupling member 57 and transmitted through coupling member 57. Coupling member 57 may be configured to transmit a portion of green light GL incident on one surface 57a toward detection unit 61.

[0094] In the light source device 5F having the configuration shown in FIG. 18, 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 on the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 62 and information on at least one of the blue light WLb and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 62 (or information on the green light GL detected by the detection unit 62).

[0095] Fig. 19 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5H. Fig. 19 shows a state in which the light source device 5H is operating in the second mode.

[0096] Light source device 5H shown in Figure 19 differs from light source device 5F shown in Figure 18 in that the positions of third light source 53 and fourth light source 54 are reversed and that connecting member 57 is configured to reflect a portion of green light GL incident on the other surface 57b toward the detection unit 62 and to transmit a portion of purple light VL incident on one surface 57a toward the detection unit 62.

[0097] The light source light amount control performed by the processor 5P in the second mode of the light source device 5H having the configuration shown in FIG. 19 is the same as that of the processor 5P shown in FIG.

[0098] Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. Fig. 20 shows a state in which the light source device 5 is operating in the third mode.

[0099] 20, one 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 (the lower side in the figure) of the coupling member 57 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the condenser lens 59.

[0100] 20, coupling member 57 has a function of reflecting a portion of blue light BL incident on the other surface 57b toward detection unit 61, and transmitting a portion of purple light VL incident on one surface 57a toward detection unit 61. Detection unit 61 is configured to be able to detect blue light BL reflected by the other surface 57b of coupling member 57, and purple light VL incident on one surface 57a of coupling member 57 and transmitted through coupling member 57.

[0101] In the light source device 5 having the configuration shown in FIG. 20, 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 information on the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61 and information on the blue light BL detected by the detection unit 61.

[0102] Fig. 21 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. Fig. 21 shows a state in which the light source device 5 is operating in the fourth mode.

[0103] 20, the light source device 5 shown in Fig. 21 differs 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 be able to detect a portion of each of the blue light BL and the red light RL reflected by the other surface 57b of the coupling member 57, and a portion of the purple light VL incident on one surface 57a of the coupling member 57 and transmitted through the coupling member 57.

[0104] In the light source device 5 having the configuration shown in FIG. 21, 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 information on purple light VL detected by the detection unit 61, information on blue light BL detected by the detection unit 61, and information on red light RL detected by the detection unit 61.

[0105] Fig. 22 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. Fig. 22 shows a state in which the light source device 5 is operating in the second mode.

[0106] 22, detection unit 61 and detection unit 62 each configured to include a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor are provided as detection unit 60. Detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of coupling member 58 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of condenser lens 59. Detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of coupling member 57 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of condenser lens 59.

[0107] In light source device 5 shown in Fig. 22, coupling member 57 has a function of transmitting a portion of purple light VL incident on one surface 57a toward detection unit 62. Coupling member 58 has a function of transmitting red light WLr and blue light WLb of white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward detection unit 61. Note that in Fig. 22, coupling member 58 may be configured to transmit a portion of green light GL incident on one surface 58a toward detection unit 61.

[0108] In the light source device 5 having the configuration shown in FIG. 22, 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 on the purple light VL detected by the detection unit 62 and information on the blue light WLb and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61 (or information on the green light GL detected by the detection unit 61).

[0109] For example, the processor 5P determines the light intensity of the third light source 53 and the light intensity of the fourth light source 54 based on the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the violet light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the blue light WLb.

[0110] Alternatively, the processor 5P determines the light intensity of the third light source 53 and the light intensity of the fourth light source 54 from the relationship between the peak value of the intensity of the violet light VL and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr.

[0111] Alternatively, the processor 5P derives the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL from the peak value of the intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr, determines the light amount of the fourth light source 54 from the derived peak value of the intensity of the green light GL, and determines the light amount of the third light source 53 from the peak value of the intensity of the purple light VL.

[0112] Fig. 23 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. Fig. 23 shows a state in which the light source device 5 is operating in the fifth mode.

[0113] 23, detection unit 61 and detection unit 63 each configured to include a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor are provided as detection unit 60. Detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of coupling member 58 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of condenser lens 59. Detection unit 63 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of coupling member 56 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of condenser lens 59.

[0114] 23, coupling member 56 has a function of transmitting a portion of blue light BL incident on one surface 56a toward detection unit 63, and reflecting a portion of red light RL incident on the other surface 56b toward detection unit 63. Coupling member 58 has a function of transmitting red light WLr and blue light WLb of white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward detection unit 61, and reflecting a portion of purple light VL incident on the other surface 58b toward detection unit 63.

[0115] In the light source device 5 having the configuration shown in FIG. 23, 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 information on the purple light VL, blue light WLb, and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61, and information on the red light RL and blue light BL detected by the detection unit 63.

[0116] For example, the processor 5P determines the ratio between the amount of light from the first light source 51 and the amount of light from the second light source 52 from the peak value of the intensity of the blue light BL and the peak value of the intensity of the red light RL. The processor 5P also derives the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL from the peak value of the intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr, and determines the ratio between the amount of light from the third light source 53 and the amount of light from the fourth light source 54 from the derived peak value of the intensity of the green light GL and the peak value of the intensity of the violet light VL.

[0117] Fig. 24 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. Fig. 24 shows a state in which the light source device 5 is operating in the fifth mode.

[0118] 24, detection unit 61 and detection unit 62 each configured to include a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor are provided as detection unit 60. Detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of coupling member 58 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of condenser lens 59. Detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of coupling member 57 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of condenser lens 59.

[0119] 24, coupling member 57 has a function of transmitting a portion of purple light VL incident on one surface 57a toward detection unit 62, reflecting a portion of red light RL incident on the other surface 57b toward detection unit 62, and reflecting a portion of blue light BL incident on the other surface 57b toward detection unit 62. Coupling member 58 has a function of transmitting red light WLr and blue light WLb of white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward detection unit 61.

[0120] In the light source device 5 having the configuration shown in FIG. 24, 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 information on the blue light WLb and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61 and information on the purple light VL, red light RL, and blue light BL detected by the detection unit 62.

[0121] For example, the processor 5P determines the light amount ratio of the first light source 51, the second light source 52, and the third light source 53 from the peak value of the intensity of the blue light BL, the peak value of the intensity of the red light RL, and the peak value of the intensity of the violet light VL. The processor 5P also derives the peak value of the intensity of the green light GL from the peak value of the intensity of the blue light WLb and the peak value of the intensity of the red light WLr, and determines the light amount of the fourth light source 54 from the relationship between the derived peak value and any one of the peak value of the intensity of the blue light BL, the peak value of the intensity of the red light RL, and the peak value of the intensity of the violet light VL.

[0122] In addition, the light amount of each light source may be determined by determining the characteristics of the coupling member so that detection unit 61 detects part of the red light WLr, blue light WLb, and purple light VL, and detection unit 62 detects part of the red light RL and part of the blue light BL.

[0123] Fig. 25 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection section 60 in the light source device 5. Fig. 25 shows a state in which the light source device 5 is operating in the fifth mode.

[0124] 25, detection unit 61, detection unit 62, and detection unit 63 each including a light receiving element such as a photodiode or a photoresistor are provided as detection unit 60. Detection unit 61 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of coupling member 58 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of condenser lens 59. Detection unit 62 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of coupling member 57 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of condenser lens 59. Detection unit 63 is provided on the other side (lower side in the figure) of coupling member 56 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of condenser lens 59.

[0125] 25, coupling member 56 has a function of transmitting a portion of blue light BL incident on one surface 56a toward detection unit 63, and reflecting a portion of red light RL incident on the other surface 56b toward detection unit 63. Coupling member 57 has a function of transmitting a portion of purple light VL incident on one surface 57a toward detection unit 62, and reflecting a portion of blue light BL incident on the other surface 57b toward detection unit 62. Coupling member 58 has a function of transmitting red light WLr and blue light WLb of white light WL incident on one surface 58a toward detection unit 61, and reflecting a portion of purple light VL incident on the other surface 58b toward detection unit 61.

[0126] In the light source device 5 having the configuration shown in FIG. 25, 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 information on the purple light VL, blue light WLb, and red light WLr detected by the detection unit 61, information on the purple light VL and blue light BL detected by the detection unit 62, and information on the red light RL and blue light BL detected by the detection unit 61.

[0127] In the above description, the detection unit 60 (detection unit 61, detection unit 62, detection unit 63) is provided at a position where it can detect light reflected from one surface of the coupling member or light transmitted through the other surface, but this is not limited to this. For example, the detection unit 60 may be provided at a position where it can detect light that is incident on the other surface of the coupling member and reflected from the other surface. Furthermore, the detection unit 60 may be provided at a position where it can detect light that is emitted from the light source and before it is incident on the other surface of the coupling member.

[0128] In the example of Figure 11, a detection unit 60 may be provided at a position between the third light source 53 and the connecting member 57 to detect purple light VL reflected by one surface 57a of the connecting member 57, or leakage light of the purple light VL emitted from the third light source 53, and a detection unit 60 may be provided at a position between the fourth light source 54 and the connecting member 58 to detect red light WLr and blue light WLb reflected by one surface 58a of the connecting member 58, or leakage light of the red light WLr and blue light WLb emitted from the fourth light source 54.

[0129] 11, 15-19, and 22-25, the fourth light source 54 that generates white light WL is used to generate broadband green light GL at low cost, while the light amount of the light source can be controlled with high precision by utilizing the red light WLr and blue light WLb contained in the white light WL. All of the green light GL can be introduced into the light guide 14, which can improve the quality of the image captured by the endoscope 1.

[0130] Next, the white balance processing performed by the processor 4P of the processor device 4 will be described.

[0131] 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 mosaic processing of the captured image signal. The white balance processing includes a process of multiplying the pixel signal of each color component included in the captured image signal by an adjustment gain.

[0132] For example, when the processor 4P acquires an image signal obtained by imaging with the endoscope 1 while the light source device 5 is operating in the first mode, it performs white balance processing by multiplying the red component pixel signal contained in the image signal after demosaic processing by an adjustment gain Gr1, multiplying the green component pixel signal contained in the image signal by an adjustment gain Gg1, and multiplying the blue component pixel signal contained in the image signal by an adjustment gain Gb1.

[0133] In addition, when the processor 4P acquires an image signal obtained by imaging with the endoscope 1 while the light source device 5 is operating in the second mode, it performs white balance processing by multiplying the pixel signal of the green component contained in the image signal after demosaic processing by an adjustment gain Gg2, and multiplying the pixel signal of the purple component contained in the image signal by an adjustment gain Gv2.

[0134] The processor 4P performs white balance processing for each mode of the light source device 5, using an adjustment gain corresponding to that mode.

[0135] In the endoscope device 100, a plurality of types of endoscopes 1 having different outer diameters of the light guide 14 can be connected to the light source device 5 and the processor device 4. For example, in the endoscope device 100, at least two of a side-viewing endoscope, a duodenoscope, a transnasal endoscope, an oral endoscope, and a bronchoscope can be connected as the endoscope 1. The outer diameter of the light guide 14 of these endoscopes may be different.

[0136] The appropriate value of the adjustment gain varies depending on the type of endoscope 1. If the outer diameter of the light guide 14 varies, the positional relationship of the base end face of the light guide 14 with respect to the condenser lens 59 may also vary, and therefore the adjustment gain for obtaining an appropriate white balance may vary. Therefore, it is preferable that the memory of the processor device 4 stores the adjustment gain for each mode of the light source device 5 in association with each type of the light source device 5 and the endoscope 1 that can be connected to the processor device 4.

[0137] When performing white balance processing, it is preferable that the processor 4P performs white balance processing of the captured image signal output from the imaging element of the endoscope 1 based on the type of endoscope 1 connected to the light source device 5 and the processor device 4.

[0138] Specifically, when performing white balance processing, the processor 4P recognizes the type of endoscope 1 connected to the light source device 5 and the processor device 4, reads out an adjustment gain corresponding to the recognized type from memory, and performs white balance processing using the read adjustment gain. In this way, even when various types of endoscopes 1 are used, it is possible to perform white balance processing suitable for the endoscope 1 being used.

[0139] The adjustment gain may not be stored in the memory of the processor 4P at the time of shipment. In this case, the processor 4P performs data processing to generate the adjustment gain, thereby enabling appropriate white balance processing.

[0140] This data processing is performed, for example, in a state where a cap including a white image serving as a reference for white is attached to the tip portion 10C of the endoscope 1. With this cap attached to the tip portion 10C, the endoscope 1 is able to capture the white image.

[0141] When the endoscope 1 is connected, the processor 4P acquires identification information (e.g., individual identification number and type) for identifying the endoscope 1. The processor 4P also acquires a captured image signal obtained by capturing a white image with the endoscope 1, generates an adjustment gain based on the acquired captured image signal, and stores the adjustment gain in memory in association with the identification information. The processor 4P performs a data generation process with the light source device 5 operating in each mode, generates an adjustment gain for each mode of the light source device 5, and stores it in memory.

[0142] As a result, the memory of the processor device 4 stores an adjustment gain group corresponding to the first mode, an adjustment gain group corresponding to the second mode, an adjustment gain group corresponding to the third mode, an adjustment gain group corresponding to the fourth mode, and an adjustment gain group corresponding to the fifth mode in correspondence with the identification information of the connected endoscope 1.

[0143] When an endoscope 1 having identification information stored in its memory is connected, the processor 4P performs white balance processing using the adjustment gain corresponding to the identification information already stored in its memory. On the other hand, when an endoscope 1 having identification information not yet stored in its memory is connected, the processor 4P performs data generation processing and performs white balance processing using the generated adjustment gain.

[0144] In this way, by the processor 4P performing the data generation process, even if the type of endoscope 1 used is different, it is possible to generate an adjustment gain suitable for that type, thereby improving the quality of the captured image. Even if the endoscope 1 used is the same type, it is possible to generate an adjustment gain suitable for each individual endoscope 1, thereby improving the quality of the captured image. Furthermore, there is no need to generate the adjustment gain when manufacturing the processor 4P, which reduces manufacturing costs.

[0145] In addition, since the light source device 5 and the light source devices 5B, 5C, 5D, 5F, and 5H are provided with the detection unit 60, it is possible to suppress changes in the amount of light of each color light introduced into the light guide 14 due to aging of each light source. Therefore, if the data generation process is performed once, the quality of the captured image can be improved even if the adjustment gain generated in the data generation process is continued to be used. On the other hand, it is also assumed that the light source device 5 and the light source devices 5B, 5C, 5D, 5F, and 5H do not have the detection unit 60. In this case, if a change in the amount of light occurs due to aging of each light source, the adjustment gain once generated may deviate from the appropriate value.

[0146] Therefore, even if an endoscope 1 in which identification information and adjustment gains have been stored is connected, it is preferable that the processor 4P executes the data generation process when a determined condition regarding the operation of the light source device 5 is satisfied. This condition is, for example, that the cumulative value of the operation time of the light source device 5 has reached a predetermined value. This predetermined value is, for example, a value that is α times the default time (α is a natural number equal to or greater than 1).

[0147] In this way, it is possible to maintain an appropriate white balance even if deterioration occurs over time in the light source device 5. When the light source device 5 does not include the detection unit 60, the manufacturing cost of the light source device 5 can be reduced.

[0148] Even if the outer diameter of the light guide 14 of the endoscope 1 is the same, the color of the captured image may change depending on the arrangement of the imaging element included in the tip portion 10C (for example, whether the light receiving surface of the imaging element is vertical or horizontal to the longitudinal direction of the insertion portion 10) and the optical characteristics of the imaging optical system. Therefore, even if the endoscopic device 100 is configured to only be able to connect endoscopes 1 having the same outer diameter of the light guide 14, the processor 4P performs the above data generation process to generate and store an adjustment gain for each endoscope 1, thereby improving the quality of the image captured by the endoscope 1.

[0149] In the above description, the various processes performed by the processor 4P may be performed by the processor 4P alone, or may be shared between the processor 4P and another processor. Also, the various processes performed by the processor 5P may be performed by the processor 5P alone, or may be shared between the processor 5P and another processor. The other processor is, for example, the processor 4P, the processor 5P, or the like of a server in an inspection system in which the inspection data generated by the endoscope device 100 is stored. It is also possible for the processor 4P to perform the various processes performed by the processor 5P.

[0150] The configurations of the optical members 55 in the light source device 5 and the light source devices 5B, 5C, 5D, 5F, and 5H are merely examples and are not limited thereto. The optical members 55 may have other configurations as long as they are configured to be able to introduce red light RL into the light guide 14, blue light BL into the light guide 14, purple light VL into the light guide 14, and green light GL into the light guide 14.

[0151] As described above, this specification describes at least the following items. In the following, components corresponding to the above-described embodiment are shown in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to these.

[0152] (1) A light source device (light source device 5, 5D) to which multiple types of endoscopes (endoscopes 1) having different outer diameters of light guides can be connected; A processor (processor 4P), The light source device is A first light source (first light source 51) that generates red light (red light RL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 51A); A second light source (second light source 52) that generates blue light (blue light BL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 52A); A third light source (third light source 53) that generates purple light (purple light VL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 53A); A fourth light source (fourth light source 54) that generates white light (white light WL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A); an optical member (optical member 55) capable of combining at least two of the red light, the blue light, the purple light, and a green light (green light GL) included in the white light, and introducing the combined light into a light guide (light guide 14) of the endoscope; 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, an optical path of the light emitted from the fourth light source to the light guide is shorter than an optical path of the light emitted from the first light source, the second light source, and the third light source to the light guide; The processor is a system (endoscope device 100) that performs white balance processing of an image signal output from an imaging element of the endoscope connected to the light source device, based on the type of the endoscope.

[0153] (2) The system according to (1), The processor is a system that performs a data generation process to generate data used in the white balance process.

[0154] (3) The system according to (1), The system includes at least one of a side-viewing endoscope, a duodenoscope, a nasal endoscope, and a bronchoscope, as described above.

[0155] (4) The system according to (1), The fourth light source is a system that generates the white light by 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.

[0156] (5) The system according to (4), The system in which the two types of phosphors are a first phosphor (first phosphor 54R) that receives the blue light and generates red light, and a second phosphor (second phosphor 54G) that receives the blue light and generates green light.

[0157] (6) The system according to (2), When the processor performs 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.

[0158] (7) The system according to (6), The processor performs the data generation process when the endoscope of a type for which the data has not been stored is connected.

[0159] (8) The system according to (6), The processor performs the data generation process when a predetermined condition related to the operation of the light source device is satisfied.

[0160] (9) The system according to (2), the light source device is operable in a plurality of modes in which the number of lights introduced into the light guide of the endoscope is different; The processor performs the data generation process for each of the multiple modes.

[0161] (10) The system according to (9), The system, wherein the plurality of modes includes a first mode that combines the red light, the blue light, and the green light into the light guide.

[0162] (11) The system according to (10), The system, wherein the plurality of modes includes a second mode that combines the purple light and the green light into the light guide.

[0163] (12) The system according to (1), The light source device has a detection unit (detection unit 60) 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 is a system that controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the detection unit.

[0164] (13) A first light source (first light source 51) that generates red light (red light RL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 51A); A second light source (second light source 52) that generates blue light (blue light BL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 52A); A third light source (third light source 53) that generates purple light (purple light VL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 53A); A fourth light source (fourth light source 54) that generates white light (white light WL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A); an optical member (optical member 55) configured to be able to introduce the red light into a light guide (light guide 14) of an endoscope (endoscope 1), introduce the blue light into the light guide, introduce the purple light into the light guide, and introduce green light (green light GL) included in the white light into the light guide; a detection unit (detection unit 60) 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; A light source device (light source device 5, 5B, 5D, 5F, 5H) comprising: a processor (processor 5P) that controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the detection unit.

[0165] (14) The light source device according to (13), The light source device includes the third light source, and the processor controls the amount of light based on the light detected by the detection unit.

[0166] (15) The light source device according to (14), The light source device includes the fourth light source, and the processor controls the amount of light based on the light detected by the detection unit.

[0167] (16) The light source device according to (15), the detection unit detects the purple light and blue light (blue light WLb) contained in the white light, The processor controls the amount of light from the third light source and the fourth light source based on the detected purple light and blue light.

[0168] (17) The light source device according to (14), The light source device includes the second light source, and the processor controls the amount of light based on the light detected by the detection unit.

[0169] (18) The light source device according to (14), The light source device includes a first combining member (combining member 58 in FIGS. 11-17 and 22-25, and combining member 57 in FIGS. 18 and 19) capable of combining the purple light and the green light.

[0170] (19) The light source device according to (18), The detection section is a light source device including a first detection section (detection section 61 in FIGS. 11-17 and 22-25, and detection section 62 in FIGS. 18 and 19) that detects a portion of the light incident on the first coupling member.

[0171] (20) The light source device according to (19), the optical member includes a second coupling member (coupling member 56 in FIGS. 11-17 and 22-25) capable of coupling a plurality of light beams, and a third coupling member (coupling member 57 in FIGS. 11-17 and 22-25) capable of coupling a plurality of light beams; The first coupling member is a light source device that is disposed closer to the light guide than the second coupling member and the third coupling member.

[0172] (twenty one) A light source device according to any one of (18) to (20), 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; The processor controls the amount of light from the third light source and the amount of light from the fourth light source based on the detected purple light and blue light.

[0173] (twenty two) The light source device according to (14), The optical member includes three combining members (combining member 56, combining member 57, combining member 58) capable of combining a plurality of light beams, The detection unit is a light source device that detects a portion of light incident on one of the two connecting members (connecting member 57, connecting member 58) of the three connecting members, excluding the connecting member (connecting member 56) located at the end opposite the light guide side.

[0174] (twenty three) The light source device according to (22), The detection section is a light source device that detects a portion of light incident on the coupling member (coupling member 58) that is located at the end on the light guide side among the three coupling members.

[0175] (twenty four) A light source device according to any one of (13) to (17), The light source device, wherein the number of the detection units is less than the total number of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source.

[0176] (twenty five) The light source device according to (24), The number of the detection units is one.

[0177] (26) The light source device according to (25), the optical member includes a first combining member (combining member 58 in FIGS. 11 to 17, combining member 57 in FIGS. 18 and 19) capable of combining the purple light and the green light; The detection section is a light source device that detects a portion of the light incident on the first coupling member.

[0178] (27) The light source device according to (26), The optical member includes a second coupling member (coupling member 56 in FIGS. 11 to 17) capable of coupling a plurality of light beams, and a third coupling member (coupling member 57 in FIGS. 11 to 17) capable of coupling a plurality of light beams, The first coupling member (the coupling member 58 in FIGS. 11 to 17) is a light source device that is disposed closer to the light guide than the second coupling member and the third coupling member.

[0179] (28) The light source device according to (27), 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.

[0180] (29) A light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), The fourth light source is a light source device including a blue light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A) that generates blue light, a first phosphor (first phosphor 54R) that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates red light, and a second phosphor (second phosphor 54G) that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates green light.

[0181] (30) A light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), The fourth light source is a light source device including 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.

[0182] (31) A light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), The processor is a light source device that selectively performs a first control that introduces the red light, the blue light, and the green light (green light GL) contained in the white light into the light guide, and a second control that introduces the purple light and the green light (green light GL) contained in the white light into the light guide.

[0183] (32) A light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), A light source device in which the light generated by the third light source has a central wavelength of 410 nm or more and 430 nm or less and a half width of 15 nm or more and 30 nm or less.

[0184] (33) A light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), The blue light is generated by a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 52A) included in the second light source, A light source device in which the light generated by the light emitting diode has a central wavelength of 440 nm or more and 450 nm or less, and a half-width of 15 nm or more and 30 nm or less.

[0185] (34) A light source device according to any one of (13) to (20), (22), and (23), The processor controls the introduction of the purple light and the green light (green light GL) contained in the white light into the light guide, In this control, the green light introduced into the light guide has a central wavelength of 540 nm or more and 560 nm or less, and a half-width of 80 nm or more.

[0186] (35) A first light source (first light source 51) that generates a first color light (red light RL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 51A); A second light source (second light source 52) that generates a second color light (blue light BL) including a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 52A); A third light source (third light source 53) that generates purple light VL and includes a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 53A); a fourth light source (fourth light source 54, fourth light source 54X, fourth light source 54Xa) configured to include a light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A) and generating light including at least green light; a first combining member (combining member 56 in FIGS. 11 to 15, 23, and 25) capable of combining the first color light and the second color light; a second coupling member (a coupling member 57 in FIGS. 11 to 15, 23, and 25) capable of coupling the light emitted from the first coupling member with one of the purple light and the green light; a third coupling member (coupling member 58 in FIGS. 11 to 15, 23, and 25) capable of coupling the light emitted from the second coupling member with the other of the purple light and the green light; a focusing member (focusing lens 59) that focuses the light emitted from the third coupling member onto a light guide (light guide 14) of an endoscope (endoscope 1); a first detection unit (detection unit 61 in FIGS. 11 to 15, 23, and 25) 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; A light source device (light source device 5, 5B-5C) comprising: a processor (processor 5P) that controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the first detection unit.

[0187] (36) The light source device according to (35), The fourth light source (fourth light source 54) is a light source device that generates white light (white light WL) containing the green light.

[0188] (37) The light source device according to (36), The fourth light source (fourth light source 54) is a light source device including a blue light emitting diode (light emitting diode 54A) that generates blue light, a first phosphor (first phosphor 54R) that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates red light, and a second phosphor (second phosphor 54G) that receives the blue light generated by the blue light emitting diode and generates the green light.

[0189] (38) A light source device according to (36) or (37), The first detection unit is a light source device that detects the purple light and blue light (blue light WLb) contained in the white light.

[0190] (39) The light source device according to (38), The processor controls the amount of light from the third light source and the fourth light source based on the purple light and blue light detected by the first detection unit.

[0191] (40) The light source device according to (35), The fourth light source (fourth light source 54Xa) is a light source device including 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.

[0192] (41) A light source device according to any one of (35) to (37), The light source device further includes a second detector (detector 63 in Figs. 23 and 25) that detects a portion of the light incident on the first coupling member.

[0193] (42) The light source device according to (41), the second detection unit detects the first color light and the second color light, The processor is a light source device that controls the light intensities of the first light source and the second light source based on the first colored light and the second colored light detected by the second detection unit.

[0194] (43) The light source device according to (41), The light source device further includes a third detection unit (detection unit 62 in FIG. 25) that detects a portion of the light emitted from the first connecting member and incident on the second connecting member and a portion of the light emitted from the third light source and incident on the second connecting member.

[0195] (44) The light source device according to (43), 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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0196] 1 Endoscope 2 Main unit 4 Processor Unit 4P processor 5,5B,5C,5D,5F,5H Light source device 5P Processor 6 Input section 7 Display device 10 Insertion section 10A Soft part 10B Curved section 10C Tip 11 Control section 12 Angle knob 13 Universal Code 13A, 13B Connector part 14 Light Guide 51 1st light source 51A, 52A, 53A, 54A, 54g Light Emitting Diode 52 Second light source 53 Third light source 54,54X,54Xa 4th light source 54F Excitation light cut filter 54R First phosphor 54G Second phosphor 54Y Third phosphor 54Gx 4th phosphor 55 Optical Components 56, 57, 58 Connecting members 56a,57a,58a One side 56b,57b,58b Other side 59 Condenser Lens 60, 61, 62, 63 Detector 100 Endoscopic device RL, WLr Red light BL, WLb, Bl Blue light GL Green Light VL purple light WL white light

Claims

1. A light source device capable of connecting a plurality of types of endoscopes with different outer diameters of light guides; a processor; The light source device is A first light source that generates red light and is configured to include a light emitting diode; A second light source that generates blue light and is configured to include a light emitting diode; A third light source that generates purple light and is configured to include a light emitting diode; A fourth light source that generates white light and is configured to include a light emitting diode; an optical member capable of combining at least two of the red light, the blue light, the purple light, and the green light included in the white light and introducing the combined light into a 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; an optical path of light emitted from the fourth light source and reaching the light guide is shorter than optical paths of 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 of an image signal output from an imaging element of an endoscope connected to the light source device, based on the type of the endoscope.

2. 2. The system of claim 1, The processor is a system that performs a data generation process to generate data used in the white balance process.

3. 2. The system of claim 1, The system includes at least one of a side-viewing endoscope, a duodenoscope, a nasal endoscope, and a bronchoscope, wherein the multiple types of endoscopes include at least one of a side-viewing endoscope, a duodenoscope, a nasal endoscope, and a bronchoscope.

4. 2. The system of claim 1, The fourth light source is a system that generates the white light by using a blue light emitting diode that generates blue light and two types of phosphors that receive the blue light and generate light.

5. 5. The system of claim 4, The system, wherein the two types of phosphors are a first phosphor that receives the blue light and generates red light, and a second phosphor that receives the blue light and generates green light.

6. 3. The system of claim 2, The system wherein, when the processor performs 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. 7. The system of claim 6, The processor performs the data generation process when an endoscope of a type for which the data has not been stored is connected.

8. 7. The system of claim 6, The processor performs the data generation process when a predetermined condition related to the operation of the light source device is satisfied.

9. 3. The system of claim 2, the light source device is operable in a plurality of modes in which the number of lights introduced into the light guide of the endoscope is different; The processor performs the data generation process for each of the multiple modes.

10. 10. The system of claim 9, A system wherein the plurality of modes includes a first mode that combines the red light, the blue light, and the green light into the light guide.

11. 11. The system of claim 10, The system, wherein the plurality of modes includes a second mode that combines the purple light and the green light into the light guide.

12. 2. The system of claim 1, 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 is a system that controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the detection unit.

13. A first light source that generates red light and is configured to include a light emitting diode; A second light source that generates blue light and is configured to include a light emitting diode; A third light source that generates purple light and is configured to include a light emitting diode; A fourth light source that generates white light and is configured to include a light emitting diode; an optical member configured to be able to introduce the red light into a light guide of an endoscope, introduce the blue light into the light guide, introduce the purple light into the light guide, and introduce the green light included in the white light into the light guide; a detector configured to detect 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; a processor that controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the detection unit.

14. The light source device according to claim 13, A light source device in which the light source, the amount of light of which 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, A light source device in which the light source, the amount of light of which 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, The detection unit detects the purple light and the blue light contained in the white light, The processor controls the amount of light 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, A light source device in which the processor controls the amount of light based on the light detected by the detection unit includes the second light source.

18. The light source device according to claim 14, The optical member of the light source device includes a first combining member capable of combining the purple light and the green light.

19. 19. The light source device according to claim 18, The light source device includes a first detector configured to detect a portion of the light incident on the first coupling member.

20. 20. The light source device according to claim 19, the optical member includes a second combining member capable of combining a plurality of light beams and a third combining member capable of combining a plurality of light beams; The first coupling member is disposed closer to the light guide than the second coupling member and the third coupling member.

21. 21. The light source device according to claim 18, 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 amount of light of the third light source and the amount of light of the fourth light source based on the detected purple light and blue light.

22. The light source device according to claim 14, The optical member includes three combining members capable of combining a plurality of light beams, The detection unit is a light source device that detects a portion of light incident on either of two of the three connecting members, excluding the connecting member located at the end opposite the light guide side.

23. 23. The light source device according to claim 22, The detection section is a light source device that detects a portion of light incident on the connecting member that is located at the end of the three connecting members on the light guide side.

24. 18. The light source device according to claim 13, A light source device, wherein the number of the detection units is less than the total number of the first light sources, the second light sources, the third light sources, and the fourth light sources.

25. 25. The light source device according to claim 24, The number of the detection units is one.

26. 26. The light source device according to claim 25, the optical member includes a first combining member capable of combining the purple light and the green light, The detector is a light source device that detects a portion of the light incident on the first coupling member.

27. 27. The light source device according to claim 26, the optical member includes a second combining member capable of combining a plurality of light beams and a third combining member capable of combining a plurality of light beams; The first coupling member is disposed closer to the light guide than the second coupling member and the third coupling member.

28. 28. The light source device according to claim 27, 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. 24. The light source device according to claim 13, The fourth light source is a light source device including 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. 24. The light source device according to claim 13, The fourth light source is a light source device including 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. 24. The light source device according to claim 13, The processor is a light source device that selectively performs a first control that introduces the red light, the blue light, and the green light contained in the white light into the light guide, and a second control that introduces the purple light and the green light contained in the white light into the light guide.

32. 24. The light source device according to claim 13, A light source device in which the light generated by the third light source has a central wavelength of 410 nm or more and 430 nm or less and a half width of 15 nm or more and 30 nm or less.

33. 24. The light source device according to claim 13, 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 or more and 450 nm or less, and a half width of 15 nm or more and 30 nm or less.

34. 24. The light source device according to claim 13, The processor controls the light guide to introduce the purple light and the green light contained in the white light, In this control, the green light introduced into the light guide has a central wavelength of 540 nm or more and 560 nm or less and a half-width of 80 nm or more.

35. A first light source including a light emitting diode for generating a first color light; A second light source including a light emitting diode for generating a second color light; A third light source that generates purple light and is configured to include a light emitting diode; a fourth light source including a light emitting diode and generating light including at least green light; a first combining member capable of combining the first color light and the second color light; a second coupling member capable of coupling the light emitted from the first coupling member with one of the purple light and the green light; a third coupling member capable of coupling the light emitted from the second coupling member with the other of the purple light and the green light; a light collecting member that collects the light emitted from the third coupling member onto a light guide of an 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; a processor that controls the amount of light generated by at least two of the first light source, the second light source, the third light source, and the fourth light source based on the light detected by the first detection unit.

36. 36. The light source device according to claim 35, The fourth light source is a light source device that generates white light containing the green light.

37. 37. The light source device according to claim 36, The fourth light source is a light source device including 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. 38. The light source device according to claim 36 or 37, The first detection unit is a light source device that detects the purple light and blue light contained in the white light.

39. 39. The light source device according to claim 38, The processor controls the amount of light 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. 36. The light source device according to claim 35, The fourth light source is a light source device including 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. 38. A light source device according to any one of claims 35 to 37, The light source device further includes a second detector configured to detect a portion of the light incident on the first coupling member.

42. 42. The light source device according to claim 41, the second detection unit detects the first color light and the second color light, The processor controls the 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. 42. The light source device according to claim 41, The light source device further includes a third detection unit that 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. 44. The light source device according to claim 43, 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.

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