Endoscope system, communication method, and communication program

Abstract

An endoscope system (1) comprises: a first device (6) that is capable of executing a first medical function; a second device (7) that is capable of executing a second medical function, is physically connected to the first device (6), and communicates with the first device (6) by a first communication method; and a third device (8) that is capable of executing a third medical function, is physically connected to the second device (7), and communicates with the second device (7) by a second communication method. The second device (7) is an image processing device that processes a captured image acquired by an endoscope (2). The first device (6) is logically connected to the third device (8) via the second device (7) to use the third medical function.

Description

Endoscope system, communication method, and communication program

[0001] The present invention relates to an endoscope system, a communication method, and a communication program.

[0002] Conventionally, an endoscope system for observing the inside of a subject using an endoscope has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the endoscope system described in Patent Document 1, multiple devices are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other. Here, the multiple devices are configured with an endoscope processor, a PC, a large-capacity memory, an in-hospital server, etc. More specifically, in the endoscope system described in Patent Document 1, the endoscope processor is provided with interfaces for communication methods such as USB and Ethernet (registered trademark), and the various devices described above are connected to the various interfaces.

[0003] Patent No. 6732516

[0004] As described above, in the endoscope system described in Patent Document 1, many interfaces are provided in the endoscope processor. Increasing the number of interfaces in this way results in an impediment to miniaturization and cost reduction of the endoscope processor. Therefore, there is a demand for technology that can build a system at low cost while avoiding an increase in the size of each device.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, and aims to provide an endoscopic system, a communication method, and a communication program that can be used to build a system at low cost while avoiding the size of each device.

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the endoscopic system of the present invention comprises a first device capable of executing a first medical function, a second device capable of executing a second medical function, physically connected to the first device, and communicating with the first device via a first communication method, and a third device capable of executing a third medical function, physically connected to the second device, and communicating with the second device via a second communication method, wherein any of the first device, the second device, and the third device is an image processing device that processes captured images acquired by an endoscope, and the first device is logically connected to the third device via the second device and uses the third medical function.

[0007] The communication method of the present invention is a communication method executed by an endoscopic system, the endoscopic system comprising a first device capable of executing a first medical function, a second device capable of executing a second medical function, physically connected to the first device, and communicating with the first device via a first communication method, and a third device capable of executing a third medical function, physically connected to the second device, and communicating with the second device via a second communication method, wherein any of the first device, the second device, and the third device is an image processing device that processes an image acquired by an endoscope, and in the communication method, the first device is logically connected to the third device via the second device and uses the third medical function.

[0008] The communication program of the present invention is a communication program executed by an endoscopic system, the endoscopic system comprising a first device capable of executing a first medical function, a second device capable of executing a second medical function, physically connected to the first device, and communicating with the first device via a first communication method, and a third device capable of executing a third medical function, physically connected to the second device, and communicating with the second device via a second communication method, wherein any of the first device, the second device, and the third device is an image processing device that processes captured images acquired by an endoscope, and the communication program causes the endoscopic system to execute a step of logically connecting the first device to the third device via the second device and utilizing the third medical function.

[0009] According to the endoscope system, communication method, and communication program of the present invention, it is possible to build a system at low cost while avoiding an increase in the size of each device.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an endoscopic system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an endoscopic system according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a communication method executed by the endoscopic system. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a method of setting a priority value. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the embodiment. Fig. 21 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the embodiment. Fig. 22 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the embodiment. Fig. 23 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the embodiment. Fig. 24 is a diagram for explaining a modified example of the embodiment.

[0011] Hereinafter, a mode for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as an embodiment) will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below. Furthermore, in the description of the drawings, the same parts are given the same reference numerals.

[0012] 1 and 2 are diagrams showing the configuration of an endoscope system 1 according to an embodiment. For ease of explanation, the first and third devices 6 and 8 are omitted from Fig. 1. For ease of explanation, the communication functions of the first and third devices 6 and 8 and the processing device 7, which are essential parts of the present invention, are omitted from Fig. 2. The communication functions will be described in the section "Communication method executed by the endoscope system" below.

[0013] The endoscope system 1 is used in the medical field and is a system for observing the inside of a subject (inside a living organism) using an endoscope 2. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the endoscope system 1 includes the endoscope 2, a light source device 3, a display device 4, a first device 6 (Figure 2), a processing device 7, and a third device 8 (Figure 2).

[0014] In this embodiment, the endoscope 2 is a so-called flexible endoscope. A portion of the endoscope 2 is inserted into a living body, captures images of the living body, and outputs image signals generated by the image capture. As shown in FIG. 1 , the endoscope 2 includes an insertion section 21, an operation section 22, and a universal cord 23.

[0015] The insertion section 21 is a section that is at least partially flexible and is inserted into a living body. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the insertion section 21 includes a distal end section 24, a freely bendable bending section 25 (Figure 1) composed of a plurality of bending pieces, and a long, flexible flexible tube section 26 (Figure 1) that is connected to the proximal end side of the bending section 25. An imaging section 244 (Figure 2) is built into the distal end section 24. The insertion section 21 is inserted into a living body, and captures an image of a subject (object of observation) such as biological tissue that is located in a position where external light does not reach, using the imaging section 244.

[0016] The operation unit 22 is connected to the base end portion of the insertion section 21. The operation unit 22 receives various operations for the endoscope 2. As shown in Fig. 1 , the operation unit 22 includes a bending knob 221 for bending the bending section 25 in the up-down and left-right directions, a treatment tool insertion section 222 that extends from the operation unit 22 to the tip of the insertion section 21 and inserts treatment tools such as biopsy forceps, an electric scalpel, and an examination probe into the body cavity of the subject, an air supply conduit 223 that extends from the operation unit 22 to the tip of the insertion section 21 and supplies air into the body cavity of the subject, and a plurality of switches 224 for operating peripheral devices such as an air supply device (not shown) and a water supply device (not shown).

[0017] The universal cord 23 incorporates at least a light guide 241 ( FIG. 2 ) and a cable assembly 245 ( FIG. 2 ) that bundles one or more signal lines. The light guide 241 is made of glass fiber or the like and forms a light guide path for light emitted by the light source device 3. As shown in FIG. 1 , the universal cord 23 branches at the end opposite to the end connected to the operation unit 22. The branched ends of the universal cord 23 are provided with a connector 231 that is detachable to the light source device 3 and a connector 232 that is detachable to the processing device 7. A portion of the light guide 241 extends from the end of the connector 231. The universal cord 23 transmits illumination light emitted from the light source device 3 to the distal end 24 via the connector 231 (light guide 241), the operation unit 22, and the flexible tube portion 26. The universal cord 23 also transmits image signals captured by an imaging unit 244 provided at the distal end 24 to the processing device 7 via the connector 232. The cable assembly 245 includes a signal line for transmitting an image signal, a signal line for transmitting a drive signal for driving the imaging unit 244, and a signal line for transmitting and receiving information including unique information related to the endoscope 2 (imaging unit 244). Note that, in this embodiment, the signal lines are described as transmitting electrical signals, but they may also be used to transmit optical signals, or may be used to transmit signals between the endoscope 2 and the processing device 7 by wireless communication.

[0018] The output end side of the light guide 241 is inserted into the tip portion 24. As shown in Fig. 2, the tip portion 24 includes an illumination lens 242, an optical system 243 for collecting light, and an imaging unit 244 that is provided at the imaging position of the optical system 243 and receives the light collected by the optical system 243, photoelectrically converts the light into an electrical signal, and performs predetermined signal processing.

[0019] The optical system 243 is configured using one or more lenses, and forms a subject image on the light receiving surface of an image sensor 244a that configures the imaging unit 244. The optical system 243 may have an optical zoom function that changes the angle of view and a focus function that changes the focus.

[0020] The imaging unit 244 captures an image of the observation target under the control of the light source device 3. As shown in Fig. 2, the imaging unit 244 includes an imaging element 244a and a signal processing unit 244b.

[0021] The image sensor 244a receives the subject image transmitted through the optical system 243 and converts it into an electrical signal (analog signal). Examples of the image sensor 244a include a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), which is a rolling shutter type image sensor in which multiple pixels are arranged two-dimensionally in horizontal line units, and a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), which is a global shutter type image sensor. Examples of the image sensor 244a include a monochrome image sensor without a color filter on its light-receiving surface, and a color image sensor with a color filter on its light-receiving surface. Examples of the color filter include an RGB primary color filter consisting of red, green, and blue, and a CMYG complementary color filter consisting of cyan, magenta, yellow, and green.

[0022] For ease of explanation, the image signal generated by the image sensor 244a capturing an image will be referred to as a captured image below.

[0023] The signal processing unit 244b outputs a captured image (digital signal) by performing signal processing on the captured image (analog signal) generated by the imaging element 244a under the control of the light source device 3. For example, the signal processing unit 244b performs signal processing on the captured image (analog signal) generated by the imaging element 244a, such as processing to remove reset noise, processing to multiply the analog signal by an analog gain that amplifies the analog signal (hereinafter referred to as analog gain adjustment processing), and A / D conversion.

[0024] Here, the endoscope 2 has a storage unit 27 ( FIG. 2 ) that stores data including identification information of the endoscope 2. The identification information includes the endoscope 2's unique information (ID), model year, spec information, transmission method, and specifications of the imaging unit 244 (imaging element 244 a) used in the endoscope 2 (resolution of the imaging element 244 a, presence or absence of a color filter, type of color filter, etc.). The storage unit 27 may also temporarily store captured images generated by the imaging element 244.

[0025] The light source device 3 emits light under the control of the processing device 7. The light source device 3 is realized using any light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) light source, a laser light source, a xenon lamp, or a halogen lamp. The light source device 3 may also include one or more lenses. The light generated by the light source device 3 passes through the light guide 241 and the illumination lens 242 and is emitted from the tip of the tip portion 24 toward the object of observation.

[0026] Examples of light emitted from the light source device 3 include light having a wavelength band of visible light (white light), narrowband light having light in a specific wavelength band, or excitation light that excites substances contained in the object of observation.

[0027] The display device 4 displays the endoscopic image received from the processing device 7 (image processing unit 74) via a video cable. The display device 4 is configured using a monitor such as a liquid crystal or organic EL (Electro Luminescence) monitor.

[0028] Examples of the first and third devices 6 and 8 include a server, a printer, a recording device, and a magnetic card reader. The first and third devices 6 and 8 are physically connected to the processing device 7. The communication functions of the first and third devices 6 and 8 will be described later in the section "Communication Method Executed by the Endoscope System."

[0029] The processing device 7 corresponds to the second device and image processing device according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the processing device 7 includes an image processing unit 74, an input unit 75, a control unit 76, and a storage unit 77.

[0030] Under the control of the control unit 76, the image processing unit 74 performs predetermined image processing on the captured image received from the endoscope 2 to generate an endoscopic image.

[0031] Examples of image processing performed by the image processing unit 74 include optical black subtraction processing (clamping processing), white balance adjustment processing, demosaic processing, color correction matrix processing, gamma correction processing, YC processing that converts RGB signals into luminance color difference signals (Y, Cb / Cr signals), digital gain adjustment that multiplies by digital gain, noise removal, and filter processing that emphasizes structure.

[0032] The image processing unit 74 described above is configured using a general-purpose processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a dedicated processor such as various arithmetic circuits that execute specific functions such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc. Note that the image processing unit 74 may be configured using a CPU, ASIC, GPU, or FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array).

[0033] The input unit 75 is realized using a keyboard, a mouse, a switch, and a touch panel, and accepts various operations by the user.

[0034] The storage unit 77 stores various programs executed by the control unit 76 and data including various parameters required for the processing of the control unit 76. The storage unit 77 is realized, for example, using a ROM in which various programs are pre-installed, and a RAM or hard disk that stores calculation parameters and data for each process.

[0035] The control unit 76 is configured using a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or a dedicated processor such as various arithmetic circuits that execute specific functions such as an ASIC, etc. The control unit 76 controls the operation of the entire processing device 7.

[0036] [Communication Method Executed by the Endoscope System] Next, the communication method executed by the endoscope system 1 will be described. FIGS. 3 to 18 are diagrams illustrating the communication method executed by the endoscope system 1. Specifically, FIGS. 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, and 17 are block diagrams sequentially showing states for a first device 6 to be logically connected to a third device 8 via a processing device 7. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a destination management table in the state shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a destination management table in the state shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a destination management table in the state shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a destination management table in the state shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a destination management table in the state shown in FIG. 11. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a destination management table in the state shown in FIG. 13. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a destination management table in the state shown in FIG. 15. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a destination management table in the state shown in FIG. 17. Figures 4(a), 6(a), 8(a), 10(a), 12(a), 14(a), 16(a), and 18(a) show the destination management table of the first device 6. Figures 4(b), 6(b), 8(b), 10(b), 12(b), 14(b), 16(b), and 18(b) show the destination management table of the processing device 7. Figures 4(c), 6(c), 8(c), 10(c), 12(c), 14(c), 16(c), and 18(c) show the destination management table of the third device 8.

[0037] First, before describing the communication method executed by the endoscope system 1, the communication functions of the first and third devices 6 and 8 and the processing device 7 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the first device 6 includes an application 61, a destination management unit 62, and a communication unit 63.

[0038] The application 61 is a part that executes a medical function. In the examples of Figures 3 to 18, the medical function in question is medical function (1), as shown in Figure 3. This medical function (1) corresponds to the first medical function according to the present invention. Furthermore, the medical function (1) is a medical function with a function number unique to the medical function of "1101," a medical rank of "C1," and a communication volume of "high (large)."

[0039] The destination management unit 62 is a part that manages, in a destination management table, information required for communication with the external devices, the processing device 7 and the third device 8. Details of the destination management table will be described later.

[0040] The communication unit 63 communicates with the external devices, that is, the processing device 7 and the third device 8, based on the information managed in the destination management table. In the examples of Figures 3 to 18, the communication method that the communication unit 63 can use for communication is Ethernet (registered trademark).

[0041] As shown in FIG. 3, the processing device 7 includes an application 71, a destination management unit 72, and a communication unit 73.

[0042] Application 71 is a part that executes a medical function. In the examples of Figures 3 to 18, this medical function is medical function (3) as shown in Figure 3. This medical function (3) corresponds to the second medical function according to the present invention. Furthermore, medical function (3) is a medical function with a function number unique to the medical function of "2301", a medical rank of "B3", and a communication volume of "normal".

[0043] The destination management unit 72 is a part that manages, in a destination management table, information required for communication with the external devices, the first device 6 and the third device 8. Details of the destination management table will be described later.

[0044] The communication unit 73 communicates with the external devices, the first device 6 and the third device 8, based on the information managed in the destination management table. In the examples of Figures 3 to 18, the communication methods that the communication unit 73 can use for communication are Ethernet (registered trademark), UART, and USB. Ethernet (registered trademark) corresponds to the first communication method according to the present invention.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3, the third device 8 includes an application 81, a destination management unit 82, and a communication unit 83.

[0046] Application 81 is a part that executes a medical function. In the examples of Figures 3 to 18, this medical function is medical function (4), as shown in Figure 3. This medical function (4) corresponds to the third medical function according to the present invention. Furthermore, medical function (4) is a medical function with a function number unique to the medical function of "3051," a medical rank of "B4," and a communication volume of "high (large)."

[0047] The destination management unit 82 is a part that manages, in a destination management table, information required for communication with the external devices, the first device 6 and the processing device 7. Details of the destination management table will be described later.

[0048] The communication unit 83 communicates with the external devices, the first device 6 and the processing device 7, based on the information managed in the destination management table. In the examples of Figures 3 to 18, the communication method that the communication unit 83 can use for communication is USB. USB corresponds to the second communication method according to the present invention.

[0049] Next, a description will be given of a communication method executed by the endoscope system 1. When the first device 6 and the processing device 7, and the processing device 7 and the third device 8 are physically connected as shown in Fig. 3, the physically connected devices communicate with each other. As a result, first management information is stored in the destination management tables of the first device 6, the processing device 7, and the third device 8, as shown in Fig. 4.

[0050] For example, the destination management unit 62 of the first device 6 stores the first management information in a destination management table as shown in Fig. 4A. Specifically, the destination management table of the first device 6 is a table in which a source medical function number, a destination medical function number, a device type, a connection method, a priority value, a communication state, a destination route 1 (source), and a destination route 2 (destination) are set as shown in Fig. 4A.

[0051] Here, the first management information stored in the destination management table by the destination management unit 62 is information that associates information regarding the medical functions of the physically connected device itself and the processing device 7 with a destination route including the communication method used for communication between the device itself and the processing device 7.

[0052] Specifically, the destination management unit 62 sets the source medical function number in the destination management table to "1101," which is assigned to the medical function (1) executed by its own first device 6. The destination management unit 62 also sets the destination medical function number to "2301," which is assigned to the medical function (3) executed by the physically connected processing device 7. Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets "physical" as the connection method because it is a physical connection. Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets "connected" as the communication status because a physical connection has been established. Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets "self" as the source of the destination route 1 (source). Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets "Ethernet" as the destination route 2 (destination) because the Ethernet (registered trademark) communication method is used between the destination processing device 7 and the destination. As described above, No. 1 in the destination management table shown in FIG. 4A corresponds to the first management information.

[0053] 4B, the destination management unit 72 of the processing device 7 stores the first management information in the destination management table. Here, the destination management unit 72 stores two pieces of first management information in the destination management table because there are two physically connected devices, the first device 6 and the third device 8.

[0054] The first management information is information that associates information about the medical functions of the device itself and the first device 6, which are physically connected, with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between the device itself and the first device 6. Specifically, the destination management unit 72 sets "2301," which is assigned to the medical function (3) executed by the device itself, as the source medical function number in the destination management table. The destination management unit 72 also sets "1101," which is assigned to the medical function (1) executed by the physically connected first device 6, as the destination medical function number. The destination management unit 72 also sets "physical" as the connection method because a physical connection is established. The destination management unit 72 also sets "connected" as the communication status because a physical connection is established. The destination management unit 72 also sets "self" as the source of the destination route 1 (source) because the source is the device itself. The destination management unit 72 also sets "Ethernet" as the destination route 2 (destination) because the Ethernet (registered trademark) communication method is used between the device itself and the first device 6, which is the destination. As described above, No. 1 in the destination management table shown in Fig. 4B corresponds to the first management information.

[0055] The second piece of first management information is information that associates information about the medical functions of the device itself and the third device 8 that are physically connected with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between the device itself and the third device 8. Specifically, the destination management unit 72 sets "2301," which is assigned to the medical function (3) executed by the device itself, as the source medical function number in the destination management table. The destination management unit 72 also sets "3051," which is assigned to the medical function (4) executed by the physically connected third device 8, as the destination medical function number. The destination management unit 72 also sets "physical" as the connection method because a physical connection is established. The destination management unit 72 also sets "connected" as the communication status because a physical connection is established. The destination management unit 72 also sets "self" as the destination route 1 (source) because the source is the device itself. The destination management unit 72 also sets "USB" as the destination route 2 (destination) because a USB communication method is used with the third device 8, which is the destination. As described above, No. 2 in the destination management table shown in Fig. 4B corresponds to the first management information.

[0056] Furthermore, for example, the destination management unit 82 of the third device 8 stores first management information in the destination management table as shown in (c) of Fig. 4. Here, the first management information stored in the destination management table by the destination management unit 82 is information in which information on the medical functions of itself and the processing device 7 that are physically connected is associated with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between itself and the processing device 7.

[0057] Specifically, the destination management unit 82 sets the source medical function number in the destination management table to "3051," which is assigned to the medical function (4) executed by its own third device 8. The destination management unit 82 also sets the destination medical function number to "2301," which is assigned to the medical function (3) executed by the physically connected processing device 7. Furthermore, the destination management unit 82 sets "physical" as the connection method because it is a physical connection. Furthermore, the destination management unit 82 sets "connected" as the communication status because a physical connection has been established. Furthermore, the destination management unit 82 sets "self" as the source of the sender path 1 (source). Furthermore, the destination management unit 82 sets "USB" as the destination path 2 (destination) because the USB communication method is used with the processing device 7, which is the destination. As described above, No. 1 in the destination management table shown in FIG. 4C corresponds to the first management information.

[0058] In the state shown in FIG. 3, communication can only be performed between devices that are physically connected (between the first device 6 and the processing device 7, and between the processing device 7 and the third device 8).

[0059] When the application 61 of the first device 6 needs to use the medical function (4) of the third device 8, the application 61 requests the destination management unit 62 to establish a logical connection with the third device 8. Specifically, the application 61 transmits the medical function it wishes to use to the destination management unit 62, as shown in FIG.

[0060] 6A in response to a request from the application 61 for a logical connection with the third device 8, the destination management unit 62 adds second management information to the destination management table as indicated by the diagonal lines in (a) of Fig. 6. Here, the second management information added to the destination management table by the destination management unit 62 is information that associates information about the medical functions of the logically connected first device 6 and third device 8 with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between the first device 6 and third device 8.

[0061] Specifically, the destination management unit 62 sets the source medical function number in the destination management table to "1101," which is assigned to the medical function (1) executed by the first device 6 itself. The destination management unit 62 also sets the destination medical function number to "3051," which is assigned to the medical function (4) executed by the logically connected third device 8. Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets the connection method to "logical" because the connection is logical. Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets the communication status to "unconnected" because a logical connection has not been established. Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets "self" as the source of the destination route 1 (source) because the source is itself. Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets "Ethernet" as the destination route 2 (destination) because the communication method used for communication with the destination third device 8 is Ethernet (registered trademark). As described above, No. 2 in the destination management table shown in FIG. 6A corresponds to the second management information.

[0062] 6A, the destination management unit 62 sets the device type to "terminal" in the first and second management information of the destination management table because the first device 6 is a terminal. Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets the priority value to "6" in the first and second management information of the destination management table.

[0063] 6B, the destination management unit 72 of the processing device 7 sets the device type to "repeater" in the first management information of the destination management table because the processing device 7 is a repeater. Furthermore, the destination management unit 72 sets the priority value to "2" in the first management information of the destination management table.

[0064] 6C, the destination management unit 82 of the third device 8 sets the device type to "terminal" in the first management information of the destination management table because the third device 8 is a terminal. Furthermore, the destination management unit 82 sets the priority value to "2" in the first management information of the destination management table.

[0065] The method for setting the priority value will be explained later in the section "Method for setting the priority value."

[0066] 5, the communication unit 63 of the first device 6 requests the physically connected processing device 7 to establish a logical connection with the third device 8 based on the first management information in the destination management table shown in (a) of Fig. 6. Here, the communication unit 63 transmits to the processing device 7 the function number "3051" which is the medical function (4) desired to be used, and the set priority value.

[0067] The destination management unit 72 of the processing device 7 that has received a logical connection request from the first device 6 determines whether the function number "3051" for the desired medical function (4) transmitted from the first device 6 is the function number assigned to the medical function (3) of the processing device 7. The destination management unit 72 then determines "No." The destination management unit 72 also adds second management information to the destination management table, as indicated by the diagonal lines in (b) of FIG. 8. Here, the second management information added to the destination management table by the destination management unit 72 is information that associates information about the medical functions of the logically connected first device 6 and third device 8 with a destination route including the communication method used for communication between the first device 6 and third device 8.

[0068] Specifically, the destination management unit 72 sets "1101," which is assigned to the medical function (1) executed by the first device 6, as the source medical function number in the destination management table. The destination management unit 72 also sets "3051," the function number sent from the first device 6, as the destination medical function number. Furthermore, because the processing device 7 is a repeater, the destination management unit 72 sets the device type to "repeater." Furthermore, because the connection method is a logical connection, the destination management unit 72 sets "logical." Furthermore, the destination management unit 72 sets the priority value to "6," which was sent from the first device 6. Furthermore, because a logical connection has not been established, the destination management unit 72 sets "not connected" as the communication status. Furthermore, the destination management unit 72 sets "Ethernet," which is the communication method of the first device 6 that requested the logical connection, as destination route 1 (source). Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 sets "USB," which is the communication method of the third device 8, which is the destination of the logical connection, as destination route 2 (destination). As described above, No. 3 in the destination management table shown in FIG. 8B corresponds to the second management information.

[0069] 7, the communication unit 73 of the processing device 7 requests the physically connected third device 8 to establish a logical connection with the third device 8 based on the first management information in the destination management table shown in Fig. 8(b). Here, the communication unit 73 transmits to the third device 8 the function number "3051" which is the medical function (4) desired to be used, and the priority value transmitted from the first device 6.

[0070] The destination management unit 82 of the third device 8, which has received a logical connection request from the processing device 7, determines whether the function number "3051" for the desired medical function (4) transmitted from the processing device 7 is the function number assigned to the medical function (4) of the third device 8. The destination management unit 82 then determines "Yes." The destination management unit 82 also adds second management information to the destination management table, as indicated by the diagonal lines in (c) of FIG. 10 . Here, the second management information added to the destination management table by the destination management unit 82 is information that associates information about the medical functions of the logically connected first device 6 and third device 8 with a destination route including the communication method used for communication between the first device 6 and third device 8.

[0071] Specifically, the destination management unit 82 sets "1101," which is assigned to the medical function (1) executed by the first device 6, as the source medical function number in the destination management table. The destination management unit 82 also sets "3051," the function number transmitted from the processing device 7, as the destination medical function number. Furthermore, because the third device 8 is a terminal, the destination management unit 82 sets the device type to "terminal." Furthermore, because the connection method is a logical connection, the destination management unit 82 sets "logical." Furthermore, the destination management unit 82 sets the priority value to the priority value "6," which was transmitted from the processing device 7. Furthermore, because a logical connection is being established, the destination management unit 82 also sets "connected" as the communication status. Furthermore, because the destination management unit 62 itself becomes the source when a logical connection is established, the destination management unit 62 also sets "itself" as destination route 1 (source). Furthermore, because the USB communication method is used when a logical connection is established, the destination management unit 82 also sets "USB." As described above, No. 2 in the destination management table shown in Fig. 10(c) corresponds to the second management information.

[0072] Then, as shown in Figure 9, the communication unit 83 of the third device 8 sends a connection notification to the processing device 7 using the communication method: "USB", which is destination route 2 (destination) in the second management information of the destination management table, to notify the first device 6 that the logical connection is ready.

[0073] Upon receiving a connection notification from the third device 8, the destination management unit 72 of the processing device 7 changes the communication status of the second management information to “connected” in the destination management table, as shown by the diagonal lines in (b) of Figure 12.

[0074] Then, as shown in Figure 11, the communication unit 73 of the processing device 7 sends a connection notification to the first device 6 using the communication method ``Ethernet'' for destination route 1 (source), which is different from the communication method ``USB'' for destination route 2 (destination), based on the second management information of the destination management table.

[0075] Upon receiving the connection notification from the processing device 7, the destination management unit 62 of the first device 6 changes the communication status of the second management information in the destination management table to "connected", as indicated by the diagonal lines in FIG. 14(a).

[0076] 13, the communication unit 63 of the first device 6 transmits a response to the processing device 7 acknowledging the connection notification to the third device 8 (connection completion) based on the second management information in the destination management table. Also, the destination management unit 62 of the first device 6 notifies the application 61 that the first device 6 is available for use, as shown in FIG.

[0077] Upon receiving the connection completion notification from the first device 6, the destination management unit 72 of the processing device 7 changes the communication status of the second management information to "connected" in the destination management table, as indicated by the diagonal lines in (b) of Figure 16.

[0078] Then, as shown in Figure 15, the communication unit 73 of the processing device 7 sends a connection completion to the third device 8 using the communication method ``USB'' for destination route 2 (destination), which is different from the communication method ``Ethernet'' for destination route 1 (source) that was received, based on the second management information of the destination management table.

[0079] The destination management unit 82 of the third device 8, which has received the connection completion notification from the processing device 7, changes the communication status of the second management information in the destination management table to "connected," as indicated by the diagonal lines in (c) of Fig. 18. Furthermore, the destination management unit 82 of the third device 8 notifies the application 81 of the logical connection with the first device 6, as shown in Fig. 17.

[0080] As described above, a logical connection is established between the first device 6 and the third device 8 via the processing device 7. Then, the first device 6 remotely utilizes the medical function (4) of the third device 8 by the first device 6, the processing device 7, and the third device 8 communicating with each other based on the second management information in each destination management table.

[0081] [Method for Setting Priority Values] Next, a method for setting priority values ​​will be described. FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining the method for setting priority values. First, the medical rank of a medical function is calculated using the medical rank table shown in FIG. 19(a). Here, the classes shown in FIG. 19(a) are medical classes of IEC-62306, and are set according to the medical function. Furthermore, the concern levels shown in FIG. 19(a) are Level of Concern of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and are set according to the medical function. For example, if the class is "B" and the concern level is "high," the medical function will have a medical rank of "B2," as shown in FIG. 19(a).

[0082] Below, we will explain how the destination management unit 62 of the first device 6 sets the priority value when the medical functions possessed by the first device 6 are medical rank: "B2" and communication volume: "normal."

[0083] The destination management unit 62 refers to the communication priority basic table shown in Fig. 19(b) and calculates a provisional priority value. Here, the communication priority basic table is a table in which provisional priorities are associated with medical ranks and communication volumes. As described above, the medical rank is "B2" and the communication volume is "normal," so the destination management unit 62 refers to the communication priority basic table and calculates the provisional priority value associated with the medical rank and communication volume as "4."

[0084] The destination management unit 62 also refers to the weighting table shown in Fig. 19(c) and calculates a weighting value. Here, the weighting table is a table in which weighting values ​​are associated with medical ranks and communication volumes. As described above, since the medical rank is "B2" and the communication volume is "normal," the destination management unit 62 refers to the weighting table and calculates the weighting value associated with the medical rank and communication volume as "8."

[0085] Furthermore, the destination management unit 62 refers to the priority setting number table shown in (d) of Figure 19 and calculates the current value. Here, the priority setting number table is a table in which current values ​​are associated with temporary priority values. Furthermore, the current value is the usage rate of the communication band when communication is performed using the temporary priority value for a preset communication band. As described above, since the temporary priority value is "4", the destination management unit 62 refers to the priority setting number table and calculates the current value associated with the temporary priority value as "27".

[0086] Then, since the value (35) obtained by adding the weighting value "8" calculated as described above to the current value "27" calculated as described above is less than 100, the destination management unit 62 sets the provisional priority value "4" calculated as described above as the actual priority value.

[0087] On the other hand, when the destination management unit 62 refers to the priority setting number table shown in FIG. 19E, it calculates the current value as "99." This current value means that it is difficult to perform communication at the provisional priority value of "4" any further. Since the value (107) obtained by adding the weighting value "8" calculated as described above to the current value "99" calculated as described above exceeds 100, the destination management unit 62 sets a priority value other than the provisional priority value "4" calculated as described above as the actual priority value. Specifically, the destination management unit 62 compares the value (48) obtained by adding the weighting value "8" calculated as described above to the current value "40" corresponding to the value "5" immediately above the provisional priority value "4" calculated as described above with the value (68) obtained by adding the weighting value "8" calculated as described above to the current value "60" corresponding to the value "3" immediately below the provisional priority value "4" calculated as described above. Then, the destination management unit 62 sets the provisional priority value "5", which is the lower value as a result of the comparison, as the actual priority value.

[0088] When the first device 6 uses the medical function (4), the communication units 63, 73, and 83 of the first device 6, the processing device 7, and the third device 8 perform priority communication based on the priority values ​​in the first and second management information. That is, in the examples of Figures 3 to 18, the priority value in the second management information is the highest, "6," so the communication unit 73 gives top priority to communication via the logical connection between the first device 6 and the third device 8.

[0089] The present embodiment described above provides the following advantages. In the endoscopic system 1 according to this embodiment, the first device 6 is logically connected to the third device 8 via the processing device 7 and remotely uses the medical function (4). Therefore, when the first device 6 uses the medical function (4) of the third device 8, there is no need to physically connect the first device 6 to the third device 8. That is, there is no need to provide the first device 6 with many interfaces. That is, an increase in the number of interfaces does not hinder the miniaturization and cost reduction of the first device 6. Therefore, the endoscopic system 1 according to this embodiment makes it possible to build a system at low cost while avoiding an increase in the size of each device.

[0090] In particular, when the first device 6 requests a logical connection with the third device 8, the second management information is added to the destination management tables of the first device 6, the processing device 7, and the third device 8 as a result of the first device 6, the processing device 7, and the third device 8 communicating with each other based on the first management information. The first device 6 then remotely utilizes the medical function (4) as the first device 6, the processing device 7, and the third device 8 communicate with each other based on the second management information. This allows efficient logical connection between the first and third devices 6 and 8, and allows the first device 6 to effectively remotely utilize the medical function (4) through communication based on the second management information.

[0091] Furthermore, when the first device 6 uses the medical function (4), the first device 6, the processing device 7, and the third device 8 perform priority communication based on the priority values ​​in the first and second management information, thereby preventing delays in remote control of highly urgent functions in the endoscope system 1.

[0092] In particular, the destination management units 62, 72, and 82 set the provisional priority value as the actual priority value when the value obtained by adding the weighting value to the current value is 100 or less, and set a priority value other than the provisional priority value as the actual priority value when the value exceeds 100. This makes it possible to set an appropriate priority value for efficiently using a preset communication band.

[0093] While the embodiments for carrying out the present invention have been described above, the present invention should not be limited to the above-described embodiments. In the above-described embodiments, the second device according to the present invention is only one processing device 7, but this is not limiting and the device may be configured with multiple devices physically connected in series.

[0094] Figures 20 to 24 are diagrams illustrating modified examples of the embodiment. Specifically, Figures 20, 21, and 23 are block diagrams corresponding to Figure 3. Figure 22 is a diagram showing the destination management table in the state of Figure 21. Figure 24 is a diagram showing the destination management table in the state of Figure 23. Figures 22(a) and 24(a) show the destination management table of the first device 6. Figures 22(b) and 24(b) show the destination management table of the processing device 7. Figures 22(c) and 24(c) show the destination management table of the third device 8.

[0095] In the following, we will explain the case where, after a logical connection has been established between the first and third devices 6 and 8 as described in the above-mentioned embodiment, the first device 6 and the processing device 7 are physically disconnected as shown in Figure 20.

[0096] In this case, as shown in FIG. 20, in the first device 6 and the processing device 7, the communication units 63 and 73 that detect the physical disconnection notify the destination management units 62 and 72 of the disconnection, respectively.

[0097] Then, upon receiving notification of the disconnection from each communication unit 63, 73, each destination management unit 62, 72 checks the destination route in the destination management table. Then, each destination management unit 62, 72 deletes the information corresponding to the disconnection from the destination management table, as indicated by the diagonal lines in FIG. 22 . Specifically, the destination management unit 62 deletes the first and second management information from the destination management table, as indicated by the diagonal lines in FIG. 22 (a). Furthermore, the destination management unit 72 deletes the first management information No. 1 corresponding to the disconnection from the destination management table, as indicated by the diagonal lines in FIG. 22 (b).

[0098] Furthermore, since the logical connections between the first and third devices 6 and 8 have been disconnected, the destination management unit 72 changes the communication status to "unconnected" in the second management information of the destination management table, as indicated by the diagonal lines in (b) of Fig. 22. Furthermore, the communication unit 73 transmits a disconnection notification to the third device 8 using "USB," which is the connected destination path in the second management information, as shown in Fig. 21.

[0099] After completing the transmission of the disconnection notification to the third device 8, the communication unit 73 notifies the destination management unit 72 of the completion of the transmission, as shown in Fig. 23. Then, upon receiving the notification of the completion of the transmission, the destination management unit 72 deletes the second management information from the destination management table, as shown by the diagonal lines in (b) of Fig. 24.

[0100] Furthermore, the destination management unit 82 of the third device 8 that has received the disconnection notification from the processing device 7 checks the destination route in the destination management table. Then, the destination management unit 82 deletes the second management information corresponding to the disconnection from the destination management table, as indicated by the diagonal lines in (c) of Figure 24.

[0101] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Endoscope system 2 Endoscope 3 Light source device 4 Display device 6 First device 7 Processing device 8 Third device 21 Insertion section 22 Operation section 23 Universal cord 24 Tip section 25 Bending section 26 Flexible tube section 27 Memory section 61, 71, 81 Application 62, 72, 82 Destination management section 63, 73, 83 Communication section 74 Image processing section 75 Input section 76 Control section 77 Memory section 221 Bending knob 222 Treatment tool insertion section 223 Air supply conduit 224 Switch 231, 232 Connector 241 Light guide 242 Illumination lens 243 Optical system 244 Imaging section 244a Imaging element 244b Signal processing section 245 Collective cable

Claims

1. An endoscopic system comprising: a first device capable of executing a first medical function; a second device capable of executing a second medical function, physically connected to the first device, and communicating with the first device via a first communication method; and a third device capable of executing a third medical function, physically connected to the second device, and communicating with the second device via a second communication method, wherein any of the first device, the second device, and the third device is an image processing device that processes captured images acquired by an endoscope, and the first device is logically connected to the third device via the second device, and utilizes the third medical function.

2. The first device, the second device, and the third device each have a destination management table in which first management information is stored, and the first management information is information that associates information about medical functions of physically connected devices among the first device, the second device, and the third device with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between the devices, and when the first device requests a logical connection with the third device, second management information is added to the destination management tables of the first device, the second device, and the third device as the first device, the second device, and the third device communicate with each other based on the first management information, and the second management information is information that associates information about medical functions of logically connected devices among the first device and the third device with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between the first device and the third device, and the first device The endoscope system according to claim 1 , wherein the first device, the second device, and the third device communicate based on the second management information to utilize the third medical function.

3. The endoscopic system of claim 2, wherein the first management information and the second management information are each associated with a priority value used for priority communication, and when the first device uses the third medical function, the first device, the second device, and the third device perform priority communication based on the priority values ​​in the first management information and the second management information.

4. The endoscopic system described in claim 3, wherein the first device, the second device, and the third device each have a destination management unit that manages the destination management table, and the destination management unit sets the priority value based on a medical class and communication volume corresponding to the medical function, and a weighting value corresponding to the medical class and the communication volume.

5. The endoscope system of claim 4, wherein the destination management unit calculates a provisional priority value according to the medical class and the communication volume, calculates a current value according to the provisional priority value, sets the provisional priority value as the actual priority value when the value obtained by adding the weighting value to the current value is 100 or less, and sets a priority value other than the provisional priority value as the actual priority value when the value obtained by adding the weighting value to the current value exceeds 100, and the current value is the usage rate of the communication band when communication is performed using the provisional priority value for a predetermined communication band.

6. A communication method executed by an endoscopic system, comprising: a first device capable of executing a first medical function; a second device capable of executing a second medical function, physically connected to the first device, and communicating with the first device via a first communication method; and a third device capable of executing a third medical function, physically connected to the second device, and communicating with the second device via a second communication method, wherein any of the first device, the second device, and the third device is an image processing device that processes captured images acquired by an endoscope, and wherein the first device is logically connected to the third device via the second device and utilizes the third medical function.

7. The first device, the second device, and the third device each have a destination management table in which first management information is stored, and the first management information is information that associates information about medical functions of physically connected devices among the first device, the second device, and the third device with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between the devices, and when the first device requests a logical connection with the third device, second management information is added to the destination management tables of the first device, the second device, and the third device as the first device, the second device, and the third device communicate with each other based on the first management information, and the second management information is information that associates information about medical functions of logically connected devices among the first device and the third device with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between the first device and the third device, and the first device The communication method according to claim 6 , wherein the first device, the second device, and the third device communicate based on the second management information, thereby utilizing the third medical function.

8. A communication method as described in claim 7, wherein the first management information and the second management information are each associated with a priority value used for priority communication, and when the first device uses the third medical function, the first device, the second device, and the third device perform priority communication based on the priority values ​​in the first management information and the second management information.

9. The communication method described in claim 8, wherein the first device, the second device, and the third device each have a destination management unit that manages the destination management table, and the destination management unit sets the priority value based on a medical class and communication volume corresponding to a medical function, and a weighting value corresponding to the medical class and the communication volume.

10. The communication method described in claim 9, wherein the destination management unit calculates a provisional priority value according to the medical class and the communication volume, calculates a current value according to the provisional priority value, sets the provisional priority value as the actual priority value if the value obtained by adding the weighting value to the current value is 100 or less, and sets a priority value other than the provisional priority value as the actual priority value if the value obtained by adding the weighting value to the current value exceeds 100, and the current value is the usage rate of the communication bandwidth when communication is performed using the provisional priority value for a predetermined communication bandwidth.

11. A communication program executed by an endoscopic system, the endoscopic system comprising: a first device capable of executing a first medical function; a second device capable of executing a second medical function, physically connected to the first device, and communicating with the first device via a first communication method; and a third device capable of executing a third medical function, physically connected to the second device, and communicating with the second device via a second communication method, wherein any of the first device, the second device, and the third device is an image processing device that processes captured images acquired by an endoscope, and the communication program causes the endoscopic system to execute a step of using the third medical function by logically connecting the first device to the third device via the second device.

12. The first device, the second device, and the third device each have a destination management table in which first management information is stored, and the first management information is information that associates information about medical functions of physically connected devices among the first device, the second device, and the third device with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between the devices, and when the first device requests a logical connection with the third device, second management information is added to the destination management tables of the first device, the second device, and the third device as the first device, the second device, and the third device communicate with each other based on the first management information, and the second management information is information that associates information about medical functions of logically connected devices among the first device and the third device with a destination route including a communication method used for communication between the first device and the third device, and the first device The communication program according to claim 11 , wherein the first device, the second device, and the third device communicate with each other based on the second management information, thereby utilizing the third medical function.

13. The communication program described in claim 12, wherein the first management information and the second management information are each associated with a priority value used for priority communication, and when the first device uses the third medical function, the first device, the second device, and the third device perform priority communication based on the priority values ​​in the first management information and the second management information.

14. The communication program described in claim 13, wherein the first device, the second device, and the third device each have a destination management unit that manages the destination management table, and the destination management unit sets the priority value based on a medical class and communication volume corresponding to a medical function and a weighting value corresponding to the medical class and the communication volume.

15. The communication program of claim 14, wherein the destination management unit calculates a provisional priority value according to the medical class and the communication volume, calculates a current value according to the provisional priority value, sets the provisional priority value as the actual priority value if the value obtained by adding the weighting value to the current value is 100 or less, and sets a priority value other than the provisional priority value as the actual priority value if the value obtained by adding the weighting value to the current value exceeds 100, and the current value is the usage rate of the communication bandwidth when communication is performed using the provisional priority value for a predetermined communication bandwidth.

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