Endoscope and endoscopic system

Abstract

The present invention miniaturizes a distal end part of an endoscope. An endoscope according to the present disclosure has the distal end part, an imaging unit, and an illumination unit. The distal end part of the endoscope is disposed at the distal end in the longitudinal axis direction of an insertion part to be inserted into a subject. The imaging unit of the endoscope is disposed at the distal end part of the endoscope and generates image data of the subject. The illumination unit of the endoscope is disposed at the distal end part of the endoscope, is configured in a shape along the outer periphery of the imaging unit, and irradiates the subject with illumination light.

Description

Endoscope and Endoscope System

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an endoscope and an endoscope system.

[0002] Endoscopes are widely used as devices for observing internal structures of the human body and the like. Especially in the medical field, with the development of surgical techniques using endoscopes, endoscopes have become indispensable. Among them, flexible endoscopes used in gastric cameras and colon cameras have expanded their applications from diagnostic use to surgical use (endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD)), and have broadened their active fields.

[0003] At the tip of the insertion portion, which is the part of the flexible endoscope inserted into the body, an imaging unit for imaging the affected area, a lighting unit for irradiating the affected area with illumination light, a forceps channel through which a treatment instrument is inserted, a water supply port, an air supply port, etc. are arranged. As the needs of doctors who use the flexible endoscope, there are improvement of the image quality of the imaging unit, improvement of the brightness of the lighting unit, improvement of the operability of the treatment instrument, and clarification of the affected area. These are requirements that are difficult to achieve without increasing the size of the insertion portion, especially the tip portion. On the other hand, as for patients who use the flexible endoscope, there is a strong need to reduce the diameter of the insertion portion in order to reduce the burden during the operation.

[0004] In order to meet such conflicting needs, endoscopes have been proposed in which the components of the endoscope are made more high-performance while the tip portion is miniaturized. For example, endoscopes have been proposed that improve the efficiency and miniaturize the lighting unit. Usually, the lighting unit transmits the light of the light source to the tip portion through an optical fiber, and uses the transmitted light as illumination light. An endoscope device has been proposed that uses a semiconductor laser diode as this light source and includes a lighting unit that guides laser light to an optical fiber. The laser light guided to the tip portion is converted by a phosphor arranged at the tip portion into light with a broad spectrum and then emitted. Since the laser light has a small divergence angle, the introduction efficiency into the optical fiber is improved. (See, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-225861

[0006] However, with the conventional technology described above, increasing the irradiation brightness requires increasing the area of ​​the irradiation section, which is a trade-off with reducing the diameter of the tip. Furthermore, because the phosphor irradiated with laser light generates heat, measures such as installing it away from the imaging unit or placing insulating materials are necessary, which makes it even more difficult to reduce the diameter of the tip.

[0007] Therefore, this disclosure proposes an endoscope with a reduced tip diameter and an endoscope system that uses said endoscope.

[0008] The endoscope of this disclosure includes a tip portion positioned at the end of the longitudinal axis of the insertion portion inserted into a subject, an imaging unit positioned at the tip portion to generate image data of the subject, and an illumination unit positioned at the tip portion and configured to follow the outer circumference of the imaging unit to irradiate the subject with illumination light.

[0009] This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an endoscope according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of an endoscope according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an optical system according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an optical system according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an endoscope according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an endoscope system. This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an endoscope system. This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a CCU.

[0010] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The description will be in the following order. In each of the following embodiments, the same parts will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted. 1. First Embodiment 2. Second Embodiment 3. Example of Endoscope System Configuration

[0011] (1. First Embodiment) <Configuration of Endoscope> Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The same figure is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the endoscope 2. The endoscope 2 constitutes a flexible endoscope. Note that the figure shows the tip portion (tip portion 24) of the insertion portion (insertion portion 21) of the endoscope 2. The configuration of other parts of the endoscope 2, including the bending portion 25, will be described later.

[0012] The tip portion 24 is the part located at the end of the insertion portion 21 in the direction of its longitudinal axis, which is inserted into the subject. This tip portion 24 is the part that connects to the end of the curved portion 25 and is a non-curved portion. The tip portion 24 includes an illumination unit 242, an imaging unit 243, a forceps channel 244, a water inlet 245, and an air inlet 246. As shown in Figure 1, the illumination unit 242, imaging unit 243, forceps channel 244, water inlet 245, and air inlet 246 are located on the end face 241 of the tip portion 24.

[0013] The imaging unit 243 generates pixel signals that constitute the image data of the subject. This imaging unit 243 includes an image sensor (image sensor 248). The dotted rectangle in Figure 1 represents the area of ​​the image sensor 248. The image sensor 248 acquires reflected light from the subject that is irradiated from the illumination unit 242 (described later), performs imaging, generates pixel signals, and outputs them. The image sensor 248 is located inside the tip portion 24, which is separated from the end face 241. Details of the configuration of the imaging unit 243 will be described later. The pixel signals generated by the image sensor 248 are processed by the CCU 4 (described later).

[0014] The illumination unit 242 irradiates the subject with illumination light. This illumination unit 242 irradiates the subject with illumination light by transmitting light from a light source using, for example, an optical fiber (optical fiber 34) and emitting the transmitted light from the end face 241. A bundled fiber can be used for the optical fiber 34. The illumination unit 242 can be arranged in a shape that surrounds the imaging unit 243. Specifically, the illumination unit 242 can be configured to follow the outer circumference of the imaging unit 243. This makes it possible to create a configuration that does not cast shadows on the subject. The illumination unit 242 in Figure 1 shows an example in which it is arranged in a region around the imaging unit 243 that does not overlap with the image sensor 248. As shown in Figure 1, the illumination unit 242 can be configured in a horseshoe shape.

[0015] Furthermore, the image sensor 248 is preferably placed near the forceps channel 244. This is to prevent the illumination light illuminating the surgical field from being blocked by the forceps emerging from the forceps channel 244.

[0016] A cover glass 110 is placed in front of the imaging unit 243 and the illumination unit 242. The dotted circle in Figure 1 represents the outer shape of the cover glass 110. The cover glass 110 protects the imaging unit 243 and the illumination unit 242.

[0017] The forceps channel 244 is hollow and serves as a passage for a physician to insert forceps and other surgical instruments. The forceps channel 244 can also be used for aspirating mucus and other fluids.

[0018] The water inlet 245 is hollow and serves as a passage for supplying water. This water is used to clean the surface of the imaging unit 243 and to wash away foreign matter to clarify the field of view.

[0019] The air inlet 246 is hollow and serves as a passage for air delivery. This air is used to inflate the affected organ and improve visibility.

[0020] To reduce the diameter of the insertion section 21, particularly the tip section 24, it is necessary to reduce the size of the structures positioned on the end face 241. However, reducing the size of the forceps channel 244 would mean that only small forceps could be used. Using small forceps would result in problems such as reduced gripping force. It would also reduce the suction force when used for aspiration, increasing the difficulty of procedures (such as cell collection, hemostasis, and foreign body retrieval). Furthermore, reducing the size of the water inlet 245 and air inlet 246 would weaken the water and air supply force, making procedures more difficult. Additionally, reducing the size of the illumination section 242 would decrease the light intensity, resulting in a decrease in the image quality generated by the imaging section 243. Moreover, miniaturizing the image sensor to reduce the size of the imaging section 243 would lead to a decrease in resolution and sensitivity, resulting in a decrease in image quality.

[0021] Therefore, the endoscope 2 of this disclosure adopts a configuration that allows the use of a large image sensor 248 while reducing the size of the imaging unit 243. Note that the configuration of the endoscope 2 is not limited to this example. For example, the endoscope 2 may have a configuration that does not include any or all of the forceps channel 244, water inlet 245, and air inlet 246. Furthermore, the endoscope 2 may also include other components.

[0022] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of an endoscope according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the endoscope 2. The figure shows the tip 24, illumination unit 242, imaging unit 243, cover glass 110, and forceps channel 244. Note that the figure is a cross-sectional view along the line A-A' in Figure 1.

[0023] The illumination unit 242 is composed of an optical fiber 34. This optical fiber 34 transmits light from the light source. Illumination light is emitted from the end of the optical fiber 34. As shown in Figure 2, the optical fiber 34 can be positioned to avoid the image sensor 248 of the imaging unit 243. The illumination unit 242 can also be positioned near the optical system 249 of the imaging unit 243.

[0024] The above-mentioned light source can, for example, have a configuration comprising a laser light source (labeled as a laser diode in Figure 7) that generates laser light, as described later in Figure 7, and a phosphor that converts the wavelength of the laser light. The phosphor in the light source can also be placed at the tip 24. In this case, the optical fiber 34 guides the laser light from the laser light source to the phosphor placed at the tip 24. However, the phosphor generates heat during the conversion of the laser light wavelength. Therefore, it becomes necessary to place an insulating material at the tip 24, which leads to the problem of the tip 24 becoming enlarged.

[0025] The imaging unit 243 comprises an optical system 249 and an image sensor 248. The image sensor 248 is mounted on the substrate 107. The image sensor 248 is positioned so that its light-receiving surface is approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the insertion unit 21. That is, the image sensor 248 is positioned so that its light-receiving surface is approximately 90 degrees to the end face 241.

[0026] The optical system 249 is positioned on the end face 241 and guides light from the subject to the image sensor 248. This light from the subject is reflected light from the illumination light of the illumination unit 242, which is reflected by the subject. The white arrows in Figure 2 represent this reflected light. The optical system 249 guides the reflected light to the light-receiving surface of the image sensor 248, which is positioned at the bottom of Figure 2. In other words, the optical system 249 changes the optical path of the reflected light by approximately 90 degrees. Details of the configuration of the optical system 249 will be described later.

[0027] <Optical System Configuration> Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an optical system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the optical system 249. The figure further shows an image sensor 248 and a substrate 107. The optical system 249 comprises a lens, a reflector 104, and an aperture 106. Note that the optical system 249 in the figure represents an example comprising a plurality of lenses (lenses 101 to 103).

[0028] Lenses 101 to 103 focus reflected light. Specifically, lenses 101 to 103 form an image of the reflected light group on the light-receiving surface of the image sensor 248. Lens 101 is a concave lens, and lenses 102 and 103 are convex lenses. An aperture 106 is positioned between lens 102 and lens 103. By using multiple lenses, the optical path length can be extended. Furthermore, by setting the power of the lens group on the subject side to negative and the power of the lens group on the reflecting part 104 side to positive, the distance from the rearmost end of the lens to the image sensor 248 (back focus) can be increased. In addition, lenses 101 to 103 tilt the chief ray angle of incidence to the image sensor 248. The dotted line in the upper diagram of Figure 3 represents the chief ray. Here, the chief ray is the ray that passes through the center of the aperture 106. The chief ray angle of incidence is explained in the lower diagram of Figure 3. Figure 3 shows an example of imaging onto the image sensor 502 using an optical system including lens 501. The dotted line in Figure 3 represents the exit pupil 503. The principal ray incidence angle θ is the paraxially calculated angle of the principal ray at the maximum image height of the image sensor 502.

[0029] In the optical system 249 shown in the upper part of Figure 3, the principal ray incidence angle θ is tilted in the direction that is positive. Furthermore, the lens 103 keeps the tilted principal ray incidence angle within the principal ray incidence angle of the image sensor 248. This allows the use of lenses 101 to 103 with an outer diameter smaller than the light-receiving surface size of the image sensor 248. Therefore, an image sensor 248 larger than the imaging portion 243 at the end face 241 can be used.

[0030] The reflective section 104 is an optical element that changes the optical path of reflected light by approximately 90 degrees. The reflective section 104 in Figure 3 is composed of two prisms 104a and 104b. At the oblique joint surface of prisms 104a and 104b, the reflected light is reflected and its optical path is changed. The image sensor 248 can also be configured to be in contact with prism 104a.

[0031] In this way, by arranging the image sensor 248 in a direction approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the insertion section 21, a larger image sensor 248 can be used relative to the optical system 249. Furthermore, by guiding light from the subject to the image sensor 248 with the optical system 249 and amplifying the reflected light group to form an image, the size of the end face 241 side of the optical system 249 can be reduced relative to the light-receiving area of ​​the image sensor 248. For example, if the size of the image sensor 248 is 3 mm x 3 mm, the lenses 101 to 103 can be miniaturized to a size of about 2 mm in diameter. This reduces the area of ​​the imaging section 243 at the end face 241 of the tip section 24, and the tip section 24 of the insertion section 21 can be made smaller in diameter. In addition, by arranging the illumination section 242 close to the imaging section 243, the illumination section 242 and the imaging section 243 can be substantially integrated and miniaturized. This allows for a further reduction in the diameter of the tip section 24. This reduces the burden on the patient while maintaining the functionality of the endoscope 2. On the other hand, reducing the area of ​​the imaging unit 243 makes it possible to increase the diameter of the forceps channel 244 or to provide multiple forceps channels 244. This improves the difficulty of the procedure performed by the physician.

[0032] (2. Second Embodiment) A variation of the endoscope 2 of the first embodiment described above will be explained.

[0033] Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example configuration of an optical system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. This figure, like Figure 3, is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example configuration of the optical system 249. The optical system 249 in this figure differs from the optical system 249 in Figure 3 in that it includes a reflective section 105 instead of a reflective section 104.

[0034] The reflecting section 105 is composed of a pentagonal roof prism. By using the reflecting section 105, the optical path of the reflected light can be further extended.

[0035] Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an endoscope according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. This figure is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the endoscope 2, similar to Figure 1. Note that the end face 241 of the tip portion 24 is shown in this figure. The endoscope 2 in this figure differs from the endoscope 2 in Figure 1 in that it has multiple illumination units 242.

[0036] The illumination unit 242 in Figure 5 is shown as an example composed of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). By arranging multiple illumination units 242 around the imaging unit 243, the amount of illumination light can be increased.

[0037] The configuration of the endoscope 2, other than that described above, is the same as that of the endoscope 2 in the first embodiment of this disclosure, so a description will be omitted.

[0038] (3. Example of Endoscopic System Configuration) The configuration of the endoscopic system will be explained using Figures 6 to 8.

[0039] Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of an endoscope system. This figure is a schematic diagram representing an example of the configuration of endoscope system 1. Endoscope system 1 comprises an endoscope 2, a light source device 3, a CCU (Camera Control Unit) 4, a display device 5, a treatment device 6, a recording device 7, and an output device 8.

[0040] Endoscope 2 captures images of the inside of a subject's body by inserting its tip into the subject's body. This endoscope 2 comprises a flexible, elongated insertion section 21, an operation section 22 connected to the proximal end of the insertion section 21 that receives various operation signals, and a universal cord 23 that houses various cables from the operation section 22. Endoscope 2 is also referred to as an endoscope scope.

[0041] The insertion section 21 comprises a tip section 24, a curved section 25, and a flexible section 26. The tip section 24 includes an imaging section (imaging section 243) having an image sensor configured in which pixels that perform photoelectric conversion of received light to generate pixel signals are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix. The curved section 25 is configured to be flexible by being composed of a plurality of curved pieces. The flexible section 26 is connected to the base end of the curved section 25 and is configured to be a long, flexible length. This insertion section 21 is inserted into the body cavity of a subject and images a subject such as biological tissue located in a position where external light cannot reach using the image sensor. In addition to the imaging section 243, the tip section 24 is also equipped with an illumination section (illumination section 242) that irradiates the subject with illumination light for imaging. Furthermore, the insertion section 21 may also be provided with a forceps channel (forceps channel 244) for inserting a treatment instrument (treatment instrument 62), a water inlet (water inlet 245) for supplying water into the subject, and an air inlet (air inlet 246) for supplying air into the subject.

[0042] The operating unit 22 operates the insertion unit 21. The operating unit 22 comprises a curved knob 221, a treatment instrument insertion unit 222, and a plurality of switches 223. The curved knob 221 curves the curved unit 25 in the vertical and horizontal directions. The treatment instrument insertion unit 222 inserts the treatment instrument 62 into the body cavity of the subject. The switches 223 are operation input units that input operation instruction signals for peripheral devices.

[0043] The treatment device 6 includes a treatment instrument operating section 61 and a flexible treatment instrument 62 extending from the treatment instrument operating section 61. Examples of treatment instruments 62 include a therapeutic light irradiation device, biopsy forceps, an electrosurgical unit, and an examination probe. The treatment instrument operating section 61 operates the treatment instrument 62. The treatment instrument 62 is inserted through the treatment instrument insertion section 222 and emerges from the forceps channel 244 at the tip 24.

[0044] The universal code 23 incorporates at least a fiber optic cable (fiber optic cable 34) that transmits light to the illumination unit 242 and a collective cable that includes the signal lines of the imaging unit 243. The universal code 23 branches at the end opposite to the side connected to the operation unit 22. The fiber optic cable 34 of the universal code 23 is connected to the light source device 3. Also, the collective cable of the universal code 23 is connected to the CCU 4. In this embodiment, it is described as transmitting an electrical signal using signal lines, but it may transmit an optical signal or may transmit a signal between the endoscope 2 and the CCU 4 by wireless communication.

[0045] The light source device 3 emits light for illumination light. The light emitted by the light source device 3 is transmitted to the illumination unit 242 by the fiber optic cable 34. Note that the fiber optic cable 34 is also referred to as a light guide.

[0046] The CCU 4 is a control device that comprehensively controls the connected endoscope 2 and light source device 3. Also, the CCU 4 may comprehensively control the connected display device 5, recording device 7, and output device 8. For example, the CCU 4 controls the irradiation timing, irradiation intensity, and type of irradiation light source of the light source device 3. Also, the CCU 4 performs image processing such as development processing (e.g., demosaicing processing) and correction processing on the pixel signal output from the endoscope 2, and outputs the processed pixel signal (e.g., image) to an external device such as the display device 5. Also, the CCU 4 transmits a control signal to the endoscope 2 and controls the drive of the endoscope 2. This control signal is, for example, information regarding imaging conditions such as the magnification and focal length of the imaging unit. Note that the CCU 4 may have a function of down-converting an image and be configured to be able to simultaneously output a high-resolution (e.g., 4K) image to the display device 5 and a low-resolution (e.g., HD) image to the recording device 7. Note that the CCU 4 and the light source device 3 may have an integrated configuration stored in the same housing. Also, the CCU 4 and the light source device 3 may have interfaces that can be connected to each of the rigid endoscope and the flexible endoscope, and may have a configuration in which the functions required for each of the rigid endoscope and the flexible endoscope are arranged in a common housing.

[0047] The display device 5 is a device capable of displaying images, for example, a display monitor. The display device 5 displays a display image based on the pixel signals acquired from the CCU 4. Note that the display device 5 may also function as an input device that enables gaze recognition, voice recognition, and instruction input by gesture by including a camera and a microphone.

[0048] The recording device 7 is a device that records pixel signals (for example, images) acquired from the CCU 4, for example, a recorder. The recording device 7 records the images acquired from the CCU 4 on an HDD, SSD, or optical disk. The recording device 7 may be connected to the network within the hospital and be accessible from devices outside the operating room. Further, the recording device 7 may have an image down-conversion function or up-conversion function.

[0049] The output device 8 is a device that outputs information acquired from the CCU 4, for example, a printer. The output device 8, for example, prints a printed image based on the pixel signals acquired from the CCU 4 on paper.

[0050] On the right side of FIG. 6, a diagram showing a configuration example of the distal end portion 24 is described. On the end face of the distal end portion 24, an illumination unit 242, an imaging unit 243, a forceps mouth 244, a water supply port 245, and an air supply port 246 can be arranged. Note that the distal end portion 24 in FIG. 6 shows an example in which three illumination units 242 are arranged. It is preferable to arrange these illumination units 242 at positions surrounding the imaging unit 243. This is because it is possible to suppress the generation of shadows of the subject. Note that a cover glass for protection can be arranged on the illumination unit 242. In addition to the imaging element 248, an optical system 249 such as a lens that condenses light from the subject is arranged on the imaging unit 243.

[0051] The water supply from the water supply port 245 can be used for cleaning the surface of the imaging unit 243 and washing away foreign substances to clarify the field of view. In addition, the air supply from the air supply port 246 can be used to expand the affected organ to secure the field of view.

[0052] Note that the forceps mouth 244 can also be used for suction of mucus or the like.

[0053] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an endoscope system. This figure is a block diagram representing an example configuration of endoscope system 1. The figure shows an endoscope 2, a light source device 3, a CCU 4, a display device 5, and a treatment device 6.

[0054] The curved knob 221 of the operating section 22 pushes and pulls the guide wire 224 located inside the insertion section 21, allowing the tip section 24 to move up, down, left, and right.

[0055] The light source device 3 comprises a light source 31, an illumination control unit 32, and an optical system 33. The light source 31 emits illumination light based on the control of the illumination control unit 32. The light source 31 in Figure 7 has an LD (Laser Diode) 311 and a phosphor 312. The LD 311 emits laser light. For example, the LD 311 emits a blue laser. The phosphor 312 converts the wavelength of the laser light from the LD 311. The phosphor 312 is excited by the laser light and emits fluorescence, generating light with a different wavelength than the laser light that is the excitation light. For example, a material that is excited by a blue laser and generates yellow fluorescence can be used for the phosphor 312. The phosphor 312 converts a portion of the blue laser light from the LD 311 into yellow light. These blue laser light and yellow light are mixed to generate white light. This white light is emitted from the light source 31. Note that the configuration of the light source device 3 is not limited to this example. For example, the light source 31 can consist only of an LD 311, and the phosphor 312 can be placed in the illumination section 242 of the tip 24. Alternatively, a light-emitting diode (LED) or a xenon lamp can be used as the light source 31.

[0056] The optical system 33 focuses the light emitted from the light source 31 onto the end of the optical fiber 34. The other end of the optical fiber 34 reaches the illumination section 242 of the tip 24, and the light emitted from the light source device 3 is transmitted to the tip 24 via the optical fiber 34 and emitted from the end face 241. In this case, the end of the optical fiber 34 constitutes the illumination section 242.

[0057] The imaging unit 243 comprises an image sensor 248 and an optical system 249. The optical system 249 guides light from the subject to the image sensor 248. The optical system 249 can be composed of, for example, multiple lenses. The image sensor 248 acquires the reflected light from the subject that is irradiated from the illumination unit 242, performs imaging, generates a pixel signal, and outputs it. For example, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) type image sensor can be used for the image sensor 248. The image sensor 248 performs imaging based on control signals from the CCU 4. The image sensor 248 also outputs the generated pixel signal to the CCU 4. These control signals and pixel signals are transmitted by a bundled cable located in the insertion unit 21. The CCU 4 generates an image based on the pixel signal from the image sensor 248 and outputs it to the display device 5.

[0058] The treatment device 6 comprises a treatment instrument operating section 61 and a treatment instrument 62. The treatment instrument 62 is inserted into the insertion section 21, and its end protrudes from the forceps channel 244 of the tip section 24. A water inlet 245 and an air inlet 246 are further arranged on the tip section 24.

[0059] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a CCU. The same figure is a block diagram representing an example configuration of CCU4. CCU4 is an information processing device having FPGA401, CPU402, RAM403, ROM404, GPU405 and I / F406.

[0060] <Special Light Observation> The light source device 3 may have a light source capable of emitting special light used for special light observation, in addition to the light source that emits normal light used for normal light observation. Here, special light is light in a predetermined wavelength band different from the normal light used for normal light observation, and is, for example, near-infrared light (light with a wavelength of 760 nm or more), infrared light, blue light, and ultraviolet light. Normal light is, for example, white light or green light. In observation using light of a specific narrow band wavelength, which is a type of special light observation, by alternately irradiating with blue light and green light, it is possible to take high-contrast images of predetermined tissues such as blood vessels on the surface of mucous membranes by utilizing the wavelength dependence of light absorption in body tissues.

[0061] Furthermore, in fluorescence observation, a type of special light observation, excitation light is irradiated onto a drug injected into body tissue to excite it, and a fluorescence image is obtained by receiving the fluorescence emitted by the body tissue or the labeling drug. This makes it easier for the operator to visualize body tissues and other areas that are difficult to see with normal light. For example, in fluorescence observation using infrared light, infrared light with an excitation wavelength range is irradiated onto a drug such as indocyanine green (ICG) injected into body tissue, and the fluorescence of the drug is received, making it easier to visualize the structure of the body tissue and the affected area.

[0062] Furthermore, in fluorescence observation, a drug (e.g., 5-ALA) that is excited by special light in the blue wavelength band and emits fluorescence in the red wavelength band may be used. In this case, the light source device 3 sets the type of irradiation light by controlling the CCU 4. The CCU 4 may have a mode in which normal light observation and special light observation are performed alternately by controlling the light source device 3 and the endoscope 2. In this case, it is preferable to superimpose information based on the pixel signal obtained in special light observation onto the pixel signal obtained in normal light observation. Also, special light observation may involve irradiating the affected area with amber-colored light, which has the characteristic of being easily absorbed by hemoglobin in the blood, along with green light and red light, to make blood vessels and bleeding areas in deeper parts such as mucous membranes more visible and reduce the risk of bleeding. Furthermore, special light observation may be multispectral observation utilizing hyperspectral spectroscopy. In addition, photodynamic therapy may be combined with special light observation.

[0063] Furthermore, the CCU4 may have a function that optimizes three elements—structure, color tone, and brightness—in images of the mucosal surface, and performs image processing to emphasize changes in the color tone and structure of the image.

[0064] Furthermore, the light source device 3 may include a light source that emits short-wavelength laser light (for example, blue laser light). The CCU 4 can generate an image of the affected area by changing the emission intensity ratio of this blue laser light and the white light from the light source 31. The CCU 4 may also have a function to perform image processing on the image obtained with the blue laser light to generate an image suitable for observing blood vessels and surface structures. The CCU 4 may also have a function to acquire an image obtained with white light and an image obtained with a blue-violet laser, and to apply color enhancement technology to generate an image that emphasizes the difference in color tones.

[0065] <Distance Measurement> Distance measurement can also be performed using the image sensor 248 of the endoscope 2 to measure the distance to the affected area of ​​the subject. For example, based on the measured distance between the endoscope and the affected area, it is possible to detect the size of the affected area from the captured image. Distance measurement can be performed by normalizing the brightness of the image of the subject to generate a normalized brightness image, and then generating depth information from the normalized brightness image using a learning model that has learned the correlation between depth and brightness. Furthermore, the three-dimensional shape of the affected area can also be obtained using this depth information.

[0066] Distance can also be measured using the Time of Flight (ToF) method. For example, a rangefinder light source can be placed at the tip 24, and the reflected light from the light source reflected by the affected area can be detected by the image sensor 248. By measuring the time from the emission of light from the rangefinder light source to the detection of the reflected light, the distance to the affected area can be measured. In this case, the CCU 4 can measure the time from the emission of light from the light source to the detection of the reflected light and calculate the distance. Furthermore, this rangefinder measurement can be used to generate a depth map or distance image of the subject, making it possible to obtain the three-dimensional shape of the affected area.

[0067] <AI Diagnosis> The AI ​​can also analyze images taken by the endoscope 2. The results of this analysis can be displayed on the display device 5. For example, if the AI ​​detects a candidate lesion such as a polyp or cancer from the image, the CCU 4 can superimpose a frame indicating the detection location onto the image and display it on the display device 5. Since the lesion location is displayed in real time, convenience can be improved. The AI ​​can also detect inflammatory activity in the affected area and detect an evaluation value of inflammation. The CCU 4 can display the detection results on the display device 5. Note that image analysis may be performed by an analysis device other than the CCU 4.

[0068] <Cloud Usage> It is also possible to perform the image processing and AI-based diagnosis described above in the cloud and send the analysis results to the CCU4. In this case, the endoscopy system 1 is connected to the cloud via the network.

[0069] Each component of the illustrated device is a functional concept and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each device are not limited to those shown, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads and usage conditions. Furthermore, this distribution and integration configuration may be performed dynamically.

[0070] In this embodiment, a system refers to a collection of multiple components (devices, modules (parts), etc.), regardless of whether all components are located in the same enclosure. Therefore, multiple devices housed in separate enclosures and connected via a network, and a single device containing multiple modules within a single enclosure, are both considered systems.

[0071] Furthermore, for example, this embodiment can adopt a cloud computing configuration in which a single function is shared and processed collaboratively by multiple devices via a network.

[0072] Although the embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, the technical scope of this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of this disclosure. Furthermore, components from different embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate.

[0073] (Effects) The endoscope has a tip section positioned at the end of the longitudinal axis of the insertion section that is inserted into the subject, an imaging unit positioned at the tip section that generates image data of the subject, and an illumination unit positioned at the tip section and configured to follow the outer circumference of the imaging unit that irradiates the subject with illumination light. This allows the illumination unit to be positioned close to the imaging unit, and the tip section can be made smaller.

[0074] Furthermore, the imaging unit includes an image sensor that images the subject and generates the image data, and an optical system arranged on the end face of the tip portion that guides the reflected light, which is reflected from the subject by the illumination light, to the light-receiving surface of the image sensor. The image sensor is arranged so that the light-receiving surface is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the optical system may have an optical member that changes the optical path of the reflected light by approximately 90 degrees. This allows light from the subject to be guided to the image sensor.

[0075] Furthermore, the illumination unit may be placed near the optical system. This allows for miniaturization of the tip.

[0076] Furthermore, the illumination unit may be positioned in an area that does not overlap with the image sensor when viewed from the end face of the tip. This allows the illumination unit to be positioned close to the optical system.

[0077] The illumination unit described above may be configured in a horseshoe shape surrounding the optical system. This allows for miniaturization of the tip.

[0078] Furthermore, the optical system may also include a prism as one of the optical components.

[0079] Furthermore, the optical system may include a lens that focuses the reflected light. This allows the group of reflected light to be magnified and incident on the image sensor.

[0080] Furthermore, the optical system may include multiple lenses.

[0081] Furthermore, the optical system may include a concave lens. This allows the optical path of the reflected light to be extended.

[0082] Furthermore, the illumination unit may be composed of optical fibers that transmit light from the light source. This allows the illumination unit to be made into any shape.

[0083] Furthermore, the light source may include a laser light source that generates laser light and a phosphor that converts the wavelength of the laser light. This can improve the efficiency of the light source.

[0084] The endoscopic system comprises an endoscope having a tip section positioned at the end of the longitudinal axis of the insertion section inserted into the subject, an imaging unit positioned at the tip section to generate image data of the subject, and an illumination unit positioned at the tip section and configured to follow the outer circumference of the imaging unit to irradiate the subject with illumination light, and a processing unit for processing the signals generated by the imaging unit. This allows the illumination unit to be positioned close to the imaging unit, and the tip section to be miniaturized.

[0085] Furthermore, the effects described herein are merely illustrative and not limiting, and other effects may also occur.

[0086] Furthermore, this technology can also take the following configurations: (1) An endoscope having a tip portion positioned at the end of the longitudinal axis direction of the insertion portion inserted into a subject, an imaging unit positioned at the tip portion to generate image data of the subject, and an illumination unit positioned at the tip portion and configured to irradiate the subject with illumination light. (2) The imaging unit comprises an image sensor that images the subject and generates the image data, and an optical system positioned at the end face of the tip portion to guide the reflected light reflected by the subject to the light-receiving surface of the image sensor, wherein the image sensor is positioned so that the light-receiving surface is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the optical system has an optical member that converts the optical path of the reflected light by substantially 90 degrees. (3) The endoscope according to (2) wherein the illumination unit is positioned near the optical system. (4) The endoscope according to (3) wherein the illumination unit is positioned in a region that does not overlap with the image sensor when viewed from the end face of the tip portion. (5) The endoscope according to (4), wherein the illumination unit is configured in a horseshoe shape surrounding the optical system. (6) The endoscope according to any one of (2) to (5), wherein the optical system comprises a prism as the optical element. (7) The endoscope according to any one of (2) to (6), wherein the optical system comprises a lens for focusing the reflected light. (8) The endoscope according to (7), wherein the optical system comprises a plurality of the lenses. (9) The endoscope according to (8), wherein the optical system comprises a concave lens. (10) The endoscope according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the illumination unit is composed of optical fibers for transmitting light from a light source. (11) The endoscope according to (10), wherein the light source comprises a laser light source that generates laser light and a phosphor for converting the wavelength of the laser light. (12) An endoscope system comprising: a tip portion positioned at the end of the longitudinal axis of an insertion portion inserted into a subject; an imaging unit positioned at the tip portion to generate image data of the subject; an illumination unit positioned at the tip portion and configured to follow the outer circumference of the imaging unit to irradiate the subject with illumination light; and a processing unit for processing signals generated by the imaging unit.

[0087] 1 Endoscope system 2 Endoscope 3 Light source device 4 CCU 21 Insertion section 24 Tip section 31 Light source 33, 249 Optical system 34 Optical fiber 101-103 Lens 104, 105 Reflecting section 104a, 104b Prism 241 End face 242 Illumination section 243 Imaging section 248 Image sensor

Claims

1. An endoscope having a tip portion positioned at the end of the longitudinal axis of the insertion portion inserted into a subject; an imaging unit positioned at the tip portion to generate image data of the subject; and an illumination unit positioned at the tip portion and configured to follow the outer circumference of the imaging unit to irradiate the subject with illumination light.

2. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit comprises an image sensor that images the subject and generates the image data, and an optical system arranged on the end face of the tip portion that guides the reflected light, which is reflected by the subject, to the light-receiving surface of the image sensor, wherein the image sensor is arranged in a direction such that the light-receiving surface is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the optical system has an optical member that converts the optical path of the reflected light by substantially 90 degrees.

3. The endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the illumination unit is located near the optical system.

4. The endoscope according to claim 3, wherein the illumination unit is arranged in a region that does not overlap with the image sensor when viewed from the end face of the tip.

5. The endoscope according to claim 4, wherein the illumination unit is configured in a horseshoe shape surrounding the optical system.

6. The endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the optical system comprises a prism as the optical element.

7. The endoscope according to claim 2, wherein the optical system comprises a lens for focusing the reflected light.

8. The endoscope according to claim 7, wherein the optical system comprises a plurality of lenses.

9. The endoscope according to claim 8, wherein the optical system comprises a concave lens.

10. The endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the illumination unit is composed of optical fibers that transmit light from a light source.

11. The endoscope according to claim 10, wherein the light source comprises a laser light source that generates laser light and a phosphor that converts the wavelength of the laser light.

12. An endoscope system comprising: a tip portion positioned at the end of the longitudinal axis of an insertion portion inserted into a subject; an imaging unit positioned at the tip portion to generate image data of the subject; an illumination unit positioned at the tip portion and configured to follow the outer circumference of the imaging unit to irradiate the subject with illumination light; and a processing unit for processing signals generated by the imaging unit.

Images