Endoscope Autofocus Hysteresis Compensation After Sterilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical observation devices like endoscopes and microscopes face challenges in maintaining stable auto focus (AF) processing due to changes in camera head characteristics caused by sterilization under high pressure and high temperature environments, leading to inaccuracies in focusing.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope system with a drive unit, measurement unit, and control unit that sets a control amount of wobbling based on first and second hysteresis measured upon energization to stabilize AF processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the endoscope undergoes autoclave sterilization, then sterilization is achieved, but camera head characteristics change leading to unstable AF processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent measures hysteresis characteristics of the actuator before sterilization (first hysteresis) and stores this data. This preliminary measurement allows the system to compensate for characteristic changes after sterilization by comparing pre- and post-sterilization hysteresis values, thereby maintaining stable AF processing despite the sterilization process.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the endoscope is used over time, then operational experience is gained, but actuator characteristics deteriorate leading to inaccurate focusing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where hysteresis characteristics are measured both before sterilization and after sterilization/usage. The control unit compares these measurements and adjusts the wobbling control amount accordingly. This feedback loop compensates for actuator deterioration over time, maintaining focusing accuracy throughout the endoscope's operational lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the wobbling control amount parameter based on measured hysteresis changes. By changing this control parameter in response to actuator characteristic changes (measured through hysteresis), the system compensates for aging effects and maintains precise focusing control throughout the device's usage duration.
3Ease of operation
If the wobbling control amount is not adjusted for hysteresis changes, then control simplicity is maintained, but AF processing stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the system automatically measures its own hysteresis characteristics, compares pre- and post-sterilization values, and adjusts the wobbling control amount without requiring external intervention. This automated compensation maintains AF stability while keeping the operation simple for the user.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures accurate and stable AF processing by accounting for changes in hysteresis, preventing deterioration of focusing accuracy due to environmental and aging factors.
Implementation Method 1
a measurement unit that measures a position of the lens, and a control unit that controls focusing... setting a control amount of wobbling at the time of the focusing on the basis of first hysteresis that is held and second hysteresis that is measured upon energization
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology relates to an endoscope system, an endoscope control method, and a program that allow AF processing to be performed without deterioration in accuracy. Provided are a drive unit that drives a lens, a measurement unit that measures a position of the lens, and a control unit that controls focusing, the control of the focusing including setting a control amount of wobbling at the time of the focusing based on a first hysteresis that is stored and a second hysteresis that is measured upon energization. The present technology is applicable to a medical observation device such as an endoscope or a microscope.