Endoscope Control Device for Laser Treatment Image Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope systems face challenges in maintaining image quality when both illumination and laser treatment light are used simultaneously, as the laser light can degrade the quality of observation images due to excessive exposure and noise.
Innovation Solution
A control device and method that adjust the exposure time and illumination light intensity based on the state of the laser treatment instrument, using a determination unit to assess the laser mode and adjust settings to prevent image degradation, such as increasing illumination light intensity and shortening exposure time using an electronic shutter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If laser treatment light is emitted during illumination, then treatment function is achieved, but image quality degrades due to excessive exposure and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the exposure time of the image sensor based on whether laser treatment is being performed. When laser treatment is detected, the exposure time is automatically shortened to prevent laser light from causing excessive exposure and image degradation. This dynamic parameter adjustment allows the system to maintain both treatment functionality and image quality without requiring separate fixed configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the exposure time parameter in response to laser treatment status. By detecting when laser treatment is active and adjusting the exposure time parameter accordingly (shortening it during treatment), the system resolves the contradiction between maintaining treatment function and preserving image quality. This parameter change approach allows flexible adaptation to different operational states.
2Manufacturing precision
If exposure time is extended for better image quality, then observation quality improves, but laser light causes excessive exposure and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback control by detecting the laser treatment status and using this information to adjust the exposure time. The determination unit monitors whether laser treatment is being performed and provides feedback to the control unit, which then adjusts the exposure time accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that exposure time is optimized based on real-time operational conditions, preventing excessive exposure while maintaining observation quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The exposure time is made dynamic rather than fixed, automatically shortening when laser treatment is detected and returning to normal when treatment ceases. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt to changing conditions, maintaining optimal observation quality while preventing the harmful effects of laser light during treatment periods.
3Illumination intensity
If illumination light intensity is increased for better imaging, then image brightness improves, but laser treatment effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by alternating between different exposure time settings based on treatment phases. During laser treatment periods, exposure time is shortened to prioritize treatment effectiveness. Between treatment periods, normal exposure settings are restored to maintain image brightness. This periodic switching allows the system to optimize for treatment during active periods and for observation during idle periods.
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope system includes an imaging unit having an image sensor to image a subject, a light source emitting illumination light for illuminating the subject, and a laser treatment instrument which can emit laser light for treating the subject during emission of the illumination light. A control device for the endoscope system includes a determination unit which determines a state of use of the laser treatment instrument, and a brightness adjustment circuit which adjusts at least one of exposure time in imaging by the imaging unit and the amount of emitted light of the light source based on the result of determination by the determination unit.