Endoscope Recognition via Black Pixel Counting for Camera Settings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopic imaging systems require inconvenient and time-consuming manual setting of camera parameters, often involving a trial-and-error process, which does not necessarily result in optimal settings for the procedure being performed.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that automatically recognize the endoscope based on its physical characteristics, such as image size and magnification, to select appropriate camera settings for image processing and display, using a camera control unit that counts black pixels in video frames to determine the type of scope and look up corresponding parameter values from a data structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual setting of camera parameters is used, then flexibility in adjusting settings is maintained, but operation time and convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects endoscope characteristics by analyzing image properties (such as image size, magnification, and black pixel counting) and self-adjusts camera parameters without requiring manual intervention. The camera control unit autonomously selects appropriate settings from stored parameter sets based on the detected endoscope type, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for operator involvement in parameter selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of endoscope characteristics during the imaging process and pre-selects appropriate camera parameters before they are needed for optimal imaging. By analyzing image properties in advance and automatically configuring settings, the system eliminates the need for trial-and-error adjustment during the procedure.
2Productivity
If trial and error process is used for setting camera parameters, then flexibility in finding optimal settings is maintained, but productivity and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors image properties (such as image size, magnification level, and black pixel distribution) and uses this feedback to automatically adjust camera parameters. The camera control unit analyzes the detected characteristics and selects appropriate parameters from stored sets, creating a closed-loop system that ensures reliable and consistent imaging quality without requiring repeated trials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment process with an automated electronic detection and selection system. Instead of manual trial-and-error adjustment, the system uses image analysis algorithms and electronic parameter selection to automatically configure camera settings, thereby improving both productivity and reliability.
3Extent of automation
If automatic recognition based on image characteristics is used, then ease of operation and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera control unit performs multiple functions using a single integrated approach: it detects endoscope characteristics, identifies endoscope type, selects appropriate parameters, and controls camera settings. By combining these functions into one universal system, the patent avoids the need for separate complex subsystems while achieving high automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically changes camera parameters (such as gain, shutter speed, and exposure settings) based on detected endoscope characteristics. By using parameter transformation and selection from predefined sets, the system achieves automation without requiring complex real-time calculations or adjustments, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A control unit is connected to an endoscopic video camera, which is connected to an endoscope. Image data representing an image is received by the control unit from the video camera. Based on a characteristic of the received image which is indicative of a physical characteristic of the endoscope, the endoscope is recognized and/or and the value of a parameter for processing or display of images acquired by the camera is then automatically selected.