Endoscope Data Transfer via Synchronous Serial Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoscope systems face challenges in efficiently transferring diverse data with varying attributes and amounts between the scope unit and the image processing unit in a short time without increasing the number of transmission paths, and they struggle with noise interference during data transfer, especially with the increasing amount of data stored in nonvolatile memory.
Innovation Solution
The endoscope system employs a start-stop synchronous serial communication method synchronized with the image capturing element's clock, using specific packet formats and flags to efficiently transmit and receive data, including specific parameters and real-time information, without requiring additional communication lines, and includes mechanisms for read/write operations to nonvolatile memory to manage data efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If serial communication is made between processors to transfer data from scope to image processing device, then data transfer is achieved, but a considerable amount of time is needed and noise may be introduced to the displayed image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by synchronizing data transfer with the vertical synchronizing signal of the video signal. Data is transferred in periodic intervals during vertical blanking periods when the video signal is not being displayed, thereby avoiding noise introduction while maintaining efficient data transfer through regular, timed communication cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using the vertical synchronizing signal as a reference clock for data transfer timing. This intermediary signal coordinates the communication between scope and image processing device, enabling synchronized data transfer that avoids interfering with the video signal while maintaining efficient communication timing.
2Reliability
If start-stop synchronous communication synchronized with image capturing element clock is used, then noise interference is reduced, but a considerable amount of time is needed to transfer large amount of data stored in nonvolatile memory
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the data transfer into two distinct modes: a first data format for transferring specific parameters (model name, serial number, etc.) and a second data format for real-time operational data. This segmentation allows critical parameters to be transferred efficiently using optimized protocols while maintaining noise-free communication for real-time data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the system to switch between different data transfer modes and formats based on operational requirements. The communication system dynamically adapts its protocol and data format depending on whether transferring setup parameters or real-time operational data, thereby optimizing both speed and reliability for different communication scenarios.
3Adaptability or versatility
If diverse items of data with different attributes and data amounts are transferred, then comprehensive system control is achieved, but the number of transmission paths needs to be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single communication interface that handles multiple data types and formats. The same physical transmission path carries both first format data (specific parameters) and second format data (real-time information) by switching between protocols, thereby achieving multi-functional capability without increasing the number of transmission paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the data format, protocol, and timing parameters of the communication signal based on the type of data being transferred. The system changes its operational parameters to optimize for either parameter transfer or real-time data transfer, enabling diverse data transmission through a single adaptable communication channel.
Data Source
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AI summary
In an endoscope system having a scope unit including image capturing means for observing a subject, and an image processing unit to which at least one scope unit is connectable to be freely attached/detached, the image processing unit includes first data transmission means for transmitting, to the scope unit, a first packet including identification information, and first data reception means for receiving a second packet from the scope unit, and the scope unit includes a nonvolatile memory for storing specific parameters of the scope unit, second data reception means for receiving the first packet from the image processing unit, and second data transmission means for transmitting the second packet to the image processing unit by switching the second packet to a first data format for transferring the specific parameters to the image processing unit or a second data format for transferring realtime information of the scope unit to the image processing unit based on the identification information included in the first packet.