Reconfigurable Signal Processing Unit for Endoscope Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscope systems require multiple image processing circuits for different types of endoscopes, leading to a complex configuration and inefficiency in adapting a single signal processing device to various endoscopes for smooth image display.
Innovation Solution
A signal processing device with a signal processing unit that can rewrite processing contents, multiple configuration memories storing data for various imaging sensors, a configuration controller for reconfiguration, and a priority setting unit to optimize data storage and retrieval, allowing the device to adapt to multiple endoscope types without complex configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple image processing circuits are provided for different types of endoscopes, then each endoscope type can be processed accurately, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single image processing circuit that can be reconfigured to handle multiple endoscope types. The circuit uses configuration data stored in memory to adapt its processing parameters according to the connected endoscope's imaging sensor characteristics, enabling one circuit to perform the functions that would otherwise require multiple dedicated circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The image processing circuit is designed with dynamic reconfiguration capability through FPGA technology. The circuit can change its processing parameters and logic in real-time based on the detected endoscope type, allowing it to transition between different processing modes rather than being fixed for a single endoscope type.
2Device complexity
If a single processing device is adapted to multiple endoscope types, then device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and versatility are challenged
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-stores configuration data for multiple endoscope types in memory before runtime. When an endoscope is connected, the system quickly retrieves the appropriate pre-configured parameters and applies them to the processing circuit, enabling rapid adaptation without complex real-time calculations or manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes an endoscope information detection unit that automatically detects the connected endoscope's imaging sensor type and provides feedback to the control unit. This feedback mechanism enables the system to automatically select and apply the correct configuration data, ensuring compatibility without requiring manual intervention or complex trial-and-error processes.
3Device complexity
If configuration data is stored in the endoscope itself, then the processing device remains simple, but data transmission time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Configuration data is pre-loaded into the processing device's memory during system initialization or setup, rather than being transmitted from the endoscope during operation. This preliminary action eliminates runtime data transmission delays and allows the system to quickly switch between different endoscope configurations by simply retrieving pre-stored data from memory.
Data Source
AI summary
A signal processing device processes a signal sent from an imaging device detachably attached to the signal processing device and includes: a signal processing unit configured to rewrite processing contents in accordance with a configuration; configuration memories having different capabilities and configured to store pieces of configuration data corresponding to contents of image processes that are performed in accordance with imaging sensors held by the imaging devices; a configuration controller configured to perform control to subject the signal processing unit to reconfiguration using the configuration data that depends on the imaging sensor of the imaging device attached to the signal processing device among the configuration data; a priority setting unit configured to set priority for each configuration data based on a predetermined condition; and a rewrite controller configured to rewrite the configuration data in the configuration memories based on the priority set by the priority setting unit.