JP2000267018A - Light source device for endoscope - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [Object] To provide a light source device for an endoscope which can correspond to various endoscopes. An electronic endoscope device includes a light source device (light source device for an endoscope) 1 and an endoscope 2 detachable from the light source device 1.
The light source device 1 includes a light source device main body 10, a first stage signal processing circuit board 3 detachable from the light source device main body 10, and a monitor detachable from the light source device main body 10. The first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 has a board 38 on which the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 and the ROM 12
, A card edge 13, a scope connector 14, and a light guide opening 15. The monitor displays the ID number of the mounted initial signal processing circuit board 3, the model of the corresponding endoscope 2, error information, and the like.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a light source device for an endoscope device (light source device for an endoscope).

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for example, in the medical field, an electronic endoscope apparatus has been used for examination and diagnosis of a digestive tract and the like.

This electronic endoscope apparatus includes a light source device (light source device for an endoscope), and an endoscope (removably mounted (connected) to the light source device) provided with an image pickup device (CCD image sensor). For example, those with different types of image sensors and the number of pixels, those with different imaging methods (for example, monochrome (monochrome) plane sequential imaging method, single color plate imaging method), and signal processing methods. There are various types such as different ones. In use, the endoscope is mounted on a corresponding light source device.

However, as described above, since there are various types of endoscopes, in order to cope with these, a conventional electronic endoscope apparatus uses a plurality of light sources corresponding to the endoscope. Equipment must be prepared.

For example, when using an endoscope of a monochrome plane sequential imaging system, a light source device of a monochrome plane sequential imaging system, that is, a scope connector and a signal processing circuit for the endoscope of a monochrome plane sequential imaging system, It is necessary to prepare a light source device provided with a predetermined mechanism such as an RGB rotation filter necessary for a monochrome plane sequential imaging method, and to attach the endoscope to this light source device.

[0006]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a light source device for an endoscope which can be used for various endoscopes.

[0007]

This and other objects are achieved by the present invention which is defined below as (1) to (15).

(1) A light source device main body provided with control means for controlling the driving of the endoscope light source device, and detachable from the light source device main body, interposed between the light source device main body and the endoscope. An endoscope light source device having a connection unit,
The connection unit includes a connector that is detachably electrically connected to the endoscope, a signal processing circuit that performs predetermined signal processing on a signal input from the connector, and the connection unit is mounted on the light source device body. A connection unit for electrically connecting the circuit on the light source device main body side and the signal processing circuit in a state in which the control unit and the connection unit mounted on the light source device main body are compatible. A light source device for an endoscope, comprising: a suitability discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the information has been obtained; and an information generating means for generating notification information for notifying a result determined by the suitability discriminating means.

(2) The information generating means is configured to, when the compatibility determining means determines that there is an incompatibility, generate information for notifying of the incompatibility. The light source device for an endoscope according to claim 1.

(3) The endoscope light source device according to the above (1) or (2), wherein the notification information is information for displaying, and the display device has a display means for displaying the notification information.

(4) The light source device for an endoscope according to the above (3), wherein the display means is also for displaying an endoscope image.

(5) The notification information is information for display, and has an output unit for outputting the notification information. The notification information is input to the display means via the output unit. The endoscope light source device according to the above (1) or (2), wherein the notification information is displayed by the display means.

(6) The endoscope light source device according to the above (5), wherein the output section has a function of outputting a signal for displaying an endoscope image.

(7) There is provided a compatibility determination means for determining whether or not a connection unit mounted on the light source device body and an endoscope mounted on the connection unit are compatible, and the information generation means Is configured to generate notification information for notifying of the inconsistency when the incompatibility is determined by the compatibility determination unit. Light source device for endoscope.

(8) The connection unit has a memory in which database information on the type of the corresponding endoscope is stored, and the endoscope has a memory in which identification information of the endoscope is stored. And the compatibility determination means reads the database information from the memory of the connection unit, reads the identification information of the endoscope from the memory of the endoscope, and compares the read information, The light source device for an endoscope according to the above (7), wherein if the identification information of the endoscope does not match any of the database information, it is determined to be incompatible.

(9) The light source device for an endoscope according to any one of the above (1) to (8), further comprising detecting means for detecting whether or not the connection unit is mounted.

(10) The light source device for an endoscope according to the above (9), wherein the detecting means detects an electrical connection between the connection unit and the light source device main body.

(11) The endoscope according to the above (9) or (10), wherein the information generation means is configured to generate notification information for notifying a result of the detection by the detection means. Light source device.

(12) The information generation means is configured to generate at least one of identification information of the connection unit for performing notification, database information on a type of the corresponding endoscope, and information on an imaging method. The light source device for an endoscope according to any one of the above (1) to (11).

(13) The connection unit has a memory in which at least one of identification information of the connection unit, database information on a type of the corresponding endoscope, and information on an imaging method is stored. The light source device for an endoscope according to any one of (11).

(14) The endoscope light source device according to the above (13), wherein the information generating means generates notification information for performing notification based on the information read from the memory.

(15) A plurality of the connection units having different contents of the signal processing are prepared, and the light source device main body includes a signal processing circuit for performing a signal processing corresponding to an endoscope connected to the connector. The light source device for an endoscope according to any one of the above (1) to (14), wherein the provided single connection unit is selectively mounted.

[0023]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a light source device for an endoscope according to the present invention will be described in detail based on a preferred embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a light source device for an endoscope (light source device main body and connection unit) according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a light source device for an endoscope according to the present invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the principal part of embodiment, and shows the state in which the endoscope was attached to the light source device for endoscopes.

As shown in these figures and FIG. 7, an electronic endoscope device (endoscope device) 100 includes a light source device (light source device for an endoscope) 1 and an endoscope detachable from the light source device 1. And a mirror (scope) 2. Hereinafter, the light source device 1 may be referred to as a “processor”.

The light source device 1 includes a light source device main body 10 having a light source 57 for supplying illumination light to the endoscope 2, and a first-stage signal processing circuit board that is detachably attached to the light source device main body 10 (a plate-like connection is made as a whole) 2) and a monitor (display means) 51 which is detachably attached to the light source device body 10. The light source device main body 10 includes a keyboard 50 for performing predetermined input and the like.
Are removably electrically connected.

Further, the light source device body 10 is provided with a connector (output unit) 91 electrically connected to a later-stage video signal processing circuit 71 described later.

One end of the connector 91 is connected to the monitor 5.
A connector 92 provided at the other end of the connection cable (not shown) electrically connected to the connector 1 is detachably electrically connected. With this connection, the rear-stage video signal processing circuit 71 of the light source device main body 10 and the monitor 51 are electrically connected,
The display of the endoscope image and the information on the monitor 51 becomes possible.

The information displayed on the monitor 51 is information relating to the state, specifications or various functions of the endoscope apparatus 100.

The information includes, for example, identification information of a first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 to be described later, information on the type (scope type) of the endoscope 2 corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 (corresponding endoscope). 2), information specific to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 and information related thereto, such as information on an imaging system corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3, error notification (warning), and error information. Contents (including how to deal with errors)
And other error information.

The information, that is, a signal for displaying the information on the monitor 51 is generated by an information generating means comprising a system control circuit 56 and a subsequent video signal processing circuit 71 which will be described later. This signal is input from the subsequent video signal processing circuit 71 to the monitor 51 via the connectors 91 and 92 and a connection cable (not shown). Then, the information is displayed on a screen 510 of the monitor 51.

A front panel switch 73 provided with various keys and switches is provided on the front surface of the light source device main body 10 (the front surface in FIG. 1). Connector hole (hole) 5 into which a scope connector (endoscope-side scope connector) 41 described later is inserted.
And a light guide hole (hole) 7 into which a light connector 42 described later of the endoscope 2 is inserted when the endoscope 2 is mounted on the light source device 1. The connector holes 5 and the light guide holes 7 are arranged vertically in FIGS. 1 and 2.

In this light source device 1, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is replaceable so as to be compatible with various endoscopes 2, and the light source device main body 10 has a left side in FIG. A first-stage signal processing circuit replacement door 52 that is opened and closed when the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is replaced (removed) is provided.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 has a board 38, on which a CCD image sensor (imaging element) described later provided in the endoscope 2 is provided.
A circuit that performs predetermined first-stage signal processing on the signal from the signal 68 and a timing control circuit 65 described later on the light source device body 10 side and an image sensor driver circuit 69 described later provided in the endoscope 2 are electrically connected. A first-stage signal processing circuit 11 having a pattern for conducting the timing control circuit 65 and a later-described EEPROM 87 provided in the endoscope 2 and a ROM for storing (recording) predetermined information. A non-volatile memory) 12,
A card edge (connection portion) 13 for electrically connecting the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 to the light source device main body 10 is provided. Note that the card edge 13 is electrically connected to a predetermined circuit of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3.

In the ROM 12, for example, identification information of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 and information on the type (scope type) of the endoscope 2 corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 (type of the corresponding endoscope 2) Database information), information specific to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3, and information related thereto, such as information on an imaging method corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3.

The identification information of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 includes, for example, an ID (Identify) number, a serial number, a version of the ROM 12, and the like.

The information on the imaging system includes, for example, an imaging system (signal processing system) such as a monochrome (monochrome) plane sequential imaging system and a color single-plate imaging system, and the corresponding CCD image sensor 68 of the endoscope 2. The type, the signal output gain of the CCD image sensor 68, the transfer timing of the signal of the CCD image sensor 68, the presence / absence of the RGB rotation filter 63, and the like.

The substrate 38 of the first signal processing circuit board 3
When the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted on the light source device body 10, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is located at a position corresponding to the connector hole 5 and the light guide hole 7 of the light source device body 10. When the endoscope 2 is attached to the light source device 1 when the endoscope 2 is attached to the light source device 1, a column-shaped scope connector (processor-side scope connector) 14 for electrically connecting the endoscope 2 to the endoscope 2. A light guide opening 15 into which the light guide is inserted is provided. In this case, the light guide opening 15 is connected to the scope connector 1.
4 is disposed in the vicinity. When the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted on the light source device main body 10, the outside and the scope connector 14 communicate with each other via the connector hole 5, and
The outside and the light guide opening 15 communicate with each other through the light guide hole 7. Note that the scope connector 14 is electrically connected to a predetermined circuit of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3.

The scope connector 14 is located on the substrate 38 near the first-stage signal processing circuit 11, and the card edge 13 is located on the substrate 38 near the first-stage signal processing circuit 11. ing. Thereby, the pattern for conducting the scope connector 14 and the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 and the length of the conductive line (connection distance) can be shortened, and the card edge 13 and the first-stage signal processing circuit 1 can be shortened.
Length of pattern or conductive line that connects to 1 (connection distance)
Can be shortened, whereby unnecessary radiation and noise described later can be reduced (or prevented).

More specifically, the first stage signal processing circuit board 3 having the first stage signal processing circuit 11 corresponding to the monochrome plane sequential imaging system is configured as shown in FIG.

The scope connector 14 has a plurality of connector pins 21 and a single coaxial connector 20 for video signals provided at the center thereof for transmitting monochrome video signals from the CCD image sensor. The connector pin 21 is provided with a predetermined signal other than the monochrome video signal, for example, an EEPROM 87 of the endoscope 2 such as a model (type) of the endoscope 2 connected to the scope connector 14.
It is used for transmission of signals indicating information read out from the device and various control signals for controlling the driving of the endoscope 2 from the light source device 1.

The ROM 12 stores information indicating that the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 is for the monochrome plane sequential imaging system. FIG. 3 shows an initial signal processing circuit board 3 having an initial signal processing circuit 11 corresponding to the monochrome plane sequential imaging method.

On the other hand, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 having the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 corresponding to the color single-chip imaging system is configured as shown in FIG. 4B.

The scope connector 14 is provided at the center of a plurality of connector pins 21 and has a luminance signal (Y) from the CCD image sensor and two color difference signals (R-R).
Y, BY) for transmitting video signals. The connector pin 21 receives the luminance signal (Y) and two color difference signals (R
-Y, BY), for example, a signal indicating information read from the EEPROM 87 of the endoscope 2, such as the type (type) of the endoscope 2 connected to the scope connector 14, and the like. It is used for transmitting various control signals and the like for controlling the driving of the endoscope 2 from the light source device 1.

The ROM 12 stores information indicating that the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 is for a single-color image pickup system.

The first stage signal processing circuit board 3 having the first stage signal processing circuit 11 corresponding to the monochrome plane sequential imaging system and the first stage signal processing circuit 1 corresponding to the single color single plate imaging system
As shown in FIG. 3, in each of the first-stage signal processing circuit boards 3 having the
A ring-shaped bottomed groove (engaged portion) 25
Are provided along the outer periphery (in the circumferential direction).

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 10, in the light source device body 10, a connector 90 into which the card edge 13 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is inserted (connected), and a card 90 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 are inserted. A pair of board rail guides 4 and 4 having a groove for guiding the edge 13 to the connector 90 are provided.

The connector 90 includes a timing control circuit 65, an image memory 70, a motor control circuit 61, and a system control circuit (control means) 56 which will be described later.
And the like, and are electrically connected to a predetermined circuit of the light source device body 10.

The first signal processing circuit board 3 is moved along the board rail guide 4 and the card edge 13 is connected to the connector 9.
0, the card edge 13 and the connector 90 are electrically connected to each other to electrically connect the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 and the light source device main body 10, and the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is connected to the light source device main body. 10 is mechanically connected.

As shown in FIG. 2, a connector receiver (engaging member) 6 is provided on the back side (inside of the light source device main body 10) of the connector hole 5 of the front panel 1a of the light source device main body 10. .

FIGS. 5 (a), 5 (b) and 5 (c) show a side view, a front view and a rear view of the connector receiver 6, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 5, the connector receiver 6 has a substantially U-shaped connector insertion portion 3 having a space 6a in which the scope connector 14 of the first signal processing circuit board 3 can be inserted.
0, and the inner edge (rib 36) of the space 6a of the connector insertion portion 30 and the outer peripheral portion (groove 25) of the scope connector 14 are attached to and detached from the endoscope 2 (see FIGS. 2 and 5). (B), the horizontal direction) prevents the scope connector 14 from being displaced with respect to the light source device main body 10 in the attaching / detaching direction of the endoscope 2.

That is, the connector receiver 6 includes the first guide piece 32 and the second guide piece 32 provided so as to be parallel to each other.
And a contact portion 3 provided on the right side in FIG. 5A of the first and second guide pieces 32, 33.
7, the connector insertion portion 30 having a substantially U-shape.

FIG. 5 shows the inner edge of the space 6a of the contact portion 37.
(A) The middle right portion has a semicircular shape, and its curvature (the curvature of a portion not including a rib 36 described later) is slightly smaller than the curvature of the outermost maximum portion of the scope connector 14. That is, the inner diameter of the abutting portion 37 (the inner diameter of a portion not including the rib 36 described later) is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the scope connector 14.

The distance between the first guide piece 32 and the second guide piece 33 (the distance between portions not including a rib 36 described later) is slightly larger than the diameter of the scope connector 14.

At the inner edge of the space 6a of the first and second guide pieces 32, 33 and the abutting portion 37, ribs (projections) projecting in a direction perpendicular to the attaching / detaching direction of the endoscope 2 are respectively provided.
36 are formed. The rib 36 is continuously formed (formed in a U-shape) from the tip of the first guide piece 32 to the tip of the second guide piece 33, and is provided with a groove 25 provided in the scope connector 14. And can be engaged.

In the vertical direction in FIG. 5B, in this embodiment, the rib 36 of the connector receiver 6 is
The groove 25 is fitted without play, but there may be a slight play.

In this embodiment, the rib 36 of the connector receiver 6 fits into the groove 25 of the scope connector 14 without play in the horizontal direction in FIG. 5B.
There may be some play.

The first and second guide pieces 32, 3
3 (on the left side in FIG. 5A),
Each has a tapered surface 34 shown in FIG.
That is, the distance between the first guide piece 32 and the second guide piece 33 at the distal end portion (the left end in FIG. 5A) of the first and second guide pieces 32 and 33 is as shown in FIG. ) It gradually increases toward the middle left.

The tapered surface 34 smoothly and reliably inserts the scope connector 14 into the space 6a when the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted on the light source device body 10, that is, inserts the rib 36 into the groove 25. It can be carried out.

The connector receiver 6 is provided with four screw holes 31 for screwing the connector receiver 6 to the light source device main body 10. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the connector receiver 6 is firmly screwed (fixed) inside the light source device body 10 by the screws 35 through these screw holes 31.

As shown in FIG. 2, the endoscope 2 is
0, a flexible (flexible) long endoscope body (not shown), and a connection cable (universal cable) 43 for connecting the connecting portion 40 and the endoscope body.

The connecting portion 40 includes a scope connector (endoscope-side scope connector) 41 for electrical connection with the light source device 1 and a light connector 42 for optical connection with the light source device 1. Are provided.

As shown in FIG. 7, the scope connector 41 is connected to the CCD image sensor (image pickup device) 68 and the image pickup device driver 6 via the connection cable 43 and the like.
9. It is electrically connected to a predetermined circuit of the endoscope 2 such as an EEPROM 87.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, the light connector 42 has one end of a light guide (LCB: light cable bundle) 8 of the endoscope 2 therein. The light guide 8 is formed by bundling a plurality of optical fibers, for example.

As shown in FIG. 7, an illumination system lens 66 and an imaging lens (objective lens) are provided at the distal end of the endoscope main body.
67 and a CCD image sensor (imaging element) 68 are provided. The other end of the light guide 8 is located at the tip of the endoscope body.

Next, an operation (mounting procedure, etc.) when the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 in the electronic endoscope apparatus 100 is attached and detached.
And the operation (mounting procedure and the like) when attaching and detaching the endoscope 2 will be described.

In the electronic endoscope device 100, when the endoscope 2 is mounted (connected) to the light source device 1, one initial stage signal processing circuit board 3 corresponding to the mounted endoscope 2 is selected prior to the mounting. I do.

Then, as shown in FIG. 1, the first signal processing circuit replacement door 52 of the light source device main body 10 is opened, and the selected first signal processing circuit board 3 is inserted into the light source device main body 10 from the card edge 13 side. , Attach (connect).

When the first signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted on the light source device main body 10, the upper end 3a and the lower end 3b of the first signal processing circuit board 3 are engaged with the board rail guide 4 as shown in FIG. The signal processing circuit board 3 is pushed into the light source device body 10 side.

As a result, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3
It moves along the board rail guide 4 in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 1 (right side in FIG. 1). Then, as shown in FIG. 6, the scope connector 14 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is inserted into the space 6a of the connector receiver 6 on the way, and the rib 36 of the connector receiver 6 is inserted into the groove 25 of the scope connector 14. Inserted and engaged.

In this case, the first and second guide pieces 3
Since the tapered surface 34 is formed at the tip of each of the connectors 2 and 33, the scope connector 14 is guided to the space 6a of the connector receiver 6 along the tapered surface 34. That is,
The groove 25 of the scope connector 14 is guided to the rib 36 of the connector receiver 6.

The first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 extends along the board rail guide 4, and the scope connector 14 extends along the first and second guide pieces 32 and 33, respectively, in the direction of the arrow in FIG. (Right side in FIG. 6)
The tip of the card edge 13 is a connector 90 shown in FIG.
At the time of contact, the movement (insertion) is temporarily stopped.

In this state, when a force is further applied to the first signal processing circuit board 3 in the insertion direction, the card edge 13 of the first signal processing circuit board 3 is electrically connected to the connector 90, and FIG. As shown, the scope connector 14 comes into contact with the contact portion 37 of the connector receiver 6, and the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is positioned with respect to the light source device main body 10. That is, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted on the light source device main body 10.

When the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted on the light source device body 10, the ribs 3 of the connector receiver 6
6 is formed in the groove 2 over substantially half the circumference of the scope connector 14.
5 is engaged. After this, the first stage signal processing circuit replacement door 52
Close.

As described above, when the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is guided to the mounting position by the first and second guide pieces 32 and 33 in addition to the board rail guide 4. Therefore, mounting can be performed more smoothly and reliably.

When removing the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 from the light source device body 10, the first-stage signal processing circuit replacement door 52 is opened, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is pulled out of the light source device body 10, and the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is removed. The circuit replacement door 52 is closed.

The power switch (main switch) is turned off when the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted and when the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is removed.

Next, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3
When the endoscope 2 is mounted (connected) to the light source device 1 on which is mounted, as shown in FIG. 2, the connecting portion 40 of the endoscope 2 corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is sandwiched. The scope connector 41 is inserted into the connector hole 5 of the light source device main body 10, and the light connector 42 is inserted into the light guide hole 7, so that the connecting portion 40 is moved in the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. ).

As a result, the scope connector 41 and the light connector 42 move in the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. 2, the scope connector 41 and the scope connector 14 are connected, and the electrical connection between the light source device 1 and the endoscope 2 is established. And mechanical connection. Further, the light connector 42 passes through the light guide opening 15 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3,
The distal end (the left end in FIG. 2) of the light connector 42 is located at a predetermined position in the light source device main body 10, whereby
The illumination light formed in the light source device main body 10 can be guided to the distal end of the endoscope 2 via the light guide 8. That is, the light source device 1 and the endoscope 2 are optically connected.

When the endoscope 2 is to be removed from the light source device 1, the connecting portion 40 of the endoscope 2 is sandwiched, and the connecting portion 40 is pulled out in the direction of arrow B shown in FIG.

As a result, the connection between the scope connector 14 and the scope connector 41 is disconnected, and the scope connector 4 is disconnected.
1 is withdrawn from the connector hole 5 and the light connector 42 is withdrawn from the light guide hole 7.

As described above, this electronic endoscope device 10
2, the groove 25 of the scope connector 14 mounted on the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is inserted into the rib 3 of the connector receiver 6 fixedly installed on the light source device body 10, as shown in FIG.
6 is engaged. For this reason, when attaching and detaching the endoscope 2,
Even if a force or impact is applied from the scope connector 41 to the scope connector 14 in the direction of the arrow A or the direction of the arrow B (the direction of attaching and detaching the endoscope 2), the connector receiver 6
The scope connector 14 is displaced with respect to the light source device main body 10 in the direction of arrow A or the direction of arrow B (change in posture, movement, etc.).
And the first signal processing circuit board 3
Is maintained stably (deformation such as warpage or bending of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 can be prevented).

That is, since the scope connector 14 is directly supported by the connector receiver 6 with respect to the light source device main body 10, when the endoscope 2 is attached or detached, a force or impact applied to the scope connector 14 from the scope connector 41 is reduced. It is not transmitted to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3, and therefore,
The first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is deformed due to attachment / detachment of the endoscope 2, and the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is damaged,
It is possible to prevent inconveniences such as peeling and poor contact between the card edge 13 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 and the connector 90 of the light source device main body 10.

In particular, as shown in FIG. 6, when the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted on the light source device main body 10, the ribs 36 of the connector receiver 6 have the grooves 25 extending over substantially half the circumference of the scope connector 14. Because it engages with
The scope connector 14 is supported by the connector receiver 6, so that the scope connector 1 can be more reliably secured.
4 can be prevented from displacing the endoscope 2 in the attaching / detaching direction.

Next, the operation of the electronic endoscope device 100 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the electronic endoscope apparatus 100. Note that the first-stage signal processing circuit replacement door 52 in FIG. 7 is conceptually described, and thus does not have the same position as in FIG.

As shown in the figure, the electronic endoscope 100
The light source device main body 10 is electrically connected to a keyboard 50 for performing a predetermined input and a monitor (display means) 51 for displaying an image (electronic image) or the like of an observation region. Then, the electronic endoscope device 100
Comprises a first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 corresponding to the above-described monochrome plane sequential imaging method and a first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 corresponding to the color single-chip imaging method. By being mounted on the light source device main body 10, it is possible to cope with both the monochrome plane sequential imaging method and the color single plate imaging method.

As shown in FIG. 7, the light source device main body 10
A system control circuit (control means) 56 having a built-in rewritable nonvolatile memory 561 is provided.

The system control circuit 56 usually has
It is configured by a microcomputer (CPU) and controls the entire electronic endoscope device 100.

The system control circuit 56, based on the information (data) stored in the ROM 12 of the first stage signal processing circuit board 3, and the light source device main body 10 (system control circuit 56)
First compatibility determination means for determining whether or not the first stage signal processing circuit board 3 mounted on the light source device 3 is compatible;
The main function of the second compatibility determination means for determining whether or not the first stage signal processing circuit board 3 mounted on the first stage and the endoscope 2 mounted on the first stage signal processing circuit board 3 are compatible is achieved. You.

The memory 561 is constituted by, for example, a RAM backed up by a battery (not shown).

The memory 561 has a light source device main body 1 in it.
ID of the corresponding first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 as identification information of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 corresponding to (adapted to) 0 (system control circuit 56) (database information on the type of the corresponding first-stage signal processing circuit board 3) Number database information is stored in advance.

As shown in FIG. 7, the endoscope 2 has information (endoscope, etc.) on the type (type) of the endoscope 2 and the type (monochrome, color, etc.) of the CCD image sensor (image pickup device) 68. An EEPROM (rewritable nonvolatile memory) 87 in which information unique to the endoscope 2 such as identification information of the endoscope 2 is stored. The endoscope 2 is configured to be able to output the information (signal) to the light source device 1 (light source device main body 10) via the connector pin 21 of the scope connector 14 connected to the scope connector 41. .

On the other hand, in the light source device 1, the signal input from the endoscope 2 via the connector pin 21 is transmitted to the connector pin 21 of the scope connector 14, the connector pin 21 in the first-stage signal processing circuit 11, and the card. Edge 13
Are connected to the system control circuit 56 via a pattern (conduction pattern) for conducting the signal, the card edge 13, and the connector 90. In this case, since the signal input from the endoscope 2 via the connector pin 21 has no direct relation to the video signal,
The signal is not subjected to signal processing by the first-stage signal processing circuit 11.

That is, the signal input from the endoscope 2 through the connector pin 21 passes through the conduction pattern (substantially passes through the first-stage signal processing circuit 11), and passes through the card edge 13 and the connector 90. The data is input to the system control circuit 56 via

The system control circuit 56 includes a connector connecting portion (the scope connector 41 on the endoscope 2 side, the scope connector 14 on the light source device 1 side, and the card edge 13).
EEPRO of the endoscope 2 via the connector pin 21 and the conduction pattern of the connector pin 21 and the card edge 13.
The information can be read from the EEPROM 87 of the endoscope 2 connected to the scope connector 14 as necessary, and the type (type) of the connected endoscope 2 and the CCD image sensor 68 can be communicated with the M87. And the drive method can be grasped.

One of the plurality of connector pins 21 of the scope connector 14 (detection connector pin 2
1) is connected to one terminal of the card edge 13 by a conduction pattern, and is connected to the connector 9 of the light source device body 10.
The pin receiving portion corresponding to this terminal at 0 is pulled up by applying a predetermined voltage through a pull-up resistor (not shown). The system control circuit 56 is electrically connected to the pin receiving portion, and a voltage level of the pin receiving portion, that is,
Detecting the voltage level of the connector pin 21 for detection,
Thereby, it is determined whether or not the endoscope 2 is attached.

When the endoscope 2 is not mounted on the light source device 1 (when it is not mounted), the voltage level of the connector pin 21 for detection becomes high level (H), and the endoscope 2 is turned on. When the connector pin 21 is attached (when attached), the voltage level of the connector pin 21 for detection becomes a low level (L).

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 10, the light source device main body 10 has a board detector (detection means) 55 for detecting whether or not the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted.

This board detector 55 has one end connected to the connector 9.
0, and a pull-up resistor 551 to which the voltage V is applied at the other end.
1 is a detector that detects the potential (voltage) at one end.

The first signal processing circuit board 3 is the light source device body 1
When the board detection signal is not mounted at 0 (when not mounted), the level (voltage level) of the board detection signal input from the board detector 55 to the system control circuit (control means) 56 becomes high level (H), When the signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted on the light source device main body 10 (during mounting), the level of the board detection signal becomes low level (L). The system control circuit 56 determines whether or not the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted on the light source device body 10 based on the board detection signal.

The first stage signal processing circuit board 3 is
0, and when a power switch (main switch) (not shown) of the front panel switch 73 is turned on, the system control circuit 56 causes the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3
Of the information stored in the ROM 12 is read out.

The system control circuit 56 uses the R
The information read from the OM 12 is stored in the memory 561.

In this case, if the information is already stored in the memory 561, the information recorded in the memory 561 is compared with the information read from the ROM 12, and if the information is the same, the information is stored in the memory 561. The information recorded in the memory 561 is rewritten with the information read from the ROM 12 when the information is different.

When the first signal processing circuit board 3 is replaced with another board, the information recorded in the memory 561 and the information read from the ROM 12 are different.

First, the operation when the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 having the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 compatible with the single-color image pickup system is mounted will be described with reference to FIG.

The system control circuit 56 reads out information on the image pickup system from the memory 561, and grasps the image pickup system and the like corresponding to the mounted first stage signal processing circuit board 3 based on the information.

In this case, since the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 corresponding to the color single-chip imaging method is mounted, the system control circuit 56 recognizes the imaging method as “color single-chip imaging method”, and Make settings for the imaging method.

As one of the settings, the system control circuit 56 controls the drive of the filter moving mechanism 72 so that the motor 62 and the RGB rotary filter 63 are condensed from the aperture 60 to one end of the light guide 8 (light). Luminous flux)
Is retracted to a predetermined position separated from the optical path.

The system control circuit 56 drives the light source 57 that emits white light to emit light, and also drives the motor 59 via the motor control circuit 58 to rotate the motor 59 so that the aperture of the diaphragm 60 has an appropriate aperture (aperture value). Adjust to Light source 57
For example, a halogen lamp or the like can be used.

The light emitted from the light source 57 is
The light is condensed at 4 and irradiates one end of the light guide 8 of the light connector 42 via the stop 60.

The light applied to one end of the light guide 8 is guided to the other end by the light guide 8 and is applied from the other end to a predetermined portion of the subject via the illumination system lens 66.

In this case, the light emitted from the other end of the light guide 8 is adjusted by the illumination system lens 66 so as to be irradiated to a predetermined irradiation range, and is thereby adjusted to an area including the imaging range (observation site). Irradiated.

The reflected light from the imaging range irradiated by the irradiation light is guided by the imaging lens 67 so as to form an image on the light receiving surface of the CCD image sensor 68 provided with a predetermined color filter. The image (subject image)
An image is taken by the CCD image sensor 68.

The CCD image sensor 68 is driven and controlled by an image sensor driver circuit 69 which is driven based on an image sensor drive signal from a timing control circuit 65, picks up an image at a predetermined timing, and outputs a luminance signal (Y) and a luminance signal (Y). And two color difference signals (RY, BY).

The luminance signal (Y) and each of the color difference signals (RY, BY) from the CCD image sensor 68 are supplied to the signal line (CCD cable) and the scope connector 41, respectively.
And 14 to the first-stage signal processing circuit 11.

The first-stage signal processing circuit 11 corresponding to the color single-chip imaging system has a configuration shown in FIG. 8, and includes a luminance signal (Y) and a color difference signal (R) from the CCD image sensor 68.
−Y) and the color difference signal (B−Y) are amplified at predetermined gains by the preamplifiers 75a, 75b and 75c for each signal, and the video filters 76a,
Filtering processing is performed by 76b and 76c, and input to the matrix circuit 77.

The matrix circuit 77 converts each signal supplied as a composite video signal into R (red), G (green),
It is converted to a B (blue) component video signal and output.

The R signal, G signal and B signal from the matrix circuit 77 are respectively supplied to an amplifier 78R for each signal,
The signals are amplified with predetermined gains by 78G and 78B, corrected by gamma correction circuits 79R, 79G and 79B for each signal, and input to the A / D converter 80.

The A / D converter 80 converts the R, G, and B signals supplied in the form of analog signals into digital signal forms, respectively, and converts them into the timing control circuit 65 shown in FIG. Output to

The timing control circuit 65 once writes the R signal, the G signal, and the B signal into an image memory 70 composed of an R signal memory, a G signal memory, and a B signal memory, respectively, and writes these in a predetermined manner. It is read out at the timing and output to the subsequent video signal processing circuit 71.

The subsequent-stage video signal processing circuit 71 converts the R, G, and B signals supplied in digital signal form into analog signal forms by a built-in D / A converter (not shown). Further, by subjecting them to a predetermined video process, a television signal in a predetermined form is generated and output to the monitor 51 via the connector 91.

On the monitor 51, a color image (electronic image) picked up by the CCD image sensor 68, that is, an endoscope image of a color moving image is displayed.

Note that the latter-stage video signal processing circuit 71 has a function of adjusting the color balance (mainly R and B). This color balance can be set to a desired value by operating the color balance adjustment switch of the front panel switch 73.

As described above, the information generating means composed of the subsequent video signal processing circuit 71 and the system control circuit 56 generates a signal for displaying predetermined information on the monitor 51 as an electronic image. , Connector 9
1, the monitor 51 displays predetermined information (for example, characters input from the keyboard 50, information stored in the ROM 12 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3, (Information information such as error information) is displayed. The display of this information will be described later in detail.

The R signal, G signal and B signal of the same image written in the image memory 70 are respectively
The endoscope image displayed on the monitor 51 can be made a still image by repeatedly reading and outputting it to the subsequent video signal processing circuit 71.

Next, an operation when the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 having the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 corresponding to the monochrome plane sequential imaging system is mounted will be described with reference to FIG.

The system control circuit 56 reads out information on the image pickup system from the memory 561, and grasps the image pickup system and the like corresponding to the mounted first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 based on the information.

In this case, since the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 corresponding to the monochrome surface sequential imaging method is mounted, the system control circuit 56 recognizes the imaging method as “monochrome surface sequential imaging method”, and Make settings for the imaging method.

As one of the settings, the system control circuit 56 controls the drive of the filter moving mechanism 72 to move the motor 62 and the RGB rotary filter 63 to the positions shown in FIG. Is moved to a position where the RGB rotary filter 63 is located on the optical path of the light (light flux) condensed on the optical path.

The system control circuit 56 drives the light source 57 that emits white light to emit light, and also drives the motor 59 via the motor control circuit 58 to rotate the motor 59 so that the aperture of the diaphragm 60 has an appropriate aperture (aperture value). Adjust to

The light emitted from the light source 57 is
4, the stop 60 and the RGB rotation filter 63
Irradiates one end of the light guide 8 of the light connector 42 through the light emitting device.

On the other hand, a timing pulse having a predetermined frequency is input from the timing control circuit 65 to the motor control circuit 61. The motor control circuit 61 rotationally drives the motor 62 provided with the RGB rotation filter 63 on the rotation axis at the timing of the timing pulse. For example, if the frequency of the timing pulse is 30 Hz,
The motor control circuit 61 causes the motor 62, that is, the RGB rotation filter 63 to rotate 30 times per second.

The entire filter area of the RGB rotary filter 63 is equally divided into three fan-shaped areas by three straight lines extending radially from the center. Each of the filter regions has an R (red) color filter that transmits only red light, a G (green) color filter that transmits only green light, and a B (blue) that transmits only blue light. A color filter is provided.

Accordingly, when the motor 62 is driven to rotate based on the timing pulse, the white light from the aperture stop 60 is sequentially converted into red light, green light and green light by the RGB rotation filter 63 at the frequency of the timing pulse. The light is converted into blue light and is emitted to one end of the light guide 8. For example, when the frequency of the timing pulse is 30 Hz, one end of the light guide 8 is irradiated with red light, green light and blue light 30 times per second.

The light radiated to one end of the light guide 8 is guided to the other end by the light guide 8, and is radiated from the other end to a predetermined portion of the subject through the illumination lens 66.

In this case, the light emitted from the other end of the light guide 8 is adjusted by the illumination system lens 66 so as to be irradiated to a predetermined irradiation range. Irradiated.

The reflected light from the imaging range irradiated by the irradiation light is guided by the imaging lens 67 so as to form an image on the light receiving surface of the CCD image sensor 68 having no color filter. (Subject image)
An image is taken by the CCD image sensor 68.

The CCD image sensor 68 is driven and controlled by an image sensor driver circuit 69 driven based on an image sensor drive signal from the timing control circuit 65, and captures an image at a predetermined timing to generate a monochrome video signal.

This image pickup is performed when each of the red light, the green light and the blue light is irradiated, and a monochrome video signal (R signal) corresponding to the red light and a monochrome video signal (G signal) corresponding to the green light are emitted. ) And a monochrome video signal (B signal) corresponding to blue light are sequentially generated. For example, when the frequency of the timing pulse is 30 Hz, imaging is performed 90 times per second.

A monochrome video signal from the CCD image sensor 68 is input to the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 via a signal line (CCD cable) and scope connectors 41 and 14.

The first-stage signal processing circuit 11 corresponding to the monochrome plane sequential imaging system has the configuration shown in FIG.
The monochrome video signal from the D image sensor 68 is amplified by a preamplifier 81 with a predetermined gain, filtered by a video filter 82, and input to a sample and hold circuit (S / H circuit) 83.

The sample-and-hold circuit 83 samples the monochrome video signal based on the so-called correlated double sampling method, thereby removing the noise component from the monochrome video signal and outputting the signal.

The monochrome video signal from the sample and hold circuit 83 is amplified by the amplifier 84 with a predetermined gain.
The A / D converter 86 corrects by the gamma correction circuit 85
Is input to

The A / D converter 86 converts a monochrome video signal supplied in an analog signal form into a digital signal form, and outputs this to a timing control circuit 65 shown in FIG.

The timing control circuit 65 sequentially outputs a monochrome video signal (R signal) corresponding to red light, a monochrome video signal (G signal) corresponding to green light, and a monochrome video signal (B signal) corresponding to blue light. , An R signal memory, a G signal memory, and a B signal memory, which are once written, read out at a predetermined timing, and output to the subsequent video signal processing circuit 71.

The subsequent-stage video signal processing circuit 71 converts the R, G, and B signals supplied in digital signal form into analog signal forms by a built-in D / A converter (not shown). Further, by subjecting them to a predetermined video process, a television signal in a predetermined form is generated and output to the monitor 51 via the connector 91.

On the monitor 51, a color image (electronic image) captured by the CCD image sensor 68, that is, an endoscope image of a color moving image is displayed.

The endoscope image displayed on the monitor 51 can be a still image, as in the case where the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 corresponding to the color single-chip imaging method is mounted. Also, predetermined information is displayed on the monitor 51 as necessary.

Next, the operation of the light source device 1 when displaying information on the monitor 51 will be described. 11, 12, and 1
3, FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are flowcharts showing the control operation of the system control circuit 56. Hereinafter, description will be made based on this flowchart.

When the power switch is turned on, the flowchart (program) shown in FIG. 11 starts, and proceeds to step S101.

First, the level of the board detection signal from the board detector 55 (the logic level of the detection port of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3) is detected (step S101).

Next, it is determined whether or not the level of the substrate detection signal is low (L) (step S102).
If it is determined to be at the high level (H), it means that the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is not mounted, so that an error display (display of error information) is performed (step S103).

In this step S103, as shown in FIG. 16, on the screen 510 of the monitor 51, "[Warning] The first stage signal processing circuit board is not mounted!" Please attach the signal processing circuit board. "

With this display, the operator can quickly and surely deal with the error.

If it is determined in step S103 that the level of the board detection signal is low (L), that is, if the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is mounted, the startup processing when mounting the board is performed. Perform (Step S
104). The startup process (subroutine) at the time of mounting the substrate in step S104 will be described later.

Next, the system is initialized (step S105). In step S105, for example, processing such as restoring the set value of each function at the time of the previous activation (at the time of the previous power-on) is performed.

Next, the processing shifts to the main processing, and the loop of the main processing is repeatedly executed until a predetermined end condition is satisfied.

In the main processing, for example, the routine of turning on the light source 57, the routine processing for each function (for example, counting of a timer not shown), and the interruption processing (for example, key input) are executed.

Next, the start-up process (subroutine) at the time of mounting the substrate in step S104 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 12, first, a process of reading data in the ROM 12 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is performed (step S201).

As shown in FIG. 13, in the process of reading data in the ROM 12 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3,
First, an error flag (Err) is initialized (Err =
0) (Step S301).

Next, variables A1 and A2 are stored in a memory (RAM) 561 built in the system control circuit 56.
The memory allocation of B1 (i) and C1 (i) is performed (step S302). Note that B1 (i) and C1
(I) is an array variable, and i is a natural number.

Next, the ID number of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is read from the ROM 12, and the ID number is stored in the variable A1.
(Step S303).

The data corresponding to the variable A1 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 mounted at the time of the previous activation is stored in the memory 561 as a variable A0.

Next, based on the ID number of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 read from the ROM 12, it is determined whether or not the mounted first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is compatible with the light source device main body 10 (system control circuit 56). Is determined (step S304).

In step S304, the ID number in the database of the ID number of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 corresponding to (suitable for) the light source device main body 10 stored in the memory 561 of the system control circuit 56 in advance,
First stage signal processing circuit board 3 read from ROM 12
And if the ID number of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 read from the ROM 12 matches one of the ID numbers in the database (if the corresponding ID number exists in the database). Recognizes that the mounted first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 can be used for the light source device main body 10 and determines that it is “compatible”, and the ID number of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 read from the ROM 12 is If the ID number does not match any of the ID numbers (there is no corresponding ID number in the database), the attached first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is recognized as being unusable for the light source device main body 10 and “ Non-conforming (abnormal) ".

If it is determined in step S304 that the data is incompatible (abnormal), an error flag (Err) is set (Err = 1) (step S305). That is,
There is an error.

If it is determined in step S304 that the data is compatible (in this case, there is no error and Err
= 0) or after step S305, the process returns to step S202 of the flowchart shown in FIG.

Next, whether there is an error, that is,
It is determined whether Err = 1 (step S202).

If it is determined in step S202 that there is an error, an error is displayed (step S203).

In this step S203, as shown in FIG. 17, the screen 510 of the monitor 51 displays "The mounted initial signal processing circuit board cannot be used for this processor." Please install the first stage signal processing circuit board suitable for this processor. "

With this display, the operator can quickly and surely deal with the error.

If it is determined in step S202 that there is no error, the database of the model (scope model) of the endoscope 2 corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is read from the ROM 12, and the database is stored in the variable B1. (I) is stored (step S204).

Next, an individual database relating to the imaging method corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is read from the ROM 12, and the individual database is stored as a variable C1 (i) (step S205).

The variables B1 (i) and C1 of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 mounted at the time of the previous activation
Data corresponding to (i) is stored in the memory 561 as variables B0 (i) and C0 (i), respectively.

Next, the data in the memory 561 (on the system control circuit 56 side) and the data in the ROM 12 (on the first stage signal processing circuit board 3 side) are compared and updated (step S206).

As shown in FIG. 14, this memory 561
(System control circuit 56 side) Data and ROM
In the data comparison / update processing of the data 12 (the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 side), first, an update flag (N) is initialized (N
= 0) (step S401).

Next, it is determined whether or not A0 = A1, that is, the ID number of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 mounted at the time of the previous activation and the currently mounted first-stage signal processing circuit board 3
(Step S)
402).

In step S402, A0 = A1
If it is determined that the ID number of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 mounted at the time of the previous startup does not match the ID number of the currently mounted first-stage signal processing circuit board 3, Rewrites the data of A0, B0 (i) and C0 (i) to the data of A1, B1 (i) and C1 (i), respectively (step S40)
3).

By this step S403, the ID number of the currently mounted initial signal processing circuit board 3 is set to the variable A
0, the database of the type (scope type) of the endoscope 2 corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is a variable B0
(I), an individual database relating to the imaging method corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is defined as a variable C0 (i),
Each is stored. Next, an update flag (N) is set (N = 1) (step S404).

After step S404 or when it is determined in step S402 that A0 = A1, the process returns to step S207 in the flowchart shown in FIG.

Next, it is determined whether or not the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is new, that is, whether or not N = 1 (step S).
207).

If it is determined in step S207 that the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is not new,
The process returns to step S105 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 and executes steps from step S105 as described above.

If it is determined in step S207 that the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is new,
The specification data of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 is displayed (step S208).

As shown in FIG. 15, in the specification data display of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3, the data of A1, B1 (i) and C1 (i) are read from the memory 561, and the first-stage signal ID of processing circuit board 3
Number, corresponding scope model (scope model name) and individual data related to imaging system (imaging system individual data)
Are displayed (step S501).

In step S501, as shown in FIG. 19, the model name (ID number), serial number, ROM version, and support scope list (table indicating the corresponding scope model) are displayed on the screen 510 of the monitor 51, respectively. indicate.

In the example shown in FIG. 19, the model name: FSP
-A-01, Serial number: 0001, ROM version: 2.11, List of supported scopes: EB-190
0, EC-3830 and the like are displayed.

The meaning of "FSP-A-01" in the model name is as follows. "FSP" is First Signal Pro
Indicates the initial of cessing.

“A” indicates an image pickup method. in this case,
“A” indicates a monochrome plane sequential imaging method, and “B” indicates a color single-chip imaging method.

"01" indicates the model number of each imaging system. This model number increases by one each time a new product is added.

By this display, the operator can input the first-stage signal processing circuit board such as the type of the mounted first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 and the type (type) of the endoscope 2 corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3. It is possible to easily and surely grasp the specifications of the endoscope 3, whereby, for example, before mounting the endoscope 2, it can be determined whether or not the endoscope 2 to be mounted is compatible. Thereby, the mounting of the endoscope 2 that is not suitable can be prevented.

After step S501, the process returns to step S209 in the flowchart shown in FIG. Next, the update flag (N) is initialized (N = 0) (step S2).
09).

Next, it is determined whether or not the endoscope 2 is mounted on the light source device 1 (processor) (step S2).
10).

In step S210, the voltage level of the connector pin 21 for detection is detected, and the voltage level of the connector pin 21 for detection is set to the high level (H).
In this case, it is determined that the endoscope 2 is not mounted, and when the voltage level of the connector pin 21 for detection is low (L), it is determined that the endoscope 2 is mounted.

In step S210, the light source device 1
If it is determined that the endoscope 2 is not attached to the camera, the process returns to step S105 of the flowchart shown in FIG.
Step S105 and subsequent steps are executed as described above.

When it is determined in step S210 that the endoscope 2 is mounted on the light source device 1, the scope type database B1 (i) is checked against the scope type database B1 (i). A model (scope model name) is searched (step S211).

That is, in this step S211, the scope type of the endoscope 2 is read out from the EEPROM 87 of the endoscope 2 attached, and the scope type is compared with the scope type database B1 (i).

Next, the scope type database B1
(I) whether or not the attached endoscope 2 has a scope model (scope model name), that is, whether or not the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 and the attached endoscope 2 are compatible. Is determined (step S212).

In step S212, there is no scope model of the attached endoscope 2 in the scope model database B1 (i) (the attached endoscope 2 has a scope model database B1 ( i)
If the first type signal processing circuit board 3 and the attached endoscope 2 do not match, an error is displayed (step S213).

In this step S213, as shown in FIG. 18, the screen 510 of the monitor 51 indicates that "the mounted initial stage signal processing circuit board does not support this scope." Please use the board. "And" Please contact our service center for the support correspondence table. "And display the support scope list (for example, EB
-1900, EC-3830, etc.).

With this display, the operator can quickly and surely deal with the error. Also,
The type of the endoscope 2 corresponding to the mounted first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 can be easily and reliably grasped.

In step S212, the scope model database B1 (i) includes the scope model of the attached endoscope 2 (the scope model of the attached endoscope 2 is the database of the scope model). B1
If it is determined that the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 and the attached endoscope 2 are compatible with each other (i.e., one of the scope models in (i)), the flowchart shown in FIG. Returning to step S105, steps S105 and subsequent steps are executed as described above. When the main processing described above ends, this program ends.

As described above, according to the light source device 1, the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 can be replaced (the plurality of types of first-stage signal processing circuit boards 3 can be selectively mounted. The single light source device body 10 (without replacing the entire light source device) can support both the color single plate imaging method and the monochrome plane sequential imaging method.

In the case where the standard, specification, design, etc. are changed in the future, for example, when the number of pixels of the CCD image sensor 68 is changed, or when the signal processing method is changed (for example, monochrome plane sequential) The sample-and-hold circuit 83 of the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 corresponding to the imaging method is the light source device 1
(When moving from the side to the endoscope 2 side), it is possible to deal with them by changing only the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 without changing the light source device main body 10.

That is, a single light source device main body 10 having a different length of the connection cable 43 of the endoscope 2, a different type or number of pixels of the CCD image sensor 68, or a different imaging system ( For example, various endoscopes 2 such as a monochrome plane sequential imaging method, a color single-chip imaging method, and a signal processing method different from each other can be used.

Further, in the electronic endoscope apparatus 100, since the circuits and mechanisms (parts) are shared as much as possible, the configuration can be simplified and the apparatus is advantageous for miniaturization of the apparatus. .

In the light source device 1, the monitor 5
1, the type of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 mounted thereon, the specifications of the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 such as the type of the endoscope 2 corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3, and error information are displayed. Therefore, such information can be obtained easily and reliably.

For example, by displaying a list of the type of the endoscope 2 corresponding to the mounted first-stage signal processing circuit board 3, the operator can set the endoscope to be mounted before mounting the endoscope 2. It is possible to determine whether or not the endoscope 2 is compatible, whereby it is possible to prevent the endoscope 2 that is not compatible from being mounted.

Further, by displaying the error information, the operator can easily and surely grasp the occurrence of the error and the details of the error (the cause of the error, the method of coping with the error, and the like). Errors can be dealt with promptly and reliably.

In this light source device 1, the scope connector 14 is mounted on the substrate 38 on which the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 is provided.
Is mounted, the distance between the scope connector 14 and the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 can be made relatively short,
The length of the pattern and the length of the conductive wire that conducts the scope connector 14 and the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 can be made relatively short, whereby unnecessary radiation (emission of unnecessary electromagnetic waves) can be reduced (or prevented). it can. In particular, by bringing the scope connector 14 and the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 as close to each other as possible, the length of the conductive pattern or the conductive line can be minimized, thereby obtaining a higher effect. Also, when unnecessary radiation occurs from another device,
The light source device 1 can be prevented from being affected by the unnecessary radiation.

In this light source device 1, the scope connector 14 is mounted on the substrate 38 on which the first-stage signal processing circuit 11 is provided.
Is mounted, the structure is simpler than a connection unit in which the first-stage signal processing circuit and the scope connector are provided on separate boards, and these are electrically connected by a connection cable such as a conductive wire. The size can be reduced, the number of parts is small, and the manufacturing is easy.

In the light source device 1, the setting corresponding to the first-stage signal processing circuit board 3 mounted on the light source device main body 10 is automatically performed, so that the setting is easier than in the case where the operation is performed manually. It can be performed reliably.

Although the light source device for an endoscope of the present invention has been described based on the illustrated embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration of each part may be any having the same function. Can be replaced with the one having the configuration of

In the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the medical endoscope apparatus as in the above embodiment, and may be applied to, for example, an industrial endoscope apparatus.

In the present invention, the display of information is not limited to the display of an electronic image on a monitor such as a liquid crystal monitor or a CRT, but may be, for example, a display of 7 segments or a light emission display of a lamp or the like.

Further, in the present invention, notification by sound (for example, a buzzer) may be performed instead of or in addition to the display.

In the present invention, the display means may be provided on the light source device main body. Further, in the present invention, the display means may be omitted.

In the present invention, for example, the second compatibility determining means determines whether the type of the endoscope to be mounted is the keyboard 50 or not.
Before the endoscope is mounted on the connection unit (before the endoscope is electrically connected to the connector of the connection unit), the type of the endoscope to be mounted which has been input. And a model of the endoscope corresponding to the connection unit, and may be configured to determine whether the connection unit and the endoscope to be mounted are compatible.

Further, in the present invention, the first-stage signal processing circuit board (connection unit) mounted on the light source device main body is adapted to the imaging system (single color plate imaging system or monochrome plane sequential imaging system) as in the above embodiment. It is not limited to the corresponding first-stage signal processing circuit board.

In the above embodiment, the diameter and shape of the scope connector 14 are the same, but in the present invention, the diameter and shape of the scope connector 14 may be different.

Further, in the above embodiment, the shape of the scope connector 14 is cylindrical, but in the present invention, the shape of the scope connector 14 is not limited to this. You may.

In the above embodiment, the endoscope 2 mounted on the light source device 1 is an electronic endoscope (video scope), but in the present invention, the endoscope 2 mounted on the light source device 1 is used.
May be a fiber endoscope (fiberscope), or may be configured such that an electronic endoscope and a fiber endoscope can be mounted on the light source device 1 respectively.

In the present invention, some or all of the settings may be configured to be performed manually.

[0225]

As described above, according to the light source device for an endoscope of the present invention, the connection unit can be replaced, so that various endoscope light sources can be replaced without replacing the entire light source device for the endoscope. Compatible with endoscopes. That is, a single light source device body, for example, having a different type or number of pixels of an image sensor (CCD image sensor), a different imaging system (for example, a monochrome plane sequential imaging system, a color single-chip imaging system), Various endoscopes such as those having different processing methods can be used. In this case, it is possible to easily cope with changes in standards, specifications, designs, and the like in the future as well as existing endoscopes.

In the present invention, since there is provided information generating means for generating information for notifying whether or not the control means of the light source device main body and the connection unit attached to the light source device main body are compatible. It is possible to easily and reliably obtain information on whether the connection unit is compatible or not.

In particular, the notification information is information for display, and a display unit for displaying the notification information is provided, or an output unit for outputting the notification information is provided. The notification information is input to the display means via
When the notification information is displayed by the display means, it is possible to more easily and reliably obtain information on whether the connection unit is compatible or not.

Thus, when the connection unit is incompatible, the operator can quickly and surely deal with the error.

In the case where the signal processing circuit and the connector are provided on the same substrate, the distance between the connector and the signal processing circuit can be made relatively short, and the pattern for conducting the connector and the signal processing circuit can be reduced. The length of the conductive wire can be made relatively short, so that unnecessary radiation (emission of unnecessary electromagnetic waves) can be reduced (or prevented).

In the case where the signal processing circuit and the connector are provided on the same substrate, the signal processing circuit and the connector are provided on separate substrates, and these are electrically connected by a connection cable such as a conductive wire. Compared with the connection unit, the structure is simple, the size can be reduced, the number of parts is small, and the manufacture is easy.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of an endoscope light source device (light source device main body and connection unit) of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part (a state in which the endoscope is mounted on the endoscope light source device) of the embodiment of the endoscope light source device of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration example of a first-stage signal processing circuit board according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a side view showing a configuration example of a first-stage signal processing circuit board corresponding to a monochrome plane sequential imaging method and a first-stage signal processing circuit board corresponding to a color single-chip imaging method.

FIG. 5 is a side view, a front view, and a rear view showing a configuration example of a connector receiver according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a state in which a scope connector provided on a first-stage signal processing circuit board and a connector receiver provided on a light source device main body according to the present invention are engaged with each other.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of an endoscope apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a first-stage signal processing circuit corresponding to a color single-chip imaging method according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a first-stage signal processing circuit corresponding to a monochrome plane sequential imaging method according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a connector provided on a light source device main body, a first-stage signal processing circuit board, and a board detector according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a control operation of a system control circuit according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation of a system control circuit according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a control operation of a system control circuit according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation of the system control circuit according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the system control circuit according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a display example of error information in the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a display example of error information according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a display example of error information according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a display example of specifications (specification data) of a first-stage signal processing circuit board according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 1 light source device (light source device for endoscope) 1a front panel 10 main body of light source device 2 endoscope 3 first stage signal processing circuit board 3a upper end portion 3b lower end portion 4 board rail guide 5 connector hole 6 connector receiver 6a space 7 light guide Hole 8 Light guide 11 First stage signal processing circuit 12 ROM 13 Card edge 14 Scope connector 15 Light guide opening 20 Video signal coaxial connector 21 Connector pin 22 Video signal coaxial connector 25 Groove 30 Connector insertion section 31 Screw hole 32 First Guide piece 33 Second guide piece 34 Tapered surface 35 Screw 36 Rib 37 Contact portion 38 Substrate 40 Connection portion 41 Scope connector 42 Light connector 43 Connection cable 50 Keyboard 51 Monitor 510 Screen 52 First stage signal processing circuit replacement door 55 Substrate Detector 551 Pull-up resistor 56 System control circuit 561 Memory 57 Light source 58 Motor control circuit 59 Motor 60 Aperture 61 Motor control circuit 62 Motor 63 RGB rotation filter 64 Condenser lens 65 Timing control circuit 66 Illumination lens 67 Imaging lens 68 CCD image sensor 69 Image sensor driver circuit 70 Image memory 71 Subsequent video signal processing circuit 72 Filter moving mechanism 73 Front panel switch 75a, 75b, 75c Preamplifier 76a, 76b, 76c Video filter 77 Matrix circuit 78R, 78G, 78B Amplifier 79R, 79G, 79B gamma Correction circuit 80 A / D converter 81 Preamplifier 82 Video filter 83 Sample hold circuit 84 Amplifier 85 Gamma correction circuit 86 A / D conversion Exchanger 87 EEPROM 90, 91, 92 Connector 100 Electronic endoscope device S101-S105 step S201-S213 step S301-S305 step S401-S404 step S501 step

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2H040 BA00 CA04 CA07 GA05 GA10 GA11 4C061 AA01 BB02 CC06 FF06 GG01 HH60 JJ17 JJ18 NN05 QQ09 WW11 YY01 YY14

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. A light source device main body having control means for controlling the driving of an endoscope light source device, and a connection detachably attached to the light source device main body and interposed between the light source device main body and the endoscope. A light source device for an endoscope having a unit, wherein the connection unit includes a connector that is detachably electrically connected to the endoscope, and a signal that performs predetermined signal processing on a signal input from the connector. A processing circuit, and a connection unit for electrically connecting a circuit on the light source device main body side and the signal processing circuit in a state where the connection unit is mounted on the light source device main body; Compatibility determination means for determining whether or not the connection unit mounted on the light source device body is compatible;
Information generating means for generating notification information for notifying a result determined by the suitability determining means. 2. The information generating means according to claim 1, wherein said information generating means is configured to generate information for notifying of the inconsistency when said non-conformity is determined by said compatibility determining means. Endoscope light source device. 3. The endoscope light source device according to claim 1, wherein the notification information is information for performing display, and the display device includes a display unit that displays the notification information. 4. The endoscope light source device according to claim 3, wherein said display means is for displaying an endoscope image. 5. The information for notification is information for display, and has an output unit for outputting the information for notification, and the information for notification is input to a display unit via the output unit, The light source device for an endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the notification information is displayed by the display unit. 6. The endoscope light source device according to claim 5, wherein the output unit has a function of outputting a signal for displaying an endoscope image. 7. A connection unit mounted on the light source device main body, and a compatibility determination unit configured to determine whether or not an endoscope mounted on the connection unit is compatible. 7. The endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, when the compatibility determination unit determines that there is an incompatibility, information for notifying the incompatibility is generated. Light source device. 8. The connection unit has a memory in which database information on a type of a corresponding endoscope is stored, and the endoscope has a memory in which identification information of the endoscope is stored. The suitability determination means reads the database information from the memory of the connection unit, reads the identification information of the endoscope from the memory of the endoscope, compares the read information, 8. The endoscope light source device according to claim 7, wherein when the identification information of the endoscope does not match any of the database information, the endoscope is determined to be incompatible. 9. The light source device for an endoscope according to claim 1, further comprising a detecting means for detecting whether or not the connection unit is mounted. 10. The light source device for an endoscope according to claim 9, wherein the detection means detects an electrical connection between the connection unit and a light source device main body. 11. The endoscope light source device according to claim 9, wherein the information generation unit is configured to generate notification information for notifying a result of the detection by the detection unit. 12. The information generating unit is configured to generate at least one of identification information of the connection unit for performing notification, database information on a type of a corresponding endoscope, and information on an imaging method. The light source device for an endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: 13. The connection unit according to claim 1, wherein the connection unit has a memory in which at least one of identification information of the connection unit, database information on a type of a corresponding endoscope, and information on an imaging method is stored. The light source device for an endoscope according to any one of the above. 14. The light source device for an endoscope according to claim 13, wherein said information generating means generates notification information for performing notification based on the information read from said memory. 15. A plurality of connection units having different signal processing contents are provided, and the light source device main body is provided with a signal processing circuit for performing signal processing corresponding to an endoscope connected to the connector. The light source device for an endoscope according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the single connection unit is selectively mounted.