JP2009165637A - Pickup system and method of measuring its display properties - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To measure image display properties without using an external device. <P>SOLUTION: In a pickup system, the image of a subject lighted up by a light source 40 and photographed by an endoscope 10 is processed by an image processing section 22 in accordance with the display properties of a monitor 30 stored in a display properties storage 26 of its image processing section 22, and displayed on the monitor 30. When the system receives an instruction from a user to select one of the display properties measurement modes for compensating the properties of the monitor 30, the system turns off the light from the light source 40, makes the monitor 30 display a test chart, switches the connection of a signal from the endoscope 10 from the image processing section 22 in a normal mode to a display properties measuring section 25 in a display properties measurement mode, measures the properties of the monitor 30 from those results of the endoscope 10 having photographed the image displayed on the monitor 30 by the display properties measuring section 25, and stores the measured display properties in the display properties storage 26. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging system that images a subject with an endoscope and displays a captured image, and a display characteristic measurement method for an imaging system that measures display characteristics of display means in the imaging system.

  In general, an endoscope is not used alone, but an endoscope processor that processes a captured image of the endoscope, a monitor that displays an image processed by the endoscope processor, and the above-described internal endoscope. It is used as an imaging system comprising a light source for an endoscope.

  In clinical settings, the color information of the affected area in the captured image has a large meaning. Therefore, in the imaging system, the display characteristics of the monitor are corrected (color correction) so that the color of the captured image from the endoscope can be faithfully reproduced. ) To perform monitor calibration.

As a monitor calibration method in such an imaging system, for example, a light emission amount of the monitor when a predetermined display is performed on the monitor is detected by a dedicated sensor, and a reference value is obtained by a personal computer (hereinafter abbreviated as PC). Patent Document 1 discloses a method for calculating display characteristics necessary for correction by comparing with the above.
JP 2002-281931 A

  However, the method disclosed in Patent Document 1 requires a control device such as a PC and an external device such as a dedicated sensor, which is complicated.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides an imaging system capable of measuring display characteristics without using an external device and a display characteristic measuring method thereof.

One aspect of the imaging system of the present invention is:
Imaging means for imaging a subject;
Illumination means for illuminating the subject;
Image processing means for processing a captured image obtained by imaging by the imaging means;
Display means for displaying the output image processed by the image processing means;
A measurement mode selection means for receiving an instruction to select a display characteristic measurement mode for performing an operation of correcting the characteristics of the display means from the user;
Display characteristic measuring means for measuring characteristics of the display means based on a result of taking a display image of the display means by the imaging means;
Display characteristic storage means for storing the display characteristics measured by the display characteristic measurement means;
Switching means for switching the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means to the image processing means for the normal mode and the display characteristic measurement means for the display characteristic measurement mode;
When the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection unit, the illumination unit is instructed to turn off the illumination, and the display unit is instructed to display a test chart. Control means for instructing the switching means to switch the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means for the display characteristic measurement mode;
Comprising
The image processing means processes the photographed image based on the display characteristics stored in the display characteristics storage means.

Also, one aspect of the display characteristic measurement method of the imaging system of the present invention is:
The captured image obtained by imaging the subject illuminated by the illumination unit by the imaging unit is processed by the image processing unit based on the display characteristics of the display unit stored in the display characteristic storage unit, and displayed on the display unit. A method for measuring display characteristics in a photographing system,
When receiving a selection instruction of a display characteristic measurement mode for performing a work for correcting the characteristic of the display means from the user,
Turn off the illumination by the illumination means,
Display the test chart on the display means,
The connection destination of the signal from the imaging unit is switched from the image processing unit for the normal mode to the display characteristic measuring unit for the display characteristic measurement mode,
The display characteristic measuring means measures the characteristic of the display means based on the result of imaging the display image of the display means by the imaging means,
Storing the display characteristics measured by the display characteristic measuring means in the display characteristic storage means;
It is characterized by that.

Another aspect of the imaging system of the present invention is:
Imaging means for imaging a subject;
Display means for displaying an image;
Display characteristic storage means for storing display characteristics of the display means;
Illuminating means for illuminating the subject in the normal mode and turning off the illumination in the display characteristic measurement mode for performing the work of correcting the characteristics of the display means,
Image processing means for processing a captured image obtained by imaging by the imaging means in the normal mode based on the display characteristics stored in the display characteristic storage means, and displaying the result on the display means;
Measurement mode selection means for receiving a selection instruction of the display characteristic measurement mode from the user;
When the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection means, the display characteristic of the display means is measured based on the result of the test chart being displayed on the display means and picked up by the imaging means. Display characteristic measuring means for storing the result in the display characteristic storage means;
It is characterized by comprising.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to measure display characteristics without using an external device by using an image pickup unit that is originally provided in the image pickup system. Therefore, the display unit can be easily and inexpensively calibrated. An imaging system that can be used and a display characteristic measuring method thereof can be provided.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an imaging system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  An imaging system according to this embodiment includes an endoscope 10 that is inserted into a body cavity or the like of a human body and images an affected area, an endoscope processor 20 that processes a captured image of the endoscope 10, and the endoscope processor. The monitor 30 which displays the image processed by 20 and the light source 40 for the endoscope 10 are configured.

  In the casing 21 of the endoscope processor 20, there are an image processing unit 22, a measurement mode selection unit 23, an imaging characteristic storage unit 24, a display characteristic measurement unit 25, a display characteristic storage unit 26, a switching unit 27, and a control unit. 28 is accommodated. The light source 40 may also be housed in the casing 21 of the endoscope processor 20 and connected to the endoscope 10 with an optical cable or the like.

  Here, the image processing unit 22 processes a captured image obtained by imaging with the endoscope 10, and displays the image-processed output on the monitor 30. The measurement mode selection unit 23 is configured by a switch or the like (not shown), and receives a display characteristic measurement mode selection instruction for performing an operation of correcting the characteristics of the monitor 30 from the user. The imaging characteristic storage unit 24 is a memory that stores the imaging characteristics of the endoscope 10. The display characteristic measurement unit 25 measures the characteristic of the monitor 30 based on the result of imaging the display image of the monitor 30 by the endoscope 10, and the display characteristic storage unit 26 measures the display characteristic. This is a memory for storing display characteristics measured by the unit 25. The switching unit 27 is a switch for switching the connection destination of the signal from the endoscope 10 to the image processing unit 22 in the normal mode and to the display characteristic measuring unit 25 in the display characteristic measurement mode. The switching of the switching unit 27 is performed under the control of the control unit 28. That is, when the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection unit 23, the control unit 28 instructs the light source 40 to be turned off and displays the test chart on the monitor 30. The image processing unit 22 is instructed, and the switching unit 27 is instructed to switch the connection destination of the signal from the endoscope 10 for the display characteristic measurement mode.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an operation flowchart of the imaging system according to the first embodiment having the above-described configuration.

  When color correction of the monitor 30 is necessary before or during surgery or examination, the user or assistant of the endoscope 10 as a user images the display screen of the monitor 30 with the endoscope 10. Then, the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by a predetermined operation of the measurement mode selection unit 23 (step S10). By this user selection, the measurement mode selection unit 23 transmits the selection of the display characteristic measurement mode to the control unit 28 (step S11).

  The control unit 28 that has received it transmits an instruction to turn off the illumination light to the light source 40 (step S12), and the light source 40 turns off the illumination light accordingly (step S13). In addition, the control unit 28 instructs the image processing unit 22 to transmit a predetermined test chart to the monitor 30 (step S14), and the image processing unit 22 transmits the test chart to the monitor 30 accordingly (step S15). Thereby, the monitor 30 displays the transmitted test chart (step S16). Further, the control unit 28 instructs the switching unit 27 to switch the connection destination (step S17), and accordingly, the switching unit 27 switches the connection destination for the display characteristic measurement mode, and at the same time, the endoscope 10 images the test chart displayed on the monitor 30 (step S18).

  The captured image of the endoscope 10 is transmitted to the display characteristic measuring unit 25 via the switching unit 27 (step S19), and the display characteristic measuring unit 25 determines the display characteristics of the monitor 30 from the transmitted captured image. The measurement result is transmitted to the display characteristic storage unit 26 (step S20). Then, the display characteristic measuring unit 25 transmits measurement completion to the control unit 28 (step S21).

  Receiving this, the control unit 28 notifies the user that the measurement of the display characteristics is completed and the display mode is returned from the display characteristic measurement mode to the user by a display by a lamp (not shown) or a sound output by a speaker (not shown) (step S22). ). And the control part 28 transmits the instruction | indication which lights illumination light to the light source 40 (step S23), and the light source 40 lights illumination light according to it (step S24). Further, the control unit 28 instructs the switching unit 27 to switch the connection destination (step S25), and accordingly, the switching unit 27 switches the connection destination for the normal mode (step S26). Then, the control unit 28 instructs the image processing unit 22 to end the transmission of the predetermined test chart to the monitor 30 (step S27), and the image processing unit 22 responds accordingly to the test chart monitor 30. The transmission ends (step S28).

  In response to the notification of the end of the display characteristic measurement, the user of the endoscope 10 sets the distal end of the endoscope 10 to a desired subject, which is a surgical site or an examination site, by a well-known method, and sets the subject to the inside. The image is captured by the endoscope 10, and the captured image is transmitted from the endoscope 10 to the image processing unit 22 in the endoscope processor 20. The image processing unit 22 performs color processing on the photographed image of the subject based on the imaging characteristics stored in the imaging characteristic storage unit 24 and the display characteristics stored in the display characteristic storage unit 26, By transmitting the subsequent image data to the monitor 30, the monitor 30 displays the image data appropriately color-processed.

  With the above operation, the user of the endoscope 10 can perform examination, treatment, and surgery with reference to an image that appropriately reflects the imaging characteristics of the endoscope 10 and the display characteristics of the monitor 30. .

  As described above, according to the imaging system according to the first embodiment, the display characteristics of the monitor 30 can be measured without using an external device by using the endoscope 10 included in the imaging system. Therefore, the monitor 30 can be calibrated easily and inexpensively.

  Also, the imaging system is equipped with self-illumination, and the illumination is turned on for normal observation, but in this embodiment, the illumination is turned off when measuring the display characteristics. Calibration is possible without being affected by such illumination.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a configuration of an imaging system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  Here, about the structure similar to the structure of FIG. 1 in the said 1st Embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same referential mark.

  In the imaging system according to the second embodiment, the configuration of the imaging system according to the first embodiment further includes external light shielding means 50 that is detachable from the monitor 30.

  As shown in FIG. 3B, the external light shielding means 50 is attached to the front surface of the display surface 32 of the monitor 30 with respect to the outer frame 31 of the monitor 30 by an attachment member 51. In addition, the distal end of the endoscope 10 is inserted into the external light shielding means 50, and the test chart displayed on the monitor 30 is positioned so as to be photographable by the endoscope 10, and the entry of external light is prevented. Thus, a through hole 52 for shielding light is provided. In the drawing, a plurality of through holes 52 are provided so as to be compatible with endoscopes having different tip diameters, but it is needless to say that at least one is sufficient.

  Further, the abutting structure 53 may be configured in the through hole 52 so that an ideal photographing distance assumed for each endoscope 10 can be defined.

  By having the external light shielding means 50 detachably attached to such a monitor 30, the external light shielding means 50 can be removed and sterilization processing such as gas sterilization or autoclave processing can be performed. Therefore, when the monitor 30 is mounted, the surface in contact with the endoscope 10 is maintained in a sterilized state, which is more preferable for use during surgery or examination.

  In this case, the external light shielding means 50 needs to be made of a material whose shape does not change even after a sterilization process such as gas sterilization or autoclaving.

  Further, a lid may be provided to close the through hole 52 so that dust or the like does not enter the through hole 52 when not in use.

  As described above, according to the imaging system according to the second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

  Further, when measuring the display characteristics, the external light shielding means 50 is attached to the monitor 30 and the distal end of the endoscope 10 is inserted into the through-hole 52 to perform imaging so that the display surface of the monitor 30 can be measured. Since the position of the distal end of the endoscope 10 can be defined and the test chart displayed on the monitor 30 can be imaged while shielding external light, the display characteristics of the monitor 30 can be measured more accurately.

[Third Embodiment]
4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating a configuration of an imaging system according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  Here, about the structure similar to the structure of FIG. 1 in the said 1st Embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same referential mark.

  The imaging system according to the second embodiment further includes a reference color chart 60 with known characteristics in the configuration of the imaging system according to the first embodiment. The reference color chart 60 may be fixed to the casing 21 or the monitor 30 of the endoscope processor 20.

  The imaging characteristic storage unit 24 of the endoscope processor 20 includes the reference color chart data recording unit 24A that records the reference color chart data corresponding to the reference color chart 60 whose characteristics are known, and the reference color chart 60 as the internal color chart data. An imaging characteristic measurement unit 24B that measures the imaging characteristics of the endoscope 10 based on a captured image obtained by imaging with the endoscope 10 and the reference color chart data recorded in the reference color chart data recording unit 24A. And have.

  In addition, the switching unit 27 of the endoscope processor 20 determines the connection destination of the signal from the endoscope 10 as the image processing unit 22 in the normal mode and the display characteristic measurement unit in the display characteristic measurement mode. In addition to switching to 25, the imaging characteristic measurement unit 24B is configured to switch to the imaging characteristic measurement unit 24B in the imaging characteristic measurement mode. When the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection unit 23, the control unit 28 first displays the connection destination of the signal from the endoscope 10 in the switching unit 27 as shown in FIG. 4A. In this way, the switching to the imaging characteristic measurement mode is instructed, and after the measurement of the imaging characteristic is finished, the switching to the display characteristic measurement mode is instructed as shown in FIG. 4B.

  5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating a series of operation flowcharts of the imaging system according to the third embodiment having the above-described configuration.

  When color correction of the monitor 30 is necessary before or during surgery or examination, a user or an assistant of the endoscope 10 as a user measures display characteristics by a predetermined operation of the measurement mode selection unit 23. A mode is selected (step S10). By this user selection, the measurement mode selection unit 23 transmits the selection of the display characteristic measurement mode to the control unit 28 (step S11).

  The control unit 28 that has received it instructs the switching unit 27 to switch the connection destination for the imaging characteristic measurement mode (step S31), and accordingly, the switching unit 27, as shown in FIG. Is switched to the imaging characteristic measurement mode (step S32). Then, the control unit 28 instructs the image processing unit 22 to permit the imaging characteristic measurement OK (step S33), and the image processing unit 22 instructs the monitor 30 to display the imaging characteristic measurement OK message accordingly. (Step S34), whereby the monitor 30 displays a message of imaging characteristic measurement OK (Step S35).

  The user of the endoscope 10 confirming this message points the tip of the endoscope 10 toward the reference color chart 60 and images the reference color chart 60 with the endoscope 10 (step S36). A captured image of the reference color chart 60 (hereinafter referred to as color chart captured data) is transmitted to the imaging characteristic measurement section 24B via the switching section 27 in the endoscope processor 20 (step S37).

  Upon receiving the captured image, the imaging characteristic measurement unit 24B requests the reference color chart data recording unit 24A to transmit reference color chart data that is a target value of data obtained by photographing the reference color chart 60 (step S38). . Receiving this transmission request, the reference color chart data recording unit 24A transmits the reference color chart data to the imaging characteristic measurement unit 24B (step S39). The imaging characteristic measurement unit 24B that has acquired the reference color chart data in this way calculates the imaging characteristic data by comparing the color chart imaging data with the reference color chart data (step S40). Then, the completion of imaging characteristic measurement is transmitted to the control unit 28 (step S41).

  In order to measure the display characteristics, the control unit 28 that has received the completion of the imaging characteristic measurement first transmits an instruction to turn off the illumination light to the light source 40 (step S12), and the light source 40 responds accordingly. The illumination light is turned off (step S13). Further, the control unit 28 instructs the switching unit 27 to switch the connection destination for the display characteristic measurement mode (step S42), and accordingly, the switching unit 27 changes the connection destination to the display characteristic as shown in FIG. 4B. Switch to the measurement mode (step S43). Further, the control unit 28 instructs the image processing unit 22 to transmit a predetermined test chart to the monitor 30 (step S14), and the image processing unit 22 transmits the test chart to the monitor 30 accordingly (step S15). Thereby, the monitor 30 displays the transmitted test chart (step S16).

  The user of the endoscope 10 confirming that the test chart is displayed points the tip of the endoscope 10 toward the display screen of the monitor 30 and images the test chart displayed on the monitor 30 (step S44). ).

  The captured image of the endoscope 10 is transmitted to the display characteristic measuring unit 25 via the switching unit 27 (step S19), and the display characteristic measuring unit 25 determines the display characteristics of the monitor 30 from the transmitted captured image. The measurement result is transmitted to the display characteristic storage unit 26 (step S20). Then, the display characteristic measuring unit 25 transmits measurement completion to the control unit 28 (step S21).

  Receiving this, the control unit 28 notifies the user that the display characteristic measurement is completed and that the display characteristic measurement mode is restored from the display characteristic measurement mode to the user by display using a lamp (not shown) or sound output from a speaker (not shown) (step S22). ). And the control part 28 transmits the instruction | indication which lights illumination light to the light source 40 (step S23), and the light source 40 lights illumination light according to it (step S24). Further, the control unit 28 instructs the switching unit 27 to switch the connection destination (step S25), and accordingly, the switching unit 27 switches the connection destination for the normal mode (step S26). Then, the control unit 28 instructs the image processing unit 22 to end the transmission of the predetermined test chart to the monitor 30 (step S27), and the image processing unit 22 responds accordingly to the test chart monitor 30. The transmission ends (step S28).

  In response to the notification of the end of the display characteristic measurement, the user of the endoscope 10 sets the distal end of the endoscope 10 to a desired subject, which is a surgical site or an examination site, by a well-known method, and sets the subject to the inside. The image is captured by the endoscope 10, and the captured image is transmitted from the endoscope 10 to the image processing unit 22 in the endoscope processor 20. The image processing unit 22 performs color processing on the captured image of the subject based on the imaging characteristics measured by the imaging characteristic measurement unit 24B and the display characteristics stored in the display characteristic storage unit 26, and after processing By transmitting the image data to the monitor 30, the monitor 30 displays the image data that has been appropriately color-processed.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

  Further, by measuring the imaging characteristics of the endoscope 10, it is possible to correct a change in color reproduction caused by a change in the characteristics of the endoscope 10 in the captured image.

  In the third embodiment, it is needless to say that the external light shielding means 50 as in the second embodiment may be used.

[Fourth Embodiment]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of an imaging system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  Here, about the structure similar to the structure of FIG. 4B in the said 3rd Embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same referential mark.

  In the imaging system according to the fourth embodiment, in the configuration of the imaging system according to the third embodiment, the measurement mode selection unit 23 displays the imaging characteristic measurement mode selection unit 23A for selecting the imaging characteristic measurement mode. A display characteristic measurement mode selection unit 23B for selecting a characteristic measurement mode is included.

  According to such a configuration, the user or assistant of the endoscope 10 as a user can measure the imaging characteristics or the display characteristics independently as necessary.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

  Furthermore, only necessary characteristic measurement can be performed when necessary.

  In the fourth embodiment, as a matter of course, the external light shielding means 50 as in the second embodiment may be used.

  Although the present invention has been described above based on the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and applications are naturally possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

  For example, in order to perform correction in an environment closer to actual use, that is, to realize an ideal subject distance between the endoscope 10 and the subject, and to perform characteristic correction in an environment closer to the examination or surgery, The test chart and the reference color chart 60 that are captured by the endoscope 10 and displayed on the monitor 30 may be created based on the organ image data.

(Appendix)
The invention having the following configuration can be extracted from the specific embodiment.

(1) imaging means for imaging a subject;
Illumination means for illuminating the subject;
Image processing means for processing a captured image obtained by imaging by the imaging means;
Display means for displaying the output image processed by the image processing means;
A measurement mode selection means for receiving an instruction to select a display characteristic measurement mode for performing an operation of correcting the characteristics of the display means from the user;
Display characteristic measuring means for measuring characteristics of the display means based on a result of taking a display image of the display means by the imaging means;
Display characteristic storage means for storing the display characteristics measured by the display characteristic measurement means;
Switching means for switching the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means to the image processing means for the normal mode and the display characteristic measurement means for the display characteristic measurement mode;
When the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection unit, the illumination unit is instructed to turn off the illumination, and the display unit is instructed to display a test chart. Control means for instructing the switching means to switch the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means for the display characteristic measurement mode;
Comprising
The imaging system, wherein the image processing means processes the captured image based on the display characteristics stored in the display characteristics storage means.

(Corresponding embodiment)
The first to fourth embodiments correspond to the embodiment related to the imaging system described in (1). In these embodiments, the endoscope 10 is the imaging unit, the light source 40 is the illuminating unit, the image processing unit 22 is the image processing unit, the monitor 30 is the display unit, and the measurement mode selection unit 23 is the above. As the measurement mode selection means, the display characteristic measurement section 25 is the display characteristic measurement means, the display characteristic storage section 26 is the display characteristic storage means, the switching section 27 is the switching means, the control section 28 is the control means, Each corresponds.

(Function and effect)
According to the imaging system described in (1), it is possible to measure the display characteristics of the display unit without using an external device by using the imaging unit included in the imaging system. The display means can be calibrated at low cost. In addition, the imaging system is equipped with an illuminating means, and the illuminating means is turned on for use in normal observation, but the illuminating means is turned off when measuring display characteristics. Calibration is possible without being affected by various lighting.

  (2) The imaging system according to (1), further comprising an external light shielding unit that shields external light when the display unit captures a display image of the display unit.

(Corresponding embodiment)
The second to fourth embodiments correspond to the embodiment related to the imaging system described in (2). In these embodiments, the external light shielding means 50 corresponds to the external light shielding means.

(Function and effect)
According to the imaging system described in (2), when measuring the display characteristics, the external light shielding means can block the external light and the test chart displayed on the display means can be imaged. The characteristics can be measured more accurately.

(3) It further comprises imaging characteristic storage means for storing the characteristics of the imaging means,
In addition to the display characteristics stored in the display characteristic storage means, the image processing means further processes the captured image based on the characteristics of the imaging means stored in the imaging characteristic storage means. The imaging system according to (1), which is characterized.

(Corresponding embodiment)
The first to fourth embodiments correspond to the embodiment related to the imaging system described in (3). In these embodiments, the imaging characteristic storage unit 24 corresponds to the imaging characteristic storage unit.

(Function and effect)
According to the imaging system described in (3), the captured image can be displayed in an accurate color in consideration of the imaging characteristics of the imaging means.

(4) The imaging characteristic storage means includes:
A standard color chart data recording means for recording standard color chart data corresponding to a standard color chart whose characteristics are known;
Imaging characteristic measuring means for measuring characteristics of the imaging means based on a photographed image obtained by imaging the reference color chart with the imaging means and the reference color chart data recorded in the reference color chart data recording means When,
(3) The imaging system according to (3).

(Corresponding embodiment)
The embodiment relating to the imaging system described in (4) corresponds to the third and fourth embodiments. In these embodiments, the reference color chart data recording unit 24A corresponds to the reference color chart data recording unit, and the imaging characteristic measurement unit 24B corresponds to the imaging characteristic measurement unit.

(Function and effect)
According to the imaging system described in (4), it is possible to correct a change in color reproduction caused by a change in the imaging characteristic of the imaging unit in the captured image by measuring the imaging characteristic of the imaging unit.

(5) In addition to the display characteristic measurement mode, the measurement mode selection unit further receives an instruction to select an imaging characteristic measurement mode for performing an operation of correcting the characteristic of the imaging unit from the user.
When the imaging characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection means, the control means instructs the switching means to switch the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means for the imaging characteristic measurement mode. The imaging system according to (4), which is characterized.

(Corresponding embodiment)
The embodiment related to the imaging system described in (5) corresponds to the fourth embodiment. In the embodiment, the imaging characteristic measurement mode selection unit 23A and the display characteristic measurement mode selection unit 23B correspond to the measurement mode selection unit.

(Function and effect)
According to the imaging system described in (5), the imaging system can be implemented only when the imaging characteristics need to be measured.

  (6) When the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection means, the control means instructs the switching means to switch the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means for the imaging characteristic measurement mode. (4) The imaging system according to (4), wherein after the imaging characteristics are measured by the imaging characteristics measuring means, the operation for measuring the display characteristics is performed.

(Corresponding embodiment)
The embodiment relating to the imaging system described in (6) corresponds to the third embodiment.

(Function and effect)
According to the imaging system described in (6), more accurate color reproduction can be performed by formulating both imaging characteristics and display characteristics with a single operation.

(7) The captured image obtained by imaging the subject illuminated by the illumination unit by the imaging unit is processed by the image processing unit based on the display characteristics of the display unit stored in the display characteristic storage unit, and the display is performed. A method for measuring display characteristics in an imaging system for displaying on a means,
When receiving a selection instruction of a display characteristic measurement mode for performing a work for correcting the characteristic of the display means from the user,
Turn off the illumination by the illumination means,
Display the test chart on the display means,
The connection destination of the signal from the imaging unit is switched from the image processing unit for the normal mode to the display characteristic measuring unit for the display characteristic measurement mode,
The display characteristic measuring means measures the characteristic of the display means based on the result of imaging the display image of the display means by the imaging means,
Storing the display characteristics measured by the display characteristic measuring means in the display characteristic storage means;
A display characteristic measuring method for an imaging system.

(Corresponding embodiment)
The first to fourth embodiments correspond to the embodiments relating to the display characteristic measuring method of the imaging system described in (7). In these embodiments, the light source 40 is the illumination unit, the endoscope 10 is the imaging unit, the image processing unit 22 is the image processing unit, the display characteristic storage unit 26 is the display characteristic storage unit, and the monitor 30. Corresponds to the display means, and the display characteristic measuring unit 25 corresponds to the display characteristic measuring means.

Each corresponds.

(Function and effect)
According to the display characteristic measurement method of the imaging system described in (7), it is possible to measure the display characteristics of the display unit without using an external device by using the imaging unit included in the imaging system. Thus, the display means can be calibrated easily and inexpensively. In addition, the imaging system is equipped with an illuminating means, and the illuminating means is turned on for use in normal observation, but the illuminating means is turned off when measuring display characteristics. Calibration is possible without being affected by various lighting.

(8) imaging means for imaging a subject;
Display means for displaying an image;
Display characteristic storage means for storing display characteristics of the display means;
Illuminating means for illuminating the subject in the normal mode and turning off the illumination in the display characteristic measurement mode for performing the work of correcting the characteristics of the display means,
Image processing means for processing a captured image obtained by imaging by the imaging means in the normal mode based on the display characteristics stored in the display characteristic storage means, and displaying the result on the display means;
Measurement mode selection means for receiving a selection instruction of the display characteristic measurement mode from the user;
When the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection means, the display characteristic of the display means is measured based on the result of the test chart being displayed on the display means and picked up by the imaging means. Display characteristic measuring means for storing the result in the display characteristic storage means;
An imaging system comprising:

(Corresponding embodiment)
The first to fourth embodiments correspond to the embodiment related to the imaging system described in (8). In these embodiments, the endoscope 10 is the imaging unit, the monitor 30 is the display unit, the display characteristic storage unit 26 is the display characteristic storage unit, the light source 40 is the illumination unit, and the image processing unit 22 is the display unit. The measurement mode selection unit 23 corresponds to the measurement mode selection unit, and the display characteristic measurement unit 25 and the control unit 28 correspond to the display characteristic measurement unit.

(Function and effect)
According to the imaging system described in (8), it is possible to measure the display characteristics of the display unit without using an external device by using the imaging unit included in the imaging system. The display means can be calibrated at low cost. In addition, the imaging system is equipped with an illuminating means, and the illuminating means is turned on for use in normal observation, but the illuminating means is turned off when measuring display characteristics. Calibration is possible without being affected by various lighting.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an imaging system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an operation flowchart of the imaging system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an imaging system according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating a specific configuration example of an external light shielding unit. FIG. 4A is a diagram showing a configuration of an imaging system according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and shows a state in an imaging characteristic measurement mode. FIG. 4B is a diagram showing a configuration of an imaging system according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and shows a state in the display characteristic measurement mode. FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating a first half of a series of operation flowcharts of the imaging system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating a latter half of a series of operation flowcharts of the imaging system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of an imaging system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

    DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Endoscope, 20 ... Endoscope processor, 21 ... Case, 22 ... Image processing part, 23 ... Measurement mode selection part, 23A ... Imaging characteristic measurement mode selection part, 23B ... Display characteristic measurement mode selection part, 24 Image capturing characteristic storage unit 24A Standard color chart data recording unit 24B Image capturing characteristic measuring unit 25 Display characteristic measuring unit 26 Display characteristic storing unit 27 Switching unit 28 Control unit 30 Monitor DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 31 ... Outer frame, 32 ... Display surface, 40 ... Light source, 50 ... External light shielding means, 51 ... Mounting member, 52 ... Through-hole, 53 ... Abutting structure, 60 ... Standard color chart

Claims (8)

Imaging means for imaging a subject;
Illumination means for illuminating the subject;
Image processing means for processing a captured image obtained by imaging by the imaging means;
Display means for displaying the output image processed by the image processing means;
A measurement mode selection means for receiving an instruction to select a display characteristic measurement mode for performing an operation of correcting the characteristics of the display means from the user;
Display characteristic measuring means for measuring characteristics of the display means based on a result of taking a display image of the display means by the imaging means;
Display characteristic storage means for storing the display characteristics measured by the display characteristic measurement means;
Switching means for switching the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means to the image processing means for the normal mode and the display characteristic measurement means for the display characteristic measurement mode;
When the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection unit, the illumination unit is instructed to turn off the illumination, and the display unit is instructed to display a test chart. Control means for instructing the switching means to switch the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means for the display characteristic measurement mode;
Comprising
The imaging system, wherein the image processing means processes the captured image based on the display characteristics stored in the display characteristics storage means.   The imaging system according to claim 1, further comprising external light shielding means for shielding external light when the display means captures a display image of the display means. An image capturing characteristic storing means for storing the characteristics of the image capturing means;
In addition to the display characteristics stored in the display characteristic storage means, the image processing means further processes the captured image based on the characteristics of the imaging means stored in the imaging characteristic storage means. The imaging system according to claim 1. The imaging characteristic storage means is
A standard color chart data recording means for recording standard color chart data corresponding to a standard color chart whose characteristics are known;
Imaging characteristic measuring means for measuring characteristics of the imaging means based on a photographed image obtained by imaging the reference color chart with the imaging means and the reference color chart data recorded in the reference color chart data recording means When,
The imaging system according to claim 3, further comprising: In addition to the display characteristic measurement mode, the measurement mode selection means further receives an instruction to select an imaging characteristic measurement mode for performing a work for correcting the characteristics of the imaging means from the user,
When the imaging characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection means, the control means instructs the switching means to switch the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means for the imaging characteristic measurement mode. The imaging system according to claim 4, wherein the imaging system is characterized.   The control means instructs the switching means to switch the connection destination of the signal from the imaging means for the imaging characteristic measurement mode when the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection means. The imaging system according to claim 4, wherein the operation for measuring the display characteristic is performed after the imaging characteristic is measured by the imaging characteristic measuring unit. The captured image obtained by imaging the subject illuminated by the illumination unit by the imaging unit is processed by the image processing unit based on the display characteristics of the display unit stored in the display characteristic storage unit, and displayed on the display unit. A method for measuring display characteristics in a photographing system,
When receiving a selection instruction of a display characteristic measurement mode for performing a work for correcting the characteristic of the display means from the user,
Turn off the illumination by the illumination means,
Display the test chart on the display means,
The connection destination of the signal from the imaging unit is switched from the image processing unit for the normal mode to the display characteristic measuring unit for the display characteristic measurement mode,
The display characteristic measuring means measures the characteristic of the display means based on the result of imaging the display image of the display means by the imaging means,
Storing the display characteristics measured by the display characteristic measuring means in the display characteristic storage means;
A display characteristic measuring method for an imaging system. Imaging means for imaging a subject;
Display means for displaying an image;
Display characteristic storage means for storing display characteristics of the display means;
Illuminating means for illuminating the subject in the normal mode and turning off the illumination in the display characteristic measurement mode for performing the work of correcting the characteristics of the display means,
Image processing means for processing a captured image obtained by imaging by the imaging means in the normal mode based on the display characteristics stored in the display characteristic storage means, and displaying the result on the display means;
Measurement mode selection means for receiving a selection instruction of the display characteristic measurement mode from the user;
When the display characteristic measurement mode is selected by the measurement mode selection means, the display characteristic of the display means is measured based on the result of the test chart being displayed on the display means and picked up by the imaging means. Display characteristic measuring means for storing the result in the display characteristic storage means;
An imaging system comprising:

Images