Video Processing In A Compact Multi-Viewing Element Endoscope System

摘要

The present specification is directed towards endoscopes, such as colonoscopes, that provide a broader field of view and allow extended access of surgical tools and also enable efficient packing of all necessary elements in the tip section, while maintaining their functionality. Also described are methods and systems for capturing and displaying still and video images using an endoscope corresponding to a left-side looking, a front-looking and a right-side looking viewing element of an endoscopic tip generated in a native aspect ratio.

主权项

1. An endoscope system comprising:
an endoscope having a tip; a circuit board, having a processing element and memory, positioned within said tip; at least two cameras positioned in said tip, wherein each of said two cameras is in electrical communication with the circuit board; a video controller external to said endoscope for concurrently controlling the at least two cameras, wherein the video controller is configured to generate a plurality of signals specific to each of the at least two cameras and a plurality of shared signals which are not specific to each of the at least two cameras; and a cable for electrically connecting the video controller and circuit board, wherein the circuit board is adapted to process the plurality shared signals, using said processing element, to generate signals specific to each of the at least two cameras.