US20080051642A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20080051642A1
Application number: US11/508,940
Authority: US
Inventors: Hagai Krupnik
Original assignee: Given Imaging Ltd
Current assignee: Given Imaging Ltd
Priority date: 2006-08-24
Filing date: 2006-08-24
Publication date: 2008-02-28
Also published as: US9560956B2; US20140022367A1

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods for displaying in-vivo images at variable rate. For example, a system includes a processor to gradually increase a frame display rate of an in-vivo image stream based on a similarity among two or more in-vivo frames of the in-vivo image stream.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of in-vivo sensing, for example, in-vivo imaging.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Some in-vivo sensing systems may include an in-vivo imaging device able to acquire and transmit images of, for example, the GI tract while the in-vivo imaging device passes through the GI lumen.

Other devices, systems and methods for in-vivo sensing of passages or cavities within a body, and for sensing and gathering information (e.g., image information, pH information, temperature information, electrical impedance information, pressure information, etc.), are known in the art.

Some in-vivo imaging devices may acquire a large number of in-vivo images, for example, hundreds or thousands of in-vivo images, e.g., over a period of several hours. Accordingly, a relatively long time period may be required from a physician in order to view the acquired in-vivo images.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Some embodiments of the present invention may include, for example, devices, systems and methods for displaying in-vivo images at variable rate.

In some embodiments, for example, a system may include a processor to gradually increase a frame display rate of an in-vivo image stream based on a similarity among two or more in-vivo frames of the in-vivo image stream.

In some embodiments, for example, the processor may gradually increase the frame display rate until a pre-defined maximum frame display rate is reached.

In some embodiments, for example, the processor may non-gradually decrease the frame display rate upon detection of a difference between the two or more in-vivo frames.

In some embodiments, for example, the processor may reset the frame display rate from an accelerated frame display rate to a non-accelerated frame display rate upon detection of the difference.

In some embodiments, for example, the processor may reset the frame display rate from an accelerated frame display rate to a non-accelerated frame display rate in response to a command to begin displaying the in-vivo image stream from a selected point.

In some embodiments, for example, the processor may detect the similarity based on a comparative analysis of two or more of the in-vivo frames.

In some embodiments, for example, the processor may perform the comparative analysis during a time period in which at least a portion of the in-vivo image stream is displayed.

In some embodiments, for example, the in-vivo image stream includes a non-processed in-vivo image stream.

In some embodiments, for example, the system may further include a display unit to display the in-vivo image stream at the frame display rate.

In some embodiments, for example, the display unit may display an indication that the in-vivo image stream is displayed at an accelerated frame display rate.

In some embodiments, for example, the system may further include an in-vivo imaging device including an imager to acquire the plurality of in-vivo frames.

In some embodiments, for example, the in-vivo imaging device may be autonomous.

In some embodiments, for example, the in-vivo imaging device may include a swallowable capsule.

In some embodiments, for example, a method may include gradually increasing a frame display rate of an in-vivo image stream based on a similarity among two or more in-vivo frames of the in-vivo image stream.

In some embodiments, for example, the method may include gradually increasing the frame display rate until a pre-defined maximum frame display rate is reached.

In some embodiments, for example, the method may include non-gradually decreasing the frame display rate upon detection of a difference between the two or more in-vivo frames.

In some embodiments, for example, the method may include resetting the frame display rate from an accelerated frame display rate to a non-accelerated frame display rate upon detection of the difference.

In some embodiments, for example, the method may include resetting the frame display rate from an accelerated frame display rate to a non-accelerated frame display rate in response to a command to begin displaying the in-vivo image stream from a selected point.

In some embodiments, for example, the method may include detecting the similarity based on a comparative analysis of two or more of the in-vivo frames.

In some embodiments, for example, the method may include performing the comparative analysis during a time period in which at least a portion of the in-vivo image stream is displayed.

Embodiments of the invention may provide various other benefits and/or advantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The principles and operation of the system, apparatus, and method according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings, and the following description, it being understood that these drawings are given for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be limiting, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an in-vivo system according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a demonstrative graph of frames per second (FPS) of displayed in-vivo images as a function of time (T) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 3 is a flow-chart of a method of displaying in-vivo images at variable rate according to an embodiment of the invention.

It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements throughout the serial views.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present invention.

Although a portion of the discussion may relate to in-vivo imaging devices, systems, and methods, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and some embodiments of the present invention may be used in conjunction with various other in-vivo sensing devices, systems, and methods. For example, some embodiments of the invention may be used, for example, in conjunction with in-vivo sensing of pH, in-vivo sensing of temperature, in-vivo sensing of pressure, in-vivo sensing of electrical impedance, in-vivo detection of a substance or a material, in-vivo detection of a medical condition or a pathology, in-vivo acquisition or analysis of data, and/or various other in-vivo sensing devices, systems, and methods.

Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to a typically one time use or partially single use detection and/or analysis device. Some embodiments are directed to a typically swallowable in-vivo device that may passively or actively progress through a body lumen, e.g., the gastro-intestinal (GI) tract, for example, pushed along by natural peristalsis. Some embodiments are directed to in-vivo sensing devices that may be passed through other body lumens, for example, through blood vessels, the reproductive tract, or the like. The in-vivo device may be, for example, a sensing device, an imaging device, a diagnostic device, a detection device, an analysis device, a therapeutic device, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the in-vivo device may include an image sensor or an imager. Other sensors may be included, for example, a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, sensors of other in-vivo parameters, sensors of various in-vivo substances or compounds, or the like

Devices, systems and methods according to some embodiments of the present invention, including for example in-vivo sensing devices, receiving systems and/or display systems, may be similar to embodiments described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,604,531 to Iddan et al., entitled “In-vivo Video Camera System”, and/or in U.S. Pat. No. 7,009,634 to Iddan et al., entitled “Device for In-Vivo Imaging”, and/or in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/046,541, entitled “System and Method for Wide Field Imaging of Body Lumens”, filed on Jan. 16, 2002, published on Aug. 15, 2002 as United States Patent Application Publication Number. 2002/0109774, and/or in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/046,540, entitled “System and Method for Determining In-vivo Body Lumen Conditions”, filed on Jan. 16, 2002, published on Aug. 15, 2002 as United States Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0111544, and/or in U.S. Pat. No. 6,709,387 to Glukhovsky et al., entitled “System and Method for Controlling In Vivo Camera Capture and Display Rate”, and/or in U.S. Pat. No. 7,022,067 to Glukhovsky et al., entitled “System and Method for Controlling In Vivo Camera Capture and Display Rate”, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Devices and systems as described herein may have other configurations and/or sets of components. For example, an external receiver/recorder unit, a processor and a monitor, e.g., in a workstation, such as those described in the above publications, may be suitable for use with some embodiments of the present invention. Devices and systems as described herein may have other configurations and/or other sets of components. For example, the present invention may be practiced using an endoscope, needle, stent, catheter, etc. Some in-vivo devices may be capsule shaped, or may have other shapes, for example, a peanut shape or tubular, spherical, conical, or other suitable shapes.

Some embodiments of the present invention may include, for example, a typically swallowable in-vivo device. In other embodiments, an in-vivo device need not be swallowable and/or autonomous, and may have other shapes or configurations. Some embodiments may be used in various body lumens, for example, the GI tract, blood vessels, the urinary tract, the reproductive tract, or the like. In some embodiments, the in-vivo device may optionally include a sensor, an imager and/or other suitable components.

Embodiments of the in-vivo device are typically autonomous and are typically self-contained. For example, the in-vivo device may be or may include a capsule or other unit where all the components are substantially contained within a container, housing or shell, and where the in-vivo device does not require any wires or cables to, for example, receive power or transmit information. The in-vivo device may communicate with an external receiving and display system to provide display of data, control, or other functions. For example, power may be provided by an internal battery or an internal power source, or using a wired or wireless power-receiving system. Other embodiments may have other configurations and capabilities. For example, components may be distributed over multiple sites or units; and control information or other information may be received from an external source.

Devices, systems and methods in accordance with some embodiments of the invention may be used, for example, in conjunction with a device which may be inserted into a human body or swallowed by a person. However, embodiments of the invention are not limited in this regard, and may be used, for example, in conjunction with a device which may be inserted into, or swallowed by, a non-human body or an animal body.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an in-vivo system in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. One or more components of the system may be used in conjunction with, or may be operatively associated with, the devices and/or components described herein or other in-vivo devices in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

In some embodiments, the system may include adevice140 having a sensor, e.g., animager146, one ormore illumination sources142, apower source145, and atransmitter141. In some embodiments,device140 may be implemented using a swallowable capsule, but other sorts of devices or suitable implementations may be used. Outside a patient's body may be, for example, an external receiver/recorder112 (including, or operatively associated with, for example, one or more antennas, or an antenna array), astorage unit119, aprocessor114, and amonitor118. In some embodiments, for example,processor114,storage unit119 and/or monitor118 may be implemented as aworkstation117, e.g., a computer or a computing platform.

Transmitter

141 may operate using radio waves; but in some embodiments, such as those wheredevice140 is or is included within an endoscope,transmitter141 may transmit/receive data via, for example, wire, optical fiber and/or other suitable methods. Other known wireless methods of transmission may be used.Transmitter141 may include, for example, a transmitter module or sub-unit and a receiver module or sub-unit, or an integrated transceiver or transmitter-receiver.

Device

140 typically may be or may include an autonomous swallowable capsule, butdevice140 may have other shapes and need not be swallowable or autonomous. Embodiments ofdevice140 are typically autonomous, and are typically self-contained. For example,device140 may be a capsule or other unit where all the components are substantially contained within a container or shell, and wheredevice140 does not require any wires or cables to, for example, receive power or transmit information. In some embodiments,device140 may be autonomous and non-remote-controllable; in another embodiment,device140 may be partially or entirely remote-controllable.

In some embodiments,device140 may communicate with an external receiving and display system (e.g.,workstation117 or monitor118) to provide display of data, control, or other functions. For example, power may be provided todevice140 using an internal battery, an internal power source, or a wireless system able to receive power. Other embodiments may have other configurations and capabilities. For example, components may be distributed over multiple sites or units, and control information or other information may be received from an external source.

In some embodiments,device140 may include an in-vivo video camera, for example,imager146, which may capture and transmit images of, for example, the GI tract whiledevice140 passes through the GI lumen. Other lumens and/or body cavities may be imaged and/or sensed bydevice140. In some embodiments,imager146 may include, for example, a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) camera or imager, a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) camera or imager, a digital camera, a stills camera, a video camera, or other suitable imagers, cameras, or image acquisition components.

In some embodiments,imager146 indevice140 may be operationally connected totransmitter141.Transmitter141 may transmit images to, for example, external transceiver or receiver/recorder112 (e.g., through one or more antennas), which may send the data toprocessor114 and/or tostorage unit119.Transmitter141 may also include control capability, although control capability may be included in a separate component, e.g.,processor147.Transmitter141 may include any suitable transmitter able to transmit image data, other sensed data, and/or other data (e.g., control data) to a receiving device.Transmitter141 may also be capable of receiving signals/commands, for example from an external transceiver. For example, in some embodiments,transmitter141 may include an ultra low power Radio Frequency (RF) high bandwidth transmitter, possibly provided in Chip Scale Package (CSP).

In some embodiment,transmitter141 may transmit/receive viaantenna148.Transmitter141 and/or another unit indevice140, e.g., a controller orprocessor147, may include control capability, for example, one or more control modules, processing module, circuitry and/or functionality for controllingdevice140, for controlling the operational mode or settings ofdevice140, and/or for performing control operations or processing operations withindevice140. According to some embodiments,transmitter141 may include a receiver which may receive signals (e.g., from outside the patient's body), for example, throughantenna148 or through a different antenna or receiving element. According to some embodiments, signals or data may be received by a separate receiving device indevice140.

Power source

145 may include one or more batteries or power cells. For example,power source145 may include silver oxide batteries, lithium batteries, other suitable electrochemical cells having a high energy density, or the like. Other suitable power sources may be used. For example,power source145 may receive power or energy from an external power source (e.g., an electromagnetic field generator), which may be used to transmit power or energy to in-vivo device140.

In some embodiments,power source145 may be internal todevice140, and/or may not require coupling to an external power source, e.g., to receive power.Power source145 may provide power to one or more components ofdevice140 continuously, substantially continuously, or in a non-discrete manner or timing, or in a periodic manner, an intermittent manner, or an otherwise non-continuous manner. In some embodiments,power source145 may provide power to one or more components ofdevice140, for example, not necessarily upon-demand, or not necessarily upon a triggering event or an external activation or external excitement.

Optionally, in some embodiments,transmitter141 may include a processing unit or processor or controller, for example, to process signals and/or data generated byimager146. In another embodiment, the processing unit may be implemented using a separate component withindevice140, e.g., controller orprocessor147, or may be implemented as an integral part ofimager146,transmitter141, or another component, or may not be needed. The processing unit may include, for example, a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a controller, a chip, a microchip, a controller, circuitry, an Integrated Circuit (IC), an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), or any other suitable multi-purpose or specific processor, controller, circuitry or circuit. In some embodiments, for example, the processing unit or controller may be embedded in or integrated withtransmitter141, and may be implemented, for example, using an ASIC.

In some embodiments,imager146 may acquire in-vivo images continuously, substantially continuously, or in a non-discrete manner, for example, not necessarily upon-demand, or not necessarily upon a triggering event or an external activation or external excitement; or in a periodic manner, an intermittent manner, or an otherwise non-continuous manner.

In some embodiments,transmitter141 may transmit image data continuously, or substantially continuously, for example, not necessarily upon-demand, or not necessarily upon a triggering event or an external activation or external excitement; or in a periodic manner, an intermittent manner, or an otherwise non-continuous manner.

In some embodiments,device140 may include one ormore illumination sources142, for example one or more Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), “white LEDs”, or other suitable light sources.Illumination sources142 may, for example, illuminate a body lumen or cavity being imaged and/or sensed. An optionaloptical system150, including, for example, one or more optical elements, such as one or more lenses or composite lens assemblies, one or more suitable optical filters, or any other suitable optical elements, may optionally be included indevice140 and may aid in focusing reflected light ontoimager146, focusing illuminated light, and/or performing other light processing operations.

In some embodiments, illumination source(s)142 may illuminate continuously, or substantially continuously, for example, not necessarily upon-demand, or not necessarily upon a triggering event or an external activation or external excitement. In some embodiments, for example, illumination source(s)142 may illuminate a pre-defined number of times per second (e.g., two or four times), substantially continuously, e.g., for a time period of two hours, four hours, eight hours, or the like; or in a periodic manner, an intermittent manner, or an otherwise non-continuous manner.

In some embodiments, the components ofdevice140 may be enclosed within a housing or shell, e.g., capsule-shaped, oval, or having other suitable shapes. The housing or shell may be substantially transparent or semi-transparent, and/or may include one or more portions, windows or domes which may be substantially transparent or semi-transparent. For example, one or more illumination source(s)142 withindevice140 may illuminate a body lumen through a transparent or semi-transparent portion, window or dome; and light reflected from the body lumen may enter thedevice140, for example, through the same transparent or semi-transparent portion, window or dome, or, optionally, through another transparent or semi-transparent portion, window or dome, and may be received byoptical system150 and/orimager146. In some embodiments, for example,optical system150 and/orimager146 may receive light, reflected from a body lumen, through the same window or dome through which illumination source(s)142 illuminate the body lumen.

Data processor

114 may analyze the data received via external receiver/recorder112 fromdevice140, and may be in communication withstorage unit119, e.g., transferring frame data to and fromstorage unit119.Data processor114 may provide the analyzed data to monitor118, where a user (e.g., a physician) may view or otherwise use the data. In some embodiments,data processor114 may be configured for real time processing and/or for post processing to be performed and/or viewed at a later time. In the case that control capability (e.g., delay, timing, etc) is external todevice140, a suitable external device (such as, for example,data processor114 or external receiver/recorder112 having a transmitter or transceiver) may transmit one or more control signals todevice140.

Monitor

118 may include, for example, one or more screens, monitors, or suitable display units.Monitor118, for example, may display one or more images or a stream of images captured and/or transmitted bydevice140, e.g., images of the GI tract or of other imaged body lumen or cavity. Additionally or alternatively, monitor118 may display, for example, control data, location or position data (e.g., data describing or indicating the location or the relative location of device140), orientation data, and various other suitable data. In some embodiments, for example, both an image and its position (e.g., relative to the body lumen being imaged) or location may be presented usingmonitor118 and/or may be stored usingstorage unit119. Other systems and methods of storing and/or displaying collected image data and/or other data may be used.

Typically,device140 may transmit image information in discrete portions. Each portion may typically correspond to an image or a frame; other suitable transmission methods may be used. For example, in some embodiments,device140 may capture and/or acquire an image once every half second, and may transmit the image data to external receiver/recorder112. Other constant and/or variable capture rates and/or transmission rates may be used.

Typically, the image data recorded and transmitted may include digital color image data; in alternate embodiments, other image formats (e.g., black and white image data) may be used. In some embodiments, each frame of image data may include 256 rows, each row may include 256 pixels, and each pixel may include data for color and brightness according to known methods. According to other embodiments a 320×320 pixel imager may be used. Pixel size may be between 5 to 6 micron. According to some embodiments pixels may be each fitted with a micro lens. For example, a Bayer color filter may be applied. Other suitable data formats may be used, and other suitable numbers or types of rows, columns, arrays, pixels, sub-pixels, boxes, super-pixels and/or colors may be used.

Optionally,device140 may include one ormore sensors143, instead of or in addition to a sensor such asimager146.Sensor143 may, for example, sense, detect, determine and/or measure one or more values of properties or characteristics of the surrounding ofdevice140. For example,sensor143 may include a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, an electrical conductivity sensor, a pressure sensor, or any other known suitable in-vivo sensor.

In some embodiments,device140 may acquire a large number of in-vivo images, for example, hundreds or thousands of in-vivo images, e.g., over several hours. For example, an image stream or a video stream acquired bydevice140 may include hundreds or thousands of in-vivo images or in-vivo frames. The in-vivo image stream may include multiple portions, which may be characterized in accordance with one or more characteristics.

For example, in some embodiments, a first portion of an in-vivo image stream may be relatively or substantially repetitive, static, non-changing, constant, slowly-changing, or the like (“a static portion”). For example, a first in-vivo image of the static portion of the image stream may be identical, substantially identical, similar or substantially similar to a second (e.g., consecutive) in-vivo image of the static portion of the in-vivo stream. In some embodiments, for example, a scenery, an imaged object, or an imaged field-of-view may be substantially unmodified or substantially unchanging over multiple (e.g., consecutive) in-vivo images of the static portion of the in-vivo stream. A static portion of the in-vivo image stream may correspond, for example, to a time period in which the in-vivo imaging device is substantially static or non-moving, is moving relatively slowly, is moving through a portion of a body lumen having unchanging properties, or the like.

In contrast, for example, a second portion of an in-vivo image stream may be relatively dynamic, changing, non-repetitive, non-static, or the like (“a dynamic portion”). For example, a first in-vivo image of the dynamic portion of the image stream may be different, or substantially different, from a second (e.g., consecutive) in-vivo image of the dynamic portion of the in-vivo stream. In one embodiment, for example, a scenery, an imaged object, or an imaged field-of-view may appear substantially modified or different over multiple (e.g., consecutive) in-vivo images of the static portion of the in-vivo stream. In another embodiment, for example, a first image of the dynamic portion of the image stream may include a first imaged object or area, whereas a second image of the dynamic portion of the image stream may include a second, different, imaged object or area. A dynamic portion of the in-vivo image stream may correspond, for example, to a time period in which the in-vivo imaging device is substantially dynamic and moving, is moving relatively fast, is moving through a portion of a body lumen having changing properties, or the like.

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a first (e.g., higher) frame display rate may be used to display in-vivo images of a first portion of the image stream (e.g., a static portion); whereas a second (e.g., smaller) frame display rate may be used to display in-vivo images of a second portion of the image stream (e.g., a dynamic portion). In some embodiments, for example,processor114 and/orworkstation117 may identify one or more portions of the in-vivo image streams as static portions or as dynamic portions, and may associate such portions with one or more constant and/or changing (e.g., accelerated) frame display rate. In some embodiments, operations of identification, comparison, analysis and/or determination (e.g., determination to accelerate or decelerate the frame display rate) may optionally be performed by one or more other units, for example, by receiver/recorder112, e.g., using a processor or controller or sub-unit of receiver/recorder112, or by other suitable units or sub-units of the system ofFIG. 1.

In one embodiment, the identification of static portions and/or dynamic portions of the in-vivo image stream may be performed substantially in real time or in display time, for example, while a portion of the in-vivo image stream is displayed; in another embodiment, the identification of static portions and/or dynamic portions of the in-vivo image stream may be performed during a pre-processing stage, e.g., prior to displaying the in-vivo images to a physician.

In one embodiment, for example, a pre-processing of the in-vivo image stream may not be performed and/or may not be required; for example, image analysis may begin at a starting point or a starting time selected by the user (e.g., for display), such that the in-vivo image corresponding to the selected starting point or starting time may be used as the first image of reference and the frame display rate at that image may be set to the “basic” frame display rate. This may be performed, for example, even if the user selects to start viewing the image stream from a point located within a generally static portion of the image stream. In some embodiments, a pre-processing stage (e.g., image comparison stage or image analysis stage) may be used, for example, to determine in advance (e.g., prior to actual presentation of the in-vivo image stream) a degree of similarity or a degree of difference among in-vivo images; whereas the frame display rate being used may be determined and/or modified substantially in real time or in display time, e.g., during a presentation of the in-vivo image stream, for example, taking into account an initial frame display rate used upon beginning or resuming of the presentation. Other suitable timing combinations may be used in conjunction with analysis operations, comparison operations, determination operations, modification of frame display rate, or the like.

In some embodiments, a physician may request to playback (e.g., to display) or to present the in-vivo image stream, for example, starting at a certain starting point or starting time. The starting point or starting time may be indicated or selected by the physician, for example, using a time bar, a counter, a clock mechanism, a progress bar, a timeline, an in-vivo location bar, an in-vivo location indicator, or the like. In one embodiment, the starting point or starting time may be the beginning of the acquired in-vivo image stream; in another embodiment, the starting point or starting time may correspond to a certain, non-initial frame of the in-vivo image stream. In some embodiments, the physician may utilize theworkstation117 to selectively pause, stop, play or replay portions of the in-vivo image stream.

In some embodiments, a first frame display rate (“basic frame display rate”) may be utilized to display in-vivo images in response to a request (e.g., by the physician) to begin presentation of the in-vivo image stream or to begin presentation at a certain point or time of the in-vivo image stream. The basic frame display rate may be, for example, a constant or a substantially constant frame display rate, such that a constant number of frames is displayed per second or per minute. The basic frame display rate may be, for example, a relatively low frame display rate, e.g., approximately five frames per second. This may allow the physician, for example, to view the in-vivo image stream at a relatively slow or “normal” pace, at substantially any point in which the physician selects to begin (or restart) the viewing.

In some embodiments, it may be determined, for example, byprocessor114 or byworkstation117, that in-vivo images are substantially repetitive, identical or substantially similar, or belong to a static portion of the in-vivo image stream. In response to such determination,workstation117 may increase, e.g., gradually, the frame display rate (“accelerated frame display rate”), for example, until a pre-defined maximum threshold value of frame display rate is reached. The positive acceleration of the frame display rate may allow displaying, e.g., to the physician, the in-vivo images more rapidly or using an “accelerated” pace, for example, since the in-vivo images are substantially repetitive, identical, similar or non-changing. In some embodiments, for example, the “accelerated” frame display rate may be, for example, twice the “basic” frame display rate, three time the “basic” frame display rate, four times the “basic” frame display rate, five times the “basic” frame display rate, or the like. In some embodiments, the value of the maximum threshold of accelerated frame display rate may be, for example, approximately four or five times the “basic” frame display rate, approximately 20 or 25 frames per second, or other suitable values.

In some embodiments, a change in scenery may be detected, for example, byprocessor114 orworkstation117, e.g., such that the in-vivo image stream is about to display an in-vivo image which is substantially different or significantly different from the previously-displayed in-vivo image. Upon detection of such change or difference among the acquired in-vivo images,processor114 orworkstation117 may change (e.g., decrease or reset) the frame display rate, e.g., to the basic frame display rate. The negative acceleration, the deceleration, or the resetting of the frame display rate (e.g., resetting to the basic frame display rate) may allowworkstation117 to display in-vivo images at the “normal” or basic (e.g., slow) pace, for example, upon detection of the change in the in-vivo image stream.

Some embodiments, for example, may provide an improved and/or more efficient user experience to a user (e.g., a physician) who views an in-vivo image stream, e.g., a relatively long in-vivo image stream. For example, a constant frame display rate may cause the user to feel bored during static or repetitive portions of the in-vivo image stream, and/or to feel anxious or stressed during dynamic or changing portions of the in-vivo image stream. In some embodiments, for example,workstation117 may substantially automatically accelerate (e.g., gradually) the frame display rate during a static portion of the in-vivo stream, e.g., up to a pre-defined maximum threshold frame display rate; andworkstation117 may decrease (e.g., immediately or non-gradually) the frame display rate upon detection of a difference or a change between in-vivo images in the stream. In some embodiments,workstation117 may thus “alert” the user to a changing imaged scenery by decelerating the frame display rate, e.g., by immediately resetting the frame display rate to the “basic” (e.g., normal or slow) frame display rate. In some embodiments,workstation117 may automatically or semi-automatically (e.g., based on user's input) adjust or modify the frame display rate being used, for example, in order to meet a need of the user (e.g., a physician) to detect certain information in the in-vivo image stream and/or to detect a possible pathologies which may be included in the in-vivo image stream or in a portion thereof. In some embodiments,workstation117 may automatically or semi-automatically (e.g., based on user's input) anticipate a need of the user (e.g., a physician) to view a portion of the in-vivo stream at a certain frame display rate, e.g., to view a dynamic portion of the in-vivo image stream at a “basic” or decreased frame display rate, to view a static portion of the in-vivo image stream at an accelerated or increased frame display rate, or the like.

In some embodiments, the “accelerated” frame display rate may be pre-defined or preset (e.g., as a pre-defined number of frames per seconds), or may be dynamically calculated relative to the “basic” frame display rate, e.g., as a multiply (e.g., an integer multiply greater than one, or a non-integer multiply greater than one) of the “basic” frame display rate.

In some embodiments, one or more methods may be used to determine whether to accelerate (e.g., increase), to maintain, or to decelerate (e.g., decrease) the frame display rate. In one embodiment, for example, image comparison may be used. For example, if an image which is about to be displayed is substantially identical to an image currently displayed or recently displayed, then the frame display rate may be increased or gradually increased; whereas if an image which is about to be displayed is substantially different from an image currently displayed or recently displayed, then the frame display rate may be decreased, or may be reset to the “basic” frame display rate.

In another embodiment, an analysis of one or more image characteristics may be used to determine whether to accelerate, to maintain, or to decelerate the pace at which images are displayed. For example, brightness, darkness, illumination levels, image intensity, hue, saturation, contrast, color attributes, or other image characteristics may be compared or analyzed in order to determine whether neighboring (e.g., consecutive) in-vivo images are substantially similar or different.

In yet another embodiment, one or more image registration methods may be used to determine whether neighboring (e.g., consecutive) in-vivo images are substantially similar or different. This may include, for example, feature extraction, feature correspondence analysis, cross correlation, mutual information analysis, identification of overlapping image portions or features, or other methods for determining correspondence or similarity between multiple images.

In still another embodiment, other methods may be used to determine whether neighboring (e.g., consecutive) in-vivo images are substantially similar or different. For example, if a first image includes a close-up view of a body lumen wall, whereas a second image includes a tunnel-like view of an open body lumen, then it may be determined that the second image is substantially different from the first image, and the frame display rate, which may be an “accelerated” frame display rate at the first image, may be decreased or reset to the “basic” frame display rate at the second image. In some embodiments, one or more in-vivo image frames, or portions of the in-vivo image stream, may be classified based on the scenery or scenery-type included, and the acceleration or deceleration of the frame display rate may be performed by taking into account (or based on) such classification. Other suitable methods may be used.

In some embodiments, the modification of the frame display rate may be performed in real time or in display time, or substantially in real time or display time, and may depend on the frame in which the user (e.g., a physician) selects to begin viewing the image stream, or on the frame in which the user selects to continue to view the image steam.

In some embodiments, the acceleration of the frame display rate upon determination of a static portion of the image stream may be a gradual acceleration, such that the frame display rate increases gradually over multiple frames, e.g., as long as the image stream remains repetitive or non-changing, and until a pre-defined maximum acceleration rate is reached. For example, the frame display rate may gradually increase over several (e.g., consecutive or non-consecutive) in-vivo images, and/or during their display.

In some embodiments,workstation117 may include, and/or monitor118 may display, a user interface (UI), e.g., a graphical UI (GUI), which may allow the user, for example, to set or modify the “basic” frame display rate, to set or modify the “accelerated” frame display rate, to command theworkstation117 to display in-vivo images at a selected frame display rate (e.g., at the “basic” frame display rate, at the “accelerated” frame display rate, or the like), or the like. In some embodiment, for example, the GUI may allow the user to switch theworkstation117 among multiple frame display rates and/or among multiple modes of operation, e.g., a first mode of operation in which the in-vivo image stream is displayed using a constant frame display rate, a second mode of operation in which the in-vivo image stream is displayed using a variable frame display rate, a third mode of operation in which the in-vivo image stream is displayed using a mechanism that utilizes a “basic” and/or an “accelerated” frame display rate, or the like.

In some embodiments, monitor118 may display an indication of the current frame display rate in use, an indication that the current frame display rate is “basic” or “accelerated”, an indication of the relative acceleration of the frame display rate (e.g., twice the “basic” rate, three times the “basic” rate, or the like), an indication that a “static” or a “dynamic” portion of the in-vivo image stream is displayed or is about to be displayed, or the like. In some embodiments, monitor118 may present a color indication or an alert, orworkstation117 may generate an audible alert, that the in-vivo image stream is displayed using an “accelerated” or non-“basic” frame display rate, for example, to alert the user of the current mode of operation.

In some embodiments, one or more of the indication described herein may be presented cumulatively, e.g., in one or more regions of the display ofmonitor118. For example, in one embodiment, monitor118 may present a first indication of the type of frame display rate (e.g., “basic” or “accelerated”), a second indication of the actual or absolute frame display rate being used (e.g., “2 FPS”, “3 FPS”, or the like), a third indication of the relative frame display rate (e.g., “x1 normal”, “x2 acceleration”, “x3 acceleration”, or the like), a fourth indication of the scenery being displayed (e.g., “static”, “dynamic”, or the like), and/or other indications or GUI elements, e.g., timer, frame counter, time bar, progress bar, “slider” corresponding to the frame display rate, or the like. In one embodiment, two or more displayed items may share a common display region onmonitor118, for example, such that a first display item may replace a second display item, e.g., if the display items are alternative; for example, the indication “static” may replace the indication “dynamic”, or the indication “basic rate” may replace the indication “accelerated rate”, e.g., at the same area or display portion of themonitor118; this may allow, for example, to save screen resources or display resources, and/or may allow over-crowding of the display with information.

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates ademonstrative graph200 of frames per second (FPS) of displayed in-vivo images as a function of time (T) in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.Graph200 is presented for demonstrative purposes, and other types of graphs of patterns may be used in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Avertical axis201 may indicate, for example, a frame display rate of in-vivo images, for example, measured by FPS. Ahorizontal axis202 may indicate, for example, elapsed time. Other suitable measurements or indication may be used; for example, thehorizontal axis202 may indicate or may correspond to, for example, progress of the in-vivo imaging device inside a body or a body lumen, a frame serial number of an in-vivo image serial number, or the like.Horizontal line203 may indicate, for example, a maximum threshold value for the frame display rate, e.g., a maximum threshold value of 25 FPS. Other suitable values may be used.Graph line205 may indicate the frame display rate utilized to display one or more in-vivo images as a function of time.

As shown inFIG. 2, for example, the portion ofgraph line205 between time points T0 and T1 may be substantially horizontal, and may indicate that in the time period beginning at T0 and ending at T1, the frame display rate is substantially constant and may be equal to, for example, 5 FPS. For example, it may be determined (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that the in-vivo images corresponding to the time period between T0 and T1 are substantially “dynamic” and/or varying, and therefore a “basic” or constant frame display rate of 5 FPS may be utilized during that time period.

The portion ofgraph205 between time points T1 and T2 may gradually ascend or increase, for example, from the “basic” frame display rate of 5 FPS at time point T1, to an accelerated frame display rate of 20 FPS at time point T2. For example, it may be determined (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that the in-vivo images corresponding to the time period between T1 and T2 are substantially “static” and/or repetitive and/or non-changing, and therefore an “accelerated” or a gradually increasing frame display rate of may be utilized during that time period.

As shown inFIG. 2, the frame display rate may decrease at time point T2, e.g., substantially abruptly or immediately, for example, from the “accelerated” frame display rate of 20 FPS, to the “basic” frame display rate of 5 FPS. This may be performed, for example, in response to a determination (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that an in-vivo image about to be displayed (or being displayed) corresponding to time point T2 is different or substantially non-similar to the in-vivo image displayed immediately prior to time point T2. Therefore, the frame display rate may be reduced at time point T2, for example, the frame display rate may be reset to the “basic” frame display rate of 5 FPS.

The portion ofgraph line205 between time points T2 and T3 may be substantially horizontal, and may indicate that in the time period beginning at T2 and ending at T3, the frame display rate is substantially constant and may be equal to, for example, 5 FPS. For example, it may be determined (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that the in-vivo images corresponding to the time period between T2 and T3 are substantially “dynamic” and/or varying, and therefore a “basic” or constant frame display rate of 5 FPS may be utilized during that time period.

The portion ofgraph205 between time points T3 and T4 may gradually ascend or increase, for example, from the “basic” frame display rate of 3 FPS at time point T3, to an accelerated frame display rate of 10 FPS at time point T4. For example, it may be determined (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that the in-vivo images corresponding to the time period between T3 and T4 are substantially “static” and/or repetitive and/or non-changing, and therefore an “accelerated” or a gradually increasing frame display rate of may be utilized during that time period.

As shown inFIG. 2, the frame display rate may decrease at time point T4, e.g., substantially abruptly or immediately, for example, from the “accelerated” frame display rate of 10 FPS, to the “basic” frame display rate of 5 FPS. This may be performed, for example, in response to a determination (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that an in-vivo image about to be displayed (or being displayed) corresponding to time point T4 is different or substantially non-similar to the in-vivo image displayed immediately prior to time point T4. Therefore, the frame display rate may be reduced at time point T4, for example, the frame display rate may be reset to the “basic” frame display rate of 5 FPS.

The portion ofgraph line205 between time points T4 and T5 may be substantially horizontal, and may indicate that in the time period beginning at T4 and ending at T5, the frame display rate is substantially constant and may be equal to, for example, 5 FPS. For example, it may be determined (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that the in-vivo images corresponding to the time period between T4 and T5 are substantially “dynamic” and/or varying, and therefore a “basic” or constant frame display rate of 5 FPS may be utilized during that time period.

The portion ofgraph205 between time points T5 and T6 may gradually ascend or increase, for example, from the “basic” frame display rate of 5 FPS at time point T5, to an accelerated frame display rate of 25 FPS at time point T6. For example, it may be determined (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that the in-vivo images corresponding to the time period between T5 and T6 are substantially “static” and/or repetitive and/or non-changing, and therefore an “accelerated” or a gradually increasing frame display rate of may be utilized during that time period.

The portion ofgraph line205 between time points T6 and T7 may be substantially horizontal, and may indicate that in the time period beginning at T6 and ending at T7, the frame display rate is substantially constant and may be equal to the maximum frame display rate indicated byhorizontal line203, e.g., a value of 25 FPS. For example, it may be determined (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that the in-vivo images corresponding to the time period between T6 and T7 are still “static” and/or repetitive and/or non-changing (e.g., similar to the in-vivo images corresponding to the time period between T5 and T6), but no further acceleration of the frame display rate may be performed, e.g., to avoid an increase of the frame display rate over the maximum frame display rate. Thus, the “accelerated” frame display rate may remain substantially constant and may equal to the value of the maximum frame display rate, e.g., 25 FPS, during the time period between T6 and T7.

As shown inFIG. 2, the frame display rate may decrease at time point T7, e.g., substantially abruptly or immediately, for example, from the “accelerated” frame display rate of 25 FPS, to the “basic” frame display rate of 5 FPS. This may be performed, for example, in response to a determination (e.g., substantially in real time, while the in-vivo images stream is displayed, and not necessarily using pre-processing of the image stream) that an in-vivo image about to be displayed (or being displayed) corresponding to time point T7 is different or substantially non-similar to the in-vivo image displayed immediately prior to time point T7. Therefore, the frame display rate may be reduced at time point T7, for example, the frame display rate may be reset to the “basic” frame display rate of 5 FPS.

Other suitable graphs or patterns may be used in conjunction with embodiments of the invention. Other suitable slopes or shapes may be used, for example, linear slopes, constantly or gradually increasing slopes, constantly or gradually decreasing slopes, exponentially increasing or decreasing slopes, or the like.

FIG. 3 is a flow-chart of a method of displaying in-vivo images at variable rate in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The method may be used, for example, in conjunction with one or more components, devices and/or systems described herein, and/or other suitable in-vivo devices and/or systems.

As indicated atbox310, the method may optionally include, for example, receiving an in-vivo image stream intended to be displayed. In some embodiments, for example, the in-vivo stream may be received by receiver/recorder112 orworkstation117 ofFIG. 1, e.g., from in-vivo imaging device140 ofFIG. 1. In some embodiments, the in-vivo image stream may include “raw” and/or non-processed in-vivo images, or “raw” and/or non-processed stream portions; for example, the received image stream may not be subject to pre-processing, e.g., a prior determination or classification of images or stream-portions as “static” or “dynamic”, as changing or non-changing, as images or stream-portions associated with “basic” or “accelerated” frame display rate, or the like.

As indicated atbox315, the method may optionally include, for example, setting an initial frame display rate to a value of a “basic” (e.g., constant and/or non-accelerated) frame display rate. This may be performed, for example, upon beginning of a presentation of the in-vivo image stream in its beginning, and/or when a user instructs to begin or resume presentation at a certain time point or location. For example, in response to a user's request to “jump” to (e.g., directly access) a certain time point, e.g., a request to start or resume presentation at a certain time point, the frame display rate may be substantially immediately decreased and/or reset to the “basic” frame display rate.

As indicated atbox320, the method may optionally include, displaying an in-vivo image (“the first image” or the current image) at the “basic” frame display rate. This may include, for example, beginning to display an in-vivo image stream using the “basic” frame display rate. In some embodiments, this may be performed, for example, in response to a: user's command to “play” or present the in-vivo image stream, or in response to a user's command to begin or resume presentation of the in-vivo image stream.

As indicated atbox325, the method may optionally include, for example, checking whether a subsequent in-vivo image (“the second image” or the next image), which is about to be displayed, is substantially identical or significantly similar to the first (e.g., currently-displayed or previously-displayed) image. The determination may be based on, or may include, one or more other operations, for example, comparison among in-vivo images, calculation of a difference score or a similarity score among in-vivo images, obtaining a pre-calculated difference score or similarity score, or the like.

As indicate byarrow330, if the checking result is positive (e.g., if it is determined that the second image is substantially identical or significantly similar to the first image), then, as indicated atbox335, the method may optionally include, for example, increasing (e.g., gradually) the frame display rate. In some embodiment, the frame display rate may be increased only if the frame display rate is smaller than a pre-defined maximum threshold value of frame display rate. For example, if the current frame display rate being used is smaller than a pre-defined maximum threshold value of frame display rate, then the current frame display rate may be increased; whereas if the current frame display rate being used is not smaller than the pre-defined maximum threshold value of frame display rate, then the current frame display rate may be maintained and may not be increased.

In contrast, as indicated byarrow340, if the checking result is negative (e.g., if it is determined that the second image is substantially different from the first image), then, as indicated atbox345, the method may optionally include, for example, decreasing or resetting the frame display rate to the “basic” or non-accelerated frame display rate.

As indicated atbox360, the method may optionally include, for example, displaying the second image utilizing the frame display rate determined in the operations of

boxes

320,335 and/or345.

As indicated byarrow370, the method may optionally include, for example, repeating one or more of the above operations. For example, upon displaying the second in-vivo image atbox360, the second image may be regarded as a new “first” image, which may be compared or otherwise analyzed in relation to a subsequent in-vivo image which is about to be displayed.

Other suitable operations or sets of operations may be used in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

In some embodiments, the in-vivo image stream may optionally include, for example, a group or a set of in-vivo image frames which are consolidated or otherwise combined into one image frame, e.g., using registration or other suitable methods. For example, the in-vivo image stream presented may not necessarily be a “raw” or unprocessed image stream; the in-vivo image stream may be a processed image stream, or may include one or more processed portions or sections. In some embodiments, for example, multiple or alternative operations may be used to handle a set of in-vivo images. For example, in one embodiment, if two (or more) in-vivo images are substantially identical or are significantly similar, they may be consolidated or otherwise combined into (or replaced with) a single image frame; if two (or more) in-vivo images are similar (e.g., not significantly similar and not significantly different), they may be presented using a relatively high or accelerated frame display rate; and if two (or more) in-vivo images are different or non-similar, they may be presented using a relatively low or a “basic” frame display rate. Some embodiments of the present invention may be used, for example, in conjunction with one or more embodiments described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/430,185, entitled “System and Method for Displaying an In-Vivo Image Stream”, filed on May 9, 2006, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In some embodiments, an in-vivo image stream or a portion thereof may be presented in a forward direction (e.g., such that the displayed time advances from frame to frame), or in a backward or reverse direction (e.g., such that the displayed time is shown in a reverse order relative to the original in-vivo image stream). Accelerated, decelerated, increased and/or decreased frame display rate may be combined with forward and/or backward presentation of the in-vivo image stream or portion(s) thereof.

In some embodiments, multiple (e.g., two, four, or other number of) in-vivo image frames may be displayed simultaneously or substantially simultaneously. In some embodiments, the multiple in-vivo image frames may be combined, for example, using registration or other suitable methods. In one embodiment, for example, a combined image frame (or a simultaneous display of multiple in-vivo image frames) may be associated with a relatively low frame display rate, or may be presented for a relatively longer period of time.

In some embodiments, the system ofFIG. 1 may acquire, process and/or present multiple in-vivo image streams, for example, substantially simultaneously. For example,device140 may include multiple in-vivo imagers146, e.g., two in-vivo imagers146 facing substantially opposite directions, and may be able to simultaneously acquire and transmit two in-vivo image streams. In some embodiments, accelerated, decelerated, increased and/or decreased frame display rate may be used in conjunction with at least one of the two (or more) in-vivo image streams, or in conjunction with both (or all) the in-vivo image streams. In some embodiments, a first in-vivo image stream may be associated with a first frame display rate, e.g., an accelerated frame display rate; whereas a second (e.g., simultaneous) in-vivo image stream may be associated with a second frame display rate, e.g., “basic” or non-accelerated. In one embodiment, for example,workstation117 may utilize the lower frame display rate to display multiple in-vivo image streams associated with different frame display rates.

In some embodiments, computation of differences among two (or more) in-vivo image frames may be performed in a pre-processing stage, and/or may be performed substantially in real time (e.g., during the presentation of the in-vivo stream); whereas the computation of the frame display rate may be performed while the in-vivo image stream is displayed, e.g., to take into account the “basic” frame display rate used when the presentation of the stream begins or resumes.

In some embodiments, optionally, a short pause may be introduced in the presentation of the in-vivo image stream upon switching from an “accelerated” frame display rate to the “basic” frame display rate. This may aid the user, for example, to further notice the change in frame display rate, or to otherwise adjust to the “basic” frame display rate.

In some embodiments, one or more algorithms (e.g., “look ahead” or “read ahead” algorithms) may be used to determine or modify the frame display rate. For example, the frame display rate may be decreased in advance, e.g., several frames prior to the time in which the “dynamic” or varying frame is actually sent for display. For example, in some embodiments, a frame display rate currently being used may be calculated based on similarity or difference across multiple in-vivo frames that are intended for display within one or two seconds. Other suitable anticipation algorithms may be used.

Various aspects of the various embodiments disclosed herein are combinable with the other embodiments disclosed herein.

The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. It should be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that many modifications, variations, substitutions, changes, and equivalents are possible in light of the above teaching. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A system for viewing an in-vivo image stream of a body lumen, the system comprising:

a processor to gradually increase a frame display rate of the in-vivo image stream based on a similarity among two or more in-vivo frames of the in-vivo image stream.

2. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the processor is to gradually increase the frame display rate until a pre-defined maximum frame display rate is reached.

3. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the processor is to non-gradually decrease the frame display rate upon detection of a difference between the two or more in-vivo frames.

4. The system ofclaim 3, wherein the processor is to reset the frame display rate from an accelerated frame display rate to a non-accelerated frame display rate upon detection of the difference.

5. The system ofclaim 3, wherein the processor is to reset the frame display rate from an accelerated frame display rate to a non-accelerated frame display rate in response to a command to begin displaying the in-vivo image stream from a selected point.

6. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the processor is to detect the similarity based on a comparative analysis of two or more of the in-vivo frames.

7. The system ofclaim 6, wherein the processor is to perform the comparative analysis during a time period in which at least a portion of the in-vivo image stream is displayed.

8. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the in-vivo image stream comprises a non-processed in-vivo image stream.

9. The system ofclaim 1, further comprising:

a display unit to display the in-vivo image stream at the frame display rate.

10. The system ofclaim 9, wherein the display unit is to display an indication that the in-vivo image stream is displayed at an accelerated frame display rate.

11. The system ofclaim 1, further comprising:

an in-vivo imaging device comprising an imager to acquire the plurality of in-vivo frames.

12. The system ofclaim 11, wherein the in-vivo imaging device is autonomous.

13. The system ofclaim 11, wherein the in-vivo imaging device comprises a swallowable capsule.

14. A method for displaying a stream of in-vivo image frames captured from a body lumen, the method comprising:

gradually increasing a frame display rate of an in-vivo image stream based on a similarity among two or more in-vivo frames of the in-vivo image stream.

15. The method ofclaim 14, wherein gradually increasing comprises:

gradually increasing the frame display rate until a pre-defined maximum frame display rate is reached.

16. The method ofclaim 14, further comprising:

non-gradually decreasing the frame display rate upon detection of a difference between the two or more in-vivo frames.

17. The method ofclaim 16, comprising:

resetting the frame display rate from an accelerated frame display rate to a non-accelerated frame display rate upon detection of the difference.

18. The method ofclaim 16, comprising:

resetting the frame display rate from an accelerated frame display rate to a non-accelerated frame display rate in response to a command to begin displaying the in-vivo image stream from a selected point.

19. The method ofclaim 14, further comprising:

detecting the similarity based on a comparative analysis of two or more of the in-vivo frames.

20. The method ofclaim 19, comprising:

performing the comparative analysis during a time period in which at least a portion of the in-vivo image stream is displayed.