Server for managing measurement images, system and method for managing measurement images

Abstract

The present application provides a kind of server for determining image management, determining image management system and method.Determining image management system obtains identification information for identifying selected image from multiple determination images.Moreover, identification information is presented in a selectable manner to multiple user terminals.Moreover, based on the input operation of image sending for certain user terminal in multiple user terminals, the selected image corresponding to the selected identification information is sent to the user terminal of multiple user terminals that accepts the input operation of image sending.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to an assay image management system, an assay image management server, and an assay image management method, and particularly relates to an assay image management system, an assay image management server, and an assay image management method that save assay images. BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventionally, a cell observation system that saves image data is known. For example, such a system is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-141695.

[0003] The cell observation system described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-141695 has an image processing server that saves image data obtained by photographing cells that are observation targets. The image processing server saves the image data together with identification information of an assay terminal that performed the photographing, identification information of a cell culture plate, and attribute information including a photographing date and time.

[0004] Here, although not described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-141695, in a case where the image processing server is configured to be able to communicate with a plurality of user terminals, sometimes a selection image selected by a user from a plurality of image data (assay images) stored in the server is transmitted to the plurality of user terminals. In this case, in the cell observation system described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-141695, in a case where the same selection image as a selection image (cell image) selected once by one user is transmitted again to a user terminal of another user, the other user needs to select the selection image again from a plurality of saved assay images. In this case, the other user needs to perform the operation of selecting the correct selection image again. Therefore, in a case where a selection image selected by one user from a plurality of assay images is transmitted again to a user terminal of another user, it is desirable to reduce the burden of the operation of obtaining the correctly selected selection image. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application has been achieved in order to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present application is to provide an assay image management system, an assay image management server, and an assay image management method that can reduce the burden of an operation of obtaining a correctly selected selection image in a case where a selection image selected by one user from a plurality of assay images and transmitted to a user terminal of one user is transmitted again to a user terminal of another user.

[0006] To achieve the above object, the measurement image management system of the first aspect of the present application includes a server that stores a plurality of measurement images acquired by a measurement device, and a plurality of user terminals configured to be able to communicate with the server, wherein the server includes: an identification information acquisition section that acquires identification information for identifying a selected image selected based on an input operation of image selection performed with respect to a certain one of the plurality of user terminals, when a selected image selected from the plurality of measurement images stored is transmitted to the certain one of the plurality of user terminals; a storage processing section that stores the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition section; a presentation processing section that presents the identification information stored by the storage processing section to the plurality of user terminals in a selectable manner; and a transmission processing section that transmits the selected image corresponding to the selected identification information to a user terminal of the plurality of user terminals that accepted the input operation of image transmission, based on an input operation of image transmission performed with respect to a certain one of the plurality of user terminals in which the identification information is presented, separately from the input operation of image selection.

[0007] The measurement image management server of the second aspect of the present application is configured to be able to communicate with a plurality of user terminals, stores a plurality of measurement images acquired by a measurement device, and includes: an identification information acquisition section that acquires identification information for identifying a selected image selected based on an input operation of image selection performed with respect to a certain one of the plurality of user terminals, when a selected image selected from the plurality of measurement images stored is transmitted to the certain one of the plurality of user terminals; a storage processing section that stores the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition section; a presentation processing section that presents the identification information stored by the storage processing section to the plurality of user terminals in a selectable manner; and a transmission processing section that transmits the selected image corresponding to the selected identification information to a user terminal of the plurality of user terminals that accepted the input operation of image transmission, based on an input operation of image transmission performed with respect to a certain one of the plurality of user terminals in which the identification information is presented, separately from the input operation of image selection.

[0008] In the measurement image management method of the third aspect of the present application, the steps of storing a plurality of measurement images acquired by a measurement device, acquiring identification information for identifying a selected image selected based on an input operation of image selection for a certain user terminal among a plurality of user terminals from the plurality of measurement images when transmitting the selected image selected from the stored plurality of measurement images to the certain user terminal among the plurality of user terminals, storing the acquired identification information, presenting the stored identification information in a selectable manner in the plurality of user terminals, and transmitting the selected image corresponding to the selected identification information to the user terminal among the plurality of user terminals that accepted the input operation of image transmission based on an input operation of image transmission performed separately from the input operation of image selection for the certain user terminal among the plurality of user terminals in which the identification information is presented are included.

[0009] In the measurement image management system of the first aspect, the measurement image management server of the second aspect, and the measurement image management method of the third aspect, identification information for identifying a selected image selected based on an input operation of image selection for a certain user terminal among a plurality of user terminals is acquired. Further, the selected image corresponding to the selected identification information is transmitted to the user terminal among the plurality of user terminals that accepted the input operation of image transmission based on an input operation of image transmission performed separately from the input operation of image selection for the certain user terminal among the plurality of user terminals in which the identification information is presented. Thus, in the case where a selected image that was selected once before by the input operation of image selection and transmitted to one user terminal is transmitted again to other user terminals, identification information for identifying the selected selected image from a plurality of measurement images is selected, and thus the selected image corresponding to the identification information can be transmitted. Therefore, in the case where a common selected image is transmitted to each of the plurality of user terminals, other users of other user terminals do not need to select the selected image again from the plurality of measurement images, and the selected image that was selected before can be accurately acquired by selecting the stored identification information. As a result, in the case where a selected image selected from a plurality of measurement images by one user and transmitted to a user terminal of one user is transmitted again to a user terminal of another user, the work burden of acquiring the selected image that was accurately selected can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the measurement image management system of the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 is a block diagram for explaining the functional structure of the server of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 is a diagram for explaining acquisition of a captured image and characteristic information by the image acquisition section.

[0013] Figure 4 is a diagram for explaining production of a data tree by the data tree production section.

[0014] Figure 5 is a diagram for explaining change of the arrangement order of the hierarchical structure of the data tree.

[0015] Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of a captured image of the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 is a diagram for explaining selection of a selected image of the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 is a diagram for explaining a compressed image of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 9 is a diagram for explaining acquisition of identification information of the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 10 is a diagram for explaining display of identification information of the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 11 is a diagram for explaining display of the progress degree of the compression process of the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 is a diagram for explaining display of a transmission history record of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 is a diagram for explaining storage of a compressed image in another system.

[0023] Figure 14 is a flowchart for explaining a measured image management method of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 15 is a block diagram for explaining a structure of a measured image management system of the second embodiment.

[0025] Figure 16 is a diagram for explaining display of identification information of the second embodiment.

[0026] Figure 17 is a block diagram for explaining a structure of a measured image management system of the third embodiment.

[0027] Figure 18 is a diagram for explaining display of identification information of the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Next, an embodiment embodying the present application will be described below based on the drawings.

[0029] [First Embodiment]

[0030] (Overall configuration of assay image management system)

[0031] The assay image management system 100 of the first embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to Figures 1-13

[0032] As shown in Figure 1 , the assay image management system 100 is provided with an assay device 1, a server 2, a user terminal 3, a user terminal 4, and a user terminal 5. In addition, the server 2 is an example of the "server for assay image management" and the "server" in the claims. In addition, the user terminal 3, the user terminal 4, and the user terminal 5 are examples of the "a plurality of user terminals".

[0033] The assay device 1 is configured to capture a plurality of captured images I (captured images I1, I2, I3,... (refer to Figure 4 )) by capturing cells, in order to observe the culture of the cells. The assay device 1 includes, for example, a microscope la and a microscope lb. The microscope la and the microscope lb include, for example, a phase contrast microscope or a holographic microscope. The assay device 1 captures a plurality of captured images I by capturing each well in a cell culture plate provided with a plurality of wells. The well is a recess for culturing cells. In addition, the assay device 1 is connected to the user terminal 3. Furthermore, the assay device 1 is configured to transmit the captured captured images I to the user terminal 3. In addition, the captured images I are examples of the "assay images" and the "captured images" in the claims.

[0034] The server 2 is, for example, a computer for constructing a server. The server 2 includes a control section 2a and a storage section 2b. The control section 2a includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like. The control section 2a controls each section of the server 2 by causing the CPU to execute a prescribed program. The storage section 2b is configured by a storage device such as a hard disk drive. The storage section 2b stores a program for causing the control section 2a to function. Specifically, the storage section 2b stores an application program 20 for managing the captured images I. The application program 20 is executed by being executed by the control section 2a. In addition, the application program 20 is, for example, a web application that is run in a web browser. In addition, the storage section 2b stores the captured images I. That is, in the first embodiment, the server 2 stores a plurality of captured images I acquired by the assay device 1.​

[0035] User terminal 3 is, for example, a PC (personal computer). User terminal 3 is a computer device equipped with storage devices such as hard disk drives and arithmetic processing units such as CPUs. Furthermore, user terminal 3 has an operation unit 3a and a display unit 3b. Operation unit 3a includes input devices such as a keyboard and pointing devices such as a mouse. Operation unit 3a receives operation signals for operating various parts of user terminal 3. In addition, operation unit 3a sends operation signals based on the input operations to the arithmetic processing unit included in user terminal 3. Display unit 3b includes a display monitor such as a liquid crystal display (LCD). Display unit 3b displays information based on the control of the arithmetic processing unit included in user terminal 3.

[0036] Furthermore, user terminals 4 and 5 are PCs (personal computers) with the same structure as user terminal 3. That is, user terminals 4 and 5 each have an operation unit 4a and an operation unit 5a, and a display unit 4b and a display unit 5b. Operation units 4a and 5a have the same structure as operation unit 3a. Similarly, display units 4b and 5b have the same structure as display unit 3b. In the first embodiment, user terminals 3 to 5 are configured to communicate with server 2. For example, user terminals 3 to 5 are configured to communicate with server 2 via a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0037] User terminal 3 is connected to measuring device 1. Additionally, user terminal 3 acquires multiple camera images I captured by measuring device 1. Furthermore, user terminals 4 and 5 are, for example, not connected to measuring device 1. Regarding the measuring image management system 100 of the first embodiment, an example of sending (uploading) multiple camera images I from user terminal 3 to server 2 to user terminals 4 and 5 will be described.

[0038] (Image management performed by the server)

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown, in the first embodiment, as a functional structure, the server 2 includes a presentation processing unit 21, an image acquisition unit 22, a storage processing unit 23, a data tree creation unit 24, an image selection and receiving unit 25, a compression processing unit 26, a recognition information acquisition unit 27, and a transmission processing unit 28. Specifically, the control unit 2a of the server 2 functions as the presentation processing unit 21, the image acquisition unit 22, the storage processing unit 23, the data tree creation unit 24, the image selection and receiving unit 25, the compression processing unit 26, the recognition information acquisition unit 27, and the transmission processing unit 28 by executing the application program 20 stored in the storage unit 2b.

[0040] The presentation processing unit 21 (control unit 2a) is configured to cause the display units 3b to 5b of user terminals 3 to 5 to display a display based on application 20. Specifically, the presentation processing unit 21 sends display information to user terminals 3 to 5 for displaying a display based on application 20. Based on the display information from the presentation processing unit 21, user terminals 3 to 5 cause their display units 3b to 5b to display a display based on application 20.

[0041] <Storage of camera images>

[0042] like Figure 3 As shown, the image acquisition unit 22 (control unit 2a) is configured to acquire multiple camera images I captured by the measuring device 1. Furthermore, the image acquisition unit 22 is configured to acquire characteristic information P for each acquired camera image I, representing the measuring device 1 (identification number information of microscopes 1a and 1b), the cell culture period (culture days), the cell passage number, and the well (well number), where the well is a recess used for culturing cells.

[0043] Specifically, the user terminal 3, which acquires multiple camera images I, sends the camera images I in association with characteristic information P to the server 2. Characteristic information P is acquired based on input operations performed on the operation unit 3a of the user terminal 3. In the user terminal 3, the application program 20 of the server 2 is executed via a web browser, thereby displaying (sending to) the screen for inputting characteristic information P on the user terminal 3 via the presentation processing unit 21, and displaying it on the display unit 3b. The user of the user terminal 3 inputs characteristic information P by referring to the display on the display unit 3b and performing input operations on the operation unit 3a. Furthermore, the input characteristic information P and the camera images I are sent from the user terminal 3 to the server 2. The image acquisition unit 22 of the server 2 acquires the camera images I and characteristic information P sent from the user terminal 3.

[0044] Furthermore, the storage processing unit 23 (control unit 2a) stores the camera images I acquired by the image acquisition unit 22 in association with the characteristic information P in the storage unit 2b. That is, in the first embodiment, the server 2 is configured to store multiple camera images I in association with the characteristic information P.

[0045] In addition, such as Figure 4As shown in the first embodiment, the data tree creating section 24 (control section 2a) of the server 2 is configured to create the data tree la by grouping the plurality of captured images I in such a manner that captured images I having common characteristics are grouped into the same group. That is, the data tree creating section 24 creates the data tree la in such a manner that captured images I having common characteristic information P are grouped into the same group (folder). Further, the data tree creating section 24 is configured to create the data tree la having a hierarchical structure with a plurality of levels corresponding to a plurality of kinds of characteristic information P. For example, the data tree creating section 24 sets the measuring apparatus 1 (identification number information of the microscopes la and lb) at the foremost level in the arrangement order. Also, the data tree creating section 24 sets the generation number (passage) at the next level to the foremost level. In this case, after grouping the captured images I according to the kind of the measuring apparatus 1 (microscope la or microscope lb) used for capturing the captured images I, the captured images I are further grouped according to the numerical value of the generation number (passage). By so doing, the data tree creating section 24 sets the arrangement order (priority order) for each of the plurality of kinds of characteristic information P, and groups the captured images I in stages for each of the set arrangement orders of the characteristic information P, thereby creating the data tree la having a hierarchical structure. Also, the presentation processing section 21 causes the display section 3b of the user terminal 3 to display the data tree la created by the data tree creating section 24. The presentation processing section 21 (control section 2a) presents the captured images I stored in the server 2 in a selectable manner by transmitting the data tree la to the user terminal 3 and causing the display section 3b to display the data tree la.

[0046] Further, as shown in the first embodiment, Figure 5 the data tree creating section 24 (control section 2a) is configured to be able to change the arrangement order of the hierarchical structure of the data tree la. Specifically, the data tree creating section 24 changes the display of the arrangement order of the hierarchical structure displayed in the region 31 (refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) of the display section 3b based on an input operation performed with respect to the user terminal 3 on which the data tree la is displayed, thereby changing the arrangement order of the hierarchical structure of the data tree la. Further, the data tree creating section 24 is configured to change in such a manner that a part of the arrangement order of the hierarchical structure is deleted. The presentation processing section 21 causes the display section 3b of the user terminal 3 to display the data tree la after the change.

[0047] Further, as shown in the first embodiment, Figure 6 the presentation processing section 21 (control section 2a) causes the display section 3b of the user terminal 3 to display the captured images I stored in the server 2. Specifically, in a case where, for example, the captured image Il is selected from the plurality of captured images I of the data tree la based on an input operation performed with respect to the operation section 3a of the user terminal 3, the presentation processing section 21 causes the display section 3b to display the captured image Il.

[0048] In addition, the presentation processing section 21 is configured to cause the user terminal 4 and the user terminal 5 to also each display the data tree Ia based on the input operation to the operation section 4a and the operation section 5a, respectively.

[0049] <Selection of images>

[0050] Here, the measurement image management system 100 of the first embodiment is configured to be able to select, from among the plurality of captured images I stored in the server 2, a selection image S to be transmitted to the user terminal 4 and the user terminal 5 (refer to Figure 7 ). Furthermore, the measurement image management system 100 is configured to store the selected selection image S in the server 2 in a manner that is identifiable from among the plurality of captured images I. In the first embodiment, an example in which the selection image S selected based on an input operation performed with respect to the user terminal 4 is transmitted to the user terminal 4 and the user terminal 5 is described.

[0051] As shown in Figure 7 , in the first embodiment, the image selection accepting section 25 (control section 2a) is configured to accept an image selection that selects a plurality of selection images S from among the plurality of captured images I based on an input operation of an image selection performed with respect to the user terminal 4. For example, the image selection accepting section 25 accepts an image selection that selects a selection image S to be transmitted to the user terminal 4 from among the plurality of captured images I based on an input operation performed with respect to the operation section 4a of the user terminal 4. Specifically, a plurality of selection images S is selected from among the data tree Ia presented and displayed on the display section 4b by the presentation processing section 21 based on a click operation or the like performed with respect to the operation section 4a. Furthermore, with respect to the selection images S as well, the data tree Ia is maintained in a manner that causes selection images S having a common characteristic (property information P) to be in the same group as each other. That is, the data tree creating section 24 is configured to also group the plurality of selection images S in a manner that causes selection images S having a common characteristic (property information P) to be in the same group as each other, thereby creating the data tree Ia.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8 , in the first embodiment, the compression processing section 26 (control section 2a) performs a compression process on the plurality of selection images S selected based on an input operation performed with respect to the operation section 4a of the user terminal 4, thereby generating a plurality of selection images S after compression, that is, a compressed image A (an archive). In addition, the compression processing section 26 is configured to perform the compression process on the plurality of selection images S in a state in which the data tree Ia created by the data tree creating section 24 is included.

[0053] That is, the compression processing section 26 generates the compressed image A by compressing the selection image S in a manner so as to be saved in the folder in a hierarchical structure having the same arrangement order as the data tree la made by the data tree making section 24. Also, the storage processing section 23 is configured to store the generated compressed image A in the storage section 2b.

[0054] <Identification information>

[0055] In addition, in the measurement image management system 100 of the first embodiment, the server 2 acquires the generated compressed image A and the identification information Q for identifying the selection image S included in the compressed image A from among the plurality of captured images I. Also, the server 2 is configured to store the compressed image A in association with the identification information Q in the storage section 2b.

[0056] As shown in Figure 9 , in the first embodiment, the identification information acquisition section 27 (the control section 2a) is configured to acquire the identification information Q based on an input operation of the image selection with respect to the user terminal 4. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the identification information acquisition section 27 is configured to acquire the identification information Q including the name information Ql (the archive name) indicating the selection image S (the compressed image A) and the annotation information Q2 with respect to the selection image S (the compressed image A). Specifically, the identification information acquisition section 27 acquires the identification information Q including the name information Ql and the annotation information Q2 based on an input operation with respect to the operation section 4a at the time of performing the compression processing on the selection image S. For example, in a state where the input of the name information Ql and the annotation information Q2 is completed based on an input operation with respect to the operation section 4a, in a case where an operation of starting the compression processing is accepted, the identification information acquisition section 27 acquires the identification information Q including the name information Ql and the annotation information Q2.

[0057] In addition, in the first embodiment, the identification information acquisition section 27 (the control section 2a) is configured to acquire the identification information Q including the capacity Q3 (refer to Figure 10 ) of the selection image S (the compressed image A) based on the selection image S. Specifically, the identification information acquisition section 27 acquires the capacity Q3 (the file size) of the compressed image A generated by the compression processing section 26 as the identification information Q. Also, in the first embodiment, the storage processing section 23 is configured to store the identification information Q (the name information Ql, the annotation information Q2, and the capacity Q3) acquired by the identification information acquisition section 27 in association with the compressed image A corresponding to the identification information Q in the storage section 2b.

[0058] Further, the identification information acquisition section 27 is configured to acquire state information Q4. The state information Q4 is information indicating whether or not the compression processing by the compression processing section 26 is successful. The storage processing section 23 stores the state information Q4 in association with the compressed image A in the storage section 2b.

[0059] Further, as shown in FIG. 1, in the first embodiment, the presentation processing section 21 is configured to present the identification information Q stored by the storage processing section 23 to the user terminal 4 in a selectable manner. For example, in the first embodiment, the presentation processing section 21 is configured to cause the display section 4b of the user terminal 4 to display the name information Ql, the annotation information Q2, the capacity Q3 of the selected image S, and the state information Q4. Figure 10

[0060] Further, in the first embodiment, the server 2 is configured to store a plurality of identification information Q in the storage section 2b by the storage processing section 23. For example, the presentation processing section 21 is configured to cause the plurality of identification information Q stored in the server 2 to be displayed in a selectable manner in a list on the display section 4b of the user terminal 4.

[0061] Further, the transmission processing section 28 is configured to transmit the stored compressed image A corresponding to the identification information Q selected from the plurality of identification information Q displayed in a list to the user terminal 4 based on a selection of the displayed identification information Q. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the transmission processing section 28 is configured to transmit the selected selected image S (compressed image A) to the user terminal 4 based on an input operation of the image transmission by the operation section 4a of the user terminal 4.

[0062] By the above, in a case where the selected captured image I, i.e., the selected image S, is transmitted to the user terminal 4, first, the selection of the selected image S is made from the plurality of captured images I stored in the storage section 2b of the server 2 based on an input operation of the image transmission by the user terminal 4, and the compressed image A obtained by compressing the selected image S together is stored in association with the identification information Q in the storage section 2b. That is, in the first embodiment, the identification information acquisition section 27 (control section 2a) is configured to acquire the identification information Q based on an input operation of the image selection by the user terminal 4 when the selected image S selected from the plurality of captured images I stored in the storage section 2b is transmitted to the user terminal 4.

[0063] 〈Transmission of compressed image to multiple user terminals〉

[0064] ​Further, the measurement image management system 100 of the first embodiment is configured to be able to transmit the compressed image A (selection image S) to the plurality of user terminals 3 and the user terminal 5, which are different from the user terminal 4 that received the input operation of the image selection, in the same manner as the compressed image A (selection image S) transmitted to the user terminal 4.

[0065] In the first embodiment, the presentation processing section 21 is configured to present the identification information Q stored by the storage processing section 23 in a selectable manner to the plurality of user terminals 3 to the user terminal 5. That is, the presentation processing section 21 is configured to cause the plurality of stored identification information Q to be displayed in a list in a selectable manner not only in the user terminal 4 that received the input operation of the image selection to make the selection of the selection image S, but also in the plurality of user terminals 3 to the user terminal 5. Further, in the first embodiment, the transmission processing section 28 is configured to transmit the selection image S (compressed image A) corresponding to the selected identification information Q to the user terminal that received the input operation of the image transmission among the plurality of user terminals 3 to the user terminal 5, based on the input operation of the image transmission performed with respect to the certain user terminal among the plurality of user terminals 3 to the user terminal 5 in which the identification information Q is presented, separately from the input operation of the image selection.

[0066] For example, the transmission processing section 28 is configured to transmit the compressed image A corresponding to the selected identification information Q to the user terminal 5, in the case where the selection operation (input operation of the image transmission of the compressed image A) with respect to the plurality of identification information Q displayed on the display section 5b of the user terminal 5 is received by the user terminal 5 separately from the input operation of the image selection (input operation of the compression processing) received by the user terminal 4. That is, the transmission processing section 28 transmits the selection image S (compressed image A) selected based on the input operation of the image selection performed with respect to the user terminal 4 to the user terminal 5 that received the input operation of the image transmission.

[0067] 〈Compression processing from a plurality of user terminals〉

[0068] Further, the measurement image management system 100 of the first embodiment is configured to be able to receive the input operation of the image selection to make the selection of the selection image S (input operation of the compression processing to generate the compressed image A) in any of the plurality of user terminals 3 to the user terminal 5. That is, in the first embodiment, the compression processing section 26 is configured to perform the compression processing with respect to each of the input operations of the image selection of the plurality of user terminals 3 to the user terminal 5, based on the input operations of the image selection performed with respect to the plurality of user terminals 3 to the user terminal 5 respectively.

[0069] Further, as Figure 11As shown, the presentation processing unit 21 is configured to display the progress level R of each of the multiple compression processes executed by the compression processing unit 26 on multiple user terminals 3 to user terminals 5. For example, the presentation processing unit 21 is configured to display the remaining time of the currently executed compression process in a manner that can be visually confirmed.

[0070] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the compression processing unit 26 is configured to perform compression processing on the selected multiple selection images S by performing asynchronous processing in parallel. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the image selection receiving unit 25 is configured to accept image selections of new selection images S during the compression processing performed by the compression processing unit 26. For example, the presentation processing unit 21 is configured to display the data tree Ia and progress level R on the display unit 4b of the user terminal 4 during the compression processing when the user terminal 4 receives an image selection input operation and starts the compression processing. Therefore, the compression processing unit 26 is configured to perform compression processing on new selection images S even during the compression processing itself.

[0071] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the storage processing unit 23 is configured to delete the stored identification information Q when a predetermined period has elapsed since the point in time when the identification information Q was stored, or when the number of stored identification information Qs exceeds a predetermined number. For example, the storage processing unit 23 is configured to delete the stored identification information Q and compressed image A from the storage unit 2b when a week has elapsed since the point in time when the identification information Q was stored. Additionally, the storage processing unit 23 is configured, for example, to delete the earliest identification information Q and compressed image A when the number of stored identification information Qs (the number of compressed images A) exceeds 20.

[0072] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown, in the first embodiment, the presentation processing unit 21 is configured to display historical information of the transmission of selected images S (compressed images A) to each of the multiple user terminals 3 to 5. For example, the presentation processing unit 21 is configured to display the transmission history of compressed images A corresponding to identification information Q on the display unit 4b based on an input operation performed on the operation unit 4a of the user terminal 4. Furthermore, the presentation processing unit 21 is configured, for example, to display the transmission history for each identification information Q. Moreover, the presentation processing unit 21 is configured to display the ID information of the user terminals 3 to 5 that transmitted the compressed image A and the transmission date and time as the transmission history on the display unit 4b.

[0073] (Collaboration with other systems)

[0074] In addition, such as Figure 13As shown, the measurement image management system 100 is configured to be able to use data common to a measurement image management system 110 that includes a server 12 provided separately from the server 2. Further, the measurement image management system 110 has the same configuration as the measurement image management system 100. In the first embodiment, the transmission processing section 28 is configured to associate the selection image S (compressed image A) with the property information P in a manner that enables storage in the server 12 provided separately from the server 2 that stores the captured image I in association with the property information P, and transmit to the user terminal 3 to the user terminal 5 that accepted the input operation of the image transmission.

[0075] Specifically, the compression processing section 26 of the server 2 generates the compressed image A by compressing the selection image S in a manner that includes the property information P stored in association with the selection image S (selected captured image I) in the case of performing the compression processing on the selected selection image S. Further, the server 12 provided separately from the server 2 is configured to store the selection image S of the compressed image A as the captured image I in association with the property information P based on the compressed image A (selection image S) generated by the server 2. Further, the server 2 is also configured to be able to store the compressed image (selection image) generated in the server provided separately from the server 2 as the captured image I. In detail, as described above, the compression processing section 26 of the server 2 of the first embodiment generates the compressed image A including the state of the hierarchical structure corresponding to the kind of the property information P. The server 12 is configured to store the selection image S (captured image I) included in the compressed image A in a state of maintaining the hierarchical structure (data tree Ia) included in the compressed image A in the case of acquiring the compressed image A. That is, the server 2 and the server 12 are configured to be able to store the captured image I in association with the property information P based on the hierarchical structure (distinguished by folder) of the acquired compressed image A.

[0076] (Measurement image management method of the first embodiment)

[0077] Next, the control processing flow related to the measurement image management method performed by the measurement image management system 100 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 14 Further, the control processing of the measurement image management method performed by the measurement image management system 100 is executed by the server 2.

[0078] First, in step 401, a plurality of captured images I acquired (photographed) by the measurement apparatus 1 are stored. Specifically, the plurality of captured images I are stored in association with the property information P.

[0079] Next, in step 402, data tree Ia obtained by grouping the captured images I having common features (property information P) in such a manner that the captured images I become the same group is created.

[0080] Next, in step 403, selection of the selection image S is accepted. Specifically, selection of the selection image S selected from the plurality of captured images I stored is accepted based on an input operation of image selection performed with respect to the user terminal 4 which is a certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5.

[0081] Next, in step 404, when the selected selection image S is transmitted to the user terminal 4 (a certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5), identification information Q for identifying the selection image S from the plurality of captured images I is acquired.

[0082] Next, in step 405, a compressed image A is generated, which is the plurality of selection images S compressed by performing compression processing on the selected plurality of selection images S.

[0083] Next, in step 406, the acquired identification information Q is stored. Specifically, the identification information Q is stored in association with the compressed image A.

[0084] Next, in step 407, the stored identification information Q is presented to the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 in a selectable manner.

[0085] Next, in step 408, based on an input operation of image transmission performed with respect to the user terminal 5 (a certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5) in which the identification information Q is presented, separate from the input operation of image selection performed with respect to the user terminal 4, the selection image S (compressed image A) corresponding to the selected identification information Q is transmitted to the user terminal 5 (a certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5) in which the input operation of image transmission is accepted.

[0086] (Effects of the First Embodiment)

[0087] In the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0088] In the measurement image management system 100 and the server 2 (measurement image management server) of the first embodiment, as described above, the identification information Q for identifying the selected image S selected from the plurality of captured images I (measurement images) based on the input operation of the image selection by the certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 is acquired. Further, based on the input operation of the image transmission by the certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to which the identification information Q is presented, which is performed separately from the input operation of the image selection, the selected image S corresponding to the identification information Q is transmitted to the user terminal of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 which accepted the input operation of the image transmission. Thereby, in the case where the selected image S which was selected once before by the input operation of the image selection and transmitted to one user terminal 4 is transmitted again to the other user terminal 5, by selecting the identification information Q for identifying the selected image S selected from the plurality of captured images I, the selected image S corresponding to the identification information Q can be transmitted. Therefore, in the case where the common selected image S is transmitted to each of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5, by the other user of the other user terminal 5, the selected image S does not need to be selected again from the plurality of captured images I, and the selected image S selected before can be surely acquired by selecting the stored identification information Q. As a result, in the case where the selected image S selected by one user from the plurality of captured images I and transmitted to the user terminal 4 of one user is transmitted again to the user terminal 5 of the other user, the work burden of the work of acquiring the selected image S selected correctly can be reduced.

[0089] Further, in the first embodiment, by being configured as follows, the further effects as described below can be obtained.

[0090] That is, in the first embodiment, as described above, the server 2 is configured to store a plurality of identification information Q by the storage processing section 23, the presentation processing section 21 is configured to cause the plurality of identification information Q stored in the server 2 to be displayed in a list in a selectable manner in the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5, and the transmission processing section 28 is configured to transmit the selection image S corresponding to one of the plurality of identification information Q selected from the plurality of identification information Q displayed in a list in the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to the user terminal 5 that accepted the input operation of the image transmission, based on the input operation of the image transmission. If configured as such, the plurality of identification information Q is displayed in a list, so another user who reacquires the selection image S that was previously selected by one user can easily select one of the plurality of identification information Q. Therefore, even if a plurality of identification information Q is stored in the server 2, it is possible to easily select one of the desired identification information Q, so it is possible to easily acquire the desired selection image S. As a result, even if a plurality of identification information Q is stored in the server 2, it is possible to easily acquire the selection image S that is correctly selected, so it is possible to reduce the work burden of the work of acquiring the selection image S that is correctly selected.

[0091] In addition, in the first embodiment, as described above, the server 2 is provided with the image selection accepting section 25 that accepts selection of a plurality of selection images S from a plurality of captured images I (measurement images) based on an input operation of image selection performed with respect to a certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5, and the compression processing section 26 that performs compression processing on the plurality of selected selection images S, thereby generating a plurality of selection images S after compression, i.e., compressed images A, and the storage processing section 23 is configured to store the identification information Q in association with the compressed images A corresponding to the identification information Q. In this case, in a case where the plurality of selection images S is transmitted from the server 2 to a certain one of the user terminals 3 to 5, generally, compression processing is performed on the plurality of selection images S, thereby generating one compressed file (compressed images A), and the generated one compressed image A is transmitted. In this case, in a case where the plurality of selection images S selected by one user and transmitted to the user terminal 4 of one user is transmitted again to the other user terminal 5, compression processing needs to be performed each time the plurality of selection images S is reselected. In contrast to this, in the first embodiment, the storage processing section 23 is configured to store the identification information Q in association with the compressed images A corresponding to the identification information Q. If configured as such, since the compressed images A obtained by compressing the plurality of selection images S are stored in association with the identification information Q, in a case where the other user selects the identification information Q to acquire the plurality of selection images S again, the compressed images A after compression in advance can be acquired. Therefore, compression processing of compressing the plurality of selection images S does not need to be performed each time the other user acquires the plurality of selection images S again, and thus the work time (processing time) required when the plurality of selection images S is acquired again can be shortened. As a result, in a case where the selection images S selected by one user from the plurality of captured images I and transmitted to the user terminal 4 of one user are transmitted to the user terminal 5 of the other user, the selection images S correctly selected can be acquired more easily, and thus the work burden of the work of acquiring the selection images S correctly selected can be further reduced.

[0092] Further, in the first embodiment, as described above, the compression processing section 26 is configured to perform the compression processing for each of the input operations of the image selection by the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 based on the input operations of the image selection by each of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5, and the presentation processing section 21 causes the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to display the progress degree R of each of the plurality of compression processes performed by the compression processing section 26. If configured as such, in a case where a plurality of selection images S are selected and the compression processing is performed, the progress degree R of each of the plurality of compression processes currently performed can be confirmed. Therefore, each of the plurality of users using each of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 can easily recognize the timing at which the compression processing being performed by the user himself / herself is completed by visually confirming each of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5.

[0093] Further, in the first embodiment, as described above, the compression processing section 26 is configured to perform the compression processing for the plurality of selection images S selected by the asynchronous processing in which a plurality of processes are performed in parallel, and the image selection accepting section 25 is configured to be able to accept the image selection of a new selection image S during the process in which the compression processing is performed by the compression processing section 26. If configured as such, even during the process in which the compression processing is performed by the compression processing section 26 based on the input operation accepted by the user terminal 4 of one user, a new image selection based on the input operation by the user terminal 4 can be accepted by the image selection accepting section 25, and thus, unlike a case where the configuration is such that the new image selection is not accepted during the process of the compression processing, one user can easily select different kinds of selection images S a plurality of times. Therefore, in a case where different kinds of selection images S are selected a plurality of times, an increase in the required operation time can be suppressed.

[0094] In addition, in the first embodiment, as described above, the server 2 is provided with the data tree creating section 24 that groups the plurality of selection images S in a manner such that selection images S having a common characteristic become the same group as each other, thereby creating the data tree la, and the compression processing section 26 is configured to execute the compression processing on the plurality of selection images S in a state in which the data tree la created by the data tree creating section 24 is included. If configured as such, the compression processing is executed on the plurality of selection images S in a state in which the created data tree la is included, and thus in a case in which the plurality of selection images S is transmitted from the server 2 to a certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5, it is possible to transmit the plurality of selection images S in a state in which grouping (distinguishing by folder) is performed based on the created data tree la to a certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5. Thus, as compared with a case in which the plurality of selection images S is stored in one folder, grouping is performed in a manner such that selection images S having a common characteristic become the same group (folder), and thus it is possible to more easily select a desired selection image S from the plurality of selection images S. As a result, it is possible to suppress labor and time required for a user to search for a selection image S for which a compressed image A obtained by compressing the plurality of selection images S is acquired.

[0095] In addition, in the first embodiment, as described above, the server 2 is configured to store a plurality of captured images I (measurement images) acquired by capturing cells for observation of culture of the cells in association with characteristic information P indicating at least one of a period of culture of the cells, the measurement device 1, and a well, which is a recess for culturing the cells, and the storage processing section 23 is configured to store identification information Q for identifying a selection image S selected from the plurality of captured images I from among the plurality of captured images I. If configured as such, even in a case in which a selection image S that has been selected once and transmitted to one user terminal 4 is again selected from among the plurality of captured images I captured for observation of the cultured cells, other users are able to easily acquire the selection image S selected by the one user by selecting the stored identification information Q. Thus, in a case in which a selection image S selected from among the plurality of captured images I acquired by capturing the cells is again transmitted to another user terminal 5, it is possible to easily acquire a selection image S that is correctly selected. In addition, by being configured to store the plurality of captured images I in association with the characteristic information P, it is possible to select a desired selection image S based on the characteristic information P stored in association with the captured images I. Thus, by storing the characteristic information P in association with the plurality of captured images I, it is possible to more easily perform selection of a selection image S from among the captured images I obtained by capturing the cells, and thus in a case in which a desired selection image S is selected from among the plurality of captured images I acquired by capturing the cells, it is possible to reduce labor and time required for selection work.

[0096] In addition, in the first embodiment, as described above, the transmission processing section 28 is configured to associate the selection image S (compressed image A) and the characteristic information P in a manner capable of being stored in the server 12 provided separately from the server 2 that stores the captured image I (measurement image) and the characteristic information P in association with each other, and transmit to the user terminal 3 to the user terminal 5 that accepted the input operation of the image transmission. If configured as such, the selection image S and the characteristic information P are transmitted in a manner capable of being stored in the server 12 provided separately, and thus in a case where the selection image S transmitted to the user terminal (a certain one of the user terminal 3 to the user terminal 5) that accepted the input operation of the image transmission is stored in the server 12 provided separately, it is possible to easily store in association with the characteristic information P. Therefore, in a case where the selection image S acquired in the user terminal that accepted the input operation of the image transmission is stored in the server 12 provided separately, it is possible to easily associate the selection image S and the characteristic information P and store in the server 12 provided separately without performing the input work of associating the characteristic information P corresponding to the selection image S. As a result, it is possible to reduce the work burden for storing the acquired selection image S and the characteristic information P in association with each other in the server 12 provided separately.

[0097] In addition, in the first embodiment, as described above, the recognition information acquisition section 27 is configured to acquire the recognition information Q including at least one of the name information Ql indicating the selection image S (compressed image A) and the annotation information Q2 for the selection image S (compressed image A), and the presentation processing section 21 is configured to cause the user terminal 3 to the user terminal 5 to display at least one of the name information Ql and the annotation information Q2. If configured as such, it is possible to cause the other user terminal 5 to display at least one of the name information Ql and the annotation information Q2 corresponding to the selection image S (compressed image A) selected by one user, and thus the other user can select the recognition information Q while referring to at least one of the displayed name information Ql and the annotation information Q2. Therefore, in a case where the recognition information Q is selected and the selection image S is transmitted from the server 2 to the user terminal 5 of the other user, it is possible to more easily select the recognition information Q corresponding to the desired selection image S. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the labor and time of the selection work in a case where the desired selection image S is selected.

[0098] In addition, in the first embodiment, as described above, the identification information acquisition section 27 is configured to acquire the identification information Q including at least one of the capacity Q3 of the compressed image A (selected image S), the number of selected images S, and the image file name of the selected image S, based on the selected image S, and the presentation processing section 21 is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to display at least one of the capacity Q3 of the compressed image A (selected image S), the number of selected images S, and the image file name of the selected image S. If configured as such, at least one of the capacity Q3 of the compressed image A (selected image S), the number of selected images S, and the image file name of the selected image S corresponding to the selected image S selected by one user can be displayed at the other user terminal 5, and thus the other user can select the identification information Q while referring to at least one of the displayed capacity Q3 of the selected image S, the number of selected images S, and the image file name of the selected image S. Thus, in a case where the selected image S is selected and transmitted to the user terminal 5 of the other user from the server 2, the identification information Q corresponding to the desired selected image S can be more easily selected. Thus, the labor and time of the selection work in a case where the desired selected image S is selected can be further reduced.

[0099] In addition, in the first embodiment, as described above, the presentation processing section 21 is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to display the history record information of the transmission of the selected image S for each of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5. If configured as such, whether the transmission of the selected image S for each of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 is completed can be identified, and thus in a case where the transmission of the selected image S by the user terminal for which the transmission is desired among the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 is completed, the stored identification information Q can be deleted. Thus, the shortage of the storable capacity of the server 2 due to the long-term storage of unnecessary identification information Q can be suppressed. In addition, the user terminal for which the transmission is not completed can be identified from the user terminal for which the transmission is desired among the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5, and thus the user using the user terminal for which the transmission is not completed can be prompted to acquire the selected image S. Thus, the generation of the omission of the transmission to the user terminal for which the transmission is desired among the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 can be suppressed.

[0100] In addition, in the first embodiment, as described above, the storage processing section 23 is configured to delete the stored identification information Q in a case where a prescribed period elapses from the point of time at which the identification information Q is stored, or in a case where the number of the stored identification information Q exceeds a prescribed number. If configured as such, the identification information Q is automatically deleted by the storage processing section 23, and thus the long-term continuous storage of unnecessary identification information Q can be easily suppressed. Thus, the shortage of the storable capacity of the server 2 due to the storage of unnecessary identification information Q can be easily suppressed.

[0101] (Effect of the measurement image management method of the first embodiment)

[0102] In the measurement image management method of the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0103] In the measurement image management method of the first embodiment, by being configured as described above, the identification information Q for identifying the selected image S selected from the plurality of captured images I (measurement images) based on the input operation of the image selection is acquired. Further, based on the input operation of the image transmission performed with respect to the certain one of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 that presents the identification information Q, the selected image S corresponding to the identification information Q is transmitted to the user terminal that accepted the input operation of the image transmission among the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5. Thus, in the case where the selected image S that was selected once before by the input operation of the image selection and transmitted to one user terminal 4 is transmitted again to the other user terminal 5, by selecting the identification information Q for identifying the selected image S from the plurality of captured images I, the selected image S corresponding to the identification information Q can be transmitted. Therefore, in the case where the common selected image S is transmitted to each of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5, by selecting the stored identification information Q, the other user of the other user terminal 5 does not need to perform the selection of the selected image S from the plurality of captured images I again, and the selected image S that was selected before can be correctly acquired. As a result, a measurement image management method in which, in the case where the selected image S selected by one user from the plurality of captured images I and transmitted to one user terminal 4 of the user is transmitted again to the user terminal 5 of the other user, the work burden of the work of acquiring the correctly selected selected image S can be reduced can be provided.

[0104] [Second Embodiment]

[0105] Next, the structure of the measurement image management system 200 of the second embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to Figure 15 and Figure 16 In the second embodiment, the structure is configured to acquire the identification information Q including the representative image S1 that is one of the plurality of selected images S. Further, with respect to the same structure as the first embodiment described above, the same reference numerals are attached to the same structures in the drawings, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0106] As Figure 15As shown, the measurement image management system 200 of the second embodiment is provided with a server 202. As with the server 2 of the first embodiment, the server 202 is a computer for constructing a server. The server 202 includes a control section 202a and a storage section 202b. In addition, the hardware structure of the control section 202a and the storage section 202b is the same as that of the control section 2a and the storage section 2b of the first embodiment. The storage section 202b stores an application 220 for performing management of the captured images I.

[0107] In addition, the server 202 includes an identification information acquisition section 227 and a presentation processing section 221 as functional structures. Specifically, the control section 202a of the server 202 functions as the identification information acquisition section 227 and the presentation processing section 221 by executing the application 220 stored in the storage section 202b. The other structures of the server 202 are the same as those of the server 2 of the first embodiment. That is, the server 202 is configured to store a plurality of captured images I. Also, the server 202 is configured to accept selection of the plurality of stored captured images I, and store identification information Q for identifying the selected selection images S.

[0108] As shown in Figure 16 In the second embodiment, the identification information acquisition section 227 is configured to acquire identification information Q including a representative image S1 that is one of the plurality of selection images S selected. Also, in the second embodiment, the presentation processing section 221 is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to display the acquired representative image S1.

[0109] Specifically, the identification information acquisition section 227 selects one representative image S1 from the selected selection images S. The selection of the representative image S1 can be made based on an input made to a certain one of the user terminals 3 to 5, or can be made automatically. Also, the storage processing section 23 stores the identification information Q including the representative image S1. The presentation processing section 221 causes the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to display the plurality of identification information Q including the representative image S1 stored in the server 2 in a selectable manner. That is, the presentation processing section 221 is configured to cause the representative images S1 of the plurality of identification information Q to be displayed in a list in the display sections 3b to 5b of the user terminals 3 to 5 in a line-up manner. In addition, an example of causing the display section 5b of the user terminal 5 to display is shown in Figure 16

[0110] In addition, the other structures of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0111] [Effects of the Second Embodiment]

[0112] In the second embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.​

[0113] In the second embodiment, as described above, the server 202 is provided with the image selection accepting section 25 that accepts the image selection of selecting a plurality of selection images S from a plurality of captured images I (measurement images) stored in the server 202 based on the input operation of the image selection, the identification information acquiring section 227 is configured to acquire the identification information Q including the representative image S1 that is one of the plurality of selection images S selected, and the presentation processing section 221 is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to display the representative image S1 acquired. If configured as such, it is possible to display the representative image S1 that is one of the plurality of selection images S selected by one user at the other user terminal 5, and thus the other user can select the identification information Q while referring to the displayed representative image S1. Therefore, in a case where the identification information Q is selected and the plurality of selection images S are transmitted from the server 202 to the user terminal 5 of the other user, it is possible to more easily select the identification information Q corresponding to the desired selection image S. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the labor and time of the selection work in the case of selecting the desired selection image S. Further, the other effects of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0114] [Third Embodiment]

[0115] Next, the structure of the measurement image management system 300 of the third embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to Figure 17 and Figure 18 In the third embodiment, it is configured to acquire the identification information Q including the characteristic information P indicating at least one of the culture period, the measurement device 1, and the well corresponding to the selection image S based on the selection image S. Further, regarding the structures common to the above-described first embodiment, the same reference numerals are marked in the drawings and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0116] As shown in Figure 17 , the measurement image management system 300 of the third embodiment is provided with a server 302. The server 302 is a computer for configuring a server, like the server 2 of the first embodiment. The server 302 includes a control section 302a and a storage section 302b. In addition, the hardware structures of the control section 302a and the storage section 302b are the same as those of the control section 2a and the storage section 2b of the first embodiment. The storage section 302b stores an application program 320 for performing the management of the captured images I.

[0117] Further, the server 302 includes the identification information acquisition section 327 and the presentation processing section 321 as functional configurations. Specifically, the control section 302a of the server 302 functions as the identification information acquisition section 327 and the presentation processing section 321 by executing the application program 320 stored in the storage section 302b. The other configurations of the server 302 are the same as those of the server 2 of the first embodiment. That is, the server 302 is configured to store a plurality of captured images I. Further, the server 302 is configured to accept selection of the plurality of stored captured images I and store identification information Q for identifying the selected selection image S.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 17, in the third embodiment, the identification information acquisition section 327 is configured to acquire identification information Q including characteristic information P indicating at least one of the culture period, the measuring apparatus 1, and the well corresponding to the selection image S, based on the selection image S. Further, in the third embodiment, the presentation processing section 321 is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to display the characteristic information P indicating at least one of the culture period, the measuring apparatus 1, and the well. Figure 18

[0119] Specifically, the identification information acquisition section 327 acquires, as the identification information Q, characteristic information P indicating the culture period (culture days) of the cells, the measuring apparatus 1 (identification sequence information of the microscopes la and lb), and the well (well number) that is a recess for culturing the cells, corresponding to the selected selection image S. Further, the storage processing section 23 stores the identification information Q including the characteristic information P. The presentation processing section 321 causes the plurality of identification information Q including the characteristic information P stored in the server 302 to be displayed in a selectable manner in the display sections 3b to 5b of the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5. Further, an example of causing the display section 5b of the user terminal 5 to display is shown in FIG. 18. Further, in a case where the characteristic information P corresponding to the selected selection image S relates to a plurality of kinds, the presentation processing section 321 causes the characteristic information P of the plurality of kinds to be displayed in the display sections 3b to 5b in a recognizable manner. Figure 18

[0120] Further, the other configurations of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0121] [Effects of the Third Embodiment]

[0122] In the third embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0123] ​​In the third embodiment, as described above, the identification information acquisition section 327 is configured to acquire the identification information Q including the characteristic information P indicating at least one of the cultivation period, the measuring device 1, and the well corresponding to the selection image S based on the selection image S, and the presentation processing section 321 is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to display the characteristic information P indicating at least one of the cultivation period, the measuring device 1, and the well. If configured as such, it is possible to display the characteristic information P indicating at least one of the cultivation period, the measuring device 1, and the well corresponding to the selection image S selected by one user on the other user terminal 5, and thus the other user can select the identification information Q while referring to the displayed characteristic information P. Therefore, in a case where the selection image S is selected and transmitted to the user terminal 5 of the other user from the server 302, it is possible to more easily select the identification information Q corresponding to the desired selection image S. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the labor and time of the selection work in a case where the desired selection image S is selected. Further, the other effects of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

[0124] [Modified Example]

[0125] Further, it should be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects, not limiting. The scope of the application is not shown by the description of the embodiments described above, but is shown by the claims, and includes all modifications (modified examples) within the meaning and range equivalent to the claims.

[0126] For example, in the first to third embodiments described above, an example is shown in which the server 2 (202, 302) is configured to store a plurality of identification information Q by the storage processing section 23, and the presentation processing section 21 (221, 321) is configured to display a plurality of identification information Q stored in the server 2 (202, 302) in a list in a selectable manner arranged in the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5, but the present application is not limited to this. In the present application, one identification information Q can also be displayed instead of a plurality of identification information Q.

[0127] In addition, in the first to third embodiments described above, an example is shown in which the plurality of selection images S after compression, that is, the compressed images A are stored in association with the identification information Q, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, the selection image S can also be configured not to be compressed, and the compressed image A can not be generated. That is, the selection image S can be transmitted in a non-compressed manner based on the selected identification information Q.

[0128] Also, in the first to third embodiments described above, examples in which the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 display the progress degree R of the compression processing for each of the plurality of selection images S are shown, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 can not be caused to display the progress degree R, and only the user terminal that received the execution instruction of the compression processing can be caused to display the progress degree R. Also, the progress degree R can not be displayed.

[0129] Also, in the first to third embodiments described above, examples in which the compression processing is executed by asynchronous processing in which a plurality of processes are performed in parallel are shown, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, the compression processing can be configured to be executed by synchronous processing.

[0130] Also, in the first to third embodiments described above, examples in which the compression processing is executed by asynchronous processing in which a plurality of processes are performed in parallel are shown, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, the compression processing can be configured to be executed by synchronous processing.

[0131] Also, in the first to third embodiments described above, examples in which the server 2 (202, 302) is configured to store a plurality of captured images I acquired by photographing cells using the microscopes la and lb for observation of the culture of cells are shown, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, the server can also be configured to store a measurement image generated based on a measurement result from an analysis device such as a mass spectrometer, instead of storing a captured image obtained by photographing cells.

[0132] Also, in the first to third embodiments described above, examples in which the transmission processing section 28 is configured to associate the selection image S (compressed image A) with the characteristic information P in a manner that enables storage in the server 12 provided separately from the server 2, and transmit to the user terminals 3 to 5 that received the input operation of the image transmission are shown, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, the selection image S (captured image I) can be associated with the characteristic information P and transmitted directly from the server 2 to the server 12 provided separately.

[0133] In addition, in the first embodiment described above, an example in which the recognition information Q including the name information Q1, the annotation information Q2, and the capacity Q3 of the selection image S is acquired is shown, in the second embodiment described above, an example in which the recognition information Q including the representative image S1 is acquired is shown, and in the third embodiment described above, an example in which the recognition information Q including the characteristic information P is acquired is shown, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, information indicating the image file name of the selection image S can be acquired as the recognition information Q. In addition, information indicating the number of selection images S can be acquired as the recognition information Q.

[0134] In addition, in the first embodiment to the third embodiment described above, an example in which the presentation processing section 21 is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals 3 to 5 to display the transmitted history record information of the selection image S is shown, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, it can be configured to cause only the user terminal that has accepted the input operation of the image selection of the selection image S to display the transmitted history record information.

[0135] In addition, in the first embodiment to the third embodiment described above, an example in which the storage processing section 23 is configured to delete the stored recognition information Q in a case where a prescribed period of time has elapsed from the point in time at which the recognition information Q is stored, or in a case where the number of stored recognition information Q exceeds a prescribed number, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, the recognition information Q can not be automatically deleted, but display that prompts deletion of the recognition information Q can be performed.

[0136] In addition, in the first embodiment to the third embodiment described above, an example in which three user terminals 3 to 5 are provided is shown, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, four or more user terminals can be provided.

[0137] In addition, in the first embodiment to the third embodiment described above, an example in which the user terminal 3 that transmits (uploads) the captured image I (measurement image) to the server 2 (202, 302) and the user terminals 4 and 5 that acquire (download) the selection image S (compressed image A) stored in the server 2 (202, 302) are different user terminals is shown, but the present application is not limited to this. For example, the user terminal that uploads the captured image I and the user terminal that downloads the stored selection image S can be the same user terminal. In addition, the user terminal that has accepted the input operation of the image selection that performs selection of the selection image S and the user terminal that has accepted the input operation of the image transmission can be the same user terminal.

[0138] [Mode]

[0139] It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the above-described exemplary embodiments are concrete examples of the following modes.

[0140] (Project 1)

[0141] An assay image management system including a server and a plurality of user terminals, the server storing a plurality of assay images acquired by an assay device, the plurality of user terminals configured to be able to communicate with the server,

[0142] wherein the server includes:

[0143] an identification information acquisition section that acquires identification information for identifying a selected image selected based on an input operation for image selection by a certain user terminal of the plurality of user terminals, when transmitting the selected image selected from the plurality of assay images stored to the certain user terminal of the plurality of user terminals;

[0144] a storage processing section that stores the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition section;

[0145] a presentation processing section that presents the identification information stored by the storage processing section in a selectable manner to the plurality of user terminals; and

[0146] a transmission processing section that transmits the selected image corresponding to the selected identification information to the user terminal of the plurality of user terminals that accepted the input operation for image transmission based on an input operation for image transmission performed separately from the input operation for image selection to the certain user terminal of the plurality of user terminals in which the identification information is presented.

[0147] (Item 2)

[0148] The assay image management system according to Item 1,

[0149] the server is configured to store a plurality of the identification information by the storage processing section,

[0150] the presentation processing section is configured to cause the plurality of the identification information stored in the server to be displayed in a list in a selectable manner in the plurality of user terminals,

[0151] the transmission processing section is configured to transmit the selected image corresponding to one of the identification information selected from the plurality of the identification information displayed in a list in the plurality of user terminals to the user terminal that accepted the input operation for image transmission based on the input operation for image transmission.

[0152] (Item 3)

[0153] The assay image management system according to Item 1 or 2,

[0154] The server further has:

[0155] an image selection accepting section that accepts the image selection of selecting a plurality of the selection images from the plurality of measurement images based on an input operation of the image selection made for a certain user terminal among the plurality of user terminals; and

[0156] a compression processing section that executes a compression process on the selected plurality of the selection images, thereby generating a plurality of the selection images after compression, i.e., compressed images,

[0157] The storage processing section is configured to store the identification information in association with the compressed image corresponding to the identification information.

[0158] (Item 4)

[0159] The measurement image management system according to Item 3,

[0160] The compression processing section is configured to execute the compression process for each input operation of the image selection of the plurality of user terminals based on an input operation of the image selection made for each user terminal of the plurality of user terminals,

[0161] The presentation processing section causes the plurality of user terminals to display a progress degree of each of a plurality of the compression processes executed by the compression processing section.

[0162] (Item 5)

[0163] The measurement image management system according to Item 3 or 4,

[0164] The compression processing section is configured to execute the compression process on the selected plurality of the selection images by asynchronous processing of performing a plurality of processes in parallel,

[0165] The image selection accepting section is configured to be able to accept the image selection of selecting a new selection image during a process of executing the compression process by the compression processing section.

[0166] (Item 6)

[0167] The measurement image management system according to any one of Items 3 to 5,

[0168] The server further has a data tree production section that groups a plurality of the selection images in such a manner that selection images having a common characteristic become the same group as each other, thereby producing a data tree,

[0169] The compression processing section is configured to perform the compression processing on the plurality of selection images in a state in which the data tree created by the data tree creating section is included.

[0170] (Item 7)

[0171] The assay image management system according to any one of items 1 to 6,

[0172] The server is configured to store the plurality of assay images including a plurality of captured images acquired by capturing cells using a microscope for observation of culture of the cells, in association with the characteristic information indicating at least one of a culture period of the cells, an assay device, and a well, which is a recess for culturing the cells,

[0173] The storage processing section is configured to store the identification information for identifying the selection images selected from the plurality of captured images from the plurality of captured images.

[0174] (Item 8)

[0175] The assay image management system according to item 7,

[0176] The identification information acquisition section is configured to acquire the identification information including the characteristic information indicating at least one of the culture period, the assay device, and the well corresponding to the selection images based on the selection images,

[0177] The presentation processing section is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals to display the characteristic information indicating at least one of the culture period, the assay device, and the well.

[0178] (Item 9)

[0179] The assay image management system according to item 7 or 8,

[0180] The transmission processing section is configured to associate the selection images with the characteristic information in a manner capable of being stored in a server provided separately from the server in which the plurality of assay images and the characteristic information are stored in association with each other, and transmit to the user terminal that has accepted an input operation of the image transmission.

[0181] (Item 10)

[0182] The assay image management system according to any one of items 1 to 9,

[0183] The identification information acquisition section is configured to acquire the identification information including at least one of name information indicating the selection images and annotation information for the selection images,

[0184] The presentation processing section is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals to display at least one of the name information and the annotation information.

[0185] (Item 11)

[0186] The assay image management system according to any one of items 1 to 10,

[0187] The identification information acquisition section is configured to acquire the identification information including at least one of a size of the selected image, a number of the selected image, and an image file name of the selected image, based on the selected image,

[0188] The presentation processing section is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals to display at least one of a size of the selected image, a number of the selected image, and the image file name.

[0189] (Item 12)

[0190] The assay image management system according to any one of items 1 to 11,

[0191] The server further has an image selection accepting section that accepts the image selection of selecting a plurality of the selected images from the plurality of assay images stored in the server, based on an input operation of the image selection,

[0192] The identification information acquisition section is configured to acquire the identification information including a representative image that is one of the selected images selected,

[0193] The presentation processing section is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals to display the acquired representative image.

[0194] (Item 13)

[0195] The assay image management system according to any one of items 1 to 12,

[0196] The presentation processing section is configured to cause the plurality of user terminals to display history record information of sending the selected image for each of the plurality of user terminals.

[0197] (Item 14)

[0198] The assay image management system according to any one of items 1 to 13,

[0199] The storage processing section is configured to delete the stored identification information in a case where a prescribed period of time has elapsed from a point in time at which the identification information was stored, or in a case where the number of stored identification information exceeds a prescribed number.

[0200] Item 15

[0201] An assay image management server configured to be capable of communicating with a plurality of user terminals, the assay image management server storing a plurality of assay images acquired by an assay device, the assay image management server including:

[0202] an identification information acquisition section that acquires identification information for identifying a selected image selected based on an input operation of image selection performed with respect to a certain one of the plurality of user terminals from among the plurality of assay images when a selected image selected from among the plurality of stored assay images is transmitted to the certain one of the plurality of user terminals;

[0203] a storage processing section that stores the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition section;

[0204] a presentation processing section that presents the identification information stored by the storage processing section in a selectable manner to the plurality of user terminals; and

[0205] a transmission processing section that transmits the selected image corresponding to the selected identification information to the user terminal of the plurality of user terminals that accepted the input operation of image transmission based on an input operation of image transmission performed with respect to a certain one of the plurality of user terminals to which the identification information was presented separately from the input operation of image selection.

[0206] Item 16

[0207] An assay image management method including:

[0208] storing a plurality of assay images acquired by an assay device;

[0209] acquiring identification information for identifying a selected image selected based on an input operation of image selection performed with respect to a certain one of a plurality of user terminals from among the plurality of assay images when a selected image selected from among the plurality of stored assay images is transmitted to the certain one of the plurality of user terminals;

[0210] storing the acquired identification information;

[0211] presenting the stored identification information in a selectable manner in the plurality of user terminals; and

[0212] based on an input operation for image transmission performed separately from the input operation for selecting the image, with respect to a certain user terminal of the plurality of user terminals in which the identification information is presented, the selected image corresponding to the selected identification information is transmitted to the user terminal of the plurality of user terminals that accepted the input operation for image transmission.

Claims

1. An image management system comprising a server and multiple user terminals, wherein the server stores multiple cell imaging images acquired by a measuring device, and the user terminals are configured to communicate with the server. wherein The server has the following features: When the identification information acquisition unit sends a selected image selected from the stored plurality of cell imaging images to one of the plurality of user terminals, the identification information acquisition unit acquires identification information, which is used to identify the selected image sent to the one user terminal based on an image selection input operation performed on one of the plurality of user terminals from the plurality of cell imaging images. A storage processing unit that stores the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit; The presentation processing unit presents the identification information stored by the storage processing unit to other user terminals among the plurality of user terminals in an optional manner. as well as The transmission processing unit transmits a common selected image, which corresponds to the selected identification information and was previously transmitted to the one user terminal, to the other user terminal that received the image transmission input operation, based on an image transmission input operation performed separately from the image selection input operation and performed on the other user terminal that presented the identification information.

2. The measurement image management system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The server is configured to store multiple pieces of the identification information via the storage processing unit. The presentation processing unit is configured to display multiple pieces of identification information stored in the server in a selectable manner on other user terminals. The transmission processing unit is configured to, based on the input operation of image transmission, send the selected image corresponding to one of the identification information selected from a plurality of identification information displayed in a list arranged in the other user terminals to the other user terminal that received the input operation of image transmission.

3. The measurement image management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The server also has: An image selection receiving unit accepts an image selection of multiple selected images from multiple cell imaging images based on an input operation of the image selection performed on one of the multiple user terminals; as well as The compression processing unit performs compression processing on the selected plurality of images, thereby generating compressed images. The storage processing unit is configured to store the identification information in association with the compressed image corresponding to the identification information.

4. The measurement image management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The compression processing unit is configured to perform the compression processing for each image selection input operation performed by the plurality of user terminals. The presentation processing unit causes the plurality of user terminals to display the progress of each of the plurality of compression processes performed by the compression processing unit.

5. The measurement image management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The compression processing unit is configured to perform the compression processing on the selected multiple images by performing asynchronous processing in parallel. The image selection receiving unit is configured to accept the image selection of a new image during the compression process performed by the compression processing unit.

6. The measurement image management system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The server also includes a data tree creation unit, which groups multiple selected images in such a way that selected images with common features are grouped together, thereby creating a data tree. The compression processing unit is configured to perform the compression processing on a plurality of selected images while including the data tree created by the data tree creation unit.

7. The measurement image management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The server is configured to store, in association with, multiple cell imaging images, including multiple imaging images of the cells acquired by taking pictures of the cells using a microscope for observing cell culture, and characteristic information representing at least one of the following: the cell culture period, the measuring device, and a well, wherein the well is a recess for culturing the cells. The storage processing unit is configured to store the identification information for identifying the selected image selected from the plurality of camera images.

8. The measurement image management system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The identification information acquisition unit is configured to acquire identification information based on the selected image, including characteristic information corresponding to the selected image representing at least one of the culture period, the measuring device, and the well. The presentation processing unit is configured to cause the other user terminal to display characteristic information representing at least one of the culture period, the measuring device, and the well.

9. The measurement image management system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The transmission processing unit is configured to associate the selected image with the characteristic information in a server that is separate from the server that stores the plurality of cell imaging images and the characteristic information in association, and then send the image to the other user terminal that has received the input operation of the image transmission.

10. The measurement image management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The identification information acquisition unit is configured to acquire identification information including at least one of name information representing the selected image and comment information regarding the selected image. The presentation processing unit is configured to cause the other user terminal to display at least one of the name information and the comment information.

11. The measurement image management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The identification information acquisition unit is configured to acquire identification information based on the selected image, including at least one of the following: the size of the selected image, the number of selected images, and the image filename of the selected image. The presentation processing unit is configured to cause the other user terminal to display at least one of the following: the size of the selected image, the number of selected images, and the image file name.

12. The measurement image management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The server further includes an image selection receiving unit, which accepts image selections from a plurality of cell imaging images stored in the server based on the image selection input operation. The recognition information acquisition unit is configured to acquire recognition information including a representative image, wherein the representative image is one of a plurality of selected images. The presentation processing unit is configured to display the acquired representative image on the other user terminals.

13. The measurement image management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The presentation processing unit is configured to display historical information of the selected images sent by each of the plurality of user terminals to the other user terminals.

14. The measurement image management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The storage processing unit is configured to delete the stored identification information when a predetermined period has elapsed since the point in time when the identification information was stored, or when the number of stored identification information items exceeds a predetermined number.

15. A measurement image management server configured to communicate with multiple user terminals, the measurement image management server storing multiple cell imaging images acquired by a measurement device, the measurement image management server comprising: When the identification information acquisition unit sends a selected image selected from the stored plurality of cell imaging images to one of the plurality of user terminals, the identification information acquisition unit acquires identification information, which is used to identify the selected image sent to the one user terminal based on an image selection input operation performed on one of the plurality of user terminals from the plurality of cell imaging images. A storage processing unit that stores the identification information acquired by the identification information acquisition unit; The presentation processing unit presents the identification information stored by the storage processing unit to other user terminals among the plurality of user terminals in an optional manner. as well as The transmission processing unit transmits a common selected image, which corresponds to the selected identification information and was previously transmitted to the one user terminal, to the other user terminal that received the image transmission input operation, based on an image transmission input operation performed separately from the image selection input operation and performed on the other user terminal that presented the identification information.

16. A measurement image management method, comprising the following steps: Stores multiple cell imaging images acquired by the measuring device; When sending a selected image selected from the stored plurality of cell imaging images to one of the plurality of user terminals, identification information is obtained, the identification information being used to identify the selected image sent to the one user terminal based on an input operation of image selection performed on one of the plurality of user terminals from the plurality of cell imaging images; Store the acquired identification information; The stored identification information may be presented in an optional manner on other user terminals among the plurality of user terminals; as well as Based on an input operation for image transmission performed separately from the input operation for image selection, targeting other user terminals that present the identification information, the common selected image previously sent to the one user terminal, corresponding to the selected identification information, is sent to the other user terminal that received the input operation for image transmission.

Images