Image capturing device, control method, and program

Abstract

To suppress an increase in the number of patients corresponding to images of affected parts stored in a recording medium.SOLUTION: An image capturing device is provided, comprising image capturing means, recording means for recording images of affected parts of patients captured by the image capturing means in a recording medium, and control means configured to acquire information on patients of the images stored in the recording medium and take a predetermined action to limit the number of patients corresponding to images to be stored in the recording medium on the basis of the information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique for imaging an affected area of ​​a patient in a medical setting or the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Systems for supporting doctors' diagnoses in medical settings such as hospitals are known. In such systems, doctors use an imaging device to capture images of the affected area of ​​a patient, and the captured images are managed by adding photographer information and patient information.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a technique for laying out captured images, dividing them into a plurality of image groups, and excluding some of the image groups from the layout when there are a large number of image groups. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6700686 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In conventional systems, images of the patient's affected area taken by an imaging device are stored in a recording medium, and the images stored in the recording medium are referenced to observe progress or assist in diagnosis. It is desirable to transmit (upload) the captured images from the recording medium to an electronic medical record terminal or server, or delete them from the recording medium.

[0006] In Patent Document 1, a group of images stored on a recording medium is organized according to a predetermined number of images, and images are removed from the organization once a predetermined number of images have been removed, thereby eliminating the effort required to automatically lay out multiple images.

[0007] However, in Patent Document 1, the number of images stored in the recording medium becomes excessive, which increases the effort required to organize and classify the images in the medical field, and also increases the effort required to select and sort images of the affected areas of many patients, classify them by patient, and check the images. In particular, as the number of patients whose images are stored in the recording medium increases, the effort required to organize the images of the affected areas of each patient increases.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to realize a technique for suppressing an increase in the number of patients for whom images of the affected parts of the patients are stored on a recording medium. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above problems and achieve the object, the imaging device of the present invention comprises an imaging means, a recording means for recording images of the affected area of ​​a patient imaged by the imaging means on a recording medium, and a control means for acquiring information about the patients whose images are stored on the recording medium and performing a predetermined operation to limit the number of patients whose images are stored on the recording medium based on the information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of patients for which images of the affected parts of the patients are stored on recording media. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an imaging apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a system control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an electronic medical record terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating an external view of the rear surface of the imaging device of the first embodiment and an example of a screen during imaging. [Figure 6]4 is a flowchart illustrating a control process of the imaging apparatus of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a view showing an example of an operation setting screen of the imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification screen of the imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification screen of the imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the effects of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control process of the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0013] [Embodiment 1] In the first embodiment, a system used to support a doctor's diagnosis in a medical setting such as a hospital will be described. In the first embodiment, an example will be described in which a doctor operates an imaging device such as a digital camera to capture an image of an affected area of ​​a patient, and the captured image is stored in association with photographer information and patient information.

[0014] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the imaging device is applied to a digital camera capable of capturing visible light, but the imaging device is not limited to this, and cameras with different captureable data and imaging functions may be used depending on the purpose, etc. For example, the imaging device of this embodiment can be applied to a multispectral camera capable of capturing images in different wavelength ranges, a polarization camera with a polarizer that transmits only light vibrating in one direction, an infrared camera that can capture images from the infrared range to the near-infrared range, a three-dimensional shape measurement camera that can capture three-dimensional shapes, a microscope-type camera, a dermoscope (skin magnifying glass)-type camera, or a camera that combines the above-mentioned multiple imaging functions.

[0015] Furthermore, the imaging device of this embodiment is not limited to a digital camera, but may also be a portable communication terminal or information processing terminal such as a smartphone or tablet computer equipped with a camera function.

[0016] <System configuration> First, the system configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0017] The system of this embodiment includes an imaging device 101, an electronic medical record management device 103, an electronic medical record terminal 104, an image management device 105, and a system control device 106, which are connected via a network 102 so as to be able to communicate by wire or wirelessly.

[0018] The imaging device 101 captures an image of a subject and generates image data. The image data captured by the imaging device 101 is visible light image data. The imaging device 101 is a portable camera and includes a display unit that allows the captured image to be viewed, and an operation unit such as buttons and a touch panel for performing various operations.

[0019] The network 102 constitutes a communication path such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a mobile line that connects devices constituting the system so that they can communicate with each other. For example, when a user turns on the power of the imaging device 101, the imaging device 101 connects to the network 102 and becomes able to communicate with other devices in the system via the network 102. The network 102 performs various controls such as data transmission via wireless communication or wired communication in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. Examples of communication protocols include Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP), Universal Serial Bus (USB), Local Area Network (LAN), Health Level Seven (HL7), and Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM). However, any communication protocol may be used as long as it allows communication of image data, text, control data, and the like.

[0020] In the first embodiment, unless otherwise specified, the imaging device 101 and other devices constituting the system remain in a communicable state until they are turned off. Furthermore, during communication, some of the inherent functions of the imaging device 101 may be restricted.

[0021] The connection relationship between the imaging device 101 and the network 102 is similar to that between other devices in the system, such as the electronic medical record management device 103, the electronic medical record terminal 104, the image management device 105, and the system control device 106. Although not shown in Fig. 1, lighting equipment such as halogen lighting or light-emitting diode lighting may be installed as an auxiliary device for imaging, if necessary. These auxiliary devices communicate with and are controlled via the interface of the imaging device 101 and the network 102.

[0022] The electronic medical record management device 103 stores patient information within the hospital (such as ID, name, medical department, age, sex, medical history, and past medical treatment history) and doctor information (such as ID, name, and affiliation information for the medical department). The electronic medical record terminal 104 collates and authenticates the doctor's login information, provides doctor information, provides patient information in the form of an electronic medical record, and updates data. The electronic medical record management device 103 may also update and store setting information, such as that used when capturing images with the imaging device 101, for each medical department and each attending doctor. The electronic medical record management device 103 is registered on a PC in the medical department, a server within the hospital, or a cloud server, and can be accessed by medical professionals via the network 102 as needed.

[0023] When a patient is examined, the electronic medical record terminal 104 downloads information about the doctor who has logged in and information about the patient to be examined from the electronic medical record management device 103, and provides an electronic medical record function for displaying, editing, and updating the information.

[0024] The image management device 105 stores, updates, deletes, and references image data, photographer information, and patient information associated with the image data, as well as data as needed. The image management device 105 may be installed for each department in a hospital or on the cloud.

[0025] The system control device 106 acquires photographer information, patient information, and setting information for the imaging device 101 when capturing images from the electronic medical record terminal 104, and transmits this information, control information, and the like to the imaging device 101. The system control device 106 may be installed for each department in the hospital or on the cloud. The system control device 106 is connected to servers and systems in the hospital, and transmits and receives various management information, setting information, information updates, control information, and the like of the servers and systems in the hospital to and from the imaging device 101, electronic medical record management device 103, electronic medical record terminal 104, and image management device 105 as necessary.

[0026] In the first embodiment, the imaging device 101, electronic medical record management device 103, electronic medical record terminal 104, image management device 105, and system control device 106 are exemplified as separate systems, but the functions of two or more devices may be realized by a single device, such as configuring the electronic medical record management device 103, electronic medical record terminal 104, system control device 106, or image management device 105 in the same device. This allows a system to be configured at an appropriate cost according to the load and capacity required by the system.

[0027] [Device configuration] Next, the configurations and functions of the imaging device 101, electronic medical record management device 103, electronic medical record terminal 104, image management device 105, and system control device 106 that constitute the system of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the image capturing apparatus 101 according to the first embodiment.

[0029] In the imaging device 101, a control unit 201, a volatile memory 202, a nonvolatile memory 203, an image processing unit 204, a display unit 205, an operation unit 206, a recording medium I / F 207, an external I / F 209, and a communication I / F 210 are connected to an internal bus 213. The units connected to the internal bus 250 are configured to be able to exchange data with each other via the internal bus 213.

[0030] The control unit 201 is a processor (CPU or MPU) that controls the entire image capture device 101, and controls each component of the image capture device 101 by executing a program stored in the nonvolatile memory 203. Note that instead of the control unit 201 controlling the entire device, the entire device may be controlled by multiple pieces of hardware sharing the processing.

[0031] The volatile memory 202 is, for example, a RAM, and is used as a work area for expanding constants and variables for the operation of the control unit 201, programs read from the nonvolatile memory 203, etc. The volatile memory 202 is also used as a buffer memory for temporarily storing image data captured by the camera unit 212, and as a memory for displaying images on the display unit 205.

[0032] The nonvolatile memory 203 is, for example, a flash memory, and stores constants, programs, etc. for the operation of the control unit 201. The programs referred to here are programs for executing communication processing and control processing, which will be described later in this embodiment.

[0033] The volatile memory 202 is, for example, a RAM. The control unit 201 controls each unit of the imaging device 101 according to a program stored in the nonvolatile memory 203, for example, using the volatile memory 202 as a work memory.

[0034] The image processing unit 204 is controlled by the control unit 201 and performs various types of image processing on image data stored in the nonvolatile memory 203 or the recording medium 208, image data acquired via the external I / F 209, image data acquired via the communication I / F 210, captured image data, etc. The image processing performed by the image processing unit 204 includes A / D conversion processing, D / A conversion processing, image data encoding processing, compression processing, decoding processing, enlargement / reduction processing (resizing), noise reduction processing, color conversion processing, etc. The image processing unit 204 may be configured with a circuit block dedicated to performing specific image processing. Furthermore, depending on the type of image processing, the control unit 201 may perform image processing according to a program without using the image processing unit 204.

[0035] The display unit 205 is controlled by the control unit 201 and displays images, GUI (Graphical User Interface) screens, etc. The control unit 201 generates a display control signal according to a program, and controls each unit of the imaging device 101 to generate a video signal to be displayed on the display unit 205 and output it to the display unit 205. The display unit 205 displays an image based on the output video signal. Note that the imaging device 101 itself is only provided with an interface for outputting a video signal to be displayed on the display unit 205, and the display unit 205 may be configured as an external monitor, television, or the like.

[0036] The operation unit 206 is an input device for receiving user operations, including a character information input device such as a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse or a touch panel, a button, a dial, a joystick, a touch sensor, a touch pad, etc. The touch panel is an input device that is configured as a plane and overlaid on the display unit 205, and outputs coordinate information according to the position of contact.

[0037] A recording medium 208 such as a memory card, a hard disk (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD) can be attached to a recording medium interface (I / F) 207. The recording medium I / F 207 is controlled by the control unit 201, and reads data from the attached recording medium 208 and writes data to the recording medium 208.

[0038] An external interface (I / F) 209 is connected to an external device so as to enable wired or wireless communication, and inputs and outputs image data and audio data.

[0039] A communication interface (I / F) 210 is communicably connected to an external device via a network 211 such as the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network), and transmits and receives various data such as files and commands.

[0040] The camera unit 212 includes an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS that converts an optical image into an electrical signal. The camera unit 212 includes a lens group (imaging lens) including a zoom lens and a focus lens, a shutter with an aperture function, an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS that converts the optical image into an electrical signal, an A / D converter that converts an analog signal output from the image sensor into a digital signal, and a barrier that covers the optical system to prevent dirt and damage.

[0041] The image processing unit 204 performs predetermined pixel interpolation, resizing such as reduction, and color conversion processing on the data captured by the camera unit 212. The control unit 201 performs exposure control, distance measurement control, and AWB (auto white balance) processing based on the calculation results of the captured data in the image processing unit 204. The data captured by the camera unit 212 is processed by the image processing unit 204 and displayed as a live view on the display unit 205. The live view can be displayed while waiting to capture a still image, while waiting to capture a video, and while recording a video, and displays the captured subject image in almost real time.

[0042] When the control unit 201 receives an image capture preparation instruction given by the user via the operation unit 206, it controls the camera unit 212 and the image processing unit 204 to start AF processing, AE processing, AWB processing, etc. When the control unit 201 receives an image capture instruction given by the user via the operation unit 206, it starts a series of image capture processes, including reading a signal from the image sensor, performing image processing in the image processing unit 204 to generate an image file, and recording the image on the recording medium 208. The image capture instruction can be given by the user operating the operation unit 206. The camera unit 212 is capable of capturing still images and videos.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the system control device 106 according to the first embodiment.

[0044] The system control device 106 controls the storage and updating of medical information within the hospital, etc. The system control device 106 is used by users involved in medical information among medical professionals.

[0045] In the first embodiment, a computer operates as the system control device 106. The processing of the system control device 106 in this embodiment may be implemented by a single computer, or may be implemented by distributing the functions among multiple computers as necessary. The multiple computers are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other.

[0046] The system control device 106 includes a CPU 301 , a ROM 302 , a RAM 303 , a display unit 304 , a storage unit 305 , an input unit 306 , a recording medium interface 307 , a communication interface 308 , and a system bus 309 .

[0047] CPU 301 is a control unit that controls the entire device in accordance with input data and programs. RAM 303 is a main memory that stores data. RAM 303 is mainly used as a storage area for various data, such as an area for storing or expanding programs executed by CPU 301, and a work area during program execution. ROM 302 stores a boot program that CPU 301 executes at initialization. The boot program performs a process of expanding an OS (operating system) stored in storage unit 305 into RAM 303 and starting it up.

[0048] The storage unit 305 is a memory card or hard disk drive that stores the OS and programs (applications) executed by the CPU 301, and data and libraries used when the CPU 301 executes the OS and programs.

[0049] The display unit 304 displays image data instructed by the CPU 301. The display unit 304 is, for example, a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel.

[0050] The input unit 306 is made up of operation members such as a keyboard, mouse, and touch panel that accept input from the user, and these input operations are notified to the CPU 301. When a touch panel is used, it is formed integrally with the display unit 304, and operations can be input by touching the display surface.

[0051] The recording medium interface (I / F) 307 has a media drive to which a recording medium 310 such as a memory card or hard disk can be attached or detached, and it is possible to write image data such as moving images and still images captured by the imaging device 101 to the recording medium 310, and to read image data stored on the recording medium 310.

[0052] A communication interface (I / F) 308 is communicably connected to a network 311 such as the Internet (VPN (Virtual Private Network) or LAN (Local Area Network)).

[0053] The system bus 309 includes an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus that connect the components 301 to 308 of the system control device 106 so that data can be exchanged.

[0054] It should be noted that the control of the system control device 106 does not necessarily have to be performed by a single piece of hardware, and for example, the functions of the system control device 106 may be realized by a plurality of pieces of hardware sharing the processing.

[0055] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the electronic medical record terminal 104 according to the first embodiment.

[0056] In the first embodiment, a computer device operates as an electronic medical record terminal 104. The configuration of the electronic medical record terminal 104 in this embodiment is the same as the configuration of the system control device 106 in Fig. 3. In a hospital system, the electronic medical record terminals 104 are configured as multiple client devices for one system control device 106, and are used by medical professionals.

[0057] 3. The configurations of the electronic medical record management device 103 and the image management device 105 of this embodiment are also the same as the configuration of the system control device 106 of FIG.

[0058] FIG. 5A is a rear view of the imaging device 101 according to the first embodiment.

[0059] In FIG. 5(a), the rear display unit 540 has a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel that displays images and various information. The shutter button 511 is an operation unit for issuing an image capture instruction. The mode switching button 501 is an operation unit for switching between various modes. The connector 521 is an interface that connects the connection cable 522 to the imaging device 101. The operation unit 510 is an operation unit that includes operation members such as various switches, buttons, and a touch panel that accept various operations from the user. The touch panel is provided on the rear display unit 540. The touch panel has a touch sensor that can detect contact (touch operation) with the display surface (operation surface of the touch panel) of the rear display unit 540. The controller wheel 513 is a rotatable electronic dial included in the operation unit 510. The power switch 512 is an operation unit that switches the power on and off. The recording medium 530 is a recording medium such as a memory card or a hard disk. The recording medium slot 531 is a slot for storing the recording medium 530. The recording medium 530 stored in the recording medium slot 531 is able to communicate with the imaging device 101, and is able to write and read data. A lid 532 is the lid for the recording medium slot 531. Figure 5(a) shows a state in which the lid 532 is opened and a part of the recording medium 530 is removed from the recording medium slot 531 and exposed.

[0060] Each operating member of the operating unit 510 is assigned a function appropriate for each scene by selecting and operating various function icons displayed on the rear display unit 540, and functions as various function buttons. Examples of the function buttons include an end button, a back button, an image forward button, a jump button, a filter button, and an attribute change button. For example, when the menu button is pressed, a menu screen on the rear display unit 540 on which various settings can be made is displayed. The user can intuitively make various settings using the menu screen displayed on the rear display unit 540, the four-way buttons (up, down, left, and right), and the SET button.

[0061] The controller wheel 513 is a rotatable operation member included in the operation unit 510, and is used together with the directional buttons to indicate a selection item. When the controller wheel 513 is rotated, an electrical pulse signal is generated according to the amount of rotation, and the control unit 201 controls each unit of the imaging device 101 based on this pulse signal. This pulse signal makes it possible to determine the angle at which the controller wheel 513 is rotated and the number of rotations. The controller wheel 513 may be any operation member that can detect a rotation operation. For example, the controller wheel 513 may be a dial operation member that rotates itself in response to a user's rotation operation to generate a pulse signal. Alternatively, the controller wheel 513 may be an operation member made of a touch sensor that does not rotate itself but detects the rotation of the user's finger on the controller wheel 513 (a so-called touch wheel).

[0062] 5(b) shows an example of a screen displayed on the rear display unit 540 when the imaging device 101 captures an image of the affected area 107 of a patient. Operation icons such as an OK button 541, a cancel button 542, and an end button 543 are arranged on the screen so that they can be operated by the photographer, allowing the photographer to input operation instructions.

[0063] [Control processing] Next, the control process of the image capture device 101 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0064] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process for limiting the number of images of the affected part of a patient that are stored in the recording medium 208 by the imaging device 101 according to the first embodiment.

[0065] In Fig. 6, the photographer is described as a medical professional such as a doctor or nurse, but the photographer may also be another person such as a technician or assistant. At the start of the processing in Fig. 6, the image capture device 101 is set to the operational settings exemplified in Fig. 7. The operational settings in Fig. 7 can be set by the photographer operating the setting screen displayed on the display unit 205 using the operation unit 206. Alternatively, the image capture device 101 may request the system control device 106 to set settings in accordance with the hospital's policy, and the settings received from the system control device 106 in accordance with the hospital's policy may be automatically set.

[0066] 6, the image capturing device 101 is described as the subject of processing, but in reality, the processing is realized by the control unit 201 in Fig. 2 executing a program stored in the nonvolatile memory 203. Also, the processing in Fig. 6 is realized by the image capturing device 101 working in cooperation with other devices that configure the system.

[0067] In step S601, the imaging device 101 turns on the power in response to the user pressing the power switch 512. In this case, the imaging device 101 may communicate with the system control device 106, download parameters set in the system within the hospital, and use the parameters for processing.

[0068] In step S602, the imaging device 101 inputs association information such as photographer information (ID, name, medical department, age, sex, history of past medical treatment, etc.) and patient information (ID, name, medical department, age, sex, medical history, history of past medical treatment, etc.). The association information may be stored in advance when the system is started up, or may be input from the electronic medical record terminal 104, input from the system control device 106, or input from outside via the network 102.

[0069] In step S603, the imaging device 101 captures an image of the affected area of ​​the patient in response to an imaging instruction from the photographer. The captured image is temporarily stored in the volatile memory 202, the nonvolatile memory 203, the recording medium 208, or the like. The control unit 201 assigns metadata to the captured image data. The metadata may be data transmitted from the system control device 106 or the electronic medical record terminal 104, such as photographer information, patient information, imaging date and time, and imaging parameters. This metadata may be written in the metadata area of ​​the image file, or may be assigned by associating a separate metadata file with the image file as a separate logical file.

[0070] The imaging device 101 may also transmit a generation event of image data and metadata in step S603. For example, the system control device 106 may detect a data generation event of the imaging device 101, receive (download) data as appropriate for each imaging session, temporarily store image data and metadata for multiple imaging sessions in a storage area (non-volatile memory 203 or recording medium 208) of the imaging device 101, and later receive the data all at once (for example, by determining that imaging has ended when a patient in the electronic medical record is changed or when writing of a diagnosis result or the like begins in a specific area of ​​the electronic medical record). This configuration can reduce stress on the photographer even in an environment where delays occur due to download times for each imaging session due to a department that takes a large number of images or where the network 102 has limited bandwidth.

[0071] The downloaded data may be displayed on the electronic medical record terminal 104, allowing the doctor to select the data to be stored. This configuration allows the doctor to store only those images that are meaningful to the doctor from among multiple images, thereby saving search time and storage space.

[0072] In step S604, the image capturing apparatus 101 determines whether or not to continue the image capturing started in step S603.

[0073] When the doctor has finished imaging the required affected area and wishes to continue imaging, he or she operates the OK button 541 in Fig. 5(b). The imaging device 101 determines to continue imaging when the OK button 541 is operated. If imaging is to be continued, the processing of step S603 is repeated.

[0074] When the doctor wishes to end imaging, he operates the end button 543 in FIG. 5(b). When the end button 543 is operated, the imaging device 101 ends imaging and proceeds to step S605. In this case, a notification event of the end of imaging may be sent to the system control device 106. Note that the determination of the end of imaging is not limited to the operation of the end button 543, and may be, for example, by providing a similar button on the electronic medical record, or by a specific operation on the electronic medical record by the doctor (such as when starting to input examination results or selecting data to be displayed and stored on the electronic medical record terminal 104). With this configuration, it becomes possible for the system to detect the end of imaging even if the doctor forgets to operate the imaging device 101.

[0075] In step S605, since the counting method 701 set in Fig. 7 is patient ID, the imaging device 101 counts the patient IDs associated with the images captured in step S603 and stored on the recording medium 208, and proceeds to step S606. If the counting method 701 set in Fig. 7 is a value obtained by multiplying the patient ID by a coefficient k, the imaging device 101 counts the value obtained by multiplying the patient ID associated with the images captured in step S603 and stored on the recording medium 208 by a coefficient k 702 set in Fig. 7. If the counting method 701 set in Fig. 7 is the number of captured images, the imaging device 101 counts the images captured in step S603 and stored on the recording medium 208. Note that the counting method set in Fig. 7 is merely an example, and other counting methods may also be used.

[0076] In step S606, the imaging device 101 determines whether the evaluation information counted in step S605 exceeds a predetermined threshold, that is, the threshold 703 set in Fig. 7. If the imaging device 101 determines that the evaluation information exceeds the threshold 703 set in Fig. 7, it may notify the photographer by displaying a notification screen on the rear display unit 540.

[0077] In this way, by performing a predetermined operation (alert processing, image capture restriction) to limit the number of affected area images per patient (number of patients with affected area images) stored on the recording medium 208 based on the result of comparing the evaluation information counting the affected area images captured by the imaging device 101 with a threshold value, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of affected area images per patient (number of patients with affected area images) stored on the recording medium 208 of the imaging device 101, thereby reducing the effort required to organize and check the images and preventing errors.

[0078] Furthermore, based on the determination result of step S606, the image of the affected area may be transmitted (uploaded) from the imaging device 101 via the network 102 to the image management device 105 or the like for storage. The image management device 105 may include a storage device such as a hard disk or a server, or may be connected to a storage area of ​​a cloud server. In this case, the storage location may be organized and classified according to the content of the image metadata, or search tags may be added.

[0079] In this way, the image management device 105 appropriately collects and stores affected area images and metadata from the imaging device 101, thereby eliminating the need to connect to the imaging device 101 or remove the recording medium 208 to collect and organize affected area images. Furthermore, based on the doctor information and patient information, the affected area images can be checked again at a later date using various search conditions or used in a conference, allowing doctors to view desired images without hassle.

[0080] Furthermore, when the evaluation information counting the affected area images exceeds a threshold, the imaging device 101 may display the dialog 801 shown in FIG. 8 on the rear display unit 540 or a dashboard in the hospital, output a sound corresponding to the dialog 801, or display it on the electronic medical record terminal 104. Such operations may be performed in response to an operation of the electronic medical record terminal 104. Furthermore, the imaging device 101 may display the location of the imaging device 101 in the hospital or restrict the operation of the imaging device 101. Furthermore, after the affected area images stored in the recording medium 208 are uploaded to the image management device 105, the imaging device 101 may delete the uploaded affected area images from the recording medium 208.

[0081] If the imaging device 101 determines in step S606 that the evaluation information exceeds the threshold, the process proceeds to step S607; if not, the process proceeds to step S610 to end the process, but the process may also return to step S601.

[0082] In step S607, the imaging device 101 performs a predetermined operation (notification process, imaging limitation) to limit the number of affected area images stored in the recording medium 208 based on the determination result of step S606. When the threshold value 703 set in FIG. 7 is 10 patients, the control level 704 is set to "temporary display." Therefore, if the evaluation information exceeds 10 patients, the dialog 801 in FIG. 8 is temporarily displayed on the rear display unit 540, or information is output to the electronic medical record terminal 104. This allows the doctor to visually recognize the notification when he or she is looking at either the imaging device 101 or the electronic medical record terminal 104, preventing oversight. Furthermore, the notification can be visually recognized when the doctor is looking at either the imaging device 101 or the electronic medical record terminal 104, without interfering with the doctor's examination work. In this way, the determination result can be notified at an appropriate timing depending on the doctor's work situation, etc.

[0083] The timing of the specified operation may be when switching the electronic medical record, when switching the power supply of the imaging device 101, when the imaging device 101 goes to sleep or goes to sleep, at a specified time (such as lunch break), or when performing a specified operation on the imaging device 101 (opening or closing the battery or memory card cover).

[0084] 9 shows an example of a screen for prompting the photographer to organize (upload or reduce) images when the evaluation information exceeds a threshold as a result of the determination in step S606. If the evaluation information exceeds the threshold 703 set in FIG. 7 in step S606, for example, if the evaluation information exceeds 30 people, the control level 704 is set to "imaging prohibited," so the dialog 901 in FIG. 9 is displayed on the rear display unit 540, and the shutter cannot be pressed. In this way, the doctor can be given significant restrictions on his or her behavior or a warning depending on the level to which the doctor has exceeded the policy set by the hospital.

[0085] In this way, even if the number of images taken per patient varies depending on the medical department, the number of patients whose affected area images are stored in the recording medium 208 can be detected based on the result of counting the patient IDs. Therefore, even if, for example, one to two images are usually taken per patient in a dermatology department, and five to seven images are usually taken per patient in a dentistry department, the number of patients can be counted, making it easy to identify the timing for sorting patient images for each patient.

[0086] In step S608, the imaging device 101 determines whether to cancel the predetermined operation executed in step S607, and proceeds to step S609. The imaging device 101 cancels the predetermined operation when the photographer uploads the affected area image stored in the recording medium 208 to the image management device 105 or deletes it from the recording medium 208 in accordance with the dialog 801 shown in Fig. 8, and the evaluation information falls below the threshold as a result of the determination in step S606.

[0087] Furthermore, when the dialog 801 in FIG. 8 is temporarily displayed according to the control level 704 set in FIG. 7, the imaging device 101 may cancel the specified operation and allow normal operation, for example, when several seconds have passed since the dialog 801 was displayed, when a specified operating member is operated, or when the rear display unit 540 is touched.

[0088] Alternatively, a deactivation code input field for deactivating a predetermined operation may be displayed as in the dialog 901 in FIG. 9, and deactivation may be determined by inputting a specific passcode.

[0089] This configuration makes it possible to allow emergency medical treatment or higher-ranking doctors and staff to perform medical treatment or imaging that deviates from normal policies. Furthermore, the authority who can cancel predetermined actions that deviate from hospital policies is set in the cancellation authority 706 in Fig. 7. This makes it possible to provide cancellation means that take into account the characteristics of the hospital (for example, emergency hospital, outpatient specialty, general medical treatment only, etc.).

[0090] In step S609, the imaging device 101 performs processing to cancel the predetermined operation executed in step S607, and proceeds to step S610. For example, if the control level 704 set in Fig. 7 is "temporary display," the dialog 801 in Fig. 8 may be hidden after being displayed for a certain period of time. If the dialog is a dialog requesting a passcode, such as the dialog 901 in Fig. 9, the dialog may be hidden if the passcode matches a predetermined code.

[0091] In step S610, the imaging device 101 performs imaging end processing. The imaging device 101 may turn off the power, return to step S601 to perform imaging again, or put the CPU or screen into a sleep state to save power.

[0092] As described above, by determining the result of counting the patient IDs associated with the affected area images, it is possible to detect the number of patients whose affected area images are stored on the recording medium 208, even if the number of images taken per patient varies depending on the medical department or hospital. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the effects of the first embodiment. For example, Hospital A takes 3 to 4 images per patient, so the number of image data is 10, but the number of patients is 3. On the other hand, Hospital B takes 1 to 2 images per patient, so the number of image data is 10 like Hospital A, but the patient count is 8. It is conceivable that organizing images at Hospital B is clearly more cumbersome and more prone to errors in organizing.

[0093] According to the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of affected area images for each patient (number of patients for which affected area images are stored in the recording medium 208) and reduce the effort required to organize the affected area images for each patient. Furthermore, since it is possible to limit the number of affected area images for each patient according to a threshold value for the number of patients for each hospital or department, it becomes possible to appropriately notify the user of the timing to organize the affected area images for each patient.

[0094] [Embodiment 2] Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0095] In the second embodiment, an example is described in which, depending on the situation of the photographer and the devices that make up the system, it is determined whether it is appropriate to perform a specified action based on the judgment result obtained by comparing the evaluation information of the first embodiment with a threshold value, and the specified action is performed if it is determined to be appropriate.

[0096] According to the second embodiment, a predetermined operation can be performed at an appropriate timing according to the status of the photographer and the devices constituting the system, so that the photographer can utilize the imaging device 101 without interfering with medical treatment or work as much as possible.

[0097] The system configuration and the device configurations that make up the system in the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0098] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a process for limiting the number of images of the affected part of a patient that are stored in the recording medium 208 by the imaging device 101 according to the second embodiment.

[0099] In FIG. 11, the same processes as those in FIG. 6 are denoted by the same step numbers, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0100] In step S1101, the imaging device 101 weights the evaluation information counted in step S605 by multiplying it by a coefficient k.

[0101] In the example of FIG. 7, the coefficient k702 is set to "as is," so the evaluation information counted in step S605 is used as is in the processing of step S606. If the coefficient k702 is set to "Affected Area (Medical Record)" in FIG. 7, the patient ID is multiplied by a coefficient k corresponding to the information in the electronic medical record. For example, if the medical condition is highly urgent or serious, it is desirable to organize the affected area images promptly and more accurately. Each time such a patient ID is saved on the recording medium 208, it may be multiplied by an arbitrary coefficient. If the coefficient k702 is set to "Affected Area (Image Analysis)" in FIG. 7, image analysis such as recognition of the affected area is performed on the affected area images, and the patient ID is multiplied by a coefficient k corresponding to the image analysis results. For example, if personal information is easily identifiable or if there are images of genitals or other images that seriously affect privacy, it is desirable to organize the affected area images promptly and more accurately. Each time such a patient ID is saved on the recording medium 208, it may be multiplied by an arbitrary coefficient. These coefficients k may be set in a configuration file or the like according to hospital policies or departments.

[0102] In this way, by making the determination in step S606 by weighting the evaluation information according to not only the number of patients but also the characteristics of the affected area images, the hospital can manage and administer images and provide medical care that better reflects its policies. In step S1102, the imaging device 101 determines whether it is appropriate to perform a predetermined operation in accordance with the determination result in step S606.

[0103] In the example of Figure 7, since the control timing 705 is set to "always," the imaging device 101 determines in step S1102 that the affirmative determination result of step S606 is appropriate and starts a predetermined operation in step S607. If the control timing 705 is set to "electronic medical record" in Figure 7, the imaging device 101 communicates with the electronic medical record terminal 104, determines that operating the electronic medical record will interfere with medical treatment, determines that the affirmative determination result of step S606 is inappropriate, and ends the processing. If the control timing 705 is set to "between medical treatments" in Figure 7, the imaging device 101 queries the system control device 106, the electronic medical record terminal 104, and the electronic medical record management device 103 to determine whether there is sufficient time until the next medical treatment. If there is not sufficient time until the next medical treatment, the imaging device 101 determines that the affirmative determination result of step S606 is inappropriate and ends the processing. If "not in operation" is set in FIG. 7, it is determined that the imaging device 101 is not in operation based on the posture of the device, the operating state, etc., and if it is not in operation, the positive determination result of step S606 is determined to be inappropriate and the processing is terminated.

[0104] If there is sufficient time to organize the images stored in the recording medium 208 in step S1102, the imaging device 101 determines that the determination result of step S606 is appropriate, and proceeds to step S607. On the other hand, if there is no time between appointments, for example, the next medical examination, the imaging device 101 determines that the determination result of step S606 is inappropriate, and ends the process.

[0105] The determination of whether the determination result in step S606 is appropriate is not limited to the above example, and may be based on other system operations or device operating states.

[0106] According to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, predetermined operations (notification processing, image capture restriction) are performed at appropriate timing according to the status of the photographer and the devices constituting the system. The predetermined operations are started at appropriate operation timings in the system (for example, when the display of a dashboard in a hospital is updated or when a monitoring system is detected), operation timings (for example, when the battery or memory card cover is opened or closed), or according to the medical treatment schedule. This allows the photographer to use the imaging device 101 without interfering with medical treatment or work as much as possible.

[0107] [Other embodiments] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0108] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention.

[0109] The disclosure of this specification includes the following imaging device, control method, and program. [Configuration 1] An imaging device, An imaging means; a recording means for recording the image of the affected part of the patient captured by the imaging means on a recording medium; and a control means for acquiring information about patients whose images are stored on the recording medium and performing a predetermined operation to limit the number of patients whose images are stored on the recording medium based on the information. [Configuration 2] 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the control means performs the predetermined operation when the information exceeds a threshold value. [Configuration 3] 2. The imaging device according to configuration 1, wherein the control means weights the information, and when the weighted information exceeds a threshold, the control means performs the predetermined operation. [Configuration 4] 4. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the information is the number of patients associated with the images of the affected areas of the patients. [Configuration 5] 5. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 2 to 4, wherein the predetermined operation includes a notification process for a user or a restriction on imaging process by the imaging means. [Configuration 6] 6. The imaging device according to configuration 5, wherein the notification process is a process of notifying a user when the information exceeds the threshold value so as not to exceed the threshold value. [Configuration 7] The imaging device according to configuration 2, further comprising a setting unit for setting the threshold value. [Configuration 8] 8. The imaging device according to configuration 7, wherein the threshold value is the number of patients. [Configuration 9] The imaging device according to configuration 3, further comprising setting means for setting the weighting. [Configuration 10] the threshold is the number of patients; 10. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein the weighting is a coefficient by which the number of patients is multiplied. [Configuration 11] 7. The imaging device according to configuration 5 or 6, wherein the control means cancels the predetermined operation based on a predetermined condition. [Configuration 12] 12. The imaging device according to claim 11, further comprising a setting means for setting the predetermined conditions. [Configuration 13] 13. The imaging device according to claim 11, wherein the predetermined conditions include a time period for the notification process, a restriction on the imaging process, and cancellation by an authorized person. [Configuration 14] 4. The imaging device according to configuration 2 or 3, wherein the control means performs the predetermined operation based on a predetermined timing when the information exceeds the threshold value. [Configuration 15] 15. The imaging device according to configuration 14, further comprising setting means for setting the predetermined timing. [Configuration 16] A communication means for communicating with an electronic medical record terminal is provided. 16. The imaging device according to configuration 14 or 15, wherein the predetermined timing includes any of the following: always, during operation of an electronic medical record, during a time other than when the imaging device is being operated, and between medical examinations. [Configuration 17] A control method for an imaging device, comprising: The imaging device is An imaging means; a recording means for recording the image of the affected area of ​​the patient captured by the imaging means on a recording medium, The control method includes: A control method comprising the steps of acquiring information about patients whose images are stored on the recording medium, and performing a predetermined operation to limit the number of patients whose images are stored on the recording medium based on the information. [Configuration 18] A program for causing a computer to function as the imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 16. [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 201...control unit, 205...display unit, 207...recording medium interface, 208...recording medium, 210...communication interface, 212...camera unit

Claims

1. An imaging device, An imaging means; a recording means for recording the image of the affected part of the patient captured by the imaging means on a recording medium; and a control means for acquiring information about patients whose images are stored on the recording medium and performing a predetermined operation to limit the number of patients whose images are stored on the recording medium based on the information.

2. 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the control means performs the predetermined operation when the information exceeds a threshold value.

3. 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the control means weights the information, and when the weighted information exceeds a threshold, the control means performs the predetermined operation.

4. The imaging device according to claim 2 , wherein the information is the number of patients associated with the images of the affected parts of the patients.

5. 3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined operation includes a notification process for a user or a restriction on imaging process by the imaging means.

6. 6. The imaging device according to claim 5, wherein the notification process is a process of notifying a user when the information exceeds the threshold value so as not to exceed the threshold value.

7. 3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a setting unit for setting the threshold value.

8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the threshold value is the number of patients.

9. 4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising setting means for setting the weighting.

10. the threshold is the number of patients; The imaging apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the weighting is a coefficient by which the number of patients is multiplied.

11. 6. The imaging device according to claim 5, wherein the control means cancels the predetermined operation based on a predetermined condition.

12. 12. The imaging apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a setting unit for setting the predetermined conditions.

13. 12. The imaging device according to claim 11, wherein the predetermined conditions include a time period for the notification process, a restriction on the imaging process, and cancellation by an authorized person.

14. 3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the control means performs the predetermined operation based on a predetermined timing when the information exceeds the threshold value.

15. 15. The imaging apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a setting unit for setting the predetermined timing.

16. A communication means for communicating with an electronic medical record terminal is provided.

15. The imaging device according to claim 14, wherein the predetermined timing includes any of the following: always, during operation of an electronic medical record, during a time other than when the imaging device is being operated, and between medical examinations.

17. A control method for an imaging device, comprising: The imaging device is An imaging means; a recording means for recording the image of the affected area of ​​the patient captured by the imaging means on a recording medium, The control method includes: A control method comprising the steps of acquiring information about patients whose images are stored on the recording medium, and performing a predetermined operation to limit the number of patients whose images are stored on the recording medium based on the information.

18. A program for causing a computer to function as the imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

Images