Control apparatus and method, image capturing apparatus and control method thereof, system, and storage medium

Abstract

To reduce time and effort required for a user to acquire information on a person by an imaging apparatus when imaging a plurality of different persons.SOLUTION: Acquiring first identification information of the imaging device and information related to second identification information of at least one of a terminal capable of browsing information of a management target and an application for browsing the information of the management target activated in the terminal, which are acquired by the imaging device, acquiring the information of the management target corresponding to the second identification information from a management device of the management target, and storing the first identification information and the second identification information in association with each other; When the information of the management target browsed in the terminal corresponding to the second identification information is changed, the information of the management target corresponding to the second identification information newly acquired from the management apparatus is transmitted to the imaging apparatus associated with the second identification information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device and method, an imaging device and a control method therefor, a system, a program, and a storage medium, and more particularly to control when capturing an image of an object to be managed in a medical setting or the like. [Background technology]

[0002] There are imaging devices and medical systems that capture images, record captured image data, and assist in sorting and classification. To obtain necessary patient information from the medical system via a communication medium, such imaging devices utilize patient-specific identification information or transmit the identification information to an external device and receive and utilize various information linked to the identification information from the external device. Patent Document 1 describes a method for requesting person-related information associated with a person included in an image captured by a camera from a server device, and displaying the person-related information obtained from the server device on the image. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-11689 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 acquires person-related information based on physical location information, so when capturing images of multiple different people in the same location, the user needs to operate the camera appropriately, which is time-consuming.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to reduce the effort required by the user when capturing images of multiple different people, as the image capturing device acquires information about the people. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the control device of the present invention has a first acquisition means for acquiring, from an imaging device connected via a communication means, first identification information of the imaging device and information regarding second identification information of at least one of a terminal device that can view the information of the managed object acquired by the imaging device and an application that is running on the terminal device for viewing the information of the managed object; a second acquisition means for acquiring, from the management device of the managed object via the communication means, information of the managed object corresponding to the second identification information; a storage means for storing the first identification information and the second identification information in association with each other; and a control means for controlling, when the information of the managed object being viewed on the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information is changed, to transmit the information of the managed object corresponding to the second identification information newly acquired from the management device to the imaging device associated with the second identification information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, when capturing images of a plurality of different people, it is possible to reduce the effort required of the user to obtain information about the people using an imaging device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an imaging system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1A and 1B are a block diagram and an external view showing an example of the hardware configuration of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an imaging control device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an electronic medical record terminal device according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is an image diagram illustrating a virtualized operation of the imaging control device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart showing processing in the imaging device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a graphical user interface displayed on a display of the imaging device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a guidance screen when capturing an image of an ID code according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 3A and 3B are diagrams showing examples of ID codes of an electronic medical record terminal device and an electronic medical record application in the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 5 is a flowchart showing a pairing management process in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing an example of a list of camera IDs and terminal / application IDs and pairing information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 4 is a flowchart showing an imaging process in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI when transmitting imaging data in the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a GUI when capturing an image of a two-dimensional code according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen during pairing processing in the second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a standby screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an electronic medical record communication confirmation screen in the second embodiment. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing an imaging process according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart showing an imaging process according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. 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.

[0010] First Embodiment In the first embodiment, a medical system using an imaging device for imaging an affected area of ​​a patient in a medical setting and assisting diagnosis will be described.

[0011] In the following description, an imaging device (digital camera) capable of capturing visible light is used to capture an image of an affected area such as a patient's skin. However, the present invention can also be applied to cameras with different information obtained by imaging and different camera types, such as a multispectral camera capable of capturing images in different wavelength ranges depending on the purpose of diagnosis and imaging, a polarization camera with a polarizer that transmits only light vibrating in a certain direction, an infrared camera capable of capturing images in the infrared to near-infrared range, a three-dimensional shape measurement camera capable of capturing three-dimensional shapes, a microscope-type camera, a dermoscope (skin magnifying glass)-type camera, a camera capable of capturing images in the invisible light wavelength range, or a camera that combines multiple of the above-mentioned imaging functions.

[0012] [System configuration] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical system according to this embodiment. The medical system according to this embodiment will be described as being used in a hospital or the like.

[0013] In FIG. 1, an imaging device 101 captures an image of a subject and generates image data. Here, an example is shown in which an image of a patient's trunk 107 is captured. The imaging device 101 is a small, portable imaging device, similar to a commercially available digital camera, and is equipped with a display device that allows captured images to be checked, and an interface such as buttons and a touch panel for various operations. The imaging device 101 may be configured as a camera used exclusively for the medical system of this embodiment, or a general-purpose camera may be used to store and execute an application for this medical system (for example, a program for medical imaging).

[0014] The network 102 is a device that realizes an inter-device network. For example, when the imaging device 101 is turned on by the photographer, it connects to the network 102 (described later) and becomes able to communicate with other devices in the medical system via the network 102. The network 102 is a communication medium, and wireless data transmission, wired data transmission, various controls, and the like can be performed via the network 102. Various communication protocols can be used, such as Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP), Universal Serial Bus (USB), Local Area Network (LAN), Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) (registered trademark), Health Level Seven (HL7) (registered trademark), Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) (registered trademark), Bluetooth (BLE) (registered trademark), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) (registered trademark), Socket (registered trademark), and WebSocket. Any communication protocol can be used as long as it can communicate image data, text, control data, etc. Depending on the standard of the communication medium, charging control, such as wired or wireless power supply, of the imaging device 101 may be possible in addition to communication.

[0015] In this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, the image capture device 101 and its peripheral devices will maintain a continuous communication-enabled state until they are turned off. In addition, some of the inherent functions of the image capture device 101 will be restricted during communication.

[0016] While the connection and communication method between the imaging device 101 and the network 102 has been described in detail, the same applies to various devices such as the electronic medical record management device 103, the electronic medical record terminal device 104, the image management device 105, and the imaging control device 106. Although omitted from Fig. 1, lighting and irradiation devices configured for visible light wavelength ranges such as halogen lighting or light-emitting diode lighting, or non-visible light wavelength ranges such as X-rays or ultraviolet rays may also be installed for imaging, if necessary. The above-mentioned components communicate and are controlled via an interface arranged in the imaging device 101 and the network 102.

[0017] The electronic medical record management device 103 stores hospital patient information (e.g., ID, name, medical department, age, date of birth, gender, medical history, past medical treatment history, etc.) and doctor information (e.g., ID, name, affiliation information such as medical department, etc.) (information to be managed). The electronic medical record management device 103 collates and authenticates doctor login and logoff information, provides doctor information, and provides patient information in the form of electronic medical records to the electronic medical record terminal device 104. It also updates data and stores updated data. It may also store setting information such as imaging settings for the imaging device 101 for each medical department and doctor information. Such an electronic medical record management device 103 is installed as a server in the hospital or in the cloud using a computer, and can be accessed via the network 102 when necessary. Note that multiple electronic medical record management devices 103 may be configured for each medical department within the hospital.

[0018] During a medical examination, the electronic medical record terminal device 104 provides an electronic medical record function by transmitting and receiving information about the logged-in doctor and staff, and information about the patient being examined, to and from the electronic medical record management device 103. Doctors and staff can use the electronic medical record function to display, edit, update, etc. the electronic medical record. The electronic medical record terminal device 104 and the electronic medical record management device 103 may communicate via the network 102, or may communicate directly via wired communication or wireless communication such as infrared communication or Bluetooth.

[0019] The image management device 105 stores, updates, and deletes image data and metadata such as patient information and photographer information linked to the image data, and references the data as needed. The image management device 105 may be installed for each department within a hospital, installed as a server on an external network 102 such as a cloud, or installed as shared storage. The image management device 105 may also reference and copy necessary information stored in the electronic medical record management device 103 and make the data available to related devices as appropriate, thereby reducing the load on the electronic medical record management device 103 and increasing confidentiality.

[0020] The imaging control device 106 transmits the above-mentioned patient information, photographer information, control information, etc. to the imaging device 101 from various devices constituting the system, such as the electronic medical record terminal device 104, the electronic medical record management device 103, or the image management device 105, which appropriately copies and stores such information, and acquires the usage status of the electronic medical record terminal device 104. Furthermore, even when there are multiple imaging devices 101, electronic medical record management devices 103, electronic medical record terminal devices 104, and image management devices 105, the imaging control device 106 can acquire, record, monitor, and manage these dynamic multiple status changes in real time. Status changes (usage status) include various states, such as the login / logout information status of doctors and staff, the editing status when updating data, and the update storage status of updated data.

[0021] In addition, the imaging control device 106 is communicatively connected to data servers and control management systems within the hospital via a network 102, and can transmit and receive various management information, setting information, information updates, control information, etc. of the hospital system to multiple imaging devices 101, electronic medical record management devices 103, electronic medical record terminal devices 104, and image management devices 105 as needed.

[0022] In this embodiment, the imaging device 101, electronic medical record terminal device 104, electronic medical record management device 103, image management device 105, and imaging control device 106 are described as separate devices, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the functions of two or more devices may be realized by a single device, such as by dividing the electronic medical record terminal device 104, electronic medical record management device 103, imaging control device 106, or image management device 105 into application software units or operating system virtualization area units and building them in the same housing. In this way, an imaging system with appropriate cost can be configured to match the load and capacity required by the system.

[0023] Furthermore, in the medical system shown in FIG. 1, one of each device is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of devices may be connected to each device.

[0024] [Imaging device 101] Next, a digital still camera will be described as an example of the imaging device 101 of this embodiment using Fig. 2. Fig. 2(a) is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the imaging device 101 of this embodiment. In Fig. 2(a), a CPU 201, a memory 202, a nonvolatile memory 203, an image processing unit 204, a display 205, an operation unit 206, a recording medium I / F 207, an external I / F 209, a communication I / F 210, and an imaging unit 212 are connected to an internal bus 250. The units connected to the internal bus 250 are configured to be able to exchange data with each other via the internal bus 250.

[0025] The memory 202 is configured, for example, by RAM (a volatile memory using semiconductor elements, etc.), and the CPU 201 controls each unit of the imaging device 101 using the memory 202 as a work memory in accordance with a program stored, for example, in the nonvolatile memory 203. The nonvolatile memory 203 is configured, for example, by a hard disk (HDD) or ROM, and stores image data, audio data, other data, various programs for operating the CPU 201 (for example, a program for medical imaging), etc. The CPU 201 reads these programs into the memory 202 and starts them, thereby performing the processing of this embodiment. Note that the memory 202 may store not only programs for medical imaging, but also general imaging programs, in which case they can be switched between and used.

[0026] The image processing unit 204 performs various image processing operations on images captured by the imaging unit 212, images stored in the nonvolatile memory 203 or the recording medium 208, images acquired via the external I / F 209, images acquired via the communication I / F 210, etc., under the control of the CPU 201. The image processing operations performed by the image processing unit 204 include A / D conversion, D / A conversion, image data encoding, compression, decoding, enlargement / reduction (resizing), noise reduction, color conversion, etc. The image processing unit 204 may be configured with a circuit block dedicated to performing specific image processing operations. Depending on the type of image processing, the CPU 201 may perform the image processing operations according to a program without using the image processing unit 204.

[0027] The display 205 displays images, GUI screens constituting a GUI (Graphical User Interface), and the like under the control of the CPU 201. The CPU 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 205 and output it to the display 205. The display 205 displays an image based on the output video signal. Note that the display 205 may be configured as an external monitor, in which case the imaging device 101 only has an interface for outputting the video signal to be displayed on the display 205.

[0028] The operation unit 206 includes operation members such as buttons, dials, and touch panels for receiving user operations.

[0029] A recording medium I / F 207 allows a recording medium 208 such as a memory card, CD, or DVD to be attached, and reads data from and writes data to the attached recording medium 208 under the control of the CPU 201 . The external I / F 209 is an interface that connects to an external device via a wired cable or wirelessly, and is used to input and output image signals and audio signals, as well as to supply power and charge the device. The communication I / F 210 is an interface for communicating with external devices and transmitting and receiving various data such as files and commands.

[0030] The imaging unit 212 includes a group of lenses (imaging lenses) including a zoom lens and a focus lens, a shutter with an aperture function, an imaging element, an A / D converter that converts analog signals output from the imaging element into digital signals, and a barrier that covers the imaging system to prevent dirt and damage. The imaging element is composed of a CCD or CMOS element that converts an optical image incident through the imaging lens and shutter into an electrical signal, and is capable of capturing still images and videos. The imaging lens may be configured to be interchangeable.

[0031] The image processing unit 204 performs predetermined pixel interpolation, resizing such as reduction, and color conversion processing on data captured and acquired by the imaging unit 212. Based on the calculation results obtained by the image processing unit 204, the CPU 201 performs exposure control, focus detection control, and AWB (auto white balance) processing. Furthermore, video data for display that is captured by the imaging unit 212 and image processed by the image processing unit 204 is displayed on the display 205. A digital signal captured by the imaging unit 212, once A / D converted by an A / D converter, and stored in the memory 202 is converted to analog by a D / A converter and sequentially transferred to and displayed on the display 205, thereby enabling live view display (LV display). The live view can be displayed in a still image capture standby state, a video capture standby state, and while the video is being recorded, and displays the captured subject image in almost real time.

[0032] The CPU 201 controls the imaging unit 212 and the image processing unit 204 to start operations such as AF (autofocus) processing, AE (auto exposure) processing, and AWB processing in response to an imaging preparation instruction based on a user operation performed using the operation unit 206. The CPU 201 also controls a series of imaging processing operations in response to an imaging instruction from the operation unit 206. This series of imaging processing includes processing of controlling the imaging unit 212 to perform main exposure and read a signal from the imaging element, and processing the read image signal in the image processing unit 204 to generate an image file and record it on the recording medium 208.

[0033] FIG. 2B is an external view of a digital camera as an example of the imaging device 101. As shown in FIG. The display 205 displays images and various information. A connector 221 is a connector for connecting a connection cable 222 for connecting to an external device such as a personal computer or a printer, and a digital camera.

[0034] The recording medium 208 is a recording medium such as a memory card or a hard disk. The recording medium slot 231 is a slot for storing the recording medium 208. The recording medium 208 stored in the recording medium slot 231 can communicate with a digital camera, and can record and play back. The lid 232 is the lid for the recording medium slot 231. Figure 2(b) shows a state in which the lid 232 is opened and a part of the recording medium 208 is removed and exposed from the slot 231.

[0035] The operation unit 206 is made up of operation members such as various buttons, dials, and a touch panel that accept various operations from the user. It also includes a shutter button 261 for issuing an image capture command, a mode selector switch 260 for switching between various modes, a rotatable controller wheel 263, and a power switch 262 that is a push button for switching the power on and off. The touch panel is configured flatly overlaid on the display 205, and outputs coordinate information according to the touched position.

[0036] Each operating member of the operating unit 206 is assigned a function appropriate for each situation by selecting and operating various icons displayed on the display 205, and acts 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 in which various settings can be made is displayed on the display 205. The user can intuitively make various settings using the menu screen displayed on the display 205, the four directional buttons (up, down, left, and right), the SET button, etc.

[0037] The controller wheel 263 is used together with the directional buttons to indicate a selection item, etc. When the controller wheel 263 is rotated, an electrical pulse signal is generated according to the amount of rotation, and the CPU 301 controls various parts of the digital camera based on this pulse signal. This pulse signal makes it possible to determine the angle at which the controller wheel 263 is rotated, the number of rotations, etc. The controller wheel 263 may be any operating member that can detect rotation. For example, the controller wheel 263 may be a dial operating member that rotates itself in response to a user's rotation and generates a pulse signal. Alternatively, the controller wheel 263 may be an operating member made of a touch sensor that does not rotate itself but detects the rotation of the user's finger on the controller wheel 263 (a so-called touch wheel).

[0038] The user can issue an instruction to capture an image by pressing the shutter button 261. Various shooting parameters can be set using the various operating members included in the operating unit 206, such as the mode changeover switch 260, the controller wheel 263, and the touch panel on the display 205.

[0039] Each image capture device 101 has its own unique identification information (ID), which will be referred to hereinafter as a "camera ID." The camera ID may be any type of ID, such as a serial number, a self-generated ID, a MAC (Media Access Control Address) address, or a UUID (Universally Unique Identifier), as long as it does not overlap within the system in which it is operated.

[0040] Furthermore, any unique ID that is paired with the imaging device 101 or the electronic medical record terminal device 104, such as an SD card, a staff ID, or other physical RFID, may be used without being directly assigned to the imaging device 101.

[0041] [Image capture control device 106] 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a computer that operates as the imaging control device 106 of this embodiment. The computer executes predetermined control and processing programs to perform the processes described below, but the computer may also be located and function on a server such as within the local network 102 or on a cloud.

[0042] The CPU 301 is responsible for system control. The ROM 302 stores the operation processing procedures of the CPU 301 (for example, programs for computer startup processing, basic input / output processing, etc.). The RAM 303 functions as the main memory of the CPU 301 and provides a work area for the CPU 301 to execute various processes. Various programs, including control programs for realizing the processes described below, are loaded into the RAM 303 from a storage medium such as an HDD (hard disk drive) 305 or an SSD (solid state drive), and are executed by the CPU 301.

[0043] The display 304 displays various information under the control of the CPU 301. The display 304 may be configured as an external monitor, in which case the imaging control device 106 only has an interface for outputting a video signal to be displayed on the display 304.

[0044] A hard disk drive (HDD) 305 is used to save and load application programs, data, libraries, and the like.

[0045] The operation unit 306 includes operation members for receiving user operations, such as a character information input device such as a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse or touch panel, a button, a dial, a joystick, a touch sensor, and a touch pad.

[0046] The recording medium I / F 307 allows a recording medium 310 such as a memory card, CD, or DVD to be attached, and, under the control of the CPU 301, reads data from the attached recording medium 310 and writes data to the recording medium 310. This makes it possible to read data captured and stored by a digital still camera.

[0047] The communication I / F 308 is connected to the network 102 via a wireless or wired communication line, and the imaging control device 106 transmits and receives data to and from external devices via the communication I / F 308. Depending on the type of communication I / F 308, it may be possible to supply power to and charge the connected device. In this embodiment, when a wired connection is made with the imaging device 101 via the communication I / F 308, not only can the CPU 301 acquire images captured by the imaging device 101, but it can also transmit and receive various types of data to and from the imaging device 101, supply power to, and charge the imaging device 101.

[0048] The system bus 309 comprises an address bus, a data bus, and a control bus that connect the above-mentioned units.

[0049] [Electronic medical record terminal device 104] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a computer that operates as the electronic medical record terminal device 104 of this embodiment, and the basic configuration is the same as that of the imaging control device 106 of Figure 3. In a hospital system, multiple electronic medical record terminal devices 104 are generally configured as client devices for one electronic medical record management device 103, and are generally used by staff involved in medical procedures. Note that each of the components 401 to 410 is the same as each of the components 301 to 310 shown in Figure 3, so description thereof will be omitted.

[0050] In this embodiment, each electronic medical record terminal device 104 can launch and use one electronic medical record application (hereinafter referred to as an "electronic medical record application"). The electronic medical record terminal device 104 connects to the electronic medical record management device 103 via the network 102 or directly via a dedicated line, and uses the electronic medical record application to view the electronic medical records held by the electronic medical record management device 103, update the electronic medical records as needed, and send the updated information to the electronic medical record management device 103. This allows the electronic medical record management device 103 to hold the latest electronic medical record information.

[0051] Furthermore, the electronic medical record terminal device 104 and the electronic medical record application launched by each terminal device each have unique identification information (ID), which are referred to as the "terminal ID" and "application ID," respectively. Examples of terminal IDs and application IDs include serial numbers and self-generated IDs, and MAC addresses and UUIDs can also be used as terminal IDs. Furthermore, even if they are not directly assigned to the electronic medical record terminal device 104 or the electronic medical record application, any unique ID that is paired with an imaging device or electronic medical record, such as an SD card, staff ID, or other physical RFID, can be used.

[0052] Note that the terminal ID and application ID can be used synonymously because the electronic medical record terminal device 104 and the electronic medical record application running on the electronic medical record terminal device 104 can be uniquely associated with each other. Therefore, in the following description, these will be collectively referred to as the "terminal / application ID," and will refer to the terminal ID and / or application ID.

[0053] [System device virtualization] The electronic medical record management device 103, electronic medical record terminal device 104, image management device 105, and imaging control device 106 may implement predetermined control and processing programs in physical computers and each unit as shown in Figures 3 and 4, but these physical computer resources (e.g., CPU, GPU, RAM, ROM, network, hub, etc.) may be used to virtually divide and realize each processing block CPU 501, ROM 502, RAM 503, display 504, HDD 505, operation unit 506, recording medium I / F 507, communication I / F 508 connected to the computer network 102, system bus 509 connecting each unit, and recording medium 510 as a virtual container as shown in Figure 5, and multiple configurations may be built for each user authority or department to provide functions.

[0054] Here, virtualization of a computer such as the imaging control device 106 is exemplified, but various other devices that make up the system may also be virtualized in the same manner as long as it does not exceed the physical device limitations.

[0055] This allows for efficient use of the hospital's systems by allocating the limited processing resources of physical computers according to, for example, the availability of medical departments or changes in busy times, which reduces the introduction and operation costs of the entire system and improves the efficiency of users' work by making it easier to update the system and software.

[0056] In the following explanation, it is assumed that there are multiple imaging devices 101 and electronic medical record terminal devices 104 operated within the hospital, each of which can be connected to the network 102, and that multiple users (staff) can use each device. Therefore, the explanation will be given on the assumption that the power of each device is turned on and off irregularly. Also, the imaging control device 106 will be explained as providing functions by constructing each processing block as a virtual container as shown in Figure 5 using physical computer resources (e.g., CPU, GPU, RAM, ROM, network, hub, etc.), but it may also be configured using physical resources as shown in Figure 3.

[0057] [Pairing process in imaging device] Next, the pairing process in the imaging device 101 performed in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6 to Fig. 9. In the pairing process, a process is performed to link (pair) the imaging device 101 with the electronic medical record terminal device 104 and / or an electronic medical record application running on the electronic medical record terminal device 104. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the process in the imaging device 101.

[0058] When the power switch 262 is used to turn on the power or when an instruction to cancel the sleep state is given, in step S101 the CPU 201 connects to the network 102 via the communication I / F 210 in order to communicate with the imaging control device 106.

[0059] In S102, the CPU 201 displays a GUI screen as shown in FIG. 7A on the display 205. In FIG. 7A, 741 indicates the patient name, 742 indicates the photographer name, 743 indicates an end button, 744 indicates a pairing button (instruction display), and 745 indicates the pairing status. Immediately after startup, the imaging device 101 displays "Not entered" because the patient name 741 and the photographer name 742 have not yet been obtained. Also, because pairing has not been performed, "Not yet" is displayed. By configuring the GUI screen in this way, it is possible to display, input, check, and update the subject, related metadata, and pairing status at any time.

[0060] In S103, the CPU 201 determines whether the pairing button 744 has been pressed. If the pairing button 744 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to S104, where it determines whether the end button 743 has been pressed, and if the end button 743 has been pressed, the process ends. If the end button 743 has not been pressed, the process returns to S102. If the pairing button 744 has been pressed, the process proceeds to S105, where the pairing process starts.

[0061] In S105, identification information such as the terminal ID of the electronic medical record terminal device 104 to be paired and the application ID of the electronic medical record application is acquired.

[0062] Here, an example of a method for acquiring a terminal ID or an application ID will be described. Here, the terminal ID or application ID is converted into one-dimensional, two-dimensional, color code, RFID, or the like, and then imaged by the image capturing device 101 and analyzed.

[0063] Figure 9(a) shows a case where an electronic medical record application window 901 is displayed on the display 404 of the electronic medical record terminal device 104. In Figure 9(a), an ID code 903 is a terminal ID converted into a one-dimensional barcode and printed, and is physically attached to the computer 902 of the electronic medical record terminal device 104. Figure 9(b) shows an electronic medical record displayed in the window 901 of the electronic medical record application. In Figure 9(b), an ID code 915 represents a one-dimensional barcode converted from an application ID generated by the electronic medical record application, or the terminal ID of the electronic medical record terminal device 104 read by the electronic medical record application.

[0064] The imaging device 101 captures the ID code 903 or 915 thus provided, and analyzes the captured image of the ID code using a known method to obtain the terminal / application ID, which is identification information.

[0065] FIG. 8(a) shows an example of a guidance screen displayed on the display 205 of the imaging device 101 for reading the ID code 903 or 915 when the pairing button 744 is pressed. Reference numeral 801 denotes a guide display for reading identification information such as a one-dimensional code, a two-dimensional code, character recognition, or a recognition pattern, as shown in reference numeral 802, and may be displayed to help create a suitable composition. The type of object to be read may be preset, or a discrimination process may be performed in advance, and the guidance or guide may be changed based on the discrimination results. This facilitates composition adjustment to match the target pattern, improving reading accuracy, speed, robustness, and the like. A back button 803 is a button for returning to the previous screen.

[0066] By configuring the terminal / application ID in this way, it is possible to operate the hospital system, the functions of the electronic medical record application, and the staff operation status of the electronic medical record terminal in a way that is appropriate for the system.

[0067] Although the description here is based on the assumption that the ID code is captured and analyzed, the terminal / application ID may be acquired using short-range wireless communication such as an IC tag, RFID, or Bluetooth, if the device is provided on the electronic medical record terminal device 104 that is the target of pairing with the imaging device 101. Depending on the operation of the imaging device 101 in the hospital, the initial state upon power-on may be set to a state in which pairing is possible (guidance screen shown in FIG. 8). Furthermore, the current pairing information may be stored in the imaging device 101 or the imaging control device 106 when the power is turned off, and the device may be operated from the stored pairing state the next time it is started, thereby reducing the effort required for operation.

[0068] Furthermore, when transitioning to the guidance screen, imaging may be performed using imaging settings (for example, exposure value, focal length, etc.) for capturing ID code images stored in the imaging device 101. This reduces the effort required to adjust imaging parameters even in environments or subjects where imaging parameters suitable for capturing images of a patient and those suitable for capturing images of an ID code are significantly different.

[0069] In S106, the CPU 201 of the imaging device 101 determines whether or not the terminal / application ID (identification information) has been acquired. If the terminal / application ID has been acquired, the process proceeds to S107. If the terminal / application ID has not been acquired, such as if the reading has failed (for example, if the analysis result of the ID code returns an error), the process returns to S105.

[0070] The analysis results may also be displayed on the display 205 for user confirmation. FIG. 8(b) is a diagram showing a display example 804 for confirming the analysis results. 805 indicates the read device / application ID. If the displayed device / application ID is correct, the user presses an OK button 806. If the confirmed device / application ID is incorrect or if the device is not eligible for pairing due to an operational error or the like, the user presses a back button 807 to discard the acquired pairing information and return to S105. Alternatively, the process may return to S102 and start the pairing process over from the beginning.

[0071] In S107, the CPU 201 analyzes the read ID code 903 and / or ID code 915 to obtain a terminal / application ID, and stores the terminal / application ID in the memory 202, the nonvolatile memory 203, the recording medium 208, or the like.

[0072] Then, in S108, the camera ID of the imaging device 101 and the obtained terminal ID or application ID are transmitted to the imaging control device 106 via the network 102, and the pairing process in the imaging device 101 is completed.

[0073] As described above, when reading an ID code during pairing, a manual capture system can be considered, in which an image is captured and analyzed. While such a manual capture system often requires less analysis, it requires the user to press the capture shutter once each time the composition is adjusted, resulting in a large number of operations and a heavy operational burden. Therefore, a system may be used in which live view images are transmitted at a predetermined interval and image analysis is performed until successful recognition. In this case, the process from capturing images to image analysis and success as described above is performed automatically, which generally results in a momentary increase in the amount of analysis and communication load, but can significantly reduce the number of operations performed by the user.

[0074] 7A can also be displayed, for example, when the connection between the image capture device 101 and the network 102 is poor. By displaying the GUI in this manner, appropriate information can be output depending on the cooperation status of the image capture device 101 and the system, allowing the photographer to perform appropriate operations depending on the situation, such as checking connected devices on the network or switching the access point to connect to.

[0075] [Pairing Management Processing in Imaging Control Device] Next, the pairing management process in the imaging control device 106 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0076] In S201, the CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 searches for the imaging device 101 and the electronic medical record terminal device 104 connected to the network 102 via the network 102, and determines the connection status of each of the connected devices. The imaging control device 106, the imaging device 101, and the electronic medical record management device 103 may perform synchronous or asynchronous communication depending on the communication protocol, but the detection method and connection and disconnection method here may be a method of establishing a connection by asynchronous communication, or a method of periodic monitoring (polling, etc.) using synchronous communication.

[0077] To determine the connection status, each imaging device 101 and each electronic medical record terminal device 104 communicates using the network 102 to confirm the response, and if the response is normal, it is determined to be "connected," and if there is an abnormal response or no response, it is determined to be "disconnected."

[0078] In S202, the CPU 301 determines whether there is a "connected" device, and if there is a "connected" device, the process proceeds to S203. If there is no "connected" device, it determines that there is some problem with the connection via the network 102, and terminates the process. At this time, if there is a "disconnection" at the group level of the medical department, floor, etc., from which each imaging device 101 and each electronic medical record terminal device 104 has responded, the response may be confirmed with the communication relay device, etc. that constitutes the network 102, and an alert may be output.

[0079] In S203, the CPU 301 makes an inquiry to each electronic medical record terminal device 104 in a connected state and acquires the terminal / application ID. Next, in S204, the CPU 301 acquires the camera ID of each image capture device 101 that is in a connected state via the network 102.

[0080] In S205, the CPU 301 updates the ID information of the terminal / app ID and camera ID stored in the storage area of ​​the ROM 302 or RAM 303 using the terminal / app ID and camera ID acquired in S203 and S204. For example, among the terminal / app IDs and camera IDs acquired in S203 and S204, the CPU 301 newly registers any IDs that have not been stored. Furthermore, among the terminal / app IDs and camera IDs stored in the storage area of ​​the ROM 302 or RAM 303, any IDs that could not be acquired in S203 and S204 are deleted or "disconnected" information is added. This prevents duplicate registration of terminal / app IDs and camera IDs and also prevents pairing of an imaging device 101 or electronic medical record terminal device 104 that is not in a connected state because it is powered off, for example.

[0081] Figure 11(a) shows a list of the camera IDs of all imaging devices 101 in an activated state, and the terminal / app IDs of electronic medical record terminal devices 104 and electronic medical record applications, all of which are managed by the imaging control device 106. Figure 11(a) shows that imaging devices 101 with camera IDs "C1," "C3," "C5," and "C6" have been detected, and that electronic medical record terminal devices 104 or electronic medical record applications with terminal / app IDs "E1," "E2," "E3," and "E4" have been detected.

[0082] In S206, the CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 updates the pairing information based on the ID information shown in FIG. 11(a). FIG. 11(b) is a diagram showing an example of pairing information managed by the imaging control device 106, showing a list of combinations (links) of pairing IDs, camera IDs, terminal / application IDs, and electronic medical record information. For example, pairing ID "2" indicates that camera ID: "C2" is paired with terminal / application ID: "E4." Furthermore, pairing ID "3" indicates that an imaging device 101 with camera ID: "C3" is connected to the network 102 but is not paired with any electronic medical record terminal device 104 or electronic medical record application. Furthermore, pairing IDs "5" and "6" indicate that two imaging devices 101 with camera IDs: "C5" and "C6" are paired with the same terminal / application ID: "E2." The electronic medical record information also holds information on the electronic medical record corresponding to the terminal / application ID acquired from the electronic medical record management device 103 in S208, which will be described later.

[0083] Next, in S207, the CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 determines whether or not change information for pairing, such as addition of new pairing information or cancellation of pairing, has been input from the imaging device 101. Here, for example, if a camera ID and a terminal / application ID are transmitted from each imaging device 101 in S108 of FIG. 6, it is determined that change information has been input. If change information for pairing has been input, the process returns to S206, and the pairing information is updated based on the change information. If change information has not been input, the process proceeds to S208.

[0084] In S208, the CPU 301 uses the terminal / application ID registered in the pairing information to acquire information about the electronic medical record currently being viewed in the corresponding electronic medical record application from the electronic medical record management device 103. The acquired electronic medical record information may be information that can be uniquely associated with the electronic medical record currently being viewed, and may include at least patient identification information (patient ID), such as the patient name and a patient number arbitrarily assigned to the patient. It may also include other information, such as staff information, patient information, medical information, and history. Then, in S209, the CPU 301 compares the electronic medical record information acquired in S208 with the electronic medical record information stored in the pairing information to determine whether any changes have occurred. Because the newly registered pairing information does not contain any electronic medical record information, it is determined that the electronic medical record information acquired in S208 has changed.

[0085] If the information in the electronic medical record has been changed, in S210, the pairing information is updated and the changed information in the electronic medical record is output to the image capture device 101 having the corresponding camera ID. When the process of S210 is completed, the process returns to S201 and the above process is repeated.

[0086] In this way, by transmitting pairing information from the imaging device to the imaging control device and creating and storing a list of pairing information for the entire system, it is possible to control and understand the pairing of overlapping devices. This makes it possible to permit efficient device pairing and prevent operational errors. It also makes it possible to retain pairing information even if the imaging device and electronic medical record are powered on individually. Furthermore, it becomes possible to continue using the stored pairing information when the device is powered on again. In the above-described process, if the CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 cannot detect a connected device in S202, it determines that the communication state is abnormal and that control is difficult, and terminates the process. However, instead of determining the connection state only at the timing of S202, similar processing may be performed at each processing step or at a fixed interval. If the communication response is poor at that time, the process may be terminated in the same way, or a retry process may be performed to check the communication response several times. Furthermore, previously used metadata may be cleared to prevent incorrect metadata from being associated with other imaging data.

[0087] In this way, by checking the communication status at all times while proceeding with the process, it is possible to prevent the control process from stopping (deadlock), and in the event of an abnormality, it is possible to prevent incorrect metadata from being linked to the imaging data by prioritizing the metadata clearing process.

[0088] In the above example, the imaging device 101 and the electronic medical record terminal device 104 are detected by the imaging control device 106, but for example, only the imaging device 101 may be detected by the imaging control device 106, or information regarding the electronic medical record terminal device 104 may be detected by the electronic medical record management device 103 or a database that references that data, etc. In this way, it becomes possible to perform operations suited to the systems that make up each hospital.

[0089] Furthermore, in the above processing, the CPU 301 may determine the usage status of the electronic medical record application and use the result to save power in the imaging device 101. The usage status of the electronic medical record application is, for example, an initialization processing status such as starting up or shutting down, an access authentication status of a staff member, a medical treatment status in which the electronic medical record is opened and referenced, a data transmission / reception status of patients, staff members, images, etc., an editing status of the electronic medical record, a storage operation status of the electronic medical record, a login / logoff status of a staff member's electronic medical record terminal, etc.

[0090] The CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 determines whether to prioritize power-saving processing for the imaging device 101 paired with the electronic medical record application, depending on the usage status of the electronic medical record. For example, if the usage status of the terminal / application ID E4 is in an initialization processing state, such as during startup or shutdown, or if the electronic medical record is closed and not yet referenced, or if the staff member's electronic medical record terminal is in an unauthenticated state, such as logged off, it is highly likely that a medical examination is not being conducted. In this case, the imaging device C2 determines that power-saving processing should be prioritized.

[0091] The CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 then notifies the imaging device 101 to prioritize power saving processing. The power saving processing is determined by the specifications unique to the imaging device 101. For example, the CPU 301 controls the display state of the liquid crystal panel of the imaging device 101, the standby state of the imaging engine and image processing engine, the standby state for communication, and other usage states of various components.

[0092] On the other hand, if the usage state of the terminal / app ID E2 is a medical treatment state where an electronic medical record is opened and referenced, a sending / receiving state where image data is sent and received, an editing state where an electronic medical record is edited, a storage operation state where an electronic medical record is stored, or an authentication state where a staff member is logged in to the electronic medical record terminal, it is highly likely that a medical examination is in progress. In such cases, it is determined that the power saving processing of the imaging devices C5 and C6 is not prioritized (communication processing is prioritized).

[0093] Then, the CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 notifies the imaging device 101 to prioritize processing efficiency regardless of power consumption for communication, etc. Here, processing that prioritizes communication includes a notification that prioritizes the responsiveness of components related to the imaging processing time of the imaging device 101 itself, input of patient information or staff information to the imaging device 101, uploading of images, etc.

[0094] In this way, by switching the power saving mode of the imaging device 101 according to the usage status of the electronic medical record terminal device 104, it is possible to quickly take images in the operational situation, and to operate the imaging device 101 for a long time without interrupting work while saving the stored power of the imaging device 101, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0095] [Image capture processing in the image capture device] Next, an explanation will be given of the imaging process of this embodiment in the imaging device 101. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the imaging process of this embodiment by the imaging device 101. Note that the photographers who perform the imaging process in this process are assumed to be, for example, hospital staff such as doctors and nurses, as well as technicians and assistants, and information including the photographer IDs of the respective photographers is assumed to be stored in the electronic medical record management device 103.

[0096] When the power switch 262 is pressed or the sleep state is canceled, the CPU 201 of the imaging device 101 makes the user interface available and simultaneously transitions to a state in which the affected area can be imaged. Depending on the operation of the imaging device 101 in the hospital, the imaging device 101 may be initially set to a state in which the affected area can be imaged at startup, thereby reducing the effort required for operation.

[0097] If the device is not yet connected to the network 102, it may be connected to the network 102 to enable communication with the imaging control device 106. Data and parameters set in the hospital or medical system may be downloaded and used in subsequent operations.

[0098] When the imaging process starts, in S301, the CPU 201 of the imaging device 101 determines whether pairing has been completed. This determination may be made based on whether pairing information is stored in the memory 202, the nonvolatile memory 203, etc., or by inquiring of the imaging control device 106 as to whether pairing has been completed. If pairing has not been completed, the process proceeds to S311, where the pairing process described with reference to FIG. 6 is performed.

[0099] On the other hand, if the CPU 201 determines in S301 that pairing has been completed, the paired device / application ID is acquired in S302, and the process proceeds to S303. Here, the device / application ID may be read from pairing information stored in the memory 202, the non-volatile memory 203, or the like, or the imaging control device 106 may be inquired of.

[0100] In S303, the CPU 201 acquires electronic medical record information linked to the terminal / application ID from the imaging control device 106, and stores the acquired electronic medical record information as linked information in the memory 202. At this time, photographer information (ID, name, medical department, age, sex, history of past medical treatment, etc.) may also be acquired.

[0101] Then, in S304, the acquired electronic medical record information, and, if acquired, photographer information, are displayed on the display 205. An example of the GUI displayed at this time is shown in FIG. 7(b). In the example shown in FIG. 7(b), "E1" is displayed as the pairing status 745 on the LV image, indicating that pairing is being performed with the electronic medical record terminal device 104 or application with a terminal / app ID of E1. Also, "Shimomaruko Ichiro" is displayed as the patient name 741, and "Shimomaruko Jiro" is displayed as the photographer 742. If the photographer looks at this screen and finds that there is an error in the acquired information, they can press the pairing button 744 to redo the pairing.

[0102] In S305, in response to the photographer pressing the shutter button included in the operation unit 206, the imaging unit 212 captures an image of the affected area of ​​the patient. Note that during imaging, the GUI may be changed to one as shown in FIG. 7(c). FIG. 7(c) shows a state in which the pairing button 744 is hidden on the imaging screen. By hiding the pairing button 744, it is possible to prevent the pairing process from being started erroneously due to an incorrect operation or the like while imaging the affected area, or to prevent pairing from being canceled at an unintended timing.

[0103] Then, in S306, the linking information stored in the memory 202 is attached as metadata to the image data of the captured image, and the attached metadata is temporarily stored in the memory 202, the non-volatile memory 203, the recording medium 208, or the like. The captured image is displayed on the display 205 for a predetermined period of time. At this time, a GUI such as that shown in FIG. 7(b) is displayed again, but the captured image is displayed instead of the LV image. Other information such as the image capture date and time and the imaging parameters used for capturing the image may also be attached to the metadata. This metadata may be written in a metadata area of ​​the captured data, or a separate metadata file may be attached by linking it to the captured data as a logical file separate from the captured data.

[0104] In S307, it is determined whether an instruction to end imaging has been issued by pressing the end button 743. If imaging is to continue, in S308, the imaging device 101 determines whether information indicating that a change has been made to the electronic medical record being viewed on the paired electronic medical record application has been received from the imaging control device 106. If no change has been made, the imaging device 101 returns to S304 to continue imaging. If a change has been made, the linking information is updated with the electronic medical record information transmitted in S309 and then the process returns to S304. As a result, for example, even if the patient to be examined is changed using the "previous" and "next" buttons 914 in FIG. 9(b) and the electronic medical record being viewed on the paired electronic medical record terminal device 104 is changed, the linking information is updated using the pairing information.

[0105] In this way, by performing pairing once, the information in the electronic medical record being viewed can be correctly linked to the obtained image, without the photographer having to perform any operations to update the linking information.

[0106] On the other hand, when an instruction to end image capture is given in S307, the captured image and the linking information recorded in the metadata are transmitted in S310, and the image capture process is terminated. For example, the image capture device 101 transmits the captured image to the image management device 105 via the image capture control device 106 or directly. The image management device 105 may include a storage device such as a predetermined HDD or server, or may be connected to a storage area of ​​a cloud system. At this time, the storage location may be organized and classified according to the content of the metadata, and search tags may be added.

[0107] Also, the image capturing screen is returned to as all the necessary images of the affected area have been captured (end of imaging state), and at this time, the patient name 741 and the photographer name 742 may be cleared to return to the GUI shown in FIG. 7(a).

[0108] In this way, by applying the privacy policy of the hospital facility, department, or photographer and clearing personal information, personal information is not retained, making it possible to operate the equipment safely in terms of information management.

[0109] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the patient information and photographer information in the electronic medical record being viewed, which are essential for organizing and analyzing image data, are recorded for each image data, without the photographer having to manually input or update the linking information each time an image is taken. This reduces the amount of work required to photograph the patient's affected area, allows the user to concentrate on medical treatment and photography, and reduces the amount of work required to mix up images, organize them, and check them, such as when images are linked incorrectly with the linking information.

[0110] Furthermore, subsequent image organization, follow-up observation, image analysis, etc. can be carried out efficiently and with reduced errors. For example, automatically organizing images of affected areas can reduce the time and effort required for organization, and image analysis can be performed for each symptom, making it easier to observe changes over time. Furthermore, images can be reconfirmed later using various search criteria based on doctor and patient information, or used in conferences. In this way, the efficiency of work related to medical treatment for photographers and staff can be improved, and diagnosis can be supported.

[0111] The timing and frequency at which the imaging device 101 checks whether changes have been made to the electronic medical record are not limited to the example described above, and may be set to occur at predetermined intervals while imaging is not being performed.

[0112] In the above example, the imaging control device 106 detects that a change has been made to the electronic medical record and transmits the information about the changed electronic medical record to the corresponding imaging device 101, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the imaging device 101 may transmit a camera ID and a terminal / application ID to the imaging control device 106 and inquire whether a change has been made to the electronic medical record being viewed by the paired electronic medical record application.

[0113] Furthermore, in the above example, a case where an image is captured after successful pairing was described. However, if there is no electronic medical record information corresponding to the paired device / app ID due to pairing not being created, insufficient information, the state or change of the electronic medical record, etc., temporary metadata (e.g., the unique ID of the imaging device, the imaging time, the reception time, the number of images captured, and recognition information obtained by image analysis) may be input. Furthermore, at the image output destination, the metadata may be recorded in the image metadata area, or the generated file may be linked. In this way, even if the electronic medical record information of the device / app ID is not linked, official patient information, staff information, etc. can be recorded later as image metadata, or used as reference information when manually organizing images.

[0114] Furthermore, the timing of transmitting the captured image data and the linking information is not limited to the above example. For example, after displaying the captured image for a predetermined time in S305, a screen 1301 may be displayed on the display 205, as shown in FIG. 13(a), which displays a "Send Now" button 1303 for immediately transmitting the captured image data and a "Send Later" button 1304 for transmitting the captured image data at a later time. When the "Send Now" button 1303 is pressed, the captured image and the linking information are output to the imaging control device 106 or the image management device 105, and then the process proceeds to S306. During transmission, the image shown in FIG. 13(b) may be displayed to notify the photographer that transmission is in progress. When the "Send Later" button 1304 is pressed, the process proceeds to S306 without transmitting the captured image data, and as described above, all unsent images are transmitted together when the capture is completed.

[0115] This not only ensures stable transmission of image data, but also provides a sense of security to the user and reduces operational errors by notifying the user of the current internal processing. It also reduces stress on the user even in infrastructure environments where delays occur in downloading each image due to a department taking a large number of images or where the network 102 has limited bandwidth.

[0116] Alternatively, the image data and linking information may be displayed on the electronic medical record terminal device 104, and the image data to be stored may be selected and then stored in the image management device 105. This configuration allows a doctor to select and store only data that is meaningful to the doctor from multiple pieces of image data, thereby saving search time and storage space.

[0117] In this way, by changing the transmission frequency depending on the network infrastructure status and the operational circumstances of the hospital facilities, it is possible to adjust the load on the network and make it easier to check images.

[0118] 7(b), it is assumed that the patient name 741 obtained based on the pairing information is displayed. However, in cases where electronic medical record information cannot be obtained due to poor connection to the network 102 or the like, a button 746 for inputting patient information and a button 747 for inputting photographer information may be provided as shown in FIG. 7(d), and the patient information may be individually linked to the image as linking information using a read code or the like, or the read information may be directly used and input.

[0119] Furthermore, by checking the correspondence between the image of the affected area and the photographer at any time, it is possible to check, for example, the photographer at any time, and by recording it in the metadata area of ​​the captured image, it is possible to check the state at the time of shooting at a later date, or to check the state at the time of shooting if there is something strange about the composition, brightness, saturation, etc. of the captured image.

[0120] 7 is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this. For example, display updates, layout, input interface format, combination, operation restrictions, etc. may be changed as needed depending on user circumstances such as hospital operations, circumstances, and policies, and the state of the imaging device 101. In this way, it is possible to improve imaging efficiency, data operation efficiency, and processing efficiency of systems related to the imaging device 101, and to suppress inefficient operations and processing.

[0121] Furthermore, in actual operation, setting the following pairing conditions will enable more practical and efficient operation.

[0122] (A) Multiple imaging devices may be paired with one electronic medical record terminal device or electronic medical record application. By pairing the camera IDs of multiple imaging devices with a single device / app ID in this way, when multiple types of imaging devices, such as macro lens cameras, microscope cameras, and CCD (Charge Coupled Device) cameras, are used in photographing an examination using a single electronic medical record, it is possible to send the same electronic medical record information to all of these cameras. (i) Always pair one imaging device with one electronic medical record application. In this way, information from one electronic medical record can only be input to one imaging device, which prevents metadata from being input to multiple imaging devices and being incorrectly linked to imaging data. (c) Prevent one imaging device from being paired with multiple electronic medical record applications. In this way, by preventing the camera ID of one imaging device from being paired with multiple device / application IDs, it is possible to prevent information from multiple electronic medical records from being entered into one imaging device, thereby preventing incorrect linking to imaging data.

[0123] As described above, by controlling the pairing conditions to match the actual operation of the system, it is possible to encourage efficient operation of the equipment and prevent erroneous operation. In addition, even if the power of the imaging device 101 and the electronic medical record terminal device 104 is operated individually, the pairing information can be retained, and the stored pairing information can be restored when the device is turned on again.

[0124] In addition, by updating the pairing information based on the pairing conditions described above, the pairing between the imaging device 101 and the electronic medical record application can be updated, making it easy to recombine the imaging device 101 and the electronic medical record application used for business purposes.

[0125] In addition, by detecting the network 102 in advance or at any time, the camera ID of the connected imaging device 101 and the application ID of the electronic medical record application can be listed as shown in Figure 11(a), and when pairing, only a simple connection process or existence confirmation can be performed to determine whether the pair is valid.

[0126] By doing so, it is no longer necessary to search for or detect cameras or electronic medical records on the network 102 for each pairing process, thereby improving the response speed of the system.

[0127] In addition, in the above example, the imaging control device 106 has the function of storing and inputting pairing information and the function of storing and inputting metadata, but it may also be configured so that input is made from the electronic medical record terminal device 104 or the electronic medical record management device 103, or each device may share the role.

[0128] Furthermore, although the linking information may be input as needed via the network 102, it may also be possible to improve responsiveness and processing load by storing the information in the imaging device 101 via the network 102 in accordance with the operation of the system and making it selectable from various interfaces of the imaging device 101. In this way, it becomes possible to carry out operations suited to the systems and staff workflows that make up each hospital.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above-described example, the imaging control device 106 obtained electronic medical record information corresponding to the terminal / application ID from the electronic medical record management device 103 and compared it to determine whether any changes had been made to the electronic medical record being viewed by the electronic medical record application. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when a change is made to the electronic medical record, the electronic medical record terminal device 104 may transmit the change information and the changed electronic medical record information to the imaging control device 106. In this way, the imaging control device 106 does not need to constantly retrieve electronic medical record information from the electronic medical record management device 103, thereby reducing the load on the electronic medical record management device 103 and the traffic on the network 102.

[0130] Furthermore, in the above example, imaging is ended by pressing the end button 743, but a similar button may be provided on the window 901 of the electronic medical record application, for example. Alternatively, it may be a specific operation on the electronic medical record by the doctor (such as when switching patients, starting to input examination results, or selecting data to be displayed and stored on the electronic medical record terminal device 104). With this configuration, even if the operator forgets to operate the imaging device 101, imaging data can be transmitted seamlessly, and the number of operating procedures can be reduced.

[0131] Furthermore, when the imaging device used in a medical examination is turned off, the pairing information with the electronic medical record may be retained in an external device using the method described above, or may be cleared. This allows the frequency of pairing to be adjusted depending on the operation of the imaging device within the hospital (for example, a change in the photographer, the reuse of the imaging device, etc.), thereby reducing the effort required for pairing and prioritizing privacy. As such, according to this embodiment, pairing information can be managed and updated based on various pairing conditions, making it easy to update the pairing information between the imaging device used for business and the electronic medical record according to the business content, purpose, operation, etc.

[0132] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the initial state when the power is turned on may be set to a state where pairing is possible (pairing screen), or the current pairing information may be stored in the imaging device or imaging control device when the power is turned off, so that the next time the device is turned on, it can be operated from the stored pairing state, thereby reducing the effort required for operation.

[0133] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to input, check, and update subject and related metadata at any time. By configuring such functions, metadata such as the names of the patient and photographer, the electronic medical record ID, and medical information can be input from outside the imaging device, displayed, updated, and the metadata area of ​​the captured image and related files can be stored. By inputting various metadata related to imaging into the imaging device during imaging and storing them in association with the captured image, it is possible to automatically organize images of the affected area, thereby reducing the effort and work required for organization, analyzing images by symptom, and facilitating the observation of changes over time. This improves the work efficiency of the photographer, i.e., the staff, involved in medical treatment, and facilitates diagnosis support.

[0134] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to display and update as needed which electronic medical chart is paired with the imaging device on a user interface such as an imaging screen. This allows the pairing status between the imaging device and the electronic medical chart to be confirmed, making it possible to prevent unintended wireless communication interruptions or imaging due to incorrect pairing with the electronic medical chart.

[0135] <Second embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the first embodiment, a method was described in which the imaging control device 106 is the processing subject and the identification information is used only for pairing the imaging device 101 with the electronic medical record terminal device 104 and / or electronic medical record application. In the second embodiment, a preferred embodiment will be described in which the imaging device 101 is the processing subject and the identification information includes either terminal information or personal information.

[0136] The configuration of the medical system and each device that constitutes the medical system in the second embodiment is the same as that described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted here.

[0137] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a guidance screen displayed on the display 205 of the imaging device 101 when capturing a two-dimensional code. The guidance screen includes a guidance message 1401, a guide display 1402 for reading, and a back button 1403. The guidance message 1401 is a message for prompting the user to perform an operation, such as displaying the phrase "Please read the two-dimensional code." The guide display 1402 is a graphic that indicates a guide for the area in the PV image where the two-dimensional code is to be placed. The back button 1403 is a button for interrupting the capturing of the two-dimensional code and returning to the original screen (for example, the GUI shown in FIG. 7). The two-dimensional code to be captured may be, for example, physically attached to the computer 902 of the electronic medical record terminal device 104 as shown in FIG. 9, displayed in the window 901 of an electronic medical record application, or printed on a wristband or the like commonly used by hospitalized patients.

[0138] 15 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display 205 of the imaging device 101 to indicate that pairing processing is in progress. The screen indicating that pairing processing is in progress includes a message 1501 indicating the status of pairing, and a cancel button 1502. Examples of the message 1501 indicating the status of pairing include "Pairing in progress" and "Pairing completed." The cancel button 1502 is a button for canceling and ending pairing.

[0139] 16 is a diagram showing an example of a standby screen displayed on the display 205 of the imaging device 101 in S909 of FIG. 18, which will be described later. The standby screen includes a person setting button 1601, a person information display area 1602, an end button 1603, and an image capture button 1604. The person setting button 1601 is a button for acquiring, checking, and resetting person information. The person information display area 1602 is an area for displaying acquired person information. If patient information and photographer information have already been acquired, the person information is displayed in the person information display area 1602. The end button 1603 is a button for ending imaging of the affected area. The image capture button 1604 is a button for proceeding to image capture processing.

[0140] 17 is a diagram showing an example of an electronic medical record communication confirmation screen displayed on the display 205 of the imaging device 101. The electronic medical record communication confirmation screen includes a terminal ID information display area 1701 and an OK button 1702. The terminal ID information display area 1701 is an area for displaying the terminal ID extracted from the two-dimensional code. The OK button 1702 is a button for starting communication with the electronic medical record terminal device 104.

[0141] Next, a method for acquiring personal information to be linked to image data in the second embodiment will be described. Personal information is information about a specific person, such as patient information or photographer information. In this embodiment, personal information is acquired by two types of acquisition methods.

[0142] One method for acquiring personal information is to acquire personal information associated with personal identification information. The imaging device 101 accepts personal identification information from a user through a user operation. Then, the imaging device 101 acquires the personal information by obtaining the personal information associated with the accepted personal identification information.

[0143] Another method for acquiring personal information is to acquire the personal information from an external device. The imaging device 101 transmits a request for acquiring personal information to the external device. Then, the imaging device 101 receives the personal information transmitted from the external device, thereby acquiring the personal information.

[0144] In the second embodiment, the image capturing apparatus 101 determines which of these methods to select to acquire person information. The imaging device 101 determines whether or not it needs to receive personal identification information based on the obtained information. If the imaging device 101 determines that it needs to receive personal identification information, it selects a method for acquiring personal information using the received personal identification information and receives the personal identification information through a user operation. If the imaging device 101 determines that it does not need to receive personal identification information, it selects a method for acquiring personal information from an external device. Then, the imaging device 101 acquires personal information to be linked to image data according to the selected method.

[0145] Next, a series of processes in which the CPU 201 of the imaging device 101 acquires patient information as an example of personal information and associates it with image data will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0146] When the power switch 262 is used to turn on the image capture device 101 or when an instruction to cancel the sleep state is given, the CPU 201 of the image capture device 101 executes initialization processing in S901. The initialization processing is various execution processing that is executed the first time, such as initial system settings and reading of recorded information. Note that the initialization processing may also be executed, for example, when a start button is displayed on the display 205 of the image capture device 101 and the image capture device 101 receives a user operation to press the start button, or when the image capture device 101 enters a specific state. When the CPU 201 detects that the initialization processing has ended, the processing proceeds to S902.

[0147] In S902, the CPU 201 executes an imaging and analysis process for the two-dimensional code. In the imaging and analysis process for the two-dimensional code, first, a guidance screen for imaging the two-dimensional code as shown in FIG. 14 is displayed on the display 205. The guidance screen for imaging the two-dimensional code is a screen that prompts the user to image the two-dimensional code. Then, the CPU 201 accepts the image of the two-dimensional code from the user. Then, when it detects that the two-dimensional code has been imaged by pressing the shutter button 261, for example, the CPU 201 analyzes the image of the two-dimensional code and extracts character string information contained in the two-dimensional code.

[0148] The character string information includes ID information and attribute information. The character string information is made up of alphanumeric characters. ID information is personal identification information used to identify individual patients, terminals, etc. Attribute information is information that indicates which attribute the ID information is. For example, if the character string information is "Patient ID: 12345", the "patient" part is the attribute information and the "12345" part is the ID information. Hereinafter, character string information whose attribute information is a patient will be referred to as a "patient ID", and character string information whose attribute information is a terminal will be referred to as a "terminal ID". Once the imaging and analysis process of the two-dimensional code is completed, the process proceeds to S903.

[0149] In S903, the CPU 201 executes a mode determination process. In the mode determination process, the patient ID mode or the terminal ID mode is determined based on the extracted character string information. Specifically, the determination is made based on whether the character string information contains a specific character string. For example, if the character string information contains the character string "Patient ID:", it is determined that the device will operate in the patient ID mode, and if the character string information contains the character string "Terminal ID:", it is determined that the device will operate in the terminal ID mode. Note that any predetermined keyword can be used as long as it can distinguish between the patient ID mode and the terminal ID mode. Alternatively, the mode may be determined based on the number of characters in the character string information or whether a specific character is included.

[0150] Then, as a mode determination process, whether the determined mode is the patient ID mode or the terminal ID mode is stored as mode information in a storage area such as memory 202. The mode information stored in the storage area is deleted when the power is turned off or when a reset process is executed. When the mode determination process is completed, the process proceeds to S904.

[0151] In S904, the CPU 201 determines whether the result of the mode determination process in S903 is the patient ID mode. If the result is the patient ID mode, the process proceeds to S905, and if the result is not the patient ID mode, the process proceeds to S907.

[0152] In S905, the CPU 201 transmits the patient ID to the imaging control device 106 via the network 102, and transmits a request to acquire patient information corresponding to the transmitted patient ID. At this time, the CPU 201 displays a screen indicating that the patient information is being acquired on the display 205. The imaging control device 106 stores the patient ID linked to the patient information. The CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 identifies the patient information linked to the patient ID received from the imaging device 101, and transmits the identified patient information to the imaging device 101 via the network 102.

[0153] In S906, the CPU 201 receives the patient information from the imaging control device 106 as a patient information acquisition process involving transmission of the patient ID, displays the received patient information on the display 205, and proceeds to standby processing in S909. At this time, a screen such as that shown in FIG. 16 is displayed.

[0154] On the other hand, if it is determined in S904 that the mode is not the patient ID mode, the CPU 201 determines in S907 whether or not the mode is the terminal ID mode. If it is the terminal ID mode, the process proceeds to S908, and if it is not the terminal ID mode, the process returns to S902 and the two-dimensional code imaging and analysis process is performed again.

[0155] In S908, the CPU 201 executes pairing processing. As the pairing processing, the CPU 201 performs pairing between the imaging device 101 and the electronic medical record terminal device 104. The CPU 201 transmits a pairing request for the camera ID and terminal ID of the imaging device 101 to the imaging control device 106 via the network 102. The CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 performs pairing between the imaging device 101 and the electronic medical record terminal device 104 based on the camera ID and terminal ID received from the imaging device 101. The camera ID includes information for identifying the imaging device 101, and the terminal ID includes information for identifying the terminal to be paired. Through pairing, the imaging device 101 and the imaging control device 106 determine the electronic medical record terminal device 104 with which to communicate. During pairing, the CPU 201 displays a screen indicating that pairing processing is in progress, as shown in FIG. 15, on the display 205.

[0156] When the CPU 201 receives a notification of the completion of pairing from the imaging control device 106 via the network 102, it displays a message indicating that pairing has been completed on the display 205. After displaying the message indicating that pairing has been completed, the CPU 201 displays a standby screen such as that shown in FIG. 16 on the display 205. However, in the terminal ID mode, personal information has not been obtained at this point, so no display is performed in the personal information display area 1602. Note that instead of personal information, the ID information of the paired electronic medical record terminal device 104 may be displayed.

[0157] In S909, the CPU 201 executes standby processing. As standby processing, the CPU 201 sets the device in a state where it can accept operations from the user. The CPU 201 displays a standby screen on the display 205. The CPU 201 accepts operations from the user on the standby screen.

[0158] In S910, the CPU 201 determines whether the operation received from the user is a pressing operation of the person setting button 1601. If the operation received is a pressing operation of the person setting button 1601, the process proceeds to S911, and if the operation received is not a pressing operation of the person setting button, the process proceeds to S917.

[0159] In S911, the CPU 201 reads the mode information stored in a storage area such as the memory 202 in S903. In S912, the CPU 201 determines whether the read mode information is the patient ID mode. If it is the patient ID mode, the process returns to the two-dimensional code imaging and analysis process of S902, and if it is not the patient ID mode, the process proceeds to S913.

[0160] In S913, the CPU 201 determines whether the read mode information is the terminal ID mode. If it is the terminal ID mode, the process proceeds to S914. If it is not the terminal ID mode, the process returns to the two-dimensional code imaging and analysis process of S902. Also, even if the mode information is not recorded, the process may be configured to return to the two-dimensional code imaging and analysis process of S902.

[0161] 17 on the display 205. The CPU 201 accepts an operation by the user to press the OK button 1702 on the electronic medical chart communication confirmation screen. When the OK button 1702 is pressed, the process proceeds to S915.

[0162] In S915, the CPU 201 transmits a request to acquire patient information as a patient information acquisition process that does not involve transmission of a patient ID. At this time, instead of the patient ID, the CPU 201 transmits the terminal ID paired with the imaging device 101 or the camera ID of the imaging device 101. While the patient information is being acquired, the CPU 201 displays a patient information acquisition screen on the display 205. The CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 receives the patient information acquisition request received from the imaging device 101 and transfers the patient information acquisition request to the electronic medical record terminal device 104 paired with the imaging device 101. The electronic medical record terminal device 104 receives the received patient information acquisition request, acquires unique patient information from the electronic medical record, and transmits it to the imaging control device 106. The CPU 301 of the imaging control device 106 transfers the patient information received from the electronic medical record terminal device 104 to the imaging device 101.

[0163] In S916, when the CPU 201 receives patient information from the imaging control device 106 as a patient information acquisition process that does not involve transmission of the patient ID, it returns to S909, displays the standby screen shown in Figure 16 on the display 205, and displays the received patient information in the person information display area 1602.

[0164] If the operation received from the user in S910 is not a press of the person setting button 1601, in S917 the CPU 201 determines whether the operation received from the user is a press of the capture button 1604. If the operation received is a press of the capture button 1604, the process proceeds to S918, and if the operation received is not a press of the capture button 1604, the process proceeds to S922.

[0165] In S918, the CPU 201 captures an image in response to pressing of the shutter button 261. The image may be an image of an affected area, or any image that is desired to be recorded in association with patient information. For example, the image may be an image of the patient's entire body, a normal area, or the surrounding environment. The captured image is stored in the recording medium 208.

[0166] In S919, the CPU 201 links the acquired patient information with the image captured in S918. Here, the linking is performed by writing the patient information into the Exif information of the image. The CPU 201 displays the captured image on the display 205, and also displays an end button to instruct the end of capturing.

[0167] In S920, the CPU 201 determines whether or not the user has pressed the end button. If the end button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S921. If the end button has not been pressed, the process proceeds to S918. The imaging process and the linking process are repeated any number of times.

[0168] In S921, the CPU 201 transmits the image stored in the recording medium 208 and linked with the patient information to the imaging control device 106 via the network 102.

[0169] If it is determined in S917 that the operation received from the user was not a pressing operation of the capture button 1604, then in S922 the CPU 201 determines whether the operation received from the user is a power-off operation. Here, the CPU 201 detects a pressing operation of the end button 1603 or a power-off operation using the power switch 262. If it is not a power-off operation, the process proceeds to S909; if it is a power-off operation, the process ends. At this time, the CPU 201 deletes the stored patient information. Note that the deletion of the patient information stored when the power is turned off is not limited, and the stored patient information may be deleted in response to the completion of transmission of the image linked to the patient information in S921.

[0170] With the above configuration, the image capture device 101 automatically determines and selects one of a plurality of methods for acquiring person information without the user having to select it, thereby reducing the burden on the user.

[0171] Furthermore, by having the device behave in such a way that personal identification information is received through user operation only when it is required, user operation can be omitted when personal identification information is not required, thereby reducing the burden on the user.

[0172] Furthermore, one image capture device 101 can support a plurality of methods for acquiring person information, eliminating the need to prepare a separate image capture device 101 for each mode.

[0173] Furthermore, with the configuration of this embodiment, the user can acquire personal information using similar operation procedures in multiple personal information acquisition methods. Since the operation procedures have many common parts, the user will not be confused by the operations, and usability will be improved.

[0174] In addition, by displaying the electronic medical record communication confirmation screen, the user can perform preparatory operations so that patient information can be obtained on the electronic medical record terminal device 104, and then have time to perform the next operation on the imaging device 101, thereby improving usability.

[0175] Although the configuration is such that the imaging and analysis process of the two-dimensional code is executed upon execution of the initialization process, the imaging and analysis process of the two-dimensional code may be executed under other conditions. For example, while the imaging device 101 is in a standby process state, a two-dimensional code imaging start button may be displayed on the display 205, and the imaging and analysis process of the two-dimensional code may be executed upon the user pressing the button.

[0176] Furthermore, in the above example, in S902, the imaging device 101 is configured to capture and analyze the two-dimensional code and extract character string information, but the analysis may be performed by a device other than the imaging device 101. For example, the imaging device 101 may transmit an image of the two-dimensional code captured by the imaging device 101 to the imaging control device 106, the imaging control device 106 may analyze the captured image, and the imaging device 101 may receive the extracted character string information from the imaging control device 106. Furthermore, in this configuration, a series of processes is performed by the imaging device 101, but the processing may be performed by an external device including the imaging control device 106 as a series of systems.

[0177] Furthermore, in the process of acquiring patient information using patient ID information, the patient information is received from the imaging control device 106, but other configurations are also possible. For example, the patient information may be received from a device other than the imaging control device 106 via the network 102. Furthermore, the patient information may be acquired within the imaging device 101 without via the network 102. For example, in the process of capturing and analyzing a two-dimensional code, the character string information included in the two-dimensional code may include patient information, and in that case, the patient information included in the character string information is used as is. In this case, the patient information can be acquired without transmitting the patient ID via the network 102.

[0178] In addition, in the above example, the terminal ID of the electronic medical record terminal device 104 and the camera ID of the imaging device 101 are paired and stored, but as described in the first embodiment, they may also be paired with the ID of the electronic medical record application running on the electronic medical record terminal device 104.

[0179] In addition, in the above example, the imaging control device 106 was described as acquiring patient information from the electronic medical record terminal device 104, but as described in the first embodiment, it may also be configured to acquire it from the electronic medical record management device 103.

[0180] <Third embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment described above, an example configuration was described in which mode information is recorded in memory 202. Therefore, the stored value of mode information is deleted when the power is turned off. In contrast, in the third embodiment, a series of processes including a process for storing mode information in non-volatile memory 203 or recording medium 208 will be described in detail using the flowchart in FIG. 19. Because the mode information is stored in non-volatile memory 203 or recording medium 208, the stored value of mode information is not deleted even when the power is turned off. In FIG. 19, processes similar to those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 18 are assigned the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0181] After completing the initialization in S901, the CPU 201 reads the mode information from the nonvolatile memory 203 or the recording medium 208 in S1002.

[0182] In S1003, the CPU 201 determines whether the mode information read in S1002 is the patient ID mode. If it is the patient ID mode, the process proceeds to the two-dimensional code imaging process in S902, and if it is not the patient ID mode, the process proceeds to S1004.

[0183] In S1004, the CPU 201 determines whether the read mode information is the terminal ID mode. If it is the terminal ID mode, the process proceeds to standby processing in S909. If it is not the terminal ID mode, the process proceeds to imaging and analyzing the two-dimensional code in S902. Also, even if the mode information is not recorded, the process may proceed to S902.

[0184] The processes from S902 to S913 are as described above in the second embodiment.

[0185] If it is determined in the processing of S913 that the mode is terminal ID mode, in S1017 the CPU 201 displays an electronic medical chart communication confirmation screen on the display 205. In the third embodiment, a change button is added to the electronic medical chart communication confirmation screen as shown in Fig. 17. The change button is a button for changing mode information or ID information.

[0186] In S1018, the CPU 201 determines whether the operation received from the user is a pressing of the OK button 806. If it is a pressing of the OK button 806, the process proceeds to S915, and if it is not a pressing of the OK button 806, the process proceeds to S1019.

[0187] In S1019, the CPU 201 determines whether the operation received from the user is a press of the change button. If the operation received is a press of the change button, the process proceeds to the imaging and analysis process of the two-dimensional code in S902, and if the operation received is not a press of the change button, the process returns to S1017.

[0188] In the imaging and analysis process of a two-dimensional code, when a two-dimensional code indicating a patient ID is imaged, the patient ID mode is stored as the mode information. Since the mode information is retained even when the power is turned off, it is necessary to make it possible to change the mode information. Therefore, if the user wants to switch from terminal ID mode to patient ID mode, they can do so by pressing the change button. This causes the imaging device 101 to switch from terminal ID mode to patient ID mode and operate.

[0189] Furthermore, if a two-dimensional code indicating a device ID is captured during the two-dimensional code imaging and analysis process, it becomes possible to perform pairing processing with a new device based on the new device ID.

[0190] The processes from S917 to S922 are as described above in the second embodiment.

[0191] As described above, according to the third embodiment, if the value of the mode information is the terminal ID mode, the pairing process has already been executed, so there is no need to execute the pairing process every time the power is turned on. This eliminates the need to capture and analyze the two-dimensional code, reducing the amount of work required by the user.

[0192] <Other embodiments> In the second and third embodiments described above, the mode determination process is performed based on character string information obtained by analyzing an image of a two-dimensional code. However, the information is not limited to the image of a two-dimensional code, and any information acquired by the system may be used. For example, the mode determination process may be performed based on access point information. The access point information is information regarding the access point to which the imaging device 101 connects wirelessly when connecting to the network 102. Specifically, the imaging device 101 performs a wireless connection process. This wireless connection process may be performed as an initialization process when the power is turned on, or may be initiated by a user operation. As part of the wireless connection process, the imaging device 101 acquires information about the access point to which it connects. The imaging device 101 then transmits the acquired access point information to the imaging control device 106. The imaging control device 106 identifies mode information associated with the received access point information from table information linking access point information with mode information, and transmits the identified mode information to the imaging device 101. The imaging device 101 determines the mode information from the imaging control device 106. Based on this, the mode determination process is performed based on the access point information.

[0193] For example, when the imaging device 101 is used in a specific area, the system identifies that area based on access point information and automatically selects an appropriate mode. This process ensures that the imaging device 101 operates in a mode appropriate for the area even when it is moved to a different area. In other words, the camera can operate in a mode appropriate for the environment in which it is used.

[0194] Furthermore, the imaging device 101 may be configured to enable mode switching when it is determined that there is a possibility of mode switching. Conditions for determining that there is a possibility of mode switching include the following: First, an example of determining whether the mode switchability condition is met when a change in access point information is detected will be described. When the imaging device 101 moves to a different area, the access point to which it connects changes, and the imaging device 101 detects the change in access point information. When a change in access point information is detected, the imaging device 101 re-searches the table in which the access point information and mode information are linked, and acquires new mode information. This is then compared with the stored mode information, and if they do not match, it is determined that the mode switchability condition is met.

[0195] Although a table linking access point information and mode information is used here, other configurations are also possible. For example, a table linking access point information and installation area information may be used. Installation area information is information related to the installation area of ​​an access point. For example, installation areas may be "2nd floor, building A" or "3rd floor, building B." In this case, the installation area information is derived from the access point information. Even if the access point to connect to is changed, if the installation area is in the same building, it can be determined that the mode switching possibility condition is not met. This makes it possible to exclude cases where the access point has been changed within the same installation area, and has the effect of preventing the user from being prompted to switch modes unnecessarily.

[0196] Next, an example of determining whether the mode switchability condition is met when a change in GPS (Global Positioning System) position information of the imaging device 101 is detected will be described. The imaging device 101 acquires GPS position information. The imaging device 101 itself may have a GPS function, or may receive position information from an external device with a GPS function. The GPS position information is changed when the imaging device 101 is carried. When the amount of change in the position information exceeds a predefined threshold value, it is determined whether the mode switchability condition is met.

[0197] If the access point information and GPS location information have changed, it is considered that the image capture device 101 has been carried, and it is determined that there is a possibility that the way the image capture device 101 is used will change and that there is a possibility that the mode will be switched.

[0198] Next, an example will be described in which it is determined that the mode switchability condition is met when it is detected that a certain time has elapsed since the end operation was received. The imaging device 101 stores the time when it received the user's press of the end button. Then, when the time elapsed since the stored time exceeds a predefined time threshold, it is determined that the mode switchability condition is met. It can be considered that there is a high possibility that the user will continue to use the same mode until the series of processes is completed.

[0199] Next, an example will be described in which it is determined that the mode switchability condition is met when it is detected that a user has logged out of an electronic medical record. It is assumed that the user will use the electronic medical record in a logged-in state while attending to a patient, and will log out of the electronic medical record when the patient attendance is finished. It is considered that when the user finishes attending to the patient, the mode will be switched and the device will operate in a different mode. Information that the user has logged out of the electronic medical record is received by the imaging device 101 from the electronic medical record terminal device 104 via the network 102. In addition, it is determined that the mode switchability condition is met when the imaging device 101 is in standby processing. If the imaging device 101 is not in standby processing, it is considered that the user is operating the imaging device 101, and there is little possibility of the mode being switched.

[0200] Next, an example of determining whether the mode switchability condition is met when it is detected that a two-dimensional code has been captured during standby processing will be described. When a two-dimensional code is captured during standby, the imaging device 101 executes a mode determination process, compares it with stored mode information, and if there is no match, determines whether the mode switchability condition is met. Note that the determination is not limited to capturing a two-dimensional code during standby processing, and may also be made whether the mode switchability condition is met when an unusual operation by the user is detected.

[0201] The following methods can be used to enable mode switching. First, an example will be described in which a mode change button is displayed on the display 205 to enable mode switching. The imaging device 101 displays a change button for changing modes on the display 205. By displaying the button rather than automatically switching modes, the decision to switch modes can be left to the user. The process of hiding the displayed mode change button is performed when an operation to press the person setting button is received from the user. This is because the user has started a series of imaging processes, so there is no possibility of changing modes, and the button that would interfere with user operation is hidden, thereby improving user operability.

[0202] Alternatively, the mode change button may be hidden when an external notification is received. For example, the imaging control device 106 may receive a notification from the electronic medical record terminal device 104, with which it communicates, that the same person who previously used the device has logged in to the electronic medical record. In this case, since the same person is using the same terminal, it is highly likely that they will continue to use the same mode, and by hiding the button, it is possible to reduce user confusion about operation.

[0203] Next, an example will be described in which mode switching is enabled by executing a mode reset process. The mode reset process includes a process of deleting the stored mode information value. If no mode information is stored, the mode information determination process is executed again, which enables mode switching.

[0204] Next, an example of enabling mode switching by executing an automatic mode switching process will be described. Among the processes for determining whether the above-mentioned mode switching possibility conditions are met, there are some that can predict the destination of the mode information to be switched to. For example, in the case of a change in access point information, it is possible to identify the corresponding mode information from the changed access point information. In this case, if the value of the mode information is updated with the identified value without executing the two-dimensional code imaging process or the mode information determination process, automatic mode switching will be performed. This has the effect of reducing the number of operation steps and improving usability for the user.

[0205] Furthermore, although the configuration in the above-described embodiment involves executing standby processing after the pairing processing is completed, a different configuration may be used. For example, if patient information is available after the pairing processing is completed, the standby processing may not be executed and the electronic medical record communication confirmation processing may be executed. The state in which patient information is available is when the imaging control device 106 detects that the electronic medical record is running on the electronic medical record terminal device 104 communicating with the imaging control device 106. This reduces the number of operation steps, improving user convenience.

[0206] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the imaging device 101 is configured to issue a request to acquire patient information, but other configurations are also possible. For example, the imaging device 101 may not issue an acquisition request, but may instead transmit person information from the imaging control device 106. In this case, the display of the acquired patient information on the display 205 is suspended until the imaging device 101 executes standby processing. This has the effect of preventing a sudden screen transition and interruption of the user's work while imaging another patient.

[0207] Furthermore, in a configuration where the acquisition of photographer information is also required, the information captured in the two-dimensional code imaging process does not need to be limited to the patient ID, and may be personal ID information including the photographer ID. Photographer information is information including the photographer's name, photographer ID information, etc. In particular, ID information in which the attribute information is the photographer ID is called photographer ID information. In a configuration where the acquisition of photographer information is also required, after the first person's information is received, the two-dimensional code imaging process is executed again. This makes it possible to acquire personal information for both the patient and the photographer.

[0208] In the above-described embodiment, the patient ID information and the photographer ID information are acquired by capturing an image of a two-dimensional code, but other configurations are also possible. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a person's face is captured and personal information is acquired based on the facial image. Furthermore, instead of capturing an image, a configuration may be adopted in which identification information is read from a tag using a radio frequency such as RFID. In this case, the patient ID information and the photographer ID information are acquired as identification information.

[0209] Furthermore, when the information acquired by the imaging system is personal identification information, the imaging system is configured to acquire personal information linked to the personal identification information, but other configurations may be used. For example, when the information extracted from the captured image in the two-dimensional code imaging process is personal information rather than personal identification information, the imaging system may be configured to directly use the personal information as acquired information for processing.

[0210] 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.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0211] <Summary> The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configuration.

[0212] (Item 1) a first acquisition means for acquiring, from an imaging device connected via a communication means, first identification information of the imaging device and information relating to second identification information of at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing information of managed objects acquired by the imaging device and an application running on the terminal device for viewing the information of the managed objects; a second acquiring means for acquiring information on the managed object corresponding to the second identification information from the management device of the managed object via the communication means; a storage means for storing the first identification information and the second identification information in association with each other; a control means for controlling, when information on the managed object being viewed on the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information is changed, the information on the managed object corresponding to the second identification information newly acquired from the management device to be transmitted to the imaging device linked to the second identification information; A control device comprising: (Item 2) The storage means further stores information on the management target corresponding to the second identification information in association with the information on the management target, the control means determines that the information of the managed object corresponding to the second identification information newly acquired from the management device is changed when the information of the managed object corresponding to the second identification information stored in the storage means is different from the information of the managed object; When it is determined that the information on the management target has been changed, the storage means stores the newly acquired information on the management target. 2. The control device according to item 1, (Item 3) The control device according to item 1, characterized in that the control means determines that the information of the managed object has been changed when it receives information indicating that the information of the managed object has been changed from the terminal device. (Item 4) the information relating to the second identification information is an image showing the second identification information, and the first acquisition means analyzes the image to acquire the second identification information; The control means transmits the second identification information to the imaging device. 4. The control device according to any one of items 1 to 3. (Item 5) further comprising a determination means for determining a usage status of the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information; 5. The control device according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the control means transmits the usage status to the imaging device associated with the second identification information. (Item 6) 6. The control device according to any one of items 1 to 5, further comprising a management unit that manages the association between the first identification information and the second identification information stored in the storage unit. (Item 7) 7. The control device according to item 6, wherein the management means manages the image capture device so as to associate one of the terminal devices or the application with one of the image capture devices. (Item 8) 7. The control device according to item 6, wherein the management means manages the terminal device or the application so as to associate one or more of the imaging devices with each other. (Item 9) 7. The control device according to item 6, wherein the management means manages the image capturing device so that multiple terminal devices or applications are not associated with one image capturing device. (Item 10) The control device described in any one of items 1 to 9 is characterized in that, when the control means is unable to obtain information about the managed object being viewed on the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information, it generates temporary information about the managed object and controls the information to be transmitted to the imaging device. (Item 11) 11. The control device according to any one of items 1 to 10, wherein the information to be managed includes patient information or photographer information. (Item 12) an imaging means for capturing an image; an acquisition means for acquiring information relating to first identification information of at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing information of the managed object and an application for viewing information of the managed object that is running on the terminal device; a transmitting means for transmitting information relating to the first identification information and second identification information of the imaging device to a control device connected via a communication means; a receiving means for receiving information on a management target corresponding to the first identification information from the control device; a processing means for attaching information about the management target to image data of the image captured by the imaging means; An imaging device comprising: (Item 13) the acquiring means acquires the first identification information by analyzing an image obtained by capturing an image showing the first identification information with the imaging means, The transmitting means transmits the analyzed first identification information to the control device. Item 13. The imaging device according to item 12. (Item 14) the acquiring means acquires an image obtained by capturing an image indicating the first identification information with the imaging means, The transmitting means transmits the image to the control device. Item 13. The imaging device according to item 12. (Item 15) 15. The imaging device according to item 13 or 14, wherein the imaging means captures an image showing the first identification information using predetermined imaging parameters. (Item 16) Item 13. The imaging device according to item 12, wherein the acquisition means acquires the first identification information using at least one of an IC tag, RFID, and Bluetooth. (Item 17) The receiving means further acquires the usage status of the terminal device from the control device, The imaging device described in any one of items 12 to 16, further comprising a control means for controlling the device so that power saving processing is given priority when the terminal device is not in use, and not giving priority to the power saving processing when the terminal device is in use. (Item 18) 18. The imaging device according to any one of items 12 to 17, further comprising a storage unit that stores the first identification information in association with the second identification information. (Item 19) 19. The imaging device according to any one of items 12 to 18, further comprising a display control means for controlling a display means to display the first identification information. (Item 20) 20. The imaging device according to item 19, wherein the display control means displays an instruction to instruct the acquisition means to acquire the first identification information. (Item 21) 21. The imaging device according to item 20, wherein the display control means does not display the instruction while the imaging means is taking an image and while the captured image is being transmitted. (Item 22) 22. The imaging device according to any one of items 19 to 21, wherein the display control means displays on the display means a display for selecting a timing for transmitting the image to which the information of the management target is attached by the processing means. (Item 23) 23. The imaging device according to any one of items 12 to 22, wherein the information to be managed includes patient information or photographer information. (Item 24) A control device according to any one of items 1 to 11, An imaging device according to any one of items 12 to 23; the terminal device; the management device; A system comprising: (Item 25) a first acquisition step of acquiring, from an imaging device connected via a communication means, first identification information of the imaging device and information relating to second identification information of at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing information of managed objects, which information has been acquired by the imaging device, and an application running on the terminal device for viewing the information of managed objects; a second acquisition step of acquiring information on the managed object corresponding to the second identification information from the management device of the managed object via the communication means; a storage step of storing the first identification information and the second identification information in association with each other; a transmission step of transmitting, when information on the management target being viewed on the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information has been changed, information on the management target corresponding to the second identification information newly acquired from the management device to the imaging device linked to the second identification information; A control method comprising: (Item 26) an acquisition step of acquiring information regarding first identification information of at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing the information of the managed object and an application for viewing the information of the managed object that is running on the terminal device; a transmitting step of transmitting information relating to the first identification information and second identification information of the imaging device to a control device connected via a communication means; a receiving step of receiving, from the control device, information on the management target corresponding to the first identification information; a processing step of attaching information about the management target to image data of an image captured by an imaging means; 10. A method for controlling an imaging device, comprising: (Item 27) an imaging means for capturing an image; an acquisition means for acquiring mode information; a switching means for switching between a first mode in which first identification information indicating the management target is transmitted to the control device and a second mode in which second identification information indicating at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing the information of the management target and an application running on the terminal device for viewing the information of the management target is transmitted to the control device based on the mode information; a transmitting means for transmitting the first identification information to a connected control device via a communication means in the first mode, and transmitting the second identification information to the control device in the second mode; a receiving means for receiving information on a management target corresponding to the first identification information or the second identification information from the control device; a processing means for attaching information about the management target to image data of the image captured by the imaging means; An imaging device comprising: (Item 28) 28. The imaging device according to item 27, wherein the acquisition means acquires the mode information by analyzing image data obtained by capturing an image including the mode information using the imaging means. (Item 29) 29. The imaging device according to item 28, wherein the image containing the mode information is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code. (Item 30) 28. The imaging device according to item 27, wherein the acquisition means acquires the mode information using at least one of an IC tag, RFID, and Bluetooth. (Item 31) 28. The imaging device according to item 27, wherein the acquisition means acquires the mode information based on access point information. (Item 32) a storage means for storing the mode switched by the switching means; a control means for controlling the acquisition means to acquire the mode information when a first mode is stored in the storage means; 32. The imaging device according to any one of items 27 to 31, further comprising: (Item 33) further comprising a display control means for displaying the second identification information on a display means before transmitting the second identification information to the control device; The imaging device described in any one of items 27 to 32, characterized in that the transmission means transmits the second identification information displayed on the display means to the control device when an instruction to transmit the second identification information displayed on the display means to the control device is given. (Item 34) The imaging device described in any one of items 27 to 33, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the mode information when at least one of the following occurs: when access point information is changed; when location information based on a GPS (Global Positioning System) is changed; when a predetermined time has passed since a specific operation was performed; when a login is performed; or when a specific operation is performed. (Item 35) further comprising an operation means for instructing switching between the first mode and the second mode, 35. The imaging device according to any one of items 27 to 34, wherein when a switching command is issued by the operation means, the switching means switches the mode regardless of the mode information. (Item 36) 36. The imaging device according to any one of items 27 to 35, wherein the information to be managed includes patient information or photographer information. (Item 37) an acquisition step of acquiring mode information; a switching step of switching between a first mode in which first identification information indicating the management target is transmitted to the control device and a second mode in which second identification information indicating at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing the information of the management target and an application running on the terminal device for viewing the information of the management target is transmitted to the control device based on the mode information; a transmitting step of transmitting the first identification information to a connected control device via a communication means in the first mode, and transmitting the second identification information to the control device in the second mode; a receiving step of receiving, from the control device, information on the management target corresponding to the first identification information or the second identification information; a processing step of attaching information about the management target to image data of an image captured by an imaging means; 10. A method for controlling an imaging device, comprising: (Item 38) A program for causing a computer to function as each means of the control device according to any one of items 1 to 11. (Item 39) A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means other than the imaging means in the imaging device according to any one of items 12 to 23. (Item 40) A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means other than the imaging means in the imaging device described in any one of items 27 to 36. (Item 41) A computer-readable storage medium storing the program according to any one of items 38 to 40.

[0213] 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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0214] 101...imaging device, 102...network, 103...electronic medical record management device, 104...electronic medical record terminal device, 105...image management device, 106...imaging control device, 201, 301...CPU, 205...display, 302...ROM, 303...RAM, 308...communication I / F

Claims

1. a first acquisition means for acquiring, from an imaging device connected via a communication means, first identification information of the imaging device and information relating to second identification information of at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing information of managed objects acquired by the imaging device and an application running on the terminal device for viewing the information of the managed objects; a second acquiring means for acquiring information on the managed object corresponding to the second identification information from the management device of the managed object via the communication means; a storage means for storing the first identification information and the second identification information in association with each other; a control means for controlling, when information on the managed object being viewed on the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information is changed, the information on the managed object corresponding to the second identification information newly acquired from the management device to be transmitted to the imaging device linked to the second identification information; A control device comprising:

2. The storage means further stores information of the management target corresponding to the second identification information in association with the information of the management target, the control means determines that the information of the managed object corresponding to the second identification information newly acquired from the management device is changed when the information of the managed object corresponding to the second identification information stored in the storage means is different from the information of the managed object; When it is determined that the information on the management target has been changed, the storage means stores the newly acquired information on the management target.

2. The control device according to claim 1.

3. 2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control means determines that the information on the managed object has been changed when it receives information indicating that the information on the managed object has been changed from the terminal device.

4. the information relating to the second identification information is an image showing the second identification information, and the first acquisition means analyzes the image to acquire the second identification information; The control means transmits the second identification information to the imaging device.

2. The control device according to claim 1.

5. further comprising a determination means for determining a usage status of the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information; The control device according to claim 1 , wherein the control means transmits the usage status to the imaging device associated with the second identification information.

6. 2. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising a management unit that manages the association between the first identification information and the second identification information stored in the storage unit.

7. The control device according to claim 6 , wherein the management unit manages the image capture device so as to associate one of the terminal devices or the application with one of the image capture devices.

8. The control device according to claim 6 , wherein the management unit manages the terminal device or the application so as to associate one or more of the imaging devices with each other.

9. The control device according to claim 6 , wherein the management unit manages the image capture device so that a plurality of the terminal devices or the applications are not associated with one image capture device.

10. The control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means generates temporary information about the managed object being viewed on the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information and controls the control means to transmit the temporary information about the managed object to the imaging device when the control means is unable to obtain the information about the managed object being viewed on the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information.

11. 2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the information to be managed includes patient information or photographer information.

12. an imaging means for capturing an image; an acquisition means for acquiring information relating to first identification information of at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing information of the managed object and an application for viewing information of the managed object that is running on the terminal device; a transmitting means for transmitting information relating to the first identification information and second identification information of the imaging device to a control device connected via a communication means; a receiving means for receiving information on a management target corresponding to the first identification information from the control device; a processing means for attaching information about the management target to image data of the image captured by the imaging means; An imaging device comprising:

13. the acquiring means acquires the first identification information by analyzing an image obtained by capturing an image showing the first identification information with the imaging means, The transmitting means transmits the analyzed first identification information to the control device.

13. The imaging device according to claim 12.

14. the acquiring means acquires an image obtained by capturing an image indicating the first identification information with the imaging means, The transmitting means transmits the image to the control device.

13. The imaging device according to claim 12.

15. 14. The imaging device according to claim 13, wherein the imaging means uses predetermined imaging parameters when capturing the image showing the first identification information.

16. 13. The imaging device according to claim 12, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the first identification information using at least one of an IC tag, an RFID, and Bluetooth.

17. The receiving means further acquires the usage status of the terminal device from the control device, 13. The imaging device according to claim 12, further comprising a control means for controlling the terminal device to give priority to power saving processing when the terminal device is not in use, and not to give priority to the power saving processing when the terminal device is in use.

18. 13. The imaging device according to claim 12, further comprising a storage unit that stores the first identification information in association with the second identification information.

19. 13. The imaging device according to claim 12, further comprising display control means for controlling display means to display the first identification information.

20. 20. The imaging device according to claim 19, wherein the display control means displays an instruction to instruct the acquisition means to acquire the first identification information.

21. 21. The imaging device according to claim 20, wherein the display control means does not display the instruction while the imaging means is taking an image or while the captured image is being transmitted.

22. 20. The imaging device according to claim 19, wherein the display control means displays on the display means a display for selecting a timing for transmitting the image to which the information on the management target is attached by the processing means.

23. 13. The imaging apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the information to be managed includes patient information or photographer information.

24. A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 11; an imaging device according to any one of claims 12 to 23; the terminal device; the management device; A system comprising:

25. a first acquisition step of acquiring, from an imaging device connected via a communication means, first identification information of the imaging device and information relating to second identification information of at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing information of managed objects, which information has been acquired by the imaging device, and an application running on the terminal device for viewing the information of managed objects; a second acquisition step of acquiring information on the managed object corresponding to the second identification information from the management device of the managed object via the communication means; a storage step of storing the first identification information and the second identification information in association with each other; a transmission step of transmitting, when information on the managed object being viewed on the terminal device corresponding to the second identification information is changed, information on the managed object corresponding to the second identification information newly acquired from the management device to the imaging device linked to the second identification information; A control method comprising:

26. an acquisition step of acquiring information relating to first identification information of at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing information of the managed object and an application for viewing information of the managed object that is running on the terminal device; a transmitting step of transmitting information relating to the first identification information and second identification information of the imaging device to a connected control device via a communication means; a receiving step of receiving, from the control device, information on the management target corresponding to the first identification information; a processing step of attaching information about the management target to image data of an image captured by an imaging means; 10. A method for controlling an imaging device, comprising:

27. an imaging means for capturing an image; an acquisition means for acquiring mode information; a switching means for switching between a first mode in which first identification information indicating the management target is transmitted to the control device and a second mode in which second identification information indicating at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing the information of the management target and an application running on the terminal device for viewing the information of the management target is transmitted to the control device based on the mode information; a transmitting means for transmitting the first identification information to a connected control device via a communication means in the first mode, and transmitting the second identification information to the control device in the second mode; a receiving means for receiving information on a management target corresponding to the first identification information or the second identification information from the control device; a processing means for attaching information about the management target to image data of the image captured by the imaging means; An imaging device comprising:

28. 28. The imaging device according to claim 27, wherein the acquisition means acquires the mode information by analyzing image data obtained by capturing an image including the mode information with the imaging means.

29. 29. The imaging device according to claim 28, wherein the image containing the mode information is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code.

30. 28. The imaging device according to claim 27, wherein the acquisition means acquires the mode information using at least one of an IC tag, an RFID, and Bluetooth.

31. 28. The imaging device according to claim 27, wherein the acquisition means acquires the mode information based on access point information.

32. a storage means for storing the mode switched by the switching means; a control means for controlling the acquisition means to acquire the mode information when a first mode is stored in the storage means; 28. The imaging device according to claim 27, further comprising:

33. The device further includes a display control unit that displays the second identification information on a display unit before transmitting the second identification information to the control device, 28. The imaging device according to claim 27, wherein the transmitting means transmits the second identification information displayed on the display means to the control device when an instruction to transmit the second identification information displayed on the display means to the control device is given.

34. The imaging device according to claim 27, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the mode information in at least one of the following cases: when access point information is changed; when location information obtained by a GPS (Global Positioning System) is changed; when a predetermined time has elapsed since a specific operation was performed; when a login is performed; and when a specific operation is performed.

35. further comprising an operation means for instructing switching between the first mode and the second mode, 28. The imaging apparatus according to claim 27, wherein when a switching instruction is given by the operation means, the switching means switches the mode regardless of the mode information.

36. 28. The imaging apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the information to be managed includes patient information or photographer information.

37. an acquisition step of acquiring mode information; a switching step of switching between a first mode in which first identification information indicating the management target is transmitted to the control device and a second mode in which second identification information indicating at least one of a terminal device capable of viewing the information of the management target and an application running on the terminal device for viewing the information of the management target is transmitted to the control device based on the mode information; a transmitting step of transmitting the first identification information to a connected control device via a communication means in the first mode, and transmitting the second identification information to the control device in the second mode; a receiving step of receiving, from the control device, information on the management target corresponding to the first identification information or the second identification information; a processing step of attaching information about the management target to image data of an image captured by an imaging means; 10. A method for controlling an imaging device, comprising:

38. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means of the control device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

39. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the units except the imaging unit in the imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 23.

40. A program for causing a computer to function as each of the means other than the imaging means in the imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 27 to 36.

41. A computer-readable storage medium storing the program according to any one of claims 38 to 40.

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