Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To shorten the time spent on eye examinations. [Solution] The information processing device of the present disclosure includes a conversion unit that converts first information relating to the control results of one ophthalmic device, obtained from one of the ophthalmic devices, which is a first ophthalmic device used for examining the eye of a subject and a second ophthalmic device of a different type from the first ophthalmic device, into second information usable by the other ophthalmic device, The device comprises a communication unit that transmits the second information to the other ophthalmic device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In ophthalmic examinations, a plurality of examination devices (OCT devices, fundus cameras, etc.) are used. Note that an OCT device is a device that captures a tomographic image (3D image) of the retina, and a fundus camera is a device that captures a 2D image of the fundus.

[0003] Here, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for operating a plurality of examination devices using a mobile terminal. Patent Document 2 describes a technique for detecting the end of a previous examination based on the posture of the subject when performing a plurality of examinations in sequence and starting an operation for a subsequent examination. Patent Document 3 describes a technique for using the examination conditions used in a previous examination in a plurality of examinations (follow-up examinations) of the same type but with different dates and times in a subsequent examination.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In ophthalmic examinations, multiple types of examination devices are used, and each device requires alignment adjustment (adjustment of the chin rest position and optical head position) before the examination. With conventional technology, for example, it is necessary to perform alignment adjustments individually for each of the multiple examination devices, which presents the challenge of taking a long time to examine the patient's eye.

[0006] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to shorten the time required for eye examinations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The information processing device of the present disclosure includes a conversion unit that converts first information relating to the control results of one ophthalmic device, obtained from one of two ophthalmic devices—a first ophthalmic device used for examining the eye of a subject and a second ophthalmic device of a different type from the first ophthalmic device—into second information usable by the other ophthalmic device. The device comprises a communication unit that transmits the second information to the other ophthalmic device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, the time required for examining the eye of the person being examined can be shortened. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows a schematic configuration of the ophthalmic examination database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows a schematic configuration of the collaborative information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows a schematic management configuration of the linked information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows a schematic configuration of the conversion table for linked information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows the location indicated by the linkage information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This diagram shows the collaboration flow according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7]This figure shows a schematic configuration of the linkage settings according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the determination unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows a schematic configuration of a terminal device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows the screen of a terminal device according to the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. The same or equivalent components, members, and processes shown in each drawing will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, some components, members, and processes that are not explanatoryly important may be omitted from the drawings.

[0011] (First embodiment) In this embodiment, we describe a configuration in which different types of examination devices—an autorefractor / keratometer, a fundus camera, and an OCT device—are used to examine the subject's eye, and a database (information processing device) capable of communicating with them, thereby enabling the exchange of collaborative information (information regarding the control results of ophthalmic devices) between the examination devices. Here, "communicative" includes not only direct communication between devices but also communication via other devices.

[0012] In this embodiment, the same subject is examined in the order of autorefractometer, fundus camera, and OCT device. The examination device shown in this embodiment (any of the autorefractometer, fundus camera, and OCT device) adjusts the subject's eye (e.g., alignment adjustment) based on the control results of an examination performed prior to the examination with the examination device (e.g., the result of alignment adjustment), thereby eliminating the need for automatic alignment control or alignment operation by the examiner, and thus shortening the examination time for the subject's eye.

[0013] <Database Configuration> Fig. 1 shows a schematic configuration of the information processing system according to this embodiment.

[0014] This embodiment is composed of a database 101 which is a database related to ophthalmic examinations, a refractometer 111 which is an auto-refractometer, a fundus camera 121 which is a fundus camera, and an OCT device 131 which is an OCT device. Note that the database 101 is, for example, a computer. The database 101 is an example of an information processing device. The fundus camera 121 is an example of a first ophthalmic device. The OCT device is an example of a second ophthalmic device.

[0015] The database 101 includes a communication unit 102, an information acquisition unit 103, an information setting unit 104, an information conversion unit 105, a conversion table 106, and an information update unit 107.

[0016] The communication unit 102 communicates with the refractometer 111, the fundus camera 121, and the OCT device 131 via a network formed by, for example, an in-facility LAN.

[0017] The information acquisition unit 103 acquires subject identification information and cooperation information from an inspection device that communicates via the communication unit 102. The cooperation information will be described later.

[0018] The information setting unit 104 sets cooperation information in an inspection device that communicates via the communication unit 102.

[0019] The information conversion unit 105 converts the cooperation information of any one of the cooperation information of the refractometer 111, the cooperation information of the fundus camera 121, and the cooperation information of the OCT device into another cooperation information. For example, the cooperation information acquired from the refractometer 111 is converted into cooperation information that can be used by the fundus camera 121.

[0020] The conversion table 106 is a table in which the conversion method when the conversion unit 105 converts cooperation information into another cooperation information is defined.

[0021] The information update unit 107 updates the linkage information already present in the database 101 with the linkage information acquired by the information acquisition unit 103.

[0022] <Inspection equipment configuration> The ref-keratometer 111 of this embodiment is an examination device that performs monocular measurements and is an autoref-keratometer that measures the refractive power (ref value), radius of curvature (kerat value), and pupil diameter of the eye being examined.

[0023] The ref-keratometer 111 includes a communication unit 112, a jaw rest 113, an examination head 114, and a control unit 115. Furthermore, the ref-keratometer 111 is a ref-keratometer equipped with a subject identification information input unit 116 that acquires the subject's identification information.

[0024] The communication unit 112 communicates with the database 101, for example, via a network formed by the facility's LAN.

[0025] The chin rest 113 supports the subject's face during the examination.

[0026] The refker 111 allows the chin rest 113 to be adjusted up and down so that the height of the eye being examined matches the eye level (optical field height).

[0027] The examination head 114 has a reflectance measurement unit that projects light onto the fundus of the eye under examination and receives the reflected light with a sensor to measure the reflectance value, and a keratometry measurement unit that projects light onto the anterior segment of the eye under examination and receives the reflected light with a sensor to measure the keratometry value.

[0028] The examination head 114 can be adjusted in each of the XYZ axes to align with the eye being examined.

[0029] The control unit 115 controls the alignment of the jaw rest 113 and the inspection head 114, as well as refractometer measurement and keratometer measurement.

[0030] The subject identification information input unit 116 acquires the subject's identification information. The method of acquiring the identification information may be input by the examiner from an input unit not shown (e.g., a keyboard) or by reading from an IC card held by the subject.

[0031] The fundus camera 121 in this embodiment is a fundus camera that captures images of the anterior segment and fundus of the eye under examination.

[0032] The fundus camera 121 includes a communication unit 122, a jaw rest 123, an examination head 124, and a control unit 125. Furthermore, the fundus camera 121 is a fundus camera equipped with a subject identification information input unit 126 that acquires the subject's identification information.

[0033] The communication unit 122 communicates with the database 101, for example, via a network formed by the facility's LAN.

[0034] The chin rest 123 supports the subject's face during the examination.

[0035] The fundus camera 121 allows the chin rest 123 to be adjusted vertically so that the height of the eye being examined matches the eye level.

[0036] The examination head 124 can be adjusted in each of the XYZ axes to align with the eye being examined.

[0037] The examination head 124 projects visible light onto the anterior segment and fundus of the eye under examination, and the reflected light is received by a sensor to capture images of the anterior segment and fundus of the eye under examination.

[0038] The control unit 125 performs alignment control of the jaw rest 123 and the examination head 124. Alignment control includes adjusting the position of the examination head relative to the eye being examined, adjusting the working distance between the eye being examined and the objective lens, adjusting the focus relative to the eye being examined, and switching the small pupil (SP) mode ON / OFF according to the pupil diameter of the eye being examined. These alignment controls may be performed automatically by the examination device.

[0039] The subject identification information input unit 126 acquires the subject's identification information. The method of acquiring the identification information may be input by the examiner from an input unit (not shown) or by reading from an IC card held by the subject.

[0040] The OCT device 131 in this embodiment is an OCT device that captures tomographic images of the anterior segment and fundus of the eye under examination. The OCT device 131 has a communication unit 132, a jaw rest 133, an examination head 134, and a control unit 135. Furthermore, the OCT device 131 is an OCT device equipped with an examiner identification information input unit 136.

[0041] The communication unit 132 communicates with the database 101, for example, via a network formed by the facility's LAN.

[0042] The chin rest 133 supports the subject's face during the examination.

[0043] The OCT device 131 allows the chin rest 133 to be adjusted vertically so that the height of the eye being examined matches the eye level.

[0044] The examination head 134 can acquire OCT tomographic images with depth information within a specified measurement range for the anterior segment or fundus of the eye under examination, and OCT interference signals for generating 3D OCT data consisting of multiple OCT tomographic images. The examination head 134 can be adjusted along each of the XYZ axes to align with the eye under examination.

[0045] The control unit 135 performs alignment control of the jaw rest 133 and the examination head 134. Alignment control includes adjusting the position of the examination head relative to the eye being examined, adjusting the focus, and adjusting the C-GATE. These alignment controls may be performed automatically by the examination device.

[0046] The subject identification information input unit 136 acquires the subject's identification information. The method of acquiring the identification information may be input by the examiner from an input unit (not shown) or by reading from an IC card held by the subject.

[0047] <Structure of linked information> Refer to Figure 2 to see an example of the structure of linked information.

[0048] The linked information shown in this embodiment includes information such as the jaw rest position, the position of the examination head for each of the left and right eyes, the focus value, and the pupil diameter.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the linkage information is classified into general-purpose linkage information and specific linkage information. General-purpose linkage information and specific linkage information may be defined by different reference systems. Here, the reference system refers to the direction of the three-dimensional axes (X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis) and the origin (reference position) of each axis, as defined for the inspection device or the drive unit of the inspection device. In this embodiment, the general-purpose linkage information is the linkage information managed (stored) in the database 101. In this embodiment, the specific linkage information is the linkage information managed (stored) in the inspection device.

[0050] When database 101 sets (transmits) linkage information to an inspection device, it converts general-purpose linkage information into unique linkage information usable by that inspection device.

[0051] Figure 2 shows the general-purpose linkage information 200, which is a diagram illustrating the structure of the linkage information managed by the database 101. The general-purpose linkage information 200 consists of the jaw rest position 201, the left eye examination head position 202, the right eye examination head position 203, the left eye focus value 204, the right eye focus value 205, the left eye pupil diameter 206, and the right eye pupil diameter 207. In this embodiment, the general-purpose linkage information is the linkage information defined by the same reference system as the OCT device 131.

[0052] The unique linkage information 210 shows the structure of the linkage information managed by the ref-kera 111. The unique linkage information 210 consists of the jaw rest position 211, the left eye examination head position 212, the right eye examination head position 213, the left eye focus value 214, the right eye focus value 215, the left eye pupil diameter 216, and the right eye pupil diameter 217. Similarly, the unique linkage information 220 shows the structure of the linkage information managed by the fundus camera 121. In addition, the unique linkage information 230 shows the structure of the linkage information managed by the OCT device 131.

[0053] The unique linkage information 210 is linkage information defined by the reference system of the refractometer 111. For example, the jaw rest position 211 is the distance between the position of the jaw rest drive unit and the origin (reference position) of the drive unit during the alignment of the subject with the refractometer 111. For example, the left eye examination head position 212 is the distance between the position of the XYZ drive units of the examination head and the origin (reference position) of the drive unit during the alignment of the subject's left eye. The same applies to the right eye examination head position 213. For example, the left eye focus value 214, the right eye focus value 215, the left eye pupil diameter 216, and the right eye pupil diameter 217 are values ​​calculated from the measurement results of the refractometer 111. For example, the focus value is 0D (Diopter), and the pupil diameter is a measured value such as 3mm (millimeters).

[0054] Database 101 acquires unique linkage information 210 upon completion of the refkera 111 inspection, converts it into general-purpose linkage information 200, and manages it. The conversion of linkage information will be described later.

[0055] The unique linkage information 220 is linkage information defined by the reference system of the fundus camera 121. The unique linkage information 220 is linkage information converted by the information conversion unit 105 from the general-purpose linkage information 200 managed in the database 101. For example, the jaw rest position 221 is information converted from the jaw rest position 201 and is the distance from the origin of the jaw rest drive unit of the fundus camera 121. For example, the left eye examination head position 222 is information converted from the left eye examination head position 202 and is the distance from the origin of the drive unit (XYZ) of the examination head of the fundus camera 121. The same applies to the right eye head position 223. For example, the left eye focus value 224, the right eye focus value 225, the left eye pupil diameter 226, and the right eye pupil diameter 227 are copied without conversion from the information of the left eye focus value 204, the right eye focus value 205, the left eye pupil diameter 206, and the right eye pupil diameter 207. The focus value and pupil diameter are measured values ​​of the eye under examination, and alignment is possible without converting them to the focus drive or SP mode ON / OFF values ​​of the fundus camera 121. However, a configuration that converts them to the focus drive or SP mode ON / OFF values ​​of the fundus camera 121 is also possible. For example, a configuration that converts the focus value to the distance from the origin of the focus drive unit is also possible.

[0056] Database 101 acquires unique linkage information 220 from the fundus camera 121 when the fundus camera 121 examination is completed, converts it into general-purpose linkage information 200, and manages (stores) it.

[0057] The unique linkage information 230 is linkage information defined by the reference system of the OCT device 131. The unique linkage information 230 is linkage information converted by the information conversion unit 105 from the general-purpose linkage information 200 managed in the database 101. For example, the jaw rest position 231 is information converted from the jaw rest position 201 and is the distance from the origin of the jaw rest drive unit of the OCT device 131. For example, the left eye examination head position 232 is information converted from the left eye examination head position 202 and is the distance from the origin of the drive unit (XYZ) of the examination head of the OCT device 131. The same applies to the right eye examination head position 233. For example, the left eye focus value 234, the right eye focus value 235, the left eye pupil diameter 236, and the right eye pupil diameter 237 are copied without conversion from the information of the left eye focus value 204, the right eye focus value 205, the left eye pupil diameter 206, and the right eye pupil diameter 207. The focus value and pupil diameter are actual measured values ​​of the eye under examination, and alignment is possible without converting them to the focus drive or SP mode ON / OFF values ​​of the OCT device 131. However, a configuration that converts them to the focus drive or SP mode ON / OFF values ​​of the OCT device 131 is also possible. For example, a configuration that converts the focus value to the distance from the origin of the focus drive unit is also possible.

[0058] Database 101 acquires unique linkage information 230 when the OCT device 131 completes its inspection, converts it into general-purpose linkage information 200, and manages it.

[0059] Refer to Figure 3 to see the management configuration of general-purpose linked information by database 101.

[0060] In this embodiment, the database 101 manages general-purpose linkage information in association with subject identification information.

[0061] Subject identification information 301 is the subject identification information obtained from the testing device simultaneously with the unique linking information.

[0062] Database 101 converts the acquired unique linkage information into general linkage information, and links (associates) the converted general linkage information with the subject's identification information.

[0063] By linking subject identification information with general-purpose linked information, the testing device can control the alignment of the subject based on the alignment results (linked information) from a previous test performed by another testing device, thereby shortening the time required for the eye examination.

[0064] In this embodiment, the general-purpose linkage information is shown in a configuration that has the same reference system as the OCT device 131, but the system is not limited to this. For example, the linkage information may be one that does not belong to the reference system of any of the inspection devices.

[0065] Refer to Figure 5 to see an example of linked information that is not part of the reference system of any of the inspection devices.

[0066] For example, the jaw rest position in the linked information is the difference between the eye-level position of the examination device and the jaw rest position, as indicated by jaw rest position 501. The eye-level position is a guideline for performing the examination in the appropriate position on the examination device. Even if the same subject is examined using examination devices with different configurations, the distance from the subject's eye to the jaw is the same. Therefore, by using the distance from the eye-level position to the jaw rest, the jaw rest position can be appropriately adjusted regardless of the examination device.

[0067] Furthermore, the X position of the inspection head may be the difference between the center of the inspection device and the center of the inspection head, as indicated by the head X position 502.

[0068] The Y position of the inspection head may be the difference between the eye level position of the inspection device and the Y position of the objective lens of the inspection head, as indicated by the head Y position 503.

[0069] The Z position of the inspection head may be the difference between the tip of the jaw rest and the tip of the inspection head, as indicated by the head Z position 504.

[0070] By not using a reference system specific to a particular inspection device, it becomes possible to uniformly convert between general-purpose and specific linkage information, regardless of the characteristics between the inspection devices. Specifically, for example, when the jaw rest position is used as linkage information between two inspection devices, one inspection device does not need to know the device configuration of the other inspection device (distance from eye level to jaw rest); it only needs to know its own device configuration. Therefore, even if further inspection devices are added to the linkage, there is the advantage that no operation is required to know the device configuration of the added inspection devices.

[0071] <Information Conversion Configuration> Refer to Figures 4 and 5 to see an example of the conversion between unique linkage information and general-purpose linkage information.

[0072] General-purpose linkage information and specific linkage information are mutually converted by the information conversion unit 105.

[0073] When the database 101 acquires unique linkage information from the inspection device, the information conversion unit 105 converts the unique linkage information of the inspection device into general-purpose linkage information.

[0074] When transmitting linkage information from database 101 to inspection equipment, the information conversion unit 105 converts general-purpose linkage information into specific linkage information for that inspection equipment. The conversion of linkage information by the information conversion unit 105 is performed based on the conversion table 106. The conversion table 106 is managed by database 101.

[0075] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration related to the conversion table 106.

[0076] As shown in Figure 4, the conversion table 106 contains a combination of device identification information and a conversion offset. The conversion offset is a value (offset value) that indicates the difference between the specific linkage information and the general-purpose linkage information.

[0077] In this embodiment, the identification information of the refractometer 111 is designated as device identification information 410, the identification information of the fundus camera 112 is designated as device identification information 420, and the identification information of the OCT device 113 is designated as device identification information 430.

[0078] The conversion offset 411 corresponding to the device identification information 410 is set as the offset between the unique linkage information and the general-purpose linkage information of the refractometer 111. Similarly, the conversion offset 421 corresponding to the device identification information 420 is set as the offset between the unique linkage information and the general-purpose linkage information of the fundus camera 111. The conversion offset 431 corresponding to the device identification information 430 is set as the offset between the unique linkage information and the general-purpose linkage information of the OCT device 113.

[0079] When the information conversion unit 105 converts the unique linkage information 210 obtained from the refkera 111, it converts it to general-purpose linkage information 200 based on the conversion offset 411. Similarly, when the database 101 converts the general-purpose linkage information 200 to the unique linkage information 210 of the refkera 111, the information conversion unit 105 also converts it to unique linkage information based on the conversion offset 411.

[0080] The conversion between general-purpose linkage information 200 and specific linkage information 220 uses conversion offset 421. Similarly, the conversion between general-purpose linkage information 200 and specific linkage information 230 uses conversion offset 431.

[0081] Referring to Figure 5, an example of converting the unique linkage information 210 of the refractometer 111 to the unique linkage information 220 of the fundus camera 121 is shown. Figure 5(c) is a lateral view of the refractometer 111, and Figure 5(d) is a lateral view of the fundus camera 121.

[0082] In this embodiment, an example of the conversion of linked information is shown for the jaw rest position and the Y-axis of the left eye examination head. The information conversion unit 105 converts the unique linked information 210 to general-purpose linked information 200, and then converts the general-purpose linked information 200 to unique linked information 220.

[0083] First, we will show an example of converting from unique linkage information 210 to general-purpose linkage information 200.

[0084] For example, the information conversion unit 105 converts the jaw rest position 211 of the general-purpose linkage information 200 to the jaw rest position 201 by adding the jaw rest offset 412 of the conversion offset 411 to the jaw rest position 211.

[0085] The chin rest position 211 shown in Figure 5(c) is the distance from the origin (lower limit position) of the chin rest.

[0086] The jaw support position 201 in the general-purpose linkage information 200 is the position indicated by the jaw support position 211 in Figure 5(c) converted to the reference system of the general-purpose linkage information 200.

[0087] Similarly, for example, the information conversion unit 105 converts the left eye examination head position 212 of the general-purpose linked information 200 by adding the left eye examination head offset 413 of the conversion offset 411 to the left eye examination head position 212. The left eye examination head position 212 shown in Figure 5(c) is the distance from the origin (lower limit position) of the Y axis of the examination head. The left eye examination head position 202 of the general-purpose linked information 200 is obtained by converting the position shown in the left eye examination head position 212 of Figure 5(c) to the reference system of the general-purpose linked information 200.

[0088] Next, we will show an example of converting general-purpose linkage information 200 to specific linkage information 220.

[0089] For example, the information conversion unit 105 converts the jaw support position 201 to the jaw support position 221 of the unique linkage information 220 by adding the jaw support offset 422 of the conversion offset 421 to the jaw support position 201.

[0090] The chin rest position 221 shown in Figure 5(d) is the distance from the origin (lower limit position) of the chin rest in the fundus camera 121. The chin rest position 221 in the unique linkage information 220 is obtained by converting the position of the reference system in the general-purpose linkage information 220 to the position shown in the chin rest position 221 in Figure 5(d). Similarly, for example, the information conversion unit 105 converts the left eye examination head position 222 in the unique linkage information 220 by adding the left eye examination head offset 423 of the conversion offset 421 to the left eye examination head position 202.

[0091] The left eye examination head position 222 shown in Figure 5(d) is the distance from the Y-axis origin (lower limit position) of the examination head. The left eye examination head position 222 in the unique linkage information 220 is obtained by converting the position of the reference system in the general-purpose linkage information 220 to the position shown in Figure 5(d) as the left eye examination head position 222. By converting the linkage information in this manner, the jaw rest position 111 and left eye examination head position 212 shown in Figure 5(c) can be converted to the jaw rest position 221 and left eye examination head position 222 shown in Figure 5(d).

[0092] By converting the unique linkage information 210 to general-purpose linkage information 200, and then converting the general-purpose linkage information 200 to unique linkage information 220, it is possible to convert from unique linkage information 210 to unique linkage information 220.

[0093] By converting the unique linkage information 210 to unique linkage information 220, the alignment control of the refractometer 111 for the eye under examination can be used for the alignment control of the fundus camera 121 for the same eye under examination.

[0094] In this embodiment, the conversion table 106 is used as an offset between the unique linkage information and the general-purpose linkage information, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be a conversion coefficient or a conversion formula for converting values ​​between the two types of linkage information. Furthermore, the offset, conversion coefficient, and conversion formula may be used differently depending on the linkage information item.

[0095] <Updated Linkage Information> When database 101 acquires linked information that has the same subject identification information as the linked information managed in the database, it updates the linked information managed in the database. The update of linked information is performed by the information update unit 107. For example, when the examination of refkera 111 is completed, unique linked information 210 is acquired from refkera 111, converted into general linked information 200, and managed in database 101.

[0096] Database 101 also assumes that it obtained unique linkage information 220 with the same subject identification information at the end of the examination with the fundus camera 121. Database 101 temporarily converts this unique linkage information 220 into general-purpose linkage information 200'.

[0097] The information update unit 107 compares the general-purpose linkage information 200' with the general-purpose linkage information 200 managed in the database 101 and overwrites the linkage information items whose information has been updated. Furthermore, if there is information that exists in general-purpose linkage information 200' but not in general-purpose linkage information 200, for example, the information update unit 107 adds that linkage information item to general-purpose linkage information 200. For example, suppose there is general-purpose linkage information 200 that has a focus value calculated from the refractor value measured by the refractometer 111, and general-purpose linkage information 200' that has a focus value as an alignment result during examination with the fundus camera 121. In this case, the focus value may be the value of general-purpose linkage information 200', which may overwrite the value of general-purpose linkage information 200. Note that the update of linkage information may be configured to overwrite only duplicate information, or it may be configured to overwrite all linkage information.

[0098] Alternatively, depending on the linked information item, the configuration may include linked information items for each of the multiple inspection devices. In the case of having linked information items for multiple inspection devices, the information conversion unit 105 may be configured to select the most suitable linked information item for the inspection device that is the target of the conversion and then perform the conversion.

[0099] For example, the linked information may include two values: the focus value calculated from the refraction value measured by the refractometer 111, and the focus value which is the alignment result during the examination with the fundus camera 121. When this focus value is used for alignment with the OCT device 131, the OCT device 131 may be configured to perform alignment by referring to the focus value which is the alignment result with the fundus camera 121.

[0100] By including information items originating from multiple inspection devices in the linked information, the alignment accuracy based on linked information can be improved between inspection devices with similar configurations.

[0101] <Application of linked information via inspection equipment> The inspection device shall determine whether or not the unique linkage information set by the information setting unit 104 can be applied. In other words, the inspection device is not limited to a configuration that applies all of the set unique linkage information. The inspection device may determine which items of the unique linkage information set by the information setting unit 104 will not be applied in the alignment of the inspection device.

[0102] For example, database 101 may be linked to a fundus camera that cannot automatically adjust the position of the examination head.

[0103] Refer to Figure 8 to see an example of a configuration in which database 101 is linked to a fundus camera that cannot automatically adjust the position of the examination head.

[0104] The fundus camera 151 is a fundus camera that the examiner manually aligns with the eye under examination and uses to photograph the fundus. The fundus camera 151 is equipped with automatic focus adjustment.

[0105] The fundus camera 151 includes a communication unit, a chin rest, an examination head, and a control unit (not shown), in addition to a judgment unit 800. The communication unit, chin rest, examination head, and control unit have the same configuration as the fundus camera 121, except that the examination head cannot be automatically aligned.

[0106] The decision unit 800 determines whether to apply the unique linkage information set from the database 101 to the alignment of the fundus camera 151 with respect to the eye being examined. For example, the database 101 sets the unique linkage information 250 for the fundus camera 151, which has been converted from the general-purpose linkage information 200, to the fundus camera 151.

[0107] The unique linked information 250 is linked information that includes the left eye examination head position 252, the right eye examination head 253, the left eye focus value 254, and the right eye focus value 255.

[0108] The fundus camera 151 does not have a function to automatically adjust the examination head. Therefore, the judgment unit 800 can determine that the set left eye head position 252 and right eye head position 253 are not applicable and choose not to use them for the alignment of the fundus camera 151. The judgment unit 800 will use the left eye focus value 254 and right eye focus value 255, which it has determined to be applicable, for the alignment of the fundus camera 151.

[0109] Thus, the examination device may be configured to determine which of the fundus camera-specific linked information items are not used for alignment with the eye being examined. Furthermore, the examination device may choose not to apply the set linked information even if it is a linked information item that can be automatically aligned. Additionally, the examination device may have a function to set whether or not to apply linked information items.

[0110] Furthermore, the decision unit 800 may be located in the database 101 instead of the fundus camera 151. In that case, the decision unit in the database 101 determines which linkage information (first information) to transmit to the fundus camera 151 from among the multiple linkage information (first information) based on the functions of the fundus camera 151. Specifically, the decision unit in the database 101 determines that the left eye head position 252 and the right eye head position 253 should not be transmitted from among the multiple linkage information (left eye head position 252, right eye head position 253, left eye focus value 254, right eye focus value 255). The information conversion unit 105 then does not convert the left eye head position 252 and the right eye head position 253 into unique linkage information, but converts the left eye focus value 254 and the right eye focus value 255, which correspond to the functions of the fundus camera 151, into unique linkage information. The converted unique linkage information is transmitted to the fundus camera 151. The functions of the fundus camera 151 may also be stored in the database in correspondence with the device identification information contained in the conversion table 106.

[0111] <Integration Flow> Referring to Figure 6, an example of the configuration of the information sharing flow for the inspection device according to this embodiment is shown.

[0112] The collaborative flow shown in this embodiment involves examining the same subject in the following order: refractometer 111, fundus camera 121, and OCT device 131.

[0113] Database 101 acquires the alignment results of the chin rest position and left / right eye head positions, as well as the measurement results of the focus value and pupil diameter, as linked information at the end of the refractometer 111 examination. Database 101 sets the linked information acquired from the refractometer 111 at the start of the fundus camera 121 examination. The fundus camera 121 performs alignment control for the subject based on the set linked information. Database 101 acquires the alignment results of the chin rest position and left / right eye head positions, as well as the adjustment results of the focus value, as linked information at the end of the fundus camera 121 examination. Database 101 sets the linked information acquired from the refractometer 111 and fundus camera 121 at the start of the OCT device 131 examination. The OCT device 131 performs alignment control for the subject based on the set linked information. Database 101 acquires the alignment results of the jaw rest position and left and right eye head positions, as well as the results of focus adjustment and C-GATE adjustment, as linked information when the OCT device 131 examination is completed.

[0114] In step S600, the examiner inputs the subject's identification information (subject identification information) into the refractometer 111. Then, the examination of the subject begins. The examiner shall use the refractometer 111 to measure the refractometer values ​​and pupil diameters of the subject's left and right eyes.

[0115] In step S601, the examiner completes the examination of Lefkera 111.

[0116] In step S602, the database 101 acquires subject identification information, device identification information, and unique linkage information after the examination with the refractometer 111 is completed. The acquired unique linkage information includes the alignment results of the chin rest position, left eye head position (XYZ), and right eye head position (XYZ) when the subject is examined with the refractometer 111. Furthermore, it includes the calculation results of the left eye focus value, right eye focus value, left eye pupil diameter, and right eye pupil diameter based on the refractometer values ​​measured by the refractometer 111. The database 101 converts the acquired unique linkage information into general linkage information. The database 101 links the converted general linkage information with the acquired subject identification information and stores it in the database.

[0117] In step S603, the examiner inputs the subject's identification information into the fundus camera 121. The fundus camera 121 transmits the input subject identification information and the fundus camera 121's own device identification information to the database 101.

[0118] In step S604, the database 101 receives (acquires) patient identification information and device identification information from the fundus camera 121. Based on the acquired patient identification information, the database 101 searches for the corresponding general-purpose linkage information.

[0119] In step S605, the general-purpose linkage information obtained through the search in step S604 is converted into specific linkage information for the fundus camera 121 based on the device identification information acquired in step S604.

[0120] In step S606, the database 101 sets the unique linkage information converted in step S605 into the fundus camera 121. Subsequently, the fundus camera 121 starts adjusting the alignment of the jaw rest position and the examination head position based on the unique linkage information set from the database 101.

[0121] Steps S603 to S606 shall be executed seamlessly. Upon input of patient identification information, the fundus camera 121 shall communicate with the database 101 to obtain the linked information associated with the patient identification information and begin alignment adjustment.

[0122] For example, the fundus camera 121 is designed to photograph the fundus of the subject's eye, starting with the left eye. In this case, the fundus camera 121 drives the chin rest and the examination head based on the set proprietary linkage information for the chin rest position and the left eye examination head position. Furthermore, the fundus camera 121 controls the ON / OFF status of the SP mode based on the set proprietary linkage information for the left eye pupil diameter and drives the focus lens based on the set proprietary linkage information for the left eye focus value. If the order of photographing the left and right eyes is not determined, the fundus camera 121 will at least adjust the chin rest position. It is desirable that the alignment adjustment of the chin rest position be performed before the subject places their face on the chin rest. However, it is not necessarily required that the adjustment be performed before the subject places their face on the chin rest; the chin rest may be driven while the subject's face is supported by the chin rest.

[0123] Furthermore, the input of subject identification information in step S603 may be performed when the subject is not in front of the examination device. For example, in step S602, the subject identification information of the subject may be input to the fundus camera 121 immediately after the examination with the refractometer 111 is completed. With this configuration, when the subject is examined consecutively with multiple examination devices, the preparation (alignment) for the examination with the second examination device is completed after the examination with the first examination device is finished. That is, the alignment of the second examination device is completed while the subject is moving from the first examination device to the second examination device. As a result, the examiner can shorten the time required to examine the subject's eye.

[0124] In step S607, the examiner begins the examination of the subject using the fundus camera 121. It is assumed that the alignment of the subject's left eye has been completed in steps S603 to S605. The examiner takes a photograph of the fundus of the subject's left eye. The photograph may be taken automatically. After photographing the left eye, the fundus camera 121 begins the alignment of the right eye. Similar to the alignment of the left eye, the fundus camera 121 performs the alignment based on the set unique linkage information of the right eye examination head, right pupil diameter, and right eye focus value, and takes a photograph of the fundus of the right eye. The database 101 may be updated with the new alignment results based on the unique linkage information set during the examination. For example, it is assumed that the fundus camera 121 performs automatic focus adjustment. It is assumed that the automatic focus adjustment is performed in the order of rough search, then fine search. The fundus camera 121 may skip the rough search and perform the fine search based on the focus value of the linkage information. The fundus camera 121 may also update the focus value of the linked information based on the results of the fine search.

[0125] In step S608, the examiner completes the examination with the fundus camera 121.

[0126] In step S609, the database 101 acquires subject identification information, device identification information, and unique linkage information for the fundus camera 121 after the fundus camera 121 examination is completed. The acquired unique linkage information is an example of the first type of information related to the control results. The database 101 converts the acquired unique linkage information into general linkage information based on the acquired device identification information. The general linkage information is an example of the third type of information. The database 101 searches for general linkage information managed in the database based on the acquired subject identification information. The database 101 compares the converted general linkage information with the searched general linkage information and overwrites the linkage information items of the searched general linkage information with the linkage information items that were updated during the fundus camera 121 examination.

[0127] In step S610, the examiner inputs the subject's identification information into the OCT device 131. The OCT device 131 transmits the input subject identification information and the OCT device 131's own device identification information to the database 101.

[0128] In step S611, the database 101 receives (acquires) patient identification information and device identification information from the OCT device 131. Based on the acquired patient identification information, the database 101 searches for the corresponding general-purpose linkage information.

[0129] In step S612, the general-purpose linkage information obtained through the search in step S611 is converted into unique linkage information for the OCT device 131 based on the device identification information acquired in step S611. The converted unique linkage information is an example of the second piece of information related to the control results.

[0130] In step S613, the database 101 sets the converted unique linkage information in the OCT device 131. Subsequently, the OCT device 131 starts adjusting the alignment of the jaw rest position and the examination head position based on the unique linkage information set in the database 101. Steps S610 to S613 are to be executed seamlessly, similar to steps S603 to 606.

[0131] Furthermore, similar to step S606, alignment by the OCT device 131 is also performed. For example, the OCT device 131 photographs the fundus of the subject's left eye first. In this case, the OCT device 131 drives the chin rest and the examination head based on the set unique linkage information for the chin rest position and the left eye examination head position. Furthermore, the OCT device 131 drives the focus lens based on the set unique linkage information for the left eye focus value. If the order of imaging for the left and right eyes is not determined, at least the chin rest position should be adjusted. It is desirable that the alignment adjustment of the chin rest position be performed before the subject places their face on the chin rest. However, it is not necessarily required that the adjustment be performed before the subject places their face on the chin rest; the chin rest may be driven while the subject's face is supported by the chin rest.

[0132] In step S614, the examiner begins the examination of the subject using the OCT device 131. It is assumed that the alignment of the subject's left eye has been completed in steps S610 to S613. The examiner takes a tomographic image of the subject's left eye. The image acquisition may be performed automatically. After acquiring the image of the left eye, the OCT device 131 begins the alignment of the right eye. Similar to the alignment of the left eye, the alignment is performed based on the set unique linkage information of the right eye examination head, right pupil diameter, and right eye focus value, and a tomographic image of the right eye is acquired. The OCT device 131 may update the unique linkage information set during the examination with the new alignment results, as in S607.

[0133] In step S615, the OCT device 131 completes the examination.

[0134] In step S616, the database 101 acquires patient identification information, device identification information, and unique linkage information for the OCT device 131 after the OCT device 131 has completed its examination. The database 101 converts the acquired unique linkage information into general linkage information based on the device identification information acquired in the same way. The database 101 searches for general linkage information managed in the database based on the acquired patient identification information. The database 101 compares the converted general linkage information with the searched general linkage information and overwrites the linkage information items of the searched general linkage information with the linkage information items of the OCT device 131 that were updated during the examination.

[0135] In this embodiment, an example of linking information using database 101 is shown, but the system is not limited to this. For example, it may be configured using the international standard for medical data communication (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine: DICOM) and a DICOM server. For example, the DICOM server may be configured to acquire patient information and linking information from the Hospital Information System (HIS) when an examination is started by the examination device. Alternatively, the DICOM server may transmit the linking information acquired during the examination by the examination device, along with the examination results, to a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). The DICOM server may manage the linking information transmitted to the PACS for each patient identification information and transmit the linking information to any examination device along with the patient information when an examination is started by that device, thereby linking the information. By linking examination devices using DICOM and a DICOM server, interoperability between examination devices can be improved.

[0136] The inspection device of this embodiment can shorten the time required to examine an eye by performing control (for example, adjusting the alignment of the jaw rest position) based on the control results (for example, the results of adjusting the alignment of the jaw rest position) of the same subject who has been examined before the start of the examination.

[0137] [Example 1] In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which alignment control of the jaw rest position and alignment control of the examination head position are omitted by linking information between the refractometer 101, fundus camera 111, and OCT device 121, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the control results of the height of the chair and the height of the table on which the examination device is placed, which have been adjusted to suit the patient, may be included in the linking information. Examination devices that can electrically adjust the height of the chair and table are known. By including the height of the chair and table of the patient during the examination in the linking information, examination devices that can control the chair and table can link the heights of the chair and table to suit the patient.

[0138] Furthermore, the linked information may be calculated from the inspection (measurement) results of the inspection device. For example, the axial length calculated from the refractive power (ref value), which is the measurement result of an autorefractometer, may be included in the linked information. Including the axial length in the linked information allows for the omission of automatic C-GATE adjustment by the OCT device. Note that the configuration may omit only a part, not all, of the automatic C-GATE adjustment. For example, in automatic C-GATE control, rough search and fine search are performed sequentially to find the appropriate C-GATE position for the eye under examination. The OCT device can use the axial length included in the linked information to estimate the approximate C-GATE position from the design value (optical system design value) and adjustment value (value adjusted individually for each device during manufacturing) of the OCT device. The OCT device may use this estimated value to omit the rough search and start from the fine search. Note that instead of using the measured axial length as linked information, the C-GATE position itself may be used as linked information.

[0139] Furthermore, the linked information may include information other than alignment-related information. For example, it may include examination (shooting) mode, shooting settings during shooting (e.g., ISO sensitivity and shutter speed in the fundus camera), internal fixation light position, panoramic shooting settings (number of frames, fixation light position), and display content of the examination report output as an examination result. By linking these examination settings across multiple examination devices using linked information, it becomes unnecessary to configure the examination settings for each device, thus reducing the time required for installation (implementation) of the examination devices.

[0140] Furthermore, the configuration may include language settings in the linked information. For example, suppose that testing devices that output sound share the language they output using the linked information. By linking the language settings of the testing devices that output sound, it becomes possible to output the same language when testing the same subject across multiple testing devices. This eliminates the need for the examiner to set the language for each testing device. Also, since the examiner does not need to change the language setting for each subject for the second and subsequent testing devices, the time required for setup before the test can be reduced.

[0141] [Differentiation 2] In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which automatic alignment control for the subject and alignment operations by the examiner are omitted by linking information between multiple examination devices, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The information used for alignment control of the linked information may also be configured as the examination result. For example, the axial length of the eye of the subject may be calculated from the result of C-GATE adjustment as an examination result of the OCT device 131, and this axial length may be used as linked information. For example, after the examination by the OCT device 131, the axial length of the same eye of the subject may be measured by an axial length measuring device, and the result of the axial length measurement may be used to update the calculation result of the axial length by the OCT device 131. For example, if the examination result report output by the OCT device 131 thereafter includes the axial length, the axial length of the linked information, which is the axial length measurement result, may be output in the examination result report.

[0142] The linked information can include not only alignment control results but also test results. This allows for the inclusion of axial length in the test result report of a specific test device, even if the test result cannot be calculated by that device, by using test results obtained from another device. This enables physicians to make diagnoses that include test results that cannot be obtained by a specific test device. As a result, the efficiency of diagnosis can be improved.

[0143] [Difference 3] In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which the fundus camera 121 and the OCT device 131 each have a control unit, and the control unit controls the chin rest and the like based on coordination information set from the database 101. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. The database 101 may also have a further control unit, and the inspection device may be controlled by this control unit. For example, suppose the database 101 has a control unit 108. Suppose this control unit 108 can substitute for the control of the control unit 115 of the fundus camera 121 and the control unit 125 of the OCT device 131. The control unit 108 of the database 101 controls the fundus camera 121 and the OCT device 131. If the fundus camera 121 and the OCT device 131 can communicate with the database 101, the fundus camera 121 and the OCT device 131 are controlled by the database 101 based on coordination information. If the fundus camera 121 and the OCT device 131 cannot communicate with the database 101, the fundus camera 121 and the OCT device 131 are controlled by their respective control units. Furthermore, the configuration may also be one in which the control unit 125 of the fundus camera 121 and the control unit 135 of the OCT device 131 are absent, and only the control unit 108 of the database 101 is present.

[0144] [Differentiation Example 4] In the first embodiment, a configuration was shown in which information is shared between different types of examination devices, namely the refractometer 111, the fundus camera 121, and the OCT device 131, via the database 101, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The information may also be shared between examination devices of the same type. For example, information may be shared between a fundus camera and another fundus camera of a different model but capable of performing the same examination.

[0145] Furthermore, the system may be configured to exchange information between testing devices of the same type but with different configurations. For example, suppose that in OCT devices, information is to be exchanged between OCT devices with different drive ranges for the C-GATE, which adjusts the depth-direction tomographic image acquisition position of the eye under examination. In this case, since the driveable ranges are different, the C-GATE values ​​cannot be directly exchanged. For example, suppose there is an OCT device A with a wide drive range of 0 to 40 mm, and an OCT device B with a narrower drive range of 0 to 20 mm. If the adjustment result of the C-GATE by OCT device A exceeds 20 mm, OCT device B can only drive the C-GATE up to 20 mm, so the adjustment result cannot be directly exchanged. Also, even if the adjustment result is, for example, 10 mm, the C-GATE position of 10 mm on OCT device A and OCT device B is not necessarily the same depth position relative to the eye under examination. In such cases, it is desirable to convert the information into the general-purpose information described in the first embodiment. For example, by converting the C-GATE adjustment result (e.g., 20mm) into the subject's physical size information (e.g., actual depth distance and axial length of the eye), it becomes possible to adjust the C-GATE to the same depth position relative to the eye in both OCT device A and OCT device B. Furthermore, even if the other drive systems of the examination devices are different, not just the C-GATE adjustment drive range, by defining the linked information item of the general-purpose linked information as the subject's physical size information, linked information can be shared between examination devices with different configurations.

[0146] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment, a configuration for exchanging information between different types of inspection devices was described. Furthermore, in Modification 4 of the first embodiment, a configuration for exchanging information between the same type or the same type of inspection device was described. In this embodiment, a configuration for exchanging information between any inspection devices that communicate with the database 101 is described.

[0147] Referring to Figure 7, we will now explain how to configure multiple inspection devices as a group and how to share information among the inspection devices belonging to that group.

[0148] In this embodiment, a total of nine devices—three refractometers, three fundus cameras, and three OCT devices—will communicate with the database 101 to cooperate. By grouping any of these examination devices together, information regarding examinations of the same patient will be shared among the grouped examination devices.

[0149] The linkage settings screen 700 in Figure 7(a) is an example of a linkage settings screen. In this embodiment, the linkage settings screen for configuring linkage settings is displayed on a display unit controlled by the database 101. The display unit is, for example, a monitor such as a liquid crystal display.

[0150] The linkage settings screen 700 displays a list of inspection devices communicating with the database 101. In this embodiment, inspection devices are displayed as icons. For example, in Figure 7, the refractometers 711-713, fundus cameras 721-723, and OCT devices 731-733 are shown as examples of icons. Note that the display is not limited to icons, and the device may be displayed in a form that can be recognized as such.

[0151] On the linkage settings screen 700, you can group any inspection devices together. Within these grouped devices, you can link information. By grouping inspection devices together, the linkage information is managed on a per-group basis.

[0152] Figure 7(b) shows an example of grouping examination devices in the linkage settings screen 700. For example, group 701 includes different types of examination devices: a refractometer 711, a fundus camera 721, and an OCT device 731. When performing examinations on the same patient, the linkage information from examinations performed before the current examination can be shared among the devices in group 701 (refractometer 711, fundus camera 721, and OCT device 731). The specific operation is as described in the first embodiment.

[0153] Furthermore, group 702 includes fundus cameras 722 and 723, which are of the same type of inspection device. Within this group 702 (fundus cameras 722 and 723), when examining the same subject, it is possible to share information from examinations performed prior to the current examination. The specific operation is as described in Modification 4 of the First Embodiment.

[0154] Furthermore, the same testing device may be grouped into multiple groups. For example, suppose the OCT device 731 is configured to belong to both group 701 and group 703. When the OCT device 731 performs an examination, it may be configured to link with either of the linking information from group 701 and group 703 that pertains to the same subject. Alternatively, a priority setting may be provided. For example, a priority setting may be provided for the linking information from group 701 and group 703. Furthermore, a configuration may be provided to set in more detail which linking information items from each group's linking information are linked. For example, a configuration may be set to use the focus value from the linking information of group 701 and the examination head position from the linking information of group 703.

[0155] This configuration allows for the selection and use of collaborative information obtained from different types of testing devices, such as in group 701, and collaborative information obtained from the same type of testing device, such as in group 703. By selecting and using collaborative information, the accuracy of the collaborative information is improved, making the operation of the testing device easier and shortening the time required for the examination of the eye under test.

[0156] (Third embodiment) This embodiment describes a configuration in which, in addition to the database and testing device described in the first embodiment, linked information is linked by the database and testing device, as well as a configuration of a terminal device that remotely manages the linked testing devices. The terminal device of this embodiment displays multiple testing devices in a list and controls the displayed testing devices. This embodiment shows an example of a configuration in which the terminal device manages and controls the OCT device. It also includes the linkage setting function described in the second embodiment. The terminal device shown in this embodiment allows the examiner to perform the examination of the subject without having to move to each testing device by remotely managing the testing devices, thereby shortening the time the examiner spends examining the subject's eye.

[0157] <Structure> Referring to Figure 9, an example of the configuration of the terminal device according to this embodiment is shown. This embodiment consists of a database 101, which is a database related to ophthalmic examinations, an OCT device 131, which is an OCT device, and a terminal device 141.

[0158] The database 101 is assumed to have the configuration described in the first embodiment. The OCT device 131 is assumed to have the configuration described in the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the OCT device 131 automates alignment during examination by obtaining linked information corresponding to the subject identification information from the database 101, similar to the first embodiment.

[0159] The terminal device 141 may be, for example, a tablet PC or a smartphone. The terminal device 141 is assumed to be a terminal device comprising a communication unit 142, a display unit 143, an input unit 144, a control unit 145, and a linkage setting unit 147.

[0160] The communication unit 142 can communicate with the database and multiple inspection devices. In this embodiment, it communicates with the database 101 and the OCT device 131.

[0161] The display unit 143 is a screen (for example, a liquid crystal display) of the terminal device 141. The display unit 143 can display a list of inspection devices that can communicate via the communication unit 142.

[0162] The input unit 144 receives input from the operator to the terminal device 141. For example, the input unit 144 may be a keyboard or mouse, or a joystick, etc. Alternatively, the input may be obtained by capturing the operator's voice via a microphone.

[0163] Furthermore, the input unit 144 may be provided on the display unit 143. For example, the display unit 143 may be a touch panel, and the operator's touch operation on the display unit 143 may be used as input. The input unit 144 may also further include means for inputting subject identification information. In addition to the aforementioned means such as touch operation, input of subject identification information may also be by means such as reading an IC card held by the subject with a card reader. Alternatively, the terminal device 141 may be equipped with a camera. For example, the camera may be used to read a QR (Quick Response) code (registered trademark) or barcode held by the subject to obtain subject identification information.

[0164] The control unit 145 can display the inspection device on the display unit 143 and control the inspection device displayed on the display unit 143. In this embodiment, the control unit 145 controls the OCT device 131. In this embodiment, the control unit 145 controls the OCT device 131 to start the inspection, align the subject during the inspection, and photograph the subject's eye with the OCT device 131. The control unit 145 can also control the inspection device based on inputs received using the input unit 144.

[0165] The control unit 145 can start the OCT device 131 examination based on the subject identification information input using the input unit 144.

[0166] The linkage setting unit 147 communicates with the database 101 via the communication unit 142 and can configure the linkage settings for the database 101. The linkage settings are as shown in the second embodiment.

[0167] <Display section> Refer to Figure 10 to see an example of the configuration of the display unit 143.

[0168] The display unit 143 is the screen of the terminal device 141. In this embodiment, each of the multiple inspection devices that have been configured for linkage is assigned to one of the multiple areas of the display unit 143, and the status of each of these inspection devices is displayed in a list.

[0169] In this embodiment, four testing devices are displayed. The four testing devices are assigned to four regions divided by the display unit 143. For example, the display unit 143 has four regions, such as region 1010, region 1011, region 1012, and region 1013. A testing device is displayed in each of these four regions. In this embodiment, the OCT device 131 is assigned to and displayed in region 1013. For example, icons indicating testing devices are displayed in regions 1010 to 1013. The icons may be icons indicating the testing device itself, as in region 1010, or icons representing the area of ​​the eye to be measured by the testing device, as in region 1011. Alternatively, the status of the testing device may be displayed, as in region 1012. For example, region 1012 displays an icon indicating that communication with the testing device assigned to that region is not possible. Note that testing devices displaying icons, such as in regions 1010 and 1011, indicate that they are ready to start the test.

[0170] Furthermore, the display unit 143 may also display the status of the examination, as shown in area 1013. For example, area 1013 is an example of a display showing the status of the OCT device 131 during an examination. The status of the examination may include, for example, the observation image 1014 of the eye being examined or the tomographic image 1015 of the eye being examined.

[0171] In the area to which an inspection device is assigned, the imaging results of the assigned inspection device may be displayed. Each area to which an inspection device is assigned may be enlarged to fill the entire screen of the display unit 143 by operation by the operator, or it may be enlarged to any size specified by the operator.

[0172] <Department Head> The control unit 145 controls multiple inspection devices that have been configured to cooperate with each other via the communication unit 142. In this embodiment, the control unit 145 is configured to control the OCT device 131 assigned to area 1013.

[0173] The control unit 145 can start the OCT device 131 inspection via the communication unit 142. The communication via the communication unit 142 is, for example, wireless communication. The control unit 145 can remotely control the OCT device 131 by communicating wirelessly with the OCT device 131. For example, the operator can start the inspection by selecting area 1013 of the OCT device 131 displayed on the display unit 143. Alternatively, the operator may start the inspection by inputting the subject's identification information into the input unit 144, which is equipped with means for inputting subject identification information. Or, the operator may start the inspection based on the subject identification information input into the OCT device 131.

[0174] Furthermore, the control unit 145 can display the observation image 1014 from the OCT device 131 on the display unit 143. For example, the control unit 145 may display the alignment of the OCT device 131 to the eye being examined as the observation image 1014 on the display unit 143. The display may be in real time.

[0175] The OCT device 131 performs alignment on the eye under examination based on linked information associated with the subject identification information obtained from the database 101. The operator can remotely monitor the alignment process of the OCT device 131 on the eye under examination using the terminal 141. For example, a joystick may be connected to the terminal device 141 as an input unit 144. The control unit 145 may control the OCT device 131 based on the operator's joystick operation.

[0176] The control unit 145 can remotely control the start of imaging by the OCT device 131.

[0177] For example, the control unit 145 can remotely start imaging with the OCT device 131 based on input from the operator to the input unit 144. The operator can remotely check the imaging results of the OCT device 131 using the terminal 141. For example, the control unit 145 may display the imaging results of the OCT device 131 on the display unit 143. The control unit 145 may also decide whether to start re-imaging based on input from the operator to the input unit 144 (for example, an input indicating imaging failure).

[0178] <Integration Settings> The terminal device 141 of this embodiment includes a function for configuring the coordination settings of multiple inspection devices that communicate with the database 101. The coordination settings are as shown in the second embodiment.

[0179] In this embodiment, a database, multiple inspection devices that communicate with the database, and a terminal device that manages the multiple inspection devices remotely are shown, but the embodiment is not limited to these.

[0180] For example, the database may not be a separate device but may be included in the terminal device 141.

[0181] This embodiment makes it possible to remotely manage the testing equipment using a terminal device. This allows examiners to manage the status of each testing device without having to travel to the location where the device is located. Since examiners can remotely perform examinations of subjects using the terminal device, the time required for eye examinations can be shortened.

[0182] (Fourth embodiment) This embodiment describes a configuration in which collaborative information, replicated and shared using Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), is shared among multiple inspection devices.

[0183] By sharing linked information using distributed ledger technology, a separate database for managing linked information becomes unnecessary. Because centralized management of linked information via a database is no longer required, the system becomes more resilient to database-related system failures, enabling the provision of a more robust ophthalmic examination system.

[0184] DLT allows multiple nodes (inspection devices) to manage shared coordination information (hereinafter referred to as distributed coordination information). When the distributed coordination information is updated by any inspection device, that update is also performed on the distributed coordination information managed by the other inspection devices. As a result, multiple inspection devices managing the distributed coordination information can always refer to the latest coordination information when performing inspections.

[0185] In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which the mutual conversion of unique linkage information and general-purpose linkage information is performed using the information conversion unit 105 of the database 101. In this embodiment, since a database is not required, the conversion unit that converts unique linkage information and general-purpose linkage information is provided in each inspection device.

[0186] In this embodiment, distributed linkage information is managed using a general-purpose linkage information structure. When each inspection device acquires linkage information, it first obtains general-purpose linkage information from the distributed linkage information, and then converts it into its own unique linkage information. Similarly, when updating linkage information in the distributed linkage information, it first converts it into general-purpose linkage information, and then updates the distributed linkage information.

[0187] By managing distributed collaboration information in the form of general-purpose collaboration information, it becomes possible to manage common collaboration information across each inspection device.

[0188] In this embodiment, the management of replicated and shared collaborative information by multiple inspection devices provides a robust configuration against system failures caused by the database. Furthermore, when introducing new inspection devices to an inspection facility, the newly introduced devices can use the collaborative information replicated by DLT, making the introduction of inspection devices easier.

[0189] (Other embodiments) Furthermore, the disclosed technology can also be realized by performing the following process: that is, the disclosed technology can also be realized by supplying software (programs) that implement one or more functions of the various embodiments described above to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and the computer (or CPU, MPU, etc.) of that system or device reads and executes the program. The computer may have one or more processors or circuits and may include a network of separate computers or separate processors or circuits for reading and executing computer executable instructions. In this case, the processor or circuit may include a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field-programmable gateway (FPGA). The processor or circuit may also include a digital signal processor (DSP), a dataflow processor (DFP), or a neural processing unit (NPU).

[0190] (Composition 1) A conversion unit that converts first information regarding the control results of one of the ophthalmic devices, obtained from one of the ophthalmic devices, which is a first ophthalmic device used for examining the eye of a subject and a second ophthalmic device of a different type from the first ophthalmic device, into second information usable by the other ophthalmic device, An information processing device comprising: a communication unit for transmitting the second information to the other ophthalmic device.

[0191] (Configuration 2) The information processing device according to configuration 1, wherein the second ophthalmic device is of a different type from the first ophthalmic device.

[0192] (Composition 3) The information processing device according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein one of the first ophthalmic device and the second ophthalmic device is an OCT device, and the other ophthalmic device is a fundus camera.

[0193] (Composition 4) The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the first information is at least one of the alignment result in an examination using the one ophthalmic device, or the examination result in the examination.

[0194] (Composition 5) The alignment result is the distance between the position of the drive unit of one of the ophthalmic devices and the reference position of the drive unit. The information processing device according to configuration 4, wherein the test result is at least one of refractive power, pupil diameter, and axial length.

[0195] (Composition 6) The conversion unit converts, based on the functions of the other ophthalmic device, the first information corresponding to the function among a plurality of first pieces of information relating to the control results of the one ophthalmic device acquired from the one ophthalmic device, into the second information, according to any configuration 1 to 5.

[0196] (Composition 7) The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the conversion unit converts the first information usable by the one ophthalmic device, obtained from the one ophthalmic device, into a third information different from the first information and the second information, and converts the third information into the second information usable by the other ophthalmic device.

[0197] (Composition 8) The information processing device according to configuration 7, further comprising an update unit that updates the third information using the control result controlled by the other ophthalmic device using the second information.

[0198] (Composition 9) Multiple ophthalmic devices used for examining the eye of the subject, An information processing system comprising an information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, which is communicably connected to the aforementioned plurality of ophthalmic devices.

[0199] (Method 1) A conversion step that converts first information regarding the control results of one ophthalmic device, obtained from one of two ophthalmic devices (a first ophthalmic device used for examining the eye of a subject and a second ophthalmic device different from the first ophthalmic device), into second information usable by the other ophthalmic device, An information processing method comprising a communication step of transmitting the second information to the other ophthalmic device.

[0200] (Program 1) A program that causes a computer to execute the information processing method described in Method 1. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0201] 100 databases 111 Lefkera 121 Fundus camera 131 OCT device 102 Communications Department 105 Information Conversion Unit 107 Information Update Department

Claims

1. A conversion unit that converts first information regarding the control results of one of the ophthalmic devices, obtained from one of the ophthalmic devices, which is a first ophthalmic device used for examining the eye of a subject and a second ophthalmic device of a different type from the first ophthalmic device, into second information usable by the other ophthalmic device, An information processing device comprising: a communication unit for transmitting the second information to the other ophthalmic device.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second ophthalmic device is of a different type from the first ophthalmic device.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one of the first ophthalmic apparatus and the second ophthalmic apparatus is an OCT apparatus, and the other ophthalmic apparatus is a fundus camera.

4. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the first information is at least one of the alignment result in an examination using the one ophthalmic device, and the examination result in the examination.

5. The alignment result is the distance between the position of the drive unit of one of the ophthalmic devices and the reference position of the drive unit. The information processing device according to claim 4, wherein the inspection result is at least one of refractive power, pupil diameter, and axial length.

6. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the conversion unit converts, based on the functions of the other ophthalmic device, the first information corresponding to the function among a plurality of first pieces of information relating to the control results of the one ophthalmic device obtained from the one ophthalmic device, into the second information.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conversion unit converts the first information, which is available for use in the one ophthalmic device and obtained from the one ophthalmic device, into a third information that is different from the first information and the second information, and converts the third information into the second information that is available for use in the other ophthalmic device.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising an update unit that updates the third information using the control result controlled by the other ophthalmic device using the second information.

9. Multiple ophthalmic devices used for examining the eye of the subject, An information processing system comprising an information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which is communicably connected to the plurality of ophthalmic devices.

10. A conversion step that converts first information regarding the control results of one ophthalmic device, obtained from one of the ophthalmic devices, which is a first ophthalmic device used for examining the eye of the subject, into second information that can be used by the other ophthalmic device, An information processing method comprising a communication step of transmitting the second information to the other ophthalmic device.

11. A program that causes a computer to execute the information processing method described in claim 10.

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