Defibrillator and its control method

Abstract

To provide a defibrillator and a control method thereof that enables the rapid resumption of procedures interrupted by power supply replacement. [Solution] This defibrillator uses a replaceable power supply. When the defibrillator is started by connecting the power supply, it obtains the elapsed time from the time stored in the defibrillator. If the elapsed time does not exceed a predetermined time, the defibrillator does not perform a self-diagnostic operation and transitions to a state where defibrillation can be performed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a defibrillator and a control method thereof.

Background Art

[0002] Some defibrillators, such as an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), are known to have a guidance function that explains necessary operation procedures, cardiopulmonary resuscitation methods, etc. to the user by voice or image (Patent Document 1). The guidance function of the defibrillator is configured to automatically start when the power of the defibrillator is turned on and present content according to the elapsed time, the operating state of the defibrillator, the detected operation content, etc.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Since the defibrillator operates using a battery as a power source, when the battery is depleted due to natural discharge or use of the defibrillator, the power source needs to be replaced. And the power source replacement may also be required during the use of the defibrillator. Conventionally, when the power source of the defibrillator is replaced, the operation at startup after replacement is the same regardless of the timing of replacement, and generally a self-test is executed.

[0005] Therefore, even when it is desired to replace the power source during use and immediately resume the resuscitation procedure, unnecessary time may be required until the resuscitation procedure can be resumed because a self-test is started or guidance regarding a procedure that has already ended is started.

[0006] In view of the problems of the prior art, the present invention, in one embodiment, provides a defibrillator and a control method therefor that enables the rapid resumption of a procedure interrupted by a power supply change. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a defibrillator that uses a replaceable power supply and, when activated by connecting the power supply, includes an acquisition means for acquiring the elapsed time from a time stored in the defibrillator, and a control means for controlling the operation of the defibrillator, wherein the control means controls the defibrillator so that if the elapsed time does not exceed a predetermined time, it does not perform a self-diagnostic operation and transitions to a state in which defibrillation can be performed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a defibrillator and a control method thereof can be provided that enables the rapid resumption of a procedure interrupted by a power supply change. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an AED as an example of a defibrillator. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the transition of the operating states of an AED according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] A diagram showing the guidance data used by the AED according to this embodiment in chronological order. [Figure 4] Flowchart illustrating the operation of the AED according to the embodiment [Figure 5] Flowchart illustrating the operation of the AED according to the embodiment [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention as defined in the claims, and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are essential to the invention. Two or more of the features described in the embodiments may be combined in any way. Furthermore, identical or similar configurations will be given the same reference numeral, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0011] (defibrillator) This section describes the AED100 as an example of a defibrillator. The AED100 is a device that electrically eliminates cardiac fibrillation (such as ventricular fibrillation) by applying pulsed high voltage to the patient's chest. In recent years, it has been installed in various locations such as apartment buildings, large stores, office buildings, and train stations.

[0012] Because the AED100 needs to be used near a patient, it is configured to operate on batteries so that it can be used in environments without an external power source. Therefore, the batteries need to be replaced when the battery level falls below a threshold or when a battery malfunction is detected.

[0013] The AED100 is configured to perform a self-diagnostic operation (self-test) periodically and at predetermined events, such as when the battery is replaced, to ensure that it functions correctly in an emergency. If an abnormality is detected, the device will prompt inspection or repair by changing the color of its indicator from green to red, and will also transmit data to an external source indicating the self-test results and information about the AED100's status. The execution of the self-test and the actions taken in response to the self-test results are collectively called the self-test function.

[0014] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the AED100. The CPU 101 controls the operation of the AED100 by loading a program stored in the ROM 102 into the RAM 103 and executing it.

[0015] The ROM 102, which may be an electrically rewritable non-volatile memory, stores the program executed by the CPU 101, as well as data for voice messages, AED 100-specific information, and setting values. The AED 100-specific information may include the serial number, model name, and warranty expiration date. In addition, a portion of the ROM 102 may be used to store the results of the self-test, the expiration date of the electrode pads, and the electrocardiogram measured during use.

[0016] Power supply 108 is a replaceable battery that supplies power to all parts of the AED100 for operation. The power supply from power supply 108 to each part is controlled by the power control unit 107. In standby mode, the power control unit 107 reduces the power supply to the minimum necessary to conserve power from power supply 108.

[0017] The voltage detection unit 113 monitors the voltage supplied from the power supply 108. When the voltage of the power supply 108 falls below a predetermined threshold, the voltage detection unit 113 notifies the CPU 101. When the CPU 101 is notified by the voltage detection unit 113 that the voltage of the power supply 108 has fallen below a predetermined threshold, it starts the shutdown operation of the AED 100. When the CPU 101 starts the shutdown operation, it also notifies the user via the output unit 111 using voice and images that the power supply 108 needs to be replaced.

[0018] The voltage detection unit 113 also detects the installation of the power supply 108 based on changes in the voltage supplied from the power supply 108. For example, the voltage detection unit 113 detects the installation of the power supply 108 based on the difference in the pattern of voltage increase when the power supply 108 is powered on while it is installed, and when the power supply 108 is installed after being disconnected. When the voltage detection unit 113 detects the installation of the power supply 108, it notifies the CPU 101. Note that the installation of the power supply 108 may be detected by other methods. Furthermore, the removal of the power supply 108 may also be detected.

[0019] Timer 104 is a timing means and has an auxiliary power source for continuing operation even when the power supply 108 is removed. Timer 104 has a calendar function and a clock function. Also, since Timer 104 executes a self-test at a preset period, it generates an interrupt signal to the power control unit 107 to activate AED 100.

[0020] The communication unit 105 is a communication module compliant with one or more wireless communication standards such as, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) or wireless LAN. AED 100 (CPU 101) can perform wireless communication with an external device through the communication unit 105.

[0021] The operation unit 106 is a button (such as a power button, a shock button, etc.) provided on the housing of AED 100. The output unit 111 is a status indicator, a display, a speaker, etc. The voltage generation unit 109 generates a voltage for giving an electric shock for defibrillation according to the control of CPU 101. The electrode pad 110 is attached to the patient's chest. The electrode pad 110 is detachable. The electrode pad 110 is provided with a non-volatile memory, and information (such as expiration date) of the electrode pad 110 is stored. The information of the electrode pad 110 can be acquired by CPU 101.

[0022] Note that since the operation of each part when using AED 100 on a patient is not directly related to the present invention, its description is omitted.

[0023] In the standby state (standby mode) waiting for an explicit power-on instruction by the user (such as an operation of the power button of the operation unit 106 or an operation of opening the case of AED 100), power is supplied only to the parts necessary for detecting the power-on instruction and Timer 104. Timer 104 generates an interrupt signal to the power control unit 107 every predetermined time (such as 24 hours) as the execution period of the self-test.

[0024] The power control unit 107 supplies power to each component to activate the AED 100 when it detects an explicit power-on instruction from the user or an interrupt signal from the timer 104. The CPU 101 starts a self-test if, for example, the power supply is not due to an explicit power-on instruction. The self-test can also be performed in response to a user instruction via the operation unit 106, or when a predetermined event is detected, such as the connection of the power supply 108.

[0025] The CPU 101 executes a self-test program. The self-test checks the remaining power and expiration date of the power supply 108, the operation of the voltage generator, the condition of the electrode pads 110 (presence or absence of disconnections) and their expiration date, and the operation of the output unit. The CPU 101 saves the results of the self-test, along with the execution date and time, to the ROM 102.

[0026] Furthermore, if an external device is available for communication, for example through the communication unit 105, the CPU 101 can generate data for external transmission and store it in the RAM 103 once the self-test is complete. The data for external transmission includes, for example, data representing the self-test results as well as information about the AED 100. The CPU 101 then transmits the data for external transmission stored in the RAM 103 to the external device through the communication unit 105.

[0027] (AED100 state transitions) Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the main state transitions of the AED100. Figure 2 is primarily intended to explain the transitions in the AED's operating state when the power supply 108 is replaced, and does not comprehensively describe the operating states and transitions of the AED100.

[0028] The power loss state is when power supply 108 is disconnected. If power supply 108 is connected and the power is off, the AED100 operates in standby mode. Therefore, the following description will explain the state transitions starting from standby mode.

[0029] In standby mode, the AED100 automatically activates when it is time to perform a periodic self-test and transitions to self-test mode as shown in (6). Also, if a predetermined time has elapsed since transitioning from defibrillation mode to standby mode, the AED100 will transition to self-test mode.

[0030] In self-test mode, the AED100 performs the self-test described above, stores the self-test results in ROM102 or transmits them to a communicable external device, and then returns to standby mode as shown in (7). Also, when operating in standby mode or self-test mode, or during the execution of the power-on self-test described later, if a power-on instruction (such as pressing the power button or opening the case) is detected, the AED100 transitions to defibrillation mode as shown in (4).

[0031] Defibrillation mode is the operating state when the AED100 is used on a patient, specifically the state in which defibrillation (delivery of an electric shock) can be performed. In defibrillation mode, the AED100 provides guidance to the user, presenting instructions on how to operate the AED100, such as how to attach the electrode pads and how to deliver an electric shock, as well as the patient's cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedure, through at least one of images and audio. Furthermore, once the AED100 detects that the electrode pads have been attached, it performs an electrocardiogram analysis to determine whether an electric shock is necessary, and delivers an electric shock to the patient according to the user's operation and the determination result.

[0032] In defibrillation mode, if a power-off instruction (such as pressing the power button or closing the case) is detected, or if a certain period of time has passed without any operation, the AED100 will perform a shutdown operation and transition to standby mode as shown in (5). Also, if the voltage of the power supply 108 falls below a threshold, the AED100 will perform a shutdown operation and transition to standby mode as shown in (5).

[0033] Thus, when the power supply 108 is not disconnected, the AED100 normally operates in one of the following modes: standby mode, self-test mode, or defibrillation mode.

[0034] Next, we will explain what happens when the power supply 108 is removed from the AED 100 for any reason. For example, if the power supply 108 is removed while the AED 100 is operating in standby mode, the AED 100 will transition to a power loss state as shown in (8). Note that Figure 2 only shows the case where the power supply 108 is removed in standby mode, but the power supply 108 can be removed in any operating state other than the power loss state. Regardless of the operating state, if the power supply 108 is removed, the AED 100 will transition to a power loss state.

[0035] If the connection of power supply 108 is detected in a power loss state, the AED 100 will automatically start up even without a power-on instruction. When started up in response to the detection of the connection of power supply 108, the AED 100 will either transition to the power supply self-test mode as shown in (1) or to the defibrillation mode as shown in (2). Specifically, if the elapsed time from the time stored in the ROM 102 of the AED 100 to the current time exceeds a predetermined time, it will transition to the power supply self-test mode; if the elapsed time does not exceed the predetermined time, it will transition to the defibrillation mode.

[0036] Here, the time stored in the ROM102 of the AED100 is: • The time the AED100 was last activated (for example, the time it detected a power-on command, or the time it entered defibrillation mode) or the time it was shut down. • The time when the AED100 last entered defibrillation mode. • The most recent recording time of the measurement data stored in ROM102 in defibrillation mode. • Time indicating the progress of guidance in defibrillation mode • The most recent time an electric shock was delivered in defibrillation mode. It may be any of the above. Note that these are examples, and any other time may be used as long as it is the time stored in ROM102 before the AED100 lost power.

[0037] Previously, when the power loss condition was resolved, the system would transition to a power-on self-test mode and could not directly transition to defibrillation mode. Therefore, for example, even if the power supply 108 needed to be replaced while resuscitation procedures, including electric shocks, were being performed on a patient in defibrillation mode, the power-on self-test would be initiated, and the resuscitation procedures could not be immediately resumed.

[0038] On the other hand, in this embodiment, if the elapsed time from the time stored in the ROM 102 of the AED 100 to the current time does not exceed a predetermined time, the AED 100 will immediately transition to defibrillation mode without performing a power supply self-test. Therefore, even if the power supply 108 is replaced while operating in defibrillation mode (i.e., if the resuscitation procedure is interrupted), it will be possible to immediately resume the resuscitation procedure.

[0039] The specified time should be set to the estimated time it takes for a typical user unfamiliar with the AED100 to replace the battery while it is operating in defibrillation mode, taking into account the time required for battery replacement. Since the structure and battery replacement method of the AED100 may vary depending on the model, the specified time may also vary depending on the AED100 model. However, as an example, it can be set to a few minutes to about 10 minutes.

[0040] (Guidance function) As mentioned above, the AED100 has a guidance function that provides users (rescuers) with guidance on how to operate the AED100, how to attach the electrode pads, the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) procedure for the patient, and the rhythm of chest compressions, using images and audio.

[0041] The image and audio data used for guidance (guidance data) is pre-stored in ROM 102. In addition, ROM 102 also pre-stores guidance information, for example in a table format, which defines the correspondence between each predetermined event, such as the status of AED 100, the operating status of AED 100, and operations on the control unit 106, and the guidance data to be presented.

[0042] When a predetermined event is detected, the CPU 101 identifies the guidance data to be presented by referring to the guidance information stored in the ROM 102. The CPU 101 then presents the guidance by outputting images and sounds based on the guidance data through the output unit 111. Specifically, the CPU 101 displays images on the display or plays sounds from the speaker based on the guidance data.

[0043] The status of the AED100 includes, for example, the voltage of the power supply 108, various elapsed times used for operation control, the attachment status of the electrode pads 110, and the signal level obtained from the electrode pads 110. The operating states of the AED100 include, for example, the standby mode, defibrillation mode, and self-test mode as described above. Furthermore, if there are multiple guidance messages that can be presented in a single operating state, each guidance message is called a phase. Note that these are examples, and other events may be specified.

[0044] In this embodiment, each event is associated with guidance data that includes at least one of one of one still image data (one or more frames) and one or more audio data. Each audio data is either audio data corresponding to at least one sentence or audio data of a certain duration or longer. By storing event-specific messages and messages common to multiple events as separate audio data, and combining the necessary audio data for each event, the total amount of audio data can be reduced. Furthermore, by using still images, the amount of data and the processing load during playback can be reduced.

[0045] Furthermore, if there is sufficient storage capacity in ROM102 or processing power in CPU101, the guidance data may be provided as video data.

[0046] Figure 3 shows guidance data used, for example, in defibrillation mode, in chronological order. Figure 3(a) shows the case where the guidance data is a combination of still images and audio, and Figure 3(b) shows the case where the guidance data is a video including audio. Regardless of the format of the guidance data, the content of the guidance presented is the same.

[0047] In Figure 3, for the sake of clarity and ease of explanation, the event is assumed to be only the fulfillment of a specific elapsed time. However, as mentioned above, the guidance content may change in response to other events, such as user actions, whether electrode pads are attached or not, or the results of the electrocardiogram analysis, in addition to the fulfillment of a specific elapsed time.

[0048] The guidance is divided into multiple phases. In defibrillation mode, the guidance can be divided into multiple phases to correspond to the procedures for basic life support. For example, it could be divided into a "start phase" that prompts calling 119 and checking the patient's consciousness and respiratory status, a "pad placement phase" that explains how to attach the electrode pads, an "ECG analysis phase" that provides support during ECG analysis, an "electric shock phase" that delivers an electric shock according to the ECG analysis results, and a "CPR phase" that repeats artificial respiration and chest compressions. Note that the phases may be defined in other ways.

[0049] CPU101 can, for example, execute phase-specific guidance as follows: First, it executes guidance for the initial phase. After the initial phase guidance is completed, it moves to the "pad attachment phase" and repeats the guidance on how to attach the electrode pads. Once the attachment of the electrode pads is confirmed in the pad attachment phase, it moves to the "ECG analysis phase" even if the guidance is still in progress. If the ECG analysis determines that an electric shock is necessary and energy charging is complete, it moves to the "electric shock phase" and begins guidance prompting the user to take action to deliver an electric shock. After the electric shock is delivered, it moves to the "CPR phase" and provides guidance on chest compression methods, rhythms, and artificial respiration methods, and after a certain period of time, it returns to the "ECG analysis phase" again.

[0050] As will be described later, in this embodiment, when transitioning directly from the power loss state to the defibrillation mode in the state transition diagram of Figure 2, the guidance is also controlled to resume from where it left off, thereby supporting the rapid resumption of the resuscitation procedure.

[0051] (Defibrillation mode operation) Next, the operation of the AED100 in defibrillation mode will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 4. The operation described below is performed by the CPU 101 reading the program stored in ROM 102 into RAM 103 and executing it. Alternatively, when the AED100 is started, the CPU 101 may obtain the current time (year, month, day, hour, minute, second) from the timer 104 and store it in ROM 102 as startup time information.

[0052] In S401, the CPU 101 refers to the guidance information stored in the ROM 102 and starts guidance by presenting guidance data from the output unit 111. If the starting position is determined by the startup process described later and stored in the RAM 103, the CPU 101 starts guidance from the determined starting position. On the other hand, if no starting position is specified, the CPU 101 starts guidance from the beginning (the position at time t0 in Figure 3).

[0053] During the execution of guidance, the CPU 101 stores identification information for the guidance data being presented (still image data and audio data, or video data) in the RAM 103. The CPU 101 also obtains the current time (year, month, day, hour, minute, second) from the timer 104 and the guidance data identification information from the RAM 103 at regular intervals, and stores and updates guidance progress information, linking the two, in the ROM 102. The guidance data identification information may be an ID for still images, a type of audio (A-G as shown in Figure 3) for audio, and a chapter number for video. Furthermore, for audio and video, information that identifies the playback position, such as a time code, may be included in the identification information.

[0054] In S402, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the electrode pads 110 have been attached. The CPU 101 can determine that the electrode pads 110 have been attached if the number of leads and signal level of the electrocardiogram signal obtained through the electrode pads reach a reference value. If the CPU 101 determines that the electrode pads 110 have been attached, it executes S403; otherwise, it repeatedly executes S402.

[0055] Alternatively, S402 may be executed before S401, and the content of the guidance may be changed depending on whether or not it is determined that the electrode pads 110 have been attached. Specifically, if the CPU 101 determines that the electrode pads 110 have been attached, the guidance that starts in S401 may be omitted from the guidance regarding how to attach the electrode pads.

[0056] In S403, the CPU 101 applies noise reduction, A / D conversion, filtering, and other processing to the electrocardiogram signal obtained through the electrode pads and sequentially stores it in the RAM 103. The CPU 101 also starts recording the electrocardiogram data from the RAM 103 to the ROM 102. The CPU 101 records the electrocardiogram data so that it can be read normally even if the power is unexpectedly lost.

[0057] At S405, the CPU 101 starts executing electrocardiogram analysis processing on the electrocardiogram data stored in RAM 103. For example, the CPU 101 performs electrocardiogram analysis processing on the electrocardiogram data for a recent period of time. The electrocardiogram analysis processing performed here is to determine whether or not there is a suspected condition in which defibrillation by electric shock would be effective, such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. The CPU 101 can perform electrocardiogram analysis processing in the same way as known electrocardiogram analysis devices.

[0058] In S407, the CPU 101 determines whether or not an electric shock is necessary based on the results of the electrocardiogram analysis. If the CPU 101 determines that an electric shock is necessary, it executes S409; otherwise, it executes S405.

[0059] In S409, the CPU 101 controls the voltage generator 109 and delivers an electric shock to the patient through the electrode pads 110. The CPU 101 may deliver an electric shock in response to user operation of the control unit 106, or it may deliver an electric shock automatically without user operation. The CPU 101 stores in the ROM 102 information about the number of electric shocks delivered and the amount of energy used to deliver the electric shock, associated with the current time obtained from the timer 104. Furthermore, if the CPU 101 transitions from a power loss state to defibrillation mode, and the number of electric shocks stored in the ROM 102 is 1 or more, it can deliver an electric shock with higher energy than if the number were 0. In this way, if defibrillation has already been performed before interruption, the amount of energy used for defibrillation after interruption can be increased to deliver an electric shock as recommended by guidelines (for example, the "JRC Resuscitation Guidelines 2020" supervised by the Japan Resuscitation Council).

[0060] In S411, the CPU 101 determines whether the conditions for transitioning to standby mode are met. As explained using Figure 3, the conditions for transitioning to standby mode may include no operation for a certain period of time or the detection of a power-off command. If the CPU 101 determines that the conditions for transitioning to standby mode are met, it executes S413; otherwise, it executes S405.

[0061] In S413, CPU101 executes the shutdown process. During the shutdown process, CPU101 terminates the guidance process and the storage of electrocardiogram data.

[0062] Furthermore, if the system transitions directly to defibrillation mode from a power loss state, it is presumed that the power supply was replaced while the system was operating in defibrillation mode (i.e., the resuscitation procedure was interrupted). Therefore, the CPU 101 can combine the data stored at the previous startup and the data stored at the current startup into a single data set (for example, by using known methods such as combining them into a single file or storing them together in a single folder) or associate them with each other (for example, by using known methods such as assigning filenames with sequential sub-numbers). Note that the combining and association of electrocardiogram data may be performed as part of the shutdown process or at other times. For example, the combining and association of electrocardiogram data may be performed as part of the startup process or as part of the process of sending electrocardiogram data to an external device.

[0063] Once the shutdown process is complete, the defibrillation mode operation ends, and the AED100 transitions to standby mode.

[0064] (Operation upon power supply connection) Next, the operation when the AED 100 is started by the installation of the power supply 108 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 5. As described above, the voltage detection unit 113 determines, based on the voltage rise pattern supplied by the power supply 108, whether the startup is due to a normal power-on instruction or a startup due to the installation of the power supply 108 after a power loss state, and notifies the CPU 101. Therefore, the operation described below is executed when the CPU 101 receives a notification from the voltage detection unit 113 indicating that the power supply 108 has been installed when the AED 100 is started up. Furthermore, the operation described below is performed by the CPU 101 reading the program stored in the ROM 102 into the RAM 103 and executing it.

[0065] In S501, CPU101 refers to ROM102 and retrieves the most recent time information stored in ROM102. This time information may be startup time information or guidance progress information. In S502, CPU101 obtains the current time from timer104.

[0066] In S503, CPU 101 calculates the elapsed time from the time indicated by the time information obtained in S501 to the current time obtained in S502. Then, in S507, CPU 101 determines whether the elapsed time exceeds the predetermined time mentioned above. If it is determined that the elapsed time exceeds the predetermined time, it executes S513; otherwise, it executes S509.

[0067] In S509, CPU 101 determines the starting position of the guidance to be executed after transitioning to defibrillation mode, based on the time information acquired in S501. Specifically, if the time information is the most recent startup time, CPU 101 determines the starting position of the guidance to be at the beginning of the entire guidance (the same as usual). On the other hand, if the time information is guidance progress information, it determines the starting position according to its content.

[0068] If the guidance progress information includes the ID of a still image, the CPU 101 can determine the start of the guidance to be the beginning of the phase in which the still image corresponding to the ID is presented. For example, if the guidance data is used in a time series as shown in Figure 3, if the ID of the still image is 1 or 2, the CPU 101 determines the beginning of Phase 1 to be the start of the guidance. Similarly, if the ID of the still image is 3 to 5, the CPU 101 determines the beginning of Phase 2 to be the start of the guidance. For example, the guidance information stored in the ROM 102 can include an association between the ID of a still image and the start of the phase in which that still image is presented (information from the beginning of the guidance data).

[0069] Furthermore, the guidance information stored in ROM102 may include the phase number corresponding to the still image ID, and the information of the initial guidance data for each phase number. Therefore, by specifying the still image ID or phase number as the starting position, guidance can be started from the beginning of a specific phase.

[0070] Alternatively, the CPU 101 may determine the starting position of the guidance as the position where the still image corresponding to the ID is first presented. In this case, as in the example in Figure 3, when the IDs are 1, 3, and 6, there is no difference from starting from the beginning of the phase, but when the IDs are 2, 4, and 5, the guidance starts in the middle of the phase.

[0071] Furthermore, if the guidance progress information includes the video chapter number, the CPU 101 can determine the start position of the guidance to be either the beginning of the phase containing the chapter or the beginning of the chapter itself.

[0072] Furthermore, if the guidance progress information includes information that identifies the playback position of the audio or video, the CPU 101 may determine the identified playback position as the starting position of the guidance.

[0073] The CPU 101 specifies the starting position of the guidance by storing the determined starting position in the RAM 103. However, if the determined starting position is the beginning of the entire guidance, the CPU 101 does not need to store the starting position in the RAM 103.

[0074] At S511, CPU101 transitions to defibrillation mode and performs the operation described using Figure 4.

[0075] In S513, the CPU 101 deletes guidance progress information and information on the number of defibrillation attempts from the ROM 102, and then starts the power-on self-test. When S513 is executed, the CPU 101 assumes that the power supply 108 was replaced in another operating mode, such as standby mode, rather than interrupting operation in defibrillation mode, and performs the self-test.

[0076] (modified version) Furthermore, the guidance may be controlled to resume from where it left off not only when starting from a power loss state, but also when it is presumed that the defibrillation mode was unintentionally interrupted and the system transitioned to standby mode. For example, if the system transitions to standby mode due to accidentally turning off the power of the AED100 in defibrillation mode, it is expected that the user will immediately turn on the power of the AED100. Therefore, even if a power-on instruction is detected within a predetermined time after transitioning from defibrillation mode to standby mode, the guidance can be resumed from where it left off. Specifically, the CPU101 stores the current time in the ROM102 when executing the shutdown process. Then, when the system is started by a power-on instruction, the CPU101 determines whether the elapsed time from the execution of the most recent shutdown process to the current time at startup exceeds a predetermined time. If the CPU101 determines that the elapsed time does not exceed the predetermined time, it can determine the starting position of the guidance based on the guidance progress information, similar to when starting from a power loss state.

[0077] As described above, according to this embodiment, when starting up from a power loss state, if it is estimated that the power supply was replaced while the defibrillator was in use, the device transitions to a state where defibrillation can be performed without performing a self-diagnostic operation. Therefore, it is possible to provide a defibrillator and its control method that enables the rapid resumption of procedures interrupted by power supply replacement.

[0078] Furthermore, if the system transitions to a state where defibrillation can be performed without executing a self-diagnostic procedure, the guidance can be started from a point corresponding to the progress of the guidance that was running before the power supply was replaced, further supporting the rapid resumption of procedures that were interrupted by the power supply replacement.

[0079] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0080] This embodiment includes the following defibrillator and its control method, as well as a program. (Item 1) A defibrillator that uses a replaceable power supply, When activated by the installation of the aforementioned power supply, the defibrillator includes an acquisition means for acquiring the elapsed time from the time stored in the defibrillator, The defibrillator has control means for controlling its operation, The control means controls the defibrillator such that, if the elapsed time does not exceed a predetermined time, it transitions to a state in which defibrillation can be performed without performing a self-diagnostic operation. (Item 2) The defibrillator according to item 1, characterized in that the control means determines, if the elapsed time does not exceed the predetermined time, the starting position of guidance by at least one of voice and image, which is initiated after transitioning to a state in which defibrillation can be performed, based on guidance progress information stored in association with the time. (Item 3) The defibrillator according to item 2, characterized in that the guidance relates to the operation of the defibrillator and the patient resuscitation procedure. (Item 4) If the progress information includes image identification information, the control means, A defibrillator according to item 2 or 3, characterized in that the position where the image corresponding to the identification information is first presented or the position associated with the image corresponding to the identification information is determined as the starting position. (Item 5) The defibrillator according to item 2 or 3, characterized in that, if the progress information includes information that identifies the playback position of the video, the control means determines the playback position as the starting position. (Item 6) The defibrillator according to any one of items 1 to 5, characterized in that, if the control means transitions to a state in which defibrillation can be performed without performing the self-diagnostic operation, and if information indicating that defibrillation has been performed is stored in the defibrillator, the amount of energy used in the next defibrillation will be increased compared to when such information is not stored. (Item 7) The defibrillator according to any one of items 1 to 6, characterized in that the control means controls the defibrillator to store information indicating the progress of the guidance when the defibrillator is performing guidance by at least one of voice and image when the defibrillator is in a state where it can perform defibrillation. (Item 8) The defibrillator according to item 7, characterized in that the control means controls the defibrillator to update information indicating the progress of the guidance while the guidance is being performed. (Item 9) The defibrillator according to any one of items 1 to 8, characterized in that the control means controls the defibrillator to store electrocardiogram data obtained when the defibrillator is in a state in which it can perform defibrillation. (Item 10) The defibrillator according to item 9, characterized in that, if the control means transitions to a state in which defibrillation can be performed without performing the self-diagnostic operation, it controls the defibrillator so as to associate the electrocardiogram data stored after transitioning to the state in which defibrillation can be performed with the electrocardiogram data stored at the most recent startup, so as to be treated as a single case data. (Item 11) The defibrillator according to any one of items 1 to 10, characterized in that when the defibrillator is started by a power-on instruction, the control means controls the defibrillator to transition to a state in which defibrillation can be performed without performing a self-diagnostic operation of the defibrillator if the elapsed time since the execution of the most recent shutdown process does not exceed the predetermined time. (Item 12) The defibrillator according to any one of items 1 to 11, characterized in that when the defibrillator is activated by a power-on instruction, if the elapsed time since the most recent shutdown process does not exceed the predetermined time, the control means determines the starting position of at least one of the voice and image guidance, which is to be started after transitioning to a state in which defibrillation can be performed, based on guidance progress information stored in association with the time. (Item 13) The defibrillator according to any one of items 1 to 12, characterized in that the control means controls the defibrillator to perform the self-diagnostic operation when the elapsed time exceeds the predetermined time. (Item 14) A control method performed by a defibrillator using a replaceable power supply, When the device is started by installing the aforementioned power supply, the elapsed time from the time stored in the defibrillator is obtained, To determine whether the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined time, If the elapsed time is not determined to exceed a predetermined time, the defibrillator will not perform its self-diagnostic operation and will transition to a state where defibrillation can be performed. A method for controlling a defibrillator, characterized by having the following features. (Item 15) A program to cause the computer of a defibrillator using a replaceable power supply to function as one of the means of the defibrillator described in any one of items 1 through 13.

[0081] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, claims are attached to disclose the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 100...Defibrillator (AED), 101...CPU, 102...ROM, 103...RAM, 110...Electrode pads, 113...Voltage detection unit

Claims

1. A defibrillator that uses a replaceable power supply, When activated by the installation of the aforementioned power supply, the defibrillator includes an acquisition means for acquiring the elapsed time from the time stored in the defibrillator, The defibrillator has control means for controlling its operation, The control means controls the defibrillator such that, if the elapsed time does not exceed a predetermined time, it transitions to a state in which defibrillation can be performed without performing a self-diagnostic operation.

2. The defibrillator according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means determines, if the elapsed time does not exceed the predetermined time, the starting position of guidance by at least one of voice and image, which is initiated after transitioning to a state in which defibrillation can be performed, based on guidance progress information stored in association with the time.

3. The defibrillator according to claim 2, characterized in that the guidance relates to the operation of the defibrillator and the patient resuscitation procedure.

4. If the progress information includes image identification information, the control means, The defibrillator according to claim 2, characterized in that the starting position is determined as the position where the image corresponding to the identification information is first presented or the position associated with the image corresponding to the identification information.

5. The defibrillator according to claim 2, characterized in that, if the progress information includes information that identifies the playback position of the video, the control means determines the playback position as the starting position.

6. The defibrillator according to claim 1, characterized in that, if the control means transitions to a state in which defibrillation can be performed without performing the self-diagnostic operation, and if information indicating that defibrillation has been performed is stored in the defibrillator, the amount of energy used in the next defibrillation is increased compared to when it is not stored.

7. The defibrillator according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means controls the defibrillator to store information indicating the progress of the guidance when the defibrillator is performing guidance by at least one of voice and image when the defibrillator is in a state where it can perform defibrillation.

8. The defibrillator according to claim 7, characterized in that the control means controls the defibrillator to update information indicating the progress of the guidance while the guidance is being executed.

9. The defibrillator according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means controls the defibrillator to store electrocardiogram data obtained when the defibrillator is in a state in which it can perform defibrillation.

10. The defibrillator according to claim 9, characterized in that, if the control means transitions to a state in which defibrillation can be performed without performing the self-diagnostic operation, it controls the defibrillator so as to associate the electrocardiogram data stored after transitioning to the state in which defibrillation can be performed with the electrocardiogram data stored at the most recent startup, so as to be treated as a single case data.

11. The defibrillator according to claim 1, characterized in that when the defibrillator is started by a power-on instruction, the control means controls the defibrillator to transition to a state in which defibrillation can be performed without performing a self-diagnostic operation of the defibrillator if the elapsed time since the execution of the most recent shutdown process does not exceed the predetermined time.

12. The defibrillator according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the defibrillator is activated by a power-on instruction, if the elapsed time since the execution of the most recent shutdown process does not exceed the predetermined time, the control means determines the starting position of at least one of the voice and image guidance, which is to be started after transitioning to a state in which defibrillation can be performed, based on the guidance progress information stored in association with the time.

13. The defibrillator according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means controls the defibrillator to perform the self-diagnostic operation if the elapsed time exceeds the predetermined time.

14. A control method performed by a defibrillator using a replaceable power supply, When the device is started by installing the aforementioned power supply, the elapsed time from the time stored in the defibrillator is obtained, To determine whether the elapsed time exceeds a predetermined time, If the elapsed time is not determined to exceed a predetermined time, the defibrillator will not perform its self-diagnostic operation and will transition to a state where defibrillation can be performed. A method for controlling a defibrillator, characterized by having the following features.

15. A program for causing a computer in a defibrillator using a replaceable power supply to function as each of the means in the defibrillator according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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