Blood purification system and processing program

Abstract

To provide a blood purification system that can improve convenience and safety. [Solution] The system comprises multiple blood purification units, a dialysate supply unit, a dissolution unit, a dialysate water purification unit, and a communication line unit that connects at least two of the blood purification units, dialysate supply units, dissolution units, and dialysate water purification units to communicate with each other. At least one of the components of the group, which includes multiple blood purification units, dialysate supply units, dissolution units, and dialysate water purification units, is designated as the control source, and a component of the group different from the control source is designated as the control destination. When the operator of the group selects the multiple blood purification units, dialysate supply units, dissolution units, and dialysate water purification units as the control source, they generate control commands for the control destination and send them to the control destination, and when the operator of the group selects the control destination, they perform control according to the control commands received from the control source.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a blood purification system for performing blood purification treatment on a patient and a processing program executed in each component of the system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as an example of a blood purification system for performing blood purification treatment on a patient, a dialysis system composed of a plurality of devices is known. The dialysis system has a configuration in which an RO device, a dissolving device, a dialysate supply device, and a dialysis device (monitoring device) are connected via pipes. Each device constituting the dialysis system includes an operation unit (input unit) for operating the device, and a display unit (output unit) for displaying information related to the functions and processing of each device.

[0003] Furthermore, the respective devices constituting the dialysis system have different applications and functions, and are also installed in different locations. Therefore, medical personnel (doctors, nurses, etc.) who operate and manage the dialysis system need to move between devices to drive and control each device, which increases the labor and burden on the medical personnel. From the perspective of reducing such burden, remote control of each device by other control terminals or the like has been implemented. For example, in Patent Document 1, it is possible to control the dialysis device using a remote control device owned by the medical personnel.

[0004] By the way, as a technology for remote control between devices, from the perspective of power saving measures, a technology called Wake on LAN (WOL) that remotely turns on the power of a computer connected to a computer network such as a LAN is known. In recent years, WOL has also been adopted for devices used in the medical field. For example, Patent Document 2 discloses that an imaging device control unit in a radiography system supports WOL, and can remotely switch between a WOL standby state which is a low power consumption mode and a power-on state.

Prior Art Literature

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Patent Publication No. 2018 / 001953 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-86333 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, as with the conventional technology described above, if the power supply or drive control of a specific device can only be performed remotely from a designated device, there is a problem in that if the designated device fails, the operation of the entire system becomes impossible, or it becomes impossible to adequately address the malfunction. In particular, these problems are more likely to occur in blood purification systems composed of multiple devices of different types, and there is a risk that the convenience and safety of the blood purification system will be insufficient.

[0007] This disclosure has been made in view of these challenges, and its purpose is to provide a blood purification system and processing program that can improve convenience and safety. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a blood purification system is provided that includes "a plurality of blood purification units for purifying a patient's blood; a dialysate supply unit for supplying dialysate to the blood purification units; a dissolving unit for supplying dialysate concentrate to the dialysate supply unit; a dialysate purification unit for purifying dialysate and supplying it to at least one of the dialysate supply unit and the dissolving unit; and a communication line unit for communicating with at least two of the plurality of blood purification units, the dialysate supply unit, the dissolving unit, and the dialysate purification unit, wherein at least one of the group of components including the plurality of blood purification units, the dialysate supply unit, the dissolving unit, and the dialysate purification unit is designated as a control source, and a different component from the control source among the group of components is designated as a control destination, wherein the plurality of blood purification units, the dialysate supply unit, the dissolving unit, and the dialysate purification unit generate and transmit control commands to the control destination when selected as the control source, and perform control according to the control commands received from the control source when selected as the control destination."

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a processing program is provided which is executed in each configuration of a blood purification system, with at least one of a group of components including a plurality of blood purification units for purifying a patient's blood, a dialysate supply unit for supplying dialysate to the blood purification units, a dissolving unit for supplying dialysate concentrate to the dialysate supply unit, and a dialysate purification unit for purifying dialysate and supplying it to at least one of the dialysate supply unit and the dissolving unit as the control source, and a configuration from the group of components different from the control source as the control destination, wherein when the input of selection as the control source is received, the processing program generates a control command that causes the control destination to execute a predetermined control, transmits the control command to the control destination, and when the control command is received from the control source, executes a control corresponding to the control command. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] This disclosure provides a blood purification system and processing program that can improve convenience and safety.

[0011] The effects described above are merely illustrative for the sake of explanation, and the effects relating to this disclosure are not limited to those described above. In addition to the effects described above, any other effects described herein may be achieved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing the mechanical configuration of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing the communication configuration of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This block diagram shows a schematic representation of the electrical configuration of the RO device in the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This block diagram shows a schematic electrical configuration of the agent A dissolving device of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This block diagram shows a schematic electrical configuration of the B agent dissolving device of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This block diagram shows a schematic electrical configuration of the dialysate supply device of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This block diagram shows a schematic electrical configuration of the dialysis apparatus of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This block diagram shows a schematic electrical configuration of a different type of dialysis machine of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a block diagram showing a schematic electrical configuration of a terminal device of a blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a sequence diagram showing an example of the control process in the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of information transmission and reception in the communication configuration of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of information transmission and reception in the communication configuration of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13]It is a processing flow at a control source of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a sequence diagram showing an example of control processing in the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of transmission and reception of information in the communication configuration of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a processing flow at a control source of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a sequence diagram showing an example of control processing in the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of transmission and reception of information in the communication configuration of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of transmission and reception of information in the communication configuration of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 20] It is a sequence diagram showing an example of control processing in the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 21] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of transmission and reception of information in the communication configuration of the blood purification system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 22] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of transmission and reception of information in the communication configuration of the blood purification system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 23] It is a schematic diagram showing the communication configuration of the blood purification system according to the third embodiment. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0013] The blood purification system and its various components will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. This disclosure is not limited to the content described below, and can be modified and implemented as such without altering its essence. Furthermore, the drawings used in each embodiment schematically represent the blood purification system and various devices related to blood purification, their components, and the blood purification unit including these. Partial emphasis, enlargement, reduction, or omission have been made to enhance understanding, and the scale and shape of each component may not be accurately represented. Additionally, some numerical values ​​used in each embodiment are examples only and can be changed as needed. Common components in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0014] <First Embodiment> (Configuration of the blood purification system) First, the configuration of the blood purification system of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Here, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the mechanical configuration of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. In particular, Figure 1 shows the connection relationships of the fluid supply between each component constituting the blood purification system 1. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the communication configuration of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. In particular, Figure 2 shows the communication connection relationships between each component constituting the blood purification system 1.

[0015] The blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment is for preparing a dialysate of a predetermined concentration from a dialysate stock solution and using this dialysate to perform dialysis treatment, which is an example of blood purification treatment for patient H1. In order to prepare the dialysate and perform dialysis treatment in this manner, the blood purification system 1 has a configuration in which an RO device 10, an A agent dissolving device 20, a B agent dissolving device 30, a dialysate supply device 40, and multiple dialysis machines 50, 60, which are monitoring devices for monitoring dialysis treatment, are connected by piping. Here, the multiple dialysis machines 50, 60 are installed in a dialysis room R1, which is a treatment room in a medical facility such as a hospital. On the other hand, the RO device 10, the A agent dissolving device 20, the B agent dissolving device 30, and the dialysate supply device 40 are installed in a machine room R2, which is located in a different location from the dialysis room R1. Furthermore, in the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment, the RO device 10, the A agent dissolving device 20, the B agent dissolving device 30, the dialysate supply device 40, and the dialysis machines 50, 60 form a group of components that constitute the blood purification system 1.

[0016] As shown in Figure 1, each device constituting the blood purification system 1 is connected by a group of pipes 2 consisting of multiple pipes. Specifically, the RO device 10 is connected to pipe L1 for introducing raw water and pipe L2 for discharging RO water. The A agent dissolving device 20 is connected to pipe L2 for introducing RO water supplied from the RO device 10 and pipe L3 for discharging A concentrate, which is the dialysate concentrate. Furthermore, the B agent dissolving device 30 is connected to pipe L2 for introducing RO water supplied from the RO device 10 and pipe L4 for discharging B concentrate, which is the dialysate concentrate. The dialysate supply device 40 is connected to pipe L2 for introducing RO water supplied from the RO device 10, pipe L3 for introducing A concentrate supplied from the A agent dissolving device 20, pipe L4 for introducing B concentrate supplied from the B agent dissolving device 30, and pipe L5 for discharging dialysate. In addition, the dialysis machine 50 is connected to pipe L5 for introducing dialysate supplied from the dialysate supply device 40. Meanwhile, the dialysis machine 60 is connected to a pipe L2 for introducing RO water supplied from the RO unit 10, a pipe L3 for introducing concentrate A supplied from the A agent dissolving unit 20, and a pipe L4 for introducing concentrate B supplied from the B agent dissolving unit 30.

[0017] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment has a terminal device 70 operated by an operator H2, who is a medical professional (such as a doctor or nurse) who operates and manages the blood purification system 1. The terminal device 70 is installed, for example, in a control room R3, which is a different location from the dialysis room R1 and the machine room R2. Depending on the type of terminal device 70, the terminal device 70 may be installed in the dialysis room R1 or the machine room R2, or the operator H2 may carry the terminal device 70 with them.

[0018] As shown in Figure 2, the blood purification system 1 has a communication line section 80 that connects each device of the blood purification system 1 to each other in a manner that allows them to communicate with one another. In this embodiment, the communication line section 80 consists of a hub 81 and a LAN cable 82, which is an example of a wired communication cable. Therefore, each device constituting the blood purification system 1 can send and receive various types of information (bidirectional communication) via wired communication through the hub 81 and the LAN cable 82. In particular, in this embodiment, when such information is sent and received, the blood purification system 1 performs control processing related to starting, stopping, or driving each device.

[0019] In this embodiment, a control source (master unit) is selected from the RO device 10, A agent dissolving device 20, B agent dissolving device 30, dialysate supply device 40, dialysis machines 50, 60, and terminal device 70 that constitute the blood purification system 1, in order to control other devices. Furthermore, a control destination (slave unit) to be controlled by the control source is selected from the RO device 10, A agent dissolving device 20, B agent dissolving device 30, dialysate supply device 40, and dialysis machines 50, 60 that constitute the blood purification system 1. In other words, at least one of the components including the RO device 10, A agent dissolving device 20, B agent dissolving device 30, dialysate supply device 40, and dialysis machines 50, 60, and the terminal device 70 becomes the control source, and at least one other device different from the control source becomes the control destination. The selection of the control source and control destination is performed by operator H2, and this selection will be described later.

[0020] Furthermore, the communication line unit 80 only needs to be able to connect each device so that they can communicate with each other, and other communication devices may be provided instead of the hub 81. Also, the communication line unit 80 does not need to have a wired communication line, but has a wireless communication network, so that each device constituting the blood purification system 1 can send and receive various information wirelessly. Moreover, the communication line unit 80 has both a wired communication line and a wireless communication network, and each device constituting the blood purification system 1 may choose one or the other to send and receive various information. And the blood purification system 1 does not need to be configured so that bidirectional communication is realized between all devices, and may be configured so that bidirectional communication is realized only between specific devices.

[0021] In the following, an overview of each device constituting the blood purification system 1 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 9. Here, Figure 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic of the electrical configuration of the RO device 10 of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic of the electrical configuration of the A agent dissolving device 20 of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic of the electrical configuration of the B agent dissolving device 30 of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic of the electrical configuration of the dialysate supply device 40 of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 7 is a block diagram showing a schematic of the electrical configuration of the dialysis device 50 of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic of the electrical configuration of another type of dialysis device 60 of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 9 is a block diagram showing a schematic of the electrical configuration of the terminal device 70 of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0022] (RO device) The RO unit 10 purifies the raw water supplied from piping L1 to produce dialysis water (purified water), and supplies the purified dialysis water as RO water to the A agent dissolving unit 20, the B agent dissolving unit 30, the dialysate supply unit 40, and the dialysis machine 60 via piping L2. In other words, the RO unit 10 corresponds to the dialysis water purification unit of the blood purification system 1.

[0023] As can be seen from Figures 1 to 3, the RO device 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a power supply unit 13, an input / output unit 14, a communication unit 15, and a purification unit 16. These units are electrically connected to each other via control lines and data lines. This enables the RO device 10 to transmit and receive various signals, data, and information, as well as to perform various controls by the control unit 11.

[0024] The control unit 11 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and controls various parts of the RO device 10 based on various programs stored in the memory unit 12. Specifically, the control unit 11 reads from the memory unit 12 and executes programs for processing to display various information in the input / output unit 14, processing to send and receive various information via the communication unit 15, and processing to drive the purification unit 16 to purify raw water, or programs for running the OS. The control unit 11 may be composed of a single GPU or CPU, or it may be composed of a combination of multiple CPUs or GPUs.

[0025] The memory unit 12 consists of ROM, RAM, non-volatile memory, HDD, etc. For example, the ROM stores instruction commands as a program for performing the process to purify raw water. The RAM is used to write and read data while the program stored in the ROM is being processed by the control unit 11. The non-volatile memory is a storage device in which data is written and read as a result of the execution of the program, and the data written there is saved even after the execution of the program has finished.

[0026] In particular, in this embodiment, the storage unit 12 stores a processing program for generating a control command to cause a predetermined control to be executed at the control destination when it receives input from operator H2 that the RO device 10 has been selected as the control source, and for transmitting the control command to the control destination. The storage unit 12 also stores a processing program for executing control according to a control command when it receives a control command from another device that has been selected as the control source when the RO device 10 has not been selected as the control source by operator H2.

[0027] In the following description of this embodiment, a control command refers to one of the following: a start command to activate the controlled device, a stop command to stop the controlled device, or a drive command to operate the controlled device. However, control commands are not limited to these, and various types of commands are possible depending on the functions provided by the controlled device.

[0028] The power supply unit 13 is a device that supplies the power necessary to start up (power on) each part. For example, the power supply unit 13 may include a circuit that boosts or lowers the voltage of the power supplied from an outlet in a facility such as a hospital via a power cable to a voltage suitable for use within the device. The power supply unit 13 may also include a power storage device such as a battery.

[0029] The input / output unit 14 has an input unit consisting of a touch panel type input interface and an output unit consisting of a general screen type output interface. In other words, the input / output unit 14 in this embodiment is a touch panel type liquid crystal display (display screen) equipped with an input / output interface. Here, the input detection method by the display may be any method such as capacitive or resistive. Furthermore, the operable area and position on the display may be freely set by the operator of the RO device 10.

[0030] The communication unit 15 is composed of various electronic components and has a communication circuit. The communication unit 15 transmits and receives information with other devices installed separately from the RO device 10 via a LAN cable 82 connected to the communication circuit. When transmitting and receiving information by wireless communication, the communication unit 15 may consist of a communication processing circuit and an antenna. In this case, the communication processing circuit may perform processing based on a wideband wireless communication method such as the LTE method, or it may perform processing based on a narrowband wireless communication method such as wireless LAN such as IEEE 802.11 or Bluetooth®. Furthermore, the communication processing circuit may perform processing based on a contactless wireless communication method.

[0031] The purification unit 16 has equipment for purifying the supplied raw water to produce dialysis water. For example, the purification unit 16 may include a power supply for the equipment, a pump for supplying raw water to the purification filter or for discharging the purified dialysis water to other devices, a solenoid valve installed in the internal piping, a heater for heating the raw water, an ultraviolet irradiation device for irradiating the raw water with ultraviolet light, various sensors, and other actuators. The configuration of the purification unit 16 will vary depending on the type of RO device 10, and parts may be added or removed as appropriate.

[0032] (Dissolving device for agent A) The Agent A dissolving device 20 mixes RO water supplied from piping L2 with Agent A, a type of dialysis powder drug introduced by operator H2, to produce a stock solution A, a type of dialysis fluid stock solution at a predetermined concentration. The Agent A dissolving device 20 also supplies the prepared stock solution A to the dialysis fluid supply device 40 and the dialysis machine 60 via piping L3.

[0033] As can be seen from Figures 1, 2, and 4, the Agent A dissolving device 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a power supply unit 23, an input / output unit 24, a communication unit 25, and a dissolving unit 26. These units are electrically connected to each other via control lines and data lines. This allows the Agent A dissolving device 20 to transmit and receive various signals, data, and information, as well as to perform various controls by the control unit 21.

[0034] The control unit 21, like the control unit 11 of the RO device 10, is composed of a CPU or GPU and controls the various parts of the A agent dissolving device 20 based on various programs stored in the memory unit 22. Specifically, the control unit 21 reads from the memory unit 22 and executes programs for performing processes such as displaying various information in the input / output unit 24, sending and receiving various information via the communication unit 25, and driving the dissolving unit 26 to produce the A concentrate, or programs for executing the OS.

[0035] The storage unit 22, like the storage unit 12 of the RO device 10, is composed of ROM, RAM, non-volatile memory, HDD, etc. For example, the ROM stores instruction commands as a program for executing the process to produce stock solution A. The RAM is used to write and read data while the program stored in the ROM is being processed by the control unit 21. The non-volatile memory is a storage device in which data is written and read by the execution of the program, and the data written there is saved even after the execution of the program is completed. In particular, the storage unit 22, like the storage unit 12 of the RO device 10, also stores processing programs for when it becomes the control source and processing programs for when it becomes the controlled system.

[0036] The power supply unit 23, like the power supply unit 13 of the RO system 10, is a device that supplies the power necessary to start each part. For example, the power supply unit 23 may be equipped with a circuit that boosts or lowers the voltage of the power supplied from an outlet in a facility such as a hospital via a power cable to a voltage suitable for use within the device, or it may be equipped with a power storage device such as a battery.

[0037] The input / output unit 24, like the input / output unit 14 of the RO device 10, has an input unit consisting of a touch panel type input interface and an output unit consisting of a general screen type output interface. In other words, the input / output unit 24 in this embodiment is a touch panel type liquid crystal display (display screen) equipped with an input / output interface.

[0038] The communication unit 25, like the communication unit 15 of the RO device 10, is composed of various electronic components and has a communication circuit. The communication unit 25 transmits and receives information with other devices installed separately from the agent dissolving device 20 via a LAN cable 82 connected to the communication circuit. When transmitting and receiving information by wireless communication, the communication unit 25 may be composed of a communication processing circuit and an antenna, similar to the communication unit 15 of the RO device 10.

[0039] The dissolution unit 26 has equipment for mixing the supplied RO water with the introduced agent A to produce a stock solution A of a predetermined concentration. For example, the dissolution unit 26 may include a power supply for the equipment, a stirrer for agitating the RO water and agent A, a pump for introducing RO water or discharging the prepared stock solution A toward other devices, a solenoid valve provided in the internal piping, various sensors, and other actuators. The configuration of the dissolution unit 26 will vary depending on the type of agent A dissolution device 20, and parts may be added or removed as appropriate.

[0040] (Dissolving device for agent B) The B agent dissolving device 30 mixes RO water supplied from piping L2 with B agent, a type of dialysis powder drug introduced by operator H2, to produce B concentrate, a type of dialysis fluid concentrate at a predetermined concentration. The B agent dissolving device 30 also supplies the prepared B concentrate to the dialysis fluid supply device 40 and the dialysis machine 60 via piping L4.

[0041] As can be seen from Figures 1, 2, and 5, the B agent dissolving device 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a power supply unit 33, an input / output unit 34, a communication unit 35, and a dissolving unit 36. These units are electrically connected to each other via control lines and data lines. This allows the B agent dissolving device 30 to transmit and receive various signals, data, and information, as well as to perform various controls by the control unit 31. Although there are differences in detail between the B agent dissolving device 30 and the A agent dissolving device 20 because the B agent dissolving device 30 dissolves a different material, its basic configuration is the same as that of the A agent dissolving device 20. Therefore, a detailed explanation of each component of the B agent dissolving device 30 is omitted.

[0042] In this embodiment of the blood purification system 1, the B agent dissolving device 30 is provided as a separate device from the A agent dissolving device 20, but it may also be provided as a single dissolving device. For example, in the dissolving device, a bottle containing a mixture of solvent A and solvent B may be set, and the A solvent, B solvent, and RO water may be mixed to prepare the dialysis stock solution.

[0043] (dialysate supply device) The dialysate supply device 40 mixes RO water supplied from pipe L2, stock solution A supplied from pipe L3, and stock solution B supplied from pipe L4 to produce dialysate of a predetermined concentration. The dialysate supply device 40 also supplies the prepared dialysate to the dialysis machine 50 via pipe L5.

[0044] As can be seen from Figures 1, 2, and 6, the dialysis fluid supply device 40 includes a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, a power supply unit 43, an input / output unit 44, a communication unit 45, and a manufacturing and adjustment processing unit 46. These units are electrically connected to each other via control lines and data lines. This enables the dialysis fluid supply device 40 to transmit and receive various signals, data, and information, as well as to perform various controls by the control unit 41.

[0045] The control unit 41, like the control unit 11 of the RO device 10, is composed of a CPU or GPU and controls various parts of the dialysate supply device 40 based on various programs stored in the memory unit 42. Specifically, the control unit 41 reads from the memory unit 42 and executes programs for processing to display various information in the input / output unit 44, processing to send and receive various information via the communication unit 45, and processing to drive the production and adjustment processing unit 46 to produce dialysate and adjust its concentration, or programs for executing the OS.

[0046] The storage unit 42, like the storage unit 12 of the RO device 10, is composed of ROM, RAM, non-volatile memory, HDD, etc. For example, the ROM stores instruction commands as programs for executing processes to generate dialysate and processes to adjust the concentration of dialysate. The RAM is used to write and read data while the program stored in the ROM is being processed by the control unit 41. The non-volatile memory is a storage device in which data is written and read as a result of the execution of the program, and the data written there is saved even after the execution of the program is completed. In particular, the storage unit 42, like the storage unit 12 of the RO device 10, also stores processing programs for when it becomes the control source and processing programs for when it becomes the controlled system.

[0047] The power supply unit 43, like the power supply unit 13 of the RO system 10, is a device that supplies the power necessary to start each part. For example, the power supply unit 43 may be equipped with a circuit that boosts or lowers the voltage of the power supplied from an outlet in a facility such as a hospital via a power cable to a voltage suitable for use within the device, or it may be equipped with a power storage device such as a battery.

[0048] The input / output unit 44, like the input / output unit 14 of the RO device 10, has an input unit consisting of a touch panel type input interface and an output unit consisting of a general screen type output interface. In other words, the input / output unit 44 in this embodiment is a touch panel type liquid crystal display (display screen) equipped with an input / output interface.

[0049] The communication unit 45, like the communication unit 15 of the RO device 10, is composed of various electronic components and has a communication circuit. The communication unit 45 transmits and receives information with other devices installed at a distance from the dialysis fluid supply device 40 via a LAN cable 82 connected to the communication circuit. When transmitting and receiving information by wireless communication, the communication unit 45 may be composed of a communication processing circuit and an antenna, similar to the communication unit 15 of the RO device 10.

[0050] The preparation and adjustment processing unit 46 has equipment for preparing dialysate by mixing the supplied RO water, stock solution A, and stock solution B, while adjusting its concentration to a predetermined value. For example, the preparation and adjustment processing unit 46 may include a power supply for the equipment, a stirrer for mixing the RO water, stock solution A, and stock solution B, a pump for introducing each liquid or leading the prepared dialysate towards the dialyzer 50, a solenoid valve installed in the internal piping, equipment for disinfection and sterilization, various sensors, and other actuators. The configuration of the preparation and adjustment processing unit 46 will vary depending on the type of dialysate supply device 40, and parts may be added or removed as appropriate.

[0051] (dialysis machine) As shown in Figure 1, the dialysis machine 50 is an example of blood purification therapy, and various consumables necessary for performing dialysis therapy are connected to it. In other words, in this embodiment, a blood purification unit is formed with various consumables connected to the dialysis machine 50, and dialysis therapy is performed on patient H1. Here, consumables include a dialyzer 91 and a blood circuit 92, which are types of blood purifiers as shown in Figure 1. The dialysis machine 50 also supplies dialysate supplied from the piping L5 to the dialyzer 91 and performs processing for dialysis therapy on patient H1.

[0052] As can be seen from Figures 1, 2, and 7, the dialysis machine 50 has a control unit 51, a memory unit 52, a power supply unit 53, an input / output unit 54, and a communication unit 55. The dialysis machine 50 also has an internal piping unit 56 for circulating dialysate between itself and the dialyzer 91, and an extracorporeal circulation unit 57 for circulating the patient H1's blood outside the body. These units are electrically connected to each other via control lines and data lines. This allows the dialysis machine 50 to send and receive various signals, data, and information, as well as to perform various controls by the control unit 51. With this configuration, the dialysis machine 50 is able to take the patient H1's blood outside the body (blood removal), remove unwanted or toxic substances or water from the blood in the dialyzer 91 (blood purification), and return the purified blood to the patient H1 (blood return).

[0053] The control unit 51, like the control unit 11 of the RO device 10, is composed of a CPU or GPU and controls various parts of the dialysis machine 50 based on various programs stored in the memory unit 52. Specifically, the control unit 51 reads and executes programs from the memory unit 52 for performing processes such as displaying various information in the input / output unit 54, sending and receiving various information via the communication unit 55, circulating dialysate in the internal piping unit 56, and withdrawing and returning patient H1's blood in the extracorporeal circulation unit 57, or for executing the OS. The control unit 51 may also read and execute programs for performing fluid replacement and device cleaning.

[0054] The storage unit 52, like the storage unit 12 of the RO device 10, is composed of ROM, RAM, non-volatile memory, HDD, etc. For example, the ROM stores instruction commands as programs for executing various processes for dialysis treatment. The RAM is used to write and read data while the program stored in the ROM is being processed by the control unit 51. The non-volatile memory is a storage device in which data is written and read by the execution of the program, and the data written there is saved even after the execution of the program is finished. In particular, the storage unit 52, like the storage unit 12 of the RO device 10, also stores processing programs for when it becomes the control source and processing programs for when it becomes the controlled system.

[0055] The power supply unit 53, like the power supply unit 13 of the RO system 10, is a device that supplies the power necessary to start each part. For example, the power supply unit 53 may be equipped with a circuit that boosts or lowers the voltage of the power supplied from an outlet in a facility such as a hospital via a power cable to a voltage suitable for use within the device, or it may be equipped with a power storage device such as a battery.

[0056] The input / output unit 54, like the input / output unit 14 of the RO device 10, has an input unit consisting of a touch panel type input interface and an output unit consisting of a general screen type output interface. In other words, the input / output unit 54 in this embodiment is a touch panel type liquid crystal display (display screen) equipped with an input / output interface.

[0057] The communication unit 55, like the communication unit 15 of the RO device 10, is composed of various electronic components and has a communication circuit. The communication unit 55 transmits and receives information with other devices installed separately from the dialysis machine 50 via a LAN cable 82 connected to the communication circuit. When transmitting and receiving information by wireless communication, the communication unit 55 may be composed of a communication processing circuit and an antenna, similar to the communication unit 15 of the RO device 10.

[0058] The internal piping section 56 is located inside the main body of the dialysis machine 50 and is connected via piping to the dialysate inlet and dialysate outlet located on the side of the dialyzer 91. For example, the internal piping section 56 includes various components such as pipes, pumps, valves, sensors, and filters. More specifically, the internal piping section 56 may include a double pump, a water removal pump, a degassing pump, a pressure pump, a pressure reducing valve, a solenoid valve, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, and a chemical filter.

[0059] The internal piping section 56 is assembled by appropriately selecting the above-mentioned components according to the piping configuration and type, and is structured to enable the circulation and cleaning of dialysate. Furthermore, the internal piping section 56 is structured to enable the introduction and discharge of dialysate to and from the dialyzer 91. Note that these specific configurations are not features of the blood purification unit (dialysis machine) of this disclosure, so their explanation is omitted.

[0060] The extracorporeal circulation unit 57 is provided on the surface of the main body of the dialysis machine 50 and has equipment for introducing the patient's blood into the dialyzer 91 or taking it out of the dialyzer 91 via a consumable blood circuit 92. For example, the extracorporeal circulation unit 57 has a pump connected to the blood circuit 92, various sensors, etc. For example, a peristaltic pump is assumed as the pump, but other pumps such as a diaphragm pump may also be used. The configuration of the extracorporeal circulation unit 57 will vary depending on the type of dialysis machine 50, and parts may be added or removed as appropriate.

[0061] The dialysis machine 60 is also connected to various consumables necessary for performing dialysis, which is an example of blood purification therapy. In other words, in this embodiment, a blood purification unit is formed with various consumables connected to the dialysis machine 60, and dialysis treatment is performed on patient H1. Here, the consumables refer to items such as the dialyzer 91 and blood circuit 92, which are types of blood purifiers as shown in Figure 1, similar to those connected to the dialysis machine 50.

[0062] Furthermore, the dialysis machine 60 mixes RO water supplied from pipe L2, stock solution A supplied from pipe L3, and stock solution B supplied from pipe L4 to produce dialysate of a predetermined concentration. In addition, the dialysis machine 60 supplies the prepared dialysate to the dialyzer 91 and processes it for dialysis treatment of patient H1.

[0063] As can be seen from Figures 1, 2, and 8, the dialysis machine 60 includes a control unit 61, a storage unit 62, a power supply unit 63, an input / output unit 64, and a communication unit 65. The dialysis machine 60 also includes an internal piping unit 66 for circulating dialysate between itself and the dialyzer 91, and an extracorporeal circulation unit 67 for circulating blood, which is the body fluid of patient H1, outside the body. Furthermore, the dialysis machine 60 includes a preparation and adjustment processing unit 68 for preparing dialysate and adjusting its concentration. Each of these units is electrically connected to the others via control lines and data lines. This enables the dialysis machine 60 to send and receive various signals, data, and information, as well as to perform various controls by the control unit 61.

[0064] With this configuration, the dialysis machine 60, like the dialysis machine 50, is capable of taking blood from patient H1 outside the body (blood removal), removing unnecessary or toxic substances or water from the blood in the dialyzer 91 (blood purification), and returning the purified blood to patient H1 (blood return). In addition, the dialysis machine 60 is capable of producing the dialysate necessary for dialysis treatment in-house and adjusting its concentration.

[0065] Compared to the dialysis machine 50, the dialysis machine 60 has an additional component for preparing dialysate. Although there are differences in the details, the configuration of the dialysis machine 50 is essentially the same as the dialysis machine 50 with the addition of the dialysate preparation and adjustment processing unit 46 of the dialysate supply device 40. Therefore, a detailed explanation of each component of the dialysis machine 60 will be omitted.

[0066] (Terminal device) The terminal device 70 is a terminal used by operator H2 and is a device for overall monitoring and control of the blood purification system 1. As can be seen from Figures 1, 2, and 9, the terminal device 70 has a control unit 71, a storage unit 72, a power supply unit 73, an input / output unit 74, and a communication unit 75. These units are electrically connected to each other via control lines and data lines. As a result, the terminal device 70 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals, data, and information, as well as performing various controls by the control unit 71.

[0067] The control unit 71, like the control unit 11 of the RO device 10, is composed of a CPU or GPU and controls various parts of the terminal device 70 based on various programs stored in the memory unit 72. Specifically, the control unit 71 reads from the memory unit 72 and executes programs for performing processes to display various information in the input / output unit 74, processes to send and receive various information via the communication unit 75, or programs to run the OS.

[0068] The storage unit 72, like the storage unit 12 of the RO device 10, is composed of ROM, RAM, non-volatile memory, HDD, etc. For example, the ROM stores instruction commands as programs for executing various controls for dialysis treatment. The RAM is used to write and read data while the program stored in the ROM is being processed by the control unit 71. The non-volatile memory is a storage device in which data is written and read by the execution of the program, and the data written there is saved even after the execution of the program is finished. In particular, the storage unit 72 also stores a processing program for when it becomes the control source, similar to the storage unit 12 of the RO device 10.

[0069] The power supply unit 73, like the power supply unit 13 of the RO system 10, is a device that supplies the power necessary to start each part. For example, the power supply unit 73 may be equipped with a circuit that boosts or lowers the voltage of the power supplied from an outlet in a facility such as a hospital via a power cable to a voltage suitable for use within the device, or it may be equipped with a power storage device such as a battery.

[0070] The input / output unit 74, like the input / output unit 14 of the RO device 10, has an input unit consisting of a touch panel type input interface and an output unit consisting of a general screen type output interface. In other words, the input / output unit 74 in this embodiment is a touch panel type liquid crystal display (display screen) equipped with an input / output interface.

[0071] The communication unit 75, like the communication unit 15 of the RO device 10, is composed of various electronic components and has a communication circuit. The communication unit 75 transmits and receives information with other devices installed at a distance from the terminal device 70 via a LAN cable 82 connected to the communication circuit. When transmitting and receiving information by wireless communication, the communication unit 75 may be composed of a communication processing circuit and an antenna, similar to the communication unit 15 of the RO device 10.

[0072] In the above, the terminal device 70 is assumed to be a portable tablet or the like, but is not limited thereto. The terminal device 70 may be a communication-capable device such as a laptop computer or a desktop computer. Furthermore, the terminal device 70 can be suitably applied to any device capable of executing the program related to this disclosure, such as a feature phone, personal digital assistant, smartphone, or PDA. Also, if the blood purification system 1 has multiple terminal devices 70, each terminal device 70 does not necessarily have to be the same or of the same type, but may be different types of terminal devices. That is, the type of terminal used may differ for each operator H2, and furthermore, one operator H2 may use multiple terminals of different types.

[0073] (Control processing in blood purification systems) Next, the control processing in the blood purification system 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 10 to 21. In particular, multiple cases are assumed where the control source and control destination selected from the components and terminal devices 70 constituting the blood purification system 1 are different, and control processing with different control content will be explained. Here, Figures 10, 14, 17, and 20 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the control processing in the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. Also, Figures 11, 12, 15, 18, 19, and 21 are schematic diagrams showing an example of information transmission and reception in the communication configuration of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment. Furthermore, Figures 13 and 16 are the processing flow at the control source of the blood purification system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0074] [Control process 1] As an example of control processing, the transmission and reception of information between the RO device 10 and the dialysate supply device 40, which are connected to each other via the hub 81, will be explained with reference to Figures 10 to 13. In this control processing, the dialysate supply device 40 acts as the control source (master unit), and the RO device 10 acts as the control destination (slave unit). One example assumed is that the RO device 10 is started (powered on) by operating the dialysate supply device 40, and furthermore, the drive of the RO device 10 is controlled.

[0075] As a prerequisite, the RO device 10 is stopped and the dialysis-related processing has not been started. First, the input / output unit 44 of the dialysate supply device 40 is operated by operator H2, and the intention to start control processing with the dialysate supply device 40 as the control source and the RO device 10 as the control destination, as well as the control content, are input. Specifically, the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 reads and executes a predetermined program in the storage unit 42, and generates a startup command, which is an example of a control command, based on the input information corresponding to the operation of operator H2 (Figure 10: S101). Subsequently, as shown in Figure 11, the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40, which is the control source, controls the communication unit 45 and transmits the startup command to the RO device 10 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 10: T101).

[0076] Next, when a start command is received in the RO device 10, the control unit 11 of the RO device 10 starts up (Figure 10: S102). Specifically, when the communication unit 15 of the RO device 10 receives a start command, the circuit of the communication unit 15 (for example, an Ethernet PHY) sends a power supply instruction to the power supply unit 13 for the control unit 11. The power supply unit 13 supplies power to the control unit 11 in response to this power supply instruction. As a result, the control unit 11 starts up, the program stored in the memory unit 12 is executed by the control unit 11, and each part of the RO device 10 becomes operational.

[0077] Next, in the RO device 10, a response signal is generated based on control in response to the startup command (Figure 10: S103). Specifically, the control unit 11 of the RO device 10 reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 12 and generates a response signal, which is a signal indicating that the device has started up in response to the received startup command. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 11, the control unit 11 of the RO device 10, which is the control target, controls the communication unit 15 and transmits the response signal to the dialysis fluid supply device 40 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 10: T102).

[0078] Next, when the dialysate supply device 40 receives a response signal, the dialysate supply device 40 performs a process to determine the status of the RO device 10 based on the response signal (Figure 10: S104). Specifically, when the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 receives a response signal via the communication unit 45, it reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 42 and determines the status of the RO device 10 from the response signal. Here, since the response signal is a signal indicating that the RO device 10 has been started, the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 understands that the RO device 10 has been started in response to the transmitted start command.

[0079] Next, when the dialysate supply device 40 detects that the RO device 10 has started, the dialysate supply device 40 generates a drive command, which is a control command for controlling the operation of the RO device 10 (Figure 10: S105). Specifically, the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 reads and executes a predetermined program in the storage unit 42 and generates a drive command based on input information corresponding to the operation of operator H2. Here, the input information may be information corresponding to the operation of operator H2 in S101, or it may be information corresponding to a new operation of operator H2. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 12, the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40, which is the control source, controls the communication unit 45 and transmits the drive command to the RO device 10 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 10: T103).

[0080] When the RO device 10 receives the drive command, the control unit 11 of the RO device 10 drives each part in response to the drive command and executes various processes related to dialysis treatment. For example, the control unit 11 of the RO device 10 drives the purification unit 16 to start purifying the water for dialysis.

[0081] As described above, by controlling the RO system 10 via the communication line unit 80 using the dialysis fluid supply device 40, the conventionally used dedicated signal line becomes unnecessary, reducing cable costs and installation costs. Furthermore, eliminating the need for the dedicated signal line increases the flexibility of the installation of the dialysis fluid supply device 40 and the RO system 10.

[0082] Next, we will explain the processing flow, including the determination, of the processes performed by the dialysate supply device 40 in the control process described above, with reference to Figure 13.

[0083] First, the control unit 41 of the dialysis fluid supply device 40 generates and transmits a start command in response to the input operation of operator H2 (Figure 13: S121). In this control process, the destination of the start command is the RO device 10.

[0084] Next, the control unit 41 of the dialysis fluid supply device 40 determines whether or not it has received a response signal from the RO device 10 corresponding to the transmitted start command (Figure 13: S122). In S122, S122 is repeated until a response signal is received from the RO device 10 (Figure 13: S122-No), and once a response signal is received from the RO device 10 (Figure 13: S122-Yes), the process proceeds to S123.

[0085] Next, the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 determines whether or not the RO device 10, which is the target of the control, has started up (Figure 13: S123). Specifically, the control unit 41 performs this determination based on the received response signal. If it is determined that the RO device 10 has started up (Figure 13: S123-Yes), the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 generates a drive command to control the drive of the RO device 10 and sends the drive command to the RO device 10 (Figure 13: S124). Here, the destination of the drive command is the RO device 10.

[0086] On the other hand, if it is determined that the RO device 10 is not running (Figure 13: S123-No), the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 determines whether the number of times a start command has been sent to the RO device 10 is greater than or equal to a predetermined number (Figure 13: S125). For example, if the dialysate supply device 40 receives a signal indicating that the RO device 10 is stopped, the determination in S125 is made.

[0087] Then, if the number of times the start command has been sent to the RO device 10 is less than a predetermined number, the process returns to S121 (Figure 13: S125-No), and the start command is regenerated and resent (Figure 13: S121). If the start command is stored in the memory unit 42 or the like, the control unit 41 may read the start command from the memory unit 42 and resend it without regenerating it.

[0088] On the other hand, if the number of times a start command is sent to the RO device 10 exceeds a predetermined number (Figure 13: S125-Yes), the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 will warn that the control to the RO device 10 is not being executed properly and that an abnormality has occurred in the RO device 10 (Figure 13: S126). Specifically, the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 controls the input / output unit 44 to provide abnormality notification by sound or screen output. By issuing such an alarm, operator H2 can become aware of the abnormality in the RO device 10 via the dialysate supply device 40, which is a separate device. Furthermore, the reliability of the RO device 10's startup is ensured.

[0089] [Control process 2] As an example of control processing, the transmission and reception of information between the dialysis fluid supply device 40 and the dialysis machine 50, which are connected to each other via a hub 81, will be explained with reference to Figures 14 to 16. In this control processing, the dialysis machine 50 acts as the control source (master unit), and the dialysis fluid supply device 40 acts as the control destination (slave unit). One example of this is assumed to be a case where the dialysis machine 50 is operated to stop the dialysis fluid supply device 40 (power off), and furthermore, the dialysis machine 50 also stops.

[0090] As a prerequisite, the dialysate supply device 40 is running and dialysis-related processing is being executed. First, the input / output unit 54 of the dialysis machine 50 is operated by operator H2, and the intention to start control processing and the control content are input, with the dialysis machine 50 as the control source and the dialysate supply device 40 as the control destination. Specifically, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 reads and executes a predetermined program from the storage unit 52, and generates a stop command, which is an example of a control command, based on the input information corresponding to the operation of operator H2 (Figure 14: S151). Subsequently, as shown in Figure 15, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50, which is the control source, controls the communication unit 55 and transmits the stop command to the dialysate supply device 40 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 14: T151).

[0091] Next, when a stop command is received in the dialysate supply device 40, the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 stops and generates a response signal (Figure 14: S152). Specifically, when the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40 receives a stop command, the control unit 41 sends a power supply stop instruction to the power supply unit 43. The control unit 41 also reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 42 and generates a response signal based on the control corresponding to the stop command in conjunction with the transmission of the power supply stop instruction. Here, the response signal is a signal indicating that the device will stop in response to the received stop command. Then, as shown in Figure 15, at the timing when the power supply by the power supply unit 43 is stopped, the control unit 41 of the dialysate supply device 40, which is the control target, controls the communication unit 45 and transmits the response signal to the dialysis machine 50 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 14: T152).

[0092] Next, when the dialysis machine 50 receives a response signal, the dialysis machine 50 performs a process to determine the state of the dialysate supply device 40 based on the response signal (Figure 14: S153). Specifically, when the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 receives a response signal via the communication unit 55, it reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 52 and determines the state of the dialysate supply device 40 from the response signal. Here, since the response signal is a signal indicating that the dialysate supply device 40 will stop, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 understands that the dialysate supply device 40 will stop in response to the transmitted stop command.

[0093] Next, when the dialysis machine 50 detects that the dialysate supply device 40 has stopped, the dialysis machine 50 performs a process to stop the control unit 51 (Figure 14: S154). Specifically, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 sends a power supply stop instruction to the power supply unit 53. As a result of the power supply from the power supply unit 53 stopping, the control unit 51 stops, and the dialysis machine 50 itself also stops.

[0094] As described above, by controlling the dialysate supply device 40 by the dialysis machine 50 via the communication line unit 80, the conventionally used dedicated signal line becomes unnecessary, reducing cable costs and installation costs. Furthermore, eliminating the need for the dedicated signal line increases the flexibility of the installation of the dialysate supply device 40 and the dialysis machine 50. In particular, the mobility of the dialysis machine 50 can be improved, enhancing its convenience as a blood purification system 1.

[0095] Next, we will explain the processing flow, including the determination, of the processes performed by the dialysis machine 50 in the control process described above, with reference to Figure 16.

[0096] First, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 generates and transmits a stop command in response to the input operation of operator H2 (Figure 16: S161). In this control process, the destination of the stop command is the dialysate supply device 40.

[0097] Next, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 determines whether or not it has received a response signal from the dialysate supply device 40 corresponding to the transmitted stop command (Figure 16: S162). In S162, S162 is repeated until a response signal is received from the dialysate supply device 40 (Figure 16: S162-No), and when a response signal is received from the dialysate supply device 40 (Figure 16: S162-Yes), the process proceeds to S163.

[0098] Next, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 determines whether or not the dialysate supply device 40, which is the device being controlled, should be stopped (Figure 16: S163). Specifically, the control unit 51 performs this determination based on the received response signal. If it is determined that the dialysate supply device 40 should be stopped (Figure 16: S163-Yes), the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 controls the power supply unit 53 to stop the power supply to the control unit 51 in order to also stop the operation of its own device, which is the source of the control (Figure 16: S164).

[0099] On the other hand, if it is determined that the dialysate supply device 40 is continuing to operate without stopping (Figure 16: S163-No), the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 determines whether the number of times a stop command has been sent to the dialysate supply device 40 is greater than or equal to a predetermined number (Figure 16: S165). For example, if a signal indicating that the dialysate supply device 40 is continuing to operate is received from the dialysate supply device 40 as a response signal, the determination in S165 is made.

[0100] Then, if the number of times a stop command is sent to the dialysate supply device 40 is less than a predetermined number, the process returns to S161 (Figure 16: S165-No), and the stop command is regenerated and resent (Figure 16: S161). If the stop command is stored in the storage unit 52 or the like, the control unit 51 may read the stop command from the storage unit 52 and resend it without regenerating it.

[0101] On the other hand, if the number of times a stop command is sent to the dialysate supply device 40 exceeds a predetermined number (Figure 16: S165-Yes), the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 will alarm that the control to the dialysate supply device 40 is not being executed properly and that an abnormality has occurred in the dialysate supply device 40 (Figure 16: S166). Specifically, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 controls the input / output unit 54 to provide an abnormality notification by sound or screen output. By issuing such an alarm, operator H2 can become aware of the abnormality in the dialysate supply device 40 via the dialysis machine 50, which is a separate device. Furthermore, the reliability of stopping the RO device 10 is ensured.

[0102] [Control process 3] As an example of control processing, the transmission and reception of information between the terminal device 70, which is connected to the hub 81 for communication, and the A agent dissolving device 20 and the B agent dissolving device 30 will be explained with reference to Figures 17 to 19. In this control processing, the terminal device 70 acts as the control source (master unit), and the A agent dissolving device 20 and the B agent dissolving device 30 act as the control destinations (slave units). One example is assumed in which the terminal device 70 is operated to start up (power on) the A agent dissolving device 20 and the B agent dissolving device 30, and furthermore, the operation of the A agent dissolving device 20 and the B agent dissolving device 30 is controlled.

[0103] As a prerequisite, the A-agent dissolving device 20 and the B-agent dissolving device 30 are stopped, and the dialysis-related processing has not been started. First, the input / output unit 74 of the terminal device 70 is operated by operator H2, and the command to start control processing and the control content are input, with the terminal device 70 as the control source and the A-agent dissolving device 20 and the B-agent dissolving device 30 as the control destinations. Specifically, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70 reads and executes a predetermined program in the storage unit 72, and generates a startup command, which is an example of a control command, based on the input information corresponding to the operation of operator H2 (Figure 17: S201). Subsequently, as shown in Figure 18, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70, which is the control source, controls the communication unit 75 and transmits the startup command to the A-agent dissolving device 20 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 17: T201). Furthermore, since the transmission of the start command to the B agent dissolving device 30 is performed with a time delay, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70 does not transmit the start command to the B agent dissolving device 30 at this point.

[0104] Next, when the Agent A dissolving device 20 receives a start command, the control unit 21 of the Agent A dissolving device 20 starts up (Figure 17: S202). Specifically, when the communication unit 25 of the Agent A dissolving device 20 receives a start command, the circuit of the communication unit 25 transmits a power supply instruction to the power supply unit 23 for the control unit 21. The power supply unit 23 supplies power to the control unit 21 in response to this power supply instruction. As a result, the control unit 21 starts up, the program stored in the memory unit 22 is executed by the control unit 21, and each part of the Agent A dissolving device 20 becomes operational.

[0105] Next, in the Agent A dissolving device 20, a response signal is generated based on control in response to the startup command (Figure 17: S203). Specifically, the control unit 21 of the Agent A dissolving device 20 reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 22 and generates a response signal, which is a signal indicating that the device has started up in response to the received startup command. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 18, the control unit 21 of the Agent A dissolving device 20, which is the control target, controls the communication unit 25 and transmits the response signal to the terminal device 70 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 17: T202).

[0106] Next, when the terminal device 70 receives a response signal, the terminal device 70 performs a process to determine the state of the Agent A dissolving device 20 based on the response signal (Figure 17: S204). Specifically, when the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70 receives a response signal via the communication unit 75, it reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 72 and determines the state of the Agent A dissolving device 20 from the response signal. Here, since the response signal is a signal indicating that the Agent A dissolving device 20 has been started, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70 understands that the Agent A dissolving device 20 has been started in response to the transmitted start command.

[0107] Next, when the terminal device 70 detects that the A agent dissolving device 20 has started, the terminal device 70 sends a start command to the B agent dissolving device 30, as shown in Figure 18 (Figure 17: T203). Specifically, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70, which is the control source, controls the communication unit 75 and sends the start command to the B agent dissolving device 30 via the LAN cable 82 and the hub 81.

[0108] Next, when the terminal device 70 detects that the A agent dissolving device 20 has started, the terminal device 70 generates a drive command, which is a control command for controlling the operation of the A agent dissolving device 20 (Figure 17: S205). Specifically, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70 reads and executes a predetermined program from the storage unit 72 and generates a drive command based on input information corresponding to the operation of operator H2. Here, the input information may be information corresponding to the operation of operator H2 in S201, or it may be information corresponding to a new operation of operator H2. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 19, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70, which is the control source, controls the communication unit 75 and transmits the drive command to the A agent dissolving device 20 via the LAN cable 82 and the hub 81 (Figure 17: T204).

[0109] When the drive command is received in the A agent dissolving device 20, the control unit 21 of the A agent dissolving device 20 drives each part in response to the drive command and executes various processes related to dialysis treatment. For example, the control unit 21 of the A agent dissolving device 20 drives the dissolving unit 26 and starts the preparation of A stock solution of a predetermined concentration by mixing RO water with the introduced A agent. Note that the timing of sending the drive command, which is a control command to the A agent dissolving device 20, is not limited to the timing of T204 described above. For example, after confirming the startup of the B agent dissolving device 30, which will be described later, the drive commands to the A agent dissolving device 20 and the B agent dissolving device 30 may be sent simultaneously or sequentially. In other words, the timing of sending the drive command, which is a control command, can be appropriately changed depending on the control source and the control destination.

[0110] Next, when the B agent dissolving device 30 receives a start command, the control unit 31 of the B agent dissolving device 30 starts up (Figure 17: S206). Specifically, when the communication unit 35 of the B agent dissolving device 30 receives a start command, the circuit of the communication unit 35 transmits a power supply instruction to the power supply unit 33 for the control unit 31. The power supply unit 33 supplies power to the control unit 31 in response to this power supply instruction. As a result, the control unit 31 starts up, the program stored in the memory unit 32 is executed by the control unit 31, and each part of the B agent dissolving device 30 becomes operational.

[0111] Next, in the B agent dissolving device 30, a response signal is generated based on control in response to the startup command (Figure 17: S207). Specifically, the control unit 31 of the B agent dissolving device 30 reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 32 and generates a response signal, which is a signal indicating that the device has started up in response to the received startup command. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 18, the control unit 31 of the B agent dissolving device 30, which is the control target, controls the communication unit 35 and transmits the response signal to the terminal device 70 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 17: T205).

[0112] Next, when the terminal device 70 receives a response signal, the terminal device 70 performs a process to determine the state of the B agent dissolving device 30 based on the response signal (Figure 17: S208). Specifically, when the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70 receives a response signal via the communication unit 75, it reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 72 and determines the state of the B agent dissolving device 30 from the response signal. Here, since the response signal is a signal indicating that the B agent dissolving device 30 has been started, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70 understands that the B agent dissolving device 30 has been started in response to the transmitted start command.

[0113] Next, when the terminal device 70 detects that the B agent dissolving device 30 has been started, the terminal device 70 generates a drive command, which is a control command for controlling the operation of the B agent dissolving device 30 (Figure 17: S209). Specifically, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70 reads and executes a predetermined program from the storage unit 72 and generates a drive command based on input information corresponding to the operation of operator H2. Here, the input information may be information corresponding to the operation of operator H2 in S201, or it may be information corresponding to a new operation of operator H2. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 19, the control unit 71 of the terminal device 70, which is the control source, controls the communication unit 75 and transmits the drive command to the B agent dissolving device 30 via the LAN cable 82 and the hub 81 (Figure 17: T206).

[0114] When the B agent dissolving device 30 receives the drive command, the control unit 31 of the B agent dissolving device 30 drives each part in response to the drive command and executes various processes related to dialysis treatment. For example, the control unit 31 of the B agent dissolving device 30 drives the dissolving unit 36 ​​and starts the preparation of a B concentrate of a predetermined concentration by mixing RO water with the introduced B agent.

[0115] As described above, by controlling the A-agent dissolving device 20 and the B-agent dissolving device 30 via the communication line unit 80 using the terminal device 70, the conventionally used dedicated signal line becomes unnecessary, reducing cable costs and installation costs. Furthermore, eliminating the need for the dedicated signal line increases the flexibility of the installation of the A-agent dissolving device 20, the B-agent dissolving device 30, and the terminal device 70. In addition, because the startup timings of the A-agent dissolving device 20 and the B-agent dissolving device 30 are staggered, the power supply to the blood purification system 1 does not suddenly increase in a short period of time, preventing circuit breaker tripping problems in hospitals and other facilities where each device is installed.

[0116] Furthermore, the timing of sending the start command to the B agent dissolving device 30 is not limited to the case described above, but can be any other timing. Also, although the start command to the B agent dissolving device 30 was sent automatically in the control process described above, it may be sent at any timing by operator H2.

[0117] Furthermore, regarding the processing flow, including the judgment at the terminal device 70, the flow shown in Figure 13 will be repeated for the A agent dissolving device 20 and the B agent dissolving device 30. Therefore, since each process in the processing flow is essentially the same, its explanation will be omitted.

[0118] [Control process 4] As an example of control processing, the transmission and reception of information between the RO device 10 and the dialysis machines 50 and 60, which are connected via a hub 81, will be explained with reference to Figures 20 and 21. In this control processing, the RO device 10 acts as the control source (master unit), and the dialysis machines 50 and 60 act as the control destinations (slave units). One example assumed is that the RO device 10 is operated to stop (power off) the dialysis machines 50 and 60, and furthermore, the RO device 10 is also stopped.

[0119] As a prerequisite, the dialysis machines 50 and 60 are running, and processing related to dialysis treatment is being executed. First, the input / output unit 14 of the RO unit 10 is operated by operator H2, and the instruction to start control processing and the control content are input, with the RO unit 10 as the control source and the dialysis machines 50 and 60 as the control destinations. Specifically, the control unit 11 of the RO unit 10 reads and executes a predetermined program from the storage unit 12, and generates a stop command, which is an example of a control command, based on the input information corresponding to the operation of operator H2 (Figure 20: S211). Subsequently, as shown in Figure 21, the control unit 11 of the RO unit 10, which is the control source, controls the communication unit 15 and transmits the stop command to the dialysis machine 50 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 20: T211). Note that the transmission of the stop command to the dialysis machine 60 is executed with a timing delay, so at this point, the control unit 11 of the RO unit 10 does not transmit the stop command to the dialysis machine 60.

[0120] Next, when a stop command is received in the dialysis machine 50, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 stops and generates a response signal (Figure 20: S212). Specifically, when the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 receives a stop command, the control unit 51 sends a power supply stop instruction to the power supply unit 53. The control unit 51 also reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 52 and generates a response signal based on the control corresponding to the stop command in conjunction with the transmission of the power supply stop instruction. Here, the response signal is a signal indicating that the device will stop in response to the received stop command. Then, as shown in Figure 21, at the timing when the power supply by the power supply unit 53 is stopped, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50, which is the control target, controls the communication unit 55 and transmits the response signal to the RO device 10 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 20: T212).

[0121] Next, when the RO device 10 receives a response signal, the RO device 10 performs a process to determine the state of the dialysis machine 50 based on the response signal (Figure 20: S213). Specifically, when the control unit 11 of the RO device 10 receives a response signal via the communication unit 15, it reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 12 and determines the state of the dialysis machine 50 from the response signal. Here, since the response signal is a signal indicating that the dialysis machine 50 will stop, the control unit 11 of the RO device 10 understands that the dialysis machine 50 will stop in response to the transmitted stop command.

[0122] Next, when the RO device 10 detects that the dialysis machine 50 has stopped, the RO device 10 sends a stop command to the dialysis machine 60 as shown in Figure 21 (Figure 20: T213). Specifically, the control unit 11 of the RO device 10, which is the control source, controls the communication unit 15 and sends the stop command to the dialysis machine 60 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81.

[0123] Next, when a stop command is received in the dialysis machine 60, the control unit 61 of the dialysis machine 60 stops and generates a response signal (Figure 20: S214). Specifically, when the control unit 61 of the dialysis machine 60 receives a stop command, the control unit 61 sends a power supply stop instruction to the power supply unit 63. The control unit 61 also reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 62 and generates a response signal based on the control corresponding to the stop command in conjunction with the transmission of the power supply stop instruction. Here, the response signal is a signal indicating that the device will stop in response to the received stop command. Then, as shown in Figure 21, at the timing when the power supply by the power supply unit 63 is stopped, the control unit 61 of the dialysis machine 60, which is the control target, controls the communication unit 65 and transmits the response signal to the RO device 10 via the LAN cable 82 and hub 81 (Figure 20: T214).

[0124] Next, when the RO device 10 receives a response signal, the RO device 10 performs a process to determine the state of the dialysis machine 60 based on the response signal (Figure 20: S215). Specifically, when the control unit 11 of the RO device 10 receives a response signal via the communication unit 15, it reads and executes a predetermined processing program from the storage unit 12 and determines the state of the dialysis machine 60 from the response signal. Here, since the response signal is a signal indicating that the dialysis machine 60 will stop, the control unit 11 of the RO device 10 understands that the dialysis machine 60 will stop in response to the transmitted stop command.

[0125] Next, when the RO system 10 detects that the dialysis machines 50 and 60 have stopped, the RO system 10 performs a process to stop the control unit 11 (Figure 20: S216). Specifically, the control unit 11 of the RO system 10 sends a power supply stop instruction to the power supply unit 13. As a result of the power supply from the power supply unit 13 stopping, the control unit 11 stops, and the RO system 10 itself also stops.

[0126] As described above, by controlling the dialysis machines 50 and 60 by the RO device 10 via the communication line unit 80, the conventionally used dedicated signal line becomes unnecessary, reducing cable costs and installation costs. Furthermore, eliminating the need for the dedicated signal line increases the flexibility of the installation of the RO device 10 and the dialysis machines 50 and 60. In particular, the mobility of the dialysis machines 50 and 60 can be improved, enhancing the convenience of the blood purification system 1. Moreover, because the stopping timing of the dialysis machines 50 and 60 is staggered, the power supply to the blood purification system 1 does not suddenly decrease in a short period of time, preventing unstable power-related operation in hospitals and other facilities where each device is installed.

[0127] Furthermore, the timing of sending the stop command to the dialysis machine 60 is not limited to the above-described case, but can be at any other time. Also, although the sending of the stop command to the dialysis machine 60 was performed automatically in the above control process, it may be performed at any time by operator H2.

[0128] Furthermore, the processing flow, including the judgment in the RO device 10, will be the same as the flow in Figure 16, repeated for the dialysis machine 50 and the dialysis machine 60. Therefore, each step in the processing flow will be essentially the same, and their explanation will be omitted.

[0129] (Effects of the first embodiment) As described above, each device in the blood purification system 1 is connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with one another, and each device can perform control processing as both a control source and a control destination. Therefore, even if one of the components of the blood purification system 1 fails, the operation of the blood purification system 1 as a whole is maintained, and sufficient measures can be taken to address the failure. In addition, depending on the selection of control destinations, multiple control destinations can be started simultaneously, started in stages, stopped simultaneously, or stopped in stages. Furthermore, mutual monitoring among the components of the blood purification system 1 becomes possible. This increases the options for control sources and makes it easier to perform control processing in the blood purification system 1. As a result, the blood purification system 1 achieves improvements in convenience and safety.

[0130] (Modification of the first embodiment) In the embodiment described above, the blood purification system 1 had an RO device 10, an A agent dissolving device 20, a B agent dissolving device 30, a dialysate supply device 40, a dialysis machine 50, a dialysis machine 60, a terminal device 70, and a communication line unit 80, but it is not necessary to have all of these. For example, the blood purification system 1 may consist of an RO device 10, an A agent dissolving device 20, a B agent dissolving device 30, a dialysate supply device 40, a dialysis machine 50, and a communication line unit 80, or it may consist of an RO device 10, an A agent dissolving device 20, a B agent dissolving device 30, a dialysis machine 60, and a communication line unit 80. In other words, the blood purification system 1 may be of various types as long as the devices necessary for performing dialysis treatment on patient H1 are connected by the communication line unit 80. In particular, the blood purification system of this disclosure does not need to have separate devices for the blood purification unit (internal piping unit and extracorporeal circulation unit), dialysate supply unit (preparation and adjustment processing unit), dissolution unit, dialysate water purification unit, and communication line unit; a single device may contain multiple such units. Furthermore, the blood purification system 1 does not need to have a terminal device 70.

[0131] Furthermore, the combination of control source and control destination is not limited to the above. That is, at least one device can be selected as the control source device from the RO device 10, A agent dissolving device 20, B agent dissolving device 30, dialysate supply device 40, dialysis machines 50, 60, and terminal device 70 that constitute the blood purification system 1. Also, at least one device can be selected as the control destination device from the RO device 10, A agent dissolving device 20, B agent dissolving device 30, dialysate supply device 40, and dialysis machines 50, 60 that constitute the blood purification system 1. This selection can be combined arbitrarily, and control processing can be performed in multiple patterns between the devices that constitute the blood purification system 1.

[0132] In the embodiment described above, various control processes were performed in response to input operations by operator H2. However, various control processes may be initiated according to the blood purification treatment schedule. For example, the treatment schedule may be stored in the memory of each device constituting the blood purification system 1, and the control unit of each device may read the treatment schedule to determine the control destination and the timing of the control start. This would allow control processes between devices to be started at the optimal timing without the intervention of operator H2. In particular, this would lead to power savings in the blood purification system 1.

[0133] <Second Embodiment> In the first embodiment, the control processing was performed between the control source (master unit) and the control destination (slave unit). However, other devices may be interposed between the control source and the control destination. Such a case will be described as the second embodiment with reference to Figure 22. Here, Figure 22 is a schematic diagram showing an example of information transmission and reception in the communication configuration of the blood purification system 101 according to this embodiment. In particular, in Figure 22, the control source is the terminal device 70, the final control destination (second control destination: grandchild unit) is the dialysis machine 60, and the intermediate control destination (first control destination: slave unit) interposed between these devices is the dialysis machine 50. Note that only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described in detail, and the same content will be omitted from the explanation, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings in principle.

[0134] As shown in Figure 22, the control source terminal device 70 and the first control destination dialysis machine 50 are connected via a hub 81 to enable bidirectional communication. Although not shown in Figure 22, the terminal device 70 and the hub 81, and the dialysis machine 50 and the hub 81 are connected by LAN cables 82, similar to the first embodiment. Due to this configuration, various types of information are transmitted and received between the terminal device 70 and the dialysis machine 50 via wired communication.

[0135] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 22, a start command is transmitted from the control source terminal device 70 to the first control destination dialysis machine 50 via the hub 81. Then, a response signal is transmitted from the dialysis machine 50 to the terminal device 70 via the hub 81. The transmission and reception of the start command and response signal and their processing are the same as in control process 1 of the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0136] Meanwhile, dialysis machines 50 and 60 are connected via a wireless repeater 183 to enable bidirectional communication. Due to this configuration, various types of information are transmitted and received between dialysis machines 50 and 60 via wireless communication.

[0137] As shown in Figure 22, a startup command is transmitted from the first control destination, the dialysis machine 50, to the second control destination, the dialysis machine 60, via the wireless repeater 183. Here, the startup command transmitted from the terminal device 70 to the dialysis machine 50 includes an instruction command that instructs the terminal device 70 to also transmit the startup command to the other device, the dialysis machine 60. Therefore, the control unit 51 of the dialysis machine 50 controls the communication unit 55 in response to the instruction command and transmits the startup command to the dialysis machine 60. In addition, the dialysis machine 50 may add information indicating that it has transmitted a startup command to the dialysis machine 60 to the response signal indicating that it has started up. Note that the transmission and reception of the startup command between the dialysis machine 50 and the dialysis machine 60 and its processing are the same as in the control process 3 of the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0138] In addition, a response signal is transmitted from the dialysis machine 60 to the dialysis machine 50 via the wireless repeater 183. The dialysis machine 50 then transmits the received response signal to the terminal device 70. The transmission and reception of the response signal and its processing are the same as in the control process 1 of the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0139] The communication line section 180 is formed by the hub 81, LAN cable 82, and wireless repeater 183. The terminal device 70 and the dialysis machines 50 and 60 are connected via the communication line section 180 to enable bidirectional communication, with the dialysis machine 50 playing a relay role.

[0140] (Effects of the second embodiment) As described above, this embodiment also provides the same effects as the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, in this embodiment, even if the terminal device 70 and the dialysis machine 60 cannot be directly connected in a communicative manner, the terminal device 70 can be used to substantially control the dialysis machine 60. For example, it is assumed that the terminal device 70 and the dialysis machines 50 and 60 are installed at a distance that makes wireless communication impossible, and that only the dialysis machine 50 of the dialysis machines 50 and 60 is capable of wired communication. In other words, in this embodiment, optimal control processing can be performed in response to various communication environments in facilities such as hospitals.

[0141] (Modified version of the second embodiment) In the embodiment described above, the dialysis machine 50 only transmitted the response signal received from the dialysis machine 60 to the terminal device 70. However, it may also perform processing similar to that of the terminal device 70 in control processing 3 of the first embodiment. That is, the dialysis machine 50 may act as a control recipient in relation to the terminal device 70, but as a control source in relation to the dialysis machine 60. In other words, the dialysis machine 50 may not only play a relay role, but may also function as a control source.

[0142] In this embodiment, the control source (master unit) was the terminal device 70 and the control destination (slave unit) was the dialysis machines 50 and 60, but the system is not limited to this. That is, at least one device can be selected as the control source device from the RO device 10, A agent dissolving device 20, B agent dissolving device 30, dialysate supply device 40, dialysis machines 50 and 60, and terminal device 70 that constitute the blood purification system 101. Also, at least one device can be selected as the control destination device from the RO device 10, A agent dissolving device 20, B agent dissolving device 30, dialysate supply device 40, and dialysis machines 50 and 60 that constitute the blood purification system 101. Furthermore, these selections can be combined arbitrarily, and control processing can be performed in multiple patterns between the devices that constitute the blood purification system 101.

[0143] <Third Embodiment> In the first embodiment, the devices constituting the blood purification system 1 were connected to each other by a wired communication line or a wireless communication line, but they may also be connected by a dedicated signal line in addition to the communication line. This case will be described as the third embodiment with reference to Figure 23. Here, Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing the communication configuration of the blood purification system 201 according to this embodiment. In particular, in Figure 23, the control source is the dialysate supply device 40, and the control destinations are the dialysis machines 50 and 60.

[0144] As shown in Figure 23, the dialysate supply device 40 and the dialysis machines 50 and 60 are connected to each other via a communication line unit 80, similar to the first embodiment, enabling bidirectional communication. In addition, the dialysate supply device 40 and the dialysis machine 50 are connected to each other via a dedicated line unit 285, which is composed of a plurality of dedicated signal lines 284, enabling unidirectional communication. For example, in communication using the dedicated line unit 285, various signals can be transmitted only from the dialysate supply device 40 to the dialysis machine 50. Here, the dedicated signal lines 284 may include, for example, a line for startup signals to control the startup process, a line for cleaning signals to control the cleaning process, and a line for liquid replacement signals to control the liquid replacement process.

[0145] Furthermore, similar to the connection relationship between the dialysis fluid supply device 40 and the dialysis machine 50, the dialysis fluid supply device 40 and the dialysis machine 60 are also connected in a one-way communication manner by a dedicated line section 285 composed of multiple dedicated signal lines 284. For example, in communication using the dedicated line section 285, various signals can be transmitted only from the dialysis fluid supply device 40 to the dialysis machine 60.

[0146] Furthermore, when controlling the dialysis fluid supply device 40, the control unit 41 will select whether to communicate via the communication line unit 80 or via the dedicated line unit 285. For example, the control unit 41 may select which to use depending on the usage status or availability of the communication line unit 80 and the dedicated line unit 285. Alternatively, the control unit 41 may choose to use the communication line unit 80 for communication with the dialysis device 50 and the dedicated line unit 285 for communication with the dialysis device 60.

[0147] (Effects of the third embodiment) As described above, this embodiment also provides the same effects and advantages as the first embodiment described above. Furthermore, since a dedicated line section 285, which consists of multiple dedicated signal lines 284, can be used in addition to the communication line section 80, the control speed, control accuracy, and control capability of the blood purification system 201 can be improved. In particular, in the blood purification system 201, power saving can be achieved by controlling the power on / off of each device.

[0148] (Modified version of the third embodiment) In this embodiment, the control source (master unit) was the dialysate supply device 40 and the control destination (slave units) were the dialysis machines 50 and 60, but the system is not limited to this. That is, at least one device can be selected as the control source from the RO device 10, A agent dissolving device 20, B agent dissolving device 30, dialysate supply device 40, dialysis machines 50 and 60, and terminal device 70 that constitute the blood purification system 201. Also, at least one device can be selected as the control destination from the RO device 10, A agent dissolving device 20, B agent dissolving device 30, dialysate supply device 40, and dialysis machines 50 and 60 that constitute the blood purification system 201. Furthermore, these selections can be combined arbitrarily, and control processing can be performed in multiple patterns between the devices that constitute the blood purification system 201.

[0149] <Embodiments of this disclosure> A first embodiment of the present disclosure is a blood purification system comprising: a plurality of blood purification units for purifying a patient's blood; a dialysate supply unit for supplying dialysate to the blood purification units; a dissolving unit for supplying dialysate concentrate to the dialysate supply unit; a dialysate purification unit for purifying dialysate and supplying it to at least one of the dialysate supply unit and the dissolving unit; and a communication line unit for communicating with at least two of the plurality of blood purification units, the dialysate supply unit, the dissolving unit and the dialysate purification unit, wherein at least one of the group of components including the plurality of blood purification units, the dialysate supply unit, the dissolving unit and the dialysate purification unit is designated as a control source, and a different component from the control source among the group of components is designated as a control destination, wherein the plurality of blood purification units, the dialysate supply unit, the dissolving unit and the dialysate purification unit generate and transmit control commands to the control destination when selected as the control source, and perform control according to the control commands received from the control source when selected as the control destination.

[0150] Thus, in the first embodiment, each component of the blood purification system is connected to each other in a way that allows for communication, and each component performs control processing as both a control source and a control destination. Therefore, even if one of the components of the blood purification system fails, the operation of the entire blood purification system is maintained, and sufficient measures can be taken to address the failure. In other words, the blood purification system achieves improved convenience and safety.

[0151] A second embodiment of the present disclosure is, in the first embodiment, that when the controlled destination receives the control command, it transmits a response signal based on the control corresponding to the control command to the controlled source. This enables the controlled source to understand the status of the controlled destination and to accurately monitor the controlled destination.

[0152] A third embodiment of this disclosure is, in the second embodiment, that the control source determines the state of the controlled device based on the response signal. This enables additional actions according to the state of the controlled device, and allows for accurate execution of control processing or troubleshooting.

[0153] A fourth embodiment of this disclosure is, in the third embodiment, that the control source resends the control command to the control destination if the state of the control destination does not correspond to the control command. This allows the control destination to execute various processes more reliably.

[0154] A fifth embodiment of this disclosure is, in the fourth embodiment, that if the control source transmits the same control command to the same control destination a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time, the control source alerts the control destination to an abnormality. This allows the administrator to be notified of the abnormality in the control destination, and enables prompt and accurate response to the malfunction of the control destination.

[0155] A sixth embodiment of this disclosure is that, in any of the first to fifth embodiments, the control command is one of the following: a start command to activate the controlled device, a stop command to stop the controlled device, or a drive command to drive the controlled device. This makes it possible to remotely control the power on / off and various operations of the blood purification system, thereby reducing power consumption for the blood purification system.

[0156] A seventh embodiment of this disclosure is that, in any of the first to sixth embodiments, the control source stops its own operation when it determines that the controlled device has stopped in response to the control command. This allows the components of the blood purification system to be automatically stopped, thereby reducing power consumption for the blood purification system.

[0157] An eighth embodiment of this disclosure is that, in any of the first to seventh embodiments, the control source staggers the timing of sending the control command to each of the control destinations if there are multiple control destinations. This prevents sudden increases and decreases in power consumption in the blood purification system and prevents power supply equipment problems.

[0158] A ninth embodiment of this disclosure is that, in any of the first to eighth embodiments, the control source transmits the control command according to the treatment schedule of the configuration group. This enables the control process to be started and executed based on blood purification therapy, thereby further improving the convenience and safety of the blood purification system.

[0159] A tenth embodiment of this disclosure is that, in any of the first to ninth embodiments, at least one of the components of the group relays between the control source and the control destination, and transmits the control command received from the control source to the control destination. This makes it possible to perform control processing by utilizing other parts of the group of components, even if the control source and the control destination are not installed in an environment where they can communicate with each other.

[0160] An eleventh embodiment of this disclosure is that, in any of the first to tenth embodiments, there is a terminal device that is communicably connected to the group of components via the communication line. This makes it possible to control a device that directly performs blood purification treatment by operating a device that does not directly perform blood purification treatment, and allows for more flexible initiation and execution of the control processing of the blood purification system.

[0161] A twelfth embodiment of the present disclosure is a processing program executed in each configuration of a blood purification system, where the control source is at least one of a group of components including a plurality of blood purification units for purifying a patient's blood, a dialysate supply unit for supplying dialysate to the blood purification units, a dissolving unit for supplying dialysate concentrate to the dialysate supply unit, and a dialysate purification unit for purifying dialysate and supplying it to at least one of the dialysate supply unit and the dissolving unit, and the control destination is a configuration from the group of components different from the control source, wherein when the control source receives input indicating that it has been selected, the processing program generates a control command that causes the control destination to execute a predetermined control, transmits the control command to the control destination, and when the control source receives the control command, it executes a control corresponding to the control command.

[0162] Thus, in the twelfth embodiment of the blood purification system, each component of the blood purification system performs control processing as both a control source and a control destination. Therefore, even if one of the components of the blood purification system fails, the operation of the entire blood purification system is maintained, and sufficient measures can be taken to address the failure. In other words, the blood purification system achieves improved convenience and safety. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] 1. Blood purification system 10 RO device (dialysis water purification section) 20. Agent A dissolving device (dissolving section) 30. Agent B dissolving apparatus (dissolving section) 40 Dialysate supply device (dialysis fluid supply section) 50. Dialysis machine (blood purification unit) 60. Dialysis machine (blood purification unit) 70 Terminal devices 80 Communication Line Section 81 Hub 82 LAN cables H1 patient H2 Operator

Claims

1. Multiple blood purification units for purifying the patient's blood, A dialysate supply unit that supplies dialysate to the blood purification unit, A dissolving unit that supplies the dialysate concentrate to the dialysate supply unit, A dialysis water purification unit that purifies the dialysis water and supplies it to at least one of the dialysis fluid supply unit and the dissolution unit, It has a communication line unit that connects at least two of the plurality of blood purification units, the dialysate supply unit, the dissolution unit, and the dialysate water purification unit so that they can communicate with each other, At least one of the components comprising the plurality of blood purification units, the dialysate supply unit, the dissolution unit, and the dialysate water purification unit is designated as the control source, and a component from the component group different from the control source is designated as the control target. A blood purification system in which, when selected as the control source, the plurality of blood purification units, the dialysate supply unit, the dissolution unit, and the dialysate water purification unit generate a control command for the control destination and transmit it to the control destination, and when selected as the control destination, performs control according to the control command received from the control source.

2. The blood purification system according to claim 1, wherein when the control destination receives the control command, it transmits a response signal based on the control corresponding to the control command to the control source.

3. The blood purification system according to claim 2, wherein the control source determines the state of the controlled target based on the response signal.

4. The blood purification system according to claim 3, wherein the control source retransmits the control command to the control destination if the state of the control destination does not correspond to the control command.

5. The blood purification system according to claim 4, wherein the control source alarms an abnormality in the control destination if it transmits the same control command to the same control destination a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time.

6. The blood purification system according to claim 1, wherein the control command is one of the following: a start command to start the controlled device, a stop command to stop the controlled device, or a drive command to drive the controlled device.

7. The blood purification system according to claim 1, wherein the control source, upon determining that the control destination has stopped in response to the control command, stops its own operation.

8. The blood purification system according to claim 1, wherein, if there are multiple control destinations, the control source staggers the timing of sending the control command to each of the control destinations.

9. The blood purification system according to claim 1, wherein the control source transmits the control command according to the treatment schedule of the constituent group.

10. The blood purification system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the above-mentioned components relays between the control source and the control destination and transmits the control command received from the control source to the control destination.

11. The blood purification system according to claim 1, further comprising a terminal device that is communicably connected to the aforementioned group of components via the aforementioned communication line section.

12. A processing program executed in each configuration of a blood purification system, where the control source is at least one of a group of components including multiple blood purification units for purifying a patient's blood, a dialysate supply unit for supplying dialysate to the blood purification units, a dissolving unit for supplying dialysate concentrate to the dialysate supply unit, and a dialysate purification unit for purifying dialysate and supplying it to at least one of the dialysate supply unit and the dissolving unit, and the control destination is a configuration from the group of components different from the control source, When the input indicating that the control source has been selected is received, a control command is generated to cause the control destination to execute a predetermined control, and the control command is sent to the control destination. A processing program that, upon receiving the control command from the control source, executes the control corresponding to the control command.

Images