Information management device, inspection system, and information management method

Abstract

In the present invention, a subject and examination information corresponding to the subject are easily and appropriately associated and managed. An information management device comprises: a first acquisition unit that acquires first information and examination information related to an examination from an examination device that performs an examination on the subject; and a management unit that accepts personal information of the subject in association with the first information or second information accessible to the examination information corresponding to the first information, and that manages, in mutual association, the personal information and the examination information corresponding to the first information.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information management device and an information management method. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art When a patient undergoes a sample test using a testing device installed in a medical facility, a technique is known that automatically links the test results with the patient.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a medical testing system that manages test data relating to test results and personal data of users using different IDs, and associates the test data with the personal data to create combined data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2004-152213 Summary of the Invention

[0005] An information management device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first acquisition unit that acquires first information and test information related to a test from a testing device that tests the subject, and a management unit that accepts personal information of the subject by associating it with second information that is accessible to the first information or the test information corresponding to the first information, and manages the personal information by associating it with the test information corresponding to the first information.

[0006] An information management method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the steps of: acquiring first information and test information related to a test from a testing device that tests a subject; accepting personal information of the subject in association with second information accessible to the first information or the test information corresponding to the first information; acquiring the test information from the testing device in association with the first information; and managing the personal information in association with the test information corresponding to the first information. Includes: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an inspection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the appearance of an inspection device and a cartridge. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of management information managed by an information management device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the configuration of a sensor of the inspection device. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen displayed by a display unit of the inspection device. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen displayed by a display unit of the terminal device. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen displayed by a display unit of the terminal device. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow in the information management device. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the appearance of a cartridge according to another embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow in an information management device according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] There is a demand for easy and appropriate association and management of subjects and test information corresponding to the subjects.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, subjects and test information corresponding to the subjects can be managed in a simple and appropriate manner in association with each other.

[0010] [Embodiment 1] A testing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure acquires first information and test information related to a test from a testing device that tests a subject, and accepts personal information of the subject in association with the first information or second information accessible to the test information. The testing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure then manages the personal information in association with the test information corresponding to the first information.

[0011] A testing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is used, for example, in a medical institution. Conventionally, when medical personnel conduct a test on a subject, they are required to associate identification information indicating the test content with the subject's personal information (ID). For example, medical personnel are required to perform tasks such as inputting the identification number of the cartridge used in the test. According to the testing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, personal information and first information related to the test can be associated and managed. Furthermore, since manual input by medical personnel is no longer required, it is possible to reduce personnel costs and errors due to manual input.

[0012] The testing device used to test a subject may be installed in a medical institution or pharmacy, or may be owned by the subject. The testing device may be installed, for example, in the subject's home. Examples of testing devices include, but are not limited to, medical testing devices that handle medical information, such as X-ray testing devices, CT (Computed Tomography) testing devices, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) devices, endoscopic testing devices, electronic medical records, or ultrasound testing devices, as well as point-of-care testing (POCT) devices, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) devices, personal testing kits, or remote stethoscopes. In this embodiment, a testing device that uses a cartridge for testing will be described as an example. The cartridge may be connected to the testing device by a medical professional, or the subject may connect the cartridge to the testing device installed in a medical institution.

[0013] <Configuration of inspection system 100> An embodiment of the invention according to the present disclosure will be described in detail below. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a testing system 100 according to one embodiment. The testing system 100 includes an information management device 1, a cartridge 2, a testing device 3, an output device 4, and a terminal device 5. The testing system 100 is assumed to be configured such that the cartridge 2 is connected to the testing device 3. The output device 4 may be capable of communicating with the testing device 3, and may be, for example, a printing device or a display device such as a display. Furthermore, the following description illustrates a configuration in which a subject uses the testing device 3 to test themselves, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration in which a medical professional uses the testing device 3 to test the subject may also be used.

[0014] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the appearance of the inspection device 3 and cartridge 2 provided in the inspection system 100. In the inspection device 3 shown in Fig. 2, the cartridge 2 is not yet attached to the inspection device 3. In other words, Fig. 2 shows the state in which the cartridge 2 is being inserted into the inspection device 3.

[0015] Hereinafter, as an example of the testing system 100, a configuration will be described in which urine is used as the sample P and the concentration of a test target contained in the sample P is measured. Specifically, the testing system 100 may be used to test tumor markers for various cancers, viruses such as influenza, bacteria, or substances for testing specific diseases. For example, if the specific disease is diabetes, the substance for testing a specific disease may be hemoglobin A1c. That is, the testing system 100 may be used, for example, for quantitative analysis such as measuring the concentration of a test target contained in the sample P, or for qualitative analysis such as identifying the type of substance contained in the sample P.

[0016] Furthermore, for example, the testing system 100 may be used to determine the physiological tendency of a subject or diagnose a disease based on the test results. The results of the testing system 100 may be, for example, the presence or absence of a virus or the concentration of a specific substance (such as cholesterol) in the blood, and may be used to determine the physiological tendency of the subject or diagnose a disease based on these. The physiological tendency may be a tendency related to the subject's constitution, such as whether the subject has a constitution that is prone to producing a specific substance, whether the subject has a constitution that is prone to contracting a specific disease, or whether the subject has a constitution that is prone to developing a serious condition if contracting a specific disease.

[0017] The results of the inspection system 100 may also be a result obtained by combining the results of an inspection performed by the inspection device 3 with biological information about the subject. The inspection results derived by the inspection device 3 may also be, for example, biological information obtained by attaching the inspection device 3 to the subject. The biological information may include, for example, blood pressure, heart rate, pulse wave, blood oxygen concentration, blood viscosity, echo images, and X-ray images. The inspection results may also include the results of an inspection performed on a subject such as a human or animal. Specifically, the results of the inspection system 100 may be, for example, the degree of fetal growth determined based on the result obtained by combining the inspection results derived by the inspection device 3 with echo images obtained by performing an echo inspection on the mother as the subject.

[0018] The result of the inspection system 100 may be bone information estimated based on a result of combining the inspection result derived by the inspection device 3 with an X-ray image obtained by X-ray photography of a patient as a subject. Alternatively, the result of the inspection system 100 may be, for example, only bone information.

[0019] The bone information may be, for example, at least one of estimated bone density, osteoporosis classification, and fracture. The X-ray image is, for example, a simple X-ray image of the subject taken from the front or side. The estimated bone density may be the bone density at the time the X-ray image is taken, or may be future or past bone density. The estimated bone density may be, for example, bone mineral density per unit area (g / cm 2 ), bone mineral density per unit volume (g / cm 3 ), Young Adult Mean (YAM), T-score, and Z-score can be used. The osteoporosis classification may be, for example, at least one of normal, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. Alternatively, the fracture may be, for example, a stress fracture, a fragility fracture, a simple fracture, a compression fracture, an avulsion fracture, a subcutaneous fracture, a compound fracture, or a crack. The bone information presented as a result of the inspection system 100 may be at least one of estimated bone density, osteoporosis classification, and fracture, and may also include an X-ray image. In these cases, the inspection system 100 does not necessarily need to use the cartridge 2. For example, the inspection device 3 may import inspection data from another inspection device and perform further inspections based on the inspection data.

[0020] The biological information may be obtained, for example, from the inspection device 3, another inspection device, a database, or the like. The inspection device 3 may be connected to another inspection device, a database, or the like by a conventionally known method, for example, via wire or wirelessly. If the inspection device 3 complies with standards such as DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine), the information stored in the DICOM standard may be used. The inspection device 3 may obtain the biological information directly from a device that stores the biological information, such as an electronic medical record, without going through another inspection device.

[0021] Furthermore, as an example, the testing device 3 may use a replaceable cartridge 2. Furthermore, multiple types of cartridges 2 may be prepared depending on the type of test. In other words, the type of test performed by the testing device 3 is not particularly limited. For example, the sample P is not limited to urine, and may be any substance derived from a living organism, such as blood, sweat, saliva, or nasal mucus. The cartridge 2 may be configured appropriately so that the testing device 3 can detect these samples P.

[0022] (Configuration of information management device 1) The information management device 1 includes a control unit 11, a communication unit 12, and a storage unit 13. The control unit 11 also includes a first acquisition unit 14, a management unit 16, and a transmission control unit 17.

[0023] The first acquisition unit 14 acquires first information and examination information related to the examination from the examination device 3. The examination information may be information indicating the results of measurements performed by the examination device 3. For example, if the examination device is an X-ray examination device, the examination information may be at least one of bone density, osteoporosis classification, and fracture estimated from an X-ray image taken by the X-ray examination device.

[0024] The first information may be information for identifying the subject. In this embodiment, the first information may be identification information of the cartridge 2 used in the inspection device 3. The first information may be used as identification information for identifying each inspection performed by the inspection device. The first information may be attached to the cartridge 2. If the inspection device 3 is, for example, a medical inspection device such as an X-ray inspection device, a CT inspection device, an MRI inspection device, an endoscopy inspection device, an electronic medical record, or an ultrasound inspection device, a PCR device, a personal inspection kit, or a remote stethoscope, the first information may be temporary information such as a temporary access code or password issued for each inspection. In this case, the first information may be generated and issued by the inspection device 3. The first information may also be arbitrarily set information such as an access code or password arbitrarily set by the subject on the inspection device 3. The first information may be displayed on a display connected to the inspection device 3 by wire or wirelessly.

[0025] The management unit 16 manages the test information acquired from the test device 3 in association with the personal information acquired from the terminal device 5. In this embodiment, the management unit 16 accepts the personal information of the subject in association with second information that can access the test information corresponding to the first information.

[0026] The second information may be specific information for identifying a web page that manages test information. The second information may be, for example, information indicating a URL of a web page common to all subjects or for each subject. The second information may be specific information for identifying a web page that manages test information for each test.

[0027] For subjects who have previously taken the same test and have already registered their personal information on the web page, the subject may be able to move from a web page common to all subjects identified by the second information to a web page dedicated to the subject by entering their registered ID, password, etc.

[0028] The information in which the test information and the personal information are associated by the management unit 16 (hereinafter referred to as management information) may be stored in the memory unit 13. Furthermore, the management information may be viewable by staff of the medical institution via, for example, the electronic medical record of the medical institution. The memory unit 13 may be provided in the electronic medical record.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of management information D1 managed by the management unit 16. The management information D1 includes test information D11 and personal information D12. The test information D11 includes first information 201 for identifying the cartridge 2 and test information obtained using the cartridge 2. The personal information D12 includes, in addition to the personal information of the subject, first information 201A as a user ID and second information 202 for the subject to access his or her own test information. The second information 202 is a URL that specifies a web page that manages the test information. The test information D11 and the personal information D12 are linked by the first information 201.

[0030] The first information 201 may be, for example, an ID such as a number or a symbol for identifying the cartridge 2. The personal information D12 may be the name, age, sex, email address, medical history, etc., or may be information input by the subject. The test information D11 may further include the date and time when the test information was acquired. The test information D11 may also include a doctor's findings, the results of a questionnaire given to the subject, or other test records.

[0031] When the same subject undergoes a test multiple times, the identification information of the cartridge 2 used in the first test may be used as the first information 201A (identification information of the subject, user ID), and the identification information of the cartridge 2 used in the second or subsequent test may be used as the first information 201B (measurement ID) for identifying the second or subsequent test. In this case, the information management device 1 may manage the first information 201A (user ID) in association with the first information 201B (measurement ID) for the second or subsequent test. That is, for a subject who has undergone a test multiple times, the first information 201A, which is the identification information of the cartridge 2 used for the first test, is set as the user ID, and the number of times the test has been taken, the date and time of the test, etc. are managed by the first information 201B (measurement ID) for identifying the second or subsequent test. When a web page for managing test information is created for each test, the information management device 1 may manage the first information 201 in association with the second information 202, which identifies the web page for the second or subsequent test. For example, the results received multiple times may be displayed in a graph.

[0032] The transmission control unit 17 transmits, as the second information described above, specific information for identifying a web page that manages the test information, such as a uniform resource locator (URL). The transmission control unit 17 may transmit the second information every time an test is performed by the test device 3, that is, every time the transmission control unit 17 obtains the first information from the test device 3.

[0033] (Cartridge 2 configuration) The cartridge 2 may be a disposable cartridge 2 that is detachable from the testing device 3. The cartridge 2 according to one embodiment includes a holding section 21 that holds a liquid, a liquid receiving section 22 that takes in the sample P into the cartridge 2, and a sensor 23 that detects the test target contained in the sample P. A flow path (not shown) is formed inside the cartridge 2. The flow path may be connected to the holding section 21 and the liquid receiving section 22. That is, the sample P and the liquid held in the holding section 21 may be supplied to the flow path. For example, the sample P and the liquid may be mixed within the flow path. Furthermore, for example, the sample P supplied to the flow path may be washed away by the liquid held in the holding section 21. The flow path may be formed using conventionally known technology.

[0034] The cartridge 2 may be made of, for example, a resin. The resin may be, for example, polycarbonate, cycloolefin polymer, polymethyl methacrylate resin, polydimethylsiloxane, etc. The cartridge 2 according to one embodiment is made of polymethyl methacrylate resin.

[0035] The cartridge 2 can mutually input and output electrical signals to and from the inspection device 3. In other words, it is sufficient if the cartridge 2 and the inspection device 3 are electrically connectable. Terminals and the like that electrically connect the cartridge 2 and the inspection device 3 may be fabricated by conventionally known methods.

[0036] The cartridge 2 does not have to be physically attached to the testing device 3. For example, the cartridge 2 may be provided with a communication unit capable of communicating with the testing device 3. In this case, the cartridge 2 may transmit and receive various information, such as electrical signals related to the testing, to and from the testing device 3 via wired or wireless communication.

[0037] The cartridge 2 may be provided with first information 201, which is identification information. The first information 201 may include product identification information, which is information for identifying each individual cartridge 2, in addition to information indicating the type of cartridge 2. The product identification information may be, for example, the manufacturing number (serial number) of the cartridge 2. The first information 201 may also include test management information related to a test using the cartridge 2. For example, the test management information may be information about the type of test (including information about the test subject) and / or information about conditions according to the type of test (e.g., information such as reaction temperature, reaction time, detection sensitivity, and calibration curves for calculating measurement results).

[0038] Here, "applied" does not necessarily mean that the first information 201 is visibly attached or printed, but may be in any form that can be detected by the inspection device 3. For example, a chip on which the first information 201 is recorded may be embedded in advance inside the cartridge 2. The chip may be configured using well-known technology, and may be, for example, a memory such as an SSD (Solid State Drive). In this case, the first information 201 on the chip inside the cartridge 2 is read directly or indirectly (contactlessly) by the inspection device 3. Specifically, the inspection device 3 may be provided with a reader that can be electrically connected to the inside of the cartridge 2. When the reader is electrically connected to the cartridge 2, the reader may acquire the first information 201 from the chip.

[0039] The holding portion 21 can hold various liquids. In other words, various liquids are sealed inside the holding portion 21. The holding portion 21 may be formed from any material depending on the type of liquid used in the test. For example, when sealing a liquid that is easily oxidized, the holding portion 21 may be formed from a material with low oxygen permeability. For example, when using an acidic liquid, the holding portion 21 may be formed from an acid-resistant material. Therefore, the holding portion 21 may be formed from, for example, aluminum, polypropylene, polyethylene, or the like. In one embodiment, the holding portion 21 is formed from polypropylene. The holding portion 21 may be formed by a conventionally known technique, such as casting.

[0040] The shape of the holder 21 is not limited to a particular shape as long as it can hold a liquid. The holder 21 may have any shape, such as a truncated cone, a truncated triangular pyramid, or a truncated square pyramid; a cone, a triangular pyramid, or a square prism; a cylinder, a triangular prism, or a square prism; or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the holder 21 is a truncated cone. The holder 21 may be pressed down by a rod (not shown) of the inspection device 3 to supply the liquid held by the holder 21 to the sensor 23.

[0041] The liquid receiving section 22 can take in the sample P into the cartridge 2 and supply it to the sensor 23. In other words, the liquid receiving section 22 is connected to the flow path of the cartridge 2. The shape of the liquid receiving section 22 is not particularly limited. The liquid receiving section 22 may be formed integrally with the flow path of the cartridge 2. Alternatively, the liquid receiving section 22 may be formed separately from the flow path of the cartridge 2. The liquid receiving section 22 may be formed by conventionally known techniques.

[0042] 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of sensor 23. Sensor 23 according to one embodiment is a sensor that uses acoustic waves, and includes a detection unit 24, a reference unit 25, a pair of first IDT (Inter Digital Transducer) electrodes 26A, a pair of second IDT electrodes 26B, and a substrate 27. The detection unit 24, the reference unit 25, the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A, and the pair of second IDT electrodes 26B may be located on substrate 27. The arrangement and other aspects of these components may be changed as appropriate.

[0043] The sensor 23 may be, for example, a sensor that uses an elastic wave, a QCM (Quartz Crystal Microbalance), an SPR (Surface Plasmon Resonance), or an FET (Field Effect Transistor). That is, the sensor 23 may be capable of converting between an electrical signal and an elastic wave, a QCM, an SPR, an FET, or the like. The sensor 23 may be fabricated by a conventionally known method. The sensor 23 according to one embodiment is a sensor that uses an elastic wave. That is, the sensor 23 is capable of converting between an electrical signal and an elastic wave. In this case, the inspection information included in the identification information may include information specific to a sensor that uses an elastic wave, such as the frequency, sensitivity, initial phase of the elastic wave, and orientation of the substrate 27, or information about the sensor 23, such as a serial number.

[0044] A substance (reactive substance) that reacts with the test object may be immobilized on the detection unit 24. Therefore, the test object contained in the sample P can react with the reactive substance in the detection unit 24. The detection unit 24 may be made of, for example, a metal. Specifically, the detection unit 24 may be made of metals such as gold, chromium, and titanium, or a combination of these metals. The detection unit 24 may also be a single-layer metal film made of a single material, or a multi-layer metal film made of multiple materials. The detection unit 24 is not limited to these metals as long as it can immobilize the reactive substance. In other words, the detection unit 24 may be made of any material that can immobilize the reactive substance. The detection unit 24 may be fabricated by a conventionally known method.

[0045] The reactive substance may be, for example, an antibody and an enzyme. In other words, the test subject may be, for example, an antigen and a substrate. The test subject is not limited to these examples. For example, the test subject may be, for example, an antibody and an enzyme. In other words, the reactive substance may be, for example, an antigen and a substrate. In other words, the combination of the test subject and the reactive substance may be appropriately selected depending on the symptoms, disease, etc. to be tested by the test device 3.

[0046] The pair of first IDT electrodes 26A can generate an acoustic wave between the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A. Of the generated acoustic waves, an acoustic wave that propagates on the surface of the substrate 27 is also called a surface acoustic wave (SAW). The pair of first IDT electrodes 26A may be positioned on the substrate 27 so as to sandwich the detection unit 24. In the sensor 23 according to one embodiment, an electrical signal is input to one of the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A under the control of the inspection device 3. The input electrical signal is converted into an acoustic wave that propagates toward the detection unit 24 and is transmitted from one of the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A. The transmitted acoustic wave passes through the detection unit 24. The other first IDT electrode 26A can receive the acoustic wave that has passed through the detection unit 24. The received acoustic wave is converted into an electrical signal. The converted electrical signal is output to the inspection device 3. The pair of first IDT electrodes 26A may be formed of a metal such as gold, chromium, or titanium, or a combination of these metals. The pair of first IDT electrodes 26A may also be single-layer electrodes made of a single material, or multi-layer electrodes made of multiple materials.

[0047] In the detection unit 24, the reaction between the test object and the reactant changes the propagation characteristics of the elastic wave propagating on the substrate 27. Specifically, the reaction between the test object and the reactant changes the weight on the substrate 27 or the viscosity of the liquid in contact with the surface of the substrate 27. The magnitude of these changes correlates with the amount of reaction between the test object and the reactant. Furthermore, the properties of the elastic wave (e.g., phase, amplitude, frequency, etc.) change as the wave propagates through the detection unit 24. The magnitude of the change in properties correlates with the weight on the substrate 27 or the viscosity of the liquid in contact with the surface of the substrate 27. Therefore, by using the sensor 23, the inspection device 3 can detect the test object based on the change in the properties of the elastic wave. Specifically, the inspection device 3 can measure the concentration of the test object contained in, for example, a sample P.

[0048] Sensor 23 may have two or more combinations of detecting unit 24 and pairs of IDT electrodes 26A. In this case, inspection device 3 may, for example, detect a different type of target substance for each combination. Alternatively, inspection device 3 may, for example, detect the same type of target substance using multiple combinations and compare the respective detection results. The types of target substances that sensor 23 can detect and / or the number of combinations used for inspection may be included in first information 201.

[0049] Unlike the detection unit 24, the reference unit 25 does not have a reactive substance immobilized thereon. In other words, no reaction occurs between the test subject and the reactive substance in the reference unit 25. Therefore, the reference unit 25 can function as a control for the detection unit 24. The reference unit 25 may be configured identically or similarly to the detection unit 24. The combination of two sensors is not limited to a combination of a test sensor and a reference sensor, but may also be a combination of sensors that can simultaneously perform a first test and a second test. Three or more sensors may be installed, such as a first test sensor, a second test sensor, and a reference sensor. Information regarding such sensors included in the cartridge 2 may be included in the first information 201.

[0050] The pair of second IDT electrodes 26B can generate an acoustic wave between them. The pair of second IDT electrodes 26B may be positioned on the substrate 27 so as to sandwich the reference portion 25. In the sensor 23 according to one embodiment, an electrical signal is input to one of the pair of second IDT electrodes 26B under the control of the inspection device 3. The input electrical signal is converted into an acoustic wave that propagates toward the reference portion 25 and is emitted from one of the second IDT electrodes 26B. The emitted acoustic wave passes through the reference portion 25. The other second IDT electrode 26B can receive the acoustic wave that has passed through the reference portion 25. The received acoustic wave is converted into an electrical signal. The converted electrical signal is output to the inspection device 3. The pair of second IDT electrodes 26B may be configured identically or similarly to the pair of first IDT electrodes 26A.

[0051] The substrate 27 is, for example, a substrate having piezoelectricity. Specifically, the substrate 27 is, for example, a quartz substrate. The substrate 27 is not limited to a quartz substrate as long as it can propagate elastic waves. In other words, the substrate 27 may be made of any material that can propagate elastic waves. Furthermore, the substrate 27 may be fabricated by a conventionally known method.

[0052] (Configuration of inspection device 3) 1, the inspection device 3 includes a control unit 31, a connection unit 32, a storage unit 33, a display unit 34, a communication unit 35, an input unit 36, and an imaging unit 43. The control unit 31 also includes a second acquisition unit 37, an inspection control unit 38, and an output control unit 41. The storage unit 33 may also include a database 42.

[0053] The second acquisition unit 37 may acquire first information for identifying the cartridge 2 from the cartridge 2. For example, if the first information attached to the cartridge 2 is a chip, the first information may be acquired from the chip when a reader electrically connectable to the inside of the cartridge 2 is electrically connected to the cartridge 2. Furthermore, if a code indicating identification information is printed on the cartridge 2, the inspection device 3 may capture an image of the code attached to the cartridge 2 using the imaging unit 43 (camera). In this case, the second acquisition unit 37 may acquire the code included in the captured image.

[0054] Furthermore, the second acquisition section 37 may output the first information to the inspection control section 38. The second acquisition section 37 may acquire the first information every time the cartridge 2 is replaced.

[0055] The test control unit 38 may start a test suitable for the cartridge 2 based on the first information acquired by the second acquisition unit 37. After the second acquisition unit 37 acquires the first information, the test control unit 38 may start a test based on an instruction from the subject received from the input unit 36. Upon acquiring an electrical signal from the sensor 23, the test control unit 38 may calculate the concentration of the test subject as test information according to the intensity of the electrical signal. The test control unit 38 may output the calculated concentration to the output control unit 41 as the test result.

[0056] The database 42 may include first information that is identification information of the cartridge 2. Before starting the test, the test control unit 38 may refer to the database 42 in the memory unit 33 and determine the test conditions corresponding to the cartridge 2 indicated by the first information acquired from the second acquisition unit 37. As described above, the first information may include test management information. In this case, the test control unit 38 performs the test under the test conditions indicated by the test management information.

[0057] The database 42 may also store information for specifying the identification information of a usable cartridge 2, or information for specifying the identification information of an unusable cartridge 2 (for example, a cartridge 2 that has been used once). The storage unit 33 may also store a determination program for determining whether the cartridge 2 is suitable. The storage unit 33 may also include a program for performing an inspection suitable for the identification information of the cartridge 2. The storage unit 33 may also store information such as an arithmetic formula and calibration curve data to be used by the inspection control unit 38 for calculation.

[0058] Furthermore, the inspection control unit 38 may determine whether the cartridge 2 can be used for inspection by the inspection device 3 before the start of the inspection. If the cartridge 2 can be used for inspection by the inspection device 3, the inspection control unit 38 may determine that the cartridge 2 is appropriate. The inspection control unit 38 may inquire of an information management device on the cloud about whether the cartridge 2 is appropriate. This configuration allows multiple inspection devices 3 to share cartridge information, reducing the possibility of fraudulent measurements, such as those involving used or expired cartridges. Furthermore, if an abnormality is discovered in a cartridge 2 after shipment, it becomes possible to stop use of the cartridge 2 that has been found to be abnormal and collect it.

[0059] The inspection device 3 may start the inspection if it determines that the cartridge 2 is appropriate. Alternatively, if it determines that the cartridge 2 is inappropriate, the inspection control unit 38 may output the determination result to the output control unit 41 without starting the inspection, and cause the display unit 34 to display a message urging the user to replace the cartridge 2.

[0060] The output control unit 41 controls various outputs of the testing device 3. Specifically, when the cartridge 2 is connected and first information is acquired, the output control unit 41 may output the first information to the information management device 1 via the communication unit 35. Furthermore, when test information (test subject, test content, or test results) is acquired from the test control unit 38, the output control unit 41 may cause the display unit 34 to display the test information. Furthermore, the output control unit 41 may output the test information acquired from the test control unit 38 to the information management device 1 via the communication unit 35.

[0061] The connection unit 32 may be connected to the cartridge 2 to exchange various information. Specifically, the connection unit 32 may be, for example, a communication module for wireless or wired communication, or a mechanism (terminal) that electrically connects the testing device 3 and the cartridge 2 when the cartridge 2 is attached to the connection unit 32, enabling exchange of information via electrical signals. When the connection unit 32 is a communication module, the connection unit 32 can function as a reader that reads the identification information of the cartridge 2.

[0062] The display unit 34 displays various information and is, for example, a display. The display unit 34 may include a touch panel, and the touch panel may have a function of receiving input from the subject.

[0063] FIG. 5 shows an example of a display screen of the display unit 34. The display screen 340 is a screen displayed after the test control unit 38 starts the test. The display screen 340 may display text 341 to inform the subject of the time remaining until the end of the measurement. The text 341 may be updated, for example, every second. The display screen 340 may also display a display field 342 that displays second information for accessing test information. The display screen 340 displays a QR code (registered trademark) 202A as an example of a display mode of the second information. The display screen 340 may also display text 343 that prompts the subject to have the terminal device 5 read the QR code (registered trademark).

[0064] 5 has been described in connection with an embodiment in which the QR code (registered trademark) 202A is displayed on the display unit 34 as the second information, but the second information may be output to the output device 4. For example, if the output device 4 is a display separate from the display unit 34, the QR code (registered trademark) 202A may be displayed on the display as the second information. Furthermore, if the output device 4 is a printing device, the QR code (registered trademark) 202A may be printed as the second information. In this case, the printing device may be communicably connected to the examination device 3 and installed in a location separate from the examination device 3. For example, a medical professional may hand the subject a piece of paper on which the QR code (registered trademark) 202A, output from a printing device in a separate room, is printed.

[0065] The input unit receives input operations from a subject using the testing device 3. The input unit may be, for example, a touch panel, and the touch panel of the input unit may also function as the display unit .

[0066] The communication unit 35 may be capable of communicating with the communication unit 12 of the information management device 1 or the output device 4. The communication method used in the communication between the communication unit 35 and the communication unit 12 of the information management device 1 or the communication between the communication unit 35 and the output device 4 may be a short-range wireless communication standard, a wireless communication standard connecting to a mobile phone network, or a wired communication standard. The short-range wireless communication standard may include, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), infrared, and NFC (Near Field Communication). The wireless communication standard connecting to a mobile phone network may include, for example, LTE (Long Term Evolution) or a fourth-generation or higher mobile communication system.

[0067] (Configuration of terminal device 5) The terminal device 5 acquires the second information displayed on the display unit 34 of the inspection device 3 and displays a web page indicated by the second information. The terminal device 5 is, for example, a general-purpose portable information processing terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal, but the type is not particularly limited. The terminal device 5 includes a control unit 51, a communication unit 52, an input unit 53, an imaging unit 54, and a display unit 55.

[0068] The communication unit 52 may be capable of communicating with the communication unit 12 of the information management device 1. The communication method used for communication between the communication unit 52 and the communication unit 12 may be the same as the communication method between the communication unit 35 and the communication unit 12 described above. Furthermore, when a web page is displayed on the display unit 55 (described later) and an input operation is received from the input unit 53, the communication unit 52 may transmit the input information to the communication unit 12 of the information management device 1.

[0069] The control unit 51 includes an imaging control unit 56 , a communication control unit 57 , and an output control unit 58 .

[0070] The input unit 53 is an input device that accepts an input operation from the subject, and may be, for example, a touch panel. When an input operation to start the imaging unit 54 is performed from the input unit 53, the imaging control unit 56 may start the imaging unit 54. Furthermore, the input unit 53 may accept an input operation from the subject when a web page is displayed on the display unit 55 described below.

[0071] The imaging section 54 captures an image of the second information 202 A. The imaging section 54 may capture an image of the second information 202 A based on the control of the imaging control section 56.

[0072] When the second information 202A is captured by the imaging unit 54, the communication control unit 57 accesses the web page indicated by the second information 202A.

[0073] The output control unit 58 controls the display unit 55 to display the web page accessed under the control of the communication control unit 57.

[0074] The display unit 55 is a display device that displays test information, and for example, the touch panel of the input unit 53 may also serve as the display unit 55.

[0075] 6 shows an example of the display screen of the display unit 55 of the terminal device 5 when the second information 202 is captured by the imaging unit 54 and the web page is accessed. For example, the display screen 550 may display a text display area 5501 that displays text prompting the subject to input personal information. Also, an input field 5502 that prompts the subject to input text may be displayed. For example, the subject's first and last name, email address, and a password appropriately determined by the subject to access the web page may be input into the input field 5502.

[0076] 7 shows an example of the display screen of the display unit 55 of the terminal device 5 when test information is acquired on a web page. For example, the display screen 551 may display the date the measurement results were acquired, the numerical values ​​of the measurement results, the level diagnosed from the numerical values, etc. The display screen 551 may also display, for example, a history of past measurement results, a comparison between past measurement results and the current measurement result, standard values ​​for the measurement results, etc. Furthermore, a doctor's diagnosis, opinion, view, or advice may be displayed together with the measurement results.

[0077] <Example of processing flow of information management device 1> 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed in the information management device 1. First, when the cartridge 2 is connected to the connection unit 32 of the inspection device 3, the second acquisition unit 37 acquires the first information attached to the cartridge 2 via the connection unit 32, and transmits the first information to the information management device 1 via the communication unit 35 (S1).

[0078] The transmitted first information is acquired by the first acquisition unit 14 of the information management device 1 (S2).

[0079] Based on the first information acquired by the first acquisition unit 14, the management unit 16 generates second information, that is, a URL that identifies a web page that manages the test information (S3).

[0080] The transmission control unit 17 transmits the generated second information to the inspection device 3 via the communication unit 12 (S4).

[0081] The display unit 34 of the inspection device 3 displays the second information acquired from the information management device 1 as a QR code (registered trademark) 202A (S5). The timing at which the inspection is started in the inspection device 3 is not particularly limited. For example, the inspection may be started in the inspection device 3 when the terminal device 5 accesses the information management device 1 in S6 and S7 described below. This configuration reduces the possibility that the subject will forget to register their personal information in the information management device 1. Alternatively, after S1, the inspection may be started by the inspection control unit 38 in response to an input operation by the subject.

[0082] The subject operates the terminal device 5 to capture an image of the displayed QR code (registered trademark) 202A with the imaging unit 54. In the terminal device 5, the communication control unit 57 accesses a web page based on the URL (second information) indicated by the captured QR code (registered trademark) 202A (S6).

[0083] Next, the terminal device 5 accepts an input operation by the subject while the accessed web page is displayed, and transmits the input personal information to the information management device 1 (S7).

[0084] The transmitted personal information is acquired by the management unit 16 of the information management device 1. That is, the management unit 16 accepts the personal information in a state associated with the second information from the terminal device 5 (S8). When the subject who has registered the personal information subsequently accesses the web page, there is no need to re-enter the personal information, and the test results and the like can be viewed simply by logging in.

[0085] On the other hand, when the inspection is completed in the inspection device 3, the inspection control unit 38 of the inspection device 3 transmits the inspection information, which is the inspection result, to the information management device 1 via the communication unit 35. The first acquisition unit 14 acquires the inspection information from the inspection device 3 (S9). Either S8 or S9 may be performed first. For example, the inspection information may be acquired after accepting the personal information, or the personal information may be accepted after acquiring the inspection information.

[0086] The management unit 16 manages the received personal information and the test information corresponding to the first information in association with each other (S10).

[0087] <Effects of Information Management Device 1> An information management device 1 according to one embodiment includes a first acquisition unit 14 that acquires first information and test information related to a test, and a management unit 16 that manages personal information and test information corresponding to the first information in association with each other. The management unit 16 also accepts personal information about a subject in association with second information accessible to the test information corresponding to the first information. This configuration eliminates the need for manual input of a subject ID by, for example, a subject, a medical professional, or the like, and allows for easy and appropriate association and management of subjects and test results corresponding to the subjects.

[0088] Furthermore, the first information is information for identifying the cartridge 2 used in the testing device 3, and the testing information may be associated with the first information. According to the above configuration, the information management device 1 can manage the testing information and the information for identifying the cartridge 2 in association with each other.

[0089] The information management device 1 may further include a transmission control unit 17 that transmits the second information to the testing device 3. The management unit 16 may also receive personal information of the subject in association with the second information, and manage the personal information in association with test information corresponding to the first information. According to the above configuration, the information management device 1 transmits the second information to the testing device 3, receives personal information of the subject in association with the second information, and manages the personal information in association with test results corresponding to the first information. Therefore, the information management device 1 can use the second information to simply and appropriately associate and manage the subject with the test information corresponding to the subject.

[0090] Furthermore, the transmission control unit 17 may transmit, as the second information, specific information for identifying a web page that manages the test information. According to the above configuration, the test device 3 can acquire information for identifying a web page that manages the test information, and can, for example, show the specific information for managing the test information to a subject or medical personnel using the test device 3, thereby facilitating access to the web page.

[0091] [Embodiment 2] Other embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. For convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0092] In the first embodiment, the inspection device 3 acquires the first information attached to the cartridge 2, and the information management device 1 generates the second information based on the first information transmitted by the inspection device 3, and transmits the second information to the inspection device 3. In the first embodiment, the subject can access a dedicated web page by acquiring the second information displayed on the inspection device 3 via the imaging unit 54 of the terminal device 5.

[0093] In this embodiment, first information for identifying the cartridge 2A may be displayed on the cartridge 2A as, for example, a QR code (registered trademark). The subject can acquire the identification information (first information) of the cartridge 2A by capturing an image of the QR code (registered trademark) with the imaging unit 54 of the terminal device 5. The subject can use the acquired identification information as an ID when logging in to a web page that manages test information.

[0094] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of a cartridge 2A in this embodiment. First information 201 for identifying the cartridge 2A is displayed on the cartridge 2A. In FIG. 9, the first information 201 is a QR code (registered trademark) as an example, but is not limited to this. The position where the first information 201 is displayed on the cartridge 2A is not particularly limited, and may be any position where the terminal device 5 can obtain the first information 201, even when the cartridge 2A is connected to the inspection device 3. This allows the terminal device 5 to obtain the first information 201 even when the cartridge 2A is connected to the inspection device 3 and an inspection is in progress.

[0095] 9, test management information 203 relating to the test may be displayed on the cartridge 2A in addition to the first information 201. This allows the first information and the test management information to be read separately by the subject's terminal device 5 or the test device 3. Here, the test management information 203 may be information about the type of test (including information about the test subject) and / or information about conditions according to the type of test (e.g., information such as reaction temperature, reaction time, detection sensitivity, and calibration curves for calculating measurement results).

[0096] Furthermore, the examination management information 203 may be encrypted. The encrypted examination management information 203 may be decryptable only by the examination device 3, for example. This makes it possible to prevent the examination management information 203 from being readable by devices other than the examination device 3, for example. Furthermore, the first information 201 and the examination management information 203 may be encrypted and displayed as a single QR code (registered trademark), and an application capable of decrypting the encrypted first information 201 and examination management information 203 may be installed in the terminal device 5.

[0097] <Example of processing flow of information management device> 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed in the information management device 1. Here, a case will be described in which the identification information and the test management information are displayed on the cartridge 2A as separate QR codes (registered trademark) 203. First, when the cartridge 2A is connected to the connection unit 32 of the testing device 3, the second acquisition unit 37 acquires the test management information displayed on the cartridge 2A as the QR code (registered trademark) 203 via the connection unit 32 (S11). In the testing device 3, the test control unit 38 starts the test in accordance with instructions from the subject.

[0098] The identification information (first information) displayed as the QR code (registered trademark) 201 on the cartridge 2A is captured and acquired by the imaging unit 54 when the subject operates the terminal device 5 (S12). Either S11 or S12 may be performed first.

[0099] The subject accesses a web page that manages examination information, and logs in using the identification information indicated by the captured QR code (registered trademark) 201 (S13).

[0100] Next, the terminal device 5 accepts input operations by the subject while the logged-in web page is displayed, and transmits the input personal information to the information management device 1 (S14).

[0101] The transmitted personal information is acquired by the management unit 16 of the information management device 1. That is, the management unit 16 receives the personal information from the terminal device 5 in a state where it is associated with the first information (S15).

[0102] On the other hand, when the inspection is completed in the inspection device 3, the inspection control unit 38 of the inspection device 3 transmits the inspection information, which is the inspection result, to the information management device 1 via the communication unit 35. The first acquisition unit 14 acquires the inspection information from the inspection device 3 (S16). Either S15 or S16 may be performed first. For example, the inspection information may be acquired after accepting the personal information, or the personal information may be accepted after acquiring the inspection information.

[0103] The management unit 16 manages the received personal information and the test information corresponding to the first information in association with each other (S17).

[0104] [Software implementation example] The functions of the information management device 1 (hereinafter referred to as the "device") can be realized by a program that causes a computer to function as the device, and a program that causes a computer to function as each control block of the device (particularly each part included in the control unit 11).

[0105] In this case, the device includes a computer having at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., a memory) as hardware for executing the program. The control device and storage device execute the program, thereby realizing the functions described in each of the above embodiments.

[0106] The program may be non-transitory and may be recorded on one or more computer-readable recording media. The recording media may or may not be included in the device. In the latter case, the program may be supplied to the device via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0107] In addition, some or all of the functions of each of the control blocks can be realized by logic circuits. For example, integrated circuits in which logic circuits that function as each of the control blocks are formed are also included in the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the functions of each of the control blocks can also be realized by, for example, a quantum computer.

[0108] The invention according to the present disclosure has been described above based on the drawings and examples. However, the invention according to the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. In other words, the invention according to the present disclosure can be modified in various ways within the scope of the present disclosure, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the invention according to the present disclosure. In other words, it should be noted that a person skilled in the art can easily make various modifications or corrections based on the present disclosure. It should also be noted that these modifications or corrections are included in the scope of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1 Information management device, 2, 2A cartridge, 3 Inspection device, 14 First acquisition unit, 16 Management unit, 17 Transmission control unit, 37 Second acquisition unit, 38 Inspection control unit, 41 Output control unit, 203 Inspection management information

Claims

1. a first acquisition unit that acquires first information related to an examination and examination information from an examination device that performs an examination on a subject; a management unit that receives personal information of the subject in association with second information that can access the first information or test information corresponding to the first information, and manages the personal information and the test information corresponding to the first information in association with each other; The management unit is an information management device that accepts the personal information transmitted from a terminal device that has accessed the test information using the second information.

2. 2. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein the first information is information for identifying a cartridge used in the testing device, and the testing information is associated with the first information.

3. a transmission control unit that transmits the second information to the inspection device; The information management device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the management unit accepts personal information of the subject in association with the second information, and manages the personal information in association with the test information corresponding to the first information.

4. The information management device according to claim 3 , wherein the transmission control unit transmits, as the second information, specific information that specifies a web page that manages the examination information.

5. An information management device according to claim 1; a second acquisition unit that acquires first information for identifying a cartridge to be used in a testing device that tests a subject; an inspection control unit that performs the inspection; a communication unit that transmits the first information and the examination information to the information management device, Inspection system.

6. the communication unit receives, as the second information, specific information that identifies a web page that manages the examination information; further comprising an output control unit that controls output of the second information; The inspection system of claim 5 .

7. An inspection system as described in claim 5, comprising a cartridge that is provided to the inspection device and displays the first information.

8. An inspection system as described in Claim 7, wherein the cartridge displays inspection management information regarding the inspection separately from the first information.

9. The inspection system according to claim 8 , wherein the inspection management information is encrypted.

10. 2. The information management device according to claim 1, wherein the inspection device is an X-ray inspection device, and the inspection information is at least one of bone density, osteoporosis classification, and fracture estimated from an X-ray image taken by the X-ray inspection device.

11. A step in which a computer acquires first information and test information related to the test from a test device that tests the subject; a step in which the computer receives personal information of the subject in association with second information that can access the first information or test information corresponding to the first information; a step of the computer associating the inspection information with the first information and acquiring the inspection information from the inspection device; a step in which the computer manages the personal information and the test information corresponding to the first information in association with each other; Including, In the managing step, the personal information transmitted from a terminal device that accessed the test information using the second information is accepted.

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