Medical information input device and program

Abstract

To prevent deterioration in the visibility of input contents while maintaining the input operability from a soft keyboard.SOLUTION: A medical information input device, when an input target item is selected from one or a plurality of items via an operation part in such a state that a first screen (patient registration screen) including one or a plurality of items about medical information is displayed on a display part, displays a second screen (keyboard input screen 40A) including an input content display column 43 of the input target item and a soft keyboard 41 on the display part, and receives an input of the medical information related to the input target item via the operation part in the soft keyboard 41.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3B

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a medical information input device and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In a device for handling medical information, there is a device that does not have a physical keyboard and allows medical information to be input by touching a soft keyboard displayed on a monitor screen.

[0003] Fig. 15 shows an example of a patient registration screen 110 when registering patient information regarding a patient. The patient registration screen 110 is provided with a patient ID input field 111, a name (Chinese characters) input field 112, a name (Roman characters) input field 113, a date of birth input field 114, etc. On the patient registration screen 110, when any input field is selected to select an item to be input, a cursor is displayed in the input field of the selected item, and at the same time, a soft keyboard 115 is displayed. By touching the soft keyboard 115, characters are input into the input field of the selected item. Usually, as shown in Fig. 15, the soft keyboard 115 is displayed so as not to overlap with each input field 111 to 114, so the user can input while checking the input content displayed in the input field.

[0004] As a device using a soft keyboard, for example, an ultrasonic diagnostic device that displays a transparent virtual keyboard within a display screen on which an ultrasonic image is displayed has been proposed (see Patent Document 1).

[0005] Also, an ultrasonic system has been proposed in which an area for displaying buttons of words related to characters input by a user is included in an image keyboard video (soft keyboard) (see Patent Document 2).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

[0007] However, since a software keyboard is operated by a user (touch, mouse clicks, etc.) to select each key, it needs to be of a certain size. If the software keyboard displayed on the screen is too small, it becomes difficult for a user to operate, so even when using a small monitor, there is a limit to how small the software keyboard can be made.

[0008] On the other hand, assigning multiple characters to a single key or limiting the number of keys displayed at once, as is done with smartphone-type software keyboards, increases the number of input actions (touches), making a full keyboard type preferable. Therefore, when a software keyboard was displayed on a small monitor, the software keyboard itself occupied most of the screen, creating a problem where it overlapped with the input fields.

[0009] Figure 16A shows an example of a patient registration screen 120A displayed on a small monitor. The patient registration screen 120A includes fields for patient ID input 121, name (Kanji) input 122, name (Roman alphabet) input 123, date of birth input 124, etc. When an input field is selected on the patient registration screen 120A to select the items to be entered, a soft keyboard 125 is displayed as shown in patient registration screen 120B in Figure 16B. However, the soft keyboard 125 hides some input fields. For items that overlap with the soft keyboard 125, it is not possible to check the input content while entering using the soft keyboard 125. Therefore, for some items, it is necessary to move the position of the soft keyboard 125 while entering, which is a cumbersome task for the user. On the other hand, if each input field is made smaller so that all input fields are displayed in an area that does not overlap with the soft keyboard 125, the visibility of the input content will be poor.

[0010] This invention has been made in view of the problems of the prior art described above, and aims to prevent deterioration of the visibility of input content while maintaining the operability of input from a soft keyboard. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] To solve the above problems, the invention described in claim 1 provides a control unit that, when a first screen containing one or more items relating to medical information is displayed on the display unit, and an input target item is selected from the one or more items via the operation unit, displays a second screen on the display unit that includes an input content display field for the input target item and a soft keyboard, and the soft keyboard includes a control unit that accepts input of medical information relating to the input target item via the operation unit. The control unit, in response to a predetermined operation via the operation unit, displays an input item list on the second screen that includes one or more of the items, and when any item is selected from the input item list via the operation unit, switches the input target item to the selected item from the input item list. It is a medical information input device.

[0013] Claim 2 The invention described in the claim 1 In the medical information input device described above, the control unit displays each item included in the list of input items on the second screen in a display manner corresponding to the input status of that item.

[0014] Claim 3 The invention described herein relates to a medical information input device as described in claim 1, wherein the control unit, when instructed to move the soft keyboard via the operation unit on the second screen, causes the input content display field to be displayed in the area of ​​the second screen other than the soft keyboard after the move.

[0015] Claim 4 The invention described in the claim 1 or 2 The medical information input device described above includes a setting unit for pre-setting which items from among the one or more items will be displayed in the input item list, and the control unit causes only the set items to be displayed in the input item list on the second screen.

[0016] Claim 5 The invention described in the claim 4 In the medical information input device described above, the control unit automatically closes the second screen and waits for the next operation when input from the soft keyboard via the operation unit is completed for all the set items.

[0017] Claim 6 The invention described herein is a program that causes a computer to, when a first screen containing one or more items relating to medical information is displayed on the display unit, and an input target item is selected from the one or more items via the operation unit, to display a second screen on the display unit containing an input content display field for the input target item and a soft keyboard, and to function as a control unit that accepts input of medical information relating to the input target item via the operation unit using the soft keyboard. The control unit, in response to a predetermined operation via the operation unit, displays an input item list on the second screen that includes one or more of the items, and when any item is selected from the input item list via the operation unit, switches the input target item to the selected item from the input item list.

[0019] Claim 7 The invention described in the claim 6 In the program described above, the control unit displays each item included in the input item list on the second screen in a display manner corresponding to the input status of that item.

[0020] Claim8 The invention described in 6 In the program described in , when the movement of the soft keyboard is instructed via the operation unit on the second screen, the control unit causes the input content display field to be displayed in an area other than the soft keyboard after the movement within the second screen.

[0021] Claim 9 The invention described in 6 or 7 In the program described in , the computer is made to function as a setting unit that presets items to be displayed in the input item list among the one or more items, and the control unit causes only the preset items to be displayed in the input item list on the second screen.

[0022] Claim 10 The invention described in 9 In the program described in , when the input from the soft keyboard via the operation unit is completed for all the set items, the control unit automatically closes the second screen and waits for the next operation.

Effect of the Invention

[0023] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent deterioration of the visibility of input content while maintaining the input operability from the soft keyboard.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a flowchart showing the first patient registration process executed by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the first embodiment. [Figure 3A] It is an example of a patient registration screen. [Figure 3B] It is an example of a keyboard input screen when "patient ID" is selected as an input target item. [Figure 3C] It is an example of a keyboard input screen in a state where a pull-down list is displayed. [Figure 3D] This is an example of the keyboard input screen when "Name (Roman alphabet)" is selected as the input field. [Figure 4A] This figure shows an example of the content saved in the memory when an input field is pressed. [Figure 4B] This figure shows an example of the content saved in the memory unit when input is complete. [Figure 5A] This flowchart shows a second patient registration process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device of the second embodiment. [Figure 5B] This flowchart shows a second patient registration process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device of the second embodiment. [Figure 6A] This is an example of the keyboard input screen when "Patient ID" is selected as the input item. [Figure 6B] This is an example of the keyboard input screen when "Name (Roman alphabet)" is selected as the input field. [Figure 7A] This figure shows an example of the content saved in the memory when the input item is switched in the input item list. [Figure 7B] This figure shows an example of the content saved in the memory when the input item is switched in the input item list. [Figure 7C] This figure shows an example of the content saved in the memory when the input item is switched in the input item list. [Figure 7D] This figure shows an example of the content saved in the memory unit when input is complete. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows the keyboard position change process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device of the third embodiment. [Figure 9A] This is an example of a keyboard input screen. [Figure 9B] This is an example of the keyboard input screen after the display position of the soft keyboard has been changed. [Figure 9C] This is an example of a keyboard input screen with a dropdown list displayed. [Figure 10]This flowchart shows the input item setting process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] This is an example of a settings screen for input fields during patient registration. [Figure 12A] This flowchart shows the fourth patient registration process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12B] This flowchart shows the fourth patient registration process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13A] This is an example of a patient registration screen. [Figure 13B] This is an example of the keyboard input screen when "Patient ID" is selected as the input item. [Figure 13C] This is an example of the keyboard input screen when "Name (Kanji)" is selected as the input field. [Figure 13D] This is an example of a patient registration screen that appears after all configured items have been marked as "entered." [Figure 14A] This figure shows an example of the content saved in the memory when the input item is switched in the input item list. [Figure 14B] This figure shows an example of the content saved in the memory unit when input is complete. [Figure 15] This is an example of a conventional patient registration screen. [Figure 16A] This is an example of a patient registration screen displayed on a conventional small monitor. [Figure 16B] This is an example of a case where a soft keyboard is displayed on the conventional patient registration screen. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the medical information input device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0026] [First Embodiment] First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 as a medical information input device in the first embodiment. The ultrasound diagnostic device 100 is movable and installed in the examination room of a medical facility, and is operated by medical professionals such as doctors and technicians.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1, the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 comprises an ultrasound diagnostic device body 1 and an ultrasound transducer 2. The ultrasound diagnostic device body 1 is connected to the ultrasound transducer 2. The ultrasound transducer 2 transmits ultrasound waves (transmitting ultrasound) into a subject such as a patient's body and receives the reflected ultrasound waves (reflected ultrasound: echo) reflected from within the subject.

[0028] The ultrasound diagnostic device body 1 transmits an electrical drive signal to the ultrasound transducer 2, causing the ultrasound transducer 2 to transmit ultrasound to the subject. The ultrasound device also images the internal state of the subject as ultrasound image data based on the received signal, which is an electrical signal generated by the ultrasound transducer 2 in response to the reflected ultrasound from within the subject received by the ultrasound transducer 2.

[0029] The ultrasonic probe 2 is equipped with a transducer 21 at its tip. The transducer 21 is a piezoelectric material that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves, and is arranged in a one-dimensional array, for example, in the azimuth direction (scanning direction). The number of transducers 21 can be set arbitrarily.

[0030] The ultrasound diagnostic device body 1 comprises an operation unit 11, a transmission unit 12, a reception unit 13, an image generation unit 14, an image processing unit 15, a DSC (Digital Scan Converter) 16, a display unit 17, a control unit 18, and a storage unit 19.

[0031] The operation unit 11 is composed of a touch panel stacked on the display unit 17, and receives user input on the display screen and outputs an operation signal to the control unit 18 according to the position of the touch operation. Alternatively, the operation unit 11 may have various operation elements such as switches, a mouse, or a trackball, and receive various operation inputs from the user via each operation element and output the operation signal to the control unit 18.

[0032] The transmitting unit 12 is a circuit that, in accordance with the control of the control unit 18, supplies a drive signal, which is an electrical signal, to the ultrasonic transducer 2 to generate transmitted ultrasonic waves in the ultrasonic transducer 2. The transmitting unit 12 also includes, for example, a clock generation circuit, a delay circuit, and a pulse generation circuit. The clock generation circuit is a circuit that generates a clock signal that determines the transmission timing and transmission frequency of the drive signal. The delay circuit is a circuit that sets a delay time for each individual path corresponding to each transducer 21, delays the transmission of the drive signal by the set delay time, and focuses the transmitted beam composed of transmitted ultrasonic waves. The pulse generation circuit is a circuit that generates a pulse signal as a drive signal at a predetermined period. The transmitting unit 12 configured in this way generates transmitted ultrasonic waves by, for example, driving a continuous portion of the multiple transducers 21 arranged in the ultrasonic transducer 2. The transmitting unit 12 then performs scanning by shifting the driven transducer 21 in the azimuth direction (scanning direction) each time it generates transmitted ultrasonic waves.

[0033] The receiving unit 13 is a circuit that receives the received signal, which is an electrical signal, from the ultrasonic transducer 2 according to the control of the control unit 18. The receiving unit 13 includes, for example, an amplifier, an A / D conversion circuit, and a phase-correcting summing circuit. The amplifier is a circuit that amplifies the received signal at a preset amplification factor for each individual path corresponding to each transducer 21. The A / D conversion circuit is a circuit that converts the amplified received signal from analog to digital (A / D conversion). The phase-correcting summing circuit is a circuit that adjusts the phase of the A / D converted received signal by giving a delay time for each individual path corresponding to each transducer 21, and then adds these together (phase-correcting summing) to generate sound line data.

[0034] The image generation unit 14, in accordance with the control of the control unit 18, performs envelope detection processing, logarithmic compression, etc., on the sound line data from the receiving unit 13, and converts the luminance by adjusting the dynamic range and gain to generate B (Brightness) mode image data consisting of pixels having luminance values ​​as received energy. In other words, B-mode image data represents the strength of the received signal in terms of luminance. In addition to B-mode image data, the image generation unit 14 may also generate ultrasonic image data in other image modes such as A (Amplitude) mode, M (Motion) mode, and Doppler image modes (color Doppler mode, etc.).

[0035] The image processing unit 15 performs image processing on the B-mode image data output from the image generation unit 14 according to the various image parameters being set, in accordance with the control unit 18. The image processing unit 15 also includes an image memory unit 151 composed of semiconductor memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). The image processing unit 15 stores the processed B-mode image data in the image memory unit 151 on a frame-by-frame basis, in accordance with the control unit 18. The image processing unit 15 then outputs the image data generated in this manner sequentially to the DSC 16, in accordance with the control unit 18.

[0036] The DSC16 processes the ultrasonic image data received from the image processing unit 15, such as performing coordinate transformations, to convert it into an image signal, and outputs it to the display unit 17.

[0037] The display unit 17 has a display panel such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or an inorganic EL display, and displays various display information on the display screen of the display panel. The display unit 17 displays ultrasound images and various display information on the display screen of the display panel based on the image signal output from the DSC 16, in accordance with the control of the control unit 18.

[0038] The control unit 18 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). It reads various processing programs, such as system programs, stored in ROM, expands them into RAM, and controls the operation of each part of the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 according to the expanded programs. The ROM stores system programs corresponding to the ultrasound diagnostic device 100, various processing programs that can be executed on the system program, and various data. These programs are stored in the form of program code that can be read by a computer, and the CPU sequentially executes operations according to the program code. The RAM forms a work area that temporarily stores various programs executed by the CPU and data related to these programs.

[0039] The storage unit 19 is a storage unit such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores various types of data in a writable and readable manner.

[0040] For each part of the ultrasound diagnostic device 100, some or all of the functions of each functional block can be implemented as hardware circuits such as integrated circuits. Alternatively, some or all of the functions of each functional block may be executed by software. In this case, the software is stored in one or more storage media such as ROM, optical discs, or hard disks, and this software is executed by a processing unit.

[0041] When a first screen containing one or more items related to medical information is displayed on the display unit 17, and an input target item is selected from among the items via the operation unit 11, the control unit 18 displays a second screen on the display unit 17, which includes an input content display field for the input target item and a soft keyboard, and accepts input of medical information related to the input target item via the operation unit 11 using the soft keyboard.

[0042] Medical information is information relating to medical treatment. Examples of medical information include patient information, test results and other laboratory information, and medical record information including the patient's condition and treatment.

[0043] In the display unit 17, the second screen may be displayed overlaid on the first screen, or it may replace the first screen. However, it is desirable that the soft keyboard on the second screen be large enough for the user to operate easily, and that the input content display area on the second screen be large enough for the user to see easily.

[0044] The control unit 18 displays an input item list containing one or more items on the second screen. Specifically, when an input item field on the second screen displaying the name of an item to be input is touched by an operation from the operation unit 11, the control unit 18 displays the input item list as a pull-down list. When any item is selected from the input item list via the operation unit 11, the control unit 18 switches the input target item to the selected item from the input item list.

[0045] Next, the operation of the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 will be described. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the first patient registration process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 100. The first patient registration process is the process of registering patient information as medical information and is performed prior to the ultrasound examination. The first patient registration process is realized by software processing through the cooperation of the CPU of the control unit 18 and a program stored in ROM.

[0046] First, the control unit 18 displays the patient registration screen (first screen) on the display unit 17 (step S1). Figure 3A shows an example of the patient registration screen 30 displayed on the display unit 17. The patient registration screen 30 includes a patient ID input field 31, a name (Kanji) input field 32, a name (Roman alphabet) input field 33, a date of birth input field 34, gender selection buttons 35 and 36, and a test start button 37. The patient ID input field 31 is an area that is selected (touched) when entering a patient ID, and after the patient ID is entered, the patient ID is displayed. The name (Kanji) input field 32 is the area selected when entering a name (Kanji), and after the name (Kanji) is entered, the name (Kanji) will be displayed. The name (in Roman letters) input field 33 is the area selected when entering a name (in Roman letters), and after the name (in Roman letters) is entered, the name (in Roman letters) will be displayed. The birth date input field 34 is the area selected when entering the birth date, and after the birth date is entered, it will be displayed. Gender selection buttons 35 and 36 are buttons for selecting gender. The test start button 37 is a button used to instruct the start of the test.

[0047] Next, the control unit 18 determines whether or not the user has made a selection operation using the soft keyboard on the patient registration screen via the operation unit 11 (step S2). For example, the control unit 18 determines whether or not any of the input fields on the patient registration screen 30 (see Figure 3A) have been selected (touched), such as the patient ID input field 31, the name (kanji) input field 32, the name (romantical) input field 33, or the date of birth input field 34. If no input item is selected (Step S2; NO), return to Step S2.

[0048] If an input item selection operation is performed in step S2 (step S2; YES), the control unit 18 displays the soft keyboard on the display unit 17 (step S3). Furthermore, the control unit 18 displays the input item fields on the display unit 17 and displays the item names of the selected input target items within the input item fields (step S4). Furthermore, the control unit 18 displays the input content display field for the input target item on the display unit 17 (step S5). In other words, the control unit 18 displays a keyboard input screen (second screen) including a soft keyboard, input item fields, and input content display fields on the display unit 17.

[0049] Figure 3B shows an example of the keyboard input screen 40A displayed on the display unit 17. The keyboard input screen 40A includes a soft keyboard 41, an input item field 42, and an input content display field 43. The soft keyboard 41 is a software-implemented keyboard on the screen of the display unit 17, and key input is performed by touch operation from the operation unit 11 (touch panel). The soft keyboard 41 includes character keys, number keys, various function keys, etc. The name of the selected input item is displayed in input field 42. In the input content display field 43, cursor C will blink, and once information is entered for the selected input item, the entered content will be displayed.

[0050] For example, in the patient registration screen 30 shown in Figure 3A, when the patient ID input field 31 (operation position U1) is selected, the screen transitions to a keyboard input screen 40A, as shown in Figure 3B, which includes a soft keyboard 41, an input field 42 displaying the item "Patient ID", and an input content display field 43 that displays the "Patient ID" entered from the soft keyboard 41. The user enters the "Patient ID" using the soft keyboard 41 (operation position U2).

[0051] Next, the control unit 18 determines whether or not there has been input using the soft keyboard based on the user's operation from the operation unit 11 on the keyboard input screen (step S6). If input is received using the soft keyboard (step S6; YES), the control unit 18 displays the content entered from the soft keyboard in the input content display field of the keyboard input screen (step S7).

[0052] For example, in the input content display field 43 of the keyboard input screen 40A shown in Figure 3B, the content "12345678" entered from the soft keyboard 41 is displayed for "Patient ID". After step S7, return to step S6 and wait again for input from the soft keyboard.

[0053] In step S6, if there is no input using the soft keyboard (step S6; NO), the control unit 18 determines whether or not a user has pressed an input item field on the keyboard input screen through operation of the operation unit 11 (step S8). If a button is pressed in the input field (step S8; YES), the control unit 18 stores the content entered in the input content display field in the storage unit 19, associating it with the item name (step S9).

[0054] Figure 4A shows an example of the content saved in the memory unit 19 when an input field is pressed. For example, in the keyboard input screen 40A shown in Figure 3B, the item name "Patient ID" and the input content "12345678" are associated and saved as input content.

[0055] Next, the control unit 18 displays a list of input items as a pull-down list on the keyboard input screen (step S10).

[0056] Figure 3C shows an example of the keyboard input screen 40B displayed on the display unit 17. The soft keyboard 41, input item fields 42, and input content display fields 43 included in the keyboard input screen 40B are the same as those in the keyboard input screen 40A (see Figure 3B). On the keyboard input screen 40B, when the input field 42 (operation position U3) is pressed, a pull-down list 44 is displayed. The pull-down list 44 displays items other than the item currently displayed in the input field 42 from among the items that can be entered from the soft keyboard 41 (candidates for switching the input target item).

[0057] Next, the control unit 18 determines whether or not a selection operation for an input item has been performed by the user through the operation unit 11 in the pull-down list on the keyboard input screen (step S11). If no input item is selected on the pull-down list (step S11; NO), return to step S11.

[0058] In step S11, if an input item is selected from the pull-down list (step S11; YES), the control unit 18 displays the name of the selected input item in the input field (step S12). Then, the process returns to step S5 and is repeated.

[0059] For example, in the keyboard input screen 40B shown in Figure 3C, when "Name (Romanized)" (operation position U4) is selected from the pull-down list 44, the screen transitions to the keyboard input screen 40C shown in Figure 3D. On the keyboard input screen 40C, the item "Name (Romanized)" is displayed in the input item field 42, and the cursor C blinks in the input content display field 43, indicating that the screen is waiting for "Name (Romanized)" to be entered from the soft keyboard 41. The user enters "Name (Romanized)" from the soft keyboard 41 (operation position U5).

[0060] In step S8, if no input field is pressed (step S8; NO), the control unit 18 determines whether or not an input completion operation has been performed by the user via the operation unit 11 on the keyboard input screen (step S13). For example, the control unit 18 determines that an input completion operation has been performed when the close button 45 of the soft keyboard 41 included in the keyboard input screen 40C (see Figure 3D) is pressed. If no input completion operation is performed (step S13; NO), return to step S6.

[0061] In step S13, if the input completion operation is completed (step S13; YES), the control unit 18 saves the content entered in the input content display field to the storage unit 19, associating it with the item name (step S14).

[0062] Figure 4B shows an example of the contents saved in the memory unit 19 when input is complete. If, after entering "Name (in Roman letters)" from the state shown in Figure 4A, the input completion operation is performed, the item name "Name (in Roman letters)" and the input content "HINO TARO" are associated and saved as shown in Figure 4B.

[0063] Next, the control unit 18 closes the display screen (keyboard input screen) which includes the soft keyboard, input item fields, and input content display fields (step S15). This completes the first patient registration process.

[0064] As described above, according to the first embodiment, when an input target item is selected on the patient registration screen (first screen), a soft keyboard is displayed on the keyboard input screen (second screen), and an input content display field for the input target item is displayed in an area other than the soft keyboard. Therefore, the function of accepting input operations for patient information (medical information) and the function of displaying the input content can be realized using only the keyboard input screen. As a result, even when the size of the monitor of the display unit 17 is small, it is possible to maintain the input operability from the soft keyboard while preventing deterioration of the visibility of the input content.

[0065] Furthermore, when an input field on the keyboard input screen is pressed, a list of input fields for switching between input fields is displayed as a pull-down list. This allows users to switch only the input fields while maintaining the keyboard input screen, enabling them to input each field consecutively. This eliminates the need to repeatedly select an input field on the patient registration screen, input patient information for that field using the keyboard input screen, and then close the keyboard input screen (or move the keyboard input screen) for each input field.

[0066] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. Since the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus in the second embodiment has the same configuration as the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100 shown in the first embodiment, Figure 1 will be used, and its configuration will not be illustrated or described. The configuration and processes characteristic of the second embodiment will be described below.

[0067] In the first embodiment, the list of input items (pull-down list) was displayed when an input item field included in the second screen (keyboard input screen) was pressed. However, in the second embodiment, the list of input items is included from the moment the second screen (keyboard input screen) is displayed.

[0068] The control unit 18 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 100, when a first screen containing one or more items related to medical information is displayed on the display unit 17, and an input target item is selected from one or more items via the operation unit 11, displays a second screen on the display unit 17, which includes an input content display field for the selected input item, a soft keyboard, and an input item list, and accepts input of medical information related to the selected input item via the operation unit 11 using the soft keyboard. The input item list contains one or more items.

[0069] The control unit 18 displays each item included in the input item list on the second screen in a display mode corresponding to the input status of that item (input in progress, completed, not entered, etc.). "Displaying in a display mode corresponding to the input status of the item" means, for example, changing the color and font of the item's text or the background color depending on the input status of the item. When any item is selected from the input item list via the operation unit 11, the control unit 18 switches the input target item to the selected item from the input item list.

[0070] Next, the operation in the second embodiment will be described. Figures 5A and 5B are flowcharts showing the second patient registration process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 of the second embodiment. The second patient registration process is realized by software processing through the cooperation of the CPU of the control unit 18 and a program stored in ROM.

[0071] The processes in steps S21 to S24 are the same as those in steps S1 to S4 of the first patient registration process (see Figure 2), so their explanation will be omitted.

[0072] The control unit 18 displays the input content display field for the input target item and the list of input items on the display unit 17 (step S25). Furthermore, the control unit 18 displays the input item selected in step S22 in the input item list in the "Input in Progress" state (step S26). In other words, the control unit 18 displays a keyboard input screen (second screen) on the display unit 17, which includes a soft keyboard, an input item field, an input content display field, and an input item list (with distinctions for input status).

[0073] The patient registration screen 30 displayed on the display unit 17 in step S21 has the same configuration as the patient registration screen 30 in Figure 3A, so its explanation will be omitted. For example, when the patient ID input field 31 (operation position U1) is selected on the patient registration screen 30 (see Figure 3A), the screen transitions to the keyboard input screen 50A shown in Figure 6A. The keyboard input screen 50A includes a soft keyboard 51, input item fields 52, input content display field 53, and input item list 54.

[0074] The soft keyboard 51, input field 52, and input content display field 53 are the same as those included in the keyboard input screen 40A shown in Figure 3B. In the keyboard input screen 50A, the input field 52 displays an item called "Patient ID," and the input content display field 53 displays the "Patient ID" entered from the soft keyboard 51. The user enters the "Patient ID" from the soft keyboard 51 (operation position U11).

[0075] The input item list 54 displays a list of items that can be entered using the soft keyboard 51. Here, the input item list 54 includes item buttons 55-58. Item buttons 55-58 correspond to the items Patient ID, Name (Kanji), Name (Roman alphabet), and Date of Birth, respectively. Item buttons 55-58 are displayed in a way that corresponds to the input status of each item (inputting, entered, not entered). For example, for items in the "inputting" state (items displayed in the input item field 52), the item button is displayed in "blue," for "entered" items, the item button is displayed in "gray," and for "not entered" items, the item button is displayed in "yellow." In the input item list 54 of the keyboard input screen 50A, item button 55 corresponding to "Patient ID" is displayed in the "inputting" state, while the other item buttons 56-58 are displayed in the "not entered" state.

[0076] After step S26, the process moves to Figure 5B, where the control unit 18 determines whether or not there has been input using the soft keyboard based on the user's operation from the operation unit 11 on the keyboard input screen (step S27). If input is received using the soft keyboard (step S27; YES), the control unit 18 displays the content entered from the soft keyboard in the input content display field of the keyboard input screen (step S28).

[0077] For example, in the input content display field 53 of the keyboard input screen 50A shown in Figure 6A, the content "12345678" entered from the soft keyboard 51 is displayed for "Patient ID". After step S28, return to step S27 and wait again for input from the soft keyboard.

[0078] In step S27, if there is no input using the soft keyboard (step S27; NO), the control unit 18 determines whether or not a selection operation has been made for any item in the input item list on the keyboard input screen by the user through an operation on the operation unit 11 (step S29).

[0079] For example, in the list of input items 54 on the keyboard input screen 50A shown in Figure 6A, the items corresponding to item buttons 56-58 (Name (Kanji), Name (Roman alphabet), Date of birth) become candidates for switching the input item.

[0080] If a selection operation is made for any item in the input item list (step S29; YES), the control unit 18 displays the item that was entered most recently in the input item list as "already entered" (step S30). Furthermore, the control unit 18 saves the content that was entered in the input content display field up to that point to the storage unit 19, along with the item name (step S31). Furthermore, the control unit 18 displays the input item selected in the most recent step S29 in the list of input items in the "Input in Progress" state (step S32). Then, the process returns to step S27 and is repeated.

[0081] For example, in the input item list 54 of the keyboard input screen 50A shown in Figure 6A, when the item button 57 (operation position U12) corresponding to "Name (Roman alphabet)" is selected, the screen transitions to the keyboard input screen 50B shown in Figure 6B. On the keyboard input screen 50B, the item "Name (Roman alphabet)" is displayed in the input item field 52, and the input content display field 53 waits for input of "Name (Roman alphabet)" from the soft keyboard 51. In the input item list 54 of the keyboard input screen 50B, the item button 55 corresponding to "Patient ID" is displayed as "Input Completed," and the item button 57 corresponding to "Name (Roman alphabet)" is displayed as "Input in Progress." The item buttons 56 corresponding to "Name (Kanji)" and 58 corresponding to "Date of Birth" remain in the "Not Inputted" state. The user enters their name (in Roman letters) using the soft keyboard 51 (operation position U13).

[0082] Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C show examples of the contents stored in the storage unit 19 in step S31. First, after the "Patient ID" is entered, when the input field is switched to "Name (Roman alphabet)", as shown in Figure 7A, the field name "Patient ID" and the input content "12345678" are associated and saved, and the input status for "Patient ID" is changed to "Entered". At this point, the input status for "Name (Roman alphabet)", "Name (Kanji)", and "Date of Birth" is "Not Entered".

[0083] Furthermore, after "Name (Roman alphabet)" is entered, when the input field is switched to "Name (Kanji)", the field name "Name (Roman alphabet)" and the input content "HINO TARO" are associated and saved, as shown in Figure 7B, and the input status for "Name (Roman alphabet)" is changed to "Inputted".

[0084] Furthermore, after "Name (Kanji)" is entered, when the input field is switched to "Date of Birth," as shown in Figure 7C, the field name "Name (Kanji)" and the input content "Hino Taro" are associated and saved, and the input status for "Name (Kanji)" is changed to "Inputted."

[0085] In step S29, if no selection operation is made for any item in the input item list (step S29; NO), the control unit 18 determines whether or not an input completion operation has been made by the user through an operation on the keyboard input screen (step S33). For example, the control unit 18 determines that an input completion operation has been made when the return key 59 of the soft keyboard 51 included in the keyboard input screen 50B (see Figure 6B) is pressed. If no input completion operation is performed (step S33; NO), return to step S27.

[0086] In step S33, if the input completion operation is completed (step S33; YES), the control unit 18 displays the item that was entered immediately before in the list of input items in the status "Input Completed" (step S34). Furthermore, the control unit 18 saves the content that was entered in the input content display field up to that point to the storage unit 19, along with the item name (step S35).

[0087] Figure 7D shows an example of the contents saved in the memory unit 19 when input is complete. If, after entering the "Date of Birth" from the state shown in Figure 7C, the input completion operation is performed, the item name "Date of Birth" and the input content "20001210" are associated and saved, as shown in Figure 7D, and the input status for "Date of Birth" is changed to "Input Completed".

[0088] Next, the control unit 18 closes the display screen (keyboard input screen) which includes the soft keyboard, input item fields, input content display field, and input item list (step S36). This completes the second patient registration process.

[0089] As described above, according to the second embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, it is possible to maintain the ease of input from the soft keyboard while preventing deterioration of the visibility of the input content.

[0090] Furthermore, when an input item is selected on the patient registration screen (first screen), the keyboard input screen (second screen) displays a list of input items along with a soft keyboard and an input content display field. This allows users to switch only the input items while maintaining the keyboard input screen, enabling them to input each item consecutively.

[0091] Furthermore, since each item included in the list of input items on the keyboard input screen is displayed in a display manner corresponding to the input status of that item, even if each item in the patient registration screen is hidden by the keyboard input screen, the input status such as "input in progress," "input completed," or "not entered" can be checked without closing the keyboard input screen (or moving the position of the keyboard input screen).

[0092] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. Since the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus in the third embodiment has the same configuration as the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100 shown in the first embodiment, Figure 1 will be used, and its configuration will not be illustrated or described. The configuration and processing characteristic of the third embodiment will be described below.

[0093] The soft keyboard displayed on the display unit 17 can be positioned differently depending on the user, such as on the top or bottom of the monitor. In the third embodiment, the arrangement of each element constituting the keyboard input screen (second screen) can be changed.

[0094] When a first screen containing one or more items related to medical information is displayed on the display unit 17, and an input target item is selected from among the items via the operation unit 11, the control unit 18 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 displays a second screen on the display unit 17, which includes an input content display field for the input target item and a soft keyboard, and accepts input of medical information related to the input target item via the operation unit 11 using the soft keyboard.

[0095] When the control unit 18 is instructed to move the soft keyboard via the operation unit 11 on the second screen, it displays an input content display field in the area of ​​the second screen other than the soft keyboard after the move.

[0096] Next, the operation in the third embodiment will be described. The third patient registration process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 of the third embodiment is the same as the first patient registration process (see Figure 2). However, in the third embodiment, the position of the soft keyboard displayed on the display unit 17 can be changed to a position preferred by the user.

[0097] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the keyboard position change process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 of the third embodiment. The keyboard position change process starts when the keyboard input screen (second screen) is displayed on the display unit 17. The keyboard position change process is realized by software processing through the cooperation of the CPU of the control unit 18 and a program stored in ROM.

[0098] The control unit 18 determines whether or not a selection operation has been performed on the soft keyboard on the keyboard input screen by the user via the operation unit 11 (step S41). Specifically, the control unit 18 determines whether or not a touch operation has been performed on the soft keyboard on the keyboard input screen. If no selection operation is performed on the soft keyboard (step S41; NO), the process returns to step S41.

[0099] In step S41, if a selection operation is performed on the soft keyboard (step S41; YES), the control unit 18 determines whether or not a drag operation has been performed on the soft keyboard by the user through the operation unit 11 (step S42). Specifically, the control unit 18 determines whether or not the contact position on the touch panel has moved while the user's finger is in contact with the soft keyboard on the keyboard input screen.

[0100] Figure 9A shows an example of the keyboard input screen 60A displayed on the display unit 17. The keyboard input screen 60A includes a soft keyboard 61, an input item field 62, and an input content display field 63. The soft keyboard 61, input item field 62, and input content display field 63 are the same as the soft keyboard 41, input item field 42, and input content display field 43 included in the keyboard input screen 40A shown in Figure 3B. For example, on the keyboard input screen 60A, the user touches the right frame of the soft keyboard 61 (operation position U21) and drags upwards as shown by arrow X in Figure 9A.

[0101] If no drag operation is performed on the soft keyboard in step S42 (step S42; NO), the process returns to step S42. If a drag operation is performed on the soft keyboard in step S42 (step S42; YES), the control unit 18 moves the display position of the soft keyboard according to the user's touch position on the touch panel (step S43).

[0102] Next, the control unit 18 calculates the empty area on the screen created by the movement of the soft keyboard (step S44). Specifically, the control unit 18 determines the area of ​​the gap created on the opposite side of the direction in which the soft keyboard was moved within the keyboard input screen.

[0103] Next, the control unit 18 determines whether the input item field and the input content display field can be displayed in the empty area of ​​the screen (step S45). For example, the control unit 18 compares the size of the empty area with the size of the area required to display the input item field and the input content display field, and determines whether the input item field and the input content display field can fit in the empty area.

[0104] If it is possible to display the input field and the input content display field in the available area of ​​the screen (step S45; YES), the control unit 18 moves the display positions of the input field and the input content display field to the area other than the soft keyboard after the keyboard input screen has been moved (step S46).

[0105] When the user moves the soft keyboard 61 upwards from the state of the keyboard input screen 60A shown in Figure 9A, the input item fields 62 and the input content display field 63 are moved to an empty area (the lower area of ​​the screen), as shown in the keyboard input screen 60B shown in Figure 9B.

[0106] In step S45, if it is not possible to display the input field and the input content display field in the available area of ​​the screen (step S45; NO), the soft keyboard will be displayed overlapping a portion of the input field and the input content display field (current position).

[0107] If, after step S46, or in step S45, the input item field and input content display field cannot be displayed in the available area of ​​the screen (step S45; NO), the control unit 18 determines whether or not a drop operation of the soft keyboard has been performed by the user from the operation unit 11 (step S47). Specifically, the control unit 18 determines whether or not the user has lifted their finger from the touch panel after moving the soft keyboard on the keyboard input screen. If there is no drop operation on the soft keyboard (step S47; NO), return to step S42.

[0108] In step S47, if a drop operation is performed on the soft keyboard (step S47; YES), the control unit 18 determines the positions of the soft keyboard, the input item field, and the input content display field, and the keyboard position change process ends.

[0109] Even after changing the position of the soft keyboard within the keyboard input screen, it is possible to switch input items without closing the keyboard input screen, similar to the first embodiment. Specifically, in the keyboard input screen 60C shown in Figure 9C, when the user presses the input item field 62 (operation position U22) via the operation unit 11, a pull-down list 64 (list of input items) is displayed. By selecting any item from the pull-down list 64, the input item can be switched.

[0110] As described above, according to the third embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, it is possible to maintain the ease of input from the soft keyboard while preventing deterioration of the visibility of the input content.

[0111] Furthermore, on the keyboard input screen (second screen), when the user is instructed to move the soft keyboard, the input content display field is displayed in the area other than the soft keyboard after the move, allowing the user to change the layout of the keyboard input screen according to their preference.

[0112] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, a fourth embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. Since the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus in the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100 shown in the first embodiment, Figure 1 will be used, and its configuration will not be illustrated or described. The configuration and processes characteristic of the fourth embodiment will be described below.

[0113] While patient registration screens have numerous input fields, the actual items entered vary depending on the medical facility, department, preferences, and circumstances. For example, even if there are input fields for patient ID, name, date of birth, gender, height, weight, and examiner, in practice, only the patient ID and name may be entered. In the fourth embodiment, the necessary input items (required items) can be set in advance.

[0114] The control unit 18 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 pre-sets one or more items related to medical information that will be displayed in the input item list. In other words, the control unit 18 functions as a setting unit. The "items displayed in the input item list" may be set by operation from the operation unit 11, or they may be set based on data acquired (received) from an external device.

[0115] When a first screen containing one or more items related to medical information is displayed on the display unit 17, and an input target item is selected from one or more items via the operation unit 11, the control unit 18 displays a second screen on the display unit 17, which includes an input content display field for the input target item, a soft keyboard, and a list of input items, and accepts input of medical information related to the input target item via the operation unit 11 using the soft keyboard. The control unit 18 displays only the configured items in the input item list on the second screen.

[0116] The control unit 18 displays each item included in the list of input items on the second screen in a display mode corresponding to the input status of that item (input in progress, entered, not entered, etc.). When any item is selected from the input item list via the operation unit 11, the control unit 18 switches the input target item to the selected item from the input item list.

[0117] When input for all configured items is completed via the soft keyboard through the operation unit 11, the control unit 18 automatically closes the second screen (soft keyboard) and waits for the next operation.

[0118] Next, the operation in the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the input item setting process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100 of the fourth embodiment. The input item setting process is realized by software processing through the cooperation of the CPU of the control unit 18 and a program stored in ROM.

[0119] First, when an operation button for activating the settings screen for input items during patient registration is pressed on the operation screen displayed on the display unit 17 by operation from the operation unit 11, the control unit 18 displays the settings screen on the display unit 17 (step S51).

[0120] Figure 11 shows an example of the settings screen 70 displayed on the display unit 17. The settings screen 70 includes checkboxes 71-74, a save & exit button 75, and a cancel button 76. Checkboxes 71-74 are selected when setting the input fields for patient registration: Patient ID, Name (Kanji), Name (Roman alphabet), and Date of Birth, respectively. In Figure 11, "Patient ID" and "Name (Kanji)" are checked. The Save & Exit button 75 is used to save the settings configured on the settings screen 70 and to exit the input item setting process. The cancel button 76 is used to cancel the settings made on the settings screen 70 and to terminate the input item setting process without saving the settings.

[0121] After step S51, the control unit 18 determines whether or not a setting operation for an input item has been performed by the user via the operation unit 11 on the setting screen (step S52). Specifically, the control unit 18 determines whether or not a touch operation has been performed on any of the checkboxes 71 to 74 on the setting screen 70 shown in Figure 11.

[0122] If an input item is set (step S52; YES), the control unit 18 updates the display of the checkbox for the input item set on the setting screen (step S53). For example, for checkboxes 71 to 74 on the setting screen 70 shown in Figure 11, if a checkbox that is in the "unchecked" state is touched, a check mark is displayed on that checkbox. If a checkbox that is in the "checked" state is touched, the check mark that was displayed on that checkbox is hidden.

[0123] If no input item setting operation occurs after step S53, or in step S52 (step S52; NO), the control unit 18 determines whether or not the save & exit button (for example, the save & exit button 75 shown in Figure 11) has been operated by the user from the operation unit 11 on the setting screen (step S54). If the Save & Exit button is pressed (Step S54; YES), the control unit 18 saves the settings made on the settings screen to the storage unit 19 (Step S55). Specifically, the control unit 18 stores the items set on the settings screen (items in the "checked" state) as input item list information in the storage unit 19.

[0124] In step S54, if the save & exit button is not pressed (step S54; NO), the control unit 18 determines on the settings screen whether or not the cancel button (for example, the cancel button 76 shown in Figure 11) has been pressed by the user via the operation unit 11 (step S56). If the cancel button is not pressed (step S56; NO), the process returns to step S52 and is repeated.

[0125] If the cancel button is pressed after step S55 or in step S56 (step S56; YES), the control unit 18 closes the settings screen (step S57). This completes the input field setting process.

[0126] Figures 12A and 12B are flowcharts showing the fourth patient registration process performed by the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100 of the fourth embodiment. The fourth patient registration process is realized by software processing through the cooperation of the CPU of the control unit 18 and a program stored in ROM.

[0127] The processes in steps S61 to S63 are the same as those in steps S1 to S3 of the first patient registration process (see Figure 2), so their explanation is omitted.

[0128] The control unit 18 retrieves the input item list information set on the settings screen from the storage unit 19 and displays the input item list on the display unit 17 (step S64). Furthermore, the control unit 18 displays the input content display field for the input target item on the display unit 17 (step S65). Furthermore, the control unit 18 displays the input item field on the display unit 17 and displays the item name of the input target item selected in step S62 within the input item field (step S66). Furthermore, the control unit 18 displays the input item selected in step S62 in the input item list in the "Input in Progress" state (step S67). In other words, the control unit 18 displays a keyboard input screen (second screen) on the display unit 17, which includes a soft keyboard, an input item field, an input content display field, and an input item list (distinguishing between set items and input status).

[0129] If the item selected in step S62 is not included in the list of input items, any item from the items set on the settings screen may be displayed in the input item field.

[0130] Figure 13A shows an example of the patient registration screen 30A displayed on the display unit 17 in step S61. The patient registration screen 30A has the same configuration as the patient registration screen 30 shown in Figure 3A. In the patient registration screen 30A, the required items (items set on the settings screen) are not entered, so the test start button 37 is inoperable.

[0131] When the patient ID input field 31 (operation position U31) is selected on the patient registration screen 30A, the system transitions to the keyboard input screen 80A shown in Figure 13B. The keyboard input screen 80A includes a soft keyboard 81, input item fields 82, input content display field 83, and an input item list 84.

[0132] The soft keyboard 81, input field 82, and input content display field 83 are the same as those included in the keyboard input screen 40A shown in Figure 3B. In the keyboard input screen 80A, the input field 82 displays an item called "Patient ID," and the input content display field 83 displays the "Patient ID" entered from the soft keyboard 81. The user enters the "Patient ID" from the operating position U32 of the soft keyboard 81.

[0133] The input item list 84 displays a list of items set in the settings screen. Here, the input item list 84 includes item buttons 85 and 86. Item buttons 85 and 86 correspond to the items "Patient ID" and "Name (Kanji)," respectively. Item buttons 85 and 86 are displayed in a manner corresponding to the input status of each item (inputting, entered, not entered). In the input item list 84 of the keyboard input screen 80A, item button 85 corresponding to "Patient ID" is displayed in the "inputting" state, and item button 86 corresponding to "Name (Kanji)" is displayed in the "not entered" state.

[0134] After step S67, proceed to Figure 12B. The processing in steps S68 to S76 is the same as the processing in steps S27 to S35 of the second patient registration process (see Figure 5B), so the explanation is omitted.

[0135] For example, in the keyboard input screen 80A shown in Figure 13B, after the patient ID is entered, if the item button 86 (operation position U33) corresponding to "Name (Kanji)" is selected in the input item list 84, the screen transitions to the keyboard input screen 80B shown in Figure 13C. In the keyboard input screen 80B, the item "Name (Kanji)" is displayed in the input item field 82, and the "Name (Kanji)" entered from the soft keyboard 81 is displayed in the input content display field 83. In the input item list 84 of the keyboard input screen 80B, the item button 85 corresponding to "Patient ID" is displayed in the "Input Completed" state, and the item button 86 corresponding to "Name (Kanji)" is displayed in the "Inputting" state.

[0136] Furthermore, for example, pressing the return key 87 (operation position U34) on the soft keyboard 81 on the keyboard input screen 80B corresponds to the input completion operation in step S74.

[0137] Figure 14A shows an example of the contents stored in the storage unit 19 in step S72. After the "Patient ID" is entered, when the input field is switched to "Name (Kanji)", as shown in Figure 14A, the field name "Patient ID" and the input content "12345678" are associated and saved, and the input status for "Patient ID" is changed to "Entered". At this point, the input status for "Name (Kanji)" is "Not entered".

[0138] Figure 14B shows an example of the contents saved in the storage unit 19 when the input is completed in step S76. From the state shown in Figure 14A, if the input is completed after the "Name (Kanji)" is entered, the item name "Name (Kanji)" and the input content "Hino Taro" are associated and saved, as shown in Figure 14B, and the input status for "Name (Kanji)" is changed to "Input Completed".

[0139] After step S76, the control unit 18 determines whether all items in the input item list are in the "inputted" state (step S77). If there are items in the input item list that are not in the "inputted" state (step S77; NO), the control unit 18 automatically selects any item in the input item list on the keyboard input screen that is in the "not entered" state and displays the selected item in the "inputting" state (step S78). Then, the process returns to step S68 and is repeated.

[0140] In step S77, if all items in the input item list are in the "entered" state (step S77; YES), the control unit 18 closes the display screen (keyboard input screen) including the soft keyboard, input item field, input content display field, and input item list (step S79), and enters a state of waiting for an operation to start the inspection (step S80).

[0141] For example, in the keyboard input screen 80B shown in Figure 13C, when the return key 87 on the soft keyboard 81 is pressed, the item that was being entered immediately before is marked as "completed." When all items in the input item list 84 are marked as "completed," the keyboard input screen 80B is closed and the patient registration screen 30B shown in Figure 13D is displayed. The patient registration screen 30B has the same configuration as the patient registration screen 30A shown in Figure 13A, but in the patient registration screen 30B, all required items have been entered, so the test start button 37 is available to press. This completes the fourth patient registration process.

[0142] On the patient registration screen 30B, the ultrasound examination is started when the user presses the examination start button 37 (operation position U35) via the operation unit 11.

[0143] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, it is possible to maintain the ease of input from the soft keyboard while preventing deterioration of the visibility of the input content.

[0144] Furthermore, since the items displayed in the input field list can be pre-configured, only the necessary items can be displayed in the input field list depending on the medical facility or department. This simplifies the user's input process.

[0145] Furthermore, once input is complete for all configured items via the soft keyboard, the keyboard input screen (second screen) is automatically closed, and the system waits for the next operation (in the example above, waiting for the start inspection button 37 to be pressed). This reduces the number of user actions required and guides the user to the next operation. This improves usability after information input. Specifically, it eliminates the need for the user to visually confirm whether all required items have been entered or to close the keyboard input screen themselves.

[0146] Furthermore, when an input item is selected on the patient registration screen (first screen), the keyboard input screen (second screen) displays a list of input items along with a soft keyboard and an input content display field. This allows users to switch only the input items while maintaining the keyboard input screen, enabling them to input each item consecutively.

[0147] Furthermore, since each item included in the list of input items on the keyboard input screen is displayed in a display manner corresponding to the input status of that item, even if each item in the patient registration screen is hidden by the keyboard input screen, the input status such as "input in progress," "input completed," or "not entered" can be checked without closing the keyboard input screen (or moving the position of the keyboard input screen).

[0148] The descriptions in the above embodiments are examples of the medical information input device according to the present invention, and are not limited thereto. The detailed configuration and detailed operation of each part constituting the device can also be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0149] For example, characteristic configurations or processes may be combined in each embodiment. Specifically, as in the second or fourth embodiment, in the keyboard input screen (second screen) which includes a list of input items, as in the third embodiment, when the soft keyboard is instructed to move, the input content display field and the list of input items may be displayed in the area of ​​the second screen other than the soft keyboard after the move.

[0150] Furthermore, while the above embodiments described an ultrasound diagnostic device as an example of a medical information input device, the invention is not limited to this. Also, the medical information to be input is not limited to patient information; other types of medical information may also be used.

[0151] Furthermore, while the above embodiments described the case in which touch operations are performed on the touch panel of the operation unit 11 in response to the soft keyboard displayed on the display unit 17, keys may also be selected by performing selection operations such as clicking on the soft keyboard using a mouse or trackball provided by the operation unit 11.

[0152] Furthermore, on the second screen, the input content display field and the list of input items may be displayed independently of the soft keyboard, or they may be displayed together with the soft keyboard (as part of the soft keyboard).

[0153] Furthermore, the programs for executing each process may be stored on a portable recording medium. Alternatively, a carrier wave may be used as the medium for providing the program data via a communication line. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 1. Ultrasound diagnostic device main unit 2 Ultrasonic probe 11 Control section 17 Display section 18 Control Unit 19 Memory section 30. Patient Registration Screen 30A, 30B Patient Registration Screen 31. Patient ID input field 32 Name (Kanji) Input Field 33 Name (in Roman letters) input field 34. Date of birth input field 40A, 40B, 40C Keyboard Input Screen 41 Soft Keyboard 42 Input fields 43 Input content display field 44. Drop-down list 50A, 50B Keyboard Input Screen 51 Soft Keyboard 52 Input fields 53 Input content display field 54 List of Input Items 60A, 60B, 60C Keyboard Input Screen 61 Soft Keyboard 62 Input fields 63 Input content display field 64 Drop-down list 70 Settings screen 71-74 Checkboxes 80A, 80B Keyboard Input Screen 81 Soft Keyboard 82 Input fields 83 Input content display field 84 List of Input Items 100 Ultrasound diagnostic equipment

Claims

1. When a first screen containing one or more items related to medical information is displayed on the display unit, and an input target item is selected from the one or more items via the operation unit, a second screen including an input content display field for the input target item and a soft keyboard is displayed on the display unit, and the soft keyboard includes a control unit that accepts input of medical information related to the input target item via the operation unit. The control unit displays an input item list, which further includes one or more items, on the second screen in response to a predetermined operation via the operation unit, and when any item is selected from the input item list via the operation unit, the input target item is switched to the item selected from the input item list.

2. The medical information input device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit displays each item included in the list of input items on the second screen in a display manner corresponding to the input status of the item.

3. The medical information input device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit, when instructed to move the soft keyboard via the operation unit on the second screen, displays the input content display field in an area of ​​the second screen other than the soft keyboard after the move.

4. The system includes a setting unit for pre-setting which of the one or more items mentioned above will be displayed in the input item list, The medical information input device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit displays only the set items in the list of input items on the second screen.

5. The medical information input device according to claim 4, wherein the control unit automatically closes the second screen and waits for the next operation when input from the soft keyboard via the operation unit is completed for all the set items.

6. Computers A program for causing a first screen containing one or more items related to medical information to be displayed on the display unit, and when an input target item is selected from the one or more items via the operation unit, to display a second screen on the display unit, which includes an input content display field for the input target item and a soft keyboard, and to cause the soft keyboard to function as a control unit that accepts input of medical information related to the input target item via the operation unit, The control unit is a program that, in response to a predetermined operation via the operation unit, displays an input item list on the second screen that includes one or more of the items, and switches the input target item to the selected item from the input item list when any item is selected from the input item list via the operation unit.

7. The program according to claim 6, wherein the control unit displays each item included in the list of input items on the second screen in a display manner corresponding to the input status of the item.

8. The program according to claim 6, wherein the control unit, when instructed to move the soft keyboard via the operation unit on the second screen, displays the input content display field in an area of ​​the second screen other than the soft keyboard after the move.

9. The aforementioned computer, This unit functions as a setting unit for pre-setting the items displayed in the input item list from among the one or more items mentioned above. The program according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the control unit displays only the set items in the list of input items on the second screen.

10. The program according to claim 9, wherein the control unit automatically closes the second screen and waits for the next operation when input from the soft keyboard via the operation unit is completed for all the set items.

Images