Remote control device, operation module, and remote control method

Abstract

Provided are a remote control device, etc., for remotely controlling medical equipment. This remote control device (40) comprises a display module (20) that displays a parameter relating to the operation of medical equipment (30), and an operation module (10) that can be attached to and detached from the display module (20). The display module (20) is provided with a reception unit that receives the parameter from the medical equipment (30) via wireless communication. The operation module (10) has: an operation unit (16) that receives an operation performed by a user; and a communication unit that, when attached to the display module, performs communication for remotely controlling an operation parameter included in the aforementioned parameter on the basis of the operation received by the operation unit.

Description

Remote control device, operation module, and remote control method

[0001] The present invention relates to a remote control device, an operation module, and a remote control method.

[0002] Extracorporeal circulation systems have been widely used to temporarily maintain life during open-heart surgery for heart disease, or in the event of circulatory failure or cardiac arrest, by assisting the patient's blood circulation and breathing and substituting for the patient's cardiopulmonary function (Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-14504

[0004] In such an extracorporeal circulation system, a medical professional such as a doctor may adjust the settings of the equipment as needed depending on changes in the condition of the patient being treated.

[0005] However, for example, patients undergoing treatment in an infection isolation room are required to wear infection protection clothing in order to go near medical equipment to operate it, and when managing medical equipment that requires regular observation, they need to operate the equipment near the medical equipment, and frequent putting on and taking off of infection protection clothing takes time, which places a heavy burden on medical staff.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and one object of the present invention is to provide a remote control device or the like that remotely controls a medical device.

[0007] The present invention provides a remote control device comprising: (1) a display module that displays parameters related to the operation of a medical device; and an operation module that is detachable from the display module, wherein the display module has a receiving unit that receives the parameters from the medical device via wireless communication; and the operation module has an operation unit that accepts operations by a user; and a communication unit that, when attached to the display module, communicates to remotely control operation parameters included in the parameters based on the operations accepted by the operation unit.

[0008] Here, an embodiment of the present invention is (2) the remote control device described in (1) above, wherein the communication unit transmits a signal requesting authority information regarding the range of permission for remote control of the medical device, and the operation unit, upon receiving the authority information, preferably accepts operation by the user within the range specified in the authority information.

[0009] (3) In the remote control device described in (2) above, it is preferable that the signal includes information about a user who operates the operation module and position information about the operation module.

[0010] (4) In the remote control device described in any one of (1) to (3) above, when the communication unit receives a signal regarding authority information regarding remote control of the medical device, it is preferable that the operation unit accepts operations by the user within the range specified in the received authority information.

[0011] (5) In the remote control device described in any one of (1) to (4) above, it is preferable that the operation module changes the authority information regarding the remote control of the medical device when it receives a signal to change the currently granted authority information.

[0012] (6) In the remote control device according to any one of (1) to (5) above, it is preferable that the operation module is connected to the display module via wireless communication.

[0013] (7) In the remote control device according to any one of (1) to (6) above, it is preferable that the operation module includes a display unit that displays information about the operation parameters.

[0014] (8) In the remote control device according to any one of (1) to (7) above, it is preferable that the display module highlights the operation parameter.

[0015] (9) In the remote control device described in any one of (1) to (8) above, it is preferable that the operation module has a plate-shaped portion having the operation unit, a connection portion electrically connected to the display module, and a frame fixed to the display module.

[0016] (10) In the remote control device described in any one of (1) to (9) above, the medical device has an oxygenator and a circulation circuit through which blood circulates, the operation parameters are operating parameters of a device that controls the flow rate in the circulation circuit, and it is preferable that when the operation module is not attached to the display module, the parameters cannot be remotely controlled, but when the operation module is attached to the display module, the operation parameters among the parameters can be remotely controlled.

[0017] (11) It is preferable that the operation module has a detachable unit that can be attached to and detached from a display module that displays parameters related to the operation of the medical device, an operation unit that accepts operations by a user, and a communication unit that, when the detachable unit is attached to the display module, communicates to remotely control the operation parameters included in the parameters based on the operations accepted by the operation unit.

[0018] (12) In the remote control method, it is preferable that an operation module detachable from a display module that displays parameters related to the operation of a medical device detects that the operation module is attached to the display module, accepts instructions from a user, and executes a process of communicating to remotely control operation parameters included in the parameters based on the instructions.

[0019] In one aspect, a remote control device for remotely controlling a medical device can be provided.

[0020] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an overview of a remote control system. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of a remote control system. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the record layout of an authority DB. FIG. 2 is an example screen of a display module. FIG. 3 is an example screen of a display module. FIG. 4 is an example screen of an operation module. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow of a program. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow of a program of embodiment 2. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a remote control device of embodiment 3. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a remote control device of embodiment 3. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow of a program of embodiment 4. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of a remote control system of embodiment 5.

[0021] [Embodiment 1] Patients suffering from highly dangerous infectious diseases and patients with weakened resistance to infectious diseases due to immunodeficiency syndrome or the like are treated in an infection isolation room. When medical personnel enter the infection isolation room, infection prevention measures are implemented, such as wearing personal protective equipment such as infection protection suits. After leaving the infection isolation room, medical personnel immediately remove the personal protective equipment.

[0022] Putting on and taking off personal protective equipment takes time, placing a heavy burden on medical staff. Furthermore, most personal protective equipment is single-use, meaning it is discarded after a single use, resulting in costs each time it is used. Furthermore, frequent entry and exit from an infection isolation room increases the risk of infection, even if everyone entering and exiting the room is wearing the correct personal protective equipment.

[0023] In this embodiment, a remote control device that allows medical personnel to operate medical equipment from outside an infection isolation room is described. Because medical equipment can be operated without putting on or taking off personal protective equipment, the burden on medical personnel can be reduced. Furthermore, this can contribute to cost reduction and a reduction in the risk of infection.

[0024] Examples of medical devices that can be remotely controlled include extracorporeal membrane oxygenators (hereinafter referred to as ECMO), and more specifically, life support devices such as blood circulation pumps used in ECMO, as well as heart-lung machines, dialysis machines, and infusion pumps. ECMOs have a circulation circuit through which blood circulates. Medical devices may also be devices used to understand the condition of a patient, such as diagnostic imaging devices and monitoring devices. The following description will be given using an ECMO as an example of medical device.

[0025] For example, patients who have become seriously ill with COVID-19 may receive respiratory support using ECMO. To prevent the spread of infection, COVID-19 patients are treated in infection isolation rooms maintained at negative pressure. Medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, constantly monitor the patient's condition and adjust the rotation speed of the blood circulation pump, an operating parameter of the ECMO, as needed. The rotation speed of the blood circulation pump determines the blood flow rate and volume in the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit through which blood circulates in ECMO. The rotation speed of the blood circulation pump is also an operating parameter of the device that controls the blood flow rate in the ECMO's circulation circuit.

[0026] Incidentally, operating medical equipment such as ECMO, which is crucial for maintaining a patient's life, requires advanced expertise and an understanding of the patient's condition. If a remote control device for ECMO is placed outside an infection isolation room without an authority verification function, there is a risk that someone who should not be operating the medical equipment, such as a medical professional with insufficient expertise in ECMO, may remotely operate the ECMO, or that unintended operation could prevent proper patient management. Therefore, it is desirable to allow only specific users to remotely operate medical equipment.

[0027] It is desirable that the range of operation parameter adjustments permitted by remote control can be set to differ depending on the qualifications and position of the user. For example, it is desirable that paramedical staff such as nurses and clinical engineers be permitted to adjust operation parameters within a relatively narrow range instructed by the attending physician.

[0028] Highly skilled specialists, such as respiratory specialists, are able to perform detailed ECMO operation while fully understanding the patient's overall condition. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to adjust the operating parameters to the maximum extent possible given the ECMO hardware. Furthermore, it is desirable to be able to prevent accidental errors, such as communication noise, from transmitting values ​​of operating parameters different from those intended by the user to the medical device 30. In this embodiment, a remote control device that can meet these needs will be described.

[0029] 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an overview of a remote control system 50. The remote control system 50 includes a medical device 30 arranged inside an infection isolation room 52 and a remote control device 40 arranged outside the infection isolation room 52. As described above, the medical device 30 is, for example, an ECMO.

[0030] The ECMO includes, for example, a base unit and an expansion unit. The base unit is a unit that realizes the functions of the medical device 30, such as life support functions. Detailed explanation of the configuration and operation of the base unit will be omitted. The expansion unit is a unit that controls communication between the medical device 30 and the remote control device 40 to realize the remote control system 50 of this embodiment. The base unit and the expansion unit are connected by wire or wirelessly. When ECMO is used, an artificial ventilator (not shown) is often used at the same time.

[0031] The remote control device 40 includes an operation module 10 and a display module 20. The operation module 10 and the display module 20 are detachable via a detachable unit (not shown). In this embodiment, the display module 20 is a slate-type general-purpose information device such as a smartphone or a tablet. A touch panel 25 is provided on one surface of the display module 20.

[0032] The operation module 10 is a dish- or frame-shaped device having a recess capable of holding the display module 20. A first display unit 15, an operation unit 16, and an indicator 158 are arranged on the edge of the operation module 10. The operation unit 16 includes a first operation unit 161 with an upward arrow, a second operation unit 162 with a downward arrow, a third operation unit 163 with a leftward arrow, and a fourth operation unit 164 with a check mark. The first to fourth operation units 161 to 164 are, for example, push button switches such as membrane switches.

[0033] The indicators 158 are, for example, multiple LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). In the example shown in FIG. 1, three indicators 158 are arranged in a vertical row. Near each indicator 158, a character indicating the meaning of each indicator 158, such as "remote," is arranged. The state of the "remote" indicator 158 indicates whether the remote control device 40 is in a "remote control mode" or a "display mode," which will be described later. The state of the "base" indicator 158 indicates the connection state of the base unit described above. The state of the "expansion" indicator 158 indicates the connection state of the expansion unit described above.

[0034] 1, the display module 20 is held in a recess in the operation module 10 with the touch panel 25 facing outward. The entire remote control device 40 with the display module 20 attached to the operation module 10 is configured as a slate that is slightly larger than the display module 20.

[0035] The operation module 10 and the medical device 30, and the display module 20 and the medical device 30 are connected by wireless communication. The communication may be performed directly via short-range wireless communication such as BLUETOOTH (registered trademark) or via a network (not shown). The operation module 10 and the display module 20 are connected by wireless communication or wired communication via a connection line 42 (see FIG. 2).

[0036] The display module 20, when not attached to the operation module 10, has a remote monitor function that receives display parameters indicating the operating status from the medical device 30 as needed and displays them on the touch panel 25. That is, the second communication unit 24 (see FIG. 2) realizes the function of a receiving unit that causes the display module 20 to receive the display parameters from the medical device 30. An example of the screen of the touch panel 25 will be described later.

[0037] One medical device 30 may transmit display parameters to multiple display modules 20. For example, medical personnel at a nurse's station, a doctor's waiting room, etc. may appropriately check the operating status of the medical device 30. An information device such as a smartphone carried by each medical personnel for communication may also serve as the display module 20.

[0038] When the user operates an authorization button (not shown) while the display module 20 is attached to the operation module 10, the medical device 30 issues authorization to the operation module 10 to adjust the operation parameters. Specific examples of the authorization button will be described later. From the operation module 10 in a state where authorization has been issued, it is possible to transmit a remote control signal to the medical device 30 to operate the operation parameters. Furthermore, it is also possible to transmit a remote control signal to the medical device 30 from the display module 20 connected to the operation module 10.

[0039] When using the display module 20 alone, the user can check the display parameters transmitted from the medical device 30. After attaching the display module 20 to the operation module 10, the user can operate the operation unit 16 to remotely control the operation parameters of the medical device 30 while checking the display parameters displayed on the display module 20. The method of operating the remote control device 40 when the user performs remote control will be described later.

[0040] 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of the remote control system 50. As described above, the remote control system 50 includes the medical device 30 and the remote control device 40. The remote control device 40 includes an operation module 10 and a display module 20. The operation module 10 and the display module 20 are connected by a connection line 42.

[0041] In addition to the first display unit 15, indicator 158, and operation unit 16, the operation module 10 includes a first control unit 11, a main memory device 12, an auxiliary memory device 13, a first communication unit 14, and a bus. The first control unit 11 is an arithmetic and control device that executes the program of this embodiment. The first control unit 11 uses one or more central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), multi-core CPUs, etc. The first control unit 11 may be a logic circuit device such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPCA), or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). The first control unit 11 is connected to each hardware unit constituting the operation module 10 via the bus.

[0042] The main memory device 12 is a memory device such as an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), a flash memory, etc. The main memory device 12 temporarily stores information required during processing performed by the first control unit 11 and programs currently being executed by the first control unit 11.

[0043] The auxiliary storage device 13 is a storage device such as an SRAM, a flash memory, a hard disk, or a magnetic tape. The auxiliary storage device 13 stores programs to be executed by the first control unit 11 and various data required for executing the programs. The first communication unit 14 is an interface that performs communication between the operation module 10 and the medical device 30, and between the operation module 10 and the display module 20.

[0044] The first display unit 15 is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic electroluminescence (EL) panel. The first display unit 15 may be configured with a plurality of 7-segment LEDs. The indicator 158 may be displayed on a part of the first display unit 15 instead of using an independent LED. The first display unit 15 may be a touch panel, and the operation unit 16 may be realized by buttons on the screen displayed on the first display unit 15.

[0045] The first control unit 11, the main storage device 12, the auxiliary storage device 13, and the first communication unit 14 may be integrated into one unit using, for example, a one-board microcomputer or a one-chip microcomputer.

[0046] The display module 20 includes a second control unit 21, a main memory device 22, an auxiliary memory device 23, a second communication unit 24, a touch panel 25, a bus, and a battery 28. The second control unit 21 is an arithmetic and control device that executes the program of this embodiment. The second control unit 21 uses one or more CPUs, GPUs, multi-core CPUs, or the like. The second control unit 21 is connected to each hardware unit that constitutes the display module 20 via the bus.

[0047] The main memory device 22 is a memory device such as SRAM, DRAM, or flash memory. The main memory device 22 temporarily stores information required during processing performed by the second control unit 21 and programs currently being executed by the second control unit 21. The auxiliary memory device 23 is a memory device such as SRAM, flash memory, or a hard disk. The auxiliary memory device 23 stores programs to be executed by the second control unit 21 and various data required for executing the programs. The second communication unit 24 is an interface that performs communication between the display module 20 and the medical device 30, and between the display module 20 and the operation module 10.

[0048] The touch panel 25 includes a second display unit 251, such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL panel, and an operation unit 252 stacked on the second display unit 251. A battery 28 supplies power to the electronic components that make up the display module 20. The battery 28 also shares power with the electronic components that make up the operation module 10 via a connection line 42. The operation module 10 has a built-in battery and may operate without receiving power from the display module 20.

[0049] As described above, the display module 20 is a general-purpose slate-type information device such as a general-purpose tablet or a smartphone. The display module 20 may also be a dedicated information device designed for the remote control device 40.

[0050] As described above, the first communication unit 14 is an interface that performs communication between the operation module 10 and the medical device 30 and between the operation module 10 and the display module 20, and the second communication unit 24 is an interface that performs communication between the display module 20 and the medical device 30 and between the display module 20 and the operation module 10. Therefore, the operation module 10 and the medical device 30 can communicate with each other directly, as well as via the display module 20.

[0051] The medical device 30 includes a third control unit 31, a main memory device 32, an auxiliary memory device 33, a third communication unit 34, and a bus. Note that illustrations and descriptions of components that realize functions unique to the medical device 30, such as a pump, a heater, an oxygenator, and a filter, are omitted.

[0052] The third control unit 31 is an arithmetic and control device that executes the program of this embodiment. The third control unit 31 uses one or more CPUs, GPUs, multi-core CPUs, etc. The third control unit 31 is connected to each hardware unit that constitutes the medical device 30 via a bus.

[0053] The main storage device 32 is a storage device such as an SRAM, a DRAM, or a flash memory. The main storage device 32 temporarily stores information required during processing performed by the third control unit 31 and programs currently being executed by the third control unit 31. The auxiliary storage device 33 is a storage device such as an SRAM, a flash memory, or a hard disk. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores an authority DB (Database) 55, programs to be executed by the third control unit 31, and various data required for program execution. The authority DB 55 may be stored in a large-capacity storage device (not shown) connected via a network.

[0054] The third communication unit 34 is an interface that performs communication between the medical device 30 and the operation module 10, between the medical device 30 and the display module 20, and between the medical device 30 and a network.

[0055] 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the record layout of the authority DB 55. The authority DB 55 is a DB that records user IDs (identifiers) and user operation authorities for each location where the remote control device 40 is located. The authority DB 55 has a user ID field and a location field. The location field has fields related to multiple locations, such as a first area field and a second area field.

[0056] The user ID field records a user ID uniquely assigned to each medical professional. The first area field, second area field, etc. record whether control is possible and the controllable level. For example, a user with user ID "A001" can change operation parameters within the range of level 1 when the remote control device 40 is located in the first area, and within the range of level 2 when the remote control device 40 is located in the second area. A user with user ID "A002" can change operation parameters within the range of level 2 when the remote control device 40 is located in the first area, but cannot change operation parameters when the remote control device 40 is located in the second area.

[0057] Here, "level" indicates the range within which the rotation speed of the blood circulation pump in an ECMO system, which is an operating parameter, can be changed. A specific example will be described using a case where the "first area" is in front of the window of an infection control room, and the "second area" is the nurse's station. User ID "A001" is a specialist physician, and in the "first area," he can check the patient's condition through the window of the infection isolation room 52 and adjust the operating parameters within the range of Level 1, which indicates the maximum range possible in terms of the hardware of the medical device 30. However, in the "second area," which is away from the infection isolation room 52, the adjustment range of the operating parameters is restricted to the range of Level 2.

[0058] User ID "A002" is, for example, a person with specialized skills, such as a paramedical staff member who has received prescribed education and training, and can adjust operation parameters within the range of level 2 in the "first area," but cannot adjust operation parameters in the "second area" away from the infection isolation room 52. The authority DB 55 has one record for each user.

[0059] 4 and 5 are examples of screens of the display module 20. Fig. 4 shows an example of a screen that the second control unit 21 displays on the second display unit 251 when the display module 20 is not connected to the operation module 10. Eight parameters received from the medical device 30 are displayed on the second display unit 251 in real time.

[0060] 5 shows an example of a screen displayed by the second control unit 21 on the second display unit 251 when the display module 20 is connected to the operation module 10. The parameter value "1100" in the operation parameter column 63 marked with the letter "R" is framed and displayed prominently. In the following description, such prominent display may be referred to as a "highlighted display." Highlighted display may be achieved by any method, such as by enlarging the font, displaying the parameter in a color different from other parameters, or displaying the text in reverse color.

[0061] 5, the highlighted parameter in the operation parameter column 63 indicates the rotation speed of the blood circulation pump in the ECMO, and is an operation parameter that can be remotely controlled using the remote control device 40. Note that explanation of the meanings of parameters other than the rotation speed will be omitted.

[0062] 6 shows an example of a screen of the operation module 10. FIG. 6 shows an example of a screen that the first control unit 11 displays on the first display unit 15 when the operation module 10 is connected to the display module 20.

[0063] On the right side of the screen, an operation parameter column 61 and a parameter setting column 62 are displayed side by side. The operation parameter column 61 displays the values ​​of the operation parameters transmitted from the medical device 30 to the display module 20. On the left side of the screen, one of the display parameters displayed on the second display unit 251 is displayed. The first control unit 11 receives the operation parameter from the second control unit 21 and displays it on the first display unit 15.

[0064] The operation parameter field 61 displays the values ​​of the operation parameters that the user plans to set by remote control. The user operates the third operation unit 163 to select the digit to be changed, and then operates the first operation unit 161 and the second operation unit 162 to increase or decrease the value. The first control unit 11 limits the range of values ​​that the user can set in the operation parameter field 61 to the range permitted by the medical device 30 based on the user ID and the location of the remote control device 40.

[0065] After confirming that the desired numerical value is displayed in the operation parameter field 61, the user operates the fourth operation unit 164. The first control unit 11 transmits a remote control signal including the operation parameters set in the parameter setting field 62 to the medical device 30. The first control unit 11 transmits the operation parameters set in the parameter setting field 62 to the display module 20.

[0066] The second control unit 21 transmits a remote control signal including the operation parameters received from the operation module 10 to the medical device 30. As shown in Fig. 1 , the remote control signal transmitted from the operation module 10 and the remote control signal transmitted from the display module 20 reach the medical device 30 via different communication paths.

[0067] The third control unit 31 determines whether or not the operation parameters received from the operation module 10 match the operation parameters received from the display module 20. If it is determined that they match, the third control unit 31 changes the operation in accordance with the received operation parameters.

[0068] As a result, the user can remotely control the operation parameters while referring to the values ​​of each parameter displayed in real time on the second display unit 251. If the medical device 30 receives an operation parameter that the user does not intend due to communication noise or the like, the medical device 30 does not change its operation, thereby preventing accidents caused by communication noise or the like.

[0069] 7 and 8 are flowcharts illustrating the flow of program processing. When the display module 20 is started, authentication processing based on a user ID is performed, and information about the user currently using the display module 20 is recorded in the main memory device 22. The display module 20 may also perform authentication of the user currently using the module using a biometric authentication system such as face recognition using a built-in camera (not shown) at any time. User authentication has been used for a long time, so detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0070] The second control unit 21 detects the location of the display module 20 using, for example, a built-in GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, access point information of the currently connected network, beacon information, and the like, and records the location in the main storage device 22. Since the detection of the location of the display module 20 is a conventional method, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0071] The second control unit 21 operates in a display mode in which it receives display parameters from the medical device 30 as needed and displays the screen described with reference to Fig. 4 on the second display unit 251 (step S601). Reception of display parameters and updating of the screen displayed on the second display unit 251 are performed in parallel with the execution of the programs described with reference to Figs. 7 and 8.

[0072] The first control unit 11 detects that the display module 20 has been attached to the operation module 10 (step S500). The first control unit 11 accepts operation of an authorization button (not shown) (step S501). The authorization button is a physical button provided on the operation module 10. The authorization button is located in a location that is difficult to find for someone who does not know how to operate the remote control device 40, such as on the side or back of the operation module 10. The remote control device 40 may be configured so that simultaneous pressing of multiple buttons, such as simultaneous pressing of the first operation unit 161 and the second operation unit 162, functions as the authorization button. The first control unit 11 transmits an instruction to the display module 20 requesting operation authorization for the medical device 30 (step S502).

[0073] The second control unit 21 receives the request instruction through interrupt processing. The second control unit 21 transmits a request signal requesting operation authority to the medical device 30 (step S602). The request signal includes information about the user using the display module 20, such as the user ID of the user, and location information about the display module 20, i.e., information about the user of the remote control device 40 and the location information.

[0074] By the processes of steps S502, S602, and S701 described above, the operation of the authorization button accepted in step S501 is transmitted to the medical device 30 via the display module 20. That is, the first control unit 11 communicates with the medical device 30 via the display module 20.

[0075] The third control unit 31 receives the request signal (step S701). Based on the received location information, the third control unit 31 determines which area in the authority DB 55 described with reference to Fig. 3 corresponds to the location of the remote control device 40. The third control unit 31 searches the authority DB 55 using the received user ID and the determined area as keys, and obtains authority information including whether or not remote control is permitted for the remote control device 40 and the level of remote control permission if permitted (step S702).

[0076] Based on the authority information acquired in step S702, the third control unit 31 determines whether the user using the remote control device 40 has the authority to remotely control the medical device 30 (step S703). If it is determined that the user does not have the authority to remotely control the medical device 30 (NO in step S703), the medical device 30 ends the processing. Here, the end of the processing means the end of the processing related to the remote control from the remote control device 40. The medical device 30 continues the operation, such as life support for the patient, without changing the operation parameters.

[0077] If it is determined that the medical device 30 does not have the authority (NO in step S703), the third control unit 31 may transmit a signal to the operation module 10 or the display module 20 before ending the process, indicating that the remote control is not accepted. The first control unit 11 that has received the signal displays, for example, using the indicator 158, that the remote control has been rejected by the medical device 30. The second control unit 21 that has received the signal displays, for example, on the touch panel 25, that the remote control has been rejected by the medical device 30.

[0078] The user must quickly understand that remote control has been rejected by the medical device 30 and take appropriate action, such as entering the infection isolation room 52 to operate the medical device 30, or instructing a medical professional already in the infection isolation room 52 to operate the medical device 30.

[0079] If it is determined that the authority exists (YES in step S703), the third control unit 31 transmits authority information regarding remote control to the operation module 10 (step S704). The authority information includes, for example, information regarding upper and lower limit values ​​for which remote control of the operation parameters is permitted.

[0080] Thereafter, the third control unit 31 transitions to a remote control reception mode (step S705). The remote control reception mode is an operation mode in which the third control unit 31 waits for reception of a remote control signal from the remote control device 40 and changes operation parameters based on the received remote control signal. Note that even in the remote operation reception mode, the third control unit 31 continues to transmit display parameters to the display module 20 and to perform operations such as maintaining the patient's life.

[0081] The first control unit 11 receives the authority information from the medical device 30 (step S503). The first control unit 11 stores the authority information in the main storage device 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13. The first control unit 11 turns on the "remote" indicator 158, for example, to indicate that the medical device 30 is in a state where it can be remotely operated.

[0082] The first control unit 11 transmits an instruction to the display module 20 to highlight the operation parameter (step S504). The second control unit 21 receives the instruction (step S603). The second control unit 21 highlights the operation parameter (step S604), as described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0083] Thereafter, the second control unit 21 transitions to the remote control mode (step S605). The remote control mode is a mode in which information related to the remote control of operation parameters is received from the operation module 10 and a remote control signal is transmitted to the medical device 30 via a communication path different from that of the operation module 10. Note that even in the remote control mode, the second control unit 21 continues to receive parameters from the medical device 30 and display them on the touch panel 25.

[0084] 6, the first control unit 11 acquires the parameter values ​​from the display module 20 and displays them on the first display unit 15. The first control unit 11 displays the same values ​​as those displayed in the operation parameter field 61 in the parameter setting field 62 (step S505). Although not shown in the flowchart, the first control unit 11 acquires the parameter values ​​from the display module 20 as needed and updates the display of the first display unit 15, other than the parameter setting field 62, to the latest parameters.

[0085] The first control unit 11 accepts an operation of the operation unit 16 by the user (step S511). The first control unit 11 updates the display of the parameter setting field 62 based on the accepted instruction (step S512). However, the first control unit 11 keeps the numerical value displayed in the parameter setting field 62 within the range defined by the authority information, and ignores any operation that changes the numerical value outside the range defined by the authority information.

[0086] The first control unit 11 determines whether to execute remote control of the operation parameters (step S513). For example, when the first control unit 11 receives an operation of the fourth operation unit 164, the first control unit 11 determines to execute remote control.

[0087] If it is determined not to execute (NO in step S513), the first control unit 11 returns to step S511. If it is determined to execute (YES in step S513), the first control unit 11 transmits the operation parameters being displayed in the parameter setting field 62 to both the display module 20 and the medical device 30 (step S514).

[0088] The first control unit 11 determines whether to end the remote control process (step S515). For example, the first control unit 11 determines to end the process when the user performs an operation to end the remote control or when the first control unit 11 receives a signal indicating refusal of remote control from the medical device 30. If it is determined not to end the process (NO in step S515), the first control unit 11 returns to step S511.

[0089] If new authority information is received during the execution of the repeated process from step S511 to step S515, the first control unit 11 updates the authority information stored in the main storage device 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0090] A specific example of updating the authority information will be described. For example, a specialist near a patient or a paramedical staff member receiving instructions from the specialist transmits new authority information to the operation module 10 via a user-authenticated smartphone or the like. The specialist then verbally instructs the user operating the remote control device 40 to set the operation parameters. For example, even when a patient is being treated in a location such as an intensive care unit or operating room where various equipment is densely packed and the number of medical personnel allowed in the room is limited, the remote control system 50 can be provided that allows the medical device 30 to be operated from outside the room.

[0091] The second control unit 21 receives the operation parameters transmitted in step S514 (step S611), and transmits the received operation parameters to the medical device 30 (step S612).

[0092] The third control unit 31 receives the operation parameters transmitted from the operation module 10 (step S711). The third control unit 31 receives the operation parameters transmitted from the display module 20 (step S712).

[0093] By the processes of step S514, step S611, step S612, and step S712 described above, the operation parameters transmitted in step S514 are transmitted to the medical device 30 via the display module 20. That is, the first control unit 11 communicates with the medical device 30 via the display module 20.

[0094] The third control unit 31 determines whether the operation parameters received in step S711 match the operation parameters received in step S712 (step S713). If it is determined that they match (YES in step S713), the third control unit 31 changes the operating state so that the received actual parameters match the received operation parameters (step S714).

[0095] If it is determined that there is no match (NO in step S713), or after step S714 is completed, the third control unit 31 returns to a state of waiting for a signal from the operation module 10. If it is determined that there is no match (NO in step S713), the third control unit 31 may send an error message to the operation module 10 or the display module 20. If it is determined that there is no match (NO in step S713), the third control unit 31 may notify, for example, a nurse station, that there is a suspicion of tampering.

[0096] If it is determined that the process is to be terminated (YES in step S515), the first control unit 11 transmits an instruction to the display module 20 to terminate the highlighting of the operation parameters (step S516). The second control unit 21 receives the instruction (step S613). The second control unit 21 terminates the highlighting of the operation parameters and displays the screen described with reference to FIG. 4 (step S614). Thereafter, the second control unit 21 returns to the display mode in which the process of displaying the parameters received from the medical device 30 on the second display unit 251 is repeated (step S615).

[0097] The first control unit 11 transmits an instruction to end the remote control mode to the medical device 30 (step S517). The first control unit 11 deletes the authority information stored in the main storage device 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13 (step S518). The first control unit 11 ends the process.

[0098] The third control unit 31 receives the instruction to end the remote control mode (step S715), and transitions to a remote control refusal mode in which the third control unit 31 does not accept any remote control instructions from the remote control device 40 (step S716).

[0099] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a remote control system 50 in which, after accepting operation of the authority button in step S501, the remote control device 40 requests authority for remote control of the medical device 30. It is possible to provide a remote control system 50 in which remote control is possible only when the user intentionally operates a physical button.

[0100] This embodiment can provide a remote control system 50 that remotely controls a medical device 30. The range in which each user can remotely control operation parameters is determined based on the authority DB 55, so that an appropriate remote control range can be set based on the user's qualifications, position, and location.

[0101] Since the display module 20 alone cannot remotely control the medical device 30, a remote control system 50 can be provided that can prevent the medical device 30 from being remotely operated due to malfunction, such as a failure (occurrence of a fault) in the display module 20 alone.

[0102] By transmitting operation parameters using two communication paths, it is possible to provide a remote control system 50 that prevents malfunctions due to communication noise and the like, as well as unauthorized operations.

[0103] A medical professional with appropriate authority can change the authority information of a user who is using the remote control device 40, so a remote control system 50 can be provided that can be flexibly operated according to the situation at the medical site.

[0104] The shape of the operation module 10 is not limited to a dish shape having a recess capable of holding the display module 20. The operation module 10 may have any shape, such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) security key shape that can be connected to a USB connector of the display module 20.

[0105] The place where the medical device 30 of this embodiment is used is not limited to the infection isolation room 52. The medical device 30 may be used in any place, such as a general hospital room, a treatment room, or the inside of an ambulance.

[0106] [Second Embodiment] This embodiment relates to a remote control system 50 in which a third control unit 31 transmits authority information without waiting for an authority request from the operation module 10. Description of parts common to the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0107] 9 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing of the program according to the second embodiment. The first control unit 11 detects that the display module 20 is attached to the operation module 10 (step S500). The first control unit 11 accepts operation of an authorization button (not shown) (step S501).

[0108] The second control unit 21 operates in the display mode (step S601). The second control unit 21 detects that the authorization button of the operation module 10 attached to the display module 20 has been operated (step S621). The second control unit 21 may receive information from the operation module 10 that the authorization button has been operated.

[0109] The second control unit 21 transmits information about the user, such as the user ID of the user currently using the display module 20, and the location information of the display module 20 to the medical device 30 (step S622).

[0110] The third control unit 31 receives the information (step S721). Based on the received location information, the third control unit 31 determines which area in the authority DB 55 described with reference to FIG. 3 corresponds to the location of the remote control device 40. The third control unit 31 searches the authority DB 55 using the received user ID and the determined area as keys, and obtains authority information including whether or not remote control is permitted for the remote control device 40 and the level of remote control permission if permitted (step S722).

[0111] The third control unit 31 transmits authority information related to remote control to the operation module 10 (step S704). The first control unit 11 receives the authority information from the medical device 30 (step S503). The subsequent processing is the same as the processing flow of the first embodiment described using Figures 7 and 8, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0112] According to this embodiment, when the display module 20 and the operation module 10 are connected, a remote control system 50 can be provided in which the medical device 30 actively transmits authority information without waiting for an authority request to be sent from the operation module 10.

[0113] The third control unit 31 may stop the process after executing step S722 and resume the process from step S704 onwards when the user performs a direct operation such as pressing a predetermined button, or when an instruction from the user is received via the network. This makes it possible to realize a remote control system 50 in which the medical device 30 transitions to the remote control reception mode only when an explicit instruction from the user is received.

[0114] When the third control unit 31 receives an explicit instruction from the user, it may request from the display module 20 information regarding whether the display module 20 is connected to the operation module 10, information regarding the user such as the user ID of the user using the display module 20, and location information of the display module 20.

[0115] Third Embodiment This embodiment relates to a remote control device 40 having a plate-shaped portion 181 and a frame 182. Description of parts common to the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0116] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the remote control device 40 of embodiment 3. Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the remote control device 40 of embodiment 3. The display module 20 is a slate-type general-purpose information device such as a smartphone or a tablet, as in embodiment 1.

[0117] The operation module 10 includes a plate-like portion 181 and a frame 182. The plate-like portion 181 is a substantially rectangular plate with a protrusion protruding from one end of a long side. A connection portion 183, which is a connector connectable to the display module 20, is disposed on the same side as the protrusion on the long side.

[0118] The first display unit 15 and the operation unit 16 are arranged on one surface of the plate-like portion 181. In this embodiment, the operation unit 16 serves both as a dial for increasing or decreasing the numerical value in the parameter setting field 62 and as a push-button switch for issuing an instruction to execute remote control of the operation parameters when pressed.

[0119] The frame 182 includes a base portion 186, two pillar portions 187, and a support plate portion 188. The base portion 186 is a generally rectangular plate like the plate portion 181, and includes a protrusion that protrudes to one side from both ends of the long side. A cylindrical pillar portion 187 is attached to the protrusion of the base portion 186. The base portion 186 and the two pillar portions 187 form a generally U-shape. The support plate portion 188 extends from the center of the base portion 186 in the same direction as the pillar portions 187. The support plate portion 188 is a plate that is strong enough to support the display module 20.

[0120] The protruding portion of the plate-shaped portion 181 is provided with holes into which the tips of the columnar portions 187 are inserted. With the display module 20 placed on the support plate portion 188, the user inserts the two columnar portions 187 into the holes provided in the plate-shaped portion 181. The connection portions 183 engage with connectors provided on the side surfaces of the display module 20. The plate-shaped portion 181 and the frame 182 are fixed to the display module 20.

[0121] The connection unit 183 is an example of a detachable unit provided on the operation module 10, and the connector provided on the side of the display module 20 is an example of a detachable unit provided on the display module 20. Power is supplied to the operation module 10 from the display module 20 via the detachable unit. The detachable unit may have a function of connecting a wired communication line between the operation module 10 and the display module 20. In other words, the connection line 42 described using FIG. 2 is realized by connecting the connection unit 183 with the corresponding connector. The connection line 42 has a function of electrically connecting the operation module 10 and the display module 20, i.e., connecting power or communication between them.

[0122] Wireless or wired communication is established between the operation module 10 and the display module 20. With the above steps, the display module 20 is attached to the operation module 10, completing the remote control device 40 shown in FIG.

[0123] It should be noted that if the operation module 10 has a built-in battery and the operation module 10 and the display module 20 are connected via wireless communication, the plate-shaped portion 181 does not need to include the connection portion 183 .

[0124] [Fourth Embodiment] This embodiment relates to a remote control system 50 that does not accept any further remote control when a user directly operates a medical device 30. Description of parts common to the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0125] Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing of the program according to embodiment 4. The flowchart in Fig. 12 shows the flow of processing after the display module 20 has entered the remote control mode and the medical device 30 has entered the remote control reception mode at the final stage in Fig. 7 .

[0126] The third control unit 31 accepts a direct operation by a user in the infection isolation room 52 (step S731). Although not shown in the flowchart, the third control unit 31 controls components that realize functions specific to the medical device 30, such as a pump, heater, oxygenator, and filter, based on the direct operation by the user.

[0127] The third control unit 31 transitions to the remote control refusal mode (step S732).The third control unit 31 transmits a notification to the operation module 10 and the display module 20 that the mode has been transitioned to the remote control refusal mode (step S733).

[0128] The first control unit 11 receives the notification (step S531). The first control unit 11, for example, turns off the "remote" indicator 158 or changes the color of the indicator 158 to indicate that remote control has been denied (step S532). The first control unit 11 deletes the authority information stored in the main storage device 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13 (step S533). The first control unit 11 then ends the process.

[0129] The second control unit 21 receives the notification (step S631). The second control unit 21 ends the highlighting of the operation parameters and displays the screen described with reference to Fig. 4 (step S632). Thereafter, the second control unit 21 returns to the display mode in which the process of displaying the parameters received from the medical device 30 on the second display unit 251 is repeated (step S633).

[0130] According to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a remote control system 50 that quickly transitions to a remote control refusal mode when a user directly operates the medical device 30. It is possible to provide a remote control system 50 that prevents confusion such as when a user inside the infection isolation room 52 and a user outside the infection isolation room 52 try to operate the remote control system 50 at the same time.

[0131] [Modification] In the remote control reception mode, the third control unit 31 may be configured to ignore the operation received in step S732 and to receive only operations from the remote control device 40. The medical device 30 may be configured to be able to set whether or not to receive direct operations by the user in the remote control reception mode.

[0132] [Fifth Embodiment] Fig. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of a remote control system 50 according to a fifth embodiment. This embodiment relates to a remote control system 50 that uses a control program that can be distributed as a program product. Explanation of parts common to the first embodiment will be omitted. The operation module 10 according to this embodiment includes a reading unit 17 in addition to the first control unit 11, main memory device 12, auxiliary memory device 13, first communication unit 14, first display unit 15, operation unit 16, and bus described using Fig. 2.

[0133] The program 97 is recorded on a portable recording medium 96. The first control unit 11 reads the program 97 via the reading unit 17 and stores it in the auxiliary storage device 13. The first control unit 11 may also read the program 97 stored in a semiconductor memory 98, such as a flash memory, implemented in the operation module 10. Furthermore, the first control unit 11 may download the program 97 from another server computer (not shown) connected via the first communication unit 14 and a network (not shown) and store it in the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0134] The program 97 is installed as a control program for the operation module 10, and is loaded into and executed in the main storage device 12. The first control unit 11 transmits the part of the program 97 that is executed by the display module 20 and the part that is executed by the third control unit 31 to the respective hardware.

[0135] The second control unit 21 stores the received program 97 in the auxiliary storage device 23. The program 97 is installed as a control program for the display module 20, loaded into the main storage device 22, and executed.

[0136] The third control unit 31 stores the received program 97 in the auxiliary storage device 33. The program 97 is installed as a control program for the medical device 30, and is loaded into and executed in the main storage device 32. In this way, the remote control system 50 described in the first embodiment is realized.

[0137] The reading unit 17 that reads the program 97 may be provided in the display module 20 or the medical device 30. The reading unit 17 that reads the program 97 may be provided in each of the operation module 10, the display module 20, and the medical device 30. The program 97 in this embodiment is an example of a program product.

[0138] A computer program can be deployed to be executed on a single computer or on multiple computers that are located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network.

[0139] The technical features (constituent elements) described in each embodiment can be combined with each other, and by combining them, new technical features can be formed. The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and should be considered not to be limiting. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the meaning described above, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0140] Independent and dependent claims may be combined with each other in any combination, regardless of the reference format. Furthermore, while the claims use a format in which a claim references two or more other claims (multiple claim format), this is not a limitation. Multiple claims that reference at least one other claim (multi-multi claim format) may also be used.

[0141] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Operation module 11 First control unit 12 Main memory device 13 Auxiliary memory device 14 First communication unit 15 First display unit 158 ​​Indicator 16 Operation unit 161 First operation unit 162 Second operation unit 163 Third operation unit 164 Fourth operation unit 17 Reading unit 181 Plate-shaped unit 182 Frame 183 Connection unit 186 Base unit 187 Column-shaped unit 188 Support plate unit 20 Display module 21 Second control unit 22 Main memory device 23 Auxiliary memory device 24 Second communication unit 25 Touch panel 251 Second display unit 252 Operation unit 28 Battery 30 Medical device 31 Third control unit 32 Main memory device 33 Auxiliary memory device 34 Third communication unit 40 Remote control device 42 Connection line 50 Remote control system 52 Infection isolation room 55 Authority DB 61 Operation parameter column 62 Parameter setting column 63 Operation parameter column 96 Portable recording medium 97 Program 98 Semiconductor memory

Claims

1. A remote control device comprising: a display module that displays parameters related to the operation of a medical device; and an operation module that is detachable from said display module, wherein said display module comprises a receiving unit that receives said parameters from said medical device via wireless communication, and said operation module comprises: an operation unit that accepts operations by a user; and a communication unit that, when attached to said display module, communicates to remotely control operation parameters included in said parameters based on the operations accepted by said operation unit.

2. The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit transmits a signal requesting authority information regarding the range of permission for remote control of the medical device, and the operation unit, upon receiving the authority information, accepts operations by the user within the range specified in the authority information.

3. The remote control device according to claim 2, wherein the signal includes information about a user operating the operation module and location information about the operation module.

4. The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein when the communication unit receives a signal regarding authority information relating to remote control of the medical device, the operation unit accepts operations by the user within the range specified in the received authority information.

5. The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein the operation module changes the authority information regarding the remote control of the medical device when a signal to change the currently granted authority information is received.

6. The remote control device according to claim 4, wherein the operation module is connected to the display module via wireless communication.

7. The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein the operation module includes a display unit that displays information about the operation parameters.

8. The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein the display module highlights the operation parameter.

9. The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein the operation module has a plate-shaped portion having the operation unit, a connection portion electrically connected to the display module, and a frame fixed to the display module.

10. A remote control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the medical device has an oxygenator and a circulation circuit through which blood circulates, the operation parameters are operating parameters of a device that controls the flow rate in the circulation circuit, and when the operation module is not attached to the display module, the parameters cannot be remotely controlled, but when the operation module is attached to the display module, the operation parameters among the parameters can be remotely controlled.

11. An operation module having: a detachable unit that can be attached to a display module that displays parameters related to the operation of a medical device; an operation unit that accepts operations by a user; and a communication unit that, when the detachable unit is attached to the display module, communicates to remotely control operation parameters included in the parameters based on the operations accepted by the operation unit.

12. A remote control method in which an operation module detachable from a display module that displays parameters related to the operation of a medical device detects that the operation module is attached to the display module, accepts instructions from a user, and performs communication to remotely control the operation parameters included in the parameters based on the instructions.

Images