Information processing system, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

This information processing system includes a medical imaging device, a remote device, and a processor connected to each other. The processor displays an operating section for requesting a call with an operator of the remote device on a browsing screen for a medical image captured by the medical imaging device, the browsing screen being a screen displayed on a first display provided in the medical imaging device. When the operating section has been operated, the processor displays device information of the medical imaging device on a second display provided in the remote device.

Description

Information Processing System, Information Processing Method, and Information Processing Program 【0001】 The present disclosure relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, and an information processing program. 【0002】 In recent years, due to the progress of medical devices such as MR (Magnetic Resonance) devices and CT (Computed Tomography) devices, image diagnosis using higher-quality and higher-resolution medical images has become possible. Handling these medical imaging devices requires advanced knowledge, and when performing repairs, maintenance, and adding optional parts, it is common to request a professional manufacturer or vendor. 【0003】 For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-159080 discloses a method and system that enable easy evaluation and purchase of optional parts of a medical image diagnostic device. Also, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-172091 discloses that when a medical device fails, the parts causing the failure are identified and displayed on a monitor, enabling the user of the device, such as a doctor, to perform the failure processing himself / herself. 【0004】 Also, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-152405 discloses that by displaying a button for calling a general telephone number or an Internet telephone address of a specific party within a computer screen, calling a specific party can be realized by controlling only that button. 【0005】 Conventionally, telephone has mainly been used as a means of contacting a manufacturer or vendor regarding a medical imaging device. However, in many cases, multiple medical devices are installed in a single medical facility, and the contact information may differ for each device, resulting in time-consuming confirmation of the contact information or errors. Also, for example, the transmission of information and status for identifying a medical imaging device, such as a model number, may be time-consuming and prone to errors. 【0006】Medical imaging equipment is expensive, and alternative solutions are often difficult to find. Therefore, there is a high demand for reduced downtime, and a need to simplify communication between users and manufacturers or vendors. 【0007】 This disclosure provides an information processing system, an information processing method, and an information processing program that can simplify communication regarding medical imaging equipment. 【0008】 A first aspect of this disclosure is an information processing system comprising a medical imaging device, a remote device, and a processor, all connected to each other, wherein the processor displays an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device on a screen displayed on a first display of the medical imaging device, which is a screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device, and when the operation unit is operated, the device information of the medical imaging device is displayed on a second display of the remote device. 【0009】 When the display of medical images on the viewing screen is switched, the processor may display the control panel in the same position on both the viewing screen before and after the switch. 【0010】 The processor may also display an operation unit on at least one of the screens for setting the shooting conditions of the medical imaging device and the screen for registering patient information of the medical imaging device, which are displayed on the first display. The operation unit may also be displayed in the same position on at least two of the browsing screen, setting screen, and registration screen. 【0011】 When the control unit is operated, the processor may acquire identification information of the medical imaging device, extract device information corresponding to the acquired identification information from a device list in which identification information and device information for each medical imaging device are pre-associated, and display the extracted device information on the second display. 【0012】 The identification information may also be a telephone number assigned to each medical imaging device. 【0013】The information processing system may further include a portable terminal connected to a medical imaging device. The processor may also display an operation panel on the screen displayed on the third display of the portable terminal, which is a screen for viewing medical images captured by the medical imaging device. 【0014】 The device information may include at least one of the following: the model number of the medical imaging device, the serial number, the owner, the installation facility, and the service history. 【0015】 The processor may determine whether or not a maintenance contract has been concluded for the medical imaging device, and may only enable operation of the control unit if a maintenance contract has been concluded. 【0016】 The processor may display on the first display information indicating at least one of the following: whether or not communication with the remote device is possible, and the status of call congestion. 【0017】 A medical imaging device may have a self-diagnostic function to diagnose abnormalities in the device itself. When the control unit is operated, the processor may also display the diagnostic results from the self-diagnostic function on the second display. 【0018】 The medical imaging equipment may be an MR (Magnetic Resonance) device or a CT (Computed Tomography) device. 【0019】 A second aspect of this disclosure is an information processing method, wherein a medical imaging device and a remote device are connected to each other, and the first display of the medical imaging device shows a screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device, on which an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device is displayed, and when the operation unit is operated, the computer is instructed to perform a process to display the device information of the medical imaging device on the second display of the remote device. 【0020】A third aspect of this disclosure is an information processing program that causes a computer to perform a process to display an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device on a screen displayed on a first display of a medical imaging device, which is a screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device, and when the operation unit is operated, to display the device information of the medical imaging device on a second display of the remote device. 【0021】 According to the above embodiment, the information processing system, information processing method, and information processing program of this disclosure can facilitate communication regarding medical imaging equipment. 【0022】 This is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of an information processing system. This is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing system. This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an information processing system. This is a diagram showing an example of a browsing screen displayed on the display of an information processing device. This is a diagram showing an example of a browsing screen displayed on the display of an information processing device. This is a diagram showing an example of a settings screen displayed on the display of an information processing device. This is a diagram showing an example of a device list. This is a diagram showing an example of an incoming call screen displayed on the display of a remote device. This is a flowchart showing an example of call request processing in an information processing device. This is a flowchart showing an example of call answering processing in a remote device. This is a diagram showing an example of a browsing screen displayed on the display of an information processing device. 【0023】 The following describes an example of an embodiment of the disclosed technology with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, identical or equivalent components and parts are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, the dimensional ratios in the drawings are exaggerated for illustrative purposes and may differ from actual ratios. 【0024】Referring to Figure 1, an example of the configuration of the information processing system 900 according to this embodiment will be described. The information processing system 900 includes medical imaging devices and portable terminals 40 provided at each of the facilities A to C, such as medical facilities and research facilities, and a remote device 50 and device list 80 provided at the service center. The information processing system 900 is a system for easily facilitating communication between users of medical imaging devices, such as doctors, and operators of the remote device 50 at the service center, with respect to the medical imaging devices located at each of the facilities A to C. 【0025】 The medical imaging devices located in each facility A to C are connected to the remote device 50 via a wired or wireless network (not shown), enabling them to communicate with each other. The network may be, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network). Note that the number and configuration of each device and facility shown in Figure 1 are examples, and various modifications are possible. For example, one facility may have multiple medical imaging devices, each of which may be connectable to the remote device 50. Alternatively, for example, multiple remote devices 50 may be located in a service center, and the medical imaging devices in each facility may be connectable to at least one of the multiple remote devices 50. 【0026】 Medical imaging equipment refers to various modalities used for imaging diagnostics. Examples of medical imaging equipment include MR (Magnetic Resonance) scanners, CT (Computed Tomography) scanners, plain X-ray scanners, PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scanners, mammography scanners, ultrasound diagnostic equipment, endoscopes, and fundus cameras. Figure 1 shows, as an example, that MR scanner 1 is installed in facility A, but medical imaging equipment is also installed in facilities B and C. The medical imaging equipment installed in facilities A to C may be of the same type or different types. 【0027】Referring to Figure 1, the schematic configuration of the MR device 1 will be described. The MR device 1 comprises a gantry 2, a bed 3, and a console 4. The gantry 2, bed 3, and console 4 are configured to be connectable via a wired or wireless network (not shown). The console 4 may be located remotely from the gantry 2 and bed 3 (for example, in a separate room). 【0028】 Gantry 2 has an annular structure with an opening 5 in its center. Inside gantry 2, from the opening 5 side outwards, an annular high-frequency magnetic field coil, a gradient magnetic field coil, and a static magnetic field magnet are provided in that order (none of which are shown in the figure). The static magnetic field magnet is located on the outermost part of gantry 2 and generates a uniform static magnetic field in the imaging space including the opening 5. The high-frequency magnetic field coil is located on the innermost part of gantry 2 and generates a high-frequency magnetic field to induce nuclear magnetic resonance in hydrogen atoms within the imaging area of ​​the subject H. The gradient magnetic field coil is located between the static magnetic field magnet and the high-frequency magnetic field coil and generates a linear gradient magnetic field superimposed on the static magnetic field in order to add positional information to the nuclear magnetic resonance signal emitted from the imaging area by the high-frequency magnetic field. 【0029】 A receiving coil (not shown) is provided on at least one of the examination table 3 and the subject H. The receiving coil receives nuclear magnetic resonance signals emitted from the imaging site of the subject H. Based on the nuclear magnetic resonance signals received by this receiving coil, a nuclear magnetic resonance image (MR image) is generated. 【0030】 The patient H is placed on the bed 3. The bed 3 comprises a bed section 3A on which the patient H lies and a base section 3B that supports the bed section 3A. The bed section 3A can slide relative to the base section 3B in the direction of arrow A by a sliding mechanism (not shown). When taking an image, the bed section 3A slides, and the patient H lying on the bed section 3A is transported into the opening 5 of the gantry 2. 【0031】 In the MR device 1, MR images are captured by driving the gantry 2 and the patient table 3 based on user input on the console 4. The console 4 allows for settings such as shooting conditions, registration of patient H information, instructions to start shooting, and viewing of captured MR images. 【0032】 Furthermore, console 4 incorporates the information processing device 10 of this disclosure. The information processing device 10 and the remote device 50 have a voice call (Internet telephone) function that is performed between computers via a network. This voice call function allows each facility A to C to contact the service center to request or inquire about repairs, maintenance, and the addition of optional parts for medical imaging equipment. 【0033】 Furthermore, a mobile terminal 40 is connected to the MR device 1 (more specifically, the console 4). The mobile terminal 40 is a device that enables remote execution of some or all of the functions of the console 4 in order to improve convenience. Specifically, the mobile terminal 40 is configured to enable at least one of the following: setting imaging conditions, registering patient H's information, issuing a command to start imaging, and viewing the captured MR images. Wireless communication standards such as 4G, 5G, or Wi-Fi (registered trademark) are used for communication between the console 4 and the mobile terminal 40. 【0034】 For example, the mobile terminal 40 may be configured to perform actions independently of the console 4, such as setting shooting conditions, registering information about the subject H, issuing instructions to start shooting, and viewing the captured MR images. Alternatively, the mobile terminal 40 may mirror the content displayed on the display 24 of the console 4 (information processing device 10) onto its own display. The mobile terminal 40 can be, for example, a tablet, a smartphone, or a notebook personal computer, as appropriate. 【0035】 Incidentally, when facilities A to C contact the service center, they may be required to transmit information to identify the medical imaging device, such as its model number, as well as its status. The information processing system 900 according to this embodiment has functions to simplify communication, including the transmission of such information. Below, an example of the configuration of the information processing system 900 according to this embodiment will be described. 【0036】 Referring to Figure 2, an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing system 900 according to this embodiment will be described. 【0037】First, the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described. The information processing device 10 includes a processor 21, storage 22, RAM (Random Access Memory) 23, display 24, reception device 25, microphone 26, speaker 27, communication interface 28, and external interface 29. Each component is connected to a bus 31, such as a system bus and a control bus, and various types of information can be exchanged between them via the bus 31. 【0038】 The processor 21 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and controls the entire information processing device 10 by executing various programs and controlling various parts. The processor 21 reads a program from the storage 22 and executes the program using the RAM 23 as a working area. 【0039】 Storage 22 is a non-volatile storage device that stores various programs, including the operating system, and various parameters. Storage 22 can be implemented using storage media such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), and flash memory. For example, a call request program 30 is stored in storage 22. 【0040】 RAM 23 is a memory that temporarily stores information and is used as work memory by the processor 21. Examples of RAM 23 include DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). 【0041】 The display 24 is, for example, a liquid crystal display and displays various information. The reception device 25 includes a pointing device such as a mouse and a keyboard, and is used to receive input from the user to the device. The display 24 may be configured as a touch panel and used in conjunction with the reception device 25. The display 24 is an example of the first display of this disclosure. 【0042】The microphone 26 collects sounds such as the user's voice and converts the collected sound into an electrical signal. The electrical signal obtained by converting the sound collected by the microphone 26 is acquired by the processor 21 via the bus 31. The speaker 27 converts an electrical signal into sound. Specifically, the speaker 27 receives an electrical signal from the processor 21 via the bus 31, converts the received electrical signal into sound, and outputs the sound to the outside. 【0043】 The communication I / F 28 is an interface for communicating with other devices including the remote device 50. For this communication, for example, a wired communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface), or a wireless communication standard such as 4G, 5G, or Wi-Fi (registered trademark) is used. 【0044】 The external I / F 29 is, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface and is used for connecting to peripheral devices such as a printer and a memory card. As the information processing apparatus 10, for example, a server computer, a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable terminal, etc. can be appropriately applied. 【0045】 Next, the hardware configuration of the remote device 50 will be described. The remote device 50 includes each configuration of a processor 61, a storage 62, a RAM 63, a display 64, a reception device 65, a microphone 66, a speaker 67, a communication I / F 68, and an external I / F 69. Each configuration is connected to the bus 71, and various information can be exchanged with each other via the bus 71. 【0046】 The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU, and controls the entire remote device 50 by executing various programs and controlling each part. The processor 61 reads a program from the storage 62 and executes the program using the RAM 63 as a work area. The storage 62 is a non-volatile storage device that stores various programs including an operating system and various parameters, and for example, a call response program 70 is stored. 【0047】Since specific examples of each component included in the other remote device 50 are the same as those of each component of the information processing device 10 described above, the description thereof will be omitted. As the remote device 50, for example, a server computer, a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable terminal, etc. can be appropriately applied. The display 64 is an example of the second display of the present disclosure. 【0048】 Referring to FIG. 3, an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system 900 according to the present embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, at least one of the processor 21 included in the information processing device 10 and the processor 61 included in the remote device 50 is an example of the processor of the present disclosure. 【0049】 First, the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described. The information processing device 10 includes, as a functional configuration, an acquisition unit 32, a display control unit 34, and a call control unit 36. When the processor 21 executes the call request program 30, it functions as the acquisition unit 32, the display control unit 34, and the call control unit 36. 【0050】 The acquisition unit 32 acquires the MR image captured by the MR device 1. For example, the acquisition unit 32 may directly acquire the MR image from the MR device 1. Also, for example, the acquisition unit 32 may acquire the MR image recorded in an image server such as a Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS). The MR image is an example of the medical image of the present disclosure. 【0051】 In addition, the acquisition unit 32 may acquire the additional information of the MR image. For example, the additional information may include subject information such as an identification (ID) for identification of the subject H, name, date of birth, age, gender, height, and weight. Also, for example, the additional information may include identification information such as an image ID for identifying the MR image, a slice ID assigned to each slice image included in the MR image, and an examination ID for identifying the examination. 【0052】Furthermore, supplementary information may include, for example, information related to the acquisition of MR images, such as the acquisition method, acquisition conditions, acquisition purpose, and acquisition date and time. "Acquisition method" and "acquisition conditions" include, for example, the type and manufacturer of the MR device 1, the area to be acquired, the acquisition posture, the protocol, the acquisition sequence, the imaging technique, whether or not a contrast agent was used, and the slice thickness. 【0053】 These supplementary information may, for example, be obtained from an image server such as PACS along with the MR images. Alternatively, the supplementary information may be obtained from various information systems such as a Radiology Information System (RIS), a Hospital Information System (HIS), and an electronic medical record system. 【0054】 Furthermore, the acquisition unit 32 may acquire medical images of the subject H in the MR image that were taken using a modality different from that of the MR device 1. For example, the acquisition unit 32 may acquire CT images of the subject H. 【0055】 The display control unit 34 controls the display 24 to display MR images. Figure 4 shows an example of an MR image viewing screen 90 displayed on the display 24 by the display control unit 34. The viewing screen 90 includes a display area 92 on which medical images such as MR images are displayed. 【0056】 Furthermore, the display control unit 34 may control the display 24 to display supplementary information of the MR image. In the example shown in Figure 4, the viewing screen 90 includes a display area 94 for information of the subject H as an example of supplementary information. 【0057】 Furthermore, the display control unit 34 may be able to switch the medical images displayed on the display 24. For example, the display control unit 34 may be able to switch the medical images displayed on the display 24 to MR images taken on different days for the same subject H, or to medical images taken with a different modality. Alternatively, for example, the display control unit 34 may be able to switch the medical images displayed on the display 24 to medical images taken for a different subject H. 【0058】In the example shown in Figure 4, the viewing screen 90 includes a selection area 96 for selectively switching the medical images to be displayed for the same subject H. Figure 4 shows the state in which the MR image taken on "2024 / 04 / 01 13:45" is selected in the selection area 96. In this state, the axial plane MR image 92A, the coronal plane MR image 92C, and the sagittal plane MR image 92S, all taken on the above date and time, are displayed in the display area 92. 【0059】 On the other hand, suppose, for example, that a CT image taken on "2024 / 04 / 01 09:20" is selected in the selection area 96 of the browsing screen 90. In this case, the display control unit 34 switches the display content of the browsing screen 90 to the state shown in Figure 5. In the browsing screen 90 shown in Figure 5, the medical image displayed in the display area 92 is switched to the CT image 93 taken on the selected date and time. 【0060】 Furthermore, the display control unit 34 displays an operation section on the MR image viewing screen 90 for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device 50. The operation section is implemented using various GUI (Graphical User Interface) elements such as buttons, icons, and menu bars. In the example shown in Figure 4, a call request button 98, which is an example of an operation section, is displayed in the upper right corner of the viewing screen 90. 【0061】 Furthermore, when the display control unit 34 switches the display of medical images on the browsing screen 90, it displays the operation unit in the same position on both the browsing screen 90 before and after the switch. In the examples of Figures 4 and 5, the medical images displayed on the browsing screen 90 are switched, but the display position of the call request button 98 remains the same. This configuration improves the accessibility of the operation unit, thereby shortening the time required to initiate a call. 【0062】Here, "identical position" is a concept that includes generally acceptable errors. For example, in the browsing screen 90 shown as an example in Figures 4 and 5, the call request button 98 is displayed at the right edge of the area where the title "Image Viewer" is displayed. The display position of this call request button 98 can, of course, be slightly off. For example, it is included in the "identical position" as long as the user can recognize that "the display position of the call request button 98 is to the right of the area where the title is displayed." 【0063】 Furthermore, the display size of the browsing screen 90 varies depending on the screen size of the display 24, and even if the screen size of the display 24 is the same, the display size of the browsing screen 90 may change when the browsing screen 90 is displayed in a multi-window format. If the display size of the browsing screen 90 changes, strictly speaking, in addition to the display size of the call request button 98, the display position will also change, but even in this case, the relative layout of the call request button 98 within the browsing screen 90 remains the same. Thus, even when the relative layout of the call request button 98 within the browsing screen 90 is the same, it is included in the "same position" relating to the technology of this disclosure. 【0064】 Furthermore, the display control unit 34 may control the display 24 to display the screen for setting the imaging conditions of the MR device 1 and the screen for registering patient information about the patient H. Figure 6 shows an example of a registration setting screen 100 in which the patient information registration screen and the setting screen for setting imaging conditions are integrated. 【0065】 In the example shown in Figure 6, the registration settings screen 100 includes a registration area 104 for registering subject information. The registration area 104 displays GUI elements such as text boxes and radio buttons for entering each item of subject information. The user can input this subject information by operating the reception device 25. 【0066】In the example shown in Figure 6, the registration settings screen 100 includes a setting area 106 for setting the imaging conditions of the MR device 1. The setting area 106 displays GUI elements such as checkboxes for selectively setting the imaging area, imaging posture, and imaging protocol. The user can input these imaging conditions by operating the reception device 25. 【0067】 In the example shown in Figure 6, the registration settings screen 100 also includes a confirmation button 102. When the confirmation button 102 is selected, the display control unit 34 records the subject information and imaging conditions that were entered on the registration settings screen 100 at that time, and outputs them to the MR device 1 and external devices such as PACS as necessary. 【0068】 Furthermore, it is preferable that the display control unit 34 also displays an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device 50 on at least one of the screens for setting the shooting conditions of the MR device 1 and the screen for registering patient information about the patient H. In this case, it is preferable that the display control unit 34 displays the operation unit in the same position on at least two of the medical image viewing screen, the shooting condition setting screen, and the patient information registration screen. 【0069】 In the example shown in Figure 6, a call request button 98, as an example of an operation unit, is displayed in the upper right corner of the registration settings screen 100. The position of this call request button 98 is the same as the position of the call request button 98 on the medical image viewing screen 90 shown in Figures 4 and 5. This configuration improves the accessibility of the operation unit, thereby shortening the time required to start a call. Note that the term "same position" here also includes the generally acceptable margin of error as described above. 【0070】 When an operation button such as the call request button 98 is operated on the browsing screen, settings screen, or registration screen, the call control unit 36 ​​sends a call request to the remote device 50. In addition, the call control unit 36 ​​sends identification information to identify the MR device 1 along with the call request. This identification information may be, for example, a telephone number assigned to each medical imaging device, or a serial number assigned to each medical imaging device. 【0071】 Furthermore, when the call control unit 36 ​​receives a response to a call request from the remote device 50, it initiates a call with the remote device 50. The call with the remote device 50 is conducted, for example, using a microphone 26 and a speaker 27. 【0072】 Next, the functional configuration of the remote device 50 will be described. The remote device 50 includes an acquisition unit 72, a display control unit 74, and a call control unit 76 as its functional configuration. The processor 61 executes the call answering program 70, thereby enabling the acquisition unit 72, the display control unit 74, and the call control unit 76 to function. 【0073】 The acquisition unit 72 receives call requests and identification information from the information processing device 10. The acquisition unit 72 also extracts device information corresponding to the acquired identification information from a device list 80, in which identification information and device information for each medical imaging device are pre-associated. The device information includes at least one of the following: the model number, serial number (SN), owner, installation facility, and service history of the medical imaging device. The device information is registered, for example, when the medical imaging device is purchased, and the maintenance contract and service history are updated as needed. 【0074】 Figure 7 shows an example of the device list 80. In the device list 80 in Figure 7, a telephone number is associated with an example of identification information, and the model number, serial number, owner, installation location, whether or not there is a maintenance contract, and the service history are associated with an example of device information. 【0075】 The device list 80 is a database constructed by a computer on which a software program providing the functionality of a Database Management System (DBMS) is installed. Specifically, the remote device 50 may construct the device list 80, or an external computer different from the remote device 50 may construct the device list 80. The device list 80 may also be located on the cloud. The remote device 50 is configured to write and read data from the device list 80. 【0076】The display control unit 74 controls the display 64 of the remote device 50 to display the device information of the medical imaging device that sent the call request. Specifically, the display control unit 74 controls the display 64 to display the device information extracted from the device list 80 based on the identification information. 【0077】 Figure 8 shows an example of a response screen 110 to a call request, which is displayed on the display 64 by the display control unit 74. The response screen 110 displays a telephone number as an example of identification information, and a model number, SN, owner, installation location, whether or not there is a maintenance contract, and response history as examples of device information. 【0078】 Furthermore, a response button 112 is displayed on the response screen 110. When the response button 112 is pressed, the call control unit 76 sends a response to the call request to the information processing device 10 and starts the call. The call with the information processing device 10 is conducted, for example, using a microphone 66 and a speaker 67. It is preferable that the display 64 continues to display identification information and device information regarding the medical imaging device of the other party even after the call has started. 【0079】 Next, the operation of the information processing device 10 will be explained with reference to Figure 9. In the information processing device 10, the call request process shown in Figure 9 is executed when the processor 21 executes the call request program 30. This process is executed, for example, when the user gives an instruction to start execution. 【0080】 In step S10, the display control unit 34 displays an operation button on the medical image viewing screen displayed on the display 24 for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device 50. In step S12, the display control unit 34 waits until the operation button displayed in step S10 is operated, and then proceeds to step S14. 【0081】In step S14, the call control unit 36 ​​transmits a call request and identification information for identifying the medical imaging device to the remote device 50. In step S16, the call control unit 36 ​​waits for a response from the remote device 50, and when a response is received, proceeds to step S18. In step S18, the call control unit 36 ​​starts a call with the remote device 50 and terminates this process. 【0082】 Next, the operation of the remote device 50 will be explained with reference to Figure 10. In the remote device 50, the call answering process shown in Figure 10 is executed when the processor 61 executes the call answering program 70. This process is executed, for example, when the user gives an instruction to start execution. 【0083】 In step S50, the acquisition unit 72 waits until it receives a call request and identification information from the information processing device 10, and then proceeds to step S52. In step S52, the acquisition unit 72 extracts device information corresponding to the identification information acquired in step S50 from the device list 80, in which identification information and device information for each medical imaging device are pre-associated. 【0084】 In step S54, the display control unit 74 controls the display 64 to display the device information extracted in step S54. In step S56, the display control unit 34 waits until it receives an instruction from the operator of the remote device 50 to answer the call, and when it is instructed to answer the call, it proceeds to step S58. In step S58, the call control unit 76 starts a call with the information processing device 10 and ends this process. 【0085】 As described above, the information processing system 900 according to this embodiment comprises a medical imaging device, a remote device 50, and a processor, all of which are connected to each other. The processor displays an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device 50 on the screen displayed on the first display (display 24) of the medical imaging device, which is a screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device. Furthermore, when the operation unit is operated, the processor displays device information of the medical imaging device on the second display (display 64) of the remote device 50. 【0086】According to the information processing system 900, a control panel for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device 50 is displayed on the viewing screen of medical images captured by the medical imaging device, making it easy to request a call. Therefore, the user does not need to check contact information when making a call request, and the possibility of contact errors is also reduced. This is particularly effective when multiple medical devices are installed in one facility and the contact information differs for each device. 【0087】 Furthermore, according to the information processing system 900, the display 64 on the remote device 50 that receives the call request can display the device information of the medical imaging device that sent the call request. This allows the operator of the remote device 50 to check the information of the medical imaging device that sent the call before the call starts or during the call. Therefore, the effort of verbally transmitting information and status to identify the medical imaging device, such as the model number, can be eliminated, and the occurrence of transmission errors can be suppressed. In addition, the effort of the user checking the device information of the medical imaging device, etc., before or during the call in order to transmit it to the operator can be eliminated. 【0088】 Thus, the information processing system 900 according to this embodiment simplifies communication regarding medical imaging equipment. Therefore, for example, it is possible to shorten downtime in the event of a medical imaging equipment malfunction and improve usability. 【0089】 The technology of this disclosure is particularly suitable when MRI and CT scanners are used as medical imaging devices. This is because these devices are expensive, and alternative means are often difficult to obtain, leading to a high demand for reduced downtime. Furthermore, because these devices have complex structures and operating procedures, users often request support via telephone. Moreover, these devices often have the gantry and console located in separate rooms or other distant locations, making it difficult for operators to confirm device information with users during a call. 【0090】In the above embodiment, the console 4 incorporates the information processing device 10, thereby enabling communication between the console 4 and the remote device 50. However, the embodiment is not limited to this configuration. For example, in addition to the console 4, a configuration enabling communication between a mobile terminal 40 and the remote device 50 is also possible. 【0091】 In this case, the mobile terminal 40 is equipped with a microphone and speaker, etc., and is configured to enable voice communication with the remote device 50. Specifically, the mobile terminal 40 and the remote device 50 may be configured to enable communication by being directly connected, or they may be configured to enable communication via the information processing device 10. 【0092】 Specifically, the processor in the mobile terminal 40 may also display an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device 50 on the screen displayed on the mobile terminal 40, which is the screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device. Similarly, the processor in the mobile terminal 40 may also display an operation unit on at least one of the screens displayed on the mobile terminal 40, which is the screen for setting the shooting conditions of the medical imaging device and the screen for registering patient information of the medical imaging device. The display in the mobile terminal 40 is an example of the third display of this disclosure. 【0093】 This configuration allows users to communicate with the remote device 50 using the mobile terminal 40, thus improving convenience. Furthermore, if the mobile terminal 40 and the remote device 50 are directly connected to enable communication, communication can still be made using the mobile terminal 40 even if the console 4 becomes unusable due to a malfunction or other reason, which is advantageous in reducing downtime. 【0094】Furthermore, it is preferable that the position of the control unit on each screen displayed on the display 24 of the information processing device 10 (console 4) and the position of the control unit on each screen displayed on the display of the mobile terminal 40 be the same. In this case, the accessibility of the control unit can be improved, the time required to start a call can be shortened, and convenience can be further improved. Note that the term "same" in this context also includes a generally acceptable margin of error, as described above regarding "identical position." 【0095】 Furthermore, in the above embodiment, it is preferable that the display control unit 34 of the information processing device 10 determines whether or not a maintenance contract has been concluded for the medical imaging device, and only enables operation of the control unit if a maintenance contract has been concluded. The determination of whether or not a maintenance contract has been concluded may be performed by querying a management server that manages maintenance contracts. If a maintenance contract has not been concluded, communication with the operator of the remote device 50 is not possible, and by making the operation of the control unit impossible, the user can be informed of this. This can also be expected to have the effect of encouraging the user to enter into a maintenance contract. 【0096】 Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the display control unit 34 of the information processing device 10 may control the display 24 to display information indicating at least one of the following: whether or not a call can be made with the remote device 50, and the call congestion status (hereinafter collectively referred to as congestion information). The congestion information may be obtained, for example, by the display control unit 34 querying the remote device 50. The processor 61 of the remote device 50 may transmit its own congestion information to the information processing device 10 in response to the query from the information processing device 10. 【0097】 For example, the display control unit 34 may display congestion information on at least one of the following: the medical image viewing screen, the medical imaging device shooting condition setting screen, and the medical imaging device patient information registration screen. Figure 11 shows an example of an MR image viewing screen 90 displayed on the display 24 by the display control unit 34. The viewing screen 90 in Figure 11 is similar to the viewing screen 90 in Figure 4, with congestion information 120 added to the display. 【0098】The congestion information 120 may always be displayed on the display 24, or it may only be displayed when the user performs a specific operation via the reception device 25. For example, the display control unit 34 may display the congestion information 120 only when the pointer is overlaid on the call request button 98 (so-called mouseover), when it is right-clicked, double-clicked, or when it is long-pressed. Alternatively, for example, the display control unit 34 may display the congestion information 120 only when a predetermined key is pressed using a keyboard, which is an example of the reception device 25. 【0099】 By displaying congestion information on the display 24 in this way, users can find out in advance whether or not they can make a call with an operator, or the waiting time until the call is initiated. Therefore, during peak hours, they can cancel non-urgent call requests or complete other tasks while waiting, thereby improving convenience. 【0100】 Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the medical imaging device may have a self-diagnostic function for diagnosing abnormalities in the device itself. The self-diagnostic function is, for example, a function that detects an abnormality indicating a malfunction or a precursor to a malfunction, and outputs at least one of the date and time, location, cause, and countermeasures of the abnormality as a diagnostic result. Known technologies can be appropriately applied as such a self-diagnostic function. 【0101】 In this case, the information processing system 900 may control the system so that when the operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device 50 is operated, the diagnostic results from the self-diagnosis function are also displayed on the display 64 of the remote device 50. Specifically, the call control unit 36 ​​of the information processing device 10 may transmit the diagnostic results from the self-diagnosis function to the remote device 50 along with the call request and the identification information of the medical imaging device. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 72 of the remote device 50 may acquire the diagnostic results from the self-diagnosis function from the information processing device 10. Furthermore, the display control unit 74 of the remote device 50 may control the system so that the diagnostic results from the self-diagnosis function are displayed on the display 64 of the remote device 50 along with the device information of the medical imaging device, etc. 【0102】With this configuration, the operator of the remote device 50 can also understand the abnormal condition of the medical imaging device that is the source of the call request, thereby further reducing downtime. 【0103】 Furthermore, in the above embodiment, it is preferable to implement security measures such as encryption and authentication systems for the exchange of various types of information, including voice communication, between the information processing device 10 and the remote device 50. This is because the medical imaging device handles information that requires a high degree of confidentiality, such as information about the patient H and information about each facility. 【0104】 Furthermore, at least one of the functional units of the information processing device 10 in the above embodiment may be provided by other devices such as the remote device 50, the control device provided by the gantry 2, and an image server such as PACS. Similarly, at least one of the functional units of the remote device 50 may be provided by other devices such as the information processing device 10, an image server such as PACS, and a server that centrally manages a plurality of remote devices 50. 【0105】 For example, instead of the processor 21 of the information processing device 10, the processor 61 of the remote device 50 may have the same function as the display control unit 34 of the information processing device 10. In this case, the processor 61 of the remote device 50 will control the display content of the display 24 of the information processing device 10. 【0106】 In this embodiment, each process is executed on any computer. Furthermore, any computer may execute these processes using a processor as hardware, a program as software, or a combination thereof. In that case, the processor is configured to work in cooperation with the program to execute the various processes in this embodiment, and can function as a unit or means in this embodiment. Also, the execution order of the processes by the processor is not limited to the order described and may be changed as appropriate. Any computer may be a general-purpose computer, a computer designed for a specific purpose, a workstation, or any other system capable of executing each process. 【0107】A processor may consist of one or more hardware components, and the type of hardware is not limited. For example, a processor may consist of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a dedicated circuit for executing a specific process such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), or an NPU (Neural Processing Unit). The type of hardware may also be a combination of different types of hardware. When multiple hardware components are configured to execute one or more processes of a processor, these components may reside in physically separate devices or in the same device. Furthermore, in any embodiment, the order of each process performed by the processor is not limited to the order described above and may be changed as appropriate. Hardware is composed of electrical circuits (circuitry) that combine circuit elements such as semiconductor elements. 【0108】Furthermore, the program may be firmware or software such as microcode. Alternatively, the program may be, for example, a group of program modules, each function of which may be implemented by a processor configured to perform its respective function. The program may be program code or multiple code segments stored on one or more non-temporary computer-readable media (e.g., storage media or other storage). The program may be divided and stored on multiple non-temporary computer-readable media located on physically separate devices. Program code or code segments may represent any combination of procedures, functions, subprograms, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, or instructions, data structures, or program statements. Program code or code segments may be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by sending and receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. 【0109】 Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes a configuration in which the call request program 30 is pre-stored (installed) in storage 22 and the call answering program 70 is pre-stored in storage 62, the system is not limited to this configuration. Various programs may be provided in the form of recording media such as CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Alternatively, various programs may be provided in the form of downloads from external devices via a network. 【0110】 The technology disclosed herein extends to all program products. A program product includes all forms of products for providing programs. For example, a program product includes programs provided via a network such as the Internet, as well as non-temporary computer-readable recording media such as CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, and USB memory sticks on which programs are stored. 【0111】The technology of this disclosure can also be appropriately combined with the above-described embodiments and modifications. The descriptions and illustrations shown above are detailed explanations of the parts relating to the technology of this disclosure and are merely examples of the technology of this disclosure. For example, the above descriptions of the configuration, function, operation, and effect are examples of the configuration, function, operation, and effect of the parts relating to the technology of this disclosure. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary parts may be deleted, new elements added, or replaced from the descriptions and illustrations shown above, as long as they do not deviate from the spirit of the technology of this disclosure. 【0112】The following further notes are disclosed regarding the above embodiments. [Note 1] An information processing system comprising a medical imaging device, a remote device, and a processor, all connected to each other, wherein the processor displays an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device on a screen displayed on a first display of the medical imaging device, which is a viewing screen for medical images taken by the medical imaging device, and when the operation unit is operated, displays the device information of the medical imaging device on a second display of the remote device. [Note 2] The information processing system according to Note 1, wherein when the display of the medical image on the viewing screen is switched, the processor displays the operation unit in the same position on each of the viewing screens before and after the switch. [Note 3] The information processing system according to Note 2, wherein the processor also displays the operation unit on at least one of the setting screen for the shooting conditions of the medical imaging device and the registration screen for the patient information of the medical imaging device displayed on the first display, and displays the operation unit in the same position on at least two of the viewing screen, the setting screen, and the registration screen. [Note 4] The information processing system according to any one of Notes 1 to 3, wherein the processor, when the operation unit is operated, acquires identification information of the medical imaging device, extracts the device information corresponding to the acquired identification information from a device list in which the identification information and device information for each medical imaging device are pre-associated, and displays the extracted device information on the second display. [Note 5] The information processing system according to Note 4, wherein the identification information is a telephone number assigned to each medical imaging device. [Note 6] The information processing system according to any one of Notes 1 to 5, further comprising a portable terminal connected to the medical imaging device, wherein the processor also displays the operation unit on a screen displayed on a third display of the portable terminal, which is a screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device. [Note 7] The information processing system according to any one of Notes 1 to 6, wherein the device information includes at least one of the model number, serial number, owner, installation facility, and correspondence history of the medical imaging device.[Note 8] The information processing system according to any one of Notes 1 to 7, wherein the processor determines whether or not a maintenance contract has been concluded for the medical imaging device, and enables operation of the control unit only if the maintenance contract has been concluded. [Note 9] The information processing system according to any one of Notes 1 to 8, wherein the processor displays on the first display information indicating at least one of the following: whether or not communication with the remote device is possible, and the state of congestion in the communication. [Note 10] The information processing system according to any one of Notes 1 to 9, wherein the medical imaging device has a self-diagnostic function for diagnosing abnormalities in the device, and the processor also displays on the second display the diagnosis result from the self-diagnostic function when the control unit is operated. [Note 11] The information processing system according to any one of Notes 1 to 10, wherein the medical imaging device is an MR (Magnetic Resonance) device or a CT (Computed Tomography) device. [Note 12] An information processing method that causes a computer to execute a process to display device information of the medical imaging device on a second display of the remote device, on a screen displayed on a first display of the medical imaging device, which is a screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device, and when the operation unit is operated, the computer to execute a process to display device information of the medical imaging device on a second display of the remote device. [Note 13] An information processing program that causes a computer to execute a process to display device information of the medical imaging device on a second display of the remote device, on a screen displayed on a first display of the medical imaging device, which is a screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device, and when the operation unit is operated, the computer to execute a process to display device information of the medical imaging device on a second display of the remote device. 【0113】The disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-217105, filed on 11 December 2024, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described herein are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, and technical standard were specifically and individually noted to be incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. An information processing system comprising a medical imaging device, a remote device, and a processor, all connected to each other, wherein the processor displays an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device on a screen displayed on a first display of the medical imaging device, which is a screen for viewing medical images captured by the medical imaging device, and when the operation unit is operated, displays the device information of the medical imaging device on a second display of the remote device.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein when the display of the medical image on the viewing screen is switched, the processor displays the operation unit in the same position on each of the viewing screens before and after the switch.

3. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein the processor displays the operation unit on at least one of the screen for setting the shooting conditions of the medical imaging device displayed on the first display and the screen for registering patient information of the medical imaging device displayed on the first display, and displays the operation unit in the same position on at least two of the browsing screen, the setting screen and the registration screen.

4. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor, when the operation unit is operated, acquires identification information of the medical imaging device, extracts the device information corresponding to the acquired identification information from a device list in which the identification information and device information for each medical imaging device are pre-associated, and displays the extracted device information on the second display.

5. The information processing system according to claim 4, wherein the identification information is a telephone number assigned to each medical imaging device.

6. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising a portable terminal connected to the medical imaging device, wherein the processor also displays the operation unit on a screen displayed on a third display of the portable terminal, which is a screen for viewing medical images captured by the medical imaging device.

7. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the device information includes at least one of the model number, serial number, owner, installation facility, and correspondence history of the medical imaging device.

8. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor determines whether or not a maintenance contract has been concluded for the medical imaging device, and enables operation of the control unit only if a maintenance contract has been concluded.

9. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor displays on the first display information indicating whether or not a call can be made with the remote device and at least one of the call congestion status.

10. The medical imaging device has a self-diagnostic function for diagnosing abnormalities in the device, and the processor also displays the diagnosis result from the self-diagnostic function on the second display when the operation unit is operated, according to claim 1.

11. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the medical imaging device is an MR (Magnetic Resonance) device or a CT (Computed Tomography) device.

12. An information processing method in which a computer causes a medical imaging device and a remote device, which are connected to each other, to display an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device on a screen displayed on a first display of the medical imaging device, which is a screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device, and when the operation unit is operated, to display the device information of the medical imaging device on a second display of the remote device.

13. An information processing program that causes a computer to perform the following process: displaying an operation unit for requesting a call with the operator of the remote device on a screen displayed on a first display of a medical imaging device, which is a screen for viewing medical images taken by the medical imaging device, and when the operation unit is operated, displaying the device information of the medical imaging device on a second display of the remote device.

Images