Instrument introduction support system, instrument introduction guidance method, instrument group information display method, instrument group information display system, instrument group information display device, and instrument group information display program

Abstract

The present invention provides an instrument introduction support system 1 that displays an electronic catalog of instruments including at least information regarding the specifications of a plurality of instruments and pieces of equipment, and information regarding relationships of the instruments and pieces of equipment, said system comprising: an information input device 11 for inputting specified information including at least user information; an instrument information database (recording device 13) in which there is stored instrument information including a plurality of sets of preexisting instrument group information associated with a plurality of sets of the user information; an information searching device 18 for searching the instrument information database; a connection possibility condition creating device (information processing control device 10) for, on the basis of the preexisting instrument group information acquired as a result of the search by the information searching device, presenting the connection possibility conditions between members of the plurality of preexisting instruments included in the preexisting instrument group information; and an information output device 12 for displaying the connection possibility conditions.

Description

Device introduction support system, device introduction guidance method, device group information display method, device group information display system, device group information display device, device group information display program

[0001] The present invention relates to a device introduction support system, a device introduction guidance method, a device group information display method, a device group information display system, a device group information display device, and a device group information display program for supporting the introduction of various medical devices used in medical institutions such as hospitals.

[0002] Generally, in medical institutions such as hospitals, various examinations and treatments are performed by medical workers such as doctors in response to a wide variety of cases and medical conditions. For this reason, the medical institution prepares a wide variety of types of medical devices and medical instruments for examination or treatment, as well as various consumables, medicines, etc. that are applied according to these devices and instruments (hereinafter, these are collectively referred to as medical devices or simply abbreviated as devices), and these are used in various combinations.

[0003] For example, endoscopy performed at a medical institution is performed using an endoscope system including an endoscope as a type of medical device.

[0004] Generally, in endoscopy, an insertion portion of an endoscope is inserted into the lumen of a living organ or the like, and the interior of the lumen is observed using an imaging unit provided near the distal end of the insertion portion while moving the insertion portion forward and backward along the length direction of the lumen.

[0005] At this time, illumination light (mainly white light, etc.) from an illumination unit provided side by side at the distal end is irradiated into the lumen. Accordingly, the imaging unit of the endoscope can acquire an image (image data) that allows visual recognition of the condition inside the lumen.

[0006] The plurality of images (image data) acquired in time series in this manner are sequentially reproduced using a display device. Accordingly, a doctor or the like can visually observe the condition inside the lumen in real time, and thus diagnose the health condition and disease state of a patient or the like.

[0007] Endoscopic systems used in this type of endoscopic examination are constructed as complex systems combining multiple devices, such as an endoscope scope including an insertion section inserted into the body cavity, various external devices (e.g., air insufflation device, suction device, light source device, etc.) for realizing various endoscopic functions (e.g., air insufflation, fluid delivery, suction, illumination, etc.), and a signal processing device that performs data processing of image data acquired by the endoscope scope, as well as a control device (processor) that controls the various external devices.

[0008] Furthermore, the endoscopic system includes various instruments that are inserted into the insertion channel provided in the endoscope scope and used in conjunction with the endoscope to perform endoscopic procedures.

[0009] Furthermore, in addition to the endoscope scope that acquires optical images, this endoscopic system also includes various other types of endoscopes, such as ultrasound endoscopes that acquire ultrasound images using ultrasound.

[0010] Medical procedures typically involve taking into account a wide variety of cases and symptoms in different patients, and performing appropriate examinations and treatments as needed. Furthermore, preferences for equipment and techniques may vary among users, such as physicians. Therefore, a wide range of different requests are received regarding equipment used for medical procedures.

[0011] Therefore, hospitals and other medical institutions generally select appropriate medical devices from a wide variety of types, according to various usage conditions, types of examinations and procedures, and the requests of users such as doctors, and construct multiple types of medical systems tailored to their specific purposes.

[0012] Furthermore, large medical institutions, for example, often have multiple laboratories and other facilities, each equipped with a wide variety of medical equipment. Consequently, centrally managing this medical equipment requires considerable effort and has become a significant burden.

[0013] Incidentally, medical institutions, for example, introduce new equipment at specific intervals, taking into account factors such as budget and settlement timing, in response to aging or malfunctioning equipment, the release of new medical devices, and changes in the types of patients and diseases they treat.

[0014] Thus, when considering the introduction of new or alternative equipment, users such as doctors, or purchasing managers, may, for example, browse product catalogs, visit stores or exhibitions to investigate and confirm the equipment they wish to introduce, or receive explanations from specialists at the equipment manufacturers.

[0015] However, it is extremely difficult to determine whether new or replacement equipment that is desired or planned to be introduced (hereinafter referred to as "planned equipment, etc.") will be compatible with or can be used in conjunction with multiple medical devices, etc. that are already included in existing systems that have been established.

[0016] In particular, with medical devices, due to hygiene concerns, reusable devices and tools, devices and tools that are cleaned and reused repeatedly, and disposable devices and tools are often combined to examine subjects or treat patients. Therefore, the compatibility of these combinations, collaborations, and connections tends to be a major issue. Even if medical professionals come up with a candidate for introducing a particular device, if its compatibility is not confirmed, it may end up being unusable in a medical setting.

[0017] Therefore, various techniques have been proposed, for example, in reference 1-4, for determining whether peripheral equipment not yet installed in an existing system or equipment planned for installation can be applied to it.

[0018] For example, Reference 1 discloses technology for a system that authenticates peripheral devices when they are to be used with information processing equipment.

[0019] Furthermore, for example, Reference 2 discloses technology for a system that suggests recommended control parameters and optional equipment to improve equipment performance in building facilities, etc., based on equipment operation history, equipment status, existing parameter data, etc.

[0020] Furthermore, for example, cited reference 3 discloses technology for a support system that assists customers when introducing equipment, which receives equipment introduction requests from customers, performs simulations using equipment models in a virtual space, proposes the planned equipment to be introduced to the customer in conjunction with the simulation results, and includes an approval unit that approves the introduction.

[0021] Furthermore, for example, cited reference 4 discloses a support system that assists customers when introducing equipment. This system associates specification information, which includes information such as the objects handled by the equipment and the work content, with introduced equipment information, and upon receiving an equipment introduction request from a customer accompanied by specification information, it calculates the similarity between the introduction request information and the introduced equipment information. Based on the calculated similarity, the system selects equipment from the introduced equipment information and proposes it to the customer.

[0022] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-73610, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-226460, International Publication No. WO2020 / 178975, Publication No. A1, International Publication No. WO2020 / 178937, Publication No. A1

[0023] However, the technology disclosed in the aforementioned cited document 1, etc., is merely a technology that authenticates peripheral devices in existing systems and simply permits the connection of said peripheral devices.

[0024] Furthermore, the technology disclosed in the aforementioned cited document 2, etc., is merely a technology that presents recommended candidates for equipment to be introduced based on information about the status of existing systems, etc., and does not provide details of the reasons for the recommendations.

[0025] The technologies disclosed in the aforementioned cited documents 3 and 4 merely involve performing simulations based on equipment installation requirements or proposing planned equipment based on specification information and installation performance information, and do not consider comparative studies between existing equipment and planned equipment.

[0026] The present invention aims to provide an equipment introduction support system, equipment introduction guidance method, equipment group information display method, equipment group information display system, equipment group information display device, and equipment group information display program that can provide support for the introduction of planned equipment, etc., by performing simple operations when introducing new or replacement medical equipment, etc., to existing systems in medical institutions such as hospitals.

[0027] To achieve the above objective, an equipment introduction support system according to one aspect of the present invention is an equipment introduction support system that displays an electronic equipment catalog containing at least specification information and relationship information between each of the equipment types, comprising: an information input device for inputting specific information including at least user information; an equipment information database in which equipment information including a plurality of existing equipment group information associated with a plurality of user information is stored; an information retrieval device for searching the equipment information database; a connection feasibility status creation device that indicates the connection feasibility status between a plurality of existing equipment included in the existing equipment group information based on the existing equipment group information obtained as a result of the search by the information retrieval device; and an information output device for displaying the connection feasibility status.

[0028] A device introduction guidance method according to one aspect of the present invention includes the steps of: inputting user information and information on devices to be introduced; searching a device information database which includes at least device specification information and device combination information based on existing device group information corresponding to the user information and the information on devices to be introduced; comparing the information on devices to be introduced with similar devices from the existing device group information that are similar to the devices to be introduced, based on the search results, to obtain and output difference information between the information on devices to be introduced and the similar devices; and presenting device combination information between the existing device group and the devices to be introduced.

[0029] A device group information display method according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: an input step of inputting a query by a user; an information retrieval step of searching a device group database for device group information related to the user in accordance with the query input by the user; a connection diagram creation step of creating a connection diagram showing the connection status of multiple existing devices included in the device group information, according to the connection feasibility information of each individual device constituting the related device group retrieved from the device information database; and a display step of displaying the connection diagram.

[0030] A device group information display system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: an information input device for inputting queries by a user; an information retrieval device for searching a device group database for device group information related to the user in accordance with the query input by the user; a connection diagram creation device for creating a connection diagram showing the connection status of multiple existing devices included in the device group information, according to the connection feasibility information of each individual device constituting the related device group retrieved from the device information database; and a display device for displaying the connection diagram.

[0031] A device group information display device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: an information input unit for inputting queries by a user; an information retrieval unit for searching a device group database for device group information related to the user in accordance with the user's query input; a connection diagram creation unit for creating a connection diagram showing the connection status of multiple existing devices included in the device group information, according to the connection feasibility information of each individual device constituting the related device group retrieved from the device information database; and a display control unit for displaying the connection diagram.

[0032] A device group information display program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to input query information entered by a user, to search for device group information of a device group related to the user from a device information database according to the query input by the user, to create a connection diagram showing the connection status of multiple existing devices included in the device group information according to the connection feasibility information of each individual device constituting the related device group retrieved from the device information database, and to display the connection diagram.

[0033] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an equipment introduction support system, equipment introduction guidance method, equipment group information display method, equipment group information display system, equipment group information display device, and equipment group information display program that can provide support for the introduction of planned equipment, etc., by performing only simple operations when introducing new or replacement medical equipment, etc., to existing systems in medical institutions such as hospitals.

[0034] Figure 1 shows a block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of an equipment installation support system according to one embodiment of the present invention, a diagram showing an example of information recorded in the equipment specification information database included in the equipment installation support system of Figure 1, a diagram showing an example of information recorded in the equipment usage history information database included in the equipment installation support system of Figure 1, a diagram schematically showing an example of the usage status of the equipment installation support system of Figure 1, a flowchart schematically showing the flow of medical information management processing performed by the information processing control device of the equipment installation support system of Figure 1, an example of the display of the login screen of the information processing control device of the equipment installation support system of Figure 1, a diagram showing an overview of medical information obtained by executing medical information management processing by the information processing control device of the equipment installation support system of Figure 1, and equipment installation according to one embodiment of the present invention The diagrams show the first half of a flowchart illustrating the operation of the information processing control device in the support system (system verification process), the second half of the flowchart for the system verification process in Figure 8, a flowchart detailing the AI ​​creation process for simulation (step S58 in Figure 9) in the processing sequence of Figure 9, a flowchart detailing the connection diagram creation process (step S44 in Figure 8, step S54 in Figure 9) in the processing sequences of Figures 8 and 9, an example of the display of the existing equipment group connection diagram created by the process in Figure 11, a first example of the display of the connection diagram screen including the equipment to be introduced (new introduction) created by the process in Figure 11, a second example of the display of the connection diagram screen including the equipment to be introduced (replacement introduction) created by the process in Figure 11, and an example of the display screen when simulating additional functions.

[0035] The present invention will be described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments. The drawings used in the following description are schematic. Therefore, in these drawings, each component is shown at a size that is recognizable on the drawing. For this reason, the dimensional relationships and scales of each component may differ on the drawing. The present invention is not limited to the illustrated forms with respect to the quantity, shape, size ratio, relative positional relationships, etc., of each component shown in each drawing.

[0036] First, the configuration of the equipment installation support system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below using Figures 1 to 3. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the equipment installation support system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the information recorded in the equipment specification information database included in the equipment installation support system of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the information recorded in the equipment usage history information database included in the equipment installation support system of Figure 1.

[0037] The equipment introduction support system 1 of this embodiment is a component unit that can display an electronic catalog of equipment and, based on the various information contained in the electronic catalog, can display various forms of information related to medical equipment.

[0038] Here, the term "electronic equipment catalog" refers to a general term for electronic information files formed by accumulating various information about multiple medical devices (at least various types of information including, for example, specifications for each device and information about the relationships between different devices).

[0039] The device specification information here includes device name information, application / specification information, and information on compatible devices. Furthermore, relationship information refers to information about when devices interact (which may also be called device interaction information), such as what other devices the target device can connect to or interact with.

[0040] If the devices are connected via wired or wireless connections, this information may include details such as the connection terminals, wireless standard type, and communication protocol. It may also include information on how the target devices are physically connected to other devices through such connections, and what specifications, functions, and performance they achieve.

[0041] Furthermore, the present invention may include data that specifically shows what can be achieved by such combinations. In addition to such data, for example, opinions from actually connected users may be additionally recorded.

[0042] Furthermore, if users who use combinations of this type can be detected, information such as the amount of combination usage history can also be effectively used. This can give users a hint that combinations with low usage history may have some constraint conditions.

[0043] If usage history information for each facility can be disclosed, it is also possible to determine the degree of connectability between a counterpart device and a device corresponding to user query information, based on connection history information from other facilities: specifically, connection information of a counterpart device to which similar equipment similar to the query information connects, and connection information of the device corresponding to the query information. Even if the database is incomplete or has deficiencies, such usage history information can be effectively utilized in various processes.

[0044] Here, query information refers to information that expresses data inquiries, requests, and the like in characters in a certain format.

[0045] Furthermore, as the relevance information between these devices, it may be information indicating whether two devices can be connected to each other, that is, information of whether connection is possible or not. In this case, for example, by listing connectable device names or device category names in specification information, it is possible to know which devices can be connected.

[0046] For example, when there are Device A and Device B, if each device has device information indicating mutual connectability, it can be known that Device A and Device B are connectable. Specifically, for example, when the specification information of Device A includes information indicating that connection with Device B is possible, and the specification information of Device B includes information indicating that connection with Device A is possible, it can be known that Device A and Device B are connectable. In this case, information such as achievable functions, performance, and connection conditions may also be included.

[0047] Furthermore, when Device A is a conventional device and Device B is a newly developed device, Device A is designed at a stage when the existence of Device B is unknown. In this case, there is a possibility that the specification information and relevance information of Device A do not state that Device B can be connected to Device A.

[0048] In such a case, if the connection with Device A has been verified during the development of Device B, Device B may be added to the specification information and relevance information of Device A. In addition, if the specification information and relevance information of Device B include information indicating that the connection has been verified even though it is not included in the specification information and relevance information of Device A, such information can be referred to determine whether the connection is possible. Even if Device B has not verified the connection with Device A, a third party may verify the connection and publish a record of the connection verification results for Device A and Device B (including the content of the verification, and information on conditions and restrictions). In this case, even if there is no description in the respective specification information and relevance information of Device A or Device B, the possibility of connection between Device A and Device B can be confirmed by referring to the connection verification data existing on the network. In such a case, this can be described as the respective specification information or relevance information of Device A or Device B.

[0049] In the case of an electronic device catalog including specification information of a plurality of devices and relevance information between each of the devices, the function, performance and specification information for each of these devices may be recorded in a recording unit of the specific electronic catalog device, or the electronic device catalog may include a communication unit or a search unit that enables searching and utilizing the recording results stored in an external recording unit.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 1, the device introduction support system 1 of the present embodiment is mainly configured of an information processing control device 10, an information input device 11, an information output device 12, a recording device 13, a generated AI unit 16, and the like.

[0051] The information processing control device 10 is a control device or a circuit unit including a control circuit that controls the entire device introduction support system 1, various signal processing circuits, and the like. The information processing control device 10 includes a control unit 17, an information search unit 18, a device information comparison unit 19, a connection diagram creation unit 20, and the like.

[0052] The control unit 17 is composed of, for example, a processor or the like, and serves as the main control circuit of the information processing control device 10.

[0053] The information retrieval unit 18 is an information retrieval device, or component unit or circuit unit, that retrieves desired information by searching various types of information stored in the equipment information database, etc., which will be described later. The information retrieval unit 18 has the function of searching for similar equipment from the existing equipment group that is similar to the equipment to be introduced, for example, in terms of application and specifications, based on the existing equipment group information as a search result and the information input from the information input device 11 (information on equipment to be introduced) (details will be described later).

[0054] In other words, the information retrieval system is envisioned to display the corresponding equipment when the user enters the name of a specific device or category name via text input (including voice, handwriting, keyboard input, and touch input) or by selecting an icon. It will also be possible to check the equipment owned or managed by a specific facility, organization, or healthcare professional, provided that the equipment name and the ID of the specific facility, organization, or healthcare professional are linked in the database. In this case, it is assumed that not only information about the specific type of equipment but also the equipment ID that identifies the equipment itself is recorded.

[0055] Furthermore, information retrieval can also be used to check the status of currently operating (owned and managed) equipment (such as whether there are any malfunctions, whether maintenance is needed, and when). By enabling a display function such as "List of Owned Equipment," the group of equipment owned by that facility or specific unit will be displayed, and by selecting individual pieces of equipment, it will be possible to check their status and plan for maintenance, disposal, or new installations.

[0056] The equipment database is envisioned as a recording unit that stores such information (digitized information), but it may also be stored in recording units on computers owned by each facility, institution, or medical professional, or it may be stored on servers or memory located in the cloud or on a network.

[0057] If many of these systems are configured to allow access to necessary parts from remote terminals via networks such as the internet, maintenance and other processes will become more convenient. Making it possible to search for equipment used by specific facilities, institutions, or healthcare professionals would create an existing equipment information database (existing equipment information DB).

[0058] Furthermore, by enabling information sharing among many stakeholders and systems, and allowing open / close settings for each type of data, it becomes possible to share know-how on using equipment, such as by referring to how other users are using it.

[0059] Information retrieval devices can find corresponding text, codes, etc., from information in such databases, and collect and present related and accompanying information. In this process, information is extracted from multiple sources according to the search purpose. This extraction method can be, for example, selecting information of a classification that satisfies specific conditions, reading information from specific rows or columns from a group of information organized in a table format, or other methods.

[0060] Such databases also contain information on the main intended use and product category of each device, so by comparing intended uses or categories to determine the degree of similarity, it is possible to determine whether products are similar or not.

[0061] Furthermore, even if various tools have similar uses, they may not be considered similar if their shape, size, or weight differs. Therefore, it is best to check the specifications and determine whether the intended use, shape, dimensions, etc., are similar before deciding whether they are similar.

[0062] However, if you're looking for something lighter, you might consider items similar even if certain specifications differ. This can be achieved by adjusting the number of important criteria in your query.

[0063] Through this approach, if a user's query is related to a group of devices associated with that user (which includes the user's ID, indicating which organization the user belongs to, and the devices owned by that organization are managed in the database), the system can identify devices similar to the query information from the user's associated devices and display them in close proximity. This allows users to intuitively understand which devices a new device will replace.

[0064] Even if a user's query does not include a user ID, the user ID and other information are entered at the start of the operation. Therefore, based on which terminal the query was entered from, the database can determine what kind of equipment is managed by the user's organization, or what kind of equipment or group of equipment the user uses or can use, and select accordingly.

[0065] Since the database also records performance information, it becomes possible to compare it and highlight any differences to draw attention to them. In other words, by comparing the performance information of query information with that of similar devices, it becomes possible to provide a device group information display method that shows a performance comparison between the target device and the query information device.

[0066] The device information comparison unit 19 is a device information comparison device that compares the specification information of different medical devices, and is a component unit or circuit unit. The device information comparison unit 19 performs various information comparisons between similar devices obtained as search results from the information retrieval unit 18 and the device to be introduced, and outputs difference information between the two devices (details will be described later).

[0067] The connection diagram creation unit 20 is a component unit or circuit unit that creates a connection diagram showing the connection feasibility status between multiple existing devices included in the existing device group information obtained as a search result from the information retrieval unit 18, and is a connection feasibility status creation device (details will be described later).

[0068] The information input device 11 is a device that inputs predetermined specific information to the information processing control device 10, and may be, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, or a touch panel. Here, the specific information is information that serves as a trigger for the user to check the device linkage information that they want to verify, and may be a query that expresses data inquiries or requests in text in a certain format, or the inquiry may be identified by selecting the inquiry or request from a group of icons, etc.

[0069] In this case, assuming that the operation of terminals is strictly managed in advance, and that the queries will be for information of interest to the user operating the terminal, including user information can be expected to allow the user to obtain highly satisfying information with easy operation, limited to their interests.

[0070] Having operator information allows for the provision of information based on the equipment owned by the facilities and organizations associated with that operator. Therefore, user information can be rephrased as information about such related facilities and organizations, and it includes information that makes it easier to search for equipment management information in a specific environment. Furthermore, if it includes information such as equipment candidates for disposal or equipment planned for introduction, it has the advantage of making it easier to search for information on replacements from currently owned equipment. In other words, when a user enters a query, information about the group of equipment associated with that user can be searched from the equipment information database. This is because the database contains information on individual equipment, and each piece of equipment contains information about the target of its connection.

[0071] The information output device 12 is a device that outputs information from the information processing control device 10, and includes, for example, a display monitor, a display device, etc. The information output device 12 is an output device that displays, for example, various menu screens and instruction input screens, as well as displaying electronic catalogs of equipment, and connection diagrams created based on existing equipment group information and information on equipment to be introduced.

[0072] The recording device 13 is a device for recording various types of information, and for example, it has the function of an information equipment database (hereinafter abbreviated as information equipment DB).

[0073] Here, the recording device 13 as the equipment information DB is a database that stores equipment information, such as information on multiple existing equipment groups associated with multiple user information. For example, in the case of medical equipment, this is assumed to be a record kept electronically by the management department of a medical institution, which records the equipment name, purchase date and time, place of use, installation location, storage location, etc. in a ledger and records it in a recording unit (which may be an internal system or an external cooperating organization). The record may contain electronic data entered by administrators, medical professionals who frequently use the equipment, or medical professionals who requested its introduction, and may also contain information on malfunctions and maintenance.

[0074] Furthermore, if discarded equipment is deleted, or if information such as the date of disposal is retained even without deletion, it is possible to obtain information on how the equipment is used, supplemented, and still usable. In this case, it is assumed that information on the specifications, performance, and functions of each piece of equipment is managed and recorded along with ID information that identifies the individual piece of equipment itself.

[0075] Furthermore, while multiple facilities generally cannot exchange information due to their own privacy concerns, it is possible to obtain information on the types of equipment each facility uses through mutual agreement or contract. This information allows for the determination, based on past experience, of which devices can be connected to which other devices. This information can be used even if it is not organized in a database. It is also possible to apply this information to reflect it in a database.

[0076] In this case, the recording device 13 as an information device database includes, for example, a device specification information database (hereinafter abbreviated as "device specification information DB") 14 and a device usage history information database (hereinafter abbreviated as "device usage history information DB") 15.

[0077] The Equipment Specification Information DB14 is an information storage unit that stores specification information and other data set for various types of medical devices, and is a so-called information database. The various types of information included in this Equipment Specification Information DB14 include, for example, the device name or equipment name information, application / specification information, linked device information, etc., as shown in Figure 2.

[0078] The Equipment Usage History Information DB 15 is an information storage unit that stores information related to the usage history of various medical devices by reading various information stored in, for example, existing equipment information databases (existing equipment information DB), medical treatment history information databases (medical treatment history information DB), etc., included in external medical information management systems 30A, 30B, etc. The various information included in this Equipment Usage History Information DB 15 is, for example, as shown in Figure 3, information recorded and stored for each user and each time an examination or procedure is performed, regarding usage history information of combinations of two or more pieces of equipment, such as devices and related equipment.

[0079] Furthermore, the generation AI unit 16 is a component unit or circuit unit that generates difference information, etc., representing the differences in specifications, etc., between existing equipment and equipment to be introduced, based on learning data acquired through machine learning or the like, and outputs it in a displayable format.

[0080] The equipment introduction support system 1 of this embodiment, configured in this way, has the function of collecting various medical-related information in cooperation with, for example, medical information management systems (30A, 30B, ...) installed at each of multiple medical institutions.

[0081] Here, the linkage between the equipment installation support system 1 and the medical information management systems (30A, 30B, ...) can be achieved, for example, by connecting them using the internet or a dedicated network line. In this way, the information processing control device 10 of the equipment installation support system 1 receives various medical-related information collected from each medical information management system (30A, 30B, ...), performs various data processing, and records it to the recording device 13 as appropriate.

[0082] The medical information management systems (30A, 30B, ...) are composed of, for example, a control unit, an information input / output unit, an existing equipment information database, a medical treatment history information database, and so on.

[0083] In this case, the existing equipment information database refers to an information database that stores and records various information related to multiple medical devices already installed at the corresponding medical institution.

[0084] A medical treatment history database refers to an information database that stores and records historical information, including the history of equipment specifications used during medical treatment such as examinations and procedures.

[0085] Various types of information from existing equipment information databases and medical history information databases are read into the information processing control device 10 or recording device 13 through the cooperation of each medical institution's medical information management system (30A, 30B, ...) and the equipment introduction support system 1 of this embodiment.

[0086] For example, the information processing control device 10 includes hardware in whole or in part. Here, the information processing control device 10 is composed of a well-known configuration and peripheral devices, such as a central processing unit (CPU), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), non-volatile memory, non-volatile storage, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0087] ROM, non-volatile memory, and non-volatile storage devices pre-store software programs executed by the CPU, as well as fixed data such as data tables. The CPU reads the software programs stored in ROM, loads them into RAM, and executes them. The functions of the information processing control device 10 are realized when these software programs appropriately refer to various data.

[0088] Furthermore, the information processing control device 10 may be composed of semiconductor chips such as FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays). In addition, the information processing control device 10 may be composed of electronic circuits.

[0089] Furthermore, the software program may be in a form where it is recorded or stored, in whole or in part, as a computer program product on a portable disk medium such as a flexible disk, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM, or on a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as a card-type memory, HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or SSD (Solid State Drive). The program is then read by a computer, and all or part of its operation is executed. Alternatively, all or part of the program can be distributed or provided via a communication network. Users can easily implement the endoscopic system of the present invention by downloading and installing the program on their computer via the communication network, or by installing it on their computer from a recording medium.

[0090] The equipment installation support system of this embodiment, configured in this way, is used, for example, in the following situations.

[0091] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the usage of the equipment introduction support system shown in Figure 1. In Figure 4, reference numeral 100 indicates, for example, an outpatient examination room. In Figure 4, reference numeral 10 indicates an information processing control device. As described above, this information processing control device 10 is a medical device that constitutes part of the equipment introduction support system 1 of this embodiment (see Figure 1).

[0092] In Figure 4, reference numeral 101 indicates a doctor, etc. In Figure 4, reference numeral 102 indicates a patient, etc. In Figure 4, reference numeral 103 indicates an examination table. In Figure 4, reference numeral 104 indicates medical equipment installed in the examination room 100.

[0093] The information processing control device 10 included in the equipment introduction support system 1 of this embodiment is a form of equipment used in medical institutions, etc., by medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, various laboratory technicians, pharmacists, etc., as well as administrative staff of the medical institution, for medical work. Therefore, in addition to being used as part of the equipment introduction support system 1 of this embodiment, the information processing control device 10 can also be used as part of a medical information management system, which is part of the in-house system of each medical institution, etc. The information processing control device 10 is assumed to be a general-purpose small computer, for example. Various functions can be realized by installing various application software on the information processing control device 10.

[0094] The information processing control device 10 shown in Figure 4 is an example of a configuration where it is installed in a medical examination room 100 of a medical institution. In this case, the information processing control device 10 is assumed to be mainly used by doctors and other medical professionals. In this case, doctors and other medical professionals use the information processing control device 10 to perform tasks such as recording patient information during outpatient consultations (creating medical records (electronic medical records)), scheduling examinations or procedures, and recording examination or procedure results or diagnostic results. In addition, outside of outpatient consultation hours, they may perform tasks such as considering equipment to be introduced.

[0095] Furthermore, although not shown in the diagram, the information processing control device 10 is expected to be used in various situations, such as when administrative staff at medical institutions use it for processing outpatient consultation billing and other related tasks.

[0096] Thus, the information processing control device 10 is used in various situations within medical institutions. In each of these situations, the information processing control device 10 also has a medical information management function that collects and manages various types of medical information.

[0097] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of medical information management processing performed by the information processing control device. The following explanation describes the operation when the information processing control device 10 collects and manages various types of medical information.

[0098] When the information processing control device 10 is started, the information processing control device 10 first controls the information output device 12 through the control unit 17 in step S11 of Figure 5 to display a predetermined login screen (see Figure 6) on the display screen of the information output device 12. Then, in the process of step S11, it waits for a login instruction, and when it receives a login instruction generated by a login operation, it proceeds to the next step S12.

[0099] The login screen shown in Figure 6 is merely an example illustrating a common screen design used in computers and other devices. The design of a login screen is not limited to the example shown in Figure 6.

[0100] In Figure 6, reference numeral 12a indicates the display frame of the login screen. Reference numeral 12b in Figure 6 indicates the function display area. The function display area 12b is a display area that displays a desired function selected from multiple functions. Examples of functions that can be displayed in the function display area 12b include a medical information input function and an electronic equipment catalog browsing function. Other functions can also be added.

[0101] The function display area 12b can selectively display one of several functions. For this purpose, a so-called pull-down menu button 12c is provided in the area adjacent to the function display area 12b.

[0102] For example, in the normal display state, the function display field 12b is displayed as "Medical Information Input". When the operator (user) clicks the pull-down menu button 12c using the information input device 11, a new display field 12bb appears in the area below the function display field 12b. Here, we show an example where a new display field 12bb indicating a different function, such as "Electronic Catalog Browsing," is displayed. When the operator selects the new display field 12bb, the display in the function display field 12b switches to the selected function display.

[0103] After selecting the desired function, the operator uses the information input device 11 to input user information (e.g., user ID and password) as specific information into the designated fields of the information input field 12d. Then, the operator clicks the login icon (Login) 12e. This completes the login operation. Thus, when the login screen is displayed, the operator completes the login process by performing the series of login operations described above.

[0104] In this case, the information processing control device 10 is expected to be used within the medical institution by medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, various laboratory technicians, and pharmacists, as well as administrative staff of the medical institution.

[0105] Therefore, when the user selects the "Medical Information Input" function on the login screen and completes the prescribed login operation, the system may then switch to a task selection screen where the user can select a desired task from among several tasks performed at a medical institution. Although not shown in the diagram, this task selection screen may display a list of tasks.

[0106] In this case, the displayed list shows a list of business processes of the type corresponding to the entered user information.

[0107] Specifically, for example, when user information for doctors is entered, a list of tasks such as outpatient consultations, scheduling of examinations and procedures, performing examinations and procedures, and entering examination results will be displayed. Similarly, when user information for various medical technologists is entered, a list of tasks such as entering examination results and various examination tasks (though not shown in the diagram) will be displayed. Furthermore, when user information for administrative staff of medical institutions is entered, a list of tasks such as accounting and other administrative tasks will be displayed.

[0108] The following explanation describes what happens when you select the "Medical Information Input" function on the login screen.

[0109] Furthermore, if, for example, the user selects the "View Electronic Catalog" function on the login screen and then logs in, the system will switch to displaying the electronic catalog of equipment. However, since this function is not directly related to the present invention, its explanation will be omitted.

[0110] Returning to Figure 5, in step S12, the information processing control device 10 checks whether the "outpatient medical care" service has been selected. If the selection of the "outpatient medical care" service is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S13. If a selection other than the "outpatient medical care" service is confirmed (including cases where "outpatient medical care" is not displayed), the process proceeds to step S31.

[0111] In step S13, the information processing control device 10 switches to the operation mode for "outpatient medical care" operations. Then, in the processing of step S13, the information processing control device 10 confirms that the operator (doctor, etc.) has entered "information such as patient ID".

[0112] Next, in step S14, the information processing control device 10 obtains the current date and time information by referring to an internal clock or the like, confirms the input of location information by the operator (doctor, etc.), and records this information in a designated recording unit or the like.

[0113] Next, in step S15, the information processing control device 10 confirms whether the operator (doctor, etc.) has entered the medical examination results information into the electronic medical record.

[0114] Next, in step S16, the information processing control device 10 checks whether the "reservation of inspection procedure" task has been selected. If the selection of the "reservation of inspection procedure" task is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S17. If a task other than the "reservation of inspection procedure" task is selected, the process proceeds to step S21.

[0115] In step S17, the information processing control device 10 switches to the operation mode for the "reservation of examination and treatment" operation. Then, in the process of step S17, the information processing control device 10 confirms that the operator (doctor, etc.) has entered the "name of the examination and treatment".

[0116] Next, in step S18, the information processing control device 10 confirms that the operator (doctor, etc.) has entered the "reservation date and time information" for the examination procedure.

[0117] Next, in step S19, the information processing control device 10 confirms that the operator (doctor, etc.) has entered the "name of the equipment used" for the examination procedure.

[0118] Next, in step S20, the information processing control device 10 confirms whether or not to terminate the "reservation" process for the inspection procedure. If the "reservation" process for the inspection procedure is terminated, the process returns to step S16. If the "reservation" process for the inspection procedure is not terminated and a reservation for another inspection procedure is to be made, the process returns to step S17.

[0119] On the other hand, in step S21, the information processing control device 10 confirms whether the "execution of inspection procedures" task has been selected. This "execution of inspection procedures" task may be performed by a doctor or other medical professional, or by various medical technicians.

[0120] If the selection of "Perform inspection and treatment" is confirmed at this point, the process proceeds to step S22. If a selection other than "Perform inspection and treatment" is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S26.

[0121] In step S22, the information processing control device 10 switches to the operation mode for the "execution of examination procedures" task. Then, in the process of step S22, the information processing control device 10 confirms that the operator (doctor, etc. or various examination technicians, etc.) has entered the "name of the examination procedure".

[0122] Next, in step S23, the information processing control device 10 confirms the "input of the name of the equipment used" for the examination procedure by the operator (doctor, etc. or various medical technicians, etc.).

[0123] Next, in step S24, the information processing control device 10 confirms that the operator (a doctor or various medical technicians, etc.) has "inputted various information acquired during the examination".

[0124] Next, in step S25, the information processing control device 10 confirms whether or not to terminate the "inspection procedure" execution. If the "inspection procedure" execution is to be terminated, the process returns to step S16. If the "inspection procedure" execution is not to be terminated and further information input is to be performed, the process returns to step S24.

[0125] On the other hand, in step S26, the information processing control device 10 verifies the operator's (doctor's, etc.) confirmation of the examination results and input.

[0126] In step S27, the information processing control device 10 confirms the input of the diagnosis result by the operator (doctor, etc.).

[0127] In step S28, the information processing control device 10 confirms that the operator (doctor, etc.) has entered prescription information.

[0128] In step S29, the information processing control device 10 checks whether the operator (doctor, etc.) has finished inputting information. If it is confirmed that the information input has been completed, the process proceeds to step S30. If it is not confirmed that the information input has been completed, the process returns to step S15.

[0129] In step S30, the information processing control device 10 records the various input information in a recording unit or the like. In the processing of step S30, in addition to recording the various input information, the device also verifies various information related to the specific patient ID currently being targeted, such as characteristic information of the specific patient (also called patient preference information). Alternatively, it verifies the attending physician ID information corresponding to the specific patient ID currently being targeted, and various information related to the attending physician ID, such as characteristic information of the specific physician (also called attending physician preference information).

[0130] After that, the series of processes ends (end). Although the diagram and explanation are omitted, in this case, it should be assumed that the logoff process will be performed automatically.

[0131] Furthermore, after exiting the processing sequence following the completion of step S30, the process may return to the process of step S11 described above (return). In this case as well, it is sufficient to return to the process of step S11 after an automatic logoff process.

[0132] Furthermore, in step S31, the information processing control device 10 confirms whether the "input of test results" task has been selected. This "input of test results" task may be performed not only by doctors, but also by various medical technologists, nurses, etc.

[0133] If the "Enter Inspection Results" task is selected, the process proceeds to step S32. If a task other than "Enter Inspection Results" is selected, the process proceeds to step S34.

[0134] In step S32, the information processing control device 10 switches to the operation mode for the "input of test results" task. Then, in the process of step S32, the information processing control device 10 confirms that the operator (doctor, various laboratory technicians, nurses, etc.) has entered various information such as the patient ID.

[0135] In step S33, the information processing control device 10 records the input inspection result information in a recording unit or the like. After that, the series of processes ends (end). In this case as well, an automatic logoff process may be performed, similar to the process after the process in step S30 described above.

[0136] Furthermore, in step S34, the information processing control device 10 switches to the operation mode for "accounting and other processing". Here, "accounting and other processing" is performed, for example, by administrative staff of a medical institution.

[0137] Then, in step S34, the information processing control device 10 performs processing related to "accounting and other processing" tasks in response to an operation by an administrative staff member of the medical institution. After that, the series of processes is terminated (end). In this case as well, an automatic logoff process should be performed, similar to the processing after step S30 described above.

[0138] Furthermore, after the completion of each process in step S33 or step S34, the process sequence may be changed to return to the process in step S11 (return). In this case as well, it is sufficient to return to the process in step S11 after an automatic logoff process.

[0139] By performing this series of medical information management processes, the information processing control device 10 can acquire medical information 13x as shown in Figure 7. Here, Figure 7 is a diagram that lists an overview of the medical information acquired by performing medical information management processes by the information processing control device. The medical information 13x shown in Figure 7 is classified by patient ID, and various information including specific information and medical history information corresponding to the patient ID (user information) is accumulated.

[0140] Next, the operation of the information processing control device 10 when it functions as the equipment installation support system 1 will be explained below using Figures 8 to 11. Figures 8 and 9 are flowcharts showing the operation of the information processing control device (system confirmation process) in the equipment installation support system of this embodiment. Of these, Figure 8 shows the first half of the process, and Figure 9 shows the second half of the process. Figure 10 is a flowchart detailing the simulation AI creation process (the process in step S58 of Figure 9) in the processing sequence of Figure 9. Figure 11 is a flowchart detailing the connection diagram creation process (the process in step S44 of Figure 8 and the process in step S54 of Figure 9) in the processing sequences of Figures 8 and 9.

[0141] When the information processing control device 10 is started, the information processing control device 10 first controls the information output device 12 through the control unit 17 in step S41 in Figure 8, and displays a predetermined login screen (see Figure 6) on the display screen of the information output device 12. Then, in the process of step S41, it waits for a login instruction, and when it receives a login instruction generated by a login operation, it proceeds to the next step S12.

[0142] The operations performed on this login screen are the same as those shown in step S11 of Figure 5 and in the explanation of Figure 6.

[0143] In addition, the flowchart in Figure 8 shows that the functions that can be selected from the pull-down menu are not shown in Figure 6, but include, for example, a "system confirmation" function that displays a connection diagram to check the existing system status, and also creates and displays a connection diagram that includes equipment to be introduced to check the new system status. The flowchart in Figure 8 shows the flow of this system confirmation process.

[0144] Once the login operation in step S41 of Figure 8 is completed, the process proceeds to the next step, S42.

[0145] In step S42, the information processing control device 10 reads and obtains information on existing equipment groups associated with the user information entered during login from the recording device 13 (equipment information DB).

[0146] Next, in step S43, the information processing control device 10 creates an existing equipment group connection diagram based on the existing equipment group information associated with the logged-in user information.

[0147] Then, in the next step S44, the information processing control device 10 displays the existing equipment group connection diagram created in step S43 described above.

[0148] Here, Figure 11 is a flowchart detailing the connection diagram creation process. Figure 12 is an example of a display of an existing equipment group connection diagram. In Figure 12, each piece of equipment is shown in a block diagram format, but it may also be possible to use a more intuitive display, such as an image showing the appearance of the equipment, or a model number or logo.

[0149] As described above, when the process proceeds to step S43 in Figure 8 (subflow in Figure 11), which is the connection diagram creation process, first, in step S71 in Figure 11, the information processing control device 10 acquires existing equipment group information based on user information.

[0150] Next, in step S72, the information processing control device 10 displays the main equipment included in the existing equipment group information in the center of the screen. Here, the main equipment refers to the main equipment in the existing system (in this case, the endoscope system). In the display example shown in Figure 12, this corresponds to "Processor A," which is the endoscope processor.

[0151] In the example shown in Figure 12, a display area 12Aa for displaying the existing equipment group connection diagram is set up in most of the display area of ​​the connection diagram display screen 12A. In this display area 12Aa, the main equipment among the existing equipment group, "Processor A," is displayed positioned approximately in the center. Whether an equipment is the main equipment can sometimes be determined by comparing the specifications of each piece of equipment, as this may be indicated there. Alternatively, even if there is no such indication, one could choose the equipment that can connect to multiple devices and has the most functions.

[0152] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 12, in addition to the display area 12Aa described above, the connection diagram display screen 12A also displays the user name display area 12Ac, the installation location display area 12Ad, the input field for requesting the planned equipment guide 12Ae, the logoff button 12Af, and the like, in their respective designated empty areas.

[0153] The username display area 12Ac is the field for displaying the username of the currently logged-in user, which is entered during the login operation. The installation location display area 12Ad is the field for displaying the installation location of the existing group of devices associated with the username. The display in this installation location display area 12Ad can be switched by selecting the installation location, for example, using a pull-down menu.

[0154] The input field 12Ae for the request for a guide regarding the equipment to be installed is an input field where the user enters the necessary items when making a request for a guide regarding the equipment to be installed. This input field 12Ae allows the user to enter information such as whether the equipment to be installed is new equipment or replacement equipment, the category of the equipment to be installed, and the specific model name of the equipment. Note that the items that can be entered in this input field 12Ae are not limited to the examples given above, and other items other than the example items can be set.

[0155] The log-off button 12Af is a button that is operated when logging off from the equipment installation support system 1.

[0156] Next, in step S73 of Figure 11, the information processing control device 10 displays peripheral devices that are connected to the main device and are included in the existing device group information. In this case, the device is set to display multiple similar devices with similar functions in substantially the same area.

[0157] Next, in step S74, the information processing control device 10 searches the equipment specification information DB for linked equipment information for the equipment included in the existing equipment group information.

[0158] Next, in step S75, the information processing control device 10 displays the connections between devices that can be combined and used together among the devices included in the existing device group information.

[0159] Next, in step S76, the information processing control device 10 checks for devices in the existing device group information that do not have connection information between them. If there is no connection information between the devices (case Y), the process proceeds to step S83. If there is connection information between the devices (case N), the process proceeds to step S77.

[0160] Then, in step S83, the information processing control device 10 adds frequency information to the connection display. Here, frequency information refers to the usage frequency information of the equipment included in the existing equipment group information. The display of frequency information is shown, for example, in the connection diagram of Figure 2, and the displayed information is differentiated by the type of connection line 12Aba, 12Abb, etc. (for example, the thickness or type of line or color coding) that connects the equipment.

[0161] Specifically, for example, in Figure 12, the frequency information indicated by reference numeral 12Aba is shown by a thick line. In this system, devices connected by thick connecting lines 12Aba indicate that they are frequently used together.

[0162] Similarly, in Figure 12, the frequency information indicated by reference numeral 12Abb is shown by a thin line. In this system, devices connected by the thin connecting line 12Abb indicate that they are used in combination infrequently.

[0163] Returning to Figure 11, in step S77, the information processing control device 10 searches the equipment usage history information DB for simultaneous usage records of the equipment included in the existing equipment group information.

[0164] Next, in step S78, the information processing control device 10 checks whether the simultaneous usage history information of the equipment obtained in the search results of step S77 is insufficient. If it is confirmed that the obtained information is sufficient (case N), the process proceeds to step S79. If the obtained information is insufficient (case Y), the process proceeds to step S84.

[0165] Then, in step S84, the information processing control device 10 obtains connection information for the equipment by referring to external information. Here, external information is assumed to be the performance of other hospitals or information on the network. After that, the process proceeds to step S79.

[0166] Next, in step S79, the information processing control device 10 treats devices that have a history of simultaneous use, or devices that can be combined based on information on the network, as potentially usable in combination.

[0167] Next, in step S80, the information processing control device 10 treats devices that have not been used simultaneously and devices that are incompatible based on network information as incompatible for use in combination.

[0168] In step S81, the information processing control device 10 displays a connection indicator between devices if they can be combined. Here, the connection indicator is the connection line shown in Figure 12. However, drawing connection lines can sometimes cause confusion, such as when they intersect and become indistinguishable on the display screen. Therefore, it is preferable to have a way to make it easier to distinguish which devices are connected to which by changing the color, thickness, or shading of the connection lines.

[0169] Furthermore, if connecting lines intersect, the drawing process will be modified to reduce the appearance of intersections by adjusting the layout and arrangement so that they do not intersect.

[0170] By drawing these connection lines, it is possible to create and display a connection diagram showing the connection status between multiple existing devices included in the device group information, according to the connection compatibility information of each individual device that makes up the related device group retrieved from the device information database.

[0171] This makes it possible to display information about various devices in a system consisting of a variety of devices in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0172] Furthermore, if the user's query contains information about a product name or product category related to a group of devices, the system can identify devices similar to the query information within the group of devices related to that user, and in the connection diagram display step, the query information and similar devices can be displayed in close proximity.

[0173] This makes it possible to intuitively grasp information such as which equipment a new device will replace.

[0174] Furthermore, by comparing the connection information of a similar device connected to the query information with the connection information of the device corresponding to the query information, it is possible to determine whether or not to draw a connection line between the other device and the query information device.

[0175] In step S82, the information processing control device 10 acquires combination frequency information. After that, it returns to the process in step S76.

[0176] Then, in step S76, the same process is repeated until it is confirmed that there is no connection information. Once it is confirmed that there is no connection information, in the next step S83, frequency information is added to the connection display, the series of processes ends, and the process returns to the original state (return).

[0177] Thus, after exiting the connection diagram creation process shown in Figure 11, the existing equipment group connection diagram is displayed in step S44 of Figure 8, as described above.

[0178] Next, in step S45, the information processing control device 10 checks whether a guide request has been issued for the equipment to be introduced. Here, a guide request for equipment to be introduced refers to an instruction to the equipment introduction support system 1 to confirm the suitability of introducing specific equipment that is to be newly introduced or replaced in an existing system, such as whether there will be any problems when used simultaneously with the existing equipment group, or whether functions that were previously unavailable will become available or functional performance will be improved depending on the equipment alone or in combination with other equipment.

[0179] The request for guidance regarding the planned equipment to be installed is generated when the user performs an input operation, for example, in the input field 12Ae for the planned equipment to be installed in Figure 12, thereby generating a predetermined instruction signal.

[0180] If a user requires a guide request for equipment to be installed, they enter information about the equipment to be installed in the "Guide Request Input Field 12Ae" on the connection diagram display screen 12A in Figure 12. This information includes whether the equipment is newly installed or a replacement, the category of the equipment to be installed, and the specific model name of the equipment.

[0181] In the example display shown in Figure 12, information regarding whether equipment is newly introduced or replacement equipment is provided by selecting a check button. Information such as equipment category and model name is entered using a keyboard (not shown). One example of a situation where an equipment category might be entered is when the specific models of equipment to be introduced have not yet been determined. In such cases, when an equipment category is specified and entered, the information processing control device 10 searches for and presents recommended equipment from the registered equipment list that falls within the specified category and is compatible with the existing equipment group. It goes without saying that the forms of information input are limited to these illustrative forms.

[0182] Here, in step S45 of Figure 8, if it is confirmed that a guide request for the equipment to be installed has been issued, the process proceeds to step S46. If no guide request for the equipment to be installed has been issued, the process proceeds to step S51.

[0183] Then, in step S51, the information processing control device 10 checks whether or not a logoff operation has been performed. Here, a logoff operation refers to, for example, clicking the logoff button 12Af on the connection diagram display screen 12A in Figure 12. In this case, if a logoff operation is confirmed, the series of processes is terminated (end). If a logoff operation is not confirmed, the process returns to step S44 described above.

[0184] Next, in step S46, the information processing control device 10 checks whether the equipment to be introduced is replacement equipment or not. If the equipment to be introduced is replacement equipment (case Y), the process proceeds to step S47. If the equipment to be introduced is not replacement equipment (case N), the process proceeds to step S52.

[0185] Then, in step S52, the information processing control device 10 determines that the equipment to be introduced is new equipment and proceeds to the next step S47.

[0186] In step S47, the information processing control device 10 specifies the equipment category of the equipment to be introduced.

[0187] Next, in step S48, the information processing control device 10 displays recommended equipment corresponding to the existing equipment group from the input equipment category and confirms whether it has been selected. Here, the recommended equipment can be displayed in a list of equipment names, etc., in the recommended equipment field within the input field 12Ae for the planned equipment guide request. The user can select the desired equipment name from this list to specify that equipment as the designated model name.

[0188] If the list of recommended equipment is displayed in step S48, the process proceeds to the next step, S49. If the list of recommended equipment is not displayed, the process proceeds to step S53.

[0189] Then, in step S53, the information processing control device 10 checks whether or not the specified model name has been entered. If the input of the specified model name is confirmed, the process proceeds to the next step S49. If the input of the specified model name is not confirmed, the process returns to step S47.

[0190] Next, in step S49, the information processing control device 10 confirms the connection between the devices selected from the recommended devices (S48) or the specified devices (S53) and the existing group of devices.

[0191] Next, in step S50, the information processing control device 10 searches for recommended or designated equipment to be introduced that has good connectivity to the existing equipment group system.

[0192] Next, in step S54 of Figure 9, the information processing control device 10 creates and displays a new connection diagram including the equipment to be introduced. The process of creating this new connection diagram is the same as the process described in Figure 11 above. After that, the process proceeds to step S55.

[0193] Here, Figure 13 is a first example of the connection diagram screen including the equipment to be installed. This first example in Figure 13 shows an example of the display when new equipment is specified as the equipment to be installed.

[0194] In the first display example in Figure 13, as shown in the input field 12Ae for the request for the equipment guide to be installed, for example, the type of equipment to be installed (new or replacement) is specified as "new" equipment (N to S52 in step S46 of Figure 8). In Figure 13, the check button "○" for the "new" item is highlighted, indicating that "new" is selected.

[0195] Furthermore, the category of equipment to be introduced is specified as "treatment tools" (Step S47 in Figure 8). At this time, the list of recommended equipment displays three types of treatment tools: "Type A," "Type B," and "Type C," and it is shown that "Type A" is selected from these three types of treatment tools (Step S48 in Figure 8). This display shows that "Treatment Tool Type A" is specified as the equipment to be introduced in the new connection diagram in Figure 13.

[0196] In this case, in the connection diagram of Figure 13, the frame line indicating "treatment tool type A" is, for example, hatched to indicate that it is equipment that is planned to be newly introduced.

[0197] Furthermore, the connection lines indicate that "Treatment Instrument Type A" can be connected to "Endoscope Scope A" and "Endoscope Scope B" from the existing equipment group, respectively.

[0198] Furthermore, the connection line between "Endoscope Scope A" and "Treatment Instrument Type A" is shown as a solid line, while the connection line between "Endoscope Scope B" and "Treatment Instrument Type A" is shown as a dashed line. This difference in line type for the connection lines is an example of a display that reflects, for example, the connectivity search results (step S50 in Figure 8). In this case, the solid line indicates better connectivity than the dashed line.

[0199] On the other hand, Figure 14 is a second example of the connection diagram screen including the equipment to be installed. This second example in Figure 14 shows an example of the display when alternative equipment is specified as the equipment to be installed.

[0200] In the second display example in Figure 14, as shown in the input field 12Ae for the equipment to be installed, for example, the type of equipment to be installed (new or replacement) is specified as "replacement" equipment (Y in step S46 of Figure 8). In Figure 14, the check button "○" for the "replacement" item is highlighted, indicating that "replacement" is selected.

[0201] Furthermore, the category of equipment to be introduced is specified as "Processor" (Step S47 in Figure 8). At this time, the list of recommended equipment displays two types, "Processor A1" and "Processor B," and it is shown that "Processor B" is selected from these two types (Step S48 in Figure 8). This display shows that "Processor B" is specified as the equipment to be introduced in the new connection diagram in Figure 14.

[0202] In this case, the framed label for "Processor A" that was displayed approximately in the center of the connection diagram in Figure 13 has been replaced by a framed line indicating "Processor B" in the new connection diagram in Figure 14. At this time, the framed line is indicated by hatching or other means to show that it is equipment that is scheduled to be replaced. The connection status of "Processor B" with the existing equipment group is indicated by connection lines (thick lines, thin lines, etc.).

[0203] At the same time, within the frame of "Processor B," for example, an indication of whether or not there is "upgrade information" is displayed, and if upgrade information exists, the blank area of ​​the display area 12Aa is used to display that upgrade information (step S55 in Figure 9, which will be described later).

[0204] Furthermore, the upgrade information may include a function to simulate and display the differences in functionality. When such a simulation display function is included, for example, as shown in Figure 14, an example of the display is shown in which a display indicating this and a check button "○" are displayed within the frame of "Processor B" (steps S55 to S57 in Figure 9, which will be described later).

[0205] Furthermore, if "Processor B" is installed at this time, the system may be configured to automatically display the equipment that is recommended to be installed simultaneously (step S55 in Figure 9, which will be described later).

[0206] In the example shown in Figure 14, a note "[Recommended for simultaneous installation]" is added to the connection diagram along with the indication "Support Equipment B". In this case, as an example of how to display equipment recommended for simultaneous installation, for example, hatching the border lines or using a different display color may be used to make it easy to distinguish from the existing connection diagram at a glance.

[0207] Returning to Figure 9, in step S55, the information processing control device 10 displays upgrade information for the specified equipment to be installed if available. It also displays connection information according to usage frequency. Furthermore, it displays equipment that is recommended to be installed simultaneously with the specified equipment to be installed.

[0208] In step S56, the information processing control device 10 checks whether the Simm button has been operated. If the Simm button has been operated, the process proceeds to the next step, S57. If the Simm button has not been operated, the process proceeds to step S58 after waiting for a predetermined time. Similarly, if the Simm button is not displayed and therefore the Simm button operation cannot be confirmed, the process proceeds to step S58.

[0209] In step S57, the information processing control device 10 executes a process to select a function and display the difference (AI creation process for Simm; see Figure 10), and displays a simulation display screen (see Figure 15).

[0210] Here, Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the process of inputting sample images into the AI ​​for Simm. Also, Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen when simulating additional functions.

[0211] As described above, when the Simm button is pressed while the connection diagram in Figure 14 is displayed, the display screen 12B shown in column (A) of Figure 15 is first displayed. In the display screen 12B, reference numeral 12Ba is a display field for the names of functions for which a simulation for function comparison can be performed. The display in this comparison function name display field 12Ba is automatically switched according to the setting information for each piece of equipment.

[0212] Reference numeral 12Bb denotes a first image display field that shows the simulation results when using existing equipment. A sample image to be tested is entered into this first image display field 12Bb.

[0213] Reference numeral 12Bc denotes a second image display area that shows the simulation results when using the equipment to be introduced as a replacement. In the display example in Figure 15, the existing equipment has the function of acquiring one type of output result for one input image, while the equipment to be introduced as a replacement has the function of acquiring two different types of output results for one input image, as shown in the example configuration.

[0214] Reference numeral 12Bd denotes the "back button" which is operated when switching from the simulation display screen 12B to the connection diagram display screen 12A.

[0215] Reference numeral 12Bf denotes the "logoff button" which is operated when logging off from the equipment installation support system 1.

[0216] As shown in column (B) of Figure 15, this example illustrates a case where NBI functions are compared. On display screen 12B, enter "NBI" in the comparison function name display field 12Ba and enter "Image 001" as a sample image in the first image display field 12Bb. Then, the simulation result images corresponding to the function names will be displayed in the second image display field 12Bc.

[0217] In this way, the performance information of a device entered by the user in a query and a similar device can be displayed in a comparable manner. By displaying side by side the first simulation result image, which assumes the image processing function of the similar device is activated, and the second simulation result image, which assumes the image processing function of the device based on the query information is activated, the differences in image processing can be clearly shown.

[0218] Furthermore, by preparing the image processing circuits and programs for each device on the cloud, it is possible to display side-by-side the first simulation result image obtained by activating the image processing function of a similar device and the second simulation result image obtained using the image processing function of a device based on query information, thereby clearly showing the differences in their image processing. It is also possible to highlight the differences or explain them with text or audio to make them clearer.

[0219] This series of operations utilizes an inference model created by the AI ​​creation process for Simm, which is explained by the flowchart in Figure 10.

[0220] First, in step S65 of Figure 10, the information processing control device 10 acquires image data of the same object (such as a polyp or other lesion) using multiple different devices (such as a processor) and multiple functions (similar or identical functions).

[0221] Next, in step S66, the information processing control device 10 uses the acquired image set to create a model that infers images that will be obtained by the other device (the replacement device) from images obtained by one device (the existing device). After that, the series of processes is terminated.

[0222] Returning to Figure 9, in step S58, the information processing control device 10 checks whether to return to the connection diagram display. The operation to return to the connection diagram display is, for example, clicking the back button 12Bd in Figure 15. If the instruction to return to the connection diagram display is confirmed, the process returns to step S55. If the instruction to return to the connection diagram display is not confirmed, the process proceeds to the next step, S59.

[0223] In step S59, the information processing control device 10 checks whether a logoff operation has been performed. If an instruction signal indicating a logoff operation has been confirmed, the device executes a predetermined logoff process and then terminates the series of processes. If no logoff operation is confirmed, the device proceeds to the next step, S60.

[0224] In step S60, the information processing control device 10 resets the data of the new connection diagram (the connection diagram created in step S54 of Figure 9). Then, it returns to the process of step S44 of Figure 8, and in the process of step S44, it displays the connection diagram of the existing group of equipment (the connection diagram created in step S43 of Figure 8).

[0225] As explained above, according to the above embodiment, when introducing equipment to an existing group of equipment, it is possible to easily check the compatibility, affinity, and interoperability between the existing equipment and the equipment to be introduced. Therefore, it is possible to visualize potential problems that may arise when introducing equipment as new equipment or as replacement equipment. Furthermore, it becomes possible to recognize that functions that were previously unavailable become available or that functional performance is improved by using individual equipment or a combination of equipment.

[0226] Therefore, problems and advantages such as improved convenience can be easily identified in advance, even before the equipment is actually installed. This makes it possible for anyone to easily plan the installation of equipment smoothly and at low cost.

[0227] Furthermore, it becomes possible to manage existing equipment centrally and easily. In this case, the usage methods and functions of each piece of equipment can be managed clearly at a glance, making it possible to maintain each piece of existing equipment in good condition at all times.

[0228] In this embodiment, a configuration example is shown in which a connection diagram is created and displayed as a means of indicating whether or not devices can be connected. However, the means of indicating whether or not devices can be connected is not limited to this configuration example. For example, tables or text may be used to indicate whether or not devices can be connected. In the case of using text, for example, information may be confirmed in a conversational format using a chatbot or the like.

[0229] As explained above, the block diagrams of each function, such as the hardware in each embodiment of this application, and the flowcharts illustrating how algorithms are controlled in conjunction with their respective functions, are designed to improve the user experience overall, such as providing control that is user-friendly and in line with the user's intentions. These improvements are brought about or created by the technical features of the organically linked various blocks. In other words, these demonstrate examples of how hardware processing speed can be increased, computational efficiency and execution effectiveness can be improved, power consumption can be reduced, and the overall cost performance of the system can be enhanced.

[0230] For example, using appropriate and easily obtainable data in the relevant application, or data appropriately selected from a wealth of data, and the efficient coordination of each function that processes this data, aims to improve the efficiency of various judgments, branching, calculations, and correct and desirable analysis and information input / output. This helps reduce the amount of data to be stored and retained, and also improves the computational efficiency and execution effectiveness of the hardware.

[0231] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and applications can be implemented without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the above embodiments include inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriate combinations of the multiple components disclosed. For example, if the problem that the invention aims to solve can be solved and the effects of the invention can be obtained even if some components are deleted from all the components shown in one embodiment, then the configuration with these components deleted can be extracted as an invention. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be combined as appropriate. This invention is not limited by any particular embodiment other than being limited by the appended claims.

[0232] 1... Equipment installation support system 10... Information processing control device 11... Information input device 12... Information output device 12A... Connection diagram display screen 12B... Simulation display screen 12a... Login screen 13... Recording device 14... Equipment specification information database (DB) 15... Equipment usage history information database (DB) 16... Generation AI unit 17... Control unit 18... Information retrieval unit 19... Equipment information comparison unit 20... Connection diagram creation unit 30A, 30B... Medical information management system

Claims

1. An equipment introduction support system that displays an electronic equipment catalog containing at least specification information and relationship information between multiple types of equipment, comprising: an information input device for inputting specific information including at least user information; an equipment information database in which equipment information is stored, including information on multiple existing equipment groups associated with multiple user information; an information retrieval device for searching the equipment information database; a connection feasibility status creation device that indicates the connection feasibility status between multiple existing equipment included in the existing equipment group information based on the existing equipment group information obtained as a result of the search by the information retrieval device; and an information output device for displaying the connection feasibility status.

2. The equipment introduction support system according to claim 1, further comprising an equipment information comparison device for comparing specification information between equipment, wherein the specified information includes information on equipment to be introduced, the information retrieval device searches for similar equipment from the existing equipment group that is similar to the equipment to be introduced, based on the existing equipment group information and the information on equipment to be introduced input from the information input device, and the equipment information comparison device performs an information comparison between the similar equipment and the equipment to be introduced and outputs difference information.

3. The equipment information comparison device outputs the difference information by comparing and displaying the first simulation result when the equipment is operated using the similar equipment and the second simulation result when the equipment to be introduced is operated. This is the equipment introduction support system according to claim 2.

4. The equipment information comparison device further outputs relationship information between the existing equipment group and the equipment to be introduced based on the difference information, and the connection feasibility status creation device creates a connection diagram based on the relationship information, characterized in that it shows the case when the equipment to be introduced is introduced to the existing equipment group. This is the equipment introduction support system according to claim 2.

5. The equipment introduction support system according to claim 4, characterized in that the connection feasibility status creation device creates the connection diagram including the difference information.

6. The equipment information in the equipment information database further includes equipment usage history information of multiple users and equipment combination information at the time of equipment use, characterized in that the equipment introduction support system according to claim 5.

7. The equipment combination information further includes information on the high or low utilization rate of the equipment, and the connection feasibility status creation device is characterized in that it preferentially includes equipment with a high utilization rate in the connection diagram, as described in 6.

8. The equipment information in the equipment information database further includes equipment usage history information and equipment function preference information, wherein the equipment usage history information and the equipment function preference information are associated and recorded for each user information, and the connection feasibility status creation device creates the connection diagram by referring to the equipment usage history information and the equipment function preference information associated with the input user information, characterized in that the equipment introduction support system according to claim 4.

9. The device for creating connection status is characterized in that, based on a plurality of device usage history information and device combination information at the time of device use, the device for providing information on whether the device to be introduced is a device not yet introduced in relation to the existing device group, or device information relating to unused functions in the existing device group, is presented in the connection diagram.

10. A method for providing guidance on equipment introduction, comprising: a step of inputting user information and information on equipment to be introduced; a step of searching an equipment information database that includes at least equipment specification information and equipment combination information based on existing equipment group information corresponding to the user information and the information on equipment to be introduced; a step of comparing the information on equipment to be introduced with similar equipment from the existing equipment group information that is similar to the equipment to be introduced, based on the search result information, to obtain and output difference information between the information on equipment to be introduced and the similar equipment; and a step of presenting equipment combination information of the existing equipment group and the equipment to be introduced.

11. A method for displaying device group information, comprising: an input step of a user entering a query; an information retrieval step of searching a device information database for device group information of a device group related to the user in accordance with the query entered by the user; a connection diagram creation step of creating a connection diagram showing the connection status of multiple existing devices included in the device group information, according to the connection feasibility information of each individual device constituting the related device group retrieved from the device information database; and a display step of displaying the connection diagram.

12. The method for displaying equipment group information according to claim 11, wherein the query made by the user is information about a product name or product category related to the equipment group, and further comprises the step of determining equipment similar to the query information among the equipment group related to the user, and in the display step, equipment similar to the query information is displayed in close proximity.

13. The device group information display method according to 12, characterized in that, in the display step, the connection between the other device and the query information device is determined by comparing the connection information of the other device to which the query information is similar and the connection information of the device corresponding to the query information with the information in the database.

14. The device group information display method according to 12, characterized in that, in the display step, the likelihood of connection between the other device and the query information device is determined by the connection information of a similar device to which the query information is connected and the connection information of the device corresponding to the query information, based on connection record information at other facilities.

15. The method for displaying device group information according to claim 12, characterized in that, in the display step, a performance comparison between the other device and the query information device is displayed by comparing the performance information of similar devices similar to the query information device in the database.

16. The method for displaying equipment group information according to claim 11, further comprising the step of displaying performance information of similar equipment similar to the equipment in the query information in a comparable manner, wherein the method displays a first simulation result image assuming that the image processing function of the similar equipment is activated, and a second simulation result image assuming that the image processing function of the equipment based on the query information is activated, side by side.

17. The device group information display method according to 15, characterized in that the first simulation result image and the second simulation result image are the results of simulating the image selected by the user using the image processing function of each device.

18. A device group information display system comprising: an information input device for inputting queries by a user; an information retrieval device for searching a device information database for device group information related to a user in accordance with the query input by the user; a connection diagram creation device for creating a connection diagram showing the connection status of multiple existing devices included in the device group information, according to the connection feasibility information of each individual device constituting the related device group retrieved from the device information database; and a display device for displaying the connection diagram.

19. A device group information display device comprising: an information input unit for inputting queries by a user; an information retrieval unit for searching a device information database for device group information related to a user in accordance with the query input by the user; a connection diagram creation unit for creating a connection diagram showing the connection status of multiple existing devices included in the device group information, in accordance with the connection feasibility information of each individual device constituting the related device group retrieved from the device information database; and a display control unit for displaying the connection diagram.

20. A device group information display program characterized by: causing a computer to input query information entered by a user; causing a device group information database to search for device group information of a device group related to the user in accordance with the query input by the user; causing a connection diagram showing the connection status of multiple existing devices included in the device group information in accordance with the connection availability information of each individual device constituting the related device group retrieved from the device information database; and displaying the connection diagram.

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