JP2008159080A - Optional component transaction system for medical image diagnostic device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily evaluate and purchase optional components in a medical image diagnostic device. <P>SOLUTION: An MRI device 21' displays a Web page screen G30 for a customer at a display part 2B, on which lease reservation circumstances corresponding to the designations, prices, and schedules of non-purchased option components read from a storage device 3', buttons for a lease request and buttons for purchase are described on one screen in response to the start of a Web browser by a customer, and transmits the transaction request of lease or purchase through a network 1 to a vendor management server device 100' in response to the instruction of the buttons for lease request or the buttons for purchase by the customer. The vendor management server device 100' determines the lease reservation date of the non-purchased option components, and transmits the lease reservation date through the network to the MRI device 21' in receiving the transaction request of lease, and transmits the claim of the purchase price of the non-purchased option components through the network to the MRI device 21' in receiving the transaction request of purchase. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a medical software providing method, a medical image diagnostic apparatus option parts trading method, a medical software providing system, and a medical image diagnostic apparatus option parts trading system. More specifically, a medical software providing method capable of easily evaluating, using, and updating medical software in a medical image diagnostic apparatus, and a medical image diagnostic apparatus capable of easily evaluating and purchasing optional parts. The present invention relates to an optional parts transaction method, a medical software provision system that implements the medical software provision method, and an optional parts transaction system for a medical image diagnostic apparatus that implements the optional parts transaction method for the medical image diagnostic apparatus.

  In general, in advanced medical image diagnostic apparatuses, it is necessary to add or update medical software and optional parts in response to development and improvement of imaging techniques and image generation algorithms. For example, in the case of an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) apparatus, it is necessary to additionally purchase medical software, an RF coil (Radio Frequency Coil), and the like in order to support imaging of a new pulse sequence design (Pulse Sequence Design). However, because medical software and optional parts are expensive, customers have traditionally used images presented at exhibitions exhibited by vendors, images presented by sales representatives, and medical diagnostic imaging devices operating at other hospitals. The image quality and the like of the obtained image were evaluated to determine whether or not the purchase was possible. Then, when it is decided to purchase new medical software or optional parts, the sales representative is informed of the purchase intention and the product is delivered. That is, when the medical software is purchased, the service person visits and the medical software recorded on the FD (Floppy Disk) or the like is installed in the medical image diagnostic apparatus. Similar installation work is also required when updating medical software to the latest version or bug fix version. In addition, if an optional part is purchased, the optional part is delivered.

  As described above, when evaluating an image obtained by a device other than the customer's medical diagnostic imaging system, it is difficult to accurately evaluate due to differences in the system environment (device model, installation conditions), etc. There is a point. Further, every time the medical software is purchased or updated, it is necessary to request the installation work from a service person. Furthermore, once the installation work is completed, the medical software can be used without any restriction, and thus there is a problem that it is difficult to sufficiently respond to the customer needs for trial and temporary use of the medical software. Furthermore, when evaluating or purchasing optional parts, there is a problem in that the procedure is complicated because it is necessary to inform the sales staff of the desire to lend the optional parts and the intention to purchase them.

  Accordingly, a first object of the present invention is to provide a medical software providing method and system capable of easily evaluating, using, and updating medical software in a medical image diagnostic apparatus. A second object of the present invention is to provide an optional parts transaction method and system for a medical diagnostic imaging apparatus that can easily evaluate and purchase optional parts.

  In a first aspect, the present invention provides a medical image diagnostic device and a vendor management server device managed by a vendor serving as a provider of medical software via a network, and the medical image diagnostic device has use restrictions. When the use of medical software is requested by the medical image diagnostic apparatus, the use request is sent to the vendor management server apparatus via the network, and the vendor management server apparatus receives the use request. And providing an option key for making the medical software available to the medical image diagnostic apparatus. In the medical software providing method according to the first aspect, when the medical image diagnosis apparatus uses medical software, a use request is sent to the vendor management server apparatus via the network, and an option key is received from the vendor management server apparatus. Then, using this option key, the medical software registered in the medical image diagnostic apparatus can be used. Therefore, when using medical software, it is only necessary to receive an option key with a small amount of data via the network, and the download time can be shortened compared to when receiving the medical software itself. However, the portable storage medium storing the option key may be delivered to the medical image diagnostic apparatus without sending the option key via the network. In addition, it is possible to realize electronic commerce in which the customer is requested to pay the usage fee at the stage (or before and after) of sending the option key to the medical image diagnostic apparatus. The use may be a permanent use corresponding to “purchase” or a temporary use corresponding to “use” whenever necessary. If the “use restriction” of the medical software is, for example, a restriction on the number of activations, use period, and number of scans, an opportunity to try the medical software in the customer's system environment can be provided. Further, if the “use restriction” is a restriction that makes “unexecutable”, it is possible to prohibit the customer from using the medical software without permission.

  In a second aspect, the present invention relates to medical software with a use restriction on a medical image diagnostic apparatus by connecting a medical image diagnostic apparatus and a vendor management server apparatus managed by a vendor as a provider of medical software via a network. When the use of medical software is requested on the customer web page displayed on the medical image diagnostic apparatus, the use request is sent to the vendor management server apparatus via the network, and the vendor management server apparatus There is provided a method for providing medical software, characterized in that an option key for enabling use of the medical software is sent to the medical image diagnostic apparatus upon receiving a use request. The medical software providing method according to the second aspect has the same operation as the medical software providing method according to the first aspect. In addition, the customer can accurately specify medical software and request instructions in a unified GUI (Graphical User Interface) environment while browsing the customer web page screen displayed on the medical image diagnostic apparatus. Furthermore, since the contents of web pages are generally easy to change and add, the vendor management server apparatus can easily perform processing for correcting the contents of the customer web page according to the current state of the customer.

  In a third aspect, the present invention connects a medical image diagnostic apparatus and a vendor management server apparatus managed by a vendor as a provider of medical software via a network, registers the medical software in the medical image diagnostic apparatus, When an update of medical software is requested on the customer web page displayed on the medical image diagnostic apparatus, the update request is sent to the vendor management server apparatus via the network, and the vendor management server apparatus receives the update request. In response to this, a medical software providing method is provided, wherein update data for the medical software is sent to the medical image diagnostic apparatus. In the medical software providing method according to the third aspect, when updating the medical software registered in the medical image diagnostic apparatus, an update request is sent to the vendor management server apparatus via the network, and the update data is transmitted from the vendor management server apparatus. Receive. Then, the medical software is updated using the update data. Accordingly, it is possible to save the customer's labor and time required for renewal. In addition, it is possible to realize electronic commerce for charging the customer for payment of the update fee at the stage (or before and after) of sending the update data to the medical image diagnostic apparatus.

  In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing method configured as described above, wherein the vendor management server device pays a use fee or an update fee for the medical software to a customer corresponding to the medical image diagnostic device or a settlement organization thereof. The medical software providing method is characterized in that the option key or the update data is sent to the medical image diagnostic apparatus only when billing is successful. In the medical software providing method according to the fourth aspect, since the transaction with the customer is accepted only when the billing for using or updating the medical software is successful, it is possible to realize the electronic commerce that reliably collects the price.

  In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing method configured as described above, wherein the vendor management server device transmits medical software to the medical image diagnostic device via a network, and the medical image diagnostic device. A method for providing medical software, characterized by registering in a computer, is provided. In the medical software providing method according to the fifth aspect, since the medical software is registered in the medical image diagnostic apparatus via the network, it is possible to save time and labor for transferring the portable recording medium on which the medical software is recorded to the customer.

  In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing method configured as described above, wherein the vendor management server device transmits a customer web page to the medical image diagnostic device via a network, and the medical image is provided. Provided is a method for providing medical software, which is registered in a diagnostic apparatus. In the medical software providing method according to the sixth aspect, since the customer web page is registered in the medical image diagnostic apparatus via the network, it is possible to save time and labor for transferring the portable recording medium on which the customer web page is recorded to the customer. it can.

  In a seventh aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing method configured as described above, wherein the medical image diagnostic apparatus reads and displays a customer web page centrally managed by the vendor management server apparatus via a network. A method for providing medical software is provided. In the medical software providing method according to the seventh aspect, the medical image diagnostic apparatus reads and displays the customer web page centrally managed by the vendor management server apparatus via the network, so that the customer web page is displayed on the medical image diagnostic apparatus. Need not be registered, and the storage capacity of the medical image diagnostic apparatus can be saved. Further, even when the content of the customer web page is modified according to the current state of the customer, the latest customer web page can always be browsed.

  In an eighth aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing method configured as described above, wherein the medical image diagnostic apparatus includes an MRI apparatus, an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) apparatus, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and PET (Positron Emission). Provided is a method for providing medical software, characterized in that it is at least one of a computed tomography device, a digitized X-ray (digital X-ray imaging and X-ray film digitization), and a CR device (Computed Radiography). . In the medical software providing method according to the eighth aspect, medical software used for various medical image diagnostic apparatuses (MRI apparatus, X-ray CT apparatus, ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, PET apparatus, digitized X-ray and CR apparatus) is used. It can be suitably provided.

  In a ninth aspect, the present invention relates to a medical image diagnostic apparatus in which a medical image diagnostic apparatus is connected to a vendor management server apparatus managed by a vendor that provides an optional component used in the medical image diagnostic apparatus via a network. When the rental or purchase of the optional parts is requested on the customer web page displayed in step (b), a transaction request is sent to the vendor management server device via the network, and the vendor management server device receives the transaction request. An optional parts transaction method for a medical diagnostic imaging apparatus is provided in which the vendor responds to the lending or the purchase as an opportunity. In the option parts transaction method for the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the ninth aspect described above, there is no complicated procedure by simply instructing the customer to lend or purchase the optional parts on the customer web page screen displayed by the medical image diagnostic apparatus. In addition, optional parts can be borrowed or purchased for evaluation from the vendor side.

  In a tenth aspect, the present invention relates to a medical image diagnostic apparatus in which medical software with usage restrictions is registered, a vendor management server apparatus managed by a vendor that provides the medical software, and the medical image diagnostic apparatus. A network for connecting the vendor management server device, and the medical diagnostic imaging device sends the usage request to the vendor management server device via the network when requested to use medical software. The management server device provides a medical software providing system characterized in that an option key for making the medical software available is sent to the medical image diagnostic device upon receiving the use request. In the medical software providing system according to the tenth aspect, the medical software providing method according to the first aspect can be suitably implemented.

  In an eleventh aspect, the present invention relates to a medical image diagnostic apparatus in which medical software with usage restrictions is registered, a vendor management server apparatus managed by a vendor that provides the medical software, and the medical image diagnostic apparatus. A network for connecting the vendor management server device, and when the medical image diagnostic device is requested to use medical software on a customer web page, the vendor management server sends the usage request to the vendor management server via the network. And providing the medical software providing system, wherein the vendor management server device sends an option key for making the medical software available when the use request is received to the medical image diagnostic device. To do. In the medical software providing system according to the eleventh aspect, the medical software providing method according to the second aspect can be suitably implemented.

  In a twelfth aspect, the present invention relates to a medical image diagnostic apparatus in which medical software is registered, a vendor management server apparatus managed by a vendor as a provider of the medical software, the medical image diagnostic apparatus, and the vendor management server. A network connecting the devices, the medical diagnostic imaging device sends the update request to the vendor management server device via the network when requested to update the medical software on the customer web page, The vendor management server apparatus provides a medical software providing system characterized by sending update data for the medical software to the medical image diagnostic apparatus when the update request is received. In the medical software providing system according to the twelfth aspect, the medical software providing method according to the third aspect can be suitably implemented.

  In a thirteenth aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing system configured as described above, wherein the vendor management server device pays a use fee or an update fee for the medical software to a customer corresponding to the medical image diagnostic device or its settlement organization. The medical software providing system is characterized by sending the option key or the update data to the medical image diagnostic apparatus only when billing is successful. In the medical software provision system according to the thirteenth aspect, the medical software provision method according to the fourth aspect can be suitably implemented.

  In a fourteenth aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing system configured as described above, wherein the vendor management server device transmits medical software to the medical image diagnostic device via a network, and the medical image diagnostic device. A medical software providing system characterized by being registered in In the medical software providing system according to the fourteenth aspect, the medical software providing method according to the fifth aspect can be suitably implemented.

  In a fifteenth aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing system configured as described above, wherein the vendor management server device transmits the customer web page to the medical image diagnostic device via the network, Provided is a system for providing medical software, which is registered in an image diagnostic apparatus. In the medical software providing system according to the fifteenth aspect, the medical software providing method according to the sixth aspect can be suitably implemented.

  In a sixteenth aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing system configured as described above, wherein the medical image diagnostic apparatus reads and displays a customer web page centrally managed by the vendor management server apparatus via a network. A system for providing medical software is provided. In the medical software providing system according to the sixteenth aspect, the medical software providing method according to the seventh aspect can be suitably implemented.

  In a seventeenth aspect, the present invention provides the medical software providing system configured as described above, wherein the medical image diagnostic apparatus is digitized with an MRI apparatus, an X-ray CT apparatus, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and a PET apparatus. Provided is a medical software providing system characterized by being at least one of an X-ray and a CR apparatus. In the medical software providing system according to the seventeenth aspect, the medical software providing method according to the eighth aspect can be suitably implemented.

  In an eighteenth aspect, the present invention relates to a medical image diagnostic apparatus, a vendor management server apparatus managed by a vendor that provides an optional component used in the medical image diagnostic apparatus, the medical image diagnostic apparatus, and the vendor management server. The medical image diagnostic apparatus sends a transaction request to the vendor management server apparatus via the network when the rental or purchase of the optional parts is requested on a customer web page. The vendor management server device sends a transaction completion notification to the medical image diagnostic device via the network when the transaction request is received. provide. In the medical image diagnostic apparatus option parts transaction system according to the eighteenth aspect, the medical image diagnostic apparatus option parts transaction method according to the ninth aspect can be suitably implemented.

  According to the method and system for providing medical software of the present invention, the customer simply gives an instruction to purchase or update medical software on a medical image diagnostic apparatus (for example, MRI apparatus, X-ray CT apparatus, ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus). Since it is possible to receive option keys and update data for canceling usage restrictions, the latest medical software can be used easily and quickly. In particular, when accepting customer instructions on a customer web page screen that is modified according to the customer's current situation, the customer can efficiently conduct electronic commerce in a unified GUI environment, which is useful Is expensive. In addition, according to the option parts transaction method and system for the medical image diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, the customer only has to instruct lending and purchasing optional parts on the customer web page screen displayed by the medical image diagnostic apparatus. The optional parts can be borrowed for evaluation or purchased from the vendor without any complicated procedures.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to embodiments shown in the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited thereby.

-First embodiment-
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a medical software providing system 1000 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. This medical software providing system 1000 includes a network 1 such as the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), and a WAN (Wide Area Network), and an MRI apparatus 21 (installed at a hospital A) connected to the network 1. A device 22 (same as hospital B), an X-ray CT device 23 (same as hospital C), an ultrasonic diagnostic device 24 (same as hospital D), and a vendor management server device 100 managed by a vendor V Configured. Further, a PET apparatus, digitized X-ray and CR apparatus may be connected to the network 1. When the network 1 is the Internet, a non-subscriber 60 that is a terminal that is not contracted to use the vendor management server device 100 is also connected to the network 1. From the viewpoint of security, it is preferable to use SSL (Secure Socket Layer Protocol) or the like.

  Customers (A hospital to D hospital) who operate the MRI apparatuses 21 and 22, the X-ray CT apparatus 23, and the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 24 are contracted as users of the vendor management server apparatus 100, respectively. A subscriber program recorded on a storage medium (CD-ROM, FD, etc.) distributed from a vendor V or a subscriber program distributed via the network 1 is used as a subscriber by using each device. It functions and can receive medical software and a customer web page (Web Page) via the network 1 and register them in a local storage device (3 in FIG. 2).

The vendor management server device 100 holds subscriber information. The subscriber information is created / updated as follows.
(1) The new subscriber concludes a contract for receiving provision of medical software with the vendor V, and receives a storage medium storing a program corresponding to the contract content. Alternatively, the program is downloaded via the network 1.
(2) When a new subscriber installs the program and starts up for the first time, the vendor management server device 100 is automatically requested to update the subscriber information via the network 1. Then, the vendor management server apparatus 100 adds a new subscriber to the subscriber information.
(3) Based on the cancellation of the subscriber's contract, the vendor management server device 100 deletes the subscriber from the subscriber information.

  The vendor V receives a subscription fee at the time of contract. Also, a management fee for services such as maintenance and update of subscriber information is received at regular intervals or irregularly. Furthermore, the program is also sold.

  FIG. 2 is a configuration block diagram of the vendor management server apparatus 100 and the MRI apparatus 21. The vendor management server device 100 includes a communication unit 10A, an input unit 10B, an output unit 10C, a security management unit 10D, a database management unit 10E, and a database 11, and is controlled by a medical information management program. Is working with. The database 11 includes a web page for each customer, that is, a customer web page 12A corresponding to the MRI apparatus 21, a customer web page 12B corresponding to the MRI apparatus 22, and a customer web corresponding to the X-ray CT apparatus 23. A page 12C and a customer web page 12D corresponding to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 24 are stored. In addition, a large number of medical software 13 used for a medical image diagnostic apparatus such as an MRI apparatus is stored. However, the medical software 13 has a function for limiting its use. Furthermore, an option key 14 for making the medical software 13 usable (releasing the use restriction) is stored. The storage medium of the database 11 is, for example, a large capacity hard disk.

  The MRI apparatus 21 includes a connection unit 2A, a display unit 2B having a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an MRI system main body 2C, a security management unit 2D, a web page browsing unit 2E, The storage device controller 2F and a storage device 3 such as a hard disk device are provided. In the storage device 3, a customer web page 12A and medical software 13 sent from the vendor management server device 100 are registered (details will be described later). The connection unit 2A is formed by executing a connection program that mediates communication with the network 1. The web page browsing unit 2E is formed by executing a web browser such as a UNIX (registered trademark) version of Netscape Navigator (manufactured by Netscape Communications). The X-ray CT apparatus 23 includes an X-ray CT system main body instead of the MRI system main body 2C. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 24 includes an ultrasonic diagnostic system main body instead of the MRI system main body 2C.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a process for registering the customer web page (12A in this example) and the medical software 13 in the medical image diagnostic apparatus and updating the registered contents. The flow on the left is the flow of the vendor management server apparatus 100. The flow on the right side is the flow of the medical image diagnostic apparatus (assuming the MRI apparatus 21). In step s1, the vendor management server apparatus 100 requests the MRI apparatus 21 to register the customer web page 12A and the medical software 13 via the network 1. Specific examples of the customer web page 12A and the medical software 13 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

  In step a1, the MRI apparatus 21 receives the registration request. In step a2, the security management unit 2D of the MRI apparatus 21 checks the validity of the registration request, and if not valid, proceeds to step a3, and if valid, proceeds to step a4. This validity check uses a known validity check method for connecting a communication line, such as a network address or telephone number check, a password check, and an ID card check. In step a3, the communication line is disconnected. In step a4, the vendor management server apparatus 100 is requested for the customer web page 12A and the medical software 13.

  In step s2, the vendor management server apparatus 100 receives the request for the customer web page 12A and the medical software 13. In step s3, the customer web page 12A and the medical software 13 are transmitted to the MRI apparatus 21 via the network 1.

  In step a5, the MRI apparatus 21 receives the customer web page 12A and the medical software 13. In step a6, the customer web page 12A and the medical software 13 are registered in the storage device 3.

  In step s4, the vendor management server apparatus 100 waits until the update time of the customer web page 12A and / or the medical software 13 is reached, and proceeds to step s5 when the update time is reached. The update time is, for example, when a certain period of time has elapsed since registration or last update, or when the contents of the customer web page or the medical software 13 are modified. In step s5, an update request for the customer web page 12A and / or the medical software 13 is transmitted to the MRI apparatus 21 via the network 1.

  In step a7, the MRI apparatus 21 receives the update request. In step a8, the security management unit 2D of the MRI apparatus 21 checks the validity of the update request. If it is not valid, the process proceeds to step a9, and if it is valid, the process proceeds to step a10. In step a9, the communication line is disconnected. In step a10, the vendor management server apparatus 100 is requested for the customer web page 12A and the medical software 13 via the network 1.

  In step s6, the vendor management server apparatus 100 receives the request for the customer web page 12A and / or the medical software 13. In step s7, the latest customer web page 12A and / or medical software 13 is transmitted to the MRI apparatus 21 via the network 1.

  In step a11, the MRI apparatus 21 receives the customer web page 12A and / or the medical software 13. In step a12, the registered content of the customer web page 12A and / or the medical software 13 is updated.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing processing for evaluating / using / purchasing the medical software 13 in the medical image diagnostic apparatus. The flow on the left is the flow of the medical image diagnostic apparatus (assuming the MRI apparatus 21). The flow on the right side is the flow of the vendor management server apparatus 100. In step a21, the customer who operates the MRI apparatus 21 starts a web browser and browses the customer web page 12A. For example, as shown in the customer web page screen G1 in FIG. 5, the application software information related to [A hospital] is displayed as a list of installed application software, unpurchased application software and its price, and each unpurchased application software The “evaluation” request button, “use” request button, “purchase” request button, and “install” button are displayed. Note that “evaluation” means that the medical software 13 is tried with restrictions. “Use” means that the right to use the medical software 13 once or for a certain period of time is acquired by paying the money as needed. “Purchase” means purchase of the medical software 13 (generally, a permanent license agreement is concluded). “Install” means that the option key 14 for making the medical software 13 available is taken into the system. In the illustrated customer web page screen G1, [MR_SYSTEM_3DPC] is 3DPC (Dimension Phase Collection) software which is a kind of MRI imaging option. [MR_SYSTEM_SE] is pulse sequence software of SE (Spin Echo) method. [MR_SYSTEM_FSE] is FSE (Fast Spin Echo) method pulse sequence software. [MR_SYSTEM_EPI] is EPI (Echo Planar Imaging) method pulse sequence software. [MR_SYSTEM_FASE] is FASE (Fast Asymmetric Spin Echo) method pulse sequence software.

  In step a22, if the "evaluation" request button for any unpurchased application software is clicked on the customer web page screen G1 displayed on the MRI apparatus 21, the process proceeds to step a23, and if not, the process proceeds to step a28. . In step a23, if the medical software 13 requested for evaluation is being used, the process proceeds to step a24, and if not, the process proceeds to step a25. In step a24, a trial message is displayed. For example, as shown in the trial message screen G2 in FIG. 6, “MR_SYSTEM_FASE is in trial. You can try it for 16 days.” Is displayed. In step a25, the validity of the evaluation request is checked. If not valid, the process proceeds to step a26, and if valid, the process proceeds to step a27. For example, when an evaluation request is made again for the medical software 13 that has been tried in the past, it is determined that the software is not valid. In step a26, error processing is performed. For example, as shown in the error message screen G3 in FIG. 7, “MR_SYSTEM_FSE is used” is displayed. In step a27, the medical software 13 is made available with restrictions. The restrictions are restrictions such as the number of activations, usage period, and number of scans.

  In step a28, if the "purchase" request button or the "use" request button for any unpurchased application software is clicked, the process proceeds to step a29, and if not, the process returns to step a22. In step a29, a purchase request or use request for unpurchased application software designated in step a28 is transmitted to the vendor management server apparatus 100 via the network 1.

  In step s21, the vendor management server apparatus 100 receives the purchase request or the use request. In step s22, the purchase price or the usage fee is charged to the customer or its settlement institution, and if the charging is successful, the process proceeds to step s24, and if not, the process proceeds to step s23. For example, the customer performed an operation of displaying a price request screen (not shown) on the display unit 2B of the MRI apparatus 21 to request a purchase price or a usage price, and paying with a transfer from a deposit account, a credit card or a payment agency service. Then, it is determined that the billing is successful. In step s23, the communication line is disconnected. In step s24, the option key 14 for making the corresponding medical software 13 available is transmitted to the MRI apparatus 21 via the network 1. That is, in the case of “purchase”, the option key 14 for making it permanently available is transmitted. In the case of “use”, an option key 14 that is temporarily usable is transmitted. For example, the number of activations and the number of scans are limited (may be one or more), or the period of use is limited (may be one day, or longer or shorter) option key 14 Send.

  In step a30, the MRI apparatus 21 receives the option key 14. In step a31, an “install” button (see FIG. 5) corresponding to the corresponding medical software 13 is clicked to install the option key 14. Thereby, the medical software 13 can be used.

  According to the medical software providing system 1000 according to the first embodiment described above, since the medical software 13 can be tried in the customer's system environment, it is possible to accurately evaluate whether or not purchase is possible. Further, when the medical software 13 is properly purchased and used, it is only necessary to receive the option key 14 having a small data amount via the network 1, and the medical software 13 can be executed quickly.

  Alternatively, a CD-ROM or the like storing medical software 13 with usage restrictions may be handed over to the customer, and the customer may read the medical software 13 from the medium and register it in the medical image diagnostic apparatus. In this case, it is not necessary to transmit the medical software 13 having a large amount of data via the network 1, so that the registration work can be completed in a short time. In addition, the customer web page (12A in the above example) centrally managed by the vendor management server apparatus 100 may be browsed via the network 1. In this case, since it is not necessary to register the customer web page in the storage device 3 of the medical image diagnostic apparatus, the capacity of the storage device 3 can be saved. Further, instead of transmitting the option key 14 via the network 1, an FD or the like in which the option key 14 is recorded may be delivered to the customer side. In this case, it is possible to further improve the security by reducing the possibility that the option key 14 is illegally learned, copied, and tampered.

-Second Embodiment-
In the second embodiment, a customer web page screen for updating installed application software is displayed on the display unit of the medical image diagnostic apparatus. For example, as shown in the customer web page screen G20 in FIG. 8, the current version, the updatable version, and the “update” request button are displayed for each installed application software as the update information related to [A hospital]. In the illustrated example, [MR_SYSTEM_3DPC] can be updated from the current version 2.0 to version 2.2, and [MR_SYSTEM_SE] can be updated from the current version 3.0 to version 3.3. The customer web page that is the basis of the screen is registered in the storage device 3 of the medical image diagnostic apparatus on the customer side by the processing described above with reference to FIG. When the customer clicks the “update” request button corresponding to the installed application software to be updated, an update request is sent to the vendor management server apparatus 100 via the network 1. Then, the vendor management server apparatus 100 transmits update data for the new version to the corresponding medical image diagnostic apparatus via the network 1. As a result, the installed application software is updated to the latest version. According to the second embodiment described above, the customer can update data from the vendor management server device 100 only by clicking the “update” request button on the customer web page screen G20 displayed by the medical image diagnostic apparatus. Receive and update installed application software.

  In the second embodiment, instead of or in addition to upgrading the installed application software, the installed application software may be updated to a bug correction version.

-Third embodiment-
In the third embodiment, a customer web page screen (G30 in FIG. 10) for trading optional parts is displayed on the display device of the medical image diagnostic system on the customer side, and the optional parts are traded.

  FIG. 9 is a configuration block diagram of the vendor management server apparatus 100 ′ and the MRI apparatus 21 ′ of the optional part transaction system 3000 for medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the third embodiment. The database 11 'of the vendor management server apparatus 100' stores customer web pages 12A ', 12B', 12C ', 12D' for each customer. The customer web page 12A 'is registered in the storage device 3 of the MRI apparatus 21' (the registration method is as described above with reference to FIG. 3).

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a process in which a customer requests lending or purchasing optional parts. The flow on the left is the flow of the medical image diagnostic apparatus (assuming the MRI apparatus 21 '). The flow on the right side is the flow of the vendor management server apparatus 100. In step a41, the customer who operates the MRI apparatus 21 'starts a web browser and browses the customer web page. For example, as shown in the customer web page screen G30 in FIG. 11, as optional part information related to [A hospital], a list of purchased optional parts (type name thereof), unpurchased optional parts, their prices, and lending reservation statuses are displayed. At the same time, a “rental request” button and a “purchase” request button are displayed corresponding to each unpurchased option part. In the schedule display of the lending reservation status, “done” means that another customer has already been reserved, “reserved” means that hospital A has already been reserved, and “empty” is available for lending. It means that. The optional component is, for example, an MRI RF coil.

  In step a42, if a "rental request" button for any unpurchased optional parts is clicked on the customer web page screen G30 displayed on the MRI apparatus 21 ', the process proceeds to step a43, and if not, the process proceeds to step a45. move on. In step a43, a request for lending for unpurchased optional parts is transmitted to the vendor management server apparatus 100 via the network 1.

  In step s41, the vendor management server apparatus 100 receives the lending request. In step s42, the validity of the loan request is checked. If it is not valid, the process proceeds to step s43, and if it is valid, the process proceeds to step s44. For example, if the same unpurchased optional parts have been rented in the past, it is determined that it is not valid. In step s43, the communication line is disconnected. In step s44, the lending reservation date is determined, and the lending reservation date is transmitted to the MRI apparatus 21 'via the network 1. Thereafter, the vendor ships unpurchased optional parts to the customer in accordance with the lending reservation date.

  In step a44, the MRI apparatus 21 'receives the lending reservation date. This lending reservation date is reflected on the customer web page screen G30 (see FIG. 11). In step a45, if the “purchase” request button for any unpurchased optional parts is clicked, the process proceeds to step a46, and if not, the process returns to step a42. In step a46, a purchase request for unpurchased optional parts is transmitted to the vendor management server apparatus 100 via the network 1.

  In step s45, the vendor management server apparatus 100 receives the purchase request. In step s46, the purchase price is charged to the customer or the settlement institution, and if the charging is successful, the process proceeds to step s48, and if not, the process proceeds to step s47. In step s47, the communication line is disconnected. In step s48, a transaction completion notification is transmitted to the MRI apparatus 21 'via the network 1. The transaction is communicated to the vendor sales department, manufacturing department, and service department. Then, an order slip is sent from the sales department to the customer, and optional parts are sent from the manufacturing department to the customer. In addition, the service department updates the customer web page 12A to the latest content and updates the registered content of the MRI apparatus 21 '.

  In step a47, the MRI apparatus 21 'receives the transaction completion notice. In step a48, a purchase confirmation message is displayed. For example, as shown in the purchase confirmation message screen G31 in FIG. 12, “Thank you for purchasing MR_RFCOIL_BDY.” Is displayed. Thereafter, the process returns to step a42.

  According to the third embodiment described above, the customer clicks a “loan request” button or a “purchase” request button on the customer web page screen G30 displayed by the medical image diagnostic apparatus (for example, the MRI apparatus 21 ′). By simply doing this, you can borrow or purchase optional parts for evaluation from the vendor side.

It is a block diagram which shows the medical software provision system concerning 1st Embodiment. FIG. 2 is a configuration block diagram of a vendor management server apparatus and an MRI apparatus in the medical software providing system of FIG. 1. It is a flowchart which shows the process which registers a customer web page and medical software in a medical image diagnostic apparatus, and updates the registration content. It is a flowchart which shows the process which evaluates / uses / purchases medical software with a medical image diagnostic apparatus. It is an illustration figure of the web page screen for customers. It is an illustration figure of the message screen during trial use. It is an illustration figure of an error message screen. It is an illustration figure of the web page screen for customers concerning 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram of a configuration of a vendor management server apparatus and an MRI apparatus according to a third embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process in which a customer requests | requires rental / purchase of an optional component. It is another example figure of a web page screen for customers. It is an illustration figure of a purchase confirmation message screen.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ultrasonic probe 1 Network 2B Display part 2C MRI system main body 2D Security management part 2E Web page browsing part 2F Storage device control part 3 Storage device 10A Communication part 10B Input part 10C Output part 10D Security management part 10E Database management part 11 Database 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D Customer web page 12A ', 12B', 12C ', 12D' Customer web page 13 Medical software 14 Option key 21, 21 ', 22 MRI machine 23 X-ray CT machine 24 Ultrasound diagnosis Device 60 Non-subscriber 100,100 'Vendor management server device 1000 Medical software providing system 3000 Optional parts transaction system for medical diagnostic imaging device V Vendor

Claims (5)

A medical image diagnostic apparatus, a vendor management server apparatus managed by a vendor as a provider of optional components used in the medical image diagnostic apparatus, and a network connecting the medical image diagnostic apparatus and the vendor management server apparatus Become
The medical diagnostic imaging apparatus reads the name of the unpurchased optional parts, the price, the lending reservation status corresponding to the schedule, the button for lending request and the purchase, which are read from the storage unit in response to the activation of the web browser by the customer A customer's web page with a button for one is displayed on the screen, and a transaction request for lending or purchasing is made according to the instruction of the button for lending request or the button for purchasing by the customer To the vendor management server device via the network,
When the vendor management server apparatus receives the lending transaction request, the vendor management server apparatus determines a lending reservation date for the unpurchased optional parts, and transmits the lending reservation date to the medical image diagnostic apparatus via the network. When the purchase transaction request is received, a request for purchase price of the unpurchased optional parts is transmitted to the medical image diagnostic apparatus via the network. system. In the optional parts transaction system for medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 1,
The vendor management server device checks the validity of the loan request when receiving the loan transaction request, and disconnects the communication line of the network when the request is not valid. Optional parts trading system for diagnostic equipment. In the optional parts transaction system for medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 2,
An option parts transaction system for a medical diagnostic imaging apparatus, including a case where the vendor management server device records that the unpurchased option parts have been rented when the loan request is not valid. In the optional parts transaction system for medical image diagnostic apparatuses according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
When the vendor management server device receives payment of the purchase price of the unpurchased optional parts by a customer, the vendor management server device transmits a transaction establishment notification to the medical image diagnostic device via the network. Optional parts trading system for diagnostic equipment. In the optional parts transaction system for medical image diagnostic apparatuses according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The medical image diagnostic apparatus is an MRI apparatus, and the optional part is an MRI RF coil.

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