Automated external defibrillator and method of displaying a status of an automated external defibrillator

Abstract

An automatic external defibrillator (1) is provided with a self-test executor (10) that executes a self-test for checking a state of the automatic external defibrillator (1), and a display unit (40(41)) that displays the state of the automatic external defibrillator (1). The display unit (40(41)) performs a first display when the automatic external defibrillator (1) is in a normal state, a second display when the automatic external defibrillator (1) is in an abnormal state, and simultaneously or in a predetermined pattern the first display and the second display when the automatic external defibrillator (1) is performing the self-test.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an automated external defibrillator and a method for displaying the status of the automated external defibrillator. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are equipped with a self-test function. This self-test checks things like the remaining battery level, the connection to the defibrillation pad, and whether various circuits are working properly, thus determining whether the AED is functioning correctly.

[0003] Typically, the results of a self-test are indicated by a predetermined indicator. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an AED that notifies the user of the self-test results by illuminating a green LED (light-emitting diode) when the self-test result is normal or a red LED when a fault has been detected.

[0004] Reference List

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: JP-A-2018-134447 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose a method for indicating that the AED is performing a self-test. Even if the AED is in a self-test state as disclosed in Patent Document 1 is indicated by lighting up a red LED, it is impossible to distinguish between a self-testing AED and a malfunctioning AED.

[0009] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an automated external defibrillator (AED) capable of notifying a user in distinguishable modes whether the AED is functioning normally, whether an abnormality such as a malfunction has occurred in the AED, and whether the AED is performing a self-test, as well as to provide a method for displaying the status of the AED.

[0010] Technical solution

[0011] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an automated external defibrillator is provided, comprising:

[0012] A self-test actuator performs a self-test to check the status of the automated external defibrillator; and

[0013] A display unit that displays the status of the automated external defibrillator, wherein the display unit...

[0014] The first display is made when the automated external defibrillator is in normal working order.

[0015] A second display is made when the automated external defibrillator is in an abnormal state, and

[0016] The first display and the second display are performed simultaneously or in a predetermined pattern during the self-test of the automated external defibrillator.

[0017] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a method is provided for displaying the status of an automated external defibrillator (AED), the method causing the AED to perform the following steps:

[0018] The execution steps include performing a self-test to check the status of the automated external defibrillator; and

[0019] The display step displays the status of the automated external defibrillator, wherein the display step includes:

[0020] The first display step is performed when the automated external defibrillator is in normal condition;

[0021] The second display step involves performing a second display when the automated external defibrillator is in an abnormal state; and

[0022] The third display step involves simultaneously or in a predetermined pattern displaying the first and second displays while the automated external defibrillator is performing a self-test.

[0023] Beneficial effects of the invention

[0024] Based on the above structure, the user can be notified in distinct modes of the automated external defibrillator's (AED) normal operation, abnormal operation (such as a malfunction), and self-test operation. More specifically, a third display mode is configured, in addition to the two display modes (first and second displays), by simultaneously displaying the first and second displays or displaying them in a predetermined pattern. Thus, the user can be notified of three states—normal, abnormal, and self-test—using only the first and second display modes. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of an automated external defibrillator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a top view schematically illustrating an example of the external structure of an automated external defibrillator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 3 Parts (a) to (d) are schematic diagrams illustrating examples of the display modes of the indicator. Figure 3 Part (a) shows an example of the first display mode. Figure 3 Section (b) shows an example of the second display mode. Figure 3 Section (c) shows an example of the third display mode, and Figure 3 Section (d) shows another example of the third display mode.

[0028] Figure 4 Parts (a) and (b) are shown to be different Figure 3 The examples of parts (a) to (d) are schematic diagrams illustrating the display modes of the indicator when it is in use. Figure 4 Part (a) shows an example of the third display mode, and Figure 4 Section (b) shows another example of the third display mode.

[0029] Reference tag list

[0030] 1: Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

[0031] 10: Controller (Self-testing actuator)

[0032] 20: Memory

[0033] 30: Operating the receiver

[0034] 31: Power button

[0035] 32: Check button

[0036] 40: Display Unit

[0037] 41, 141: Indicators

[0038] 42a: First light source

[0039] 42b: Second light source

[0040] 43: Monitor

[0041] 50: Sound generator

[0042] 60: High-voltage generator

[0043] 70: Pad connector

[0044] 80: Power supply

[0045] 90: Defibrillation pad Detailed Implementation

[0046] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, even in different drawings, the same reference numerals or names are used to refer to the same or equivalent components, and therefore repeated descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0047] First, we will use Figure 1 Describe the individual processors that make up AED 1. Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of an AED 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The AED 1 includes a controller 10, a memory 20, an operation receiver 30, a display unit 40, a speaker 50, a high-voltage generator 60, a pad connector 70, and a power supply 80.

[0048] The controller 10 reads and executes programs stored in the memory 20 to control various actions of the AED 1. The controller 10 may include a processor such as a CPU (central processing unit), a memory such as ROM (read-only memory) or RAM (random access memory), a real-time clock, an A / D converter, etc.

[0049] The controller 10 controls various life-saving actions (hereinafter also referred to as "life-saving actions"), such as energy charging and discharging control, sequence control, A / D conversion, and electrocardiogram analysis. Furthermore, the controller 10 controls the execution of the self-test of the AED 1. That is, the controller 10 also acts as a self-test actuator. The self-test can be performed when a preset time arrives, or when the operation receiver 30 receives a predetermined operation input (e.g., the check button 32, which will be described later, has been pressed).

[0050] During the self-test, for example, the controller 10 checks the circuitry used to control life-saving actions (such as confirming the time constant of the ECG input circuit, confirming the circuitry for identifying electrode contact, and confirming the energy value during capacitor charging / internal discharge), the power supply 80 (such as voltage value, remaining battery value, and current consumption value), and the defibrillator pad 90 connected to the pad connector 70 (such as confirming the pad's resistance value and lifespan), to confirm that they are normal or abnormal. The result of the self-test (i.e., whether AED 1 is in a normal or abnormal state) is displayed on the indicator 41, which will be described later. Furthermore, even during the self-test, a display can be made on the indicator 41 to notify the user of the execution of the self-test.

[0051] The memory 20 stores necessary procedures for AED operation, audio data, adjustment values, electrocardiogram data during life-saving operations, self-test results, etc. The memory 20 may include, for example, an auxiliary storage device, such as a hard disk. A portion of the memory 20 may be an external storage device that can be removably attached to the AED 1.

[0052] The operation receiver 30 receives operation input from the user. The operation receiver 30 includes a power button 31 and a check button 32. The power button 31 is used to initiate life-saving actions. The check button 32 is used to initiate a self-test. Additionally, although not shown, the operation receiver 30 may also include a button for administering an electric shock, a button for setting a self-test timing, etc.

[0053] The display unit 40 includes an indicator 41 and a display 43. The indicator 41 displays the status of the AED 1. When the AED 1 is in a normal state, the indicator 41 performs a first display as a first display mode. Furthermore, when the AED 1 is in an abnormal state, the indicator 41 performs a second display as a second display mode. Additionally, when the AED 1 performs a self-test, the indicator 41 simultaneously performs the first and second displays in a predetermined pattern as a third display mode. Here, the "predetermined pattern" is not limited, as long as both the first and second displays are used. The "predetermined pattern" can be, for example, alternating between the first display and the second display more than once. Specifically, the "predetermined pattern" can be a pattern that alternates between the first and second displays repeatedly, or a pattern that repeatedly alternates between one of the first and second displays and the other of the first and second displays multiple times consecutively, or a pattern that repeatedly alternates between the first and second displays multiple times consecutively. Furthermore, the number of times the first and second displays are performed in the predetermined pattern need not be constant. The style can be as follows: a first display, followed by two second displays, followed by two first displays, and then three second displays.

[0054] The indicator 41 includes a first light source 42a and a second light source 42b. A first display is, for example, illuminating the first light source 42a to display a first color (such as green or blue). A second display is, for example, illuminating the second light source 42b to display a second color different from the first color (such as red or yellow). When the first and second displays occur simultaneously, for example, the first and second colors are displayed simultaneously at different locations on the indicator 41, or a mixture of the first and second colors is displayed on the indicator 41. Furthermore, when the first and second displays alternate, for example, the first and second colors are displayed alternately on the indicator 41. Specific examples of these display modes will be provided in the following paragraphs using... Figure 3 Parts (a) to (d) and Figure 4 The (a) and (b) sections are described in detail.

[0055] Preferably, the first light source 42a and the second light source 42b are LED light sources. The first light source 42a may be an LED light source capable of emitting light of a first color alone, or it may be an LED light source capable of emitting light of a first color in combination with a fluorescent material. Similarly, the second light source 42b may be an LED light source capable of emitting light of a second color alone, or it may be an LED light source capable of emitting light of a second color in combination with a fluorescent material. Furthermore, the indicator 41 may be provided with an RGB light source composed of the first light source 42a, the second light source 42b, and a third light source (not shown). In this case, each of the first color and the second color may be a single color selected from RGB, or a mixed color formed by controlling the output ratio between the RGB light sources.

[0056] Incidentally, the indicator 41 may be equipped with a magnetic reversal disk, replacing the first light source 42a and the second light source 42b. In this case, when the AED 1 is functioning normally, one side of the magnetic reversal disk (first display) is displayed as the first display mode. Furthermore, when the AED 1 malfunctions, the other side of the magnetic reversal disk (second display) is displayed as the second display mode. Additionally, when the AED 1 performs a self-test, one side and the other side of the magnetic reversal disk are displayed alternately as a third display mode.

[0057] Display 43 is, for example, an LCD display. Display 43 displays instructions or electrocardiogram signals to the user in the form of graphics or characters. Display 43 may be equipped with a touch panel or may also be used as an operation receiver 30. Incidentally, according to another configuration in which display 43 is not provided in order to minimize the size of the AED 1 casing, instructions or information to the user may be presented via indicators or speakers.

[0058] The speaker 50 refers to the audio data stored in the memory 20 and issues various commands to the user through sound. In addition, when an abnormality is detected through self-test, the speaker 50 issues a warning sound to notify the user of the abnormality.

[0059] The high-voltage generator 60 charges and discharges energy for defibrillation according to a control signal from the controller 10. A pad connector 70 connects to the defibrillation pad 90. The energy released by the high-voltage generator 60 is transmitted to the person in need of resuscitation through the pad connector 70 and the defibrillation pad 90. Additionally, the defibrillation pad 90 acquires the electrocardiogram (ECG) signal of the person in need of resuscitation. For example, the ECG signal is filtered and amplified before being sent to the controller 10.

[0060] The power supply 80 includes a battery. The power supply 80 converts the power supplied from the battery into the required voltage and supplies power to the aforementioned processor. A self-test is performed to check the remaining battery level.

[0061] Next, it will be used by Figure 2The appearance structure of AED 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is described below. Figure 2 This is a top view schematically illustrating an example of the external structure of AED 1. AED 1 is generally rectangular in shape. A power button 31, a check button 32, an indicator 41, and a display 43 are located on the upper surface of AED 1. Furthermore, although not shown, AED 1 may include components other than these (such as a shock button). The position or size of each component is not particularly limited and can be appropriately determined according to various viewpoints.

[0062] The indicator 41 internally includes a first light source 42a and a second light source 42b. Since the indicator 41 indicates whether the AED 1 is performing a self-test or the result of the self-test, the indicator 41 is preferably arranged near the check button 32.

[0063] The following will be done by using Figure 3 Parts (a) to (d) and Figure 4 Parts (a) and (b) describe in detail the various display modes displayed on indicator 41, i.e., the methods for displaying the status of AED 1. AED 1 performs a self-test via controller 10 and a display step that indicates the status of AED 1 (confirming whether AED 1 is abnormal through self-test) using indicator 41. The display steps include: a first display step that performs a first display when AED 1 is in a normal state, a second display step that performs a second display when AED 1 is in an abnormal state, and a third display step that performs the first and second displays simultaneously or in a predetermined pattern while AED 1 is performing a self-test.

[0064] Figure 3 Parts (a) to (d) are schematic diagrams illustrating examples of the display modes of indicator 41. Figure 3 Section (a) shows an example of the first display mode. Figure 3 In part (a), the first display P1 is displayed within the frame of indicator 41. The first display P1 is a display of a first color, obtained, for example, by illuminating the first light source 42a. When the AED 1 is determined to be normal based on a self-test, the first display P1 is displayed on indicator 41 as a first display step at a predetermined time after the self-test (e.g., five seconds) or during the period from the self-test until the next self-test is performed.

[0065] Figure 3 Section (b) shows an example of the second display mode. Figure 3In part (b), the second display P2 is displayed within the frame of indicator 41. The second display P2 is a second color display obtained, for example, by illuminating the second light source 42b. When an AED 1 malfunction is determined based on a self-test, the second display P2 is displayed on indicator 41 as a second display step for a predetermined time after the self-test (e.g., five seconds), for a period of time from the self-test until the next self-test is performed, or for a period of time until the malfunction is cleared.

[0066] Figure 3 Section (c) shows an example of the third display mode. Figure 3 In part (c), both the first display P1 and the second display P2 are simultaneously displayed within the frame of indicator 41. That is, a mixture of the first and second colors is displayed within the frame of indicator 41.

[0067] Figure 3 Section (d) shows another example of the third display mode. Figure 3 In part (d), a first display P1 and a second display P2 are displayed in a predetermined pattern within the frame of indicator 41. Specifically, the first color and the second color are alternately illuminated within the frame of indicator 41. Preferably, the illumination time of each first color and each second color in the third display step is shorter than the illumination time of the first color in the first display step and the illumination time of the second color in the second display step, respectively. The illumination time of each first color and each second color in the third display step can be, for example, 0.5 seconds or 0.2 seconds. When the third color can be displayed within indicator 41, the first color to the third color can be illuminated sequentially. Figure 3 part (c) or Figure 3 The display shown in section (d) is the third display step in the time period from the start of the self-test to the display of the self-test results.

[0068] Figure 4 Parts (a) and (b) are shown to be different Figure 3 The examples in parts (a) to (d) are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of the display mode of indicator 141 when using indicator 141. Indicator 141 includes a first indicator 141a and a second indicator 141b. The first indicator 141a internally includes a first light source 42a. The second indicator 141b internally includes a second light source 42b. The positions of the first indicator 141a and the second indicator 141b are not particularly limited. However, preferably, the first indicator 141a and the second indicator 141b are positioned adjacent to each other. The first indicator 141a and the second indicator 141b may be located within the same frame.

[0069] Figure 4Part (a) illustrates an example of the third display mode when using indicator 141. Figure 4 In part (a), the first display P1 is displayed within the frame of the first indicator 141a. Furthermore, the second display P2 is displayed within the frame of the second indicator 141b. That is, in Figure 4 In the example of part (a), the first display P1 and the second display P2 are displayed simultaneously at different locations.

[0070] Figure 4 Part (b) illustrates another example of the third display mode when using indicator 141. Figure 4 In the example of part (b), the alternation is repeated. Figure 4 The state shown on the left side of part (b) and Figure 4 The state shown on the right side of part (b). Specifically, the following states are repeated alternately: the state in which the first display P1 is displayed in the frame of the first indicator 141a and the second indicator 141b is in the off state P3 (the light source is off), and the state in which the first indicator 141a is in the off state P3 and the second display P2 is displayed in the frame of the second indicator 141b. Figure 4 The display shown in part (a) or part (b) of 4 can serve as a third display step during the time period from the start of the self-test to the display of the self-test results.

[0071] Incidentally, when using indicator 141, Figure 4 The state shown on the left side of part (b) is the first display state, that is, the state in which the first display step is being performed. Furthermore, Figure 4 The state shown on the right side of part (b) is the second display state, that is, the state in which the second display step is being performed.

[0072] Next, the effects that can be obtained by the various components included in the AED 1 according to this embodiment and the method for displaying the state of the AED 1 will be described.

[0073] AED 1 displays a first display when it is in a normal state, a second display when it is in an abnormal state, and both displays simultaneously or in a predetermined pattern during AED 1's self-test. This allows the user to distinguish between the three states of AED 1. Furthermore, the use of the first and second displays enables three display modes, thus helping to reduce costs.

[0074] Furthermore, the first display P1 is configured to illuminate the first light source 42a to display a first color on the display unit 40 (indicator 41), and the second display P2 is configured to illuminate the second light source 42b to display a second color different from the first color on the display unit 40 (indicator 41). This allows for simple and concise notification of the various states of the AED 1 to the user.

[0075] Furthermore, since the first light source 42a and the second light source 42b are formed as LED light sources, it is easy to suppress power consumption, extend the lifespan of each light source, and miniaturize the display unit.

[0076] AED 1 is configured to sequentially display multiple colors, including at least a first color and a second color, during a self-test. This allows for the detection of lighting malfunctions of either the first or second light source. For example, when a self-test is performed if the second light source 42b cannot be lit, the second color may not light up after the first color is lit, but the first color may subsequently light up again. Therefore, the user can immediately notice the malfunction of the second light source 42b. That is, the third display mode for instructing AED 1 to perform a self-test is set to a mode in which multiple colors, including at least the first and second colors, are sequentially displayed. This also allows for checking the operation of indicator 41 while performing the self-test.

[0077] The duration of each first display during AED 1's self-test is shorter than the duration of the first display when AED 1 is in a normal state, and the duration of each second display during AED 1's self-test is shorter than the duration of the second display when AED 1 is in an abnormal state. Therefore, in addition to the type of display, the user can also understand the status of AED 1 by observing the illumination time of the first and second displays.

[0078] The above embodiments are merely exemplary to facilitate understanding of the subject matter of this disclosure. Configurations according to the above embodiments can be appropriately modified / improved without departing from the spirit of the subject matter of this disclosure. This invention is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-098725, filed on June 5, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An automated external defibrillator, comprising: A self-test actuator performs a self-test to check the status of the automated external defibrillator; as well as A display unit shows the status of the automated external defibrillator (AED). The display unit The first display is made when the automated external defibrillator is in normal working order. A second display is made when the automated external defibrillator is in an abnormal state, and The first display and the second display are performed simultaneously or in a predetermined pattern during the self-test of the automated external defibrillator.

2. The automated external defibrillator according to claim 1, wherein, The display unit has a first light source and a second light source. The first display illuminates the first light source to display a first color on the display unit, and The second display illuminates the second light source to display a second color different from the first color on the display unit.

3. The automated external defibrillator according to claim 2, wherein, Both the first light source and the second light source are LED light sources.

4. The automated external defibrillator according to claim 2, wherein, When the automated external defibrillator performs a self-test, the display unit sequentially displays colors including at least the first color and the second color.

5. The automated external defibrillator according to claim 3, wherein, When the automated external defibrillator performs a self-test, the display unit sequentially displays colors including at least the first color and the second color.

6. The automated external defibrillator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The duration of each first display during a self-test of the automated external defibrillator is shorter than the duration of the first display when the automated external defibrillator is in the normal state, and The duration of each second display during a self-test of the automated external defibrillator is shorter than the duration of the second display when the automated external defibrillator is in the abnormal state.

7. A method for displaying the status of an automated external defibrillator, the method causing the automated external defibrillator to perform the following steps: The execution step includes performing a self-test to check the status of the automated external defibrillator; as well as The display step shows the status of the automated external defibrillator, wherein... The display steps include: The first display step is performed when the automated external defibrillator is in normal condition; The second display step is performed when the automated external defibrillator is in an abnormal state; as well as The third display step involves simultaneously or in a predetermined pattern displaying the first and second displays while the automated external defibrillator is performing a self-test.

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