Method for setting a control device and an orthopaedic device and computer program product

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for setting a control device for an orthopedic device, which has at least one data processing device, sensors coupled to the data processing device and actuators, which are activated and / or deactivated by the data processing device. The control device has a basic function block, in which the basic function of the actuators is determined. A plurality of additional function blocks are provided by a memory to an interface device, which have different additional functions, and at least one additional function block is selected by the interface device and added to the basic function block. There is an interface between the basic function block (40) and the at least one additional function block, at which the compatibility of the functions is checked and the total function is generated. In the case of an incompatibility at the beginning, a matching of at least one function is carried out to establish compatibility or the access of the additional function is rejected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for setting up a control device for an orthopedic surgical technique apparatus, the orthopedic surgical technique apparatus having at least one data processing device, a sensor and an actuator coupled to the data processing device, the actuator being activated and / or deactivated by the data processing device, wherein the control device has a basic functional block in which the basic function of the actuator is determined. The invention also relates to an orthopedic surgical technique apparatus having a data processing device configured and designed to implement the method, and to a computer program product having program code. Background Technology

[0002] Prostheses are used to replace non-existent or no longer-existing limbs. Prostheses should not only closely resemble the shape but also mimic the function of the limb being replaced as completely as possible. Besides purely mechanical prostheses, multiple electronically controlled prostheses exist. Control devices, for example, relate to matching the prosthetic device to different usage conditions or requirements. Typically, a prosthesis has more than one component that can be adjusted or displaced relative to each other. Prosthetic joints, for example, are configured to allow the upper part to swing relative to the lower part, with a resistance device or drive device arranged between the upper and lower parts. This resistance device or drive device can be changed based on sensor data evaluated in the control device. Actuators, such as motors or other regulating devices, can adjust valves to change the resistance to movement. Electro-drive devices can be switched to generator mode to generate resistance against swinging, and alternative drive devices can be activated to implement or support movement. For example, an electromagnet can generate a magnetic field to change the viscosity properties of a magnetorheological medium. The electromagnet is the corresponding actuator. Correspondingly, other displaceable devices or components are applicable, where the actuator can be adjusted.

[0003] An orthosis is an assistive device in orthopedic surgery, placed on an existing limb and guiding, restricting, or supporting movement. Drive mechanisms or resistance mechanisms can be arranged between hinged components, which can be adjusted or configured corresponding to devices on a prosthesis. Adjustments are also made based on sensor data transmitted to a data processing device. The transmission of sensor data and adjustment commands to the actuators can be wireless. Within the framework of this application, an orthosis is also understood as an exoskeleton, placed on a patient's body and forming an external support structure, particularly for guiding and influencing the user's movement, for example, by supporting the user's movement through drive mechanisms or by immobilizing the user's movement through resistance mechanisms. As a specific case, orthoses and exoskeletons can also be used and applied for training or therapeutic purposes in addition to supporting daily activities.

[0004] Current prostheses or orthotics with sensor-based adjustment devices or actuators are delivered using software that is matched and configured to the corresponding patient. In the configuration, individual parameters can be changed, for example, to match the damping characteristics of the resistance device to the corresponding user. It is also possible to activate or deactivate individual functions, for example, because the corresponding patient cannot or should not perform that function.

[0005] Furthermore, it is possible to configure so-called additional modes that go beyond the basic functionality. These additional modes, for example, support specific sports such as cycling or skiing. The additional modes can be selected by the user, and corresponding parameters can be matched. This selection also occurs in the case of lower limb orthoses.

[0006] The upper limb prosthesis can also be personalized. The prosthetic hand has a defined grip pattern, which can be personalized. The setup is performed by the appropriate orthopedic surgeon or user, who can individually switch between different grip patterns.

[0007] Not only is programming costly, but matching individual parameter settings is also expensive. The possibilities for programming are often very limited, or even nonexistent. Furthermore, there is a danger that matching additional patterns can negatively impact existing functionality. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a method for setting up control devices for orthopedic surgical devices, particularly orthotics, prostheses, or exoskeletons, by means of a method that avoids misprogramming and misconfiguration of the control device. The control device should also be highly compatible, and the programming should be intuitive and flexible. Easier and more reliable operation should be ensured for the user.

[0009] According to the present invention, this task is solved by a method having the features of the present invention, as well as an orthopedic surgical device and computer program product having the features of the present invention. A method for setting up a control device for an orthopedic surgical device, particularly an orthosis, prosthesis, or exoskeleton, the orthopedic surgical device having at least one data processing device, a sensor coupled to the data processing device, and an actuator, the actuator being activated and / or deactivated by the data processing device, wherein the control device has a basic functional block in which a basic function of the actuator is determined, the method being configured to provide a plurality of additional functional blocks to an interface device by a memory, the additional functional blocks correspondingly having different additional functions, and selecting at least one additional functional block by the interface device and adding the at least one additional functional block to the basic functional block, wherein an interface exists between the basic functional block and at least one additional functional block, at which the compatibility of the corresponding functions of the functional blocks is checked and a total function is generated, wherein, in the case where no compatibility is initially present, at least one function is matched to establish compatibility or to reject the access of the additional function. To set up the control device, a plurality of additional functional blocks are thus provided, the additional functional blocks may be combined with the basic functional block. The basic functional block includes the basic function of the actuator. When controlling prostheses or orthoses with adjustable resistance, this can be matched to the corresponding movement. Orthoses or prostheses can also be positioned on the upper limb and, alternatively or supplementally, have active drive mechanisms, such as electric motors or other adjustment mechanisms, in addition to passive resistance devices, such as hydraulic dampers, brakes, and resistance devices that affect magnetorheology. What is needed when walking on a plane is to provide different resistances against flexion or extension in the artificial knee joint. For this purpose, the corresponding resistance is adjusted based on sensor data, which is evaluated in a data processing device, to achieve gait behavior that matches walking with the aid of a natural knee joint. This can be achieved, for example, by reducing flexion resistance initially after heel strike at the start of the standing phase. As this continues, the flexion resistance is increased to prevent excessive standing phase flexion. Then, a high flexion resistance is maintained within the framework of rolling motion to achieve flexion at the end of the standing phase, thereby causing the prosthetic or orthotic knee joint to flex and swing during forward movement. The basic function for walking on a flat surface can be supplemented by additional functions, which are stored as additional function blocks in the control block. These additional functions could be, for example, walking on a slope, climbing stairs, or walking at an increased speed. It is possible that the selected additional function block may be partially incompatible with the basic function block or compatible with existing additional function blocks. Compatibility can also be derived from existing combinations of basic function blocks and one or more additional function blocks, resulting in a total function that is not advantageous or may even be detrimental to the user when only additional function blocks are added.Therefore, compatibility checks are performed at the interfaces between basic functional blocks and additional functional blocks, or at the interfaces between additional functional blocks and other additional functional modules already connected to basic functional blocks. The functionality of each functional block is checked here, thereby generating the overall functionality of the control device. If no functional block compatibility exists, at least one function, particularly the function of a newly added additional functional block, can be matched to achieve compatibility. Additional functions can also be changed to the functions of the newly added additional functional blocks. If, for example, the function of a newly added additional functional block is authorized with higher priority or importance than the functions of existing additional functional modules, the selection of the matching to be performed can be achieved through priority. Instead of changing one or more functions of the basic functional block and / or one or more additional functional blocks, access to the additional functions of existing additional functional blocks may be rejected because a dangerous or undesirable overall function arises in this additional function or in the compensation of the new additional function. Thus, multiple additional functions can be provided into additional functional blocks, which can be combined with each other without further checks, wherein compatibility checks are performed automatically and, if necessary, functional matching is performed to establish compatibility and overall functionality. If a match cannot or should not be achieved, access to additional functions can be denied, thereby denying combinations of additional function blocks with basic function blocks or combinations of basic function blocks with one or more additional function blocks. The method according to the invention prevents erroneous programming caused by disallowed combinations of functions from occurring.

[0010] A further embodiment of the invention involves sequentially adding multiple functional blocks to additional functional blocks, wherein a compatibility check with the existing total functionality is performed in each new additional functional block. This achieves a modular structure starting from the basic functional blocks, where additional functional additions are checked from a previously determined total functionality in the order in which additional functional blocks are added. If the total functionality is achieved after adding two additional functional blocks, and some functions originally present in one of the additional functional blocks are reduced under that total functionality, then the excluded functions or limitations within the functional scope are no longer considered, since these functions were excluded or limited in previous design phases. The effect of this is that it is no longer necessary to check all combinations of functions with respect to compatibility in forming the total functionality. Specifically, only the possibility of adding new functions through new additional functional blocks is checked with respect to the compatibility with the existing total functionality.

[0011] In a further embodiment of the invention, at least one parameter of the basic function and / or additional functions can be adjusted via an interface device. Each function can thus be calibrated, for example, by matching a damping setting to match an individual expectation or given condition. Matching can be adapted, for example, to walking speed, purpose of use, body weight, activity level, or physiological condition. In addition to matching the parameters of the basic function, at least one parameter of the additional functions can also be generated. The degree of adjustability achieved through the interface device can be changed depending on the total functionality obtained. For example, after adding another additional function, the parameter range used to adjust the basic function can be limited; however, when a defined total functionality exists, the parameter range of the newly added additional function can be excluded or opened.

[0012] Each additional function can be assigned a priority value, and compatibility checks and corresponding function matching are performed based on these priority values. If, for example, a later-added additional function has a higher priority than a previously added additional function, the overall functionality can be reorganized, rearranged, and recalculated according to the corresponding priority values. This allows for weighting independent of the time point or state of the combination of basic functional blocks and multiple additional functional blocks, and the construction of the overall functionality is based on said weighting. If the highest-priority additional functional block is added only when three additional functional blocks with lower priority values ​​already exist, the overall functionality is recalculated based on the existing priority values. Under the same priority values, it is advantageous to use the time point of combination or addition as the standard for the order of compatibility checks and the matching of parameter values.

[0013] Advantageously, a graphical user interface is provided as an interface device, on which additional functions are displayed as user interface objects. Graphical blocks can thus be selected from a menu via drag-and-drop and dragged into the work area. Function groups or additional function blocks can be connected to each other through the interface, wherein the graphical display of the corresponding user interface objects can indicate whether composability is achieved overall.

[0014] A further embodiment of the invention provides a graphical display of the compatibility between different additional functional blocks or with the current combination consisting of a basic functional block and at least one additional functional block. The graphical display can be, for example, through geometric shapes or color coding. The composability of additional functional blocks with the basic functional block and / or other additional functional blocks can be displayed on the user interface object using color and / or graphics. Basic composability can be displayed according to the graphical shape or color design of the user interface object. For example, the same color can be displayed for basic composability. Similarly, the suitability of composability can be shown using similar colors. If, for example, the overall function is displayed in red tones, then basic composability can be displayed in red or orange tones, and non-composability can be displayed, for example, in blue or green tones of other additional functional blocks. Alternatively, or supplementarily, the display can be changed by altering the shape of the user interface object to indicate whether basic composability is achieved. If, for example, there is a recess in the outline, then composability is achieved only through the corresponding arch or protrusion in the graphical display of the additional functional block or the display of the overall function. In particular, when a user interface object becomes part of the overall functionality, the graphic design or shape of the user interface object can be changed.

[0015] Advantageously, the method is implemented on a data processing device within the orthopedic surgical device. The interface device can also be part of the orthopedic surgical device. When the interface device is designed as a mobile terminal device, such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, Augmented Reality Device, Virtual Reality Device, Mixed Reality Device, Head-Mounted Display, such as HoloLens or Google... When devices such as Google Glass, voice interfaces, or mobile computers have wireless connectivity to control or data processing devices on orthopedic surgical devices, compatibility and operability are simplified. The interface device can, in principle, be an integral part of the orthopedic surgical device or designed as a separate component that is wirelessly or wiredly coupled to the remainder of the orthopedic surgical device.

[0016] The additional function block can not only design an interface to the basic function block, but more precisely, it can also design an interface for at least one other additional function block. Thus, after adding the additional function block, another additional function block is fixed to it, and the other additional function block can be combined with the additional function block.

[0017] Basic function blocks and / or additional function blocks may have multiple interfaces, at least one of which is blocked by an additional function block occupying another interface. If a predetermined interface is occupied by an additional function block compatible with it, the existing interface can be blocked by the occupation and is no longer provided for other additional function blocks. This prevents additional functionality from being extended into the area of ​​a function set in this area or there.

[0018] In a further embodiment of the invention, the verification of functional block compatibility and / or the integration of multiple functional blocks into the overall function is performed in an external device. The external device is, for example, part of an interface unit or, in turn, establishes a data transmission connection with the interface unit. This can be achieved, particularly via a radio connection or a data transmission network, by transmitting control data and functions from the external device to the orthopedic device through the interface unit. The interface unit thus provides the connection between the external device and the orthopedic device, wherein the interface unit is fixedly arranged on the orthopedic device or designed as a separate part coupled to the remainder of the orthopedic device. This allows the high computational cost required for verifying and matching corresponding functions to be transferred to the external device, and only the data processing unit of the orthopedic device transmits matching services or change data sets. Through these data sets, the overall function is matched accordingly, and actuators are controlled by corresponding control signals based on sensor values ​​or other values.

[0019] Predetermined programs or models can be used to generate function blocks. These presets serve as the basis for generating individual programs and can be stored in data processing devices, interface devices, or external devices.

[0020] The data processing device, in particular, has a communication interface through which data is sent to and / or received from external devices. This allows for the storage of individually generated programs computed externally, or alternatively, the programs generated within the orthopedic device can be fixed to an external device, such as a mobile phone or tablet, or communicated via a network, cloud, or other means. This enables external maintenance or control of the generated overall functionality. When the data, when necessary, is combined with motion data from the orthopedic device and transmitted to orthopedic technicians or other assessment bodies, the appropriateness, compatibility, and medical applicability can be verified with regard to the user-generated combinations of different functions and the adjusted parameters. Specifically, it enables the possibility of joint configuration and / or functional block configuration being transmitted via external devices to other joints or other orthopedic devices.

[0021] The orthopedic surgical technique device includes a data processing unit configured and designed to implement the aforementioned method, wherein a user interface is provided, having an input device for accepting user input. The user interface may be designed and configured as a graphical user interface, or alternatively, another user interface may exist, such as an acoustic user interface with voice control or buttons.

[0022] A computer program containing program code is also part of the present invention. When the program code is loaded into a data processing device, the program code performs the method described above. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show:

[0024] Figure 1 - A schematic diagram of an upper limb prosthesis used as an orthopedic surgical device;

[0025] Figure 2 - A schematic diagram of a prosthesis for the lower limb as a device for orthopedic surgical techniques;

[0026] Figure 3 - A schematic diagram of the module principle;

[0027] Figure 4 - A variant with the potential for expansion;

[0028] Figure 5 - A variant with additional interfaces;

[0029] Figure 6 - A variant with complementary additional functional blocks;

[0030] Figures 7-6 A variant;

[0031] Figure 8-1 Another embodiment;

[0032] Figure 9 - A variant with adjustable parameters;

[0033] Figure 10 - Orthopedic surgical devices in the form of orthotics;

[0034] Figure 11 -according to Figure 10 Orthotics used while walking;

[0035] Figure 12 - Detailed diagram of the external device with interface; and

[0036] Figure 13 - A schematic diagram of a network of multiple orthopedic surgical technology devices. Detailed Implementation

[0037] exist Figure 1 The diagram illustrates an orthopedic surgical device 1 in the form of an upper limb prosthesis. The orthopedic surgical device 1 has a prosthetic tube for placement on the forearm. Multiple sensors 20, in the form of surface electrode pairs, are arranged inside the prosthetic tube. The sensors 20 are coupled to a data processing device 10, which is also arranged inside the forearm tube. The data processing device 10 contains the necessary software and hardware components, particularly a processor, memory, accumulator, communication interface, filter, and, if necessary, amplifier, to process the sensor data and transmit control signals from it to actuators 30. In the illustrated embodiment, multiple actuators 30 are fixed to the prosthetic hand and to maintain the coupling between the prosthetic hand and the forearm tube. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuators are designed as electric motors, which realize, for example, movement of the prosthetic hand about a rotational axis in the longitudinal extension of the forearm tube and movement of prosthetic fingers relative to the base of the prosthetic hand. This embodiment illustrates that multiple functions can be implemented within the prosthetic hand. Different gripping methods, different movement patterns, different adjustment speeds, and gripping forces can be determined by circumstances and adjusted and personalized according to the corresponding user. For better description, memory 15 is shown as an external component, but memory 15 can of course also be designed as part of data processing device 10.

[0038] Furthermore, a wireless interface exists to the interface device 50, through which data can be exchanged wirelessly. The interface device 50 can be designed as a mobile phone, a portable computer, a tablet computer, or another data processing device with a user interface. The interface device has a user interface 51, which can be designed, for example, as a touch-sensitive interface. Alternatively, the user interface can be designed as buttons equipped with Arabic numerals or function keys. The user interface 51 as buttons can also be generated electronically. In the illustrated embodiment, the interface device 50 is designed as an external device 55; in principle, it is also possible that the interface device 50 is designed to be integrated into the orthopedic surgical device 1, for example, as part of the surface of a prosthesis tube. It is possible that a user interface object 52 is displayed on the user interface 51, the function of which will be described in detail later.

[0039] exist Figure 2A variant of an orthopedic surgical technique device in the form of a prosthetic knee joint is shown, the prosthetic knee joint having an upper portion and a lower portion pivotally supported on the upper portion. A prosthetic foot is fixed to the distal end, and a thigh tube or cannula is fixed to the proximal end. The prosthetic knee joint 1 also has a control device 10 with a memory 15, and sensors 20, such as accelerometers, spatial position sensors, IMUs, force sensors, temperature sensors, and similar sensors 20, are connected to the data processing device 10. An interface device 50 with a user interface 51 is shown on the outside of the housing of the orthopedic surgical technique device. Below the interface device 50 are adjustment devices, such as sliders or graphic adjustment marks, which allow parameter changes via mechanical adjustment or a touch-sensitive interface. An actuator 30 in the form of a resistance device is arranged around a pivot axis, allowing the upper portion of the prosthetic knee joint to pivot relative to the lower portion about the pivot axis, and this is achieved by adjusting flexion resistance and / or extension resistance based on processed sensor signals. Replaceable actuators 30 may exist, such as adjustment devices for dampers, magnetic field generators for magnetorheological drag devices, drive devices that can be switched to drag devices, active drive devices, accumulators, switchable accumulators and similar devices, etc.

[0040] To control the corresponding orthopedic surgical device, sensor data is received from sensor 20 or electrodes, processed in data processing unit 10, and transferred to the corresponding actuator 30. Basic functions are set in the data processing unit 10 as basic equipment, and these functions determine the function of the corresponding actuator 30. Within these basic settings or functions, it is possible to ensure the reliable operation of the corresponding orthopedic surgical device. It is desirable and generally necessary to implement additional functions beyond the basic functions in order to match the corresponding user. These additional functions are stored according to the invention in so-called additional function blocks, which are provided in the corresponding interface device 50 for the user. The user may be an orthopedic technician or someone matching the orthopedic surgical device to the corresponding user; it is also possible, in principle, that the matching is performed by the user of the corresponding prosthesis, orthosis, exoskeleton, or other orthopedic surgical device. Functions that are not present in the basic function blocks or in other designs or combinations are stored in the additional function blocks or at least one of the additional function blocks. Because not all additional functions are incompatible with the basic function without limitation, according to the present invention, a check of the overall function is performed when adding additional function blocks to the basic function block. Within a defined framework of compatibility between the function blocks, i.e., the basic function block, and the combination of this or these additional function blocks, the overall function for the orthopedic surgical device 1 is generated. If initially there is no complete compatibility between the functions of the basic function block and the additional function blocks, a matching of at least one function is performed, thereby enabling the overall function for the orthopedic surgical device to be achieved after adding the additional function block. This matching can be performed within the additional function, within the basic function, or in both functions, resulting in a more reliable overall function. It is also possible, in principle, to reject the access of a selected additional function by replacing the matching of the functional scope of one or more additional functions or the basic function, because the additional function is, for example, incompatible with other functions of higher priority and detrimental to the reliability or functionality of the entire system.

[0041] exist Figure 3 A schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the module is shown below. The basic function 40 has two interfaces 46, which are shown graphically differently. The additional function block 60 also has an interface 64, which in the illustrated embodiment is compatible with only one of the two interfaces 46 of the basic function block 40. As indicated by brackets, the two function blocks 40 and 60 are connected to each other. As a result, the two function blocks 40 and 60 can influence each other, as shown in... Figure 3As shown in the upper right view. Alternatively, it is possible to perform only a one-sided influence of one functional block on another; in the illustrated embodiment, the additional functional block 60 has a one-sided influence on the basic functional block 40. The overall function is then achieved through the tuning of the functions between functional blocks 40 and 60.

[0042] exist Figure 4 A variant of the invention is shown, wherein the basic functional block 40 is as in Figure 3 The basic functional block 40 has two different interfaces 46. A total of four additional functional blocks 60 are provided, which can be coupled to the basic functional block 40. A first additional functional block 60 with no other possible combinations or a second additional functional block 60 with an additional interface 66 can be coupled to the upper side of the basic functional block 40. A corresponding interface 64 compatible with the corresponding interface 46 on the basic functional block 40 can also be used for decoupling the first additional functional block 60 in the illustrated example. This achieves the extension of two additional functional blocks 60 on the upper side of the basic functional block and on the first interface 46. The second interface 46 can be coupled to another additional functional block 60 that does not have additional interfaces to couple with each other, thus there is only a single additional functional block on that interface 46. In the illustrated embodiment, there is thus an additional functional block 60 with two interfaces 64, 46, while the other additional functional block 60 has only one interface 46.

[0043] exist Figure 5 A variant of the invention is shown in which the basic functional block 40 has only one interface 46. This interface can be occupied by two additional functional blocks 60, wherein the additional functional blocks 60 have another interface 66, which can be coupled to the interface 64 of another additional functional block 60. Thus, to construct the overall functional implementation, three combinations are selected: a combination of the basic functional block 40 with a first additional functional block 60 that has no possibility of expansion, a combination with a second additional functional block 60 that has no possibility of expansion, and finally, a combination of the basic functional block 40 with additional functional blocks 60 that are expanded by the additional functional blocks 60.

[0044] exist Figure 6 One variation is shown in which multiple interfaces 46 are provided on the basic functional block 40, and multiple additional functional blocks 60 can be coupled to said interfaces. It is possible here that the additional functional blocks 60 prevent the coupling of other additional functional blocks, i.e., coupling of other additional functional blocks is thus no longer possible. In another possible function of the additional functional blocks 60, multiple additional functional blocks may be arranged side-by-side, alternately, or in combination with each other on the interface 46, and thus can be combined.

[0045] Figure 7This illustrates a variant of the blocked interface design. Two distinct interfaces 46 are arranged or designed on a basic functional block 40, with an additional functional block 60 having only a corresponding matching interface 64 that can be coupled to the two distinct interfaces accordingly.

[0046] exist Figure 8 A further embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein a basic functional block 40 is coupled with a total of three additional functional blocks 60. The corresponding functions are checked for compatibility and generate the overall functionality. To match different user needs, it is possible to adjust the corresponding parameters of the corresponding functions via an adjuster 70 or adjustment device. This parameterization is also checked for compatibility to adjust other functions. It is not possible for incorrect matching of functions to produce undesirable interactions with other functions, which would compromise the reliability of the orthopedic device 1. The basic functions of the basic functional block 40 can also store which parameters can be adjusted within which parameter range. If adjustment is made outside this parameter range or value range, it will be interrupted or prevented. Feedback can also be output via an alarm signal indicating that a combination of the basic and additional functions is not possible within a defined parameter range. If the adjustment is accepted, corresponding positive feedback can be provided.

[0047] exist Figure 9 This diagram illustrates an embodiment of a modular construction method for basic and additional functions. A basic functional block 40 with three different interfaces 46 is shown. If the control of the prosthetic knee joint is stored as a basic function, then, for example, flexion arrest can be configured or adjustable by adding an additional functional block 60. The connection of the additional functional blocks restricts adjustability or reconfigurability regarding the position of flexion arrest. Therefore, it is also possible to add flexion progression to the basic function by replacing the additional functional block, and flexion arrest can be coupled to the basic function, since the additional functional block 60 has an additional interface 66 for coupling and combination with the flexion arrest module.

[0048] Furthermore, additional control blocks or functional elements can be coupled to one of the two remaining interfaces 46. An additional functional block has only one additional interface 66, to which only one additional module can be coupled as an extension or limitation of the additional function or to modify the additional function. If replacing the first additional functional block with only one additional interface couples to another additional functional block 60 with two additional interfaces 66, then the two additional additional functional blocks 60 can be coupled alternatively or in combination.

[0049] In orthopedic surgical devices for the lower limbs, multiple modes, such as walking or cycling, or different gripping techniques in a prosthetic hand, can each consist of basic and additional functions. However, it is also possible that not every mode can be freely programmed, but only a single mode can be freely programmed. Switching between modes can be achieved, for example, through biosignals, such as co-contraction, contraction patterns, movement patterns, through an interface that can be controlled via an app, or in other, equally freely programmable ways and methods, if necessary.

[0050] exist Figure 10 and 11 The image shows an orthopedic surgical device 1 in the form of an orthosis. The user of the orthopedic surgical device 1... Figure 10 Sitting in the middle, Figure 11 The diagram illustrates the overcoming of obstacles. The orthosis has an upper part 2 and a lower part 3, which are hinged to each other about a pivot axis 4. The upper part 2 is designed as a thigh sleeve, and the lower part 3 is designed as a receiving sleeve for the lower leg and foot. The orthopedic surgical device 1 is placed on the thigh and lower leg of the orthosis user by suitable fastening elements, such as belts, straps, nylon chains, buckles, or snaps. Sensors 20 are arranged not only on the upper part 2 but also on the lower part 3, and are only schematically shown. Sensors 20 may be designed, for example, as spatial position sensors, pressure sensors, acceleration sensors, or other sensors to receive load data, velocity data, and other physical parameters. It is also possible that sensors 20 receive temperature. Sensors 20 are coupled to a data processing device 10 via cable or wirelessly, which in the illustrated embodiment is fixed or designed into the upper part 2. The data processing device 10 processes the sensor data and is equipped with the necessary software and hardware components. The data processing device 10 is coupled to an actuator 30, schematically shown, through which adjustments can be made to a resistance device, such as a damper, a magnetorheological braking device, or a similar device, or to shift the upper part 2 relative to the lower part 3. For this purpose, the actuator 30 is designed as a drive device or a motor. Alternatively, the actuator 30 may be designed as a switchable accumulator, such as a spring, which can be tensioned and unloaded. As in... Figure 1 and 2As described above in the implementation scheme, different functional or movement modes can be selectively configured in the orthopedic surgical device 1, which is in the form of a lower limb orthosis. This can be done autonomously by the orthosis user or automatically based on sensor data. If, for example, the spatial position sensor 20 on the upper part 2 detects that the lower part 3 is unloaded and there is no relative movement about the swing axis 4 while the upper part 2 is substantially horizontally oriented, it can be automatically switched to a sitting mode, which accordingly activates or deactivates the actuator 30, thereby achieving undamped or nearly undamped free movement about the swing axis 4. And if it is detected that, as in Figure 11 The extended posture of the foreleg under load, as described in the example, allows for the deduction of climbing over obstacles, thereby enabling the actuator 30 to provide additional resistance against extension or flexion, or also to provide support. As per [the provided text]... Figure 1 and 2 The structure and design scheme with basic functional blocks and additional functional blocks, as described in the example of the prosthesis, are correspondingly applied to the implementation of the orthosis. In the case of the orthosis, the additional functional blocks may also be coupled to corresponding interfaces. The additional functional blocks may exclude or implement additional coupling with the additional functional blocks. Multiple interfaces may be provided on the basic functional blocks, which may be connected to the additional functional blocks alternatively or supplementarily.

[0051] exist Figure 12 The diagram shows a detailed external device 55 in the form of a mobile phone or tablet. The external device 55 has an interface device 50 designed as a graphical user interface. A touch-sensitive display is incorporated on the external device 55, enabling input via the touchscreen in addition to transmitting optical information to the user. Also present on the external device 55 are a loudspeaker (not shown) and a microphone for receiving acoustic signals or for performing various combinations of functions via voice control.

[0052] Different additional function blocks 60 are displayed on display 51, which can be combined with the basic function block 40. The basic function block 40 is displayed in the center of display 51, and the available additional function blocks 60 are arranged vertically next to each other in separate areas of display 51. The function blocks 60 displayed in the separate areas can be dynamically matched, for example, so that only the function blocks that can be added to the configuration are displayed.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, three additional function blocks 60 are arranged vertically relative to each other. These additional function blocks have different functions and are labeled with the letters A through C. A dot below each additional function block indicates that, for example, scrolling can move another additional function block 60 onto the display 51 for selection. Additional function block A can be connected and added to the interface of another additional function block 60, namely additional function block E, via a drag-and-drop mechanism indicated by an arrow.

[0054] Alternatively, one of the interfaces, such as the interface above function block E, can be selected via a touch display, and the function block selection can be displayed in a separate area, allowing the function block to be added to that interface. The corresponding function block can be added via drag-and-drop or through easy selection. Two additional function blocks 60 are already arranged on the base function block 40. The existing additional function blocks 60 can also be removed, thereby creating a new overall configuration with new total functionality. The generated configuration can be stored, transferred to the cloud or orthopedic technology device, shared with third parties, or loaded via an additional menu unit indicated by a circle in the upper right corner of the display 51.

[0055] exist Figure 13 The diagram illustrates a network of multiple orthopedic surgical devices 1, which are interconnected and connected to an external IT infrastructure 80. The IT infrastructure 80 is advantageously designed as a so-called cloud and is a computer network that provides storage space, computing power, and / or user software. External devices 55, such as tablets, mobile phones, laptops, or other corresponding data processing devices, are bidirectionally connected to the first orthopedic surgical device 1, in the illustrated embodiment, to the prosthesis. The first external device 55 may, for example, be the smartphone of the user of the orthopedic surgical device. Furthermore, the first orthopedic surgical device 1 may be data-technically connected to other mobile terminal devices, tablets, or computers, for example, via a wireless interface, radio connection, or similar data transmission device. Data is transmitted from there to the so-called cloud 80, processed as necessary, and transmitted back. Similarly, additional functional blocks or settings of the first orthopedic surgical device 1 are evaluated, transmitted, and / or stored at a third party. Data can be transmitted from the cloud 80 to another external device 55, which is coupled to a second orthopedic surgical device 1. Instead of the intermediate step of transmitting data from the first orthopedic surgical device 1 to the second orthopedic surgical device 1 via the cloud 80, or as a supplement, the data can also be transmitted directly to the first external device 55 via the second external device 55 or directly via the third external device 55 and then transmitted back.

[0056] Functional block compatibility checks can be performed in one of the additional external devices 55 or in the cloud 80, thus eliminating the need to utilize the computing power of the orthopedic surgical device 1. Programs or models predetermined from the additional external device 55 and / or the cloud 80 can also be transferred to the corresponding orthopedic surgical device 1, or directly configured external devices 55, or interface devices directly mounted on the orthopedic surgical device 1. The programs or models enable networking, data exchange, and data evaluation within the orthopedic surgical device.

Claims

1. A method for setting up a control device for an orthopedic surgical technique apparatus, the orthopedic surgical technique apparatus having at least one data processing device (10), a sensor (20) coupled to the data processing device, and an actuator (30), the actuator being activated and / or deactivated by the data processing device (10), wherein, The control device has a basic function block (40) in which the basic function of the actuator (30) is determined. It is characterized in that a plurality of additional function blocks (60) are provided by a memory (15) to an interface device (50), the additional function blocks having different additional functions, and at least one additional function block (60) is selected by the interface device (50) and added to the basic function block (40). There is an interface (46) between the basic function block (40) and the at least one additional function block (60), at which the compatibility of functions is checked and a total function is generated. In the case where there is no compatibility at the beginning, at least one function is matched to establish compatibility or to reject the access of the additional function.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple additional function blocks (60) are added sequentially to the basic function block (40), and a compatibility check with the existing total functionality is performed in each new additional function block.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one parameter of the basic function and / or additional function can be adjusted through the interface device (50).

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Assign a priority value to each additional feature, and perform compatibility checks and corresponding feature matching based on the priority value.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, A graphical user interface (51) is provided as an interface device (50), on which additional function blocks (60) are displayed as user interface objects (52).

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The compatibility of different additional function blocks (60) with each other or with the current combination consisting of a basic function block (40) and at least one additional function block (60) is graphically displayed.

7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The composability of additional function blocks displayed on the user interface object with color and / or graphics of the basic function block (40) and / or additional function blocks (60).

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The method is implemented on the data processing device (10).

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, An interface (66) for at least one additional additional function block (60) is designed on the additional function block (60).

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The basic functional block (40) and / or the additional functional block (60) have multiple interfaces (46, 66), at least one of which is blocked by the additional functional block (60) occupying another interface.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The compatibility testing of function blocks (40, 60) and / or the integration of multiple function blocks (40, 60) into the overall function are performed in the external device (55).

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Use a predetermined procedure or model to generate function blocks (40, 60).

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The data processing device (10) sends data to an external device (55) and / or receives data from an external device (55) via a communication interface (11).

14. An orthopedic surgical technique device (1) having a data processing device (10) configured and designed to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the data processing device having a user interface (51) having an input device for accepting user input.

15. A computer-readable storage medium having program code stored thereon, wherein when the program code is loaded into a data processing apparatus (10), the program code performs the method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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