Operating panel assembly and medical device

Abstract

The application provides an operating panel assembly, comprising: a support assembly; an arm assembly, the arm assembly comprising a first arm, a second arm and a third arm; the first arm being connected to the support assembly; the second arm and the third arm being telescopically connected relative to the first arm; and an operating panel, the operating panel being connected to the third arm. The application also provides a medical device comprising the above operating panel assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of mechanical devices, and more particularly to an operation panel assembly and a medical device including the operation panel assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Control panels are widely used devices. Depending on the application, control panels can be assigned different functions. For example, they can integrate user input devices (such as keyboards, touchscreens, etc.) to provide human-computer interaction. Alternatively, control panels can be used to house systems that can be operated by the user. Control panels are also commonly used in the medical field; for example, they are found in carts carrying different types of medical devices or within certain medical devices themselves (e.g., ultrasound machines).

[0003] The optimal distance or angle of the control panel relative to the user may vary depending on the user or the user's specific usage scenarios. Therefore, the control panel can be configured to be adjustable to accommodate different needs. For example, control panels are often designed to extend and / or rotate horizontally to accommodate different distances and / or angles. However, considering device reliability, the extension and / or rotation range may need to be significantly limited. This ensures that even at its maximum extension, the control panel's load-bearing capacity remains within acceptable limits. However, this sacrifices user comfort. Summary of the Invention

[0004] At least in view of this, some embodiments of this application provide an operation panel assembly, including: a support assembly; an arm assembly including a first arm, a second arm, and a third arm; the first arm being connected to the support assembly; the second arm and the third arm being retractably connected relative to the first arm; and an operation panel being connected to the third arm.

[0005] Optionally, the arm assembly further includes a synchronization device, through which the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm engage to synchronize the extension and retraction of the second arm and the third arm relative to the first arm.

[0006] Optionally, the synchronization device includes: a first rack disposed on the first arm; a second rack disposed on the third arm, with a gap between the first rack and the second rack; and a gear disposed on the second arm, the gear engaging with the gap; the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm are engaged by the first rack, the gear, and the second rack.

[0007] Optionally, the synchronization device includes: a transmission belt tensioned by a first transmission wheel and a second transmission wheel disposed on the second arm; a first fixing device fixed to one side of the first arm and the transmission belt respectively; and a second fixing device fixed to the other side of the third arm and the transmission belt respectively.

[0008] Optionally, the support assembly includes a base and a lifting device. The lifting device is connected to the first arm to drive the operation panel up and down via the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm.

[0009] Optionally, the operation panel and the third arm are rotatably connected; or / and the support assembly and the first arm are rotatably connected.

[0010] Optionally, it also includes an attachment device that connects to the support assembly and extends upward to a height not lower than that of the operation panel; the extension stroke of the second arm and the third arm is configured to eliminate the rotational spatial resistance of the attachment device to the operation panel.

[0011] Optionally, the attachment device includes a rear handle.

[0012] Optionally, the first arm includes a first flat plate portion and a first pair of oppositely arranged sidewalls; the second arm includes a second flat plate portion and a second pair of oppositely arranged sidewalls; the third arm includes a third flat plate portion and a third pair of oppositely arranged sidewalls; the first pair of sidewalls, the second pair of sidewalls, and the third pair of sidewalls are nested together to guide the extension and retraction of the second arm and the third arm.

[0013] Optionally, a first pair of guide rails and a first pair of guide wheels are respectively provided between the first pair of sidewalls and the second pair of sidewalls, with the first pair of guide wheels housed within the first pair of guide rails; a second pair of guide rails and a second pair of guide wheels are respectively provided between the second pair of sidearms and the third pair of sidearms, with the second pair of guide wheels housed within the second pair of guide rails.

[0014] Optionally, the second pair of sidewalls further includes a third pair of guide wheels, which are disposed at the bottom of the second pair of sidewalls and located between the first pair of sidewalls and the third pair of sidewalls.

[0015] Optionally, it also includes a buffer assembly, which includes a first buffer and a second buffer disposed opposite to each other, the first buffer and the second buffer being disposed on any one of the first arm, the second arm and the third arm and any other arm, respectively.

[0016] Optionally, the first buffer includes two first buffers disposed at the front and rear ends of any one of the arms, and the second buffer is disposed on the other arm and located between the two first buffers.

[0017] Optionally, the operation panel and the third arm are rotatably connected. Furthermore, the operation panel assembly further includes a first locking member disposed between the operation panel and the third arm, the first locking member being operable to lock the operation panel and the third arm, thereby achieving rotational locking of the operation panel and the third arm.

[0018] Optionally, a second locking member is also included, which is disposed between the support assembly and the second arm. The second locking member can be operated to lock the support assembly and the second arm, thereby achieving telescopic locking of the second arm.

[0019] Optionally, the support assembly and the first arm are rotatably connected, thereby enabling the second locking member to simultaneously lock the first arm and the support assembly in a rotational manner while simultaneously locking the second arm in a telescopic manner.

[0020] Another embodiment of this application provides a medical device including any of the above-described operation panel components.

[0021] Optionally, the medical device includes at least one of a medical cart and an ultrasound imaging device.

[0022] It should be understood that the brief description provided above is intended to introduce some concepts further described in the detailed embodiments in a simplified form. This is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is uniquely defined by the claims following the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to the implementation of any shortcomings mentioned above or in any paragraph of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0023] This application will be better understood by referring to the accompanying drawings and by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a prior art device that includes an operation panel;

[0025] Figure 2 It is an apparatus including an operation panel assembly in some embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the operation panel assembly in another embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the connection method of the three arms of the control panel assembly;

[0028] Figure 5 A bottom view of the arm assembly in some embodiments of this application is shown;

[0029] Figure 6 A bottom view of the arm assembly is shown in some other embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the operation panel assembly in a first state is shown in some embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the operation panel assembly in a second state is shown in some embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 9 A partial schematic diagram of an operation panel assembly including a first locking member is shown in some embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 10 A partial schematic diagram of an operation panel assembly including a second locking member is shown in some embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of an ultrasound imaging device in some embodiments of this application is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The following describes specific embodiments of this application. It should be noted that, in order to maintain brevity, this application cannot provide a detailed description of all features of the actual embodiments. It should be understood that, in the actual implementation of any embodiment, just as in any engineering or design project, various specific decisions are often made to achieve the developer's specific goals and to meet system-related or business-related constraints, and this can change from one embodiment to another. Furthermore, it is understood that although the efforts made in this development process may be complex and lengthy, for those skilled in the art related to the content disclosed in this application, changes in design, manufacturing, or production based on the technical content disclosed in this disclosure are merely conventional technical means and should not be construed as insufficient content of this disclosure.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the claims and description shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this application and the claims do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. The terms "an" or "a" and similar terms do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms "comprising" or "including" and similar terms mean that the element or object preceding "comprising" or "including" encompasses the element or object listed following "comprising" or "including" and its equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. The terms "connected" or "linked" and similar terms are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, nor are they limited to direct or indirect connections.

[0037] Existing technologies include adjustable control panels, such as those with horizontal telescopic and / or rotatable functions, which can better meet the user's needs. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a prior art device 100 including an operation panel 101 is shown. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the device 100 includes an operation panel 101, a first support arm 102, a second support arm 103, and a column 104.

[0038] The first support arm 102 is connected to the column 104, thus providing support for the entire device. The second support arm 103 is connected to the operation panel 101. The first and second support arms are telescopically connected via a guide rail or other mechanism. Therefore, when the second support arm 103 is operated to extend or retract relative to the first support arm 102, the operation panel 101 mounted on the second support arm 103 also extends or retracts, allowing adjustment of the operation panel 101 relative to the user without moving the column 104.

[0039] Understandable. Figure 1 The diagram shown is a simplified schematic of the device 100. The device 100 in the prior art may include other components; for example, a display or other components may be mounted on the operation panel 101. Alternatively, the operation panel 101 itself may serve as a platform for fixing other devices. Furthermore, in addition to the column 104, the support structure may include a base 105 and wheels 106 disposed below the base 105.

[0040] Figure 1The diagram shows the extended state of the first and second support arms. At this point, the weight of the operation panel 101 and the second support arm 103 acts on the first support arm through the section connecting the first and second support arms (e.g., a portion of a guide rail). It is understood that the shorter the section, the greater the force per unit distance, and the more easily damage the connecting section can occur. Therefore, considering the reliability and safety of the device, it is necessary to ensure that the extension distance of the second support arm 103 meets safety requirements. Of course, if size limitations are not considered, the lengths of both the first and second support arms can be set relatively long. However, excessive length will affect the miniaturization of the device and is detrimental to transportation and user operation. Due to these two factors, the travel of an operation panel with telescopic functionality is usually very limited.

[0041] Taking into account at least the above factors, some embodiments of this application propose improvements. Please refer first to... Figure 2 This illustrates an apparatus 200 including an operation panel assembly 210 in some embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the operation panel assembly 210 may include a support assembly 201, an arm assembly 202, and an operation panel 203.

[0042] The arm assembly 202 may include a first arm 221, a second arm 222, and a third arm 223. The first arm 221 is connected to the support assembly 201. The second arm 222 and the third arm 223 are telescopically connected relative to the first arm 221. The operation panel 203 is connected to the third arm 223.

[0043] This configuration allows the extension and retraction of the control panel 203 to be achieved through the movement of three arms. On one hand, the three arms provide a greater stroke for the control panel 203. On the other hand, the three arms also ensure sufficient reliability of the equipment while maintaining a large extension and retraction stroke. Please refer to [link / reference needed] for details. Figure 2 The weight of the operation panel 203 and the third arm 223 is applied to the second arm 222 through the section connecting the second and third arms (e.g., a portion of the guide rail). The weight of the operation panel 203 and the second and third arms is applied to the first arm 221 through the section connecting the first and second arms (e.g., a portion of the guide rail). Because the three arms in this embodiment provide a large telescopic stroke, even if the length of two sections is appropriately extended (i.e., the telescopic stroke of the second and third arms is reduced), the total telescopic stroke can still meet the requirements. This improves the stability and reliability of the system.

[0044] The following section further explains the preferred implementation method for the operation panel component. Please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 3 The image shows a perspective view of the operation panel assembly 300 in another embodiment of this application.

[0045] The operation panel assembly 300 includes an arm assembly and an operation panel 302. The arm assembly may include a first arm 311, a second arm 321, and a third arm 331. Figure 3 As shown, the first arm 311, the second arm 321, and the third arm 331 can be connected via guide rails. In some embodiments, the first arm 311 may include a first flat plate portion 312 and a pair of opposing sidewalls 313. Similarly, the second arm 321 may include a second flat plate portion 322 and a pair of opposing sidewalls 323. The third arm 331 may include a third flat plate portion 332 and a pair of opposing sidewalls 333. The flat plate portion ensures that the three arms have high mechanical strength and can be stacked and supported on each other in the vertical direction. The overlapping arrangement of the first pair of sidewalls 313, the second pair of sidewalls 323, and the third pair of sidewalls 333 guides the extension and retraction of the second arm 321 and the third arm 331. Thus, the flat plate portion and the opposing sidewalls ensure that the extension and retraction of the second arm 321 and the third arm 331 in the horizontal direction is smooth and reliable.

[0046] It is understandable that the operation panel assembly 300 may also include other components, such as the support assembly 303 mentioned above, for the purpose of simplification. Figure 3 The entire support assembly 303 is not shown in detail; only a portion of it connected to the first arm 311 is shown.

[0047] To more clearly illustrate the connection relationships between the first arm 311, the second arm 321, and the third arm 331, please refer to [the relevant documentation / reference needed]. Figure 4 . Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A partial schematic diagram of the three-arm connection method of the operation panel in the A-A' view direction. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first arm 311, the second arm 321, and the third arm 331 are sequentially nested from the inside out. The first pair of sidewalls 313 of the first arm 311 are located on both sides of the first flat plate portion 312 and extend upwards. Thus, the first flat plate portion 312 can connect to the support assembly 303 without being obstructed by other parts. Furthermore, the opposite arms of the second arm 321 and the third arm 331 extend downwards, forming downward notches, thereby allowing the second arm 321 and the third arm 331 to sequentially fasten onto the first arm 311, achieving a stable nesting. It is understood that the above embodiment describes the case where the first to third arms are nested from the inside out, but this application is not limited to this. For example, the first to third arms can also be nested from the outside in, which will not be listed here.

[0048] To at least consider the smoothness of pushing and pulling the third arm during use, some embodiments of this application have made further improvements to the connection method of the three arms. In some embodiments, a first pair of guide rails and a first pair of guide wheels are respectively provided between the first pair of sidewalls and the second pair of sidewalls, with the first pair of guide wheels housed within the first pair of guide rails; a second pair of guide rails and a second pair of guide wheels are respectively provided between the second pair of side arms and the third pair of side arms, with the second pair of guide wheels housed within the second pair of guide rails.

[0049] Specifically, Figure 4 An implementation of the above embodiment is shown. The first pair of sidewalls 313 includes a first pair of guide rails (i.e., the outwardly protruding portion of the first pair of sidewalls 313 in the figure), and the second pair of sidewalls 323 has a first pair of guide wheels 324 disposed on one side relative to the first pair of guide rails, the first pair of guide wheels 324 being accommodated within the first pair of guide rails; the third pair of sidewalls 333 includes a second pair of guide rails (i.e., the inwardly protruding portion of the third pair of sidewalls 333 in the figure), and the second pair of sidewalls 323 has a second pair of guide wheels 325 disposed on one side relative to the second pair of guide rails, the second pair of guide wheels 325 being accommodated within the second pair of guide rails 334.

[0050] Through the above implementation method, when the second arm 321 moves relative to the first arm 311 and the third arm 331 moves relative to the second arm 321, the friction force can be minimized and jamming can be avoided.

[0051] It is understood that the above embodiments can be implemented in other ways. For example, the first pair of guide rails can be disposed on the second pair of sidewalls on the side opposite to the first arm, and the first pair of guide wheels can be disposed at the corresponding positions of the first arm. Similarly, the second pair of guide rails can be disposed on the second pair of sidewalls on the side opposite to the third arm, and the second pair of guide wheels can be disposed at the corresponding positions of the third arm. This also guides the movement of the second and third arms.

[0052] It needs to be explained that, Figure 4 From this perspective, only one set of second guide wheels and one set of third guide wheels are shown. It can be understood that along the length of the arm (i.e.,...) Figure 3 In the A-A' direction, the second and third guide wheels can be set in multiple sets to provide uniform support and guidance for the movement of the arm.

[0053] Continue to refer to Figure 4In an optional embodiment, the second pair of sidewalls 323 further includes a third pair of guide wheels 326, which are disposed at the bottom of the second pair of sidewalls 323 and located between the first pair of sidewalls 313 and the third pair of sidewalls 333. This implementation further ensures the smoothness of the extension and retraction of the second and third arms, reduces friction during movement, and also prevents swaying in the left-right direction during arm extension and retraction. Similarly, Figure 4 Only one set of the third pair of guide wheels 326 is shown, but in the length direction of the arm, the third pair of guide wheels 326 may include multiple sets.

[0054] It should be noted that, for the sake of brevity, the above description of several embodiments uses the term "multiple embodiments". Figure 4 The embodiments described above are shown in the accompanying text, but this application is not limited thereto. In other words, the above embodiments are parallel and can be freely combined under the teachings of this disclosure, unless otherwise stated in this application or the solution itself clearly excludes such combinations.

[0055] Thus, the preceding embodiments of this application describe how, with the first arm fixed, the movable connection of the second and third arms provides a greater extension and retraction range for the entire arm assembly and ensures reliable movement. Optionally, this application also optimizes the movable connection of the second and third arms. In another embodiment, the arm assembly further includes a synchronization device through which the first, second, and third arms engage to synchronize the extension and retraction of the second and third arms relative to the first arm.

[0056] The following detailed description is provided with reference to the accompanying drawings. (Reference) Figure 5 This figure shows a bottom view of the arm assembly 500 in some embodiments of this application. The first arm 501, second arm 502, and third arm 503 included in the arm assembly 500 can be referred to in any of the embodiments described above in this application, and will not be repeated here. In this embodiment, the arm assembly 500 also includes a synchronization device 504. The synchronization device 504 includes a first rack 541, a second rack 543, and a gear 542. The first rack 541 is disposed on the first arm 501. The second rack 543 is disposed on the third arm 503. As shown, a gap exists between the first rack 541 and the second rack 543. The gear 504 is disposed on the second arm 502 and engages with the gap. Thus, the first arm 501, the second arm 502, and the third arm 503 are engaged via the first rack 541, the gear 542, and the second rack 543. Thus, the extension and retraction processes of the second arm 502 and the third arm 503 relative to the first arm 501 (fixed arm) are synchronized.

[0057] In the above configuration, when a user operates one of the movable arms in the arm assembly 500, such as the third arm 503, the synchronization device can drive the other movable arm, such as the second arm 502, to move. In other words, the movement or stillness of the movable second arm 502 and the third arm 503 is thus synchronized, preventing a situation where the third arm 503 is pulled while the second arm 502 remains stationary. This further improves the controllability of the control panel assembly during extension and retraction. Because the movement of the two movable arms occurs or stops simultaneously, operating one means operating the other, thus avoiding abnormal noises or unreliable extension and retraction caused by asynchrony. Another advantage of the synchronization device is that, after adjustment, it can ensure that the second arm 502 and the third arm 503 reach their maximum distance synchronously when operated to extend. When operated to retract, they reach the required minimum distance synchronously.

[0058] It's important to note that synchronization means occurring simultaneously, not that the distances (or speeds) the two movements cover are the same. (Reference) Figure 5 Let's analyze this simply. When the third arm is extended, the third rack on the third arm drives the gear on the second arm to roll. Since the gear on the second arm engages with the first rack on the first arm, the rolling of the gear on the second arm causes the second arm to move relative to the fixed first arm. Considering the motion at a certain moment, the gear can be regarded as a lever. Since the first arm is fixed, the fixed point (or fulcrum) of the lever is located at the point where the outer circumference of the gear engages with the first rack (at a certain moment, its velocity can be considered to be 0), while the point on the lever that drives the movement of the second arm is located at the connection point between the gear and the second arm, that is, at the center of the gear. Therefore, the lever arm length that drives the movement of the second arm can be understood as the gear radius. Similarly, the connection point between the lever and the third arm is the point where the outer circumference of the gear engages with the third rack, which can be regarded as the diameter of the gear. Roughly, the lever arm of the third arm is twice the lever arm of the second arm. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the movements of the second and third arms are synchronized, and the relationship between the movement speed of the third arm and the movement speed of the second arm is also definite, with the former being approximately twice the speed of the other two. The above analysis is intended to more clearly explain the synchronized movement of this application and is not intended to limit the specific structure of the synchronization device.

[0059] In other embodiments, the synchronization device may also include other types of alternatives. (See reference...) Figure 6 This image shows a bottom view of the arm assembly 600 in some other embodiments of this application. Similar to the foregoing description, the first arm 601, second arm 602, and third arm 603 included in the arm assembly 600 can be referred to in any of the embodiments described above in this application. Specifically, to more clearly illustrate the internal structure, Figure 6The flat section of the third arm 603 has been removed. The main difference is that, in this embodiment, the arm assembly 600 also includes a synchronization device 604. For example... Figure 6 The synchronization device 604 may include a drive belt 641, a first drive pulley 642, a second drive pulley 643, a first fixing device 644, and a second fixing device 645. The first drive pulley 642 and the second drive pulley 643 are mounted on the second arm 602. The drive belt 641 is tensioned by the first drive pulley 642 and the second drive pulley 643. The first fixing device 644 is fixed to one side of both the first arm 601 and the drive belt 641. The second fixing device 645 is fixed to the other side of both the third arm 603 and the drive belt 641.

[0060] It should be noted that the terms "one side" and "the other side" mentioned above can be understood as the two parts divided by the line connecting the first and second drive pulleys of the annular transmission belt 641, with one side closer to the first arm 601 and the other side closer to the third arm 603. Furthermore, since the first arm 601 is fixedly installed, it can be ensured that when the third arm 603 extends or retracts, the first fixing device 644 pulls the transmission belt 641, causing the first and second drive pulleys connected to the transmission belt 641 to move in the same direction, ultimately driving the second arm 602 to extend or retract synchronously.

[0061] Figure 6 In the embodiment, the synchronization effect of the second and third arms achieved by the synchronization device, and the proportional relationship of the movement speeds of the second and third arms, can be referred to Figure 5 The analysis. Specifically, one side of the transmission belt and the other side of the transmission belt can be similar to... Figure 5 The first and second racks, and the first and second drive wheels can be compared to... Figure 5 The gears in the embodiment will not be described further here.

[0062] Furthermore, the first and second fixing devices can employ any clamping device available in the prior art, such as a clamp, as long as it ensures a secure connection between the belt and the arm and prevents slippage. Regarding the belt, in a preferred example, its inner surface may include grooves or a toothed structure. The outer surfaces of the first and second drive pulleys may also include the aforementioned structure, thereby preventing slippage between the belt and the pulleys during movement.

[0063] In some embodiments, the operation panel assembly may further include a buffer assembly. The buffer assembly includes a first buffer and a second buffer disposed opposite to each other, the first buffer and the second buffer respectively disposed on any one and any other arm of the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm. The buffer assembly ensures that the arm assembly does not experience violent collisions that could damage the device when it extends or retracts to its limit position.

[0064] In an optional embodiment, the first buffer includes two first buffers disposed at the front and rear ends of one of the arms, and the second buffer is disposed on the other arm and located between the two first buffers. In other words, the second buffer disposed on the other arm is positioned between the first buffers of the first arm. Thus, the buffer assembly not only serves a cushioning function but also a stroke limiting function. That is, the stroke of the buffer is limited to the distance between one of the two first buffers. Correspondingly, the relative movement between the first and second arms is also limited by the buffer assembly.

[0065] It can be understood that any one of the aforementioned arms can be any one of the first to third arms, and any other arm mentioned above can be any other one of the first to third arms. Through Figure 6 One of the implementation methods will be explained.

[0066] refer to Figure 6 The buffer assembly may include two first buffers 651 and may also include a second buffer 652. Figure 6 In the example, one arm is selected as the second arm 602, and the other arm is selected as the first arm 601. Accordingly, two first buffers 651 are disposed at both ends of the second arm 602. A second buffer 652 is disposed on the first arm 601 and located between the two first buffers 651. Thus, movement of the second arm 602 will cause the two first buffers 651 to move relative to the second buffer 652. When the second arm 602 extends to its limit position, one of the two first buffers 651 abuts against the second buffer 652, thereby preventing further extension and simultaneously buffering the impact. Similarly, when the second arm 602 retracts to its limit position, the other of the two first buffers 651 abuts against the second buffer 652, thereby preventing further retraction and buffering the impact. Thus, the buffer assembly simultaneously achieves stroke limitation of the arm assembly movement and impact buffering.

[0067] Understandable. Figure 6Specifically, the first and second buffers are shown as being disposed in the second arm 602 and the first arm 601, respectively. However, as described above in this disclosure, the above-described arrangement is not unique. Figure 6 Following the teachings of the specific embodiments, any choice can be made among the three arms. For example, the first buffer can be placed in the first arm, the second buffer in the second arm, or any other arbitrary arrangement. Furthermore, the arrangement of the buffers can be varied. Figure 6 The second buffer 652 shown includes two elastic strikers 653 for contacting the two first buffers 651 to provide a buffering effect, but other methods can also be used, such as selecting elastic materials, springs, etc. for buffering, or buffering and limiting, which will not be described in detail here.

[0068] In another embodiment, when both the synchronization device and the buffer component of any embodiment of this application are selected and configured simultaneously, the limiting function of the buffer component can be further enhanced. Specifically, it still takes... Figure 6 The following example illustrates the concept. The synchronization device 604 ensures that the movements of the second arm 602 and the third arm 603 are synchronized. In other words, when the movement position of either the second arm 602 or the third arm 603 reaches a certain limit of its travel, the other will also reach its limit. Based on this, in an arm assembly including the family of devices 604, buffering or limiting only any two of the three arms is sufficient to buffer and limit all three arms. Figure 6 In this configuration, buffering and limiting occur between the first and second arms. However, it is understandable that when the second arm 602 reaches its limit position and is limited by the buffer assembly, the third arm can also be stably limited. Thus, the synchronization device 604 and the buffer assembly cooperate with each other.

[0069] The foregoing embodiments have described various implementations and effects of a retractable operation panel component. In other embodiments, the operation panel component of this application may also include other components and related functions. Exemplary descriptions follow.

[0070] Please return to the reference. Figure 2 In some embodiments, the support assembly of the control panel assembly 210 may further include a base 204 and a lifting device 205. The lifting device 205 is connected to the first arm 221, so as to drive the control panel 203 to rise and fall via the first arm 221, the second arm 222, and the third arm 223. Thus, when using the control panel 203, the user can adjust not only the front-to-back distance of the control panel 203, but also its height.

[0071] The specific structure of the lifting device 205 can refer to any method in the prior art, for example, it can be implemented by a gas spring. Alternatively, it can be implemented by a motor drive. It is understood that the lifting device 205 may also include devices such as switches to facilitate the user's adjustment of the lifting position, which will not be elaborated here. The lifting device 205 is connected to the base 204 and the first arm 221, and in addition to lifting, it also serves to support the operation panel 203.

[0072] Furthermore, in some instances, a portion of the structure of the operation panel assembly 201 of this application is rotatable. For example, the operation panel 203 and the third arm 223 may be rotatably connected. In another example, the support assembly 201 and the first arm 221 may be rotatably connected. In other embodiments, while the operation panel 203 and the third arm 223 are rotatably connected, the support assembly 201 is also rotatably connected to the first arm 221.

[0073] The rotatable control panel 203 can further meet users' needs for different control panel angles. Especially in embodiments where both the first arm 221 and the control panel 203 are configured to be rotatable, a larger rotation angle can be achieved, meeting the needs of users in more usage environments. Specifically, rotatable control panels in the prior art are generally not suitable for very large rotation angles. This is partly because large rotation angles will affect the reliability of the device, potentially reducing the connection stability between the control panel and the arm, and also affecting the lifespan of the internal cables. In the above embodiments of this application, the rotation stroke is distributed to both the first arm 221 and the control panel 203. Thus, without affecting the reliability of the control panel 203 and the third arm 223, or the stability of the internal electrical connections of the control panel, the first arm 221 compensates for the rotation angle.

[0074] Rotatable connections can be achieved using any rotating mechanism. For example, ... Figure 2 As shown, the support assembly 201 and the first arm 221 are rotatably connected via a first rotating mechanism 206. The operation panel 203 and the third arm 223 are rotatably connected via a second rotating mechanism 207. The first rotating mechanism 206 may include at least two parts respectively disposed on the support assembly 201 and the first arm. Similarly, the second rotating mechanism 207 may also include at least two parts respectively disposed on the operation panel 203 and the third arm 223. Thus, a rotatable connection is achieved.

[0075] Please refer to the following. Figure 7 , 8 The rotatable states of the operation panel components in some embodiments of this application will be further described in detail. Figure 7A schematic diagram 700 of the operation panel assembly in a first state is shown in some embodiments of this application. Figure 8 A schematic diagram 800 of the operation panel assembly in a second state is shown in some embodiments of this application.

[0076] First refer to Figure 7 The operation panel assembly includes an arm assembly 711, an operation panel 712, and a support assembly 713. The specific construction of each component can be found in the embodiments described above, and will not be repeated here. Optionally, the operation panel assembly may further include an attachment device 714. As shown in the figure, the attachment device 714 connects to the support assembly 713 and extends upwards to a height not lower than that of the operation panel 712. Figure 7 The attachment 714 is shown in the form of a rear handle. Thus, the user can operate the rear handle to move the control panel assembly and the entire device including the assembly.

[0077] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the rotational state of the operation panel 712 relative to the arm assembly 711. When the arm assembly 711 is not configured to rotate relative to the support assembly 713, the operation panel 712 is configured to rotate within ±α°. This allows for human-machine interaction using the operation panel 712, where, if the body is not directly facing the operation panel assembly, it is not necessary to move the entire operation panel assembly; only the angle of the operation panel 712 needs to be adjusted. However, as described above, this angle range typically cannot be configured too large to avoid reducing the reliability of the operation panel 712's connection or damaging internal electrical connections. This may result in some usage scenarios where, even after rotating the operation panel 712, its angle is still not the optimal angle for user operation.

[0078] Figure 8 The diagram illustrates the rotational states of the operation panel 712 relative to the arm assembly 711, and the rotational states of the arm assembly 711 relative to the support assembly 713. The rotational states of the operation panel 712 relative to the arm assembly 711 can be as follows: Figure 7 The described procedure is performed within a certain range, for example, ±α°. Figure 8 The main difference in the embodiments is that the arm assembly 711 is also configured to be rotatable. For example, Figure 8 The arm assembly 711 rotates by β° relative to the support assembly 713. Since the operation panel 712 is connected to the arm assembly 711, this means that the rotational travel of the operation panel 712 relative to the support assembly 713 increases by ±β°, changing from ±α° to ±(α+β)°. This will meet the needs of users in more scenarios. Furthermore, since part of the aforementioned travel is due to the rotation of the arm assembly, the reliability of the operation panel 712 can be largely maintained.

[0079] Furthermore, the inventors realized that in embodiments including an arm assembly with three arms, the greater extension stroke provided by the arm assembly better complements implementations where both the control panel and the arm assembly can rotate simultaneously. (Reference) Figure 7 , 8 The arm assembly 711 may include a first arm 721, a second arm 722, and a third arm (located below the operation panel 712 and not shown). In some embodiments, the extension stroke of the second arm 722 and the third arm is configured to eliminate the rotational spatial obstruction of the attachment device 714 on the operation panel. Specifically, in the above embodiments, the extension stroke provided by the second arm 722 and the third arm ensures that the operation panel 712 is sufficiently far away from the attachment device 714. Thus, even in some extreme positions, such as when the arm assembly rotates to its closest angle to the attachment device while the operation panel also rotates to its closest angle to the attachment device, the operation panel will not be blocked by the attachment device. This ensures the usability of the operation panel at large rotation angles.

[0080] Based on the rotatable connection between the control panel and the third arm, some examples of this application also provide a locking method for the rotatable connection. Specifically, in the example where the control panel and the third arm are rotatably connected, the control panel assembly may further include: a first locking member disposed between the control panel and the third arm, which can be operated to lock the control panel and the third arm, thereby achieving rotational locking of the control panel and the third arm. This configuration better meets user needs. For example, when the user rotates the control panel to a suitable angle, the first locking member can be operated to lock the control panel and the third arm, thereby positioning the angle of the control panel and preventing unwanted rotational movement during use.

[0081] It is understood that the specific structure of the aforementioned first locking element can refer to any locking mechanism in the prior art, such as an electromagnetic or mechanical locking mechanism. The first locking element may also include multiple discrete components, such as a portion of components distributed on the operation panel and a portion of components on the third arm, and may also include other components for controlling the aforementioned first locking element, such as switches and cables, which will not be listed individually below. The following is an appendix... Figure 9 An illustrative example is provided.

[0082] Reference Appendix Figure 9 This illustration shows a partial schematic diagram of an operation panel assembly 900 including a first locking member in some embodiments of this application. It will be understood that, in addition to the specific components described below, other components of the operation panel assembly 900 may be referred to in any of the embodiments described above.

[0083] like Figure 9 The operation panel assembly 900 includes a first locking member 901, a third arm 902, and an operation panel 903. Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment, a first locking element 901 is disposed between the third arm 902 and the operation panel 903. In an alternative embodiment, the first locking element 901 is an electromagnetic locking device, fixedly mounted on a base plate 921 below the third arm 902. The operation panel 903 is rotatably connected to the third arm 902 via a pivot 931. Furthermore, the bottom surface of the operation panel 903 includes a ferromagnetic top plate 932. The ferromagnetic top plate 932 and the electromagnetic first locking element 901 are disposed opposite each other, so that when the first locking element 901 is energized, it can generate a sufficiently strong magnetic field to attract the top plate 932. At this time, the base plate 921, the first locking element 901, and the top plate 932 are locked together. Accordingly, the third arm 902 and the operation panel 903 are thus locked together, preventing the operation panel 903 from rotating relative to the third arm 902.

[0084] The foregoing is an exemplary description of the first locking member 901 and its mating components. However, this application is not limited thereto, and any device capable of locking the third arm 902 and the operation panel 903 by a switch control is permitted, such as a mechanical locking mechanism.

[0085] Furthermore, in addition to including the telescopic arm assembly, some examples of this application also provide a locking method for the telescopic arm. Specifically, in some embodiments, the operation panel assembly of this application further includes a second locking member disposed between the support assembly and the second arm. The second locking member can be operated to lock the support assembly and the second arm, thereby achieving telescopic locking of the second arm.

[0086] Furthermore, in an embodiment where the support assembly and the first arm are rotatably connected, the second locking member can simultaneously lock the first arm and the support assembly in a rotational manner while locking the second arm in a telescopic manner. This is because the second arm and the first arm are fixedly connected in the rotational direction. Therefore, locking the second arm and the support assembly implies locking the first arm and the support assembly in a rotational function. Thus, by placing the second locking member between the second arm and the support assembly, this application can simultaneously achieve telescopic locking of the second arm and rotational locking of the arm relative to the support assembly with only one set of locking members, without the need for another set of locking members. This saves costs, improves equipment reliability, and simplifies the user's workflow. The following is an appendix... Figure 10 Provide a detailed, illustrative explanation. Figure 10Partial schematic diagrams of an operation panel assembly 1000 including a second locking member are shown in some embodiments of this application. It will be understood that, in addition to the specific components described below, other components of the operation panel assembly 1000 may be referred to in any of the embodiments described above.

[0087] like Figure 10 The operation panel assembly 1000 includes a second locking member 1001, a first arm 1002, a second arm 1003, a third arm 1004, an operation panel 1005, and a support assembly 1006. It should be noted that, in order to more clearly describe the internal structure of the operation panel assembly 1000, Figure 10 The second arm 1003 has had part of its flat plate removed from the view. Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, a second locking member 1001 is disposed between the second arm 1003 and the support assembly 1006. When the second locking member 1001 is energized, it enables telescopic locking between the support assembly 1006 and the second arm 1003. In an alternative embodiment, the second locking member 1001 is an electromagnetic locking device, fixedly mounted on the top of the support assembly 1006 and disposed opposite to the flat portion of the second arm 1003.

[0088] In some embodiments, the top end of the support assembly 1006 is configured to include a pivot and is rotatably connected to the first arm 1002, thereby rotatably connecting the arm assembly consisting of the first, second, and third arms to the support assembly 1006. Accordingly, when the second locking member 1001 locks the support assembly 1006 and the second arm 1003, both telescopic locking and rotational locking are achieved. Thus, using only one second locking member 1001, both telescopic locking of the second arm 1003 relative to the support assembly 1006 and rotational locking of the arm assembly relative to the support assembly 1006 can be achieved simultaneously.

[0089] The inventors further realized that the combination of solutions from the various embodiments described above in this application can make a greater contribution to improving the performance of the operation panel components and enhancing the user experience than a simple combination alone. Exemplary examples are provided below.

[0090] In some solutions, in the operation panel component (e.g., Figure 10 The operation panel assembly 1000 includes both the synchronization device and the second locking member described in the above embodiment. Therefore, when the second locking member is used to lock the extension and retraction of the second arm and the support assembly, the existence of the synchronization device allows for the locking of the extension and retraction of the third arm. This is because the synchronization device ensures that the extension and retraction of the second and third arms are synchronized; the extension and retraction of one arm will drive the other, and locking one arm will also lock the other. Thus, it is unnecessary to use two separate locking devices to lock the two arms.

[0091] In some solutions, the operation panel assembly includes both the first locking element and the second locking element described in the above embodiments (e.g., simultaneously including...). Figure 9 and Figure 10 In one embodiment of the control panel assembly, a single switch can be configured to simultaneously control two locking elements. Therefore, when the user rotates the control panel to lock or unlock, there is no need to consider how to separately control the locking / unlocking of the control panel and the third arm, or the locking / unlocking of the arm assembly and the support assembly. Only one switch needs to be controlled to simultaneously lock or unlock both positions, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0092] In some solutions, the operation panel assembly includes both the first locking element and the second locking element described in the above embodiments (e.g., simultaneously including...). Figure 9 and Figure 10 An embodiment of the operation panel assembly, including a synchronization device, allows for simultaneous control of rotation and extension by using a single switch to control the first and second locking members. This further enhances the user's operating experience and work efficiency.

[0093] Thus far, various types of operator panel assemblies have been described in the embodiments above of this application. Operator panel assemblies can be applied to different devices. In some embodiments, embodiments of this application disclose a medical device including the operator panel assembly as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0094] Optionally, the aforementioned medical device may include at least one of a medical cart and an ultrasound imaging device. The medical cart, as a carrier, can be used to carry various medical devices such as monitors, portable ultrasound equipment, and electrocardiographs. A medical cart equipped with the operation panel assembly described in this application can be given more functions to improve user convenience. In another embodiment, the operation panel assembly described in any of the above embodiments can be part of an ultrasound imaging device. Exemplary examples are provided below.

[0095] Please refer to Figure 11 The diagram shows a schematic of an ultrasound imaging device 1100 in some embodiments of this application.

[0096] The ultrasound imaging device 1100 may include an operation panel assembly 1101 and a display 1102 on the operation panel assembly 1101. The specific configuration of the operation panel assembly 1101 can be found in any of the embodiments described above. For example, it may include an operation panel 1111, an arm assembly 1112, a support assembly 1113, and a rear handle 1114. The operation panel 1111 provides a user interface for human-computer interaction, such as a touchscreen or keyboard. This application provides users with a flexible adjustment method for the operation panel assembly 1101. Therefore, users can operate the operation panel 1111 and observe medical information such as ultrasound images on the display 1102 from different distances and angles.

[0097] It is understood that the above description is merely an exemplary description of the ultrasound imaging device 1100, and other structures of the device may refer to any existing technology, for example, it may also include probes or other accessories.

[0098] The purpose of providing the above specific embodiments is to enable a more thorough and comprehensive understanding of the disclosure of this application, but this application is not limited to these specific embodiments. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, equivalent substitutions, and changes can be made to this application, and all such changes should be within the protection scope of this application as long as they do not violate the spirit of this application.

Claims

1. An operation panel assembly, comprising: Support components; An arm assembly, the arm assembly including a first arm, a second arm and a third arm; The first arm connects to the support assembly; The second arm and the third arm are retractably connected relative to the first arm; as well as The operation panel is connected to the third arm.

2. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The arm assembly also includes: A synchronization device is provided, through which the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm engage to achieve synchronized extension and retraction of the second arm and the third arm relative to the first arm.

3. The operation panel assembly as described in claim 2, wherein, The synchronization device includes: A first rack, the first rack being disposed on the first arm; A second rack, disposed on the third arm, wherein a gap exists between the first rack and the second rack; and A gear is disposed on the second arm and engages in the gap; the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm are engaged by the first rack, the gear, and the second rack.

4. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The synchronization device includes: A drive belt, which is tensioned by a first drive pulley and a second drive pulley disposed on the second arm; A first fixing device is fixed to one side of the first arm and the transmission belt, respectively; and The second fixing device is fixed to the third arm and the other side of the transmission belt, respectively.

5. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The support components include: Base; and A lifting device is connected to the first arm to drive the operation panel to rise and fall via the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm.

6. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The control panel and the third arm are rotatably connected; or / and The support assembly and the first arm are rotatably connected.

7. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein, Also includes: An attachment device is provided, which connects to the support assembly and extends upward to a height not lower than that of the operation panel; the extension strokes of the second arm and the third arm are configured to eliminate the rotational spatial resistance of the attachment device to the operation panel.

8. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 7, wherein, The attachment device includes a rear handle.

9. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The first arm includes a first flat plate portion and a first pair of oppositely arranged sidewalls; the second arm includes a second flat plate portion and a second pair of oppositely arranged sidewalls; the third arm includes a third flat plate portion and a third pair of oppositely arranged sidewalls; the first pair of sidewalls, the second pair of sidewalls, and the third pair of sidewalls are nested together to guide the extension and retraction of the second arm and the third arm.

10. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein: A first pair of guide rails and a first pair of guide wheels are respectively provided between the first pair of sidewalls and the second pair of sidewalls, and the first pair of guide wheels are accommodated within the first pair of guide rails; a second pair of guide rails and a second pair of guide wheels are respectively provided between the second pair of sidearms and the third pair of sidearms, and the second pair of guide wheels are accommodated within the second pair of guide rails.

11. The operation panel assembly of claim 10, wherein: The second pair of sidewalls also includes a third pair of guide wheels, which are disposed at the bottom of the second pair of sidewalls and located between the first pair of sidewalls and the third pair of sidewalls.

12. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein, Also includes: A buffer assembly, comprising a first buffer and a second buffer disposed opposite to each other, wherein the first buffer and the second buffer are respectively disposed on any one of the first arm, the second arm and the third arm and any other arm.

13. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein: The first buffer includes two first buffers disposed at the front and rear ends of any one of the arms, and the second buffer is disposed on the other arm and located between the two first buffers.

14. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The operation panel and the third arm are rotatably connected, and the operation panel assembly further includes: A first locking element is disposed between the operation panel and the third arm. The first locking element can be operated to lock the operation panel and the third arm, thereby achieving rotational locking of the operation panel and the third arm.

15. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein, Also includes: A second locking element is disposed between the support assembly and the second arm. The second locking element can be operated to lock the support assembly and the second arm, thereby achieving telescopic locking of the second arm.

16. The operation panel assembly as claimed in claim 15, wherein, The support assembly and the first arm are rotatably connected, thereby the second locking member can simultaneously lock the first arm and the support assembly by extending and retracting the second arm.

17. A medical device comprising an operation panel assembly as described in any of the preceding claims.

18. The medical device of claim 17, wherein the medical device comprises at least one of a medical cart and an ultrasound imaging device.

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