Apparatus, system, and method for personalized noise preparation for patients scheduled for medical procedures

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for personalized noise preparation for a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure involving a medical device used during the course of the scheduled medical procedure, wherein the medical device, when in use, causes a sequence of operating sounds, the device comprising: an input configured to obtain procedure information comprising information about the scheduled medical procedure; a processor configured to obtain and / or generate artificial sound sequence information comprising information about a sequence of operating sounds associated with the scheduled medical procedure based on the obtained procedure information; select and order the operating sound sequence information based on the procedure information, in particular according to the course of the medical procedure; and generate a control signal for controlling a presentation unit to present an artificial sound sequence matching the selected and ordered operating sound sequence information; and an output configured to output the control signal to the presentation unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to apparatus, systems, and methods for personalized noise preparation (particularly psychological noise preparation) for patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures. Medical procedures can generally be any medical procedure involving noise, particularly computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Background Technology

[0002] Medical examinations can trigger anxiety for most patients due to the frightening clinical situation and the potential for negative outcomes. Another factor contributing to anxiety is the loud, unpleasant, and unpredictable noise during medical procedures, which is particularly relevant to procedures such as MRI. MRI sounds can be extremely loud (up to 117 dB; Counter et al., 1997) and have been described by patients as being “inside a (-) fax machine” (Hewis, 2015).

[0003] Therefore, such noise can cause significant stress to patients both before and during the examination. Specifically, noise can cause discomfort during the examination, potentially leading to scan interruption or rescanning, or image degradation due to involuntary movement, and can also cause negative feelings in patients after the scan. The latter will make it more difficult to perform a second scan on the same patient, or to scan a new patient who has already heard negative descriptions of the unpleasant sound experience during such an examination.

[0004] Currently, most patients are given descriptions of their noise experience, such as a "tapping sound" as described on a webpage. However, this doesn't convey what the noise actually sounds like and only describes a portion of the sequence. Patients might search for MRI or other noises themselves and see a particular sequence, but this doesn't give them an idea of ​​what their own individualized sequence might sound like. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of this invention is to further improve the preparation of patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures involving noise (particularly MR scans). Specifically, the stress levels caused by the noise of these procedures should be reduced, and the negative association with noise should be eliminated.

[0006] In a first aspect of the invention, there is an apparatus for personalized noise preparation for a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure involving the use of medical devices during the scheduled medical procedure, wherein the medical devices, when used, generate a sequence of operating sounds, the apparatus comprising: The input unit (12) is configured to obtain process information, which includes information about the arranged medical process; Processor (14), which is configured as follows: Based on the obtained process information, artificial voice sequence information is obtained and / or generated, the artificial voice sequence information including information about the operational voice sequence associated with the sequence of the arranged medical process; Based on the process information, particularly according to the procedures of the medical process, the operation sound sequence information is selected and ordered; and Generate control signals to control the presentation unit (30) to present the artificial sound sequence that matches the selected and ordered operational sound sequence information; and The output unit (16) is configured to output the control signal to the presentation unit (30).

[0007] In another aspect of the invention, a corresponding method, a computer program, and a non-transient computer-readable recording medium are provided, the computer program including program code units configured to cause the computer to perform the steps of the method disclosed herein when the computer program is executed on the computer, and the non-transient computer-readable recording medium storing a computer program product therein, the computer program product causing the method disclosed herein to be executed when executed by a processor.

[0008] Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims. It should be understood that the claimed methods, systems, computer programs, and media have preferred embodiments similar to and / or identical to the claimed devices, particularly the preferred embodiments as defined in the dependent claims and as disclosed herein.

[0009] This invention is based on the concept of familiarizing patients with the noise of the medical procedures they are scheduled to undergo and giving them a degree of control over the noise. Such noise typically comprises one or more defined sequences of operational sounds, which include sound components constituting the sound sequence. Patients should be provided with a preview of their personalized procedure by offering an artificial sound sequence that matches the operational sound sequence of the procedure. In the context of this invention, the term "match" means mimicking the operational sound sequence of the procedure as closely as possible or replicating them from (recorded) real operational sounds. Therefore, patients can enter the medical procedure knowing what sounds they will expect. In other words, the noise becomes predictable for the patient. This significantly reduces patient stress levels. The negative association with noise during the scheduled medical procedure is removed. Therefore, interruptions and rescans can be avoided.

[0010] The process information used to obtain / generate operational sound sequence information (or in other words, the sound sequence a patient will hear during a medical procedure) includes details of the medical procedure, making it possible to obtain the corresponding operational sound sequence (operational sound sequence information). For example, the process information may indicate that the medical procedure involves an MRI scan (specifically, the MRI sequence to be performed) or a CT scan (specifically, the CT sequence to be performed). Therefore, sounds corresponding to the MRI scan or CT scan can be obtained and / or created, respectively. In other words, first, the medical procedure the patient is scheduled to undergo is analyzed. For example, the duration of the MR examination card components is determined, and based on the analysis, the operational sounds and volume associated with each component are determined. These sounds can then be presented to the patient to familiarize him / her with the noise he / she will expect to hear during the procedure.

[0011] Compared to generic, one-size-fits-all applications, customized and personalized applications (or, more generally, the devices and methods presented in this article) are better prepared for the patient's medical process. They are able to prepare the patient for the noise that is precisely relevant to them. They are able to provide a personalized experience that prepares the patient for the noise they absolutely need to know / master, to the extent they require.

[0012] According to an embodiment, the processor is configured to select and sort the operational sound sequence information based on the process information, and generate the control signal to control the presentation unit to present the artificial sound sequence by matching the acoustic patterns, pitches, rhythms, lengths, and / or sequences of the operational sound sequences generated by medical devices used in the process of the arranged medical procedure.

[0013] Therefore, for example, a preview of his / her scheduled medical procedure can be provided to the patient, with the exact sequence and duration of the planned procedure. In particular, not only can the patient be provided with a random sound sequence during MRI, but also with the exact operational sound sequence of his / her planned procedure. Thus, the patient's preparation for the medical procedure is highly personalized.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the processor is configured to obtain calibration information and adapt the operational sound sequence information based on the calibration information. The calibration information includes information for calibrating the processor to perform the following operations: adapting the operational sound sequence information based on specific operational sound sequence characteristics related to a specific condition of the medical device used in the process of the medical procedure and / or based on a sample sound sequence from the medical device. The specific condition includes any one of the following: type of medical device, years of use, condition, frequency of use, and environment.

[0015] In particular, the calibration information may include the specific circumstances described above.

[0016] In this way, patients can be prepared for their upcoming medical procedures in a more personalized and precise manner. In fact, MRI sounds, for example, vary in pitch and rhythm from machine to machine. This can be caused by differences in the type of machine or its age. However, other specific factors are also conceivable. The environment of the MRI machine, especially the room in which such a machine is located, plays a role in potential resonance. Therefore, calibrating equipment to generate an artificial sound sequence that matches the exact operating noise of the MRI system will give the patient a better impression of the sounds they will expect to hear during their medical procedure.

[0017] The calibration information preferably includes information about specific circumstances of one or more medical devices used in the medical process, including the type, age, condition, frequency of use, and environment of the medical devices used.

[0018] Preferably, the processor is configured to obtain calibration information from a user interface configured to receive user input and / or from a calibration information database. However, calibration information can also be part of the process information. Calibration can be performed in the medical process room (i.e., the MRI room) by running (specifying) a sequence of sample manipulation sounds and recording the sounds.

[0019] In another embodiment, the processor is configured to: obtain voice manipulation information, and adapt the artificial voice sequence information according to the voice manipulation information, the voice manipulation information including information about the patient's request to manipulate the artificial voice sequence, wherein the voice manipulation information includes information about changing any one of the volume, acoustic mode, pitch, rhythm, length, selection, and / or order of one or more of the manipulated voice sequences. The voice manipulation will preferably be used only during the patient preparation phase and not during the final medical examination phase.

[0020] Therefore, patients can familiarize themselves with the sounds of medical procedures in a controlled manner (e.g., by controlling the volume or the order of artificial sound sequences). Thus, sequences of sounds perceived as unpleasant can be repeatedly listened to to familiarize oneself with the sounds and reduce the stress and / or anxiety associated with them.

[0021] Preferably, the processor is configured to obtain voice manipulation information from a user interface configured to receive user input.

[0022] In another embodiment of the device, the processor is further configured to: obtain and / or generate one or more entertainment program components based on the process information, and generate entertainment control signals based on the entertainment program components for controlling the presentation unit to present the one or more entertainment program components, the one or more entertainment program components including one or more of audio entertainment components, video entertainment components, and / or interactive entertainment components; wherein the output unit is configured to output the entertainment control signals to the presentation unit.

[0023] For example, the processor can acquire and / or generate multiple video-audio procedures to accompany artificial sound sequences. In particular, a very loud sequence of operational sound for a medical procedure can be accompanied by soothing video entertainment components (such as videos of the ocean) and / or soothing audio components (such as soothing music). Thus, by using the presented device, it is possible to create a so-called contextual experience (AE) for the patient, i.e., a soothing and comfortable environment in which stress, anxiety, and discomfort are reduced.

[0024] Typically, the processor can obtain and / or generate one or more entertainment program components based on patient information rather than process information.

[0025] To generate entertainment program components, various types of technologies (including artificial intelligence) can be used. For example, a "check-card-specific process generator" can be provided. In other words, a processor can be configured to generate entertainment program components based on information stored on a patient's check-card. Preferably, the processor is configured to generate entertainment program components, particularly sequences of video and / or audio themes suitable for the arrangement of medical procedures, especially in terms of the length and type of the components / sequences. For example, the processor can generate (or obtain) abstract video and audio scenes (e.g., a falling ball) that match MR sounds, or MR-specific video and audio scenes (e.g., a pneumatic pick, an angle grinder, horse / wilderrace trampling, a rock music scene, an instrumental scene). Similarly, the processor can generate (or obtain) games that accompany sequences of operational sound from medical procedures, such as those where the patient can use an avatar capable of interacting with the sounds (e.g., interacting with a character that moves to the rhythm of the sounds; creating music accompanying the sounds, etc.).

[0026] The term "entertainment program component" refers to a part and / or sequence of an entertainment program, including video entertainment programs, audio entertainment programs, and / or interactive entertainment program components. Therefore, an entertainment program component can include scenes / sequences of movies or other video entertainment and / or sequences of musical works or other sounds and / or sequences of interactive games or dialogues (e.g., with AI-generated responders), etc. In this context, the term "entertainment" should be understood broadly. Thus, a video entertainment component can be any visualization of a sequence of sounds, such as a visual representation of sound waves corresponding to the sequence of sounds or a representation of a physical object representing sound frequencies.

[0027] The processor can be configured to select and / or sort video, audio, and / or sound components based on process information, particularly based on the procedures of an arranged medical process.

[0028] Preferably, the processor is configured to obtain one or more entertainment program components from a user interface configured to receive user input and / or from an entertainment program component database, which includes a contextual experience library or another library that includes entertainment program components (i.e., entertainment content, particularly audio / visual (and possibly interactive) content).

[0029] In an embodiment, the processor is configured to: obtain entertainment manipulation information, and adapt the one or more entertainment program components according to the entertainment manipulation information, the entertainment manipulation information including information about the patient's request to manipulate the entertainment program components, wherein the entertainment manipulation information includes information about any of the following: changing the type, theme, volume, acoustic mode, pitch, rhythm, length, selection and / or order of one or more of the audio entertainment components; changing the type, theme, display size, resolution, brightness, contrast, shading, length, selection and / or order of the video entertainment components; and / or changing the type, theme, interactivity level, length, selection and / or order of the interactive entertainment components.

[0030] Therefore, patients are given control over their contextual experience of their scheduled medical procedures. Thus, patients can personalize the process of their medical procedures (e.g., their MR process) as needed. They can listen in advance to the sounds of the medical devices used during their procedure (e.g., MR sounds) at a selected volume (gradually increasing to 100%). Matching video and audio content can be suggested to them based on a theme library. Patients can choose (part) alternatives from a (large) library of video, audio, and / or interactive themes, edit video and / or audio content, and select different videos from the library. For example, a preview can be provided where the video content is played in full screen and overlaid with audio content and (MR) sequence noise.

[0031] Given this possibility, the patient is able to exert control over the medical process (e.g., MR) experience; for example, he / she can choose topics that are soothing to him / her, or use certain topics to indicate to himself / her the sequence of changes or the end of the examination.

[0032] Therefore, a device is provided that allows a patient to experience noises they are familiar with and expect to hear during their medical procedure, and that this experience can be controlled by designing a personalized accompanying video / audio / interactive experience (i.e., a contextual experience). Personalized contextual experiences are created to suit the specific patient's medical procedure (and preferably also their preferences).

[0033] In addition, as patients "play" with the options to configure their process, they may familiarize themselves with the sounds of the arranged medical procedure. They can choose to use each part / sequence of their process to change the content of the AE topic to guide themselves through the process, or they can choose to select only one topic to keep the most relaxing content for them. Moreover, patients may pay more attention to the video content during the process because they have selected the video content themselves.

[0034] The processor can be configured to obtain entertainment control information from a user interface configured to receive user input.

[0035] In another embodiment of the device, the processor is configured to also obtain patient information, the patient information including information about the patient, and wherein the processor is configured to additionally use the patient information to obtain, generate, and / or adapt the one or more entertainment program components.

[0036] Patient information can be information about one or more of the following (about the patient): age, body type, weight, sex, health status, medications, medical history, preferences, sensitivities, personality, problems during previous medical procedures, common emotional states, hearing and / or vision. Patient information can be obtained from one or more of the following: user interfaces configured to receive user input, check cards, medical records, and patient information databases.

[0037] Younger patients typically prefer audio components that include pop music, while older patients often prefer classical music. Similarly, women generally prefer video content with romantic themes, while men tend to prefer action movies. Therefore, the processor can be configured to acquire and / or generate corresponding entertainment program components. For example, the processor can be configured to acquire entertainment program components with a particularly large selection of action movies for male patients.

[0038] The type, theme, volume, acoustic mode, pitch, rhythm, length, selection, and / or order of one or more audio entertainment components, the type, theme, display size, resolution, brightness, contrast, shading, length, selection, and / or order of video entertainment components, and / or the type, theme, interactivity level, length, selection, and / or order of interactive entertainment components can be adapted by the processor based on patient information. For example, if patient information indicates that the patient has hearing loss, the volume of the audio entertainment components can be increased. Similarly, video entertainment components (such as video movies) can display subtitles.

[0039] Therefore, when patients use the device (i.e., the app on the device), they can be asked to provide some preferences for their personalized journey, and then the processor (or more specifically, the "journey generation engine") can take these preferences into account, thereby helping patients prepare for expected noise.

[0040] In an embodiment, the obtained one or more entertainment program components include one or more tags, and / or the processor is configured to assign one or more tags to the obtained and / or generated one or more entertainment program components, wherein the processor is configured to assign the one or more tags by using a tag database or a tagging procedure that associates the one or more tags with the one or more entertainment program components, and wherein the processor is configured to: select and / or sort the one or more entertainment programs based on the tags of the one or more entertainment programs, and generate the entertainment control signal based on the selected and / or sorted one or more entertainment program components.

[0041] By using tags, entertainment components that match the sequence of operational sounds in an organized medical procedure can be acquired, selected, and sorted (often perceived as such) in an organized and efficient manner. In other words, the content of the situational experience library can be tagged with which MR sequence they match well, enabling the processor to acquire the matching sounds, which then appear at the top of a list presented to the patient for editing. Tags can indicate any of the following for an entertainment component: theme, type, genre, length, (e.g., rating given by a previous patient), content, age restriction, (level), and (typically) the emotional state associated with / evoked by one or more entertainment components.

[0042] For example, labels can indicate the level of emotional state (e.g., level of excitement) associated with an audio entertainment component. Similarly, labels can indicate the level of suspense in a video entertainment component.

[0043] It is known that threatening scenarios, such as thunderstorms (e.g., in movies), do have a negative rather than soothing effect on patients. Therefore, negative scenarios in entertainment components should preferably be avoided. Animated scenes are found to be completely neutral. If construction site scenes are used, they should evoke some kind of aesthetic appeal (buildings, sculptures, play areas, bridges, etc.). Stomp scenes should be for fun, involving running, jumping, and playing in the water, not being chased by predators. In any case, the processor should be configured to arrange the selection and / or sequencing of entertainment components to ensure a positive outcome within the duration of the medical procedure and thus "resolve" the situation. For this purpose, the processor can use labels as indicators.

[0044] In an embodiment, the input section of the device is configured to obtain information as process information about one or more of the following: the type of medical process, one or more medical devices used in the medical process; the body part of the patient to receive the medical process, the duration and / or time of the medical process, and the procedure of the medical process.

[0045] In another embodiment, the input unit is configured to obtain the process information from one or more of a user interface configured to receive user input, a check card, a medical record, or a process information database.

[0046] In another embodiment, the processor is configured to obtain progress information that indicates the progress of a medical procedure (in real time) and to adapt audio sequence information and / or entertainment program components based on the progress information.

[0047] The system's output, namely a personalized examination experience scenario selected by the patient and including possible entertainment components (such as audio or video entertainment components), can be adapted during the medical procedure. For example, control signals can be transmitted to the presentation unit of a system connected to medical equipment (such as an MR scanner) in the hospital. Therefore, in cases where the medical procedure differs from the scheduled medical procedure, "control points" can be exchanged and the patient-selected examination experience scenario can be adapted; for example, if the sequence needs to be repeated, then cyclical portions belonging to a specific MR sequence can be included, and if the sequence starts earlier, then the start of the next sequence experience can be triggered earlier. Alternatively, the presentation unit or hospital AE system can be equipped with microphones to observe the progress of the medical procedure, and, where deviations are expected, the device's processor can "align" the pre-programmed personalized examination experience with the actual examination progress.

[0048] According to embodiments of the system, in addition to the disclosed device and presentation unit, the system further includes one or more of the following: The user interface is configured to receive user input for operating sound sequence information, process information, calibration information, patient information, sound manipulation information, and / or entertainment manipulation information; A sound sequence information database includes operational sound sequence information, which includes information about operational sound sequences associated with sequences of scheduled medical procedures. A process information database, which includes process information, including information about the arranged medical processes; A calibration information database, comprising calibration information including information for calibrating the processor of the device to perform the following operation: adapting the operating sound sequence information according to specific operating sound sequence characteristics related to a specific situation of the medical device used in the process of the medical procedure; A patient information database, which includes patient information, including information about the patient; An entertainment program component database that includes multiple entertainment program components, particularly including one or more of audio entertainment components, video entertainment components, and / or interactive entertainment components.

[0049] The user interface may include, for example, a keyboard, a touchscreen, a microphone, or any other entity that allows the user to input information. Specifically, the user interface may be used by the patient to review and modify the contextual experience (sound sequences, entertainment components) created by the device (e.g., a patient's examination card-specific process). For example, the user interface may include: a module for playing artificial sound sequences (e.g., MRI sounds) at a modifiable volume; a module for playing / reproducing entertainment components (e.g., video-audio processes) with or without artificial sound sequences (e.g., MR sounds); and / or a module for saving personalized artificial sound sequences and entertainment components (i.e., personalized "contextual experience processes") and transmitting them to a hospital AE system (particularly the presentation unit of said system).

[0050] In embodiments of the system, the system is implemented in a handheld device and / or in a computer or game console, particularly a smartphone, laptop, or tablet. The presentation unit is implemented as a display configured to show visual information to the patient and / or as a speaker configured to output audible information to the patient. The term "handheld device" should generally be understood to encompass any suitable device designed to be held by a user during use, regardless of whether the patient actually holds the device. Attached Figure Description

[0051] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent and illustrated with reference to one or more embodiments described below. In the following figures, Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the system according to the present invention is shown; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device according to the present invention is shown; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the method according to the present invention is shown; and Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the device according to the invention in the form of a smartphone is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system 100 for personalized noise preparation for patients scheduled for medical procedures, according to the present invention, is shown. The system 100 includes a device 10 (which will be explained in more detail below) for personalized noise preparation for patients scheduled for medical procedures and a presentation unit configured to present visual and / or audible information based on control signals received from the device 10.

[0053] System 100 can be implemented in computers, game consoles, or handheld devices, especially smartphones, laptops, or tablets.

[0054] Device 10 can typically be implemented by corresponding units or circuits (e.g., processors, processing circuitry, computers, dedicated hardware, etc.) that perform the functions of device 10. Alternatively, common units or circuits (e.g., common processors or computers) can implement various functions of device 10, or separate units or elements that together represent circuitry can be used. In an exemplary embodiment, a programmed processor can represent device 10, which can execute computer programs that can be stored in memory accessible by the processor.

[0055] The presentation unit 30 can typically be any module that outputs visual and / or audible information (e.g., in the form of text, as an image or chart, as sound or spoken words, etc.). For example, the presentation unit 30 may include (or be implemented as) a display configured to show visual information to a patient and / or a speaker configured to output audible information to a patient. Exemplary embodiments may use a touchscreen, computer monitor, smartphone, or tablet screen, etc., as the presentation unit 30.

[0056] System 100 may also include a user interface 40 configured to receive user input, such as process information, calibration information, patient information, voice manipulation information, and / or entertainment manipulation information. User interface 40 may include, for example, a keyboard, a touchscreen, a microphone, or any other entity that allows user input.

[0057] System 100 may further include a sound sequence information database 60, which includes operational sound sequence information, comprising information about operational sound sequences associated with a sequence of arranged medical procedures. Preferably, the operational sound sequence information includes information about the characteristics of the operational sounds necessary to reproduce substantially accurate operational sounds during the medical procedure.

[0058] System 100 may also include a process information database 56 containing process information, including information about the medical procedures (included in the medical procedures). Process information database 56 may be stored on a server, a central storage device for the hospital or medical services, in the cloud, or at another location accessible to device 10. Process information may include, for example, the type of medical procedure (e.g., information about the scanning modality (e.g., MRI or CT), one or more medical devices used in the medical procedure, the body part of the patient to be treated, the duration and / or time of the medical procedure, and the procedure itself (e.g., the scanning sequence, particularly MR sequences).

[0059] System 100 may also include a patient information database 52 containing patient information, including information about the patients. The patient information database 52 may be stored on a server, a central storage device for the hospital or medical services, in the cloud, or at another location accessible to device 10.

[0060] System 100 may also include an entertainment component database 58, which includes multiple entertainment components, particularly one or more of audio entertainment components, video entertainment components, and / or interactive entertainment components. Video entertainment components may include any one of video components, image components, written text components, and movie components. Audio entertainment components may include any one of sound components, music components, spoken text components, and movie components. Interactive entertainment components may include any one of game components, dialogue components, video call components, and telephone call components. The entertainment component database 58 may be stored on a server, on the central storage of an entertainment component provider, in the cloud, or at another location accessible by device 10. The entertainment component database 58 may be able to generate additional entertainment components or provide entertainment components to another entity for generating additional entertainment content components.

[0061] System 100 may also include a calibration information database 54, which includes calibration information, including information for calibrating the device's processor to adapt operational sound sequence information based on specific operational sound sequence characteristics related to the specific circumstances of the medical device used in the medical process. Calibration information database 54 may be stored on a server, on a central storage device of a calibration information database provider, in the cloud, or at another location accessible to device 10.

[0062] Two or more databases from databases 52 to 60 can also be combined into a common database and / or stored in the same location (e.g., a cloud, archive, or hospital network).

[0063] The term "handheld device" should generally be understood to encompass any suitable device designed to be held by a user during use, regardless of whether the patient actually holds the device. Handheld devices are preferably mobile phones, as these are devices that most people own or can use.

[0064] Since most people own or can use suitable handheld devices, they can be provided with software to run noise preparation on their handheld devices. If not, they can be given a mobile device for temporary training. One advantage is that patients can use the device for preparation in a place and at a time that is convenient for them, such as at home.

[0065] Figure 2A schematic diagram of an apparatus 10 for personalized noise preparation for patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures is shown. The apparatus includes: an input unit 12 configured to acquire procedure information, including information about the scheduled medical procedure; a processor 14 configured to acquire and / or generate operational sound sequence information based on the acquired procedure information, including operational sound sequence information associated with a sequence of the scheduled medical procedure; select and sort the operational sound sequence information based on the procedure information, particularly according to the process of the medical procedure; generate control signals to control a presentation unit 30 to present the artificial sound sequence matching the selected and sorted operational sound sequence information; and an output unit 16 configured to output the control signals to the presentation unit 30.

[0066] Input unit 12 can be directly coupled or connected to user interface 40 and / or one or more databases 52 to 58 to obtain (i.e., retrieve or receive) the required information. This information can also be stored in a storage device, buffer, network, or bus, etc. Therefore, input unit 12 can be, for example, a (wired or wireless) communication interface or data interface, such as a Bluetooth interface, Wi-Fi interface, LAN interface, HDMI interface, direct cable connection, or any other suitable interface that allows information to be transmitted to device 10.

[0067] Processor 14 can be any kind of module configured to process information and thereby determine the control signals from which they originate. It can be implemented in software and / or hardware, such as as a programmed processor or computer or application on a user device (e.g., smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, laptop, PC, workstation, etc.).

[0068] The output unit 16 can typically be any interface that provides defined control signals, such as transmitting them to another device or providing them for retrieval by another device (e.g., a smartphone, computer, tablet, etc.). Therefore, it can typically be any (wired or wireless) communication or data interface.

[0069] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method 200 for personalized noise preparation for a patient scheduled for a medical procedure, according to the present invention, is shown. The steps of method 200 can be performed by device 10, wherein the main steps of method 200 are performed by processor 14. Method 200 can be implemented, for example, as a computer program running on a computer or processor.

[0070] In the first step 202, process information, including information about the arranged medical procedures, is obtained (via the input unit 12 of the device 10). Additionally, patient information and / or calibration information about the patient can be obtained.

[0071] In the second step 204, operational sound sequence information is obtained and / or generated based on the process information. This operational sound sequence information includes information about operational sound sequences associated with the sequence of the arranged medical procedure. For example, these could be sequences of individual sounds from a specific MR sequence.

[0072] In the third step 206, the operation sound sequence information is selected and sorted, wherein the selection and sorting is preferably performed according to the process of the medical procedure, which is indicated by the process information.

[0073] In the fourth step 208, a control signal is generated and output to the presentation unit 30 to control the presentation unit 30 to present an artificial sound sequence according to the selected and arranged operation sound sequence information.

[0074] In an optional additional step 210, voice manipulation information may be obtained (e.g., from a user interface), including information about the patient's request to manipulate the artificial voice sequence presented to him / her by the presentation unit 30. The voice manipulation information includes information about changing any one of the volume, acoustic mode, pitch, rhythm, length, selection, and / or order of one or more artificial voice sequences. Based on the manipulation information, the manipulating voice sequence information can then be adapted in an optional additional step 212, and a corresponding control signal can be generated (and output) in an optional additional step 220, enabling the presentation unit 30 to present the adapted artificial voice sequence to the patient.

[0075] Further optionally, the entertainment program components can be obtained in step 214 (based on process information), and corresponding control signals can be generated in step 216 to control the presentation unit to present the entertainment program components to the patient. If the patient requests a change of entertainment program, he / she can use the user interface 40 to provide entertainment manipulation information to the device 10. The device 10 can then obtain the entertainment manipulation information in optional step 218, adapt the entertainment program components based on the entertainment manipulation information in optional step 219, and generate corresponding control signals in optional step 220 to control the presentation unit 30 to present the adapted entertainment program components.

[0076] Typically, process information can be generated manually (e.g., from staff) or automatically retrieved from medical records (e.g., EMR systems), information systems, or other information sources. These sources can be combined. Process information can be automatically pushed to the device, or it can be encoded into a link to an application running on device 10 (e.g., the process information could be part of information provided to the patient / their caregiver). For example, a patient might receive a (digital) invitation to a medical procedure that includes a QR code containing information about the planned procedure.

[0077] Voice control information and entertainment control information can also be generated by manual input.

[0078] Figure 4 A schematic diagram is shown illustrating an embodiment of the device 10 according to the invention in the form of a handheld device, particularly in the form of a smartphone 300 having a display screen 302, an integrated processor 304, and a speaker 306.

[0079] The mobile phone 300 can be of any size, shape, model, etc., as long as it is suitable for use as a device as disclosed herein.

[0080] Display screen 302 can be of any size or type (e.g., LCD, LED, etc.). Screens with a large surface area and the ability to display strong colors or small, precise details are preferred. Preferably, display screen 302 is integrated into smartphone 300, but visual content can also be copied or transmitted to an external display screen that is wired or wirelessly connected to the rest of the handheld device, such as a remote display screen, goggles or glasses, or any virtual reality device (e.g., virtual reality glasses). An integrated screen is the most practical and compact solution, but an external screen will still be part of the handheld device, even if the external screen itself may not be intended to be handheld or portable. Such an external screen may be easier to use in situations where the patient cannot view the integrated screen (e.g., due to the patient's position or other reasons preventing the patient from simultaneously holding the handheld device and viewing the integrated screen).

[0081] The processor 304 will be able to receive, process, and analyze incoming information in real time and output visual and / or audio information. The processor 304 can also communicate with a remote processor, such as via the Internet or via a wired or wireless (e.g., Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) connection to a local external processor (e.g., a workstation), which can support the processor in terms of processing power and / or provide additional information (e.g., patient data) and / or store data.

[0082] Preferably, the smartphone 300 is capable of providing audio information (such as sound effects, music, instructions, or other informative verbal information). For this purpose, the smartphone is equipped with an integrated speaker 306. Alternatively or simultaneously, a headphone connection may be available to allow connection of headphones worn by the patient.

[0083] Preferably, the display screen 302 is a touch screen, and therefore can be used not only to display information, but also as a user interface to obtain user input, especially input from patients.

[0084] Therefore, the smartphone 300 allows the patient to listen to the audio sequence of his / her scheduled medical procedure in advance. Procedure information is provided for this purpose. Using a touchscreen as the user interface, the user can further provide audio manipulation information. For example, the user can change the volume of the audio sequence by using buttons displayed on the screen 302. However, other options can be provided to the patient to manipulate the presented audio sequence. For example, there may be an option for the patient to change the length of the audio sequence.

[0085] Additionally, the smartphone can display several entertainment components configured to accompany sound sequences, which the patient can choose to listen to and / or watch. For example, if the patient perceives the presented sound sequence as unpleasant, he / she can (via the touchscreen) request that his / her favorite music or soothing rustling of leaves be played during these sound sequences. Several control buttons can be displayed on the screen for this purpose. However, it is also conceivable that the smartphone 300 also includes a microphone to receive such information / user input.

[0086] Device 10, implemented as a smartphone 300 or other handheld device, allows the patient to become familiar with the sounds of his / her medical procedures anywhere he / she prefers (especially where he / she feels comfortable). Therefore, the device is preferably accessible in the patient's home. In practice, it is anticipated that the patient will need some time to become familiar with the device and its options to adjust their sequence and accompanying entertainment.

[0087] Figure 4 The embodiment of device 10 shown represents a simplified implementation. However, more sophisticated options are conceivable beyond simply changing the volume and presenting audio / video content.

[0088] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such illustrations and descriptions are to be considered illustrative or exemplary rather than restrictive; the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments will be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art through study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

[0089] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the quantifiers "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. A single element or other unit can perform the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in different dependent claims does not indicate that combinations of these measures cannot be advantageously used.

[0090] Computer programs can be stored / distributed on suitable non-transient media, such as optical storage media or solid-state media supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but they can also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems.

[0091] Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An apparatus (10) for personalized noise preparation for a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure involving the use of medical equipment during the scheduled medical procedure, wherein, The medical device generates a sequence of operating sounds during use, and the device includes: The input unit (12) is configured to obtain process information, which includes information about the arranged medical process; Processor (14), which is configured as follows: Based on the obtained process information, artificial voice sequence information is obtained and / or generated, the artificial voice sequence information including information about the operational voice sequence associated with the sequence of the arranged medical process; Based on the process information, particularly according to the procedures of the medical process, the operation sound sequence information is selected and ordered; and Generate control signals to control the presentation unit (30) to present the artificial sound sequence that matches the selected and ordered operational sound sequence information; and The output unit (16) is configured to output the control signal to the presentation unit (30).

2. The device (10) according to claim 1. in, The processor (14) is configured to: select and sort the operational sound sequence information based on the process information, generate the control signal to control the presentation unit (30) to present the artificial sound sequence by matching the acoustic pattern, pitch, rhythm, length and / or order of the sound sequence generated by the medical device used in the process of the arranged medical procedure, and preferably all of these items.

3. The device (10) according to claim 2. in, The processor (14) is configured to obtain calibration information and adapt the operating sound sequence information based on the calibration information, the calibration information including information for calibrating the processor (14) to perform the following operations: adapting the operating sound sequence information based on specific operating sound sequence characteristics related to specific circumstances of the medical device used in the process of the medical procedure and / or based on sample sound sequences from the medical device, the specific circumstances including any one of the type, age, condition, frequency of use, and environment of the medical device.

4. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The processor (14) is configured to: obtain voice manipulation information and adapt the artificial voice sequence information according to the voice manipulation information, the voice manipulation information including information about the patient's request to manipulate the artificial voice sequence, wherein the voice manipulation information includes information about changing any one of the volume, acoustic mode, pitch, rhythm, length, selection and / or order of one or more artificial voice sequences in the artificial voice sequence.

5. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The processor (14) is also configured to: obtain and / or generate one or more entertainment program components based on the process information, and generate entertainment control signals based on the entertainment program components for controlling the presentation unit (30) to present the one or more entertainment program components, the one or more entertainment program components including one or more of audio entertainment components, video entertainment components and / or interactive entertainment components; The output unit (16) is configured to output the entertainment control signal to the presentation unit (30).

6. The device (10) according to claim 5. in, The processor (14) is configured to: obtain entertainment manipulation information, and adapt the one or more entertainment program components according to the entertainment manipulation information, the entertainment manipulation information including information about the patient's request to manipulate the entertainment program components, wherein the entertainment manipulation information includes information about any of the following: changing the type, theme, volume, acoustic mode, pitch, rhythm, length, selection and / or order of one or more of the audio entertainment components; changing the type, theme, display size, resolution, brightness, contrast, shading, length, selection and / or order of the video entertainment components; and / or changing the type, theme, interactivity level, length, selection and / or order of the interactive entertainment components.

7. The device (10) according to claim 5 or 6. in, The processor is configured to also obtain patient information, which includes information about the patient, and wherein the processor (14) is configured to additionally use the patient information to obtain, generate, and / or adapt the one or more entertainment program components.

8. The device (10) according to claims 5 to 7. in, The obtained one or more entertainment program components include one or more tags, and / or wherein the processor (14) is configured to assign one or more tags to the obtained and / or generated one or more entertainment program components, wherein the processor (14) is configured to assign the one or more tags by using a tag database or a tagging procedure that associates the one or more tags with the one or more entertainment program components, and wherein the processor (14) is configured to: select and / or sort the one or more entertainment programs based on the tags of the one or more entertainment programs, and generate the entertainment control signal based on the selected and / or sorted one or more entertainment program components.

9. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The input unit (12) is configured to obtain information about one or more of the following as process information: Types of medical procedures Medical equipment used in the aforementioned medical procedure; The patient's body part to undergo the medical procedure. The duration and / or time of the medical procedure, The process described in the medical procedure.

10. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims. in, The input unit (12) is configured to obtain the process information from one or more of the following: a user interface (40) configured to obtain user input, a check card, a medical record, and a process information database.

11. A system (100) for personalized noise preparation for a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure involving medical devices used during the scheduled medical procedure, wherein, The medical device generates a sequence of operating sounds during use, and the system (100) includes: The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims is used for personalized noise preparation for the patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure; and The presentation unit (30) is configured to present an artificial sound sequence based on the control signal obtained from the device (10).

12. The system (100) according to claim 11, further comprising one or more of the following: User interface (40) is configured to receive user input for the artificial voice sequence information, the process information, calibration information, patient information, voice manipulation information and / or entertainment manipulation information; A sound sequence information database (60) includes operational sound sequence information, which includes information about operational sound sequences associated with a sequence of arranged medical procedures; A process information database (56) includes process information, which includes information about the arranged medical process; A calibration information database (54) includes calibration information, which includes information for calibrating the processor of the device to perform the following operation: adapting the operating sound sequence information according to specific operating sound sequence characteristics related to a specific situation of the medical device used in the process of the medical procedure; A patient information database (52) includes patient information, which includes information about the patient; An entertainment program component database (58) includes multiple entertainment program components, which in particular include one or more of audio entertainment components, video entertainment components and / or interactive entertainment components.

13. The system (100) according to claim 11 or 12. in, The system (100) is implemented in a handheld device and / or in a computer or game console, particularly a smartphone, laptop or tablet. The presentation unit (30) is implemented as a display configured to show visual information to the patient and / or as a speaker configured to output audible information to the patient.

14. A method for personalized noise preparation for a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure involving medical equipment used during the scheduled medical procedure, wherein, The medical device generates an operating sound sequence during use, and the method includes: Obtain process information, which includes information about the arranged medical process; Based on the obtained process information, artificial voice sequence information is obtained and / or generated, the artificial voice sequence information including information about the sequence of operational voices associated with the sequence of the arranged medical process; Based on the process information, and in particular according to the procedure of the medical process, the operation sound sequence information is selected and ordered; Generate control signals to control the presentation unit (30) to present the artificial sound sequence that matches the selected and ordered operational sound sequence information; and The control signal is output to the presentation unit (30).

15. A computer program comprising program code units, the program code units being configured to cause the computer to perform the steps of the method according to claim 14 when the computer program is executed on the computer.

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