Method for detecting actuations, interface module and patient communication system

Abstract

Method for detecting actuations of a compressed air switch (41, 42) of a patient communication system (10), the method comprising the following steps: - measuring a pressure prevailing in the compressed air switch (41, 42), - Detection of an actuation when the pressure is maintained for a trigger period (t a ) exceeds an action threshold (AS), - Detection of the end of the actuation when the pressure after the actuation has been detected falls below an end threshold value (ES), - after the end of the actuation, detection of a further actuation at the earliest after expiry of a waiting period (t w ).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to methods for detecting actuations of compressed air switches of a patient communication system, an interface module for a patient communication system and a patient communication system.

[0002] Patient communication systems are used to enable patients in hospitals, for example, after major surgery or accidents, who are severely limited in their ability to communicate, to communicate with medical staff such as doctors or nurses. For a patient in the intensive care unit, for example, after major surgery and connected to numerous devices, who is intubated and on a ventilator, it can be very difficult to indicate even basic needs such as the desire for food or drink or to express pain. Typically, patients in such situations are unable to speak, and their arm mobility is also limited.

[0003] A patient communication system is known in the prior art from document DE 20 2010 014 777 U1. It provides for various communication elements to be displayed one after the other in chronological order, and the patient has the option of selecting one of the communication elements using a pneumatic button. While this provides the patient with a basic means of communication, it has been shown that, due to the difficult physical constitution of patients who use such a patient communication system, detecting the activation of such a pneumatic button is difficult, leading to unwanted multiple activations, for example.

[0004] The document DE 10 2015 009 757 A1 discloses a pneumatically actuated call button for a bus-based lighting or emergency call system.

[0005] The document US 2010 / 0187089 A1 discloses a dual activated pneumatic actuator system for a patient call system.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a method for detecting actuations of a pneumatic switch of a patient communication system, which is alternative to or better than known embodiments. It is further an object of the invention to provide a method for detecting first actuations of a pneumatic switch of a patient communication system and second actuations of a second pneumatic switch of the patient communication system. Furthermore, the invention aims to provide an associated interface module and an associated patient communication system.

[0007] This is achieved according to the invention by a method, an interface module, and a patient communication system according to the respective main claims. Advantageous embodiments can be found, for example, in the respective subclaims. The content of the claims is incorporated into the content of the description by express reference.

[0008] The invention relates to a method for detecting actuations of a pneumatic switch of a patient communication system. The method comprises the following steps: - Measuring the pressure prevailing in the compressed air switch, - Detecting an actuation when the pressure exceeds a trigger threshold for a trigger period, - Detecting the end of the actuation when the pressure falls below an end threshold after the actuation has been detected, - after the end of the operation, detection of a further operation at the earliest after expiry of a waiting period.

[0009] This procedure ensures that actuation of the pneumatic switch is only detected if the patient has actually consciously actuated the pneumatic switch. This is ensured by ensuring that the pressure exceeds the trigger threshold for at least the trigger period. It also ensures that, if a single actuation is desired, two or more actuations are not accidentally detected, which could trigger unwanted functions. Therefore, after the end of the actuation, the waiting period is initially waited until a new actuation can be detected.

[0010] The method can be carried out in particular in an electronic control device, a computer, an interface module, a control unit of an interface module or in another programmable or hard-wired unit.

[0011] A compressed air switch can, in particular, represent a patient switch of a patient communication system. This typically serves to enable a patient, even with a very difficult physical constitution, to operate the patient switch and thus use a patient communication system. The compressed air switch typically has an air chamber sealed to the outside, in which the pressure prevailing therein can be increased when the patient activates the compressed air switch. Such an increase in pressure can be detected, in particular, by means of a pressure sensor.

[0012] A detected actuation can, for example, lead to different signals being output, indicating the actuation of another component, such as a control device. Other processing, typically electronic processing, is also possible. In particular, upon detected actuation, functions of the patient communication system can be activated or deactivated, specific menus or pages can be displayed, or functionalities for summoning personnel can be activated. Possible configurations are discussed in more detail below.

[0013] The detected end of the actuation can, but does not necessarily have to, have immediate consequences. For example, it can also be specified that the end of the actuation initially has no further consequences, apart from the start of the waiting period. This makes it possible to implement a system that uses only one actuation of the pneumatic switch to control a patient communication system.

[0014] The trigger period and waiting period can be implemented, for example, via timers or by comparing a current time with a stored time.

[0015] In particular, the pressure can be measured at constant time intervals. This achieves continuous monitoring, and it is possible to react to an actuation with a defined reaction time. For example, the constant time intervals can be more than 1 ms, more than 5 ms, or more than 8 ms, and / or they can be less than 12 ms, less than 15 ms, or less than 20 ms. In particular, the time intervals can be 10 ms, for example. Such values ​​have proven advantageous for typical applications. However, continuous measurement is also possible, for example.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the trigger threshold corresponds to the final threshold. This allows for a particularly simple implementation, eliminating the need to implement different thresholds. This can mean that the trigger threshold and final threshold are implemented exactly identically; however, predefined, system-related deviations of, for example, 1%, 5%, or 10% between the two thresholds can still be understood as an implementation with a trigger threshold that corresponds to the final threshold. However, it is also possible to select different trigger thresholds and final thresholds, thus optimizing the switching behavior.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the trigger threshold and / or the end threshold can be adjusted depending on the ambient air pressure. This can occur, in particular, on a longer timescale than the time intervals at which the pressure is measured, so that the compressed air switch can adapt to pressure fluctuations that correspond to atmospheric air pressure fluctuations and thus typically occur on a timescale of hours or days. Adaptation to higher air pressure due to the relocation of the patient communication system to a higher floor can also be achieved in this way. For example, such an air pressure change can be detected using an external pressure sensor or also using a pressure sensor that monitors the pressure of the compressed air switch, for example through temporal smoothing.

[0018] The trigger period can, in particular, be greater than 10 ms, greater than 20 ms, greater than 30 ms, or greater than 40 ms. The trigger period can, in particular, be less than 60 ms, less than 70 ms, less than 80 ms, less than 90 ms, or less than 100 ms. In particular, the trigger period can be 50 ms. Such values ​​have proven advantageous for typical applications, as they ensure that actuation of the pneumatic switch is not accidentally detected when the patient has not actually pressed the pneumatic switch.

[0019] The waiting period can, in particular, be greater than 0.5 s, greater than 0.6 s, greater than 0.7 s, greater than 0.8 s, or greater than 0.9 s. The waiting period can, in particular, be less than 1.1 s, less than 1.2 s, less than 1.3 s, less than 1.4 s, or less than 1.5 s. In particular, the waiting period can be 1 s. Such values ​​have proven advantageous for typical applications, as they ensure that multiple actuations are not accidentally detected when, in reality, only a single desired actuation occurred.

[0020] The invention further relates to a method for detecting first actuations of a first pneumatic switch of a patient communication system and second actuations of a second pneumatic switch of the patient communication system. First actuations of the first pneumatic switch are detected by means of a method according to the invention with a first triggering period, a first triggering threshold, a first waiting period, and a first end threshold. Second actuations of the second pneumatic switch are detected by means of a method according to the invention with a second triggering period, a second triggering threshold, a second waiting period, and a second end threshold.

[0021] The method just described enables the extension of the method described at the beginning to the monitoring of two pneumatic switches of a patient communication system. With regard to the method used, all embodiments and variants described herein can be used. It should be noted that first and second actuations do not refer to a chronological sequence of actuations, but rather that a first actuation refers to an actuation of the first pneumatic switch and a second actuation refers to an actuation of the second pneumatic switch. Likewise, the designations "first" and "second" in the triggering period, the triggering threshold, the waiting period, and the end threshold serve to differentiate between the two pneumatic switches, although different values ​​can generally be used.

[0022] It can be provided that the first triggering period corresponds to the second triggering period. It can be provided that the first triggering threshold corresponds to the second triggering threshold. It can be provided that the first waiting period corresponds to the second waiting period. It can be provided that the first end threshold corresponds to the second end threshold. By setting the respective values ​​equal, a particularly simple implementation can be achieved. However, different values ​​can also be used so that any different requirements identified when operating the two pneumatic switches can be addressed.

[0023] The method can be carried out in particular in an interface module to which the first compressed air switch and the second compressed air switch are pneumatically connected. The interface module can be communicatively connected to a control device of the patient communication system. By using such an interface module, the functionality for detecting actuations of the two compressed air switches can be implemented in a dedicated interface module, which can be developed and provided independently of other components of a patient communication system. The first compressed air switch and the second compressed air switch typically have a respective air volume, which can be pneumatically connected, for example, to a respective pressure sensor in the interface module.The control device can in particular perform further tasks in the patient communication system, in particular the display of different menus, the operation of such menus depending on detected actuations of the compressed air switches or the display of further information and the control of communication functionalities.

[0024] According to one embodiment, it is provided that status signals are continuously output, which can assume a rest value, a first actuation value, and a second actuation value. In response to a detected actuation of the first pneumatic switch, the first actuation value is preferably output. In response to a detected actuation of the second pneumatic switch, the second actuation value is preferably output. Otherwise, the rest value is preferably output.

[0025] By continuously outputting status signals, another component, in particular another component of a patient communication system such as the aforementioned control device, can firstly continuously monitor whether a component responsible for detecting actuations, such as the aforementioned interface module, is present and / or functioning properly. This applies regardless of which of the three possible values ​​is currently being output. If the idle value is output, then typically no actuation is detected at that moment. The first actuation value can be used to signal actuation of the first pneumatic switch. The second actuation value can be used to signal actuation of the second pneumatic switch.Thus, for example, the control device already mentioned can trigger different control functions based on the receipt of the first actuation value or the second actuation value, for example displaying a specific menu, displaying specific information or selecting a component of a menu.

[0026] The first actuation value can be output until the end of the actuation of the first pneumatic switch is detected. The second actuation value can be output until the end of the actuation of the second pneumatic switch is detected. This also passes on information about the length of the actuation, which can be used if necessary. Furthermore, if, for example, the output of only a single actuation value has not yet been detected as a difference from the idle value, the actuation can still be detected by the control device. Alternatively, however, it is also possible to output only a single actuation value in response to detecting an actuation of one of the pneumatic switches and then immediately return to the idle value.

[0027] The status signals can, in particular, be encrypted, meaning they can, for example, have a respective predetermined value encrypted using a predetermined encryption algorithm. A receiving unit, such as the aforementioned control device, can then decrypt the signals and thus deduce the actual value. This allows communication to be further secured.

[0028] The status signals can, in particular, be output at constant time intervals. The constant time intervals can, in particular, be greater than 1 ms, greater than 5 ms, or greater than 8 ms. The constant time intervals can, in particular, be less than 12 ms, less than 15 ms, or less than 20 ms. In particular, the constant time intervals can be 10 ms. Such values ​​have proven advantageous. In particular, the constant time intervals can be equal to the constant time intervals at which the pressure is measured at the respective compressed air switches.For example, it can be provided that the respective pressure of the two pneumatic switches is measured at constant time intervals, immediately followed by a check to determine whether an actuation or the end of an actuation is detected, and in response to this, a response can be made immediately by outputting an adapted status signal, i.e., a rest value, a first actuation value, or a second actuation value. This allows for advantageous synchronization and simple implementation.

[0029] The invention further relates to an interface module for a patient communication system. The interface module has a connection for a first compressed air switch. The interface module has a first pressure sensor for measuring a pressure prevailing in the first compressed air switch. The interface module has a connection for a second compressed air switch. The interface module has a second pressure sensor for measuring a pressure prevailing in the second compressed air switch. The interface module has an electronic control unit configured to carry out a method according to the invention. With regard to the method according to the invention, all embodiments and variants described herein can be used, in particular those directed towards the use of two compressed air switches.

[0030] Using such an interface module, a separate module can be provided that implements the functionality for detecting actuations of the compressed air switches and can provide the corresponding information for controlling the patient communication system. For example, an implementation can be used in which the interface module sends the previously described status signals to transmit actuation of one of the compressed air switches to a control device. The compressed air switches can be permanently connected to the interface module, but they can also be implemented detachably from it.

[0031] The invention further relates to a patient communication system. The patient communication system has a display device. The patient communication system has a control device. The patient communication system has a first patient switch, which is designed as a first compressed air switch. The patient communication system has a second patient switch, which is designed as a second compressed air switch. The patient communication system has an interface module according to the invention, wherein all embodiments and variants described herein can be used. This applies in particular with regard to the implemented method.

[0032] The compressed air switches are connected to the interface module and the interface module is communicatively connected to the control device.

[0033] Such a patient communication system allows for particularly simple operation, as pneumatic switches have proven to be a particularly advantageous operating option for patient communication systems, as they can be operated easily and reliably even by patients with extremely difficult physical conditions, for example, after major surgeries. By providing two pneumatic switches, significantly more functionality can be provided than with just one pneumatic switch, without noticeably increasing complexity. Regarding the implementable functionality, reference is made, for example, to the other descriptions provided herein.

[0034] The electronic control unit of the interface module can be configured, in particular, to execute a method as described herein with reference to the continuous output of status signals and to send the status signals to the control device. The control device can be configured, in particular, to restrict the functionality of the control device or to deactivate the control device if status signals are absent for a predetermined trial period. This ensures that the control device always monitors whether the interface module is present, and can react to the absence of the interface module.For example, after the predetermined trial period has expired, i.e., if no further status signals have been received during such a trial period, the control device can be deactivated, whereby, for example, further execution of the software running on it can be prevented or restricted. This makes it possible to make the software available independently of the interface module, giving, for example, a prospective customer of the patient communication system the opportunity to test its functionality for the trial period. Once the trial period has expired, further use is no longer possible. This prevents such trial versions from being used to build unauthorized patient communication systems.Furthermore, during ongoing operation of a patient communication system, it can be ensured that the interface module is still the one intended and authorized by the manufacturer. This allows tampering with the patient communication system, for example, through the use of an unauthorized interface module, to be detected and further execution prevented. Malfunctions that could result from the use of an unauthorized interface module are thus avoided.

[0035] Deactivation can be understood in particular to mean that certain or all functions, in particular with regard to the display of menus or pages and / or the selection of objects, are no longer available.

[0036] The control device can in particular have an electronic identification feature, and the control device can in particular be configured to send the identification feature to the interface module when started. The electronic control unit of the interface module can in particular be configured to only start and / or only send status signals after the identification feature has been verified as valid. This can ensure that the interface module or its control unit only starts and / or only sends status signals when the interface module is used together with an authorized control device. For example, a control device can thus be coupled to an interface module. The control device can thus ensure that only an authorized orits assigned interface module is used together with the special control device. The use of unauthorized interface modules, which could lead to malfunctions, is thereby effectively prevented. In particular, it can be provided that if an unauthorized interface module is used, it will not transmit any status signals due to the failed verification of the identification feature, and thus the control device can only be used for the trial period. After the trial period has expired, the control device can be deactivated, making further use impossible.

[0037] Verifying an identification feature as valid can be understood, in particular, as meaning that an identification feature received from the control device corresponds to a stored identification feature. However, other implementations, which may be based, for example, on predefined algorithms, are also possible.

[0038] The trial period can, for example, be 30 minutes or one hour. This has proven to be a reasonable time during which a prospective customer can test the patient communication system software and form their own opinion, while simultaneously ruling out any misuse, which would require longer periods.

[0039] A patient communication system in various embodiments is described below. These represent independent aspects of the invention. In particular, the method described so far or the interface module can be applied to a patient communication system described below. Furthermore, all aspects described below can be combined in any selection, combination, or subcombination with the methods described so far, with the interface module described so far, or with the patient communication system described so far.

[0040] According to one possible embodiment, the invention relates to a patient communication system. The patient communication system comprises a display device. The patient communication system comprises a control device. Furthermore, the patient communication system comprises a first patient switch and a second patient switch.

[0041] The control device is preferably configured to display a number of one or more patient selection menus on the display device. Each patient selection menu has a plurality of sectors. In a plurality of the sectors or in all sectors, a respective patient menu object can be displayed in a respective inactive or a respective active state.

[0042] The control device is preferably configured to display only one patient menu object in the active state for each patient selection menu and to display all other patient menu objects in the inactive state. The control device is further preferably configured to display the next patient menu object in the active state in response to an actuation of the first patient switch. Furthermore, the control device is preferably configured to select a respective patient menu object displayed in the active state in response to an actuation of the second patient switch.

[0043] The patient communication system just described thus provides two patient switches, which, compared to existing designs, provide a significantly improved and easier-to-use operating option for the patient. It is no longer necessary to display information to the patient in a predefined chronological sequence, which then has to be selected at a specific time. Instead, the patient can specifically access the desired function by using the first patient switch and then select the corresponding function by pressing the second patient switch. The patient is not required to adhere to a time limit set by the patient communication system; rather, they can determine the selection process themselves.It doesn't matter if, for example, an attempt to activate a patient switch was unsuccessful in a particular case, for example, because the patient lacked the necessary mobility in their hand at that particular moment. The activation can be repeated at any later time.

[0044] Furthermore, the provision of two patient switches and the described patient selection menus enables a significantly more extensive functionality than in designs according to the prior art, since the targeted selection of patient menu objects enables virtually any branching of patient selection menus or other elements to be displayed, for example those mentioned below, which enables a significantly more extensive interaction between the patient and the patient communication system or between the patient and the hospital staff.

[0045] It has been demonstrated that the described patient communication system allows for ideal operation, even and especially by patients whose communication and mobility abilities are severely limited after major surgeries. The particularly easy operation via the patient selection menus and patient switches has been deliberately simplified to such an extent that even patients in such difficult situations can communicate as simply as possible, yet still comprehensively.

[0046] A selection can be understood in particular as meaning that, depending on the selected object, a specific action is carried out and / or a further menu or page is displayed, in particular depending on the selected object.

[0047] The display device can, in particular, be a screen, preferably a touch-sensitive screen. Patient selection menus or other content, for example, those described in more detail below, can be displayed on such a screen. A touch-sensitive screen design enables control of the patient communication system via on-screen input, which is particularly advantageous for the operating functions mentioned below by staff and / or for maintenance purposes.

[0048] The control device can be implemented, for example, as a microcontroller, microprocessor, computer, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or as a programmable logic controller (PLC). In particular, it can comprise processor means and memory means, wherein the memory means stores program code, the execution of which allows the processor means to execute the functionality described herein.

[0049] The first patient switch and / or the second patient switch are preferably optimized so that they can be operated by a patient with severely restricted mobility. In particular, the first patient switch and / or the second patient switch can be designed as a pneumatic switch. This has proven particularly useful for the application relevant here, since patients typically still have sufficient strength to operate such pneumatic switches even in the situations described, and at the same time, unwanted multiple actuations of such switches can be particularly effectively prevented. With pneumatic switches, in particular, the methods already described herein can be used to detect actuations. Alternatively, however, other types of patient switches can also be used, for example touch-sensitive sensors, buttons, or contactless sensors.

[0050] The first patient switch and / or the second patient switch can, in particular, be designed to be potential-free. This can mean, in particular, that they are electrically isolated from the rest of the patient communication system. This allows static charges that may arise in the patient communication system to be kept away from the patient, preventing the patient from receiving an electric shock when operating the patient communication system.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, the patient communication system can comprise a patient module and a flexible cable. The patient module can be connected to other components of the patient communication system by means of the flexible cable. The first patient switch and the second patient switch can in particular be formed in the patient module. With such an embodiment, the patient module can be freely positioned relative to the rest of the patient communication system, at least in a spatial area defined by the flexible cable. This allows, for example, the arrangement of the display device and other components next to a patient's bed, while the patient module with the two patient switches can be placed in the bed so that it can be operated by the patient.For example, compressed air hoses can run in the flexible line, connecting patient switches designed as compressed air switches to pressure sensors.

[0052] Patient selection menus are generally menus that are displayed to the patient and allow the patient to select a patient menu item in the manner described above. As mentioned above, each patient menu object has two states: an active state and an inactive state. These can be distinguished graphically. The two states of a patient menu object can be stored, for example, in the form of respective graphics. Other possibilities are also conceivable, such as storing different texts, colors, formatting, or fonts to distinguish between the two states.

[0053] The first patient switch can, in particular, have a color that corresponds to a color that a specific area, for example, a text, of the patient menu objects has in the inactive state. The second patient switch can, for example, have a color that corresponds to a color that the corresponding area of ​​the patient menu objects has in the active state. This makes it easy to signal to the patient that they can switch another menu object to the active state by pressing the first patient switch and that they can select the patient menu object in the active state by pressing the second patient switch.

[0054] The display of only one patient menu object in the active state and all other patient menu objects in the inactive state can in particular relate to a specific point in time. At a subsequent point in time, for example, an input can have been made so that a different patient menu object is displayed in the active state. In particular, an order can be specified in which, for a specific patient selection menu, the patient menu objects are displayed in the active state each time the first patient switch is pressed. This can in particular correspond to a linear order of the sectors, wherein, for example, after reaching the end of the specified order, i.e. a last selectable patient menu object, the system jumps back to the first patient menu object when the first patient switch is pressed.

[0055] In response to the selection of a patient menu item displayed in the active state, predefined functions can be executed, which may depend in particular on the selected patient menu item. For example, specific information can be displayed or a branch can be made to another patient selection menu. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0056] The control device can, in particular, have an adjustable patient language parameter for selecting one of a plurality of patient languages, wherein for each patient language and for each patient selection menu, respective associated patient menu objects are stored, which are displayed depending on the respectively set patient language. Thus, different patient languages ​​can be used, which also enables, for example, communication with foreign-language patients. The patient language parameter can, for example, be adjustable in a menu that is not accessible to the patient via the patient switches, thus preventing accidental adjustment. Other objects or text elements to be displayed, for example those described in more detail below, can also be stored for different patient languages.

[0057] A patient menu object can in particular have a combination of text and graphics, or it can, for example, only have a graphic or just text. The text can, for example, be saved in multiple languages, with the text being displayed in a specific language depending on the patient language parameter. A text can, for example, be saved as a character string or as a graphic. For example, multiple character strings corresponding to different languages ​​can be saved for a specific patient menu object. It can also be saved that the corresponding text, which is selected depending on the set patient language parameter, is displayed differently depending on whether the patient menu object is displayed in the active or inactive state. For example, it can be displayed in bold, in a different font, a different size and / or a different color when active.

[0058] For example, when a patient menu object is selected, another patient selection menu or a patient information page is displayed, depending on the selected patient menu object. If, for example, the patient selects a patient menu object that should lead to another patient selection menu, this patient selection menu is now displayed, giving the patient further selection options. If, on the other hand, the patient selects a patient menu object that should lead to a patient information page, this patient information page is displayed. For example, such a patient information page can contain information such as the current time, the time until the next visit, but also other information, for example from external sources such as current news, explanatory videos or messages from relatives.

[0059] The patient communication system can in particular have a status display, which is preferably separate from the display device and which displays at least a first state and a second state. The control device can in particular be configured to switch the status display to the second state in response to a selection of predetermined patient menu objects and / or to display a staff selection menu with a plurality of staff menu objects, and to switch the status display to the first state in response to at least one predefined input. The status display can in particular indicate, by means of the second state, that the patient has selected a patient menu object which requests responsible staff. This can be the case, for example, if the patient has selected a patient menu object which indicates needs that cannot be satisfied by the patient themselves, such as hunger or thirst.In this case, the status display signals to the staff that someone should go to the patient by showing the second status. Using a staff selection menu, for example, it is then possible for the responsible staff member to make entries in the patient communication system, which in turn are used to interact with the patient. This allows staff to communicate with patients who, for example, have no or only inadequate hearing, or who cannot understand what the staff are saying because they speak a foreign language. In this case, the patient communication system enables targeted communication with the patient via the staff selection menu, for example, even from staff to the patient.The staff menu objects can, for example, allow the staff to make a selection which in turn leads to certain information or feedback being displayed to the patient. Corresponding explanations will be discussed in more detail below. The first state, on the other hand, can signal that the patient does not currently require interaction with the staff, meaning that it is not currently necessary for the staff to go to the patient's bed. This state can be switched to, for example, when an interaction between staff and patient is completed or when the patient communication system is in a state in which only a patient selection menu is displayed, from which the patient must first select a specific patient menu object in order to indicate their request.It should be understood that the functionality of a personnel selection menu described herein can in principle also be implemented independently of the presence or functionality of a status display.

[0060] The status indicator can, in particular, comprise a first lamp for indicating the first state and a second lamp for indicating the second state. Other designs, for example, using multicolored lamps or displays, are also possible. The status indicator can also comprise a remote communication device that can communicate the state, for example, via a wired or wireless network, enabling, for example, state monitoring without visual contact with the patient communication system. For example, this can be used to display the corresponding state in a central monitoring center of a hospital, allowing staff there to know when they should approach a patient.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the patient communication system can have a first control button separate from the patient switches. The control device can, in particular, be configured to activate a patient mode in response to actuation of the first control button. Using such a first control button, the staff can, in particular, switch the control device to patient mode, for example, after a desired interaction with the patient has been completed. In particular, a predetermined patient main selection menu can be displayed in response to activation of the patient mode.The main patient selection menu is fundamentally a patient selection menu as described above, but is particularly privileged compared to other potentially implemented patient selection menus in that it is the first patient selection menu displayed in response to activation of the patient mode, for example, using the first control button. Typically, all functions accessible to the patient are accessible from the main patient selection menu, either directly or via branches or further patient selection menus. The patient mode can, for example, correspond to the first state described above, so that, for example, it can be provided that the status display shows the first state in response to the first control button being pressed.

[0062] The patient communication system can have a second control button separate from the patient switches. The control device can, in particular, be configured to activate a staff mode in response to actuation of the second control button. In response to activation of the staff mode, in particular, a predetermined main staff selection menu with a plurality of staff menu objects can be displayed. The second control button thus enables the staff to go to the patient and, regardless of the current state of the patient communication system, switch to a staff mode in which certain communication options are available to the staff. The main staff selection menu is a staff selection menu that is privileged compared to other possibly implemented staff selection menus in that it is displayed immediately, in particular upon actuation of the second control button.Typically, from the main staff selection menu, staff are able to access the communication functions intended to be made available to staff, either directly or via branches to other staff selection menus. The staff mode can, in particular, correspond to the second state described above. This means, for example, that the second state can be displayed in response to the selection of a patient menu item with which staff is to be called for a specific reason. At the same time, a staff selection menu can be displayed that allows the called staff to communicate directly with the patient.

[0063] According to one embodiment, in response to a selection of a staff menu object, depending on the selected staff menu object, a further staff selection menu, a patient response menu or a staff information page is displayed. A further staff selection menu can in particular have corresponding staff menu objects which can be selected by the staff in order to trigger further functions. A patient response menu can, for example, be a menu in which the patient in turn has options for providing feedback in response to a question from the staff. A possible implementation will be described in more detail below. A staff information page can in particular be a page which displays information selected by the staff. This can thus be used to give the patient feedback, for example whether they may eat something or that a member of staff will now fetch something to eat.

[0064] During the display or for the operation of the main staff selection menu and / or during the display or for the operation of a staff selection menu, the patient switches in particular can be deactivated or at least deactivated except for a return function to the previous menu. This can prevent the patient from using their patient switches to intervene in a functionality that is intended to be carried out by the staff. The return function can, for example, allow the patient to correct an incorrect entry and thus return to a previous menu, for example a previous patient selection menu. This can be implemented, for example, by a displayed menu object or a button, whereby the patient can select the return function, for example, by pressing the second patient switch.It can also be provided that, while the main staff selection menu is displayed and / or while a staff selection menu is displayed, control of the patient communication system is carried out exclusively, or at least with the exception of a return function to the previous menu or for operating a staff selection menu, via screen input, or that the operation of a staff selection menu is carried out exclusively via screen input. Such screen input can be carried out, in particular, by staff standing next to the patient communication system and operating a touch-sensitive screen, for example. This enables easy selection of corresponding menu items and thus simple communication with the patient.Screen input can be made using touch input, but another technology can also be used to make inputs, such as contactless input. With both touch input and contactless input, objects displayed on a screen can be selected. This allows for particularly flexible operation. Personnel menu objects do not necessarily have to be differentiated between active and inactive states; there can also be just one state for each personnel menu object in a personnel selection menu. However, it can also be provided that a personnel selection menu distinguishes between active and inactive states of the personnel menu objects.

[0065] For example, a staff selection menu can fill only a portion of the display, and next to it, a patient response menu, a staff information page, or another menu or page can be displayed. This can make operation more straightforward.

[0066] According to one embodiment, each patient response menu has a plurality of sectors, wherein in a plurality of the sectors a respective patient response object can be displayed in a respective inactive or a respective active state. The control device can in particular be configured to display only one patient response object in the active state for each patient response menu and to display all other patient response objects in the inactive state. It can be configured to display a next patient response object in the active state in response to an actuation of the first patient switch. Furthermore, it can be configured to select a patient response object displayed in the active state in response to an actuation of the second patient switch.

[0067] This allows the patient to control a patient response menu in a similar or identical manner to the control of a patient selection menu. Reference is made to the above description of patient selection menus in this regard; the corresponding explanations can also be applied to a patient response menu. A patient response menu can be displayed, in particular, if the staff wants to ask the patient a question. For this purpose, a staff selection menu can be used, for example, in which a corresponding staff menu item is selected. The patient can then operate the patient response menu using the controls already familiar from the patient selection menus and thus provide the staff with appropriate feedback.

[0068] For example, staff can ask the patient whether they are hungry, and the patient can use their patient buttons to select whether they are hungry or not, thereby giving the staff appropriate feedback.

[0069] Patient response objects can also be saved and / or used depending on the patient's language. Please refer to the above explanations.

[0070] According to an advantageous embodiment, the control device can have an adjustable staff language parameter for selecting one of a plurality of staff languages, wherein for each staff language and for each staff selection menu, respective associated staff menu objects are stored, which are displayed depending on the respectively set staff language. This allows for the different languages ​​of the staff to be taken into account in a similar manner to that already described above with reference to a patient language parameter. Thus, in principle, even employees with different language skills can communicate with the patient, regardless of the languages ​​spoken or understood by the patient. A staff language can thus be set that is adapted to the responsible employee.The explanations given above for patient language can be applied accordingly to staff language. Reference is therefore made to the above explanations. Other objects or text elements to be displayed, for example those described in more detail herein, can also be saved for different staff languages.

[0071] The first control button can be designed, in particular, as a contactless and / or capacitive sensor. The second control button can also be designed as a contactless and / or capacitive sensor. Such sensors have proven suitable for the relevant application, particularly because they are easy to operate. However, it should be understood that other designs are also possible.

[0072] The patient communication system can, in particular, comprise a stand on which at least the display device is mounted. The control device can also be mounted on or in the stand, for example, and other components, such as those for the power supply, can be mounted on or in the stand. Furthermore, the flexible cable to a patient module mentioned above can, for example, be mounted on the stand. The stand can, in particular, comprise a plurality of casters for moving the stand. For example, five casters can be used on each of the feet of the stand, which effectively prevents tipping. However, other designs are also possible.

[0073] According to a further development, the patient communication system can further comprise an interface for connecting an external storage medium. The interface can be connected to the control device. It should be noted that the functionality described here and the provision of an interface can be an independent aspect of the invention, which can also be implemented independently of other features and functionalities of a patient communication system.

[0074] The control device can, in particular, be configured to read update data from an external storage medium connected to the interface, to update data stored in the control device or on a storage unit connected thereto, for example, the storage means mentioned above, using the update data, and can, in particular, be configured to subsequently delete the update data from the storage medium. Such an embodiment makes it possible to provide an update option in a simple manner, by means of which the software of the patient communication system can be updated without requiring a connection to the Internet or another network. This makes it possible to comply with increased security regulations in hospitals, which may prohibit such a connection to such networks, in particular to the Internet.By providing the storage medium, an update can still be performed, allowing, for example, new functionalities or languages ​​to be added. The advantageous deletion of the update data on the storage medium after the update prevents the storage medium from being used to update other patient communication systems, thereby increasing security during the update. In particular, this can prevent the update data from being used for other patient communication systems for which, for example, no license for additional functions exists.

[0075] The control device can be configured to decrypt data from the external storage medium and / or to verify a signature of the data. This allows the data to be provided with a specific encryption and / or a specific signature. The encryption can, for example, prevent unauthorized reading, and the signature can ensure that only original data, for example data provided by the manufacturer of the patient communication system, is read in and used. In particular, the control device can be configured to process data from the external storage medium only if it is encrypted according to a specification and / or the signature has been verified as correct. This can prevent unauthorized persons from tampering with the patient communication system and, for example, using it for tasks for which it is not intended.Such manipulation could endanger the safety of the patient using the patient communication system.

[0076] The aspects described herein relating to the functionality of a patient communication system can also be understood as procedural aspects. These have independent inventive significance.

[0077] Further features and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiment described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1: a patient communication system, Fig. 2: a patient module, Fig. 3: an internal circuit, Fig. 4: a pressure curve over time and associated status signals, Fig. 5: a patient main selection menu, Fig. 6: the patient main selection menu of Fig. 5 in another state, Fig. 7: the main patient selection menu of Fig. 5 in another state, Fig. 8: a patient selection menu, Fig. 9: the patient selection menu of Fig. 8 in another state, Fig. 10: a personnel selection menu, Fig. 11: a personnel information page, Fig. 12: a patient information page, Fig. 13: a personnel main selection menu, Fig. 14: a staff selection menu and a patient response menu, Fig. 15: a staff selection menu and a patient response page, Fig. 16: a personnel selection menu and a personnel information page in another language, Fig. 17: a personnel selection menu and a personnel information page in yet another language, Fig. 18: a staff selection menu and a patient response menu.

[0078] Fig. 1 shows a patient communication system 10 according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0079] The patient communication system 10 has a stand 20. A total of five casters 25 are attached to the underside of the stand, by means of which the patient communication system 10 can be moved. This allows, for example, the patient communication system 10 to be pushed to the bed of a patient who is to communicate using the patient communication system 10.

[0080] The patient communication system 10 has a display device 30, which in this case is designed in the form of a touch-sensitive screen. In particular, menus and information pages can be displayed thereon, which serve for communication between the patient and staff or for informing the patient. This will be discussed in more detail below. The display device 30 is mounted on the stand 20 as shown.

[0081] The patient communication system 10 comprises a patient module 40. This is connected to the stand 20 via a flexible cable 45. The patient module 40 can, for example, be placed in a patient's bed, so that the patient can operate the patient communication system 10 via patient switches 41, 42 located on the patient module 40. This will be discussed further below with reference to Fig. 2 and other figures will be discussed in more detail.

[0082] The patient communication system has a status indicator 80 with a first lamp 81 and a second lamp 82. These display different colors, with the first lamp 81 glowing green and the second lamp 82 glowing red in this case. Their functionality will be discussed in more detail below.

[0083] The patient communication system 10 has a first control button 70 and a second control button 75. These are integrated into the stand 20 as contactless sensors. Their functionality will be discussed in more detail below. Using the control buttons 70, 75, personnel can trigger or operate certain functions by simply touching or even placing a hand near the respective control button 70, 75.

[0084] The patient communication system 10 has an interface 90 for connecting an external storage medium. In this case, the interface 90 is embodied as a USB interface, allowing a USB stick or other USB-compatible storage medium to be connected. This allows for updating the software of the patient communication system 10. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0085] Fig. Figure 2 shows the patient module 40 in an enlarged view. The patient module 40 is connected to the flexible line 45 as shown. It has the aforementioned first patient switch 41 and the aforementioned second patient switch 42. These patient switches 41, 42 are designed here as circular segment-shaped elevations made of flexible material protruding from the patient module 40 so that they can be pressed in by a patient. It has been found that the strength still present in patients' fingers such as the thumb, even in difficult conditions, for example immediately after an operation, is typically sufficient to operate such patient switches 41, 42. The necessary force can also be adjusted, in particular, by selecting a suitable material and by selecting the air pressure prevailing in the patient switches 41, 42.

[0086] The patient module 40 can be freely positioned, in particular within a range defined by the flexible cable 45, and thus, for example, can be placed in a patient's bed, allowing the patient to operate it. To do so, the patient can, for example, pick up the patient module 40 and press one of the patient switches 41, 42 with their thumb. This allows the patient communication system 10 to be operated in a manner to be described below.

[0087] Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows an internal circuit of the patient communication system 10. The aforementioned display device 30 is connected to a control device 50, which in this case is embodied in the form of a programmable computer. As shown, the control device 50 is connected to the first control button 70, the second control button 75, the status display 80, and the interface 90. Thus, the control device 50 receives signals from the control buttons 70, 75, can control the status display 80 such that it displays a specific status, and can also be connected via the interface 90 to a storage medium connected to the interface 90 and external to the patient communication system 10 in order to read or process data therefrom.

[0088] The interface 90 serves in particular to update software or other data stored in the control device 50. For this purpose, an external storage medium such as a USB stick can be connected to the interface 90, wherein the data stored thereon can, for example, be encrypted and provided with an electronic signature. After the storage medium is connected to the interface 90, the control device 50 first checks the signature by comparing a signature stored on the storage medium with a signature permanently programmed into the control device 50. If the signatures do not match, the data stored on the storage medium is not processed further because it is obviously unreliable or falsified data. If the signatures match, the data is decrypted using a predetermined decryption algorithm.Should decryption fail, the data is also discarded, as it is apparently unreliable or corrupted. If the data can be properly decrypted, it can be used, for example, to update software stored in the control device 50, allowing new functions or program updates to be installed. The data stored on the storage medium can then be deleted by the control device 50 so that it cannot be used a second time.

[0089] The patient communication system 10 further comprises an interface module 60, which is arranged within the stand 20 and therefore in Fig. 1. The interface module 60 has a first pressure sensor 61 and a second pressure sensor 62. These are connected, as shown, to the two patient switches 41, 42 via a first connection 66 and a second connection 67, and further via the flexible cable 45. A pressure increase triggered by pressing one of the two patient switches 41, 42 can thus be detected by the respectively assigned pressure sensor 61, 62.

[0090] The interface module 60 further comprises an electronic control unit 65, which is connected to the two pressure sensors 61, 62, so that signals generated by the pressure sensors 61, 62 as a function of the applied pressures can be evaluated by the control unit 65. This allows the activation of the two patient switches 41, 42 to be detected, for example, as described below with reference to Fig. 4 will be described.

[0091] As shown, the interface module 60 and the control device 50 are communicatively connected to one another. When the patient communication module 10 is started, the control device 50 first sends an electronic identification feature to the interface module 60. The control unit 65 of the interface module 60 checks the identification feature to determine whether it matches an identification feature stored in the control unit 65. If this is the case, communication is initiated between the control device 50 and the interface module 60. If the identification features do not match, communication is refused, which has consequences to be described below.

[0092] When communication is started, i.e., when the control device 50 has correctly identified itself on the interface module 60 using an identification feature, the interface module 60 begins to continuously send status signals to the control device 50. These status signals can assume one of three predefined values. These values ​​are encrypted to prevent unauthorized reading. The status signals are generally sent every 10 ms, thereby informing the control device 50 every 10 ms that the interface module 60 is still connected, regardless of whether the patient switches 41, 42 are actuated.

[0093] The status signals can each assume one of three predefined values. These are a resting value, a first actuation value, and a second actuation value. The resting value is generally output when no actuation of one of the two patient switches 41, 42 is detected. If actuation of the first patient switch 41 is detected, the first actuation value can be output. If actuation of the second patient switch 42 is detected, the second actuation value can be output. This is explained below with reference to Fig. 4 will be described in more detail.

[0094] Since the interface module 60 is continuously informed of its presence by the status signals, which are continuously sent every 10 ms in this case, the control device 50 or software running on it can also continuously detect whether it is being executed as intended in a patient communication system 10 in which the associated interface module 60 is present. If the status signals are missing or are not present at all, this indicates that the software is either being executed outside of a patient communication system or that the interface module has been tampered with in such a way that it no longer corresponds to the one originally installed, thus indicating that unauthorized manipulation has evidently occurred on the patient communication system 10.

[0095] Since the first case obviously involves test operation or a demonstration of the software, and in the second case, continued operation of the patient communication system 10 is not responsible, the software running on the control device 50 switches to a trial mode when the status signals are absent. In this trial mode, functionality is retained to the extent possible without the patient switches 41, 42, but the remaining usage time is limited. This can be set, for example, to a period of 30 minutes. After this trial period has expired, the control device 50 is deactivated, so that further operation of the software is no longer possible. This measure can prevent the software running on the control device 50 from being copied without authorization or the patient communication system 10 from being operated in an unauthorized state that could potentially cause malfunctions.At the same time, it is possible for the software to be available for testing or demonstration during the trial period, so that the software can also be distributed to interested parties, for example, who can use it on a trial basis for a predetermined period of time, but then no longer.

[0096] Fig. Figure 4 schematically shows a pressure curve over time in the first patient switch 41. Below this, the status signals output from the interface module 60 to the control device 50 are also shown. The time t is plotted on the horizontal axis in milliseconds (ms). The division is made in increments of 10 ms, with a measurement of the pressure in the first patient switch 41 by the first pressure sensor 61 taking place every 10 ms. Accordingly, status signals are also sent every 10 ms.

[0097] The pressure P of the first patient switch 41 is plotted on the vertical axis in arbitrary units. Also shown are a first trigger threshold AS1 and a first end threshold ES1, which represent pressure thresholds and are used to detect an actuation of the first patient switch 41 and to detect an end of an actuation of the first patient switch 41.

[0098] First, a status signal is output in the form of a rest signal R. Only when the first patient switch 41 is detected as being actuated is a first actuation value B1 output. The conditions under which this occurs will be explained below.

[0099] As shown, the pressure P begins to rise at a time value of 10 ms. To detect an actuation of the first patient switch 41, in addition to the already mentioned first threshold values ​​AS1, ES1, a first trigger period t a1and a first waiting period t w1 In principle, an actuation of the first patient switch 41 should only be detected if the pressure P has been maintained for at least the first trigger period t a1 remains above the first trigger threshold value AS1. If the pressure P falls below the first end threshold value ES1, the end of the actuation is detected. Between a detected actuation and a detected end of the actuation, the first actuation value B1 is output as a status signal, then the rest value R is output again. After the end of an actuation is detected, ie after the pressure P has fallen below the first end threshold value ES1, the waiting period t w1waited before detecting another actuation. This ensures that no accidental double actuation occurs if the patient actually intended to press only once, but due to physical weakness, is unable to press the first patient switch 41 in a purely linear manner, but instead wobbles or shakes. It has been shown that the procedure described here represents particularly good support for patients in the difficult situations described, as it allows them to easily operate the patient communication system 10.

[0100] At a time of 10 ms, the pressure P initially rises and exceeds the first trigger threshold AS1. However, just 20 ms later, it falls below the first trigger threshold AS1 again and drops to a significantly lower value. It therefore does not remain constant for at least the first trigger period t a1, which in this case is 50 ms, is above the first trigger threshold AS1, which is why no actuation is detected in this case.

[0101] At approximately 60 ms, the pressure P rises again and remains above the first trigger threshold AS1 for a longer period. Since this period is longer than the first trigger period t a1 is, an actuation of the first patient switch 41 is detected and after the end of the first trigger period t a1 The first actuation value B1 is output as a status signal. Between a time of 150 ms and a time of 160 ms, the pressure P drops again and falls below the first end threshold value ES1. This detects the end of the actuation, and the rest value R is output from then on. Immediately thereafter, the pressure P rises again and exceeds the first trigger threshold value AS1 for the first trigger period t a1 , however, the first waiting period t w1, which in this case is 1 s, has not yet elapsed, which is why no activation is detected. Thus, the rest value R continues to be output as the status signal.

[0102] The first waiting period t w1 ends in the period not shown. At the time of 1,500 ms shown again, it has already expired. If the pressure P then rises again as shown and remains constant for at least the first trigger period t a1 remains above the first trigger threshold AS1, an actuation is again detected and the first actuation value B1 is output. If the pressure P falls below the first end threshold ES1 again, the end of the actuation is detected and the rest value R is output as a status signal. If the pressure immediately rises again for only a short period of time, both due to the first waiting period t not yet having elapsed and due to the fact that the first waiting period t w1 as well as due to the non-compliance with the first trigger period ta1 no operation is detected and the rest value R continues to be output as a status signal.

[0103] It has been shown that the described procedure enables patients in the described difficult situations to operate the patient communication system 10 particularly effectively. Desired operations are recognized, while unwanted multiple operations are avoided. The same principle can be applied accordingly to the second patient switch 42. A second trigger threshold AS2, a second end threshold ES2, a second trigger period t a2 and a second waiting period t w2 These values ​​can be identical to the respective first values, but do not have to be. When an actuation of the second patient switch 42 is detected, then, in deviation from the representation of Fig. 4 not the first actuation value B1, but the second actuation value B2 is output.

[0104] It should be mentioned that the respective trigger threshold AS and the respective end threshold ES can also be selected identically, which corresponds to a particularly simple implementation.

[0105] The following are based on the Fig. 5 to 18 describe menus and other pages that can be displayed on the display device 30. In particular, the control device 50 can be configured to display the corresponding menus and execute the described functions.

[0106] Fig. 5 shows a main patient selection menu 100. The main patient selection menu 100 is typically the menu displayed when the patient communication system 10 is put into operation, for example, when it boots up after a power interruption or when it is switched to a patient mode by pressing the first control button 70. As shown, the main patient selection menu 100 is divided into several sectors. In this case, nine sectors are displayed, arranged in three lines of three rows each. In the bottom line, the left and right sectors are not used. These sectors can be reserved, for example, for later expansions. Although they contain a placeholder pictogram, they lack any labeling.

[0107] In each of the sectors used, a respective patient menu object is displayed, which can be displayed in a respective active or inactive state. The patient menu object in the active state is designated by reference numeral 110. The patient menu objects displayed in the inactive state are designated by reference numeral 120. As shown, each patient menu object has both a text component and a graphic component. While the graphic component does not differ between the active and inactive states, the text component differs in that the respective patient menu object 110 is displayed in bold in the active state. In the inactive state, however, a non-bold font is used. The respective label orThe respective text is stored in editable form on the control device 50, so that the text can be changed and different languages ​​can be provided. This can be dependent, in particular, on an adjustable patient language parameter, ie, the language parameter in . Fig. The captions shown in Figure 5 can also be displayed in different languages, but with the same image elements. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0108] The control device 50 is configured to always display only one patient menu object 110 in the active state and to display the other patient menu objects 120 in the inactive state. If an actuation of the first patient switch 41 is detected, for example, as described with reference to Fig. 4, by receiving first actuation signals B1 from the interface module 60, the next patient menu object is displayed as patient menu object 110 in the active state, and all other patient menu objects 120 are displayed in the inactive state. A correspondingly modified patient main selection menu 100 after a single actuation of the first patient switch 41 is shown, for example, in Fig. 6. This is no longer the case as in Fig. 4 in the upper left sector ("Food / Drink"), but in the upper middle sector ("Pain") a patient menu object 110 is displayed in the active state, and in the upper left sector a patient menu object 120 is displayed in the inactive state. If the first patient switch 41 is pressed again, the Fig. 7 is displayed, with a patient menu object 110 being displayed in the active state in the upper right sector ("Doctor"), whereas a patient menu object 120 is displayed in the inactive state in all other sectors. It should be understood that upon further actuation of the first patient switch 41, a patient menu object 110 would be displayed in the active state in the middle left sector ("Nursing Measures"), followed by switching to the middle sector ("Physiotherapy"), then to the middle right sector ("Visit"), and finally to the lower middle sector ("Family + Social"). If the first patient switch 41 is then actuated again, a patient menu object 110 would be displayed in the active state in the upper left sector ("Food / Drink"). The middle sector is understood to be the sector located in the second column and second row.In this example, it is labeled “Physiotherapy.”

[0109] The two inactive sectors, i.e. the lower left sector and the lower right sector, do not play a role in this consideration and can be left out, since the switching of active patient menu objects 110 occurs exclusively within the sectors actually used.

[0110] If the patient presses the second patient switch 42 at a specific time and such an actuation is detected as described above, the patient menu item 110 displayed in the active state is selected. This can lead to different reactions, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0111] To facilitate operation, the text displayed can also be shown in different colors. In particular, the text of the patient menu object 110 displayed in the active state can have a second color, and the text of the patient menu objects 120 displayed in the inactive state can be displayed in a first color. The first patient switch 41 then preferably has the first color, and the second patient switch 42 preferably has the second color. This also signals to the patient via color information that they can use the first patient switch 41 to advance, whereas they can use the second patient switch 42 to select. The first color can be blue, for example, and the second color can be red, for example. This has proven effective for intuitive operation.

[0112] Fig. 8 shows a patient selection menu 105. This is no longer the main patient selection menu 100, which is shown in the Fig. 5 to 7, but rather a further patient selection menu 105, which the patient accesses when they select the patient menu object labeled "Eat / Drink" in the main patient selection menu at the top left. The patient selection menu 105 has a total of three used sectors, wherein in the displayed state, one sector displays a patient menu object 110 in the active state that is labeled "I would like something to eat." Next to it, in another used sector, a patient menu object 120 in the inactive state is displayed, which is labeled "I would like something to drink." At the top left, in a used sector, a patient menu object 120 in the inactive state is displayed, which is labeled "Back."

[0113] Using the first two patient menu objects 110, 120, the patient can indicate to the staff that they would like something to eat or drink. To do so, the patient can, for example, directly select the patient menu object 110 displayed in the active state using the second patient switch 42, or they can use the first patient switch 41 to toggle the menu so that "I would like something to drink" is displayed as the patient menu object 110 in the active state. They can then select the corresponding function by pressing the second patient switch 42. Selecting the patient menu object labeled "Back" returns them to the main patient selection menu 100.

[0114] The selection in the patient selection menu 105 basically works equivalently to the main patient selection menu 100, for example in Fig. 9 shows a state in which "Back" is displayed as patient menu item 110 in the active state. For example, the patient has pressed the first patient switch 41 starting from the Fig. 8 shown state is pressed twice.

[0115] Fig. 10 shows a personnel selection menu 200. This is displayed when the patient is in the patient selection menu 105, which is in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, selects the patient menu item “I would like to eat something”.

[0116] The word "Back" is displayed in a field 210 at the top left, which corresponds to a patient menu item displayed in the active state. This signals to the patient that pressing the second patient switch 42 will return them to the previous menu, which they can use, for example, when they want to access the personnel selection menu 200, which is shown in Fig. 10, has been accidentally selected.

[0117] Simultaneously with the display of the personnel selection menu 200 of Fig. 10, when the patient menu item "I would like something to eat" is activated, the status indicator 80 is activated to signal a second status. This can be done by activating the second lamp 82. This signals to the staff that the patient has a need and requires interaction with the staff. The staff is thus prompted to approach the patient.

[0118] The staff selection menu 200 has a display field 230 in which the patient's selected request, "I would like something to eat," is displayed. This informs the staff what the patient wants. Below this, a total of three staff menu items 220 are displayed, which can be selected by the staff using touch-sensitive input on the display device 30. The first patient switch 41 is deactivated in this display, and the second patient switch 42 can only be used for the aforementioned "Back" function. The three staff menu items 220 are not accessible to the patient.

[0119] The staff can then select, as shown, whether the patient may eat soup, eat a little, or not eat anything yet. A simple touch-sensitive input can be used to select the corresponding staff menu item 220, whereby, for example, selecting "You may not eat anything yet" will cause the Fig. 11 is displayed. This page has, in addition to a "Back" field 310 that is still accessible to the patient, two display fields 330 in which the patient is informed that they are not allowed to eat anything yet. A staff information page is thus, in particular, a page that, after input by staff, provides the patient with information that ultimately goes back to the staff.

[0120] After such an operation and when the patient has understood the corresponding message, the operating personnel can, for example, press the first operating button 70 to switch the patient communication system 10 back to a patient mode. This causes the status display 80 to display the first state, in particular by illuminating the first lamp 81 and extinguishing the second lamp 82. Furthermore, in response to such an actuation of the first operating button 70, the Fig. The main patient selection menu 100 shown in Figure 5 is displayed, which allows the patient to make inputs independently of the staff. This allows the staff, who, for example, have interacted with the patient as explained, to switch the patient communication system 10 back to a defined state in which it is available to the patient with a simple movement.

[0121] Fig. 12 shows, by way of example, a patient information page 400 which, in addition to a "Back" patient menu object 410 that is still accessible as described, has a display field 430 in which the current time is displayed. This can be displayed, for example, if the patient selects a patient menu object in a patient selection menu through which the current time is to be displayed. In this way, the patient can, for example, have the current time displayed without the need for personnel intervention. A patient information page is therefore, in particular, a page which, after input by the patient, provides the patient with information that was ultimately requested by the patient.

[0122] Fig. 13 shows a staff main selection menu 500. This is displayed when the second control button 75 is pressed, thereby switching the patient communication system 10 to a staff mode.

[0123] First, there is a first language selection field 501 and a second language selection field 502 at the bottom. Using the first language selection field 501, a patient language can be selected, with an associated patient language parameter being set in the control device 50. Likewise, using the second language selection field 502, a staff language can be selected, with an associated staff language parameter being set in the control device 50. All text in fields and menu items is stored in the selectable languages ​​for both the patient and the staff, so that, in principle, staff and patient can communicate with each other even if they have completely different language skills. Examples are explained further below.

[0124] At the bottom right is an "Exit" field 503, which can be used to exit the currently running software. This can then be restarted, for example, or programs can be started for maintenance or to execute other functions. Next to this, to the right, is a "Shutdown" field 504, which can be used to shut down and turn off the patient communication system 10.

[0125] The Fig. The main personnel selection menu 500 shown in Figure 13 has a total of seven personnel menu objects 512, which are currently displayed in only one state. Selection is made via touch-sensitive input on the display device 30. The two patient switches 41, 42 are deactivated in this display, meaning they cannot perform any switching functions, and any activation remains undetected.

[0126] The personnel can thus select one of the personnel menu objects 512 and thus branch to different functions. The respective texts of the personnel menu objects 512 are displayed according to Fig. 13 is displayed in English, which corresponds to a selected staff language English.

[0127] For example, if an operator selects the personnel menu item 512 displayed at the top left, which is labelled “Eat / Drink”, the Fig. The personnel selection menu 505 shown in Figure 14 is displayed. It should be understood that this again shows a state in which German is selected for both languages.

[0128] The staff selection menu 505 is displayed on the left side of the display device 30 and allows the staff to make further selections. A distinction is now also made between a staff menu object 510 displayed in the active state and staff menu objects 520 displayed in the inactive state. An operator can select one of the staff menu objects 510, 520 and thereby display specific information to the patient or ask a question. For example, if he selects the Fig. 14, which is displayed in the active state and labeled "Are you thirsty?", a patient response menu 600 is displayed to the right of it. The patient response menu 600 has a display field 630 on which the question "Are you thirsty?" is displayed.

[0129] The patient response menu 600 further includes three patient response objects, of which one patient response object 610 is displayed in the active state, and the other two patient response objects 620 are displayed in the inactive state. The patient can now use their first patient switch 41 to scroll to the next patient response object, thereby displaying one of the three patient response objects in the active state. They can then use their second patient switch 42 to select the patient response object 610 displayed in the active state. The available response options are "Yes," "No," and "Didn't Understand."

[0130] For example, if the patient selects “Yes”, ie he presses the first patient switch 41 as often as necessary until the patient response object 610 labelled “Yes” is displayed in the active state and then presses the second patient switch 42, the Fig. 15, the patient response page 700 located to the right of the personnel selection menu 505 is displayed. The question and the selected answer "Yes" are displayed in display fields 730. The patient response page 700 is also displayed here next to the personnel selection menu 505.

[0131] The procedure in staff mode described above allows an operator, for example, a hospital employee, to ask a patient whether they are thirsty and receive an answer from them. This can be done without any verbal communication and can be done using languages ​​adapted to the operator and the patient. Thus, regardless of any patient speech and / or hearing impairments and regardless of language barriers, appropriate communication can take place between hospital staff and patient, with the patient visually perceiving the relevant information and questions and easily answering them using the two patient switches 41, 42.

[0132] Fig. 16 shows a personnel selection menu 505 which is displayed when in the main personnel selection menu 500 of Fig. 13, the upper right personnel menu object 512, which is labeled "Doctor," is selected and then German is selected as the personnel language. The personnel selection menu 505 of Fig. 16 shows a plurality of personnel menu objects 510, 520, one of which, designated by reference numeral 510, is displayed in the active state, and the others, designated by reference numeral 520, are displayed in the inactive state. The personnel menu objects 510, 520 here enable an operator to specifically ask medical questions or give medical instructions.

[0133] In the state shown, a staff menu object 510 labeled "Please press my hand" is selected and thus displayed in the active state. A touch-sensitive input can be used for this. Arabic has now been selected as the patient language. Thus, to the right of this, a staff information page 300 is displayed with a display field 330 on which the instruction "Please press my hand" is displayed, among other languages, in Arabic. This allows, for example, a doctor to easily request a patient who only speaks Arabic to press a hand without the doctor having to speak Arabic.

[0134] Fig. 17 shows this already in Fig. 16, wherein another personnel menu object 510 is displayed in the active state. This is labeled "I will examine you now." Accordingly, a corresponding personnel information page 300 is displayed to the right of it. Since English is set as the patient language in this example, the corresponding information is displayed not in Arabic, but in English, again in the designated display field 330.

[0135] In Fig.18 shows another personnel selection menu 505, which is displayed when "Care Measures" is selected in the main personnel selection menu 500. A personnel menu object 510 is displayed in the active state after a corresponding selection, which is labeled "Are you breathing well?" Accordingly, after this selection, a patient response menu 600 is displayed to the right of it with an associated display field 630, in which the question is displayed in English and German, and three patient response objects 610, 620. One of the patient response objects 610 is displayed in the active state, and the other patient response objects 620 are displayed in the inactive state.The patient can in turn use their first patient switch 41 to select which of the patient response objects should be displayed in the active state, and can then press the second patient switch 42 to select the corresponding patient response object 610 displayed in the active state. This in turn can display a patient response page (not shown), which provides the doctor with feedback in their language. In this case, the patient can choose between "Yes", "No", and "not understood". The communication shown here thus enables a doctor who, for example, only speaks German to ask an English-speaking patient whether they are breathing well, and the patient can answer the question using their patient switches 41, 42. It is not necessary for the patient to be able to speak or hear.

[0136] Overall, the patient communication system described here enables excellent communication between doctors, nurses, and other hospital staff on the one hand, and patients on the other. Basic movement skills of a hand or at least a finger on the patient's side are sufficient; the ability to speak or hear is not required on the patient's side. Furthermore, by adjusting the language parameters, language barriers can be easily overcome on both the staff and patient sides, meaning that staff and patients can communicate with each other even if they don't speak the same language.Communication with patients in very difficult situations, for example in intensive care units and / or after particularly serious surgical procedures or accidents, can be greatly improved in this way, so that the patient feels better under the circumstances and recovery can be supported.

[0137] The steps mentioned in the method according to the invention can be carried out in the specified order. However, they can also be carried out in a different order, as long as this is technically reasonable. The method according to the invention can be carried out in one of its embodiments, for example, with a specific combination of steps, in such a way that no further steps are carried out. However, in principle, further steps can also be carried out, even those not mentioned.

[0138] It should be noted that features may be described in combination in the claims and the description, for example, to facilitate understanding, although they may also be used separately. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such features may also be combined independently with other features or combinations of features.

[0139] References in subclaims may indicate preferred combinations of the respective features, but do not exclude other combinations of features.

Claims

[1] Method for detecting actuations of a pneumatic switch (41, 42) of a patient communication system (10), the method comprising the following steps: - measuring a pressure prevailing in the compressed air switch (41, 42), - Detection of an actuation when the pressure is maintained for a trigger period (t a ) exceeds an action threshold (AS), - Detection of the end of the actuation when the pressure after the actuation has been detected falls below an end threshold value (ES), - after the end of the actuation, detection of a further actuation at the earliest after expiry of a waiting period (t w ). [2] Method according to claim 1, - where the pressure is measured at constant time intervals. [3] Method according to one of the preceding claims, - where the trigger threshold (AS) corresponds to the final threshold (ES). [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the trigger threshold value (AS) and / or the final threshold value (ES) are adjusted as a function of an ambient air pressure. [5] Method according to one of the preceding claims, - where the trigger period (t a ) is greater than 10 ms, greater than 20 ms, greater than 30 ms, or greater than 40 ms, and / or - where the trigger period (t a ) is less than 60 ms, less than 70 ms, less than 80 ms, less than 90 ms or less than 100 ms, and / or - where the trigger period (t a ) is 50 ms. [6] Method according to one of the preceding claims, - where the waiting period (t w ) is greater than 0.5 s, greater than 0.6 s, greater than 0.7 s, greater than 0.8 s or greater than 0.9 s, and / or - where the waiting period (t w) is less than 1.1 s, less than 1.2 s, less than 1.3 s, less than 1.4 s or less than 1.5 s, and / or - where the waiting period (t w ) is 1 s. [7] Method for detecting first actuations of a first compressed air switch (41) of a patient communication system (10) and second actuations of a second compressed air switch (42) of the patient communication system (10), - wherein first actuations of the first compressed air switch (41) by means of a method according to one of the preceding claims with a first triggering period (t a1 ), a first trigger threshold (AS1), a first waiting period (t w1 ) and a first final threshold value (ES1), and - wherein second actuations of the second compressed air switch (42) are carried out by means of a method according to one of the preceding claims with a second triggering period (t a2), a second trigger threshold (AS2), a second waiting period (t w2 ) and a second final threshold (ES2). [8] Method according to claim 7, - where the first trigger period (t a1 ) the second trigger period (t a2 ) and / or - wherein the first trigger threshold (AS1) corresponds to the second trigger threshold (AS2), and / or - where the first waiting period (t w1 ) the second waiting period (t w2 ) and / or - wherein the first final threshold value (ES1) corresponds to the second final threshold value (ES2). [9] Method according to one of claims 7 or 8, - wherein the method is carried out in an interface module (60) to which the first compressed air switch (41) and the second compressed air switch (42) are pneumatically connected, - wherein the interface module (60) is communicatively connected to a control device (50) of the patient communication system (10). [10] Method according to one of claims 7 to 9, - wherein status signals are continuously output, which can assume a rest value (R), a first actuation value (B1) and a second actuation value (B2), - wherein the first actuation value (B1) is output in response to a detected actuation of the first compressed air switch (41), - wherein the second actuation value (B2) is output in response to a detected actuation of the second pneumatic switch (42), - otherwise the rest value (R) is output. [11] Method according to claim 10, - wherein the first actuation value (B1) is output until an end of the actuation of the first pneumatic switch (41) has been detected, and / or - wherein the second actuation value (B2) is output until an end of the actuation of the second pneumatic switch (42) has been detected. [12] Method according to one of claims 10 or 11, - where the status signals are output at constant time intervals. [13] Interface module (60) for a patient communication system (10), the interface module (60) comprising: - a connection (66) for a first compressed air switch (41), - a first pressure sensor (61) for measuring a pressure prevailing in the first compressed air switch (41), - a connection (67) for a second pneumatic switch (42), - a second pressure sensor (62) for measuring a pressure prevailing in the second compressed air switch (42), - an electronic control unit (65) configured to carry out a method according to one of claims 7 to 12. [14] Patient communication system (10), comprising - a display device (30), - a control device (50), - a first patient switch, which is designed as a first compressed air switch (41), - a second patient switch, which is designed as a second compressed air switch (42), - an interface module (60) according to claim 13, - wherein the compressed air switches (41, 42) are connected to the interface module (60), and - wherein the interface module (60) is communicatively connected to the control device (50). [15] Patient communication system (10) according to claim 14, - wherein the electronic control unit (65) of the interface module (60) is configured to carry out a method according to one of claims 10 to 12 and to send the status signals to the control device (50), - and wherein the control device (50) is configured to restrict a functionality of the control device (50) or to deactivate the control device (50) if status signals are absent for a predetermined test period. [16] Patient communication system (10) according to one of claims 14 or 15, - wherein the control device (50) has an electronic identification feature, - wherein the control device (50) is configured to send the identification feature to the interface module (60) upon startup, - wherein the electronic control unit (65) of the interface module (60) is configured to only start and / or only send status signals after the identification feature has been verified as valid.

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