Signaling device for an extraction system and extraction system

Abstract

The invention relates to a signaling device for a suction system, which is configured to output visualization information based on information obtained about the suction flow, as well as a suction handpiece and a suction system.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a signaling device for a suction system, a suction handpiece for a suction system with such a signaling device and a suction system with such a signaling device.

[0002] Systems for the suction of liquids or solid particles are known, for example in the dental field. These systems usually have a suction unit for generating a negative pressure. The suction unit is connected to a suction handpiece, for example, via a working line, where it provides negative pressure. Various attachments such as suction cannulas or suction nozzles can be coupled to the suction handpiece. Due to the negative pressure, ambient air, liquid and, if applicable, solid particles flow into the suction handpiece and are thus removed from the room. The system therefore has, for example, a suction handpiece that can be coupled to a working line and a suction unit, with the suction unit and suction handpiece being connected to one another via the working line in such a way that a negative pressure generated by the suction unit can be applied at least partially to the suction handpiece.

[0003] In the field of industrial extraction systems, particularly in the dental sector, it has been found that in an extraction system serving multiple rooms during operation, different negative pressure situations can occur at the individual suction handpieces depending on the capacity of the individual rooms. The maintenance status of the extraction system can also influence both the overall extraction performance and the suction performance achievable with an individual suction handpiece. Furthermore, the general design of the system, the combination of individual components, and the individual handling of the combination of suction handpiece and, if applicable, suction cannula are important factors for the ultimate suction effect achieved in the room.

[0004] It is an object of the invention to provide a device, a suction handpiece and a system which enable an improved, in particular adjustable or more easily adjustable, suction effect.

[0005] This object is achieved by a signaling device according to claim 1, a suction handpiece according to claim 5 and a suction system according to claim 8.

[0006] According to a first aspect, a signaling device for a suction system is proposed. The signaling device comprises a receiving unit and an output device. The receiving unit is configured to receive information about a suction flow of a fluid suctioned in the suction system from a detection device. The output device is configured to output visualization information based on the received information about the suction flow. For example, the visualization information corresponds to the received information about the suction flow. For example, the visualization information represents the received information about the suction flow.

[0007] According to a first possible embodiment of the output device, the output device can be configured to display the visualization information through the output. In this case, the visualization information can actually be displayed. For example, the visualization information can be displayed to a user. In this case, it can also be said that the output device is configured as a device for outputting visualization information to a user. According to a second possible embodiment of the output device, the output device can be configured to forward the visualization information, such as outputting it to another device, e.g., a control device / control apparatus or a display device.In this case, it can also be said that the output device is designed as a device for outputting visualization information to another device. When the visualization information is output to a control device / control apparatus, the visualization information can be used by the control device / control apparatus to control one or more other components or devices. When the visualization information is output to a display device, the display device can display the visualization information.

[0008] The signaling device for a suction system enables the output, in particular the visualization, of acquired information about a suction flow of a fluid extracted in the suction system. The acquired information can be based on or formed by at least one measured value acquired by a detection device, in particular by several measured values ​​acquired by the detection device. The measured value(s) can indicate a partial quantity, a quantity, a suction flow, and / or a change in a suction flow of a fluid or a liquid and / or gas portion of a fluid. The signaling device can be designed to output a signal that corresponds to the measured value(s).The output on the signaling device can be used, for example, to manually or automatically adjust the suction power in the suction system or the suction system, for example, depending on the output signal, for example, to increase or decrease it. For example, the suction power can be adjusted by guiding a user through the output to a different, for example, better, orientation of a suction handpiece or suction nozzle or cannula. Adjusting the suction power may be necessary if an extraction system is intended for multiple rooms.

[0009] In one embodiment, the detection device can have at least one sensor. The at least one sensor can be designed to determine the measured value(s).

[0010] The output device can output at least one signal as visualization information. Based on the visualization information, e.g. the at least one signal, an operator can, for example, check an orientation of a suction handpiece and / or check a holding position of a suction handpiece and / or adjust an orientation of a suction handpiece and / or adjust the suction power to the range desired for the treatment. According to one example, a user can, for example, first check an orientation and / or a holding position of the suction handpiece using the output signal and, if necessary, change the orientation and / or the holding position of the suction handpiece through minimal or slight adjustments and / or movements in order to check whether and, if so, to what extent the output signal changes. This procedure can, for example, be used for training and lead to a learning effect.In an alternative embodiment, the signaling device itself can have a control device or be connected to a control device that can adjust the suction power accordingly. For this purpose, for example, a treatment type can be selectable or adjustable, e.g., via an adjustment device such as a sliding element on the suction cannula, the suction handpiece, or the signaling device.

[0011] The visualization information may include information about a size of the suction flow. Additionally or alternatively, the visualization information may include information about a change in the suction flow. Additionally or alternatively, the visualization information may include information about a suction effectiveness of the suction system. Additionally or alternatively, the visualization information may include information about a capacity utilization of the suction system. Additionally or alternatively, the visualization information may include information about a liquid and / or gas content in the suctioned fluid or the suctioned fluid.

[0012] The output device can be designed to output the visualization information as an optical, acoustic and / or haptic signal. In particular, the output device of the signaling device can be configured in one embodiment to output the measured values ​​as an optical, acoustic and / or haptic signal. The output device can have at least one light-emitting diode (LED) or at least one organic LED (OLED). In other words, LEDs or OLEDs can be used for an optical output. The light can, for example, be coupled into at least one light guide. In addition to a signal color spectrum (red, yellow, green), other individual lighting types can also be selected. For example, an operator can be given a signal by changing the ambient lighting in the room.Alternatively or additionally, a visible surface, for example on a suction cannula or a housing surface, can change from white to light blue or dark blue.

[0013] The output device can be configured to output the visualization information via a change in intensity and / or frequency. For example, a signal output on the output device can be pulsed or continuous in different visible color spectra. For an acoustic output, a short, pulsed, or prolonged tone can be output. For a haptic output of the signal, small servo motors can be used, for example, to provide tangible feedback, for example, in the handpiece.

[0014] According to a second aspect, a suction handpiece for a suction system is proposed. The suction handpiece comprises the signaling device according to the first aspect. In other words, the suction handpiece according to the second aspect comprises a signaling device for a suction system, wherein the signaling device comprises a receiving unit and an output device. The receiving unit is configured to receive information about a suction flow of a fluid suctioned in the suction system from a detection device. The output device is configured to output visualization information based on the received information about the suction flow.

[0015] The signaling device according to the first aspect can be integrated into the suction handpiece. This allows, for example, a compact design to be achieved.

[0016] The suction handpiece can be designed to be replaceable. This allows it to be easily replaced in the event of a malfunction or damage, for example.

[0017] According to a third aspect, a suction system is proposed. The suction system comprises a signaling device according to the first aspect and a detection device. The detection device is designed to detect information about a suction flow of a fluid extracted in the suction system. The signaling device has a receiving unit and an output device. The receiving unit is designed to receive the information about the suction flow of the fluid extracted in the suction system from the detection device. The output device is designed to output visualization information based on the received information about the suction flow.

[0018] The information about the suction flow can include information about a size of the suction flow. Additionally or alternatively, the information about the suction flow can include information about a change in the suction flow. Additionally or alternatively, the information about the suction flow can include information about a suction effectiveness of the suction system. Additionally or alternatively, the information about the suction flow can include information about a utilization of the suction system. Additionally or alternatively, the information about the suction flow can include information about a liquid and / or gas content in the suctioned fluid or the suctioned fluid.

[0019] The suction system can enable regulation of suction power by detecting a suction flow rate and / or a change in the suction flow rate of a fluid or a liquid fraction of a fluid. For this purpose, measured values ​​can be determined using the detection device. The measured values ​​determined can allow conclusions to be drawn about a suction (volume) flow rate and / or suction efficiency, for example, at a suction handpiece of a suction system. Suction flow can be understood here as a fluid quantity per unit of time—i.e., a volume or mass flow—which is conveyed, for example, by a suction handpiece during operation, i.e., during a suction process.

[0020] The change in an extraction flow can be understood, for example, as the time derivative of the extraction flow, the flow rate or a deviation of the flow of the fluid quantity from a target value, for example the extent to which a minimum flow rate is undershot.

[0021] The term fluid can be understood here as various media such as ambient air, liquid and solid particles in different compositions.

[0022] Suction efficiency can be understood here as a ratio between a suction flow that would be achievable under certain (ideal) conditions with the negative pressure applied to the suction handpiece and the suction flow currently achieved.

[0023] Both the suction flow and the suction efficiency parameters can, for example, refer to a suction handpiece of the suction system. This means that if a single room or system with two suction handpieces is used, each suction handpiece can have an individual suction flow or individual suction efficiency when in use.

[0024] The suction system may comprise a suction handpiece, for example the suction handpiece according to the second aspect. The signaling device may be integrated into the suction handpiece or configured as an intermediate piece. The intermediate piece may be attachable between the suction handpiece and a working line of the suction system. Additionally or alternatively, the detection device may be integrated into the suction handpiece. Additionally or alternatively, the detection device may be integrated into a suction hose that forms part of a working line of the suction system. Additionally or alternatively, the detection device may be configured as an intermediate piece and may be or be arranged between the suction handpiece and the working line or between the working line and the suction unit.

[0025] Integrating the signaling device into the suction handpiece has the advantage that the signal is directly visible and thus immediately detectable by the user. The user can then react immediately to the signal by changing their position and / or orientation.

[0026] Designing the signaling device as an intermediate piece offers the advantage that it can be easily retrofitted into an existing system. At the same time, such an intermediate piece is easy for the user to visually identify.

[0027] Integrating the detection device into the suction handpiece offers the advantage that the measured value—i.e., the volume, the suction flow, and / or the change in the suction flow of the fluid and / or the liquid or gas content of the fluid—is recorded in the immediate vicinity of the suction location. Thus, the measured value accurately reflects the actual suction situation.

[0028] From the perspective of retrofitting an extraction system with a collection device, integrating the collection device into a suction hose offers the advantage that the suction hose can be easily replaced and the collection device can thus be easily integrated into the system. The same applies analogously to the design of the collection device as an intermediate piece.

[0029] In general, the suction system can be designed for a single suction unit, which includes, for example, a suction handpiece, a working line, and a suction unit. Furthermore, in multi-station systems, the suction system or a suction unit can be designed for multiple suction handpieces.

[0030] A suction unit and a suction handpiece can be connected to each other via the working line in such a way that a negative pressure generated by the suction unit can be applied at least partially to the suction handpiece.

[0031] Depending on the system design, different vacuum levels may be present at different workstations with identically designed suction handpieces. This can be due, for example, to the length of the working line between the suction unit and the suction handpiece. Different pipe cross-sections or other flow conditions can also lead to different vacuum levels at different suction handpieces. The vacuum generated by the suction unit is then distributed among the various connected suction handpieces, for example, according to the aforementioned conditions.

[0032] As described above, the suction system can comprise an output device by means of which a signal can be output to an operator during a suction process, so that the quantity, the suction flow, and / or the change in the suction flow of the fluid or the liquid content of the fluid can be regulated by the operator according to the signal. Alternatively or additionally, for example, to assist the operator, this regulation can be performed by a control device. In this way, a user or a control device can react quickly to changes in the suction efficiency.

[0033] As described, according to one embodiment, the suction system can have a detection device with a sensor for determining one of the measured values ​​or for determining the measured values. The detection device can be arranged, for example, between the suction handpiece and the suction unit. The term "between" can include the suction handpiece and the suction unit. The sensor can be designed to determine a quantity, a partial quantity, a suction flow, and / or a change in a suction flow of a fluid or a liquid or gas portion of a fluid. In a further development, it can be provided that the suction handpiece can be coupled to a suction nozzle or suction cannula, and the signaling device can be designed such that the suction nozzle or suction cannula is designed to output the signal. This is advantageous because the suction nozzle or suction cannula is located directly at the suction location and in the direct field of vision of the user.A suction handpiece can be understood here as the part of the suction system that can be grasped by an operator. In particular, the suction handpiece can also include associated suction attachments, such as suction nozzles or suction cannulas.

[0034] The term "fluid quantity" can be understood here as either the total amount of fluid delivered by the suction handpiece or a specific portion of the fluid delivered by the suction handpiece. This portion can, for example, be a liquid or / and gas portion of a liquid-air mixture or a liquid-particle-air mixture.

[0035] The detection device, for example the at least one sensor, can generate a measured value which corresponds to the partial quantity, quantity, a change and / or a suction flow of a fluid or a liquid or gas portion of a fluid. This means that the measured value can enable a conclusion, such as a target / actual comparison, to be drawn about one of the aforementioned variables. In addition to the detection device, the suction system has a signaling device. This can be designed to output a signal corresponding to the measured value to an operator of the suction handpiece during operation, i.e. during a suction process. In this way, an operator can be shown, for example, whether the current suction flow is above or below a previously defined minimum suction flow, i.e. a flow rate per unit of time.It can also be indicated, for example, whether the change in the suction flow of the fluid represents an increase or a decrease in the suction flow of the fluid.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, the suction system can have a flow rate control device. The flow rate control device can, for example, adjust a suction flow through the suction handpiece according to the measured value generated by the detection device. For example, a suction flow through the suction handpiece can be regulated to a predetermined target value. If a minimum flow rate is not reached, the flow rate through the suction handpiece can also be increased after prior release by means of an element such as a switch or a rotatable element. The additional release element reliably prevents the power from being automatically increased, for example when a suction cannula is removed from the mouth.This can be achieved, for example, by increasing the overall negative pressure in the suction unit or by controlling a valve that determines the negative pressure applied to the suction handpiece. This valve can be a secondary air valve, for example.

[0037] In one embodiment in the dental field, the detection device, in particular the at least one sensor, can be designed to determine a liquid content of the fluid and / or to determine a change in a liquid content. The determination of the liquid content or a change thereof can occur additionally or alternatively to the determination of a fluid quantity, a suction flow, and / or a change in a flow rate of the fluid quantity. The positioning of the suction handpiece, in particular of a suction nozzle or suction cannula attached to it, in the space, particularly in the patient's oral cavity, is crucial for the liquid content or fluid portion. The absolute value of the liquid content is irrelevant here.

[0038] In the dental field, the term "fluid," especially with regard to liquids, can also include water, saliva, blood, etc. Furthermore, the term "fluid" can also include solid particles such as drill cuttings or similar. Furthermore, in addition to ambient air, the term "fluid" can also include a spray mist that emerges from the patient's oral cavity during treatment, as well as aerosols generated by the patient's breathing.

[0039] To prevent spray mist or aerosols from spreading uncontrollably throughout the treatment room, it is desirable to achieve a specific suction effect. However, with an extraction system serving multiple dental workstations, different vacuum levels may occur at the individual suction handpieces during operation, depending on the workload at each workstation.

[0040] The suction system according to the third aspect can enable an improvement and / or adjustability of the suction effect during a treatment.

[0041] If a larger amount of a fluid component is aspirated, less spray mist and / or aerosol is released into the environment. Corresponding feedback on the current fluid component can prompt the user to adjust the positioning of the suction handpiece to achieve the highest possible signal value.

[0042] In this context, the amount of fluid supplied can also be determined and the amount can be used to determine the fluid content and / or the change in a fluid content.

[0043] The optical or acoustic signal providing feedback on the suction effect can be output directly at suitable locations, such as on a handpiece, a treatment lamp, a shelf on the treatment chair, or an instrument carrier, or it can be retrofitted. Furthermore, diffuse lighting can also be used and integrated into the treatment devices, shelves, or chairs in such a way that variable ambient lighting is created by controlling it. This allows the user to detect a change in the suction effect through the color change of the background, for example, out of the corner of their eye.

[0044] The suction handpiece can have a coupling point for the suction nozzle / cannula, via which light can be coupled into the suction nozzle and / or the suction cannula can be light-conducting and / or translucent. This has the advantage that the operator receives optical feedback about the suction flow and / or the suction efficiency directly at the suction nozzle / cannula. Furthermore, the suction nozzle or suction cannula can be at least partially transparent or translucent.

[0045] In a further embodiment, the sensor or sensor technology can operate according to the principle of differential pressure measurement or is a Karman vortex air mass meter.

[0046] The suction system can further comprise a position detection device. The position detection device can be configured to detect information about a location and / or information about a position of the suction handpiece in space. In a further embodiment, the signaling device can be configured to detect a location and / or position of a suction handpiece of the suction system and / or to determine it using a control device. The aforementioned implementations can be particularly advantageous for providing the operator with a signal in the form of positive or negative feedback based on the detected measured values ​​and / or taking into account the detected location and / or position. The resulting measured values ​​can be influenced by positioning, for example, a suction handpiece relative to the object to be suctioned and / or its surroundings.

[0047] Thus, the position detection device can be designed to detect the position and / or orientation of the suction handpiece in the room. For this purpose, one or more receivers can be installed in the room, for example, so that detection can occur in all spatial directions. In addition to an associated transmitter element, one or more acceleration sensors can be provided in the suction handpiece. This allows for the complete detection of movement and / or the orientation / position in the room, possibly after prior calibration.

[0048] Additionally or alternatively, so-called intermediary sensors can be provided. These can be integrated or attached, for example, to a treatment chair, the floor, lamps, or walls. In this way, the position and / or orientation of a suction handpiece can be determined. For example, the distance between a lamp and a handpiece can be determined as an intermediary sensor. In this way, disruption to signal transmission caused by people moving around the room can be avoided or reduced, while also ensuring continuous detection.

[0049] The extraction system may further comprise a transmitting device. The transmitting device may be configured to transmit the information detected by the position detection device to the detection device.

[0050] The above-mentioned signal evaluation(s) can be performed, for example, by a control device, within milliseconds depending on the requirements. The control device can output a signal in perceivable real time to the user via the signaling device. In this way, the signal output of the measured value, which correlates, for example, with the fluid volume, the fluid flow rate, and / or the change in the suction flow, can better guide an operator to optimize the suction effect by adjusting the position of the suction handpiece or the attached suction nozzle or cannula.

[0051] In one embodiment of the extraction system, the signaling device and the detection device can be connected to each other in data communication. Alternatively or additionally, the signaling device and / or the detection device can be connected to a control device. The detection device can thus, for example, communicate the measured value to the signaling device or to the control device, which in turn can communicate with the signaling device. Furthermore, the control device can also be connected to the suction unit in data communication, for example, and increase or decrease the suction power if necessary.

[0052] The signaling device, the detection device and / or a control device of the extraction system can be configured to compare a current measured value with a target value and / or with a measured value determined shortly before and to output the result of the comparison as a corresponding signal by means of the signaling device.

[0053] In other words, for example, if the suction flow rate falls below a minimum, a corresponding signal can be generated. It can also indicate whether the suction efficiency is improving or deteriorating.

[0054] According to a fourth aspect, a method for controlling a system for detecting a suction flow and / or a suction efficiency on a suction handpiece of a suction system can be provided. The suction system can have at least one suction handpiece, at least one working line, and a suction unit, wherein the suction unit and suction handpiece can be connected to one another via the working line such that a negative pressure generated by the suction unit can be applied at least partially to the suction handpiece. The system can have a detection device between the suction handpiece and the suction unit, comprising a sensor for determining a fluid quantity, a flow rate of the fluid quantity, and / or a change in a flow rate of the fluid quantity and for generating a corresponding measured value, as well as a signaling device by means of which a signal corresponding to the measured value can be output to the operator during a suction process.The method may include detecting the measured value. And the method may include outputting a signal corresponding to the measured value.

[0055] According to a fifth aspect, a method for controlling a system for detecting a suction flow and / or a suction efficiency on a suction handpiece of a suction system can be provided. The suction system can have at least one suction handpiece, at least one working line, and a suction unit. The suction unit and the suction handpiece can be connected to one another via the working line such that a negative pressure generated by the suction unit can be applied at least partially to the suction handpiece. The system can have, between the suction handpiece and the suction unit, a detection device with a sensor for determining a fluid quantity, a flow rate of the fluid quantity, and / or a change in a flow rate of the fluid quantity and for generating a corresponding measured value, as well as a flow rate control device by means of which a suction flow for or on the suction handpiece can be adjusted according to the measured value.The method may include comparing the measured value with a setpoint. The method may further include adjusting the flow rate according to the setpoint.

[0056] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention in the dental field are explained in more detail with reference to the drawings, without being limited to this field. In these drawings: Fig. 1-5 show various embodiments of systems in partly perspective and partly schematic views.

[0057] Specific details are set forth below, but are not limited thereto, in order to provide a complete understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be used in other embodiments that may differ from the details set forth below. For example, specific configurations and embodiments of a signaling device, a suction handpiece, and / or a detection device and / or a suction system are described below, which are not to be considered limiting and may occur, for example, in surgical suction or in industrial or domestic (dust) suction systems.

[0058] It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the explanations set out below can be or may be implemented using hardware circuits, software means, or a combination thereof. The software means may be associated with programmed microprocessors or a general computer, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and / or DSPs (Digital Signal Processors). It is further understood that even though the following details are described with reference to a method, these details may also be implemented in a suitable device unit, a computer processor, or a memory connected to a processor, the memory being provided with one or more programs that perform the method when executed by the processor.

[0059] Fig. Figure 1 illustrates, in a partially perspective and partially schematic view, a system 10 for detecting a suction flow and / or a suction efficiency at a suction handpiece 12 of a dental suction system 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the suction system 14 is designed, purely by way of example and without limitation, for two suction stations, as an example of multiple suction stations, two of which are occupied. A first suction station 16 is shown in detail, while a second suction station 18 is only indicated.

[0060] The suction system 14 has a suction unit 20. The suction unit 20 can be a wet or dry suction system—wet suction is assumed here. The present invention can also be implemented with a dry suction system.

[0061] The suction unit 20 generates a negative pressure, for example 180 mbar, which is applied to an intake port 22 of the suction unit 20. A working line 24 passes the negative pressure on and makes it available to the treatment or suction stations 16, 18. This is shown schematically in the embodiment of the Fig. 1 is realized by means of a distribution station 26. The distribution station 26 divides the negative pressure supplied via the working line 24 into several treatment or suction stations.

[0062] A treatment or suction station will now be explained using the first suction station 16 as an example. In the illustrated embodiment, the suction station 16 comprises a treatment unit 27, a saliva aspirator 28, and an aerosol aspirator 30. The following description focuses on the aerosol aspirator 30. This comprises a suction hose 32, which is connected at one end to the suction unit 20 via the distribution station 26. At the other end, the suction handpiece 12 is attached, to which, in the illustrated embodiment, a suction cannula 34 is attached. The suction cannula 34 has a suction opening 36 at its end facing away from the suction hose 32, through which the ambient air and thus also any fluid contained therein can be suctioned away.

[0063] In the Fig. 1, a detection device 40 is inserted between the suction hose 32 and the distribution station 26. The detection device 40 has at least one sensor 42 which is designed to determine the volume or mass flow through the detection device 40 - i.e. from the suction hose 32 to the distribution station 26. Depending on the specific design of the extraction location, various sensor technologies can be used. One example here is differential pressure measurement. In this case, a differential pressure is typically generated using a measuring orifice plate, which changes depending on the volume or mass flow. The pressure difference between the pressure before and after the measuring orifice plate can be determined, for example, using a MEMS low-pressure sensor. For physical reasons, such pressure sensors have an offset drift - i.e. the absolutely measured pressure value can fluctuate over time and possibly also depending on the position.If there are conditions in the extraction system in which the pressure applied to the sensor is known or at least approximately known, this offset can be determined in this state and corrected using software, possibly controlled by artificial intelligence (AI). The software's AI can perform a target-actual comparison and, through iteratively acquired empirical values ​​based on the offset state, make appropriate adjustments over time. This determines the value under constant monitoring and adjusts it based on the empirical values.

[0064] As an alternative to the aforementioned differential pressure measurement, the volume or mass flow can also be determined using volumetric measuring devices such as vane meters, variable area meters, or turbine flow meters. Another technology for measuring the mass flow through the detection device 40 is a Karman vortex air mass meter. This determines the temperature, pressure, and flow velocity of the air / gas and calculates the mass flow from this. This air mass meter determines the flow velocity using ultrasonic Doppler anemometry perpendicular to the air flow swirled for this purpose.

[0065] Regardless of the exact system selection, it is conceivable or advantageous to place the detection device 40 for determining the volume flow in the treatment unit 27, for example the suction handpiece 12, in front of an air-water separator.

[0066] In addition to the sensor 42, the detection device 40 has a radio communication device 44. This can transmit the measured value generated by the sensor 42 and possibly converted by the detection device 40 via radio.

[0067] The suction handpiece 12 has a signaling device 50 that can output a signal corresponding to the measured value to an operator during a suction process. For this purpose, the signaling device 50 can establish a data connection with the detection device 40. Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the signaling device 50 has a radio communication device 52. This is designed to communicate with the additional radio communication device 44 of the detection device.

[0068] Both radio communication devices 44, 52 can establish a data connection. The data connection can be a unidirectional data connection, in which the radio communication device 44 of the detection device 40 sends the measured value to the radio communication device 52 of the signaling device 50. A return channel can also be provided, creating a bidirectional data connection. The return channel can be used, for example, to control the detection and transmission of the measured value by the detection device 40.

[0069] The signaling device 50 is in the Fig. 1 is designed to output an optical signal and accordingly has an optical signal display 54 to provide visual feedback to an operator. The signal display 54 can be designed, for example, in the form of one or more LEDs 56, which can provide a clear indication to an operator to correct a cannula or nozzle position by changing color or displaying a level. The LEDs 56 are preferred for an optical display because they are small and therefore easy to integrate, ensure good readability even under different lighting conditions, have low power consumption, and are easy to disinfect. It goes without saying that instead of multiple LEDs, one LED can also be provided in conjunction with a light-guiding element.Here, the light-guiding element is designed, for example, by suitable structural integration or structural application, to ensure homogeneous illumination. In the above example, the signal display 54 can be viewed as part of or as an output device.

[0070] In addition to attaching the signaling device 50 to the suction handpiece, the signaling device can alternatively or additionally be mounted as a display, for example, on the treatment unit 27 within the operator's field of vision. The display can, for example, show the measured value as a number.

[0071] Alternatively or in addition to a visual signal indicator, an acoustic feedback signal can be provided for the operator. Depending on the work environment and the type of treatment, this can be advantageous.

[0072] Another alternative or conceivable addition is tactile feedback. For this purpose, a tactile feedback signal is provided in a decoupled area of ​​the suction handpiece 12, for example, by at least one surface-integrated servomotor (not shown). This signal extends over a larger area of ​​the suction handpiece 12 to allow users with small or large hands to receive the signal.

[0073] A rechargeable battery (not shown) is provided for operating the signaling device 50. This can be charged by means of a direct or indirect, such as inductive, charging device 60. The charging device 60 comprises a feed coil 62 and a receiving coil 64. The receiving coil 64 is Fig. 1 in a partial elevation view located within the housing. The feed coil 62 can - as in the embodiment of Fig. 1 - be mounted at the location of a treatment unit where the suction handpiece 12 is stored when not in use. Correspondingly, the receiving coil 64 in the suction handpiece 12 is arranged in the handle area so that it comes into optimal contact with the supply coil 62, thus enabling charging of the battery. Since the workstation must be prepared and disinfected after each patient treatment, sufficient charging time remains until the next treatment. In an alternative embodiment, the inductive charging device 60 is replaced by contact surfaces (not shown) in order to establish contact-induced charging between the suction cannula 37 and the treatment unit 27.

[0074] A sensor 66 is provided in the treatment unit 27 as an example of a position detection device. The sensor 66 can determine the position of the suction handpiece 12 in space.

[0075] At the Fig. In the embodiment of the suction handpiece 12 shown in Figure 1, the signaling device 50 and the charging unit 60 are integrated into the suction handpiece 12, and the suction handpiece can be subsequently replaced with existing suction handpieces. This enables the integration of the system 10 into existing systems.

[0076] During operation, the components of System 10 interact as follows: The charging process is completed when the suction handpiece 12 is removed from the charging station in the treatment unit 27. The signaling device 50 establishes a data connection to the radio combination device 44 of the detection device 40 via its radio communication device 52, provided this radio connection is not permanent. As soon as a volume or If mass flow flows through the suction hose 32 toward the suction unit 20, this is detected by at least one sensor 42. The detection device 40 sends the measured value of the sensor 42 to the signaling device 50 via the radio communication device 44. The radio communication device 52 of the signaling device 50 receives the radio signal and displays it on the signal display 54.

[0077] An operator can now correct the position of the suction cannula 34 or the suction opening 36 in such a way that the volume or mass flow is improved and this is then again visible on the signal display 54.

[0078] The following describes embodiments in which individual features are compared to Fig. 1. Reference numerals are used for identical or comparable features, each of which has been increased by 100 compared to the previously described figure. These features will not be described again unless necessary to avoid unnecessary repetition.

[0079] Fig. 2 illustrates in a similar representation as Fig. 1 a system 100. In contrast to the Fig. In the system 10 shown in Figure 1, the suction handpiece 112 is unchanged from the suction handpieces already available on the market. To implement the system 100, the signaling device 150 is housed in an intermediate piece 170. This intermediate piece 170 can be inserted between the suction handpiece 112 and the suction hose 132 and comprises both a signal display 154 and a corresponding radio communication device 152. Not shown, but also possible, is the accommodation of the inductive receiving charging coil 164 in order to enable inductive charging via the supply coil 162, as shown in Figure 1. Fig. 1. In the above example, the signal display 154 can be viewed as part of or as an output device.

[0080] This makes it possible to ensure that the extraction power or the extraction efficiency is displayed within the operator's field of vision without having to fundamentally modify the existing extraction station 116.

[0081] Fig. 3 illustrates in a similar representation as the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 a system 200 for detecting an extraction flow and / or an extraction efficiency. The system 200 of the Fig. 3 differs from that of the Fig. 1 in particular with regard to the signal device 250. Instead of the signal display 54 of the Fig. 1, the suction handpiece 212 is equipped with a coupling point 280. The coupling point 280 establishes a mechanical connection to the suction nozzle or suction cannula 234. On the other hand, it is possible to couple light into the suction cannula 234 via the coupling point 280. The suction cannula 234 is accordingly designed to be light-conducting or translucent. Consequently, the suction cannula 234 illuminates its entire body - as shown in Fig. 3 - or emits light at locations where the light can escape. This can be, for example, the tip or ring-shaped structures along the suction nozzle 234. The remaining functions, such as radio communication with the detection device 240 or inductive charging, are as already described in Fig. 1 and are therefore not explained again. In the above example, the body of the suction cannula 234 can be considered part of or as a dispensing device.

[0082] The design of the Fig. 3 represents a particularly convenient signaling device, since the signal indicating the extraction flow and / or the extraction efficiency is particularly noticeable in the operator’s area.

[0083] Fig. Figure 4 shows, in a representation similar to the previous figures, another alternative embodiment of a system 300 for detecting an extraction flow and / or an extraction efficiency. In the embodiment of Fig. 4, two changes have been made: The detection device 340 has been moved closer to the suction handpiece 312 and integrated into it. This has the advantage that no radio communication is required between the suction handpiece 312 and the detection device 340. Instead, the measured value generated by the sensor of the detection device 340 is directly available to the signaling device 350 of the suction handpiece 312. Furthermore, the signaling device 350, in contrast to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is designed to be flat such that the entire handle of the suction handpiece 312 serves as a signal indicator 354. In the above example, the signal indicator 354 can be viewed as part of or as an output device.

[0084] Fig. 5 illustrates in a similar representation to that of the Fig. 1-4 illustrate a system 400 for detecting an extraction flow and / or an extraction efficiency. Unlike the preceding embodiments, the system 400 does not have a display for showing the extraction flow and / or the extraction efficiency. Instead, the measured value measured by the detection device 440 is transmitted to a central control device 490 via the radio communication device 444. The radio transmission path represents an exemplary embodiment. The transmission could, of course, also be wired. In this context, the forwarding or transmission to the control device 490 can be viewed as an output device. For example, the radio communication device 444 can be viewed as part of or as an output device.

[0085] The control device 490 is connected to the suction unit 420 and the distribution station 426 and can regulate the amount of negative pressure applied to the suction hose 432 according to the measured value provided by the detection device 490. For example, it could increase or decrease the total negative pressure generated by the suction unit 420. Preferably, the detection device 490 can control a corresponding valve at the distribution station 426 and thus regulate the amount of negative pressure entering the suction hose 432.

Claims

[1] Signaling device for an extraction system, comprising: a receiving unit configured to receive information about a suction flow of a fluid sucked in the suction system from a detection device, and an output device configured to output visualization information based on the obtained information about the suction flow. [2] Signaling device according to claim 1, wherein the visualization information comprises: Information about the size of the extraction flow, and / or Information about a change in the suction flow, and / or Information about the suction effectiveness of the suction system, and / or Information about the utilization of the extraction system and / or Information about the liquid and / or gas content in the extracted fluid. [3] Signaling device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the output device is designed to output the visualization information as an optical, acoustic and / or haptic signal. [4] Signal device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the output device is designed to output the visualization information via an intensity and / or frequency change. [5] Suction handpiece for a suction system, wherein the suction handpiece has a signaling device and the signaling device has: a receiving unit configured to receive information about a suction flow of a fluid sucked in the suction system from a detection device, and an output device configured to output visualization information based on the obtained information about the suction flow. [6] Suction handpiece according to claim 5, wherein the signaling device is integrated into the suction handpiece. [7] Suction handpiece according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the suction handpiece is designed to be replaceable. [8] Extraction system comprising: a detection device and a signaling device, wherein the detection device is designed to detect information about a suction flow of a fluid sucked in the suction system; and wherein the signaling device comprises: a receiving unit configured to receive from the detection device the information about the suction flow of the fluid sucked in the suction system, and an output device configured to output visualization information based on the obtained information about the suction flow. [9] The extraction system of claim 8, wherein the information about the extraction flow comprises: Information about the size of the extraction flow, and / or Information about a change in the suction flow, and / or Information about the suction effectiveness of the suction system, and / or Information about the utilization of the extraction system, and / or Information about a liquid content in the aspirated fluid. [10] Suction system according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising a suction handpiece, wherein the signaling device is integrated into the suction handpiece or is designed as an intermediate piece which can be attached between the suction handpiece and a working line of the suction system and / or the detection device is integrated into the suction handpiece, integrated into a suction hose which forms part of a working line of the suction system, or is designed as an intermediate piece and can be arranged or is arranged between the suction handpiece and the working line or between the working line and the suction unit. [11] Suction system according to claim 10, wherein the suction system further comprises a position detection device, wherein the position detection device is designed to detect information about a location and / or information about a position of the suction handpiece in space. [12] Suction system according to claim 11, wherein the suction handpiece can be coupled to a suction nozzle or suction cannula and the position detection device is designed to detect information about a location and / or information about a position of the suction nozzle or suction cannula in space. [13] Extraction system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the extraction system further comprises a transmitting device configured to transmit the information detected by the position detecting device to the detecting device. [14] Suction system according to one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the signaling device, the detection device and / or a control device of the suction system is / are configured to compare a current measured value with a target value and / or with a measured value determined shortly before and to output the result of the comparison as a corresponding signal by means of the signaling device.

Images