Control of an operating mode for a patient positioning system

Abstract

A system for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system, comprising: a patient positioning device; a motion and / or touch sensor arrangement (102); a sensor arrangement having at least one sensor (126) that outputs sensor values; and an evaluation unit (128); wherein the system is operable in different operating modes, comprising at least a standby mode and active modes, the active modes comprising at least a normal operating mode and an incognito mode; and wherein, when the motion and / or touch sensor arrangement (102) detects movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device in standby mode, the evaluation unit (128) checks whether the sensor values ​​have a significant change, and the system switches to an active mode if the check reveals that there is a significant change in the sensor values.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to medical and surgical tables and patient transport systems. In particular, it relates to systems and methods for controlling an operating mode for such patient positioning systems, which allow the tasks placed on the tables or transport systems to be fulfilled while simultaneously keeping the energy consumption of the tables or transport systems as low as possible. Background of the Revelation

[0002] Operating tables are used to position a patient, for example, during a surgical procedure. Modern operating table systems only activate their electrical control units when there is user interaction via a user interface. Such an interface could be, for example, a remote control, an override control panel, or a foot switch. This keeps the system's energy consumption low during periods when the operating table is not in use. Only after an explicit power-on routine can the system read, analyze, and provide relevant system data. This data can include information from load sensors, the operating table's safety status, patient orientation, attached accessories, or the operating table's location within a hospital.

[0003] The aforementioned data can change, however, particularly in cases where the system is not explicitly controlled by the user. For example, a patient may be placed on the operating table, or accessories may be attached to the operating table, during periods when the operating table's operating system is in standby mode. In such cases, it is crucial that the system is aware of the current clinical scenario. Otherwise, safety risks, in particular, may arise without being detected. For instance, if a change in load creates a risk of the operating table tipping over, the system, lacking information, cannot take measures to mitigate the risk and / or inform the user.

[0004] Document US11033233B2 describes a patient positioning device with patient information sensors. These sensors measure the patient's weight. Additionally, force sensors continuously monitor the device to detect whether an object has been placed on it. However, further monitoring requires that a patient has already been positioned. Furthermore, the device requires a frame and is therefore only suitable for hospital beds.

[0005] Document US9875633B2 describes how to trigger an alarm when the center of gravity changes significantly across the width of the patient. However, monitoring is not continuous and requires user activation. Furthermore, this solution is only applicable to a patient positioning device with a deck-like design.

[0006] Document EP3879791A1 describes a use case for networking hospitals to exchange accessory data. However, the data exchange does not occur continuously, but only when the operating tables are activated.

[0007] Document WO2023194540A1 describes operating tables and patient transporters that can be operated in exactly two modes: a power-saving standby mode and a normal operating mode. In normal operating mode, the load determined by a load sensing unit is stored before switching to standby mode. Immediately after returning from standby mode to normal operating mode, the load sensing unit determines the load again. The loads determined before and after operation in standby mode are compared. This comparison allows the system to determine whether an object or accessory was placed on, attached to, moved on, or removed from the patient positioning device while the operating table or patient transporter was operating in standby mode.

[0008] Furthermore, a touch and / or motion sensor arrangement is provided. If touch and / or movement of the patient positioning device, operating table, or patient transporter is detected during standby mode, the touch and / or motion sensor arrangement can cause the patient positioning device, operating table, or patient transporter to return to normal operating mode.

[0009] However, document WO2023194540A1 does not provide for an incognito mode as an additional active operating mode alongside normal operating mode. According to document WO2023194540A1, the system switches directly to normal operating mode when the motion and / or touch sensor array detects movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device while in standby mode. Furthermore, the system checks for changes in sensor values ​​during normal operating mode. This additional time spent in normal operating mode consumes additional energy. Summary of Revelation

[0010] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a system and a method for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system, wherein the system or the method can be operated in the most energy-efficient way possible and are designed to be able to detect a significant change concerning the patient positioning device not only in an active mode, but also in another operating mode, in particular in an energy-saving operating mode.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a system for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system is provided. The system may include a patient positioning device that can be used as part of the patient positioning system and for positioning a patient. The patient positioning system may be an operating table or a patient transport system.

[0012] The system may further include a motion and / or touch sensor array capable of detecting movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device, and in particular of the entire patient positioning system or parts thereof. Touch detection, for example by a person, can be achieved using a capacitive sensor. Motion detection can be achieved, for example, using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) or one or more accelerometers.

[0013] Furthermore, a sensor arrangement with at least one sensor that outputs sensor values ​​can be provided. These sensor values ​​allow for the detection of changes in the patient positioning device. The at least one sensor can be at least one of the following: a load sensor, a velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a localization sensor, an accessory identification sensor for identifying accessories, and / or a motion and / or touch sensor arrangement for detecting movement and / or contact with the patient positioning device. One or more sensors from this group can be selected, and in the case of multiple sensors, the sensors can be of the same or different types. In one embodiment, a load acting on the patient positioning device or on the load sensor(s) can be determined using one or more load sensors.In one embodiment, a velocity or acceleration sensor can measure the velocity or acceleration of the patient positioning device or a part thereof. In another embodiment, a position sensor can determine the position of the patient positioning device or a part thereof. For example, a position sensor can be configured to determine the position of the patient positioning device or parts thereof, such as the angle at which the patient positioning device is tilted or angled. In another embodiment, a position sensor can also determine the position of a joint. Furthermore, in another embodiment, a position sensor can detect whether a headplate is attached to the head or foot end of the patient positioning device.In one embodiment, a localization sensor can determine the location of the patient positioning system or device, or a part thereof. In another embodiment, an accessory identification sensor can identify accessories attached to the patient positioning device or system. The patient positioning system can be expanded with accessories to ensure optimal patient positioning and reliable surgical procedures. Accessories can be detachably attached to the patient positioning system for various purposes. For example, they can be used to support specific body parts, such as the head, a leg, or an arm. Accessories can also have other functions; for example, they can be instrument tables or IV poles attached to the side rails of an operating table.By using various interchangeable accessories, a single patient positioning system can be reconfigured in different ways for different patients and medical procedures.

[0014] If the sensor includes a motion and / or touch sensor array, this motion and / or touch sensor array can be identical to the motion and / or touch sensor array included in the system as described above, which can detect movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device. Alternatively, the motion and / or touch sensor array of the sensor array can also differ from the motion and / or touch sensor array included in the system as described above.

[0015] The sensor array, comprising at least one sensor, can be positioned at various locations within the patient positioning system or device. For example, depending on the sensor type, the sensors can be integrated into the patient positioning device at suitable points, such as a main support surface section and / or one or more secondary support surface sections. In the case of an operating table, the sensor array can also be integrated into the operating table column.

[0016] If load sensors are used, the sensor array can be arranged at or adjacent to interfaces formed by the column and the patient support device or the base. For example, the sensor array can be positioned between the patient support device and the column. In this case, one side of the sensor array can be connected to a part of the patient support device, and the other side can be connected to a part of the column.

[0017] An evaluation unit can receive the sensor values ​​output by at least one sensor and use these values ​​to determine whether a significant change has occurred. To do this, the evaluation unit can use one or more change thresholds and determine whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change above the threshold(s). Furthermore, the current sensor values ​​can also be compared with previous sensor values ​​to determine whether the change in the sensor values ​​exceeds one or more change thresholds.

[0018] It is also possible to first calculate other quantities, such as physical quantities, from the sensor readings and then check whether these quantities show a significant change above one or more change thresholds. Furthermore, the currently calculated quantities can be compared with previous readings to determine whether the change exceeds one or more change thresholds. If this is the case, it means that the sensor readings have shown a significant change.

[0019] A significant change may occur, for example, if the load acting on the patient positioning device, as determined by one or more load sensors, has changed significantly, particularly if the load has exceeded a certain change threshold or if the difference between the current load value and a previous load value has exceeded a certain change threshold. Furthermore, attaching an accessory to the patient positioning device can alter its configuration and be considered a significant change. Such a change in configuration can be detected, for example, using a position sensor and / or an accessory identification sensor.A change in the position of at least part of the patient positioning device, detected by a position sensor—for example, a tilt or inclination of the device—can also constitute a significant change. Furthermore, a change in the location of the patient positioning system can be a significant change. A localization sensor can indicate the location of the patient positioning system.

[0020] The system can operate in various modes. These modes can include at least a standby mode and active modes, with the active modes further comprising at least a normal operating mode and an incognito mode. In standby mode, the core functions of the patient positioning system can be temporarily deactivated, but they can be reactivated at any time without significant waiting. In normal operating mode, all, nearly all, or many of the patient positioning system's functions can be activated, and the system can be operated with all functions enabled. The incognito mode is an operating mode with reduced power consumption compared to normal operating mode.For example, not all functions of normal operating mode may be activated in incognito mode. Furthermore, it may be possible, for example, to store, especially temporarily store, and / or transmit information or data in incognito mode. For instance, the system is preferably not configured for the physical movement of the patient positioning device or its components in incognito mode.

[0021] The system can consume different amounts of electricity depending on its operating mode. Standby mode consumes the least electricity, normal operating mode consumes the most, and incognito mode consumes a medium amount.

[0022] The motion and / or touch sensor array can be designed to detect even the smallest mechanical shocks and / or brief touches of the patient positioning device. In response to the detection of movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device while in standby mode, the system can perform further checks. In particular, the evaluation unit can check whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change. Depending on the result of this check, the system may or may not switch to a different operating mode. If a significant change in the sensor values ​​is detected, the system can switch to an active mode. For example, the system may then switch to normal operating mode or incognito mode. The specific operating mode to which the system switches may depend on further checks.

[0023] The system can therefore continuously detect even the slightest changes, such as minor mechanical shocks followed by a significant change in the system's load, whenever it is operational, i.e., whenever the supply voltage is present via batteries. This solution can be implemented, for example, using a low-power accelerometer, a microcontroller with a low-power hibernation mode, and a measurement array of load sensors or other sensors.

[0024] Since the evaluation unit's check to see if the sensor values ​​show a significant change is not performed in an active mode, the solution described here is superior to an alternative solution that performs such a check in normal operating mode.

[0025] The system can be used in a wide variety of applications. The individual applications may differ, particularly in the investigations conducted in the various operating modes. Such investigations are described in more detail below. Furthermore, the sensor array can be equipped with specific sensors depending on the application.

[0026] The system can be used, for example, in hospitals for patient tracking. Specifically, the sensor array can be equipped with one or more localization sensors to track the location of the patient positioning system and the patient on it. To improve hospital workflow systems and facilitate data acquisition with cloud solutions, any significant change, such as a patient transfer, should be reported to the connected systems.

[0027] Another use case is the detection of safety-critical events, such as an overload condition of a mechanical component or a tipping risk of the patient positioning system. Safety-critical events must be detected quickly and displayed to the user at all times. The user can then be instructed to take countermeasures, such as reducing the load on the table or changing its position. As explained in detail below, the current tipping risk or overload risk can be checked to detect a safety-critical condition of the patient positioning system.

[0028] Furthermore, the patient's expected position changes depending on the placement of a headrest, and the user is informed accordingly. This sharpens the user's awareness and reduces the likelihood of confusion regarding the intended joint movements.

[0029] The addition of accessories to the patient positioning system can be detected, and automatic guidance functions can be offered to the user. For example, the user can be asked via a message on the user interface whether they require instructions for assembling the accessory.

[0030] Changing the configuration of the patient positioning system, particularly by attaching or removing accessories, can provide crucial information for partner systems such as imaging devices.

[0031] To enable control via SDC (service-oriented device connectivity) applications, any change in the location of the patient positioning system, especially a move to a different room, must be detected. Monitoring of further signals indicating a change in location can then be triggered.

[0032] In one embodiment, the patient positioning device can be a surgical patient positioning device on which a patient is positioned during a surgical procedure. Furthermore, the patient positioning device can serve to attach accessories. The patient positioning device can be modular and have a main support surface section that can be extended by connecting various support surface sections. The main support surface section and the support surface sections can have mechanical connecting elements with which the main and support surface sections can be detachably connected. Support surface sections can be, for example, leg, foot, or head sections. Furthermore, support surface sections can also be extension or intermediate sections that are inserted, for example, between the main support surface section and the head section.Sliding or side rails can be attached to the sides of the main and secondary storage areas. Accessories can be detachably attached to the sliding or side rails.

[0033] In one embodiment, the system may be configured so that in standby mode it does not move the patient positioning device and does not transmit any data from the sensor array beyond the system, and in particular, does not transmit any data to a cloud network. Furthermore, in standby mode, the system can monitor signals from the sensor array but does not determine whether user attention is required or whether a safety risk exists. In standby mode, the evaluation unit may not be activated to evaluate the signals from the sensor array.

[0034] In one embodiment, the system can be configured in normal operating mode to move the patient positioning device, the system can provide feedback recognizable by a human user, and in particular, the system can transmit data from the sensor array to a cloud network.

[0035] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can be integrated into one of the controller units. Alternatively, the evaluation unit can be located outside the controller units.

[0036] In one embodiment, the system can include a signal generation unit configured to generate a periodic signal, particularly in standby mode. After the motion and / or touch sensor array detects movement and / or contact with the patient positioning device in standby mode, the periodic signal can prompt the evaluation unit to check the sensor readings. For example, the evaluation unit can determine during the periodically occurring intervals whether the current sensor readings show a significant change. Furthermore, additional investigations can be performed during these intervals. Depending on the results of these investigations, the system can switch to active mode or another mode. The periodic signal can be generated every second, for example, but shorter or longer intervals are also possible.Furthermore, a specific maximum time period can be defined within which the periodic signal triggers a check by the evaluation unit. If no switch to active mode or another mode occurs within this time period, the system can return to standby mode after the specified time has elapsed. The maximum time period could be, for example, one minute, but shorter or longer periods are also possible.

[0037] In one embodiment, the system can, in incognito mode, store, in particular temporarily store, and / or transmit information, including data from the sensor array and / or information about a configuration of the patient positioning device, to at least one of the following elements: a connected device, an IoT (Internet of Things) platform, and a cloud network for storage and future access.

[0038] In one embodiment, the system may not store the aforementioned information in standby mode and / or in an attention mode described below, if such an operating mode is provided, and / or may not transmit it to at least one of the aforementioned elements.

[0039] In one configuration, the system may not be configured to move the patient positioning device while in incognito mode. The system may only be configured to move the patient positioning device while in normal operating mode.

[0040] In one implementation, the incognito mode can be configured such that the system provides the user with fewer feedback signals than in normal operating mode; that is, feedback to the user is reduced compared to normal operating mode, or all feedback to the user is suppressed. Feedback signals can include, for example, information displayed to the user on a user interface screen, but they can also include visual or audible warning signals.

[0041] In one implementation, the incognito mode can be designed in such a way that it is not apparent to the user that the system has switched from standby mode to incognito mode. For example, the user interface in incognito mode can display the same information to the user as in standby mode. At the same time, however, additional functions and / or investigations can be performed in incognito mode that are not possible in standby mode.

[0042] In one embodiment, the system can operate in a further mode, a so-called awareness mode, in addition to the standby mode and the active modes, in particular the incognito mode and the normal operating mode. The awareness mode, which can also be referred to as alert mode, can be an operating mode used to monitor certain properties of the patient positioning device and the patient positioning system. It is possible to switch from the awareness mode to at least the standby mode or one of the active modes, in particular the incognito mode and the normal operating mode. In the awareness mode, the operating table is generally not configured to physically move the components, nor is it configured to display information to the user, which in both cases reduces power consumption.

[0043] In standby mode, the system can switch to alert mode, at least temporarily, if the motion and / or touch sensor array detects movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device. In alert mode, the evaluation unit can check whether the sensor readings have changed significantly. Alternatively, this check can be performed in standby mode. In the latter case, the system can remain in standby mode if movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device is detected.

[0044] If no significant change in sensor values ​​is detected in attention mode, the system can, in one configuration, switch back to standby mode.

[0045] In one embodiment, the system in attention mode may not be configured to move the patient positioning device, and the evaluation unit may be active for evaluating signals from the sensor arrangement.

[0046] In one embodiment, the system can have multiple controller units, in particular controller cores. The controller units can be configured to control the system in different operating modes. In active modes, more controller units can be active than in standby or alert mode. In alert mode, in turn, more controller units can be active than in standby mode. In normal operating mode, more controller units can be activated compared to incognito mode. For example, a microcontroller with a so-called hibernate core can be used, whereby in standby mode only one controller unit, the hibernate core, is active, and in alert mode the main core of the microcontroller is also activated. In active modes, further controller units are activated.The reduced number of active controller units in standby and alert modes results in overall energy savings.

[0047] In one embodiment, the system can switch to either normal operating mode or incognito mode if the evaluation unit in attention mode detects that the sensor values ​​show a significant change.

[0048] In one embodiment, the system can switch to incognito mode if the evaluation unit in attention mode detects that there is a significant change in the sensor values, but there is no safety risk to the patient positioning system, the user and / or the patient, and / or the user's attention is not required.

[0049] In one configuration, the safety risk to the patient positioning system, the user, and / or the patient can be determined by a risk assessment unit. Additionally or alternatively, the risk assessment unit can determine whether the user's attention is required.

[0050] In one embodiment, the system can switch to standby mode when the evaluation unit in attention mode determines that there is no significant change in the sensor values ​​and that there is no safety risk to the patient positioning system, the user or the patient and / or the user's attention is not required.

[0051] In one embodiment, the system can switch from attention mode to normal operating mode when the evaluation unit detects that there is a significant change in the sensor values, and also that there is a safety risk to the patient positioning system, the user or the patient and / or the user's attention is required.

[0052] If the significant change in sensor values ​​was caused by attaching an accessory to the patient positioning system, removing an accessory from the patient positioning system, or positioning a patient on the patient positioning device, then in one embodiment the new configuration of the patient positioning system or the positioning of the patient on the patient positioning device can be stored in a data memory.

[0053] If the data storage does not have sufficient storage capacity, a data transfer component can be activated to store the current data about the new configuration of the patient positioning system or the patient's positioning on the patient positioning device, or data from the data storage, in an external data storage device.

[0054] In one embodiment, the system may include a risk assessment unit designed to check whether there is a risk of the patient positioning system tipping over and / or an overload risk of the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system. Additionally or alternatively, the risk assessment unit may determine whether user attention is required. The system aims to prevent the patient positioning system from tipping over or from being overloaded, for example, by bending or even breaking due to excessive load. This also prevents any risk to the patient.

[0055] In one configuration, the risk assessment unit, particularly in alert mode, can check whether there is a risk of the patient positioning system tipping over and / or an overload risk of the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system. Depending on the result of this check, the system can switch to normal operating mode or another mode, such as incognito mode.

[0056] In one embodiment, the system can switch from alert mode to normal operating mode if the evaluation unit, particularly in alert mode, detects a significant change in sensor values, and the risk assessment unit determines that there is a risk of the patient positioning system tipping over and / or overloading the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system. Additionally or alternatively, the risk assessment unit, particularly in alert mode, can determine whether user attention is required. If so, the system can switch from alert mode to normal operating mode. In normal operating mode, the user can be informed of the safety risk, and measures can be taken, if necessary, to minimize or eliminate the safety risk.

[0057] In one embodiment, the system can switch from attention mode to incognito mode if the evaluation unit, particularly in attention mode, detects a significant change in sensor values, and the risk assessment unit determines that there is no risk of the patient positioning system tipping over and / or overloading the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system. Additionally or alternatively, the risk assessment unit, particularly in attention mode, can determine whether user attention is required. If not, the system can switch from attention mode to incognito mode. In this case, user attention is not required, but data can be collected in incognito mode and stored in the system's internal data storage or an external data storage device.

[0058] In one implementation, the collected data can, for example, be buffered and forwarded to a hospital network in incognito mode.

[0059] In one embodiment, the system may include a position detection unit configured to detect the position and / or orientation of the patient positioning device, at least in incognito mode and / or normal operating mode. The detected position and / or orientation can be transmitted to a device connected to the system, an IoT platform, and / or a cloud network. A device connected to the system could be, for example, another medical device, such as an imaging device, or a control unit.

[0060] In one embodiment, the system may include an object detection unit configured to detect, at least in incognito mode and / or normal operating mode, an object or accessory placed on, attached to, moved on, or removed from the patient positioning device. The object can be any object, including a person, such as a patient placed on the patient positioning device. Detection can be achieved, for example, by determining the load and / or the center of gravity of the patient positioning device before and after the event. The difference in loads and / or centers of gravity before and after the event indicates that an object and / or accessory has been attached to, moved on, or removed from the patient positioning device.If the system has further information about possible accessories, it can also determine which specific accessory is being detected. Information about the detected object or accessory can be transmitted to a device connected to the system, an IoT platform, and / or a cloud network.

[0061] If the risk assessment unit determines that a safety risk exists, in particular a risk of the patient positioning system tipping over and / or an overload risk of the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system, an audible and / or visual warning may be generated for the user and / or measures may be taken to prevent the patient positioning system from tipping over or being overloaded. In normal operating mode, a safety unit may, if necessary, generate an audible and / or visual warning signal and / or a textual warning signal and / or slow down or stop the movement of the patient positioning system and / or block at least one function of the patient positioning system.

[0062] In one configuration, the system may include a patient orientation detection unit and / or a user guidance unit, both of which can be activated in normal operating mode. The patient orientation detection unit can be configured to detect the orientation of a patient positioned on the patient positioning device in normal operating mode. For example, it can detect at which end of the patient positioning device the headrest is attached. From this, the patient's orientation can be inferred. The user guidance unit can clarify the properties and / or functionalities of the patient positioning system for the user and assist the user in making decisions by providing information.

[0063] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can be configured to compare current sensor values ​​with stored sensor values ​​to determine whether the current sensor values ​​have changed significantly. The stored sensor values ​​can be previous sensor values ​​recorded by the at least one sensor. In particular, the stored sensor values ​​can be the most recently recorded sensor values. Or the stored sensor values ​​can be those sensor values ​​recorded before the patient positioning system was last switched off. The difference between the current and stored sensor values ​​can be compared to a change threshold. If, for example, the difference exceeds the change threshold, it can be concluded that the current sensor values ​​have changed significantly.

[0064] Furthermore, instead of the sensor values ​​themselves, quantities such as physical quantities calculated from the sensor values ​​can be used to check whether the quantities show a significant change above one or more change thresholds. For example, the currently calculated quantities can be compared with previous quantities calculated from earlier, and especially stored, sensor values ​​to determine whether the change in the quantities exceeds one or more change thresholds.

[0065] In one configuration, the system can only be configured in normal operating mode for moving the patient positioning device.

[0066] In one embodiment, the system can transmit information only in incognito mode and in normal operating mode, with the information including data from the sensor array and / or information about the configuration of the patient positioning device. Specifically, the information can be transmitted to at least one of the following: a connected device, an IoT platform, and a cloud network for storage and future access.

[0067] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an operating table comprises a system according to the first aspect as well as an operating table column and a base.

[0068] In one embodiment, the patient positioning device can be permanently attached to the operating table column. The operating table itself can be movable. The base of the operating table can have wheels or casters, allowing the operating table to be moved across the floor. Alternatively, the base can be permanently anchored to the floor.

[0069] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a patient transport system comprises a system according to the first aspect.

[0070] In one embodiment, the patient positioning device can be designed to be detachably connected to both a transporter of the patient transport system and a column of an operating table. The column can be permanently installed in an operating room. Before a surgical procedure, the patient positioning device can be mounted on the transporter. The patient can then be transported to the column. There, the patient positioning device can be attached to the column and detached from the transporter. A significant portion of the preparations for the surgical procedure can be carried out while the patient positioning device is mounted on the transporter. For example, the patient positioning device can be assembled from individual segments and accessories, and the patient can be prepared for the surgical procedure.Only when the preparations are complete can the patient positioning device be attached to the operating table column.

[0071] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a method for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system comprising a patient positioning device is provided. A sensor arrangement can include at least one sensor from the group consisting of: a load sensor, a velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a localization sensor, an accessory identification sensor, and a motion and / or touch sensor arrangement. The at least one sensor outputs sensor values. The patient positioning system can be operated in various operating modes, which include at least a standby mode and active modes. The active modes can include at least a normal operating mode and an incognito mode. In standby mode, it can be checked whether the patient positioning device is moved and / or touched.If this is the case, it can be checked whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change, and the operating mode can switch to an active mode if the check reveals that there is a significant change in the sensor values.

[0072] The operating table according to the second aspect, the patient transport system according to the third aspect, and the method according to the fourth aspect can have all the configurations described in the present disclosure in connection with the system according to the first aspect.

[0073] The configurations described herein can be combined in any way.

[0074] The present disclosure also includes circuits and / or electronic instructions for controlling operating tables and / or patient transport systems, as well as remote controls, displays and user interfaces for use with operating tables and / or patient transport systems. Brief description of the drawings

[0075] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic side view of an operating table with a patient positioned on a patient support surface of the operating table; Fig. 2 a schematic representation of the system architecture of a system according to the disclosure for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system; Fig. 3. An activity diagram illustrating the sequence of steps performed by the system to switch between the different operating modes; Fig. 4A to 4F schematic representations of the time sequences of various use cases; Fig. 5 an activity diagram to illustrate the temporal sequence of the steps performed by an inertial measurement unit and an evaluation unit; and Fig. 6. An overview of the different operating modes of the system and the transitions between the individual operating modes. Detailed character description

[0076] The following description presents exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, but are intended to illustrate the respective features schematically.

[0077] It should be noted that the features and components described below can be combined with one another, regardless of whether they have been described in connection with a single embodiment. The combination of features in the respective embodiments serves only to illustrate the basic structure and function of the claimed system.

[0078] In the figures, identical or similar elements are provided with identical reference symbols, insofar as this is expedient.

[0079] Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a mobile operating table 10, which can be used to position a patient 12 during a surgical procedure and for transporting the patient. The mobile operating table 10 comprises, from bottom to top, a base 14 for placing the operating table 10 on a surface, a vertically arranged operating table column 16 encompassing the base 14, and a patient positioning device 18 attached to one upper end of the operating table column 16. The patient positioning device 18 can be permanently connected to the operating table column 16 or, alternatively, detachably attached to the operating table column 16.

[0080] The patient positioning device 18 is modular in design and serves to position the patient 12. The patient positioning device 18 comprises a main support surface section 20 connected to the operating table column 16, which can be extended as desired by attaching various secondary support surface sections. Fig. 1. A leg section 22, a shoulder section 24 and a head section 26 are coupled to the main bearing area section 20 as secondary bearing area sections.

[0081] The patient positioning device 18 of the operating table 10 can be changed in its position and, depending on the type of surgical procedure to be performed, brought to a suitable height and can be both tilted and inclined.

[0082] The operating table column 16 is height-adjustable and has an internal mechanism for adjusting the height and / or the tilt angle and / or the angle of inclination of the patient positioning device 18 of the operating table 10. The mechanism is arranged in a housing 28, which protects the components from contamination.

[0083] The support leg 14 has two sections 30 and 32 of different lengths. Section 30 is a short section that corresponds to the foot end of the leg section 22, i.e., the end of the patient positioning device 18 on which the feet of the patient 12 to be treated rest. Section 32 is a long section that corresponds to the head section 26 of the patient positioning device 18.

[0084] Furthermore, the base 14 can be equipped with wheels or casters, allowing the operating table 10 to be moved on the floor. Alternatively, the base 14 can be firmly anchored to the floor.

[0085] For better illustration, in Fig. 1. A Cartesian coordinate system XYZ is plotted. The X-axis and the Y-axis are the horizontal axes, the Z-axis is the vertical axis. The X-axis extends along the adjacent bearing surface subsections 22, 24, 26.

[0086] Fig. Figure 2 schematically shows the system architecture of a system 100 according to the disclosure for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system. In the present embodiment, the patient positioning system is designed as an operating table which has a patient positioning device that is in Fig. 2 is not shown and, for example, how the in Fig. 1 patient positioning device shown 18 can be designed.

[0087] System 100 can be part of a larger system that may include several performance areas capable of operating the operating table in at least one different operating mode. These operating modes may include a standby mode, an alert mode, an incognito mode, and a normal operating mode, with the incognito mode and the normal operating mode being among the active modes.

[0088] In Fig. 2. Supply lines, which provide the individual components with electrical voltage, are indicated by dashed lines, while signal lines, which serve to transmit signals, have solid lines.

[0089] A first power section of the system 100 is always activated and serves for control during standby mode. The first power section comprises an inertial measurement unit 102, a power supply 104, a signal generation unit 106, and a Hibernate core 108.

[0090] The power supply 104 is permanently switched on and supplies the inertial measuring unit 102, the signal generation unit 106 and the Hibernate core 108 with a supply voltage.

[0091] The inertial measurement unit 102 contains one or more accelerometers and is designed as a motion sensor array capable of detecting movement of the patient positioning device. When the inertial measurement unit 102 detects movement, it generates a signal in the form of a pulse 110, which is fed into an input of the Hibernate core 108.

[0092] The inertial measurement unit 102 generates pulse 110 as soon as an internal accelerometer of the inertial measurement unit 102 measures a signal that exceeds a configurable threshold. It is possible to program a threshold value individually for each spatial direction x, y, and z and to define a logical AND or OR operation as the condition for generating pulse 110. A mechanical impact on the patient positioning device or any other forced movement of the patient positioning device can thus be mapped to an event generation.

[0093] This event is used as a wake-up signal for the power-saving Hibernate core 108. Initially, the Hibernate core 108 forwards the event directly to an output signal 112. The output signal 112 can then be used to activate the alert mode.

[0094] The signal generation unit 106 continuously generates a periodic signal 114, which is fed into another input of the Hibernate core 108. After the Hibernate core 108 receives the pulse 110 as an initial wake-up signal, it switches the output signal 112 to the periodic signal 114, which can activate the alert mode at periodically occurring intervals. During the periods between these intervals, the system 100 returns to standby mode.

[0095] The Hibernate core 108 is a controller core of a microcontroller 120. In addition to the Hibernate core 108, the microcontroller 120 also includes a main core 122. In attention mode, the main core 122 of the microcontroller 120 can be activated in addition to the Hibernate core 108.

[0096] A second power section of the system 100 can control the operating table in attention mode. This second power section comprises the main core 122, a power supply 124, several load sensors 126, an evaluation unit 128, and a data storage unit 130.

[0097] Power supply 124 is a switchable power supply and is activated by signal 112. Since signal 112 is a periodic wake-up signal, power supply 124 is switched on and off periodically. Power supply 124 supplies voltage to the main core 122, the load sensors 126, and the data storage 130. When power supply 124 is switched on, the operating table can be in alert mode; otherwise, it is in standby mode.

[0098] As soon as the power supply 124 is switched on, the main core 122 of the microcontroller 120 is activated and can read the sensor values ​​generated by the load sensors 126. The load sensors 126 form a sensor array and are integrated at a suitable location in the patient positioning device or the column of the operating table and measure the load acting upon them.

[0099] The evaluation unit 128 is implemented in the main core 122 and can activate the third power range and potentially a network of control systems as soon as a significant change in load is detected. Detection of a significant change can be achieved by reading the last stored sensor values ​​of all load sensors 126 from the data memory 130, by reading all load sensors 126 to obtain the current sensor values, by calculating a representative value for both the current and stored sensor values, and by determining a delta or difference between these representative values. The delta qualitatively represents the difference between the current sensor values ​​and the last stored sensor values. A significant change has occurred as soon as the delta exceeds a predefined threshold.A representative value could, for example, be the sum of all load sensor values, and the threshold could, for example, be set to an absolute value of 20 N.

[0100] The sensor values ​​stored in data memory 130 can be overwritten with the most recently measured sensor values, so that these sensor values ​​can be used as reference values ​​the next time a significant change is checked. Data memory 130 is a non-volatile data memory and can, for example, be FRAM (ferroelectric random access memory).

[0101] For data exchange with the data storage 130, the main core 122 has an interface 132, for example an SPI (serial peripheral interface) interface.

[0102] Furthermore, an interface 134 is provided between the main core 122 and the inertial measurement unit 102, via which the main core 122 can configure the inertial measurement unit 102 and which can also be an SPI interface.

[0103] After a significant load change occurs, there are two options. In the first option, only a subnetwork of controller units or system control devices (for example, in the operating table column or the patient positioning device) is activated in incognito mode, in which visual feedback to the user can be suppressed. However, sensors for detecting the status of connected accessories and resources for storing changes for further processing by a connectivity or linking component must still be accessed. In the second option, the entire operating table is activated in normal operating mode to alert the user, particularly in the event of safety risks, and to allow movement of the operating table.

[0104] A signal 136, generated by the main core 122, activates a third power range to enable incognito mode or normal operating mode. This third power range can be used, in particular, outside of the operating mode described in the text. Fig. 2 of the depicted system 100 and lie within the higher-level system.

[0105] It may be possible to forgo the attention mode. In this case, the functions described above, which are associated with the attention mode, can be performed, for example, in standby mode or another operating mode.

[0106] Fig. Figure 3 shows, in the form of a schematic activity diagram 200, the sequence of steps performed by system 100 and the higher-level system to switch between the different operating modes. Fig. The following operating modes are indicated by dashed frames: a standby mode, an alert mode, an incognito mode, a normal operating mode, and a shutdown mode. The incognito mode and the normal operating mode can be active modes. If no alert mode is provided, the functions described below can be performed in another mode, such as standby mode.

[0107] The initial starting point for the sequence of steps performed by the system is a starting node 202.

[0108] As soon as the inertial measuring unit 102, in standby mode, detects movement of the patient positioning device, i.e., measures a signal that exceeds the predefined threshold, the inertial measuring unit 102 generates the pulse 110 (see input 204). Furthermore, the signal generation unit 106 generates the periodic signal 114, which is also referred to below as t periodischis referred to as (see entry 206).

[0109] The pulse 110 or the periodic signal t periodisch can cause the attention mode to be activated (see activity node 208).

[0110] In attention mode, the sensor values ​​generated by the load sensors 126 can be read (see activity node 210), and the most recently stored sensor values ​​can be loaded (see activity node 212). Both the current and stored sensor values ​​can be converted into a respective physical quantity. For example, the load acting on the patient positioning device or the load sensors can be determined from the sensor values.

[0111] The difference or delta between the current and the last stored physical quantities is then calculated (see activity node 214), and it is checked whether the current physical quantities show a significant change compared to the last stored physical quantities (see decision node 216). For example, it can be examined whether the difference or delta between the current and the last stored physical quantities exceeds one or more predefined change thresholds.

[0112] If a significant change is detected, the system analyzes whether a specific use case exists (see activity node 218); otherwise, it returns to standby mode.

[0113] To determine a use case, the system checks whether a specific safety risk exists, such as a risk of the operating table tipping over and / or an overload risk of the operating table or a component thereof. Additionally or alternatively, it can be checked whether user attention is required. A decision is then made (see decision node 220) regarding which operating mode the system should switch to. If a safety risk exists and / or user attention is required, the system can switch from attention mode to normal operating mode; otherwise, it switches to incognito mode. Specifically, decision node 220 can be used to check whether user attention is required. If so, the system can switch to normal operating mode; otherwise, it switches to incognito mode.

[0114] In normal operating mode, the user is informed of the detected safety risk (see activity node 222), and measures can be taken to minimize or eliminate the risk. For example, the movement of the operating table can be stopped or slowed down. Furthermore, warnings can be issued to the user to remove excess weight, and / or the operating table can be moved to prevent it from tipping over due to additional weight, and / or signals or instructions can be given to the user to take corrective action, or similar actions can be initiated.

[0115] Furthermore, in normal operating mode, the orientation of the patient positioned on the patient positioning device is detected and displayed to the user (see activity node 224). For example, the patient's orientation can be inferred from the point where the head section is attached to the patient positioning device.

[0116] Furthermore, the user is offered user guidance (see activity node 226). This informs the user about the properties and / or functionalities of the operating table.

[0117] Furthermore, an object or accessory placed on, attached to, moved on, or removed from the patient positioning device can be detected (see Activity Node 228). For object detection, the load and / or the center of gravity of the patient positioning device can be determined at multiple time points, and from this, it can be calculated whether an object and / or accessory has been attached to, moved on, or removed from the patient positioning device. Additionally, an object identification number can be read from a data storage device to specify which object or accessory is being detected.

[0118] Furthermore, in normal operating mode, the position and / or orientation of the operating table is detected (see activity node 230).

[0119] Information about an object or accessory placed on, attached to, moved on, or removed from the patient positioning device, as well as the detected position and / or orientation of the operating table, can be transmitted to an IoT platform (see Issue 232), a device connected to the system (see Issue 234), and / or a cloud network.

[0120] In incognito mode, similar to normal operating mode, an object or accessory placed on, attached to, moved on, or removed from the patient positioning device can be detected (see activity node 236). An object identification number can be read from a data storage device to specify the type of object or accessory.

[0121] Furthermore, in incognito mode the position and / or orientation of the operating table can be detected (see activity node 238).

[0122] Data or information about an object or accessory placed on, attached to, moved on, or removed from the patient positioning device, as well as the detected position and / or orientation of the operating table, can be transmitted to an IoT platform (see Issue 240), a device connected to the system (see Issue 242), and / or a cloud network.

[0123] As soon as the user or a system component attempts to deactivate the operating table (see input 236), the shutdown mode is activated. In shutdown mode, sensors 126 are read (see activity node 238) and the calculated physical quantities are stored (see activity node 240) for later comparison with the current physical quantities. The system then returns to standby mode.

[0124] In Fig. Figures 4A to 4F schematically depict the processes of various use cases or scenarios. The actions or activities performed are plotted against time t. Furthermore, it should be noted that each of the operating modes (i.e., standby mode, attention mode, incognito mode, normal operating mode, and shutdown mode) is identified by a specific color, pattern, or hatching, as described in the legend. Fig. 4 is indicated.

[0125] The in Fig. Scenario 4A begins with the inertial measurement unit 102 detecting movement and / or contact with the patient positioning device and, in response, outputting a signal or pulse 300. The system can then switch from standby mode to alert mode (see activity 302), which occurs in approximately 30 ms. In the subsequent alert mode, the sensors 126 can be read and the current sensor values ​​compared with the last stored sensor values ​​(see activity 304). This step takes approximately 100 ms. Since a significant change in the sensor values ​​is detected in this example, potential safety risks, such as the risk of the operating table tipping over and / or being overloaded, are checked (see activity 306). This check for safety risks takes approximately 100 ms.In this example, the safety check reveals a potential tipping risk for the operating table. Therefore, the system switches to normal operating mode, in which the operating table is fully powered on. The user is then informed about the tipping risk and instructed on measures to reduce it (see Activity 308). The operating table is then switched off and placed in standby mode (see Activity 310).

[0126] The time duration from booting up in standby mode to the end of normal operating mode is called t. Session is described and can be, for example, approximately 15 seconds or more.

[0127] The in Fig. Scenario 4B shown corresponds to the scenario from Fig. 4A with the difference that in Fig. 4B No safety risk is detected (see Activity 306). Therefore, the system can subsequently switch from alert mode to incognito mode (see Activity 312). In other words, a significant change is present, indicating, for example, that a patient has been placed on the operating table or an accessory has been attached to the patient positioning device, but the system is in a safe state. The operating table is therefore temporarily operated in incognito mode, in which, for example, the new configuration of the patient positioning system or the patient's position on the patient positioning device, as well as other relevant data, can be stored in a data memory.

[0128] The time from booting up in standby mode until the end of incognito mode is called t stille_Session_schnell denoted and can be approximately 1 second or more.

[0129] The in Fig. The scenario depicted in 4C largely corresponds to the one in Fig. Scenario 4B shown. However, in Fig. 4C The storage capacity of the data storage is exceeded; therefore, in Incognito Mode 314, a connection component is activated to collect all relevant data related to the significant change and transfer it to an external data storage device. Furthermore, the activation of the connection component can also be triggered after a timeout or downtime to ensure that individual events are transmitted within a reasonable timeframe.

[0130] The time from booting into standby mode until the end of incognito mode is determined by the following: Fig. The scenario shown in 4C is t stille_Session is described and can, for example, be approximately 10 to 20 seconds.

[0131] Fig. 4D shows a scenario similar to the one from Fig. 4B, however, with the difference that a significant change in the sensor values ​​occurs slightly delayed compared to the wake-up signal. In Fig. 4D detects the inertial measurement unit 102, which first detects movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device and generates a signal or pulse 300 in response. The system is then started up in standby mode (see activity 302). However, in the subsequent attention mode, no significant change in the sensor values ​​is initially detected (see activity 304), whereupon the system returns to standby mode.

[0132] After the time period t periodischA periodic event 316 is triggered, and the system can switch back to alert mode. There, a significant change in sensor values ​​is detected (see activity 304), but no existing security risk (see activity 306) is found. The system then briefly switches to incognito mode (see activity 312) and is subsequently switched off, allowing it to enter standby mode (see activity 310).

[0133] After each wake-up event triggered by the inertial measuring unit 102, the Hibernate core 108 converts the output signal 112 to a periodic event with period t periodisch occurs, and carries this out until a time t ruhig The time has expired. During this period, the wake-up signal from the inertial measurement unit 102 is ignored. The time t ruhig It could be, for example, one minute.

[0134] In the Fig. In the scenario depicted in Figure 4E, a mechanical impact against the patient positioning device leads to an acceleration that triggers a wake-up signal or pulse 300. Subsequently, however, the load sensors 126 do not detect any significant change. This can occur, for example, during an operation when dynamic forces exerted on the patient by the surgeon. The system switches to periodic checks, as in connection with Fig. 4D is described, and monitors for a possible significant change, which, however, never occurs. Ultimately, the system neither switches to incognito mode nor to normal operating mode, but can be used with the period t. periodisch The system returns to attention mode, reading sensor values ​​each time, but no significant change is observed. After time t has elapsed... ruhig The operating table is lowered (see activity 310).

[0135] In Fig. 4F does not detect any mechanical shocks to the inertial measurement unit 102. A significant change is never checked, and the system remains only in the power-saving standby mode, in which only the inertial measurement unit 102 and the Hibernate core 108 are powered.

[0136] Fig. Figure 5 shows, in the form of a schematic activity diagram 400, the temporal sequence of the steps carried out by the inertial measuring unit 102 and the evaluation unit 128 to detect a movement of the patient positioning device as well as a significant change in the sensor values.

[0137] The starting point of the activity diagram 400 is a start node 402. Subsequently, the inertial measurement unit 102 checks for the occurrence of movement of the patient positioning device (see activity node 404). As soon as movement is detected (see output 406), the system can switch to the attention mode, in which the load sensors 126 periodically with a period of t periodisch The sensor is scanned (see activity node 408) and the evaluation unit 128 checks the sensor values ​​for a significant change. If, during the time period t ruhig If no significant change is detected, the system returns to standby mode, in which the inertial measurement unit 102 checks for the occurrence of any movement of the patient positioning device (see activity node 404).

[0138] Fig.Figure 6 shows an overview of the system's various operating modes and the transitions that are possible between them. Each possible change from one operating mode to another is indicated by an arrow.

[0139] From standby mode, it is possible to switch to alert mode (see arrow 502) or normal operating mode (see arrow 504). From alert mode, it is possible to switch to standby mode (see arrow 506), normal operating mode (see arrow 508), or incognito mode (see arrow 510). Furthermore, it is possible to switch from incognito mode to normal operating mode (see arrow 512). From an active mode, i.e., normal operating mode or incognito mode, it is possible to switch to shutdown mode (see arrow 514). Finally, it is possible to switch from shutdown mode to standby mode (see arrow 516).

[0140] Exemplary embodiments and variants in accordance with the present disclosure are described in the following list of points and options: Item 1: System for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system, wherein the system comprises: a patient positioning device that can be used as part of the patient positioning system; a motion and / or touch sensor arrangement (102) designed to detect movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device; a sensor arrangement comprising at least one sensor (126) from the group consisting of the following sensors: a load sensor, a velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a localization sensor, an accessory identification sensor and a motion and / or touch sensor arrangement, wherein the at least one sensor outputs sensor values; and an evaluation unit (128) which is designed to receive the sensor values ​​and to determine whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change, in particular a significant change above one or more change thresholds; wherein the system is operable in various operating modes, which include at least a standby mode and active modes, wherein the active modes include at least a normal operating mode and an incognito mode; and wherein, when the motion and / or touch sensor arrangement (102) detects movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device in standby mode, the evaluation unit (128) checks whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change, and the system switches to an active mode if the check shows that there is a significant change in the sensor values. Point 2: System according to point 1, wherein the system includes a signal generation unit (106) which is designed to to generate a periodic signal in standby mode, wherein, after the motion and / or touch sensor arrangement (102) has detected a movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device in standby mode, the periodic signal causes the evaluation unit (128) to check whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change. Point 3: System according to point 1 or 2, wherein The system in incognito mode stores and / or transmits information, including data from the sensor array and / or information about a patient positioning device configuration, to at least one of the following elements: a connected device, an IoT platform, and a cloud network for storage and future access, whereby, in particular, the system in standby mode does not store such information and / or does not transmit it to at least one of the aforementioned elements; the system is not configured for moving the patient positioning device in incognito mode; and / or In incognito mode, the system transmits fewer feedback signals to the user than in normal operating mode. Point 4: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein the system can be operated in another operating mode, an attention mode, wherein in particular the check of the evaluation unit (128) to see whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change is carried out in attention mode or in standby mode. Point 5: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein the system comprises several controller units (108, 122), in particular controller cores, which are configured to control the system in the various operating modes, wherein in the active modes more controller units (108, 122) are active than in the standby mode and / or wherein in the active modes more controller units (108, 122) are active than in the attention mode, if the attention mode is provided, and / or wherein in the normal operating mode more controller units (108, 122) are active than in the incognito mode. Point 6: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein The system includes a risk assessment unit trained to check whether there is a safety risk to the patient positioning system, a user and / or a patient, and / or whether the user's attention is required. Point 7: System according to point 6, wherein The risk assessment unit is trained to check whether there is a risk of the patient positioning system tipping over and / or an overload risk of the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system. Point 8: System according to point 6 or 7, wherein If the evaluation unit (128) determines that the sensor values ​​show a significant change, and the risk determination unit determines that there is a safety risk to the patient positioning system, a user and / or a patient and / or the user's attention is required, and in particular the risk determination unit determines that there is a risk of the patient positioning system tipping over and / or an overload risk of the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system, the system switches to normal operating mode, in particular, if the attention mode is provided, the system is in attention mode when the risk determination unit determines that there is a safety risk, and the system then switches from attention mode to normal operating mode. Item 9: System according to any of items 6 to 8, wherein if the evaluation unit (128) determines that the sensor values ​​show a significant change, and the risk determination unit determines that there is no safety risk to the patient positioning system, a user and / or a patient and / or the user's attention is not required, and the risk determination unit in particular determines that there is no tipping risk of the patient positioning system and / or no overload risk of the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system, the system enters incognito mode, wherein in particular, if attention mode is provided, the system is in attention mode when the risk determination unit determines that there is no safety risk, and the system then switches from attention mode to incognito mode. Point 10: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein The system includes a position detection unit designed to detect the position and / or orientation of the patient positioning device, at least in incognito mode and / or in normal operating mode. Point 11: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein The system includes an object detection unit designed to detect, at least in incognito mode and / or normal operating mode, an object or accessory placed on, attached to, or moved on, or removed from the patient positioning device. Point 12: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein The system includes a safety unit designed to generate an audible and / or visual warning signal and / or a textual warning signal in normal operating mode, and / or to slow down or stop movement of the patient positioning system, and / or to block at least one functionality of the patient positioning system when the risk assessment unit determines that there is a safety risk to the patient positioning system, a user, and / or a patient, and / or the user's attention is required. Point 13: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein The system comprises a patient orientation detection unit and / or a user guidance unit, wherein the patient orientation detection unit is configured to detect the orientation of a patient positioned on the patient positioning device in normal operating mode, and wherein the user guidance unit is configured to clarify properties and / or functionalities of the patient positioning system to a user in normal operating mode and to guide the user in making decisions. Point 14: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein The evaluation unit (128) is designed to compare current sensor values ​​with stored sensor values ​​to determine whether the current sensor values ​​show a significant change. Point 15: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein the system is configured only in normal operating mode for moving the patient positioning device. Point 16: System according to one of the preceding points, wherein The system transmits information only in incognito mode and in normal operating mode, the information comprising data from the sensor array and / or information about a configuration of the patient positioning device, in particular the information being transmitted to at least one of the following elements: a connected device, an IoT platform and a cloud network for storage and future access. Item 17: Operating table comprising a system according to one of the preceding items, an operating table column and a base. Item 18: Patient transport system comprising a system according to one of points 1 to 16 and a transporter for transporting the patient positioning device, in particular for transporting the patient positioning device to and from a particularly fixed column in an operating room. Item 19: Method for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system, wherein: the patient positioning system includes a patient positioning device; a sensor arrangement is provided which includes at least one sensor (126) from the group of the following sensors: a load sensor, a velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a localization sensor, an accessory identification sensor and a motion and / or touch sensor arrangement, wherein the at least one sensor outputs sensor values; the patient positioning system is operated in various operating modes, which include at least a standby mode and active modes, the active modes including at least a normal operating mode and an incognito mode; where, if movement and / or touching of the patient positioning device is detected in standby mode, it is then checked whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change, and the operating mode switches to an active mode if the check shows that there is a significant change in the sensor values. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 11033233B2

[0004] US 9875633B2

[0005] EP 3879791A1

[0006] WO 2023194540A1 [0007, 0009]

Claims

[1] System for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system, the system comprising: a patient positioning device that can be used as part of the patient positioning system; a motion and / or touch sensor arrangement (102) designed to detect movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device; a sensor arrangement comprising at least one sensor (126) from the group of the following sensors: a load sensor, a velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a localization sensor, an accessory identification sensor and a motion and / or touch sensor arrangement, where at least one sensor outputs sensor values; and an evaluation unit (128) which is designed to receive the sensor values ​​and to determine whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change, in particular a significant change above one or more change thresholds; wherein the system can be operated in various operating modes, which include at least a standby mode and active modes, wherein the active modes include at least a normal operating mode and an incognito mode; and wherein, when the motion and / or touch sensor arrangement (102) in standby mode detects movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device, the evaluation unit (128) checks whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change, and the system enters an active mode if the check shows that there is a significant change in the sensor values. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the system has a signal generation unit (106) configured to generate a periodic signal in standby mode, wherein, after the motion and / or touch sensor arrangement (102) has detected a movement and / or touch of the patient positioning device in standby mode, the periodic signal causes the evaluation unit (128) to check whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change. [3] System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The system in incognito mode stores and / or transmits information, including data from the sensor array and / or information about a patient positioning device configuration, to at least one of the following elements: a connected device, an IoT platform, and a cloud network for storage and future access, wherein, in particular, the system in standby mode does not store and / or transmit the aforementioned information to at least one of the aforementioned elements; the system is not configured for moving the patient positioning device in incognito mode; and / or In incognito mode, the system transmits fewer feedback signals to the user than in normal operating mode. [4] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is operable in a further operating mode, an attention mode, wherein in particular the check of the evaluation unit (128) to see whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change is carried out in the attention mode or in the standby mode. [5] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises several controller units (108, 122), in particular controller cores, configured to control the system in the different operating modes, wherein in the active modes more controller units (108, 122) are active than in the standby mode and / or wherein in the active modes more controller units (108, 122) are active than in the attention mode, if the attention mode is provided, and / or wherein in the normal operating mode more controller units (108, 122) are active than in the incognito mode. [6] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a risk determination unit designed to check whether there is a safety risk to the patient positioning system, a user and / or a patient and / or whether the user's attention is required. [7] System according to claim 6, wherein the risk determination unit is configured to check whether there is a risk of the patient positioning system tipping over and / or an overload risk of the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system. [8] System according to claim 6 or 7, wherein when the evaluation unit (128) determines that the sensor values ​​show a significant change, and the risk determination unit determines that there is a safety risk to the patient positioning system, a user and / or a patient and / or the user's attention is required, and the risk determination unit in particular determines that there is a risk of the patient positioning system tipping over and / or an overload risk of the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system, the system switches to normal operating mode, wherein in particular, if the attention mode is provided, the system is in attention mode when the risk determination unit determines that there is a safety risk, and the system then switches from attention mode to normal operating mode. [9] System according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein when the evaluation unit (128) determines that the sensor values ​​show a significant change, and the risk determination unit determines that there is no safety risk to the patient positioning system, a user and / or a patient and / or the user's attention is not required, and the risk determination unit in particular determines that there is no tipping risk of the patient positioning system and / or no overload risk of the patient positioning system and / or at least one component of the patient positioning system, the system switches to incognito mode, wherein in particular, if attention mode is provided, the system is in attention mode when the risk determination unit determines that there is no safety risk, and the system then switches from attention mode to incognito mode. [10] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a position detection unit configured to detect the position and / or orientation of the patient positioning device, at least in incognito mode and / or in normal operating mode. [11] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises an object detection unit configured to detect, at least in incognito mode and / or in normal operating mode, an object or accessory placed on the patient positioning device, attached to the patient positioning device, moved on the patient positioning device, or removed from the patient positioning device. [12] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a safety unit configured to generate an acoustic and / or visual warning signal and / or a textual warning signal in normal operating mode and / or to slow down or stop a movement of the patient positioning system and / or to block at least one functionality of the patient positioning system when the risk determination unit determines that there is a safety risk to the patient positioning system, a user and / or a patient and / or the user's attention is required. [13] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a patient orientation detection unit and / or a user guidance unit, wherein the patient orientation detection unit is configured to detect the orientation of a patient positioned on the patient positioning device in normal operating mode, and wherein the user guidance unit is configured to clarify properties and / or functionalities of the patient positioning system to a user in normal operating mode and to guide the user in making decisions. [14] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (128) is configured to compare current sensor values ​​with stored sensor values ​​to determine whether the current sensor values ​​show a significant change. [15] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is configured only in normal operating mode for the movement of the patient positioning device. [16] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system transmits information only in incognito mode and in normal operating mode, wherein the information comprises data from the sensor arrangement and / or information about a configuration of the patient positioning device, wherein in particular the information is transmitted to at least one of the following elements: a connected device, an IoT platform and a cloud network for storage and future access. [17] Operating table comprising a system according to one of the preceding claims, an operating table column and a base. [18] Patient transport system comprising a system according to any one of claims 1 to 16 and a transporter for transporting the patient positioning device, in particular for transporting the patient positioning device to and from a particularly stationary column in an operating room. [19] Method for controlling an operating mode of a patient positioning system, wherein: the patient positioning system includes a patient positioning device; a sensor arrangement is provided which includes at least one sensor (126) from the group of the following sensors: a load sensor, a velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, a position sensor, a localization sensor, an accessory identification sensor and a motion and / or touch sensor arrangement, wherein the at least one sensor outputs sensor values; the patient positioning system is operated in various operating modes, which include at least a standby mode and active modes, the active modes including at least a normal operating mode and an incognito mode; where, if movement and / or touching of the patient positioning device is detected in standby mode, it is then checked whether the sensor values ​​show a significant change, and the operating mode switches to an active mode if the check shows that there is a significant change in the sensor values.

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