System for determining and displaying limitations when operating medical tables

Abstract

System for determining and displaying limitations during the operation of an operating table, wherein the system comprises: a patient support device, in particular a surgical patient support device, for securing to an operating table column of an operating table; a display unit for displaying information about limitations during the operation of the operating table; an input unit for inputting information about a patient's weight and / or an interface for receiving electronic patient weight information from outside the system; and an evaluation unit designed to determine limitations during the operation of the operating table based on at least the patient weight, and to display the limitations on the display unit before the patient is placed on the patient support device.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING AND DISPLAYING LIMITATIONS IN THE OPERATION OF ME¬

[0002] MEDICAL TABLES

[0003] Technical area

[0004] The present disclosure relates to medical and surgical tables in which the tabletop and / or segments of the tabletop are movable. In particular, it relates to systems that can determine and display constraints maintained during operation of medical tables.

[0005] Background of the Revelation

[0006] Operating tables are used to support a patient, for example, during a surgical procedure. Currently, nurses and physicians must consider many important aspects to use the operating table properly due to the flexibility in setting up the operating table, the number of accessories, and the various patient positioning options it offers. Some of these aspects are listed below:

[0007] The accessories used should be adapted to the patient’s weight.

[0008] The configuration of the accessories should also be adapted to the patient's weight. The patient support device should only be moved within permitted limits.

[0009] If movement restrictions apply, care should be taken not to exceed the permitted limits at any time.

[0010] When adjusting the operating table, care should be taken to ensure that the operating table does not collide with an external object, such as a C-arm.

[0011] Furthermore, when adjusting the operating table, care should be taken to ensure the patient is properly secured and does not fall or slip off the operating table. Important information regarding the points listed above can be found in the operating table's instructions for use. If the operator ignores the instructions for use or fails to pay sufficient attention to collisions and the patient, the following dangerous events may occur:

[0012] Operating table tipping over: Patient fall, which can result in permanent injury and even death.

[0013] Overloading of structural components of the accessories and operating table: This can cause structural components to permanently bend or break, causing permanent injury or even death to the patient.

[0014] Overload of the motorized joints: Causes limited mobility because the operating table cannot move.

[0015] Collision of the operating table with an external object: During movement, the operating table may collide and damage expensive equipment, such as C-arms.

[0016] Patient fall: If the patient is not adequately secured, the patient may begin to slip when the table is moved, which in the worst case scenario may lead to the patient falling to the floor.

[0017] Patient support devices of operating tables can have interchangeable, detachably connectable segments, particularly accessories. Often, some or all of the interchangeable segments are movable. By using various interchangeable segments, a single operating table can be reconfigured in different ways for different patients and medical procedures. Furthermore, individual segments or the entire patient support device can be adjusted in various ways. For example, individual segments or the entire patient support device can be tilted or canted, or moved longitudinally or vertically. However, this means that the size, shape, dimensions, weight, and strength of individual operating tables vary at different times.In order to prevent the operating table from tipping over or overloading individual structural parts or the entire operating table, the patient support device and its segments should only be used within certain limits.

[0018] Borders are adjusted.

[0019] Currently, the operator must check what type of movements are allowed with a combination of accessories depending on the workload, i.e. the patient weight and the weight of the accessories used.

[0020] In practice, the operator must determine the accessories attached to the operating table and their technical specifications, such as weight, maximum load, permissible combinations with the operating table and / or other accessories, and manually calculate or estimate the current workload. Only then can the positioning limits of the operating table be determined.

[0021] Since there is no support from the operating table, this procedure is highly error-prone due to the multitude of different operating table configurations. Given the complexity of the physical constraints, it is challenging for the operator to correctly determine the actual limits specified in the operating table and accessory manuals.

[0022] One solution to the described problem is to include all possible operating table configurations and their corresponding constraints in a database. Since maintaining such a database over the long lifetime of an operating table is difficult and also consumes a lot of storage space on the embedded systems, implementing such a database is very costly both for the device and for the project resources. To make the database maintainable, manual discretization of the value ranges is also necessary, which is also error-prone. This discretization also leads to a less than optimal solution that limits the achievable position of the operating table more than necessary for system and patient safety.

[0023] Summary of the Disclosure It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system that provides the operator with feedback about the constraints of the operating table before the patient is placed on the patient support device.

[0024] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a system is provided which is designed to determine and display limitations in the operation of an operating table. The system may include a patient support device, a display unit, and an evaluation unit. Furthermore, the system may include an input unit and / or an interface for receiving electronic data.

[0025] The patient support device can be used as part of an operating table and can serve to support a patient. The patient support device can be provided for attachment to an operating table column of the operating table. In some embodiments, the patient support device can be a surgical patient support device on which a patient is supported during a surgical procedure. Furthermore, the patient support device can serve to attach accessories. The patient support device can be modular and have a main support surface section that can be expanded by coupling various secondary support surface sections. The main support surface section and the secondary support surface sections can have mechanical connecting elements with which the main and secondary support surface sections can be detachably connected.Secondary sections of a bed can be leg, foot, or head sections, for example. Secondary sections can also be extension or intermediate sections, which are inserted, for example, between the main bed section and the head section. Slide or side rails can be attached to the sides of the main and secondary sections. Accessories can be detachably attached to the slide or side rails.

[0026] In some embodiments, the patient support device can be permanently connected to a column of an operating table. The operating table can be movable. A stand or base of the operating table can have wheels or casters that allow the operating table to be moved across the floor. Alternatively, the stand or base can be firmly anchored to the floor.

[0027] In some embodiments, the patient support device can be designed such that it can be detachably connected to a movable surgical patient transporter and a column of an operating table. Before a surgical procedure, the patient support device can be mounted on the patient transporter. The patient can be transported to the operating table using the patient transporter. There, the patient support device can be attached to the operating table column and decoupled from the patient transporter. Much of the preparation for the surgical procedure can be carried out while the patient support device is mounted on the patient transporter. For example, the patient support 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 support device be attached to the operating table column.

[0028] Information about the restrictions that must be observed when operating the operating table can be presented by the display unit, for example, in text and / or graphic form. This allows the operating table operator to easily understand the restrictions. The display unit can display the information before the patient is placed on the patient support device.

[0029] The display unit can be integrated into a component of the system, for example, a remote control of the operating table, in the form of a display. The remote control can also display other information about the patient support device or a table arrangement including the patient support device. The remote control can further receive inputs and commands from an operator to control the patient support device or a table arrangement including the patient support device. The display unit can also be a multi-purpose monitor or screen for the operating room. Furthermore, the display unit can be a monitor or screen mounted on a ceiling suspension arm or on a wall of an operating room or other medical space.The same monitor or screen can also be used to display other information relevant to an integrated operating room (e.g., videos, patient vital signs, and / or information about lights, tables, and other medical equipment). It is also conceivable to integrate the display unit into the patient support system.

[0030] The operator can enter information about the weight of a patient currently positioned or yet to be positioned on the patient support device into the input unit. The input unit can be integrated, for example, into a remote control, which optionally also displays the restrictions, into the patient support device, or into a table column supporting the patient support device. Additionally or alternatively, the system can have an interface for receiving electronic patient weight information from outside the system. The patient weight information can, for example, be stored in a database and transmitted from there to the system via the interface.

[0031] The weight information entered into the input unit or received electronically via the interface can include the patient's actual weight, for example, previously measured, or the estimated weight. Furthermore, a weight range or a minimum or maximum weight value can be entered into the input unit or received electronically via the interface instead. This enables safe operation of the operating table even if the patient's actual weight is not known with sufficient certainty.

[0032] The evaluation unit can be configured to determine restrictions on the operation of the operating table. The evaluation unit can determine the restrictions based at least on the patient's weight. The patient weight can be determined using the weight information entered into the input unit or the weight information received electronically via the interface. The restrictions can be displayed on the display unit. The evaluation unit can determine the restrictions before the patient is placed on the patient support device. Furthermore, the restrictions can also be displayed on the display unit before the patient is placed on the patient support device.

[0033] The information generated by the evaluation unit and displayed on the display unit informs the operator of the patient support device about the limitations of the device during the planned procedure. This saves the operator the time-consuming task of studying the patient support device's operating instructions.

[0034] In some embodiments, the evaluation unit can determine the restrictions, in particular limit values ​​or position limits for the movements of the operating table or its components, by simulating movements of the operating table with the patient supported on it. For each joint around which a movement can be performed, a movement can be simulated, and it can be checked in which area of ​​the joint a movement is not permitted, since a movement in this area could, for example, result in an increased risk of tipping or overloading of at least one component of the operating table due to the patient's weight. In the same way, it can also be checked, for example, how far the patient support device can be displaced longitudinally or laterally without the risk of tipping or overloading exceeding a predetermined threshold.Similarly, all possible movements of the operating table and / or patient support device and / or operating table column can be mathematically verified. Areas with an increased risk of tipping and / or overloading can be eliminated by establishing appropriate restrictions on the operation of the operating table.

[0035] If a weight range rather than a discrete weight value was entered into the input unit, or if such a weight range was received via the interface, the evaluation unit can determine the operating table's operating restrictions based on the weight range. For example, the evaluation unit can use the highest value of the weight range or an average value of the specified weight range to determine the restrictions. It is also conceivable that several different restrictions are determined for the weight range, each of which relates to a specific patient weight and is displayed on the display unit in combination with the respective patient weight.

[0036] The advantage of simulating the movements of the operating table and the resulting limitations during subsequent operation of the operating table is that the operator is not required to manually determine the limitations. Automatic calculation of the permissible ranges is less error-prone. Compared to a database containing all possible configurations of the operating table and their corresponding limitations, the proposed solution has the advantage that the calculated limits are closer to the actual limits of the joints. Furthermore, maintenance can be performed more easily and is less time-consuming and error-prone. With the proposed solution, new accessories do not necessarily require a software update, as is the case with the database solution.

[0037] In some embodiments, one or more additional parameters may be used in addition to patient weight to determine the operating table's operating limitations. This is explained further below.

[0038] The evaluation unit can, for example, be a hardware processor or another computer system, or it can be integrated into a hardware processor or a computer system. The hardware processor or the computer system can also perform other tasks in addition to the tasks of the evaluation unit. The evaluation unit can be arranged inside the operating table, and in particular in the patient support device. However, the evaluation unit can also be located outside the operating table, and in particular outside the operating room. Since the simulation steps performed by the evaluation unit are computationally intensive, the evaluation unit can be located in a backend or connection module. The evaluation unit can exchange data with the input unit and / or the display unit, for example, via one or more interfaces. The data transfer can, in particular, take place at least partially via radio and / or wired.In some embodiments, the evaluation unit can control the individual components of the patient support device during operation of the operating table such that the restrictions are adhered to. For example, the patient support device can be controlled such that the patient support device is only tilted, canted, or displaced longitudinally or vertically within the previously determined position limits. Alternatively, the restrictions generated by the evaluation unit can only serve to inform the operator of the restricted options before the patient is placed on the patient support device. Alternatively, the restrictions or limits could be used to generate warnings, alarms, and / or automatic movement pauses or stops when the table movements reach or approach a calculated limit.The operator may still be able to continue movements beyond the calculated limit. Once the patient has been placed on the patient support device, the load and load center can be determined through measurements, for example, using load sensors. The measurement results can be used to determine the limitations to which the operating table is subject during subsequent operation.

[0039] In some embodiments, the evaluation unit determines the restrictions on the operation of the operating table not only based on the weight information, but also on the basis of an identification and / or configuration of the patient support device. The identification of the support surface areas can relate to various sub-areas of the patient support device, which can be detachably or permanently connected to one another. For example, a patient support device can comprise head, leg, arm and intermediate areas as well as other suitable sub-areas. The identification can make it known which sub-areas the patient support device comprises. The configuration can, for example, indicate the configuration, order, or position in which the individual sub-areas are arranged. Each of the sub-areas can, for example, have one or more sub-areas that are connected to one another.Operating tables can be enhanced with accessories to ensure optimal patient positioning and reliable procedure execution. Accessories can be detachably attached to an operating table 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 serve other functions, such as instrument tables, limb positioning supports, or IV drip holders that are attached to the side rails of the patient support system. Main and secondary table sections can also be considered accessories.

[0040] In some embodiments, a detection unit may be provided for detecting accessories attached to the operating table, and in particular to the patient support device. To detect the accessories, signals can be transmitted from the accessories to the detection unit. The signals can contain information about the respective accessories, allowing the detection unit to identify the respective accessory. The signals used to detect the accessories can be, for example, electrical or optical signals or radio signals.

[0041] The detection unit may comprise a suitable receiving unit for receiving the signals from the accessories. Furthermore, the detection unit may comprise a hardware processor or other computer system, or be integrated into a hardware processor or computer system that enables the accessories to be identified. The detection unit may be arranged inside the operating table, in particular in the patient support device, or outside the operating table.

[0042] The detection unit can inform the evaluation unit about which accessories are attached to the operating table and in particular to the patient support device. In some embodiments, the evaluation unit can use this information, along with the weight information and possibly further information, to determine the operating table operating restrictions by simulating the movements of the operating table. In some embodiments, the input unit and / or the interface via which the patient weight information is received can be configured such that a planned position that the patient is to assume on the patient support device and / or a planned center of gravity of the patient on the patient support device can be entered into the input unit and / or received from the interface.For example, the input unit can include a touchscreen that graphically displays the operating table or patient support device. The operator can move a graphic slider to the location where the patient's center of gravity should later be. It is also conceivable for the input unit to display various positions the patient can assume on the patient support device on a touchscreen, allowing the operator to select the appropriate position.

[0043] In some embodiments, the evaluation unit may take into account the planned position that the patient is to assume on the patient support device and / or the planned center of gravity of the patient on the patient support device when determining the limitations on the operation of the operating table.

[0044] In some embodiments, the restrictions can relate to the mobility of the patient support device and in particular to the adjustability and extendability of the segments of the patient support device and / or the adjustability and extendability of the operating table column. In principle, the patient support device or a segment of the patient support device can be tilted and / or canted and / or displaced longitudinally and / or laterally and / or, in particular by means of the operating table column, adjusted in height. An inclination of the patient support device is also referred to as a Trendelenburg inclination, in which the patient is positioned so that the patient's head is at the bottom and the patient's pelvis is higher. With an anti-Trendelenburg inclination, the patient's head is positioned high while the pelvis is lower.Tilting means that the patient support device is tilted to the side. Tilting or canting of the patient support device occurs around one or more joints. The restrictions can relate to the extent of the tilt and / or canting and / or the horizontal and / or lateral displaceability. Depending on which secondary table surface sections are connected to the main table surface section, other restrictions regarding the adjustability and extendability of the secondary table surface sections can arise. The restrictions regarding the mobility of the patient support device can relate to the movement of the entire patient support device and / or to the separate movement of the secondary table surface sections or at least one segment of the patient support device and / or the movement of the operating table column.

[0045] In some embodiments, the restrictions on the operation of the operating table can be characterized at least by ranges within which the operating table, in particular the patient support device and / or at least one segment of the patient support device and / or the operating table column, may be moved. Such ranges can be displayed graphically on the display unit, for example. Furthermore, position limits can also be displayed on the display unit.

[0046] In some embodiments, the limitations on operation of the operating table may include one or more of the following limitations:

[0047] - Restrictions on the selection of axes around which movement of the patient support device and / or at least one segment of the patient support device is possible; for example, no movement of the patient support device or a secondary section of the support surface may be carried out around certain axes;

[0048] - restrictions on the range within which the patient support device and / or at least one segment of the patient support device can be moved about an axis;

[0049] - limitations on the speed at which the patient support device and / or at least one segment of the patient support device can be moved about an axis;

[0050] - Restrictions on tilting the patient support device;

[0051] - Restrictions on edge positioning of the patient support device;

[0052] - limitations in the longitudinal displacement of the patient support device;

[0053] - Restrictions on the lateral displacement of the patient support device;

[0054] - restrictions on the height adjustment of the patient support device, which can be carried out in particular by the operating table column; restrictions on the extension of the castors of the operating table; and / or

[0055] Restrictions on motorized transport of the operating table.

[0056] In some embodiments, the evaluation unit determines the operating table operation restrictions to prevent tipping of the operating table and / or overloading of the operating table and / or at least one component of the operating table. For example, the ranges within which the patient support device or at least one segment of the patient support device and / or the operating table column can be adjusted can be restricted, or movements of the operating table and / or the patient support device and / or the operating table column can be blocked to prevent tipping or overloading.

[0057] In some embodiments, the evaluation unit simulates several positions that the operating table can assume during a specified movement. The evaluation unit checks whether a restriction is necessary in the respective position, in particular whether there is a risk of the operating table tipping over and / or a risk of overloading the operating table and / or at least one component of the operating table. The smaller the distance between neighboring positions examined by the evaluation unit, the more finely the restrictions can be selected. However, a smaller distance between neighboring positions also increases the computational effort for the simulations.

[0058] In some embodiments, the evaluation unit can determine a residual tipping moment related to a predetermined tipping point for several positions that the operating table can assume during a predetermined movement. Furthermore, the evaluation unit can compare the determined residual tipping moment with a predetermined residual tipping moment threshold for each of the positions. If the residual tipping moment in one of the positions falls below the predetermined residual tipping moment threshold, the evaluation unit can determine a tipping risk for this position and can also determine that this position may not be approached during subsequent operation of the operating table. In some embodiments, the display unit can display information about at least one restriction during the operation of the operating table if the evaluation unit has determined a tipping risk for one or more positions of the operating table.

[0059] In some embodiments, the evaluation unit can determine the residual tipping moment based on the total load and / or the center of gravity of the total load. The residual tipping moment can also be related to a specific tipping point or to multiple tipping points.

[0060] The total load is the load resulting from the entire operating table, the patient placed on the operating table, the accessories attached to the operating table and other external forces.

[0061] A tipping point is a point or, where appropriate, an axis around which the operating table can tilt. For example, a tipping point can be located on a lower side edge of the base that faces the floor. Furthermore, a tipping point can be marked by a caster that allows the operating table to be moved across the floor.

[0062] In some embodiments, the tipping points can be defined as all points along the perimeter of a table base or stand that faces (and in some cases touches) the floor below. For example, all points along the perimeter of a rectangular table base can be tipping points. In other embodiments, e.g., when the stand has a less regular shape, the tipping points can be defined as all points along the edges of a conceptual polygon defined by the far corners of a stand. For example, in the case of an H-shaped base, the tipping points would be the four corners of the H and the edges of a conceptual rectangle formed by the four corners of the H. For a round base, any point on the perimeter would be a tipping point.

[0063] In general, the operating table remains stable if the center of gravity of the total load lies above an area defined by the tipping points. However, if the center of gravity of the total load is not directly above this area, the operating table will tip over.

[0064] The residual tipping moment at a tipping point can be determined by multiplying the distance of the tipping point from the center of gravity of the total load by the total load, with the total load being expressed as a force. The residual tipping moment is referred to in English-language technical literature as "residual tipping torque." If the determined value for the residual tipping moment is positive, this means that the operating table is stable with respect to this tipping point. If the residual tipping moment is negative, the operating table will tip over. The greater the value of the residual tipping moment, the more stable the operating table. In some embodiments, the residual tipping moment threshold is specified, which, for example, has a value of 225 Nm. This means that the residual tipping moment should not be less than 225 Nm. If the residual tipping moment threshold is undershot, the evaluation unit can determine that this position of the operating table should be blocked.

[0065] In some embodiments, the evaluation unit can determine a respective residual tilting moment for a plurality of tilting points, in particular for all possible tilting points, at each position or at a plurality of positions that the operating table can assume during a predetermined movement. The evaluation unit can compare each of these multiple residual tilting moments with the residual tilting moment threshold. If, in a specific position of the operating table, only one of the tilting moments falls below the residual tilting moment threshold, the evaluation unit can configure the restrictions such that the respective position lies within the non-permissible range.

[0066] In some embodiments, at least one virtual or imaginary line can be predefined. The at least one virtual line can, for example, pass through at least one tipping point and can furthermore, for example, enclose a predefined angle, a so-called stability angle, with a predefined normal vector. The evaluation unit can determine the position of a load center of the operating table, for example the center of gravity of the total load, with reference to the at least one predefined virtual line for several positions that the operating table can assume during a predefined movement. If the load center of the operating table passes through the at least one virtual line in a position, the evaluation unit can determine a tipping risk for this position and exclude this position from subsequent operation of the operating table.

[0067] In particular, the evaluation unit can indicate a tipping risk if the center of gravity of the total load passes through at least one virtual line in a direction in which the residual tipping moment decreases. The virtual line can also be shifted parallel and therefore not pass through the tipping point. In this case, the center of gravity of the total load must also be shifted accordingly in order to indicate the tipping risk.

[0068] The normal vector can be defined, for example, by the weight force vector of the operating table if the operating table is on a flat, level floor. In this case, the normal vector is perpendicular to the floor surface. The normal vector can also be defined, for example, by the base plate of the stand or the patient support device in the normal position. In this case, the normal vector is perpendicular to the base plate of the stand or perpendicular to the patient support device in the normal position.

[0069] In some embodiments, for a plurality of tipping points, in particular for all possible tipping points, at least one virtual or imaginary line can be specified, which passes through the respective tipping point and encloses a predetermined angle, the stability angle, with the predetermined normal vector. The plurality of virtual lines define a space. As long as the center of gravity of the total load is within this space, there is no risk of the operating table tipping over. The operating table can only tip over if the center of gravity of the total load leaves the space defined or delimited by the virtual lines. If the center of gravity of the total load leaves the space defined by the virtual lines, the evaluation unit can determine a tipping risk for this position and indicate to the operator that this position should be excluded for subsequent operation of the operating table.In some embodiments, the predetermined stability angle that the virtual or imaginary line can enclose through a tipping point with the predetermined normal vector can depend on the nature of the tipping point. For example, the stability angle can be larger if the tipping point is defined by a roller. In comparison, the stability angle can be smaller if the tipping point does not include a roller, but is located, for example, on a lower side edge of the base.

[0070] In one embodiment, a stability angle of 10 degrees can be selected if the tipping point is provided by a roller. For all other tipping points, especially rigid bases or substructures, a stability angle of 5 degrees can be selected.

[0071] In some embodiments, the stability angle is at least 2 degrees, or at least 5 degrees, or in the range of 5 to 15 degrees, or in the range of 3 to 20 degrees. In some embodiments with retractable wheels or casters, the stability angle is at least 2 degrees when the operating table is on the floor and at least 8 degrees when it is on wheels or casters. Certain safety regulations require medical tables to remain stable at a 5-degree tilt when directly on the floor and at a 10-degree tilt when on wheels. This technology is useful for meeting such safety regulations but is not limited to this purpose.

[0072] The two embodiments described above, in which the residual tilting moment is compared with the residual tilting moment threshold value or whether the center of gravity of the total load passes through at least one virtual line, can be used independently of each other to generate the constraints during operation of the operating table. Furthermore, the two methods can also be combined.

[0073] In some embodiments, the evaluation unit can determine, based on the patient's weight and / or the patient's center of gravity, whether there is a risk of overloading the operating table and / or at least one component of the operating table. In particular, the evaluation unit can determine whether there is a risk of overloading for several positions or even for all positions that the operating table can assume during a predetermined movement. The patient's center of gravity can, for example, be entered into the input unit by the operator, as described above. If there is a risk of overloading, the display unit can make it clear to the operator by displaying the restrictions that the movement options of the operating table and / or the patient support device are correspondingly restricted and that the operating table should not or cannot assume the positions associated with an overload risk during operation.

[0074] By adhering to appropriate restrictions, damage, such as bending or even breakage of a component of the operating table due to excessive loads acting on the operating table, can be prevented. This also prevents any danger to the patient.

[0075] The at least one component of the operating table for which the overload risk is determined may, for example, be a main or secondary support surface section of the patient support device or another accessory or component of the operating table, for example a castor or the operating table column.

[0076] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can compare a load acting on the operating table and / or the patient support device, in particular the effective load, with at least one predetermined overload threshold value and determine that there is a risk of overloading the operating table and / or at least one component of the operating table if the load exceeds the at least one overload threshold value.

[0077] The at least one overload threshold can be specific to the operating table and / or the at least one component. Consequently, an individual overload threshold can be used for each component of the operating table. This makes it possible to determine the overload risk for components of varying stability.

[0078] The evaluation unit can compare the load acting on the operating table and / or the patient support device with at least one predefined overload threshold value for multiple positions or even for all positions that the operating table can assume during a predefined movement. If there is a risk of overload, the evaluation unit can restrict the movement options of the operating table and / or the patient support device accordingly by selecting appropriate restrictions.

[0079] In addition to possible overload risks for individual support surface sections and a configuration of support surface secondary sections, overload risks for specific sections or areas of the patient support device can also be determined. The areas can, for example, extend along the outer boundaries of the support surface secondary sections. In this case, an area comprises a certain number of support surface secondary sections. However, it is also conceivable for an area boundary not to run along the outer boundaries of the support surface secondary sections. In this case, part of a support surface secondary section can belong to one area, while the remaining part of the support surface secondary section belongs to the adjacent area. In some embodiments, at least part of the patient support device can therefore be virtually or notionally divided into several areas, and an overload threshold value can be specified for each area.The evaluation unit can check the area of ​​the center of gravity of a load acting on the operating table and / or patient support device for multiple positions or for all positions the operating table can assume during a specified movement, and can identify an overload risk if the load exceeds the overload threshold specified for this area. If an overload risk exists, the evaluation unit can select the restrictions to indicate to the operator the limited movement possibilities of the operating table and / or patient support device.

[0080] Furthermore, a graph or a curve can be specified which extends along at least part of the patient support device. The graph or curve specifies a respective overload threshold value at each point on at least part of the patient support device. The graph or curve can be a straight line, for example. In particular, the straight line can decline towards a distal end of the patient support device, so that the overload threshold value becomes smaller towards the end of the patient support device. The evaluation unit can check at which point on the patient support device the center of gravity of the defined load is located for several positions or even for all positions that the operating table can assume during a specified movement. However, this does not necessarily mean that the center of gravity of the defined load is located within the patient support device.The center of gravity can also be located outside the patient support device. In this case, the corresponding location on the patient support device can be determined, for example, by projecting the center of gravity vertically onto the patient support device. The evaluation unit can compare the defined load, in particular the effective load, with the overload threshold specified for the determined location. If the defined load exceeds the overload threshold specified for this location, the evaluation unit can adjust the restrictions in such a way that the operator is notified that the operating table must not assume the corresponding position during operation.

[0081] In some embodiments, the system can comprise at least one drive for moving the operating table. The evaluation unit can determine a load acting on the at least one drive based on the patient's weight and / or the patient's center of gravity for multiple positions or even for all positions the operating table can assume during a predefined movement, and can identify an overload risk if the load exceeds at least one predefined overload threshold specific to the at least one drive. If an overload risk exists, the evaluation unit can restrict the movement options of the operating table and / or the patient support device accordingly by selecting appropriate restrictions and display this information to the operator.

[0082] The drive can, in particular, be an electric drive, which serves, for example, to adjust the patient support device or individual components of the patient support device, in particular to tilt, edge, shift, or raise the patient support device. The operating table can further comprise multiple drives. For each of the drives, an individual overload threshold value can be specified, which is specific to the respective drive. This allows individual overload risks to be specified for the drives.

[0083] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a method is provided which is designed for determining and displaying restrictions on the operation of an operating table. According to the method, information about the weight of a patient can be entered into an input unit and / or electronic patient weight information can be received at an interface from outside the system. Restrictions on the operation of the operating table can be determined based at least on the patient's weight. The restrictions can be displayed on a display unit before the patient is placed on a patient support device, in particular a surgical patient support device. The patient support device can be provided for attachment to an operating table column of an operating table and can also be attached to the operating table column.

[0084] In some embodiments, the limitations on operation of the operating table may be determined based on at least the patient weight by simulating movements of the operating table with the patient supported thereon.

[0085] The method according to the second aspect may have all configurations described in the present disclosure in connection with the system according to the first aspect.

[0086] The present disclosure also includes circuits and / or electronic instructions for controlling operating tables, as well as remote controls, displays, and user interfaces for use with operating tables and for carrying out the methods and functions described in this disclosure, in particular electronics and software that enable everything described in the application.

[0087] Brief Description of the Drawings Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures, in which:

[0088] Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of an operating table with a patient positioned on a patient support device of the operating table;

[0089] Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of the architecture of a system according to the disclosure for determining and displaying limitations on the operation of an operating table;

[0090] Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of an operating table according to the disclosure to illustrate the measuring load, the effective load, the total load and the working load;

[0091] Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of a flow chart for determining limitations in the operation of an operating table according to the disclosure;

[0092] Figs. 5A and 5B are schematic representations of an operating table according to the disclosure in a locked and unlocked position with tilt points, respectively;

[0093] Fig. 6A and 6B are schematic representations of an operating table according to the disclosure with a center of gravity of the total load inside and outside the contact surface of the tipping points, respectively;

[0094] Fig. 7 is a schematic representation of an operating table according to the disclosure with virtual 5 or 10 degree lines;

[0095] Fig. 8 is a schematic representation of an operating table according to the disclosure with the load-bearing capacity of individual components; Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of an operating table according to the disclosure with a configuration of extension sections;

[0096] Fig. 10A and 10B are schematic representations of an operating table according to the disclosure with load limits that differ in sections or points; and

[0097] Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of an operating table according to the disclosure in an extreme Trendelenburg position.

[0098] Detailed character description

[0099] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the drawings. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, but are intended merely to schematically illustrate the respective features.

[0100] It should be noted that the features and components described below can be combined with each other, regardless of whether they were described in connection with a single embodiment. The combination of features in the respective embodiments serves merely to illustrate the basic structure and functionality of the claimed device.

[0101] In the figures, identical or similar elements are provided with identical reference numerals where appropriate.

[0102] Fig. 1 schematically shows a mobile operating table 10 that can be used for supporting a patient 12 during a surgical procedure and for transporting the patient. From bottom to top, the mobile operating table 10 comprises a base 14 for placing the operating table 10 on a surface, a vertically arranged operating table column 16 enclosing the base 14, and a patient support device 18 attached to an upper end of the operating table column 16. The patient support device 18 can be permanently connected to the operating table column 16 or, alternatively, can be detachably attached to the operating table column 16.

[0103] The patient support device 18 is modular and serves to support the patient 12. The patient support device 18 comprises a main support surface section 20 connected to the operating table column 16, which can be expanded as required by coupling various secondary support surface sections. In Fig. 1, a leg section 22, a shoulder section 24, and a head section 26 are coupled to the main support surface section 10 as secondary support surface sections.

[0104] The patient support device 18 of the operating table 10 can be adjusted to a suitable height and can be tilted or inclined depending on the type of surgical procedure to be performed.

[0105] The operating table column 16 is height-adjustable and has an internal mechanism for adjusting the height of the patient support device 18 of the operating table 10. The mechanism is arranged in a housing 28, which protects the components from contamination.

[0106] The base 14 has two sections 30, 32 of different lengths. Section 30 is a short section associated with a foot end of the leg section 22, i.e., the end of the patient support device 18 on which the feet of the patient 12 to be treated rest. Section 32 is a long section associated with the head section 26 of the patient support device 18.

[0107] Furthermore, the base 14 can be equipped with wheels or rollers that allow the operating table 10 to be moved along the floor. Alternatively, the base 14 can be firmly anchored to the floor.

[0108] For better illustration, a Cartesian coordinate system XYZ is shown in Fig. 1. The X-axis and Y-axis are the horizontal axes, and the Z-axis is the vertical axis. The X-axis extends along the adjacent bearing surface sections 22, 24, and 26.

[0109] Fig. 2 schematically shows the system architecture of a system 100 according to the disclosure for determining and displaying restrictions on the operation of the operating table 10. The system 100 is a system according to the first aspect of the present disclosure and can be operated with a method according to the second aspect.

[0110] The system 100 can comprise the patient support device 18 shown in Fig. 1 and, in particular, other components of the operating table 10 or the entire operating table 10. Furthermore, the system 100 has a load sensor arrangement 102, a load determination unit 104, a safety unit 106, a monitoring and calibration unit 108, a data storage unit 110, other components 112 of the operating table 10, an input unit 114, an interface 115, and a display unit 116. Furthermore, the safety unit 106 contains an evaluation unit 117. One of the other components 112 of the operating table 10 is a detection unit 118.

[0111] The load sensor assembly 102 contains a plurality of load sensors and is configured to measure at least one variable from which a load acting on the load sensor assembly 102 can be determined. In this case, the load sensors are force sensors, each measuring a force acting on the respective sensor. The force values ​​measured by the individual force sensors are output by the load sensor assembly 102 as a signal 120 in digital form. Furthermore, the load sensor assembly 102 contains electronic components required for the operation of the force sensors.

[0112] The load determination unit 104 receives the signal 120 with the measured force values ​​and determines a desired load and / or a load center of gravity therefrom. Specifically, the load determination unit 104 can determine a measured load, an effective load, a working load, and / or a total load, as well as the associated load centers. The load determination unit 104 can determine the desired load and / or the load center of gravity throughout the entire operation of the operating table 10, i.e., the load determination unit 104 can measure the values ​​for the load and / or the load center of gravity before the patient is placed on the patient support device 18 and also after the patient has been placed on the operating table 10. Furthermore, the load determination unit 104 can determine the corresponding values ​​when accessories are added to the operating table 10 or the operating table 10 is adjusted to position the patient for a surgical procedure.

[0113] In order to adequately process and analyze the supplied force values, the load determination unit 104 requires some data on the geometry and masses or weights of the operating table 10 and the accessories. This data is stored in the data storage unit 110 and is made available to the load determination unit 104 via a signal 122. In particular, information on the masses and centers of gravity of the individual components of the operating table 10 and the accessories can be extracted from this data. The data storage unit 110 can be expanded via a connectivity module of the operating table 10.

[0114] The load determination unit 104 generates a signal 124 as an output signal, which contains information about the determined loads and load centers. This information is transmitted to the safety unit 106, where all available data is analyzed, including the loads, centers of gravity, and the position data of the operating table 10 and the accessories detected by the operating table 10.

[0115] The safety unit 106 decides whether the operating table 10 is safe or whether it is in a dangerous situation. The safety unit 106 generates a safety signal 126 indicating whether the operating table 10 is in a safety-critical condition. A safety-critical condition may exist, for example, if there is a risk that the operating table 10 will tip over or that individual components of the operating table 10 will be overloaded.

[0116] Depending on the severity of the detected situation, the algorithm reacts accordingly. For example, the operating table 10 can either simply issue a warning or stop the movement. The warnings can be issued via an acoustic or visual signal from the operating table 10 or in text form via the remote control. The measures can vary from slowing the movement speed to stopping the movement to blocking certain functionalities, and can continue until a state is reached in which the operating table 10 is safe again.

[0117] It may be provided that the safety functions can be deactivated by the operator at any time and the movement of the operating table 10 can be continued at the operator's own risk.

[0118] Since the system is designed to reliably detect critical situations, it also features a monitoring and calibration unit 108. This software module checks the plausibility of the measured values ​​and detects whether the system is malfunctioning or whether calibration or taring is necessary. The monitoring and calibration unit 108 generates corresponding output signals 128, 130, which are transmitted to the load determination unit 104 and the components 112 of the operating table 10, respectively.

[0119] The components 112 of the operating table 10 continuously generate position data, data for the settings of individual components, and information about the accessories detected by the operating table 10. This data is provided to the system via a signal 132.

[0120] Furthermore, the system 100 is designed to provide the operator with information about the limitations that the operating table 10 is likely to be subject to when the patient is on the operating table 10, even before the patient is placed on the patient support device 18.

[0121] In order for the system 100 to determine the constraints without the patient being on the operating table 10, information about the patient's weight must be provided to the system 100. An operator can enter this information into the input unit 114, which is integrated, for example, into a remote control used to control the operating table 10.

[0122] TI Furthermore, the patient weight information can also be received electronically by interface 115. The patient weight information can, for example, be stored in a database and transmitted from there to system 100 via interface 115.

[0123] The patient weight information entered by the operator into the input unit 114 or received by the interface 115 is fed to the evaluation unit 117 integrated into the safety unit 106.

[0124] Based on the patient weight information, the evaluation unit 117 determines the limitations to which the operating table 10 is subject during subsequent operation with the patient positioned on the patient support device 18. The evaluation unit 117 determines the limitations by simulating movements of the operating table 10 with the patient positioned thereon. The evaluation unit 117 can determine the limitations even before the patient is placed on the patient support device 18.

[0125] The restrictions can be displayed on the display unit 116. For this purpose, the evaluation unit 117 transmits a signal 134 to the display unit 116 containing the restrictions determined by the evaluation unit 117. The restrictions can be displayed on the display unit 116 before the patient is placed on the patient support device 18. The information displayed on the display unit 116 informs the operator of the operating table 10 about the restrictions the operating table 10 is subject to during the upcoming procedure.

[0126] The display unit 116 can display information about the restrictions to which the operating table 10 is subject during operation in text form and / or graphically. The display unit 116 is integrated into the remote control of the operating table 10, for example in the form of a display. In addition, the display unit 116 can also have a monitor installed in the operating room that constantly shows the operator during operation which restrictions apply to the operating table 10. The evaluation unit 117 or another unit of the safety unit 106 can control the individual components of the operating table 10, in particular the patient support device 18 and the operating table column 16, during operation of the operating table 10 such that the restrictions are observed.For example, movements of the operating table 10 that would exceed the permissible ranges can be prevented and / or warnings can be generated indicating that permissible ranges are being left.

[0127] The evaluation unit 116 may use additional information in addition to the patient weight information to determine the limitations on the operation of the operating table 10. This information includes information about the identity and / or configuration of the patient support device 18 and the accessories attached to the operating table 10.

[0128] The detection unit 118 is designed to determine which accessories are attached to the operating table 10 and in particular to the patient support device 18. To detect the accessories, signals can be transmitted from the accessories to the detection unit 118. The signals can contain information about the respective accessories, allowing the detection unit 118 to identify the respective accessory. The signals used to detect the accessories can be, for example, electrical or optical signals or radio signals. As a result, the detection unit 118 can determine, in particular, which support surface sections are connected to one another and in which order, and which other accessories are attached to the operating table 10.

[0129] The detection unit 118 informs the evaluation unit 117 about which accessories are attached to the operating table 10 and in particular to the patient support device 18. Furthermore, the evaluation unit 117 can read data on the geometry and the masses or weights and centers of gravity of the accessories from the data memory 110. The evaluation unit 117 uses this information, in addition to the weight information, to simulate the movements of the operating table 10 and to determine the limitations on the operation of the operating table 10 from the simulations. In some embodiments, at least one drive can be provided for moving at least part of the patient support device 18 relative to other parts of the system 100 and / or relative to another part of the patient support device 18.

[0130] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates various loads that the load determination unit 104 can determine based on the data received from the load sensor unit 102. In particular, the load determination unit 104 can determine a measured load, an effective load, a total load, and a working load.

[0131] The measurement load, designated by reference numeral 140 in Fig. 3, is the load acting on the load sensor assembly 102. The measurement load corresponds to the load generated by all persons, objects, and forces acting on the operating table 10 above the load sensors. The measurement load corresponds to the load value measured by the load sensor assembly 102, which may be arranged in the operating table column 16.

[0132] The effective load 142 corresponds to the load caused by components not assigned to the operating table 10, as well as people and external forces, and which acts on the operating table 10. The influence of the components assigned to the operating table 10 and detected accessories is not taken into account in the effective load. Only the remaining components of the operating table 10 contribute to the effective load, i.e., the components not assigned to the operating table 10. These can be, for example, accessories that are not detected by the operating table 10. Furthermore, the patient on the operating table 10 contributes to the effective load. All external forces acting on the operating table 10, which are exerted on the operating table 10, for example, by people and / or objects outside the operating table 10, also contribute to the effective load.The effective load is basically the measuring load without the influence of known objects such as table top parts, detected accessories, etc.

[0133] The total load 144 is the load resulting from the measured load and from a load caused by components assigned to the operating table 10 and located below the load sensor assembly 102. The total load therefore takes into account loads from components located below the load sensor assembly 102 that cannot be measured by the load sensor assembly 102 and therefore do not contribute to the measured load. The total load is therefore the load resulting from the entire operating table 10, the patient, the components assigned to the operating table 10, the components not assigned to the operating table 10, and other external forces.

[0134] Furthermore, a working load can be defined, which is composed of the patient's weight and the weight of the accessories used. The working load can include the weight of the patient support device 18, which is composed of individual accessories.

[0135] Fig. 4 shows a flowchart 200 illustrating various steps for determining and displaying the limitations applicable to the operation of the operating table 10. The steps described below may be performed before the patient is placed on the patient support device 18.

[0136] In a step 201, the operator initiates the execution of the method for determining and displaying the restrictions by pressing the corresponding input key of a remote control 150.

[0137] In a step 202, the operator is prompted by a corresponding display on the display of the remote control 150 to enter the weight of the patient who is to be placed on the patient support device 18 into the remote control 150.

[0138] In a step 203, the operator enters the patient's weight into the remote control 150. Furthermore, it may be provided that the operator enters the center of gravity or the approximate lying position that the patient will later assume on the operating table 10 into the remote control 150.

[0139] In a step 204, the remote control 150 transmits the patient's weight and, if applicable, the center of gravity or the lying position of the patient to the evaluation unit 117. Furthermore, the remote control 150 causes the evaluation unit 117 to perform a preliminary check of the operating table 10 and to determine the restrictions applicable during operation of the operating table 10.

[0140] In a step 205, the detection unit 118 determines which accessories 151 are attached to the operating table 10. This information is transmitted to the evaluation unit 117. Furthermore, the evaluation unit 117 can obtain further information about the accessories 151, in particular their masses and / or centers of gravity, from the data storage unit 110.

[0141] In a step 206, the evaluation unit 117 simulates movements of the operating table 10, taking into account the patient weight entered by the operator into the remote control 150 and the accessories 151 detected by the detection unit 118, as well as, if applicable, the center of gravity or the lying position of the patient. In particular, the simulation can check whether a tipping risk or overload risk exceeds a respective predetermined threshold value in one or more specific positions that the operating table 10 can assume during operation. A movement is simulated for each joint around which a movement can be performed, and a check is carried out to determine in which area of ​​the joint a movement is not permitted because this would be impossible due to the patient weight and / or the center of gravity or the lying position.the patient's lying position could, for example, result in an increased risk of tipping or overloading of at least one component of the operating table 10. Furthermore, it can be checked how far the patient support device 18 can be displaced longitudinally or laterally without the tipping risk or the overload risk exceeding the respective predetermined threshold value. Similarly, all possible movements of the operating table 10 and / or the patient support device 18 can be mathematically checked. Areas with an increased risk of tipping and / or overloading can be excluded by determining lower and upper limits for each joint. This defines the restrictions on the operation of the operating table 10. The simulation of the movements of the joints and other components of the operating table 10 in step 206 can consist of individual steps.Each step can refer to a specific position of the operating table 10, i.e., a specific position of the joints. In each position, a computational check can be performed to determine whether the tipping risk or the overload risk exceeds the respective predefined threshold. A further position of the operating table 10 is then checked. The method is performed iteratively. Step 206 therefore consists of a plurality of iteratively performed individual steps. In Fig. 4, the iterative execution of the simulation is indicated by reference numeral 207.

[0142] In step 208, the evaluation unit 117 transmits the restrictions to the remote control 150.

[0143] In step 209, the remote control 150 presents the restrictions to the operator on the display of the remote control 150.

[0144] The following describes exemplary algorithms that the evaluation unit 117 uses to simulate the movements of the operating table 10 and to determine in which positions there is an increased risk of tipping and / or overloading.

[0145] Figs. 5A and 5B show the operating table 10 from the side and from the front, respectively. In Fig. 5A, the operating table 10 is in the lowered or locked position, i.e., the base 14 rests on the floor, so that the operating table 10 cannot be moved. In this position, the lower side edges of the base 14, which face the floor, represent tilting points 310 about which the operating table 10 can tilt.

[0146] In Fig. 5B, the operating table 10 is in the unlocked position, i.e., the operating table 10 rests on casters 312 and can be moved along the floor. In this position, possible tipping points 310 are provided by the casters 312.

[0147] In principle, the operating table 10 is stable as long as the center of gravity COG of the total load lies within the contact area of ​​the tipping points 310, i.e., directly above an area bounded by the tipping points 310. This situation is illustrated in Fig. 6A. However, if the center of gravity COG of the total load is not directly above the contact area of ​​the tipping points 310, as shown in Fig. 6B, the operating table 10 could tip over.

[0148] The evaluation unit 117 can determine a residual tilting moment M rat a tipping point 310 by multiplying the distance xi between the tipping point 310 and the center of gravity COG of the total load by the total load. The total load and the center of gravity COG of the total load are calculated by the evaluation unit 117 based on the patient weight entered by the operator into the remote control 150, as well as the masses and centers of gravity of the detected accessories 151 and the other components of the operating table 10 and, if applicable, the center of gravity or the lying position of the patient. In Figs. 6A and 6B, a force vector F is shown as the total load and also the distance xi between the force vector F and the tipping point 310. For the residual tipping moment M r applies M r = F * xi. A positive value for the residual tilting moment M r means that the operating table 10 is stable with respect to this tipping point 310 (see Fig. 6A). As the distance xi decreases, the residual tipping moment M ralso smaller and the operating table 10 becomes less stable. If the residual tilting moment M r is negative, which means that the center of gravity COG and the force vector F are not directly above the area defined by the tipping points 310, the operating table 10 tips over (see Fig. 6B). The larger the value of the residual tipping moment M r is, the more stable the operating table 10 is. A residual tipping moment threshold is specified, which, for example, has a value of 225 Nm. This means that the residual tipping moment should not be less than 225 Nm. If the residual tipping moment threshold is undershot, the operating table 10 should not be moved to this position. The evaluation unit 117 sets the restrictions such that positions of the operating table 10 with a risk of tipping are not within the permissible range for the operation of the operating table 10.

[0149] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 117 can determine a respective residual tipping moment for all possible tipping points and compare these residual tipping moments with the residual tipping moment threshold. If, for a position of the operating table 10, only one of the tipping moments falls below the residual tipping moment threshold, the evaluation unit 117 can determine that there is an increased risk of tipping in this position of the operating table 10 and that the operating table 10 must not assume this position during operation.

[0150] A further embodiment for determining the tipping risk is based on the stability requirements of standard 60601-1. Standard 60601-1 stipulates that the operating table 10 must remain stable at an inclination of 5 degrees under all circumstances of its intended use, and that it must remain stable at an inclination of 10 degrees only for the defined transport position. This requirement can be implemented as a virtual 5-degree line 320 at each tipping point and a 10-degree line 322 at each tipping point with a caster 312, as shown in Fig. 7. The angles of 5 and 10 degrees can be referred to as stability angles. Therefore, in some embodiments, there is a first stability angle when the operating table 10 is directly on the floor and a second, larger stability angle when the operating table 10 is in a transport position on casters or wheels.

[0151] The stability angles (of, for example, 5 or 10 degrees) are determined using a predefined normal vector 324. The normal vector 324 can, for example, be defined by the base plate of the stand 14 or the patient support device 18 in the normal position, i.e., in the non-extended position. The normal vector 324 is oriented perpendicular to the base plate of the stand 14 or perpendicular to the patient support device 18 in the normal position. Instead of the 5 or 10 degree stability angle with the normal vector 324, other suitable stability angles can also be selected for the virtual lines 320, 322.

[0152] If, in a simulated position of the operating table 10, the center of gravity (COG) of the total load violates one of the virtual 5-degree lines 320, i.e., crosses it, the evaluation unit 117 determines that the operating table 10 may not assume this position during operation. If one of the virtual 10-degree lines 322 is exceeded by the center of gravity (COG), the evaluation unit 117 can block the motorized transport function of the operating table 10 in this position. A three-dimensional space is defined by the virtual 5-degree lines 320 and the virtual 10-degree lines 322, respectively. Typically, the "walls" of the three-dimensional space slope inward as one moves further upward from the base of the operating table 10, so that the center of gravity (COG) is more laterally restricted at a higher center of gravity (COG) than at a lower center of gravity (COG) closer to the floor.The inward inclination of the "walls" of the three-dimensional space is determined by the stability angle. In one embodiment, the evaluation unit 117 can determine a tipping risk if the center of gravity (COG) of the total load leaves one of the defined spaces.

[0153] Accessories are generally approved for use with a specific maximum patient weight. During the simulation, the evaluation unit 117 checks whether the predicted weight does not exceed the weight limit for the accessory. If the weight limit of the operating table 10 or the accessory is exceeded in a simulation, the evaluation unit 117 can include the corresponding position of the operating table 10 in the restrictions.

[0154] The operating table 10 shown in Fig. 8 has, as accessories, a head section 402, a leg section 404, and several extension sections 406, which are connected to a main table section 408 in the illustrated configuration. A maximum load capacity is indicated for each of the accessories in Fig. 8. The head section 402 has a maximum load capacity of 250 kg, the leg section 404 has a maximum load capacity of 135 kg, each of the extension sections 406 has a maximum load capacity of 454 kg, and the entire operating table 10 has a maximum load capacity of 545 kg. The evaluation unit 117 checks whether any of the components are overloaded.

[0155] The accessory may also be overloaded if the configuration in which the accessories are connected to each other is not suitable for the applied load. For example, as shown in Fig. 9, three extension sections 406 can be cascaded in series. Although each of the extension sections 406 is individually suitable for a load of 454 kg, a combination 410 of three extension sections 406 is only suitable for 155 kg. Therefore, in some embodiments, the allowable weight for the table configuration is determined by considering a plurality of extension sections 406 connected to the operating table, with the addition of further extension sections 406 reducing the allowable weight for the table configuration overall compared to configurations with fewer extension sections 406.

[0156] The evaluation unit 117 checks in which positions of the operating table 10 the predicted effective load exceeds the permissible weight for the configuration 410 by simulating the positions of the operating table 10. If the permissible weight is exceeded in one or more of the positions, the evaluation unit 117 can add the corresponding positions of the operating table 10 to the restrictions.

[0157] It is also conceivable that an overload situation is caused by a specific positioning of the patient. For example, Fig. 10A shows the case where the patient is sitting on the head section 402 and the center of gravity of the entire patient is above the head section 402. Although the accessory 402 is suitable for use with patients weighing 380 kg, the accessory 402 is only intended as a headrest, i.e., sitting on it is not permitted. To prevent the patient from assuming such a position, the remote control display can indicate to the operator that the patient is not permitted to assume certain positions on the patient support device 18.

[0158] It is also possible for the operator to enter a specific patient position into the remote control that the patient will assume on the patient support device 18 during the procedure. The evaluation unit 117 takes the patient position into account when determining the effective load and / or the center of gravity of the effective load.

[0159] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 117 can also determine overload risks for specific sections or areas of the patient support device 18. In Fig. 10A, the patient support device 18 is divided into different areas, for which maximum load capacities of 155 kg, 250 kg, and 550 kg apply, respectively. The evaluation unit 117 checks in which area the predicted center of gravity of the active load is located and compares the active load with the overload threshold value specified for this area, i.e., the maximum load capacity. If the active load exceeds the maximum load capacity specified for this area, the evaluation unit 117 can include the corresponding position of the operating table 10 in the restrictions.

[0160] Fig. 10B shows an alternative embodiment compared to Fig. 10A. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 10B, the front part of the patient support device 18 comprising the head section 402 is not divided into different regions, each with a constant overload threshold value; instead, a straight line 420 is provided that extends along the front part of the patient support device 18. The straight line 420 specifies a respective overload threshold value for each point on the front part of the patient support device 18. The overload threshold value becomes smaller towards the head end of the patient support device 18. The straight line 420 is defined by F / Mwelding value, where F is the force at the center of gravity COG of the active load and Mwelding value is a constant.

[0161] The evaluation unit 117 checks the location of the active load's center of gravity on the patient support device 18 and compares the active load with the overload threshold value specified for this location. If the active load exceeds the maximum load-bearing capacity specified for this area, the evaluation unit 117 can modify the restrictions displayed to the operator such that the corresponding position of the operating table 10 may not be approached.

[0162] Another overload situation occurs when the drives of the operating table 10 are overloaded and the operating table 10 cannot return to its original position. As an example, Fig. 11 shows an extreme longitudinal displacement and Trendelenburg position in combination with a heavy patient. This may be a position from which the operating table 10 cannot return to its original position because the drives for the longitudinal displacement and the Trendelenburg drives are overloaded. In particular, the Trendelenburg drives cannot generate the torque required by the force F gemeasure. Furthermore, the drives for longitudinal displacement cannot generate the longitudinal force Fiongitudinai. The evaluation unit 117 can determine the load of each drive based on the measuring load and / or the center of gravity of the measuring load. Each drive has a load limit that should not be exceeded. If this limit is exceeded, the operator is notified on the remote control 150 that the operating table 10 may not assume the corresponding position.

[0163] Exemplary embodiments and variants in accordance with the present disclosure are described in the following list of items and options:

[0164] Item 1: System (100) for determining and displaying restrictions on the operation of an operating table (10), the system (100) comprising: a patient support device (18), in particular a surgical patient support device (18), for attachment to an operating table column (16) of an operating table (10), a display unit (116) for displaying information about restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10), an input unit (114) for inputting information about the weight of a patient and / or an interface (115) for receiving electronic patient weight information from outside the system (100), and an evaluation unit (117) which is designed to determine restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) based at least on the patient weight, and to display the restrictions on the display unit (116) before the patient is placed on the patient support device (18).

[0165] Item 2: System (100) according to item 1, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines the limitations on the operation of the operating table (10) based on an identification and / or configuration of the patient support device (18).

[0166] Item 3: System (100) according to item 1 or 2, further comprising a detection unit (118) for detecting accessories attached to the operating table (10) and in particular to the patient support device (18). Item 4: System (100) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines the limitations on the operation of the operating table (10) based on accessories (151) attached to the operating table (10) and in particular to the patient support device (18).

[0167] Item 5: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the input unit

[0168] (114) and / or the interface (115) are designed in such a way that a planned position which the patient is to assume on the patient support device (18) and / or a planned center of gravity of the patient on the patient support device (18) is input into the input unit (114) and / or from the interface

[0169] (115) can be received.

[0170] Item 6: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) on the basis of a planned position that the patient is to assume on the patient support device (18) and / or a planned center of gravity of the patient on the patient support device (18).

[0171] Item 7: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the display unit

[0172] (116) is provided in a remote control (150) or a screen that is physically separate from the patient support device (18), and / or wherein the input unit (114) is provided in a remote control (150).

[0173] Item 8: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) relate to the movement of the patient support device (18), in particular the movement of the entire patient support device (18) and / or the separate movement of at least one segment of the patient support device (18), and / or the movement of the operating table column (16). Item 9: System (100) according to one of items 1 to 7, wherein the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) relate to the separate movement of at least one segment of the patient support device (18) and / or the movement of the operating table column (16).

[0174] Item 10: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) are characterized at least by areas within which the operating table (10), in particular the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) may be moved.

[0175] Item 11: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) comprise one or more of the following restrictions: restrictions on the selection of axes about which movement of the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) is possible, restrictions on the range within which the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) is movable about an axis, restrictions on the speed at which the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) is movable about an axis, restrictions on tilting the patient support device (18), restrictions on edging the patient support device (18), restrictions on the longitudinal displacement of the patient support device (18),Restrictions on the lateral displacement of the patient support device (18), restrictions on the height adjustment of the patient support device (18), restrictions on the extension of the castors of the operating table (10) and / or restrictions on the motorized transport of the operating table (10).

[0176] Item 12: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the evaluation unit

[0177] (117) the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) are determined in such a way that tipping over of the operating table (10) and / or overloading of the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) are prevented.

[0178] Item 13: System (100) according to item 12, wherein the overload of the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) comprises at least one of the following overloads: an overload of structural parts of the accessories attached to the operating table (10) and in particular the patient support device (18), and / or the operating table (10), wherein the overload can lead to the structural parts bending or breaking, and an overload of motorized joints of the operating table (10), which cannot be moved or can only be moved to a limited extent due to the overload.

[0179] Item 14: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines for several positions that the operating table (10) can assume during a predetermined movement whether a restriction in the respective position is necessary, in particular whether there is a risk of the operating table (10) tipping over and / or a risk of overloading the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10).

[0180] Item 15: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines a residual tipping moment related to a predetermined tipping point for a plurality of positions that the operating table (10) can assume during a predetermined movement, and the evaluation unit (117) determines a tipping risk for one of the positions if the residual tipping moment in this position falls below a predetermined residual tipping moment threshold value, wherein in particular the display unit (116) displays information about at least one restriction in the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of a tipping risk for one or more of the plurality of positions of the operating table (10).Item 16: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines the position of a load center of the operating table (10) with reference to at least one predetermined virtual line for a plurality of positions which the operating table (10) can assume during a predetermined movement, and the evaluation unit (117) determines a tipping risk for one of the positions if the load center of the operating table (10) passes through the at least one virtual line in this position, wherein in particular the display unit.

[0181] (116) displays information about at least one limitation on the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of a tipping risk for one or more of the plurality of positions of the operating table (10).

[0182] Item 17: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the evaluation unit

[0183] (117) determines, based on the patient's weight and / or the patient's center of gravity, whether there is a risk of overloading the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10).

[0184] Item 18: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the evaluation unit (117) compares a load acting on the operating table (10) and / or the patient support device (18) with at least one predetermined overload threshold value and determines that there is a risk of overloading the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) if the load exceeds the at least one overload threshold value, wherein the at least one overload threshold value is specific to the operating table (10) and / or the at least one component.

[0185] Item 19: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein at least a part of the patient support device (18) is virtually divided into a plurality of areas and an overload threshold is predetermined for each area, and wherein the evaluation unit (117) checks in which area the center of gravity of a load acting on the operating table (10) and / or the patient support device (18) is located and determines an overload risk if the load exceeds the overload threshold predetermined for this area, wherein in particular the display unit (116) displays information about at least one restriction in the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of an overload risk.

[0186] Item 20: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, further comprising at least one drive for moving the operating table (10), wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines a load acting on the at least one drive based on the patient's weight and / or the patient's center of gravity and determines an overload risk if the load exceeds at least one predetermined overload threshold value that is specific to the at least one drive, wherein in particular the display unit (116) displays information about at least one restriction in the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of an overload risk.

[0187] Item 21: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the patient weight information is input into the input unit (114) or received from the interface (115) before the patient is placed on the patient support device (18), and wherein the evaluation unit (117) simulates the movements of the operating table (10) with the patient placed thereon before the patient is placed on the patient support device (18).

[0188] Item 22: System (100) according to one of the preceding items, wherein the evaluation unit (117) is designed to determine the limitations in the operation of the operating table (10) based on at least the patient weight by simulating movements of the operating table (10) with the patient supported thereon. Item 23: Method for determining and displaying limitations in the operation of an operating table (10), wherein

[0189] Information about the weight of a patient is entered into an input unit (114) and / or electronic patient weight information is received at an interface (115);

[0190] Restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) are determined based at least on the patient's weight; and the restrictions are displayed on a display unit (116) before the patient is placed on a patient support device (18), in particular a surgical patient support device (18).

Claims

Claims System (100) for determining and displaying restrictions on the operation of an operating table (10), wherein the system (100) comprises: a patient support device (18), in particular a surgical patient support device (18), for attachment to an operating table column (16) of an operating table (10), a display unit (116) for displaying information about restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10), an input unit (114) for inputting information about the weight of a patient and / or an interface (115) for receiving electronic patient weight information from outside the system (100), and an evaluation unit (117) which is designed to determine restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) based at least on the patient weight, and to display the restrictions on the display unit (116) before the patient is placed on the patient support device (18).The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) based on an identification and / or configuration of the patient support device (18). The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a detection unit (118) for detecting accessories attached to the operating table (10) and in particular to the patient support device (18). The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) based on accessories (151) attached to the operating table (10) and in particular to the patient support device (18). System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the input unit (114) and / or the interface (115) are configured such that a planned position that the patient is to assume on the patient support device (18) and / or a planned center of gravity of the patient on the patient support device (18) can be input into the input unit (114) and / or received from the interface (115). System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) based on a planned position that the patient is to assume on the patient support device (18) and / or a planned center of gravity of the patient on the patient support device (18).System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the display unit (116) is provided in a remote control (150) or a screen that is physically separate from the patient support device (18), and / or wherein the input unit (114) is provided in a remote control (150). System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) relate to the movement of the patient support device (18), in particular the movement of the entire patient support device (18) and / or the separate movement of at least one segment of the patient support device (18), and / or the movement of the operating table column (16). System (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) relate to the separate movement of at least one segment of the patient support device (18) and / or the movement of the operating table column (16). System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) are characterized at least by ranges within which the operating table (10), in particular the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18), may be moved. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) comprise one or more of the following restrictions: restrictions on the selection of axes about which a movement of the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) is possible, restrictions on the range within which the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) is movable about an axis, restrictions on speed,with which the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) is movable about an axis, restrictions on tilting the patient support device (18), restrictions on edging the patient support device (18), restrictions on the longitudinal displacement of the patient support device (18), restrictions on the lateral displacement of the patient support device (18), restrictions on the height adjustment of the patient support device (18), restrictions on extending the casters of the operating table (10), and / or restrictions on the motorized transport of the operating table (10). System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines the restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) in such a way that tipping of the operating table (10) and / or overloading of the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) are prevented.The system (100) according to claim 12, wherein the overload of the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) comprises at least one of the following overloads: an overload of structural parts of the accessories attached to the operating table (10) and in particular the patient support device (18), and / or the operating table (10), wherein the overload can cause the structural parts to bend or break, and an overload of motorized joints of the operating table (10), which cannot be moved or can only be moved to a limited extent due to the overload.System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines for a plurality of positions that the operating table (10) can assume during a predetermined movement whether a restriction in the respective position is necessary, in particular whether there is a risk of the operating table (10) tipping over and / or a risk of overloading the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10).System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines a residual tipping moment related to a predetermined tipping point for a plurality of positions that the operating table (10) can assume during a predetermined movement, and the evaluation unit (117) determines a tipping risk for one of the positions if the residual tipping moment in this position falls below a predetermined residual tipping moment threshold value, wherein in particular the display unit (116) displays information about at least one restriction in the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of a tipping risk for one or more of the plurality of positions of the operating table (10). System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines the position of a load center of the operating table (10) for a plurality of positions that the operating table (10) can assume during a predetermined movement. Operating table (10) with reference to at least one predetermined virtual line, and the evaluation unit (117) determines a tipping risk for one of the positions when the load center of the operating table (10) passes through the at least one virtual line in this position, wherein in particular the display unit (116) displays information about at least one restriction in the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of a tipping risk for one or more of the plurality of positions of the operating table (10). System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines, based on the patient's weight and / or the patient's center of gravity, whether there is an overload risk for the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10).System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (117) compares a load acting on the operating table (10) and / or the patient support device (18) with at least one predetermined overload threshold value and determines that there is a risk of overload for the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) if the load exceeds the at least one overload threshold value, wherein the at least one overload threshold value is specific to the operating table (10) and / or the at least one component.System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a part of the patient support device (18) is virtually divided into a plurality of areas and an overload threshold value is predetermined for each area, and wherein the evaluation unit (117) checks in which area the center of gravity of a load acting on the operating table (10) and / or the patient support device (18) is located and determines an overload risk if the load exceeds the overload threshold value predetermined for this area, wherein in particular the display unit (116) provides information about at least one. Indicates a restriction in the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of an overload risk.System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one drive for moving the operating table (10), in particular for moving at least a part of the patient support device (18) relative to other parts of the system (100), further in particular for moving at least a part of the patient support device (18) relative to another part of the patient support device (18), wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines a load acting on the at least one drive based on the patient's weight and / or the patient's center of gravity and establishes an overload risk if the load exceeds at least one predetermined overload threshold value that is specific to the at least one drive, wherein in particular the display unit (116) displays information about at least one restriction in the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of an overload risk.The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the patient weight information is input into the input unit (114) or received from the interface (115) before the patient is placed on the patient support device (18), and wherein the evaluation unit (117) simulates the movements of the operating table (10) with the patient supported thereon before the patient is placed on the patient support device (18). The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (117) is configured to determine the limitations on the operation of the operating table (10) based at least on the patient weight by simulating movements of the operating table (10) with the patient supported thereon. Method for determining and displaying limitations in the operation of an operating table (10), wherein Information about the weight of a patient is entered into an input unit (114) and / or electronic patient weight information is received at an interface (115); Restrictions on the operation of the operating table (10) are determined based at least on the patient's weight; and the restrictions are displayed on a display unit (116) before the patient is placed on a patient support device (18), in particular a surgical patient support device (18).

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