Hand-control device for controlling operation of injection system

Abstract

To provide a hand-control device configured to control various operational aspects of an injection system.SOLUTION: A hand-control device 113 includes one or more input components that receive input to control various operations of an injection system, the operations including: commanding the injection to perform a particular operation; changing an operational aspect of the injection system; and selecting an operational mode for the injection system. A communication unit of the hand-control device generates and conveys a signal for the injection system, and receives a command signal from the injection system. An output component outputs an indication, such as a light emission, a sound, or haptic feedback, in response to receiving the command signal. In some instances, this indication functions as a confirmation or failure of the intended input.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to fluid injection systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Many medical imaging procedures, such as angiography, involve the injection of a contrast fluid into a patient. Angiography is a procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions of the circulatory system, including abnormalities or restrictions in blood vessels. During angiography, radiological images of the heart or vascular structures are obtained by injecting a contrast fluid into a patient's blood vessels (e.g., coronary arteries) through a catheter. The injected contrast fluid is able to pass through vascular structures that are in fluid communication with the blood vessel into which it is injected. X-rays are directed at the area of ​​the body into which the contrast fluid is injected. The X-rays are absorbed by the contrast fluid, forming a radiographic outline or image of the blood vessels containing the contrast fluid. Contrast injection can also be used in conjunction with other medical procedures, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging, computed tomography (CT) imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and interventional device procedures / placement. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally, the present disclosure describes a handheld control device configured to control various operational aspects of an infusion system. In some instances, conventional handheld controls may be limited to two buttons, thereby limiting functionality. Consistent with conventional designs, the handheld control devices described herein may include two buttons, but may incorporate additional technology to provide the handheld control device with additional functionality.

[0004] For example, to facilitate two-way communication between the handheld controller and the infusion system, the handheld controller may be further configured to transmit an infusion system command signal to the infusion system and then receive a controller command signal from the infusion system that indicates a change made to the operational aspect of the infusion system. This indication may be visual (e.g., a light), tactile (e.g., a vibration), or audible (e.g., a sound).

[0005] In another example, rather than having two buttons perform specific functions, the handheld control device can instead assign a mode selection operation to a first input component and an action to a second input component. In this manner, the operator can toggle between any number of modes using the mode selection input component before instructing the infusion system to perform the action associated with the selected mode.

[0006] In yet another example, rather than requiring a second press of the operation button to abort the refill operation and initiate the delivery operation, the hand control device can detect, via a motion detection module and / or touch module, when the user picks up the hand control device (e.g., when the user touches a button or the hand control device itself). If this motion or contact is detected, the hand control device can issue a command to stop the refill operation. Conversely, if the hand control device has not been moved or touched for a threshold time, the hand control device can issue a command to resume or initiate the refill operation.

[0007] Implementing a handheld controller as described herein into an infusion system provides several advantages. For example, rather than forcing a user to use a separate touchscreen to perform additional control functions, the handheld controller described herein can control additional functions without increasing the number of input components present on the handheld controller. Additionally, providing feedback on the handheld controller allows the user of the handheld controller to remain focused on the patient and the action being performed, rather than being distracted by another system that the user must analyze to determine if the appropriate action was completed. Furthermore, automatically pausing a refill operation in response to detecting movement of the handheld controller can reduce the amount of explicit input the user must provide to the handheld controller, thereby improving the efficiency of the refill operation and the durability of the handheld controller itself. Similarly, by automatically resuming a refill operation or automatically initiating a refill operation in response to detecting a lack of movement or contact, various fluid reservoirs used by the infusion system can be refilled at the most efficient and effective time, ensuring that fluid is available when needed by the operator of the infusion system.

[0008] Additionally, and importantly, the operator of the handheld control must be sterile. However, the touchscreen of the infusion system is not sterile. As a result, the operator, such as a cardiologist, must either instruct another person, who is not a trained cardiologist, on the actions that must be performed by the infusion system through the touchscreen, or the cardiologist must perform the functions on the touchscreen himself through a sterile drape, which can be cumbersome. Adding functionality to the handheld control significantly increases the amount of functionality that the operator can control personally and without the need for drape contact, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the overall infusion system.

[0009] In one example, the present disclosure relates to a method for controlling an infusion system using a handheld control device. The method includes receiving, by the handheld control device, a user input at an input component of the handheld control device. The method also includes generating, by the handheld control device, an infusion system command signal in response to receiving the user input, transmitting, by the handheld control device, the infusion system command signal to the infusion system, and receiving, by the handheld control device, a controller command signal from the infusion system. The method further includes outputting, by the handheld control device, an indication in response to receiving the controller command signal from the infusion system.

[0010] In another example, the present disclosure relates to a handheld control device for an infusion system. The handheld control device includes a controller body sized to be held in one hand of a user. The handheld control device also includes an input component located on the controller body, where the input component is configured to receive user input. The handheld control device further includes a communication unit configured to, in response to the input component receiving the user input, generate infusion system command signals, communicate the infusion system command signals to the infusion system, and receive controller command signals from the infusion system. The handheld control device also includes an output component located on the controller body, where the output component is configured to output an indication in response to the communication unit receiving the controller command signals from the infusion system.

[0011] In another example, the present disclosure relates to a computer-readable medium including instructions for controlling an infusion system using a handheld control device. The instructions cause one or more processors to receive user input from an input component of the handheld control device. In response to receiving the user input, the instructions further cause the one or more processors to: generate an infusion system command signal, communicate the infusion system command signal to the infusion system, and receive a controller command signal from the infusion system. The instructions also further cause the one or more processors to output an indication in response to receiving the controller command signal from the infusion system.

[0012] In another example, the present disclosure relates to a method for controlling an infusion system using a handheld control device. The method includes receiving, by the handheld control device, a user input identifying an infusion system operating mode, the input being received at a first input component of the handheld control device. The method also includes, in response to receiving the user input at the first input component, the following steps: generating, by the handheld control device, an infusion mode selection signal corresponding to the identified infusion system operating mode, and communicating, by the handheld control device, the infusion mode selection signal to the infusion system. The method further includes receiving, by the handheld control device, a user input identifying an operational command, the user input being received at a second input component of the handheld control device. The method also includes, in response to receiving the user input at the second input component, the following steps: generating, by the handheld control device, an infusion command signal corresponding to the identified operational command, and communicating, by the handheld control device, the infusion command signal to the infusion system.

[0013] In another example, the present disclosure relates to a handheld control device for an infusion system. The handheld control device includes a controller body sized to be held in one hand of a user. The handheld control device also includes a first input component located on the controller body, where the first input component is configured to receive a user input identifying an infusion system operation mode. The handheld control device further includes a communication unit configured, in response to the first input component receiving the user input, to: generate an infusion mode selection signal corresponding to the identified infusion system operation mode and communicate the infusion mode selection signal to the infusion system. The handheld control device also includes a second input component located on the controller body, where the second input component is configured to receive a user input identifying an operation command for the identified infusion system operation mode. The communication unit is further configured, in response to the second input component receiving the user input, to: generate an infusion command signal corresponding to the identified operation command and communicate the infusion command signal to the infusion system.

[0014] In another example, the present disclosure relates to a computer-readable medium including instructions for controlling an infusion system using a handheld control device. The instructions cause one or more processors to receive user input identifying an infusion system operating mode, the input received from a first input component of the handheld control device. In response to receiving the user input at the first input component, the instructions further cause the one or more processors to: generate an infusion mode selection signal corresponding to the identified infusion system operating mode, and communicate the infusion mode selection signal to the infusion system. The instructions also cause the one or more processors to receive user input identifying an operational command, the user input received from a second input component of the handheld control device. In response to receiving the user input at the second input component, the instructions further cause the one or more processors to: generate an infusion command signal corresponding to the identified operational command, and communicate the infusion command signal to the infusion system.

[0015] In another example, the present disclosure relates to a method for controlling an infusion system using a handheld control device. The method includes receiving, by the handheld control device, a user input at an input component of the handheld control device. The method also includes, in response to receiving the user input, the following steps: generating, by the handheld control device, a first infusion system command signal; and communicating, by the handheld control device, the first infusion system command signal to the infusion system. The method further includes detecting, by the handheld control device, movement of a controller body of the handheld control device. The method also includes, in response to detecting movement of the controller body, the following steps: generating, by the handheld control device, a second infusion system command signal; and communicating, by the handheld control device, the second infusion system command signal to the infusion system.

[0016] In another example, the present disclosure relates to a handheld control device for an infusion system. The handheld control device includes a controller body sized to be held in one hand of a user. The handheld control device also includes an input component located on the controller body, where the input component is configured to receive user input. The handheld control device further includes a communication unit configured to, in response to the input component receiving the user input, generate a first infusion system command signal and communicate the first infusion system command signal to the infusion system. The handheld control device also includes a motion detection component located on the controller body, where the motion detection component is configured to detect movement of the controller body. The communication unit is further configured to, in response to the motion detection detecting movement of the controller body, generate a second infusion system command signal and communicate the second infusion system command signal to the infusion system.

[0017] In another example, the present disclosure relates to a computer-readable medium including instructions for controlling an infusion system using a handheld control device. The instructions cause one or more processors to receive user input from an input component of the handheld control device. In response to receiving the user input, the instructions further cause the one or more processors to: generate a first infusion system command signal and communicate the first infusion system command signal to the infusion system. The instructions also cause the one or more processors to detect movement of a controller body of the handheld control device. In response to detecting movement of the controller body, the instructions further cause the one or more processors to: generate a second infusion system command signal and communicate the second infusion system command signal to the infusion system.

[0018] The details of one or more examples of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a powered fluid injector in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. [Figures 2A-2F] A conceptual diagram illustrating exemplary handheld control devices having various configurations, each configured to implement one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary handheld control device configured to control one or more aspects of the infusion system in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process by which a handheld control device can facilitate two-way communication with an infusion system, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. [Figure 5]1 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for a handheld control device to control an infusion system having various modes and operational input components, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process by which a handheld control device can facilitate automatic initiation and termination of a refill procedure for an infusion system, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process by which a handheld control device can facilitate two-way communication with an infusion system, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for a handheld control device to control an infusion system having various modes and operational input components, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process by which a handheld control device can facilitate automatic initiation and termination of a refill procedure for an infusion system, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for a handheld control device to communicate with an infusion system, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a powered fluid injector 100. In operation, the powered fluid injector 100 can inject a volume of fluid into a patient, for example, via a catheter into the patient's blood vessels. The fluid injected by the powered fluid injector 100 can be, for example, a contrast fluid, a non-contrast fluid (e.g., saline solution), or a combination thereof. By injecting a volume of fluid into a patient, the powered fluid injector 100 can facilitate various medical diagnostic and / or interventional procedures, including the collection of image data representative of an anatomical region of interest. These procedures can include, by way of example, optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging, computed tomography (CT) imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), angiography procedures, and interventional device procedures / placements.

[0021] The illustrated powered fluid injector 100 includes a drive assembly housing 102 (also referred to herein as an “injector housing”) and a sleeve 104. The sleeve 104 can be secured to the drive assembly housing 102. For example, the drive assembly housing 102 can include an opening, and the sleeve 104 can be secured to the drive assembly housing 102 at or near such opening. The sleeve 104 can extend from the drive assembly housing 102 and can be configured to receive and retain a reservoir 106 (also referred to herein as a “fluid reservoir”). The reservoir 106 can have an internal reservoir volume containing a fluid and can include a plunger 108 within the internal reservoir volume. The plunger 108 can be made from various components, including a wiper configured to be movable proximally and distally within the fluid reservoir 106, and a ram. The ram extends from the drive assembly housing 102 into the sleeve 104 and is configured to engage the wiper when the fluid reservoir 106 is received and secured within the sleeve 104, and to drive the wiper proximally and distally according to commands received from a controller 110 coupled to the drive assembly housing 102. At least a portion of the drive assembly can be housed within the drive assembly housing 102.

[0022] The drive assembly can be configured to pressurize the fluid within the internal reservoir volume. For example, the drive assembly can be coupled to plunger 108, such as through an opening in drive assembly housing 102, and can drive plunger 108 within the internal reservoir volume. As plunger 108 is gradually driven within fluid reservoir 106, fluid within the internal reservoir volume can be output from fluid reservoir 106 along tubing 109 that leads to a catheter 126 that is inserted into a patient's blood vessel and injects the fluid into the vascular system. In one application of powered fluid injector 100, the output fluid, such as a contrast agent, can be pressurized in the range of 1000-1500 psi (e.g., 1200 psi).

[0023] The illustrated embodiment of the powered fluid injector 100 includes several features that may be useful for pressurizing and delivering fluid during operation. The powered fluid injector 100 may include a controller 110. The controller 110 may include a user interface for various aspects of operation. For example, the controller 110 may be used by a user to set various parameters and / or protocols to be used for a given fluid injection procedure. In one embodiment, a user may interact with the controller 110 to input fluid injection parameters, such as flow rate, injection volume (e.g., maximum), injection pressure limit (e.g., maximum), fluid injection duration, rise time, and / or other injection parameters. In one embodiment, the controller 110 includes a touchscreen panel display, allowing the user to view and modify injection parameters. The controller 110 may also be used to initialize the powered fluid injector 100 (e.g., to prepare a patient for fluid injection) or to initiate certain features or sequences of operation. The controller 110 may also provide status information, including information related to past or currently ongoing injection procedures and any appropriate warnings. Controller 110 may include an image engine with one or more processors to control the operation of powered fluid injector 100. Such processors may also control other components, such as the drive assembly, peristaltic pump 112, if present, and / or any sensors and detectors included in powered fluid injector 100.

[0024] In addition to the controller 110, the illustrated powered fluid injector 100 includes a hand control 113 for user input. The hand control 113 can be coupled to the powered fluid injector 110 and the controller 110 via either a wireless or wired connection. As such, the hand control 113 connects to the drive assembly housing 102. In other embodiments, the hand control 113 can connect directly to the controller 110. The hand control 113 can generate and transmit various signals related to the injection procedure to the controller 110 or other connected components. A user can control the injection procedure by actuating one or more interface components on the hand control 113. For example, a user can use the hand control 113 as a variable speed control to change the fluid flow rate output from the powered fluid injector 100 and / or as a mechanism to start or stop fluid injection. The hand control 113 can include a controller housing sized to be held in one of a user's hands. In other examples, the hand control device 113 can be sized to be held in both hands of a user or to rest on a surface during operation.

[0025] The powered fluid injector 100 may also include one or more components useful for supplying fluids used in an injection procedure. A container 114 may contain a supply of fluid, such as a contrast agent, and may be secured to the powered fluid injector 100 with a holder 116. Fluid from the container 114 may be supplied to the fluid reservoir 106 for use during an injection procedure. For example, fluid from the container 114 may be drawn into the fluid reservoir 106 when the plunger 108 is retracted, thereby refilling the internal reservoir volume. Similarly, if the powered fluid injector 100 includes a peristaltic pump 112, a second container 118 may contain a supply of fluid, such as a flushing medium (e.g., saline solution), and may be secured to the powered fluid injector 100 with a holder 120. If present, the peristaltic pump 112 may receive fluid from the second container 118 and deliver such fluid to the patient. Often, peristaltic pump 112 may be used to deliver a non-contrast fluid, such as saline solution, at a lower pressure than the pressure at which the drive assembly delivers the contrast fluid from fluid reservoir 106. A valve system 124 may be included to selectively place either fluid reservoir 106 or peristaltic pump 112 in communication with the patient.

[0026] As described elsewhere herein, the controller 110 of the powered fluid injector 100 may control various functions of the powered fluid injector 100, which may include administering contrast fluid out through a tube. In some embodiments, the controller 110 may be housed within the display device housing. In some embodiments, the controller may be housed within the injector housing.

[0027] The powered fluid injector 100 may be fluidly and electrically connected to a catheter 126 that is inserted into a patient's blood vessel (e.g., a coronary artery). When so connected, the powered fluid injector 100 may inject contrast fluid (of various concentrations) or administer non-contrast fluid into the patient's vasculature via the injector tubing and catheter 126. In many embodiments, the catheter 126 may include an invasive blood pressure sensor. The blood pressure sensor may be in electrical communication with the controller 110 when the powered fluid injector 100 is connected to the catheter 126. The blood pressure sensor may provide a blood pressure signal to the controller 110 when the catheter 126 is fluidly connected to the powered fluid injector 100 and may not provide a blood pressure signal when the catheter 126 is not fluidly connected to the powered fluid injector 100.

[0028] In accordance with the techniques described herein, the hand-control device 113 may be modified to perform a variety of functions. For example, in addition to sending signals to the powered fluid injector 100, the hand-control device 113 may be configured to receive feedback from the powered fluid injector 100, where the feedback provides an indication as to whether a command sent to the powered fluid injector 100 was successful or unsuccessful, or even simply an indication of the status of the powered fluid injector 100. For example, the hand-control device 113 may include an input component located on the controller body, the input component configured to receive user input. The hand-control device 113 may also include a communications unit. In response to the input component receiving the user input, the communications unit may be configured to generate injection system command signals and transmit the injection system command signals to the powered fluid injector 100. The communications unit may further be configured to receive controller command signals from the powered fluid injector 100. The handheld control device 113 may also include an output component located on the controller body, which is configured to output an indication in response to the communication unit receiving a controller command signal from the powered fluid injector 100.

[0029] In other examples, the handheld control device 113 may be configured with multiple different input components, one of which controls the operational mode of the powered fluid injector 100 and a second of which controls the operation being performed in the particular operational mode. For example, the handheld control device 113 may include a first input component located on the controller body, the first input component configured to receive a user input identifying an injection system operational mode. In such an embodiment, the communication unit may be configured to generate an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the identified injection system operational mode in response to the first input component receiving the user input and to communicate the injection mode selection signal to the powered fluid injector 100. In addition to the first input component, the handheld control device 113 may include a second input component located on the controller body, the second input component configured to receive a user input identifying an operational command for the identified injection system operational mode. In response to the second input component receiving the user input, the communication unit may be further configured to generate an injection command signal corresponding to the identified operational command and to communicate the injection command signal to the injection system.

[0030] In yet another example, the hand-control device 113 may be configured to automatically start and stop a refill process for various fluid reservoirs, including the reservoir 106. Rather than this process being based on any direct input to the hand-control device 113 (e.g., pressing a button), the hand-control device 113 may detect movement or contact of the hand-control device 113 and may start or stop the refill process based on the detected movement or contact (or lack thereof). For example, an input component of the hand-control device 113 may be configured to receive a user input. In response to the input component receiving the user input, the communication unit may be configured to generate a first infusion system command signal and communicate the first infusion system command signal to the infusion system. The hand-control device 113 may further include a motion detection component on the controller body, the motion detection component configured to detect movement of the controller body. The communication unit may be further configured to generate a second infusion system command signal and communicate the second infusion system command signal to the infusion system in response to the motion detection component detecting movement of the controller body.

[0031] Implementing a hand-controller 113 in a powered fluid injector 100 as described herein provides several advantages. For example, rather than forcing a user to use a separate touchscreen (e.g., controller 110) to perform additional control functions, the hand-controller 113 described herein can control additional functions without increasing the number of input components present on the hand-controller 113. Additionally, by providing feedback on the hand-controller 113, the user of the hand-controller 113 can remain focused on the patient and the action being performed, rather than being distracted by another system that the user must analyze to determine if the appropriate action was completed. Furthermore, by automatically pausing the refill operation of the reservoir 106 in response to detecting movement of the hand-controller 113, the amount of explicit input the user must provide to the hand-controller 113 can be reduced, thereby improving the efficiency of the refill operation and the durability of the hand-controller 113 itself. Similarly, by automatically resuming the reservoir refill operation in response to detecting movement or lack of contact, the various fluid reservoirs used by the powered fluid injector 100 can be refilled at the most efficient and effective time, ensuring that fluid is available when needed by the operator of the powered fluid injector 100.

[0032] Additionally, and importantly, the operator of the handheld control device 113 must be sterile. However, the controller 110, which previously controlled these functions, is not sterile. As a result, the operator, such as a cardiologist, must either instruct another person, who is not a trained cardiologist, on the actions to be performed by the powered fluid injector 100, or the cardiologist must perform the functions on the controller 110 himself, then re-sterilize himself before operating the handheld control device 113 again. Adding functionality to the handheld control device 113 significantly increases the amount of functionality that the operator can control personally and without having to come into contact with an unsterile surface, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the powered fluid injector 100 overall.

[0033] 2A-2F are conceptual diagrams illustrating an exemplary hand control device having functional capabilities similar to those of the hand control device 113 of FIG. 1 and the hand control device 113 of FIG. 3, which may be configured to control one or more aspects of an infusion system in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. Each example of FIG. 2A-2F illustrates various views of an exemplary configuration of a hand control device or various examples of possible button configurations for the hand control device described herein. While various examples are illustrated in FIG. 2A-2F, these examples should not be considered the only possible configurations of a hand control device capable of implementing the techniques described herein. Any combination of the illustrated devices, or any other use of buttons or input components, may be used in place of any of the examples of FIG. 2A-2F. For example, rather than mechanical buttons, the hand control device could use a touchscreen, a lever, or any other type of input component.

[0034] FIG. 2A shows a side view of a handheld control device 213A that can be configured to perform one or more aspects of the technology described herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the handheld control device 213A includes a button 254AA and a button 254AB. Receiving input as a button press on button 254AA and / or button 254AB can initiate the performance of one or more aspects of the technology described herein. For example, a press on one of buttons 254AA or 254AB can cause the handheld control device to generate an injection system command signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press. In other words, the particular injection system signal generated by the handheld control device 213A can depend on the pressure applied to a particular one of buttons 254AA or 254AB or the distance that a particular one of buttons 254AA or 254AB is pressed from its neutral position. In another example, a press on button 254AA may cause the handheld control device 213A to generate an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press, while button 254AB may cause the handheld control device 213A to generate an injection command signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press, or vice versa.

[0035] FIG. 2B illustrates a top view of a handheld control device 213B that may be configured to implement one or more aspects of the technology described herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 2B, the handheld control device 213B includes a button 254BA and a button 254BB. Receiving input as a button press on button 254BA and / or button 254BB may initiate the implementation of one or more aspects of the technology described herein. For example, a press on one of buttons 254BA or 254BB may cause the handheld control device to generate an injection system command signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press. In other words, the particular injection system signal generated by the handheld control device 213B may depend on the pressure applied to a particular one of buttons 254BA or 254BB or the distance that a particular one of buttons 254BA or 254BB is pressed from its neutral position. In another example, a press on button 254BA may cause the handheld control device 213B to generate an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press, while button 254BB may cause the handheld control device 213B to generate an injection command signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press, or vice versa.

[0036] FIG. 2C shows a side view of a handheld control device 213C that can be configured to implement one or more aspects of the technology described herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 2C, the handheld control device 213C includes a button 254CA, a button 254CB, and a trigger 254CC. Receiving input as a button press on button 254CA and / or button 254CB can initiate the implementation of one or more aspects of the technology described herein. For example, a press on one of buttons 254CA or 254CB can cause the handheld control device to generate an injection system command signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press. In other words, the particular injection system signal generated by the handheld control device 213C can depend on the pressure applied to a particular one of buttons 254CA or 254CB or the distance that a particular one of buttons 254CA or 254CB is pressed from its neutral position. In another example, a depression received on button 254CA may cause hand controller 213C to generate an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button depression, while button 254CB may cause hand controller 213C to generate an injection command signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button depression, or vice versa. Additionally, trigger 254CC may further vary the signal generated by hand controller 254C. For example, the amount of pressure applied to trigger 254CC or the distance the trigger is pulled may initiate a 50 / 50 mix of fluids used during an injection or adjust the ratio of ingredients in a solution used during the injection process.

[0037] FIG. 2D shows a top view of a handheld control device 213D that can be configured to implement one or more aspects of the technology described herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the handheld control device 213D includes a joystick 254DA and buttons 254DB. Receiving input as a directed force applied to the joystick 254DA or a button press on the button 254DB can initiate the implementation of one or more aspects of the technology described herein. For example, receiving a directed force applied to the joystick 254DA or a button press on the button 254DB can cause the handheld control device to generate an injection system command signal corresponding to the direction or pressure of the directed force or the pressure and displacement of the button press. In other words, the particular injection system signal generated by the handheld control device 213D can depend on the direction in which the user moves the joystick 254DA, the amount of pressure applied to the joystick 254DA, the pressure applied to the button 254AB, or the distance the button 254DB is pressed from its neutral position. In another example, the direction or pressure of a directed force applied to the joystick 254DA may cause the handheld control device 213D to generate an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the pressure and / or direction of the directed force, while the button 254DB may cause the handheld control device 213D to generate an injection command signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press, or vice versa.

[0038] FIG. 2E illustrates a top view of a handheld control device 213E that may be configured to perform one or more aspects of the technology described herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 2E, the handheld control device 213E includes a button 254EA and a directional pad 254EB. Receiving input as a button press on one of the buttons 254EA and / or a direction on the directional pad 254EB may initiate the performance of one or more aspects of the technology described herein. For example, receiving a button press on one of the buttons 254EA or a direction on the directional pad 254EB may cause the handheld control device to generate an infusion system command signal that corresponds to the pressure and displacement of the button press and the particular direction in which the directional pad 254EB was pressed. In other words, the particular injection system signal generated by the hand controller 213E may depend on the pressure applied to a particular one of the buttons 254EA or in a particular direction of the directional pad 254EB, the distance that particular one of the buttons 254EA or the directional pad 254EB is pressed from its neutral position, or which particular direction of the directional pad 254EB is pressed. In another example, a press on the button 254EA may cause the hand controller 213E to generate an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press, while the directional pad 254EB may cause the hand controller 213E to generate an injection command signal corresponding to the pressure, displacement and direction of the button press, or vice versa.

[0039] FIG. 2F illustrates a top view of a handheld control device 213F that can be configured to implement one or more aspects of the technology described herein. In the embodiment of FIG. 2F, the handheld control device 213F includes buttons 254FA and 254FB, similar to the handheld control device 213A of FIG. 2A, but the buttons 254FA and 254FB are arranged laterally rather than longitudinally. Receiving input as a button press on one of buttons 254FA and / or 254FB can initiate the implementation of one or more aspects of the technology described herein. For example, pressing button 254FA or 254FB can cause the handheld control device to generate an injection system command signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press. In other words, the particular injection system signal generated by the handheld control device 213F can depend on the pressure applied to a particular one of buttons 254FA or 254FB or the distance that a particular one of buttons 254FA or 254FB is pressed from its neutral position. In another example, a press on button 254FA may cause the handheld control device 213F to generate an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press, while button 254FB may cause the handheld control device 213F to generate an injection command signal corresponding to the pressure and displacement of the button press, or vice versa.

[0040] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary hand controller 113 configured to control one or more aspects of an infusion system in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. The hand controller 113 of Figure 3 is described below as one example of the hand controller 113 of Figures 1 and 2A-2F. Figure 3 illustrates only one particular example of the hand controller 113; many other examples of the hand controller 113 may be used in other examples, may include a subset of the components included in the exemplary hand controller 113, or may include additional components not shown in Figure 3.

[0041] 3 , the hand controller 113 includes one or more processors 340, one or more communication units 342, one or more input components 344, one or more output components 346, and one or more storage components 348. The input components include one or more sensors 352, buttons 354A, and buttons 354B. The output components 346 may include one or more lights 356, one or more tactile components 358, and one or more speakers 360. The storage component 348 of the hand controller 113 includes a control module 362 and a UI module 364.

[0042] The one or more processors 340 may implement functionality and / or execute instructions associated with the handheld controller 113. That is, the processors 340 may implement functionality and / or execute instructions associated with the handheld controller 113 and may communicate with the controller 110 to control one or more aspects of the infusion system.

[0043] Examples of processor 340 include an application processor, a display controller, an auxiliary processor, one or more sensor hubs, and any other hardware configured to function as a processor, processing unit, or processing device. Modules 362 and 364 can be operated by processor 340 to perform various operations, operations, or functions of handheld controller 113. For example, processor 340 of handheld controller 113 can retrieve and execute instructions stored by memory component 348, such that processor 340 can perform the operations described with respect to modules 362 and 364. The instructions, when executed by processor 340, can cause handheld controller 113 to generate and output one or more command signals that control one or more aspects of the infusion system.

[0044] One or more storage components 348 in the hand control device 113 may store information for processing during operation of the hand control device 113 (e.g., the hand control device 113 may store data accessed by modules 362 and 364 during execution on the hand control device 113). In some embodiments, the storage component 348 is temporary storage, meaning that the primary purpose of the storage component 348 is not long-term storage. The storage component 348 on the hand control device 113 may be configured as volatile memory for short-term storage of information and therefore does not retain its contents when power is removed. Examples of volatile memory include random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), and other forms of volatile memory known in the art.

[0045] In some embodiments, the storage component 348 also includes one or more computer-readable storage media. In some embodiments, the storage component 348 includes one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media. The storage component 348 may be configured to store a larger amount of information than typically stored by volatile memory. The storage component 348 may also be configured for long-term storage of information as non-volatile memory space and may retain information after power on / off cycles. Examples of non-volatile memory include magnetic hard disks, optical disks, floppy disks, flash memory, or forms of electrically programmable memory (EPROM) or electrically erasable and programmable memory (EEPROM). The storage component 348 may store program instructions and / or information (e.g., data) associated with the modules 362 and 364. The storage component 348 may include memory configured to store data or other information associated with the modules 362 and 364.

[0046] Communication channel 350 may interconnect (physically, communicatively, and / or operationally) each of components 340, 342, 344, 346, and 348 for inter-component communication. In some embodiments, communication channel 350 may include a system bus, a network connection, an inter-process communication data structure, or any other method for communicating data.

[0047] The one or more communication units 342 of the handheld control device 113 can communicate with external devices (e.g., the controller 110) over one or more wired and / or wireless networks by transmitting and / or receiving network signals on one or more networks. Examples of communication units 342 include a network interface card (e.g., an Ethernet card, etc.), an optical transceiver, a radio frequency transceiver, a GPS receiver, or any other type of device capable of transmitting and / or receiving information. Other examples of communication units 342 may include a shortwave radio, a cellular data radio, a wireless network radio, and a universal serial bus (USB) controller.

[0048] One or more input components 344 of the hand control device 113 can receive input. Examples of input include tactile, audio, and video input. The input components 344 of the hand control device 113, in one embodiment, include a presence-sensitive input device (e.g., a touch-sensitive screen, PSD), a mouse, a keyboard, a voice response system, a camera, a microphone, or any other type of device for detecting input from a human or a machine. In some embodiments, the input components 344 may include one or more sensor components 352—for example, one or more position sensors (e.g., a GPS component, a Wi-Fi component, a cellular component), one or more temperature sensors, one or more motion sensors (e.g., an accelerometer, a gyro), one or more pressure sensors (e.g., a barometer), one or more ambient light sensors, and one or more other sensors (e.g., an infrared proximity sensor, a hygrometer sensor, etc.).

[0049] The input component 344 may also include buttons 354A-354B (collectively, buttons 354). In some examples, the buttons 354 may be mechanical in nature, where physical movement of the buttons 354 activates initiation of a function associated with the respective button. For example, the buttons 354 may be depressible, i.e., recessed into the body of the handheld controller 113 when pressed. In other examples, the buttons 354 may be switches, where movement of the buttons 354 in a plane away from the handheld controller 113 activates initiation of a function associated with the buttons 354. In some embodiments, the amount of pressure applied to the buttons 354 may affect the command executed by the infusion system. For example, applying more pressure to the buttons 354 may increase the magnitude of the action executed by the buttons 354 (e.g., applying more pressure to one of the buttons 354 may increase the rate at which fluid is infused into the patient). In other examples, the buttons 354 may be graphical in nature and may be output for display on a presence-sensitive display. In such an example, when the hand control device 113 receives an indication of a user input interacting with the graphical button 354 , the processor 340 may activate the initiation of a function associated with the button 354 .

[0050] When the input component 344 includes a presence-aware display, the presence-aware display may be a screen on which information (e.g., a visual display) is displayed, while also detecting objects on and / or near the presence-aware display. While the input component 344 is shown as an internal component of the hand control device 113, it may also represent an external component that shares a data path with the hand control device 113 for sending and / or receiving inputs and outputs. For example, in one embodiment, the input component 344 represents an embedded component of the hand control device 113 (e.g., a screen on the hand control device 113) that is located within and physically connected to the exterior of the hand control device 113. In other embodiments, the input component 344 represents an external component of the hand control device 113 (e.g., a monitor, projector, etc. that shares a wired and / or wireless data path with the hand control device 113) that is located outside and physically separated from the exterior or housing of the hand control device 113.

[0051] If the input component 344 of the handheld control device 113 includes a presence-sensitive display, the input component 344 can detect two-dimensional and / or three-dimensional gestures as input from a user of the handheld control device 113. For example, the sensor 352 can detect user movement (e.g., movement of a hand, arm, pen, stylus, tactile object, etc.) within a threshold distance of the sensor of the input component 344. The input component 344 can determine a two-dimensional or three-dimensional vector representation of the movement and correlate the vector representation to a gestural input having multiple dimensions (e.g., a wave, a pinch, a clap, a pen stroke, etc.). In other words, the input component 344 can detect multi-dimensional gestures without requiring the user to gesture at or near a screen or surface on which the input component 344 outputs information for display. Instead, the input component 344 can detect multi-dimensional gestures performed at or near a sensor that may or may not be located near a screen or surface on which the input component 344 outputs information for display.

[0052] The one or more output components 346 of the hand control device 113 can generate output in a selected manner. Example manners may include tactile notification (output via one or more tactile components 358), audible notification (output via one or more speakers 360), visual notification (output via one or more lights 356), machine-generated audio notification (output via one or more speakers 360), or other manners. The output components 346 of the hand control device 113, in one embodiment, include a presence-sensitive display, a sound card, a video graphics adapter card, a speaker, a cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor, a liquid crystal display (LCD), or any other type of device for generating output to a human or machine in a selected manner.

[0053] In general, the control module 362 may be operable by the processor 340 to control the communications unit 342 in performing various communication functions with the infusion system. Additionally, the user interface (UI) module 364 may be operable by the processor 340 to control the input component 344 and the output component 346 in receiving various inputs and outputting various displays. Thus, in the present disclosure, functions attributed to the communications unit 342 are performed by the processor 340 executing the control module 362 to cause the communications unit 342 to perform the functions. Similarly, any input received by the input component 344 may be equivalent to the UI module 364 receiving user input instructions via the input component 344, and the processor 340 may execute the UI module 364 to control the output component 346 in outputting various displays.

[0054] In accordance with the techniques described herein, the handheld controller 113 can be modified to perform a variety of functions. For example, in addition to sending signals to an injection system (e.g., the powered fluid injector 100 of FIG. 1), the handheld controller 113 can be configured to receive feedback from the injection system, where the feedback provides an indication as to whether a command sent to the injection system was successful or unsuccessful, or even simply an indication of the status of the injection system. For example, the handheld controller 113 can include an input component 344 (e.g., button 354A) on the controller body, where the input component 344 is configured to receive user input.

[0055] The handheld controller 113 may also include a communications unit 342. In response to the input component 344 receiving a user input, the communications unit 342 may be configured to generate an injection system command signal and transmit the injection system command signal to the injection system. In some examples, the injection system command signal corresponds to an operational aspect of the injection system. For example, when button 354A or button 354B receives a user input, the communications unit 342 may generate an injection system command signal that may represent a command for the injection system to change from a first injection mode to a second, different injection mode. Examples of these various injection modes include contrast fluid injection, irrigation fluid injection, contrast and saline mixture injection, puff fluid injection, and pre-injection purge, as well as sub-modes of any one of contrast fluid injection, irrigation fluid injection, contrast and saline mixture injection, puff fluid injection, or pre-injection purge. For example, within any injection mode, the sub-mode may change the location of injection, such as from a right coronary artery injection to a left coronary artery injection.

[0056] In another example, a user input instruction received at button 354A or button 354B may be the result of a user desiring to instruct the injection system to perform some function. As such, communication unit 342 may generate injection system command signals representing commands to the injection system. Examples of possible commands that communication unit 342 can communicate to the injection system include starting a fluid injection, stopping a fluid injection, adjusting the fluid flow rate of a fluid injection, adjusting the duration of a fluid injection, adjusting the mixing ratio of contrast and saline, starting a refill, stopping a refill, placing the injector in a "standby" mode, and arming the injector.

[0057] Additionally, the communications unit 342 may be configured to receive controller command signals from the injection system. A controller command signal is generally a communication from the injection system to the handheld controller 113 regarding any characteristic of the injection system. In some embodiments, the controller command signal corresponds to an operational aspect of the injection system. Examples of these operational aspects include injection of contrast fluid, injection of irrigation fluid, pressure in a fluid delivery component, and completion of injection system setup. In some embodiments, the controller command signal corresponds to an operational mode of the injection system. In some embodiments, a user may set down the handheld controller 113 during a medical procedure and lose track of the location of the handheld controller 113. In such embodiments, the user may provide an input to the controller 110 to locate the handheld controller 113, and the controller 110 may transmit a controller command signal to the handheld controller 113. In response, the handheld controller 113 may provide an output via one or more output components 346 (e.g., beep, flashing light, vibration, etc.), as described below, to assist the user in locating the handheld controller 113. In other examples, the controller command signal may correspond to an alert that a parameter in the infusion system differs from a predetermined threshold for the parameter, or to the expiration of a predetermined time period after generating the infusion system command signal. In other words, the controller command signal may be representative of or indicative of any characteristic of the infusion system.

[0058] The handheld control device 113 may also include an output component 346 located on the controller body. The output component 346 may be configured to output an indication in response to the communication unit 342 receiving a controller command signal from the infusion system. In other words, the output component 346 may output an indication representing feedback received from the infusion system and an indication conveying feedback to a user of the handheld control device 113 so that the user is informed of the current status of the infusion system. In some examples, the indication may represent confirmation that an operational aspect has been performed on the infusion system. For example, if the infusion system command is to switch from a first infusion mode to a second, different infusion mode, the indication may represent confirmation that the infusion system has changed from the first infusion mode to the second, different infusion mode. In other examples, the indication may indicate an operational aspect of the infusion system, such as the rate at which fluid is being injected by the infusion system or that an action is currently being performed by the infusion system.

[0059] In some examples, the feedback may also indicate a warning. For example, any of the output components 346 may generate an output indicating a misplaced catheter, a notification that an injection will tear a blood vessel, a notification that the administered fluid has reached or is close to reaching a limit, or any other warning that would notify the user of the handheld controller 113 that corrective or alternative action may be required.

[0060] In some examples, the output component 346 includes at least one light-emitting component (e.g., a light 356). In some such examples, the indication may be adjustment of the light emission at the light 356 in response to the communications unit 342 receiving a controller command signal. In some examples, the controller command signal may correspond to a particular adjustment of the light emission at the at least one light-emitting component. For example, the light emission may have a particular pattern, brightness, color, or blinking pattern indicative of a particular message representing feedback being communicated from the infusion system to the handheld controller 113.

[0061] In other examples, the output component 346 includes at least one sound-emitting component (e.g., speaker 360). In some such examples, the controller command signal may correspond to a particular sound output by the speaker 360. For example, the particular sound output by the speaker 360 may correspond to a particular message representing feedback being communicated from the infusion system to the handheld controller 113.

[0062] In yet other examples, the output component 346 includes a tactile feedback component (e.g., tactile component 358). In some such examples, the display may include adjustments to the degree of tactile feedback in the tactile component 358 in response to the communications unit receiving a controller command signal. In other words, the tactile component 358 may cause the hand controller 113 to vibrate in a particular manner (e.g., with varying levels of intensity and in different patterns) or may provide varying levels of resistance to the buttons 354A and 354B. The particular manner in which the tactile component 358 vibrates the hand controller 113 or the particular level of resistance provided to the buttons 354A and 354B may indicate the feedback intended to be conveyed by the infusion system to the hand controller 113.

[0063] In one embodiment of the output component 346 including a tactile component 358, the controller command signal may correspond to implementing a change in injection mode in the injection system. As such, adjusting the degree of tactile feedback may include changing vibrations in the tactile component 358. In another embodiment, the controller command signal may correspond to a degree of pressure in the fluid delivery component. As such, adjusting the degree of tactile feedback may include changing the tactile resistance in the tactile component 358, which may correspond to a degree of pressure in the fluid delivery component.

[0064] The input component 344 and the output component 346 may be separate components on the hand control device 113. In this case, the input component 344 may be spaced apart along the controller body from the output component 346.

[0065] In some examples, the input component 344 may further include a sensor 352. The sensor 352 may be configured to determine one or more of a current orientation of the hand control device 113 or that a change in the orientation of the hand control device has occurred. Upon receiving a user input, the sensor 352 detects one of the current orientation of the hand control device 113 or a change in the orientation of the hand control device 113. Based at least in part on the detected current orientation of the hand control device 113 or the detected change in the orientation of the hand control device 113, the control module 362 may generate a particular command signal.

[0066] In other examples, the handheld control device 113 may be configured with multiple different input components 344, with one input component (e.g., button 354A) controlling the injection system's operating mode and a second input component (e.g., button 354B) controlling the operations performed in a particular operating mode. For example, the handheld control device 113 may include a first input component (button 354A) on the controller body, configured to receive a user input identifying an injection system operating mode. In such an embodiment, the communication unit 342 may be configured to generate an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the identified injection system operating mode in response to button 354A receiving the user input and to communicate the injection mode selection signal to the injection system. Examples of injection system operating modes include contrast fluid injection, irrigation fluid injection, contrast and saline combination fluid injection, puff fluid injection, and pre-injection purge.

[0067] In addition to button 354A, handheld control device 113 may include a second input component (button 354B) located on the controller body. Button 354B may be configured to receive user input identifying an operational command for the identified infusion system operating mode. In some examples, button 354A and button 354B are separate components located on the handheld control device, with button 354A spaced apart from button 354B along the controller body. Button 354A and button 354B may have additional differences. For example, button 354A may be shaped like a first geometric shape, and button 354B may be shaped like a second, different geometric shape. In other examples, button 354A may be located on a first surface of the controller body, and button 354B may be located on a second surface of the controller body. The first surface may be spaced approximately 90 degrees from the second surface relative to a center point of the controller body (e.g., button 354A may be located on the top surface of the hand control device 113 and button 354B may be located on the front surface of the hand control device 113). In other examples, the first surface may be spaced approximately 180 degrees from the second surface relative to a center point of the controller body (e.g., button 354A may be located on the top surface of the hand control device 113 and button 354B may be located on the bottom surface of the hand control device 113).

[0068] In some embodiments, buttons 354A and / or 354B may be configured to receive user input through movement of the respective input components and within a range of different angular positions relative to the surface of the controller body on which at least one of buttons 354A and 354B is located. For example, buttons 354A and / or 354B may be lever- or joystick-type structures, where a user may push and pull the lever / joystick to activate and deactivate the respective buttons.

[0069] In response to button 354B receiving a user input, communication unit 342 may be further configured to generate an infusion command signal corresponding to the identified operational command and to communicate the infusion command signal to the infusion system. For example, the operational command may include initiating an operation under the identified infusion system operating mode or terminating an operation under the identified infusion system operating mode.

[0070] In some examples, the communications unit 342 may generate and / or communicate the infusion command signal only if an infusion mode is selected. For example, the communications unit 342 may, in some examples, generate an infusion command signal corresponding to an identified operational command in response to user input at button 354B and communicate the infusion command signal to the infusion system only if button 354A receives the user input.

[0071] In yet another example, the handheld control device 113 may be configured to automatically start and stop a refill process for various fluid reservoirs, such as reservoir 106 of FIG. 1 . Rather than this process being based on any direct input to the handheld control device 113 (e.g., pressing a button), a sensor 352 of the handheld control device 113 may detect movement or contact of the handheld control device 113 and may start or stop the refill process based on the detected movement or contact (or lack thereof). For example, the input component 344 of the handheld control device 113 may be configured to receive a user input. In response to the input component 344 receiving the user input, the communication unit 342 may be configured to generate a first injection system command signal and communicate the first injection system command signal to the injection system. In some examples, the first injection system command signal may represent a command for the injection system to begin injecting contrast fluid from a contrast fluid reservoir (e.g., reservoir 106 of FIG. 1 ).

[0072] The hand control device 113 may further include a motion detection component (e.g., sensor 352) on the controller body, where the sensor 352 is configured to detect motion of the controller body. For example, the sensor 352 may include an acceleration sensor having a first acceleration detection axis and a second, different acceleration detection axis.

[0073] The communications unit 342 may be further configured to generate a second infusion system command signal and communicate the second infusion system command signal to the infusion system in response to the sensor 352 detecting movement of the controller body. For example, if the sensor 352 includes an acceleration sensor, the communications unit 342 may be configured to generate the second infusion system command signal in response to the sensor 352 detecting that acceleration along one of the first acceleration detection axis and a second, different acceleration detection axis exceeds a predetermined acceleration threshold.

[0074] The sensor 352 may be configured to provide an input indication to the communication unit 342 in response to the motion detection component detecting motion of the controller body to instruct the communication unit 342 to generate a second injection system command signal. When the communication unit 342 generates the second injection system command signal in response to the sensor 352 detecting motion of the controller body, the second injection system command signal may be a refill termination signal. Thus, the communication unit 342 may generate and communicate the refill termination signal to the injection system in response to the sensor 352 detecting motion of the controller body. The refill termination signal may represent a command for the injection system to terminate a contrast refill operation in a contrast fluid reservoir of the injection system, where the contrast refill operation includes introducing contrast fluid into the contrast fluid reservoir. Detecting motion of the controller body to terminate the refill of the contrast fluid reservoir may allow the operator to begin an injection operation immediately after picking up the handheld control device.

[0075] In addition to detecting instances of hand-control device 113 movement, sensor 352 can also detect when movement of hand-control device 113 does not occur within a predetermined time period. In response to sensor 352 detecting no movement of the controller body within the predetermined time period, communication unit 342 may be configured to generate and transmit a refill start signal to the injection system. The refill start signal may represent a command for the injection system to initiate a contrast refill operation in the injection system's contrast fluid reservoir, where the contrast refill operation includes introducing contrast fluid into the contrast fluid reservoir. Automatically refilling the contrast fluid reservoir can ensure that refilling occurs when the operator is not holding the hand-control device, thereby making effective use of otherwise wasted time. In some embodiments, automatic refill and automatic refill termination operations can ensure that the injection system fills the contrast fluid reservoir while the hand-control device is idle, but stops such filling as soon as the hand-control device is picked up.

[0076] In some embodiments, the output component 346 may be configured to output an indication in response to the motion detection component detecting no movement of the controller body within a predetermined time period, thereby indicating that a contrast refill operation is in progress. The indication may be one or more of light (output by the illumination 356), sound (output by the speaker 360), and haptic feedback (output by the haptic component 358).

[0077] Implementing the hand-controller 113 within the powered fluid injector 100 as described herein provides several advantages. For example, rather than forcing the user to use a separate touchscreen (e.g., the controller 110) to perform additional control functions, the hand-controller 113 described herein can control additional functions without increasing the amount of input components present on the hand-controller 113. Additionally, by providing feedback on the hand-controller 113, the user of the hand-controller 113 can remain focused on the patient and the action being performed, rather than being distracted by another system that the user must analyze to determine if the proper action was completed. Furthermore, by automatically pausing the refill operation of the reservoir 106 in response to detecting movement of the hand-controller 113, the amount of explicit input the user must provide to the hand-controller 113 can be reduced, thereby improving the efficiency of the refill operation and the durability of the hand-controller 113 itself. Similarly, by automatically resuming the reservoir refill operation in response to detecting movement or lack of contact, the various fluid reservoirs used by the powered fluid injector 100 can be refilled at the most efficient and effective time, ensuring that fluid is available when needed by the operator of the powered fluid injector 100.

[0078] Additionally, and importantly, the operator of the handheld control device 113 must be sterile in most cases. However, the controller 110, which previously controlled these functions, is not sterile. As a result, the operator, such as a cardiologist, must either instruct another person, who is not a trained cardiologist, on the actions that must be performed by the powered fluid injector 100, or the cardiologist must perform functions on the controller 110 through a sterile drape that may limit functionality. Adding functionality to the handheld control device 113 significantly increases the amount of functionality that the operator can control personally and without the need for sterile drape handling, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the powered fluid injector 100 overall.

[0079] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process by which a handheld controller facilitates bidirectional communication with an infusion system, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. The technique of FIG. 4 may be performed by one or more processors of a computing device, such as the handheld controller 113 of FIGS. 1-3. For illustrative purposes only, the technique of FIG. 4 is described within the context of the handheld controller 113 of FIG. 3, although a computing device having a configuration different from that of the handheld controller 113 may perform the technique of FIG. 4.

[0080] In accordance with the techniques described herein, the UI module 364 monitors (402) the handheld control device 113 for any indication of user input. The UI module 364 then receives (404) such user input via the input component 344. The control module 362 generates (406) a command signal via the communication unit 342 representing a command to modify some operational aspect of the infusion system. The control module 362 communicates (408) the command signal to the infusion system via the communication unit 342. The control module 362 receives (410) a controller command signal via the communication unit 342 indicating the change made to some operational aspect of the infusion system, such as a success message, a warning message, or some other feedback. The control module 362 outputs (412) an indication representing the controller command signal.

[0081] 5 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for a handheld controller to control an infusion system having various modes and operational input components, according to one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. The technique of FIG. 5 may be performed by one or more processors of a computing device, such as the handheld controller 113 of FIGS. 1-3. For illustrative purposes only, the technique of FIG. 5 is described within the context of the handheld controller 113 of FIG. 3, although a computing device having a configuration different from that of the handheld controller 113 may perform the technique of FIG. 5.

[0082] In accordance with the techniques described herein, the UI module 364 monitors the hand control device 113 for any indication of user input (502). The UI module 364 then receives (504) such user input via the input component 344. The UI module 364 determines (506) whether the user input was received via button 354A or button 354B.

[0083] If the UI module 364 determines that user input was received on button 354A (the "first" branch of 506), the UI module 364 determines (508) the position of button 354A relative to the controller body surface of the handheld control device 113 (e.g., the angular position or the percentage that button 354A is pressed). The control module 362 generates (510) an injection mode selection signal based on the determined relative position of button 354A and communicates (512) the injection mode selection signal to the injection system via the communication unit 342.

[0084] Conversely, if the UI module 364 determines that user input has been received at button 354B (the "second" branch of 506), the UI module 364 determines whether input was previously received at button 354A to select an infusion mode (514). If the UI module 364 has not received any indication of user input at button 354A (the "NO" branch of 514), the UI module 364 continues to monitor for user input (502). If the UI module 364 determines that button 354A has received user input to select a mode (the "YES" branch of 514), the UI module 364 determines the position of button 354B relative to the controller body surface of the handheld control device 113 (e.g., the angular position or the percentage that button 354B is pressed) (516). The control module 362 generates (518) an infusion command signal based on the determined relative position of the button 354B and communicates (520) the infusion command signal to the infusion system via the communication unit 342.

[0085] 6 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process by which a handheld controller facilitates automatic initiation and termination of a refill procedure for an infusion system, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. The technique of FIG. 6 may be performed by one or more processors of a computing device, such as the handheld controller 113 of FIGS. 1-3. For illustrative purposes only, the technique of FIG. 6 is described within the context of the handheld controller 113 of FIG. 3, although a computing device having a configuration different from that of the handheld controller 113 may perform the technique of FIG. 6.

[0086] In accordance with the techniques described herein, the UI module 364 monitors the handheld control device 113 for any movement of the controller body using the sensor 352 (602). The UI module 364 determines whether the controller body has initiated movement at any time (604). If the UI module 364 determines that the controller body has initiated movement (the "YES" branch of 604), the control module 362 generates a refill end signal (606). The control module 362 then communicates the refill end signal to the infusion system via the communication unit 342 (608).

[0087] Conversely, if the UI module 364 determines that the controller body has not moved ("NO" branch of 604), the control module 362 determines (609) whether a refill start signal was generated later than the refill end signal. In this manner, the control module 362 determines whether the infusion system is currently performing a refill operation. In other words, if a refill start signal was generated later than the refill end signal, the control module 362 may determine that the infusion system is already in the refill process or that the refill process was completed before the controller body moved. In either case, generating an additional refill start signal may be unnecessary. Thus, if a refill start signal was generated later than the refill end signal ("YES" branch of 609), the UI module 364 continues to monitor the controller body for movement (602). In some examples, the control module 362 itself may be the entity that generated the most recent signal sent to the infusion system. In other examples, the controller 110, such as a touchscreen controller, may have generated the signal. The control module 362 may be configured to look at both the hand control device 113 and the controller 110 when determining whether the start refill signal or the end refill signal was generated later.

[0088] On the other hand, if the control module 362 determines that the refill end signal was generated later than the refill start signal ("NO" branch of 609), the UI module 364 determines whether the controller body has been stationary for a predetermined period of time (610). If the controller body has not been stationary for the predetermined period of time ("NO" branch of 610), the UI module 364 continues to monitor the controller body for movement (602). Conversely, if the UI module 364 determines that the controller body has been stationary for the predetermined period of time ("YES" branch of 610), the control module 362 generates a refill start signal (612). The control module 362 then communicates the refill start signal to the infusion system via the communication unit 342 (614).

[0089] Although described as initiating or terminating a refill operation based on whether the controller body is moving or stationary, the sensor 352 within the controller body may be used for other functions. For example, the control module 362 may generate a command signal based on the orientation of the controller body as determined by the sensor 352. For example, the control module 362 may generate a refill start signal when the sensor 352 determines that the controller body is substantially vertical (e.g., within 5-10 degrees of vertical) or when the control module 362 determines that the controller body has changed from a substantially horizontal (e.g., within 5-10 degrees of horizontal) position to a substantially vertical position. Similarly, the control module 362 may generate a refill end signal when the sensor 352 determines that the controller body is substantially horizontal (e.g., within 5-10 degrees of horizontal) or when the control module 362 determines that the controller body has changed from a substantially vertical (e.g., within 5-10 degrees of vertical) position to a substantially horizontal position. While the above examples describe specific examples of refill start and end signals based on the orientation of the controller body, in other examples, any of the commands described herein, or any commands suitable for this type of controller, may be generated by any particular orientation of the controller body, or by any particular change in the controller body from one orientation to another.

[0090] 7 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process by which a handheld controller facilitates bidirectional communication with an infusion system, according to one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. The techniques of FIG. 7 may be performed by one or more processors of a computing device, such as the handheld controller 113 of FIGS. 1-3. For illustrative purposes only, the techniques of FIG. 7 are described within the context of the handheld controller 113 of FIG. 1, although computing devices having configurations different from that of the handheld controller 113 may perform the techniques of FIG. 7.

[0091] In accordance with the techniques described herein, the handheld control device 113 may receive user input at an input component (702). In response to the input component receiving the user input, the handheld control device 113 generates an injection system command signal (704) and communicates the injection system command signal to the powered fluid injector 100 (706). The handheld control device 113 also receives a controller command signal from the powered fluid injector 100 (708). The handheld control device 113 outputs an indication (710) in response to the communication unit receiving the controller command signal from the powered fluid injector 100.

[0092] 8 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for a handheld controller to control an infusion system having various modes and operational input components, according to one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. The technique of FIG. 8 may be performed by one or more processors of a computing device, such as the handheld controller 113 of FIGS. 1-3. For illustrative purposes only, the technique of FIG. 8 is described within the context of the handheld controller 113 of FIG. 1, although a computing device having a configuration different from that of the handheld controller 113 may perform the technique of FIG. 8.

[0093] In accordance with one or more techniques of the present disclosure, the handheld control device 113 may receive user input identifying an injection system operating mode at a first input component (802). In response to the first input component receiving the user input, the handheld control device 113 generates an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the identified injection system operating mode (804) and communicates the injection mode selection signal to the powered fluid injector 100 (806). The handheld control device 113 may receive user input identifying an operational command for the identified injection system operating mode at a second input component located on the controller body (808). In response to the second input component receiving the user input, the handheld control device 113 generates an injection command signal corresponding to the identified operational command (810) and communicates the injection command signal to the injection system (812).

[0094] 9 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process by which a handheld controller facilitates automatic initiation and termination of a refill procedure for an infusion system, in accordance with one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. The technique of FIG. 9 may be performed by one or more processors of a computing device, such as the handheld controller 113 of FIGS. 1-3. For illustrative purposes only, the technique of FIG. 9 is described within the context of the handheld controller 113 of FIG. 1, although a computing device having a configuration different from that of the handheld controller 113 may perform the technique of FIG. 9.

[0095] In accordance with one or more techniques of the present disclosure, the hand-held control device 113 receives user input via an input component (902). In response to the input component receiving the user input, the hand-held control device 113 generates a first infusion system command signal (904) and communicates the first infusion system command signal to the infusion system (906). The hand-held control device 113 detects movement of the controller body via a motion detection component (908). In response to the movement detection component detecting movement of the controller body, the hand-held control device 113 generates a second infusion system command signal (910) and communicates the second infusion system command signal to the infusion system (912).

[0096] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for a handheld controller to communicate with an infusion system, according to one or more aspects of the techniques described in this disclosure. The technique of Figure 10 may be performed by one or more processors of a computing device, such as the handheld controller 113 of Figures 1-3. For illustrative purposes only, the technique of Figure 10 is described within the context of the handheld controller 113 of Figure 1, although computing devices having configurations different from that of the handheld controller 113 may perform the technique of Figure 10.

[0097] In accordance with one or more techniques of the present disclosure, the handheld control device 113 may receive user input (1002). In response to receiving the user input, the handheld control device 113 generates a command signal (1004). The handheld control device communicates the command signal to the infusion system (1006).

[0098] It should be appreciated that, in some examples, certain acts or events of any of the techniques described herein may be performed in a different order, added, combined, or omitted entirely (e.g., not all acts or events described are required to implement the techniques). Furthermore, in some examples, acts or events may be performed simultaneously rather than sequentially, for example, through multithreading, interrupt processing, or multiple processors.

[0099] In one or more examples, the functions described may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions may be stored on or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based processing device. Computer-readable media may include computer-readable storage media, which correspond to tangible media, such as data storage media, or communication media, including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another, for example, according to a communication protocol. As such, computer-readable media may generally correspond to (1) non-transitory tangible computer-readable storage media or (2) communication media, such as a signal or carrier wave. Data storage media may be any available medium that can be accessed by one or more computers or one or more processors to obtain instructions, code, and / or data structures for implementing the techniques described in this disclosure. A computer program product may include computer-readable media.

[0100] By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable storage media may comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage, flash memory, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer. Also, any connection is properly referred to as a computer-readable medium. For example, if instructions are transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included within the definition of medium. However, it should be understood that computer-readable storage media and data storage media do not include connections, carrier waves, signals, or other transitory media, but instead refer to non-transitory tangible storage media. As used herein, disk and disc include compact discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, where disks typically reproduce data magnetically while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0101] The instructions may be executed by one or more processors, such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), general-purpose microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated circuits or discrete logic circuitry. Accordingly, the term "processor," as used herein, may refer to any of the foregoing structures or any other structure suitable for implementing the techniques described herein. Additionally, in some embodiments, the functionality described herein may be provided within dedicated hardware and / or software modules configured for encoding and decoding, or incorporated into a combined codec. The techniques may also be implemented entirely in one or more circuit or logic elements.

[0102] The techniques of this disclosure may be implemented in a wide variety of devices or apparatuses, including wireless handsets, integrated circuits (ICs), or sets of ICs (e.g., chipsets). In this disclosure, various components, modules, or units are described to highlight functional aspects of devices configured to perform the disclosed techniques, but do not necessarily require realization by various hardware units. Rather, as described above, the various units may be combined into a codec hardware unit, or may be provided by a collection of interoperable hardware units including one or more processors, as described above, in combination with appropriate software and / or firmware.

[0103] Various examples of the present disclosure have been described. Any combination of the described systems, operations, or functions is contemplated. These and other examples are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A handheld control device for an injection system, comprising: The hand control device comprises: a controller body sized to be held in one hand of a user; an input component located on said controller body; wherein the input component is configured to receive user input; a communications unit configured, in response to the input component receiving the user input, to: generating an injection system command signal; transmitting the infusion system command signal to the infusion system; and receiving a controller command signal from the infusion system; and an output component located in the controller body; wherein the output component is configured to output an indication in response to the communication unit receiving the controller command signal from the infusion system; Equipped with Hand control device.

2. The hand-held control device according to claim 1, the injection system command signal corresponds to an operational aspect of the injection system; and The indication represents confirmation that the operation mode has been performed on the infusion system. Hand control device.

3. The hand-held control device according to claim 2, the injection system command signal represents a command for the injection system to change from a first injection mode to a second, different injection mode; and The display represents a confirmation that the infusion system has changed from the first infusion mode to the second, different infusion mode. Hand control device.

4. The hand control device according to claim 3, At least one of the first injection modes includes one or more of a contrast fluid injection, a washing fluid injection, a contrast and saline mixture injection, a puff fluid injection, and a pre-injection purge, or a submode of any one of the contrast fluid injection, the washing fluid injection, the contrast and saline mixture injection, the puff fluid injection, and the pre-injection purge. Hand control device.

5. The hand-held control device according to claim 2, the infusion system command signal represents a command for the infusion system; wherein the command includes one or more of starting a fluid injection, stopping a fluid injection, adjusting a fluid flow rate of the fluid injection, adjusting a duration of the fluid injection, and adjusting a mixing ratio of the contrast agent and saline solution. Hand control device.

6. The hand-held control device according to claim 1, the controller command signal corresponds to an operational aspect of the infusion system; and The display indicates the operation mode. Hand control device.

7. The hand control device according to claim 6, The operational aspects of the injection system include one or more of: injection of contrast fluid, injection of irrigation fluid, pressure in a fluid delivery component, and completion of injection system setup. Hand control device.

8. The hand-held control device according to claim 1, the output component includes at least one light-emitting component; and The display includes a specific adjustment to the light emission at the at least one light-emitting component in response to the communication unit receiving the controller command signal. Hand control device.

9. The hand control device according to claim 8, the controller command signal corresponds to the particular adjustment for the light emission in the at least one light-emitting component being adjusted. Hand control device.

10. The hand-held control device according to claim 1, the output components include at least one sound-emitting component; and The controller command signal corresponds to a particular sound output by the at least one sound emitting component. Hand control device.

11. The hand-held control device according to claim 1, the output component includes a haptic feedback component; and The display includes means for adjusting the degree of haptic feedback in the haptic feedback component in response to the communication unit receiving the controller command signal. Hand control device.

12. The hand control device according to claim 11, the controller command signal corresponds to implementing a change in injection mode in the injection system; and the adjustment to the degree of haptic feedback includes a change in vibration in the haptic feedback component. Hand control device.

13. The hand control device according to claim 11, the controller command signal corresponds to a degree of pressure in a fluid delivery component; the means for adjusting the degree of tactile feedback comprises a change in tactile resistance in the tactile feedback component; and A change in the tactile resistance of the tactile feedback component corresponds to the degree of pressure on the fluid delivery component. Hand control device.

14. The hand-held control device according to claim 1, the input component and the output component are separate components on the hand control device, the input component being spaced along the controller body from the output component; Hand control device.

15. The hand-held control device according to claim 1, The controller command signal corresponds to an alert that a parameter in the infusion system differs from a predetermined threshold value of the parameter. Hand control device.

16. The hand-held control device according to claim 1, The controller command signal corresponds to the expiration of a predetermined time period from generation of the infusion system command signal. Hand control device.

17. The hand-held control device according to claim 1, the input component comprises one or more sensors; the input component for receiving the user input comprises the one or more sensors for detecting one of a current orientation of the hand control device or a change in orientation of the hand control device; and The infusion system command signal is based at least in part on the current orientation of the hand-held control device or the change in the orientation of the hand-held control device. Hand control device.

18. 1. A handheld control device for an injection system, comprising: The hand control device comprises: a controller body sized to be held in one hand of a user; a first input component located on said controller body; wherein the first input component is configured to receive a user input identifying an infusion system operating mode; a communication unit configured, in response to the first input component receiving the user input, to: generating an injection mode selection signal corresponding to the identified injection system operating mode; and communicating the injection mode selection signal to the injection system; and a second input component located on said controller body; wherein the second input component is configured to receive a user input identifying an operational command for the identified infusion system operating mode; Equipped with wherein the communication unit is further configured, in response to the second input component receiving the user input, to: generating an injection command signal corresponding to the identified operational command; and transmitting the injection command signal to the injection system; Hand control device.

19. 19. The hand control device according to claim 18, The injection system operation modes include one of a contrast fluid injection, a flushing fluid injection, a contrast and saline mixture fluid injection, a puff fluid injection, and a pre-injection purge. Hand control device.

20. 19. The hand control device according to claim 18, The operational command includes one of initiating the identified infusion system operating mode and terminating the identified infusion system operating mode. Hand control device.

21. 19. The hand control device according to claim 18, The communication unit is further configured to: generating the injection command signal corresponding to the identified operational command; and transmitting the injection command signal to the injection system in response to the user input at the second input component only after the first input component receives the user input; Hand control device.

22. 19. The hand control device according to claim 18, the first input component and the second input component are separate components on the hand control device, the first input component being spaced apart along the controller body from the second input component; Hand control device.

23. 23. The hand control device according to claim 22, The first input component comprises a first geometric shape and the second input component comprises a second, different geometric shape. Hand control device.

24. 23. The hand control device according to claim 22, The first input component is located on a first surface of the controller body, and the second input component is located on a second surface of the controller body. Hand control device.

25. 25. The hand control device according to claim 24, The first surface is spaced from the second surface by approximately 90 degrees relative to a center point of the controller body. Hand control device.

26. 25. The hand control device according to claim 24, The first surface is spaced from the second surface by approximately 180 degrees relative to a center point of the controller body. Hand control device.

27. 19. The hand control device according to claim 18, At least one of the first input component and the second input component is configured to receive user input through movement of the at least one of the first input component and the second input component within a range of different angular positions relative to a surface of the controller body on which the at least one of the first input component and the second input component is disposed. Hand control device.

28. 1. A handheld control device for an injection system, comprising: The hand control device comprises: a controller body sized to be held in one hand of a user; an input component located on said controller body; wherein the input component is configured to receive user input; a communications unit configured, in response to the input component receiving the user input, to: generating a first infusion system command signal; and transmitting the first infusion system command signal to the infusion system; and a motion detection component located on the controller body; wherein the motion detection component is configured to detect motion of the controller body; Equipped with wherein the communication unit is further configured, in response to the motion detection component detecting motion of the controller body, to: generating a second infusion system command signal; and transmitting the second infusion system command signal to the infusion system; Hand control device.

29. 29. The hand control device according to claim 28, The motion detection component is configured to provide an indication of an input in response to the motion detection component detecting a motion of the controller body. Hand control device.

30. 29. The hand control device according to claim 28, the second injection system command signal includes a refill end signal; and The communications unit is configured, in response to the motion detection component detecting the motion of the controller body, to: generating said refill end signal; and transmitting the refill completion signal to the infusion system; Hand control device.

31. 31. The hand control device according to claim 30, the refill termination signal represents a command for the injection system to terminate a contrast refill operation in a contrast fluid reservoir of the injection system; and The contrast refill operation includes introducing contrast fluid into the contrast fluid reservoir. Hand control device.

32. 32. The hand control device according to claim 31, The first injection system command signal represents a command for the injection system to begin injecting contrast fluid from the contrast fluid reservoir. Hand control device.

33. 29. The hand control device according to claim 28, The motion detection component is configured to provide a second input in response to the motion detection component detecting that the controller body is not moving within a predetermined time period. Hand control device.

34. 29. The hand control device according to claim 28, In response to the motion detection component detecting that motion of the controller body is not detected within a predetermined time period, the communication unit is configured to: generating a refill start signal; and transmitting the refill initiation signal to the infusion system; Hand control device.

35. 35. The hand control device of claim 34, the refill start signal represents a command for the injection system to initiate a contrast refill operation in a contrast fluid reservoir of the injection system; and The contrast refill operation includes introducing contrast fluid into the contrast fluid reservoir. Hand control device.

36. 29. The hand control device according to claim 28, further comprising an output component located in the controller body; wherein the output component is configured to output an indication in response to the motion detection component detecting that the controller body does not move within a predetermined time period; Hand control device.

37. 37. The hand control device of claim 36, The display includes one or more of light emission, sound emission, and tactile feedback. Hand control device.

38. 29. The hand control device according to claim 28, the motion sensing component comprises an acceleration sensor having a first axis of acceleration sensing and a second, different axis of acceleration sensing; and The communication unit is configured to generate the second infusion system command signal in response to acceleration along one of the first acceleration detection axis and the second, different acceleration detection axis exceeding a predetermined acceleration threshold. Hand control device.

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