System for determining and displaying limits during operation of a medical table - Patents.com

Abstract

1. A system for determining and displaying limits during operation of an operating table, the system comprising: a patient support apparatus, in particular a surgical patient support apparatus, for fixing to an operating table column of an operating table; a display unit for displaying information about the limits during operation of the operating table; an input unit for inputting information about the patient's weight and / or an interface for receiving electronic patient weight information from outside the system; and an evaluation unit configured to determine limits during operation of the operating table based on at least the patient's weight and display the limits on the display unit before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Technical Field The present disclosure relates to medical and surgical tables with movable top plates and / or top plate segments. In particular, the present invention relates to a system capable of determining and displaying constraints that are observed during operation of the medical table. [Background technology]

[0002] Background to the disclosure Operating tables serve to support patients, for example, during surgical procedures. Currently, due to the flexibility in setting up operating tables, the number of accessories, and the various patient positioning possibilities that operating tables offer, nurses and doctors must consider many important aspects to be able to use the operating table correctly. Some of these aspects are listed below.

[0003] -The accessories used should be adjusted to the patient's weight. -The accessory configuration should also be adapted to the patient's weight.

[0004] - The patient support device on which the patient rests should only be displaced within the permissible range. - Where travel restrictions apply, they must not exceed permissible limits.

[0005] -When adjusting the operating table, it is necessary to ensure that the operating table does not collide with external objects, such as the C-arm.

[0006] -Furthermore, when adjusting the operating table, it is necessary to ensure that the patient is properly secured and does not fall or slip off the table.

[0007] Important information regarding the above points can be found in the operating table's user manual. If the operator ignores the user manual or does not pay sufficient attention to collisions and the patient, the following dangerous events may occur:

[0008] -Tilt of the operating table: Patient falls that can result in permanent injury or even death. - Overloading of accessories and structural components of the operating table: This can lead to permanent bending or breakage of structural components, potentially resulting in permanent injury or even death to the patient.

[0009] -Powered joint overload: the operating table cannot move, limiting mobility. Collision of the operating table with external objects: During operation, the operating table may collide and damage expensive equipment, e.g. the C-arm.

[0010] -Patient falls: If the patient is not adequately secured, they may start to slip while the table is in motion, and in the worst case scenario, they may fall to the floor.

[0011] Patient support apparatuses for operating tables can have interchangeable and detachably connectable segments, particularly accessories. In many cases, some or all of the interchangeable segments are movable. The use of various interchangeable segments allows a single operating table to be reconfigured in different ways for various patients and medical procedures. Furthermore, individual segments or the entire patient support apparatus can be adjusted in various ways. For example, individual segments or the entire patient support apparatus can be tilted or displaced longitudinally or laterally. However, this means that the size, shape, dimensions, weight, and strength of individual operating tables vary at various times. To prevent tilting of the operating table or overloading of individual structural components or the entire operating table, the patient support apparatus and its segments should only be adjusted within certain limits.

[0012] Currently, the operator must check what kind of movements are allowed with the combination of accessories depending on the workload, i.e. the weight of the patient and the weight of the accessories used.

[0013] In practice, the operator must check the accessories attached to the operating table and their technical data, such as their weight, maximum load, allowable combinations with the operating table and / or other accessories, and manually calculate or estimate the current workload. Only then can the position limits of the operating table be determined.

[0014] Because there is no support from the operating table, this method is highly prone to error due to the variety of different operating table configurations. Given the complexity of the physical boundary conditions, it is difficult for the operator to accurately determine the actual limits given in the operating table and accessory manuals.

[0015] A solution to the described problem is to enter all possible configurations of the operating table and their corresponding limitations into a database. Maintaining such a database is difficult over the long service life of the operating table and consumes a lot of storage space on the embedded system, making the implementation of such a database very expensive for both equipment and project resources. Furthermore, to facilitate database maintenance, the range of values ​​must be manually discretized, which is also error-prone. Discretization also results in a suboptimal solution that limits the achievable positions of the operating table more than is necessary for system and patient safety. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0016] Disclosure Overview It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system that provides feedback to the operator regarding the constraints that the operating table will be subjected to, even before the patient is placed on the patient support apparatus. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a system adapted to determine and display limitations during operation of an operating table is envisioned. The system may include a patient support apparatus, a display unit, and an evaluation unit. Furthermore, the system may include an input unit and / or an interface for receiving electronic data.

[0018] The patient support apparatus can be used as part of an operating table and can support a patient. The patient support apparatus can be intended to be secured to the operating table column of the operating table. In some designs, the patient support apparatus can be a surgical patient support apparatus on which a patient is supported during a surgical procedure. Furthermore, the patient support apparatus can serve to secure accessories. The patient support apparatus can be modular and have a main support surface section that can be extended by connecting various support surface subsections. The main support surface section and the support surface subsections can have mechanical connecting elements that can be used to detachably connect the main support surface section and the subsections. The support surface subsections can be, for example, legs, foot sections, or head sections. Furthermore, the support surface subsections can be, for example, extension sections or intermediate sections inserted between the main support surface section and the head section. Sliding or lateral rails can be attached to the sides of the main support surface section and the subsections. Accessories can be detachably secured to the sliding or lateral rails.

[0019] In some designs, the patient support apparatus can be fixedly connected to the column of the operating table. The operating table can also be mobile. The legs or base of the operating table can include wheels or rollers that can be used to move the operating table across the floor. Alternatively, the legs or base can be fixed to the floor.

[0020] In some designs, the patient support apparatus can be designed to be detachably connectable to a movable surgical patient transport trolley and an operating table column. Prior to surgery, the patient support apparatus can be attached to the patient transport apparatus. The patient can be transported to the operating table using the patient transport trolley. The patient support apparatus can then be secured to the operating table column and separated from the patient transport trolley. Most of the preparation for surgery can be performed while the patient support apparatus is attached to the patient transport trolley. For example, the patient support apparatus can be assembled from individual segments and accessories, and the patient can be prepared for surgery. Only when preparation is complete can the patient support apparatus be secured to the operating table column.

[0021] Information about the restrictions to be observed during operation of the operating table can be displayed by the display unit, for example in text and / or graphic form, so that the operator of the operating table can easily grasp the restrictions. The display unit can display the information before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus.

[0022] The display unit, in the form of a display, can be integrated into a component of the system, for example, a remote control for the operating table. The remote control can also display other information related to the patient support apparatus or the table apparatus with the patient support apparatus. The remote control can further receive inputs and commands from an operator for controlling the patient support apparatus or the table apparatus with the patient support apparatus. The display unit can also be a multi-purpose monitor or screen for the operating room. Furthermore, the display unit can be a monitor or screen mounted on a ceiling-mounted arm or wall in the operating room or another medical room. The same monitor or screen can also be used to display other information related to the integrated operating room (e.g., video, patient vital signs, and / or information about lighting, the table, and other medical equipment). It is also conceivable that the display unit could be incorporated into the patient support apparatus.

[0023] An operator can input information regarding the weight of a patient supported or unsupported on the patient support apparatus into the input unit. The input unit can be integrated, for example, into a remote control, optionally also displaying limitations, the patient support apparatus, or a platform column supporting the patient support apparatus. Additionally or alternatively, the system can include an interface for receiving electronic patient weight information from outside the system. The patient weight information can be stored, for example, in a database, from which it can be communicated to the system via the interface.

[0024] The weight information entered into the input unit or received electronically via the interface may include, for example, the actual weight of the patient, previously measured, or an estimated weight. Additionally, weight ranges or minimum or maximum weight values ​​may be entered into the input unit or alternatively received electronically via the interface. This allows for safe operation of the operating table even when the actual weight of the patient is not known with sufficient certainty.

[0025] The evaluation unit can be configured to determine a limit during operation of the operating table. The evaluation unit can determine the limit based on at least a patient weight. Weight information entered into the input unit or weight information received electronically via the interface can be used as the patient weight. The limit can be displayed on the display unit. The evaluation unit can check the limit before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus. Furthermore, the limit can be displayed on the display unit before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus.

[0026] The information generated by the evaluation unit and presented on the display unit informs the operator of the patient support apparatus of the limitations to which the operating table will be subjected during the planned procedure, thereby eliminating the need for the operator to thoroughly examine the operating instructions of the patient support apparatus.

[0027] In some designs, the evaluation unit can determine limitations, particularly limits or positional restrictions, on the movement of the operating table or its components by simulating the movement of the operating table supporting the patient. For each joint capable of performing a movement, the movement can be simulated to determine which areas of the joint are not permitted to move, because movement in these areas could, for example, cause an increased risk of tipping or overload of at least one component of the operating table due to the patient's weight. Similarly, it can be determined, for example, how far the patient support apparatus can be displaced longitudinally or laterally without the risk of tipping or overload exceeding a specified threshold. In a similar manner, all possible movements of the operating table and / or patient support apparatus and / or operating table column can be computationally determined. Areas with increased risk of tipping and / or overload can be excluded by defining appropriate limits on the operation of the operating table.

[0028] If a weight range, rather than a discrete weight value, is entered into the input unit or if such a weight range is received via the interface, the evaluation unit can determine the operating limit of the operating table from the weight range. For example, the evaluation unit can take the highest value of the weight range or the average value of the indicated weight range to identify the limit. It is also conceivable to identify several different limits for the weight range, which in each case are related to the weight of a specific patient and are displayed on the display unit in combination with the respective patient weight.

[0029] The simulation of the operating table's movements and the subsequent confirmation of the limits during the table's operation have the advantage that the operator does not need to manually confirm the limits. The automatic calculation of tolerances is less prone to errors. In contrast to a database containing all possible configurations of the operating table and their corresponding limits, the proposed solution has the advantage that the calculated limits are closer to the actual limits of the joints. Furthermore, maintenance can be performed in a simpler, less time-consuming, and less error-prone manner. New accessories do not necessarily require software updates in the proposed solution, as is the case with database solutions.

[0030] In some designs, one or more additional parameters, in addition to patient weight, may be used to ascertain limitations during operation of the operating table, as further described below.

[0031] The evaluation unit can be, for example, a hardware processor or any other computer system, or can be integrated into the hardware processor or computer system. In addition to the tasks of the evaluation unit, the hardware processor or computer system can also perform other tasks. The evaluation unit can be located inside the operating table, in particular in the patient support apparatus. However, the evaluation unit can also be located outside the operating table, in particular outside the operating room. Because the simulation process performed by the evaluation unit is computationally expensive, the evaluation unit can be located in a backend or connection module. The evaluation unit can exchange data with the input unit and / or the display unit, for example, via one or more interfaces. Data transfer can, in particular, be at least partially wireless and / or wired.

[0032] In some designs, the evaluation unit can control individual components of the patient support apparatus during operation of the operating table to ensure that limits are observed. For example, the patient support apparatus can be controlled so that it can be tilted, inclined, or displaced longitudinally or vertically only within previously determined position limits. Alternatively, the limits generated by the evaluation unit can be envisioned as serving only to inform the operator of the limited possibilities before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus. Alternatively, the limits or limits can be used to generate warnings, alarms, and / or automatic interruptions or halts of operation when the table's operation reaches or approaches the calculated limits. Furthermore, the operator can continue operation beyond the calculated limits. As soon as the patient is placed on the patient support apparatus, the load and center of load can be determined by measurement, for example, with the aid of load sensors. The measurement results can be used to determine the limits to which the operating table will be subjected during subsequent operations.

[0033] In some designs, the evaluation unit determines the operating table's operational limits based not only on the weight information but also on the identity and / or configuration of the patient support apparatus. The identity of the support surface area can relate to various sub-areas of the patient support apparatus, which can be detachably or fixedly connected to one another. For example, the patient support apparatus can include head, leg, arm, and middle areas, as well as other suitable sub-areas. The identity can indicate which sub-areas the patient support apparatus includes. The configuration can indicate, for example, in which configuration, order, or position the individual sub-areas are arranged. Each of the sub-areas can have, for example, one or more support surface sub-sections connected to one another.

[0034] The operating table can be expanded with accessories to ensure optimal support for the patient and allow procedures to be performed in a reliable manner. Accessories can be removably fixed to the operating table for various purposes. For example, they can serve to support specific body parts such as the head, legs, or arms. Furthermore, accessories can also have other functions. For example, an accessory can be an instrument platform, a limb positioning support, or an infusion holder that is fixed to the lateral rails of the patient support device. Main and subsections of the support surface can also be included among the accessories.

[0035] In some designs, a detection unit can be envisioned for detecting accessories attached to the operating table, particularly the patient support apparatus. To detect the accessories, a signal can be transmitted from the accessories to the detection unit. The signal can include information about the respective accessories, allowing the detection unit to identify each of the accessories. The signal used to detect the accessories can be, for example, an electrical signal, an optical signal, or a radio signal.

[0036] The detection unit may have a suitable receiving unit for receiving signals from the accessory. Furthermore, the detection unit may have a hardware processor or any other computer system or may be integrated into a hardware processor or computer system that allows identifying the accessory. The detection unit may be located inside the operating table, in particular in the patient support apparatus, or outside the operating table.

[0037] The detection unit can inform the evaluation unit about which accessories are attached to the operating table, particularly the patient support apparatus. In some designs, the evaluation unit can use this information in addition to the weight information, and further information as needed, to determine limitations during operation of the operating table by simulating the operation of the operating table.

[0038] In some designs, the input unit and / or interface through which patient weight information is received can be designed so that the intended position the patient will assume on the patient support apparatus and / or the intended center of gravity of the patient on the patient support apparatus can be entered into the input unit and / or received by the interface. For example, the input unit can include a touchscreen that displays the operating table or patient support apparatus in graphical form. The operator can move a graphics slider to the position where the patient's center of gravity should subsequently be located. It is also conceivable that the input unit displays on the touchscreen various positions the patient can assume on the patient support apparatus, and the operator can select an applicable position.

[0039] In some designs, the evaluation unit may take into account the intended position of the patient on the patient support apparatus and / or the intended center of gravity of the patient on the patient support apparatus when checking the limitations of the operating table during operation.

[0040] In some designs, limitations can relate to the mobility of the patient support apparatus, particularly the adjustability and extensibility of the patient support apparatus segments and / or the adjustability and extensibility of the operating table column. Essentially, the patient support apparatus or patient support apparatus segments can be tilted, tilted, longitudinally and / or laterally displaced, and / or adjusted in height, particularly by the operating table column. The tilt of the patient support apparatus is also referred to as Trendelenburg, where the patient is supported with their head down and their pelvis further up. Anti-Trendelenburg is where the patient's head is supported higher while their pelvis is further down. Inclination refers to the patient support apparatus being tilted toward the side. The tilt or inclination of the patient support apparatus is with respect to one or more joints. Limitations can relate to the degree of tilt and / or inclination and / or longitudinal and / or lateral displacement. Depending on which support surface subsections are connected to the main support surface section, other limitations may arise regarding the adjustability and extensibility of the support surface subsections. The restriction on the mobility of the patient support apparatus can relate to the movement of the entire patient support apparatus, and / or the separate movement of a support surface subsection or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus, and / or the movement of the operating table column.

[0041] In some designs, the operating limits of the operating table can be characterized by at least an area within which the operating table, particularly the patient support apparatus and / or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus and / or the operating table column, can be moved. Such area can be displayed, for example, in graphical form on a display unit. Additionally, position limits can also be displayed on the display unit.

[0042] In some designs, limitations on the operation of the operating table may include one or more of the following limitations:

[0043] - Restrictions on the selection of axes along which movement of the patient support apparatus and / or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus is possible, e.g., movement of the patient support apparatus or support surface subsection cannot be performed around a particular axis. - Limits on the area in which the patient support apparatus and / or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus can move about an axis. - A limit on the speed at which the patient support apparatus and / or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus can move about an axis. -Restrictions while tilting the patient support device -Limits during tilting of patient support device -Limitation during longitudinal displacement of the patient support device -Limitation during lateral displacement of the patient support device Limitations during height adjustment of the patient support device, which can be implemented in particular by the operating table column. -Limited extension of the operating table rollers, and / or -Limitations during powered transport of the operating table.

[0044] In some designs, the evaluation unit determines limits during operation of the operating table such that tilting of the operating table and / or overloading of at least one component of the operating table and / or the patient support apparatus can be prevented. For example, the area in which the patient support apparatus or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus and / or the operating table column can be adjusted can be limited, or operation of the operating table and / or the patient support apparatus and / or the operating table column can be blocked to prevent tilting or overloading.

[0045] In some designs, the evaluation unit simulates several positions that the operating table can assume during a specified operation. The evaluation unit checks whether each position requires a limit, in particular whether there is a risk of tilting the operating table and / or an overload risk of the operating table and / or at least one component of the operating table. The smaller the distance between adjacent positions checked by the evaluation unit, the more precise the limit can be selected. However, a small distance between adjacent positions also results in an increased computational load for the simulation.

[0046] In some designs, the evaluation unit can determine a residual tilt torque associated with a specified tilt point for several positions the operating table can assume during a specified movement. Furthermore, the evaluation unit can compare the determined residual tilt torque with a specified residual tilt torque threshold for each of the positions. If the residual tilt torque at a position is below the specified residual tilt torque threshold, the evaluation unit can define a tilt risk for that position and can define that the operating table cannot be moved to that position during subsequent table movements.

[0047] In some designs, the display unit may display information regarding at least one restriction during operation of the operating table if the evaluation unit defines a tilt risk for one or more positions of the operating table.

[0048] In some designs, the evaluation unit can determine the residual tilt torque from the total load and / or the center of gravity of the total load. The residual tilt torque can be further associated with a particular tilt point or several tilt points.

[0049] The total load is the load resulting from the entire operating table, the patient supported on the table, accessories fixed to the table, and other external forces.

[0050] The tilt point is a point or, if desired, an axis around which the operating table can tilt. For example, the tilt point can be located on the lower lateral edge of the leg that faces the floor. Additionally, the tilt point can be characterized by a caster that can be used to move the operating table across the floor.

[0051] In some designs, tilt points can be defined as all points along the circumference of the base or legs of the platform that face (or even touch) the floor below. For example, all points along the circumference of a rectangular platform base can be tilt points. In other designs, for example, if the legs have a less regular shape, tilt points can be defined as all points along the edges of a conceptual or imaginary polygon defined by the far corners of the legs. For an H-shaped base, tilt points are, for example, the four corners of the H and the edges of the conceptual rectangle formed by the four corners of the H. For a rounded base, each point on the circumference is a tilt point.

[0052] In general, if the center of gravity of the total load is above the surface bounded by the tilt point, the operating table will remain stable. However, if the center of gravity of the total load is not directly above this surface, the operating table will tilt.

[0053] The residual tilt torque at a tilt point can be determined by multiplying the distance of the tilt point from the center of gravity of the total load by the total load, with the total load being expressed as a force. This is referred to herein as the "residual tilt torque." If the determined value of the residual tilt torque is positive, this means that the operating table is stable for this tilt point. If the residual tilt torque is negative, the operating table will tilt. The higher the value of the residual tilt torque, the more stable the operating table. In some designs, a residual tilt torque threshold value, e.g., 225 Nm, is specified. This means that the residual tilt torque must not be less than 225 Nm. If the residual tilt torque is below that threshold, the evaluation unit can determine that this position of the operating table should be blocked.

[0054] In some designs, the evaluation unit can determine a respective residual tilt torque for multiple tilt points, particularly for all possible tilt points, at each position or multiple positions the operating table can assume during a specified operation. The evaluation unit can compare each of these several residual tilt torques with a residual tilt torque threshold. If only one tilt torque is below the residual tilt torque threshold at a certain position of the operating table, the evaluation unit can design a limit so that the position is outside the tolerance range.

[0055] In some designs, at least one virtual line can be specified. The at least one virtual line can, for example, pass through at least one tilt point and further, for example, enclose a specific angle, called a stability angle, with a specific normal vector. The evaluation unit can determine the position of the operating table's load center, e.g., the center of gravity of the total load, relative to the at least one specified virtual line for several positions the operating table can assume during a specified operation. If the operating table's load center passes through the at least one virtual line at a certain position, the evaluation unit can determine a tilt risk for this position and exclude this position for subsequent operations of the operating table.

[0056] In particular, the evaluation unit can indicate a tipping risk if the center of gravity of the total load passes through at least one imaginary line in the direction of a decreasing residual tipping torque. The imaginary line can also shift in parallel and therefore not pass through the tipping point. In this case, the center of gravity of the total load must also shift accordingly so that a tipping risk can be indicated.

[0057] The normal vector can be defined, for example, by the vector of the weight of the operating table when the operating table is placed on a flat, non-inclined floor. The normal vector is then oriented perpendicular to the floor surface. The normal vector can also be defined, for example, by the footplate or the patient support apparatus in its normal position. The normal vector is then oriented perpendicular to the footplate or the patient support apparatus in its normal position.

[0058] In some designs, at least one virtual line can be specified for each of multiple tilt points, particularly for all possible tilt points, and that passes through each tilt point and encloses a specified angle, or stability angle, using a specified normal vector. The multiple virtual lines define a space. If the center of gravity of the total load is within this space, there is no risk of the operating table tipping. Only when the center of gravity of the total load leaves the space defined or bounded by the virtual lines can the operating table tip. If the center of gravity of the total load leaves the space defined by the virtual lines, the evaluation unit can determine the tip risk of this position and indicate to the operator that this position should be excluded from further operation of the operating table.

[0059] In some designs, the specified stability angle that a virtual line can encompass by a tilt point with a specified normal vector may depend on the nature of the tilt point. For example, if the tilt point is provided by a caster, the stability angle may be larger. In contrast, if the tilt point does not include the caster but is located, for example, on the lower lateral edge of a leg, the stability angle may be smaller.

[0060] In one design, if the tilt point is provided by a caster, a stability angle of 10 degrees can be selected. For all remaining tilt points, especially those with a rigid base or substructure, a stability angle of 5 degrees can be selected.

[0061] In some designs, the stability angle is at least 2 degrees, or at least 5 degrees, or in the range of 5 to 15 degrees, or in the range of 3 to 20 degrees. In some designs with retractable wheels or rollers, the stability angle is at least 2 degrees if the operating table rests on the floor, and at least 8 degrees if it is on wheels or rollers. Certain safety regulations require that medical tables remain stable at a 5-degree tilt if they are resting directly on the floor, and at a 10-degree tilt if they are on wheels. This technology is useful in meeting such safety regulations, but is not limited to this purpose.

[0062] The above two designs, where the residual tilt torque is compared to a residual tilt torque threshold or where it is determined whether the center of gravity of the total load passes through at least one virtual line, can be used independently to generate restrictions during the operation of the operating table. Furthermore, the two methods can also be combined with each other.

[0063] In some designs, the evaluation unit can determine whether there is an overload risk for the operating table and / or at least one component of the operating table based on the patient's weight and / or the patient's center of gravity. In particular, the evaluation unit can determine whether there is an overload risk for several positions or even for all positions the operating table can assume during a specified operation. As described above, the patient's center of gravity can be input into the input unit by, for example, an operator. If there is an overload risk, the display unit can make it clear to the operator by correspondingly restricting the mobility of the operating table and / or patient support apparatus and displaying restrictions that the operating table should not or cannot assume positions that would pose an overload risk during operation.

[0064] Observing the corresponding limits can prevent damage, e.g. bending or even breakage, of the components of the operating table due to excessively high loads acting on the operating table, thereby limiting the risk to the patient.

[0065] The at least one component of the operating table for which the overload risk is determined may be, for example, a support surface main section or subsection of the patient support apparatus, or another accessory or component of the operating table, such as a caster or an operating table column.

[0066] In one design, the evaluation unit can compare loads, in particular active loads, acting on the operating table and / or patient support apparatus with at least one specified overload threshold and determine that there is an overload risk for the operating table and / or at least one component of the operating table if the load exceeds the at least one overload threshold.

[0067] At least one overload threshold can be specific to the operating table and / or at least one component, so that an individual overload threshold can be used for each component of the operating table, thereby determining the overload risk of components of different stability.

[0068] The evaluation unit can compare the load acting on the operating table and / or the patient support apparatus with at least one specified overload threshold for some positions, or even for all positions, that the operating table can assume during a specified operation, and if there is an overload risk, the evaluation unit can correspondingly limit the movability of the operating table and / or the patient support apparatus by appropriately selecting the limit.

[0069] In addition to the possible overload risk for individual support surface sections and support surface subsection configurations, the overload risk for a specific section or region of the patient support apparatus can also be determined. A region can extend, for example, along the outer boundary of a support surface subsection. In this case, the region includes a certain number of support surface subsections. However, it is also conceivable that the region boundary does not extend along the outer boundary of the support surface subsection. In this case, a portion of the support surface subsection can belong to a region, while the remaining portion of the support surface subsection belongs to an adjacent region. Thus, in some designs, at least a portion of the patient support apparatus can be virtually divided into several regions, and an overload threshold can be specified for each region. The evaluation unit can verify in which region the center of gravity of the load acting on the operating table and / or patient support apparatus is located for several positions, or even for all positions, that the operating table can assume during a specified operation. If the load exceeds the specified overload threshold for this region, an overload risk can be determined. If there is an overload risk, the evaluation unit can select a limit so that the limited operability of the operating table and / or patient support apparatus is displayed to the operator.

[0070] Furthermore, a graph or curve extending along at least a portion of the patient support apparatus can be specified. Each overload threshold is specified by a graph or curve at each position of at least a portion of the patient support apparatus. The graph or curve can be, for example, a straight line. In particular, the line can be inclined toward the distal end of the patient support apparatus so that the overload threshold decreases toward the end of the patient support apparatus. The evaluation unit can verify at which position on the patient support apparatus the center of gravity of a specified load is located for some positions, or even for all positions, that the operating table can assume during a specified operation. However, this does not necessarily mean that the center of gravity of the specified load is located within the patient support apparatus. The center of gravity can also be located outside the patient support apparatus. In this case, the corresponding position of the patient support apparatus can be confirmed, for example, by a vertical projection of the center of gravity onto the patient support apparatus. The evaluation unit can compare the defined load, in particular the active load, with the overload threshold specified for the confirmed position. If the defined load exceeds the overload threshold specified for this position, the limit can be adapted so that the operator is informed that the operating table cannot assume the corresponding position during operation.

[0071] In some designs, the system can have at least one drive for moving the operating table. The evaluation unit can determine, from the patient weight and / or the patient's center of gravity, a load acting on the at least one drive for some positions, or even all positions, that the operating table can assume during a specified movement, and can define an overload risk if the load exceeds at least one specified overload threshold specific to the at least one drive. If there is an overload risk, the evaluation unit can correspondingly limit the movability of the operating table and / or patient support apparatus by appropriately selecting the limit, and can display this to the operator.

[0072] The drive device may in particular be, for example, an electric drive device that serves to adjust the patient support apparatus or individual components of the patient support apparatus, in particular to orient, tilt, displace or lift the patient support apparatus. Furthermore, the operating table may comprise several drives. For each drive device, an individual overload threshold may be indicated, which is specific to the respective drive device. This allows the individual overload risk of the drive device to be indicated.

[0073] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method adapted to determine and display limits during operation of an operating table. According to the method, information regarding a patient's weight can be input to an input unit and / or electronic patient weight information can be received via an interface from outside the system. The limits during operation of the operating table can be determined based on at least the patient's weight. The limits can be displayed on a display unit before placing the patient on a patient support apparatus, particularly a surgical patient support apparatus. The patient support apparatus can be intended to be secured to a table column of the operating table, or can be secured to the table column.

[0074] In some designs, the operating table's motion limits can be determined based at least on the weight of the patient by simulating the motion of the operating table with the patient supported.

[0075] The method according to the second aspect may have any design as described in the present disclosure in relation to the system according to the first aspect.

[0076] The present disclosure also includes circuitry and / or electronic instructions for controlling the operating table, as well as remote controls, displays and user interfaces, particularly electronics and software for use with the operating table and for performing the methods and functions described in this disclosure, which enable all that is described in this application.

[0077] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described in more detail below with reference to the drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0078] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic side view of an operating table with a patient positioned on the patient support apparatus of the operating table; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a system according to the present disclosure for determining and displaying limits during operation of an operating table; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a surgical table according to the present disclosure to illustrate measured load, active load, total load and work load. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a flow chart for determining limits during operation of an operating table in accordance with the present disclosure; [Figure 5A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a surgical table in accordance with the present disclosure in locked and unlocked positions with tilt points; [Figure 5B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a surgical table in accordance with the present disclosure in locked and unlocked positions with tilt points; [Figure 6A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a surgical table according to the present disclosure with the center of gravity of the total load located respectively inside and outside the contact area of ​​the tilt point. [Figure 6B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a surgical table according to the present disclosure with the center of gravity of the total load located respectively inside and outside the contact area of ​​the tilt point. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of a surgical table according to the present disclosure with imaginary 5th and 10th degree lines. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of a surgical table according to the present disclosure with the load capacity of the individual components. [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic diagram of a surgical table according to the present disclosure having an extension section configuration; [Figure 10A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a surgical table according to the present disclosure having different load limits at sections or points. [Figure 10B] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a surgical table according to the present disclosure having different load limits at sections or points. [Figure 11]1 is a schematic diagram of a surgical table according to the present disclosure in an extreme Trendelenburg position; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0079] Detailed Description of the Drawings In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale and are intended to illustrate respective features only.

[0080] It should be noted that the features and components described below, whether or not they are described in connection with a single embodiment, can be combined with each other, and the combination of features in each embodiment serves only to describe the basic structure and functionality of the claimed device.

[0081] In the drawings, identical or similar elements are labeled with the same reference numerals wherever appropriate.

[0082] 1 schematically illustrates a mobile operating table 10 that can be used to support and transport a patient 12 during a surgical procedure. From bottom to top, the mobile operating table 10 includes legs 14 for positioning the operating table 10 on the underlying ground, a vertically disposed operating table column 16 that also includes the legs 14, and a patient support apparatus 18 secured to the upper end of the operating table column 16. The patient support apparatus 18 can be fixedly connected to the operating table column 16 or can be removably secured to the operating table column 16.

[0083] The patient support apparatus 18 is modularly configured and functions to support the patient 12. The patient support apparatus 18 includes a main support surface section 20 connected to the operating table column 16, which can be extended as desired by connecting various support surface subsections. In FIG. 1, a leg section 22, a shoulder section 24, and a head section 26 are connected to the main support surface section 10 as support surface subsections.

[0084] Depending on the type of surgical procedure being performed, the patient support apparatus 18 of the operating table 10 may be at an appropriate height and may be tilted or inclined.

[0085] The operating table column 16 is configured to be height adjustable and has an internal mechanism for adjusting the height of the patient support apparatus 18 of the operating table 10. The mechanism is disposed within a housing 28 that protects the components from contamination.

[0086] The leg section 14 has two sections 30, 32 of different lengths. Section 30 is a short section associated with the leg end of the leg section 22, i.e., the end of the patient support apparatus 18 on which the legs of the patient 12 being treated rest. Section 32 is a long section associated with the head section 26 of the patient support apparatus 18.

[0087] Additionally, the legs 14 may include wheels or rollers that can be used to move the operating table 10 across the floor, or alternatively, the legs 14 may be fixed to the floor.

[0088] For better illustration, a Cartesian coordinate system XYZ is inserted in Figure 1. The X and Y axes are horizontal axes, and the Z axis is vertical. The X axis extends along the support surface subsections 22, 24, 26, which are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0089] 2 shows a schematic system architecture of a system 100 according to the present disclosure for determining and displaying limits during operation of an operating table 10. The system 100 is a system according to a first aspect of the present disclosure and can be operated in a method according to a second aspect.

[0090] The system 100 may comprise further components of the patient support apparatus 18 shown in Figure 1, in particular the operating table 10, or the entire operating table 10. The system 100 also comprises a load sensor device 102, a load determination unit 104, a safety unit 106, a monitoring and calibration unit 108, a data storage device 110, further components 112 of the operating table 10, an input unit 114, an interface 115, and a display unit 116. The safety unit 106 also comprises an evaluation unit 117. One of the further components 112 of the operating table 10 is a detection unit 118.

[0091] The load sensor device 102 includes several load sensors and is configured to measure at least one magnitude from which the load acting on the load sensor device 102 can be determined. In this case, the load sensors are force sensors that each measure a force acting on a respective sensor. The force values ​​measured by the individual force sensors are output by the load sensor device 102 as a digital signal 120. Furthermore, the load sensor device 102 includes electronic components necessary for the operation of the force sensors.

[0092] The load determination unit 104 receives the signal 120 having the measured force values ​​and determines therefrom the desired load and / or load center. In particular, the load determination unit 104 can determine the measured load, the active load, the working load, and / or the total load and the associated load center. The load determination unit 104 can determine the desired load and / or load center during the entire operation of the operating table 10, i.e., the load determination unit 104 can measure the load and / or load center values ​​already before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus 18 and also after the patient is supported on the operating table 10. The load determination unit 104 can also determine corresponding values ​​when adding accessories to the operating table 10 or adjusting the operating table 10 to position the patient for a surgical procedure.

[0093] To be able to properly process and analyze the delivered force values, the load determination unit 104 requires several data regarding the geometry and mass or weight of the operating table 10 and accessories. This data is stored in a data storage device 110 and made available to the load determination unit 104 by a signal 122. From this data, information can be extracted, among other things, regarding the mass and center of gravity of the individual components and accessories of the operating table 10. The data storage device 110 is expandable via a connection module of the operating table 10.

[0094] The load determination unit 104 generates as an output signal 124 containing information about the determined load and center of load, which is sent to the safety unit 106, which analyzes all available data, including load, center of gravity and position data of the operating table 10 and accessories recognized by the operating table 10.

[0095] The safety unit 106 determines whether the operating table 10 is in a safe or unsafe state. The safety unit 106 generates a safety signal 126 that indicates whether the operating table 10 is in a critical safety state. For example, a critical safety state may exist if the operating table 10 is at risk of tipping or if an individual component of the operating table 10 is at risk of overloading.

[0096] Depending on the severity of the recognized condition, the algorithm responds accordingly. For example, the operating table 10 may output a warning or simply stop operation. The warning may be via an acoustic or optical signal via the operating table 10 or in text form via a remote control. Measures may range from slowing down operation speed to stopping operation or blocking some functions, and may continue until the operating table 10 reaches a safe state again.

[0097] It may be envisaged that the safety features may be deactivated by the operator at any time and operation of the operating table 10 may continue at the operator's own risk.

[0098] To ensure that the system recognizes critical situations, the system also includes a monitoring and calibration unit 108. This software module checks the validity of measurements and recognizes whether the system is operating incorrectly or whether it needs to be calibrated or tared. The monitoring and calibration unit 108 generates corresponding output signals 128, 130, which are sent to the load determination unit 104 or to a component 112 of the operating table 10.

[0099] The components 112 of the operating table 10 continuously generate position data, data for adjusting the individual components, and information about accessories recognized by the operating table 10. This data is made available to the system using signals 132.

[0100] Additionally, the system 100 is configured to provide the operator with information regarding limitations that the operating table 10 may be subject to when a patient is on the operating table 10, even before the patient is placed on the patient support apparatus 18.

[0101] In order for the system 100 to be able to check the limits even when the patient is not on the operating table 10, information about the patient's weight must be provided to the system 100. The operator can enter this information in an input unit 114, which is for example integrated into a remote control that serves to control the operating table 10.

[0102] Additionally, information regarding the patient's weight may also be received electronically by interface 115. The patient's weight information may be stored, for example, in a database, from which it may be communicated to system 100 via interface 115.

[0103] Patient weight information entered by the operator into the input unit 114 or received by the interface 115 is supplied to an evaluation unit 117 integrated into the safety unit 106 .

[0104] The evaluation unit 117 uses the patient weight information to determine the limits to which the operating table 10 will be subjected during subsequent movements with the patient supported on the patient support apparatus 18. The evaluation unit 117 determines the limits by simulating the movements of the operating table 10 with the patient supported on it. The evaluation unit 117 can verify the limits even before the patient is placed on the patient support apparatus 18.

[0105] The limitations can be displayed on the display unit 116. For this purpose, the evaluation unit 117 transmits a signal 134 to the display unit 116, which includes the limitations determined by the evaluation unit 117. The limitations can be displayed on the display unit 116 before the patient is placed on the patient support apparatus 18. The information displayed on the display unit 116 informs the operator of the operating table 10 of the limitations to which the operating table 10 will be subjected during the impending procedure.

[0106] The display unit 116 can display in textual and / or graphical form information about the limitations to which the operating table 10 is subjected during operation. The display unit 116 is, for example, in the form of a display, integrated into a remote control for the operating table 10. Furthermore, the display unit 116 can also comprise a monitor that is installed in the operating room and that constantly indicates to the operator the limitations of the operating table 10 that apply during operation.

[0107] The evaluation unit 117 or another unit of the safety unit 106 can control individual components of the operating table 10, in particular the patient support apparatus 18 and the operating table column 16, during operation of the operating table 10 so that limits are respected. For example, operation of the operating table 10 outside of acceptable limits can be prevented and / or a warning can be generated indicating a deviation from acceptable limits.

[0108] In addition to patient weight information, the evaluation unit 116 can use further information to ascertain operational limitations of the operating table 10. This information includes information regarding the identity and / or configuration of the patient support apparatus 18 and accessories attached to the operating table 10.

[0109] The detection unit 118 is configured to determine which accessories are attached to the operating table 10, in particular the patient support apparatus 18. To detect the accessories, a signal can be sent from the accessories to the detection unit 118. The signal can include information about the respective accessory, thereby enabling the detection unit 118 to identify the respective accessory. The signal used to detect the accessory can be, for example, an electrical signal, an optical signal, or a wireless signal. This allows the detection unit 118 to determine in particular which support surface sections are connected to each other in what order and which further accessories are attached to the operating table 10.

[0110] The detection unit 118 informs the evaluation unit 117 about which accessories are attached to the operating table 10, in particular the patient support apparatus 18. Furthermore, the evaluation unit 117 can read data about the geometry and mass or weight and center of gravity of the accessories from the data storage device 110. The evaluation unit 117 uses this information in addition to the weight information to simulate the operation of the operating table 10 and from the simulation to determine the operating table 10's limitations during operation.

[0111] In some embodiments, at least one drive device may be envisioned for moving at least a portion of the patient support apparatus 18 relative to other portions of the system 100 and / or relative to another portion of the patient support apparatus 18 .

[0112] 3 shows schematically the various loads that the load determination unit 104 can determine from the data delivered by the load sensor unit 102. In particular, the load determination unit 104 can determine a measured load, an active load, a total load, and a workload.

[0113] The measured load, identified by reference numeral 140 in Figure 3, is the load acting on the load sensor device 102. The measured load is the load generated by all people, objects, and forces on the operating table 10 above the load sensor. The measured load corresponds to a load value measured by the load sensor device 102, which may be located on the operating table column 16.

[0114] The active load 142 corresponds to the load acting on the operating table 10 caused by components, personnel, and external forces not associated with the operating table 10. The active load does not take into account the influence of components and recognized accessories associated with the operating table 10. Only the remaining components of the operating table 10 contribute to the active load, i.e., components not associated with the operating table 10. These may be, for example, accessories not recognized by the operating table 10. Additionally, a patient positioned on the operating table 10 contributes to the active load. Additionally, all forces acting externally on the operating table 10, for example, applied to the operating table 10 by personnel and / or objects external to the operating table 10, contribute to the active load. Essentially, the active load is a measured load that is not influenced by known objects, such as tabletop components, recognized accessories, etc.

[0115] The total load 144 is the load resulting from the measured load and the loads generated by components associated with the operating table 10 that are below the load sensor device 102. Thus, the total load takes into account loads from components that are located below the load sensor device 102 and cannot be measured by the load sensor device 102 and therefore do not contribute to the measured load. Thus, the total load is the load resulting from the entire operating table 10, the patient, components associated with the operating table 10, components not associated with the operating table 10, and other external forces.

[0116] Additionally, a workload can be defined that consists of the weight of the patient and the weight of the accessories used. The weight of the patient support apparatus 18 consisting of the individual accessories can be included in the workload.

[0117] 4 shows a flowchart 200 illustrating various steps for determining and displaying limits that apply during operation of the operating table 10. The steps described below can be performed before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus 18.

[0118] In step 201, the operator causes the method for determining and displaying limits to be executed by the operator activating the corresponding input key on the remote control 150.

[0119] In step 202, the operator is prompted to enter the weight of the patient supported on the patient support apparatus 18 into the remote control 150 by a corresponding representation on the display of the remote control 150.

[0120] In step 203, the operator inputs the patient's weight into the remote control 150. It may further be envisaged that the operator inputs into the remote control 150 the center of gravity or the approximate lying position that the patient will later assume on the operating table 10.

[0121] In step 204, the remote control 150 communicates the patient's weight, and if necessary, the patient's center of gravity or supine position, to the evaluation unit 117. The remote control 150 also causes the evaluation unit 117 to perform a preliminary check of the operating table 10 and determine applicable limits during operation of the operating table 10.

[0122] In step 205, the detection unit 118 determines which accessories 151 are attached to the operating table 10. This information is transmitted to the evaluation unit 117. Furthermore, the evaluation unit 117 can extract further information from the data storage device 110 regarding the accessories 151, in particular their mass and / or center of gravity.

[0123] In step 206, the evaluation unit 117 simulates the operation of the operating table 10, taking into account the patient weight entered by the operator into the remote control 150, the accessories 151 detected by the detection unit 118, and, if appropriate, the patient's center of gravity or supine position. In particular, it can be determined during the simulation whether the tilt risk or overload risk exceeds a specified threshold in one or more specific positions that the operating table 10 can assume during operation. For each joint that can perform a movement, the movement is simulated to determine which areas of the joint are not allowed to move. This is because, for example, the patient weight and / or the patient's center of gravity or supine position could cause an increased tilt risk or overload of at least one component of the operating table 10. Furthermore, it can be determined how far the patient support apparatus 18 can be displaced longitudinally or laterally without the tilt risk or overload risk exceeding a specified threshold. In a similar manner, all possible movements of the operating table 10 and / or the patient support apparatus 18 can be computationally determined. By checking the lower and upper limits of each joint, areas of increased risk of tilt and / or overload can be eliminated, thereby defining the limits of the operating table 10 during operation.

[0124] The simulation of the movement of the joints and other components of the operating table 10 in step 206 can consist of individual steps. Each step can be associated with a specific position of the operating table 10, i.e., a specific position of the joints. At each position, it can be computationally determined whether the tilt risk or overload risk exceeds a respective specified threshold. Further positions of the operating table 10 are then determined. This method is performed iteratively. As a result, step 206 consists of various individual steps that are performed iteratively. In FIG. 4, the iterative performance of the simulation is indicated by the reference numeral 207.

[0125] In step 208 , the evaluation unit 117 communicates the restriction to the remote control 150 . In step 209, the remote control 150 displays the restrictions to the operator on the display of the remote control 150.

[0126] Below is described an exemplary algorithm utilized by the evaluation unit 117 to simulate the movement of the operating table 10 and define positions where the risk of tilt and / or overload increases.

[0127] 5A and 5B show the operating table 10 from the side and front, respectively. In Fig. 5A, the operating table 10 is in a lowered or locked position, i.e., the legs 14 rest on the floor, preventing the operating table 10 from moving. In this position, the lower lateral edges of the legs 14 facing the floor represent tilt points 310 about which the operating table 10 can tilt.

[0128] 5B, the operating table 10 is in an unlocked position, i.e., the operating table 10 is on casters 312 and can be moved on the floor. In this position, a possible tilt point 310 is provided by the casters 312.

[0129] Essentially, the operating table 10 is stable as long as the center of gravity COG of the total load is within the contact surface of the tilt point 310, i.e., directly above the surface bounded by the tilt point 310. This situation is exemplarily shown in Figure 6A. However, if the center of gravity COG of the total load is not directly above the contact surface of the tilt point 310, as shown in Figure 6B, the operating table 10 may tilt.

[0130] During the simulation, the evaluation unit 117 calculates the residual tilt torque M for a particular position of the operating table 10 at the tilt point 310 by multiplying the total load by the distance x1 between the tilt point 310 and the center of gravity COG of the total load. rThe total load and the center of gravity COG of the total load are calculated by the evaluation unit 117 from the patient weight entered by the operator into the remote control 150, the detected masses and centers of gravity of the accessories 151 and the remaining components of the operating table 10, and, if appropriate, the center of gravity or supine position of the patient. As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the force vector F is plotted as the total load, and furthermore, the distance x1 between the force vector F and the tilt point 310 is plotted. The residual tilt torque M r is M r =F*x1. Residual tilt torque M r A positive value of means that the operating table 10 is stable with respect to this tilt point 310 (see FIG. 6A). As the distance x1 decreases, the residual tilt torque M r The residual tilt torque M r If is negative, this means that the center of gravity COG and the force vector F are not directly above the surface bounded by the tilt point 310, and the operating table 10 will tilt (see FIG. 6B). r The higher the value of , the more stable the operating table 10 will be. A residual tilt torque threshold value, for example, having a value of 225 Nm, is specified. This means that the residual tilt torque must not be less than 225 Nm. If the residual tilt torque is below the threshold, the operating table 10 should not be moved to this position. The evaluation unit 117 defines limits so that positions of the operating table 10 at risk of tilting are not within the permissible range of motion of the operating table 10.

[0131] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 117 can check the respective residual tilt torques for all possible tilt points and compare each of these residual tilt torques with a residual tilt torque threshold. If for a position of the operating table 10 only one tilt torque is below the residual tilt torque threshold, the evaluation unit 117 can determine that there is an increased tilt risk at this position of the operating table 10 and that the operating table 10 cannot assume this position during operation.

[0132] Further design considerations for tilt risk are based on the stability requirements of the 60601-1 standard. The 60601-1 standard stipulates that the operating table 10 must remain stable at a 5-degree tilt under all conditions of intended use, and at a 10-degree tilt only for the defined transport position. This requirement can be translated, as shown in Figure 7, using casters 312 to create an imaginary 5-degree line 320 at each tilt point and a 10-degree line 322 at each tilt point. The 5-degree and 10-degree angles can be referred to as stability angles. Thus, in some designs, there is a first stability angle when the operating table 10 rests directly on the floor and a second, larger stability angle when the operating table 10 is in a transport position on rollers or wheels.

[0133] The stability angle (e.g., 5 degrees or 10 degrees) is identified by a particular normal vector 324. The normal vector 324 may be defined, for example, by the floor plate of the leg 14 or the patient support apparatus 18 in a normal, i.e., non-extended, position. The normal vector 324 is oriented perpendicular to the floor plate of the leg 14 or perpendicular to the patient support apparatus 18 in a normal position. Instead of a 5-degree or 10-degree stability angle with the normal vector 324, other suitable stability angles may be selected for the imaginary lines 320, 322.

[0134] If, in a simulated position of the operating table 10, the center of gravity COG of the total load violates, i.e., passes through, one of the imaginary 5-degree lines 320, the evaluation unit 117 defines that the operating table 10 cannot assume this position during operation. If one of the imaginary 10-degree lines 322 exceeds the center of gravity COG, the evaluation unit 117 can block the powered transport function of the operating table 10 in this position.

[0135] A three-dimensional space is defined by each of the imaginary five-degree line 320 and the imaginary ten-degree line 322. Typically, the "walls" of the three-dimensional space slope inward as one moves further upward from the base of the operating table 10, resulting in the center of gravity (COG) being more constrained laterally at higher COGs than at lower COGs located closer to the floor. The inward slope of the "walls" of the three-dimensional space is determined by the stability angle. In one design, the evaluation unit 117 can define a tipping risk if the center of gravity (COG) of the total load exits one of the defined spaces.

[0136] Accessories are typically approved for use with a patient weight, particularly a maximum weight. As part of the simulation, the evaluation unit 117 checks whether the predicted weight exceeds the weight limit of the accessory. If the weight limit of the operating table 10 or the accessory is exceeded in the simulation, the evaluation unit 117 can include the corresponding position of the operating table 10 in the limit.

[0137] The operating table 10 shown in Figure 8 includes, as accessories, a head section 402, a leg section 404, and a number of extension sections 406 connected in the configuration shown to a main support surface section 408. The maximum load capacity of each accessory is shown in Figure 8. The head section 402 has a maximum load capacity of 250 kg, the leg section 404 has a maximum load capacity of 135 kg, and the extension section 406 has a maximum load capacity of 454 kg, for a total maximum load capacity of 545 kg for the operating table 10. The evaluation unit 117 determines whether any of the components are overloaded.

[0138] Accessories can also be overloaded if the configuration in which they are connected together is not suitable for the load acting on them. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, three extension sections 406 can be cascaded in series. While each extension section 406 is individually suitable for a load of 454 kg, the combination 410 of the three extension sections 406 is only suitable for a load of 155 kg. Thus, in some designs, the weight capacity of the table configuration is determined by considering the various extension sections 406 connected to the operating table, and adding additional extension sections 406 reduces the weight capacity of the entire table configuration compared to a configuration with fewer extension sections 406.

[0139] The evaluation unit 117 simulates positions of the operating table 10 to identify positions of the operating table 10 where the predicted active load exceeds the allowable weight for the configuration 410. If the allowable weight is exceeded in one or more positions, the evaluation unit 117 can add the corresponding positions of the operating table 10 to the limit.

[0140] An overload situation may also be caused by a particular positioning of the patient. For example, FIG. 10A shows a case where a patient is seated on the head section 402, with the patient's overall center of gravity located above the head section 402. Although the accessory 402 is suitable for use with a patient weighing 380 kg, the accessory 402 is intended only as a head restraint, i.e., it cannot be sat on. To prevent the patient from assuming such a position, the remote control display can indicate to the operator that the patient cannot assume a particular position on the patient support apparatus 18.

[0141] It is also possible for the operator to input into the remote control the particular patient position that the patient will assume on the patient support apparatus 18 during the procedure. The evaluation unit 117 takes the patient position into account when determining the active load and / or the center of gravity of the active load.

[0142] Furthermore, the evaluation unit 117 can also determine the overload risk for specific sections or regions of the patient support apparatus 18. In FIG. 10A, as an example, the patient support apparatus 18 is divided into different regions to which maximum load capacities of 155 kg, 250 kg, and 550 kg apply, respectively. The evaluation unit 117 verifies in which region the predicted center of gravity of the active load is located and compares the active load with the overload threshold, i.e., the maximum load capacity, specified for this region. If the active load exceeds the maximum load capacity specified for this region, the evaluation unit 117 can include the corresponding position of the operating table 10 in the limit.

[0143] Figure 10B shows an alternative design compared to Figure 10A. In the embodiment shown in Figure 10B, the front of the patient support apparatus 18 comprising the head section 402 is not divided into various regions with constant overload thresholds in each case, but instead a straight line 420 is designated that runs along the front of the patient support apparatus 18. The straight line 420 designates a respective overload threshold for each position of the front of the patient support apparatus 18. The overload threshold decreases towards the head end of the patient support apparatus 18. The straight line 420 corresponds to the F / M threshold where F is the force at the center of gravity of the active load, COG, and M threshold is a constant.

[0144] The evaluation unit 117 determines at which position on the patient support apparatus 18 the center of gravity of the active load is located and compares the active load with the overload threshold specified for this determined position. If the active load exceeds the maximum load capacity specified for this area, the evaluation unit 117 can modify the limit displayed to the operator so that the operating table 10 cannot be moved to the corresponding position.

[0145] A further overload situation exists when the drive of the operating table 10 becomes overloaded and the operating table 10 is unable to return to its original position. As an example, FIG. 11 shows an extreme longitudinal displacement and Trendelenburg position combined with a heavy patient. This may be a position where the operating table 10 is unable to return to its starting position because the drive for the longitudinal displacement and Trendelenburg drive are overloaded. In particular, the Trendelenburg drive is forced to operate with a force F measured Furthermore, the drive for the longitudinal displacement cannot apply the torque generated by the longitudinal force F longitudinal cannot be generated.

[0146] The evaluation unit 117 can determine the load of each drive from the measured load and / or the center of gravity of the measured load. Each drive has a load limit that must not be exceeded. If this limit is exceeded, the operator is informed on the remote control 150 that the operating table 10 cannot assume the corresponding position.

[0147] Exemplary embodiments and variations corresponding to the present disclosure are set forth in the following clauses and list of options.

[0148] Clause 1: A system (100) for determining and displaying limitations during operation of an operating table (10), the system (100) comprising: a patient support device (18), particularly a surgical patient support device (18), for fastening to the operating table column (16) of the operating table (10); a display unit (116) for displaying information about limitations during operation of the operating table (10); an input unit (114) for inputting information about the patient's weight and / or an interface (115) for receiving electronic patient weight information from outside the system (100); and an evaluation unit (117) configured to determine an operating limit of the operating table (10) based on at least a weight of the patient and display the limit on the display unit (116) before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus (18).

[0149] Clause 2: The system (100) of clause 1, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines limitations during operation of the operating table (10) based on the identity and / or configuration of the patient support apparatus (18).

[0150] Clause 3: The system (100) according to clause 1 or 2, further comprising a detection unit (118) for detecting accessories attached to the operating table (10), in particular to the patient support apparatus (18).

[0151] Clause 4: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines limitations during operation of the operating table (10) based on accessories (151) attached to the operating table (10), in particular to the patient support device (18).

[0152] Clause 5: A system (100) as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the input unit (114) and / or the interface (115) are designed so that the intended position that the patient will take on the patient support apparatus (18) and / or the intended center of gravity of the patient on the patient support apparatus (18) can be input into the input unit (114) and / or received by the interface (115).

[0153] Clause 6: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines limitations during operation of the operating table (10) based on the intended position of the patient on the patient support apparatus (18) and / or the intended center of gravity of the patient on the patient support apparatus (18).

[0154] Clause 7: A system (100) as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the display unit (116) is assumed to be a screen physically separated from the remote control (150) or the patient support apparatus (18), and / or the input unit (114) is assumed to be a remote control (150).

[0155] Clause 8: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the limitation during the movement of the operating table (10) relates to the movement of the patient support apparatus (18), in particular to the movement of the entire patient support apparatus (18) and / or to the movement of at least one segment of the patient support apparatus (18) separately and / or to the movement of the operating table column (16).

[0156] Clause 9: A system (100) described in any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the restriction during movement of the operating table (10) relates to the separate movement of at least one segment of the patient support apparatus (18) and / or the movement of the operating table column (16).

[0157] Clause 10: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the limitations during operation of the operating table (10) are characterized at least by an area within which the operating table (10), in particular the patient support apparatus (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus (18), can be moved.

[0158] Clause 11: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the limitations during operation of the operating table (10) include one or more of the following limitations: limitations during selection of an axis about which the patient support apparatus (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus (18) can move; limitations on the area in which the patient support apparatus (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus (18) can move about an axis; limitations on the speed at which the patient support apparatus (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support apparatus (18) can move about an axis; limitations during tilting of the patient support apparatus (18); limitations during tilting of the patient support apparatus (18); limitations during longitudinal displacement of the patient support apparatus (18); limitations during lateral displacement of the patient support apparatus (18); limitations during height adjustment of the patient support apparatus (18); limitations during extension of the rollers of the operating table (10); and / or limitations during powered transport of the operating table (10).

[0159] Clause 12: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit determines (117) limits during operation of the operating table (10) such that tilting of the operating table (10) and / or overloading of the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) are prevented.

[0160] Clause 13: The overload of the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) is determined to be the following overload: overloading of the structural components of the operating table (10), particularly accessories attached to the patient support apparatus (18), and / or the structural components of the operating table (10), which may result in bending or breaking of the structural components; and The system (100) of clause 12, including overloading at least one of the powered joints of the operating table (10), which cannot be moved or can only be moved to a limited extent due to the overload.

[0161] Clause 14: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines for each of several positions that the operating table (10) can assume during a specified operation whether restrictions are necessary, in particular whether there is a risk of tilting of the operating table (10) and / or a risk of overloading the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10).

[0162] Clause 15: A system (100) as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines a residual tilt torque associated with a specified tilt point for several positions that the operating table (10) can take during a specified operation, and the evaluation unit (117) defines a tilt risk for one of the positions if the residual tilt torque at this position is below a specified residual tilt torque threshold, and in particular, the display unit (116) displays information regarding at least one restriction during operation of the operating table (10) in response to determining the tilt risk for one or more of the several positions of the operating table (10).

[0163] Clause 16: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines the position of the load center of the operating table (10) relative to at least one specified virtual line for several positions that the operating table (10) can take during a specified operation, the evaluation unit (117) defines a tilt risk for one of the positions if the load center of the operating table (10) passes through the at least one virtual line at this position, and in particular the display unit (116) displays information about at least one limitation during operation of the operating table (10) in response to determining the tilt risk for one or more of the several positions of the operating table (10).

[0164] Clause 17: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines from the weight of the patient and / or the center of gravity of the patient whether there is an overload risk for the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10).

[0165] Clause 18: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit (117) compares the load acting on the operating table (10) and / or the patient support apparatus (18) with at least one specified overload threshold and determines that there is an overload risk for the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) if the load exceeds the at least one overload threshold, the at least one overload threshold being specific to the operating table (10) and / or at least one component.

[0166] Clause 19: At least a portion of the patient support apparatus (18) is virtually divided into several regions, and an overload threshold is specified for each region; A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit (117) verifies in which area the center of gravity of the load acting on the operating table (10) and / or the patient support apparatus (18) is located and defines an overload risk if the load exceeds an overload threshold specified for this area, and in particular the display unit (116) displays information about at least one limitation during operation of the operating table (10) in response to determining the overload risk.

[0167] Clause 20: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising at least one drive device for moving the operating table (10), wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines a load acting on the at least one drive device from the weight of the patient and / or the center of gravity of the patient, and defines an overload risk if the load exceeds at least one specified overload threshold specific to the at least one drive device, and in particular the display unit (116) displays information about at least one limitation during operation of the operating table (10) in response to determining the overload risk.

[0168] Clause 21: The patient's weight information is input into the input unit (114) or received from the interface (115) before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus (18); 10. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the evaluation unit (117) simulates the operation of the operating table (10) with the patient supported thereon before placing the patient on the patient support apparatus (18).

[0169] Clause 22: A system (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the evaluation unit (117) is configured to determine limitations during movement of the operating table (10) based on at least the weight of the patient by the evaluation unit (117) simulating the movement of the operating table (10) with the patient supported thereon.

[0170] Clause 23: A method for determining and displaying the operating limits of an operating table (10), comprising: Information regarding the patient's weight is entered into an input unit (114) and / or electronic patient weight information is received at an interface (115); The operating limits of the operating table (10) are determined based at least on the weight of the patient; The method, wherein the limitations are displayed on a display unit (116) before placing the patient on a patient support apparatus (18), in particular a surgical patient support apparatus (18).

Claims

1. A system (100) for determining and displaying limitations during the operation of an operating table (10), wherein the system (100) A patient support device (18), particularly a surgical patient support device (18), for fixing to the operating table column (16) of the operating table (10), A display unit (116) that displays information regarding limitations during the operation of the operating table (10), An input unit (114) for inputting information regarding the patient's weight and / or an interface (115) for receiving electronic patient weight information from outside the system (100), A system (100) comprising: an evaluation unit (117) configured to determine limitations on the operation of the operating table (10) based at least on the weight of the patient, and to display the limitations on the display unit (116) before placing the patient on the patient support device (18).

2. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines the limitations during operation of the operating table (10) based on the identification and / or configuration of the patient support device (18).

3. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a detection unit (118) for detecting accessories attached to the operating table (10), particularly the patient support device (18).

4. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines the limitations during operation of the operating table (10) based on the accessories (151) attached to the operating table (10), particularly the patient support device (18).

5. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the input unit (114) and / or the interface (115) are designed so that the planned position the patient will take on the patient support device (18) and / or the planned center of gravity of the patient on the patient support device (18) can be input to the input unit (114) and / or received by the interface (115).

6. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) further determines the limitations during the operation of the operating table (10) based on the planned position the patient takes on the patient support device (18) and / or the planned center of gravity of the patient on the patient support device (18).

7. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the display unit (116) is assumed to be a screen physically separated from the remote control (150) or the patient support device (18), and / or the input unit (114) is assumed to be the remote control (150).

8. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the limitations during the operation of the operating table (10) relate to the operation of the patient support device (18), in particular to the operation of the entire patient support device (18) and / or the distinct operation of at least one segment of the patient support device (18) and / or the operation of the operating table column (16).

9. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the limitations during the operation of the operating table (10) relate to the separate operation of at least one segment of the patient support device (18) and / or the operation of the operating table column (16).

10. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the limitations during the operation of the operating table (10) are characterized by a region in which the operating table (10), in particular the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) can be moved.

11. The limitations during the operation of the operating table (10) are the following limitations: limitations in the selection of axes around which the operation of the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) can move; limitations in the region around which the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) can move; limitations on the axis around which the patient support device (18) and / or at least one segment of the patient support device (18) can move The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising one or more of the following limitations: limitations on the speed at which it can move around; limitations while tilting the patient support device (18); limitations while tilting the patient support device (18); limitations during longitudinal displacement of the patient support device (18); limitations during lateral displacement of the patient support device (18); limitations while adjusting the height of the patient support device (18); limitations while extending the rollers of the operating table (10); and / or limitations while the operating table (10) is electrically transported.

12. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit determines the limits during operation of the operating table (10) so as to prevent tilting of the operating table (10) and / or overloading of the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) (117).

13. The overload of the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) is the following overload, namely: Overloading of the structural components of the operating table (10), particularly the accessories attached to the patient support device (18), and / or the structural components of the operating table (10), such overloading may cause the structural components to bend or break, and The system (100) according to claim 12, comprising at least one of the overloads of the motorized joints of the operating table (10) that, due to overload, cannot be moved or can only be moved to a limited extent.

14. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines whether any of the positions the operating table (10) can take during a specified operation require any restrictions, in particular whether there is a risk of tilting the operating table (10) and / or an overload risk of the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10).

15. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines a residual tilt torque associated with a specified tilt point for several positions that the operating table (10) can take during a specified operation, the evaluation unit (117) defines a tilt risk for one of the positions if the residual tilt torque at that position is below a specified residual tilt torque threshold, and in particular, the display unit (116) displays information regarding at least one limitation of the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of the tilt risk for one or more of the several positions of the operating table (10).

16. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines the position of the load center of the operating table (10) relative to at least one designated virtual line for several positions that the operating table (10) can take during a specified operation, the evaluation unit (117) defines the tilt risk for one of the positions if the load center of the operating table (10) passes through the at least one virtual line at that position, and in particular, the display unit (116) displays information regarding at least one limitation during the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of the tilt risk for one or more of the several positions of the operating table (10).

17. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines whether there is an overload risk to the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) based on the weight of the patient and / or the patient's center of gravity.

18. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) compares the load acting on the operating table (10) and / or the patient support device (18) with at least one designated overload threshold, and if the load exceeds the at least one overload threshold, it is determined that the operating table (10) and / or at least one component of the operating table (10) is at risk of overload, and the at least one overload threshold is specific to the operating table (10) and / or at least one component.

19. At least a portion of the patient support device (18) is virtually divided into several regions, and an overload threshold is specified for each region. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) verifies which region the center of gravity of the load acting on the operating table (10) and / or the patient support device (18) is located in, defines an overload risk if the load exceeds the overload threshold specified for this region, and in particular, the display unit (116) displays information regarding at least one limitation during the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of the overload risk.

20. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one drive unit for moving the operating table (10), in particular for moving at least a portion of the patient support device (18) relative to other parts of the system (100), and more particularly for moving at least a portion of the patient support device (18) relative to another part of the patient support device (18), wherein the evaluation unit (117) determines a load acting on the at least one drive unit from the weight of the patient and / or the center of gravity of the patient, defines an overload risk if the load exceeds at least one designated overload threshold specific to the at least one drive unit, and in particular, the display unit (116) displays information regarding at least one limit during the operation of the operating table (10) in response to the determination of an overload risk.

21. The patient's weight information is input to the input unit (114) or received from the interface (115) before the patient is placed on the patient support device (18). The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) simulates the operation of the operating table (10) with the patient supported before placing the patient on the patient support device (18).

22. The system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the evaluation unit (117) is configured to determine the limits during the operation of the operating table (10) based on at least the weight of the patient, by the evaluation unit (117) which simulates the operation of the operating table (10) with the patient supported.

23. A method for determining and displaying the limitations on the operation of an operating table (10), Information regarding the patient's weight is input to the input unit (114), and / or electronic patient weight information is received at the interface (115). The limitations on the operation of the operating table (10) are determined at least based on the patient's weight. A method in which the limitations are displayed on a display unit (116) before the patient is placed in a patient support device (18), particularly a surgical patient support device (18).

Images