A medical system having an operating table and remote control, an operating table and remote control, and a method for operating a medical system having an operating table.

Abstract

The medical system includes an operating table (13) having a computer system (15) and a remote control (17) for remotely controlling the operation of the operating table (13), the remote control (17) including a screen (19), the computer system (15) and the remote control (17) configured to communicate with each other via a communication interface (21), the computer system (15) configured to provide a graphical user interface to the remote control (21) via the communication interface (21), and the remote control (17) configured to execute the graphical user interface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a medical system having an operating table and a remote control, an operating table, a remote control, and a method for operating a medical system having an operating table.

Background Art

[0002] Medical devices such as operating tables can be remotely controlled by using a remote control in a convenient manner. Compared with a remote control that does not have a touch screen, a remote control with a touch screen can provide users with more information and flexibility for interacting with the medical device.

[0003] A remote control for controlling medical instruments is described in WO2016 / 131659A1.

[0004] Currently, the operating table remote control and the associated operating table can be regarded as two independent systems that interact with each other via a command and information exchange interface. This operating table is responsible for performing all movements of the operating table, interfacing with other systems in the hospital, interpreting commands received from the remote control, and generating commands and information to be transmitted to the remote control. The remote control system is responsible for accepting user input via hardware buttons and a touch screen, generating a graphical user interface (GUI) presented to the user on the screen or touch screen of the remote control (if any), interpreting commands and information received from the operating table, and transmitting user-generated commands to the operating table.

[0005] Since the operating table and remote control are independent systems, all functions provided to the user for interacting with the operating table via the remote control must be included in the software of both systems. This also applies to modern remote controls used with other medical devices besides the operating table. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved medical system equipped with medical devices, particularly an operating table and a remote control. Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved medical device and an improved remote control. Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved method for operating a medical system equipped with medical devices and a remote control. The medical device may be, for example, an operating table for supporting a patient.

[0007] In at least some embodiments of the present invention, the medical system according to the present invention is Medical devices having at least one computer system, particularly operating tables and, A remote control for remotely controlling the operation of a medical device, comprising a remote control including a screen, Includes, The computer system and the remote control are configured to communicate with each other via a communication interface. The computer system is configured to provide a graphical user interface (GUI) to a remote control via a communication interface, and the remote control is configured to run the graphical user interface. The computer system is optionally configured to control at least a portion of the screen by a graphical user interface when run remotely, and optionally to begin displaying at least one graphical user interface element on the remote control screen, particularly on a portion of the screen.

[0008] Therefore, in at least some embodiments, the display of a remote control can be controlled by a graphical user interface of a computer system, and thus the remote control, or at least its display, can be considered an extension of the computer system. For example, a remote control may display image data provided to it by a computer system via a communication interface and may serve to provide user input directly to the computer system using a graphical user interface, but the remote control itself does not need to interpret the received data or user input.

[0009] In at least some embodiments, the computer system and remote control may be implemented as a client-server system where the display of the client corresponding to the remote control hosts a GUI of a server system corresponding to the computer system, for example, a computer in an operating table. Thus, the remote control may be a means for displaying at least one graphical user interface element, but the separate GUI system of the remote control does not acquire any information about the provided data, except for the information necessary to display it, if any. In some embodiments, the remote does not need to recognize the data in order to associate it with a given display command in the remote control (e.g., a way to convert the information into a human-readable format and a way to fit the information to a given layout), but rather the information with the basic display command is sufficient so that the remote does not need to recognize the data and associate it with any given display command.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least one graphical user interface element is at least one of an image, a slider, or an input field such as a checkbox. A graphical user interface element can be any element that can be displayed on a display. For example, it could be an image or a series of images. However, preferably, live images of a patient are not provided. The computer system can determine how the visualized element will appear to the user. For example, it can determine at least one of the font, color, position, user-readable elements, and contextual information. This is particularly due to the fact that the computer system provides the GUI elements.

[0011] In some embodiments, at least one graphical user interface element is at least one of the following: input control elements such as checkboxes, radio buttons, dropdown lists, list boxes, buttons, dropdown buttons, toggles, date fields, alphabetic keyboards, numeric keyboards, icons as buttons, interactive images; navigation components such as search fields, sliders, icons; and information components such as tooltips, icons, progress bars, notifications, message boxes, modal windows, images, and formatted text.

[0012] Radio buttons are used to allow users to select one item at a time. Drop-down buttons consist of buttons that, when clicked, display a drop-down list of mutually exclusive items. Toggle buttons allow users to change settings between two states. These are most effective when the on / off states are visually distinct. Sliders, also known as trackbars, allow users to set or adjust values. Icons are simplified images that serve as intuitive symbols used to help users navigate the system. Icons can be hyperlinked.

[0013] In some embodiments, at least one graphical user interface element corresponds to at least one image, and the computer system is configured to provide or generate data containing image data of at least one image. The computer system may be configured to send data to a remote control in order to display at least one image on the screen. The image may be displayed on the screen, in particular, in the portion controlled by the graphical user interface. The remote control does not need to interpret the image or generate it itself. Thus, by using a graphical user interface of a computer system that plays a role in controlling the screen of the remote control, the functionality and user experience of the remote control can still be improved, while the complexity that must be incorporated into the remote control can be reduced.

[0014] In some embodiments, the data further includes display commands for displaying at least one image on the screen, and the remote control is configured to display at least one image on the screen in accordance with the display commands. The display commands may provide information such as anchor points that define where on the screen the image should be displayed.

[0015] In some embodiments, graphical user interface elements correspond to human-readable instructions and / or instructions or information that can be prepared by a human, and the computer system is configured to provide data containing instructions or information to a remote control. Instructions can be basic instructions such as text instructions, and information can include text, symbols, and numbers. The remote control may be configured to execute the instructions. For example, the display of several elements on a screen may be initiated by an instruction, as opposed to directly providing images. For example, a list of nearby WLAN networks for a medical device can be transmitted as data containing a set of text items and instructions to display them. "OK" and "Cancel" buttons can be created simply by transmitting data containing instructions that indicate a "Cancel" button in the upper left and an "OK" button in the upper right of the screen. Furthermore, information can be displayed on the screen.

[0016] In some embodiments, a command includes an identifier for at least one image and display information for the location where at least one image should be displayed on the screen, and the remote control is configured to identify at least one image in a database on the remote control based on the identifier and to display at least one image on the screen according to the display information. For example, "OK" and "Cancel" buttons can be created simply by sending data that includes a command indicating the "Cancel" button in the upper left and the "OK" button in the upper right of the screen. The images for the "OK" and "Cancel" buttons can be stored in the remote control's local database.

[0017] In at least some embodiments, a computer system can remotely control a remote control, and in particular its screen, using virtual network computing (VNC), a graphical desktop sharing system. VNC can be used to share the graphical user interface of a computer system with a remote control. Thus, a computer system can remotely control a remote control, either fully or partially, based on VNC and by using the Remote Framebuffer Protocol (RFB). The remote control can send keyboard and / or touchscreen events to the computer system, and the computer system can send graphical screen updates to the remote control.

[0018] In some embodiments, the computer system is configured to receive user input from a remote control and, in accordance with the received user input, initiate the display of at least one updated graphical user element. The updated graphical user element may include, for example, updated image data provided or generated by the computer system in accordance with the received user input. The computer system may transmit the updated image data to the remote control. User input, for example, by pressing a key or button on the remote control, is transmitted to the computer system, where it is further processed. The user input may relate to at least one image displayed on the display, and the user input may be intended to trigger a change in the settings of a medical device.

[0019] In some embodiments, the computer system may be configured to change the settings of a medical device in accordance with received user input, in particular using another computer system that controls the operation of the medical device. Furthermore, the updated image data may include, for example, at least one updated image that reflects the corresponding change in settings and shows the medical device in the new settings. The updated image data may be transmitted to the remote control in the form of updated data, in particular including updated image data of at least one updated image and a display command for displaying at least one updated image on a screen. In some embodiments, the computer system is part of an operating table and moves one or more sections of the operating table in response to user input received remotely. In some embodiments, the computer then updates an image of the operating table to reflect the movement of the operating table and then transmits the updated image of the operating table to a remote control on which it is displayed.

[0020] In some embodiments, the screen is a touchscreen, and the computer system is configured to receive location information of user input on the touchscreen and, depending on the location information of the received user input, initiate the display of at least one updated graphical user interface element on the screen. For example, the computer system can generate or provide updated image data based on the location information of the received user input. For example, the location information of the user input may relate to the coordinates on the touchscreen of a detected touch event. The coordinates of the touch event can be transmitted from a remote control to the computer system, where the coordinates are interpreted. In some embodiments, an updated image of a medical device may be generated depending on the coordinates. For example, the medical device may be an operating table, and the coordinates of the touch event may correspond to the position of the leg support of the operating table. Thus, the updated image may show an operating table with a raised leg support. In some embodiments, the computer system can process the information obtained regarding the touch event or initiate an external event, such as movement of the operating table.

[0021] The positional information of user input is not limited to the coordinates of touch events on the screen. In at least some embodiments, the positional information may be related to slide events on the touchscreen. The positional information may be represented by a set of coordinates that reflect the slide event on the touchscreen. For example, an upward slide performed on the graphic of the leg of an operating table may initiate the corresponding upward movement of the leg. Furthermore, an updated image generated in response to the detection of such a slide event may show the leg support in the lifted position. Multitouch or dualtouch events can also be detected and processed in a corresponding manner.

[0022] In some embodiments, the computer system is configured to determine that the state of the medical device should be changed from the current state to a new state based on user input received from a remote control. For example, a touch event or a swipe movement on a touch screen may be interpreted as a user command to change the setting or state of the medical device from the current state to a new state. The input event may also be a multi-touch or dual-touch event.

[0023] In some embodiments, the computer system is configured to generate updated image data including at least one updated image of the medical device that shows the medical device in the new state, and the computer system is configured to provide the updated image data to the remote control. For example, the medical device may be an operating table, and the new state may relate to a raised position of a leg support portion of the operating table. The leg support portion may be one selected via the remote control to be moved. The updated image data may be provided to the remote control by transmitting the updated data from the computer system to the remote control. The updated data may include the updated image data, and may optionally include display instructions such as anchor points for displaying the at least one updated image.

[0024] In some embodiments, the updated image data may be buffered on the computer system and / or the remote control.

[0025] In some embodiments, the at least one graphical user interface element comprises an input option or a set of input options displayed on the screen.

[0026] In some embodiments, the computer system is configured to provide image data to the remote control, which includes at least one visualization of the medical device for each input option in the set of input options.

[0027] In some embodiments, the computer system provides control means for controlling a graphical user interface. In some embodiments, graphical user interface logic is provided by the computer system, and the logic may be used by a remote control to display the graphical user interface on a screen. The GUI can be divided into graphics and layouts presented to the user, and logic that determines how the GUI responds to user interactions. In some embodiments, the computer system is configured to control both aspects of the GUI. The position where the computer-generated GUI is displayed may be a predetermined subset of the remote control screen.

[0028] In some embodiments, a set of input options is provided to the user, and the image data of the data provided to the remote control includes at least one view of the medical device for each input option in the set of input options. For example, to address potential issues associated with reaction time after user input, the computer system can provide at least one view of the medical device for each input option. The views can be provided as images or animations corresponding to a series of consecutive images, and the views can be pre-buffered on the remote control.

[0029] In some embodiments, the image data further includes instructions that, in response to the user selecting an input option, cause the remote control to display at least one view of the medical device associated with the selected input option.

[0030] For example, the pre-buffered view may be directly displayed on the screen by the remote control in response to a specific user input, for example, as specified by the graphical user interface logic provided by the computer system.

[0031] For example, the computer system of an operating table can instruct a remote control to replace the image representation of a GUI button with an image indicating the pressed button when the user presses an area on a touchscreen defined by the computer system. In this way, the remote control may appear to respond more quickly to user input without waiting for the computer system to receive and process the user input. The computer system can send updated images to be displayed. The remote control can provide an immediate response to the user by drawing one or more pre-buffered images until at least one updated image arrives. This improves the user experience. Similarly, the computer system can instruct a remote control to replace specific graphics or display a pre-buffered image in response to a user pressing a specific hardware button on the remote control, particularly by using display commands provided in updated data sent to the remote control.

[0032] In some embodiments, different input options are provided in different areas of the touchscreen. These different input options can be visualized in an intuitive manner, for example, so that the user can easily identify the input options.

[0033] In some embodiments, the communication interface is a wireless communication link / interface provided by a WLAN. Therefore, a large bandwidth can be secured. A WiFi connection can be created between the computer system and the remote control. The computer system can create an "access point" to which the remote control can connect when functionality is needed. Alternatively, the communication interface can be a wired communication link / interface.

[0034] In some embodiments, the computer system is a Transmit Control Protocol (TCP) server, and the remote control is a TCP client connected to the TCP server via a wireless communication interface. Based on the TCP / IP client-server model, communication between the remote control and the computer system can be carried out in an efficient manner. Combined with a WLAN connection, a real-time or near-real-time user experience can be obtained.

[0035] The computer system may be a computer system associated with a medical device, and the computer system may be located within the housing of the medical device. The computer system may be connected to another computer system, particularly one inside the medical device, that controls the operation of the medical device.

[0036] A graphical user interface, when run on a remote control, can be configured to control at least one of the following: a screen, a processor, a storage device, or a database on the remote control's storage device. The processor may be the remote control's CPU (Central Processing Unit). The storage device may be the remote control's non-volatile storage device.

[0037] In at least some embodiments, images or other graphical user interface elements provided to the remote control by the computer system are stored in a database on the computer system. Some images may reflect different states of the medical device. For example, when the medical device is an operating table, some images may show the medical device with the leg supports raised upward, while others may show the medical device with the leg supports lowered downward. Images may be generated or provided in real time. Furthermore, 3D rendering of the medical device or a part thereof can be performed.

[0038] In some embodiments, the remote control is configured similarly to a web browser, which uses its screen to display graphic elements, particularly images provided by a computer system, and is configured similarly to a web server. The computer system, functioning like a web server, can instruct the remote control on what types of graphic elements should be displayed and where on the screen they should be displayed, and the computer system can transmit any images or animations corresponding to a set of images. The remote control can use the instructions provided by the computer system to display the images or animations on the screen in response to the instructions.

[0039] In at least some embodiments of the present invention, the medical system according to the present invention is Medical devices, especially those with computer systems for controlling the operation of medical equipment, particularly operating tables, A remote control for remotely controlling the operation of a medical device, comprising a remote control including a screen, Includes, The computer system and the remote control are configured to communicate with each other via a communication interface, and the computer system is configured to provide data to the remote control via the communication interface, the data including image data of at least one image and optional display commands for displaying at least one image on the screen. The remote control is configured to display at least one image on the screen, in particular, according to image data and display commands.

[0040] A computer system that can control the operation of a medical device, particularly via another computer system of the medical device, can perform direct control on a remote control, especially on the remote control's screen. The computer system provides the remote control with data including image data and display commands, which the remote control is then able to display on its screen at least one image associated with the image data. The computer system can interact with the user and provide visual information to the user in ways not necessarily programmed into the remote control's GUI software. Rather, the remote control is able to display at least one image based on the data provided by the computer system.

[0041] In at least some embodiments, the present invention relates particularly to a medical device for use in a medical system according to the present invention. In at least some embodiments, the medical device includes a computer system configured to provide a graphical user interface to a remote control, to control at least a portion of the screen of the remote control by the graphical user interface, and to initiate the display of at least one graphical user interface element on the screen of the remote control. The graphical user interface element may be an image.

[0042] In some embodiments, the computer system may be configured to provide or generate data including image data of at least one image and display commands for displaying at least one image on a screen. The computer system may be configured to transmit data, in particular to a remote control, via a communication interface.

[0043] A remote control can be a dedicated remote control. Therefore, the primary purpose of a remote control is to control medical devices. In at least some embodiments, the remote control is not intended to be used for purposes unrelated to the medical device for which it is dedicated. However, in some embodiments, the remote control may also be employed to control other devices, particularly through the use of a computer system.

[0044] The computer system of the medical device is connected to another second computer system and can obtain at least one graphical user interface element, for example, an element relating to the mentioned data or updated data, from the second computer system. In this regard, the computer system can function as an intermediate station between the remote control and the second computer, which can control the remote control in particular through its graphical user interface used to control the remote control. In some embodiments, the (first) computer system is part of the operating table, and the second computer system is part of a different second medical device (e.g., a surgical light), and the operating table computer system functions as an intermediate between the remote control and the second medical device.

[0045] In at least some embodiments, the present invention also relates to a remote control for use in a system according to the present invention. In at least some embodiments, the remote control includes a screen such as a touchscreen, and is configured to receive data from a computer system in particular via a wireless communication interface, the data including image data of at least one graphical user interface element, in particular an image, and display commands for displaying at least one graphical user interface element on the screen. The remote control may be configured to display at least one graphical user interface element on the screen according to the image data and display commands.

[0046] In at least some embodiments, the remote control is configured to run a graphical user interface provided by a computer system that controls at least a portion of the remote control's screen.

[0047] In at least some aspects, the present invention also relates to a method of operating medical devices, in particular a medical system including an operating table, using a computer system and remote control, the method being Controlling at least a portion of the remote control screen via the graphical user interface of a computer system, To begin displaying at least one graphical user interface element on the remote control screen, Includes, The graphical user interface of the computer system is executed via remote control.

[0048] In at least some embodiments, the present invention also relates to a method of operating medical devices, in particular medical systems including operating tables, using a computer system and remote control. In at least some embodiments, this method Using a computer system, generate data including at least one image, particularly image data of a medical device, and display instructions for displaying at least one image on a screen. The process involves using a computer system to transmit data to a remote control via a wireless communication interface, wherein the remote control and the computer system are connected to each other via the wireless communication interface. Includes.

[0049] This method may further include, for example, the step of displaying at least one image on the screen of a remote control based on image data and a display command.

[0050] The present invention also relates to a medical system including an operating table having a computer system for controlling the operation of the operating table. The computer system of the operating table is configured to be connectable to or connected to a plurality of electronic devices via wireless or wired-based connections between each electronic device and the computer system. The computer system may be further configured to transmit control commands to a remote control.

[0051] In at least some embodiments, communication between the computer system and each electronic device is based on the IEEE 11073 Service-Oriented Device Connectivity (SDC) family of standards that define communication protocols for point-of-care medical devices. This enables manufacturer-independent communication between the operating table computer system and other medical or non-medical electronic devices connected to the computer system.

[0052] While some aspects of the present invention relate to operating tables, the present invention may also relate to other medical devices. In at least some embodiments, the present invention may relate to medical devices such as surgical lights and medical systems having remote controls, as well as methods for operating the medical system using the medical devices and remote controls.

[0053] Various embodiments in accordance with this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The present invention provides, for example, the following: (Item 1) It is a medical system, An operating table (13) equipped with a computer system (15), A remote control (17) for remotely controlling the operation of the operating table (13), the remote control (17) including a screen (19), Includes, The computer system (15) and the remote control (17) are configured to communicate with each other via a communication interface (21). The computer system (15) is configured to provide a graphical user interface to the remote control (17) via the communication interface (21), and the remote control (17) is configured to execute the graphical user interface. The aforementioned medical system. (Item 2) The computer system (15) is configured to control at least a portion of the screen (19) by the graphical user interface when executed by the remote control (17), and to start displaying at least one graphical user interface element on the screen of the remote control (17). The medical system described in item 1. (Item 3) The aforementioned at least one graphical user interface element is as follows: Input control elements such as checkboxes, radio buttons, dropdown lists, list boxes, buttons, toggles, date fields, alphabet keyboards, numeric keyboards, icons as buttons, and interactive images. Sliders, icons, and other navigation components. Information components such as tooltips, icons, progress bars, notifications, message boxes, modal windows, images, and formatted text. at least one of the above, or representing at least one The medical system described in item 2. (Item 4) The at least one graphical user interface element corresponds to at least one image, and the computer system (15) is configured to provide the remote control (17) with data (23) including image data (25) having the at least one image via the communication interface. The medical system described in item 2 or 3. (Item 5) The data (23) further includes a display command (27) for displaying the at least one image on the screen (19), The remote control (17) is configured to display the at least one image on the screen (19) in accordance with the display command (27), particularly via the graphical user interface. The medical system described in item 4. (Item 6) The graphical user interface elements correspond to or include information such as instructions, particularly basic instructions, or text, and the computer system (15) is configured to provide the remote control (17) with data including the instructions or information. Optionally, the remote control (17) is configured to display the information on the screen (19) and / or execute the commands, particularly via the graphical user interface. A medical system described in any one of items 2-5. (Item 7) The remote control is configured to identify at least one image in a database on the remote control based on an identifier received from the computer system (15), and to display the at least one image on the screen in particular according to display information. A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 8) The computer system (25) is configured to receive user input (33) from the remote control (17) and to start displaying the updated image on the screen (19) of the remote control (17) in accordance with the received user input (33). A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 9) The screen (19) is a touchscreen, and the computer system (15) is configured to receive location information of user input (33) on the touchscreen and to start displaying at least one graphical user interface element on the screen (19) according to the received location information of the user input (33). A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 10) The operating table (13) includes a plurality of support sections for supporting various parts of the patient, and the support sections are movable to each other in different positions to support different patient positions on the operating table. The operating table (13) is configured to move from a first configuration to a second configuration by moving one or more of the support sections in response to receiving a movement signal (33) from the remote control (13). The computer system (15) is configured to create an updated image (25) of the operating table in the second configuration in response to at least one of the movement signal (33) and / or the movement of the operating table from the first configuration to the second configuration, and to provide the updated image (25) of the operating table in the second configuration to the remote control (13). A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 11) The at least one graphical user interface element, when displayed on the screen (19), provides an input option or a set of input options. The computer system (15) is configured to provide the remote control (17) with image data including at least one view of the operating table (13) for each input option in the set of input options. A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 12) The image data includes a command that causes the remote control (17) to display at least one view of the operating table (13) related to the selected input option in response to the user selecting an input option. The medical system described in item 11. (Item 13) The medical system according to item 11 or item 12, wherein the different input options and corresponding views of the operating table (13) are provided in different areas of the screen. (Item 14) The computer system (15) is a TCP server, and the remote control is a TCP client connected to the TCP server via the wireless communication interface. A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 15) The graphical user interface provided by the computer system (15) is displayed only in a first portion of the screen (19), and one or more images of a different second portion of the screen (19) are provided by the remote control (17). A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 16) The screen (19) is a touchscreen, and the remote control (17) is configured to receive user input including location information as a touch event via the touchscreen. The remote control is configured to transmit the touch event to the computer system (15), The computer system (15) is configured to receive the touch event from the remote and to interpret the touch event as an instruction for the operation of the medical system. A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 17) The computer system (15) of the operating table (13) is configured to generate a list of options, in particular a list of options related to the operation of the medical system, to generate instructions for graphically presenting the list of options to the user, and to communicate the instructions to the remote control (17). The remote control (17) is configured to execute the command received from the computer system (15) and to display the list of options on at least a portion of the screen (19) of the remote control. The remote control is further configured to receive user input associated with the list of options, which includes a touch event associated with the screen (19), and then send the touch event back to the computer system (15), The medical system according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to receive the touch event, interpret it as a selection from the list of options, and act in response to the selection. (Item 18) The computer system (15) of the operating table (13) is configured to generate commands for a graphical user interface element to request and receive alphanumeric input from the user, and to communicate the commands to the remote control (17). The remote control (17) is configured to receive and execute the commands received from the computer system (15), and to display the graphical user interface elements on the screen (19) of the remote control for requesting and receiving alphanumeric input. The remote control is further configured to receive from the user an alphanumeric input which includes at least one touch event associated with the screen (19), and then send the at least one touch event back to the computer system (15), The computer system (15) is configured to receive and interpret the touch event as alphanumeric input and to operate in response to the alphanumeric input. A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 19) The operating table (13) is configured to move from a first configuration to a second configuration. The computer system (15) is configured to create an updated image (25) of the operating table (13) in the second arrangement in response to at least a movement signal (33) from the remote control (17) and / or the movement of the operating table (13) from the first arrangement to the second arrangement, and to provide the remote control (17) with the updated image (25) of the operating table (13) in the second arrangement, in particular for displaying the updated image on the graphical user interface. A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items. (Item 20) The medical system according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the computer system (15) is part of the operating table (13) and / or is configured to move one or more sections of the operating table (13) in response to user input received from the remote control, and optionally the computer system (15) is configured to update an image of the operating table (13) to reflect the movement of the operating table (13) and to transmit the updated image of the operating table (13) to the remote control (17) for display. (Item 21) The medical system according to item 20, wherein the coordinates of the touch event received on the remote control (17) correspond to the position of the leg support of the operating table (13), and the updated image shows the operating table (13) with the raised leg support. (Item 22) The medical system according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to receive user input (33) received on the touchscreen (19) or physical button (31) of the remote control 17, optionally the user input (33) triggers a change in the settings of the operating table (13), and optionally the computer system (15) is configured to generate updated image data (35) in accordance with the received user input (33). [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0054] [Figure 1] A block diagram of a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention is shown. [Figure 2a] This document illustrates an exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 2b] This document illustrates an exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 2c] This document illustrates an exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 2d] This document illustrates an exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 2e] This document illustrates an exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 2f] This document illustrates an exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 3a] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 3b] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 3c] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 3d] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 3e] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 3f] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 4a] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 4b] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 4c] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 4d] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 4e] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 4f] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 4g] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 4h] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 4i] This document illustrates another exemplary communication process in a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention. [Figure 5] A block diagram of a medical system according to at least some aspects of the present invention is shown. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram of the operating table and its remote control is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0055] The medical system 11 in Figure 1 includes a medical device 13, which in the shown example is an operating table. The medical device 13 includes a computer system 15, which may be connected to another computer system (not shown) used to control the operation of the medical device 13. In a system where the medical device 13 is an operating table, the computer system 15 may be in or on the base or column of the operating table. The system 11 includes a remote control 17 for remotely controlling the operation of the medical device 13. The remote control 17 includes a screen 19, which may be a touchscreen. Furthermore, the computer system 15 and the remote control 17 are configured to communicate with each other via a wireless communication interface 21. Alternatively, the interface may be a wired communication interface, but for the purposes of this text, the interface is assumed to be a wireless communication interface.

[0056] The computer system 15 is configured to provide a graphical user interface to the remote control 17 via a communication interface 21, and the remote control 17 is configured to run the graphical user interface. The computer system 15 is further configured to control at least a portion of the screen 19 using the graphical user interface when run on the remote control 17, and to initiate the display of at least one graphical user interface element on a portion of the screen of the remote control 17.

[0057] In some embodiments, the computer system 15 is configured to provide the remote control 17 with at least one graphical user element using data 23 transmitted to the remote control 17 via a wireless communication interface 21. The data 23 includes image data 25 of at least one image, in particular an image of a medical device, and optional display commands 27 for displaying at least one image on the screen 19 of the remote control 17.

[0058] The location where the image is displayed can be predetermined. In that case, display command 27 is not required. Therefore, in some cases, the remote control may only require the image(s) to be displayed or streamed. There is no need to display information such as "anchor points". For example, in some embodiments, the remote control may have a defined on-screen box in which the image is placed when received. Also, if the computer system controls the entire screen, there is no need to provide a display command because the image can be adapted to fit the entire screen.

[0059] The remote control 17 is configured to display at least one image on its screen 17 in accordance with image data 25 and display commands 27, particularly using a graphical user interface. Thus, in some embodiments, at least one graphical user interface element is provided to the remote control 17 by the computer system 15 and corresponds to at least one image displayed on its screen 19.

[0060] In at least some embodiments, the remote control 17 is a dedicated remote control whose primary purpose is to enable remote control means for the medical device 13. The remote control 17 is configured to accept user input 33 from the user, in particular by using a graphical user interface provided by the computer system 15, via the screen 17 when it is a touchscreen, or via physical buttons 31, and to communicate the user input 33 to the computer system 15, which can interpret the user input 33 and accordingly initiate operation of the medical device 13.

[0061] In at least some embodiments, the wireless communication interface 21 is provided by a WLAN (for a wireless local area network). The computer system 15 can create an access point to the WLAN to which the remote control 17 can connect in order to establish the communication interface 21. In at least some embodiments, the computer system 15 is configured as a TCP server and the remote control 17 is configured as a TCP client, which connects to the TCP server via the wireless communication interface 21.

[0062] In at least some embodiments, the computer system 15 can receive user input 33 received via a touchscreen 19 or a physical button 31 on a remote control 17. For example, the user input 33 can trigger a change in the settings of the medical device 13. For example, in response to receiving user input, the leg support of the operating table can be moved to an elevated position. The computer system 15 can generate updated image data 35 according to the received user input 33. According to the example above, the updated image data 35 may include at least one updated image 37 of the operating table shown in the elevated position with the leg support. The updated image data 35 may be provided to the remote control 17, and at least one image 37 may be displayed on its screen 19 according to an updated display command 39 contained in the updated image data 35. Thus, graphical user interface elements can be associated with the updated image 37.

[0063] In at least some embodiments, the screen 19 is a touchscreen, and the computer system 15 is configured to receive location information of user input 33 on the touchscreen 19. The location information may include the coordinates of the user input 33 that occurred on the touchscreen 19. The location information may further include pressure values ​​associated with the touch event. The computer system 15 can interpret the location information and initiate the movement of a part of the medical device. Furthermore, it can generate updated image data 35 and provide it to the remote control 17 for display. The updated image data 35 may include at least one image of the medical device, or at least a part of the medical device that reflects that movement has been performed. Thus, graphical user interface elements may be associated with the updated image.

[0064] Figures 2a to 2f relate to an exemplary medical system in which the medical device is an operating table and the figures illustrate an exemplary communication process. In each of Figures 2a to 2f, the left portion of the figure shows, where applicable, graphical user interface elements, in particular images provided by the operating table's computer system, and the right portion of the figure shows a view of the remote control screen.

[0065] As shown in Figure 2a, the left portion of Figure 2a is blank because the computer system has not yet determined the image of the operating table. As seen in the right portion of Figure 2a, the remote control displays the basic screen to the user without an operating table preview. The basic screen can be provided by the remote control without interaction with the computer system. Figure 2a illustrates, for example, the initial stages of use of the operating table and remote control.

[0066] As shown in the left portion of Figure 2b, the computer system generates an image of the operating table in its current state, for example, a preview. The image may be, for example, a JPG image. The image data, including the image, and optional display commands are sent to the remote control. Optional display commands may include, or consist of, anchor coordinates indicating where on the screen the image should be displayed. In some embodiments, the position for displaying the image is predetermined, so no display command is required. The right portion of Figure 2b shows that the remote control is still displaying the basic screen.

[0067] The right portion of Figure 2c shows that the remote control has received image data and displayed the image to the user on its screen. The left portion of Figure 2c shows that the computer does not generate any new image data at this stage. In this example, the computer system provides only the image (of the operating table) to a portion of the remote screen. In this example, the remote provides buttons and other images to other areas of the screen.

[0068] The left portion of Figure 2d shows that the computer has not yet generated any new image data. The right portion of Figure 2d shows that the user has touched the screen. The touch event is visualized using a dotted rectangle 41. The remote control transmits data about the touch event to the computer system. The data about the touch event may include position and / or movement information about the touch event, which can be provided in the form of coordinates of the touch event on the screen. In some embodiments, the coordinates of the touch event may correspond to the coordinates of the geometric center of rectangle 41.

[0069] As shown in the left portion of Figure 2e, after receiving data about a touch event, the computer system generates updated image data including a new image of the operating table and optional display commands, such as anchor points for displaying the new image on the remote control screen. The touch event can trigger a change in the operating table's state from the current state to a new state. For example, the leg supports are in an elevated position in the new state. In another example, the patient's orientation can be reversed in the new state, as shown in Figure 2e. As shown in the right portion of Figure 2e, the remote control has not yet received the updated image data, and its display shows the basic screen after the touch event was detected. Alternatively, the remote control screen may display the old image until a new image is received, as shown, for example, on the right side of Figure 2d.

[0070] As shown in the right portion of Figure 2f, the remote control receives the updated image data and displays the new image on the display according to the anchor points. The left portion of Figure 2f is blank because no new image is generated by the computer system.

[0071] Therefore, as shown with respect to Figures 2a to 2f, when the operating table moves, the remote control displays an updated image of the operating table to reflect its latest position. For example, the distance between the top of the operating table and the base of the operating table may change in the image. Similarly, the angles of the leg plates or head plates may be updated, etc. Since the images are provided by a computer system, an improved approximation or actual 3D visualization of the operating table can be provided without the remote control needing to provide more processing power. The computer system within the operating table has sufficient processing power to perform the actual or improved 3D rendering of the operating table. The computer system also has much more memory capacity, which allows it to have 3D renderings of all accessories. Finally, its connection to the internet allows constant updates to include new accessories that come onto the market after the operating table has been sold. In some embodiments, a 2D image of the operating table may be provided instead of a 3D image.

[0072] In another example shown with reference to Figures 3a-3f, the second medical device is a surgical light controlled by the computer system and remote control of the operating table (first medical device). The left portion of each of Figures 3a-3f serves to illustrate the operations performed by the computer system, while the right portion shows a view of the remote control display. The left portion of Figure 3a is blank, indicating that no operations related to the control of the surgical light are being performed by the computer system, and the remote control displays a basic screen as shown in the right portion of Figure 3a.

[0073] Figure 3b shows, in the left portion, that the computer system (inside the operating table / first medical device) generates image data using graphical user interface elements in the form of images such as JPG images, including a graphic of the surgical light, an "off" icon graphic, and display commands that include or consist of anchor coordinates. The "off" icon indicates that the surgical light is off. The graphics are placed on a transparent background mask. The image data is transmitted by the computer system to the remote control, which still displays the basic screen as shown in the right portion of Figure 3b.

[0074] As shown in the right portion of Figure 3c, the remote control receives image data and displays the graphic of the surgical light and the "off" icon on a transparent background mask on the screen, according to the anchor coordinates. This can be done, in particular, by using a graphical user interface provided by the computer system that controls at least a portion of the remote control's screen. The left portion of Figure 3c shows that the computer system does not generate new image data at this stage.

[0075] According to the left portion of Figure 3d, the computer system still does not generate any new image data. As further shown in the right portion of Figure 3d, the user touches the screen at the location of the "off" icon. The remote control can detect the location information of the touch event, for example, in the form of the coordinates of the touch event on the screen. The location information is transmitted from the remote control to the computer system of the operating table / first medical device.

[0076] As shown in the left portion of Figure 3e, the computer system interprets the location information and, based on the received location information, decides that the light should be turned on. The computer system generates an updated image showing a graphic of the illuminated surgical light and a graphic of an "on" icon on a transparent background mask. The updated image data, including the updated image, and display commands such as anchor points are sent to the remote control. At this stage, the remote control displays the basic screen as shown in the right portion of Figure 3e, or it can display the old image as shown on the right side of Figure 3d.

[0077] As shown in the right portion of Figure 3f, the remote control receives the updated image data and displays the updated image according to the associated anchor points. As previously mentioned, the anchor points may be provided at will. The position where the updated image is displayed can also be predetermined. At this stage, the computer system does not generate new image data, as shown in the blank space on the left portion of Figure 3f.

[0078] The home button shown in the left corner of the right portion of each of Figures 2a-2f and 3a-3f may be a button that allows the user to return to the remote control's own graphical user interface; otherwise, the display is controlled by the computer system as described above. In at least some embodiments, the display of the remote control can be controlled by the graphical user interface of the computer system, and thus the remote control, or at least its display, can be considered an extension of the computer system. This allows the remote control to display image data provided by the computer system and, in particular, to play a role in directly providing user input to the computer system without interpreting the user input.

[0079] As illustrated by the example, the computer system of the operating table can communicate directly with other equipment in the operating room (e.g., one or more surgical lights). The remote control does not communicate directly with these devices. The operating table can also use an internet connection to obtain software updates, such as the latest control profiles for newly installed equipment in the operating room. The remote control does not need to have this capability.

[0080] Since the computer system can control the remote control, the remote control does not need to be updated when a new control profile is installed on the operating table's computer system. Furthermore, the remote control does not necessarily need to be aware of the context or events occurring when it is being used to control other equipment in the operating room. This can simply show the operating table computer the picture it is communicating to itself, returning user input events to the operating table's computer system, which can then handle the rest.

[0081] This can be important when a remote control needs to be replaced in the middle of surgery (for reasons such as malfunction or dropping). If the replacement remote (taken out of storage) is not updated with the latest software, it may not have all the necessary instrument profile information to control other equipment in the operating room. However, according to embodiments of the present invention, this is not a problem, as the remote does not need to have this information.

[0082] Figures 4a to 4i relate to another exemplary medical system in which the medical device is an operating table and the figures illustrate an exemplary communication process. In each of Figures 4a to 4i, the left portion of the figure shows, where applicable, graphical user interface elements, in particular images provided by the computer system of the operating table, and the right portion of the figure shows a view of the remote control screen, at least part of which is controlled by the computer system via its graphical user interface.

[0083] As shown in Figure 4a, the left portion of Figure 4a is blank because the computer system has not yet determined the GUI to display. As shown in the right portion of Figure 4a, the remote control displays a basic screen to the user. The basic screen may be provided by the remote control without interaction with the computer system. Thus, in some embodiments, the remote displays simultaneously elements provided by the remote control and elements provided by the computer system in the operating table, at least in some situations.

[0084] As shown in the left portion of Figure 4b, the computer system generates a graphical user interface element, which in this example includes a text field prompting the user to select between "WiFi Network #1" and "WiFi Network #2". The two mentioned networks could be "real" networks that the computer system can connect to. The right portion of Figure 4b shows that the remote control still displays its basic screen.

[0085] The right portion of Figure 4c shows that the remote control receives graphical user interface elements and displays them on the screen for the user. The left portion of Figure 4c shows that the computer does not provide any new graphical user interface elements at this stage.

[0086] The left portion of Figure 4d shows that the computer has not yet generated any new graphical user interface elements. The right portion of Figure 4d shows that the user touches the screen at the location of "WiFi Network #2". The remote control sends coordinates or an object of the touch event to the computer system. In some embodiments, the coordinates of the touch event may correspond to the coordinates of the geometric center of the touch event. The remote does not need to interpret the meaning of the touch event, nor does it need to generate a comment in response to the touch event.

[0087] Therefore, in some embodiments, a computer (which may reside within the operating table) generates a list of options (which may be associated with the operating table or another operating room device) and instructions for graphically presenting the list of options to the user. The computer can send instructions to a remote device for graphically presenting the list of options, and the list of options is displayed on at least part of the remote display. The remote device can then record touch events in relation to the list of options and relay the touch events back to the computer / operating table (without interpreting the touch events). The computer then interprets the touch events in relation to the list of options (which may be a selection of one of the options) and generates and sends instructions in response to the touch events and / or in response to a selection from the list of options. The list may be provided, for example, as a set of buttons, as a simple list of options, or as a drop-down menu. In some embodiments, the list of options may be yes / no to questions, or on / off for functions or devices.

[0088] Returning to the specific example in Figure 4, as shown in the left portion of Figure 4e, the computer system receives a touch event, specifically information about coordinates, and the computer system interprets the event. The computer system generates an updated graphical user interface element into which the user can enter a password for the selected network, "WiFi Network #2". Data including the graphical user interface element and anchor points for displaying the graphical user interface element on the screen is sent to the remote control. In this process step, as shown on the right side of Figure 4e, the remote control screen does not yet display the updated graphical user interface element.

[0089] The left portion of Figure 4f shows that the computer does not generate any new graphical user interface elements. The right portion of Figure 4f shows that the remote control receives the updated graphical user interface elements shown in Figure 4e and displays them on the screen as instructed via the anchor points. In this example, the graphical user interface elements include a virtual keyboard with multiple character keys. Numeric keys are also possible.

[0090] As shown on the right side of Figure 4g, the user can enter a password using the remote control. When the user types on the screen using the on-screen display, the remote control sends the corresponding touch event to the computer system. The right portion of Figure 4g shows that in this example, the remote does not generate any new, updated graphical user interface elements in response to the user typing / touch event.

[0091] Figure 4h shows, in its right-hand portion, that the computer system processes each touch event, internally converts it into a keyboard press, and prepares an updated graphical user interface element that reflects each touch event by adding an asterisk (*) to the input line. The right-hand portion of Figure 4h shows that the touch events have not yet been reflected on the remote control screen, and the right-hand portion of Figure 4i shows the user seeing the updated graphical user element, which indicates that the first password character has been typed in. The left-hand portion of Figure 4i remains blank. In an alternative embodiment, the remote may provide simple graphics to confirm user input (without necessarily having to interpret their meaning).

[0092] Furthermore, regarding Figures 4a to 4i, recently, the computer systems of operating tables can have more software and therefore more configurations than before. Some of these configurations can be performed via remote control. For example, as illustrated, the WiFi network password may be provided via remote control. In addition, some configuration screens may be complex. These screens may need to be updated regularly, for example, as the manufacturer of such an operating table learns more about the user. For example, in the future, it may be possible for the user to use the remote control to select, configure, and connect to the hospital's WiFi network using the operating table's computer system. To enable this, the computer system must first scan the WiFi environment and present the user with a list of available networks. The user then selects a network and types in the password via the remote. Initially, this function is basic, providing only a list and the ability to type the password using a minimal keyboard on the remote. However, additional functions may be included, for example, an additional keyboard with special characters, or the ability to set up a proxy server or VPN.

[0093] Therefore, in some embodiments, a computer (which may reside within the operating table) generates graphics to request and receive alphanumeric input from the user. The computer can send commands to a remote device to graphically request and receive alphanumeric input, and the remote device displays graphics to request and receive alphanumeric input. In this example, the graphics take the form of a virtual touchscreen keyboard. The remote device can then record one or more touch events related to the graphics and relay one or more touch events back to the computer / operating table. The computer then interprets one or more touch events as alphanumeric user input and generates and sends commands and / or information in response to the alphanumeric user input. In this example, the alphanumeric input is a network password, but other types of alphanumeric input are also possible. The remote device does not necessarily need to "understand" the alphanumeric input at all, nor does it need to convert the alphanumeric input into commands.

[0094] As illustrated with reference to Figures 2a-2f, 3a-3f, and 4a-4i, the remote control can display images, or more generally, graphical user interface elements, and return user input without recognizing the actual interaction or commands between the user and the operating table. It displays images as instructed by the operating table, for example, based on VNC.

[0095] In some embodiments, the computer system can send remote pre-buffered images (or other graphical user interface elements) or a series of pre-buffered images (or graphical user interface elements) corresponding to animations, and relevant commands to display them directly on the remote control screen in response to specific user input. For example, an operating table can instruct the remote control to replace the image representation of a GUI button with the pressed version of the image when the user presses a defined area of ​​the screen. In this way, the remote control may appear to respond more quickly to user input without waiting for the computer system to receive and process the touch event and then send the next image to be displayed. Similarly, the computer system can instruct the remote control to replace specific graphics in response to the user pressing a specific hardware / physical button.

[0096] In some embodiments, the computer system provides an image only for a portion of the remote control screen, rather than the entire screen. For example, in some embodiments, the remote control is configured to generate one or more graphic elements, particularly GUI elements, locally in the first portion of the screen, while the computer system controls and displays GUI elements in the second portion of the screen. In some embodiments, the remote control can position graphic elements outside the display image provided by the computer system. In some embodiments, the remote control includes layering graphic elements in front of or behind the display image provided by the computer system. In some embodiments, the remote control can provide a button, such as a home button, that returns the user to the remote control's home screen. Such a button may be located in the upper left corner of the screen. In some embodiments, the computer system can specify a transparent area within the displayed image. When the image is displayed on the remote control screen, the transparent area may be used to visualize graphic elements, which are positioned by the remote control in a layer behind the transparent area.

[0097] In some embodiments, a single universal remote control can be used with several different types of operating tables. Each operating table model may be unique and have special needs and functions. The remote control can be used with operating tables in many special configurations. For example, it can be used in a so-called "hybrid operating room" where operating tables and imaging systems from different manufacturers operate together. Since the display of the remote control can be controlled via a computer system as described above, the situation-specific interface only needs to be programmed within the operating table's computer system (not necessarily in the remote), and the computer system then communicates with and controls the remote control. Thus, it is not necessary to program all possibilities in the remote control. Therefore, in some embodiments, a single remote control can be used with multiple different types of medical operating tables. Each operating table provides graphics and function options appropriate to the type of operating table being controlled, which the remote receives and displays.

[0098] In at least some embodiments, the remote control is sold with medical equipment such as an operating table, and its primary function is to control the medical equipment. However, in at least some embodiments, the remote control may be linked to other equipment, such as a surgical light, particularly via a computer system and the aforementioned functions. In some embodiments, communication may be direct between the light and the remote control, rather than being facilitated by the computer system of the medical equipment acting as an intermediary.

[0099] The medical system schematically shown in Figure 5 includes an operating table 101, which has a computer system 103 for controlling the operation of the operating table 101. The computer can be located in or on the base of the operating table, in or on the columns of the operating table, or in another location inside or within the operating table. The computer system 103 is configured or connected to multiple electronic devices, in this case three electronic devices 105, 107, and 109, which may be medical or non-medical devices. For example, the other devices 105, 107, and 109 are located in the operating room with the operating table. Wireless or wired-based connections 111, 113, and 115 may be present or established between each electronic device 105-109 and the computer system 103. Thus, the computer system 103 of the operating table 101 can act as a central hub, and the electronic devices 105-109 can be considered hosts in a star network formed by the computer system 103 and the electronic devices 105-109. The remote control can be used to control electronic devices 105-109 via the computer system 103.

[0100] Communication between the computer system 103 and each electronic device 105-109 can be based on the IEEE 11073 Service-Oriented Device Connectivity (SDC) family of standards.

[0101] Figure 6 schematically shows an example of an operating table 601 and a remote control 603 for the operating table. The remote control 603 includes a screen 605, which may be a touchscreen, and several buttons 607. The operating table 601 includes an operating table column 609, which can be adjusted vertically and horizontally via one or more actuators. The patient support surface 611 rests on the operating table column 609, which includes a lower leg segment 613, an upper leg segment 615, a back segment 617, and a head segment 619. These segments are connected to each other by articulated joints so that the patient support surface 611 on which the patient lies can take on a desired shape. The lower leg segment 613, the upper leg segment 615, and the back segment 617 can be adjusted via one or more actuators. The head segment 619, on the other hand, can be adjusted manually in this configuration. In some embodiments, the head segment 619 can also be adjusted via one or more actuators. The buttons 607 of the remote control 603 are assigned to different operating table components. More detailed examples of operating tables and remote controls are described in WO2016 / 131659A1.

[0102] The examples disclosed herein are not limiting. It should be understood that the general concepts and specific examples disclosed herein may be used in various combinations.

[0103] Exemplary embodiments and variations provided in this disclosure are described in the following list of items and options.

[0104] Item 1. A healthcare system, A medical device (13), particularly an operating table, having a computer system (15) for controlling the operation of the medical device (13), A remote control (17) for remotely controlling the operation of the medical device (13), the remote control (17) including a screen (19), Includes, The computer system (15) and the remote control (17) are configured to communicate with each other via a wireless communication interface (21). The computer system (15) is configured to provide the data (23), which includes image data (25) of at least one image and a display command (27) for displaying the at least one image on the screen (19), to the remote control (17) via the wireless communication interface (21). The remote control (17) is configured to display the at least one image on the screen (19) in accordance with the image data (25) and the display command (27). The aforementioned medical system.

[0105] Item 2. The computer system (25) is configured to receive user input (33) from the remote control (17) and to generate updated image data (35) according to the received user input (33). The medical system described in item 1.

[0106] Item 3. The screen (19) is a touchscreen, and the computer system (15) is configured to receive location information of user input (33) on the touchscreen and to generate updated image data (35) based on the received location information of the user input (33). The medical system described in item 1 or 2.

[0107] Item 4. The medical system according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to determine, based on user input (33) received from the remote control (17), that the state of the medical device (13) should be changed from its current state to a new state.

[0108] Item 5. The computer system (15) is configured to generate updated image data (35) including at least one view of the medical device (13) showing the medical device (13) in the new state, and the computer system (15) is configured to provide the updated image data (35) to the remote control (17). The medical system described in item 4.

[0109] Item 6. The medical device (13) is an operating table (13), the operating table having multiple support sections for supporting various parts of the patient, the support sections being movable to each other in different configurations to support different patient positions on the operating table, The operating table (13) is configured to move from a first configuration to a second configuration by moving one or more of the support sections in response to receiving a movement signal (33) from the remote control (13). The computer system (15) is configured to generate an updated image (25) of the operating table in the second configuration in response to at least one of the movement signal (33) and / or the movement of the operating table from the first configuration to the second configuration, and to provide the updated image (25) of the operating table in the second configuration to the remote control (13). A medical system described in any one of items 1-5.

[0110] Item 7. A set of input options is provided to the user, and the image data of the data provided to the remote control (17) includes at least one view of the medical device for each input option in the set of input options. A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items.

[0111] Item 8. The image data further includes a command to cause the remote control (17) to display the at least one view of the medical device related to the selected input option in response to the user selecting an input option, The medical system described in item 7.

[0112] Item 9. Different input options are provided in different areas of the screen. The medical system described in item 7 or 8.

[0113] Item 10. The wireless communication interface (21) is provided by WLAN. A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items.

[0114] Item 11. The computer system (15) is a TCP server, and the remote control is a TCP client connected to the TCP server via the wireless communication interface. A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items.

[0115] Item 12. Medical devices, especially those used in the medical systems described in the preceding items, The medical device (13) includes a computer system (15) configured to generate data (23) which includes image data (25) of at least one image and display commands (27) for displaying the at least one image on a screen (19). The computer system (15) is configured to transmit the data (23) in particular to a remote control (17) via a wireless communication interface (21). The aforementioned medical device.

[0116] Item 13. A remote control for use in any one of the medical systems described in items 1 through 10, The remote control (17) includes a screen (19) such as a touchscreen, and is configured to receive data (23) including image data (25) of at least one image and display commands (27) for displaying the at least one image on the screen, particularly from a computer system (15) via a wireless communication interface (21). The remote control (17) is configured to display the at least one image on the screen in accordance with the image data (25) and the display command (27). The aforementioned remote control.

[0117] Item 14. A method for operating a medical device (13), in particular a medical system (11) including an operating table, using a computer system (15) and a remote control (17), Using the computer system (15), generate data (23) including at least one image, in particular image data (25) of the medical device (13), and a display command (27) for displaying the at least one image on a screen (19), The computer system (15) is used to transmit the data (23) to the remote control (17) via the wireless communication interface (21), wherein the remote control (17) and the computer system (15) are connected to each other via the wireless communication interface (21), and the transmission is performed. The method, including the method described above.

[0118] Item 15. A healthcare system, The operating table (101) includes a computer system (103) for controlling the operation of the operating table (101), The computer system (101) of the operating table (101) is configured to connect to or connected to a plurality of electronic devices (105, 107, 109) via wireless or wired-based connections (111, 113, 115) between each electronic device (105, 107, 109) and the computer system (103). The aforementioned medical system.

[0119] Item 16. A system or method, The computer system (15) of the operating table (13) is configured to generate a list of options, in particular a list of options related to the operation of the medical system, to generate instructions for graphically presenting the list of options to the user, and to communicate the instructions to the remote control (17). The remote control (17) is configured to execute the command received from the computer system (15) and to display the list of options on the screen (19) of the remote control. The remote control is further configured to receive user input associated with the list of options, which includes a touch event associated with the screen (19), and then send the touch event back to the computer system (15), The computer system (15) is configured to receive the touch event, interpret it as a selection from the list of options, and act in response to the selection. The aforementioned system or method.

[0120] Item 17. A system or method, The computer system (15) of the operating table (13) is configured to generate commands for the graphics to request and receive alphanumeric input from the user, and to communicate the commands to the remote control (17). The remote control (17) is configured to receive and execute the command received from the computer system (15), and to display the graphics on the screen (19) of the remote control for requesting and receiving alphanumeric input. The remote control is further configured to receive from the user an alphanumeric input which includes at least one touch event associated with the screen (19), and then send the at least one touch event back to the computer system (15), The computer system (15) is configured to receive and interpret the touch event as alphanumeric input and to operate in response to the alphanumeric input. The aforementioned system or method.

[0121] Item 18. A healthcare system or method, A remote control (17) for remotely controlling the operation of the medical device (13), comprising the remote control (17) including a screen (19), The computer system (15) and the remote control (17) are configured to communicate with each other via a communication interface (21). The computer system (15) is configured to provide the data (23), which includes image data (25) of at least one image and a display command (27) for displaying the at least one image on the screen (19), to the remote control (17) via the wireless communication interface (21). The remote control (17) is configured to display the at least one image on a first portion of the screen (19) in accordance with the image data (25) and the display command (27), wherein a different second portion of the screen (19) is not provided or controlled by the image data (25). The medical system or method. In some embodiments, the second portion of the screen is controlled by the remote control (17) independently of the image data (25) received from the computer system (25).

[0122] Item 19. A medical system or method according to any one of items 1 to 18, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to control the operation of the operating table (13), or the computer system (15) is connected to another computer system of the operating table (13) that is configured to control the operation of the operating table (13).

[0123] Item 20. The graphical user interface provided by the computer system (15) is displayed only on a first portion of the screen (19), and images of different separate portions of the screen (19) are provided by the remote control (17). A medical system as described in any one of the preceding items.

[0124] Item 21. A method for operating a medical system (11) including an operating table, a computer system (15), and a remote control (17), Controlling at least a portion of the remote control screen (19) using a graphical user interface generated by the computer system (15), To start displaying at least one graphical user interface element on the screen (19) of the remote control (17), wherein the graphical user interface of the computer system (15) is executed on the remote control (17), and to start the display of at least one graphical user interface element on the screen (19) of the remote control (17), The method, including the above. The method may be combined with any of the above items 1 to 20.

[0125] Item 22. A healthcare system, An operating table (101) comprising an operating table (101) having a computer system (103) for controlling the operation of the operating table (101), or connected to another computer system for controlling the operation of the operating table (101), The computer system (101) of the operating table (101) is configured to connect to or connected to a plurality of electronic devices (105, 107, 109) via wireless or wired-based connections (111, 113, 115) between each electronic device (105, 107, 109) and the computer system (103). The aforementioned medical system. The aforementioned medical system may be combined with any of the above items 1 to 21.

[0126] The terms “communication link” (21) and “communication interface” (21) are considered equivalent and interchangeable in this specification. When one term is used, it should be assumed that the other term is also included and enumerated.

[0127] The computer system (15) may be or include one or more of the various combinations of a control system, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a computer processor, and / or a central processing unit (CPU). Two or more computers (or other electronic means) that together provide certain steps and / or features described or claimed together may collectively constitute the computer system (15). Various electronic devices within a single operating table may constitute the computer system (15) of the operating table.

[0128] This disclosure includes medical systems including remote controls, and remote controls for use with medical systems. The medical system may or may not include an operating table. This disclosure also includes medical equipment and operating tables, remote controls for use with medical equipment and operating tables, and systems including both medical equipment or operating tables and remote controls. This disclosure also includes systems having operating tables and remote controls, where the operating table controls additional equipment (other than the operating table and remote) at least partially based on input from the remote. This disclosure also includes methods for operating such medical systems, operating tables, and remotes, both independently and collectively. This disclosure also intends for electronic and computer-executable instructions to cause a computer, remote, and other components to perform the steps and methods described herein.

[0129] The above examples are merely non-exclusive. It will be understood that the features and functions described herein can be used in a variety of combinations. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0130] 11 Systems 13 Medical devices 15 Computer Systems 17 Remote control 19 screens 21 Wireless communication interface 23 Data 25 Image data 27 Display command 31 physical buttons 33 User Input 35 Updated image data 37 images 39 Display command 41 rectangle 101 Operating table 103 Computer Systems 105 Electronic equipment 107 Electronic equipment 109 Electronic equipment 111 Connection 113 Connection 115 connections 601 Operating table 603 Remote Control 605 screen 607 Button 609 Operating Table Column 611 Patient Support Surface 613 Lower leg segment 615 Upper leg segment 617 Back segment 619 Head segments

Claims

1. It is a medical system, An operating table (13), wherein the operating table (13) has a computer system (15), A remote control (17) for remotely controlling the operation of the operating table (13), wherein the remote control (17) is equipped with a screen (19) and Equipped with, The computer system (15) and the remote control (17) are configured to communicate with each other via a communication interface (21). The computer system (15) is configured to provide a graphical user interface to the remote control (17) via the communication interface (21), and the remote control (17) is configured to execute the graphical user interface. The operating table (13) is configured to move from a first configuration to a second configuration. A medical system comprising a computer system (15) configured to create an updated image (25) of the operating table in the second arrangement in response to at least one of a movement signal (33) from the remote control (17) and the movement of the operating table from the first arrangement to the second arrangement, and to provide the remote control (17) with the updated image (25) of the operating table in the second arrangement for display on the graphical user interface.

2. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the computer system (15), when executed on the remote control (17), is configured to control at least a portion of the screen (19) by the graphical user interface and to start displaying at least one graphical user interface element on the screen of the remote control (17).

3. The aforementioned at least one graphical user interface element is as follows: Input control element, Navigation component, Information components, The medical system according to claim 2, which is at least one of or represents at least one of the above.

4. The medical system according to claim 3, wherein the input control element is selected from the group consisting of checkboxes, radio buttons, dropdown lists, list boxes, buttons, toggles, date fields, alphabetic keyboards, numeric keyboards, icons as buttons, and interactive images.

5. The medical system according to claim 3, wherein the navigation component is a slider or an icon.

6. The medical system according to claim 3, wherein the information component is selected from the group consisting of tooltips, icons, progress bars, notifications, message boxes, modal windows, images, and formatted text.

7. The medical system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the at least one graphical user interface element corresponds to at least one image, and the computer system (15) is configured to provide the remote control (17) with data (23) including image data (25) having the at least one image via the communication interface.

8. The data (23) further includes a display command (27) for displaying the at least one image on the screen (19), The medical system according to claim 7, wherein the remote control (17) is configured to display the at least one image on the screen (19) in accordance with the display command (27), particularly via the graphical user interface.

9. The medical system according to claim 2, wherein the at least one graphical user interface element corresponds to or includes instructions, in particular basic instructions, or information, and the computer system (15) is configured to provide the remote control (17) with data including the instructions or information.

10. The medical system according to claim 9, wherein the instructions or information are text.

11. The medical system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the remote control (17) is configured to display the information on the screen (19) and / or execute the commands, particularly via the graphical user interface.

12. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the remote control is configured to identify at least one image in a database on the remote control based on an identifier received from the computer system (15), and to display the at least one image on the screen in particular according to display information.

13. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to receive user input (33) from the remote control (17) and to start displaying the updated image on the screen (19) of the remote control (17) in accordance with the received user input (33).

14. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the screen (19) is a touchscreen, and the computer system (15) is configured to receive location information of user input (33) on the touchscreen and to start displaying at least one graphical user interface element on the screen (19) in accordance with the received location information of the user input (33).

15. The operating table (13) comprises a plurality of support sections for supporting various parts of the patient, and the plurality of support sections are movable to each other in different configurations to support different patient positions on the operating table. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the operating table (13) is configured to move from the first configuration to the second configuration by moving one or more of the plurality of support sections in response to receiving the movement signal (33).

16. The at least one graphical user interface element, when displayed on the screen (19), provides an input option or a set of input options. The medical system according to claim 2, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to provide the remote control (17) with image data including at least one view of the operating table (13) for each input option in the set of input options.

17. The medical system according to claim 16, wherein the image data includes a command to cause the remote control (17) to display the at least one view of the operating table (13) related to the selected input option in response to the user selecting an input option.

18. The medical system according to claim 16 or 17, wherein different input options and corresponding views for the operating table (13) are provided in different areas of the screen.

19. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the computer system (15) is a TCP server, and the remote control is a TCP client connected to the TCP server via a wireless communication interface.

20. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the graphical user interface provided by the computer system (15) is displayed only in a first portion of the screen (19), and one or more images of different second portions of the screen (19) are provided by the remote control (17).

21. The screen (19) is a touchscreen, and the remote control (17) is configured to receive user input, including location information, as a touch event through the touchscreen. The remote control is configured to transmit the touch event to the computer system (15), The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to receive the touch event from the remote control and to interpret the touch event as a command for the operation of the medical system.

22. The computer system (15) of the operating table (13) is configured to generate a list of options, in particular a list of options related to the operation of the medical system, to generate instructions for graphically presenting the list of options to the user, and to communicate the instructions to the remote control (17). The remote control (17) is configured to execute the command received from the computer system (15) and to display the list of options on at least a portion of the screen (19) of the remote control. The remote control is further configured to receive user input associated with the list of options, which includes a touch event associated with the screen (19), and then send the touch event back to the computer system (15). The medical system according to claim 17, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to receive the touch event, interpret the touch event as a selection from the list of options, and act in response to the selection.

23. The computer system (15) of the operating table (13) is configured to generate commands for a graphical user interface element to request and receive alphanumeric input from the user, and to communicate the commands to the remote control (17). The remote control (17) is configured to receive and execute the commands received from the computer system (15), and to display the graphical user interface elements on the screen (19) of the remote control for requesting and receiving alphanumeric input. The remote control is further configured to receive alphanumeric input from a user, which includes at least one touch event associated with the screen (19), and then send the at least one touch event back to the computer system (15). The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to receive and interpret the at least one touch event as alphanumeric input and to operate in response to the alphanumeric input.

24. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the computer system (15) is part of the operating table (13) and / or is configured to move one or more sections of the operating table (13) in response to user input received from the remote control.

25. The medical system according to claim 24, wherein the coordinates of the touch event received on the remote control (17) correspond to the position of the leg support of the operating table (13), and the updated image shows the operating table (13) with the raised leg support.

26. The medical system according to claim 1, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to receive user input (33) received on the screen (19) of the remote control (17) or on a physical button (31).

27. ​​The medical system according to claim 26, wherein the user input (33) triggers a change in the settings of the operating table (13).

28. The medical system according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the computer system (15) is configured to generate updated image data (35) in accordance with the received user input (33).

Images