Medical device having an operating device, and operating control method
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-06
Smart Images
Figure EP2026051867_06082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] 202518282
[0002] 1
[0003] Description
[0004] Medical device with operating device and method for operating control
[0005] The invention relates to a device, in particular a medical device, with an operating device at least partially integrated into the device for operating at least one function of the medical device according to claim 1, and to a method for controlling the operation of functions of the medical device according to claim 17.
[0006] In medical facilities such as hospitals or doctors' offices, and especially during surgical procedures, the manual or automated reprocessing (cleaning and disinfection) of relevant surfaces is a crucial component of infection prevention, alongside hand disinfection by medical staff. The specific reprocessing method varies depending on the room category or the room where medical equipment is used and the potential contamination of the surface with pathogens.
[0007] Regarding the hygienic condition of surfaces on medical devices with frequent patient or user contact, a multitude of problems arise: The surface design can significantly impair the reprocessing procedure (cleaning and disinfection of the surface) described in ISO 17664-2 (e.g., excessive gaps, material misalignment or protrusions, edges, insufficient radii, etc.). Under certain conditions, reprocessing is not possible (e.g., porous surfaces, surfaces with excessive roughness, etc.), making validation of the reprocessing procedure according to the regulatory requirements described in GD 93 (10256845 AND 02S 02) impossible. Cleaning and disinfecting agents are becoming increasingly aggressive due to highly concentrated active ingredients, resulting in significant limitations or stringent requirements for material selection for cover components, coating systems, operating elements, etc.Some of the materials used discolor or degrade during the product's use phase. Due to time constraints or untrained personnel, the hygiene plan defined for each modality can often only be partially or inadequately implemented.
[0008] Especially for operating devices of medical equipment, a hygienically optimal design for simplified reprocessing and guaranteed reprocessability is essential, since202518282
[0009] 2
[0010] These devices can participate in the transmission pathways of pathogenic agents due to the frequency of contact and potential contamination.
[0011] In addition to hygienic design, the following challenges must be considered when designing control devices and can limit the design freedom and increase component costs: Capacitive or resistive control panels can be difficult to operate when wearing gloves or with wet hands. When integrating control panels into a surface, adequate sealing is necessary to prevent liquids from penetrating the electronics and impairing their function. Combining various features on the control element regarding usability, simplicity, safety, illumination, and haptic feedback often results in very expensive control devices with a high degree of complexity. The larger installation space sometimes required for a control device must be taken into account in the component design.
[0012] All these requirements and conditions generally lead to complex and sometimes very expensive operating devices and compromises in the reprocessability of the operating element surfaces, or longer reprocessing times. Protective covers or drapes can be placed over the entire component, but liquids still frequently penetrate the operating elements.
[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide medical devices with operating devices which enable a fail-safe, hygienic, waterproof and stable operation of medical devices; furthermore, it is an object of the invention to provide a method for operating a medical device.
[0014] The object of the invention is achieved by a device, in particular a medical device, with an operating device at least partially integrated into the device for operating at least one function of the medical device according to claim 1 and by a method for controlling the operation of functions of the medical device according to claim 17. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the respective dependent claims.
[0015] The device according to the invention, in particular a medical device, with an operating device at least partially integrated into the device for operating at least one function of the medical device, comprises an outer housing layer, in particular a closed one, with a 202518282
[0016] 3
[0017] Control panel, which is designed to be at least partially elastically deformable by an external force; at least one sensor board of an optical force sensor, wherein the control panel and the sensor board are arranged at a preset distance from each other such that a deformation of the control panel causes a change in the distance; and wherein the sensor board has at least one sensor combination comprising one emitter element and at least one associated receiver element, wherein the at least one emitter element is designed to emit at least one light beam of a specific wavelength, and wherein the light beam(s) are emitted at one (or more) preset angles such that they are reflected at the outer housing layer and the reflected light beam(s) are deflected onto an associated receiver element; an evaluation unit with at least one evaluation algorithm.which are designed to evaluate the reflected light beam received in the receiver element with regard to a change in the preset distance, and a control unit which is designed to interpret the evaluated change in distance as an operation when at least one preset condition is met, and as a consequence to trigger a function of the device.
[0018] For operation, the OFS (optical force sensing) sensor technology based on an optical emitter and receiver (sensor) is specifically used. The operating device allows for particularly intuitive control; for example, an operator can trigger a function of the medical device assigned to the device simply by pressing on the control panel or a part of it. Examples of functions that can be activated include simple switching on or off, various translational or rotational movements of components such as a robot arm, a C-arm, or wheels, triggering or adjusting radiation or light, activating display units or microphones, or moving equipment trolleys or patient beds. The operating device of the medical device, with its control panel integrated into the device cover, solves many of the problems described above.The control panel's integration into the housing allows for hygienic operation, easily meeting sterility requirements. Unlike capacitive surfaces, for example, incorrect operation due to liquids on the outer housing layer, common in medical environments, is not a problem. The sensors are sealed off from external influences such as moisture and therefore less susceptible to damage.
[0019] Due to the very small installation space required for the operating device (sensor depth, for example, approx. 0.5 - 0.7 cm), integration into existing components is very easy.
[0020] 4
[0021] Operation is quick and easy thanks to the evaluation of the reflected and analyzed light beam. To prevent incorrect operation due to accidental contact, the material can be chosen to require a certain external force to cause deformation. Operation is also possible with gloves or wet hands. The sensor is easy to install and cost-effective to implement. Overall, the operating device according to the invention significantly simplifies the operation of a device, particularly in medical settings, making it safer and more reliable, and thus contributing to greater patient safety and comfort during procedures involving medical devices.
[0022] The outer casing layer can be designed so that it is elastically deformable only in the area of the control panel and inelastic outside of it. To detect operation even with minimal external force, such as light pressure from an operator, the outer casing layer can be made particularly flexible through the selection of a suitable material. If necessary, it can also be made less flexible to reduce sensitivity. A reversible—that is, a non-permanent or reversible—deformation is called elastic deformation. The corresponding material property is called elasticity.
[0023] According to one embodiment of the invention, the preset condition is the exceeding of a first threshold value. In this context, a function of the device is activated when the outer housing layer is deformed inwards by an external force, in particular by an operator pressing on the control panel, by a change in distance greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value.
[0024] According to one embodiment of the invention, the device has an inner housing layer, which is designed as the sensor board for the optical force sensor or on which the sensor board is arranged. In this embodiment, the device thus comprises two housing layers, an inner housing layer and an outer housing layer, which form a stable cover for the medical device. For example, a two-component cover can be provided with an inner housing layer, e.g., a hard shell made of compact polymer, and an outer housing layer, e.g., a coated soft foam component. The force sensor is located on the hard shell or between the hard shell and the soft foam component and detects the deformation path of the soft foam component.
[0025] 5
[0026] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the outer housing layer has a reflector on its inner surface facing the sensor board, or is designed as a reflector. For example, the inner surface of the outer housing layer can be coated with a reflective material or designed as a mirror. Such a reflector layer is easy and inexpensive to install.
[0027] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the operating device comprises at least one control element. The control element is designed to operate a function of the medical device, for example, to trigger light or radiation or to move a mechanical component. Preferably, the operation of the function is limited to the part of the control panel associated with the control element, so that the external force must be applied directly and locally to trigger the function. A force applied outside the area of the control element has no effect (or a different effect if another control element is located there). This is particularly important when several control elements are arranged side by side, i.e., when the control panel is divided into several sections.Advantageously, the operating device has at least two, preferably adjacent, control elements for operating different functions. For example, two control elements arranged side by side can be designed to control the movement of a component in a first direction and in the opposite direction to that first direction.
[0028] In this context, each control element is assigned at least one sensor combination comprising one emitter element and at least one associated receiver element, and an external force acting on the control panel in the area of the respective control element and a corresponding change in distance causes the control of the function assigned to the respective control element.
[0029] In a further embodiment of the invention, the device includes a calculation unit configured to compare the evaluated change in distance with the first threshold value. An algorithm can be used for this purpose. Such an algorithm can be easily programmed and implemented. Calculations, and thus control of the device's operation, can be performed in real time, i.e., very quickly.
[0030] According to a further embodiment of the invention, an emitter element and a receiver element are arranged side by side on the sensor board, and the light beam from the emitter element is reflected onto the adjacent receiver element. In this way, a 202518282
[0031] 6
[0032] A direct and unambiguous assignment between the receiver element and the emitter element is possible. This is particularly important with regard to the spatial limitations of the control panel or the respective control element.
[0033] According to a further embodiment of the invention, each emitter element is associated with two or four receiver elements arranged alongside it, and the emitter element is configured to emit two or four light beams which are reflected onto the corresponding receiver elements. An arrangement can be such that an emitter element is surrounded by a receiver element on two opposite sides or on all four sides. In this case, each emitter element and its associated receiver elements belong to a control element.
[0034] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the outer housing layer, particularly in the area of the control panel, is designed such that a reduction in the applied force causes it to return to its original, undeformed state. Such elastic materials, which can be used for this purpose, are known and can be selected and used according to requirements and the necessary elasticity.
[0035] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the control panel exhibits different elasticities in the area of various control elements. This allows different functions to be configured with varying degrees of triggering force. A particularly critical function, such as the triggering of X-rays, may require a higher external force than, for example, the activation of a camera or a translational movement.
[0036] According to a further embodiment of the invention, a first preset condition is the exceeding of a first threshold value, and a second preset condition is the exceeding of a second threshold value. Upon exceeding the first threshold value, a first function is triggered, and upon exceeding the second threshold value, a second function is triggered. The two functions can be, for example, linked or dependent on each other, such as two stages of a function (light brighter or dimmer, different irradiances, faster or slower movement). A processing unit can be provided which is configured to compare the evaluated change in distance with the threshold values.
[0037] 7
[0038] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the sensor board comprises a plurality of sensor combinations, each comprising an emitter element and at least one associated receiver element. These can belong to the same control element or to different control elements. If they belong to different control elements, a separation (e.g., a partition or membrane) can be provided between different sensor combinations or control elements to prevent false detections.
[0039] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the outer housing layer is continuous (i.e., without interruptions or holes / gaps) and / or closed and forms at least part of the housing of the medical device, for example the housing of a trolley, a gantry, an X-ray detector, an X-ray source or a holder such as a C-arm.
[0040] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the medical device is formed by a C-arm X-ray machine, a mobile C-arm X-ray machine, a CT scanner, an MRI scanner or an ultrasound device.
[0041] The invention further comprises a method for controlling the functions of a medical device using the device described above, comprising the following steps: emission of at least one light beam of at least one preset wavelength by at least one emitter element of the plurality of emitter elements of the sensor board of the optical force sensor, reception of an external force acting on the deformable control panel and thereby deformation of a control element, reception of at least one light beam reflected at a reflector of the deformed control panel by at least one receiver element, evaluation of the reflected light beam with regard to a change in distance, comparison of the change in distance with a threshold value, and, if the threshold value is exceeded, activation of a function of the device assigned to the corresponding control element.
[0042] Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons with male, female or other gender identities are included.
[0043] The invention and further advantageous embodiments according to features of the dependent claims are explained in more detail below with reference to schematically illustrated exemplary embodiments in the drawing, without thereby limiting the invention to these exemplary embodiments. The figures shown are: 202518282
[0044] 8
[0045] FIG 1 shows a perspective view of a control element of a device with an emitter element and a receiver element;
[0046] FIG 2 shows a sectional view of a section of an operating device of a device with an emitter element and a receiver element in the undeformed state;
[0047] FIG 3 a sectional view of a section of an operating device of a device with an emitter element and a receiver element in the (first) deformed state; FIG 4 a top view through the outer housing layer of an operating element in the undeformed state;
[0048] FIG 5 shows a top view through the outer housing layer of a control element in a deformed state;
[0049] FIG 6 shows a sectional view of a section of another operating device of a device with an emitter element and a receiver element with an inner housing layer;
[0050] FIG 7 shows a sectional view of a section of another operating device of a device with one emitter element and two receiver elements;
[0051] FIG 8 a sequence of steps of a method according to the invention for control of the operating system; FIG 9 an X-ray detector with an operating device;
[0052] FIG 10 shows a plot of a typical relationship between light intensity and distance;
[0053] FIG 11 shows a plot of a typical relationship between sensitivity and distance;
[0054] FIG 12 shows a computed tomography scanner with an operating device;
[0055] FIG 13 shows a sectional view of a section of an operating device of a device with an emitter element and a receiver element with two deformation states; and
[0056] FIG 14 shows another example of a sequence of steps of a method for operator control according to the invention.
[0057] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a control element 5 of an operating device for controlling at least one function of the medical device, comprising an outer housing layer 10 with a control panel 6 and a sensor board 11 with an emitter element 12 and a receiver element 13. The outer housing layer 10 is made of a flexible or elastic material that can be deformed under force, for example, concavely in the direction of the sensor board 11. The deformation is reversible, for example, as soon as the force is removed. The control element 5 can have one or more, or a plurality of, emitter elements 12 and receiver elements 13. The functionality can be demonstrated using a single sensor pair. -202518282
[0058] 9
[0059] See FIG. 2. The emitter element 12 is designed to emit (at least) one light beam 14, wherein the light beam has a predetermined wavelength. Typical wavelengths can be, for example, in the visible range, e.g., between 400 and 700 nm. The angle α at which the light beam 14 is emitted is selected such that the light beam 15 reflected from the underside of the outer housing layer 10 (e.g., from a reflector 17 arranged there or from a coating on the inner side of the outer housing layer facing the emitter element) strikes the receiver element 13. The sensor board 11 (or alternatively, the emitter element 12 and the receiver element 13) has a preset (e.g., during manufacturing or...) angle from the outer housing layer 10.
[0060] (The distance h is set during the manufacture of the housing); this can, for example, typically be 1 to 10 mm or can be chosen larger or smaller depending on the sensor function. The receiver element 13 detects the reflected light beam 15. An evaluation unit 21 for determining a change in distance D is connected to the sensor board 11. This, in turn, is connected to a control unit 22, which is designed to control a medical device. Overall, the described control element can only represent a section of a control device, and the complete control device can, for example, have several control elements with a sensor pair and / or a control element with several or a multitude of emitter elements 12 and receiver elements 13 and / or several control elements with several or a multitude of emitter elements 12 and receiver elements 13. For example,The sensor board 11 may have a larger area, or multiple sensor boards 11 may be arranged side by side. The control panel 6 may accordingly extend over several control elements 5.
[0061] Figures 2, 6, and 7 show further examples of control elements 5 of operating devices for controlling functions of medical devices. In Figure 2, similar to Figure 1, an emitter element 12 and a receiver element 13 are paired as a sensor pair, have an emitter-receiver distance s between them, and each emitter element 12 emits its light beam such that the reflected light beam falls precisely on the associated receiver element. In Figure 7, two receiver elements 13 are associated with one emitter element 12, and the emitter element 12 emits two light beams in different directions (e.g., at angles a and -a with respect to the normal to the sensor board 11), which are reflected onto the two receiver elements 13 adjacent to the emitter element 12. The respective emitter-receiver distances s are ideally equal.The two light beams 14 can have the same or different preset white angles - 202518282.
[0062] 10
[0063] The outer housing layer 10 has a length of 10 cm. Reflectors 17 are arranged on the respective inner surface of the outer housing layer 10. The reflector(s) 17 are attached to the inner surface (e.g., glued, screwed, etc.) or the inner surface of the outer housing layer 10 can also be coated with a reflective material, for example, with optically reflective paints, metallic or non-metallic reflective composites, or reflective films. The reflector(s) 17 can extend over the entire surface of the underside of the outer housing layer facing the sensor board. In FIG. 6, the sensor board 11 is connected to an inner housing layer 16, for example, by means of connecting elements or directly attached to it (e.g., glued, screwed, etc.).
[0064] Figure 3 shows the operation of the control element 5 of the operating device. To trigger a specific function intended for the control element, an operator applies an external force 18 to the control element 5. Generally, the operator presses on the control panel 6, i.e., the elastic outer housing layer 10. This deforms or presses the elastic outer housing layer 10 in the direction of the sensor board 11, thus reducing the preset distance h between the sensor board 11 and the outer housing layer 10 by a change in distance D. This, in turn, also changes the light beam 13 received by the receiver element 15, particularly with regard to luminous intensity. This change in luminous intensity can be evaluated by the evaluation unit 21, which can also determine a value for the change in distance D. An algorithm used or developed for this purpose can, for example, be...The measured value is compared with the original values before the change, and a value for the change in distance D, or a value proportional to it, is output. Given a known wavelength and emitter-receiver distance s, the change in distance D can be determined from the original and changed luminous intensities, for example, using a previously defined relationship or a formula. An example of a deformation that can still be reliably measured and evaluated with such a sensor at a preset distance h is D ~ 1 pm. Therefore, even very small changes in distance D, caused by slight pressure, can be measured if required. Appropriate coordination between the flexibility of the outer housing layer and the design and features of the sensor board can thus ensure particularly sensitive collision detection.
[0065] An illustration of the relationship between the distance h and the luminous intensity I received in the receiver element 13 is shown in FIG. 9. Figures 9 and 10 show an exemplary luminous intensity (measured as count rate) and a sensitivity (luminous intensity per unit area).
[0066] 11
[0067] The area is shown as a function of the distance h. In experiments, a distance of approximately 2 to 4 mm produced maxima and is therefore recommended as a possible, particularly suitable distance h, especially a value between 3.4 and 3.5 mm. Here, the luminous intensity I as a function of the distance h has the steepest slope – the sensor reacts most sensitively to a change in the distance h (due to the application of force). The angle α (beam angle) has the least to no influence at this point.
[0068] The first threshold value can be chosen, for example, to correspond to the minimum force to be applied, such as 4 N. In this case, the force applied must therefore be at least 4 N. If applicable, further threshold values can then be adjusted accordingly. The material thickness of the outer housing layer (i.e., the device's cover) should preferably be sufficient to prevent incorrect operation in the event of external disturbances (e.g., cover vibrations, people leaning against the device, etc.). In addition to the requirements described above, the impact resistance of the housing and the implemented controls must also be considered.
[0069] Figure 8 shows steps of a method for operator control using the operating device described above. In a first step 30, at least one light beam of at least one previously selected wavelength, or one provided by the respective emitter element, is emitted by at least one emitter element or the plurality of emitter elements of the optical sensor board. Preferably, all emitter elements necessary for operating the available controls are in operation. The emitted wavelength can be the same for all emitter elements (single wavelength), or two or more wavelengths (dual or multiple wavelength) can optionally be used.The emitter elements can be permanently in operation or switched on under certain conditions, for example during the operation of the medical device or when the corresponding functions of the medical device need to be activated.
[0070] If an operator presses on the control panel in the area of a control element, e.g., to activate a function of the medical device, then in a second step 31 the deformable outer housing layer absorbs an external force, thereby causing a deformation of the outer housing layer. The deformation can depend on the flexibility or elasticity of the outer housing layer. The deformation can, for example, look like the one shown in FIG. 3. Due to the deformation, the reflector moves closer to the sensor board, and the path of the light beam is shortened, as is the path of the 202518282.
[0071] 12
[0072] reflected light beam. The resulting beam cone becomes shorter. This increases the luminous intensity measured by the affected receiver element in a third step 32, since more of the beam cone now strikes the receiver element. The luminous intensity decreases with increasing distance from the source and follows an inverse square law, i.e., it is proportional to (h / (hD)). 2This results in a higher readout value. This is shown, for example, in Figures 4 and 5. In Figure 4, without external force and with a distance h, the incident beam cone extends laterally beyond the receiver element by a first overlap m, while in Figure 5, a second overlap m', which is smaller than the first overlap m, is present. However, a shortening also means a larger angle of the light beam. This results in less radiation emitted by the emitter element and therefore less radiation on the receiver element. Therefore, it is important to keep the emitter-receiver distance s as small as the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design rules allow.
[0073] In a fourth step 33, the luminous intensity is then evaluated in comparison to the originally measured luminous intensity with regard to any change. As shown in FIG. 3, a change in distance D caused by the external force, in particular by pressure from an operator, can be determined. This can also be carried out, for example, using the evaluation unit 21 or another processing unit. One or more algorithms can be used for this purpose, for example, machine learning algorithms that have been trained prior to use.
[0074] In a fifth step 34, the change in distance D is then compared with a first threshold value. The first threshold value can be selected according to requirements. It can be chosen to be very small to allow a function to be triggered even by slight touches. To avoid this, for example, to prevent oversensitivity or errors caused by minute fluctuations in light intensity, the threshold value can also be chosen to be somewhat larger. The comparison with the first threshold value can also be carried out by the evaluation unit 21.
[0075] If the change in distance D exceeds the first threshold value, the function assigned to the corresponding control element is triggered in a sixth step 35. For this purpose, a control unit can be used, to which the triggering information is transmitted. The control unit then activates the corresponding function. Thus, for example, a light can be switched on or off, a movement of a component (e.g., C-arm, equipment cart, patient stretcher, gantry, etc.) can be triggered, a parameter of a medical device can be changed, or radiation can be emitted.
[0076] 13
[0077] All possible functions of the respective device can be operated in this way, provided a corresponding control element is available. This can also include operating a visual or audible indicator, a switch, or simply turning a device or component on or off.
[0078] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 14, a seventh step 36 can simply perform a basic evaluation regarding a change, without converting this change into a direct distance change D. Thus, only a basic change can be detected, without considering the magnitude of the change. In an eighth step 37, the corresponding function is then triggered if a change has been detected.
[0079] Two or more threshold values (first threshold, second threshold, third threshold, etc.) can be provided to trigger different functions (switching on and off, dimming, etc.) or multiple levels of a specific function (speed, light intensity, volume). This allows, for example, the control of graduated functions (e.g., dimming, slow, fast). At the first threshold (the first force application), a slow movement of a component is triggered; if a second threshold is exceeded (the second force application is greater than the first), the component moves at a medium speed; and if a third threshold greater than the second is exceeded (the third force application is greater than the second), the component moves quickly.FIG 13 shows a control element which has two threshold values, where a first distance change D1 corresponds to a first threshold value and a second distance change D2 corresponds to a second threshold value.
[0080] The sensor board or control elements (including associated electronics) can be designed to have a total of three independent channels. This allows, for example, one of these channels to be used for a safety device such as a dead man's switch. The second channel can then be used for the actual function assignment. This enables functions such as switching on / off, as well as slider functions (e.g., for dimming lights or adjusting the volume).
[0081] The operating device with one or more operating elements is particularly relevant in connection with medical imaging devices such as computed tomography (CT) scanners, X-ray machines, magnetic resonance imaging scanners, ultrasound devices or also medical202518282
[0082] 14
[0083] Therapeutic devices such as particle therapy devices or other smaller devices used in the medical environment, such as monitors or auxiliary devices such as equipment trolleys, are particularly suitable.
[0084] The following points are advantageous when designing operating devices or control elements for medical device component surfaces: The material thickness, e.g., for the outer housing layer / cover in the area of the control panel, can range from 0.3 to 50 mm. Materials that could be used include, for example, amorphous or semi-crystalline thermoplastic polymers, composite materials and material combinations, elastomers, thermosets, and / or metals. The materials can be used coated or uncoated. The sensors can be equipped with DMG functionality (Dead Man's Grip: in this context, for example, this could be...).This is achieved by requiring the first threshold to be exceeded with respect to force, and then, upon exceeding the second threshold, to move the system / trigger the function (thus preventing accidental movement of the system / triggering of the function). First-fault tolerance, operational safety, and protection against false triggering are essential. Due to the sensitivity of the controls and sensors, it is crucial to prevent force from being exerted on the sensor board. Therefore, the connection between the sensor board and the outer housing layer must be designed to prevent any deformation and ensure that the distance between the sensor board and the outer housing layer remains constant without force being applied. The sensor board is connected to the control unit, for example, via cables or wirelessly.The distance h between the outer housing layer and the sensor board should be 0–10 mm, ideally between 2 and 4 mm, and preferably 3.42 mm in the unpressed state. The outer housing layer in the area of the control panel can be designed to allow contact pressures between 0.1 and 25 N. Additionally, LEDs can be arranged on the control panel, for example, to improve visual visibility, such as illuminating symbols or controls. Haptic feedback can also be provided.
[0085] The medical device could be, for example, a CT 20 – see FIG 12. Here, a control panel 6 is arranged on the cover of the gantry 24. The control panel 6 has several operating elements, nine in the example shown, which control, for example, safety-relevant functions. These functions include an operating element to activate the operation, one to interrupt the measurement, and one each to move the patient table up, down, into the gantry, and out of the gantry.
[0086] 15
[0087] The control panel 6 is integrated into the closed (i.e., gap- and hole-free) cover of the CT 20 gantry 24 in such a way that no liquids can penetrate it and the corresponding functions can be operated even while wearing gloves. Compared to conventional control systems, the wiring of the control panel is particularly simple, cost-effective, and unambiguous, and requires no dual-function assignments. If necessary, several such control panels 6 can be integrated into the cover at different locations, even in conjunction with a touchscreen interface for non-safety-related functions. The cover can be made, for example, of amorphous polymers such as PS, ABS, or PC / AB, or semi-crystalline plastics such as PBT or PA.
[0088] FIG 11 shows another example in the form of an X-ray detector 25, on which a control panel 6 with three control elements based on optical force sensors is arranged.
[0089] Optical force sensing (OFS) technology, based on an optical emitter and receiver (sensor), is used to operate medical devices. A light signal of a specific wavelength emitted by an emitter element is reflected by the inner cover surface and detected by a receiver element. Changing the relative distance between the inner cover surface and the sensor board, for example, by applying a certain force to the outer surface of the cover, increases the number of light quanta detected by the sensor due to a change in the emitted light cone. This allows an "operating action" to be detected. The distance between the sensor and the cover has a significant influence on detection and sensitivity when the surface is not activated, for example, by pressing (inactive state).
[0090] The simplest application of an optical force sensing-based control device is a control panel with a single control element to trigger a single function, such as a light, X-ray, movement, or similar action. Since a digital system is used, the control element can also be designed to distinguish between a short tap and a long press, for example, using multiple threshold values. It can also be designed to detect a double tap, for example, by measuring the time between two force applications. The applied force can also be measured to ensure that a certain minimum force is required for a critical function. A multitude of control elements together can even create a 202518282
[0091] 16
[0092] form a high-resolution one-dimensional or two-dimensional touchpad, i.e., a configuration that can also recognize gestures (swipe left with pressure, swipe right, etc.).
[0093] Advantages of the operating device integrated into a medical device, as described above, include: The surface of the outer housing layer, particularly the surface of the device's cover, can be smooth, without gaps, indentations, protrusions, etc., and still remain operable. Unlike other types of operating elements, there are no restrictions on usability even when the operator is wearing gloves or when wipes or drapes are present on the surface. Wet surfaces also do not pose any disadvantages or limitations to usability. Due to the integration into the cover, optimal reprocessing is ensured, and additional sealing is unnecessary. Because of the very small installation space required (sensor depth, for example, 0.5–0.7 cm), integration into existing components is easily possible.There is more freedom in positioning the control device on the product. The controls are located behind a surface, making it easy to clean and disinfect, and also dirt- and water-resistant. No separate materials are needed for the surface of the controls, which reduces aging problems such as local discoloration. Because the controls are hidden behind a surface, they can initially be invisible until needed; for example, by making the control visible when required through backlighting of a symbol. The backlighting can be made dependent on the state of the control panel or even activated by the detection of an approaching hand.The applied force (based on the surface's elasticity) is measured, which is robust compared to other operating mechanisms: wet hands or gloves pose no problem. Optical force measurement is a digital solution (microelectronics), which reduces volume, weight, and other components, allowing for greater design flexibility. The surface's mechanical properties determine its resistance to shock and vibration; however, this is generally good due to the surface's low mass and high stability.
[0094] The invention can be summarized as follows: For hygienic, simple and intuitive operation of medical devices, a device, in particular a medical device, is provided with an operating device for operating at least one function of the medical device, comprising a particularly closed outer housing layer with a control panel, which control panel is activated by an external force at least 202518282
[0095] 17
[0096] is designed to be partially elastically deformable, at least one sensor board of an optical force sensor, wherein the control panel and the sensor board are arranged at a preset distance from each other such that a deformation of the control panel causes a change in the distance, and wherein the sensor board comprises at least one sensor combination, each having an emitter element and at least one associated receiver element, wherein the at least one emitter element is designed to emit at least one light beam of a specific wavelength, and wherein the light beam(s) are emitted at one (or more) preset angles such that they are reflected at the outer housing layer and the reflected light beam(s) are deflected onto an associated receiver element, an evaluation unit with at least one evaluation algorithm, which are designed toThe system evaluates the reflected light beam received by the receiver element with regard to a change in the preset distance, and a control unit is designed to interpret the evaluated change in distance as an operation when at least one preset condition is met, and consequently trigger a function of the device. Deformation of certain elements of the cover part under force results in a switching function, which is used here for operation.
Claims
202518282 18 Patent claims 1. Device, in particular medical device, with an operating device at least partially integrated into the device for operating at least one function of the medical device, comprising • an outer housing layer (10) with a control panel (6), which control panel (6) is designed to be at least partially elastically deformable by an external force, • at least one sensor board (11) of an optical force sensor, wherein the control panel (6) and the sensor board (11) are arranged at a preset distance (h) from each other such that a deformation of the control panel (6) causes a change in the distance (h), and wherein the sensor board (11) has at least one sensor combination comprising an emitter element (12) and at least one associated receiver element (13), wherein the at least one emitter element (12) is configured to emit at least one light beam (14) of a specific wavelength, and wherein the light beam(s) (14) are emitted at one (or more) preset angle (a) such that they are reflected at the outer housing layer (10) and the reflected light beam(s) (15) are deflected onto an associated receiver element (13). • an evaluation unit (21) with at least one evaluation algorithm, which is configured to evaluate the reflected light beam (15) received in the receiver element (13) with respect to a change in distance (D) of the preset distance (h), and • a control unit (22) which is designed to interpret the evaluated change in distance (D) of the distance (h) when at least one preset condition is met as an operation and as a consequence to trigger a function of the device.
2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the preset condition is the exceeding of a first threshold value.
3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, comprising an inner housing layer (16) which is designed as a sensor board (11) or on which the sensor board (11) is arranged. 19 4. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer housing layer (10) has a reflector (17) on its inner side facing the sensor board (11) or is designed as a reflector (17).
5. Device according to claim 2, comprising a calculation unit configured to compare the evaluated change in distance (D) of the distance (h) with the threshold value.
6. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an emitter element (12) and a receiver element (13) are arranged next to each other on the sensor board (11) and the light beam (14) of the emitter element (12) is reflected onto the receiver element (13) located next to it.
7. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each emitter element (12) is assigned two or four receiver elements (13) and arranged next to it, and the emitter element (12) is designed to emit two or four light beams (14) which are reflected onto the corresponding receiver elements (13).
8. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating device has at least one operating element (5).
9. Device according to claim 8, wherein the operating device has at least two, in particular adjacent, operating elements (5) for operating different functions.
10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer housing layer (10) is designed such that a reduction in the force causes a return to the original undeformed state.
11. Device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein each control element (5) is assigned at least one sensor combination comprising one emitter element (12) and at least one associated receiver element (13), and an external force acting on the control panel (6) in the area of the respective control element (5) and a corresponding change in distance (D) causes the activation of the assigned function. 20 12. Device according to claim 8, 9 or 11, wherein the control panel (6) has different elasticities in the area of different control elements (5).
13. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a first preset condition is the exceeding of a first threshold and a second preset condition is the exceeding of a second threshold, and wherein a first function is triggered when the first threshold is exceeded and a second function is triggered when the second threshold is exceeded.
14. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor board (11) comprises a plurality of sensor combinations, each comprising an emitter element (12) and at least one associated receiver element (13).
15. Medical device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the outer housing layer (10) is closed and forms the housing of the medical device.
16. Medical device according to claim 15, which is formed by a C-arm X-ray unit (19), a mobile C-arm X-ray unit or a CT scanner (20).
17. Method for controlling the functions of a medical device using the device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, comprising the following steps: • Emission of at least one light beam (14) of at least one preset wavelength by at least one emitter element (12) of the plurality of emitter elements (12) of the sensor board (11) of the optical force sensor, • Receiving an external force (18) on the deformable control panel and thereby deformation of a control element, • Receiving at least one light beam (15) reflected from a reflector (17) of the deformed control panel by at least one receiver element (13), • Evaluating the reflected light beam (15) with regard to a change in distance, • Comparing the change in distance (D) of the distance (h) with a threshold value, and • If the threshold value is exceeded, controlling a function of the device assigned to the corresponding control element.