Adaptive Foot Control Device with Dynamic Function Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foot control devices for medical and dental equipment require frequent adjustment of position, which is cumbersome and distracts professionals from their tasks, as they need to change their position relative to the device to access different functions.
Innovation Solution
A control device with an actuation element that can be actuated in multiple ways, featuring a calibration mode to determine its relative position and assign functions, and an actuation mode to trigger specific functions, using sensors and a floating support mechanism to allow for intuitive operation without needing to adjust the device's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional foot control devices are used with fixed functions, then the device structure is simple, but the professional needs to frequently adjust the device position to access different functions, which is cumbersome and distracting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the foot control device's function assignment changeable and adaptive rather than fixed. The control device dynamically reassigns functions to different actuation elements based on detected usage patterns, allowing the device to evolve its configuration to match the professional's workflow, thereby improving ease of operation without requiring frequent physical repositioning
Solution Approach 2:
The control device implements self-service by automatically detecting how professionals use the device and autonomously reassigning functions to optimize accessibility. The system monitors actuation patterns and autonomously reconfigures itself to place frequently used functions in easily accessible positions, eliminating the need for manual adjustment while maintaining simple operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If the foot control device has multiple fixed functions, then the device can control more instrument functions, but the professional must change position relative to the device to access different functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the device adaptable through dynamic function reassignment. Instead of having fixed function positions, the system continuously adapts by detecting usage patterns and reassigning functions to different actuation elements, allowing versatility without compromising ease of operation since the most frequently used functions are automatically positioned for optimal access
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of function assignment based on detected usage patterns. By monitoring which functions are actuated most frequently and under what conditions, the device dynamically adjusts its configuration parameters to optimize the arrangement of multiple functions, ensuring adaptability while maintaining ease of operation
3Productivity
If the foot control device requires position adjustment to access functions, then the device structure can be simple, but this distracts the professional from their task
Solution Approach 1:
The control device enhances productivity by serving itself through automatic detection and reassignment of functions. The system monitors its own usage patterns and autonomously reconfigures to optimize accessibility, eliminating distractions for the professional while managing the complexity of adaptive functionality through automated self-optimization
Data Source
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AI summary
A control device (10) is provided by the present invention. The control device comprises a base element (12) and an actuation element (14) that is supported by the base element (12). The actuation element (14) can be moved relative to the base element (12) for actuating different functions provided by the control device (10). The control device (10) is configured to be operated in two modes, namely a calibration mode and a control mode. In the calibration mode the control device (10) is configured to define different functions of the control device (10). In the control mode the control device (10) is configured to perform the functions defined in the calibration mode by an actuation of the actuation element (14).