Ergonomic Ultrasound Controller with Angled Joystick
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control devices for ultrasound-based imaging systems, such as IVUS, are cumbersome and prone to accidental actuation in sterile environments, leading to discomfort and complexity during procedures like OCT and FFR, due to their design and orientation limitations.
Innovation Solution
A controller with two sections that can be tilted to orient input devices ergonomically, featuring a joystick with a rotatable knob and programmable buttons, allowing for foot-free operation and secure attachment to supports, enhancing usability and reducing strain during catheter-based procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional control devices (trackball, touch pad, mouse) are used in sterile environment, then basic control functions are available, but they are difficult to use under sterile drape and prone to accidental actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is divided into multiple sections with distinct input devices (joystick, buttons, switches) positioned in different zones. The sterile zone contains specific input devices that can be actuated through the drape, while non-sterile zones contain other controls. This segmentation allows selective access to controls based on sterility requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller housing acts as an intermediary structure that positions input devices at optimal angles and locations. The housing includes ergonomic zones and curved surfaces that facilitate actuation through sterile drape while preventing accidental contact with other controls.
2Adaptability or versatility
If touch-sensitive monitors are used for both display and control, then integrated control is achieved, but they fail to serve as discrete control device and require reaching across work surface
Solution Approach 1:
The controller separates display functions (on monitor) from control functions (on controller device). The controller includes dedicated input devices positioned in ergonomic zones, allowing discrete control without requiring the user to reach across the work surface to the monitor.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is positioned in three-dimensional space with sections tilted at specific angles (90-170 degrees) relative to the support surface. This spatial arrangement creates ergonomic zones that are accessible from different directions, allowing control without reaching across the workspace.
3Ease of operation
If XY joystick is used for control, then two-dimensional navigation is possible, but it is challenging to use for click and drag functions
Solution Approach 1:
The controller merges multiple input device types into a single unit: a joystick for two-dimensional navigation, plus buttons and switches for click functions. The programmable buttons can be configured to perform various functions including click, drag, and other operations, combining the capabilities of multiple devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform navigation, clicking, dragging, and other control operations. The programmable nature of the buttons and switches allows them to be configured for different functions based on the specific procedure or software interface requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A data collection system controller that includes a housing such as a cover. The housing includes a user facing section and a support facing section defining a hole. The controller also includes a first input device adjacent the user facing section and a second input device. The second input device includes a knob comprising a third input device and a rotatable shaft extending through the hole and partially disposed within the knob. In one embodiment, the second input device is an XYZ joystick with a button. In one embodiment, the joystick and the first input device are angled relative to each other on either side of an elbow joint. In part, the invention relates to a method of controlling the display of image data obtained with respect to a blood vessel.