Foot-Activated Proximity Switch Arrangement for Medical Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foot switch arrangements for controlling medical devices are heavy, costly, and require complex cable assemblies, with alignment and signal transfer issues, and fail to meet requirements for rigidity, small size, and easy cleaning, especially in medical settings.
Innovation Solution
A foot-activated arrangement using proximity switches and actuating elements that allow for switching functions through up and down movements, rotations, or tilting of the foot, eliminating the need for direct contact and cable connections, with actuating elements mounted to move relative to proximity switches, enabling easy design for small size and improved safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional foot switches with cables and leads are used, then signal transmission is achieved, but the arrangement becomes heavy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the cable and lead connections from the foot switch system. The proximity switch detects foot movements wirelessly or through integrated circuits, removing the physical cable assembly entirely. This reduces device complexity while maintaining signal transmission capability through electronic sensing rather than physical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable-connected foot switch system with an electronic proximity sensing system. Instead of mechanical switches connected by cables, the invention uses proximity switches that detect foot movements through electromagnetic fields or other non-contact sensing mechanisms, eliminating the need for physical cable assemblies.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switches are arranged in the foot switch installation, then multiple functions can be controlled, but the alignment and actuation become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single proximity switch that can detect multiple different foot movement patterns (pressing, tilting, rotating) and assign different functions to each pattern. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for multiple separate switches, simplifying the actuation process while maintaining the ability to control multiple device functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having multiple switches that require precise alignment and individual actuation, the patent inverts the approach by using one switch that responds to multiple types of foot movements. The user does not need to align their foot with specific switch positions but rather can trigger different functions through different movement patterns with a single sensing point.
3Strength
If foot switches are made rigid and small for medical use, then they can withstand mechanical stress, but cleaning and sterilization become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical foot switch components with solid-state electronic components and a simple housing structure. The proximity switch and integrated circuits have no moving parts that can trap debris, making the entire device easily cleanable and sterilizable while maintaining mechanical strength through the rigid housing design.
4Loss of information
If the actuating element is directly connected to the switch, then signal transfer is direct, but the risk of malfunction and unwanted signals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the proximity switch as an intermediary between the foot movement (actuating element) and the device control system. The proximity switch detects the presence and movement patterns without direct physical contact, providing signal isolation that prevents direct transmission of mechanical faults or unwanted signals while maintaining accurate detection of intended foot movements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies the execution of multiple switching functions while ensuring operating safety, longevity, and compact size, reducing the complexity of signal transmission and preventing unwanted activations, particularly suitable for medical devices like laser processing units.
Implementation Method 1
the switch is in the form of a proximity switch and the actuating element is mounted such that it can move in a direction following the respective foot movement with the result that, owing to the foot movement, the actuating element can be brought closer to the proximity switch
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for triggering, changing or ending device functions by means of foot movements can include a resting surface for the sole of a foot and at least one switch, arranged in the region of the resting surface and at a fixed distance from the resting surface, for closing or opening an electrical or control circuit. An actuating element can be associated with the switch to initiate its switching functions. The apparatus can also include a means for transmitting foot movements to the actuating element. The switch can be a proximity switch and the actuating element can be mounted such that it can move in a direction following the respective foot movement, with the result that, owing to the foot movement, the actuating element can be brought closer to the proximity switch therefore triggering the switching function.