Foot-Operated Controller with Touchscreen for Operating Table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foot-operated controllers for operating tables are cumbersome to use and inflexible, as the function of each pedal must be defined at the manufacturing stage and cannot be changed without a computer, limiting their versatility in controlling operating tables, light fixtures, and cameras during daily operations.
Innovation Solution
A foot-operated controller with a touchscreen and processor that allows users to change the function of pedals directly through a user interface without a separate computer, enabling the storage and recall of programmed movement sequences, and communicates with operating tables, light fixtures, and cameras via wireless or cable connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the function of each pedal is defined at the manufacturing stage, then the controller structure is simple and reliable, but the adaptability and versatility are limited and cannot be changed without a computer
Solution Approach 1:
The footswitch controller is designed to perform multiple functions beyond its original manufacturing-defined purposes. The controller can be reconfigured through software to control different operating table functions, light fixtures, and cameras, allowing a single device to serve multiple roles in the operating room environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller's functionality is made dynamic and changeable rather than fixed. Users can modify pedal assignments and control functions during daily operations without requiring a computer, allowing the system to adapt to different surgical procedures and user preferences in real-time.
2Ease of operation
If a computer is required to change pedal functions, then the controller structure remains simple, but the ease of operation is reduced during daily operating room activities
Solution Approach 1:
The footswitch controller enables users to reconfigure their own control functions directly at the device without requiring external computer assistance. The controller includes built-in capabilities for users to assign and modify pedal functions independently, making the system self-sufficient for routine reconfiguration tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer dependency for function reconfiguration is extracted and removed from the system. The controller now includes integrated software capabilities that allow users to change pedal assignments and control functions directly through the footswitch device itself, eliminating the need to connect to an external computer.
3Productivity
If multiple devices are controlled with fixed pedal functions, then the controller design is straightforward, but the productivity and operational efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The footswitch controller is designed to control multiple different devices including operating tables, light fixtures, and cameras. Each pedal can be configured to trigger different functions across these devices, allowing a single controller to manage the entire operating room environment rather than requiring separate controllers for each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller allows users to pre-configure and store custom pedal assignments and control sequences for different surgical procedures. Users can set up commonly used function combinations in advance and recall them quickly during operations, reducing setup time and improving operational efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one exemplary embodiment, the application relates to a method (100) for controlling an operating table with a foot-operated controller, which comprises at least one foot-controlled footswitch, and which method comprises transmitting (170) a user-issued adjustment command, which has been received from the footswitch, to the operating table for controlling its function according to the adjustment command. The foot-operated controller further comprises at least one touchscreen by way of which is designated (130, 140, 180) an operating table function to be adjusted.