Hospital Bed User Interface Dynamic Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hospital bed user interface systems lack the ability to dynamically configure based on the location within a healthcare facility and the type of patient, limiting the availability of appropriate functions and features.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a graphical control interface with a main processor and an auxiliary processor that receives information from a software program to control a display device, allowing for customization of user interface screens based on the hospital bed's location and patient type, including integration with a network interface unit and user input receiver to communicate with the hospital communication network and electronic medical records.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed user interface configuration is used in hospital beds, then device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability to different patient conditions and locations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface configuration is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system automatically adjusts the displayed functions and features based on real-time detection of patient condition and bed location within the healthcare facility. This allows the interface to adapt to different scenarios without requiring manual reconfiguration or complex hardware changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (specifically, the configuration parameters of the user interface) based on detected conditions. By monitoring patient vitals, bed position, and location data, the system modifies which functions are displayed and available on the interface, transforming a static interface into a context-aware dynamic interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If all functions are always available on the user interface, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to information overload
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the user interface display different functions based on local needs. Rather than showing all possible functions uniformly, the system tailors the interface content to the specific patient condition and location, displaying only the relevant controls and information for that particular context.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial action by selectively displaying only the necessary subset of functions rather than all available functions. This prevents information overload while ensuring that all needed functions are available when required, based on the current clinical context.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the user interface is customized for each patient and location, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and loss of time for configuration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-configuration by automatically detecting patient condition through sensors, determining bed location within the facility, and autonomously adjusting the user interface display accordingly. This eliminates the need for manual configuration by caregivers, saving time while achieving personalized interfaces for each patient and location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from sensors monitoring patient vitals, bed position, and location data to automatically adjust the interface configuration. This closed-loop approach ensures the interface remains appropriately customized without requiring manual intervention, as the system continuously adapts based on real-time feedback.
Data Source
AI summary
Configurable user interface systems for a patient support structure are disclosed. As described a control interface comprises the capability to allow limited impact on processes deemed important when other applications and programs are run. The configurable user interface systems described herein allow for customized display of information and display options available to a user in various environments.