Medical Device Graphical User Interface with Dynamic View Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical device user interfaces for multi-channel infusion pumps often overwhelm caregivers with too much information, leading to interaction difficulties and increased risk of clinical errors, particularly due to insufficient indicators for medication channels and complex programming processes, which can result in adverse patient outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface for medical devices that includes a large, consolidated display with channel indicators, a dual function clear/cancel button, area sensitive scrollbar, and screen saver mode, allowing for efficient input and monitoring of patient information, channel selection through machine-readable labels, and adjustable screen brightness for improved usability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If existing user interfaces present comprehensive information for multi-channel infusion pumps, then complete medication information is provided, but the user is overwhelmed with too much information leading to interaction difficulties and increased risk of clinical errors
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface is segmented into multiple display modes (far view and near view) that divide information presentation based on user needs. The far view displays only essential monitoring information for quick overview, while the near view provides detailed programming information when needed, preventing information overload during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The display dynamically switches between far view and near view modes based on user interaction. The system automatically transitions between these views, making the interface adaptive to the user's current task - providing minimal information during monitoring and detailed information during programming, thus resolving the contradiction between information completeness and ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing user interfaces provide detailed programming options for medical devices, then comprehensive control is achieved, but the programming process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The interface provides default settings and pre-configured options that allow caregivers to quickly program common infusion scenarios without navigating through all available options. Frequently used parameters are pre-filled or easily selectable, reducing programming time while maintaining access to comprehensive control options when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Complex programming options are extracted and organized into context-relevant groups that are only displayed when needed. The interface presents only the necessary programming options based on the current operational context, allowing detailed control when required while minimizing the visible complexity during routine operations.
3Area of stationary object
If existing user interfaces use small display screens, then the device is compact and portable, but insufficient information can be displayed for verification purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The display dynamically adjusts its content based on the operational context and viewing distance. During monitoring, the far view mode displays essential information that can be read from a distance, eliminating the need for a larger screen. During programming and verification, the near view mode provides detailed information up close, maximizing the effective display capability of the compact screen.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface uses color coding and visual indicators to convey information efficiently on the compact display. Different colors indicate different statuses, channels, and alert levels, allowing more information to be distinguished and communicated effectively within the limited screen real estate.
4Loss of information
If existing user interfaces require precise visual acuity for reading small text and indicators, then detailed information can be displayed, but older caregivers with decreased visual acuity find the device difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The display automatically adapts its content and presentation based on the operational mode. In far view mode, large, high-contrast indicators are displayed that can be read from a distance without requiring close inspection or excellent visual acuity. In near view mode, detailed information is available for those who need it, but the default far view ensures accessibility for all users regardless of visual capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus is disclosed for operating a medical device with a screen having an improved graphical user interface, which selectively reallocates screen display for both single and multi-channel pumps. Channel indicators associate operation information with a specific delivery channel. Patient or drug order verification is facilitated with a rendering of the patient or the entire drug order/label on the screen. Decimal numbers are presented in vertically offset decimal format. A dual function button cancels the current operation and, after a delay, clears entered parameters. An area sensitive scrollbar cycles through information at various speeds. Screen brightness is adjusted based on an ambient light detector. A screen saver mode activates based on several operating conditions. The screen is incorporated in a removable user interface.