Medical Observation Device Guide Image Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
In ultrasound diagnosis systems, operators face challenges in maintaining the observation position while adjusting images, as existing voice recognition and foot control systems do not allow for continuous monitoring of the ultrasound image during operation.
Innovation Solution
A medical observation apparatus that integrates voice recognition, gesture detection, eye gaze, or brain wave input, along with traditional input devices like keyboards and trackballs, to enable continuous image adjustment modes such as rotation, display area setting, text input, focus positioning, enlargement/reduction, and region-of-interest setting, allowing operators to adjust images on a monitor without losing sight of the ultrasound image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If voice recognition and foot control are used for image adjustment, then the operator can be separated from the device and operation is enabled, but the operator cannot continuously monitor the ultrasound image during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system displays guide images that provide visual feedback to the operator about the current observation position and the effect of adjustment operations. This allows the operator to monitor the ultrasound image continuously even when using hands-free control methods, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide image acts as an intermediary between the actual ultrasound image and the operator's control actions. It provides a simplified visual representation that helps the operator understand the relationship between control inputs and image changes, enabling accurate observation position maintenance without direct visual attention to the main ultrasound image.
2Ease of manufacture
If the operator looks at the foot control during operation, then control accuracy is improved, but the observation position may be displaced without recognition
Solution Approach 1:
The guide image provides continuous visual feedback about the observation position and adjustment operations, allowing the operator to maintain both control accuracy and observation position reliability simultaneously by watching the monitor rather than looking away at the foot control.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide image uses visual indicators such as arrows and color-coded elements to clearly indicate the direction and magnitude of image adjustments, enabling the operator to understand control effects at a glance without diverting attention from the ultrasound image.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple processing modes are available for image adjustment, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide image serves multiple functions simultaneously: it displays the current observation position, indicates the effect of control operations, shows the relationship between control inputs and image changes, and provides operational guidance. This multi-functionality in a single visual element avoids increasing device complexity while maintaining versatile image adjustment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges multiple pieces of information (observation position, control direction, control magnitude, and mode indicators) into a single integrated guide image display, reducing the number of separate indicators or displays needed and thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical observation apparatus according to the present invention includes a contactless signal input unit for receiving input of a first operation instruction signal through contactless operation by an operator, a contact signal input unit for receiving input of a second operation instruction signal through contact operation by the operator, a control unit for setting a processing mode for the observation image according to the first operation instruction signal, and assigning a signal input function according to the set processing mode to the second operation instruction signal input to the contact signal input unit, and an image processing unit for generating a display image having the observation image, and a guide image for guiding an operation according to the signal input function assigned to the contact signal input unit.