Remote Ear Selection Switch for Audiologic Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of audiologic test apparatuses face inefficiencies and disruptions during clinical or screening tests due to the need to frequently move between the patient and the test apparatus to select which ear is being tested, disrupting the testing process and communication with the patient.
Innovation Solution
A remote user interface with a mechanically non-latching switch, such as a touch-sensitive or spring-biased push-button switch, is integrated with the ear probe, allowing operators to select the left or right ear for testing without leaving the patient's side, using visual or auditory indicators to confirm the selected ear and maintaining focus on the patient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a switch is provided at the audiologic test apparatus for selection of the ear to be tested, then the test results can be recorded with correct ear identification, but the operator must move away from the patient to perform the selection, disrupting the testing process and patient communication
Solution Approach 1:
The ear selection switch is extracted from the main audiologic test apparatus and integrated into the remote user interface housing that remains near the patient. This allows the operator to perform ear selection without returning to the main apparatus, eliminating the need to move away from the patient while maintaining accurate ear identification.
Solution Approach 2:
A remote user interface housing acts as an intermediary between the operator and the main test apparatus. This intermediate device contains the ear selection switch and communicates with the main apparatus via a cable, enabling the operator to control ear selection from a location near the patient rather than at the main apparatus.
2Measurement precision
If the operator returns to the patient after moving to the test apparatus for ear selection, then the correct ear can be selected, but time is wasted and the calm atmosphere during testing is disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The ear selection switch is made readily accessible at the remote user interface housing before the testing begins or at the start of each ear selection. The operator can perform the selection action immediately without needing to interrupt the flow of testing by returning to the main apparatus, thus saving time and maintaining the calm atmosphere.
3Ease of operation
If the switch is integrated into the remote user interface housing positioned proximate the patient, then the operator can select the ear without moving away from the patient, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two functional parts: the main audiologic test apparatus and the remote user interface housing. The ear selection switch and its housing form a separate, self-contained module that can be positioned near the patient, reducing the operational complexity at the main apparatus while distributing the overall system functionality.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A remote user interface is provided for connection with an audiologic test apparatus for audiologic testing and comprising a remote user interface housing accommodating a mechanically non-latching switch for selection of one of the right ear or left ear of a patient for testing with the audiologic test apparatus.