Tilt-Based Radiotherapy Control for Blind Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiotherapy device control systems require visual confirmation of mechanical toggle buttons for operation, making blind operation difficult and prone to mechanical failures, with large size and high cost.
Innovation Solution
A control device utilizing inertial sensors to control motion states of radiotherapy components based on tilt direction and angle, eliminating the need for visual confirmation and mechanical buttons, reducing device size and improving reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical toggle buttons are used for control, then the control device can be operated, but the device size increases and mechanical failures occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical toggle buttons with an inertial measurement unit (IMU)-based control system. The IMU detects tilt angle and direction through accelerometer and gyroscope sensors, converting mechanical control inputs into electronic signals. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear and failure while enabling blind operation through intuitive tilt-based control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system between the user's physical actions and the device control. The IMU sensor module acts as an intermediary that detects tilt states and transmits this information to the control unit, which then activates the corresponding medical device functions. This intermediary layer enables blind operation by translating invisible tilt movements into precise control commands.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical toggle buttons are used for control, then the control device can be operated, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces bulky mechanical toggle buttons with a compact IMU sensor module. The sensor module uses integrated accelerometer and gyroscope chips that occupy minimal space while providing full control functionality. This substitution dramatically reduces the control device volume while maintaining or improving operation convenience through intuitive tilt-based interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the control device universal by enabling it to control multiple medical device functions through a single tilt-based interface. The IMU sensor detects tilt in multiple dimensions, and the control unit maps these to various functions (e.g., table movement, beam angle adjustment), eliminating the need for separate controls for each function and reducing overall device size.
3Reliability
If visual confirmation of button selection is provided, then the operation can be verified, but blind operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that operate independently of visual confirmation. The control unit provides tactile feedback through vibration motors or haptic actuators to confirm selection and indicate current control state. Audio feedback through speakers or bone conduction transmitters provides additional verification channels, enabling reliable blind operation through multi-sensory feedback loops.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the control system to self-verify its own state through internal sensing and feedback mechanisms. The IMU continuously monitors tilt position and the control unit tracks activation state, providing self-confirmation without requiring external visual verification. This self-service capability ensures reliable operation while maintaining full blind operation capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables convenient and accurate blind operation of radiotherapy devices with reduced mechanical components, extending device lifespan and minimizing size and cost.
Implementation Method 1
obtaining a tilt state of the control device... The tilt state may include a tilt direction and/or a tilt angle
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure may relate to methods and systems for controlling a medical device. The method may include: obtaining a first user input; determining whether the first user input satisfies a trigger condition; in response to determining that the first user input satisfies the trigger condition, causing a control device to enter a control state; obtaining a tilt state of the control device; and controlling, based on the tilt state, a motion state of at least one component of the medical device.