Touchpad Controller Interface for Catheter Lab IVUS Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) systems are cumbersome and difficult to use, particularly in the limited space of a catheter lab, requiring extensive training due to generalized interfaces that are not optimized for quick and error-free procedures.
Innovation Solution
A touchpad controller interface for IVUS systems is introduced, divided into regions for specific workflow functionality, incorporating touchpad cursor control and functional buttons, allowing intuitive operation by feel rather than sight, and is mountable on a patient table rail or held in the user's hands, with raised rims for tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large multi-component IVUS system is used, then the system contains all necessary displays, control panels, power supplies and computers, but it takes up a large space and is difficult to maneuver in limited catheter lab space
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel is divided into multiple functional regions (first region for IVUS action buttons, second region for touchpad pointer navigation, third region for mode selection controls), allowing each region to be optimized for specific tasks while maintaining compact overall size
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple control functions are integrated into a single handheld control panel unit that can be mounted on a patient table rail, combining what would traditionally require separate displays and control panels into one compact device
2Ease of operation
If a generalized interface is used, then the system can be operated with basic controls, but it requires extensive training and is not optimized for quick procedures
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the control panel are designed with different functional characteristics - the first region has tactile buttons for actions, the second region has a touchpad for navigation, and the third region has mode selection controls, allowing users to operate by feel and intuition rather than memorization
Solution Approach 2:
The control panel design allows operators to quickly learn and perform procedures through intuitive tactile feedback and organized functional regions, reducing dependence on extensive formal training programs
3Ease of operation
If controls are designed for visual operation, then all functions can be accessed, but operators cannot make selections by feel in the dark or with hands occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel incorporates raised rims around buttons and functional regions, creating distinct tactile boundaries that allow operators to locate and operate controls by feel alone, with each region providing tactile feedback corresponding to its function
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of relying on visual displays and flat touch surfaces, the design inverts the approach by using raised tactile elements and textured surfaces that provide spatial and functional information through touch rather than sight
Data Source
AI summary
A touchpad controller for a componentized intravascular ultrasound system is disclosed for acquisition and display of intravascular information in a catheter lab environment. The system includes a patient interface module (PIM) adapted to hold a catheter having an imaging probe located near a distal end, a control panel, a monitor for displaying images and patient data, and a processing unit. The touchpad controller facilitates use beneath a sterile drape and sensitivity to gloved touch. Furthermore, the touchpad controller is sized for handheld use during an imaging session. A rail mount facilitates easy attachment of the touchpad controller alongside a patient table.