Dynamic Ultrasound Button Function Mapping via External Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasound diagnostic apparatuses lack an efficient method to dynamically display and manage the functions of their buttons based on external input signals, limiting user interaction and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that display information about ultrasound apparatus functions on buttons, allowing selection and setting of functions via external input signals, with features like rotatable panels, virtual buttons, and adaptive lightness adjustment based on illumination, ensuring clear and intuitive user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ultrasound apparatus uses fixed button functions, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and user interaction efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic button functions that automatically change based on the current operational mode and context of the ultrasound apparatus. The control unit dynamically assigns different functions to the same physical button depending on the active mode (e.g., scan mode, measurement mode, editing mode), eliminating the need for multiple dedicated buttons while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes single buttons serve multiple functions across different operational contexts. The same button can perform different operations (e.g., pan, zoom, measure) depending on the current mode, thereby reducing the total number of buttons required while increasing functional versatility.
2Ease of operation
If ultrasound apparatus provides multiple dedicated buttons for different functions, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit dynamically determines button functions based on the current operational mode, providing context-appropriate operations without requiring multiple physical buttons. The system adapts button behavior in real-time to maintain ease of operation while reducing hardware complexity.
3Loss of information
If ultrasound apparatus uses static button labels, then manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but loss of information about current function occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a display unit that provides real-time feedback showing the current function assigned to each button based on the active operational mode. This feedback mechanism ensures users always know what function a button will perform, preventing information loss while the system dynamically reconfigures button functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of displaying a function of a button of an ultrasound apparatus on the button includes displaying information about one or more functions provided by the ultrasound apparatus, selecting one from among the one or more functions which have been displayed, determining a button in which the selected function is to be set based on an external input signal for matching the selected function to the button in which the selected function is to be set; and displaying information about the selected function on the determined button.