X-ray Handswitch Tactile Feedback Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
In noisy medical environments, operators of x-ray systems face challenges in distinguishing audio tones indicating x-ray exposure status, leading to uncertainty and potential re-takes, especially when operating from a distance or in environments with other noise-generating equipment.
Innovation Solution
A handswitch with a tactile feedback mechanism, such as vibration, texture changes, or electro-mechanical indicators, is used to provide clear feedback on x-ray exposure and preparation status, eliminating the need for audible tones and reducing operator uncertainty.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the tone volume is increased to improve audibility of exposure indication, then the exposure indication becomes more audible, but the ambient noise level becomes objectionably loud and accentuates environmental noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the acoustic feedback system (tone generator and speaker) with a tactile feedback system (vibration motor or haptic actuator). This substitution eliminates the need for audible tones while providing exposure indication through tactile sensations, thereby resolving the contradiction between improving audibility and reducing ambient noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a tactile feedback mechanism as an intermediary between the x-ray exposure event and the operator. Instead of directly using audio tones to indicate exposure, the system uses vibration or haptic feedback transmitted through the handswitch to convey exposure status, thereby avoiding the noise problem while maintaining effective communication.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the operator stands at a distance from the x-ray machine to reduce radiation exposure, then radiation safety is improved, but the ability to distinguish exposure tones from other equipment tones deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the acoustic indication system with a tactile feedback system that provides exposure indication through vibration or haptic sensations in the handswitch. This substitution allows the operator to remain at a safe distance from the x-ray machine while still receiving clear, distinguishable feedback about exposure status through tactile sensations that are not affected by environmental noise or distance.
3Reliability
If the prepare switch is held for an extended period to ensure proper preparation, then preparation completeness is improved, but the operator receives no tactile indication that preparation is complete
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a tactile feedback mechanism that provides real-time or near-real-time indication of preparation status. The vibration or haptic feedback changes state to indicate when preparation is complete, allowing the operator to know when it is safe to release the prepare switch. This feedback loop improves reliability by ensuring proper preparation while providing clear status indication.
Solution Approach 2:
The tactile feedback mechanism automatically monitors the preparation status and provides indication without requiring additional operator action. The system self-regulates by detecting when preparation is complete and providing appropriate tactile feedback, reducing the cognitive load on the operator and ensuring reliable preparation indication.
Data Source
AI summary
A handswitch configured to be held by an operator of an x-ray system, configured for using handswitchable equipment to operate the x-ray system, is disclosed. The handswitch includes an exterior housing so dimensioned as to fit into a hand of the operator. An exposure switch is disposed on the exterior housing and is configured to initiate an x-ray exposure. A tactile feedback mechanism is configured to indicate, to the operator of the x-ray system, transmission of x-rays by the x-ray system.