EP4134057A1 - Operating method for a treatment bed arrangement - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating method for a therapy bed arrangement, with a bed segment (4) of the treatment bed device (1) being adjusted by means of an actuator (6) of a treatment bed device (1) of the therapy bed arrangement that is stationary during treatment, with a position and/or movement sensor and/or acceleration sensor of a mobile signal generator (2) of the therapy couch arrangement, a position and/or movement and/or acceleration signal for the mobile signal generator (2) is determined, with the determined position and/or movement and/or acceleration signal being processed and / or is compared with a stored reference signal to detect a position and / or movement and / or acceleration pattern and based on the detected position and / or movement and / or acceleration pattern of the actuator (6) in one of the position and /or movement and/or acceleration signal assigned, predetermined W which is actuated to adjust the bed segment (4).

Description

Operating method for a therapy couch arrangement

The invention relates to an operating method for a therapy table arrangement with at least one table segment that can be adjusted by an actuator.

It is generally known that therapy bed arrangements provide a therapy bed which can be adjusted by means of an actuator in relation to at least one bed segment. The adjustment takes place, for example, in order to adapt the therapy couch to different body proportions of a patient or to bring the patient into a position that is advantageous for the treatment. The therapy table may only be adjusted by authorized persons or users, for example a doctor, a therapist or a receptionist. In particular, it must be reliably prevented that third parties, such as children, are harmed in the event of improper use or misuse.

For example, in order to implement operating security, it is known to integrate a release module into a circuit for operating the bed. The release module is designed in such a way that a key is used to activate the couch operation or to generate a release signal for actuating the actuator must. The key can be implemented mechanically, for example, or be designed as a magnetic key. It is provided here that the key is withdrawn and taken by the authorized user as intended when leaving the therapy room or when leaving the area in which an intervention against misuse can take place in good time. In everyday practice, however, it can be observed that the key remains permanently inserted. This increases the risk of unauthorized use of the lounger.

The U.S. 2009/0049610 A1 describes a mobile therapy bed that has a control module and a built-in receiver unit that communicates with a signal generator. The signaling device is carried by the staff and in particular worn on their clothing. Actuators for adjusting the therapy table can only be actuated when the signal transmitter is close to the therapy table.

The US 2017/0035628 A1 describes a mobile, height-adjustable therapy couch for an ambulance. Here, the patient transport vehicle has a stationary signal generator while the therapy couch is being used, which communicates with a receiving unit of the mobile therapy couch. The therapy couch also has a built-in control module with an operating unit, via which a user can initiate and control the height adjustment of the therapy couch. The vertical height adjustment of the therapy table itself can be detected via an integrated motion sensor. Actuators for adjusting the therapy table can only be activated if the user has previously operated the control unit. The speed of the height adjustment can be varied as a function of a sensor-determined distance between the therapy couch and the signal transmitter of the ambulance.

The object of the invention is to specify an improved operating method for a therapy bed arrangement which is secured against improper operation in a particularly advantageous manner.

For example, the therapy bed arrangement includes a treatment bed device on the one hand and a mobile signal transmitter on the other hand, which is carried by an authorized user. The treatment couch facility in turn, a therapy couch with at least one adjustable couch segment, at least one actuator for adjusting the couch segment, a control module for controlling the actuator and a receiving unit for receiving an input signal. The signal transmitter, which replaces the key provided today and provides the input signal, interacts with the receiving unit of the treatment couch device and the control module in such a way that the control module uses a process parameter of a communication running between the mobile signal transmitter and the receiving unit to calculate a distance value for a distance between the mobile signal transmitter and the treatment couch device. A release signal for actuating the actuator is only provided if the distance value is less than a specified release limit distance. The release limit distance is in turn dimensioned such that the authorized user with the mobile signal generator is in close proximity to the treatment bed device and can intervene in the event of accidental or improper actuation of the actuator.

An actuation signal for the actuator can be provided, for example, via an operating unit that has input elements, for example mechanical, capacitive or pressure-sensitive switching or tactile elements. For example, the actuation signals for the actuator can be provided via gesture control.

The particular advantage is that an authorization for actuating the actuator is only provided if the mobile signal transmitter carried by the authorized user and thus the authorized user himself is in close proximity to the treatment couch device. At the same time, it is immediately recognized when the authorized user moves away. It is then no longer possible to actuate the actuator and thus adjust the bed segment. At the same time, the therapy couch arrangement allows a purely passive release of the actuator. Active involvement by the authorized user is not required. This increases acceptance, prevents misuse and thus increases security.

For example, a data memory is assigned to the control module of the treatment couch device, which is designed to store at least one and preferably two or more distance values for the distance between the mobile signal generator and the treatment couch device. Alternatively, the process parameter of the communication can be stored in the data memory, which is used to determine the distance between the mobile signal transmitter and the receiving unit or an intermediate value determined as part of the processing of the process parameter. By providing the data memory, the distance can advantageously be evaluated on the basis of two distance values determined one after the other. For example, a first distance value, which is stored in the data memory, can be verified by a further measurement. For example, by storing a large number of distance values, a movement profile can be created for the autonomous user, which allows the frequency of the determination of the distance value to be adapted to the movement speed of the authorized user or the mobile signal generator. During a treatment, during which the authorized user is in the immediate vicinity of the therapy bed and only changes his position to a small extent, a greater time interval between two measurements can therefore be selected than in a phase in which the authorized user is approaching the treatment bed device or moves away.

For example, the first distance value and a second distance value are linked by the control module in such a way that the enable signal for actuating the actuator is only provided if the first distance value differs from the second distance value. This can advantageously ensure that the mobile signal transmitter is not permanently positioned on the treatment couch device or remains there. In this case, the distance values of the various measurements carried out one after the other would be identical and the enable signal for actuating the actuator would not be provided. Rather, it is necessary to carry the mobile signal transmitter with you, since this is the only way to achieve a change in position and ultimately two different distance values can be determined.

For example, the treatment couch device provides a transmission unit. The transmitter unit interacts with the control module in such a way that the transmitter unit sends an output signal to the mobile signal transmitter. The output signal, which is provided by the transmission unit, can advantageously be used as a trigger be trained. When the mobile signal generator receives the output signal, the input signal is then provided by the mobile signal generator, for example, and received by the receiving unit of the treatment couch device. For example, the output signal can at the same time define the starting point of a measurement, with which a signal propagation time until receipt of the input signal at the receiving unit of the treatment couch device is determined. The distance value can then ultimately be determined from the signal propagation time.

The transmission unit and the reception unit of the treatment couch device can each be realized separately or spatially and/or functionally integrated. For example, a transmission and reception module can map the transmission function and the reception function and therefore the entire communication with the mobile signal transmitter. A spatial and/or functional integration with the control module and/or the operating unit can also be implemented.

For example, the communication between the mobile signal transmitter and the receiving unit can be set up or initialized by the mobile signal transmitter. The mobile signal transmitter then does not always have to be ready to receive and the energy consumption drops.

For example, the mobile signal transmitter provides a position sensor, a movement sensor or an acceleration sensor. This sensor can be used to record position, movement or acceleration signals for the mobile signal generator, which are then sent directly or in a processed form as aggregated data to the treatment couch device. In addition to the sensor system, the mobile signal generator has a processor or other means for signal processing, which are designed in particular for pattern recognition or algorithmic evaluation of the position, movement or acceleration signal and for initiating an actuator adjustment movement based thereon. Advantageously, by providing the sensor system on the mobile signal transmitter, misuse by permanently placing the mobile signal transmitter directly on the treatment bed device can be particularly effectively prevented. When the mobile signal generator is kept ready, it would be the position, movement or Acceleration signal constant. In addition, the additional sensors can be used to detect a predefined, characteristic movement for the mobile signal generator. For example, preliminary tests by the applicant have shown that a rocking or pumping movement with the toe or heel, which is performed by the authorized user carrying the mobile signal transmitter, leads to a characteristic acceleration signal. The characteristic acceleration signal can be recognized in the mobile signal transmitter itself or by the control module of the treatment bed device and used to operate the treatment bed device or to adjust the actuator-operated bed segments. A processing algorithm for the measured signals or a routine for pattern recognition can be used here, for example. In this respect it is possible, for example, to change the height adjustment of the therapy bed or to implement an upward movement by means of the actuator as long as the rocking movement takes place with the tip of the foot. The actuation of the actuator can then be interrupted when the rocking movement is stopped. For example, a lateral back and forth movement of the foot or knee on the side of the body on which the mobile signal transmitter is worn or is in the trouser pocket can be easily recognized. Here, too, a characteristic acceleration signal results, which in turn can be used to adjust the therapy couch in a defined manner and, for example, to implement a downward movement.

For example, an authorization method for the therapy bed arrangement provides that the actuator for adjusting the bed segment of the treatment bed device of the therapy bed arrangement that is stationary during the treatment is released, with communication taking place between a mobile signal transmitter of the therapy bed arrangement and a receiving unit of the treatment bed device in the sense of an exchange of data or signals, wherein an input signal is received by the receiving unit, which was previously provided by the mobile signal transmitter, wherein a distance value for a distance between the mobile signal transmitter and the treatment couch device is determined from a process parameter of the communication, and wherein a release signal for actuating the actuator is only then provided , if the determined distance value is less than a predetermined release limit distance.

The particular advantage is that actuation of the actuator for adjusting the bed segment is only released when the mobile signal transmitter carried by an authorized user is in a predefined spatial proximity to the treatment bed device. The therapy bed or the adjustable bed segment of the same can only be adjusted by means of an actuator if the adjustment is carried out by the authorized user himself or if the user is in any case so close to the treatment bed device that he can intervene in the event of misuse or accidental actuation of the actuator. The communication between the mobile signal transmitter and the receiving unit runs in the background and does not require any active involvement by the authorized user. In this respect, the authorized user is relieved to the maximum extent. This therefore promotes acceptance of the routine and prevents improper manipulation, for example the permanent attachment of the mobile signal generator to the treatment couch device.

The invention has the features of patent claim 1 in order to achieve the object.

Accordingly, the operating method according to the invention for the therapy table arrangement provides that a table segment of the treatment table device that is actuated by means of the actuator of the treatment table device of the therapy table arrangement that is stationary during the treatment is adjusted, with a position, movement or acceleration sensor of a mobile signal generator of the therapy table arrangement being used to record a position, movement or Acceleration signal for the mobile signal transmitter is determined, the determined position, movement or acceleration signal being processed and/or compared with a stored reference signal to identify a position and/or movement and/or acceleration pattern and being based on the identified position -, movement or acceleration pattern of the actuator in a position, movement or acceleration signal predetermined manner for adjusting the actuator rs is pressed.

The particular advantage of the invention is that by means of the operating method according to the invention, an actuation of the treatment couch device or an adjustment of the actuator actuated couch segment can take place via a characteristic body movement of the authorized user. For example, the mobile signal transmitter can be provided at a more or less firmly defined position on the body of the authorized user. For example, the mobile signal transmitter can be carried in a trouser pocket or jacket pocket of the authorized user, or it can be attached to the trouser waistband. If the authorized user then performs a defined and preferably periodic movement, this characteristic movement can first be determined using the position, movement or acceleration sensor and then compared algorithmically or by comparing it with a reference signal with a stored position, movement or acceleration pattern. Depending on the recognized position, movement or acceleration pattern, the actuator can then carry out a defined adjustment movement, for example move the therapy couch up or down.

An evaluation of the sensor-determined position, movement or acceleration signals is possible, for example, by calculating and normalizing characteristic parameters (features) for various default signals in a learning phase and then saving them or storing them in a database, with the various data sets being assigned the analyzed or described data Movement kinematics is assigned. Real measurement data is then recorded during operation and compared with the stored values using a comparison approach, and the characteristic position, movement or acceleration pattern is identified.

The operating method according to the invention can be implemented independently of the authorization method. In addition, the authorization method and the operating method can be implemented together.

According to a further development of the invention, an output signal is sent from a transmission unit of the stationary treatment bed device to the mobile signal generator and the mobile signal generator sends the input signal to the receiving unit of the treatment couch device after receiving the output signal. In this respect, the mobile signal generator is designed to receive the output signal of the transmission unit. The output signal serves especially as a trigger for sending the input signal. The mobile signal generator is therefore active at the request of the treatment couch device.

According to a further development of the invention, the position and/or movement and/or acceleration signals determined by means of the position and/or movement and/or acceleration sensor are processed in the mobile signal generator and then aggregated and/or compressed data and/or information is generated transmitted to the position and / or movement and acceleration pattern from the mobile signal transmitter to the treatment bed device.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the communication between the mobile signal generator and the receiving unit is set up by the mobile signal generator. In this way, the signal transmitter can advantageously be actuated or activated as required, with the result that energy consumption on the part of the signal transmitter can be reduced or the service life of the signal transmitter is increased.

For example, the communication between the mobile signal generator and the receiving unit and/or the communication between the mobile signal generator, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit is carried out repeatedly. A first distance value and a second distance value for the distance between the mobile signal transmitter and the receiving unit are determined offset in time with respect to the first distance value. For example, providing the first distance value and the second distance value can be used for data matching. This effectively prevents an inadvertent release of the actuation of the actuator due to a single erroneous measurement for the distance value.

For example, the release signal for actuating the actuator is only provided if the first distance value is different from the second distance value. The release signal will therefore only be present if the mobile signal generator is moved, while first the first distance value and then the second distance value are determined. This advantageously prevents misuse in a particularly effective manner, since the mobile signal transmitter cannot be placed in a stationary position on the treatment bed device and must not remain there. In In this case, the first distance value would be identical to the second distance value and the enable signal for the actuator would not be provided.

For example, it is provided that a signal propagation time for the input signal or for the output signal is processed as a process parameter of the communication between the mobile signal transmitter on the one hand and the receiving unit or the transmission unit of the treatment couch device that is stationary during the treatment on the other hand and the distance value is then determined using the signal propagation time. The distance can advantageously be determined with a very good degree of accuracy by measuring the signal propagation time. In addition, the signal propagation time can be determined very precisely, in particular when the output signal is sent by the transmission unit of the treatment bed device and this same output signal also serves as a trigger for measuring the signal propagation time.

According to a further development of the invention, the communication between the mobile signal generator on the one hand and the receiving unit or the transmission unit of the stationary treatment bed device during the treatment on the other hand can be implemented using radio technology. Advantageously, the radio communication can be implemented in a very simple and robust manner.

According to a development of the invention, the mobile signal generator is brought into a sleep mode when it is detected by sensors that the mobile signal generator is not moving. For example, the position sensor, the movement sensor or the acceleration sensor can be used for this purpose. By putting the signal transmitter into sleep mode, energy can be saved and the service life of the signal transmitter or its maintenance interval can be extended.

According to a development of the invention, the adjustable couch segment is adjusted while the position and/or movement and/or acceleration pattern is recognized. The actuator is not actuated if no position and/or movement and/or acceleration pattern is detected or if it is detected that the mobile signal generator is not moving.

For example, the communication is evaluated, for example the determination of the process parameter of the communication between the mobile signal generator on the one hand and the receiving unit or the transmitter unit of the stationary treatment couch device on the other hand using the two-way ranging principle. The two-way ranging principle in the form of the symmetric double-sided two-way ranging principle is preferably used. This advantageously allows a very precise measurement of the distance value. In particular, the distance value can be resolved reliably and precisely on a scale customary in practice with a release limit distance of less than 1.5 m, for example. In addition, the realization or implementation is simple and tested. This effectively prevents a malfunction.

The therapy table arrangement can have one or more than one therapy table device. For example, three or more adjacent treatment couch assemblies may be combined in a therapy couch assembly. Individually assigned signal transmitters can then be provided for the various treatment bed devices. In this respect, a further development of the invention can provide that in an initialization routine preceding the release of the actuator, a mobile signal generator is assigned to exactly one selected treatment couch device of the therapy couch arrangement and that only the selected treatment couch device can then be released using the one mobile signal generator. The assignment of the signal transmitter to the treatment bed device can be realized, for example, unambiguously or bidirectionally so that only one treatment bed device can be released by means of the signal transmitter and that one treatment bed device can only be released by means of one signal transmitter. Alternatively, it can be provided that a plurality of mobile signal generators are provided, each of which is designed to release the same, selected treatment couch device. The assignment of the mobile signal transmitters and the treatment bed devices in pairs or groups as part of the initialization routine can advantageously ensure that an inadvertent operation or release of a treatment bed device that has not been selected is avoided. This increases safety and reduces the risk of incorrect operation.

For example, the release of the actuator is revoked if a distance value for the distance between the mobile signal generator and the treatment bed device is greater than a deactivation limit distance. The deactivation of the actuator is advantageously carried out automatically by the provision of the deactivation limit distance when the therapist or doctor moves away from the treatment couch device. In this respect, in the absence of the therapist, the treatment couch device cannot be operated unintentionally or improperly, for example by the patient or a third party.

To determine a distance value between the signal generator and the treatment bed device, a predetermined point on the treatment bed device can be selected as a reference point. For example, the distance between the mobile signal transmitter and the receiving unit of the treatment couch device can be determined.

For example, the mobile signal transmitter triggers the release signal for the actuator only if the distance value for the distance between the mobile signal transmitter and the treatment bed device is less than the specified release limit distance and if at the same time no other mobile signal transmitter is at a distance from the treatment bed device that is smaller than the release limit distance and/or the deactivation limit distance or if at the same time no other mobile signal generator is connected to the treatment couch device and has released the actuator. This can advantageously ensure that the treatment bed device or its actuator is released as soon as any first signal generator is in sufficient proximity to the treatment bed device or the release limit distance is undershot. However, if another mobile signal transmitter is already within the release limit distance and has released the actuator of the treatment bed device, the treatment bed device will continue to work together with it and the situation will not change because another mobile signal transmitter is now within the release limit distance.

Further advantages, features and details of the invention can be found in the further dependent claims and the following description. Features mentioned there can each be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. Of course, features and details of the therapy couch arrangement also apply in connection with the authorization process or the operating process and vice versa. In this way, the disclosure can always be referred to reciprocally. The drawings serve only as examples to clarify the invention and have no restrictive character.

Fig. 1

eine Prinzipdarstellung einer ersten Therapieliegenanordnung,

Fig. 2

ein Ablaufdiagramm für die Signallaufzeit bei Anwendung des Symmetric double-sided two-way ranging-Prinzips,

Fig. 3

eine Prinzipdarstellung einer zweiten Therapieliegenanordnung,

Fig. 4

eine weitere Therapieliegenanordnung mit insgesamt drei Behandlungsliegeneinrichtungen und drei mobilen Signalgebern,

Fig. 5

ein erstes Bewegungsprofil für einen der drei mobilen Signalgeber der Therapieliegenanordnung nach Fig. 4,

Fig. 6

eine Fortschreibung des ersten Bewegungsprofils für den einen mobilen Signalgeber nach Fig. 5,

Fig. 7

eine weitere Fortschreibung des ersten Bewegungsprofils für den einen mobilen Signalgeber nach Fig. 5,

Fig. 8

eine weitere Fortschreibung des ersten Bewegungsprofils für den einen mobilen Signalgeber nach Fig. 5,

Fig. 9

ein zweites Bewegungsprofil für den einen der drei mobilen Signalgeber der Therapieliegenanordnung nach Fig. 4,

Fig. 10

ein drittes Bewegungsprofil mit zwei der drei mobilen Signalgebern der Therapieliegenanordnung nach Fig. 4,

Fig. 11

ein viertes Bewegungsprofil mit zwei der drei mobilen Signalgebern der Therapieliegenanordnung nah Fig. 4 und

Fig. 12

eine Fortschreibung des vierten Bewegungsprofils für die zwei mobilen Signalgeber nach Fig. 11.

Show it:

1

a schematic representation of a first therapy couch arrangement,

2

a flowchart for the signal propagation time when using the symmetric double-sided two-way ranging principle,

3

a schematic representation of a second therapy couch arrangement,

4

another therapy table arrangement with a total of three treatment table devices and three mobile signal transmitters,

figure 5

a first movement profile for one of the three mobile signal generators of the therapy couch arrangement 4 ,

6

an update of the first movement profile for the one mobile signal transmitter figure 5 ,

7

a further update of the first movement profile for one mobile signal transmitter figure 5 ,

8

a further update of the first movement profile for one mobile signal transmitter figure 5 ,

9

a second movement profile for one of the three mobile signal generators of the therapy couch arrangement 4 ,

10

a third movement profile with two of the three mobile signal generators of the therapy bed arrangement 4 ,

11

a fourth movement profile with two of the three mobile signal generators of the therapy bed arrangement 4 and

12

an update of the fourth movement profile for the two mobile signal transmitters 11 .

A therapy bed arrangement 1 comprises, on the one hand, a treatment couch device 1, which is preferably installed in a fixed location in a practice room for the duration of the therapeutic treatment, and on the other hand, a mobile signal transmitter 2, which is carried by an authorized user, for example a therapist, a doctor or a receptionist. The treatment couch device 1 in turn comprises, according to the present exemplary embodiment, a therapy couch with three couch segments 3, 4, 5, a control module (not shown separately), an actuator 6 and an operating unit 7, which is designed to input an actuation signal for the actuator 6, and a receiving unit 8 for receiving an input signal, which is provided by the mobile signal transmitter 2. In the present case, the actuator 6 is used to adjust a middle bed segment 4 . Optionally, additional actuators (not shown) can be provided for adjusting the additional bed segments 3, 5.

For example, it is provided that communication takes place between the mobile signal generator 2 and the receiving unit 8 of the temporarily stationary treatment couch device 1 in the sense of an exchange of data or signals and that the control module, on the basis of a process parameter of this communication, calculates a distance value for a distance between the mobile signal generator 2 and of the treatment couch device 1 is determined. A release signal for actuating the actuator 6 is only provided if the distance value determined in this way is less than a predefined release limit distance. The specified release limit distance can be specified individually and in particular the spatial conditions be adjusted in practice. For example, the specified clearance limit distance can result from the size of the treatment room or from a distance between two adjacent treatment bed devices 1 .

A signal propagation time for the input signal received by the receiving unit 8 can be used, for example, as a process parameter of the communication between the mobile signal generator 2 and the receiving unit 8 of the treatment couch device 1 . Knowing the propagation speed of the input signal, the distance between the mobile signal generator 2 and the receiving unit 8 can be determined from the signal propagation time. For example, when using DecaWave technology, the distance can be measured to within about 10 cm. The corresponding measurement accuracy allows the release signal to actually only be provided if the authorized user is in sufficient proximity to the treatment couch device 1 and it can be assumed that even if the actuator 6 is operated without authorization, the third party can avoid damage leaves.

The operating unit 7 can, for example, provide mechanically actuated, capacitively effective and/or pressure-sensitive switching or button elements 9, via which an actuation signal for the actuator 6 can be impressed. For this purpose, the operating unit 7 is provided with an operative connection to the control module and the actuation signals for the actuator 6 are provided by the operating unit 7 to the control module and processed there. However, the actuation signal is only actually transmitted to the actuator 6 if the actuation of the actuator 6 is enabled at the same time. The release signal can also be determined by the control module, for example, by comparing the distance value determined or calculated by measurement with the specified release limit distance.

For example, the actuation of the actuator 6 can be released based on a single distance value if the distance value is smaller than the specified release limit distance. For example, it can be provided that a distance value determined by measurement must be verified as part of a control measurement before the enable signal for actuating the actuator 6 is provided.

For example, it can be provided that at least two distance values are determined with a time offset relative to one another and that the enable signal for actuating the actuator is only provided if the determined distance values are smaller than the release limit distance and the distance values differ. The release signal is therefore only provided if the authorized user who is carrying the mobile signal generator 2 moves. This ensures that the mobile signal transmitter 2 cannot be placed permanently in the vicinity of the treatment couch device 1 and the safety mechanism or the authorization and operating procedure is circumvented.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the treatment couch device 1 provides, in addition to the receiving unit 8, a transmitting unit which is designed to transmit an output signal. The output signal sent out by the transmitter unit is then received by the mobile signal generator 2 and used as a trigger signal for sending the input signal to the receiving unit 8 of the treatment couch device 1. In this case, the sending of the output signal can also be used as a trigger for measuring the signal propagation time, which exemplary in the 2 is shown. The so-called symmetric double-sided two-way ranging principle, which is presented below, is used here.

In a first step, the mobile signal transmitter 2 sends the input signal. After a first period of time T _flight , the input signal reaches the receiving unit 8 of the treatment couch device 1 and is processed there. After a processing period of time T _{reply_base,} the output signal is sent by the transmission unit of the treatment couch device 1 . The output signal hits the mobile signal generator 2 after the first period of time T _flight . The mobile signal generator 2 processes the received output signal within a third period of time T _{reply_tag and} then sends the input signal, which after the first period of time T _flight from the receiving unit 8 of the treatment couch device 1 is received.

der zweiten Gleichung $$T_{\mathit{round}\_\mathit{base}}=T_{\mathit{reply}\_\mathit{tag}}+2\cdot T_{\mathit{flight}}$$

durch Addition der Gleichungen ermitteln. Addiert und aufgelöst nach T_flight ergibt sich insofern $$T_{\mathit{flight}}=\frac{T_{\mathit{round}\_\mathit{tag}}-T_{\mathit{reply}\_\mathit{tag}}+T_{\mathit{round}\_\mathit{base}}-T_{\mathit{reply}\_\mathit{base}}}{4}$$

The distance to be determined between the mobile signal transmitter 2 and the treatment couch device 1 can then be calculated from the first equation $$T_{\mathit{round}\_\mathit{Day}}=T_{\mathit{reply}\_\mathit{base}}+2\cdot T_{\mathit{flight}}$$

the second equation $$T_{\mathit{round}\_\mathit{base}}=T_{\mathit{reply}\_\mathit{Day}}+2\cdot T_{\mathit{flight}}$$

determined by adding the equations. Added and resolved according to T _flight results in this respect $$T_{\mathit{flight}}=\frac{T_{\mathit{round}\_\mathit{Day}}-T_{\mathit{reply}\_\mathit{Day}}+T_{\mathit{round}\_\mathit{base}}-T_{\mathit{reply}\_\mathit{<figure-callout\; id="4"\; label="base"\; filenames="imgf0003.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">base</figure-callout>}}}{4}$$

With the propagation speed c of the signal, the distance value then results as follows: $$\mathit{distance\; value}=T_{\mathit{flight}}\cdot c$$

The method according to the invention or the therapy bed arrangement is not limited to the illustrated exemplary embodiments. Of course, more than one adjustable couch segment 4 and more than one actuator 6 can be provided for adjusting the therapy couch.

In addition, the communication between the mobile signal transmitter 2 and the transmission unit or the reception unit 8 of the treatment couch device 1 is not limited to radio communication. For example, the communication can be implemented optically or acoustically.

It is also possible for identification data to be exchanged as part of the communication, so that only specific therapy couches can be adjusted using specific mobile signal transmitters 2 .

Furthermore, it can be provided that the mobile signal transmitter 2 provides additional means to prevent the mobile signal transmitter 2 from being permanently attached to the treatment couch device 1 and thus the authorization and Operating procedure is manipulated. Suitable means are, for example, acceleration, movement or position sensors, with which it can be recognized that the mobile signal generator 2 is moving or is not being moved.

The movement detection for the mobile signal transmitter 2 can be used at the same time to put the mobile signal transmitter 2 into an idle state and thus to increase the battery or battery life.

The release of the actuator 6 can preferably be implemented by software, for example in the control module or the operating unit 7. Alternatively, a hardware-side solution can be provided with an interrupt circuit or actuation of the actuator 6 can be mechanically blocked if the release signal is not provided .

The operating unit 7 of the treatment couch device 1 can, for example, provide foot switches, rocker switches or other switching or button elements 9 .

A second embodiment of the therapy bed arrangement 3 provides that a middle bed segment 4 and with this indirectly the further bed segments 3, 5 are provided in a height-adjustable manner by means of an actuator 6. The treatment couch device 1 has an operating unit 7 with a plurality of switch or button elements 9 and the receiving unit 8 . The control module and a transmission unit are also integrated into the operating unit 7 .

The mobile signal transmitter 2, which is carried by the authorized user in a pocket of their work clothes, is designed to transmit the input signal to the receiving unit 8 of the treatment couch device 1. In addition, the mobile signal transmitter 2 can receive output signals from the transmitter unit of the treatment couch device 1 , so that the authorization and operating procedure can be initiated by a trigger signal provided by the treatment couch device 1 . Next sees the mobile signal generator 2 in the present embodiment an acceleration or Gyro sensor with which an acceleration or position signal can be determined.

The sensors of the mobile signal transmitter 2 with regard to the measured sensor signals are implemented in such a way that defined, recurring movements of the mobile signal transmitter 2 are detected. In particular, a rocking or pumping movement with the tip of the foot can be detected in the case of the mobile signal generator 2, which is carried in the pocket of the authorized user. The characteristic movement signal resulting from this can then be used to adjust the therapy couch in a defined manner. In the present case, the pumping movement can in particular initiate an upward movement of the adjustable bed segment 4 by means of the actuator 6 . In an analogous manner, a lateral to-and-fro movement of the foot or the knee on the side of the body on which the mobile signal transmitter 2 is located in the authorized user's pocket can be easily recognized. The lateral back and forth movement can then be used to lower the therapy table. Further forms of movement are conceivable here in order to control further actuators of the treatment couch device 1 .

The sensor signals for the mobile signal generator 2, which are detected by means of the acceleration sensor (not shown), can be processed locally on site in the mobile signal generator 2, for example. For this purpose, the mobile signal generator 2 has suitable signal processing electronics. In this way, in particular, the amount of data to be exchanged with the treatment couch device 1 and thus ultimately the energy requirement for the communication can advantageously be reduced. Alternatively, the measured values can be transmitted from the mobile signal generator 2 to the treatment couch device 1 and processed there.

If the therapy couch is controlled via the characteristic position, movement or acceleration pattern, the provision of the operating unit 7 can ultimately be completely dispensed with. Ultimately, therefore, the therapy bed can be controlled by dispensing with physically designed switch or touch elements 9 .

For example, it is possible for the mobile signal generator 2 to be completely encapsulated. This makes it possible to move the mobile signal transmitter 2 very easily clean and disinfect if necessary. For this purpose, the mobile signal transmitter 2 can have, for example, a wireless charging system for an integrated energy store, in particular for an accumulator.

In 4 a therapy bed arrangement is shown with a total of three treatment bed devices 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 and three signal transmitters 2.1, 2.2, 2.3. A first signal transmitter 2.1 is assigned to a first treatment couch device 1.1. In an analogous manner, a second signal generator 2.2 is assigned to a second treatment couch device 1.2 and a third signal generator 2.3 to a third treatment couch device 1.3 of the therapy couch arrangement. The treatment bed devices 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 and the signal generators 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 are assigned as part of an initialization routine. In the present exemplary embodiment, it is unambiguous in the sense that the respectively assigned treatment couch device 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 can only be activated or released by means of the assigned signal generator 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 and that the assigned signal generator 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 is also solely authorized to activate or release the one associated treatment couch device 1.1, 1.2, 1.3.

In the Figures 5 to 8 a movement sequence for the second signal generator 2.2 is shown, which is carried along by a therapist, for example. In this respect, a route taken by the therapist is identified by the reference number 12 in the figures.

First, the therapist approaches the second treatment couch device 1.2 with the second signal transmitter 2.2. However, the treatment couch device 1.2 or the actuator 6 of the second treatment couch device 1.2 cannot yet be operated, since the second signal generator 2.2 is still outside a release limit 10.2, which is symmetrical about a control unit 7.2 or a receiving unit provided as part of the control unit 7.2 of the second treatment couch device 1.2 8.2 is formed ( figure 5 ). Only when the second signal transmitter 2.2 is within the release limit 10.2 of the second treatment bed device 1.2 is the actuator 6 or the operation of the treatment bed device 1.2 released. In 6 this state is illustrated graphically by the second signal generator 2.2 being black over its entire surface is shown, whereas the second signal transmitter 2.1 is only shown by a black-framed and otherwise white circle when the operation of the second treatment couch device 1.2 is not enabled or activated.

If, after the actuator 6 of the second treatment couch device 1.2 has been activated or released, the therapist moves away a little and thereby exceeds the release limit 10.2, the actuator 6 of the second treatment couch device 1.2 nevertheless remains activated as long as the therapist is still using the second signal transmitter 2.2 is within a deactivation limit 11.2 of the second treatment couch device 1.2 ( 7 ). A deactivation of the actuator 6 only takes place when the therapist - as in 8 shown - with the second signal transmitter 2.2 also exceeds the deactivation limit 11.2 and insofar as a distance between the second signal transmitter 2.2 and the treatment couch device 1.2 is greater than a deactivation limit distance determined by the deactivation limit 11.2.

As a result of the unambiguous assignment of the second signal generator 2.2 to the second treatment couch device 1.2, it is irrelevant in the present exemplary embodiment of the invention how the therapist approaches the second treatment couch device 1.2 with the second signal generator 2.2. As part of the approach to the operating unit 7.1 or a receiving unit 8.1 of the second treatment couch device 1.2, it can, for example, fall below a release limit 10.1 or a deactivation limit 11.1 of the first treatment couch device 1.1 without an actuator 6 of the first treatment couch device 1.1 being activated or released. The corresponding situation with the path 12 of the therapist is in 9 shown as an example. This applies analogously to the third treatment couch device 1.3. Here, too, activation or release does not take place if the second signal generator 2.2 is provided within a release limit 10.3 or a deactivation limit 11.3 or the predetermined distance from an operating unit 7.3 or a receiving unit 8.3 of the third treatment couch device 1.3 is not reached.

10 shows a situation in which the third signal generator 2.3 was guided along the path 12" and is now within the release limit 10.2 of the second treatment couch device 1.2. However, due to the lack of assignment of the third signal generator 2.3 to the second treatment couch device 1.2, the actuator 6 of the second treatment couch device 1.2 not activated and it is not possible to operate the second treatment couch device 1.2. The second treatment couch device 1.2 is also not enabled by the second signal generator 2.2. The second signal generator 2.2 was initially outside the deactivation limit 11.2 of the second treatment couch device, as shown by the path 12' 1.2 Since at the same time the release limit 10.2 has not been undershot, the second signal transmitter 2.2 does not activate the second treatment couch device 1.2 either.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, not shown in the figures, the one-to-one, bidirectional assignment of the signal transmitter to the treatment bed devices can be dispensed with. In this respect, provision can be made in particular for a plurality of signal transmitters to be assigned to a selected treatment bed device and authorized to release or activate the actuator of this selected treatment bed device. For example, three therapists who work at different times can each carry a signal transmitter which authorizes the release of the same selected treatment couch device.

According to a further alternative embodiment of the authorization method according to 11 and 12 an initialization routine and an explicit prior assignment of signal transmitters 2.1, 2.2 and treatment couch devices 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 can be dispensed with. It can be provided that a selected treatment bed device 1.2 or the actuator 6 assigned to it is released as soon as any mobile signal transmitter 2.3 is within the release limit 10.2 of the treatment bed device 1.2 for the first time. The first signal generator 2.3 can then be assigned dynamically to the second treatment bed device 1.2 and blocked by the assignment to the second treatment bed device 1.2 for the release or operation of the other treatment bed devices 1.1, 1.3. At the same time it can be provided that another signal generator 2.2, which later in the Release limit 10.2 arrives as long as the actuator 6 of the second treatment bed device 1.2 is not authorized to be released or activated, as the first signal transmitter 2.3 does not fall below the deactivation limit 11.2.

The above description represents preferred embodiments of the invention, without the invention being restricted to these embodiments. Alternative implementations can provide, for example, that the release limit is formed asymmetrically. The release limit can then be defined very individually and, for example, adapted to the spatial conditions and the arrangement of the treatment couch devices.

Identical components and component functions are identified by the same reference symbols.

Claims (8)

Operating method for a therapy table arrangement, a table segment (4) of the treatment table device (1) being adjusted by means of an actuator (6) of a treatment table device (1) of the therapy table arrangement that is stationary during the treatment, comprising the following steps: - A position and/or motion and/or acceleration signal for the mobile signal transmitter (2) is determined by means of a position and/or motion and/or acceleration sensor of a mobile signal transmitter (2) of the therapy couch arrangement; - The determined position and/or movement and/or acceleration signal is processed and/or compared with a stored reference signal to identify a position and/or movement and/or acceleration pattern; - Based on the recognized position and/or movement and/or acceleration pattern, the actuator (6) is actuated in a predetermined manner assigned to the position and/or movement and/or acceleration signal to adjust the bed segment (4). Operating method according to Claim 1, characterized in that an output signal is sent to the mobile signal generator (2) by a transmission unit of the treatment couch device (1) which is stationary during the treatment, and in that the mobile signal generator (2) transmits the input signal to a receiver unit after receiving the output signal (8) of the treatment bed device (1). Operating method according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the position and/or movement and/or acceleration signals determined by means of the position and/or movement and/or acceleration sensor are processed in the mobile signal generator (2) and that are then aggregated and/or compressed data and/or information on the position and/or movement and acceleration pattern are transmitted from the mobile signal transmitter (2) to the treatment bed device (1). Operating method according to Claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the communication between the mobile signal transmitter (2) on the one hand and the receiving unit (8) and/or the transmitter unit on the other hand is implemented using radio technology. Operating method according to at least one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the mobile signal generator (2) is brought into an idle mode when it is detected by sensors that the mobile signal generator (2) is not being moved. Operating method according to at least one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the adjustable couch segment (4) is adjusted while the position and/or movement and/or acceleration pattern is recognized and/or that the actuator (6) is not actuated if no position and/or movement and/or acceleration pattern is detected and/or it is detected that the mobile signal generator (2) is not moving. Operating method according to at least one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that as part of an initialization routine preceding the release of the actuator (6), the mobile signal transmitter (2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3) is assigned to exactly one selected treatment bed device (1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 ) is assigned in such a way that only the selected treatment couch device (1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3) can be released by means of the mobile signal transmitter (2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3). Operating method according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the mobile signal generator (2) at a defined position on body of an authorized user is provided and that a defined and preferably periodic movement of the authorized user is determined by means of the position and/or movement and/or acceleration sensor.

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