JP2021112434A - Foot switch device and x-ray diagnostic apparatus including foot switch device - Google Patents

Abstract

To facilitate a medical worker to determine a position of a foot switch.SOLUTION: A foot switch device includes a main device, a switch and a light irradiation mechanism. The foot switch device is arranged at an arrangement surface and used for controlling an X-ray diagnostic apparatus. The switch is installed to the main device. The light irradiation mechanism is installed to the main device and emits light toward the arrangement surface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a foot switch device and an X-ray diagnostic device including the foot switch device.

When a medical worker performs a procedure on a subject who is a patient using an X-ray diagnostic device, the X-ray diagnostic device may be controlled by using a foot switch arranged at the feet of the medical worker. A medical worker steps on this foot switch to perform an X-ray diagnostic device.

Special Table 2005-528695

When performing the procedure, the healthcare professional should be as close to the patient as possible. Further, during the procedure, a drape or the like is covered on the subject in order to keep the subject clean. Therefore, the medical staff performing the procedure may have difficulty seeing the foot switch and may lose sight of the foot switch. As a result, it took time for healthcare professionals to find the footswitch under the sleeper, and it took time to start X-ray exposure.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to make it easier for a medical worker to determine the position of a foot switch.

The foot switch device according to the embodiment includes a main device, a switch, and a light irradiation mechanism. The foot switch device is arranged on the placement surface and is used to control the X-ray diagnostic device. The switch is provided in the main unit. The light irradiation mechanism is provided in the main device and irradiates light toward the arrangement surface.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. The side view explaining the usage situation of the foot switch device. The top view explaining the usage situation of the foot switch device. The block diagram which shows the structure of the foot switch device which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. The block diagram which shows the arrangement structure of the foot switch device which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. The perspective view of the foot switch device which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. The flowchart which shows the operation of the foot switch device which concerns on Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of a foot switch device according to a modification 1 of the first embodiment. The perspective view of the foot switch apparatus which concerns on modification 1 of Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of a foot switch device according to a second modification of the first embodiment. The perspective view of the foot switch apparatus which concerns on modification 2 of Embodiment 1. FIG. The perspective view of the foot switch apparatus which concerns on modification 3 of Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of a foot switch device according to a modification 4 of the first embodiment. The perspective view of the foot switch apparatus which concerns on modification 4 of Embodiment 1. FIG. The block diagram which shows the structure of the foot switch apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2. The block diagram which shows the arrangement structure of the foot switch device which concerns on Embodiment 2. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of another foot switch device according to the second embodiment. The flowchart which shows the operation of the foot switch device which concerns on Embodiment 2.

(Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus S according to the first embodiment. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus S according to the first embodiment includes a main unit A and a foot switch device SW1.

The X-ray diagnostic apparatus S is used when a medical worker performs a procedure for inserting a device such as a catheter, and irradiates a subject H with X-rays. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus S includes, for example, an angiography apparatus used for angiography of blood vessels, an X-ray TV apparatus used for angiography of urinary organs and bile ducts, and the like. In the first embodiment, an angiography apparatus will be described as an X-ray diagnostic apparatus S.

The foot switch device SW1 is a device for controlling the X-ray diagnostic device S, and includes a switch 1. The medical worker controls the X-ray diagnostic apparatus S by stepping on the switch 1.

The foot switch device SW1 communicates with the main unit A and outputs switch information to the main unit A. The communication A1 between the foot switch device SW1 and the main unit A may be wireless communication or wired communication. The first embodiment describes an example of performing wireless communication.

Hereinafter, the main part A will be described. The main unit A receives the switch information output by the foot switch device SW1 and executes processing based on the received switch information. As shown in FIG. 1, the main unit A includes an imaging unit A2, a system control circuit AC, an X-ray control unit A3, a high voltage generator A4, an image data generation unit A5, an image data storage circuit A6, and the like. It includes a display control unit A7, a display A8, a mechanism control unit A9, a sleeper moving mechanism A10, a holding arm moving mechanism A11, and an operating mechanism A12.

The photographing unit A2 includes an X-ray generating unit A21, an X-ray detecting unit A22, a holding arm A23, and a sleeper A24. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray generating unit A21 is provided at one end of the holding arm A23, and the X-ray detecting unit A22 is provided at the other end of the holding arm A23. The X-ray generating unit A21 and the X-ray detecting unit A22 are provided on the holding arm A23 at positions facing each other so as to sandwich the sleeper A24. Further, the subject H is arranged on the sleeper A24.

The mechanism control unit A9 generates information indicating the movement direction, movement amount, and speed of the sleeper A24 according to the control signal from the system control circuit AC. The mechanism control unit A9 outputs the generated information to the sleeper moving mechanism A10. The sleeper moving mechanism A10 moves the sleeper A24 based on this information.

Further, the mechanism control unit A9 generates information indicating the rotation direction, the movement direction, the rotation amount, the movement amount, and the speed of the holding arm A23 according to the control signal from the system control circuit AC. The mechanism control unit A9 outputs the generated information to the holding arm moving mechanism A11. The holding arm moving mechanism A11 rotates and moves the holding arm A23 based on this information.

The control target of the mechanism control unit A9 is not limited to the sleeper A24 and the holding arm A23, and other mechanically moving mechanisms may be the control targets.

The X-ray generation unit A21 includes an X-ray tube A211 that irradiates the subject H with X-rays, and an X-ray diaphragm unit A212. The X-ray tube A211 is a vacuum tube that generates X-rays, and generates X-rays by accelerating the electrons emitted from the cathode (filament) with a high voltage and causing them to collide with the tungsten anode. The X-ray diaphragm portion A212 is located between the X-ray tube A211 and the subject H, and narrows down the irradiated X-rays to the size of a predetermined irradiation field so as not to expose an unnecessary portion other than the observation site.

The X-ray control unit A3 generates information indicating X-ray irradiation conditions such as a tube current, a tube voltage, and an irradiation time in the X-ray tube A211 according to a control signal from the system control circuit AC. Further, the X-ray control unit A3 generates information indicating the start or end of X-ray irradiation according to the control signal from the system control circuit AC. The X-ray control unit A3 outputs these generated information to the high voltage generator A4. Based on this information, the high voltage generator A4 applies a high voltage between the anode and the cathode of the X-ray tube A211.

The X-ray detector A22 includes a plane detector A221. The plane detector A221 is, for example, a flat panel detector (FPD: flat X-ray detector) having a plurality of semiconductor detection elements arranged in a matrix. The plane detector A221 detects the intensity of X-rays transmitted through the subject H for each semiconductor detection element. The plane detector A221 converts the intensity of X-rays detected for each semiconductor detection element into an electric signal and outputs it as image data to the image data generation unit A5.

The image data generation unit A5 receives the image data output from the X-ray detection unit A22, and performs image calculation and image processing on the received image data according to the control signal from the system control circuit AC. As a specific example, the image data generation unit A5 performs image processing such as contour extraction, smoothing, and gradation change on the image data. Then, the image data generation unit A5 stores the image data received from the X-ray detection unit A22 and / or the image data after performing the image processing in the image data storage circuit A6 according to the control signal from the system control circuit AC. .. Further, the image data generation unit A5 outputs the image data after performing the image processing to the display control unit A7.

The display control unit A7 causes the display A8 to display an X-ray image based on the received image data according to the control signal from the system control circuit AC.

The operation mechanism A12 is an example of an interactive interface including a keyboard, various switches, a mouse, and the like. A medical worker who uses the X-ray diagnostic apparatus S uses the operation mechanism A12 to input command signals such as various conditions for imaging, start of examination, and movement control of the sleeper A24 and the holding arm A23.

The system control circuit AC controls each component of the main unit A. The system control circuit AC receives the input of the medical worker sent from the operation mechanism A12, and controls the main unit A based on the received input. Further, the system control circuit AC receives the switch information output by the foot switch device SW1 and controls the main unit A based on the received switch information. Specifically, the system control circuit AC controls the main unit A so as to execute a process associated with the switch information in advance.

Hereinafter, the foot switch device SW1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a side view for explaining the usage status of the foot switch device SW1. FIG. 3 is a top view for explaining the usage status of the foot switch device SW1. The medical worker D performs a procedure on the subject H on the sleeper A24 by using the X-ray diagnostic apparatus S. The subject H is covered with a drape E, and further, a lead curtain F for blocking X-rays is present under the bed A24.

The foot switch device SW1 is arranged on the floor surface. As shown in FIG. 3, the medical worker D controls the X-ray diagnostic device S by stepping on the foot switch device SW1 with the foot D1. Here, the arrangement surface G of the foot switch device SW1 is the floor surface, but the arrangement surface G is not limited to the floor surface as long as the switch 1 can be stepped on by the foot D1.

In many cases, the foot switch device SW1 is placed below the subject H, i.e. under the bed A24 on which the subject H is located, so that the healthcare professional performs the procedure as closely as possible to the patient. In that case, it was difficult for the medical worker D to grasp the position of the foot switch device SW1 arranged under the sleeper A24. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, when there are obstacles such as the drape E and the lead curtain F, it is more difficult for the medical worker D to grasp the position of the foot switch device SW1.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the foot switch device SW1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of the foot switch device SW1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the foot switch device SW1 according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 4, the foot switch device SW1 includes a switch 1, a light irradiation mechanism 2, an illuminance sensor 3, a battery 4, and a control circuit C. Each of the switch 1, the light irradiation mechanism 2, and the illuminance sensor 3 is electrically connected to the control circuit C. The battery 4 supplies electric power to each component of the foot switch device SW1.

As shown in FIG. 5, the foot switch device SW1 further includes a rotation mechanism 5 and a main device 6. The main device 6 includes a housing 61 and a hook 62. Here, the longitudinal direction of the housing 61 is the left-right direction, the lateral direction of the housing 61 is the front-rear direction, and the direction perpendicular to the lateral direction and the lateral direction is the vertical direction. The medical worker D usually stands in front of the foot switch device SW1 and steps on the housing 61, that is, the switch 1 provided in the main device 6. Therefore, the switch 1 is provided at a position close to the front side of the housing 61 in the front-rear direction. FIG. 5 will be described in detail later.

As shown in FIG. 4, the switch 1 includes a pedal P and a button B. That is, the type of switch 1 is at least pedal P or button B. The foot switch device SW1 may include a single switch 1 or a plurality of switches 1. Further, here, the state in which the switch 1 is depressed is defined as the "ON state" of the switch, and the state in which the switch 1 is not depressed is defined as the "OFF state" of the switch.

The light irradiation mechanism 2 is an illumination used to determine the position of the foot switch device SW1. The light irradiation mechanism 2 irradiates light toward the arrangement surface G on which the foot switch device SW1 is arranged. Irradiating light toward the arrangement surface G means irradiating or projecting light on at least a region including the arrangement surface G. For example, the light irradiation mechanism 2 irradiates light in the front-rear direction toward the arrangement surface G in front of the foot switch device SW1, that is, the arrangement surface G in front of the switch 1. That is, the light irradiation mechanism 2 irradiates light toward the arrangement surface G in the direction closer to the medical worker D. Further, the light projected on the arrangement surface G serves as a guide light indicating where the foot switch device SW1 and / or the switch 1 is located. The medical worker D looks at the light projected on the arrangement surface G and determines where the foot switch device SW1 and / or the switch 1 is located. The light irradiation mechanism 2 corresponds to a light irradiation mechanism within the scope of claims.

The light irradiation mechanism 2 includes a light source. The intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2 is controlled by the control circuit C. The light irradiation mechanism 2 may further include an optical member such as a lens and / or an aperture. The light source is, for example, an LED, a lamp, or other element that irradiates light. In order to irradiate the arrangement surface G with light, the light irradiation mechanism 2 and / or the light source faces the arrangement surface G or faces the arrangement surface G.

The light irradiation mechanism 2 may irradiate or project light having a predetermined shape as guide light by irradiating the light. Predetermined shapes include, for example, geometric shapes such as triangles, straight lines, letters including letters of the alphabet and any language, numbers, symbols, marks.

The light irradiation mechanism 2 may realize the light of the above-mentioned predetermined shape by attaching the aperture having the above-mentioned predetermined shape and irradiating the light, or the light travels by using an optical member such as a lens. By controlling the direction, the light having the above-mentioned predetermined shape may be realized. The light irradiation mechanism 2 may be equipped with, for example, an aperture having a triangular opening in order to realize triangular light. Further, the light irradiation mechanism 2 may control the directivity of light by using, for example, an optical member such as a lens in order to realize linear light. These are merely examples, and methods other than the above may be used in order to realize triangular light and straight light.

Further, the light irradiation mechanism 2 may be used as a projector that irradiates or projects light having a predetermined shape as guide light by irradiating the light.

The illuminance sensor 3 is a sensor that detects the brightness of the surrounding environment of the foot switch device SW1 as illuminance. That is, the illuminance sensor 3 detects the brightness of the environment in which the foot switch device SW1 is arranged as the illuminance. The illuminance sensor 3 is a known sensor. The illuminance sensor 3 outputs illuminance information indicating the detected illuminance toward the control circuit C.

Since the foot switch device SW1 according to the first embodiment wirelessly communicates with the main unit A, the foot switch device SW1 includes a battery 4 as a power source. However, when the foot switch device SW1 performs wired communication with the main unit A, the battery 4 may not be provided. In that case, electric power is supplied from the main part A via a cable or the like.

The control circuit C receives the illuminance information output from the illuminance sensor 3 and thereby acquires the illuminance of the surrounding environment. The control circuit C is, for example, a control circuit such as a microcomputer or a CPU. Various functions or processes executed by the control circuit C may be realized by hard-wired logic, or may be realized by a computer program such as application software implemented in the control circuit C. The computer program may be stored in a storage circuit (not shown). The control circuit C corresponds to a control unit within the scope of claims.

The control circuit C controls the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2 according to the acquired illuminance. For example, in the control circuit C, the higher the illuminance of the surrounding environment, that is, the brighter it is, the stronger the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2. As a result, the medical worker D can easily recognize the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2 even in a bright room.

Further, in the control circuit C, the lower the illuminance of the surrounding environment, that is, the darker the illuminance, the weaker the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2. When the surrounding environment is dark, the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2 is not brightened more than necessary, thereby suppressing the power consumption of the light irradiation mechanism 2 and improving the life of the battery 4.

The control circuit C may control the light irradiation mechanism 2 so that the light intensity linearly changes with respect to the illuminance of the surrounding environment, or the light intensity is stepped with respect to the illuminance of the surrounding environment. The light irradiation mechanism 2 may be controlled so as to change in a uniform manner.

Further, the control circuit C detects whether the switch 1 is in the ON state or the OFF state. When the control circuit C detects that the switch 1 is in the ON state, it controls the light irradiation mechanism 2 to turn off the light source of the light irradiation mechanism 2. When the foot switch device SW1 includes a plurality of switches 1, the control circuit C controls the light irradiation mechanism 2 when it detects that any one of the plurality of switches 1 is in the ON state, and controls the light irradiation mechanism 2 to be a light source of the light irradiation mechanism 2. Turns off. As a result, the power consumption of the light irradiation mechanism 2 is suppressed, and the life of the battery 4 is improved. Then, the control circuit C keeps the light source turned off while the switch 1 is in the ON state, and when it detects that the switch 1 has changed from the ON state to the OFF state, the light irradiation mechanism 2 is turned on again. Let me.

When the control circuit C detects that the switch 1 is in the ON state, it outputs a switch signal indicating that the switch is in the ON state to the system control circuit AC of the main unit A. When the foot switch device SW1 includes a plurality of switches 1, the control circuit C outputs different switch signals for each of the plurality of switches 1 toward the main unit A. When the system control circuit AC receives the switch signal, the system control circuit AC performs control corresponding to the received switch signal. This control is predetermined for each switch signal.

In the example shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the foot switch device SW1 includes a housing 61, that is, four switches 1 provided in the main device 6, that is, a switch 11, a switch 12, a switch 13, and a switch 14. When any of these switches 11 to 14 is stepped on, the process performed by the system control circuit AC of the main unit A is control such as X-ray exposure and storage of image data. For example, when the switch 11 is stepped on, the system control circuit AC outputs a control signal instructing "perspective", which is a low-dose X-ray irradiation. For example, when the switch 12 is stepped on, the system control circuit AC irradiates a high dose of X-rays and outputs a control signal instructing "shooting" to save the obtained image data. The control is not limited to the above-mentioned one, and may be the control of the sleeper and the holding arm, and is not particularly limited as long as the control is related to each component of the main part A of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus S.

Next, the foot switch device SW1 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. The four switches 11 to 14 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 are provided near the front side of the housing 61 in the front-rear direction. Further, the switches 11 to 14 are provided side by side in the left-right direction. Further, the foot switch device SW1 includes a light irradiation mechanism 21 as a light irradiation mechanism 2. The light irradiation mechanism 21 corresponds to the first light irradiation mechanism within the scope of claims.

The housing 61 houses the components of the foot switch device SW1 such as the control circuit C and the battery 4. Further, components such as the switch 1 and the illuminance sensor 3 are provided in the housing 61 so as to be able to exert a function as a switch or a sensor.

The hook 62 is provided on the housing 61. The hook 62 is used when carrying the foot switch device SW1. The hook 62 is formed of a metal material or a resin material in a rod shape curved in a substantially arc shape. Further, the hook 62 is provided so as to be located at the center of the housing 61 in the left-right direction.

A light irradiation mechanism 21 is provided on the hook 62, that is, in the central portion of the main device 6, via a rotating mechanism 5. As shown in FIG. 6, the light irradiation mechanism 21 projects a triangular light T formed by the sides t1, t2, and t3 by irradiating the light. At least a part of the triangular light T is projected on the arrangement surface G of the foot switch device SW1. That is, the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 21 is projected onto the region including the arrangement surface G of the foot switch device SW1. The side t1 of the triangular light T is located on the front side in the front-rear direction with respect to the other two sides t2 and t3, and is parallel to the left-right direction of the foot switch device SW1. The side t1 is the foremost end of the triangular light T in the front-back direction. Further, the side t1 is located on the arrangement surface G in front of the foot switch device SW1 in the front-rear direction. That is, the side t1 is located in front of the foot switch device SW1 in the front-rear direction. That is, the foremost end of the square light T is located in front of the end portion 63, which is the foremost end of the foot switch device SW1 in the front-rear direction.

Further, the apex of the triangle formed by the sides t2 and t3 is located at the center in the left-right direction of the foot switch device. Further, the vertices of the triangle formed by the sides t2 and t3 are located within the range in which the foot switches 11 to 16 are installed in the front-rear direction. At least a part of the triangular light T is on the arrangement surface G.

Further, the light irradiation mechanism 21 can be rotated with respect to the hook 62 by the rotation mechanism 5. For example, before the procedure, a human manually rotates the light irradiation mechanism 21 to adjust the angle. After that, the light irradiation mechanism 21 is maintained at that angle. By rotating the light irradiation mechanism 21, the size and position of the triangle can be changed, and the distance between the side t1 and the foot switch device SW1 can be changed. By changing this distance, the side t1 can be adjusted to go out of the drape. That is, in the front-rear direction shown in FIG. 5, the side t1 can be adjusted so as to be located in front of the drape E or the lead curtain F.

Next, the control of the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 21 by the control circuit C will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the foot switch device SW1 according to the first embodiment. First, the control circuit C acquires the illuminance of the surrounding environment from the illuminance sensor 3 (step S11). Then, the control circuit C controls the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 21 according to the illuminance of the surrounding environment (step S12). For example, in the control circuit C, the higher the illuminance of the surrounding environment, the stronger the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 21. Alternatively, the lower the illuminance of the surrounding environment, the weaker the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 21.

Next, the control circuit C determines whether or not it has been detected that the switch 1 is in the ON state (step S13). When the foot switch device SW1 includes a plurality of switches 1, it is determined whether or not it is detected that any one of them is in the ON state. When it is detected that the switch 1 is in the ON state (step S13: YES), the process proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the control circuit C controls the light irradiation mechanism 21 to turn off the light source of the light irradiation mechanism 21. On the other hand, if it is not detected in step S13 that the switch 1 is in the ON state (step S13: NO), step S13 is repeated.

After step S14, the control circuit C determines whether or not it has been detected that the switch 1 has changed from the ON state to the OFF state (step S15). When it is detected that the switch 1 has changed from the ON state to the OFF state (step S15: YES), the process proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the control circuit C controls the light irradiation mechanism 21 to turn on the light source of the light irradiation mechanism 21 again. On the other hand, when it is not detected that the switch 1 has changed from the ON state to the OFF state (step S15: NO), step S15 is repeated. As a result, the control circuit C maintains the state in which the light source is turned off while the switch 1 is in the ON state.

If it is not detected in step S13 that the switch 1 is in the ON state (step S13: NO), the process may proceed to step S11.

According to the first embodiment described above, since the foremost end of the light projected on the arrangement surface G is located in front of the foremost end of the foot switch device SW1, it is closer to the medical worker D. Therefore, the medical worker D can see the light projected on the arrangement surface G even if the foot switch device SW1 is hidden by an obstacle such as the drape E and cannot be seen. Therefore, even if the foot switch device SW1 is hidden by an obstacle such as a drape E, the medical worker D can estimate the position of the foot switch device SW1 by observing the light projected on the arrangement surface G. Therefore, the medical worker D can easily determine the position of the foot switch, can detect the foot switch device SW1 at an early stage, and contributes to the efficiency of the procedure.

Further, in the first embodiment, the triangular light T is irradiated. Since the frontmost side t1 of the triangular light T is parallel to the left-right direction of the foot switch device SW1, the medical worker D can grasp the angle of the foot switch device SW1 from the angle of the side t1. Further, the apex of the triangle is located at the center of the foot switch device in the left-right direction. Further, the vertices of the triangle formed by the sides t2 and t3 are located within the range in which the foot switches 11 to 16 are installed in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the medical worker D can estimate the center of the foot switch device SW1 in the left-right direction and the distance from the foot switches 11 to 16, that is, the distance in the depth direction by estimating the position of the apex of the triangle. That is, the medical worker D can estimate the distance to the foot switch device SW1.

Further, in the first embodiment, the control circuit C adjusts the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2 according to the brightness of the surrounding environment, so that the medical worker D can irradiate the light even in a bright room. It becomes easier to recognize the light emitted by the mechanism 2. Further, when the surrounding environment is dark, the power consumption of the light irradiation mechanism 2 can be suppressed by not making the intensity of the light irradiated by the light irradiation mechanism 2 unnecessarily bright. When the foot switch device SW1 includes the battery 4, the life of the battery 4 can be improved by suppressing the power consumption of the light irradiation mechanism 2. Further, since the control circuit C maintains the state in which the light source is turned off while the switch 11 is in the ON state, the power consumption of the light irradiation mechanism 2 can be suppressed, and the life of the battery 4 can be improved. can.

(Modification 1 of Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, the first modification of the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of the foot switch device SW11 according to the first modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the foot switch device SW11 according to the first modification of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the foot switch device SW11 differs from the foot switch device SW1 of the first embodiment in that the light irradiation mechanism 2 includes a light irradiation mechanism 22 in addition to the light irradiation mechanism 21. Among the components of the foot switch device SW11, the same components as those of the foot switch device SW1 are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. The light irradiation mechanism 21 and the light irradiation mechanism 22 correspond to the first light irradiation mechanism and the second light irradiation mechanism in the claims, respectively.

The light irradiation mechanism 22 is provided in the housing 61, that is, the main device 6. For example, the light irradiation mechanism 22 is provided at the center of the housing 61 in the left-right direction. Further, the light irradiation mechanism 22 is provided at a position lower than the light irradiation mechanism 21 in the height direction. The light L emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 22 is a straight line and extends forward in the front-rear direction. In FIG. 9, the straight light L is drawn in a thin strip shape, but the cross-sectional shape thereof may be, for example, a circle or a rectangle, and is not particularly limited. The straight light L emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 22 serves as a central light indicating the center of the housing 61 in the left-right direction. The light irradiation mechanism 22 is the same as the light irradiation mechanism 21 except for the light irradiation mechanism 21. Further, the control of the intensity of the linear light L of the light irradiation mechanism 22 by the control circuit C is the same as the control of the light intensity of the light irradiation mechanism 21.

Since the straight light L is emitted straight, the straight light L reaches farther than the triangular light T in the front-rear direction. The foremost end m1 of the straight light L shown in FIG. 9 is located in front of the side t1 in the front-rear direction. Further, since the angle between the irradiation direction of the straight light L and the arrangement surface G is smaller than the angle between the irradiation direction of the triangular light T and the arrangement surface G, the straight light L is triangular in the front-rear direction. It reaches farther than the light T of. This is due to the difference in the positions of the light irradiation mechanism 22 and the light irradiation mechanism 21 in the height direction and / or the difference in the irradiation angle of the light source.

According to the first modification of the first embodiment described above, the linear light L is irradiated in addition to the triangular light T. Therefore, the medical worker D can grasp both the angle of the foot switch device SW11 and the center in the left-right direction. Further, since the two lights are irradiated, even if one of the lights is blocked by an obstacle such as a cable placed on the arrangement surface G, the medical worker D can use the foot switch device SW11. The position can be estimated. Further, since the straight light L reaches farther than the triangular light T, the medical worker D can estimate the position of the foot switch device SW11 from a farther distance.

(Modification 2 of Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, the second modification of the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of the foot switch device SW12 according to the second modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the foot switch device SW12 according to the second modification of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the foot switch device SW12 does not include the light irradiation mechanism 21 of the first modification of the first embodiment. Further, the foot switch device SW12 is different from the foot switch device SW11 of the modification 1 of the first embodiment in that a plurality of light irradiation mechanisms 22 of the modification 1 of the first embodiment are provided as the light irradiation mechanism 2. Among the components of the foot switch device SW12, the same components as those of the foot switch device SW11 are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The foot switch device SW12 includes light irradiation mechanisms 221, 222, 223, and 224 provided in the housing 61 as a plurality of light irradiation mechanisms 22. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the light irradiation mechanisms 221, 222, 223, and 224 are arranged in the vicinity of the corresponding switches 11, 12, 13, and 14, respectively. That is, each switch has an independent light irradiation mechanism. Further, as shown in FIG. 11, the linear lights L1 to L4 emitted from the light irradiation mechanisms 221 to 224 pass on the corresponding switches and further extend to the front of the foot switch device SW12 in the front-rear direction. is doing.

As shown in FIG. 11, the foot switch device SW12 may include switches f1 and f2 in addition to the switches 11 to 14. In the example shown in FIG. 11, the switches 11 to 14 are provided with an independent light irradiation mechanism for each switch. However, the foot switch device SW12 does not have a light irradiation mechanism that indicates the positions of the switches f1 and f2. As described above, it is not necessary to provide an independent light irradiation mechanism for each of the switches. Therefore, when the foot switch device SW12 includes a plurality of switches, it is sufficient that at least two switches, that is, the first switch and the second switch, each have an independent light irradiation mechanism. That is, it is sufficient that the first switch is provided with the third light irradiation mechanism and the second switch is provided with the fourth light irradiation mechanism. This also applies to the modified example 3 of the first embodiment and the modified example 4 of the first embodiment described below.

According to the second modification of the first embodiment described above, the medical worker D can estimate that the foot switch device SW12 is in the direction of the light source of the light L1 to L4, and is in the direction of the light source of the light L1 to L4. , It can also be estimated that there is a corresponding switch. As a result, in addition to the position of the foot switch device SW12, the position of each switch becomes easy to understand. Further, since the light irradiation mechanisms 221 to 224 irradiate straight light L1 to L4, they reach farther than the triangular light T. Therefore, the medical worker D can estimate the position of the foot switch device SW12 and each switch from a greater distance.

(Modification 3 of Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, the third modification of the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the foot switch device SW13 according to the third modification of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 12, the foot switch device SW13 includes light irradiation mechanisms 221a to 224a as the light irradiation mechanism 2 instead of the light irradiation mechanisms 221 to 224 of the modification 2 of the first embodiment. The foot switch device SW13 is different from the foot switch device SW12 according to the second modification of the first embodiment in that each of the light irradiation mechanisms 221a to 224a includes two light sources. Among the components of the foot switch device SW13, the same components as those of the foot switch device SW12 are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Hereinafter, the light irradiation mechanism 221a will be described. The light irradiation mechanism 221a includes a first light source and a second light source (not shown). The first light L11 is irradiated from the first light source, and the second light L12 is irradiated from the second light source. The first light L11 and the second light L12 are linear lights that intersect on the corresponding switch 11. Crossing over the corresponding switch 11 means crossing over the surface of the switch 11 and / or above the switch 11. After the light L11 and the second light L12 intersect, they extend further to the front of the foot switch device SW13. As a result, two sides of a triangle extending in front of the foot switch device SW13 are formed with the intersection as the apex. That is, a triangle is formed by two straight lines of light L11 and light L12. The intersection, which is the apex of the triangle, is located, for example, on the pressed portion of the switch 11.

The first light source does not irradiate light parallel to the front-rear direction, but irradiates light in a direction inclined by a first angle from the front-rear direction to the direction in which the second light source exists. This first angle is less than 90 degrees. The second light source does not irradiate light parallel to the front-rear direction, but irradiates light in a direction inclined by a second angle from the front-rear direction to the direction in which the first light source exists. This second angle is less than 90 degrees. The first angle and the second angle are set so that the intersection is located above the switch 11, for example, above the pressing portion of the switch 11. The first angle and the second angle may be the same angle.

The light irradiation mechanism 222a, 223a, and 224a have the same configuration as the light irradiation mechanism 221a. The light irradiation mechanism 222a irradiates the first light L21 and the second light L22. The light irradiation mechanism 223a irradiates the first light L31 and the second light L32. The light irradiation mechanism 224a irradiates the first light L41 and the second light L42.

According to the third modification of the first embodiment described above, the medical worker D can estimate the position of the apex of the triangle by looking at the light of the triangle or its two sides, that is, pressing each switch or each switch. The position of the part can be estimated. As a result, in addition to the effect of the second modification of the first embodiment, the medical worker D can estimate the distance to each switch, that is, the distance in the depth direction.

(Modified Example 4 of Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, the fourth modification of the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of the foot switch device SW14 according to the fourth modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the foot switch device SW14 according to the fourth modification of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 13, the foot switch device SW14 includes a plurality of light irradiation mechanisms 21 as the light irradiation mechanism 2 instead of the light irradiation mechanisms 221a to 224a of the modification 3 of the first embodiment. The foot switch device SW14 includes light irradiation mechanisms 211 to 214 as a plurality of light irradiation mechanisms 21. Further, the foot switch device SW14 is different from the modification 3 of the first embodiment in that the positions where the light irradiation mechanisms 211, 212, 213, and 214 are provided and the shape of the light emitted by them are different. Among the components of the foot switch device SW14, the same components as those of the foot switch device SW12 are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The light irradiation mechanisms 211, 212, 213, and 214 are provided to the hook 62, that is, the main device 6 via the rotating mechanisms 51, 52, 53, and 54. The light irradiation mechanisms 211, 212, 213, and 214 irradiate triangular lights T1, T2, T3, and T4 in the same manner as the light irradiation mechanism 21 described in the first embodiment. The light irradiation mechanisms 211 to 214 are provided independently for each switch, similarly to the light irradiation mechanisms 221a to 224a described in the third modification of the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, the light irradiation mechanism 211 will be described. The apex of the triangular light T1 irradiated by the light irradiation mechanism 211 is located above the corresponding switch 11, for example, above the pressing portion of the switch 11, and the triangular light T1 further extends in front of the foot switch device SW14. Exists. The light irradiation mechanism 212, 213, and 214 have the same configuration as the light irradiation mechanism 211.

The light irradiation mechanisms 211, 212, 213, and 214 irradiate not only triangles but also letters, numbers, symbols, and marks including letters of the alphabet and characters of any language. This facilitates the identification of each switch.

According to the modification 4 of the first embodiment described above, the foot switch device SW14 has the same effect as the foot switch device SW13 according to the modification 3 of the first embodiment. Further, the light irradiation mechanisms 211, 212, 213, 214 may be provided with one light source. Therefore, the structure is simpler than the light irradiation mechanisms 221a, 222a, 223a, and 224a of the third modification of the first embodiment. The above is the description of the modified example 4 of the first embodiment.

When the foot switch device includes a plurality of light irradiation mechanisms 2, the colors of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2 may be the same color or different colors. When each switch is provided with an independent light irradiation mechanism, if the colors of the lights are different from each other, the medical worker D can easily identify each switch.

Further, when the foot switch device includes a plurality of light irradiation mechanisms 2, the control circuit C may turn off all of the plurality of light irradiation mechanisms 2 in step S14. Further, the control circuit C may turn on all of the plurality of light irradiation mechanisms 2 in step S16.

(Embodiment 2)
Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the foot switch device SW2 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, the foot switch device SW2 differs from the foot switch device SW1 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a distance sensor 7. The distance sensor 7 is electrically connected to the control circuit C. Among the components of the foot switch device SW2, the same components as those of the foot switch device SW1 are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The distance sensor 7 is a known sensor such as a motion sensor or a proximity sensor. It is desirable that the distance sensor 7 is, for example, a capacitance sensor light irradiation mechanism or one that can detect when a human body approaches. The distance sensor 7 detects the distance between the object and the distance sensor 7. The object is, for example, a medical worker D and a foot D1 of the medical worker D. The distance sensor 7 outputs distance information indicating the detected distance to the control circuit C. Further, the distance sensor 7 is provided in the housing 61 so as to be able to exert a function as a sensor.

The control circuit C receives the distance information output from the distance sensor 7, and thereby acquires the distance between the foot D1 of the medical worker D and the distance sensor 7. The control circuit C controls the light irradiation mechanism 2 according to the acquired distance, and changes the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2. For example, the control circuit C blinks the light according to the acquired distance. After that, the control circuit C may change the blinking cycle according to the acquired distance. As a result, the medical worker D can easily grasp the distance of the foot D1 to the foot switch device SW2 or the switch 1.

Further, the control circuit C shortens the blinking cycle of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2 as the distance is smaller, that is, the closer the foot D1 is to the foot switch device SW2 or the switch 1. The control circuit C may control the light irradiation mechanism 2 so that the blinking cycle changes linearly with respect to the distance, or the light may change stepwise with respect to the distance. The irradiation mechanism 2 may be controlled.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of the foot switch device SW2 according to the second embodiment. The foot switch device SW2 includes a housing 61, that is, a single distance sensor 7 provided in the main device 6. The distance sensor 7 is provided so as to be located at the center of the housing 61 in the left-right direction. The distance detected by the single distance sensor 7 is used as the distance between the foot D1 and the housing 61 in the control by the control circuit C. That is, the distance detected by the single distance sensor 7 is used to determine how close the foot D1 is to the foot switch device SW2. Further, the foot switch device SW2 includes a light irradiation mechanism 21 provided in the housing 61 as the light irradiation mechanism 2.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an arrangement configuration of another foot switch device SW21 according to the second embodiment. The foot switch device SW21 includes a plurality of light irradiation mechanisms 221, 222, 223, and 224 provided in the housing 61 as the light irradiation mechanism 2. As shown in FIG. 17, the light irradiation mechanisms 221, 222, 223, and 224 are arranged in the vicinity of the corresponding switches 11, 12, 13, and 14, respectively. That is, each switch has an independent light irradiation mechanism.

Further, the foot switch device SW21 includes a plurality of distance sensors 7, that is, distance sensors 71, 72, 73, 74 provided in the housing 61. The distance sensors 71, 72, 73, and 74 are arranged in the vicinity of the corresponding switches 11, 12, 13, and 14, respectively. That is, each switch has an independent distance sensor. The distance detected by the distance sensors 71, 72, 73, 74 is used as the distance between the foot D1 and the corresponding switches 11, 12, 13, 14 in the control by the control circuit C. That is, it is used to determine which switches 11, 12, 13, and 14 the foot D1 is approaching, and how close the foot D1 is to the switch.

Next, the control for changing the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism 2 by the control circuit C will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the foot switch device according to the second embodiment. First, the control circuit C acquires the distance from the distance sensor 7 (step S21). Then, the control circuit C determines whether or not the acquired distance is smaller than the predetermined distance d1 (step S22). When the acquired distance is smaller than the distance d1 (step S22: YES), the control circuit C proceeds to step S23 and blinks the light. On the other hand, when the acquired distance is not smaller than the distance d1 (step S22: NO), the control circuit C shifts to step S21 and repeats the process.

Following step S23, the control circuit C acquires the distance from the distance sensor 7 (step S24). Then, the control circuit C controls the blinking cycle according to the acquired distance (step S25). For example, in the control circuit C, the smaller the distance, the shorter the blinking cycle of the light.

Next, the control circuit C determines whether or not it has been detected that the switch 1 is in the ON state (step S26). When the foot switch device SW1 includes a plurality of switches 1, it is determined whether or not it is detected that any one of them is in the ON state. When it is detected that the switch 1 is in the ON state (step S26: YES), the process proceeds to step S27. In step S27, the control circuit C controls the light irradiation mechanism 2 to turn off the light source of the light irradiation mechanism 2. On the other hand, if it is not detected in step S26 that the switch 1 is in the ON state (step S26: NO), the process proceeds to step S24 and the process is repeated.

Next to step S27, the control circuit C determines whether or not it has been detected that the switch 1 has changed from the ON state to the OFF state (step S28). When it is detected that the switch 1 has changed from the ON state to the OFF state (step S28: YES), the process proceeds to step S29. In step S29, the control circuit C controls the light irradiation mechanism 2 to turn on the light source of the light irradiation mechanism 2 again. On the other hand, when it is not detected that the switch 1 has changed from the ON state to the OFF state (step S28: NO), step S28 is repeated. As a result, the control circuit C maintains the state in which the light source is turned off while the switch 1 is in the ON state.

As shown in FIG. 17, when each switch is provided with an independent light irradiation mechanism and an independent distance sensor, the control circuit C is among the distances acquired from the distance sensors 71, 72, 73, and 74. , Step S22 and step S26 are determined using the smallest distance. Then, the control circuit C uses the distance to perform the processes of steps S23 and S25 on the corresponding switches.

Further, when each switch is provided with an independent light irradiation mechanism and an independent distance sensor, the configuration and arrangement position of the light irradiation mechanism are not limited to the example of FIG. The configuration and arrangement position of the light irradiation mechanism include, for example, the configuration and arrangement position disclosed in FIGS. 11, 12, and 14.

The foot switch device SW21 may include a switch other than the switches 11 to 14. However, the foot switch device SW21 does not need to have an independent light irradiation mechanism and an independent distance sensor for each of the switches. Therefore, when the foot switch device SW21 includes a plurality of switches, it is sufficient that at least two switches, that is, an independent light irradiation mechanism and an independent distance sensor are provided for each of the first switch and the second switch. That is, it is sufficient that the first switch is provided with the third light irradiation mechanism and the first distance sensor, and the second switch is provided with the fourth light irradiation mechanism and the second distance sensor.

Further, when the foot switch device SW2 includes a single distance sensor 7, the foot switch device SW2 may include a plurality of light irradiation mechanisms, for example, as shown in FIG. In that case, the control circuit C performs the processes of step S23 and step S25 on at least one light irradiation mechanism.

According to the second embodiment described above, the medical worker D can grasp how close the foot D1 is to the foot switch device SW2 or each switch by the change of light. This makes it easier for the medical worker D to grasp the distance of the foot D1 to the foot switch device SW2 or each switch. For example, the position and distance to the foot switch device SW2 or each switch can be grasped more reliably than when the position and distance to the foot switch device SW2 or each switch are indicated by triangular light. Then, when there are a plurality of switches 1, it is possible to prevent a mistake in stepping.

According to the embodiment described above, even if the foot switch device is hidden by an obstacle such as drape E, the medical worker D can determine the position of the foot switch device by seeing the light projected on the arrangement surface G. Can be estimated. Therefore, the medical worker D can easily determine the position of the foot switch, can detect the foot switch device at an early stage, and contributes to the efficiency of the procedure.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other embodiments, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

1, 11, 12, 13, 14 switches 2, 21, 22, 211, 212, 221 222, 223, 224, 221a, 222a, 223a, 224a Light irradiation mechanism 3 Illuminance sensor 4 Battery 5, 51, 52, 53 , 54 Rotation mechanism 6 Main device 61 Housing 62 Hook 7, 71, 72, 73, 74 Distance sensor C Control circuit SW1, SW11, SW12, SW13, SW14, SW2, SW21 Foot switch device S X-ray diagnostic device G placement surface

Claims (14)

A foot switch device that is placed on the placement surface and used to control an X-ray diagnostic device.
Main device and
The switch provided in the main device and
A foot switch device provided in the main device and provided with a light irradiation mechanism for irradiating light toward the arrangement surface. The foot switch device according to claim 1, wherein the light irradiation mechanism irradiates light toward an arrangement surface in front of the switch. The foot switch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light irradiation mechanism projects light having a predetermined shape as guide light. The foot switch device according to claim 1, wherein the light irradiation mechanism faces the arrangement surface. The light irradiation mechanism has a first light irradiation mechanism.
The foot switch device according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined shape irradiated by the first light irradiation mechanism is a triangle. The light irradiation mechanism has a second light irradiation mechanism in addition to the first light irradiation mechanism.
The foot switch device according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined shape irradiated by the second light irradiation mechanism is a straight line. The switch has a first switch and a second switch.
The light irradiation mechanism includes a third light irradiation mechanism and a fourth light irradiation mechanism.
The third light irradiation mechanism is provided for the first switch, and the fourth light irradiation mechanism is provided for the second switch.
The foot switch device according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined shape irradiated by the third light irradiation mechanism and the fourth light irradiation mechanism is a triangle or a straight line. The third light irradiation mechanism and the fourth light irradiation mechanism have a first light source and a second light source, respectively.
The first light emitted by the first light source and the second light emitted by the second light source are straight lines.
The foot switch device according to claim 7, wherein the first light and the second light intersect on the corresponding switch. The foot switch device according to claim 7, wherein the third light irradiation mechanism and the fourth light irradiation mechanism irradiate light of different colors. An illuminance sensor provided in the main device that detects the brightness of the surrounding environment as illuminance,
A control unit that controls the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism according to the illuminance is further provided.
The foot switch device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit increases the intensity of the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism as the illuminance increases. The foot switch device according to claim 10, wherein the control unit maintains a state in which the light irradiation mechanism is turned off while the switch is depressed. A distance sensor provided in the main device to detect the distance to an object, and
A control unit that blinks the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism according to the magnitude of the distance detected by the distance sensor.
The foot switch device according to claim 1, further comprising. The switch has a first switch and a second switch.
The light irradiation mechanism includes a third light irradiation mechanism and a fourth light irradiation mechanism.
The distance sensor has a first distance sensor and a second distance sensor.
The third light irradiation mechanism and the first distance sensor are provided for the first switch, and the fourth light irradiation mechanism and the second distance sensor are provided for the second switch.
The control unit blinks the light emitted by the light irradiation mechanism of the corresponding switch according to the smaller of the distances detected by the first distance sensor and the second distance sensor. The foot switch device according to claim 12. An X-ray diagnostic apparatus including the foot switch device according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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