JP6630439B2 - Medical input device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a medical input device.

  In order to observe or observe characteristics of a living tissue or a material to be observed, an image generated by ultrasonic waves may be applied. An ultrasonic endoscope provided with an ultrasonic vibrator at the tip of an insertion section is used for diagnosis of a living tissue in a body or the like.

  In the diagnosis by the ultrasonic endoscope, for example, an image generated by the image processing apparatus based on the ultrasonic echo acquired by the ultrasonic endoscope is displayed on a monitor. The setting of the observation mode and observation conditions at the time of diagnosis is performed based on an instruction signal input via the medical input device.

  2. Description of the Related Art As a medical input device, a technology using a spherical trackball is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). In the trackball apparatus disclosed in Patent Literature 1, it is necessary to remove the trackball from the housing for cleaning or the like and perform cleaning, which is troublesome. Therefore, a medical input device in which a trackball is replaced with a trackpad has been proposed.

JP 2011-210113 A

  However, the medical input device using the trackpad is covered with a flat cover for the purpose of preventing invasion of bodily fluids and dust, so that a display on a monitor or the like can be performed without looking at the operation surface of the medical input device. When operating while looking at the device, there is a problem that even if a finger comes off from the operation surface of the trackpad, it is not recognized, and operability is poor.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a medical input device that can maintain good operability without a user looking at an operation surface.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a medical input device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a medical input device that receives an input of an instruction signal, and includes an outer surface of the medical input device. A cover that covers, a contact detection unit having an operation surface that detects a contact object brought into contact by an operator, and a contact position of the contact object approaches a boundary of the operation surface, or the contact object is moved from the operation surface. And a notifying unit for notifying the operator of the detachment.

  Further, in the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the notifying unit is formed near a boundary of the operation surface or on an outer peripheral portion of the operation surface.

  Further, in the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the notifying unit may include a step between a main operation surface of the medical input device and the operation surface or a main operation surface of the medical input device and the operation. It is a concave portion or a convex portion formed between the first and second surfaces.

  Further, in the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the main operation surface of the medical input device and the operation surface form a predetermined angle, and the notification unit includes a main operation surface of the medical input device. And the operation surface are intersecting boundaries.

  Further, in the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the notifying unit is a concave portion or a convex portion formed near a boundary of the operation surface.

  In the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the notifying unit is provided in the operation surface.

  Further, in the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the notifying unit is a surface changing unit in which the surface of the operation surface is changing.

  Further, in the medical input device according to an aspect of the present invention, the notifying unit may be configured such that, when using the medical input device, when a contact position of the contact object approaches a boundary of the operation surface, or When an object is detached from the operation surface, a surface shape deforming portion that changes a surface shape near a boundary of the operation surface or an outer peripheral portion of the operation surface is included.

  Further, in the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the notifying unit may be configured such that, when a contact position of the contact object approaches a boundary of the operation surface, or when the contact object separates from the operation surface. Stimulating the operator directly or indirectly.

  Further, in the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the stimulus is any one of a vibration, an electric pulse, a warning sound, and a warning display displayed on a display device.

  Further, in the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the notifying unit may be configured such that, as a contact position of the contact object approaches a boundary of the operation surface, the vibration, the electric pulse, the warning sound, or the warning. The display is changed stepwise or continuously.

  Further, in the medical input device according to one aspect of the present invention, the notification unit may gradually or continuously reduce a response to an operation as a contact position of the contact object approaches a boundary of the operation surface.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the medical input device which can maintain favorable operability without a user looking at an operation surface can be implement | achieved.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic system including a medical input device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of the input device shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modified example 1-1 of the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modified example 1-2 of the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modified example 1-3 of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modified example 1-4 of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to Modification 1-5 of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to Modification 1-6 of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to Modification 1-7 of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to Modification Example 1-8 of the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic system including a medical input device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a configuration of the input device shown in FIG. FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic system including a medical input device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of the input device shown in FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modification 3-1 of the third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining an operation of the input device according to the modification 3-2 of the third embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining an operation of the input device according to the modification 3-2 of the third embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a medical input device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited by these embodiments. In the following embodiments, a medical input device used in an ultrasonic diagnostic system will be described as an example, but the present invention can be applied to medical input devices in general.

  In the description of the drawings, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals as appropriate. Also, it is necessary to keep in mind that the drawings are schematic, and the dimensional relationship of each element, the ratio of each element, and the like may be different from reality. Even in the drawings, there may be cases where portions having different dimensional relationships and ratios are included.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic system including a medical input device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, an ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 transmits an ultrasonic wave to an object to be observed and receives an ultrasonic wave reflected by the object, and an ultrasonic endoscope 2. An ultrasonic observation device 3 that generates an ultrasonic image based on the ultrasonic signal acquired by the mirror 2, a display device 4 that displays the ultrasonic image generated by the ultrasonic observation device 3, and observation by the ultrasonic observation device 3. An input device 5 as a medical input device that receives input of an instruction signal such as setting of a mode or setting of an observation condition.

  The ultrasonic endoscope 2 converts the electric pulse signal received from the ultrasonic observation device 3 into an ultrasonic pulse (acoustic pulse) at the distal end, irradiates the ultrasonic pulse to the subject, and is reflected by the subject. The ultrasonic transducer 21 converts the ultrasonic echo into an electrical echo signal (ultrasonic signal) expressed by a voltage change and outputs the signal. The ultrasonic vibrator 21 is realized by a radial vibrator. The ultrasonic endoscope 2 may mechanically scan the ultrasonic transducer 21, or a plurality of elements may be provided in an array as the ultrasonic transducer 21, and elements related to transmission and reception may be electronically controlled. Electronic scanning may be performed by switching or by delaying transmission and reception of each element.

  The ultrasonic endoscope 2 usually includes an imaging unit having an imaging optical system and an imaging device, and is inserted into a digestive tract (esophagus, stomach, duodenum, large intestine) or a respiratory organ (trachea, bronchi) of a subject. It is possible to image the digestive tract, respiratory organs and surrounding organs (pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, biliary tract, lymph nodes, mediastinal organs, blood vessels, etc.). Further, the ultrasonic endoscope 2 has a light guide for guiding illumination light to irradiate the subject during imaging. The light guide has a distal end reaching the distal end of the insertion section of the ultrasonic endoscope 2 into the subject, and a proximal end connected to a light source device for generating illumination light.

  The ultrasonic observation device 3 includes a transmission / reception unit 31, an image processing unit 32, an input unit 33, a control unit 34, and a storage unit 35.

  The transmission / reception unit 31 transmits / receives an electric signal to / from the imaging unit and the ultrasonic transducer 21. The transmission / reception unit 31 is electrically connected to the imaging unit, transmits imaging information such as imaging timing to the imaging unit, and receives an imaging signal generated by the imaging unit. The transmission / reception unit 31 is electrically connected to the ultrasonic transducer 21, transmits an electric pulse signal to the ultrasonic transducer 21, and receives an echo signal as an electric reception signal from the ultrasonic transducer 21. To receive. Specifically, the transmission / reception unit 31 generates an electric pulse signal based on a preset waveform and transmission timing, and transmits the generated pulse signal to the ultrasonic transducer 21.

  The transmission / reception unit 31 performs STC (Sensitivity Time Control) correction in which an echo signal having a larger reception depth is amplified at a higher amplification factor. The transmission / reception unit 31 performs a process such as filtering on the amplified echo signal and then performs A / D conversion to generate and output a digital radio frequency (RF) signal in the time domain.

  The image processing unit 32 generates endoscope image data based on the imaging signal and image data corresponding to the electric echo signal.

  The input unit 33 receives the instruction signal input by the input device 5 and receives input of various information according to the received instruction signal. Examples of the various information include setting of an observation mode and setting of observation conditions (for example, switching of a gain and a display range, and scroll instruction information (sliding direction and sliding amount of a B-mode image)) and the like.

  The control unit 34 controls the entire ultrasonic diagnostic system 1. The control unit 34 is realized by using a CPU (Central Processing Unit) having arithmetic and control functions, various arithmetic circuits, and the like. The control unit 34 reads out information stored and stored in the storage unit 35 from the storage unit 35 and performs various arithmetic processes related to the operation method of the ultrasonic observation device 3 to control and control the ultrasonic observation device 3. I do. Note that the control unit 34 can be configured using a CPU or the like that is common to the image processing unit 32.

  The storage unit 35 stores various programs for operating the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1, data including various parameters necessary for the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1, and the like. The storage unit 35 stores, for example, the initial position (sound ray number) of the writing position of the ultrasonic image (transmission start position of the ultrasonic wave).

  In addition, the storage unit 35 stores various programs including an operation program for executing the operation method of the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1. The operation program can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flash memory, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, and a flexible disk, and widely distributed. Note that the various programs described above can also be obtained by downloading via a communication network. The communication network referred to here is realized by, for example, an existing public line network, LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), or the like, and may be wired or wireless.

  The storage unit 35 having the above configuration is realized using a ROM (Read Only Memory) in which various programs and the like are installed in advance, a RAM (Random Access Memory) that stores calculation parameters and data of each process, and the like. .

  The display device 4 is configured using a display panel made of liquid crystal or organic EL (Electro Luminescence) or the like. The display device 4 displays, for example, an ultrasonic image output from the ultrasonic observation device 3 and various information related to an operation.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of the input device shown in FIG. FIG. 2 shows a top view of the main operation surface of the input device 5, a cross-sectional view corresponding to line AA of the top view (below the top view), and a cross-sectional view corresponding to line BB of the top view ( (Right side of the top view). In each of the following drawings, a sectional view corresponding to the line AA of the top view of the main operation surface of the input device is shown below the top view, and a line BB is shown in the top view, unless otherwise specified. Corresponding cross-sectional views are shown on the right side of the top view.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the input device 5 is a housing, a main body 50 having an outer surface covered with a cover, and a display unit provided on one surface of the main body 50 and capable of displaying various information. 51, a track pad 52 provided as a contact detection unit provided in a part of the main body unit 50, and a step 53 serving as a notification unit formed on an outer peripheral portion of the track pad 52. The input device 5 is electrically connected to the ultrasonic observation device 3 via a cable, and inputs a signal of an instruction input to the track pad 52 and the like to the input unit 33.

  When a contact object such as an operator's finger contacts the track pad 52, the input device 5 detects a contact position with a contact sensor and outputs the contact position to the ultrasonic observation device 3. When the contact object moves while being in contact with the track pad 52, the moving direction and the moving amount are detected and output to the ultrasonic observation device 3. The ultrasonic observation device 3 performs signal processing according to the input contact position, the moving direction and the moving amount of the contact position based on the received information. Then, the ultrasonic observation device 3 outputs an image in which the center position of the image displayed on the display device 4 is shifted based on the received information, for example.

  The cover that covers the main body 50 is made of silicone or the like, and has a flat surface shape without irregularities, grooves, or the like in order to improve cleanability. Since the entire outer surface of the main body 50 is covered with the cover in a water-tight manner, the entire main body 50 can be cleaned with a liquid such as water, and the cleaning performance is good. However, the cover may be a cover that covers only the main operation surface side of the main body 50.

  The display unit 51 displays an observation mode setting, an observation condition setting, and the like. The display unit 51 may include a touch panel, and may have a configuration in which the setting of the observation mode, the setting of the observation condition, and the like can be changed.

  The track pad 52 has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger contacted by the operator. The surface P1 including the operation surface of the track pad 52 is formed so as to be parallel to the surface P2, which is the main operation surface of the input device 5, and protrude from the surface P2. A step 53 is formed between the main operation surface of the input device 5 and the operation surface of the track pad 52. Note that, as the contact detection unit, a touch panel that has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger of an operator and displays predetermined information on the operation surface may be used.

  Here, it is assumed that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the trackpad 52 and the finger has contacted the step 53 when the operator performs an operation input by touching the trackpad 52 with the finger. Then, the operator perceives the change in shape due to the step 53 by the tactile sensation of the finger, and knows that the finger is likely to separate from the operation surface of the trackpad 52. Then, the operator returns the finger to the operation surface of the trackpad 52 and continues the operation.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the step portion 53 notifies the operator that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the trackpad 52, so that the user does not look at the operation surface. Thus, a medical input device that can maintain good operability can be realized.

  In addition, between the main operation surface of the input device 5 and the operation surface of the track pad 52, a concave portion, a convex portion, or the like may be provided as a notification unit.

(Modification 1-1)
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modified example 1-1 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the input device 5A according to the modified example 1-1 is formed on a track pad 52A as a contact detection unit provided in a part of the main body 50, and formed on an outer peripheral portion of the track pad 52A. And a step 53A as a notification unit.

  The track pad 52A has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger contacted by the operator. The surface PA1 including the operation surface of the track pad 52A is parallel to the surface PA2 which is the main operation surface of the input device 5A, and is formed so as to be depressed with respect to the surface PA2. A step 53A is formed between the main operation surface of the input device 5A and the operation surface of the track pad 52A.

  Here, it is assumed that, while the operator is performing an operation input by touching the track pad 52A with a finger, the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52A, and the finger contacts the step 53A. Then, the operator perceives the change in the shape due to the step 53A with the tactile sensation of the finger, knows that the finger is about to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52A, and the finger is moved by the step 53A. Is prevented from being detached from the operation surface. Then, the operator returns the finger to the operation surface of the trackpad 52A and continues the operation.

  According to the modification example 1-1, the step 53A informs the operator that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52A, so that good operability can be obtained without the user looking at the operation surface. Can be realized.

(Modification 1-2)
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modified example 1-2 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the input device 5B according to the modified example 1-2 is formed on a track pad 52B as a contact detection unit provided in a part of the main body unit 50 and on an outer peripheral portion of the track pad 52B. And a step 53B as a notification unit.

  The track pad 52B has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger contacted by the operator. The surface PB1 including the operation surface of the track pad 52B is parallel to the horizontal plane, and forms an angle α1 with the surface PB2 which is the main operation surface of the input device 5B. The operation surface of the track pad 52B is formed so as to protrude from the surface PB2. A step 53B is formed between the main operation surface of the input device 5B and the operation surface of the track pad 52B.

  According to the modified example 1-2, the step 53B informs the operator that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52B, so that good operability can be obtained without the user looking at the operation surface. Can be realized.

(Modification 1-3)
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modified example 1-3 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, an input device 5C according to a modified example 1-3 is formed on a track pad 52C as a contact detection unit provided in a part of the main body unit 50, and on an outer peripheral portion of the track pad 52C. And a step 53C as a notification unit.

  The track pad 52C has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger contacted by the operator. The surface PC1 including the operation surface of the track pad 52C is parallel to the horizontal plane, and forms an angle α2 with the surface PC2 which is the main operation surface of the input device 5C. The operation surface of the track pad 52C is formed so as to be depressed with respect to the surface PC2. A step 53C is formed between the main operation surface of the input device 5C and the operation surface of the track pad 52C.

  According to the modified example 1-3, the step portion 53C notifies the operator that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52C, so that good operability can be obtained without the user looking at the operation surface. Can be realized.

(Modification 1-4)
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modified example 1-4 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the input device 5D according to the modified example 1-4 is formed on a track pad 52D as a contact detection unit provided in a part of the main body 50 and on an outer peripheral portion of the track pad 52D. And a stepped portion 53Da and a stepped portion 53Db as a notifying unit.

  The track pad 52D has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger contacted by the operator. The surface PD1 including the operation surface of the track pad 52D is parallel to the horizontal plane, and forms an angle α3 with the surface PD2 which is the main operation surface of the input device 5D. The operation surface of the track pad 52D is formed such that the front side (lower side along the plane of FIG. 6) projects from the plane PD2, and the rear side (upper side along the plane of FIG. 6). Are formed so as to be depressed. A step 53Da is formed on the near side and a step 53Db is formed on the back between the main operation surface of the input device 5D and the operation surface of the track pad 52D.

  According to the modified example 1-4, the step portion 53Da and the step portion 53Db notify the operator that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52D, so that the user does not need to look at the operation surface. A medical input device that can maintain good operability can be realized.

(Modification 1-5)
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to Modification 1-5 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, an input device 5E according to Modification Example 1-5 is formed on a track pad 52E as a contact detection unit provided in a part of the main body unit 50, and is formed on an outer peripheral portion of the track pad 52E. And a step 53Eb as a notifying unit.

  The track pad 52E has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger contacted by the operator. The surface PE1 including the operation surface of the track pad 52E is parallel to the horizontal plane, and forms an angle α4 with the surface PE2 which is the main operation surface of the input device 5E. The operation surface of the track pad 52E is formed so as to be depressed with respect to the surface PE2. Then, between the main operation surface of the input device 5E and the operation surface of the track pad 52E, the main operation surface and the operation surface of the medical input device are on the near side (lower side along the plane of FIG. 7). An intersecting boundary 53Ea is formed. In addition, between the main operation surface of the input device 5E and the operation surface of the track pad 52E, there are steps on the back side (upper side with respect to the plane of FIG. 7) and the left and right sides (both right and left sides with respect to the plane of FIG. 7). A portion 53Eb is formed.

  Here, it is assumed that while the operator is performing an operation input by touching the trackpad 52E with a finger, the finger is likely to separate from the operation surface of the trackpad 52E and the finger touches the boundary 53Ea. Then, the operator perceives a change in the angle of the contact surface at the boundary 53Ea by the sense of touch of the finger, and knows that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the trackpad 52E.

  According to the modified example 1-5, the boundary 53Ea and the stepped portion 53Eb notify the operator that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52E, so that the user is not required to look at the operation surface. It is possible to realize a medical input device capable of maintaining excellent operability.

(Modification 1-6)
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to Modification 1-6 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the input device 5F according to the modified example 1-6 includes a track pad 52F as a contact detection unit provided in a part of the main body unit 50 and a vicinity of a boundary of the track pad 52F in an operation surface. And an inclined portion 53 </ b> F as a notification portion.

  The track pad 52F has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger contacted by the operator. The operation surface of the track pad 52F has a central portion protruding due to the provision of the inclined portion 53F near the boundary. The inclined portion 53F forms an angle α5 with the main operation surface of the input device 5F.

  Here, it is assumed that the finger approaches the boundary of the operation surface of the track pad 52F and touches the inclined portion 53F while the operator performs an operation input by touching the finger to the track pad 52F. Then, the operator perceives a change in the angle of the contact surface in the inclined portion 53F by the tactile sense of the finger, and knows that the finger is likely to separate from the operation surface of the trackpad 52F.

  According to the modified example 1-6, the operability is improved even when the user does not look at the operation surface by notifying the operator that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52F by the inclined portion 53F. Can be realized.

  Note that the shape of the track pad 52F is not limited to the inclined portion 53F. By making the center part of the track pad 52F project or the center part of the track pad 52F being depressed, the operator can know that the finger has approached the boundary of the operation surface of the track pad 52F. it can.

(Modification 1-7)
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to Modification 1-7 of the first embodiment. In FIG. 9, a bottom view is a side view of the top view as viewed from below along the plane of FIG. 9, and a right side of the top view is a top view from the right along the plane of FIG. Each side view is shown. As shown in FIG. 9, the input device 5G according to the modified example 1-7 includes a track pad 52G as a contact detection unit provided in a part of the main body unit 50 and a vicinity of a boundary of the track pad 52G in an operation surface. And a convex portion 53Gb as a notifying portion formed at the second position.

  The track pad 52G has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger contacted by the operator. The surface PG1 including the operation surface of the track pad 52G is parallel to the horizontal plane, and forms an angle α6 with the surface PG2 which is the main operation surface of the input device 5G. A step 53Ga is formed between the main operation surface of the input device 5G and the operation surface of the track pad 52G. Further, on the operation surface of the track pad 52G, a convex portion 53Gb is provided near the boundary. The shape of the projection 53Gb is not particularly limited. As shown in FIG. 9, the protrusion 53Gb may be, for example, a hemispherical protrusion, a rectangular protrusion, a U-shaped protrusion, or the like.

  Here, it is assumed that the finger approaches the boundary of the operation surface of the track pad 52G and the finger comes into contact with the convex portion 53Gb while the operator performs the operation input by bringing the finger into contact with the track pad 52G. Then, the operator perceives the change in shape due to the convex portion 53Gb by the tactile sensation of the finger, and knows that the finger is likely to separate from the operation surface of the track pad 52G. Further, it is assumed that the finger is likely to separate from the operation surface of the track pad 52G and the finger contacts the step 53Ga while the operator is performing an operation input by touching the track pad 52G with the finger. Then, the operator perceives the change in shape due to the step 53Ga by the tactile sensation of the finger, and knows that the finger is likely to separate from the operation surface of the track pad 52G.

  According to the modified example 1-7, the step portion 53Ga and the convex portion 53Gb notify the operator that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52G, so that the user does not need to look at the operation surface. A medical input device that can maintain good operability can be realized.

  Note that a concave portion may be provided instead of the convex portion 53Gb. Further, the protrusion 53Gb may be provided on the outer periphery of the operation surface of the track pad 52G.

(Modification 1-8)
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to Modification Example 1-8 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the input device 5H according to the modified example 1-8 is arranged on a track pad 52H as a contact detection unit provided in a part of the main body unit 50, and on a surface near a boundary of the track pad 52H. And a rough surface 53 </ b> H as a surface change portion which is a notification portion.

  The track pad 52H has an operation surface for detecting a contact object such as a finger contacted by the operator. A rough surface 53H having a rough surface is arranged along the outer periphery of the operation surface. As the rough surface 53H, a predetermined surface treatment may be performed on the operation surface, or a material forming the surface of the operation surface may be replaced with a material having a rough surface.

  Here, it is assumed that the finger approaches the boundary of the operation surface of the track pad 52H and the finger touches the rough surface 53H while the operator performs an operation input by touching the finger to the track pad 52H. Then, the operator perceives a change in the touch due to the rough surface 53H with the sense of touch of the finger, and knows that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the trackpad 52H.

  According to the modified example 1-8, the rough surface 53H informs the operator that the finger is likely to be separated from the operation surface of the track pad 52H, so that good operability can be obtained without the user looking at the operation surface. Can be realized.

  It should be noted that fine irregularities or the like may be provided as the surface changing portion instead of the rough surface 53H, and another configuration that changes the surface and changes the tactile sensation of the finger may be provided. As the surface change portion, the surface of the outer peripheral portion of the operation surface of the track pad 52H is made of a material or surface treatment with which the finger is hard to slip, and the inner surface is made of a material or surface treatment with which the finger is slippery. The surface changing portion may be provided in the operation surface of the track pad 52H, or may be provided on the outer periphery of the operation surface of the track pad 52H.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic system including a medical input device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 11, the ultrasonic diagnostic system 101 has the same configuration as the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 according to the first embodiment except for the ultrasonic observation device 103 and the input device 105, and thus the description will be appropriately omitted. I do.

  When using the ultrasonic diagnostic system 101, the ultrasonic observation apparatus 103 includes a surface shape deforming unit 136 as a notification unit that deforms the surface shape near the boundary in the operation surface.

  The surface shape deforming section 136 can be realized by, for example, a technique disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 5406210. The surface shape deforming section 136 deforms the shape of a flat surface made of silicone or the like by a fluid inside. However, the surface shape deforming unit 136 may cause the surface shape deforming unit 136 to deform the surface shape when the finger of the operator approaches the boundary of the operation surface of the trackpad 152.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a configuration of the input device shown in FIG. In FIG. 12, the lower side of the top view is a side view of the top view seen from below along the plane of FIG. 12, and the right side of the top view is the top view from the right side of the plane of FIG. Each side view is shown. As shown in FIG. 12, the input device 105 includes a track pad 152 having an operation surface with a flat surface, and a convex portion 153 that is protruded by the surface shape deforming portion 136 deforming the surface shape. Other configurations may be the same as those of the input device 5 according to the first embodiment, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

  Here, when the ultrasonic diagnostic system 101 is used, the surface shape deforming section 136 deforms the surface shape, so that the convex portion 153 protrudes from the operation surface of the track pad 152 having a flat surface. Then, it is assumed that the finger approaches the boundary of the operation surface of the track pad 152 and the finger contacts the convex portion 153 when the operator performs the operation input by touching the track pad 152 with the finger. Then, the operator perceives the change in the shape due to the convex portion 153 by the tactile sense of the finger, and knows that the finger is likely to separate from the operation surface of the trackpad 152.

  According to the second embodiment, good operability can be obtained even if the user does not look at the operation surface, by notifying the operator that the finger is likely to be detached from the operation surface of trackpad 152 by convex portion 153. A medical input device that can be maintained can be realized.

  Note that the surface shape deforming section 136 may deform the surface shape of the outer peripheral portion of the operation surface of the track pad 152. In this case, if the operator leaves the operation surface of the trackpad 152 while performing an operation input by bringing the finger into contact with the trackpad 152, the operator changes the shape of the projection 153 with the finger. The user perceives by touch, and knows that the finger has separated from the operation surface of the trackpad 152. At this time, the surface shape deforming section 136 may cause the surface shape deforming section 136 to deform the surface shape when the finger of the operator separates from the operation surface of the track pad 52.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic system including a medical input device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 13, the ultrasonic diagnostic system 201 has the same configuration as the ultrasonic diagnostic system 1 according to the first embodiment except for the ultrasonic observation device 203 and the input device 205, and thus the description will be appropriately omitted. I do.

  The notification unit 236 of the ultrasonic observation device 203 directly or indirectly stimulates the operator when the contact position of the contact object that contacts the operation surface of the input device 205 approaches the boundary of the operation surface. Specifically, the notification unit 236 transmits, for example, a vibration as a stimulus to a finger in contact with the input device 205.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of the input device shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 14, the input device 205 is disposed on a track pad 252 having an operation surface and on the outer peripheral portion of the track pad 252, and detects that a contact object has come into contact with the input device 205 and controls the notification unit 236. And a vibrating unit 253 that vibrates. Other configurations may be the same as those of the input device 5 according to the first embodiment, and a description thereof will not be repeated.

  Here, it is assumed that the finger is separated from the operation surface of the trackpad 252 and the finger comes into contact with the vibration unit 253 when the operator performs an operation input by bringing the finger into contact with the trackpad 252. Then, the vibration unit 253 detects that the finger has come into contact, and outputs a predetermined signal to the notification unit 236. When receiving a predetermined signal from vibration section 253, notification section 236 controls vibration section 253 to vibrate. Then, the operator perceives the vibration of the vibration unit 253 with the finger, and knows that the finger has separated from the operation surface of the trackpad 252.

  According to the third embodiment, good operability is maintained even if the user does not look at the operation surface by notifying the operator that the finger has detached from the operation surface of trackpad 252 by vibrating unit 253. And a medical input device capable of performing such operations.

  Note that the vibration section 253 may be arranged near a boundary in the operation surface of the track pad 252. Further, the vibration unit 253 may be configured to automatically vibrate when detecting that a contact object has come into contact without passing through the ultrasonic observation device 203.

  The notification unit 236 may be configured to notify the operator that the finger has separated from the operation surface of the trackpad 252 by a stimulus other than vibration. For example, the notification unit 236 transmits an electric pulse to the contacting object, generates an alarm sound, or outputs a warning sound when the detecting unit disposed on the outer peripheral portion of the operation surface of the trackpad 252 detects the contact of the contacting object. The warning display may be displayed to give a stimulus to the operator to notify the operator.

(Modification 3-1)
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an input device according to a modification 3-1 of the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, the track pad 252A of the input device 205A detects which of the areas A1, A2, and A3 the operator's finger is in contact with, and outputs the information to the notification unit 236. The notification unit 236 gradually increases the display of the vibration, the electric pulse, the warning sound, or the warning as the contact position of the finger approaches the boundary of the operation surface. That is, the display of the vibration, the electric pulse, the warning sound, or the warning is larger in the region A2 than in the region A1, and further larger in the region A3 than in the region A2.

  In addition, as the contact position of the finger approaches the boundary of the operation surface, the display of the vibration, the electric pulse, the warning sound, or the warning may be continuously increased.

  Further, as the finger contact position approaches the boundary of the operation surface, the pattern of the vibration or the electric pulse may be changed, the pitch or pattern of the warning sound may be changed, or the color or shape of the warning display may be changed.

(Modification 3-2)
FIGS. 16 and 17 are diagrams for explaining the operation of the input device according to Modification 3-2 of the third embodiment. 16 and 17 show screens before the operation (left side) and after the operation (right side), and the lower side of FIGS. 16 and 17 show the state of the operation on the input device 205B. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the track pad 252B of the input device 205B detects which of the regions A11 and A12 the operator's finger is in contact with, and outputs the information to the notification unit 236. The notification unit 236 gradually decreases the response to the operation as the contact position of the finger of the hand H approaches the boundary of the operation surface. Specifically, in the area A11 where the contact position of the finger of the hand H is far from the boundary of the operation surface, the notification unit 236 sets the response to the operation as a standard response, and as shown in FIG. When the position moves (M1), the position of the ultrasonic image displayed on the screen moves, and the position of the ultrasonic transducer T in the screen moves (M11). On the other hand, the notification unit 236 slows down the response to the operation in the region A12 in which the contact position of the finger of the hand H is close to the boundary of the operation surface, and even if the contact position of the finger of the hand H moves as shown in FIG. (M2), the position of the ultrasonic transducer T in the screen does not move much (M12). Then, the operator knows that the finger is approaching the boundary of the operation surface due to the slow response to the operation. Then, the operator returns the finger to the center of the operation surface of the trackpad 252B which has a good response to the operation and has good operability, and continues the operation.

  The configuration may be such that the response to the operation is continuously dulled as the contact position of the finger approaches the boundary of the operation surface.

  Further effects and modifications can be easily derived by those skilled in the art. Thus, the broader aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

1, 101, 201 Ultrasound diagnostic system 2 Ultrasound endoscope 3, 103, 203 Ultrasound observation device 4 Display device 5, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G, 5H, 105, 205, 205A , 205B Input device 21 Ultrasonic transducer 31 Transmitting / receiving unit 32 Image processing unit 33 Input unit 34 Control unit 35 Storage unit 50 Main unit 51 Display unit 52, 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 52E, 52F, 52G, 52H, 152 , 252, 252A, 252B Track pad 53, 53A, 53B, 53C, 53Da, 53Db, 53Eb, 53Ga Step 53Ea Boundary 53F Inclined 53Gb, 153 Convex 53H Rough 136 Surface deformation 236 Notification 253 Vibration A1 , A2, A3, A11, A12 Area H Hand

Claims (7)

A medical input device that receives an input of an instruction signal,
A cover that covers an outer surface of the medical input device,
A contact detection unit having an operation surface for detecting a contact object contacted by the operator,
A notification unit that notifies the operator that the contact position of the contact object has approached the boundary of the operation surface, or that the contact object has separated from the operation surface.
With
The notification unit is
It is formed near the boundary of the operation surface or on the outer peripheral portion of the operation surface,
A step between the main operation surface of the medical input device and the operation surface, or a concave portion or a protrusion formed between the main operation surface of the medical input device and the operation surface. that physicians Ryoyo input device. A medical input device that receives an input of an instruction signal,
A cover that covers an outer surface of the medical input device,
A contact detection unit having an operation surface for detecting a contact object contacted by the operator,
A notification unit that notifies the operator that the contact position of the contact object has approached the boundary of the operation surface, or that the contact object has separated from the operation surface.
With
The main operation surface of the medical input device and the operation surface form a predetermined angle,
The notification unit is
It is formed near the boundary of the operation surface or on the outer peripheral portion of the operation surface,
To that physician Ryoyo input device, wherein the main operation surface and the operation surface is a boundary crossing of the medical input device. A medical input device that receives an input of an instruction signal,
A cover that covers an outer surface of the medical input device,
A contact detection unit having an operation surface for detecting a contact object contacted by the operator,
A notification unit that notifies the operator that the contact position of the contact object has approached the boundary of the operation surface, or that the contact object has separated from the operation surface.
With
The notification unit is
It is formed near the boundary of the operation surface or on the outer peripheral portion of the operation surface,
To that physician Ryoyo input device being a concave or convex portion is formed in the vicinity of the boundary of the operation surface. A medical input device that receives an input of an instruction signal,
A cover that covers an outer surface of the medical input device,
A contact detection unit having an operation surface for detecting a contact object contacted by the operator,
A notification unit that notifies the operator that the contact position of the contact object has approached the boundary of the operation surface, or that the contact object has separated from the operation surface.
With
The notification unit, characterized physician Ryoyo input device that the surface of the operation surface is a surface change unit changing. A medical input device that receives an input of an instruction signal,
A cover that covers an outer surface of the medical input device,
A contact detection unit having an operation surface for detecting a contact object contacted by the operator,
A notification unit that notifies the operator that the contact position of the contact object has approached the boundary of the operation surface, or that the contact object has separated from the operation surface.
With
The notifying unit, when using the medical input device, when the contact position of the contact object approaches the boundary of the operation surface, or when the contact object separates from the operation surface, boundary or near the operation surface to that physician Ryoyo input device comprising a surface shape deformation part for deforming the surface shape of the outer peripheral portion of the. A medical input device that receives an input of an instruction signal,
A cover that covers an outer surface of the medical input device,
A contact detection unit having an operation surface for detecting a contact object contacted by the operator,
A notification unit that notifies the operator that the contact position of the contact object has approached the boundary of the operation surface, or that the contact object has separated from the operation surface.
With
The notification unit is
When the contact position of the contact object approaches the boundary of the operation surface, or when the contact object separates from the operation surface, the operator directly or indirectly vibrates, an electric pulse, a warning sound, or a display device. Giving a stimulus which is one of the warning displays displayed on the
As the contact position of the touch object approaches the boundary of the operation surface, the vibration, the electrical pulses, the warning sound, or the warning stepwise display, or continuously physician you and changes Ryoyo Input device. A medical input device that receives an input of an instruction signal,
A cover that covers an outer surface of the medical input device,
A contact detection unit having an operation surface for detecting a contact object contacted by the operator,
A notification unit that notifies the operator that the contact position of the contact object has approached the boundary of the operation surface, or that the contact object has separated from the operation surface.
With
The notification unit, as the contact position of the touch object approaches the boundary of the operating surface, stepwise or continuously to that physician Ryoyo input device characterized in that dull the response to the operation.

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