JP6620137B2 - Breathing apparatus and method of user interaction with the apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates generally to the field of respiratory devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to the user interface of the respiratory device.

<Description of prior art>
The breathing apparatus is typically operated through a user interface that includes a number of dedicated hardware knobs and buttons. In recent years, user interfaces with touch screens in addition to knobs and buttons have emerged.

  An example of a respiratory device with a touch screen is disclosed in International Patent Application No. WO2011 / 139194, by the same applicant as the present application, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. In WO2011 / 139194, the user interface for a respiratory device is described as comprising a touch sensitive screen operable to cause a change in the operation of the respiratory device based on touch input from an operator. The touch-sensitive screen includes a first touch area in which the installation of the breathing apparatus can be changed by an operator's contact, and a second touch area that exists away from the first touch area. The user interface is configured such that the placement of the breathing apparatus can only be changed by touching the first and second touch areas simultaneously. Reference to schematic layout, scales, knobs, etc. WO 2011/139194 addresses the safety of user input by requiring that two points on the touch screen be touched simultaneously.

  There is a need to provide alternatives or to further improve the user interface, especially with respect to quick others, especially with respect to the quick accessibility of the adjustment of operational parameters.

  Accordingly, it is desirable for an improved breathing apparatus to provide an advantageously improved user interface.

  Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention are preferably those described above, by providing instructions for a respiratory device processor to the respiratory device, method, and computer-readable medium according to the appended claims. Or, in any combination, etc., seeks to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more deficiencies, shortcomings or problems in the art.

  The respiratory apparatus is, for example, a respiratory ventilator or anesthesia machine, including an intensive care respiratory ventilator, a home care respiratory ventilator. The breathing device provides breathing gas to a subject whose trachea is fluidly connected to the device during use. The device can be connected to a source of pressurized gas, for example during use, or driven by a fan to provide breathing gas. The respiratory device may also be a respiratory ventilator with an anesthetic capacity based on volatile anesthetics, for example. The touch screen of the breathing device may be integrated into the device or provided in a separate unit or module, which is in communication with the unit or module of the device providing gas delivery control, either directly or indirectly. . However, it is recognized that the present invention is not limited to specific clinical applications, but can be applied to a variety of respiratory devices including, for example, all patient categories from newborns to adults or veterinary applications.

  In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a respiratory device is provided.

  The respiratory device may be any type of respiratory device for assisting the subject in breathing, such as an intensive care ventilator or anesthesia machine.

  The respiratory device comprises one or more electronic processors and a touch screen communicatively coupled to at least one of the processors.

  In one embodiment, the touch screen is a multi-touch screen capable of recognizing the presence of two or more (double contact) simultaneous contact points with the surface. One skilled in the art can recognize what type of touch screen is required to perform a particular type of contact-based interaction of the present disclosure.

  The processor is configured to provide a user interface on the touch screen for modification of at least one operational parameter of the respiratory device.

  The term “operational parameter” may include any respiratory parameter commonly known in the art. The operational parameters can be adjusted for ventilator control. The parameters may be included in the following non-exhaustive list of parameters with specific values during operation of the breathing apparatus: inspiratory gas (> 21% O2), positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP), inspiratory Oxygen (O2) content in barometric pressure (Pinsp), tidal volume (Vt), respiratory rate (RR), etc. Operational parameters may also be included by any parameters previously edited by a rotary knob in the breathing apparatus. An example of such a rotary knob is described in US Pat. No. 5,915,379, see in particular FIG. 3, reference numeral 106, and described column 7, upper row 55 therein. . US Pat. No. 5,915,379 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

  The user interface may include a display area with toggle input elements for toggling between different graphical representations, such as range or size, of touch-based input elements.

  Alternatively or additionally, pinch and zoom gestures may provide range changes such as zoom in or zoom out ranges. The range can be changed by a pinching and zooming gesture pinching movement. Pinch and zoom may be performed on a bar indicating the first range, which is changed to a second range of operational parameters by pinch and zoom. The bar may be a slider bar that allows the selection of a specific value or sub-range from the first or second range. In this way, a very quick selection of coarse values for later fine adjustment is provided. Note that when zoomed from the first range, subsequent fine adjustments can be made in the second range. Various zoom and pinch gestures can be performed to dig into a narrower range and / or advance to a wider range as desired by the operator.

  In some embodiments, the user interface includes at least two touch sensitive display areas on the display area of the touch screen for modification of operational parameters by an operator of the breathing apparatus. Each of the two touch sensitive display areas is dedicated to a different type of user interaction, ie, different user interaction modes are provided by each of the two different display areas. This allows the operator to select one of the different types of user interactions that are particularly well suited for a particular clinical situation. Thus, operational parameters can be advantageously adjusted in an efficient manner. Operational safety can therefore be increased, especially in clinical settings where the focus can be directed to the patient's treatment.

  In some embodiments, the first interaction mode is a contact-based gradual correction mode. For this purpose, the first display area of the interface includes a first input element for stepwise modification of operational parameters after user contact in the first display area. Step-by-step corrections can allow for very accurate, while quick adjustments of operational parameter values. Overshoot of specific target values to be adjusted is limited, and input or adjustment of operational parameters is efficiently provided in specific clinical situations.

  In some embodiments, the second interaction mode is a contact-based gradual correction mode. The second display area of the interface includes a second input element for gradual modification of operational parameters. Alternatively or additionally, a second input element is provided for selection of a specific value from a range of operational parameters after user contact within the second display area. In some embodiments, the second input element includes a slider bar for a range of operational parameters. In certain embodiments, the slider bar may include one or more visual displays of the following types: The slider bar allows for quick adjustment of values within the range of operational parameter values. Thus, operational parameters can be advantageously entered or adjusted in an efficient manner. Operational safety can therefore be increased.

  The slider bar may include a visual display of the current value of the operational parameter before modification. This can be provided, for example, by an arrow and / or numerical value at the position of the slider bar.

  The slider bar may include a visual display of the range between the lower and upper limits of the operational parameter. This is provided, for example, by the color-coded position of the slider bar. This provides for rapid identification of correlations to selectable values and clinically favorable values within the range for the operator. Operational safety can therefore be increased.

  The slider bar may include a visual display of the threshold on the slider bar for the display of clinically abnormal values. This is provided, for example, by numbers with a different color or shade from other numbers displayed along the range. This may alternatively or additionally be provided, for example, by numbers with a background color box. This may be provided, for example, by a line in a different color or shade from other parts of the range along the slide bar. This is provided, for example, by orange numbers or lines. Providing the threshold on the slider bar with a selectable value within the range of values provides a quick identification of the correlation between the selectable value and the clinically preferred value within the range for the operator. provide. Operational safety can therefore be increased.

  The slider bar may include a visual display when the threshold goes too far (eg, exceeds or drops) after user input, on which the sub-range is clinical in a color or shade that is different from the rest of the range Adjacent to abnormal values. Exceeding the threshold can be indicated immediately during adjustment or afterwards, for example, before confirmation of the corrected value. As the operator obtains quick information, operational safety can therefore be increased.

  In some embodiments, a user interface that includes a display area is adjacent to a second display area for providing information related to a sub-range or limit of operational parameters. Operational safety can therefore be increased.

  In some embodiments, the interface includes a display area with a toggle input element for switching between different graphical representations, such as range or size, of the second input element after user contact of the toggle input element. Operational safety can therefore be increased by rapid selection of the display.

  In some embodiments, different ranges are extended ranges and extended range sub-ranges indicated in extended ranges in different colors or shades for reversible amplification after user contact of the toggle input element. including.

  In some embodiments, at least one of the restrictions is user selectable.

  In some embodiments, the second display area includes a continuous graph of a range of values for operational parameters, where the continuous graph has a non-linear scale.

  In some embodiments, the user interface may display a display area for information data elements associated with operational parameters based on characters and / or symbols, such as operational parameters and / or associated warning text headings. Can be included.

  In some embodiments, the processor modifies only after a user contacts one of the touch-sensitive display areas when a threshold of at least one operational parameter exceeds the threshold for a predefined time. And / or the processor is configured to trigger an audio alert when the threshold is exceeded. In some embodiments, one or more of the processors are operable to interact with a computer readable storage medium to perform operations for providing user communication via a touch screen. Operation: receiving a first user touch input requesting that the user interface be displayed for modification of operational parameters while the current display is displayed on the touch screen; user interface, its display area (First display area for operation parameter correction in the first contact-based method, second display region for operation parameter correction in the second contact-based method different from the first contact-based method) Receiving a second touch-based user input requesting that operational parameters be modified while the user interface is displayed; in response to the second user input; To operational parameters modified by touching the first or second display area, Step of modifying the parameters of the work may include.

  In some embodiments, the display area of the user interface includes a third display area for confirming the modified operational parameter and a fourth display area for canceling the modified operational parameter; : Checking operational parameters modified for continued operation of the breathing apparatus by touching the third display area, or touching the fourth display area, or after a predetermined time A step of canceling the correction without changing the operational parameters.

  In some embodiments, the display area of the user interface includes a fifth display area for the numerical value of the operational parameter, wherein the numerical value and / or background is a value within the range of the modified operational parameter. And / or manipulation includes displaying a numerical value of the operational parameter prior to modification, particularly in the second display area.

  In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for providing user communication to a respiratory device is provided. The method includes providing an on-demand user interface on the respiratory device touch screen for modification of the respiratory device operational parameters, and a user of operational parameters in different user interaction modes for each display area. Providing at least two touch sensitive display areas on the user interface for modification, wherein the method preferably includes the operation parameter after touching at least one of the display areas by the user. Performed without subjecting the patient to artificial respiration, such as in a standby mode of the device to achieve the correction.

  In some embodiments, the method receives a first user touch input requesting that the user interface be displayed for modification of operational parameters while the current display is displayed on the touch screen. User interface, its display area (first display area for modification of operational parameters in the first touch-based system, operational in a second touch-based system different from the first contact-based system; Receiving a second touch-based user input requesting that operational parameters be modified while the user interface is displayed; and By touching the first or second display area in response to a second user input Including to operational parameters correctly, the step of modifying the parameters of the operational, the.

  In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a respiratory device is provided. The device comprises a touch screen, the touch screen comprising a touch sensitive display area for displaying a user interface for modification of at least one operational parameter of the breathing device, the user interface being operatively Input elements for gradual modification of the parameters or selection of specific values from a range of operational parameters after user contact in the second display area. The apparatus further comprises a haptic element disposed on or at the touch screen at a location associated with the input element of the user interface.

  In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a computer readable storage medium is provided that is embedded in a computer program for processing by a computer. The computer readable storage medium comprises instructions stored on the medium that, when executed by one or more processors, perform operations to provide user communication via the touch screen of the respiratory device. The instructions are: receiving a first user touch input requesting that the user interface be displayed for modification of operational parameters while the current display is displayed on the touch screen; user interface, its display area (First display area for operation parameter correction in the first contact-based method, second display region for operation parameter correction in the second contact-based method different from the first contact-based method) Receiving a second touch-based user input requesting that operational parameters be modified while the user interface is displayed; and responding to the second user input Operational parameters modified by touching the first or second display area If, comprising the step of modifying the parameters of the operational, the.

  Further embodiments are defined in the dependent claims, wherein the features of the second and following aspects of the invention relate to the first aspect mutatis mutandis.

  Some embodiments provide multiple methods of touch-based input in the same user interface. Exactly the same parameters can be changed, for example, in multiple ways of user interaction within the same user interface. This provides many advantages and benefits.

  Embodiments provide fully contact-based correction of parameter values for breathing apparatus operation. A hardware knob is not necessary while maintaining operational safety, reliability, and patient safety. Since the user interface is not locked to a fixed hardware knob, the flexibility of operating the breathing apparatus is increased. User-friendly and intuitive operation of the breathing apparatus is provided. However, the provision of a hardware knob in a particular embodiment of the respiratory device is not excluded by itself for the specific act of controlling the respiratory device. Alternatively or in addition, the hardware knob may be provided in certain embodiments as a redundant backup for adjustment of operational parameters.

  A breathing device with only a touch screen and no knobs or buttons, or at least a touch screen and a reduced or minimal number of buttons or knobs, may also provide easier cleaning of the device. This may be convenient for hygiene aspects.

  Some embodiments provide a changeable measure that can be adjusted for a range of different ventilation parameters. This may provide improved precision to indicate the current value or range of the operational parameters of the breathing apparatus, and improved precision to enter such values.

  Some embodiments provide a quick but coarse adjustment, for example by a slider bar and by touching a value within the range indicated by the slider bar to set the value. Because increased resolution is thus provided, an improvement in fine adjustment is provided, for example, by a slider. Next, a gradual fine adjustment of the value can be made. Slow fine adjustment may be provided by, for example, +/− buttons, up / down buttons, and the like.

  In addition, confirmation by the operator can be requested by a user interface that actually updates the continuous operation of the breathing apparatus, thus changing the value of the operational parameter. This can be provided by a confirmation button. This provides a safe adjustment to effectively prevent accidental adjustments made by mistake.

  Thus, embodiments provide for quick and reliable adjustment of the operational parameters of the respiratory device.

  When operating a respiratory device, some embodiments of the present invention also provide increased safety. For certain embodiments, it may be difficult for a breathing device operator to select values for operational parameters that may not be optimal for patient treatment or patient safety. Some embodiments may therefore effectively prevent an operator from selecting “extreme” or otherwise unpleasant or inappropriate values for the operational parameters of the breathing apparatus. Some embodiments provide a “normal” and safe range of operational parameters that should only be selectable or do not require explicit user confirmation to go out of these safe ranges. obtain. This may provide an improved degree of operational comfort and safety to experienced users for modification of operational parameter values.

  Thus, user comfort as well as patient safety is increased.

These and other aspects, features, and advantages of embodiments of the present invention are apparent from and will be elucidated with reference to the following description of embodiments of the invention and the accompanying drawings.
1 is a schematic view of a breathing apparatus with a touch screen. 3 is a flowchart of a method. 3 is a flowchart of a method. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a computer readable medium storing instructions. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device. 2 shows an example of a graphical user interface for parameter modification in a respiratory device.

<Description of Preferred Embodiment>
Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are not exhaustive of the disclosure. It is provided so that this invention will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The terms used in the detailed description of the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings are not intended to limit the present invention. In the drawings, like numerals refer to like elements.

  The following description describes an embodiment applicable to a respiratory apparatus.

  Returning now to the figure, as an example for practicing the embodiment, the respiratory apparatus (1) will be described with initial reference to FIG.

  The respiratory apparatus (1) comprises one or more electronic processors (2) and a touch screen (3) communicatively coupled to at least one of the processors (2). The processor (2) is configured to provide a user interface (4) on the touch screen (3) for modification of at least one operational parameter of the breathing apparatus (1).

  The user interface (4) has at least two touch sensitive display areas (40) (40) on the display area of the touch screen (4) for modification of operational parameters by the operator of the breathing apparatus (1). 50).

  As shown in FIG. 1, a display area (40) sensitive to a first touch and a display area (50) sensitive to a second touch are provided on the touch screen.

  Each of the two touch sensitive display areas (40), (50) provides a different type of user interaction for the same operational parameters.

  Different user interaction modes are provided by each of the two different display areas (40) (50).

  While embodiments are generally illustrated by two different types of user interactions, other embodiments may include more than two different types of user interactions within the same user interface. Preferably, as shown in the various embodiments below, the two touch sensitive display areas (40), (50) are adjacent to each other. The two touch sensitive display areas (40), (50) may be integrated into a single widget (eg, in a frame or window on the touch screen). Different display areas may be provided in separate windows within a larger user interface. This type of window is based on code similar to a software “widget”, which is a stand-alone application that is embedded in a larger software package. Two touch sensitive display areas (40), (50) may be activated after user selection.

  Different types of user interaction will now be described in more detail.

  Various user gestures can be performed by the operator of the breathing apparatus (1) by touching the touch screen with one or more fingers. In some embodiments of the touch screen, a suitable pointing device such as a pen can be used instead of a finger. A capacitive sensing-based touch screen can be advantageously operated only by the touch of a user's finger. In this way, unintentional operation of the respiratory device touch screen can be advantageously avoided, for example, the clinical personnel's clothing simply touches the capacitive screen, resulting in any operational changes in the respiratory device. Not brought.

  Several user gestures are described below. However, those skilled in the art are aware of the available gestures for touch screen operators.

  A tap is a short contact of a selected display area, for example, with a finger or other pointing device. In certain parts of the present disclosure, a tap may activate a +/− button, for example, to select a specific value from a range on a slider bar or to incrementally change the value of an operational parameter. to enable.

  Tap and hold is a touch of the selected display area without taking the finger off the selected display area immediately. Tap and hold, for example, allows a context menu window or the like to be opened. Pan is a user gesture where a finger is placed on a selected display area of the touch screen (3) and maintained in contact with the screen while moving around the display area.

  Pan, for example, allows a selected range of values to be moved within a larger range on the slider bar without changing the span of the selected range of values. A double tap is a user gesture in which two taps are made quickly to each other.

  Pinch is another user gesture in which two fingers, such as a thumb and forefinger, are placed on the screen at the same time and slid and move together on the screen surface in a pinching operation. Pinch can be used to change a range, such as a zoom in or zoom out range, for example as a gesture on a slider bar that shows a pinch & zoom gesture.

  In some embodiments, the first interaction mode is a contact-based gradual correction mode. This is described, for example, with respect to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6, 7A-C, 9A, or 9B. For this purpose, the first display area (40) of the interface has a first input element (70) for stepwise modification of operational parameters (6) after user contact in the first display area. Including.

  For this purpose, a first input element is provided on the user interface (4) in the first display area (40).

  In the illustrated embodiment, two buttons (41) (42) are provided. The first button (41) is a “−” button for selecting a decrease (that is, a downward change in the operational parameter (6)). In FIGS. 4A and 4B, the operational parameter (6) is in the example shown as O 2 CONCENTRATION of the inspiratory respiratory gas. The second button (42) is a “+” button for selecting an increase (that is, an upward change in the value (60) of the operational parameter (6)). Thus, a gradual increase or decrease change in the value (60) of the operational parameter (6) is provided for each tap for one of the +/− buttons (41) (42). By using tap and hold, the scroll mode can be entered when the discrete values are changed in a series. Continuous hold facilitates increasing / decreasing values. Incremental correction can be performed on integer values of operational parameters. Alternatively, or in addition, the decimal value can be modified step by step by buttons (41) (42). Slow fine adjustment can be provided, for example, by the +/− buttons as described above. Alternatively, an up / down button or the like can be provided.

  In one embodiment, additional interaction modes are provided by the user interface. In the illustrated embodiment, the second interaction mode is a contact-based gradual correction mode. The second display area (50) of the user interface (4) includes a second input element (71) for gradual modification of operational parameters. Alternatively or additionally, a second input element (71) is provided for selection of a specific value from a range of operational parameters after user contact in the second display area.

  The second input element (71) may include an interaction slider bar, shown and described as a slider bar for a range of operational parameters, as shown in the figure. The slider bar allows the operator to quickly select a specific value from a range of values via a touch event to the second display area (50) where the slider bar is shown.

  The slider bar may provide multiple user interaction modes. One is a direct access mode that includes taps for values in the range. Another is slide access along the range.

  The minimum and maximum values can be changed dynamically as described below.

  The slider bar may allow selection of a specific value within a range of values that can be compared to the operation of a rotary knob in certain embodiments. Alternatively or additionally, the slider bar may comprise a pre-defined stage. The step size allows the operator to limit the values that can be selected based on the step of increase, for example, the operational parameter may be selectable as an integer value only, or as a fractional part thereof. The second display area may display check marks and signs along the range. This is shown in the figure and allows a quick selection of a certain area of the range visualized by the slider bar.

  The operator can select a specific value for the operational parameter (6) by touching the slider bar in the specific value region (eg, by a tap gesture). Thereafter, the current value of the operational parameter (6) is changed to a corrected value to be confirmed by the operator (see the difference between FIGS. 4A and 4B). Alternatively, the operator may choose to touch the current value slider bar at the end of the bar (51), for example by a tap and drag or pan gesture, and then the slider bar to the newly modified value. Drag the current value along. The bar graph follows the corrected value.

  In this way, rapid selection of modified values for operational parameters can be made based on the described use of the second input element (71).

  The corrected value can be further corrected, for example, by fine adjustment with buttons (41) (42).

  If a quick selection of modified values for operational parameters is made in the direct access or slide access interaction mode, a fine adjustment can be made later.

  One or both endpoints of the current range can be tapped or slid. Alternatively, the entire range of values (bars) is marked and grabbed, for example by double taps or tap and hold. Thereafter, such marked and collected sub-ranges can be moved on a contact basis, generally upwards or downwards, for example by a pan.

  Alternatively, the slider bar can be used for the first, moderate correction mode: a tap to the right of the current value increases the operational parameter value in one step. A tap to the left of the current value reduces one step.

  The slider bar can change the input mode, which provides both a first quick but coarse mode and then a fine adjustment mode. The input mode can be changed in various ways (eg, by using a toggle element or a pinch & zoom gesture).

  The second input element (71) may alternatively have other shapes as the illustrated linear slider bar. The second input element (71) may be provided as a straight line, or a graphical representation that is curved or circular instead of a straight line along only certain parts, and curved in other parts. Examples can be found in the applicant's WO 2011/139194, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

  An example for a circular input element will now be described. The second input element (71) may be provided, for example, in the form of a contact-based virtual rotary knob (not shown) with similar functionality. The virtual rotary knob can be operated by circular tap and hold gestures. Range visualization can be done as a pie chart. Alternatively or additionally, the rotary knob can be filled depending on the selected value within the range in a similar manner, such that a bar graph can be used to indicate the selected value. For virtual rotary knobs, the knob circle can be filled depending on the currently selected value. Filling a circle to indicate a value is described in US Pat. No. 5,931,160, particularly see FIG. Recognition or confirmation of the selected or modified value can be made by “pressing” the virtual rotary knob (ie, a tap or double tap gesture within the display area of the virtual rotary knob, for example).

  The modified value of the operational parameter is preferably displayed in a display area that includes the first and second input elements, or FIGS. 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6, 7A, 7B, 7C, 8A. , 8B, 8C, 9A, and 9B are adjacent. The modified value can then be used by the processor (2) for continued operation of the breathing apparatus (1). Prior to continued operation based on the modified operational parameters, it may need to be confirmed by the operator in a further user input verification step, in one embodiment. A confirmation allowing the new setting can be made, for example, by pressing a confirmation button (20).

  Alternatively, the modified value for the operational parameter may not be used for continued operation of the breathing apparatus (1). In this case, the operation of the breathing apparatus (1) is continued with its uncorrected current value.

  Any modifications that are made need to be confirmed by the operator in one embodiment. If confirmation is not obtained, the modified value is not acceptable. Alternatively, or in addition, non-confirmation of the modified value, or an active failure of the modification process may be caused by the continuous unsatisfied value of the operational parameter due to the current value of the operational parameter (1). Leading to the correct operation. Unconfirmation may be provided after expiration of a predetermined time limit, where no explicit confirmation of the modified value has been made by the operator. Alternatively, the modifications can be actively canceled by the operator. This can be done, for example, by tapping a cancel button such as the close button (21) shown in the figure.

  In certain embodiments, the second input element (71) (eg, the slider bar shown) may include one or more visual representations of respiratory device data communicated to the operator.

  The second input element (71) (eg, the slider bar shown) may include a visual display of the current value of the operational parameter (6) before modification. This may be provided, for example, by an arrow (53) and / or a numerical value (54) at the position of the second input element (71) (eg, the slider bar shown). The current value before correction can be shown at the position of the current value within the range, as shown in the figure.

  The second input element (71) (eg, the slider bar shown) may include a visual display of the range between the lower and upper operational parameters. This is provided, for example, by the color-coded portion (58) of the second input element (71) (eg, the slider bar shown) (see, eg, FIG. 6).

  The second input element (71) (eg, the slider bar shown) may include a visual indication of the threshold (13) for indication of clinically abnormal values; for example, FIGS. 4A, 4B, 6, See 7A-C, 8A-C, 9A, and 9B. This is provided, for example, by a numerical value displayed in a different color or shade from other numbers displayed along the range. This threshold indication may alternatively or additionally be provided, for example, by numbers with a background color box (see, eg, FIGS. 4A, 4B, 6, 7A-C, 8A-C, 9A, and 9B). ). This threshold indication may be provided, for example, by a line in a different color or shade from other parts of the range along the slide bar (eg, FIGS. 4A, 4B, 7A-C, 8A-C, 9A And 9B). This threshold indication may be provided, for example, by an orange number or line (see, eg, FIGS. 4A, 4B, 6, 7A-C, 8A-C, 9A, and 9B).

  The second input element (71) (eg, the slider bar shown) may include a visual indication when the threshold has passed (eg, exceeded or depressed) after user input, and the second input element (71) ( For example, on the slider bar shown), the sub-range is adjacent to a clinically abnormal value in a different color or shade than the rest of the range (see, eg, FIG. 8C).

  In some embodiments, the user interface is adjacent to a second display area for providing information related to operational parameter sub-ranges or limits (eg, FIGS. 6, 7A-C, and 8A-C). See). For example, the range (55) is illustrated between the lower and upper limits of operational parameters. The first information text (56) is illustrated on the left end of the left slider bar. The second information text (57) is illustrated at the right end of the slider bar. In addition, a color-coded part (58) with a first color change is shown. Also shown is a second color-coded portion (59) with a second color change.

  This bar of information (above) may provide further information relating to the second input element (71) (eg, the slider bar shown). In this way, the operator is supported and input of operational parameters is performed reliably and safely. Examples of such further information are shown, for example, in the first text (61) “low sensitivity” indicated by a low value in the range and / or the position of a high value in the range as shown in FIG. Second text (62) “High sensitivity”. In FIG. 6, a wedge-shaped bar (59) is shown, illustrating another example of operator graphical support. The wedge-shaped bar increases in height while increasing the slider bar range or sub-range value in the second touch sensitive display area (50).

  The user interface (4) includes a display area with a toggle input element (12) for switching between different graphical representations, such as range or size, of touch-based input elements. For example, see FIGS. 5A and 5B.

  For example, after the user touches the toggle input element (12) with a tap gesture, toggle (switching) between different graphic representations is performed by the processor (2).

  In some embodiments, different ranges are extended ranges and extended range sub-ranges indicated in extended ranges in different colors or shades for reversible amplification after user contact of the toggle input element. including.

  Alternatively, or in addition to the toggle element, pinch and zoom gestures may provide range changes such as zoom in or zoom out ranges. The range can be changed by a pinching & zooming gesture. Pinch and zoom may be performed on a bar indicating the first range, which is changed to a second range of operational parameters by pinch and zoom. The bar may be a slider bar that allows selection of a specific value or a sub-range from the first or second range. In this way, a very quick selection of coarse values for later fine adjustment is provided. Note that when zoomed from the first range, subsequent fine adjustments can be made in the second range. Various zoom and pinch gestures can be performed to dig into a narrower range and / or advance to a wider range as desired by the operator.

  In some embodiments, at least one of the range restrictions is selectable by the user. For example, the upper and / or lower limits of the normal or safe range of values can be selected by the user.

  In some embodiments, the second display area includes a continuous graph of a range of values for operational parameters, where the continuous graph has a non-linear scale (not shown). This allows an improved illustration of the “normal range” within the full range.

  Infrequently used value ranges, including both upper and / or lower ranges, are hidden or not activated to further improve the precision for selecting values for operational parameters (6) There is a case. This is particularly advantageous for parameters including oxygen content in inspiratory gas (21% or greater O2), positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP), and inspiratory pressure (Pinsp).

  In some embodiments, the user interface is associated with operational parameters (6) based on characters and / or symbols, such as operational parameters and / or associated warning text (15) headings. A display area for the information data element may be included. For example, text such as the headline of a window for modifying operational parameters of the breathing apparatus may include text that describes parameters that are adjusted with words and / or symbols. Alternatively or additionally, the information data element may include warning text. A warning text is indicated, for example, when a threshold limit for an abnormal value of an operational parameter is exceeded (eg colored text in a headline). Examples are shown in the figures (eg “High Level”, “Potential self triggering”, etc.). The information data element may also include the status of the respiratory device. The states are “standby”, “not connected to the patient”, “upstart pre run check”, “connected to the patient and the device is in motion It may be on / off, such as “patient connected and apparel operating”, “tube compensation”, “leakage compensation”, or activated / deactivated. Information data elements may be displayed as text and / or graphical symbols. The modified operational parameter value can be highlighted as color coding. The change when the predetermined abnormal threshold is exceeded can thus be easily recognized by the operator. The value may begin to flash. The value can change color, for example, from a convenient color such as white or blue to a warning color such as orange or red.

  This allows the operator to quickly notice the state of the breathing apparatus (1) to be taken into account when modifying the operational parameters.

  In some embodiments, the processor (2) may be configured so that after a user touches one of the touch-sensitive display areas when the threshold of at least one operational parameter exceeds the threshold for a predefined time. Only configured to provide a fix. In some embodiments, the processor (2) is configured to provide a warning, such as a visual or audio warning, when the operator selects a value of an operational parameter that exceeds a threshold.

  In some embodiments, the display area of the user interface includes a fifth display area for the numerical value of the operational parameter, wherein the numerical value and / or background is a value within the range of the modified operational parameter. And / or manipulation includes displaying a numerical value of the operational parameter prior to modification, particularly in the second display area. The same color is used for numerical values and slider bars to indicate clinically abnormal values, for example, as described above. Hence, the operator's attention can be increased and the operational safety of the breathing apparatus (1) can be increased.

  FIG. 2A is a flowchart of the method (100).

  In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for providing user communication to a respiratory device is provided. The method includes providing an on-demand user interface on the respiratory device touch screen for modification of the operational parameters of the respiratory device, and the operational parameters of each display area in different user interaction modes. Providing at least two touch sensitive display areas on the user interface for user modification. The method may be used in any operational mode of the breathing apparatus (eg, inactive operation in preparation for another breathing mode in which the operational parameter is active due to modification of the currently active operational parameter. (If the patient is ventilated for adjustment of the above parameters) or in the standby mode of the breathing apparatus (1). This method may be performed, for example, during operation of the respiratory device (ie, providing a subject with ventilation to a subject connected to the device). In certain embodiments, the method is performed without being connected to the patient or subjecting the patient to artificial respiration, such as in a standby mode of the breathing apparatus (1), after at least one contact of the display area by the user Achieving operational parameter modifications.

  FIG. 2B is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment in which the method (400) displays a user interface for modification of operational parameters while the current display is displayed on a touch screen. Receiving a first user touch input (401) requesting; a user interface, its display area (first display area for modification of operational parameters in a first touch-based manner, first touch-based Displaying a second display area for modifying operational parameters in a second touch-based manner different from manner (402); the operational parameters are modified while the user interface is displayed. Receiving a second contact-based user input requesting to be made; and a second user input In response, including to operational parameters modified by contact with the first or the second display region, step of modifying the parameters of the operational, the.

  In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a computer readable storage medium is provided that is embedded in a computer program for processing by a computer. The computer readable storage medium comprises instructions stored on the medium that, when executed by one or more processors, perform operations to provide user communication via the touch screen of the respiratory device. The instructions are: receiving a first user touch input requesting that the user interface be displayed for modification of operational parameters while the current display is displayed on the touch screen; user interface, its display area (First display area for operation parameter correction in the first contact-based method, second display region for operation parameter correction in the second contact-based method different from the first contact-based method) Receiving a second touch-based user input requesting that operational parameters be modified while the user interface is displayed; and responding to the second user input Operational parameters modified by touching the first or second display area If, comprising the step of modifying the parameters of the operational, the.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a computer readable medium (200) for storing instructions.

  In some embodiments, one or more of the processors are operable to interact with a computer readable storage medium to perform operations for providing user communication via a touch screen. Operation: receiving a first user touch input requesting that the user interface be displayed for modification of operational parameters while the current display is displayed on the touch screen; user interface, its display area (First display area for operation parameter correction in the first contact-based method, second display region for operation parameter correction in the second contact-based method different from the first contact-based method) Receiving a second touch-based user input requesting that operational parameters be modified while the user interface is displayed; in response to the second user input; To operational parameters modified by touching the first or second display area, Step of modifying the parameters of the work may include.

  In some embodiments, the display area of the user interface includes a third display area for confirming the modified operational parameter and a fourth display area for canceling the modified operational parameter; : Checking modified operational parameters for continuous operation of the breathing apparatus by touching the third display area, or touching the fourth display area, or after a predetermined time A step of canceling the correction without changing the operational parameters.

  In accordance with yet another example, a respiratory device is provided. The device comprises a touch screen, which comprises a touch sensitive display area for displaying a user interface for modification of at least one operational parameter of the breathing device. The respiratory device may be of the type previously described. The user interface may include input elements for gradual modification of operational parameters or selection of specific values from a range of operational parameters after user contact in the second display area.

  The device further comprises a haptic element (80) (see example in FIG. 6) placed on or at the touch screen. The haptic element (80) is arranged at a position related to the input element of the user interface. The haptic element (80) may be disposed on the screen surface of the touch screen. Alternatively or additionally, it may be placed adjacent to the screen surface (eg, on the touch screen frame).

  The tactile element can be a protrusion, a recess, an area with a different surface roughness, etc. that can be recognized and distinguished from other screen areas by tactile sensing.

  The haptic element (80) may be an integral part of the touch screen surface. Alternatively, it can be attached to or adjacent to the touch screen surface.

  The user is therefore easily guided to a specific screen area by the hardware haptic element (80). The hardware haptic element (80) is placed on or adjacent to the touch screen surface itself (eg, on a screen frame placed around the display area of the touch screen instead of directly on the touch screen display area) Can be done.

  The hardware haptic element (80) provides ergonomic support for an operator's finger that slides along an input element such as, for example, a slider bar.

  The hardware haptic element (80) is arranged at the second input element (71) of the user interface, for example, as shown in the example of FIG. The hardware haptic element (80) may comprise various sections with different haptic feedback.

  The first region (81) of the haptic element (80) may be provided as a continuous element (eg, for sliding along the extent of a slider bar (eg, the slider bar shown)). The second region (81) may be provided as a discontinuous element (eg, for identification of the position of the toggle input element (12)).

  In the clinical environment, the hardware haptic element (80) can provide very convenient assistance to the operator, which frequently uses gloves that can be covered with bodily fluids, surgical tissue parts, etc. It makes it difficult to find a particular display area on a flat display screen, or unintentionally tilts to an undesired display area.

  A hardware haptic element (80) may be provided with an active feedback element. An active feedback element may provide an operator with guidance of input made by active feedback.

  The active feedback element is, for example, optical feedback. The optical feedback may be the activation of the illumination source of the hardware haptic element (80). The hardware haptic element (80) may be optically transparent or opaque. It can be illuminated by a touch screen display appropriately controlled by the processor (2). The hardware haptic element (80) may include a light source for illumination. The hardware haptic element (80) may be a light guide protrusion. When a user touch at the hardware haptic element (80) is detected, illumination can be activated. Illumination can be activated after a threshold is exceeded as described above. The lighting can be changed after user contact or input. The color of the illumination can be changed, for example to indicate a particular event as an over threshold.

  The active feedback element of the hardware haptic element (80) may alternatively or additionally be provided with haptic feedback, for example by vibration. Haptic feedback can be provided upon activation of an input element such as, for example, a toggle input element (12). Tactile feedback can be provided, for example, by modifying an operational parameter to an abnormal value or the like. The hardware haptic element (80) may provide haptic feedback. Alternatively or additionally, the entire touch screen, or part thereof, may include elements for providing haptic feedback to the operator. Haptic feedback is controlled by the processor (2).

  Modifications and alterations may be suggested by those skilled in the art, but all alterations and modifications are patented hereby, as reasonably and appropriately within the scope of contribution to the art. It is the intention of the inventor to embed in the warranted heron. The present invention has been described above with regard to specific embodiments. For example, different features and processes of the embodiments may be combined in combinations other than those described. The scope of the invention is merely limited by the appended claims.

Claims (14)

A respiration device (1) comprising at least one processor (2) and a touch screen (3), preferably a multi-touch screen, communicatively coupled to said processor (2), said processor (2) comprising: , Configured to provide a user interface (4) on the touch screen (3) for changing at least one operating parameter (6) of the respiratory device (1), the user interface (4) ) Includes at least one displayed touch sensitive display area for user change of the at least one operating parameter (6), the processor on the at least one display area, the operating parameter (6) Configured to display a contact-based input element (71) indicating a range of selectable values for The processor (2) displays a variable scale applicable to different operating parameter ranges by hiding or deactivating ranges of values that are not used more frequently, including upper and / or lower limits of the operating parameters Is configured to
The touch-based input element (71) comprises a slider bar, the slider bar comprising a visual indication of a clinically abnormal value when a threshold is passed during adjustment. Breathing apparatus.   The user interface (4) includes a display area having the toggle input element (12) for toggling different ranges of the touch-based input element (71) upon user contact of the toggle input element The respiratory apparatus according to claim 1.   The different ranges comprise an enlarged range and their sub-ranges indicated by different colors or shades for reversible magnification within the enlarged range at the user contact of the toggle input element. The respiratory apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that:   The processor (2) is configured to enlarge or reduce the range shown on the display area with a pinch and zoom gesture in the display area where the range is shown. Item 4. The respiratory apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 3.   The respiratory apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the slider bar includes a bar indicating a first range that is changed to a second range by the pinch or zoom gesture.   The respiratory apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the slider bar makes it possible to select a specific value or subrange from the first or second range.   The respiratory apparatus of claim 6, wherein the threshold is indicated by a number with a color or shade that is different from other numbers displayed along the range.   The subrange adjacent to the clinically abnormal value on the slider bar becomes a color or shade different from other parts of the range when the threshold is passed by user input. Item 8. The respiratory device according to Item 7.   9. A respiratory apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one limitation of the range is user selectable.   The user interface for information data elements associated with the at least one operational parameter (6) based on characters and / or symbols such as a headline of the at least one operational parameter and / or warning text associated therewith The respiratory apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a display area.   The processor (2) provides the change only after a user has touched the at least one touch-sensitive display area for a predetermined time if the threshold of at least one operating parameter passes the threshold. 11. A respiratory apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, configured to trigger an audio alert if and / or if the threshold is passed.   12. The breathing device further comprises a haptic element (80) disposed on or on the touch screen in a position associated with the touch-based input element (71). The respiratory apparatus according to any one of the above.   The tactile element is an element on or on the touch screen that is recognizable and distinguishable from other screen areas by tactile sensing, such as raised portions, recesses, or areas with different surface roughness The respiratory apparatus according to claim 12, wherein:   14. A respiratory apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the haptic element comprises an active feedback element.