U.S. patent application number 14/704743 was filed with the patent office on 2015-11-12 for sleeve for a transesophageal echocardiography probe.
The applicant listed for this patent is John Robert Ballard, Andrew David Bicek, Jacie Jo Elaine Groeschel, Andrew Richard Hohs, Yicong Lai, Claire Elizabeth Leitgen, Emil D. Missov. Invention is credited to John Robert Ballard, Andrew David Bicek, Jacie Jo Elaine Groeschel, Andrew Richard Hohs, Yicong Lai, Claire Elizabeth Leitgen, Emil D. Missov.
Application Number | 20150320392 14/704743 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54366743 |
Filed Date | 2015-11-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150320392 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Missov; Emil D. ; et
al. |
November 12, 2015 |
SLEEVE FOR A TRANSESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY PROBE
Abstract
A device includes a switch and a housing. The switch is
configured for manipulation by a user. The housing has an interior
surface configured to receive an external feature of a handheld
controller for a transesophageal ultrasound system. The housing has
a plurality of switch positions. The switch is coupled to the
housing at one position of the plurality of switch positions.
Inventors: |
Missov; Emil D.; (Woodbury,
MN) ; Bicek; Andrew David; (Elk River, MN) ;
Ballard; John Robert; (Waconia, MN) ; Leitgen; Claire
Elizabeth; (Bloomington, MN) ; Groeschel; Jacie Jo
Elaine; (Little Canada, MN) ; Hohs; Andrew
Richard; (Kenosha, WI) ; Lai; Yicong;
(Pittsburgh, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Missov; Emil D.
Bicek; Andrew David
Ballard; John Robert
Leitgen; Claire Elizabeth
Groeschel; Jacie Jo Elaine
Hohs; Andrew Richard
Lai; Yicong |
Woodbury
Elk River
Waconia
Bloomington
Little Canada
Kenosha
Pittsburgh |
MN
MN
MN
MN
MN
WI
PA |
US
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
54366743 |
Appl. No.: |
14/704743 |
Filed: |
May 5, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61989930 |
May 7, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
600/466 ;
600/462 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 1/00147 20130101;
A61B 90/57 20160201; Y10T 29/49828 20150115; A61B 8/0883 20130101;
A61B 8/12 20130101; A61B 8/445 20130101; A61B 8/4472 20130101; A61B
8/4455 20130101; A61B 8/4405 20130101; A61B 8/467 20130101; A61B
8/56 20130101; A61B 2090/571 20160201; A61B 8/4209 20130101; A61B
90/50 20160201; F16M 13/022 20130101; A61B 2560/0271 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 8/00 20060101
A61B008/00; A61B 8/12 20060101 A61B008/12; A61B 8/08 20060101
A61B008/08 |
Claims
1. A device comprising: a switch configured for manipulation by a
user; and a housing having an interior surface configured to
receive an external feature of a handheld controller for a
transesophageal ultrasound system, the housing having a plurality
of switch positions and wherein the switch is coupled to the
housing at one position of the plurality of switch positions.
2. The device of claim 1 wherein the plurality of switch positions
correspond to a track.
3. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing includes a plurality
of ports and wherein the plurality of switch positions corresponds
to each of the plurality of ports.
4. The device of claim 1 further including a feedback transducer
coupled to the housing wherein the feedback transducer is
configured to provide a human-perceptible output corresponding to
at least one of the switch and the system.
5. The device of claim 4 wherein the feedback transducer includes
at least one of a haptic transducer, a light, and a sound
transducer.
6. The device of claim 1 wherein the switch is coupled to a remote
console by a wireless communication link.
7. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing includes silicone.
8. The device of claim 1 wherein the switch is coupled to a remote
console and further wherein the console is coupled to the
system.
9. The device of claim 1 wherein the switch is slidably affixed to
the housing.
10. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing is configured to
provide clearance for a user-operable control of the system.
11. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing includes a
sheath.
12. The device of claim 1 wherein the housing includes a strap.
13. A method comprising: providing a user-operable switch, the
switch configured to couple with a controller for a transesophageal
ultrasound system; and providing a housing, the housing having an
interior surface configured to receive an external feature of the
controller and having a plurality of positions at which the switch
can be coupled to the housing.
14. The method of claim 13 wherein providing the housing includes
providing a track and wherein the plurality of positions correspond
to the track.
15. The method of claim 13 wherein providing the housing includes
providing a housing having a plurality of ports and wherein the
plurality of positions correspond to each of the plurality of
ports.
16. The method of claim 13 further including providing a feedback
transducer coupled to the housing, the feedback transducer
configured to provide a human-perceptible signal corresponding to
the controller.
17. The method of claim 16 further including coupling the switch
and the feedback transducer.
18. The method of claim 13 further including applying silicone to
an external surface of the housing.
19. The method of claim 13 further including providing a wireless
transceiver coupled to the switch.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of priority of
U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/989,930, filed on May 7,
2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] A transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) probe is used for
diagnostic imaging of the heart and for real-time, intra-operative
monitoring of cardiovascular surgery as well as for
intra-procedural guidance of minimally invasive and percutaneous
cardiovascular interventions. For example, a TEE probe can
facilitate interventional and surgical procedures such as
trans-aortic valve replacement. During these procedures, the probe
is manually manipulated by a physician to provide a live image of
the anatomy. After the image is obtained, the physician can operate
the ultrasound machine to perform a number of operations or
function using the live image. For example, the physician may opt
to freeze an image, acquire an image, or perform color Doppler
imaging. These techniques can require the operator to remove their
hands from the probe to press buttons on the console, use a foot
pedal while holding the TEE probe, or alternatively rely on a
second operator to interact with the echocardiographic cart.
Removal of the hands or balancing on one leg often leads to
instability of the probe. As a consequence, the image of interest
can be lost prior to acquisition and digital storage. Relying on a
second operator (usually a cardiac sonographer) is expensive,
impractical (confined space in operating and procedural rooms), and
cumbersome (requiring constant dialogue to convey orders for image
acquisition).
[0003] In addition to a TEE probe, other devices are also routinely
manipulated by a physician. For example, a physician may also use
an endoscopic probe (both endoscopic ultrasound and other
endoscopic probe in a gastroenterology procedure). These probes are
typically expensive and often inadequate for the needs of a
physician and the needs of a patient. For example, the physician
may have difficulty in precisely manipulating a probe with hands
contaminated by a liquid or gel. Probes are discussed in the
following documents: Connectorized Probe for Transesophageal
Echocardiology, U.S. Pat. No. 8,070,685; Hand Controlled Scanning
Device U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,072; Probe for Transesophageal
Echocardiology with Ergonomic Controls, US2008/021439; Apparatus
and Method for Holding a Transesophageal Echocardiology Probe,
US2006/0241476.
Overview
[0004] The present subject matter includes an apparatus and method
to ensure better griping of a sensitive probe. One example includes
embedded buttons or a user interface on the probe handle to allow
for improved ergonomic control and remote functionality of systems
such as a diagnostic ultrasound machine during lengthy procedures.
An example allows the operator to enjoy full functionality without
removing their hands from the device in order to acquire an
image.
[0005] An example includes a TEE controller in the form of a sleeve
with embedded buttons. The sleeve device is configured to fit over
a TEE probe to enable better operation of the probe with associated
embedded buttons to allow for control of the diagnostic ultrasound
imaging system without the need of additional foot pedals and/or
presence of a second operator (cardiac sonographer).
[0006] This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject
matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to
provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention.
The detailed description is included to provide further information
about the present patent application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale,
like numerals may describe similar components in different views.
Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent
different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate
generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various
embodiments discussed in the present document.
[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a view of a system according to one
example.
[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates a view of an apparatus according to one
example.
[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates a view of an apparatus according to one
example.
[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates a view of an apparatus according to one
example.
[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates a view of an apparatus according to one
example.
[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates a view of an electrical schematic
according to one example.
[0014] FIG. 7 illustrates a view a block diagram for a method
according to one example.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a view of system 100 according to one
example. System 100 includes probe 18A coupled to gastroscope 22A
and terminating at transducer 24. Probe 18A is also coupled to
electric connector 14 by electric cord 16A. Connector 14 is
configured to electrically engage with corresponding connector 12
of console 10. In the example shown, console 10 includes wireless
transceiver 8. Wireless transceiver 8 can be configured to
communicate using, for example, radio frequency communication,
between console 10 and other devices. In one example, probe 18A
includes a corresponding wireless transceiver configured to
communicate with wireless transceiver 8. Probe 18A includes
user-operable control 20A.
[0016] System 100 is sometimes configured as a transesophagel
ultrasound system. A transesophagel ultrasound system can include
transesophageal echocardiography and endoscopic ultrasound. System
100 can be configured for monitoring and for therapy of the heart
and, as such, it can be referred to as a TEE system.
[0017] Probe 18A can also be referred to as a controller and can be
fitted with a number of user operable controls. In the example
shown, user-operable control 20A allows the user to physically
manipulate transducer 24. The user-operable controls can also
provide functionality that allows a user to capture a particular
anatomical image or deliver ultrasonic therapy to a targeted tissue
site.
[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a view of apparatus 200A according to one
example. Apparatus 200A, sometimes called a sleeve, is configured
to engage a user-operable device, such as probe 18A of FIG. 1.
Apparatus 200A includes shell portion 202B and shell portion 202C,
collectively referred to here as shell 202A, and shown generally in
relative alignment. Shell 202A includes aperture 210A and aperture
210B which provides clearance to allow a user to manipulate a
control of the user-operable device. For example, aperture 210A
allows access to user-operable control 20A.
[0019] In the example illustrated, apparatus 200A includes sleeve
controls 230A. Sleeve controls 230A includes cover plate 218 and
back plate 214 and includes three switches 220 aligned with three
transducers 216 arranged in a linear array.
[0020] Any number of switches 220 and transducers 216 can be
provided, and in the example shown, the three components
illustrated here can be associated with device functions known as
acquire, freeze, and color.
[0021] A switch 220 can include an electrical switch. A transducer
216 can include an optical lighter emitter (such as an LED), an
audible emitter (such as a speaker element), or a haptic transducer
(such as a piezoelectric element).
[0022] As indicated by dashed line 190, sleeve controls 230A are
affixed to shell 202A at track 212C of shell portion 202C. In this
example, track 212C is a linear rail structure affixed to shell
portion 202C. Sleeve controls 230A can be positioned at any
location along the length of track 212C. Track 212C can include a
flat or shaped linear member of a polymer or a metal or can include
an aperture, any of which is configured to engage with a
corresponding element of sleeve controls 230A. In addition, shell
portion 202B includes segments noted as track 212B and as track
212A, here visible along an interior surface. Sleeve controls 230A
can be affixed at a user-specified location along track 212A, track
212B, or track 212C.
[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates a view of system 200B according to one
example, and in this view, portions of the TEE system are visible,
including user-operable control 20B, electric cord 16B, and
gastroscope 22B. Shell 202A encircles the probe and in this view,
the individual shell portions are coupled together. In addition,
sleeve controls 230B, including three user operable switches, are
affixed on a portion of shell 202A.
[0024] Sleeve controls 230B are shown as a modular assembly and
includes antenna 237 configured for wireless communication. Sleeve
controls 230B are electrically coupled to electric connector 240A
and electrically connected to interface 250. Electric connector
240A includes multiple conductors and is configured to carry
electric power, data, or a control signal. Electrical connections
in this example can provide power, data, or signals between sleeve
controls 230B, interface 250, and a remote device (such as console
10 in FIG. 1).
[0025] In other examples, a wireless signal can be communicated
between any of interface 250, a remote device, and sleeve controls
230B. A wireless link can provide a communication channel coupled
to the user-selectable buttons of sleeve control 230B. The wireless
link, here shown as a radio antenna, can include a Bluetooth radio.
In one example, the wireless link includes an infrared
communication channel. In one example, sleeve control 230B is
coupled by a wired connection to an interface. Interface 250 allows
communicating with a remote device or remote system using a
proprietary protocol and enables a variety of user-selectable
functions. In one example, the sleeve controls 230B are coupled to
interface 250 that terminate in an electrical connector. The
connector enables plug-and-play operability with various
manufacturers. In one example, the connector allows the present
subject matter to communicate with a foot-operable pedal switch or
a foot-operable device.
[0026] FIG. 4 illustrates a view of apparatus 200C according to one
example. In the figure, apparatus 200C includes shell portion 202D
and shell portion 202E. Alignment pins at the edges of shell
portion 202E are configured to engage corresponding holes in the
edges of shell portion 202D. Aperture 210C and aperture 210B are
shown in both shell portion 202E and shell portion 202D.
User-operable control 20C of probe 18B is accessible via aperture
210C and user-operable controls 240A and 240B are accessible via
aperture 210B of shell portion 202D. Probe 18B is coupled to
electric cord 16C and coupled to gastroscope 22C.
[0027] In the example shown in FIG. 4, sleeve controls 230C, 230D,
and 230E are affixed to shell portion 202D at a position near an
end coupled to gastroscope 22C. In one example, sleeve controls
230C, 230D, and 230E are electrically coupled to a circuit embedded
in a wall segment of shell portion 202D. Sleeve controls 230C,
230D, and 230E are illustrated with tactile labels encoding buttons
1, 2, and 3. In addition, sleeve controls 230C, 230D and 230E can
be repositioned at other locations, such as the locations denoted
in the figure as ports 235A, 235B, and 235C. The example shown
includes the controls in a linear arrangement, however, other
control configurations are also contemplated.
[0028] FIG. 5 illustrates a view of apparatus 500 according to one
example. Apparatus 500 is configured in the form of a closed ring,
however, other examples are also contemplated, including a partial
ring. Apparatus 500 is sized and configured to encircle a portion
of a probe, such as probe 18A. Apparatus 500 includes sleeve
controls 535A, 535B, and 535C distributed on an exterior surface.
Apparatus 500 has a width dimension, here denoted as dimension D,
which allows unimpaired access to user-operable controls of probe
18A. Apparatus 500 can include an elastic portion that exerts a
compressive force on probe 18A, or a friction-fit, or an adjustable
clamp feature to securely maintain a fixed position on probe 18A.
In the example shown, portions of an exterior surface of apparatus
500 are textured as shown at portion 510. Textured portion 510 can
include raised or recessed features to provide a low-slip or
no-slip grip. In one example, the textured portion includes a
silicone-based or rubber-based material.
[0029] Any or each of the sleeve controls 535A, 535B, and 535C can
include an electric switch or other control. The functionality
ascribed to a user-operable control, such as control 535A can allow
a user to capture a particular image, for example.
[0030] FIG. 6 illustrates a view of electrical schematic 600
according to one example. The illustrated schematic 600 represents
an electrical circuit including switches corresponding to sleeve
control 535A, sleeve control 230E, sleeve control 230B, or sleeve
control 230A. In the example illustrated, switches S1, S2, and S3
are arranged in an array and are configured to control functions
such as `freeze,` `acquire,` and `color Doppler.` The example
functions noted here are associated with a typical TEE probe
however, other functions or more functions are also contemplated.
Connector 240B, here denoted also as U1, includes a serial port
connector in one example. Light emitting diodes X1, X2, X3, X4, X5,
and X6 are configured to illuminate switches, buttons, or legends
in a darkened operating room. In one example, the circuit includes
a transducer to provide feedback and assist with locating and
identifying switches or buttons in a dark, noisy, and busy
operating room environment. A transducer can include a light (such
as an LED), an audible device (such as a speaker), a haptic device
(such as a piezoelectric element), or other device configured to
provide a human-perceivable signal.
[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates a view a block diagram for method 700
according to one example. At 710, method 700 includes coupling a
switch to a housing. In an example illustrated in FIG. 4, sleeve
control 230E (includes a switch) that is coupled to shell portion
202D (housing). At 720, method 700 includes coupling a feedback
transducer. In an example illustrated in conjunction with
electrical schematic 600 of FIG. 6, light emitting diode X2
provides feedback corresponding to actuation of switch S1. At 730,
method 700 includes providing an electrical connection. Examples of
an electrical connection are shown at connector 240B (FIG. 6) and
240A (FIG. 3).
Various Notes & Examples
[0032] In one example of the present subject matter, a sleeve (or
shell) can be coupled to a TEE probe and is configured to provide
remote functionality of a remote device. The remote device can
include, for example, an ultrasound machine.
[0033] The sleeve, in one example, can include a molded device
having an inner (interior) surface configured to closely fit a
probe or other hand held device and having an outer (external)
surface that incorporates an ergonomic design. The outer surface
has shaped features to ergonomically fit into the user's hand. The
inner surface can be configured to closely conform to the TEE
probe.
[0034] In one example, the sleeve can include a stopper and barbell
shape on the outer surface of the sleeve in order to prevent
slipping from the user's hand.
[0035] The sleeve can have an outer surface that is textured to
increase grip and improve handling. In one example, the textured
surface can be molded during sleeve manufacturing. In one example,
the textured surface can be a sprayed texture or an adhesively
bonded gripping surface.
[0036] The sleeve outer surface can include a material selected to
increase grip and comfort in the hand. One example of a suitable
material is silicone. Silicone can provide tackiness, softness in
hand, and is easily molded. Another example of a suitable material
is a type of rubber or fabric that is selected to increase comfort,
grip, and durability.
[0037] In one example, the sleeve includes switches or buttons for
controlling functionality of a remote device or a remote system. An
example of a remote system can include an ultrasound system. The
remote device or system can be connected by a wired connection or
by a wireless connection. The functionality can include triggering
a device function such as acquire, freeze, color or can include a
custom or user-selectable function.
[0038] The buttons may be arranged on the outer surface or the
inner surface of the sleeve, or embedded within the material of the
sleeve. Additionally, the buttons may be arranged in a linear or
non-linear pattern on the sleeve. The arrangement of the plurality
of buttons may be repositionable to allow a user to tailor the
present subject matter for use with a left hand or use with a right
hand. A channel or track on the inner surface or on the external
surface of the sleeve can allow a button to be repositionable
within the channel. In one example, an external or elastic band on
the inner or outer surface of the sleeve allows the buttons to be
repositioned. The repositionable buttons, in one example, can be
actuated by finger pressure exerted on the external surface of the
sleeve. Additionally, the buttons may be configured to allow a user
to easily discern their location or function. For example, the
buttons may be arranged for ease of locating them in a dark, busy,
or noisy environment such as that they incorporate any one or
multiple of the following: sound, tactile, illumination, and/or
glow in the dark material to provide feedback to the user.
Electrical conductors coupled to a button (or a switch) can be
routed in a space underneath the sleeve and atop the probe, routed
in a channel on an inner surface of the sleeve, or routed within a
cavity embedded in a thickness of the sleeve.
[0039] A location of a repositionable button or switch can be
selected by a user. In one example, a switch is electrically
connected by a conductive wire with a remote device. The wire can
be configured with sufficient flexibility and length to allow a
user to reposition the switch from a first location (such as shown
at port 235A) to a second location (such as shown at port 235C).
This allows a user to reconfigure the switches or buttons on a
sleeve in order to achieve a customized arrangement of
user-operable controls. In one example, a switch or button is
carried on a track and a user can reposition a switch or button at
a user-selected track location. In one example, repositioning a
switch or button entails using a hand-operated tool. In one
example, repositioning a switch or button from one location to
another can be accomplished without using a tool.
[0040] An example of the present subject matter provides that a
customized set of controls are located near the TEE probe surface.
The controls can be positioned within reach of the operator's
fingers and operable without repositioning the hand. The controls
are configured to interface with an ultrasound machine. This allows
for a low-cost solution to add functionality of remote control of
the ultrasound imaging console without redesigning the probe
itself.
[0041] In one example, the present subject matter provides an
alternative to a foot pedal control. One example provides plug and
play functionality with multiple manufactures. This can include
serial and USB communication between an example of the present
subject matter and the ultrasound machine.
[0042] Communication may be either wired or wireless to interface
with the ultrasound machine. An example of a wireless technology is
Bluetooth but may be any of a number of wireless standards.
[0043] An example of a TEE probe includes a user-operable first
interface by which the operator can control a transducer coupled to
an end of a gastro scope. Controlling the transducer can include
manipulating the alignment or position of the probe head within the
patient. In a typical system, the ultrasound unit to which the
transducer is attached is controlled by a second interface that can
include a keyboard, a touchpad, or a foot pedal. This second
interface allows selection of a mode of operation, capturing an
image, and other functions associated with excitation and
processing of the data from the ultrasound unit. According to one
example of the present subject matter, the buttons associated with
the sleeve are configured to provide functionality corresponding to
the second interface. In one example, the buttons of the present
subject matter operate in parallel with the second interface. The
probe-mounted buttons that control the transducer remain fully
functional and accessible when the probe is equipped with the
sleeve of the present subject matter. For example, the
probe-mounted buttons can be accessible through cut-outs in the
wall of the sleeve.
[0044] The sleeve can be affixed to the probe in a manner that is
non-permanent, non-damaging, and easily removable. In this manner,
both the sleeve and TEE probe can be easily sanitized or
sterilized. The sleeve may attach through a variety of methods
including a single tubular piece, a slide-over elastomer design, a
single piece with an attachment slit, a two-piece clamshell design
with attachment members, multiple pieces with multiple attachment
members, or other attachment designs. The sleeve can be fabricated
of a rigid material or a flexible material.
[0045] The sleeve can be fabricated of a material that is selected
to facilitate ergonomic use, comfort in the hand, increase grip,
ease of cleaning, ease of attachment and removal, and/or remote
functionality with embedded buttons. To this end, materials
utilized in the sleeve may include an elastomer to allow single
piece design and slide over sleeves, hard plastic or metals with
textured surfaces to accommodate multi-piece design and/or
non-porous material for ease of cleaning and disinfection. Examples
of particular elastomers include silicone, urethane or other
elastomer.
[0046] An example of an electric circuit for the sleeve buttons is
shown in FIG. 6. An example circuit includes a serial port
connector, a three-button array (sometimes used for freeze, acquire
and color Doppler) and LEDs for illuminating buttons in a dark
operating room. The circuit can also include vibratory or sound
producing devices to provide feedback and assist with location of
buttons in dark, noisy and busy operating room environments.
[0047] In one example, the sleeve is configured for improved
ergonomics. This can include an exterior surface that is textured
to improve gripping by a user. In addition, this can include a
patterned texture on an exterior surface of the sleeve. The pattern
can be cut or molded in to the sleeve. In one example, the sleeve
is shaped to fit ergonomically in a hand (shape of hand). One
example includes a molded structure having a stopper or barbell
shape configured to prevent loss of grip.
[0048] The user operable switches can be in the form of a button.
The button can be configured for various functionality, including
acquire, color, and freeze. Other user-selected functions are also
contemplated. In addition, the buttons can be arranged in a linear
array or in a non-linear array at a selected location. Any number
of buttons or arrangements of buttons are contemplated. In one
example, the buttons can be repositionable on the sleeve. This
flexibility allows for left-handed or right-handed use. A channel
or track in the sleeve allows a button to be repositioned. In one
example, the buttons are disposed on an external surface or on an
elastic band that can rotate and secured about a longitudinal axis
of the probe.
[0049] In one example, a transducer provides feedback to a user
coincident with manipulation of a button or a state of the remote
device. One example includes an audible feedback transducer that is
configured to sound an audible tone in coordination with actuation
or manipulation of a button. The transducer can include a tactile
feedback device that provides a haptic response. The surface of the
button or switch can be textured or shaped to allow easy
identification. In one example, a light (such as an LED) provides
illumination of a button. In one example, a phosphorescence or
glow-in-the-dark material is provided with a switch or button to
facilitate identification and actuation.
[0050] In one example, the buttons of the sleeve are configured to
work in parallel with those controls provided on the remote device.
For example, the buttons of the sleeve can be interfaced in the
same manner as a foot pedal controller, that is, with plug and play
functionality. In one example, the buttons of the sleeve provide an
expanded set of functions from the sleeve relative to that
available from that of a control panel of the remote device. In one
example, the buttons interface with the proprietary connections of
a specific manufacturer. For example, the buttons can be
electrically wired to an ultrasonic machine using a serial input
interface or in communication to an ultrasonic machine using a
wireless protocol such as Bluetooth.
[0051] The sleeve can be configured for attachment in a
non-permanent manner and without damage to the probe, thus enabling
cleaning and removal. One example is configured in the form of a
tubular, one-piece device. One example is fabricated of an
elastomeric material and is configured to stretch over the probe
and grip the probe with an elastic compressive force. One example
includes a clamshell design that clamps into a closed position. One
example includes multiple attachment members. The sleeve can be
fabricated of a rigid plastic or of a metal. The sleeve can be
fabricated of a non-porous material for easy clean and
disinfection.
[0052] A sleeve can be configured with a plurality of buttons. The
buttons can be configured to perform a plurality of functions. The
buttons can be arranged in a linear or a non-linear fashion on the
surface of the sleeve. The buttons can be individually selected and
configured for interfacing with an ultrasound machine (for
example). The locations of the buttons on the sleeve can be such to
allow manipulation with either the left hand or the right hand.
[0053] A sleeve can be coupled to the sleeve by a connecting band.
In one example, the connecting band can encircle a portion of the
sleeve and allow the button assembly to be repositioned on an
external surface of the sleeve. The buttons can be configured for
ease of identification and actuation. In various examples, the
buttons can be used in a dark environment and are configured to
provide an audible feedback or a tactile feedback. In one example,
the buttons are illuminated by a light or an LED or are configured
to glow in the dark. In one example, a channel molded on an inner
surface of the sleeve allows the buttons to slide.
[0054] One example includes a sleeve fabricated of an elastomer and
configured to slide over the device (such as a TEE probe). The
sleeve can have a single piece-configuration with a longitudinal
slit that facilitates installation and removal without damage to
the TEE probe. A snap or other temporary fastener provides a
connection to securely attach the sleeve to the probe.
[0055] One example includes a multi-piece sleeve having multiple
attachment members. The configuration allows for easy removal and
cleaning without damaging the TEE probe. In one example, the sleeve
has two pieces. The two pieces are held in alignment by the pins
and corresponding holes disposed on mating surfaces of the
sleeve.
[0056] One example includes a two-piece clamshell design having
attachment members. The configuration allows easy removal and
cleaning without damaging the TEE probe. The clamshell element
includes a hinge or joint that allows the individual pieces to open
and close.
[0057] One example includes a sleeve having a singular tubular
configuration that slides over the TEE probe and thus allows easy
removal and cleaning without damaging the probe. In one example,
the sleeve is fabricated of an elastomer that allows single piece
slide-over installation and removal.
[0058] One example includes a rigid plastic or metal having a
textured surface to accommodate multiple pieces design. In
addition, the sleeve is fabricated of a non-porous material that
facilitates easy cleaning and disinfection. The cover elements are
fabricated of hard plastic and are configured to cover the button
and protect the LED lights and circuitry.
[0059] Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or
can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or
more of the other examples.
[0060] The above detailed description includes references to the
accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed
description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific
embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These
embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such
examples can include elements in addition to those shown or
described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples
in which only those elements shown or described are provided.
Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any
combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or
one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular
example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other
examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described
herein.
[0061] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document
and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this
document controls.
[0062] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is
common in patent documents, to include one or more than one,
independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or
"one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to
a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B
but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this
document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and
"wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and
"comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article,
composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in
addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still
deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the
following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc.
are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects.
[0063] Method examples described herein can be machine or
computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a
computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with
instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform
methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of
such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language
code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can
include computer readable instructions for performing various
methods. The code may form portions of computer program products.
Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or
more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible
computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other
times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can
include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic
disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital
video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random
access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the
like.
[0064] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and
not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one
or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each
other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary
skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract
is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of
the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding
that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning
of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed
[0065] Description, various features may be grouped together to
streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as
intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any
claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all
features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following
claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as
examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a
separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments
can be combined with each other in various combinations or
permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with
reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of
equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
* * * * *