Apparatus and method for automated positioning of a device

Abstract

An apparatus and method for automatically positioning a device. A sensor detects the position of a user. In response to signals from the sensor, a processor determines an ideal position for use of the device. Next, coordinates for movement of an arm supporting the device and for positioning of the device at an achievable position nearest to the ideal position are calculated, taking into account restraints, such as limitation on the sensors, actuators and motors that move the device, and nearby obstacles such as walls. The arm adjusts to move the device to the achievable position. The device is repositioned at intervals as the user moves. Once no user is detected, then the device is moved to a default position.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for positioning a device, such as a display screen. [0002] Many devices, such as video monitors, instrument panels, protective barriers and display screens and other displays, are used in applications in which they must be kept in sight or remain conveniently accessible to a user. These devices may be used alone or as components of complex systems, such as medical imaging systems or machine tools. The user must often change position within a prescribed area while needing to keep the screen or other device in view. [0003] Video monitors, in particular, often swivel or are located on stands which swivel or pivot or may be moved to a position using a scissor, yoke or other style support. A problem is that the user or other person must, typically, physically move the monitor or monitors. There may be a risk of repetitive stress injury (RSI) if the motion is frequent or the monitor or assembly con...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012] In accordance with the invention, an achievable position nearest to an optimal position for use of a device is calculated, and, without effort or attention by a user, the device is positioned accordingly. Improved efficiency and ergonomics are provided because, among other reasons, user interaction is not required.

[0025] In one embodiment, the present invention is a system, which tracks the position of a user, particularly his or her face, neck and / or eye locations so that a screen automatically positions itself so that it is in front of a user, but giving the user the best possible view of a person or object, through the screen. The screen can be positioned to prevent, for example, the scatter of material such as blood or other fluids from a surgical procedure from reaching the operator. The screen may be a lens and thyroid protector, i.e. a plate of lead glass or other material, which absorbs radiation generated by a diagnostic or interventional x-ray procedure before it reaches the user. The screen position can be updated every N seconds, or by defining a boundary of motion before an update occurs.

Problems solved by technology

A problem is that the user or other person must, typically, physically move the monitor or monitors.

There may be a risk of repetitive stress injury (RSI) if the motion is frequent or the monitor or assembly containing one or more monitors, is heavy.

There is, in any case, a considerable loss of efficiency.

Manual positioning and repositioning of monitors or other devices at an optimal position requires time, which the user may not have, or which may disrupt the activity underway.

Not only may the inconvenience be considerable, but the risk to an operator, patient or others may be significant if, for example, both hands are required to position a screen, or if the operator must be in an inconvenient position or must divert his or her attention from other work, to move a video monitor or other device.

Thus, in many cases, a user's having to continually adjust the position of a device while using it, is not only inconvenient and inefficient, but can also pose a risk of injury to the user and others.

Straining for an improved view may cause RSI, but may also increase the time required for a medical procedure.

Clinical ultrasound, in particular, has ergonomic deficiencies.

This not only is an immense human toll, but it further stresses the limited supply of sonographers so that longer hours and fewer breaks are often reported.

Current systems for automatic positioning have limited capabilities, particularly as to limitations on how the device is supported, range of movement and ability to adjust position and take obstacles into account, and are not very effective in addressing these problems.

One challenge to such systems is that the ideal position for the monitor or other device is often unobtainable, because of obstacles or other inherent limitations on the field of movement or view.

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