Head-mounted pointing device

摘要

A head-mounted pointing device is disclosed, and can be used for example for surgical training. The pointing device includes a frame or harness assembly made from a circumferential headband and a cross strap that extends over the user's (i.e. trainer's) head. A laser pointer is mounted on one side of the circumferential headband, and a battery pack is provided to power the laser pointer. An user-operated pneumatically controlled switch is used to toggle the laser pointer. By moving the user's head and by activating the switch to engage the laser pointer, the trainer can point to a given target, such as material to be surgically excised from the patient during a surgical procedure.

主权项

1. A head-mounted pointing device for use by a trainer in a surgical procedure, comprising:
an adjustable circumferential headband; a cross strap extending between opposite sides of the circumferential headband; a laser pointer mounted on a right or left side of the circumferential headband wherein the laser pointer, when activated, provides a beam of light at a location dictated by the trainer; a battery pack for supplying power to the laser pointer when activated; and a first user-operated pneumatically controlled switch for activating the laser pointer, the first switch including a flexible straw connected to a pressure transducer, the first switch extending from the base of the laser pointer, and the first switch being configured to sense the difference in pressure between a high port and a low port, and switching between states when a differential pressure above a specified threshold level has been applied for a specified time period; and a mount on a front side of the circumferential headband, the mount having an arm and a grip; wherein by moving the trainer's head and engaging the first switch to activate the laser pointer, the trainer can point the beam of light at a designated target during the surgical procedure.