Remote control and tactile feedback system for medical apparatus

摘要

A remote control and tactile feedback system for a medical apparatus, such as a patient ventilator that provides a signal having a property (62) indicative of a desired parameter, such as airway pressure or tidal volume. The system has a member (50) suitable for being received in the hand of a user, such as a clinician. A movable trigger (54) is suitable for being engaged by the fingers of the user. An electrical-mechanical, pneumatic, or hydraulic force-applying element is coupled to the trigger (54) for applying a force to the fingers of the user responsive to the parameter signal (62). A tactile sensation of the desired parameter is thus provided to the user. The trigger is coupled to a signal generator for providing a control signal (58) to the ventilator. An additional manual member (50a) is also provided, which is generally in parallel with member 50 as by a connection to the ventilator via a cable (56a). Such an arrangement may be used in a teaching setting. For example, an instructor may manipulate member 50 and a student holding member 50a will be able to also experience the tactile feedback resulting from the operation of the medical apparatus. Or, the student may operate member 50 and the instructor can monitor his or her actions with member 50a.