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Affiniti 30
Ultrasound Systems
Objective of this project was to do an overall ergonomic study and analysis of an ultrasound machine used in hospitals.
What is an Ultrasound machine? What does it do?
An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to make an image of a person's internal body structures.
The machine sends out high-frequency sound waves, which reflect off body structures. A computer receives the waves and uses them to create a picture. These images help in diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions.
Reflected Wave
Transducer probe
Object
Sender/ Reciever
Original Wave
Ultrasound imaging process
Image Formation:
The machine processes the echoes to create real-time images on the screen.
Echo Detection:
The sound waves reflect off internal structures and return as echoes.
Sound Wave Transmission:
The transducer emits high-frequency sound waves into the body
Guided Procedures: Assisting in biopsies and fluid drainage.
Vascular Imaging: Measuring blood flow in vessels.
Musculoskeletal Imaging: Assessing joints and muscles.
Abdominal Imaging: Examining organs like the liver & kidneys.
Cardiology:
Visualizing the heart.
Pregnancy Monitoring: Checking fetal development.
Applications
Components, Parts and Functions
Specifications
System dimensions
Control panel
Width
Height
142.3-162.6 cm
83.6 kg
180 degrees
Weight
Degrees of movement
57.2 cm
98.3 cm
54.6 cm
20.3 cm
Depth
Monitor size
Height adjutment
Storage box
Storage box
Clearance for quick servicing
Machine clearance for
Features a Modular design for rapid repair
Touch Screen Layout
Transducers
Volume probe
Linear probe
Curved probe
Convex probe
Trans vaginal probe
Trans vaginal probe
Vascular access
High frequency (7.5Mhz+)
Low Depth
Large surface area
Abdominal USS
Low to Medium frequency (2-5 MHz)
High Depth
Large surface area
Phased array
Low frequencies (1-5 MHz)
High Depth
Small surface area
Task Analysis- Analysis of Control
Task Analysis- Analysis of Displays
Environment and
Observations
The equipment is mostly operated in a darker environment for better contrast while viewing the screen and operating the controls on the machine.
The imaging is better perceived in such environment as it avoids any distraction/ glare due to surrounding lights.
Using of the probe is usually done using the dominant hand of the user as this process requires more accuracy while observing the patient.
The doctor is supposed to do multitasking by precisely locate specific parts on the patient using right hand, operate the controls using left hand and simultaneously look at the screen for studying and capturing the images.
Critical Decisions
Opportunity/ Problem Areas
Suggestions
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Choosing the right probe according to the selected study option on the screen.
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Choosing the right probe to scan different body parts according to the depth and area covered by different probs.
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It is important to freeze the scanning image before taking measurements, otherwise the results won’t be accurate.
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It is important to save images after taking measurements and labelling them.
Wire management
Wire holders are available but still are not used as it it more convenient for the user/staff to just wrap it around the transducers while transporting. Chances of wires getting tangled is also observed.
Grouping of touchscreen layout
The current panel has random arrangement of presets. Users are trained to operate the machine so arranging the controls alphabetically or body region wise wont possibly create a significant difference.
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Display of controls selected and visual feedbacks on the screen would be helpful and satisfactory for the user because the user would be constantly focused on the screen.
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Auditory alarm feedback on choosing wrong probe with wrong selection of controls.
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Grouping of presets based on region wise scanning could be helpful for first time users.
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Cable wire management to be more efficient and less time consuming.
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