Development of Mobile Phone Type Universal Human Interface Device for Medical Information System

Abstract

Mobile phone type human interface device is developed as a trial production. The proposed device is designed for all medical staff like a universal design. Shape of the device is similar to mobile phone. The device is constructed by some switches and PIC computer. PIC computer is used to translate key codes. The ID information is described in ROM in the device circuit. The device can be connected to PC by USB interface. In the device, several small switches are located under the ten-key for mobile phone. The operator is able to input some characters like as a mobile phone. The character input operation by this device is easy for all medical staff, since number of key of the device is less than 20. Key assignment of optional functions can be changed to similar to one’s private use mobile phone. Adaptation to several type of mobile phone is possible to adjust the control program of translation. Input data are translated to suitable type code that is similar keyboard code by PIC computer. The small sized PIC computer is put into the device. By using the device, user identification is completed when the USB connector plug in. The device designed for windows plug and play system. A system like HIS, can detect the operator name and properties using the ID information in the device. Weight of the new device is approx. 80 g. It is handy enough to use in medical environment. If the USB connector is prepared near the terminal, easy operation like a mobile phone is provided to all medical staff like nurse and doctor. It is easy to realize the system, since most of present HIS terminal have several USB connectors. Its cost can be estimated approx. 15 – 20 US $ or EUR.