Patent ID: 7193169
Filing Date: 2007-03-20
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An ergonomic footswitch comprising: a spring biased substantially planar tiltable treadle; said spring biased substantially planar tiltable treadle including a top portion constructed and arranged for contact with the bottom of an operator's foot and a bottom portion including an arcuate projection; a base or means for supporting said spring biased substantially planar tiltable treadle, said base or means for supporting said spring biased substantially planar tiltable treadle including an arcuate depression constructed and arrange to conform to said arcuate projection; said arcuate depression further having a slot formed therein; said arcuate depression being located on said base or means for supporting said spring biased substantially planar tiltable treadle; a friction reduction roller constructed and arranged for rolling contact support between said spring biased substantially planar tiltable treadle and said base; said friction reduction roller being positioned on said arcuate projection to enable pitch movement of said spring biased substantially planar treadle about the ankle axis of the operator; an angular position sensor constructed and arranged for providing an electrical signal indicative of the position of said spring biased substantially planar tiltable treadle.