Abstract: A surgical instruments can be carried out via a foot switch by an operator or a surgeon. It is typical that during operation, multiple surgical instruments are each operated via one foot switch. As a result, the risk of an incorrect operation of the foot switches increases because the space available for the placement of the foot switches is limited. The invention provides a method and a device using which various functions in connection with surgical instruments can be carried out in a simple and safe manner. This is achieved in that at least one projector for generating a virtual control panel and at least one sensor for acquiring the virtual control panel are assigned to a foot switch.