Home and community medicine sharing system

Abstract

The invention discloses a family and community medicine sharing system which comprises family medicine storage medicine boxes, community sharing medicine boxes, a sharing management system and a server. The family medicine storage medicine boxes and the community shared medicine boxes are respectively in communication connection with the shared management system and the server through a network to form a medicine management network; the household medicine storage box and the community shared medicine box respectively comprise at least two function storage areas used for being matched with different medicine storage requirements, each function storage area comprises at least two medicine storage partition bins, and each medicine storage partition bin is correspondingly provided with an independent double-lock-control bin door combined with an electromagnetic lock and a mechanical lock. A camera used for recording the medicine storing and taking process and a disinfection module used for disinfecting medicine are arranged in the community shared medicine chest. The sharing management system and the server are used for medicine information management, communication and maintenance. The invention aims to solve the problems of unscientific medicine storage, uneven medicine resource distribution and the like in the existing families and communities.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of home medical equipment and community drug management technology, and specifically relates to a system that integrates scientific storage of home medicines, medication guidance, and drug sharing within the community. Background Technology

[0002] There are many pressing issues in the areas of home medicine management and community medicine distribution. Specifically:

[0003] Firstly, the scientific approach to home medicine storage is severely lacking. According to relevant statistics, approximately 78.6% of Chinese households have a home medicine cabinet, but the current state of medicine management is worrying—30% to 40% of medicines are more than three years past their expiration date, and over 80% of households lack the habit of regularly cleaning their medicine cabinets. Ordinary households generally do not understand the correct methods and standard environmental requirements for medicine storage, often storing medicines haphazardly in drawers, cabinets, cardboard boxes, and other non-dedicated spaces. Some medicines requiring refrigeration or freezing are not even placed in the refrigerator, directly leading to spoilage and ineffectiveness. Furthermore, some temperature-controlled medicines are stored together with household food in the refrigerator, posing a risk of contamination.

[0004] Secondly, there are significant risks associated with medication safety. Most users are unaware of the correct usage of basic medications and have not developed the habit of checking expiration dates before taking any medication. This increases the risk of accidentally ingesting spoiled or expired medications, or taking medications that interact with each other, which can lead to serious adverse consequences. Furthermore, some users lack awareness of the importance of reading medication instructions, and some even continue to use medications after losing the instructions, further exacerbating the risks.

[0005] Third, the imbalance in the allocation of drug resources is significant. Some users hoard large quantities of drugs, resulting in idle and wasted drugs.

[0006] In existing technologies, ordinary medicine cabinets only have simple medicine storage functions and lack key functions such as medicine classification and storage, expiration reminders, and medication guidance. They also cannot realize the reasonable sharing of medicines within the community and cannot solve the core problems of unscientific home medicine storage, unsafe medication use, and uneven resource allocation. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive system that integrates scientific home medicine storage and community medicine sharing functions. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art described above, the purpose of this invention is to solve the problems of unscientific home medicine storage, unsafe medication use, uneven distribution of medicine resources, and hoarding and waste that exist in the prior art.

[0008] This application provides a home and community-based drug sharing system, including...

[0009] The system includes a home medicine storage box, a community shared medicine box, a shared management system, and a server; the home medicine storage box and the community shared medicine box are respectively connected to the shared management system and the server via a network to form a medicine management network.

[0010] The home medicine cabinet and the community shared medicine cabinet each include at least two functional storage areas to match different medicine storage needs. Each functional storage area includes at least two medicine storage compartments, and each medicine storage compartment is equipped with an independent, dual-locking door that combines electromagnetic locks and mechanical locks. The community shared medicine cabinet is equipped with a camera for recording the medicine storage and retrieval process and a disinfection module for medicine disinfection.

[0011] The shared management system is used to realize drug information entry, storage area recommendation, cabinet door control, expiration reminder and medication guidance. The server is used to store drug information, user information and drug sharing interaction data.

[0012] Specifically, the functional storage area includes a low-temperature storage area, a light-proof storage area, a dry storage area, and a regular storage area; the low-temperature storage area is equipped with a semiconductor refrigeration device, the light-proof storage area is made of light-shielding material, the dry storage area is equipped with a dehumidification unit, and the regular storage area may be equipped with a humidification unit and a dehumidification unit, or neither; all functional storage areas (except the low-temperature storage area) have a PTC heater and a semiconductor refrigeration chip to ensure that the temperature is maintained at a constant temperature.

[0013] Furthermore, the shared management system has a drug barcode scanning and input function, which is used to input drug information and upload the drug information to the server;

[0014] When a medicine is nearing its expiration date or has already expired, the server sends an expiration reminder notification to the shared management system. After receiving the notification, the shared management system controls the LED indicator light on the corresponding door to flash red. When the user clicks on the expiration reminder notification, the shared management system controls the corresponding door to open.

[0015] When a user selects the required medicine and sets the quantity to be taken through the shared management system, the shared management system controls the corresponding cabinet door to open and displays the instructions for use and contraindications of the medicine. When it detects that the user takes out medicines that are incompatible at the same time, the shared management system controls the corresponding cabinet door to lock and sends a warning notification to the user.

[0016] Furthermore, both the home medicine storage box and the community shared medicine box are equipped with module slots, which are used to insert automatic medicine dispensing modules or traditional Chinese medicine decoction modules, and the module slots are equipped with sealing caps when no modules are inserted.

[0017] The automatic medication dispensing module includes a prescription information receiving unit and a quantitative dispensing mechanism. The prescription information receiving unit is used to receive prescriptions sent by the shared management system. The quantitative dispensing mechanism sends medication reminders to users at regular intervals and automatically dispenses the corresponding dosage of medication according to the dispensing quantity and time set in the prescription.

[0018] The traditional Chinese medicine decoction module includes a water bath heating unit and a temperature control unit, which are used to heat the liquid traditional Chinese medicine in a water bath and control the heating temperature.

[0019] Specifically, the main body of the community shared medicine box is made of ABS material, and the electromagnetic lock is unlocked by authorization from the shared management system or by unlocking with a medicine retrieval verification code.

[0020] The lower level of the community shared medicine box integrates a storage area for basic community medical supplies and a self-service medical device placement area. The lower level of the community shared medicine box is equipped with an AED emergency treatment device.

[0021] Furthermore, the community shared medicine box is equipped with a small sealed disinfection chamber at both the dispensing port and the dispensing port. The sealed disinfection chamber contains ultraviolet sterilization components and ozone sterilization components. Medicines can only be placed into the storage compartment or taken out by the user after being disinfected in the sealed disinfection chamber. The sealed disinfection chamber is also equipped with a transparent protective window.

[0022] Furthermore, it also includes an automatic timed and quantitative dispensing module, which is communicatively connected to the shared management system and the server, and includes a quantitative dispensing mechanism and a control chip;

[0023] The quantitative dispensing mechanism includes a servo motor and a gear transmission structure. The servo motor controls the opening and closing angle of the independently divided bottom rotating wheel through the gear transmission structure to output a set dose of medicine to the dispensing port.

[0024] The control chip is used to receive the medication plan sent by the shared management system, and to remind the user and control the quantitative dispensing mechanism to take out the target drug at regular intervals and in specific quantities according to the medication plan.

[0025] Furthermore, each of the medicine storage compartments is configured as a pull-out, detachable storage drawer, and the detachable storage drawer has a built-in temperature and humidity sensor and a sealing ring.

[0026] Furthermore, each of the medicine storage compartments is equipped with a magnetic levitation device at its bottom, and the medicine storage compartment is suspended inside the main body of the medicine box by the magnetic levitation device, maintaining a small air gap with the bottom surface of the main body of the medicine box.

[0027] Specifically, the home medicine cabinet has built-in control hardware, which is an ESP32 chip. It is electrically connected to a transformer, an electromagnetic lock, a relay, an LED indicator, a semiconductor refrigeration device, and a water bath heating device to realize temperature and humidity control, door opening and closing control, and status indication.

[0028] The improvements in this application bring the following advantages: Compared to the limitations of traditional medicine cabinets that can only provide a single storage space, this invention divides the medicine cabinet into functional areas such as a low-temperature storage area (e.g., suitable for the 2-8℃ refrigeration requirements of biological agents), a light-protected storage area (e.g., meeting the storage needs of photosensitive drugs such as nitroglycerin), a dry storage area, and a conventional storage area. Combined with environmental control technologies such as semiconductor refrigeration, PTC heaters, and dehumidification / humidification, it can accurately match the storage requirements of different drugs, ensuring that the drug storage environment meets standards from a hardware perspective. Simultaneously, by linking drug information (e.g., including name, specifications, indications, storage conditions, etc.) entered through the user app with the server database, the system can automatically recommend suitable storage areas and record storage durations. It can also sort multiple batches of the same drug in the same compartment according to the "nearest expiration date priority" principle, guiding users to prioritize the use of drugs nearing their expiration date. This reduces the problems of drug deterioration and waste caused by improper storage environment or incorrect usage order from a management perspective. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a home and community drug sharing system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the community shared medicine box in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of one of the drug storage compartments in the embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a home medicine cabinet in an embodiment of this application.

[0034] The components include: 1. Main body of a home medicine box or community shared medicine box; 2. Functional storage area; 3. Medicine storage compartment; 4. Double-locked door; 5. Camera; 6. Disinfection module; 7. LED indicator; 8. Screen; 9. Speaker; 10. Traditional Chinese medicine decoction module; 11. Water bath heating unit; 12. Automatic timed and quantitative medicine dispensing module; and 13. Quantitative dispensing mechanism.

[0035] The objectives, features, and advantages of this invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0037] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0038] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the meaning of "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions; for example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0039] Please see Figure 1-4 The home and community drug sharing system disclosed in this application aims to achieve scientific storage of home medicines, ensure medication safety, and facilitate efficient sharing of medicines in the community. Its overall architecture is as follows: Figure 1As shown, it consists of four parts: a home medicine storage cabinet, a community shared medicine cabinet, a shared management system, and a server. Each component can communicate bidirectionally via WiFi or 4G / 5G cellular networks, forming a medicine management network covering one or more communities. The server can be a local server or a cloud server.

[0040] The system comprises several components: a home medicine cabinet (as the front-end storage unit) responsible for the categorization, storage, and secure management of users' daily medications; a community shared medicine cabinet (as a regional sharing hub) providing medication handover, disinfection, and basic medical support; a shared management system (as the user interaction portal) enabling functions such as medication information entry, retrieval control, sharing applications, and medication retrieval; and a cloud server (as the data center) storing all medication data, user information, and sharing interaction records, while also supporting access control, intelligent matching, and emergency dispatch. The cloud server can be an Alibaba Cloud server. The shared management system can be a mobile app supporting Android, iOS, and other systems. The medication storage and retrieval management module can utilize blockchain technology to record the user's identity, time, and medication information for each operation, forming an immutable traceability chain.

[0041] Preferred home medicine cabinet body ( Figure 4 Made of acrylic, this medicine cabinet measures 45cm x 30cm x 25cm and weighs approximately 3.5kg, making it suitable for home countertop placement. Formed using laser cutting technology, it offers light-blocking, moisture-proof, and heat-insulating properties. The door features a magnetic seal with silicone sealing rings embedded in the edges for enhanced moisture protection.

[0042] The interior of the home medicine cabinet is divided into multiple independent functional storage areas according to the needs of medicine storage, and each area is equipped with a dedicated environmental control component.

[0043] Preferably, the home medicine cabinet is divided into four functional zones: a low-temperature zone, a light-proof zone, a dry zone, and a regular zone. The low-temperature zone uses semiconductor refrigeration technology to maintain the temperature at 2-8℃, which is suitable for storing insulin, biological agents, and other medicines that require refrigeration. The light-proof zone uses opaque composite board and has an activated carbon adsorption layer inside. The dry zone maintains a relative humidity of 30-40% through molecular sieve desiccant. The regular zone is a room temperature storage area and can be equipped with an automatic humidity control device, which is suitable for most oral medicines.

[0044] Preferably, each functional area 2 includes 3-5 medicine storage compartments 3, with a volume ranging from 0.5-2L to meet the storage needs of medicines of different specifications. The compartments 3 are injection molded from ABS material, with built-in temperature and humidity sensors at the bottom and silicone sealing rings embedded at the edges. A magnetic levitation device is installed at the bottom of the compartment to maintain an air gap between the compartment and the bottom of the medicine box, reducing heat conduction and moisture contact. Specifically, the magnetic levitation device can consist of two permanent magnets and an electromagnetic levitation control module.

[0045] Inside compartment 3, an infrared photodiode sensor is included to detect medication storage and retrieval actions and trigger a recording process. An ESP32 core control board is installed inside the medicine cabinet, communicating with a server via a Wi-Fi module (for home medicine cabinets) or a 4G module (for community medicine cabinets) to achieve real-time data synchronization.

[0046] The home medicine cabinet has a built-in ESP32 control chip, whose pins are electrically connected to the following components:

[0047] The power module includes a transformer and a lithium battery. The lithium battery serves as an emergency power source and is equipped with a monocrystalline silicon solar charging panel, which supports continuous operation of the medicine box when fully charged.

[0048] The locking components include a single-tongue electromagnetic lock and a mechanical anti-misoperation sliding lock, forming a double-locking compartment door 4.

[0049] Status indicators, including dual-color LED indicator 7.

[0050] Environmental control, including relays for semiconductor refrigeration devices, relays for PTC heater devices, and relays for dehumidifiers.

[0051] The temperature and humidity control logic of the control chip is as follows: real-time collection of temperature and humidity data of each compartment and comparison with target parameters; if the temperature / humidity deviates from the threshold, the corresponding control component is activated; if it does not return to normal within a certain period of time, an early warning notification is pushed through the APP; if it does not return to normal within a certain period of time, an SMS reminder is sent; if it does not return to normal within a certain period of time, the user's reserved phone number is automatically dialed.

[0052] The medicine box has two or more module slots on the side, supporting the insertion of the following expansion modules. When not in use, the slots are equipped with ABS sealing caps, such as those with silicone sealing rings. The automatic medicine dispensing module, mainly made of ABS, contains multiple independent medicine storage compartments and is equipped with a servo motor to control the opening and closing of the wheels at the bottom of the medicine storage compartments. The dispensing quantity can be set according to the prescription. The traditional Chinese medicine decoction module 10 is made of stainless steel and contains multiple medicine liquid storage grooves. It has a built-in water bath heating unit 11 and an NTC temperature sensor to control the temperature within an appropriate range, preventing overheating of the medicine liquid.

[0053] All functional storage areas (except the cryogenic storage area) are equipped with PTC heaters and semiconductor cooling plates to maintain a constant temperature environment for drug storage.

[0054] The internal storage area 2 of the community shared medicine box is the same as that of a home medicine box, but there are more medicine compartments 3 to meet the needs of multiple people in the community to share medicine.

[0055] All compartments in the community shared medicine cabinets and home medicine cabinets are equipped with a dual locking system consisting of electromagnetic and mechanical locks. The electromagnetic locks are powered by 12V DC and have two unlocking methods: one is unlocking via an app, where users submit a medication retrieval request through the shared management system. After verification or approval, the app generates a temporary authorization command, which automatically unlocks the corresponding compartment when the user approaches the medicine cabinet; the other is unlocking via a verification code, where the server sends a 6-digit verification code to the user's mobile phone, and the user enters the code on the medicine cabinet's touchscreen. The mechanical lock is a backup device for emergencies, and the key can be kept by the community administrator (for community medicine cabinets) or the home user (for home medicine cabinets). The linkage mechanism of the dual locking system is as follows: when the electromagnetic lock is powered off, the mechanical lock automatically activates to ensure medication safety during power outages; when power is normal, the mechanical lock remains unlocked, and daily management is achieved solely through the electromagnetic lock.

[0056] Preferably, the main body of the community shared medicine box 1 is made of ABS engineering plastic injection molding, the box door adopts a double-layer structure, equipped with waterproof strips, and the size is 120cm×80cm×60cm. It is fixed to the wall of the community service center by expansion bolts, and has waterproof and dustproof performance, with a protection level of IP54, which is suitable for outdoor or semi-outdoor environments.

[0057] Each compartment of the community shared medicine box is equipped with an infrared camera on top, which supports video recording and motion detection. The camera's field of view covers the entire medicine storage and retrieval process, and the video data is stored locally for 30 days and backed up to the cloud.

[0058] The community shared medicine box features a disinfection module 6, equipped with a built-in deep ultraviolet LED disinfection lamp and ozone generator. These are installed in small, sealed disinfection chambers at the dispensing and retrieval ports to disinfect medicines during handling. Medicines must be disinfected before entering / retrieving from the compartments. The front of each disinfection chamber is equipped with a tempered glass protective window for easy observation of the disinfection process. Additionally, a deep ultraviolet LED disinfection lamp (280nm wavelength, 5W) is installed on the inner wall of the medicine storage compartment 3. This lamp automatically initiates a 15-minute disinfection program after the compartment door is closed, ensuring a sterile environment after each medicine storage or retrieval.

[0059] The disinfection process employs a three-stage model: the first stage is ultraviolet disinfection, lasting 5 minutes and covering the entire chamber space; the second stage is dry heat disinfection, with the temperature controlled at 70℃ for 10 minutes, specifically for heat-resistant drugs; the third stage is fresh air replacement, introducing clean air through a HEPA filter to reduce ozone residue. The entire disinfection process is completed automatically, with the user interface displaying the progress percentage in real time. Upon completion, the inner door's electromagnetic lock automatically unlocks. The system intelligently selects the disinfection mode based on the type of drug; for example, it automatically skips the dry heat stage for biological agents, performing only ultraviolet disinfection.

[0060] The preferred implementation method is three-stage disinfection (ultraviolet + dry heat + fresh air replacement), but a simplified solution of only ultraviolet + ozone can also be used.

[0061] In practical applications, when users store medications, they must first place the medications in the sealed disinfection chamber and close the outer door. The system automatically identifies the type of medication and initiates the corresponding disinfection program. After disinfection is complete, the inner door unlocks, and the user can open the electromagnetic lock of the corresponding compartment using either of the two methods described above. The medication retrieval process is the opposite; after being taken out of the functional area, the medications must pass through the disinfection chamber again to ensure that the medications the user comes into contact with are in a safe state.

[0062] The lower level of the community shared medicine box is divided into multiple independent areas, integrating community medical support components, such as a basic medical supplies area, a self-service medical device area, and an AED emergency area.

[0063] The basic medical supplies area stores sterile gauze, iodine wipes, and adhesive bandages in transparent, sealed boxes equipped with electronic locks; items can be retrieved by scanning a code. The self-service medical device area houses electronic blood pressure monitors and blood glucose meters. These devices connect to the shared management system via Bluetooth, and measurement data is automatically synchronized to the user's health record. The AED emergency area is for configuring AED devices. A touchscreen and speaker next to the device play real-time AED operation tutorials (including text, animation, and audio). Activating the AED automatically dials 120 (emergency services) and contacts the nearest community hospital medical staff via an app, supporting video calls (via the built-in camera and microphone in the medicine box). Medical staff can remotely guide on-site personnel in providing first aid.

[0064] All the electronic components mentioned above are designed to be medical-grade waterproof and can withstand wiping and disinfection with 75% alcohol.

[0065] The shared management system adopts a B / S architecture, with the front end developed based on WeChat Mini Programs, the back end using the Spring Boot framework, the programming language being Java, and the database using MySQL to store drug information and user data.

[0066] Secondly, this shared management system includes a "Drug Safety Rating" module, which automatically generates a safety coefficient based on parameters such as drug type, storage conditions, and disinfection methods for user reference. The negotiation module adds a real-name authentication and credit score system. Users earn points for each compliant operation, and deduct points for violations (such as overdue returns or damaged drugs). Users with fewer than a certain number of points will have their access restricted.

[0067] The shared management system is implemented via a mobile app, and its core functions include drug management, shared interaction, and medication guidance. Specific functions are as follows:

[0068] Users can click the "Enter Medicine" function in the APP, scan the medicine barcode with their phone's built-in camera, and the APP will automatically obtain the basic information of the medicine (name, main ingredients, properties, specifications, indications) from the database of the National Medical Products Administration. After users fill in the usage and dosage, adverse reactions, precautions, contraindications, entry time and expiration date, they can click "Submit" to upload it to the server.

[0069] Based on the drug storage requirements (such as "refrigerated" and "light-protected"), the server automatically matches the medicine box to functional storage area 2 and pushes the recommended result to the APP (such as "recommended low-temperature storage area 3 compartment"). After the user confirms, the APP sends a command to unlock the corresponding compartment door. If multiple identical drugs with the same production date are stored in the same compartment, the APP sorts them according to the "nearest expiration date priority" principle and displays "prioritize drugs expiring in December 2024" on the LCD screen at the front of the compartment.

[0070] The server monitors the expiration date of medications in real time and sends a reminder notification to the app 72 hours before the expiration date (including the medication name and expiration time). At the same time, it controls the corresponding compartment's LED indicator 7 to flash red. When the user clicks the notification, the app sends an unlock command, making it convenient for the user to replace the medication.

[0071] On the "Medication Pickup" page of the app, users select the target medication, enter the quantity, and the app unlocks the corresponding compartment door, displaying the medication instructions (including dosage and contraindications). If the system detects that the user is picking up medications that are incompatible with each other, the app will refuse to unlock the compartment door and display a warning pop-up: "Using these two medications together may increase the risk of bleeding. It is recommended to consult a doctor before picking them up," while also providing the contact information of the community doctor.

[0072] Users click "Share Medicines," upload medicine information and relevant vouchers (prescription drugs require a photo / PDF of the hospital prescription), and after submission, the community hospital's licensed physician reviews it in the APP backend (review time ≤ 2 hours). Once approved, the medicine information enters the sharing pool.

[0073] Users post their medication needs. If it is a prescription drug, the user needs to upload a photo / PDF of the hospital prescription. After the hospital's licensed physician approves the request, the server will match the user's location with shared medicines in nearby community medicine cabinets and push the matching results (including the location of the medicine cabinet, the expiration date of the medicine, and the method of picking up the medicine). After the user confirms, the server generates a medicine collection verification code, which the user can use to pick up the medicine from the community medicine cabinet.

[0074] This system uses Alibaba Cloud servers and includes the following functions:

[0075] Stores drug information (including name, specifications, expiration date, storage requirements, etc.), user information (including name, ID number, contact information, health record), and shared interactive data (including shared posting records, medication collection records, camera image paths, disinfection records, etc.).

[0076] Daily scheduled automatic full backups are performed, and backup files are stored on Alibaba Cloud and retained for multiple months; real-time incremental backups are also provided to prevent data loss.

[0077] Based on user geolocation and medication needs, distance-first and expiration-first algorithms are used to recommend available medications in the nearest community medicine cabinet, and the matching results are sorted by distance.

[0078] In special scenarios, the server automatically counts the drug inventory in the area (including home medicine cabinets and community shared medicine cabinets). Administrators can set priority allocation rules in the background, such as prioritizing the requisition of excess drugs in home medicine cabinets and prioritizing the allocation of antipyretics to children and the elderly. The system will push drug collection notifications to the corresponding users according to the rules and schedule the unlocking of community medicine cabinets.

[0079] The medicine box features standardized module slots on the back and sides, employing a 7-pin interface design that includes power, data communication, and control signal lines. The slots are spaced 10cm apart and support hot-swapping. Each slot is equipped with a mechanical positioning device and an electronic identification chip, allowing the system to automatically detect the type and specifications of the connected module without manual configuration. Home medicine boxes have two expansion slots, while community shared medicine boxes have four to six slots to meet different expansion needs.

[0080] The automatic timed and dispensing module 12, as an independent expansion device, can be connected to a home medicine cabinet or a community shared medicine cabinet via a module slot. The main body is made of ABS material and includes a medication storage unit, a dispensing mechanism 13, and a control chip. The medication storage unit comprises multiple independent compartments, each equipped with a screw-type sealing cap, suitable for solid medications such as tablets and capsules. Each compartment has an erasable label. The dispensing mechanism 13 consists of a servo motor, a gear transmission structure, and a rotating wheel at the bottom of each compartment. The rotating wheel has a U-shaped dispensing port, and the servo motor controls the opening and closing angle of the wheel via gear transmission to dispense the correct amount of medication. The control chip connects to the shared management system via Bluetooth. Family members can enter the elderly person's medication information on the "Medication Plan" page of the APP, and the server will synchronize the plan to the control chip. When the preset time arrives, the control chip triggers a reminder: the APP pushes a pop-up notification and the automatic medication dispensing module 12 buzzers, and the green LED indicator 7 at the dispensing port flashes. After the reminder is triggered, the servo motor rotates at the set angle, and the medication falls from the dispensing port of the rotating wheel into the dispensing port.

[0081] The herbal decoction module 10 is another important expansion option, measuring 25cm × 20cm × 18cm. It features a split design, including a water bath heating unit 11 and a storage unit. The water bath heating unit 11 is based on the water bath heating principle, with a water bath capacity of 1L, a heating power of 300W, a temperature adjustment range of 30-60℃, and an accuracy of ±1℃. An internal mesh frame structure is incorporated to hold the herbal decoction packaging, preventing direct contact with the heating element and thus avoiding localized overheating.

[0082] A liquid level sensor monitors the water level in real time, automatically cutting off power and triggering an alarm when the level falls below a safe threshold. A condenser unit recovers water vapor, preventing condensate from contaminating the inside of the medicine box. The storage unit includes three independent drawers for storing Chinese herbal medicine slices or pre-packaged decoctions; each drawer is equipped with a humidity sensor (maintaining a RH range of 40-60%) and a small dehumidifier. The module supports a scheduled heating function; users can set the usage time via a mini-program, and the system will start the heating program 15 minutes in advance to ensure a suitable temperature upon retrieval.

[0083] Other optional expansion modules include: a large-capacity refrigeration module (50L capacity, temperature range 2-8℃), an intelligent weighing module (0.1g accuracy, for measuring bulk medicines), and an emergency medicine module (including a first-aid kit and automatic SOS function). All expansion modules use a unified communication protocol and can seamlessly interface with the shared management system, with data synchronized to the server in real time.

[0084] When an expansion module is installed, the system automatically updates the user interface, adding corresponding operation options. Taking the traditional Chinese medicine heating module as an example, after connection, the information entry module will add a "Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparations" category, and the detection and reminder module will add a shelf-life warning function for the medicine liquid. When a module malfunctions, the system automatically identifies the problem type and provides repair guidance, supporting the replacement of individual modules without affecting the main medicine box function.

[0085] The process for storing and replacing expired medications at home is as follows: User A scans the barcode of "Cold Relief Granules" via the APP, enters the expiration date, and submits the information. The server then recommends storage compartment 3. The APP sends an unlock command, unlocking the electromagnetic lock of the regular storage compartment. The user manually slides the mechanical lock to open the compartment door and place the medication inside. When the medication is nearing its expiration date, the APP sends an expiration reminder, and the corresponding compartment's LED indicator 7 flashes red. User A clicks the reminder, the compartment door unlocks, the expired medication is removed, and a new medication is replaced. The APP automatically updates the medication's expiration date information.

[0086] The community medicine sharing process is as follows: User B needs ibuprofen due to fever (hospital prescription uploaded, doctor approved), and posts a request on the APP: "Urgently need 1 box of ibuprofen for adult fever reduction"; The server matches ibuprofen shared by User A (hospital prescription uploaded, doctor approved, stored in compartment 1 of the regular area of ​​Community Medicine Box A), and pushes the matching result to User B; User B confirms receipt, the server generates a medication verification code, and sends it to User B's mobile phone; User B goes to Community Medicine Box A, enters the verification code on the touchscreen, and the electromagnetic lock of compartment 1 in the regular area unlocks; User B slides the mechanical lock to open the compartment door, takes out the ibuprofen (sterilized in a sealed disinfection chamber before taking out the medication), and Camera 5 records the medication taking process. After taking out the medication, the APP pushes a "Medication has been taken" notification to User A, and the server updates the shared medication status to "Taken".

[0087] Compared to the limitations of traditional medicine cabinets that only provide a single storage space, this invention precisely divides the storage into functional areas such as a low-temperature storage area, a light-protected storage area, a dry storage area, and a regular storage area. Combined with environmental control technologies such as semiconductor refrigeration, PTC heaters, and dehumidification / humidification, it can accurately match the storage requirements of different medicines, ensuring that the medicine storage environment meets standards from a hardware perspective. Simultaneously, by linking medicine information entered through the user app with the server database, the system can automatically recommend suitable storage areas and record storage durations. It can also sort multiple batches of the same medicine within the same compartment according to the "nearest expiration date priority" principle, guiding users to prioritize the use of medicines nearing their expiration date. This reduces the problems of medicine deterioration and waste caused by improper storage environment or incorrect usage order from a management perspective. Furthermore, the system has a multi-level early warning mechanism for abnormal temperature and humidity—including app reminders, SMS messages, and phone calls to users—further ensuring a stable storage environment.

[0088] To address the issues of insufficient medication guidance and high risk of expired medications in existing technologies, this invention establishes a closed-loop management system for medication information. During the medication entry phase, the app simultaneously collects complete medication instructions (including dosage, contraindications, and adverse reactions). During the medication dispensing phase, the app automatically displays the corresponding medication instructions, ensuring users understand the correct usage guidelines. The system monitors medication expiration dates in real time. When a medication expires, a notification is sent via the app, and the corresponding LED indicator 7 on the door flashes red. Clicking the notification unlocks the door and updates the medication, reducing the risk of accidental ingestion of expired medications. More importantly, the system features a drug interaction screening function. Before unlocking, the system checks the medication dispensing request. If it detects that the user is simultaneously retrieving medications with incompatible combinations, it will refuse to unlock the door and issue a warning, technically eliminating the risk of accidental ingestion, especially improving the safety of independent medication use for the elderly and patients with chronic diseases.

[0089] Unlike traditional community sharing models that suffer from opaque information and low circulation efficiency, this invention constructs a multi-layered network architecture to build a drug sharing platform covering communities and even across communities. Users can post information about their idle medicines via an app (prescription drugs require uploading a hospital prescription and approval by a doctor in the background). The system intelligently matches medication needs based on geographical location, and after reaching a sharing agreement, the handover is completed through the encrypted compartments of community medicine boxes. The entire process is traceable and auditable (community shared medicine boxes are equipped with cameras to record the storage and retrieval process). In special scenarios such as public health emergencies, the system can quickly count the drug inventory in the area and prioritize the allocation of scarce medicines to those in urgent need through drone delivery and cross-community dispatch, effectively alleviating the problem of resource imbalance.

[0090] This invention breaks through the existing positioning of community medicine boxes as merely storage containers, deeply integrating shared medicine boxes with basic medical functions: the lower layer of the community shared medicine box integrates basic medical supplies such as gauze and iodine, self-service medical devices such as blood pressure monitors and blood glucose meters, and emergency treatment equipment such as AEDs, providing residents with full-scenario support. The data from the self-service medical devices can be automatically synchronized to the user's health record, providing continuous data support for subsequent diagnosis and treatment; the operation tutorials for AEDs and other emergency equipment are played in real time on screen 8. When a resident suffers a sudden illness, screen 8 can automatically connect to the hospital medical staff corresponding to the ambulance, guiding nearby residents to use the first aid tools to complete initial emergency rescue through video call. This avoids delays in optimal treatment due to waiting for an ambulance and helps medical staff understand the patient's condition in advance, laying the foundation for rapid treatment upon arrival at the hospital. In addition, the system can be optionally equipped with an automatic medication dispensing module 12 and a traditional Chinese medicine decoction module 10 to further meet the personalized medical needs of different users, providing more convenient health management tools for the elderly and those with mobility impairments.

[0091] Furthermore, this invention focuses on user experience, optimizing the compartment structure and medication dispensing method to make the system easier for elderly, disabled, and other special groups to use. The system retains its core functional modules, with major improvements in mechanical structure and interaction design.

[0092] The compartments feature a full drawer design, with external dimensions of 20cm × 15cm × 8cm and an internal volume of 2L. They are injection molded from high-strength ABS material and weigh only 200g. An embedded handle, 8cm high and 5cm wide, is installed at the front of the drawer, with a non-slip textured surface for easy grip. Ball bearing slides are located on both sides of the drawer, with a pulling resistance of ≤5N, ensuring easy opening. Each drawer has a 2.4-inch LCD display on the front, showing key information such as the medicine name, expiration date, and remaining quantity. The font size is adjustable in three levels (maximum 24pt).

[0093] The magnetic levitation device in the drawer compartment is the core innovation of this embodiment, using electromagnetic levitation technology to replace traditional slide rails for supporting the drawer. The device includes a permanent magnet strip at the bottom of the drawer and an electromagnetic guide rail inside the medicine box. When energized, it generates a repulsive force that levitates the drawer, with a levitation height of approximately 1mm. The magnetic levitation system incorporates a Hall sensor that can detect the drawer's position in real time. When abnormal resistance is detected, it automatically reduces the levitation force to prevent jamming. This design reduces the drawer's pulling resistance to ≤2N, more than 60% less than traditional slide rails, making it particularly suitable for users with weaker hand strength.

[0094] Each drawer is equipped with an independent status indicator light: green indicates normal use, yellow indicates the medicine is about to expire (within 30 days), and red indicates it has expired or the storage environment is abnormal. The drawer locking system adds an emergency open button to the traditional double locking system, controlled by the community administrator, allowing for one-button opening of all drawers in emergencies.

[0095] The medication retrieval assistance system includes voice navigation and light guidance: After the user selects the target medication via a mini-program or the medicine box control panel, the indicator light of the corresponding drawer flashes, and the voice module simultaneously announces the location information (such as "the third drawer in the second row from the left"). Inside the medicine box, directional LED indicators are installed above each drawer, automatically illuminating the corresponding area when medication is retrieved, providing an illumination of 300 lux for easy viewing of medication details.

[0096] For visually impaired users, the system adds Braille markings and voice interaction: Braille markings are engraved near the drawer handles, and the medicine box is equipped with a microphone and speaker to support voice command control (such as "find fever reducer"). The voice recognition accuracy rate is over 95%, and it supports Mandarin Chinese and three major dialects.

[0097] The replaceable compartment design facilitates maintenance and cleaning: each drawer is connected to the suspension device via a snap-fit ​​structure, allowing for tool-free disassembly and replacement in ≤30 seconds. The drawer interior features removable dividers, allowing users to adjust the internal space according to the size of the medicines. The rounded edges of the dividers prevent scratching the medicine packaging.

[0098] The user interface of the shared management system has been redesigned for age-friendliness: a high-contrast color scheme has been adopted, operation steps have been simplified, and voice prompts have been added. The information viewing module supports categorization by drug usage (e.g., "antihypertensive drugs," "cold medicine"), reduces the use of technical terms, and highlights important information with icons. The negotiation module adds a voice message to text conversion function to facilitate use by users with hearing impairments.

[0099] The detection and reminder module adds a medication reminder function, allowing users to set daily medication times. The system provides dual reminders via the medicine cabinet speaker and SMS. For medications requiring special administration methods, the system can play voice instructions (such as "This product should be taken after meals, 2 tablets each time"), with the instructions recorded by professional pharmacists.

[0100] This embodiment features a specially designed accessible service station in the community pilot program, equipped with a larger 10.1-inch control panel and a height-adjustable tabletop (adjustable range 0.7-1.2m) for easy access by wheelchair users. The medicine box is fitted with shock-absorbing feet to ensure stable placement on uneven surfaces, and the drawer has a cushioning device when closed to prevent finger pinching.

[0101] Through ergonomic optimization, this embodiment significantly improves the system's usability and security, enabling the medication sharing service to reach a wider population. The combination of a magnetic levitation drawer and an intelligent navigation system solves the problem of difficulty in retrieving medication from traditional medicine boxes while maintaining intuitive operation, making it particularly suitable for promotion and application in aging communities.

[0102] In a preferred embodiment, the algorithm of the system can be upgraded accordingly, and management efficiency and service quality can be improved through technologies such as the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence, so as to build a smart medical ecosystem with a full chain of "prevention-sharing-traceability".

[0103] The system hardware has been upgraded with intelligent features: the medicine box control center has been upgraded to an STM32H743 microprocessor, increasing the processing speed by 3 times and supporting more complex intelligent algorithms. The sensor system has been expanded into a multi-parameter monitoring network, including: a non-contact temperature sensor (infrared thermometry) (accuracy ±0.3℃), a laser dust sensor (detecting PM2.5), a gas sensor (detecting volatile organic compounds), and a vibration sensor (monitoring abnormal movement), with a sampling frequency of 1Hz to ensure real-time monitoring of environmental conditions.

[0104] The shared management system incorporates edge computing nodes to enable local data preprocessing and rapid response in community medicine cabinets. Core algorithms include: a medicine shelf-life prediction model (based on storage environment and initial expiration date), a demand prediction model (combining seasonal changes and historical data), and an inventory optimization model (dynamically adjusting medicine allocation across functional areas). The edge nodes and cloud servers employ a hybrid architecture, handling 90% of routine requests locally while uploading only critical data and anomalies to the cloud, thus reducing network bandwidth requirements.

[0105] The detection and alert module has been upgraded to an intelligent early warning system, employing machine learning algorithms to analyze historical data and identify early signs of drug deterioration. For example, the system can predict the risk of drug deliquescence based on humidity change curves and issue an early warning 7 days in advance, which is more proactive than traditional threshold-based alerts. Early warning information is tiered and pushed to different roles: minor alerts only notify administrators, important alerts also notify community doctors, and emergency alerts initiate emergency response procedures and contact the nearest medical institution.

[0106] The drug search module integrates AI-assisted functions, including intelligent recommendation (automatically matching the most suitable shared drugs based on user needs), chatbot (answering common questions, such as contraindications and storage methods), and translation function (supporting real-time translation in 6 languages).

[0107] When sharing occurs, the system can automatically generate a sharing agreement, which clearly defines the borrowing period, usage rules, division of responsibilities, etc., and supports electronic signature confirmation.

[0108] The medication storage and retrieval module utilizes computer vision technology for automatic identification. The medicine box has a built-in high-definition camera and AI recognition algorithm, capable of automatically recognizing the packaging of 800 common medications with an accuracy rate exceeding 98%. Users do not need to manually enter information when storing medications; the system automatically completes the information entry through image recognition, simultaneously verifying the authenticity and expiration date of the medications. When retrieving medications, the system compares the user's identity with the reservation information, and opens the corresponding compartment after facial recognition confirmation. The entire process is contactless, making it more hygienic and safer.

[0109] The system seamlessly integrates with community healthcare databases, accessing users' basic health information (such as allergy history and chronic disease status). When it detects a user attempting to obtain prohibited medications, the system automatically alerts and suggests consulting a doctor. Simultaneously, shared records can be synchronized to individual health records as medication reference data to assist doctors in diagnosis.

[0110] The intelligent dispatch system optimizes drug distribution efficiency, displays the real-time inventory distribution of medicine boxes in each community via GIS maps, and automatically sends a request for medicines to nearby households when a shortage occurs in a certain area, offering a points reward. The system can also predict seasonal disease trends and stockpile relevant medicines in advance, such as increasing the inventory of antipyretics during flu season.

[0111] In terms of security management, the system employs blockchain technology to construct a distributed ledger system, ensuring that all drug circulation records are tamper-proof and guaranteeing traceability reliability. Encrypted communication uses the national standard SM4 algorithm, and user privacy data is stored locally, accessible only with authorization. Regular automatic security audits detect potential vulnerabilities and generate remediation suggestions. It should be noted that the above-mentioned improved functions are preferred or optional embodiments of the present invention and are not necessary conditions for realizing the present invention.

[0112] Typical application scenarios of this invention include: elderly people living alone can obtain commonly used medicines through voice control, and the system will notify their children of their medication status at the same time; patients with chronic diseases will receive regular reminders to refill their medications, and the system will automatically recommend nearby shared resources; in the event of a public health emergency in the community, the emergency command center can use the system to monitor the inventory of epidemic prevention materials in each medicine box in real time and make unified allocations.

[0113] Through comprehensive intelligent transformation, this embodiment upgrades traditional drug sharing into a smart healthcare service platform. This not only improves drug utilization efficiency but also constructs a community health protection network through data analysis and intelligent early warning, providing residents with safer, more convenient, and personalized medical services. The system's scalable design allows it to continuously upgrade with technological advancements, adapting to the future development needs of smart communities.

[0114] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the patent. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the specification and drawings of the present invention under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the scope of patent protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A home and community medicine sharing system, comprising a home medicine storage box, a community shared medicine box, a sharing management system, and a server; wherein the home medicine storage box and the community shared medicine box are respectively connected to the sharing management system and the server via a network to form a medicine management network; The home medicine cabinet and the community shared medicine cabinet each include at least two functional storage areas to match different medicine storage needs. Each functional storage area includes at least two medicine storage compartments, and each medicine storage compartment is equipped with an independent, dual-locking door that combines electromagnetic locks and mechanical locks. The community shared medicine cabinet is equipped with a camera for recording the medicine storage and retrieval process and a disinfection module for medicine disinfection. The shared management system is used to realize drug information entry, storage area recommendation, cabinet door control, expiration reminder and medication guidance. The server is used to store drug information, user information and drug sharing interaction data.

2. The home and community drug sharing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The functional storage area includes a low-temperature storage area, a light-proof storage area, a dry storage area, and a regular storage area; the low-temperature storage area is equipped with a semiconductor refrigeration device, the light-proof storage area is made of light-shielding material, the dry storage area is equipped with a dehumidification unit, and the regular storage area can be optionally equipped with a humidification unit and a dehumidification unit; all functional storage areas except the low-temperature storage area are equipped with a PTC heater and a semiconductor refrigeration chip.

3. A home and community drug sharing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shared management system has a drug barcode scanning and input function, which is used to input drug information and upload the drug information to the server; When a medicine is nearing its expiration date or has already expired, the server sends an expiration reminder notification to the shared management system. After receiving the notification, the shared management system controls the LED indicator light on the corresponding door to flash red. When the user clicks on the expiration reminder notification, the shared management system controls the corresponding door to open. When a user selects the required medicine and sets the quantity to be taken through the shared management system, the shared management system controls the corresponding cabinet door to open and displays the instructions for use and contraindications of the medicine. The system checks the medicine request before unlocking, and if any incompatibilities are detected, it refuses to unlock and issues a warning.

4. A home and community drug sharing system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Both the home medicine storage box and the community shared medicine box are equipped with module slots. The module slots are used to insert automatic medicine dispensing modules or traditional Chinese medicine decoction modules, and the module slots are equipped with sealing caps when no modules are inserted. The automatic medication dispensing module includes a prescription information receiving unit and a quantitative dispensing mechanism. The prescription information receiving unit is used to receive prescriptions sent by the shared management system. The quantitative dispensing mechanism sends medication reminders to users at regular intervals and automatically dispenses the corresponding dosage of medication according to the dispensing quantity and time set in the prescription. The traditional Chinese medicine decoction module includes a water bath heating unit and a temperature control unit, which are used to heat the liquid traditional Chinese medicine in a water bath and control the heating temperature.

5. A home and community drug sharing system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body of the community shared medicine box is made of ABS material, and the main body of the home medicine box is made of acrylic sheet laser-cut. The electromagnetic lock can be unlocked by authorization from the shared management system or by unlocking with a medicine retrieval verification code. The lower level of the community shared medicine box integrates a storage area for basic community medical supplies and a self-service medical device placement area. The lower level of the community shared medicine box is equipped with an AED emergency treatment device.

6. A home and community drug sharing system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The community shared medicine box is equipped with a small sealed disinfection chamber at both the dispensing and dispensing ports. The sealed disinfection chamber contains ultraviolet sterilization components and ozone sterilization components. Medicines can only be placed in the storage compartment or taken out by the user after being disinfected in the sealed disinfection chamber. The sealed disinfection chamber is also equipped with a transparent protective window.

7. A home and community drug sharing system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, It also includes an automatic timed and quantitative dispensing module, which is connected to the shared management system and server, and includes a quantitative dispensing mechanism and a control chip. The quantitative dispensing mechanism includes a servo motor and a gear transmission structure. The servo motor controls the opening and closing angle of the independently divided bottom rotating wheel through the gear transmission structure to output a set dose of medicine to the dispensing port. The control chip is used to receive the medication plan sent by the shared management system, and to remind the user and control the quantitative dispensing mechanism to take out the target drug at regular intervals and in specific quantities according to the medication plan.

8. A home and community drug sharing system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, Each of the medicine storage compartments is equipped with a pull-out, detachable storage drawer, which has a built-in temperature and humidity sensor and a sealing ring.

9. A home and community drug sharing system according to any one of claims 8, characterized in that, Each medicine storage compartment is equipped with a magnetic levitation device at its bottom. The medicine storage compartment is suspended inside the main body of the medicine box by the magnetic levitation device, maintaining a small air gap with the bottom surface of the main body of the medicine box.

10. A home and community drug sharing system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The home medicine cabinet has built-in control hardware, which is an ESP32 chip. It is electrically connected to a transformer, an electromagnetic lock, a relay, an LED indicator, a semiconductor refrigeration device, and a water bath heating device to realize temperature and humidity control, door opening and closing control, and status indication.

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