Medical tourniquet intelligent sorting, disinfecting, coding all-in-one machine and whole-cycle management method thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a medical tourniquet intelligent sorting, disinfecting and coding all-in-one machine and a whole-cycle management method thereof, and belongs to the field of intelligent management of medical instruments. The all-in-one machine comprises a shell, a detection module, a sorting and conveying module, a disinfecting module, a laser coding module, a scanning module, a clamping and flattening mechanism and a control module. The method comprises non-contact specification detection, automatic sorting and conveying, single-closed ultraviolet disinfection, body laser direct coding and quality detection, clinical code scanning and claiming and countdown monitoring, unbinding registration and use frequency accumulation and retirement management. The application realizes whole-cycle intelligent management from recycling, sorting, disinfecting, coding and clinical use to retirement by means of zero-consumable laser etching permanent encryption two-dimensional code on the tourniquet body in combination with PDA forced timing alarm and HIS real-time data closed loop, effectively prevents overtime use accidents, reduces operation cost and decreases medical waste.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of intelligent management technology for medical devices, specifically relating to an automated intelligent device and its management method for the entire process of medical tourniquets in hospitals, from recycling, sorting, disinfection, information coding to clinical re-application. Background Technology

[0002] In daily hospital operations, tourniquets are fundamental instruments used frequently in procedures such as intravenous blood collection and infusion. To ensure patient safety and prevent cross-infection, national health authorities have clearly mandated that tourniquets be used on a "one person, one tourniquet" basis. However, in current practice, the subsequent processing of used tourniquets still suffers from problems such as reliance on manual labor, low efficiency, significant safety hazards, and high management costs, and has even led to serious clinical safety incidents.

[0003] Firstly, in the clinical application of tourniquets, the lack of effective real-time monitoring and warning mechanisms leads to widespread and serious overuse of tourniquets. According to literature reports, the overuse rate can reach 15% to 25%. Overuse is a direct cause of iatrogenic injuries such as temporary limb ischemia and nerve damage. This risk is particularly pronounced in winter when patients wear thicker clothing or have reduced sensation. Clinically, there have been numerous cases where patients or medical staff forgot to loosen the tourniquet after blood collection or intravenous infusion procedures, only to discover the problem after the patient had left the hospital and returned home. This resulted in prolonged limb ischemia, and in severe cases, even local tissue necrosis requiring surgical intervention—a serious medical safety incident. This exposes a severe deficiency in monitoring the safety of the "last link" of the procedure under the current purely manual management model.

[0004] Secondly, at the hospital's internal management level, existing technological solutions for achieving device traceability mostly rely on external identification. Common solutions include NFC tags costing approximately 0.5 to 2 yuan each, or disposable barcode stickers costing approximately 0.1 to 0.3 yuan each. These solutions not only increase the additional consumable cost per device, but their markings are also prone to wear, detachment, or damage during repeated cleaning and disinfection (in scenarios where reuse is permitted) or clinical use, leading to a break in the traceability chain and management failure.

[0005] More importantly, the implementation of mandatory single-use has brought new systemic challenges to the aforementioned management model. On the one hand, the widely used TPE tourniquets are difficult to biodegrade in the natural environment, and the massive amount of discarded tourniquets generated daily by medical institutions nationwide (estimated to be tens of millions per patient visit) places enormous environmental pressure on the medical waste disposal system. On the other hand, the strict enforcement of "one tourniquet per patient" has led to a surge in consumable usage. According to recent government procurement data, the cost of a single tourniquet is approximately 0.4 to 0.6 yuan, meaning a medium-sized hospital's annual expenditure could reach hundreds of thousands to millions of yuan, placing continuous operational cost pressure on medical institutions.

[0006] In summary, current tourniquet management methods have shortcomings in ensuring patient safety (especially preventing serious accidents caused by forgetting to use or loosening the tourniquet), achieving efficient traceability, controlling medical costs, and reducing environmental burden. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a new solution that can achieve closed-loop intelligent management of the entire process, from use and real-time monitoring to traceability, without increasing additional consumable costs. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the defects and risks of existing medical tourniquets in terms of clinical safety, internal management efficiency, environmental sustainability, and operating cost control, and to provide an intelligent sorting, disinfection, and coding integrated machine for medical tourniquets and its supporting full-cycle management method.

[0008] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an integrated intelligent sorting, disinfection, and coding machine for medical tourniquets, comprising:

[0009] The outer casing has an inlet and a sterilized outlet.

[0010] A detection module, located at the inlet, is used for non-contact detection of the tourniquet's specifications.

[0011] The sorting and conveying module is disposed within the housing and includes an initial conveying mechanism, at least two parallel branch conveying mechanisms corresponding to different specifications of tourniquets, and a clamping and transferring mechanism. The initial conveying mechanism receives tourniquets from the inlet. The clamping and transferring mechanism selectively transfers the tourniquets from the initial conveying mechanism to the corresponding specification branch conveying mechanism according to the detection result of the detection module.

[0012] The disinfection module includes a disinfection chamber and an ultraviolet disinfection unit disposed therein. The disinfection chamber is equipped with an openable and closable door for performing single-strand independent closed disinfection of tourniquets entering therein.

[0013] A laser coding module is located near the disinfection station and is used to directly etch a permanent identification code containing associated information onto the surface of the tourniquet body.

[0014] The scanning module, which works in conjunction with the laser coding module, is used for positioning before etching and quality inspection after etching.

[0015] A clamping and flattening mechanism, located at the etching station of the laser coding module, is used to stretch and flatten the tourniquet during the etching process; and

[0016] The control module, located inside the housing, is communicatively connected to the detection module, sorting and conveying module, disinfection module, laser coding module, scanning module, and clamping and flattening mechanism. It is used to control the sorting and conveying path according to the specifications and parameters, coordinate the timing of disinfection and coding, determine the coding quality based on the detection signal from the scanning module, and interact with the hospital information system.

[0017] Furthermore, the sorting and conveying module includes a linear motor, a slider that cooperates with the linear motor, a gripper transport module driven by the slider, a cylinder mounted on the gripper transport module, and a slide and grippers driven by the cylinder, as well as a conveyor belt driven by a servo motor; the grippers clamp and release the tourniquet according to the instructions of the control module, and the conveyor belt transports the tourniquet along a set path to the disinfection station.

[0018] Furthermore, the gripping surface of the gripper is provided with a silicone pad, and the gripping force is adjustable from 5N to 10N.

[0019] Furthermore, the laser coding module includes an ultraviolet laser or a fiber laser with a laser wavelength of 355nm or 1064nm, a power of ≤5W, and a pulse frequency of 20kHz. The laser beam is controlled by a galvanometer system to etch a permanent QR code with a depth of 0.05mm to 0.1mm on the surface of the tourniquet body according to the QR code pattern path.

[0020] Furthermore, the laser coding module also includes a dynamic focus compensation system, which includes a laser displacement sensor for real-time monitoring of the microscopic height changes on the tourniquet surface and feeding them back to the control module to dynamically adjust the laser focus position so that the focus is always within ±0.05mm of the tourniquet surface.

[0021] Furthermore, the permanent identification code is a QR code, and the information contained in the QR code includes the patient's hospital number, the tourniquet's unique serial number, specifications, disinfection completion timestamp, and cumulative number of uses.

[0022] Furthermore, the clamping and flattening mechanism includes a bidirectional constant force clamp and a transparent pressure plate. The bidirectional constant force clamp stretches the tourniquet to 110% to 120% of its original length with a preset constant force, and the transparent pressure plate applies a local light pressure of 0.5N to 1N to the marked area to eliminate material elastic fluctuations.

[0023] Furthermore, the scanning module includes an industrial vision camera, used to accurately locate the coding area before etching and read and verify the quality of the QR code after etching; the control module evaluates the contrast, module integrity and positioning point clarity of the QR code according to the ISO / IEC 15415 standard, and triggers a recoding process when the quality is unqualified.

[0024] Furthermore, the control module communicates securely with the hospital information system via the HL7 protocol, synchronizing tourniquet status and operation node data in real time.

[0025] Secondly, this invention provides a method for the full-cycle management of a medical tourniquet, using the aforementioned integrated machine, and includes the following steps:

[0026] S1: The recycled tourniquet is put into the integrated machine, and the specifications of the tourniquet are obtained through non-contact detection.

[0027] S2: Control the clamping and transfer mechanism according to the specifications to selectively transfer the tourniquet from the initial transfer mechanism to the branch transfer mechanism of the corresponding specifications;

[0028] S3: Control the closure of the disinfection chamber door and perform closed-loop ultraviolet disinfection on a single tourniquet entering the disinfection chamber;

[0029] S4: Control the laser coding module to directly etch a permanent QR code containing patient information, tourniquet serial number and disinfection timestamp on the surface of the tourniquet body;

[0030] S5: The control scanning module locates and performs quality inspection on the etched QR code, and determines whether the code assignment is qualified based on the inspection results;

[0031] S6: When applying for clinical use, the user scans the QR code via a mobile terminal to verify their identity and start a countdown monitoring. If the user fails to unbind the device within the time limit, a tiered alarm will be triggered.

[0032] S7: After the clinical operation is completed, scan the QR code again to unbind the registration and upload the usage duration and operation information to the hospital information system in real time.

[0033] S8: The cumulative number of uses of a single tourniquet is recorded. When the preset safety limit is reached, it is automatically marked as pending disposal and locked, preventing the tourniquet from entering the clinical use cycle again.

[0034] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0035] Significantly improves clinical safety, eliminates the risk of adverse events, and prevents accidents caused by excessive use of tourniquets: By integrating a mandatory countdown timer and a graded audio-visual and vibration alarm system with a PDA terminal, every use can be monitored without omission. Trial data shows that this system can reduce the rate of tourniquet overuse from the industry-reported 15%-25% to below 0.1%, fundamentally preventing serious consequences such as limb ischemia, nerve damage, and even tissue necrosis that may result from forgetting to loosen the tourniquet (especially in winter).

[0036] Eliminating the risk of cross-infection: Single independent UVC precision disinfection (wavelength 275nm, 30 seconds, sterilization rate ≥99.9%) is adopted and bound with a unique timestamp, replacing the traditional batch and unrecorded disinfection method. This ensures that each tourniquet meets safety standards before distribution, and the process data is traceable, eliminating the risk of cross-infection caused by incomplete disinfection.

[0037] Achieve automated and precise management processes to improve operational efficiency: Revolutionary improvement in sorting efficiency and accuracy: Utilizes infrared sensors (accuracy ±0.1mm) to automatically identify tourniquet specifications (thickness 0.8-1.5mm), and a stepper motor drives the sorting arm to perform the operation. The sorting accuracy rate is ≥98.7%, completely replacing manual sorting with an error rate as high as 3-5%, saving the nursing unit about 2 hours of repetitive labor time every day.

[0038] Constructing a closed-loop data system covering the entire lifecycle: From warehousing, sorting, disinfection, coding, clinical application / unbinding to automatic disposal, all operational node data is synchronized in real time with the hospital's HIS system via the HL7 protocol, forming an immutable electronic traceability chain, providing a solid data foundation for quality management and adverse event analysis.

[0039] Achieving zero-consumable intelligent traceability directly reduces operating costs: Completely eliminating additional labeling costs: The core laser direct coding technology etches a permanent QR code onto the tourniquet surface, eliminating the need for any NFC chips or disposable stickers. Based on a medium-sized hospital managing 500 tourniquets annually, with each tourniquet used 50 times, compared to traditional NFC tag solutions, this can save approximately 25,000 yuan annually in consumable procurement costs.

[0040] Extend the lifespan of medical devices and reduce total procurement: By accurately counting individualized usage times (with a set upper limit, such as 50 times) and managing their status, premature disposal can be avoided, which can increase the average number of safe uses of tourniquets by about 37%. This means a direct reduction in the corresponding proportion of consumable procurement and expenses.

[0041] Reducing medical waste at the source: By increasing the number of times a single tourniquet is used, the amount of TPE waste that is incinerated is directly reduced, thus reducing the amount of medical waste at the source (by approximately 30%).

[0042] Relieving the operational burden on hospitals: Under the premise of ensuring absolute safety, the system maximizes the use value of tourniquets through intelligent management, significantly reducing the huge consumable expenditure pressure caused by strictly implementing "single use" and providing hospitals with an economical and compliant solution.

[0043] Empowering management decisions and improving overall healthcare quality: The system automatically generates multi-dimensional data reports (such as department usage frequency, nurse operation compliance rate, consumable cost-benefit analysis, etc.), enabling management to shift from experience-driven to data-driven, providing precise decision support for departmental resource allocation, personnel training and budget preparation, and helping hospitals achieve lean operations. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 3D view of the intelligent sorting, disinfection, and coding integrated machine;

[0045] Figure 2 Side view of the intelligent sorting, disinfection and coding integrated machine;

[0046] Figure 3 Front view of the intelligent sorting, disinfection, and coding integrated machine. Detailed Implementation

[0047] The following are specific embodiments of this application. The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The embodiments are intended to support all the technical features recorded in the claims, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0048] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the intelligent sorting, disinfection, and coding integrated machine for medical tourniquets of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "integrated machine") consists of three parts: a hardware integrated machine, a software management platform, and a mobile terminal. The hardware part includes a shell 1, a detection module, a sorting and conveying module, a disinfection module, a laser coding module 6, a scanning module, a clamping and flattening mechanism, and a control module 11.

[0049] The outer casing 1 is made of 304 stainless steel as an integral chassis frame, and is equipped with an inlet and a sterilized outlet, forming a closed internal processing space.

[0050] The detection module is located at the inlet and is used for non-contact detection of the tourniquet's specifications. In a preferred embodiment, the detection module includes an infrared displacement sensor 7, which detects the tourniquet's thickness using a non-contact infrared ranging method, with a detection accuracy of ±0.1mm and a response time ≤50ms. The control module 11 determines the tourniquet's specifications based on the detected thickness data: for example, 0.8mm corresponds to a pediatric type, 1.0mm corresponds to a standard adult type, 1.2mm corresponds to a thickened type, and 1.5mm corresponds to a special type.

[0051] The sorting and conveying module is located inside the outer casing 1 and includes an initial conveying mechanism, a first branch conveying mechanism and a second branch conveying mechanism arranged in parallel, and a clamping and transferring mechanism. In a preferred embodiment, the initial conveying mechanism is a conveyor belt one (3), driven by a servo motor one (31), which receives tourniquets from the inlet. The first branch conveying mechanism is a conveyor belt two (4), and the second branch conveying mechanism is a conveyor belt three (5), which are arranged in parallel and correspond to tourniquets of different sizes (such as adult and child sizes). The clamping and transferring mechanism includes a linear motor 21, a slider 22 that cooperates with the linear motor 21, a gripper transport module 2 driven by the slider 22, a cylinder 23 disposed on the gripper transport module 2, and a slide table 231 and a gripper 232 driven by the cylinder 23. The cylinder 23 provides clamping power with a working pressure of 0.4–0.6 MPa; the slide 231 carries the gripper 232 to move to the tourniquet position; the gripper 232 actually performs the clamping action, and its clamping surface is provided with a silicone pad, with a clamping force of 5N to 10N and adjustable. The control module 11 determines the tourniquet specification based on the thickness data detected by the infrared displacement sensor 7, and controls the clamping and transfer mechanism to selectively transfer the tourniquet from the first conveyor belt (3) to the second conveyor belt (4) or the third conveyor belt (5). The second conveyor belt (4) and the third conveyor belt (5) are driven by the second servo motor (51) to transport the tourniquet along their respective branch paths to the end, and after the photoelectric sensor 32 located at the end detects the positioning signal, it enters the disinfection station.

[0052] The conveying mechanism transports the tourniquet along a predetermined path to the sterilization station. In a preferred embodiment, the conveying mechanism includes a first conveyor belt 3 driven by a first servo motor 31, a second conveyor belt 4, and a third conveyor belt 5 driven by a second servo motor 51. After being released by the gripper 232, the tourniquet falls into the first conveyor belt 3, is conveyed via the second conveyor belt 4 to the third conveyor belt 5, and finally enters the sterilization station after the photoelectric sensor 32 detects the positioning signal.

[0053] The disinfection module includes a disinfection chamber 82 and an ultraviolet disinfection unit disposed therein. The disinfection chamber 82 has an openable and closable disinfection door 821 for performing closed-loop independent disinfection of a single tourniquet entering it. In a preferred embodiment, the ultraviolet disinfection unit includes a UVC-LED lamp assembly with a wavelength of 275nm (optimal bactericidal band), an irradiation intensity ≥2000μW / cm², and 12 LED beads arranged in a ring. The disinfection time is set to 30 seconds, achieving a sterilization rate of ≥99.9% against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, etc. The disinfection door 821 is equipped with a magnetic locking device and an accidental opening protection mechanism: if the door is accidentally opened during disinfection, the UVC lamp assembly immediately cuts off power within ≤50ms, triggers an alarm, and restarts the disinfection timer after the door is closed again.

[0054] The laser coding module 6 is located adjacent to the disinfection station and is used to directly etch a permanent identification code onto the surface of the tourniquet body. In a preferred embodiment, the laser coding module 6 includes an ultraviolet laser (wavelength 355nm) or a fiber laser (wavelength 1064nm), with a power ≤5W, a pulse frequency of 20kHz, and a pulse width of 10–30ns. The laser beam is controlled by a galvanometer system, with a scanning speed ≥7000mm / s and a scanning accuracy of ±0.01mm. A permanent QR code with a depth of 0.05mm to 0.1mm is etched onto the tourniquet surface according to the QR code pattern path, and the etched area size is 15×15mm. The etching of the QR code is based on a carbonization effect, forming a dark brown or black mark on the surface of the tourniquet elastomer, without affecting the mechanical strength of the tourniquet.

[0055] The laser coding module 6 also includes a dynamic focus compensation system. This system integrates a laser displacement sensor (which can be used as a substitute for the aforementioned displacement sensor 7 or set independently) to monitor the microscopic height changes on the tourniquet surface in real time and generate a 3D height map. The control module 11 calculates the compensation value based on the height data and drives the Z-axis motor in the laser module 6 to adjust the focus position in real time, so that the laser focus is always within ±0.05mm of the tourniquet surface, ensuring that the etching depth at different points is consistent and clear.

[0056] The scanning module works in conjunction with the laser coding module 6 for pre-etching positioning and post-etching quality inspection. In a preferred embodiment, the scanning module includes an industrial vision camera and a QR code reading unit (such as scanner 9). Before etching, the scanning module uses Canny edge detection to identify the tourniquet outline, calculates the center point coordinates, and determines the position of the etching area ≥10mm from the edge, with a positioning accuracy of ±0.05mm. After etching, the scanning module immediately reads the QR code and performs quality assessment according to the ISO / IEC 15415 standard, including: readability (successful decoding), contrast (brightness difference between black and white modules ≥60%), module integrity (damage <5%), positioning point clarity (all 3 positioning points are identifiable), dimensional accuracy (15×15mm±0.1mm), and SHA-256 checksum matching (ISO level ≥C). If any item fails, the control module 11 automatically adjusts the laser power ±5%, the scanning speed ±10%, or repositions (offsets by 2mm to avoid the original etching area) and triggers a re-coding process, attempting a maximum of 3 times.

[0057] The clamping and flattening mechanism is located at the etching station of the laser coding module 6 and is used to stretch and flatten the tourniquet during the etching process. In a preferred embodiment, the clamping and flattening mechanism includes a bidirectional constant force clamp and a transparent pressure plate. The bidirectional constant force clamp is composed of the aforementioned cylinder 23 and the gripper 232, which stretches the tourniquet bidirectionally to 110% to 120% (preferably 115%) of its original length with a constant force of 5N to 8N, making the coding area flat. The transparent pressure plate is made of high-transparency quartz glass (size 100×30×5mm), which is lowered during etching and applies a local light pressure of 0.5N to 1N to the coding area to eliminate material elasticity fluctuations and ensure the stability of the etched surface.

[0058] The control module 11 is housed within the outer casing 1 and is communicatively connected to the detection module, sorting and conveying module, disinfection module, laser coding module 6, scanning module, and clamping and flattening mechanism. In a preferred embodiment, the control module 11 includes an STM32F407 main control circuit board, mounted on the upper right display screen. The control module 11 receives thickness data from the displacement sensor 7, position signals from the photoelectric sensor 32, and image data from the scanning module; simultaneously, it issues commands to control the actions of the linear motor 21, cylinder 23, electric cylinder 8, servo motor 1 31, servo motor 2 51, telescopic rod 81, laser coding module 6, and disinfection chamber door 821. The control module 11 communicates securely with the hospital information system (HIS) via the HL7 protocol, synchronizing tourniquet status and operation node data in real time.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the permanent identification code is a QR code. The original data includes the patient's hospital number (HIS field), tourniquet unique serial number (SN), thickness (T), width (W), disinfection completion timestamp (D), device ID (DEV), and cumulative usage count (CNT). The original data is serialized using JSON, encrypted using the AES-128 algorithm, then Base64 encoded, and finally a SHA-256 checksum is generated for tamper-proof verification, ensuring information security and traceability uniqueness.

[0060] After the tourniquet enters the integrated machine 1 through the inlet, it falls onto conveyor belt 1 (3). During the conveying process on conveyor belt 1 (3), infrared displacement sensor 7 detects the thickness of the tourniquet and transmits the data to control module 11. After determining the specifications, control module 11 issues an instruction to drive linear motor 21 to move slider 22 and gripper transport module 2 as a whole. Cylinder 23 drives slide table 231 to gripper 232. If it is an adult type, it is transferred to conveyor belt 2 (4). If it is a child type, it is transferred to conveyor belt 3 (5). Servo motor 2 (51) drives Conveyor belt two (4) or conveyor belt three (5) continues to transport the tourniquet along the branch path. After the photoelectric sensor 32 confirms that it is in place, it enters the disinfection chamber 82. The disinfection chamber door 821 is closed, and the UVC lamp group starts disinfection. At the same time or shortly thereafter, the laser coding module 6 is started, the displacement sensor 7 monitors the height of the tourniquet surface, the scanner 9 performs positioning and detection, the cylinder 23 and the gripper 232 cooperate to stretch and fix the tourniquet, and the laser head performs etching. After the etching is completed, the scanner 9 performs quality inspection. After passing the inspection, the disinfection chamber door 821 is opened, and the tourniquet is left at the disinfected exit for retrieval.

[0061] In terms of electrical control, the control module 11 acts as the central hub, connecting various sensors and actuators through I / O interfaces and communication buses, and interacting with the HIS system through a network interface based on the HL7 protocol to achieve fully automated control from detection to coding.

[0062] The medical tourniquet full-cycle management method of the present invention is implemented based on the above-mentioned integrated machine and covers the following three stages:

[0063] Phase 1: Intelligent Sorting, Disinfection, and Coding

[0064] Step 1: Tourniquet storage and testing

[0065] The nurse places the cleaned tourniquet into the inlet of the integrated machine 1. An infrared displacement sensor 7, located at the inlet, automatically performs non-contact infrared ranging to detect the tourniquet thickness (accuracy ±0.1mm, response time ≤50ms) and transmits the data to the control module 11. The control module 11 then queries a preset sorting rule based on the thickness to determine the tourniquet's specifications.

[0066] Step 2: Automated sorting and conveying

[0067] After the tourniquet is released by the gripper 232, it falls into the first conveyor belt (3) and is driven by the first servo motor (31) to be conveyed along the initial path. During the conveying process, the infrared displacement sensor 7 set above the first conveyor belt (3) performs non-contact thickness detection of the tourniquet (accuracy ±0.1mm, response time ≤50ms) and transmits the data to the control module 11. The control module 11 determines the tourniquet specification based on the thickness: if the thickness corresponds to an adult size (e.g., 1.0mm), the control module 11 sends a command to the linear motor 21 to drive the slider 22 to move the gripper transport module 2 as a whole, the cylinder 23 starts and drives the slide table 231 so that the gripper 232 clamps the tourniquet with a clamping force of 5–10N and transfers it from the first conveyor belt (3) to the second conveyor belt (4); if the thickness corresponds to a child size (e.g., 0.8mm), the control clamping and transfer mechanism transfers it to the third conveyor belt (5). Conveyor belts 2 (4) and 3 (5) are driven by servo motor 2 (51) to transport the tourniquet along their respective branch paths to the end. After the photoelectric sensor 32 located at the end detects the position signal, the tourniquet enters the sterilization chamber 82.

[0068] Step 3: Ultraviolet disinfection

[0069] After the tourniquet is fully inserted into the sterilization chamber 82 and confirmed in place by the photoelectric sensor 32, the control module 11 issues a closing command. The sterilization chamber door 821 closes and locks magnetically within ≤1 second. The UVC-LED lamp assembly (wavelength 275nm, irradiation intensity ≥2000μW / cm², 12 LED beads arranged in a ring) illuminates, performing a 30-second countdown sterilization, during which the red indicator light flashes. If the sterilization chamber door 821 is accidentally opened, the UVC lamp assembly immediately shuts off and triggers an alarm within <50ms, restarting the countdown after shutting down again. After sterilization is complete, the UVC lamp assembly turns off, the green indicator light remains on, and the sterilization rate is ≥99.9%.

[0070] Step 4: Laser coding

[0071] While or shortly after disinfection, the control module 11 requests the next patient's information from the HIS system (e.g., obtaining the patient's hospital number, department, bed number, etc. via the GET / api / tourniquet / next interface). The scanner 9 scans the tourniquet surface and determines the location of the imprinted area (≥10mm from the edge, 15×15mm area, positioning accuracy ±0.05mm) using an image processing algorithm (Canny edge detection to identify contours and calculate center point coordinates).

[0072] Subsequently, cylinder 23 drives gripper 232 to form a bidirectional constant force clamp, stretching the tourniquet bidirectionally to 110-120% of its original length with a constant force of 5-8N. The transparent pressure plate (high-transparency quartz glass, 100×30×5mm) descends and lightly presses the marking area with 0.5-1N to eliminate surface undulations. Displacement sensor 7 scans the marking area to generate a 3D height map (resolution 0.01mm, sampling frequency 50kHz). Control module 11 calculates the compensation value and drives the Z-axis motor in laser marking module 6 to adjust the focus, ensuring that the focus is always within ±0.05mm of the surface.

[0073] The control module 11 generates the original QR code data (including patient hospital number, tourniquet serial number, thickness, width, disinfection timestamp, device ID, and number of uses). After JSON serialization, AES-128 encryption, and Base64 encoding, it generates a SHA-256 checksum and converts it into a QR code pattern (Version 3, 29×29 modules, each module 0.5×0.5mm, error correction level L). The laser coding module 6 starts (UV 355nm or fiber optic 1064nm, power ≤5W, pulse frequency 20kHz, pulse width 10–30ns). The galvanometer system controls the laser beam to etch along the pattern path, with an etching depth of 0.05–0.1mm, taking approximately 2.8 seconds.

[0074] After etching, scanner 9 immediately performs a quality check (≤0.5 seconds), evaluated according to ISO / IEC 15415 standards: readability, contrast ≥60%, module integrity damage <5%, positioning point clarity, dimensional accuracy 15×15mm±0.1mm, SHA-256 checksum matching, and ISO level ≥C. If all are qualified, the status is marked as "code assignment successful," and control module 11 uploads the data to the HIS system via the POST / api / tourniquet / register interface, recording the tourniquet as ready for use. If any item fails, the laser power is automatically adjusted by ±5%, the scanning speed by ±10%, or the offset is 2mm for repositioning and a second attempt is made; if it still fails after 3 attempts, an alarm is triggered to prompt manual inspection, and the tourniquet is marked as "abnormal."

[0075] Step 5: Discharge from the disinfection chamber

[0076] After successful coding and disinfection, control module 11 issues an opening command, the disinfection chamber door 821 opens, and the tourniquet remains in the ready-to-use position. The display screen of control module 11 shows the corresponding patient information (e.g., "Orthopedics 201-3 Bed Zhang San tourniquet is ready"), the green indicator light stays on, and the nurse can retrieve it from the disinfected exit.

[0077] Phase Two: Clinical Use and Time-Based Monitoring

[0078] Step 1: Application and Registration

[0079] The nurse removes the tourniquet from the sterilized exit and scans the QR code on its surface using a PDA mobile terminal. The PDA reads the encrypted data using a 2D laser scanner (scanning distance 5–50cm) and requests decryption from the HIS system via HTTPS (e.g., GET / api / tourniquet / decrypt). After the HIS returns the decrypted data, the PDA screen displays patient information, tourniquet specifications, sterilization time, and number of uses (e.g., 0 / 50). The nurse clicks "Confirm Request". The PDA uploads the request data (serial number, patient ID, nurse ID, start time, location, etc.) via the POST / api / tourniquet / use / start interface. The HIS system records the request event, and the PDA automatically starts a 120-second countdown (default, configurable), displayed in large green font.

[0080] Step 2: Clinical Operation and Real-time Monitoring

[0081] The nurse applies a tourniquet to the patient and performs intravenous puncture or infusion. The PDA countdown continues, issuing tiered alerts based on the remaining time:

[0082] 90 seconds remaining: The screen color changes from green to yellow, and the text message "Please note the time" appears;

[0083] 60 seconds remaining: The screen turns yellow and displays the message "1 minute remaining";

[0084] 30 seconds remaining: The screen turns orange, flashes at a frequency of 1Hz, vibrates slightly (every 3 seconds), and displays the text "Please complete the operation as soon as possible";

[0085] 10 seconds remaining: The screen turns red, flashes at 2Hz, vibrates continuously, and displays the message "Timeout is approaching!";

[0086] 0 seconds remaining (timeout): The screen flashes bright red at a frequency of 3Hz, accompanied by a continuous beeping sound (85dB volume), strong vibration (maximum intensity), and the text "Remove the tourniquet immediately!" is displayed.

[0087] Simultaneously, the PDA reports the timeout event to the nurse station monitoring screen and the HIS system. The nurse station screen displays the timeout alarm information, the supervising nurse receives APP push and SMS notifications on her mobile phone, and the HIS system records the abnormal event. If the timeout duration exceeds 180 seconds (3 minutes), the system automatically generates a "Medical Adverse Event Report" and submits it to the medical affairs department for review.

[0088] Step 3: Unbind Registration

[0089] After completing the procedure, the nurse releases the tourniquet and scans the QR code again using the PDA. The PDA recognizes this as an "unbinding" operation, and the screen displays the usage duration, operator, and time. The nurse clicks "Confirm Unbinding." The PDA countdown stops, and the alarm is deactivated. The PDA uploads the unbinding data (end time, usage duration, status, etc.) via the POST / api / tourniquet / use / end interface. The HIS system records complete single-use data, including start time, end time, usage duration, patient information, operating nurse, location, and status (normal or timed out).

[0090] Phase 3: Data Traceability and Closed-Loop Management

[0091] Step 1: Real-time data synchronization

[0092] After each operation, the all-in-one machine 1 and the PDA upload JSON format data to the HIS system in real time (≤2 seconds) via HTTPS encrypted transmission. Upload nodes include: tourniquet entry, sorting completion, disinfection completion, successful coding, PDA application, PDA unbinding, and recycling and re-disinfection. The HIS system stores the data in the tourniquet_usage_log table, recording the serial number, patient ID, nurse ID, start and end time, usage duration, status, location, and timestamp, and establishes a serial number, patient ID, and time index to form an immutable electronic traceability chain.

[0093] Step 2: Accumulate usage counts and monitor upper limits

[0094] The HIS system maintains the tourniquet master table, `tourniquet_master`, with fields including serial number, thickness, width, usage count (`usage_count`), maximum usage count (`max_usage`, default 50), status (ready / in_use / pending_disposal`), first use date, last use date, and last disinfection time. Each time a PDA is unbound, the system performs an `UPDATE` operation, incrementing `usage_count` by 1 and updating the last use date; after each disinfection, it updates the last disinfection time and sets the status to `ready`. A database trigger (e.g., `check_usage_limit`) automatically checks after each update: if `usage_count` ≥ `max_usage`, the tourniquet status is updated to `pending_disposal`, and a lock command is sent to control module 11.

[0095] Step 3: Disposal Management

[0096] When the cumulative number of uses of a single tourniquet reaches the preset safety limit (e.g., 50 times), the database trigger automatically marks it as awaiting disposal. Upon receiving the lock command, control module 11 performs the following operations: the indicator light for the ward containing the tourniquet flashes red, the lock status is recorded, and the sterilization ward door 821 is prevented from opening to that ward. When a nurse attempts to scan the tourniquet's QR code to request it, the PDA displays "Unable to use, the tourniquet has reached its usage limit," refuses to start the timer function, and records the attempt to use the tourniquet event.

[0097] The equipment administrator logs into the HIS system and enters the "Medical Device Management" module to view the scrap list (including serial number, number of uses, and first use date). After clicking "Approve Scrap," a scrap report is generated (including scrap ID, serial number list, approver, time, and disposal method). Equipment department personnel remove the tourniquet from the all-in-one machine 1, scan the code with a PDA to confirm destruction, and the system records the scrap time and operator. Finally, the tourniquet status is updated to "disposed," and the entire lifecycle data of the tourniquet is permanently archived.

[0098] Step 4: Statistical Analysis and Reports

[0099] The HIS system automatically generates multi-dimensional data reports, including: department usage frequency reports, time period statistics reports, nurse operation statistics reports (including number of operations, average duration, and number of overtimes), overtime analysis reports (including overtime rate and cause analysis), complete quality traceability records for a single tourniquet (full process data from first use to disposal), and cost-benefit analysis reports (comparing the cost differences between zero-consumable laser coding and traditional NFC tag solutions, the reduction in procurement volume due to extended service life, and the benefits of reducing medical waste).

[0100] Step 5: Anomaly Warning and Intervention

[0101] The system is equipped with multiple automatic early warning mechanisms:

[0102] Inventory alert: When the number of tourniquets in the HIS system that are in a ready state falls below a threshold (e.g., 10), an automatic replenishment reminder SMS will be sent to the supply room.

[0103] Equipment fault warning: The control module 11 monitors the cumulative working time of the UVC lamp group. If it exceeds 5000 hours, it will prompt the replacement on the integrated machine display screen and send a maintenance work order to the equipment department.

[0104] Use of abnormal warning: When a nurse exceeds the threshold number of times within a set period (e.g., 7 days) (e.g., 3 times), a training reminder will be automatically sent to the head nurse;

[0105] Patient abnormality warning: When a patient uses a tourniquet more than the threshold (e.g., 5 times) in a single day, the doctor is prompted to evaluate the treatment plan;

[0106] Compliance warning: If a tourniquet is not used after being disinfected for more than the set time limit (e.g., 24 hours), the control module 11 will prompt that it needs to be disinfected again and automatically start the re-disinfection process for the tourniquet.

[0107] Through the above specific implementation methods, the present invention realizes a closed-loop management of the entire cycle, from tourniquet recycling, intelligent sorting, individual tourniquet disinfection, direct laser coding with zero consumables, clinical time monitoring to disposal management. Under the premise of ensuring clinical safety, it significantly improves management efficiency, reduces operating costs and reduces the generation of medical waste.

[0108] The specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the spirit of the invention. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains may make various modifications or additions to the described specific embodiments or use similar methods to substitute them, without departing from the spirit of the invention or exceeding the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A medical tourniquet intelligent sorting, disinfection, and coding integrated machine, characterized in that, include The outer casing has an inlet and a sterilized outlet. A detection module, located at the inlet, is used for non-contact detection of the tourniquet's specifications. The sorting and conveying module is disposed within the housing and includes an initial conveying mechanism, at least two parallel branch conveying mechanisms corresponding to different specifications of tourniquets, and a clamping and transferring mechanism. The initial conveying mechanism receives tourniquets from the inlet. The clamping and transferring mechanism selectively transfers the tourniquets from the initial conveying mechanism to the corresponding specification branch conveying mechanism according to the detection result of the detection module. The disinfection module includes a disinfection chamber and an ultraviolet disinfection unit disposed therein. The disinfection chamber is equipped with an openable and closable door for performing single-strand independent closed disinfection of tourniquets entering therein. A laser coding module is located near the disinfection station and is used to directly etch a permanent identification code containing associated information onto the surface of the tourniquet body. The scanning module, which works in conjunction with the laser coding module, is used for positioning before etching and quality inspection after etching. A clamping and flattening mechanism, located at the etching station of the laser coding module, is used to stretch and flatten the tourniquet during the etching process; and The control module, located inside the housing, is communicatively connected to the detection module, sorting and conveying module, disinfection module, laser coding module, scanning module, and clamping and flattening mechanism. It is used to control the sorting and conveying path according to the specifications and parameters, coordinate the timing of disinfection and coding, determine the coding quality based on the detection signal from the scanning module, and interact with the hospital information system.

2. The all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sorting and conveying module includes a linear motor, a slider that cooperates with the linear motor, a gripper transport module driven by the slider, a cylinder set on the gripper transport module, and a slide table and grippers driven by the cylinder, as well as a conveyor belt driven by a servo motor; the grippers clamp and release the tourniquet according to the instructions of the control module, and the conveyor belt transports the tourniquet to the disinfection station along a set path.

3. The all-in-one machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The gripping surface of the gripper is equipped with a silicone pad, and the gripping force is adjustable from 5N to 10N.

4. The all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The laser coding module includes an ultraviolet laser or a fiber laser with a wavelength of 355nm or 1064nm, a power of ≤5W, and a pulse frequency of 20kHz. The laser beam is controlled by a galvanometer system to etch a permanent QR code with a depth of 0.05mm to 0.1mm on the surface of the tourniquet body according to the QR code pattern path.

5. The all-in-one machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The laser coding module also includes a dynamic focus compensation system, which includes a laser displacement sensor for real-time monitoring of the microscopic height changes on the tourniquet surface and feeding them back to the control module to dynamically adjust the laser focus position so that the focus is always within ±0.05mm of the tourniquet surface.

6. The all-in-one machine according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The permanent identification code is a QR code, and the information contained in the QR code includes the patient's hospital number, the tourniquet's unique serial number, specifications, disinfection completion timestamp, and cumulative number of uses.

7. The all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clamping and flattening mechanism includes a bidirectional constant force clamp and a transparent pressure plate. The bidirectional constant force clamp stretches the tourniquet to 110% to 120% of its original length with a preset constant force. The transparent pressure plate applies a local light pressure of 0.5N to 1N to the marked area to eliminate material elasticity fluctuations.

8. The all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scanning module includes an industrial vision camera, used to accurately locate the coding area before etching and read and verify the quality of the QR code after etching; the control module evaluates the contrast, module integrity and positioning point clarity of the QR code according to the ISO / IEC 15415 standard, and triggers a recoding process when the quality is unqualified.

9. The all-in-one machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control module communicates securely with the hospital information system via the HL7 protocol, synchronizing tourniquet status and operation node data in real time.

10. A method for full-cycle management of a medical tourniquet, using the integrated machine according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: The recycled tourniquet is put into the integrated machine, and the specifications of the tourniquet are obtained through non-contact detection. S2: Control the clamping and transfer mechanism according to the specifications to selectively transfer the tourniquet from the initial transfer mechanism to the branch transfer mechanism of the corresponding specifications; S3: Control the closure of the disinfection chamber door and perform closed-loop ultraviolet disinfection on a single tourniquet entering the disinfection chamber; S4: Control the laser coding module to directly etch a permanent QR code containing patient information, tourniquet serial number and disinfection timestamp on the surface of the tourniquet body; S5: The control scanning module locates and performs quality inspection on the etched QR code, and determines whether the code assignment is qualified based on the inspection results; S6: When applying for clinical use, the user scans the QR code via a mobile terminal to verify their identity and start a countdown monitoring. If the user fails to unbind the device within the time limit, a tiered alarm will be triggered. S7: After the clinical operation is completed, scan the QR code again to unbind the registration and upload the usage duration and operation information to the hospital information system in real time. S8: The cumulative number of uses of a single tourniquet is recorded. When the preset safety limit is reached, it is automatically marked as pending disposal and locked, preventing the tourniquet from entering the clinical use cycle again.

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