DETECTION DEVICE FOR DETERMINING A RELEASE CRITERIA FOR A FILL LEVEL DETERMINATION SYSTEM

Abstract

Detection device for determining a release criterion for a level determination system (1) that determines the level of a medical fluid in a container (300), comprising: a position detector (113) configured to determine the position of the level determination system (1), an acceleration detector (113) configured to determine the acceleration of the level determination system (1), wherein level measurements of the level determination system (1) are recorded as plausibility measurements when the determined position is within a tolerance range around a reference position and when the acceleration is within a tolerance range, and the release criterion is granted based on the plausibility measurement if a level measurement of the level determination system (1) does not show an excessive change from a previous level measurement.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally and particularly to a detection device for determining a release criterion for a fill level determination system. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a fill level determination system, a container for a fill level determination system, and a method for determining a release criterion for a fill level determination system. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Containers for holding medical fluids are generally known. These containers can be used as urine bags or urine measurement systems to hold a patient's urine for monitoring and care. Furthermore, the containers can hold patient fluids for drainage purposes, for example, those to be removed from wounds after surgery. Furthermore, the containers can deliver medical fluids to a patient, for example, as infusions (infusion bags). When using all of these container types that hold medical fluids, determining the change in the fill level in the container over the course of treatment is always part of the monitoring and care of the patient.

[0003] The patient can be monitored and cared for in hospitals, on normal wards, intensive care units, in nursing homes or in home care.

[0004] Furthermore, it is known that a scale for reading the fill level is provided on the containers. Devices for measuring the fill level are also known. These use various measurement methods, such as weighing or capacitive level determination.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved system for determining the fill level of a medical fluid in a container.

[0006] During a fill level measurement, the position, acceleration, or compression of the container can change the fill level and thus also create a measurement error when determining the fill level. Furthermore, some containers for holding medical fluids are flexible, for example bags. Since flexible bags themselves are not capable of standing vertically, an accurate fill level measurement is only possible if they have previously been held in a defined, vertical position using a holding system, usually hanging sideways on the patient's bed. However, when the patient is transported in bed, the bag is often removed and placed in the patient bed. Due to the resulting freely deforming bag, a reliable fill level measurement is no longer possible.

[0007] Strong accelerations can also lead to measurement errors. These can occur, for example, if the patient has already regained mobility and is walking to the toilet with the container. The acceleration of walking leads to changes in the position of the container and the formation of waves in the container, making reliable level measurement impossible.

[0008] In addition, pressing on the container can also lead to measurement errors. Such errors can occur, for example, if the patient compresses the urine bag hanging on the side of the bed, for example, by pulling a bedside table on wheels closer to the bed, causing the urine bag to become trapped between the bed and the bedside table.

[0009] In order to solve the problem of these measurement errors, a detection device according to the invention is provided which only allows a fill level measurement, i.e. determines a release criterion, if the above measurement errors are not to be expected.

[0010] Such a detection device is advantageous for level measurement on many different containers in the aforementioned application areas. To enable the use of this detection device on the various containers, a level determination system according to the invention is provided, which comprises the detection device and is modular, allowing the determination of a release criterion for a level measurement on many different container types. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a detection device for determining a release criterion for a fill level determination system according to claim 1.

[0012] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a fill level determination system for determining a fill level criterion of a medical fluid in a container according to claim 2.

[0013] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a container for a level determination system according to claim 30.

[0014] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method for determining a release criterion for a fill level determination system according to claim 31.

[0015] Further aspects and features of the present invention emerge from the dependent claims, the attached figures and the following description of preferred embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0016] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying figures. Shown in: Fig. 1 a fill level determination system according to an embodiment; Fig. 2 a control device for a fill level determination system according to an embodiment; Fig. 3a a control device according to an embodiment; Fig. 3b a control device according to an embodiment; Fig. 4a a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. 4b a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. 5a a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. 5b a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. 5c a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. 5d a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. 6a a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 6b a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 6c a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 6d a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 6e a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 6f a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 6g a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 6h a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 7 a control device and a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. 8 a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 9 a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 10 a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 11 a control device and a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. 12 a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 13 a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 14 a control device and a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment; Fig. 15 a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment; Fig. 16 a flow diagram of an exemplary level measurement; and Fig. 17 an embodiment of a general-purpose computer. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0017] In Fig. Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment in accordance with the present invention. Before proceeding with a detailed description, general explanations of the embodiments will follow.

[0018] According to the invention, a detection device for determining a release criterion for a fill level determination system that determines a fill level of a medical fluid in a container comprises: a position detector that is configured to determine a position of the fill level determination system, an acceleration detector that is configured to determine an acceleration of the fill level determination system, wherein fill level measurement values ​​of the fill level determination system are recorded as a plausibility measurement if the determined position lies within a tolerance range around a reference position and if the acceleration lies within a tolerance range and the release criterion is issued based on the plausibility measurement if a fill level measurement value of the fill level determination system does not show an excessive change compared to a previous fill level measurement value.

[0019] The attitude detector and the acceleration detector can be part of an inertial measurement unit (IMU). IMUs consist of an accelerometer that measures acceleration along the three axes (including gravitational acceleration) and a gyroscope that measures the rate of angular change (in degrees per second) during rotation around the three axes.

[0020] Position detection can be performed using an accelerometer. For example, the acceleration in an absolutely vertical position along the z-axis corresponds to 1g, and the acceleration along the x and y axes corresponds to 0g. The absolutely vertical position is an example of a reference position. In the case of an inclination, the acceleration due to gravity is projected proportionally onto the x and y axes, allowing the position in space to be calculated. This makes it easy to check whether the container and IMU are in a vertical position (within the tolerance limits around the reference position). This applies as long as the relative alignment between the container and IMU remains constant.

[0021] Inclinations within the tolerance range are considered tolerable inclinations, which, if uncorrected, would cause a measurement error. However, these can be corrected (the correction depends on the geometry of the container).

[0022] Acceleration detection can be performed using an accelerometer and gyroscope, as both functional units (accelerometer and gyroscope) must be used to measure the six degrees of freedom of acceleration. The accelerometer measures three translational degrees of freedom, and the gyroscope measures three rotational degrees of freedom.

[0023] This allows you to check whether the container and IMU are in a stationary position within the tolerance limits. However, if excessive acceleration is detected (e.g., a patient is walking with the system), the release criterion is not met, and the measurement is discarded, as the same acceleration also acts on the fluid in the container, causing wave motions that can induce an inaccurate measurement.

[0024] The release criterion may also not be granted based on the measurement of the fill level in the container, for example, if an excessive change in the fill level is measured. An excessive increase is, for example, a fill level change that exceeds a predetermined threshold. This is also time-dependent. A larger change is plausible between two fill level values ​​that are one hour apart than between two fill level values ​​that are one minute apart. Thus, an excessive change can occur if a gradient in the fill level is exceeded (undershot) over time between the fill level measurement and the previous fill level measurement. Alternatively, a different threshold can be used for different time intervals between the fill level measurement and the previous fill level measurement.

[0025] If acceleration and position are within tolerances and no excessive increase is detected, the release criterion is granted and the measured values ​​are classified as plausible. This allows a fill level criterion to be determined from the plausible measured values.

[0026] According to the invention, a fill level determination system for determining a fill level criterion of a medical fluid in a container, comprising: the container, which is configured to hold a medical fluid, a fill level measuring arrangement, which is configured to record measured values ​​that correspond to a fill level criterion of the container, a detection device as described above, and a control unit, wherein the control unit and the fill level measuring arrangement are configured to be connectable to one another and the fill level measuring arrangement and the container are configured to be connectable to one another, wherein the fill level criterion is determined in a connected state of the control unit and the fill level measuring arrangement as well as the fill level measuring arrangement and the container.

[0027] The control unit can feature connectivity. This can be implemented through an integrated wireless communication technology, such as Bluetooth (also BLE), Wi-Fi, RFID (also NFC), or mobile communications, to transmit measurement data. An online function can be implemented, which transmits data to a hospital information system (HIS) or patient data management system (PDMS), and an offline function, which temporarily stores data locally and transmits data upon the next connection or online function (push).

[0028] The fill level determination system can detect the fill level in the container (including emptying) and output the fill level, for example, in millimeters. A display can be provided for this purpose, or the fill level can be transmitted to a server or a terminal device via a communication unit. The fill level measurement can, for example, have an accuracy of + / - 5%.

[0029] The level determination system integrates a position and acceleration sensor into the detection device to distinguish between valid and invalid measurement conditions (e.g., tilt, movement, compression). This allows the release criterion to be determined.

[0030] The level determination system can integrate one or more temperature sensors that measure the ambient temperature.

[0031] The level determination system can also provide computing power and memory (SRAM, Flash, SD card) for local data processing. This can be provided especially when implementing the offline function. Furthermore, these can be used for the calculations in steps S12 to S17 ( Fig. 17) can be used.

[0032] The level detection system can also include a battery, along with (wireless) charging and monitoring electronics to power the system. Such energy management enables battery operation. Battery operation can also be provided by plug-in charging or wireless charging via induction.

[0033] Pairing at least two of the control unit, the container, and the level measuring device enables a compatibility check. Furthermore, the pairing can establish a connection to a patient or a digital patient record (on a server). An RFID device can be provided for the pairing, which is located in each of the control unit, the container, and the level measuring device.

[0034] To enable assessment of liquid properties in poor lighting conditions, a container light can be provided that illuminates the container and the fluid within. This light can be activated, for example, by detecting an approach or a gesture, for a specific time interval. Likewise, the display can be switched on from a standby state by detecting an approach or a gesture.

[0035] Connectivity can be used to connect end devices such as a smartphone or smartwatch, for example via an app. This allows the measured values ​​to be transmitted to the nursing staff on a device and displayed with the corresponding generated visualizations. The visualizations can, for example, be generated on a server or the end device and include a fill level history over time. This server can also include the HIS or PDMS. Furthermore, notifications can be used to signal to the nursing staff when action is required. A need for action could, for example, be a full container; additional patient data can be provided, which could also include a specific room in the hospital or care facility.

[0036] Nursing staff can also be shown an approximate location of the level control system, for example a specific device in a specific building on a specific floor in a specific room.

[0037] Connectivity via RFID enables the reading of an RFID tag on the container by controlling an RFID device on the smartphone, and thus an assignment as to whether the container is used or unused, or to which patient the container is assigned, or how long the container has been in use.

[0038] Connectivity via RFID enables communication with the control unit by controlling an RFID device on the smartphone, for example, for setup processes in which a connection to a wireless network is established, patient data is transferred, or a connection to a patient record is created.

[0039] To ensure modularity between the control unit and the level measurement system, a mounting mechanism for an interchangeable level measurement system can be implemented. The mounting device also establishes an electrical connection for data transmission, for example, via a standardized interface. Thus, the mounting mechanism serves as a communicating mount.

[0040] The level determination system can communicate with a server that receives data from the various devices, each comprising a container, a level measurement assembly, a control unit, and a detection device. The server can be operated in the local network or the cloud, and data can be stored, visualized, and analyzed, and forwarded to and stored in hospital information systems or smartphones / watches. The server can be included in the level determination system.

[0041] Using RFID technology, the end devices make it possible to read and write RFID tags on the container by controlling the smartphone's RFID device.

[0042] To enable battery operation, the level control system can also include charging infrastructure. This can include a wall shelf, a stand, etc. for storage with integrated charging capability. The transfer of electrical energy during the charging process can be achieved through inductive charging via mats, inductive charging via a "puck"—which is positioned correctly by magnets—or a contact plug with magnetic positioning.

[0043] There are versions in which the control unit and the level measuring arrangement can be connected to each other using a standardized interface.

[0044] There are designs in which the container comprises a holder and the level measuring arrangement and the container are designed to be connectable to one another by means of the holder.

[0045] There are designs in which the holder on the container comprises a flexible pocket which is designed to accommodate the level measuring arrangement according to a sword-sheath principle.

[0046] The holder for the level measurement assembly on the container can be attached, for example, to the front or back of the bag, or more precisely, to any surface of the container that is parallel to the vertical. The mounting position provides the reference position for position determination.

[0047] The holder can be a flexible, thin-walled, as tightly cut as possible film pocket, e.g. by means of flexible film welded or glued onto the wall.

[0048] There are designs in which the holder on the container comprises a stiffened pocket which is designed to accommodate the level measuring arrangement according to a sword-sheath principle.

[0049] The stiffened pocket can be a plastic “sword scabbard,” e.g., a stiffened plastic part welded or glued to the wall.

[0050] There are designs in which the level measuring arrangement and the container can be connected to each other by means of adhesion.

[0051] Fastening by means of adhesion can be achieved, for example, using double-sided adhesive tape, which can be pre-applied to the level measuring arrangement, which is then disposed of with the container after use, for example.

[0052] There are designs in which the level measuring arrangement is printed on the container, whereby the level measuring arrangement and the container are designed to be connectable to each other.

[0053] All types of connection between the level measurement assembly and the container must bring the sensor into reliable contact with the container wall, as air is a good dielectric insulator, and varying air cushions between the sensor and the container wall would therefore at least distort a capacitive measurement of the container's level. A mechanism, such as a spring leaf, can be integrated into the rear inner wall of the pocket or scabbard, which presses the sensor firmly against the container wall, thus ensuring repeatable positioning.

[0054] There are versions where the container includes a urine bag.

[0055] There are versions in which the container includes a urine measuring system.

[0056] There are versions in which the container includes an infusion bag.

[0057] There are versions in which the container includes a chest drain.

[0058] There are versions in which the container includes a ventricular drain.

[0059] There are versions where the container includes a surgical drain.

[0060] Other containers are used, for example, for bag-shaped drains, bottle-shaped drains, infusion bottles and gastric tubes.

[0061] In general, the container may comprise a drain valve, e.g. a pinch valve, which can be actuated by an electromechanical unit, for example on the level measuring arrangement.

[0062] There are versions in which the container includes an RFID device.

[0063] The RFID device can enable linking of the container with the patient, the level measurement system, and the control unit. This linking also allows containers to be excluded, for example, for compatibility reasons.

[0064] The RFID device can enable the presence of the container to be detected by the control unit or the fill level measurement device. Furthermore, it can enable the identification of the container, as well as the writing of patient data to the container's RFID device, the comparison of the compatibility of the container and the fill level measurement device, the comparison of the container and the associated patient, the exclusion of mix-ups between patients, the reuse of used containers, and the exclusion of the use of unauthorized consumables (non-original, expired, recalled, etc.).

[0065] The patient-container pairing can be triggered automatically when the container's RFID device is detected. Furthermore, when the control unit is paired with the container's RFID device, patient information (e.g., name, date of birth) can be automatically transferred and written to the container's RFID device.

[0066] There are designs in which the control unit is configured to read the RFID device of the container by means of a further RFID device and to determine whether the container is compatible with the level measuring arrangement and the control unit and has not yet been used, so that if the container is compatible and has not yet been used, the RFID device is used to write to the RFID device of the container that the container is (now) used.

[0067] There are designs in which, when writing to the container's RFID device using the additional RFID device, patient-related data is also written to the container's RFID device.

[0068] There are versions in which the control unit includes the additional RFID device.

[0069] The control unit thus integrates an RFID device to identify containers and to enable bidirectional communication with end devices such as smartphones.

[0070] There are designs in which the container comprises an outlet valve, and the level measuring arrangement comprises an actuator configured to actuate the outlet valve. The actuator can also be arranged separately from the level measuring arrangement and be communicatively connected to the control unit so that it can be controlled by it.

[0071] The actuator can be controlled by the control unit or an electronic component of the level measuring device, for example, when the fill level in the container reaches a predetermined value, such as a maximum. This can then be used to control an (electromagnetic) valve for automatic container emptying.

[0072] There are designs in which the control unit comprises a diagnostic device that is designed to analyze the fluid spectrometrically.

[0073] Spectrometric analysis can be performed, for example, using a mini-spectrometer and a broadband radiation source. This is further explained in WO2023 / 062224.

[0074] There are designs in which the control unit includes a display that is designed to show information about the specific fill level criterion.

[0075] The display can implement a human-machine interface (HMI) consisting of a touchscreen and status LED and can be intended for the visualization of information and for local operation.

[0076] A brightness sensor can be integrated to adjust the display brightness to the ambient brightness.

[0077] The status LED can signal the status of the fill level detection system or the patient—by evaluating the fill level measurement—when the display is in standby mode, for example. The status LED can use different color codes (green, yellow, red) or flashing codes for this purpose.

[0078] The display can be designed as a touchscreen that can be operated with gloves.

[0079] There are designs in which the control device comprises a presence detector which is configured to detect an approach of a person or a gesture of a person, wherein the display is switched on from a standby state due to the approach or the gesture.

[0080] In this case, the person can be a user, e.g., the nursing staff. A gesture can be, for example, a hand swipe above the display or a foot swipe below the level control system (if it is mounted on the side of the patient bed).

[0081] There are designs in which the control unit comprises a power supply device which is designed to supply the control unit with power.

[0082] There are designs in which the level measuring arrangement comprises electrodes which are designed to capacitively determine level measurement values ​​by means of which the level criterion of the container can be determined.

[0083] The measured values ​​of the electrodes can be corrected by environmental reference electrodes, fluid reference electrodes and temperature sensors that measure both the environmental and fluid temperatures.

[0084] A standardized interface, e.g., I2C, SPI, UART, or CAN bus, can be provided to connect the level measurement system to the control unit. An additional electronic component designed to control the sensors and an actuator can also be provided on the level measurement system. Furthermore, a mounting mechanism for interchangeable connection to the control unit can be provided, thus creating a mechanical connection, while the interface provides the communication connection. This mounting mechanism is, for example, a plug-in connection and enables quick assembly of the (modular) level determination system.

[0085] The dimensions of the level measurement assembly can be adapted to different container sizes using various designs. The electrode design, as described above, or the carrier material can also be varied depending on the application. The level measurement assembly can also be provided with or without an actuator that opens and closes a drain valve. There may be variants in which the level measurement assembly, or at least the sensors such as the electrodes, are designed as a reusable or disposable part, whereby the disposable part can be disposed of with the container after being attached and used.

[0086] The level measuring arrangement may contain one or more temperature sensors for measuring the liquid temperature through the bag wall.

[0087] There are designs in which the level measuring arrangement comprises a printed circuit board and the electrodes are formed on the printed circuit board.

[0088] There are versions in which the printed circuit board is dimensionally stable.

[0089] There are versions in which the printed circuit board is flexible.

[0090] The carrier material of the level measuring arrangement can be a rigid PCB, a flex PCB (allows adaptation to flexible or round container geometries) or printed electronics (also printed directly on the container; enables cost-effective disposable sensors).

[0091] There are designs in which the level measuring arrangement comprises an electronic device which is designed to determine the measured values ​​using the electrodes.

[0092] For example, in a capacitive measurement, the sensor technology of the level measurement system includes continuous electrodes (Texas Instruments, Ti FDC1004) that run vertically along the container in the reference position. Environmental reference electrodes and liquid reference electrodes can also be included. The electrodes can also be designed to run at an angle to the vertical direction.

[0093] Furthermore, instead of the continuous electrodes, segmented electrodes with variable steps (Infineon PSoC Cap Sense) can be provided.

[0094] The electrodes can also be arranged as parallel electrodes for measuring multiple liquid columns next to each other. Alternatively, and in combination, an alternative method for level measurement can be provided. For example, the level can be measured using inductive detection of a magnetic float in a riser pipe or a vertical array of detectors (segmented presence detectors, e.g., optical detectors (diode array, CCD array), or an array of temperature sensors), or by measuring the bag weight. Other alternative methods can include standard procedures using, for example, a pressure sensor, a float, an ultrasonic sensor, a time-of-flight sensor, or a laser.

[0095] It may include an actuator configured to perform a drain (drain valve) for emptying a container in the urine measurement system design by means of electromechanical control. To do so, the actuator opens a valve of the container, for example, a pinch valve, which the actuator can squeeze when closed and does not squeeze when open. The actuator may also include a pump that, for example, pumps a defined fluid volume per cycle.

[0096] There are designs in which the control unit is configured to carry out a correction of the fill level criterion based on the determined position of the position detector of the detection device when the release criterion is granted.

[0097] The control unit is therefore designed to correct position-dependent measurement errors when the container is hanging at an angle.

[0098] According to the invention, a container for a fill level determination system according to one of the embodiments described above.

[0099] According to the invention, a method for determining a release criterion for a fill level determination system that determines a fill level of a medical fluid in a container, comprising the steps of: determining a position of the fill level determination system, determining an acceleration of the fill level determination system, recording fill level measured values ​​of the fill level determination system as a plausibility measurement if the determined position lies within a tolerance range around a reference position and if the acceleration lies within a tolerance range, and issuing the release criterion based on the plausibility measurement if a fill level measured value of the fill level determination system does not show an excessive change compared to a previous fill level measured value.

[0100] Returning to Fig. 1 illustrates a fill level determination system according to an embodiment.

[0101] The fill level determination system 1 comprises a control unit 100, a fill level measuring arrangement 200, and a container 300. Furthermore, the fill level determination system 1 may include a network 400, a server 401, and a terminal 402. The fill level determination system 1 is designed in a modular manner, so that various control units 100, fill level measuring arrangements 200, and containers 300 can be connected to one another or can be interchanged.

[0102] The control unit 100 is connected to the fill level measuring arrangement 200 and receives data indicative of a fill level in the container 300. These can be, for example, measured values ​​from the fill level measuring arrangement 200 that are read directly by the sensors, a measured fill level, or a measured fill level corrected for position. Furthermore, the control unit 100 can receive information from the fill level measuring arrangement 200 that identifies the configuration of the fill level measuring arrangement 200.

[0103] The control unit 100 and, alternatively or additionally, the fill level measuring arrangement 200 are connected to the container 300. Information about the design of the container 300 and whether the container has already been used is transmitted. Additionally, the control unit 100 and the fill level measuring arrangement 200 can transmit patient-specific information to the container 300 and write it to a memory that may be included on the container 300 (using RFID).

[0104] The control unit 100 can communicate with the server 401 and the terminal 402 via the network 400. The server 401 and the terminal 402 can also communicate with each other via the network.

[0105] Thus, the control unit 100 can transmit fill level measurements (the fill level criterion) as well as information that identifies the control unit 100 or the patient, for example, an identification number (ID) of the device or patient, to the server 401, and the server 401 can store these fill level measurements in the corresponding patient file. Furthermore, the control unit 100 can transmit fill level measurements (the fill level criterion) as well as information that identifies the control unit 100 or the patient (ID) to the terminal 402, wherein the terminal 402 is assigned to the responsible nursing staff. The responsible nursing staff can be determined using the patient file (and a shift schedule).

[0106] Both server 401 and terminal 402 can be configured to graphically display the fill level measurements. A need for action can be determined either by the control unit 100, the server 401, or the terminal 402, which can be communicated to the responsible nursing staff via the terminal 402. A need for action can, for example, be a (nearly) full container 300.

[0107] Fig. 2 shows a control unit for a fill level determination system according to an embodiment.

[0108] The control unit 100 comprises a microcontroller 108, a display 107, a communication unit 109, a status LED 101, a container lighting 102, an energy management arrangement 103, and a sensor arrangement 112. Furthermore, the replaceable fill level measuring arrangement 200 is also shown.

[0109] Microcontroller 108 is configured to perform the control functions of control unit 100. Furthermore, microcontroller 108 can display information on display 107. This information can include, among other things, fill level measurements, patient data, or status information of the control unit, such as the charge level. Microcontroller 108 can also have a memory in which data can be stored locally. The memory can also be included in control unit 100.

[0110] The display 107 can display the information and also include a touch unit as an input device of the control unit 100, with which a user (for example nursing staff) can operate the control unit 100.

[0111] A patient status determined based on the fill level measurements can also be indicated by the status LED 101. Furthermore, the status LED can also indicate a status of the control unit 100 or the fill level determination system 1. Such a status can be, for example, that the position or acceleration is outside the tolerance range or that an excessive change in the fill level has been detected, so that no fill level measurement is performed (no release criterion). Furthermore, a missing connection to a network, a full container, or a low charge level can also be indicated.

[0112] The container lighting 102 can be switched on to check the fluid in the container, for example by color, in poor lighting conditions (dark room).

[0113] The energy management arrangement 103 comprises a charging device 104, a charging controller 105, and a battery 106. The charging controller 105 controls the energy input by the charging device 104 and the energy storage and release by the battery 106 in order to supply the control unit 100 (and the level measuring arrangement 200) with energy.

[0114] The charging device 104 can be an inductive charging device that receives energy contactlessly from outside the control unit 100. The charging device 104 can also receive energy via a plug.

[0115] The communication unit 109 comprises communication devices according to common standards, for example, for WLAN 110 or mobile radio 111. A communication device for (Low Energy) Bluetooth can also be provided. This allows the control unit 100 to communicate with devices such as servers and end devices directly or via a network.

[0116] The sensor arrangement 112 comprises an inertial measurement unit 113 (Inertial Measurement Unit, IMU), an NFC reader 114, a presence detector 115 and a diagnostic device 116.

[0117] The inertial measuring unit 113 measures the acceleration and position of the control unit 100 and the associated level measuring arrangement 200 as well as the container (300 in Fig. 1). Thus, the inertial measuring unit 113 determines the acceleration and position for determining the release criterion of the level measurement by the level measuring arrangement 200.

[0118] The NFC reader 114 is an RFID device that communicates with an RFID device in the container (300 in Fig. 1) or a terminal device (402 in Fig. 1). During communication, information for identifying the control unit 100, the fill level measuring arrangement, the container, and the terminal device can be transmitted, for example, to check compatibility. Patient data and the usage status of the container can also be transmitted during communication.

[0119] The presence detector 115 detects the presence or gesture of a user (a caregiver). Based on the detection, the display 107 can then be switched on from a standby state or the container lighting 102 can be switched on. The presence detector 115 can comprise a motion detector or an infrared camera.

[0120] The diagnostic device 116 comprises a broadband radiation source and an optical detector, for example a spectrometer for spectrometric analysis of the medical fluid flowing through a tube from or into the container 300.

[0121] Furthermore, a brightness detector can also be arranged in the sensor arrangement 112, which is configured to detect the brightness in the environment of the control unit 100. The brightness of the display 107 can then be adjusted based on the brightness.

[0122] The standby state of the display can be initiated based on a past time interval and, for example, the detected brightness.

[0123] The level measuring arrangement 200 comprises an electronic unit (electronic component) 201 with electrodes for level measurement and an actuator 202, which can be arranged in some embodiments. The actuator 202 operates an outlet valve on the container (300 in Fig. 1).

[0124] The actuator 202 can be controlled by the microcontroller 108 or the electronic unit 201, for example, when the measured fill level has reached a certain level and no inflow is detected.

[0125] The sensor arrangement 112 or parts of the sensor arrangement 112 can also be arranged on the fill level measuring arrangement 200, wherein evaluation steps in determining the release criterion can also be carried out by the electronic unit 201.

[0126] Fig. 3a shows a control unit according to an embodiment.

[0127] The control unit 100 includes a display 107 on the top of a housing 120, which includes integrated circuits and devices that carry the Fig. Implement the function blocks shown in Figure 2.

[0128] Fig. 3b shows a control unit according to an embodiment.

[0129] The control unit 100 includes a display 107 on the top of a housing 120, which includes integrated circuits and devices that carry the Fig. Implement the function blocks shown in Figure 2.

[0130] Furthermore, the control unit 100 comprises the diagnostic device 116 in a housing section which has a hose which is inserted into the container (300 in Fig. 1) leads, can record.

[0131] Fig. 4a shows a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0132] The level measuring arrangement 200 is designed as a measuring blade and comprises a section in the measuring blade which accommodates the electronic unit 201 with electrodes for measuring the level in the container.

[0133] Fig. 4b shows a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0134] The level measuring arrangement 200 is designed as a measuring blade and comprises a section in the measuring blade which accommodates the electronic unit 201 with electrodes for measuring the level in the container, as well as a second section which can function as a holder and accommodates the actuator 202.

[0135] Fig. 5a shows a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0136] The level measuring arrangement 200 comprises an electronics unit 201, measuring electrodes 201a, ambient reference electrodes 201b, fluid reference electrodes 201c and a standardized interface 203 on a carrier material 204 and a fastening mechanism 205.

[0137] The carrier material 205 can be a flexible, rigid, or printed circuit board. The electrical connections of the components arranged on the carrier material 205 are formed in the carrier material 205.

[0138] The electronics unit 201 determines a capacitance between the measuring electrodes 201a, the ambient reference electrodes 201b, and the fluid reference electrodes 201c. The capacitance between the measuring electrodes 201a is corrected using the measured values ​​of the reference electrodes.

[0139] The corrected capacity values ​​or a fill level determined from them by the electronic unit 201 can be transmitted from the electronic unit 201 via the standardized interface 203 to the control unit (100 in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) be submitted.

[0140] The fill level measuring arrangement 200 is further configured to be connectable to the control unit via the fastening mechanism 205. The fastening mechanism 205 includes, for example, pins that can be plugged into the control unit.

[0141] Fig. 5b shows a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0142] The level measuring arrangement 200 comprises an electronics unit 201, segmented measuring electrodes 201a and a standardized interface 203 on a carrier material 204 and a fastening mechanism 205.

[0143] The carrier material 205 can be a flexible, rigid, or printed circuit board. The electrical connections of the components arranged on the carrier material 205 are formed in the carrier material 205.

[0144] The electronics unit 201 determines a capacitance between each of the segmented measuring electrodes 201a. The fill level can be determined by comparing the capacitances between the individual segments, which are arranged at the same height.

[0145] The fill level can be transmitted from the electronic unit 201 via the standardized interface 203 to the control unit (100 in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) be submitted.

[0146] The fill level measuring arrangement 200 is further configured to be connectable to the control unit via the fastening mechanism 205. The fastening mechanism 205 includes, for example, pins that can be plugged into the control unit.

[0147] Not shown but also included may be the Fig. Reference electrodes shown in Figure 5a.

[0148] Fig. 5c shows a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0149] The level measuring arrangement 200 comprises an electronics unit 201, segmented measuring electrodes 201a and a standardized interface 203 on a carrier material 204 and a fastening mechanism 205.

[0150] The carrier material 205 can be a flexible, rigid, or printed circuit board. The electrical connections of the components arranged on the carrier material 205 are formed in the carrier material 205.

[0151] The electronics unit 201 determines a capacitance between each of the segmented measuring electrodes 201a. The fill level can be determined by comparing the capacitances between the individual segments.

[0152] The fill level can be transmitted from the electronic unit 201 via the standardized interface 203 to the control unit (100 in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) be submitted.

[0153] The fill level measuring arrangement 200 is further configured to be connectable to the control unit via the fastening mechanism 205. The fastening mechanism 205 includes, for example, pins that can be plugged into the control unit.

[0154] Not shown but also included may be the Fig. Reference electrodes shown in Figure 5a.

[0155] Fig. 5d shows a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0156] The level measuring arrangement 200 comprises an electronics unit 201, segmented measuring electrodes 201a and a standardized interface 203 on a carrier material 204 and a fastening mechanism 205. It also includes the actuator 202.

[0157] The carrier material 205 can be a flexible, rigid, or printed circuit board. The electrical connections of the components arranged on the carrier material 205 are formed in the carrier material 205.

[0158] The electronic unit 201 determines a capacitance between the segmented measuring electrodes 201a. The fill level can be determined by comparing the capacitances between the individual segments, which are arranged at the same height. Several columns of measuring electrodes 201a are designed, which measure the fill level in several columns in a corresponding container (300 in). Fig. 1) can be determined.

[0159] The fill level can be transmitted from the electronic unit 201 via the standardized interface 203 to the control unit (100 in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) be submitted.

[0160] The fill level measuring arrangement 200 is further configured to be connectable to the control unit via the fastening mechanism 205. The fastening mechanism 205 includes, for example, pins that can be plugged into the control unit.

[0161] The actuator 202 can be controlled by the electronic unit 201 or the control unit (100 in Fig. 2) to operate a drain valve of the container.

[0162] Not shown but also included may be the Fig. Reference electrodes shown in Figure 5a.

[0163] Fig. 6a shows a container according to an embodiment.

[0164] The container 300 is designed with a hose 301 as an inlet. In the illustrated form, the container is a (urine) bag and serves to collect urine from a patient on a normal ward of a hospital or nursing facility.

[0165] Fig. 6b shows a container according to an embodiment.

[0166] The container 300 is configured with a hose 301 as an inlet. In the illustrated form, the container is a drain and serves to collect fluids from a patient's wound, for example, after a patient's surgery.

[0167] Fig. 6c shows a container according to an embodiment.

[0168] The container 300 is designed with a tube 301 as a drain. In the illustrated form, the container is an infusion bag and serves for the storage and scheduled delivery of medications, nutrients, and minerals into a patient's bloodstream.

[0169] Fig. 6d shows a container according to an embodiment.

[0170] The container 300 is designed with a hose 301 as an inlet, an upper container 302, a lower container 303, and a transition 304. The upper container serves to measure the fill level, whereby the upper container has several columns in which liquid columns can accumulate, each of which can overflow into the next column. A fill level measurement can then be carried out using the several columns of electrodes of the level measuring arrangement according to Fig. 5d.

[0171] Transition 304 includes a valve that is controlled by the actuator (202 in Fig. 5d). This valve can be a pinch valve, which requires only a flexible tube on the container 300. The actuator pinches the tube to close the valve. In the illustrated form, the container is a urine measuring system and is used to collect urine from a patient in a hospital's intensive care unit.

[0172] Fig. 6e shows a container according to an embodiment.

[0173] The container 300 is designed with a tube 301 as an inlet. In the illustrated form, the container is a thoracic drain and serves to collect fluids from a patient's wound, for example, after a patient's operation. The container has several columns in which columns of fluid can accumulate, each of which can overflow into the next column. A level measurement can then be carried out using the several columns of electrodes of the level measuring arrangement according to Fig. 5d.

[0174] Fig. 6f shows a container according to an embodiment.

[0175] The container 300 is configured with a tube 301 as an inlet. In the illustrated form, the container is a surgical drain in bottle form and serves to collect fluids from a patient's wound, for example, after a patient's surgery.

[0176] Fig. 6g shows a container according to an embodiment.

[0177] The container 300 is designed with a tube 301 as an inlet. In the illustrated form, the container is a ventricular drain and serves to collect a patient's cerebrospinal fluid, for example, after a patient's surgery.

[0178] Fig. 6h shows schematically a container according to an embodiment.

[0179] The container 300 additionally comprises an RFID device 306, which can be applied (glued) to a surface of the container 300. The RFID device 306 can be an NFC tag and can store patient data as well as a usage status (whether the container 300 has already been used). Furthermore, the RFID device 306 can also transmit an ID, wherein the usage status can be stored, for example, in a server (401 in Fig. 1), control unit (100 in Fig. 1) or terminal (402 in Fig. 1) is stored for this ID.

[0180] The RFID device 306 can be mounted on each of the containers 300 of Fig. 5a to 5g must be applied.

[0181] Fig. 7 shows a control unit and a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0182] The level measuring arrangement 200 is connected to the rear of the control unit 100. This connection is implemented, for example, by a fastening mechanism and a standardized interface. The level measuring arrangement 200 shown is as shown in Fig. 4a and the control unit 100 shown as in Fig. 3a.

[0183] Fig. 8 shows a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment.

[0184] On the container 300 is the level measuring arrangement 200 and the control unit 100, which as in Fig. 7. The container is designed as shown in Fig. 6a.

[0185] The level measuring arrangement 200 rests against the back of the container 300. The connection between the container 300 and the level measuring arrangement 200 can be an adhesive connection.

[0186] Fig. 9 shows a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment.

[0187] On the container 300 is the level measuring arrangement 200 and the control unit 100, which as in Fig. 7. The container is designed as shown in Fig. 6a.

[0188] The level measuring arrangement 200 is inserted into a flexible pocket 307 of the container 300. The level measuring arrangement 200 and the pocket 307 are connected according to the sword-sheath principle and thus the level measuring arrangement 200 rests against the rear of the container 300.

[0189] The pocket 307 may be made of the same material as the outer wall of the container 300 and may be welded to the outer wall of the container.

[0190] Fig. 10 shows a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment.

[0191] On the container 300 is the level measuring arrangement 200 and the control unit 100, which as in Fig. 7. The container 300 is as shown in Fig. 6a.

[0192] The level measuring arrangement 200 is inserted into a rigid pocket 308 of the container 300. The level measuring arrangement 200 and the pocket 308 are connected according to the sword-sheath principle and thus the level measuring arrangement 200 rests against the rear of the container 300.

[0193] The pocket 308 may be made of a rigid plastic and bonded to the outer wall of the container, whereby the pocket provides rigidity to the container wall which improves the accuracy of the level measurement due to a reduced curvature of the container wall.

[0194] Fig. 11 shows a control unit and a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0195] The level measuring arrangement 200 is connected to the rear of the control unit 100. This connection is implemented, for example, by a fastening mechanism and a standardized interface. The level measuring arrangement 200 shown is as shown in Fig. 4a and the control unit 100 shown as in Fig. 3b with a diagnostic device 116.

[0196] Fig. 12 shows a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment.

[0197] On the container 300 is the level measuring arrangement 200 and the control unit 100, which as in Fig. 11. The container is designed as shown in Fig. 6b.

[0198] The level measuring arrangement 200 rests against the back of the container 300. The connection between the container 300 and the level measuring arrangement 200 can be an adhesive connection.

[0199] The level measuring arrangement 200 and the container 300 can also be connected via a flexible pocket on the rear wall of the container, as this connection is already shown in Fig. 9 is shown.

[0200] Fig. 13 shows a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment.

[0201] On the container 300 is the level measuring arrangement 200 and the control unit 100, which as in Fig. 11. The container 300 is as shown in Fig. 6b.

[0202] The level measuring arrangement 200 is inserted into a rigid pocket 308 of the container 300. The level measuring arrangement 200 and the pocket 308 are connected according to the sword-sheath principle and thus the level measuring arrangement 200 rests against the rear of the container 300.

[0203] The pocket 308 may be made of a rigid plastic and bonded to the outer wall of the container, whereby the pocket provides rigidity to the container wall which improves the accuracy of the level measurement due to a reduced curvature of the container wall.

[0204] The hose 301 of the container 300 is guided through the diagnostic device 116 when the container 300 is connected to the level measuring assembly 200. Thus, fluid flowing through the hose 301 can be analyzed by the diagnostic device 116.

[0205] Fig. 14 shows a control unit and a level measuring arrangement according to an embodiment.

[0206] The level measuring arrangement 200 is connected to the rear of the control unit 100. This connection is implemented, for example, by a fastening mechanism and a standardized interface. The level measuring arrangement 200 shown is as shown in Fig. 4b and the control unit 100 shown as in Fig. 3a. The level measuring arrangement 200 has a holder with actuator 202.

[0207] Fig. 15 shows a control device, a level measuring arrangement and a container according to an embodiment.

[0208] On the container 300 is the level measuring arrangement 200 and the control unit 100, which as in Fig. 14. The container 300 is as shown in Fig. 6d executed.

[0209] The holder with actuator 202 of the level measuring arrangement 200 holds the container 300 at the transition 304 between the upper container 302 and the lower container 303. The level measuring arrangement 200 rests against the rear of the upper container 302 and measures the level there. The level of several columns in the upper container can also be measured, as already described with reference to Fig. 5d and Fig. 6d. The actuator 202 can close the transition 304 by squeezing it.

[0210] Fig. 16 shows a flow chart of an example level measurement.

[0211] The level measurement is performed by the control unit. After the control unit starts up, the system is initialized in step S1. In step S2, a check is made to determine whether and which level measurement device is connected. If no level measurement device is connected, step S2 is repeated, and an error message may be output. If a level measurement device is connected, step S3 follows.

[0212] In step S3, a check is made to see whether the control unit is connected to a network. If the control unit is not connected to a network, step S3 is repeated, and an error message may be displayed. If the control unit is connected to a network, step S4 follows.

[0213] In step S4, it is checked whether the control unit is connected to an electronic patient record (for example on the server 401 in Fig. 1) is linked. If the control unit is not linked to an electronic patient record, step S4 is repeated; an error message may be displayed. If the control unit is linked to an electronic patient record, step S5 follows.

[0214] In step S5, a check is made to see whether the container has been recognized (using its NFC tag). If the container has not been recognized, step S5 is repeated, and an error message may be displayed. If the container has been recognized, step S6 follows.

[0215] In step S6, a check is performed to determine whether the container is new, an approved container, and compatible with the level measurement system. In addition, a mathematical conversion function is loaded that depends on the geometry of the container and level measurement system, which is required in steps S12 to S17 to convert and correct the measurement data. If this is not the case, step S6 is repeated, and an error message may be issued. If this is the case, step S7 follows.

[0216] In step S7, the measurement begins. Capacitive measured values ​​from the level measurement system are acquired, but these are not yet released. Furthermore, measured values ​​from an inertial measurement unit (IMU) are acquired.

[0217] In step S8, a check is carried out to determine whether the position of the control unit, and thus also of the container, measured by the IMU lies within a tolerance range around a reference position (vertical). If the position is not within the tolerance range, step S7 follows. An error message may be output when jumping to step 7. If the measured position is within the tolerance range, step S9 follows.

[0218] In step S9, a check is made to determine whether the acceleration measured by the IMU is within a tolerance range. If the acceleration is not within the tolerance range, step S7 follows. An error message can be output when jumping to step 7. If the measured acceleration is within the tolerance range, step S10 follows.

[0219] In step S10, the measured values ​​of the level measurement arrangement are recorded and evaluated as a plausibility measurement.

[0220] In step S11, the plausibility measurement is used to check whether an excessive change in the fill level has been measured compared to a previously measured fill level (comparing the change with a threshold value). If an excessive change is detected, step S7 follows. An error message may be output when jumping to step 7. If no excessive change is detected, a release criterion is issued for the measured values ​​of the fill level measurement system in the plausibility measurement.

[0221] In step S12, the capacitive measured values ​​from the plausibility measurement are converted into a fill level. This is done using the conversion function loaded in step S6, which depends on the geometry of the detected containers and the fill level measurement arrangement.

[0222] In step S13, the determined fill level is converted into a volume. This is done using the conversion function loaded in step S6, which depends on the geometry of the detected containers and the fill level measurement arrangement.

[0223] In step S14, the deviation of the position measured by the IMU from the reference position is determined. This is done using the conversion function loaded in step S6, which depends on the geometry of the detected containers and the level measurement arrangement.

[0224] In step S15, the determined volume is corrected based on the determined deviation. For this purpose, the conversion function loaded in step S6 is used, which depends on the geometry of the detected containers and the level measurement arrangement.

[0225] In step S16, the temperature of the liquid and the temperature of the environment are recorded.

[0226] In step S17, a further correction of the corrected volume is performed based on the temperature measurements. This results in a corrected fluid volume. For this purpose, the conversion function loaded in step S6 is used, which depends on the geometry of the detected containers and level measurement arrangement.

[0227] In step S18, the corrected fluid volume is stored locally on the control unit.

[0228] In step S19, the corrected fluid volume is shown on the display.

[0229] In step S20, the corrected fluid volume is transmitted to the server.

[0230] In step S21, the corrected fluid volume is transmitted (stored) in the patient record.

[0231] In step S22, a check is made to determine whether another measurement should be performed. The system continues with step S7. If no further measurement is to be performed, the measurement ends.

[0232] Fig. 17 illustrates an embodiment of a general-purpose computer 500. The general-purpose computer 500 is an example of a control device according to Fig. 2, which comprises a circuit adapted to carry out the method according to the present technology (e.g. the method of Fig. 17).

[0233] Embodiments that use software, firmware, programs, or the like to perform the methods described herein may be installed on the computer 500, which is then suitably configured for the corresponding embodiment.

[0234] The computer 500 has a central processing unit (CPU) 501, which can execute various types of procedures and methods as described herein, for example, according to programs stored in a read-only memory (ROM) 502; stored in a memory 507 and loaded into a random-access memory (RAM) 503; stored on a medium 510 that can be inserted into a corresponding drive 509; etc.

[0235] The CPU 501, the ROM 502, and the RAM 503 are connected to a bus 511, which in turn is connected to an input / output interface 504. The number of CPUs, memories, and storage is only exemplary, and those skilled in the art will understand that the computer 500 can be adapted and configured to meet specific requirements that arise when used as a control device according to the present technology.

[0236] Several components are connected to the input / output interface 504: an input 505, an output 506, a memory 507, a communication interface 508 and the drive 509 into which a medium 510 (compact disk (CD), digital video disc (DVD), CompactFlash memory or the like) can be inserted.

[0237] The input 505 may include a pointing device (mouse, graphics tablet, or the like), a keyboard, a microphone, a camera, a touch screen, a gaze tracking unit, etc. The input may also include any measured values ​​from sensors that are in Fig. 2 are received.

[0238] The output 506 may have a display (liquid crystal display (LCD), cathode ray tube (CRT), light emitting diode (LED), etc.; e.g., included in a touch screen), speaker, etc. The output may also provide control signals to actuators, as described in Fig. 2 is described.

[0239] The storage 507 may include a hard disk, a solid-state drive (SSD), a flash drive, and the like.

[0240] The communication interface 508 may be adapted to communicate, for example, via a local area network (LAN), wireless local area network (WLAN), mobile telecommunications system (GSM, UMTS, LTE, NR, etc.), Bluetooth, near-field communication (NFC), infrared, etc.

[0241] It is noted that the above description relates only to an exemplary configuration of computer 500. Alternative configurations may be implemented with additional or different sensors, memory devices, interfaces, or the like. For example, communication interface 158 may support radio access technologies other than the mentioned UMTS, LTE, and NR. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 1 level determination system 100 control unit 101 Status LED 102 Container lighting 103 Energy management order 104 Charging device 105 charging controller 106 Battery 107 Advertisement 108 microcontrollers 109 Communication unit 110 Wi-Fi 111 mobile phone 112 Sensor arrangement 113 inertial measuring unit 114 NFC readers 115 Presence detector 116 Diagnostic device 200 level measuring arrangement 201 Electronic unit (electronic component) 201a measuring electrodes 201b Ambient reference electrodes 201c Fluid reference electrodes 202 Actuator 203 standardized interface 204 Carrier material 205 Fastening mechanism 300 containers 301 hose 302 upper container 303 lower container 304 Transition 306 RFID device (NFC tag) 307 flexible bag 308 stiff bag 400 Network 401 Server 402 Device QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] WO 2023 / 062224

[0073]

Claims

[1] Detection device for determining a release criterion for a level determination system (1) which determines a level of a medical fluid in a container (300), comprising: a position detector (113) which is arranged to determine a position of the level determination system (1), an acceleration detector (113) which is configured to determine an acceleration of the fill level determination system (1), wherein fill level measurement values of the fill level determination system (1) are recorded as a plausibility measurement if the determined position lies within a tolerance range around a reference position and if the acceleration lies within a tolerance range and the release criterion is issued based on the plausibility measurement if a fill level measurement value of the fill level determination system (1) does not show an excessive change compared to a previous fill level measurement value. [2] Level determination system (1) for determining a level criterion of a medical fluid in a container (300), comprising: the container (300) which is adapted to hold a medical fluid, a level measuring arrangement (200) which is designed to record measured values which correspond to a level criterion of the container (300), a detection device according to claim 1, and a control device (100), wherein the control unit (100) and the fill level measuring arrangement (200) are designed to be connectable to one another and the fill level measuring arrangement (200) and the container (300) are designed to be connectable to one another, wherein the determination of the fill level criterion takes place in a connected state of the control unit (100) and the fill level measuring arrangement (200) as well as the fill level measuring arrangement (200) and the container (300). [3] Level determination system (1) according to claim 2, wherein the control unit (100) and the level measuring arrangement (200) are arranged to be connectable to one another by means of a standardized interface (203). [4] Level determination system (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the container (300) comprises a holder and the level measuring arrangement (200) and the container (300) are arranged to be connectable to one another by means of the holder. [5] Level determination system (1) according to claim 4, wherein the holder on the container (300) comprises a flexible pocket (307) which is designed to receive the level measuring arrangement (200) according to a sword-sheath principle. [6] Level determination system (1) according to claim 4, wherein the holder on the container (300) comprises a stiffened pocket (308) which is designed to receive the level measuring arrangement (200) according to a sword-sheath principle. [7] Level determination system (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the level measuring arrangement (200) and the container (300) are arranged to be connectable to one another by means of adhesion. [8] Level determination system (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the level measuring arrangement (200) is printed on the container (300), whereby the level measuring arrangement (200) and the container (300) are arranged to be connectable to one another. [9] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the container (300) comprises a urine bag. [10] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the container (300) comprises a urine measuring system. [11] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the container (300) comprises an infusion bag. [12] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the container (300) comprises a thoracic drain. [13] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the container (300) comprises a ventricular drain. [14] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the container (300) comprises a surgical drain. [15] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 14, wherein the container (300) comprises an RFID device (306). [16] Level determination system (1) according to claim 15, wherein the control device (100) is configured to read the RFID device (306) of the container (300) by means of a further RFID device (114) and to determine whether the container (300) is compatible with the level measuring arrangement (200) and the control device (100) and has not yet been used, so that if the container (300) is compatible and has not yet been used, the RFID device (114) writes to the RFID device (306) of the container (300) that the container (300) is used. [17] Fill level determination system (1) according to claim 15, wherein when writing by means of the further RFID device (114) to the RFID device (306) of the container (300), patient-related data are also written to the RFID device (306) of the container (300). [18] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the control unit (100) comprises the further RFID device (114). [19] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 18, wherein the container (300) comprises an outlet valve (304) and the level measuring arrangement (200) comprises an actuator (202) which is adapted to actuate the outlet valve (304). [20] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 19, wherein the control unit (100) comprises a diagnostic device (116) which is configured to analyze the fluid spectrometrically. [21] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 20, wherein the control device (100) comprises a display (107) configured to display information about the determined level criterion. [22] Level determination system (1) according to claim 21, wherein the control device (100) comprises a presence detector (115) configured to detect an approach of a person or a gesture of a person, wherein the display (107) is switched on from a standby state due to the approach or the gesture. [23] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 22, wherein the control unit (100) comprises an energy management arrangement (103) which is configured to supply the control unit with energy. [24] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 23, wherein the level measuring arrangement (200) comprises electrodes (201a) which are designed to capacitively determine level measurement values. [25] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 24, wherein the level measuring arrangement (200) comprises a printed circuit board (204) and the electrodes are formed on the printed circuit board (204). [26] Level determination system (1) according to claim 25, wherein the printed circuit board (204) is dimensionally stable. [27] Level determination system (1) according to claim 25, wherein the printed circuit board (204) is flexible. [28] Level determination system (1) according to one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the level measuring arrangement (200) comprises an electronic component (201) which is designed to carry out the determination of the measured values using the electrodes (201a). [29] Fill level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 28, wherein the control unit (100) is configured to carry out a correction of the fill level criterion based on the determined position of the position detector (113) of the detection device when the release criterion is granted. [30] Container (300) for a level determination system (1) according to one of claims 2 to 29. [31] Method for determining a release criterion for a level determination system (1) which determines a level of a medical fluid in a container (300), comprising the steps: Determining a position of the level determination system (1), Determining an acceleration of the level determination system (1), Recording level measurement values of the level determination system (1) as a plausibility measurement if the determined position is within a tolerance range around a reference position and if the acceleration is within a tolerance range, and Granting the release criterion based on plausibility measurement if a level measurement value of the level determination system (1) does not show an excessive change compared to a previous level measurement value.

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