Smart medicine bottle cap

Abstract

To provide a smart medicine bottle cap.SOLUTION: A smart medicine bottle cap 100 can include a housing. The housing can include a sensor configured to monitor one or more characteristics of a medicine bottle to which the housing is attached, and can include a communication mechanism configured to communicate one or more characteristics of the medicine bottle to an external device. With the use of the communicated characteristic(s) of the medicine bottle, the time and date of collection of a tablet, and / or the use of tablets in the medicine bottle such as some tablets remaining in the medicine bottle can be tracked. The smart medicine bottle cap 100 can also be configured to engage with a secondary standard medicine bottle cap to be used for a standard medicine bottle 180.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application is filed on December 12, 2019, entitled "Smart Pill Bottle This application claims priority to provisional U.S. patent application Ser. No. 62 / 947,165, entitled "Caps," is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to caps for medicine vials. [Background technology]

[0003] Many people take a variety of medications, both prescription and non-prescription, to achieve a variety of limited progress. Many of these drugs are administered to users through the ingestion of pills to treat ongoing medical conditions. Many treatments follow strict dosing regimens, e.g., forgetfulness and prescription Without missing a day because you can't replenish it on time, for example, at the same time every day. It requires users to take the pills in a specific order with other medications. In such cases, users may forget or become confused about which pill to take at what time. If proper planning is not followed, these same users may be unable to address known medical conditions. Increased harm or further death due to lack of treatment despite having the intended medication Furthermore, drugs contain additional substances that provide users with motivation for drug abuse. It may include. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Therefore, it provides assistance in monitoring the use and guiding consumption of various types of tablets. The user and any third party monitoring the user and / or medication, e.g., family members, , providing greater convenience and ease of use for users, such as medical professionals. .

[0005] Therefore, there remains a need for improved caps on medicine bottles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Generally, smart vial caps, corresponding systems, and methods for using the same are provided. Provided.

[0007] In one aspect, a vial cap is provided, which in one embodiment comprises a cap for a vial. the cap closes the vial and is removable from the vial. The housing is configured to allow access to the contents of the vial. With the sensor attached to the cap, the sensor is configured to measure a characteristic of the contents. The housing includes a sensor for transmitting data corresponding to the measured characteristic to an external device. The communication mechanism includes a communication mechanism configured to:

[0008] The vial cap can have any number of variations. For example, the sensor can measure weight The characteristics may include a weight of the contents. In some embodiments, the housing is placed on a horizontal surface and the vial and cap extend above the housing. With the housing attached to the cap in place, the sensor is stored in an inverted position. The sensor may be configured to measure the weight without sensing the weight of the vial or cap. Includes a sensing resistor, load cell, or pressure sensor.

[0009] In another example, the sensor may be an ultrasonic sensor and the characteristic may be a distance between the sensor and the contents. In at least some embodiments, the housing attached to the cap may include is configured to be stored in an upright position, with the vial resting on a horizontal surface and the housing and carrier A cap may be placed on the vial.

[0010] In yet another example, the sensors may include a single sensor.

[0011] For yet another example, the sensor may include multiple sensors. In this embodiment, the sensor comprises at least two accelerometers, a sensor configured to measure weight, The sensors may also include temperature sensors, humidity sensors, and ultrasonic sensors. The sensor may include at least one of a geographic location sensor.

[0012] In yet another example, the external device may be a smartphone. The communication mechanism automatically sends data to the external device when the communication mechanism connects to the external device. In another example, the communication mechanism may be configured to dynamically transmit. communicate using GPS, Wi-Fi, near field communication, or radio frequency identification communication In yet another example, the vial cap may be configured to store time and date data. The communication mechanism may include a current date and time circuit configured to collect the time and The device can be configured to transmit the date and time data to an external device. The ring can be configured to be permanently attached to the cap. In the example, the housing is removed from the cap and attached to a second cap of a second vial. The housing is removably attached to the cap so that the cap is configured to be attached to the housing. In yet another example, the housing may be configured to accommodate a The cap may have a cavity configured to receive a vial cap therein. In yet another example, a plurality of longitudinal grooves are formed in a housing surrounding the cavity. The plurality of fasteners may protrude from the housing into the cavity, and the plurality of fasteners may The longitudinal grooves allow the housing to move radially outward during placement and removal of the vial cap within the cavity. The plurality of stops may be configured to allow the cap to bend in the cavity. The vial cap may be configured to engage with the vial cap when received in the vial cap.

[0013] As yet another example, the housing may be configured to receive a vial cap therein. The housing may have a cavity formed therein, the housing being disposed between the sensor and the cavity. The guide plate may have a guide plate positioned thereon, the guide plate being adapted to guide at least the contents of the vial. The weight of the object can be received and configured to apply the weight of the contents to a sensor. In examples, the guide plate may have a number of posts protruding from the guide plate. The housing may have a plurality of holes defined therein, and the plurality of posts may It may be configured to be received in multiple holes.

[0014] In another aspect, in one embodiment, at least one tablet is configured to be contained in a vial. a vial having a first vial cap configured to close the vial; a vial system including a second vial cap configured to attach to the vial cap; The second vial cap is configured to measure a characteristic of at least one tablet in the vial. Includes an integrated electronic measuring mechanism.

[0015] The vial system can be modified in a variety of ways. For example, features include weight. The second vial cap can be attached to the first vial cap and the vial. a vial cap extending vertically above the vial cap and resting on a horizontal support surface; The measuring mechanism may be configured to be positioned on the vial or non-electronic vial cap, such that the measuring mechanism measures the weight of the vial or non-electronic vial cap. The weight of at least one tablet can be measured without sensing the quantity. The characteristics include weight, and the second vial cap is a first vial cap and a vial. a horizontal support surface, extending over the second vial cap and resting on the second vial cap; whereby the measurement mechanism measures at least one tablet, a pill vial, and a non-electronic pill vial container. In at least some embodiments, the weight of the top can be measured. In the measurement mechanism, a date and time stamp is provided which allows the measured features to be time-stamped. The measuring mechanism may be configured to measure, and / or the measuring mechanism may measure, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, and stomata. The device may be configured to measure at least one of the following:

[0016] In another example, the characteristic can include a distance between the measurement mechanism and the at least one tablet. The vial is placed in a position where the first vial cap and the second vial cap are positioned vertically above the vial. In yet another example, the measurement mechanism may be configured to place the sensor on a horizontal support surface. In yet another example, the second vial cap may include a power source, a processor, and a memory. The power supply may include a power supply.

[0017] In another example, the second vial cap may transmit data measured by the measurement mechanism to a remote computer. The communication mechanism may include a communication mechanism configured to wirelessly transmit the information to a computer system. In some embodiments, the transmission may be via Bluetooth communication, cellular communication, Wi-Fi communication, or the like. The communication mechanism may be wireless transmission using radio frequency identification, short range communication, or radio frequency identification. It may be configured to receive a request for data from a remote computing device. The computer system may include a smartphone, and the remote computer system scans the label on the pill bottle to access information corresponding to at least one pill and / or a communication mechanism for communicating the measured characteristics to a remote computer system. The remote computer system determines the total quantity of at least one tablet in the vial. The method may be configured to allow the user to set the

[0018] In yet another example, the second vial cap is adapted to be removed from the first vial cap. In at least some embodiments, the vial system may include at least one a second pill bottle configured to contain one more pill; and closing the second pill bottle. and a third vial cap configured to attach to the cap.

[0019] In another example, the second vial cap is permanently attached to the first vial cap. In one example, the second vial cap may be configured to include a The vial cap may have a cavity formed therein, the cavity adapted to receive a first vial cap therein. a plurality of longitudinal grooves formed in the second vial cap surrounding the cavity; The plurality of stops may protrude from the second vial cap into the cavity. The longitudinal groove allows the second vial cap to be inserted into the cavity during placement and removal of the first vial cap. The plurality of stops may be configured to allow the first stop to bend radially outward. configured to engage with the first vial cap when the second vial cap is received within the cavity. It is possible.

[0020] In yet another example, the second vial cap has a cavity formed therein. the cavity being configured to receive a first vial cap and a second vial cap. The vial cap may have a guide plate disposed between the electronic measuring mechanism and the cavity. The guide plate receives the weight of at least one tablet and transmits it to an electronic measuring mechanism. The amount may be configured to apply.

[0021] In yet another example, the first vial cap may be non-electronic. One tablet may be an abiraterone acetate tablet.

[0022] In another aspect, a method of using a smart pill bottle cap is provided, in one embodiment, comprising: a sensor in a first vial cap engaged with an assembly including a vial and a second vial cap; and sensing at least one characteristic of the assembly using the vial. the assembly having at least one tablet therein and extending vertically above the first vial cap. and the first vial cap is placed on a horizontal support surface while the first vial cap is placed on the horizontal support surface. The method also uses a communication mechanism in the first vial cap to communicate the sensed small amount of and transmitting data indicative of at least one characteristic to an external device of the first vial cap and the assembly. This includes sending

[0023] This method may have various variations. For example, at least one feature may include at least In at least some embodiments, the device may be used to measure the weight of one tablet. Analyze the data to determine the number of tablets in a pill bottle based on a given weight of a single tablet At least one feature may be a date or time stamp that allows the sensed weight to be time and date stamped. The at least one characteristic may include time, and / or the at least one characteristic may include ambient temperature, ambient humidity, and movement. In at least some embodiments, the assembly may include one or more of the following: The first medicine bottle is placed on the vial cap, and the vial cap extends vertically above the vial cap. The cap is placed on a horizontal support surface and a sensor senses the weight of the vial or the second vial cap. The weight of the at least one tablet may be sensed without requiring a sensor. In at least some embodiments, the assembly extends vertically above the first vial cap. and the first vial cap is placed on a horizontal support surface. and a sensor for measuring the weight of at least one pill, the weight of the pill bottle, and the weight of the second pill bottle cap. The weight can be sensed.

[0024] In yet another example, the transmission may be via Bluetooth communication, cellular communication, Wi-Fi communication, short range communication, It may be wireless transmission using radio frequency identification communication or radio frequency identification communication.

[0025] As another example, a first vial cap is removed from the assembly and a second vial cap is and a third vial cap. a sensor in the first vial cap that engages with the second assembly; The second vial may include sensing at least one characteristic in the second vial. The second assembly extends vertically above the first vial cap. and the first vial cap is placed on a horizontal support surface. The method may also include communicating with the first vial cap using a communication mechanism of the first vial cap. and transmitting the sensed at least one signal of the second assembly to an external device of the second assembly. The method may include transmitting data indicative of at least one characteristic.

[0026] In yet another example, the first vial cap may be permanently engaged with the assembly. In yet another example, at least one tablet can be an abiraterone acetate tablet. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] The present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. will be understood. [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of a standard vial with a standard vial cap. [Figure 1B] 1B is a side perspective view of the standard vial and standard vial cap of FIG. 1A with one embodiment of a smart vial cap placed thereon. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1B is a side perspective view of the smart vial cap of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1C is an exploded side perspective view of the cap of FIG. 1B. [Figure 3] 1C is a partial cross-sectional block diagram of the standard vial, standard vial cap, and smart vial cap and external device of FIG. 1B. [Figure 3A]FIG. 1C is a partial cross-sectional block diagram of the standard vial, standard vial cap, and smart vial cap of FIG. 1B with a first number of tablets therein. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a partial cross-sectional block diagram of the standard vial, standard vial cap, and smart vial cap of FIG. 3A with a second, smaller number of tablets therein. [Figure 4] FIG. 1C is a bottom-top perspective view of the smart cap of FIG. 1B. [Figure 5] FIG. 1C is a side perspective view of a portion of the smart cap of FIG. 1B. [Figure 6] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of a guide plate of the smart cap of FIG. 1B. [Figure 7] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of a monitoring mechanism of the smart cap of FIG. 1B. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a force sensing resistor. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the monitoring mechanism of FIG. 7. [Figure 8B] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a communication network system. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 illustrates a top-down view of one embodiment of a printed circuit board. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top-down view of another embodiment of a printed circuit board. [Figure 11] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the power supply and spacer of the smart cap of FIG. 1B. [Figure 12] 1C is a top-down view of the cover of the smart cap of FIG. 1B. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a diagram of one embodiment of an app on an external device. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a top-down view of another embodiment of a portion of a smart vial cap. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a bottom-up view of the smart cap of FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a guide plate of the smart cap of FIG. 14. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the guide plate of FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the monitoring mechanism, power supply, and cover of the smart cap of FIG. 14. [Figure 19] 10A-10C are perspective and partial cross-sectional side views of portions of another embodiment of a smart vial cap. [Figure 20] 20A and 20B are perspective and partial cross-sectional perspective views of the smart vial cap of FIG. 19. [Figure 21] 20A and 20B are perspective and partial cross-sectional side views of the outer housing of the smart cap of FIG. 19. [Figure 22] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the inner housing of the smart cap of FIG. 19. [Figure 23] FIG. 20 is a perspective side view of the cantilever sensor of the smart cap of FIG. 19. [Figure 24] FIG. 20 is a perspective side view of the monitoring mechanism and power supply of the smart cap of FIG. 19. [Figure 25] 10A-10C are perspective and partial cross-sectional bottom views of another embodiment of a smart vial cap. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a smart vial cap. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a smart vial cap. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] The principles of structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein are now described. To provide a thorough understanding, certain exemplary embodiments are described. One or more examples of the present invention are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The devices and methods described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments. and that the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. It will be understood that features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may also be used in other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are included within the scope of the present invention. It shall be included.

[0029] Furthermore, in this disclosure, like-named components of the embodiments generally have similar characteristics. Therefore, in certain embodiments, each feature of each similarly named component may be In addition, the disclosed system, To the extent that linear or circular dimensions are used in describing devices and methods, such The dimensions can be used in conjunction with such systems, devices, and methods. No limitation is intended on the type of shape, and those skilled in the art will recognize such linear and circular dimensions. It is recognized that the dimensions equivalent to the method can be easily determined for any geometric shape. The size and shape of the system and device and its components will be determined at least At the very least, the anatomy of the subject within which the system and device will be used, The size and shape of the components in which the device is used, and the systems and devices in which it is used Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements. .

[0030] Various exemplary smart vial caps, corresponding systems, and methods for using same The present disclosure generally relates to a method for attaching a drug vial to a drug dispenser. A smart vial cap (referred to herein as a "smart vial cap") includes one or more built-in sensing and / or communication capabilities. The smart vial caps provided herein relate to a smart vial cap (also called a "smart cap"). The cap may be configured to display one or more of the following characteristics of the engaged vial (e.g., the vial to which the smart vial cap is engaged): It can be used to track various factors, such as weight, volume, situational conditions, and environmental conditions. Using this information, the smart pill bottle cap can , which helps monitor the general usage of the tablets contained in the bottle, e.g. the number of tablets taken, whether the tablets are taken according to the prescribed regimen, and whether the tablets are taken correctly. Ensure that the tablets are stored under environmental conditions and handled in the correct manner to maintain their effectiveness. whether the pill bottle has been tampered with. This information is used to Provide users, such as those taking the medication, family members monitoring the user's care, and healthcare professionals This information can be used to take necessary action, for example, in clinical trials. Provided to healthcare professionals to allow monitoring of any medications and / or behaviors of patients during clinical trials. Using this information about clinical trials, various medical professionals can For example, the patient has taken the medication in a timely manner and / or the medication has not been exposed to harmful environmental conditions (such as high or low temperatures). This can be improved by verifying that the product has not been subjected to excessive heat, excessive humidity, etc. Smart vial caps can be used with corresponding smart devices to ensure accurate clinical data. A remote server or smartphone containing a smartphone program application or app Smart medicines that can be configured to electronically connect to one or more external devices The information collected by the bottle cap is used for analysis, display, verification, guidance and corrective action. It can be shared with external device(s) for storage, etc.

[0031] The smart cap can be configured to be permanently attached to the vial. This helps to prevent tampering and / or ensures that the pill bottle contains the pills for the patient. This can be useful to ensure that smart caps are used at times. The smart cap can be configured to be removably attached to the vial. This allows the smart cap to be reused and transferred from vial to vial (e.g. Buy only one Smart Cap for multiple pill bottles (e.g., prescription to prescription) may reduce overall costs, shorten the user learning curve, and / or Allows for more standardized manufacturing of smart caps.

[0032] In one exemplary embodiment, a secondary vial carrier is provided which is itself removably engaged with the vial. A smart vial cap is provided that includes a housing configured to engage the cap. The housing includes at least one sensor configured to measure information about the vial. For example, the sensor(s) may include one or more of: the weight of the pill bottle and any pills therein; It can monitor temperature, movement, etc. The housing also transmits the measured information to a remote server. a communication mechanism configured to communicate with one or more external devices, such as a mobile phone, a smart phone, or the like The smart vial cap, which includes a sensor and a communication mechanism, is attached to the secondary vial cap (removable). By attaching the smart medicine bottle cap to the medicine bottle (either removable or non-removable), No contact with pharmaceuticals reduces manufacturing and regulatory concerns and eliminates the need for existing vial caps and and existing pill bottle caps and existing pill bottle caps to preserve their tamper-proof function. Allows preservation of the bottle's child-resistant features and / or the ability to store existing medicine bottles and existing medicines Allows current manufacturing and filling of bottle caps to be preserved.

[0033] The tablets in the vials described herein are suitable for use in a variety of pharmaceutical applications, including Zytiga® (abiraterone acetate) and other similar pharmaceuticals. The agent may be any of a variety of drugs.

[0034] 1B-5 threads onto or otherwise fits into a standard non-electronic vial 180 (FIGS. 1A and 3). A standard non-electronic pill bottle cap 185 configured to be removably attached (Figure 1A and 3) and configured to monitor information regarding the standard drug vial 180. 1 shows an embodiment of a smart vial cap 100 constructed as described above. 0 has a standard vial cap (also referred to herein as a "standard cap") engaged thereto. One or more tablets 182 (FIG. 3) in a standard vial 180 having a weight of 185 are weighed, and weighing the pills in an external device 190 so that the number of pills 182 remaining in the standard vial can be determined. is configured to transmit

[0035] As shown in FIG. 3, the smart cap 100 engaged with the smart vial cap 185 Using the standard vial 180, the standard vial cap 185, and the smart vial cap 100, , with the smart cap 100 placed on a horizontal surface 103, the assembly is in an inverted position. It is designed to be stored in a suitable location, for example, on a table, storage shelf, countertop, windowsill, etc. , and the standard vial cap 185 and the standard vial 180 can be mounted therefrom, for example, vertically or substantially This configuration is because standard vials 180 typically have a bottom On the horizontal surface 103 using a standard vial cap 185 whose outer surface is positioned on the standard vial 180 It is considered "inverted" because it is stored in the so-called "upright" position. In the example, the bottom exterior surface of the standard vial 180 faces downward toward the horizontal surface 103. Instead, for example, it faces upward, away from the horizontal surface 103. The inversion position is described in more detail below. As discussed in the previous section, the smart cap 100 is a standard vial 180, a standard vial cap 18 5, and can be used to measure the total weight of any tablets stored in Standard medicine bottles and caps provided for home use from topical medications are discussed herein. However, the smart vial cap 100 may be used with additional vials and in a pharmacy or hospital environment. The caps need to fit a variety of sizes and shapes, including larger dispensing bottles or containers. can be resized so that

[0036] The smart vial cap 100 comprises an outer shell or housing 102, a monitoring mechanism 120, Power source 122 (e.g., lithium button cell battery, coin cell battery, rechargeable battery) etc.), a spacer 124, a cover 126, and a guide plate 130. 102 is configured to house the various components of the smart cap 100 therein. The housing 102 comprises a base portion 104 and a side wall extending longitudinally from the base portion 104. and a wall 105, which defines a hollow interior region 104 containing a first cavity 114 (FIGS. 3 and 5). 8 (FIG. 4), which houses the various components of smart vial cap 100. and a second cavity 115 (FIG. 3) adapted to receive a standard vial cap 185 therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 102 (e.g., its first cavity) The cavity 114 contains the electronic components of the smart cap 100, such as the monitoring mechanism 120 and the power supply 116. 22, and facilitates positioning of the monitoring mechanism 120 and power source 122 within the housing 102. The cover 126 is provided inside the first cavity 1. 14 is closed to define at least a portion of the top or upper surface of the housing 102 and the guide plate The bottom 130 defines at least a portion of the bottom or lower surface of the housing 102. Thus, in the inverted position, the cover 126 is positioned over the base portion 104 of the smart cap 100. The outer surface 104b of the portion rests on the horizontal surface 103.

[0037] The smart cap 100, for example, its housing 102, is a standard vial cap 185 and a user dispenses a standard medicine from a standard medicine bottle 180 for each standard use. Remove the bottle cap 185 and disengage the smart cap 100 from the standard cap 185. It can be reattached without removing it, thus eliminating any tamper-proof and / or The normal function of the standard pill bottle cap 185, including the child-proof mechanism, is supported by the smart pill bottle cap 10 0 is not affected by engagement with the standard cap 185.

[0038] The sidewall 105 of the housing 102 is configured to accommodate the standard cap 185 when the standard cap 185 is in the cavity 115. Extends around the quasi-vial cap 185 and, when engaged with the standard vial 180, Smart Cap 100 is a standard cap, while Smart Cap 185 allows it to operate normally. The cap 185 is removably secured to engage the side wall 10 as shown in FIG. 5 shows a standard cap 185 in a hollow interior region 108 (e.g., cap cavity 115) The smart cap 100 is inserted into the standard cap 185 or the smart cap 100 is inserted into the standard cap 185. 00 to grip a standard vial cap 185 when received by being pressed into 108 (e.g., its cap cavity 115) It has a plurality of stops 106 disposed on its side-facing surface.

[0039] As shown in FIGS. 1B-2B and 5, longitudinal grooves 107 are formed in sidewalls 105. , from the bottom up along a portion of the longitudinal length of the side wall 105, e.g., a cap cavity formed therein. Extending from the side of the housing 102 having a cavity 115. In this illustrated embodiment, multiple There may be multiple grooves 107, but only one groove 107 may be present. The wall 105 and the plurality of stops 106 allow a standard cap 185 to be received within the cap cavity 115. When the standard cap 185 is inserted into the housing 10, it bends or flexes radially outward. 2, for example, when fully inserted into cap cavity 115. and then radially inward to secure the stop 106 in engagement with the standard cap 185. The sidewalls of the smart cap 100 are configured to allow bending or flexing. 1A and 1B, the outer radial wall 105 of the standard cap 185. 87, and the stop 106 of the smart cap 100 is radially aligned with the standard cap 185. However, a friction fit, stretchable or elastic material, snaps, flip-fitting, etc. may be used. locks, various screw-in or thread-cutting mechanisms, magnets, adhesives, high friction pads or grips The smart medicine bottle cap 100 and the standard medicine bottle cap 185 are removed together through the A variety of different approaches can be taken to ensure reliable fixation. In some embodiments, the stop 106 and / or groove 107 may be secured to the fastening means provided above. may be excluded and / or replaced by one or more of the following:

[0040] To remove, pull the smart cap 100 proximally away from the standard cap 185. The sidewall 105 and the plurality of stops 106 can be bent or curved radially outward to , the outer radial wall 187 and the radial edge 189 of the standard cap 185 can be released. However, the smart vial cap 100 and the standard vial cap 185 may be used together. Similar to the above discussion regarding removably fastening the smart cap 100 to To remove, apply the force necessary to stretch the material or break the magnetic engagement; Unsnap or unhook various engagements, turn various screw or threading mechanisms by rotating the adhesive, applying various solutions to dissolve or release the adhesive, etc. Depending on the approach taken to initially fix the cap, various approaches are possible. You can take it.

[0041] In some embodiments, the smart cap detects whether an attempt to remove the smart cap has been successful. Remove the standard vial cap from the inside to destroy or render the smart cap inoperable. For example, the smart cap has a one-way The hook may include one or more one-way hooks configured to bend or flex only. The standard cap is bent or curved in one direction to receive the standard cap into the smart cap. This allows the cap to be held in place while the standard cap is removed from the Smart Cap. In order to prevent this, it is not possible to bend or flex in the opposite direction. An adhesive can be applied to securely fasten the smart caps together.

[0042] Referring again to the smart cap 100 of FIGS. 1B to 5, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, , the base 104 has a hollow region that defines a boundary between the first cavity 114 and the second cavity 115. 108 includes a separation member 104i. A first surface 104c of the separation member 104i is The first surface 104c faces towards the cavity 114 and the top of the smart cap 100. The monitor 120 is configured to seat thereon. The monitor 120 is shown in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 3, when the smart cap 100 is assembled, The separating member 104i covers the surface 104c of the cap cavity 115 and the smart cap. The second surface 104a is opposite the first surface 104c that faces the bottom of the plate 100. The guide surface 104a is a guide plate 130 extending from the guide plate 130, which will be discussed in more detail below. a plurality of pilot cavities defined therein configured to receive pilot projections 136; The separating member 104i is in the form of a ring with an opening extending therethrough. The guide plate has a mouth or channel 112, which will be discussed in more detail below. 130. The central raised surface 138 of the support 130 is configured to receive the central raised surface 138 of the support 130.

[0043] The guide plate 130 shown in FIGS. 2B, 3, and 6 is positioned within the hollow space of the housing 102. The guide plate 130 is movably disposed in the region 108. The guide plate 130 is further discussed below. 102 to facilitate the collection of monitoring data. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the smart cap 100 is assembled. When erected, the guide plate 130 covers the second surface 104a. 130 was a receiving surface 132 configured to receive a standard cap 185 thereon. Therefore, the medicine bottle 180 and the medicine bottle 18 Standard cap 185 attached to any tablet in 0 is Smart Cap 100, standard When the sub-cap 185 and vial 180 assembly is in the inverted orientation shown in FIG. It can be placed on a guide plate 130 .

[0044] The guide plate 130 may be configured to guide the housing 102 toward the first cavity 114, for example. a guide projection extending from a second surface 134 opposite the receiving surface 132 facing upward; The guide projections 136 are located at the positive ends of the guide plate 130 in the housing 102. During assembly of the smart vial cap 100, a base 104i thereof. The guide protrusions 136 and pilot holes 110 are positioned in a manner that is consistent with the orientation of the smart cap 100. and with the standard cap 185 attached, the guide in the smart cap 100 Regardless of the longitudinal position of the base plate 130, the guide protrusion 136 is positioned within the pilot hole 110. The guide projections have respective longitudinal lengths that allow the guide projections to remain seated in the guide projections. 136 and pilot hole 110 cooperate to allow smart cap 100 to be attached thereto. The standard cap 185 is then rotated to a fixed position relative to the standard cap 185. , the standard cap 185 is rotated so that the smart cap 100 is attached to the standard cap 185. The Smart Cap 100 rotates to release the medicine without removing it from the standard cap 185. The guide projection 136 can be selectively attached to and detached from the bottle 180. The movement of the guide plate 130 to the monitoring mechanism 120 is limited to the maximum displacement of the guide plate 130. This establishes a weight sensing position, effectively setting a maximum weight sensing limit for the monitoring mechanism 120. By setting a limit, the monitor 120 can monitor the bottle 180 and / or the smart cap 10. The user may place heavy objects on the bottle 180 and / or smart cap 100, such as dropping added to the monitoring mechanism 120, such as may be triggered by overlapping It can protect against damage from excessive weight or impact forces.

[0045] The guide plate 130 includes a central raised surface 138 that projects from the secondary surface 134. The raised surface 138 provides a guide plate 130 with a securely fastened, axially spaced, axially extending, engagement with the housing 102. The cap cavity 104 extends through a channel 112 in the base portion 104. The channel 112 15 and the monitoring cavity 114, the raised surface 138 of the guide plate 130 Extending partially into cavity 114, the smart vial cap 100 is monitored when assembled. The raised surface 138 is configured to contact or engage the viewing mechanism 120. Along the longitudinal axis of channel 112, which is also the longitudinal axis of housing 102, 2.

[0046] In some embodiments, the securing mechanism is a locking mechanism between the receiving surface 132 and the top surface of the standard cap 185. For example, pad(s), grip(s), etc. may be added between the receiving surface 132. Attach it to the Smart Cap 100 and secure it to the Standard Cap 185, and then attach it to the Standard Cap 1 The locking mechanism can assist in removing and reattaching the vial 85 to the vial 180. A rubber configured to provide friction between the semi-cap 185 and the guide plate 130. or other materials. In one embodiment, the securing mechanism , and includes a rubber pad having a thickness of about 0.1 mm to 3 mm. Those skilled in the art will be able to determine the exact thickness. If not the value, it may be approximately, due to any number of factors such as manufacturing tolerances and the sensitivity of the measuring equipment. It will be understood that this is considered to be the value.

[0047] The monitoring mechanism 120 is located within the monitoring cavity 114, and the smart cap 100 is mounted in a standard caliper. configured to measure a characteristic of the contents of a vial 180 attached via cap 185. In an exemplary embodiment, monitoring mechanism 120 includes a sensor (one or more individual sensors) In this illustrated embodiment, the smart cap 100 is attached to the standard cap 185, and the vial 180 is attached to the standard cap 185. The monitoring mechanism 120 detects the vial 180, the standard cap 185, and any pills in the vial 180. The monitoring mechanism 120 is configured to measure the weight of the force sensing resistor (or other force measuring in any of a variety of ways, including sensors, pressure sensors, load cells, etc. The monitoring mechanism 120 in this illustrated embodiment can be configured to measure the weight. is a force measuring sensor such as a load cell with strain gauges.

[0048] A standard vial 180, a standard vial cap 185, and a smart vial cap 100 are shown, for example, in When placed in an inverted position as illustrated in FIG. 3, vial 180, standard cap 185 , and any pills in the vial 180 are placed on the receiving surface 132 of the guide plate 130. The vial 180, the standard cap 185, and any pills 182 within the vial 180 are thereby Thus, for example, the guide is directed downward vertically or substantially vertically toward the horizontal surface 103. The raised surface 138 of the guide plate 130 applies a force to the monitoring mechanism 120. The downward force applied to the vial 180, the standard cap 185, and any part of the vial 180 The tablet 182 moves the guide plate 130 in a downward direction in response to the downward force applied to the guide plate 130. The guide plate 130 is configured to distribute the load applied to the monitoring mechanism 120 . Thus, the monitoring mechanism 120 detects the vial 180, the standard cap 185, and any pills 18 The change in downward force (and corresponding weight) of the combination of the two can be measured.

[0049] Therefore, the guide plate 130 may be, for example, 115, raised surface 138 moves within channel 112, and protrusion 136 is a pilot By traveling through the holes 110, the device is configured to "float" within the housing 102. Therefore, the guide plate 130 is positioned between the separating member 104i and the standard tablet cap 185. The standard cap 185, the standard vial 180, and the medicine The weight of the tablet(s) 182 in the bottle 180 determines the amount of force applied to the guide plate 130. , and therefore the amount that the guide plate 130 moves within the channel 112 and the monitoring mechanism 12 0, which defines the amount of force applied when the assembly is in the inverted position shown in Figure 3. 1, the guide plate 130, the standard cap 185, the standard vial 180, and the tablet(s) ) 182. When the assembly is not inverted, weight is applied to the monitoring mechanism 120. In other words, the Smart Cap 100, the Standard Cap 185, and the Standard Bottle 180 When the assembly is in an upright position, the guide plate 130 contacts the housing 102. In contrast, the lowest position, e.g., closest to the bottom of the housing 102, is the heavy The force is to urge the guide plate 130 downward. Since no force is measured and the monitoring mechanism 120 does not even measure an empty bottle, the assembly is in an upright position. For example, a pill bottle 180 and a pill bottle 182 when the pills 182 are not contained in the bottle 180 and standard cap 185. When the assembly is in the inverted position, the guide plate 130 is biased toward an uppermost position relative to the housing 102, e.g., a standard cap 185, vial 180, and any pills 182 contained within vial 180. Due to the applied pressure, the top of the housing 102 resting on the horizontal surface 103 It is biased towards.

[0050] The monitoring mechanism 120 may include a force measuring sensor, a single sensor, or multiple sensors. A variety of monitoring mechanisms can be used in conjunction with mechanism 120. FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a force sensing resistor 200 that predictably changes after application of a force to its surface. a polymer sheet that varies the resistance in a flexible manner and can be applied, for example, by screen printing; or ink, which can be incorporated into the smart cap 100 in a variety of ways. When a force is applied to the surface of the sensing film of the resistor 200, the particles The force sensing resistor 200 can contact the conductive electrodes, causing a change in the resistance of the film. It can operate well in harsh environments and has a small size (less than 0.5 mm thick). It can be inexpensive and have good impact resistance. The weight of vial 180, cap 185, and any pills in vial 180 is measured on resistor 200. When the resistor 200 is placed in the position shown in FIG. 1, a proportional and measurable change in the resistance of the resistor 200 can occur, which corresponds to the change in force and and therefore responds proportionally to changes in weight.

[0051] The monitoring mechanism 120 measures temperature (using a temperature sensor such as a thermistor or thermocoupler), Humidity (using thermistors, humidifiers, hygrometers, etc.), voltage (using voltage detectors, etc.) or using a current sensor that can calculate voltage), weight (e.g., a force-sensing sensor, load cells, pressure sensors, etc.), and / or date and / or time (e.g., clock a clock generator, a timer, and / or a plurality of sensors configured to sense the clock signal; The device may include a printed circuit board (PCB) capable of

[0052] The monitor 120 collects data and transmits the collected data to an external device 190. In this illustrated embodiment, the monitoring mechanism includes various electronic components to facilitate 1 shows one embodiment of the electronic components of the smart cap 100, which are part of 120. 120, a processor 120a, monitors the feature(s) as discussed herein; a sensor 120b configured to transmit collected data to a processor 120a; configured to receive data from processor 120a for storage in memory 120c. , a memory 1 configured to store therein instructions executable by the processor 120a. 20c, a communication device configured to transmit data to an external source at the command of the processor 120a; In addition to the smart cap 100 including the power supply 122, Alternatively, the monitoring mechanism 120 may be implemented by one or more of the other electronic components of the sensing module. The device may include a power supply 120e configured to provide power thereon.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic components of the monitoring mechanism are mounted on a printed circuit board. They are mechanically supported on a PCB (printed circuit board) and electrically connected to each other as needed on the PCB. To facilitate electrical connections, the PCB may be fitted with suitable bridges, adapters, and / or a bus system connected by a controller, e.g., one or more separate physical buses; Communication lines / interfaces and / or multi-drop or point-to-point The PCB may be flexible, which reduces the profile of the PCB, This can reduce the profile of the smart cap 100. Alternatively, the PCB It may be rigid, which may provide durability to the smart cap 100.

[0054] The processor 120a may be a programmable general-purpose or special-purpose microprocessor, and / or various proprietary or commercially available single- or multi-processor systems Any type of microprocessor or central processing unit, including any one of the following: In an exemplary embodiment, the processor may include a central processing unit (CPU). The smart cap 100 may be configured to include a plurality of sensors 120a, which may help control the cost and / or size of the smart cap 100. It is a single processor that obtains

[0055] The memory 120c stores data, e.g., instructions (e.g., provides storage for the data collected by the sensor 120b) and The memory 120c is configured as, for example, a read-only memory. memory, ROM), flash memory, one or more of various random access memories (random access memories access memory (RAM) (e.g., static RAM (SRAM), digital Dynamic RAM (DRAM), or synchronous DRAM Includes storage using standard DRAM, SDRAM, and / or a combination of memory technologies. It can be seen.

[0056] The communication interface 120d (also referred to herein as the "communication mechanism") is a The smart cap 100 and the medicine bottle 180 to which the smart cap 100 is attached and the standard configured to enable communication over a network with sources external to the cap 185. In an exemplary embodiment, communication interface 120d supports several wireless technologies. configured to communicate wirelessly using one of the following: Wi-Fi, short-range wireless communication, Near Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), cellular communication, Radio frequency identification (RFID) communication, for example.

[0057] The smart cap 100 may have an LED or other indicator that indicates the communication status of the smart cap 100. A light (e.g., illuminates when the communication interface 120d is communicating data, (e.g., the light is off when the communication interface 120d is not communicating data) Any of various other software and / or hardware components not shown in A to display the power status of the smart cap 100 (e.g., power supply 120 e is lit when it is powering one or more components of the smart cap 100, If the power supply 120e is not providing power to one or more components of the smart cap 100, In another embodiment, the monitoring mechanism 120 may be the same as that shown and described in FIG. 8A. For example, the sensor 120b and the communication interface In another example, the processor 120a and the interface 120c may be integrated together. In yet another example, the communication interface 120d may be integrated together. b includes its own local memory in addition to the monitor 120 including memory 120c. In yet another example, the power supply can be off-board the monitor 120, e.g. In another example, the sensor 120b, the communication interface 120c, and the power supply 122 are included, but the power supply 120e is not included. The interface 120d and the processor 120a may be integrated together.

[0058] The communication interface 120d is connected to the central computer system 100 shown in FIG. 0, or an external computer system located away from the smart cap 100. 8A and 8B, the communication The interface 120d may be connected to a medical facility 1006, such as a hospital or other medical center. a home base 1008 (e.g., a patient's home or office, or a caretaker's Smart Cap 1, such as home or office, or mobile location 1100 1002 from any number of locations where the computer may be located. In some embodiments, the central computer is configured to communicate with the computer system 1000. The computer system 1000 may be co-located with the communication interface 120d. However, the computer system may be located at a location remote from the central computer system, e.g., The interface 120d is located in a room of the home base 1008 or the medical facility 1006. The central computer system 1000 may be located at either the home base 1008 or the medical facility 1006. It could be in the room.

[0059] The communication interface 120d provides a wired and / or wireless connection to the network 1002. The system 1000 may be configured to access the system 1000 via a connection. In the example, communication interface 120d may communicate with the system using any of several wireless technologies. The smart cap 100 is configured to wirelessly access the system 1000. Facilitating access to the system 1000 from almost anywhere in the world where it may be located. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that communication over the network 1002 can be performed by the security to help protect against unauthorized access to the node and / or its transmitted data It will be understood that the present invention may include certain features.

[0060] The central computer system 1000 may include a processor, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. , communication interfaces, memory, input / output interfaces, and bus systems, etc. The computer system 1000 may have any of a variety of configurations, including the following components: Also, by way of non-limiting example, operating systems and database management systems any of a variety of other software and / or hardware components, including The central computer system 1000 can be a desktop computer, a workstation, or a applications, minicomputers, laptop computers, tablet computers, personal computers Personal digital assistants (PDAs), mobile phones, smartphones The computer system may be any of a variety of types, such as a smartwatch.

[0061] The computer system 1000 may be configured to process a web page or other markup language stream. retrieving those pages and / or streams (visually, audibly, or otherwise); (in this way), and use scripts, controls, and other Executing code (e.g., for completing input fields) on those pages / s Accepting user input for a stream (e.g., removing a completed input field from a sub HyperText transfer for those pages / streams (to submit server information) Issuing a HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP) request, etc. Web pages or other markup languages ​​may be HyperText Markup Language (HTML) or embedded Ext XML, scripting, control, etc. The computer system 100 may also be used to generate web pages. a web server for creating and / or delivering web pages to a client computer system The presented pages and / or streams may include a web server. The user of the smart cap 100 may use the data received from the smart cap 100 and / or the computer. 1000. possible.

[0062] FIG. 9 illustrates one example of a PCB 300 of a monitoring mechanism 120 that may incorporate one or more sensors. An embodiment is shown.

[0063] FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of a PCB 400 for a monitor 120, which is sensor 402, light emitting diode (LED) 404, push button 406, blue a communications interface in the form of a low energy communications circuit 408, and various on-board The PCB 400 also contains hardware memory and additional circuitry for pressure, temperature, light, date, orientation, For additional sensors that can be incorporated as desired, such as moisture, shock, geolocation, etc. 4. The cam shaft 410 has a plurality of additional engagement points 410.

[0064] In some embodiments, the monitoring mechanism 120 may be used instead of or in addition to the use of weights. and using ultrasound to facilitate measuring how many tablets 182 remain in the bottle 180. Thus, the monitoring mechanism 120 may include an ultrasonic sensor. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, vial 180 is placed in an upright position on surface 103. The ultrasonic sensor can be stored in the bottle 180 through the use of the Doppler effect. This can be used to measure how many tablets 182 are left. In this case, the tablet 182 is compared to the standard cap 185 and the smart cap 100. However, the ultrasound waves are collected at the bottom of the bottle 180 instead of in the inverted position. The distance traveled within 0 is measured until the wave encounters an object and is reflected back to the ultrasonic sensor. The measured distance may correspond to the number of pills 182 remaining in the bottle 180. Therefore, the shorter the measurement distance D1 (as in FIG. 3A), the more tablets 182 are present. The longer the measured distance D2 (as in Figure 3B), the fewer tablets are stacked in the bottle 180. 182 is stacked on the bottle 180. Therefore, the smart cap 100 measures the weight 180. The method is configured to allow inverted storage of the bottle 180 through the use of a sensor configured to determine can be measured, allowing for upright storage of the bottle 180 through the use of ultrasonic sensors, or allows for both inverted and upright storage by incorporating both types of sensors do.

[0065] The smart cap 100 may include an orientation sensor (e.g., an accelerometer), a tilt / angle switch (e.g., It can include a sensor (e.g., mercury-free), a position sensor, etc., which can be used to Orientation data is collected to ensure proper orientation of the cap 100 is achieved. For example, an orientation sensor can be used to ensure that the assembly is suitable for ultrasonic sensing. or in an inverted position so that weight sensing is appropriate. In some embodiments, an orientation sensor can be used to determine whether the bottle 180 is interacting with For example, a user can activate or signal the smart cap 100 that is currently being used. When handling 180, removing the smart cap 100 removes the tablet 182, and / or if the smart cap 100 and / or the bottle 182 can be depressed; Some or all of this movement can be detected by an orientation sensor and / or If so, the number of tablets 182 is likely to change, triggering a new measurement and releasing the cycle. can be used to trigger or actuate the smart cap 100 for delivery. Such an approach would prevent anyone from touching or moving the bottle 180 or the smart cap 100. The number of pills in the Smart Cap remains constant over time because it has not been used for a long period of time. Since the 100 does not need to measure and broadcast data, battery power can be saved. Therefore, the bottle 180 is placed at an angle, and the tablets 182 are evenly distributed on the smart cap 100. The weight reported by the SmartCap 100 may not be In such an instance, an orientation sensor may be used to The angle of the smart cap 100 (and therefore the bottle 180) can be determined. The angle is used to calculate the weight sensed by the smart cap 100 and the The angle of the vial 100 (and therefore the vial 180) can be used to calculate accurate weight information. Accurate weight information can be obtained by, for example, measuring the weight components of the weight on each axis of the orientation sensor. can be calculated and related to the sine and cosine of the angle of the bottle 180.

[0066] The spacer 124 shown in FIGS. 2B, 3, and 11 is used to secure the power supply 1 within the housing 120. 22 and the monitoring mechanism 120 and is configured to ensure proper orientation and provide durability. The spacer 124 increases the impact resistance of the components within the monitoring cavity 114. To provide cushioning, the pads can be made of cushioning materials such as rubber, foam, flexible polymers, etc.

[0067] Components within the monitoring cavity 114 are snapped into place over the monitoring cavity 114 The cover 126 is held in place by a cover 126 that is secured by a fastener or other fastener. As shown, the cover 126 prevents, for example, replacement or repair of the monitoring mechanism 120 or power supply 122. To allow for the cover 126 to be peeled off after placement, a cutout is provided in the Notches 128 are provided. However, other attachment mechanisms such as threads, hooks, adhesive, etc. can be used. [Example]

[0068] As an example, an exemplary implementation of a smart cap, as shown in Table 1 below and in FIG. Tests were conducted to demonstrate that the configuration can linearly sense an applied weight of about 1 to about 100 g. The monitor, including the sensor under test, has an output scale factor of approximately 7 mv / g. The electronics used for testing are weighted when determining the weight applied to the smart cap. A 10-bit ADC (analog-to-digital converter) equals approximately 3 bits per gram of mass However, it is possible to use a higher level ADC, such as a 12-bit ADC. This allows for greater resolution (when using 12 ADCs) Achieving greater gram resolution (e.g., approximately 12 bits per gram) improves the accuracy of the Smart Cap when determining the weight applied to the Smart Cap. Smart caps with greater gram resolution are lighter. The tablets can be measured and / or measurement errors can be reduced or eliminated.

[0069] [Table 1]

[0070] TIFF2025131606000003.tif86135

[0071] In use, the smart vial cap 100 mates with the standard cap 185. In an embodiment, the smart cap 100 is configured to receive a pill vial 180 filled with pills 182 and a standard capsule. After being closed by the cap 185, the standard cap 185 is engaged by the user. In other embodiments, the smart cap 100 may be used as part of a manufacturing process or as a pharmaceutical The user receives a pill bottle 180 containing pills 182 by a nurse or other authorized professional. Before the cap is inserted, it engages with a standard cap 185.

[0072] Before or after the smart cap engages with the standard cap 185, the smart cap 10 For example, the smart cap 100 communicates with the external device using the communication interface 102d. The device 190 can communicate electronically with the user to obtain information about the user's identity, medical history, etc. and / or to provide details regarding the identity of the pills 182 contained in the vial 180 to an external device. The information can be provided to the vise 190.

[0073] For example, in one embodiment shown in FIG. 13, external device 190 is a smartphone. , a corresponding app 192 is installed thereon for interacting with the smart cap 100. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the app 192 may be configured to access the memory on the external device 190. a plurality of data points stored in a memory and actionable by a processor on the device 190; A user (e.g., patient, doctor, pharmacist, clinician, etc.) can use e.g. Entering relevant information into the app by scanning the barcode on the medicine bottle 180 Labeling of the medicine bottle 180 manually or using the built-in camera of the smartphone 190 The identification information of the tablet 182 is automatically transferred to the app 192 by taking a photo of the identification information on the tablet 182. The smartphone 190 can input the ) configured to be used to identify and identify the user and / or type of tablet 182 The app 192 can then automatically retrieve and populate the relevant information, e.g. , a predetermined weight of one tablet 182 (identified by an entity such as the manufacturer of the tablet 182, for example) a standard weight used by the manufacturer of the vial 180, a predetermined weight of the vial 180 (e.g., a standard weight used by the manufacturer of the vial 180, the standard weight identified by the standard cap 185, the predetermined weight of the standard cap 185 (e.g., (standard weights identified by entities such as manufacturers of the product 185), Any parameters required to ensure treatment is received, please refer to the bottle for the complete prescription. The number of pills 182 to be taken, the identified prescription, and the dosage (e.g., the amount to be taken at one time) The number of pills 182) and any medications associated with the user's identity.

[0074] In embodiments where the smart cap 100 is configured to monitor weight, 192 (or if using the app 192 and it is different from the smartphone 190, other external devices The device 190 is configured to hold one tablet 182, one bottle 180, and one standard cap 185 in place. The weight of the pills is used to determine the number of pills 182 remaining in the bottle 180 at the time of weight sensing. The smart cap 100 can be configured to transmit the sensed weight to the smartphone 190. The smartphone 190 then receives the known weight of the bottle 180 and the known weight of the standard cap 185. The weight of the tablet 182 is subtracted from the received sensed weight, and the result is then added to the weight of the tablet 182 already measured. Calculate the number of tablets 182 remaining in the bottle 180 by dividing the total weight by the total weight of the tablets. 82. Thus, in some embodiments, the smart card The cap 100 may store any information about the contents of the bottle stored in a memory on the cap 100. Instead, the cap 100 simply weighs the bottle 180 and any contents. and app 192 (having information about the contents of bottle 180 stored thereon). The app 19 can determine the number of pills 182 in the bottle 180. 2 also applies any correction factors known to the smart cap 100 and / or the app 192. Applying a weight to the tablet to correct for known bias factors such as environmental conditions, tablet lot variations, etc. The smart cap 100 can also be configured to monitor and transmit the sensed orientation. In an embodiment that may be configured to do so, the app 192 may determine whether the sensed orientation is If the tablet is in the inverted position, the tablet count calculation will only be performed based on weight. However, as noted above, the sensed orientation may be different if the bottle 180 is in an angled orientation. In some embodiments, this can be used to accurately calculate weight even in the presence of In embodiments where the smart cap 100 also monitors the date and time, the app 192 The weight data received is time-stamped and can be used to provide more detailed information about the pill 182, e.g. , a pill(s) 182 is / are removed from the bottle 180 and presumably consumed by a user. It is possible to provide the date / time of when the smart cap 100 will be monitored. Other optional parameters, such as temperature, humidity, etc., are also stamped with the date and time. It is possible to determine whether 2 has been subjected to vibration.

[0075] The app 192 may display the determined number of pills 182 remaining in the bottle 180 on the smartphone. The user is notified via the application 190 (e.g., via an app 192 running thereon) that the hospital or to healthcare professionals via computer systems accessible at pharmacies, various cloud services, This pill count information can be sent to applications, etc. This information decreases over time. Tracking pill usage indicated by pill counts, medication or refill reminders It can be used for a variety of reasons, including provisioning, automatically requesting replenishment, and providing guidance to users.

[0076] In some embodiments, the smart cap 100 transmits only the weight of the vial 182. The weight of the vial 180 and the standard cap 185 must be taken into consideration in advance. For example, a known weight of vial 180 and a known weight of standard cap 185 can be , may be stored in the memory 102c of the smart cap, and the processor 10 2a subtracts the known weight of the bottle 180 and standard cap 185 from the sensed weight and calculates The calculated result is transmitted to the external device 190, and the external device calculates the number of tablets 182. Alternatively, the known weight of one tablet 182 may also be stored in the smart card. The smart cap's memory 102c can store the , subtract the known weight of the bottle 180 and standard cap 185 from the sensed weight, and Divide the result by the known weight of the tablet 182 and send the calculated number of tablets 182 to the external device. The smart cap 100 may be configured to transmit the subtraction and The external device 190 that performs the division calculation reduces the cost of the smart cap 100, This can help reduce the amount of memory and processing power required.

[0077] In some embodiments, when the bar code label is first scanned, a unique identifier is generated. The label of the bottle 180 is read and the smart key is connected to the external device 190 via two-way communication. Such an action can be wirelessly transmitted to the smart cap 100. 0 and vial 180 (and standard cap 185) to a corresponding external device 190. so that subsequent communication to / from the smart cap 100 can be This tethering process occurs only when the cap 100 is connected to a tethered external device 190. The method can eliminate the possibility of data being sent to the wrong external device.

[0078] In embodiments where the app 192 is used, the smart cap 100 itself is 82 prescription information or to the user (whether the pill 182 is a prescription pill) There is no need to store information about the weight, orientation, etc. using the smart cap 100. and senses one or more of various parameters of the above, and transmits the sensed information via the smartphone 190. The information can be sent to the app 192, at which point it is processed into relevant information such as pill counts. Thus, when the bottle 180 is emptied of pills 182, for example, the user When you finish using it, there is no need to reprogram the SmartCap 100 for a new vial. Alternatively, the Smart Cap 100 can be reused and transferred to a new prescription. The user performs one or more steps on the app 192 to create a new process within the app 192. While setting the recipe, the operating parameters of the smart cap 100 can be left. In such embodiments, relevant information about the user and / or prescription may be stored in the smart cap. Security is also enhanced because it is not stored on an external device 190 instead of 100. The app 192 also stores the standard vial 180 and standard cap as needed for accurate measurements. You can also access the standard weight of the 185cc.

[0079] Before and after the tablet 182 is dispensed, the user may smartly insert the tablet 182 into the inverted orientation shown in FIG. To store the cap 100, standard vial 180, and standard cap 185 assembly Upon instruction, the monitoring mechanism 120 detects the standard vial 180, the standard cap 185, and the remaining pills 1 82. In some embodiments, the correct The orientation may be confirmed by the monitoring mechanism 120 as described above, and the vial 180 may be prevented from being misoriented. If so, the user may be alerted, such as via the app 192.

[0080] The monitoring mechanism 120 may be configured to take measurements by a variety of different mechanisms and at a variety of different times. and / or configured to operate to communicate the measured data to an external device 190. The monitor 120 is woken up from a power-saving mode and configured to take measurements. and / or configured to be activated to periodically communicate with an external device 190. For example, the movement of the bottle 180 detected by the motion sensor of the smart cap 100 After the movement of the bottle 180 is detected by the movement sensor of the smart cap 100, At preset times, data is sent from the external device 190 according to the change in the measured weight. After receiving the request to collect and transmit the data, the external device 190 When the Smart Cap 100 enters the communication range, the button (push button 406, etc.) ) at a predetermined time (e.g., once a day, corresponding to the number of times per day) The number of tablets per day 182 may be taken hourly, every two hours, or every three hours according to the user's prescription. (It is expected that the contents will be removed from the bottle 180 times a day, for example.) Alternatively, use a smart cap. 100 continuously collects sensed data in real time and stores the collected data in Such continuous collection and communication can be configured to Communication and analysis can enable up-to-date data to be available for analysis, but typically In general, the SmartCap 100 board is more involved than regular monitoring and regular communication. It requires a lot of power and processing power.

[0081] The measurement and communication of the measured information may occur at the same time or at different times. If the port cap 100 is out of the communication range of the external device 190, the external device If communication with 190 is temporarily not possible, the sensed data will be can be stored in the smart cap 100 (e.g., in its memory 102c) In such a scenario, the smart cap 100 will periodically wake up and The external device 190 can advertise the presence of the advertising signal. Once in proximity, a communication session can be initiated between the smart cap 100 and the external device 190. It can be started and previous transmissions (if any) will be transferred from the SmartCap 100 to the external device. device 190 (or vice versa), without requiring any interaction from the user. Any new data can be initiated by the user. and user interaction to initiate data sensing and / or perform data transmission. This can ensure higher compliance than methods that require interaction.

[0082] Some remaining tablets 182 are described above, but the sensor information from various different sensors Information can also be communicated using the various sensors mentioned above. For example, the app can to ensure compliance or to provide reminders when to take medication To ensure the date, timing, and amount of each dose are recorded on the pill bottle to monitor any tampering. 182 movement to ensure that the tablets are stored under appropriate environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, and other conditions. tube condition readings, expiration date warnings for any medications, and to assist in locating the vial 180 Geographic location, clinical protocol and compliance, remaining SmartCap 100 Battery life, status or error messages from the SmartCap 100, General compliance data to assist in designing more effective dosing regimens Furthermore, regarding smartphones and smartphone apps, As explained above, the sensor information is transmitted from the smart cap 100 to the Internet networks, doctor or hospital networks, cell networks, clocks and other It can communicate with various systems such as wearables and other smart devices. Applications can be used to analyze the information received, such as by pharmacies and health systems.

[0083] A variety of different smart vial cap configurations are possible. Another embodiment of a smart vial cap configured and used similarly to the smart cap 100 of FIG. The smart cap includes a housing 502, a monitoring mechanism 520 (in this illustrated embodiment). In an embodiment, the power supply is integrated therein), a cover 526, and a guide plate 530. The housing 502 is similar to the housing 102 and includes a base portion 504 and and a sidewall 505 extending longitudinally from the base 502, which defines a hollow area 508. It can accept a standard cap such as cap 185 and has a longitudinal groove 507 and a stop (hidden The base portion 504 includes a cover 520 on which a monitoring mechanism 520 may be placed. 26 includes a closable monitoring cavity 514. The channel 512 extends from the base portion 504. Extending through the guide plate 530, which receives therein a central raised surface 538 protruding from the guide plate 530. A plurality of pilot cavities or holes 510 are also located in the base portion 504. and receives guide projections 536 extending from guide plate 530. Additionally, a stud 504 is formed within and extends completely through the base portion 504. The secondary openings or channels 511 extending through the guide plate 530 are The secondary guide projection 537 is configured to receive the guide projection 537 therein. The ridges 536 have a shorter length (there are three in this illustrated embodiment). The secondary guide projection 537 and the secondary opening 511 form a single movable guide with respect to the housing 502. Only one orientation is possible, e.g., secondary guide protrusion 537 is positioned in secondary opening 511. A keyed guide plate 530 is inserted into the housing 502 in the correct orientation. It is configured as a feature.

[0084] 19 and 20 are configured and used in the same manner as the smart cap 100 of FIGS. 1B to 5. 6 shows another embodiment of a smart vial cap 600. It has a cantilever design and comprises an outer housing 602 (also shown in FIG. 21), an inner housing 22), and on-board power supply 620 (also shown in FIG. 24). ) and a monitoring mechanism including a cantilever sensor 621 (also shown in FIG. 23). The inner housing 650 is received within the outer housing 602, and the inner housing 650 is a standard a hollow region 6 configured to receive a standard vial cap therein, such as vial cap 185; The outer housing 602 has a longitudinal axis A1 of the smart cap 600. a secondary lever housing 603 extending substantially vertically from the inner housing 650; The lever 603 extends substantially perpendicularly from the inner housing 650 to the secondary lever housing 603. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the elements may not extend exactly vertically, but may also Regardless, for any of a variety of reasons, such as manufacturing tolerances and sensitivity of the measuring equipment, It will be appreciated that the inner housing 650 may be considered to extend vertically. Also, a sensor engagement protrusion 654 extends from the outer surface of the hollow region 608 opposite the cap cavity. The sensor engagement protrusion 654 engages the cantilever sensor 621, which From the mating projection 654, a secondary lever handle substantially parallel to the lever 652 of the inner housing 650 is Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the elements may not extend exactly parallel, but Nevertheless, for any of a variety of reasons, such as manufacturing tolerances and sensitivity of the measuring equipment, It will be appreciated that the PCB of the monitoring mechanism may be considered to extend substantially parallel to the PCB. engages the cantilever sensor 621 to connect the cantilever 652 and the outer housing 602 The smart cap 600 is disposed between the inner surface of the smart cap 600. When a force is applied to the inner housing 650 by the standard cap, the cantilever sensor The sensor 621 measures the force and the monitoring mechanism (e.g., its communication interface) transmits the measurement to the outside. 1B to 5 so as to communicate with external devices. Used.

[0085] FIG. 25 shows a smart cap 100 having the same structure and use as the smart cap 100 shown in FIGS. 1B to 5. 7 shows another embodiment of a smart vial cap 700. The smart cap 700 is an outer housing a sensor assembly 721, an inner housing 750, and a power supply 720. The inner housing 750 is received in the outer housing 702 and includes a viewing mechanism. The cap 750 includes a hollow area 708 therein, which is the same size as a standard vial cap 100. The cap is configured to receive a standard vial cap such as 85. The inner housing 750 is disposed between the outer housing 702 and the inner housing 750 during use. The device is configured to measure the force applied to the sensor.

[0086] Some embodiments utilize an inner and outer housing structure such as that of FIG. Now let's zoom in on the outer housing of the Smart Cap and see how it can be used in a variety of different ways. An adapter that engages any size and shape of vial and has a removable and replaceable inner housing In such an embodiment, it is possible to ensure that the A variety of different inexpensive inner housings can be provided to the user, in which the corresponding electronics, Each can be engaged with the same outer housing that contains the sensors etc. The user will need to reduce costs and increase the user's ability to use smart caps. The inner housing is arranged and replaced according to the Corresponding electronic devices can be reused.

[0087] The above-described embodiments of FIGS. 1B to 25 are for smart caps attached to existing standard caps. Other embodiments include smart vial caps that replace existing standard caps. It can provide a smart cap and avoid interference between the smart cap and the standard cap. This reduces the chances that smart caps will not be used (e.g., when a user (I forgot to attach the Smart Cap to the standard cap), and the Smart Cap accidentally ended up on a standard vial. to reduce the possibility of being attached and / or when calculating the weight of tablets contained in a pill bottle. , at least there is no need to consider the weight of a standard medicine bottle cap, e.g., smart cap It can simply be calculated without needing to be subtracted from the weight detected by the monitoring mechanism of the Cut.

[0088] Figure 26 is for example intended for direct attachment to a standard vial without an intervening standard vial cap. 1B shows one embodiment of a smart vial cap 800. The smart cap 800 is similar to that shown in FIG. 8. Constructed and used similarly to the smart cap 100 of FIG. 5, including a housing 802; It includes a monitoring mechanism including a power supply 820 and a sensor 821, and includes a separating member 830. Cap 800 is configured to screw directly onto a standard vial, such as standard vial 180, The inner surface of the housing 802 is threaded in a hollow area. The cap 800 can be attached to a standard medicine bottle by snapping it on or by other means. FIG. 26 shows a smart cap in the reverse direction similar to FIG. 3 of the smart cap 100. Shown is Chapp 800.

[0089] The separating member 830 in this illustrated embodiment is positioned adjacent to the sensor 821. In this illustrated embodiment, the flexible membrane is configured to measure force. 1B-5. The smart cap 800 detects the force applied to the sensor 821. Measure the total weight of the standard pill bottle attached to the P800 and any tablets contained in the pill bottle. The flexibility of the separating member 830 allows the assembly to be inverted when in the inverted position. When the pressure is applied, it is possible to variably apply pressure to the sensor 821 from vertically above. The sensor 821 and the separating member 830 are configured to separate the separating member 830 when pressure is applied thereto. above the power supply 820 to ensure there is enough vertical clearance for the The wires may extend between the power supply 820 and the sensor 821 and may be spaced apart perpendicular to the direction of the wires. Provides power.

[0090] In this illustrated embodiment, the housing 802 of the smart cap 800 The mart cap and vial assembly is adapted to support the weight of the vial when in the inverted position. so that only the downward weight on the separating member 830 can move any of the vials. Therefore, the only weight measured by sensor 821 is the weight of the pills in the bottle. In such an embodiment, the known weight of the vial is the measured weight. The known weight of the vial does not need to be subtracted from the amount received. It may not even be known by the processor.

[0091] Figure 27 shows yet another embodiment of a smart vial cap 900. In an embodiment, a standard vial, such as standard vial 180, includes a standard vial cap, such as standard vial cap 185. It is configured to use a bottle cap and is stored in an upright orientation as shown in FIG. To monitor the tablets 182 in the vial 180, the bottom of the vial 180 may be fitted with a smart and a smart vial cap 900 configured and used similarly to the vial cap 100. The weight is applied to the measuring mechanism of the smart cap, which has a known weight of the pill bottle 180, and the bottle 1 The standard cap 185 is subtracted from it to determine the number of tablets 182 remaining in the 80. A cavity similar to the cap cavity 115 formed in the smart cap 900 is The bottom of the cavity is configured to receive the adhesive, using various engagement means. Various grip pads or inserts, sidewalls 105 with stops similar to stop 106 similar to side walls, threaded engagements, snap or hook members, magnets, etc. Smart vial cap 900 can be secured to vial 180 by a snap or friction fit, or the like.

[0092] In the above description and claims, "at least one of" or "one or more" A phrase such as "and / or" may follow a conjunctive list of elements or features. A term may appear in a list of more than one element or feature. Thus, unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradicted, such phrases may refer to listed elements or Any of the features may be used individually or in combination with any of the other listed elements or features. "Any of the elements or features listed in the preceding paragraph is intended to mean any of the elements or features listed in the preceding paragraph. For example, The phrases "at least one of A and B" and "one or more of A and B" and and "A and / or B" respectively mean "A alone, B alone, or A and B together." A similar interpretation applies to lists containing more than two items. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, and C," "A, B, and / or C" means "A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together. Furthermore, the use of the term "based on" above and in the claims should be interpreted as meaning "at least "based in part on" any unrecited features or elements is also acceptable.

[0093] The subject matter described herein may be implemented as systems, apparatus, methods, and / or articles, depending on the desired configuration. The implementations described in the above description are consistent with the subject matter described herein. They are not intended to represent all possible implementations of the invention. Rather, they are merely illustrative of the principles of the invention that may be relevant to the subject matter discussed. These are just a few examples consistent with the related aspects. A few variations are detailed above. Although the present invention has been described above, other modifications or additions are contemplated. In particular, further features and / or variations are possible. Forms may be provided in addition to those described herein. For example, the implementations described above may be implemented in Various combinations and subcombinations of the features shown and / or any of the features disclosed above Further feature combinations and subcombinations may be involved. The logic flow shown and / or described herein may be implemented in a manner consistent with the illustrated implementation to achieve desired results. The particular order or sequential order shown is not necessarily required. Other embodiments are described in the following patents: It may be included in the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. a cap adapted to be attached to a vial, the cap closing the vial; configured to be removed from the vial to allow access to the contents of the vial the housing includes a cap, the cap being attached to the housing. a sensor configured to measure a characteristic of the contents attached to the housing; a communication device configured to transmit data corresponding to the measured characteristics to an external device; A vial cap including a mechanism.

2. The sensor is configured to measure weight, and the characteristics include a weight of the contents. The medicine bottle cap of claim 1 .

3. The housing is placed on a horizontal surface, and the vial and cap extend above the housing. In this state, the housing attached to the cap is stored in an inverted position and The sensor is configured to measure the weight without sensing the weight of the medicine bottle or the cap. The vial cap of claim 2 .

4. The vial cap of claim 2 , wherein the sensor comprises a force-sensing resistor.

5. The vial cap of claim 2 , wherein the sensor includes a load cell.

6. The vial cap of claim 2 , wherein the sensor comprises a pressure sensor.

7. The sensor is an ultrasonic sensor, and the characteristic is a distance between the sensor and the contents. The vial cap of claim 1 , further comprising a separation.

8. The housing attached to the cap is configured to be stored in an upright position. The vial is placed on a horizontal surface, and the housing and cap are placed on the vial. The medicine bottle cap of claim 7.

9. The vial cap of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises a single sensor.

10. The vial cap of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises a plurality of sensors.

11. The sensor may include at least two accelerometers, a sensor configured to measure weight, and an ultrasonic sensor.

12. The sensor is at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a geographic location sensor. The vial cap of claim 11 , comprising:

13. The vial cap of claim 1 , wherein the external device is a smartphone.

14. When the communication mechanism connects to the external device, the communication mechanism 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the method is configured to automatically transmit data to the external device. Medicine bottle cap.

15. The communication mechanism may be Bluetooth communication, cellular communication, Wi-Fi communication, or short-range wireless communication.

10. The vial of claim 1, configured to communicate using a radio frequency identification (RFID) communication. cap.

16. further comprising a current date and time circuit configured to collect time and date data; the communication mechanism is configured to transmit the time and date data to the external device; The medicine bottle cap of claim 1 .

17. The housing is configured to be permanently attached to the cap. The medicine bottle cap of claim 1 .

18. The housing is removed from the cap and attached to a second cap of a second vial. The housing is configured to be removably attached to the cap. The vial cap of claim 1 , configured for attachment to a vial.

19. The housing has a cavity formed therein, the cavity 19. The device of claim 18, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the cap of the vial. Medicine bottle cap.

20. A plurality of longitudinal grooves are formed in the housing surrounding the cavity, and a plurality of stops are provided. the housing projects into the cavity, and the plurality of longitudinal grooves define a housing having: flexing radially outward during placement and removal of the cap of the vial within the cavity; the plurality of stoppers are configured to allow the cap to be inserted into the cavity.

20. The cap of claim 19, wherein the cap is configured to engage with the cap of the vial when received. The medicine bottle cap according to claim 1.

21. the housing is configured to receive the cap of the vial therein; a housing having a cavity formed therein, the housing being disposed between the sensor and the cavity; a guide plate having a weight of at least the contents of the vial; and applying the weight of the contents to the sensor. Item 1. A medicine bottle cap according to item 1.

22. The guide plate has a plurality of posts protruding from the guide plate, The housing has a plurality of holes defined therein, and the plurality of posts are positioned within the plurality of holes.

22. The vial cap of claim 21, configured to be received.

23. a vial configured to contain at least one tablet therein; a first vial cap configured to close the vial; a second vial cap configured to attach to the first vial cap, The second vial cap is adapted to measure a characteristic of the at least one tablet in the vial. and a second vial cap including an electronic measurement mechanism configured as follows:

24. the characteristics include weight; The first vial cap and the vial extend over the second vial cap and are in contact with each other. The second medicine bottle cap is placed on a horizontal support surface while the second medicine bottle cap is placed on the horizontal support surface. Thus, the measuring mechanism senses the weight of the vial or the non-electronic vial cap. and a weight measuring device configured to measure the weight of the at least one tablet without 24. The vial system of claim 23.

25. the characteristics include weight; The first vial cap and the vial extend over the second vial cap and are in contact with each other. The second medicine bottle cap is placed on a horizontal support surface while the second medicine bottle cap is placed on the horizontal support surface. whereby the measurement mechanism detects the at least one tablet, the pill bottle, and the non-electric 24. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 23, configured to measure the weight of a vial cap. Bottle system.

26. The measurement mechanism is configured to measure at least one of ambient temperature, ambient humidity, and movement.

24. The vial system of claim 23, configured as follows:

27. The measurement mechanism measures the date and time so that the measured characteristic is date and time stamped.

24. The vial system of claim 23, configured to enable:

28. the characteristics include a distance between the measuring mechanism and the at least one tablet; The first vial cap and the second vial cap are positioned vertically above the vial.

24. The vial of claim 23, wherein the vial is configured to rest on a horizontal support surface. system.

29. 24. The vial system of claim 23, wherein the measurement mechanism includes a sensor.

30. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the second vial cap includes a power source, a processor, and a memory. Pill bottle system.

31. The second vial cap transmits the data measured by the measuring mechanism to a remote computer.

24. The vial of claim 23, further comprising a communication mechanism configured to wirelessly transmit to a data system. system.

32. The transmission may be via Bluetooth communication, cellular communication, Wi-Fi communication, short-range communication, or wireless communication.

32. The vial system of claim 31, wherein the transmission is wireless using line frequency identification communication.

33. the communication mechanism receiving a request for data from the remote computer system; 32. The vial system of claim 31 , wherein the vial system is configured to:

34. 32. The vial of claim 31 , wherein the remote computer system comprises a smartphone. system.

35. The remote computer system scans a label on the vial and identifies the at least one 32. The pill bottle system of claim 31, configured to access information corresponding to a pill. Stem.

36. The communication mechanism transmits the measured characteristics to the remote computer system. The remote computer system determines the total quantity of the at least one tablet in the vial.

32. The vial system of claim 31 configured to enable:

37. The second vial cap is configured to be removed from the first vial cap.

24. The vial system of claim 23,

38. a second vial configured to contain at least one tablet therein; a third vial cap configured to close the vial and attach to the second vial cap; 38. The vial system of claim 37, further comprising:

39. The second vial cap is non-removably attached to the first vial cap.

24. The vial system of claim 23, configured to:

40. The second vial cap has a cavity formed therein, The cavity is configured to receive the first vial cap therein and has a plurality of lengths. A longitudinal groove is formed in the second vial cap surrounding the cavity, and a plurality of stops are provided in the front. a second vial cap protruding into the cavity, the plurality of longitudinal grooves extending from the second vial cap; The vial cap is configured to move radially outward during placement and removal of the first vial cap within the cavity. the plurality of stops are configured to allow the first vial to bend when the first vial is inserted. a cap configured to engage the first vial cap when received within the cavity; 40. The vial system of claim 39,

41. The second vial cap has a cavity formed therein, The cavity is configured to receive the first vial cap and the second vial cap. has a guide plate disposed between the electronic measuring mechanism and the cavity, A plate receives the weight of the at least one tablet and transmits the weight to the electronic measuring mechanism.

24. The vial system of claim 23, configured to apply. The first vial case 24. The vial system of claim 23, wherein the cap is non-electronic.

42. 24. The pill bottle system of claim 23, wherein the at least one tablet is an abiraterone acetate tablet. Stem.

43. 1. A method of using a smart vial cap, comprising: a sensor for a first vial cap engaged with an assembly including a vial and a second vial cap; and sensing at least one characteristic of said assembly using a sensor, The vial has at least one tablet therein, and the assembly includes the first vial. extending vertically above the cap and positioned on the first vial cap, sensing that a vial cap is placed on a horizontal support surface; using a communication mechanism of the first vial cap to communicate the sensed at least one characteristic. and transmitting data indicating the first vial cap and the assembly to an external device. A method comprising:

44. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the at least one characteristic comprises a weight of the at least one tablet. The method described.

45. The assembly extends vertically above the first vial cap, and the first vial cap The first vial cap is placed on a horizontal support surface while the sensor is placed on the first vial cap. a sensor for detecting the weight of the medicine bottle or the second medicine bottle cap, 45. The method of claim 44, which allows for sensing the weight of a single tablet.

46. The assembly extends vertically above the first vial cap, and the first vial cap The first vial cap is placed on a horizontal support surface while the sensor is placed on the first vial cap. the weight of the at least one tablet, the weight of the vial, and the weight of the second vial cap; 45. The method of claim 44, wherein weight sensing is enabled.

47. The device is used to analyze the data and determine a single tablet based on a predetermined weight.

45. The method of claim 44, further comprising determining the number of tablets in the vial.

48. The at least one characteristic includes a date and time, and the sensed weight is time-stamped.

46. ​​The method of claim 45, wherein the method enables

49. The at least one characteristic includes one or more of ambient temperature, ambient humidity, and movement.

49. The method of claim 48.

50. The transmission may be via Bluetooth communication, cellular communication, Wi-Fi communication, short-range communication, or wireless communication.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the transmission is wireless using line frequency identification communication.

51. The first vial cap is removed from the assembly, and a second vial cap and a third vial cap are removed. and then engaging the second assembly with the vial cap. using the sensor in the first vial cap to measure at least one of the second assemblies; and sensing one or more characteristics of the second vial, wherein the second vial stores at least one pill in the second vial. the first vial cap is attached to the second vial cap, a horizontal support surface extending vertically above the first vial cap when placed on the first vial cap; It is placed on top of, sensing and a communication mechanism of the first vial cap to communicate with the sensed vial of the second assembly; and storing data indicating at least one characteristic of the first vial cap and the second assembly.

44. The method of claim 43, further comprising: transmitting the information to the external device.

52. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the first vial cap is permanently engaged with the assembly. The method described.

53. 44. The method of claim 43, wherein the at least one agent is abiraterone acetate tablets. 。

Images